bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of Catheter Ablation for Atrial Arrhythmias in Patients with Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy—A Multicenter Study
Authors: Gasperetti Alessio , James Cynthia A. , Chen Liang , Schenker Niklas , Casella Michela , Kany Shinwan , Mathew Shibu , Compagnucci Paolo , Müssigbrodt Andreas , Jensen Henrik K. , Svensson Anneli , Costa Sarah , Forleo Giovanni B. , Platonov Pyotr G. , Tondo Claudio , Song Jiang-Ping , Dello Russo Antonio , Ruschitzka Frank , Brunckhorst Corinna , Calkins Hugh , Duru Firat , Saguner Ardan M.
Published: October 2021

Background: Atrial arrhythmias are present in up to 20% of patients with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC). Catheter ablation (CA) is an effective treatment for atrial arrhythmias in the general population. Data regarding CA for atrial arrhythmias in ARVC are scarce. Objective: To assess the safety and efficacy of CA for atrial arrhythmias in patients with ARVC. Methods: In this international collaborative effort, all patients with a definite diagnosis of ARVC undergoing CA for atrial fibrillation (AF), focal atrial tachycardia (AT), or cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI)-dependent atrial flutter (AFl) were extracted from twelve ARVC registries. Demographic, periprocedural, and long-term arrhythmic outcome data were collected. Results: Thirty-seven patients were enrolled in the study (age 50.2 ± 16.6 years, male 84%, CHA2DS2VASc 1 (1,2), HAS-BLED 0 (0–2)). The arrhythmia leading to CA was AF in 23 (62%), focal left AT in 5 (14%), and CTI-dependent AFl in 9 (24%). Acute procedural success was achieved in all procedures but one (n = 1 focal left AT; 97% acute success). The median follow-up period was 27 (13–67) months, and 96%, 74%, and 61% of patients undergoing AF ablation were free from any atrial arrhythmia recurrence after a single procedure at 6 months, 12 months, and last follow-up, respectively. After focal AT ablation, freedom from atrial arrhythmia recurrence was 80%, 80%, and 60% at 6 months, 12 months, and last follow-up, respectively. All patients undergoing CTI ablation were free from atrial arrhythmia recurrences at 6 months, with 89% single-procedural arrhythmic freedom at last follow-up. One major complication (2.7%; PV stenosis requiring PV stenting) occurred. Conclusions: CA is safe and effective in managing atrial arrhythmias in patients with ARVC, with success rates comparable to the general population.
Extended Pleurectomy/Decortication for Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma: Humanitas’s Experience
Authors: Mangiameli Giuseppe , Bottoni Edoardo , Voulaz Emanuele , Cariboni Umberto , Testori Alberto , Crepaldi Alessandro , Giudici Veronica Maria , Morenghi Emanuela , Alloisio Marco
Published: October 2021

Background: We analysed a series of malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) patients who consecutively underwent extended Pleurectomy/Decortication (eP/D) in a centre with a high level of thoracic surgery experience (IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital) to explore postoperative morbidity and mortality, pattern of recurrence and survival. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on MPM patients underwent eP/D in our centre from 2010 to 2021. All patients were identified from our departmental database. Postoperative complications were scored according to Clavien–Dindo criteria. Survival analysis was performed by the Kaplan–Meier methods and Cox multivariable analysis. Results: Eighty-five patients underwent extended pleurectomy decortication (eP/D) during study period. Macroscopical residual disease (R2) was reported in one case. A neoadjuvant chemotherapy regiment was administrated in 88% of the surgical cohort. A complete trimodality treatment including induction with platinum agents and pemetrexed, radical cytoreductive surgery and volumetric modulated arc therapy technology (VMAT) could be administered in 63 patients (74%). Postoperative morbidity rate was 54.11%, major complications (defined as Clavien–Dindo ≥ 3) were reported in 11 patients (12.9%). Thirty-day mortality and 90-day mortality were, respectively, 2.35% and 3.53%. Median disease-free and overall survival were, respectively, 13.7 and 25.5 months. The occurrence of major complications (Clavien–Dindo ≥ 3), operative time, pT3–T4, pathological node involvement (pN+) were prognostic factors associated with worse survival. Conclusions: In our experience, eP/D is a well-tolerated procedure with acceptable mortality and morbidity, allowing for the administration of trimodality regimens in most patients. eP/D offered in a multimodality treatment setting have satisfactory long term oncological results. To obtain best oncological results the goal of surgery should be macroscopic complete resection in carefully selected patients (clinical N0).
Ocular Involvement in Relapsing Polychondritis
Authors: Fukuda Ken , Mizobuchi Tomoka , Nakajima Isana , Kishimoto Tatsuma , Miura Yusaku , Taniguchi Yoshinori
Published: October 2021

Relapsing polychondritis (RPC) is a rare systemic immune-mediated disease characterized by recurrent inflammation of cartilaginous and proteoglycan-rich tissues throughout the body. Auricular, nasal, tracheal, and articular chondritis and arthritis are common systemic symptoms in patients with RPC. Ocular tissues are also targets of inflammation in RPC, and a variety of ocular symptoms are observed in approximately half of the patients with RPC. Scleritis/episcleritis, uveitis, and conjunctivitis are common symptoms associated with RPC. Less frequently, keratitis, retinopathy, optic neuropathy, muscle palsy, and orbital inflammation are also observed. Ocular inflammation could also be the first manifestation of RPC. Although RPC is a potentially fatal and sight-threatening disease, the rarity of the disease and its protean clinical presentation may lead to delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis. Given the high prevalence of ocular involvement in RPC, to avoid misdiagnosis, physicians should be suspicious of RPC when they see patients with recurrent ocular inflammatory conditions and various systemic symptoms. In this article, we provide a comprehensive review of ocular manifestations associated with RPC.
Machine Learning Refutes Loss of Smell as a Risk Indicator of Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Lötsch Jörn , Hähner Antje , Schwarz Peter E. H. , Tselmin Sergey , Hummel Thomas
Published: October 2021

Because it is associated with central nervous changes, and olfactory dysfunction has been reported with increased prevalence among persons with diabetes, this study addressed the question of whether the risk of developing diabetes in the next 10 years is reflected in olfactory symptoms. In a cross-sectional study, in 164 individuals seeking medical consulting for possible diabetes, olfactory function was evaluated using a standardized clinical test assessing olfactory threshold, odor discrimination, and odor identification. Metabolomics parameters were assessed via blood concentrations. The individual diabetes risk was quantified according to the validated German version of the “FINDRISK” diabetes risk score. Machine learning algorithms trained with metabolomics patterns predicted low or high diabetes risk with a balanced accuracy of 63–75%. Similarly, olfactory subtest results predicted the olfactory dysfunction category with a balanced accuracy of 85–94%, occasionally reaching 100%. However, olfactory subtest results failed to improve the prediction of diabetes risk based on metabolomics data, and metabolomics data did not improve the prediction of the olfactory dysfunction category based on olfactory subtest results. Results of the present study suggest that olfactory function is not a useful predictor of diabetes.
Incidence and Predictors of Thrombotic Complications in 4742 Patients with COVID-19 or Other Acute Infectious Respiratory Diseases: A Propensity Score-Matched Study
Authors: De Vita Antonio , De Matteis Giuseppe , d’Aiello Alessia , Ravenna Salvatore Emanuele , Liuzzo Giovanna , Lanza Gaetano Antonio , Massetti Massimo , Crea Filippo , Gasbarrini Antonio , Franceschi Francesco , Covino Marcello
Published: October 2021

Background. A prothrombotic state, attributable to excessive inflammation, cytokine storm, hypoxia, and immobilization, is a feature of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Up to 30% of patients with severe COVID-19 remain at high risk of thromboembolic events despite anticoagulant administration, with adverse impact on in-hospital prognosis. Methods. We retrospectively studied 4742 patients with acute infectious respiratory disease (AIRD); 2579 were diagnosed to have COVID-19 and treated with heparin, whereas 2163 had other causes of AIRD. We compared the incidence and predictors of total, arterial, and venous thrombosis, both in the whole population and in a propensity score-matched subpopulation of 3036 patients (1518 in each group). Results. 271 thrombotic events occurred in the whole population: 121 (4.7%) in the COVID-19 group and 150 (6.9%) in the no-COVID-19 group (p < 0.001). No differences in the incidence of total (p = 0.11), arterial (p = 0.26), and venous (p = 0.38) thrombosis were found between the two groups after adjustment for confounding clinical variables and in the propensity score-matched subpopulation. Likewise, there were no significant differences in bleeding rates between the two groups. Clinical predictors of arterial thrombosis included age (p = 0.006), diabetes mellitus (p = 0.034), peripheral artery disease (p < 0.001), and previous stroke (p < 0.001), whereas history of solid cancer (p < 0.001) and previous deep vein thrombosis (p = 0.007) were associated with higher incidence of venous thrombosis. Conclusions. Hospitalized patients with COVID-19 treated with heparin do not seem to show significant differences in the cumulative incidence of thromboembolic events as well as in the incidence of arterial and venous thrombosis separately, compared with AIRD patients with different etiological diagnosis.
Resilience and Mental Health in the Polish Population during the COVID-19 Lockdown: A Mediation Analysis
Authors: Surzykiewicz Janusz , Konaszewski Karol , Skalski Sebastian , Dobrakowski Paweł Piotr , Muszyńska Jolanta
Published: October 2021

The aim of this paper was to assess the state of resilience and well-being in the Polish population during the COVID-19 pandemic. We also assessed the relationship between resilience and mental health. Finally, we tested the mediating role of COVID-19 anxiety, persistent thinking, and the stress burden in the relationship between mental health and resilience. This research perspective can provide important insights into how individuals can become mentally stronger during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This study included 1758 people (73% women) aged 18–80 years. The procedure consisted of completing a questionnaire measuring well-being, COVID-19 anxiety, obsession with COVID-19, stress over COVID-19, and resilience. Results: Bootstrap sampling analysis showed significant partial mediators for the relationship between resilience and well-being. Important mediators were coronavirus anxiety, persistent thinking, and perceived stress. Conclusions: The results of the present study clearly indicate that resilience as a protective factor is associated with reduced anxiety about COVID-19, perceived stress burden, obsessive thoughts about the pandemic, and increased well-being of individuals. Resilience plays an important role in minimizing negative and enhancing positive health indicators in the face of challenging life events.
Explaining a Deep Reinforcement Learning Docking Agent Using Linear Model Trees with User Adapted Visualization
Authors: Gjærum Vilde B. , Strümke Inga , Alsos Ole Andreas , Lekkas Anastasios M.
Published: October 2021

Deep neural networks (DNNs) can be useful within the marine robotics field, but their utility value is restricted by their black-box nature. Explainable artificial intelligence methods attempt to understand how such black-boxes make their decisions. In this work, linear model trees (LMTs) are used to approximate the DNN controlling an autonomous surface vessel (ASV) in a simulated environment and then run in parallel with the DNN to give explanations in the form of feature attributions in real-time. How well a model can be understood depends not only on the explanation itself, but also on how well it is presented and adapted to the receiver of said explanation. Different end-users may need both different types of explanations, as well as different representations of these. The main contributions of this work are (1) significantly improving both the accuracy and the build time of a greedy approach for building LMTs by introducing ordering of features in the splitting of the tree, (2) giving an overview of the characteristics of the seafarer/operator and the developer as two different end-users of the agent and receiver of the explanations, and (3) suggesting a visualization of the docking agent, the environment, and the feature attributions given by the LMT for when the developer is the end-user of the system, and another visualization for when the seafarer or operator is the end-user, based on their different characteristics.
The Cell Wall Integrity Receptor Mtl1 Contributes to Articulate Autophagic Responses When Glucose Availability Is Compromised
Authors: Montella-Manuel Sandra , Pujol-Carrion Nuria , de la Torre-Ruiz Maria Angeles
Published: October 2021

Mtl1protein is a cell wall receptor belonging to the CWI pathway. Mtl1 function is related to glucose and oxidative stress signaling. In this report, we show data demonstrating that Mtl1 plays a critical role in the detection of a descent in glucose concentration, in order to activate bulk autophagy machinery as a response to nutrient deprivation and to maintain cell survival in starvation conditions. Autophagy is a tightly regulated mechanism involving several signaling pathways. The data here show that in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Mtl1 signals glucose availability to either Ras2 or Sch9 proteins converging in Atg1 phosphorylation and autophagy induction. TORC1 complex function is not involved in autophagy induction during the diauxic shift when glucose is limited. In this context, the GCN2 gene is required to regulate autophagy activation upon amino acid starvation independent of the TORC1 complex. Mtl1 function is also involved in signaling the autophagic degradation of mitochondria during the stationary phase through both Ras2 and Sch9, in a manner dependent on either Atg33 and Atg11 proteins and independent of the Atg32 protein, the mitophagy receptor. All of the above suggest a pivotal signaling role for Mtl1 in maintaining correct cell homeostasis function in periods of glucose scarcity in budding yeast.
The Spt10 GNAT Superfamily Protein Modulates Development, Cell Cycle Progression and Virulence in the Fungal Insect Pathogen, Beauveria bassiana
Authors: Cai Qing , Wang Juan-Juan , Xie Jia-Tao , Jiang Dao-Hong , Keyhani Nemat O.
Published: October 2021

Chromatin remodeling is mediated in part by post-translational acetylation/deacetylation modifications of histones. Histone acetyltransferases (HATs), e.g., members of the GNAT/MYST superfamily, activate gene transcription via promotion of euchromatin formation. Here, we characterized a GNAT family HAT, Spt10 (BbSpt10), in the environmentally and economically important fungal insect pathogen, Beauveria bassiana. Targeted gene knockout of BbSpt10 resulted in impaired asexual development and morphogenesis; reduced abilities to utilize various carbon/nitrogen sources; reduced tolerance to heat, fungicides, and DNA damage stress; and attenuated virulence. The ΔBbSpt10 mutant showed disrupted cell cycle development and abnormal hyphal septation patterns. Transcriptome analyses of wild type and ΔBbSpt10 cells revealed the differential expression of 373 genes, including 153 downregulated and 220 upregulated genes. Bioinformatic analyses revealed downregulated genes to be enriched in pathways involved in amino acid metabolism, cellular transportation, cell type differentiation, and virulence, while upregulated genes were enriched in carbon/nitrogen metabolism, lipid metabolism, DNA process, and cell rescue, defense, and virulence. Downregulated virulence genes included hydrophobins, cellular transporters (ABC and MFS multidrug transporters) and cytochrome P450 detoxification genes. These data indicated broad effects of BbSpt10 on fungal development, multi-stress response, and virulence.
New Promoters for Metabolic Engineering of Ashbya gossypii
Authors: Muñoz-Fernández Gloria , Montero-Bullón Javier-Fernando , Revuelta José Luis , Jiménez Alberto
Published: October 2021

Ashbya gossypii is a filamentous fungus that is currently exploited for the industrial production of riboflavin. In addition, metabolically engineered strains of A. gossypii have also been described as valuable biocatalysts for the production of different metabolites such as folic acid, nucleosides, and biolipids. Hence, bioproduction in A. gossypii relies on the availability of well-performing gene expression systems both for endogenous and heterologous genes. In this regard, the identification of novel promoters, which are critical elements for gene expression, decisively helps to expand the A. gossypii molecular toolbox. In this work, we present an adaptation of the Dual Luciferase Reporter (DLR) Assay for promoter analysis in A. gossypii using integrative cassettes. We demonstrate the efficiency of the analysis through the identification of 10 new promoters with different features, including carbon source-regulatable abilities, that will highly improve the gene expression platforms used in A. gossypii. Three novel strong promoters (PCCW12, PSED1, and PTSA1) and seven medium/weak promoters (PHSP26, PAGL366C, PTMA10, PCWP1, PAFR038W, PPFS1, and PCDA2) are presented. The functionality of the promoters was further evaluated both for the overexpression and for the underexpression of the A. gossypii MSN2 gene, which induced significant changes in the sporulation ability of the mutant strains.
Xenobiotics—Division and Methods of Detection: A Review
Authors: Štefanac Tea , Grgas Dijana , Landeka Dragičević Tibela
Published: October 2021

Xenobiotics are compounds of synthetic origin, usually used for domestic, agricultural, and industrial purposes; in the environment, they are present in micropollutant concentrations and high concentrations (using ng/L to µg/L units). Xenobiotics can be categorized according to different criteria, including their nature, uses, physical state, and pathophysiological effects. Their impacts on humans and the environment are non-negligible. Prolonged exposure to even low concentrations may have toxic, mutagenic, or teratogenic effects. Wastewater treatment plants that are ineffective at minimizing the release of xenobiotic compounds are one of the main sources of xenobiotics in the environment (e.g., xenobiotic compounds reach the environment, affecting both humans and animals). In order to minimize the negative impacts, various laws and regulations have been adopted in the EU and across the globe, with an emphasis on xenobiotics removal from the environment, in a way that is economically, environmentally, and socially acceptable, and will not result in their accumulation, or creation of compounds that are more harmful. Detection methods allow detecting even small concentrations of xenobiotics in samples, but the problem is the diversity and mix of compounds present in the environment, in which it is not known what their effects are). In this review, the division of xenobiotics and their detection methods will be presented.
Individualized 3D-Printed Bone-Anchored Maxillary Protraction Device for Growth Modification in Skeletal Class III Malocclusion
Authors: Kim Minji , Li Jingwen , Kim Sehyang , Kim Wonho , Kim Sun-Hyun , Lee Sung-Min , Park Young Long , Yang Sook , Kim Jin-Woo
Published: October 2021

Bone-anchored maxillary protraction (BAMP) is effective for skeletal Class III malocclusion. However, infection, screw and plate loosening, and device failures occur with conventional plates. This pilot prospective study analyzed the feasibility of individualized BAMP using preoperative simulation and 3D titanium printing in patients referred by the orthodontic department for four BAMP miniplates. Preoperative cone beam computed tomography data were analyzed using CAD/CAM software to fabricate the individualized 3D-printed BAMP device. The customized plates were printed using selective laser sintering and inserted onto the bone through an adjunct transfer jig. The accuracy of preoperative simulation and actual placement of the BAMP device were tested by superimposing simulated positioned digital images and postoperative computed tomography data. The growth modification effect depended on superimposition of lateral cephalograms and comparative changes in SNA, SNB, ANB, and Wits. Two male patients were finally included in the study. BAMP decreased the ANB difference (−4.56 to −1.09) and Wits appraisal (−7.52 to −3.26) after 2 years. Normal measurement indices for sagittal and vertical growth indicated successful growth modification. The mean accuracy between preoperative simulation and actual surgery was 0.1081 ± 0.5074 mm. This treatment modality involving preoperative simulation and 3D titanium printing for fabricating and placing customized BAMP devices precisely at planned locations is effective for treating skeletal Class III malocclusion.
Potential Prognostic Biomarkers of NIMA (Never in Mitosis, Gene A)-Related Kinase (NEK) Family Members in Breast Cancer
Authors: Anuraga Gangga , Wang Wei-Jan , Phan Nam Nhut , An Ton Nu Thuy , Ta Hoang Dang Khoa , Berenice Prayugo Fidelia , Minh Xuan Do Thi , Ku Su-Chi , Wu Yung-Fu , Andriani Vivin , Athoillah Muhammad , Lee Kuen-Haur , Wang Chih-Yang
Published: October 2021

Breast cancer remains the most common malignant cancer in women, with a staggering incidence of two million cases annually worldwide; therefore, it is crucial to explore novel biomarkers to assess the diagnosis and prognosis of breast cancer patients. NIMA-related kinase (NEK) protein kinase contains 11 family members named NEK1-NEK11, which were discovered from Aspergillus Nidulans; however, the role of NEK family genes for tumor development remains unclear and requires additional study. In the present study, we investigate the prognosis relationships of NEK family genes for breast cancer development, as well as the gene expression signature via the bioinformatics approach. The results of several integrative analyses revealed that most of the NEK family genes are overexpressed in breast cancer. Among these family genes, NEK2/6/8 overexpression had poor prognostic significance in distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS) in breast cancer patients. Meanwhile, NEK2/6 had the highest level of DNA methylation, and the functional enrichment analysis from MetaCore and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) suggested that NEK2 was associated with the cell cycle, G2M checkpoint, DNA repair, E2F, MYC, MTORC1, and interferon-related signaling. Moreover, Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) results showed that the transcriptional levels of NEK2 were positively correlated with immune infiltration of B cells and CD4+ T Cell. Collectively, the current study indicated that NEK family genes, especially NEK2 which is involved in immune infiltration, and may serve as prognosis biomarkers for breast cancer progression.
Artificial Intelligence and Its Application to Minimal Hepatic Encephalopathy Diagnosis
Authors: Gazda Jakub , Drotar Peter , Drazilova Sylvia , Gazda Juraj , Gazda Matej , Janicko Martin , Jarcuska Peter
Published: October 2021

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a brain dysfunction caused by liver insufficiency and/or portosystemic shunting. HE manifests as a spectrum of neurological or psychiatric abnormalities. Diagnosis of overt HE (OHE) is based on the typical clinical manifestation, but covert HE (CHE) has only very subtle clinical signs and minimal HE (MHE) is detected only by specialized time-consuming psychometric tests, for which there is still no universally accepted gold standard. Significant progress has been made in artificial intelligence and its application to medicine. In this review, we introduce how artificial intelligence has been used to diagnose minimal hepatic encephalopathy thus far, and we discuss its further potential in analyzing speech and handwriting data, which are probably the most accessible data for evaluating the cognitive state of the patient.
Association of CLDN18 Protein Expression with Clinicopathological Features and Prognosis in Advanced Gastric and Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinomas
Authors: Pellino Antonio , Brignola Stefano , Riello Erika , Niero Monia , Murgioni Sabina , Guido Maria , Nappo Floriana , Businello Gianluca , Sbaraglia Marta , Bergamo Francesca , Spolverato Gaya , Pucciarelli Salvatore , Merigliano Stefano , Pilati Pierluigi , Cavallin Francesco , Realdon Stefano , Farinati Fabio , Dei Tos Angelo Paolo , Zagonel Vittorina , Lonardi Sara , Loupakis Fotios , Fassan Matteo
Published: October 2021

The tight junction protein claudin-18 (CLDN18), is often expressed in various cancer types including gastric (GC) and gastroesophageal adenocarcinomas (GECs). In the last years, the isoform CLDN18.2 emerged as a potential drug target in metastatic GCs, leading to the development of monoclonal antibodies against this protein. CLDN18.2 is the dominant isoform of CLDN18 in normal gastric and gastric cancer tissues. In this work, we evaluated the immunohistochemical (IHC) profile of CLDN18 and its correlation with clinical and histopathological features including p53, E-cadherin, MSH2, MSH6, MLH1, PMS2, HER2, EBER and PD-L1 combined positive score, in a large real-world and mono-institutional series of advanced GCs (n = 280) and GECs (n = 70). The association of IHC results with survival outcomes was also investigated. High membranous CLDN18 expression (2+ and 3+ intensity ≥75%) was found in 117/350 (33.4%) samples analyzed. CLDN18 expression correlated with age <70 (p = 0.0035), positive EBV status (p = 0.002), high stage (III, IV) at diagnosis (p = 0.003), peritoneal involvement (p < 0.001) and lower incidence of liver metastases (p = 0.013). CLDN18 did not correlate with overall survival. The predictive value of response of CLDN18 to targeted agents is under investigation in several clinical trials and further studies will be needed to select patients who could benefit from these therapies.
Empirical Analysis of MSCI China A-Shares
Authors: Li Yan , Li Weiping
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we introduce the MSCI China A-shares index (MCASI) and analyze MCASI’s properties. From the perspective of index investment, we found that MCASI’s investor sentiments, both overnight sentiment and BW sentiment, provide significant predictability for future MCASI returns, supported by the in-sample and out-of-sample results. From the perspective of sector investment, we show that the sector portfolio of “information transfer, software and information technology services” performs the best among the 10 sector portfolios. In addition, seven approaches of the optimal portfolio in ten sectors are examined, and the results suggest that the classic Markowitz portfolio approach is recommended. Our empirical analysis is helpful for domestic and foreign investors seeking to form investment strategies for MSCI China A-shares.
Routes of Soil Uses and Conversions with the Main Crops in Brazilian Cerrado: A Scenario from 2000 to 2020
Authors: Ferraz-Almeida Risely , da Mota Raquel Pinheiro
Published: October 2021

The Brazilian Savannah, also known as Cerrado Biome, is a hotspot for Brazilian biodiversity. The hypothesis tested in this study is that there are diverse routes of soil uses for agriculture production in Cerrado, derived mainly from areas with pasture (natural and planted) due to the decrease in Cerrado deforestation in the last 20 years (from 2000 to 2020). The aim of this study was (i) to determine the profile of crop production in Brazilian Cerrado; (ii) to demonstrate the routes of soil uses during the last 20 years; (iii) to demonstrate the increase of soybean and corn production in Cerrado. The design of the study was based on data of (i) the accumulation of biomass and carbon in Cerrado; (ii) production area and yield of corn, soybean, coffee, sugarcane, cotton, and pasture (natural and planted); (iii) Cerrado deforestation. Results showed that the vegetation of Cerrado promotes a higher accumulation of biomass and carbon on the subsurface, followed by accumulation in the surface, deadwood, and litter. In the last 20 years, there has been a reduction of 75% in deforestation and an increase of 66% in crop areas and 78% in crop yield. However, there was no clear reduction in deforestation specifically in the Matopiba region. In Minas Gerais/MG, Goiás/GO, and Mato Grosso/MT, there were higher productions of coffee/MG, soybean/MT, corn/MT, sugarcane/MG-GO, and cotton/MT. Planted pasture (and not natural pasture) covered the larger areas, representing 75% of the total area with pasture. The low routes of soil uses from deforestation to (i) planted pasture and (ii) crop production explained the decrease in deforestation. The increases in yield and crop areas are explained by the routes from pasture (planted and natural) to agriculture. Our results provided clear insights that programs of Cerrado preservation should continue the decrease of deforestation with the sustainable development in agriculture, mainly in the Matopiba region where there was no clear decrease in deforestation in the last 20 years.
Five Ways of Characterizing Agricultural Land Use Dynamics and Abandonment from Subsidy Data
Authors: Dramstad Wenche , Sang Neil , Forsberg-Mathiesen Henrik , Bryn Anders
Published: October 2021

Abandonment of agricultural land is a process described from different regions of many industrialized countries. Given the current focus on land use, land use change and food security, it appears highly relevant to develop improved tools to identify and monitor the dynamics of agricultural land abandonment. In particular, the temporal aspect of abandonment needs to be assessed and discussed. In this study, we used the detailed information available through the Norwegian subsidy claim database and analyzed the history of use of unique land parcels through a fourteen-year period. We developed and tested five different statistics identifying these land parcels, their temporal dynamics and the extent of occurrence. What became apparent was that a large number of land parcels existing in the database as agricultural land were taken out of production, but then entered into production again at a later stage. We believe that this approach to describe the temporal dynamics of land abandonment, including how it can be measured and mapped, may contribute to the understanding of the dynamics in land abandonment, and thus also contribute to an improved understanding of the food production system.
European Land Use Spatial Data Sources and Their Role in Integrated Planning: Opportunities and Challenges for Poland
Authors: Stelmach-Fita Beata
Published: October 2021

One of the 34 themes of the spatial datasets of Directive 2007/2/EC INSPIRE is ‘land use’, rightly described independently of ‘land cover’. Laws in most countries, apart from the Netherlands, do not consider the electronic form of plans as a legally binding document. As far as the elaboration step and the adoption step are concerned, the main land use requirement is related to the datasets that describe existing land use at present and in the past. Surveys and case studies concern Poland and were carried out in two stages, I in 2011–2013 and II in 2017–2019. Previous research on this subject concerned ‘planned land use’, especially attempts to standardize the classification of sub-local zoning plans and omit the creation of a metadata profile for existing land use. The main goal of the qualitative research is to assess the completeness of the available spatial datasets of existing and planned land use, conditioned by the needs of users. The author recommends the establishment in Poland of a new type of regulatory ‘Land Use Plan’ for the area of an entire municipality. As a summary, the author’s model of ‘The spatial planning system in the integrated development system of Poland’ was presented.
Using Time-Series Remote Sensing Images in Monitoring the Spatial–Temporal Dynamics of LULC in the Msimbazi Basin, Tanzania
Authors: Machiwa Herrieth , Mango Joseph , Sengupta Dhritiraj , Zhou Yunxuan
Published: October 2021

The basins containing rivers and wetlands are very significant to the surrounding dwellers in various ways, altogether aiming at boosting the economy for most developing countries. Unfortunately, the benefits are frequently overlooked and lead to basin mismanagement and degradation posed by increasing population. This study used population and satellite data to quantify the extent of land-use and land-cover changes along the Msimbazi valley between 1990 and 2019. Geographic information system and remote sensing techniques were used in the analysis and processing of remotely sensed images acquired in 1990, 2000, 2010 and 2019. The results reveal that the dominant area is built-up land that occupied 39.3% of the total in 1990 and gradually increased to 42.6% in 2000, 54.1% in 2010 and 65.5% in 2019. Moreover, forest and agriculture that in 1990 had been the second and third largest in size, respectively, had been decreasing throughout the entire period. The population increase had been threatening wetland vegetation during the initial 10 years (1990 to 2000); however, the wetland vegetation showed subsequent improvement after the implementation of some government initiatives. Other land cover, such as bush land and grassland, showed minority status with inconsistent changes in either increase or decrease. These findings imply that the Msimbazi Basin suffers much from uncoordinated human activities that consequently degrade its fertility. This degradation can be observed as well from the population distribution maps that show that a huge stress is being exerted along the riverine due to population growth and urbanization. The study also highlights that a lack of intensive management plans that are supported by clear legal commitments for optimal and sustainable resource utilization contributes to wetland deterioration.
An Innovative Copula in Maghrebi Arabic and Its Dialectological Repercussions: The Case of Copular yabda
Authors: Benkato Adam , Pereira Christophe
Published: October 2021

Research on copulas in Arabic dialects has hitherto largely focused on the pronominal copula, and has also mostly ignored Maghrebi dialects. Drawing on published literature as well as fieldwork-based corpora, this article identifies and analyzes a hitherto undescribed verbal copula in dialects of Tunisian and northwestern Libya deriving from the verb yabda (“to begin”). We show that copular yabda occurs mostly in predicational copular sentences, with time reference including the habitual present and generic future. It takes nominal, adjectival, and locational predicate types. We also argue for broader inclusion of syntactic isoglosses in Arabic dialectology, and show how copular yabda crosses the traditional isogloss lines established on the basis of phonology, morphology, or lexicon, and therefore contradicts established dialect classifications such as Bedouin/sedentary or Tunisian/Libyan.
Automated Exploration of Prebiotic Chemical Reaction Space: Progress and Perspectives
Authors: Sharma Siddhant , Arya Aayush , Cruz Romulo , Cleaves II Henderson
Published: October 2021

Prebiotic chemistry often involves the study of complex systems of chemical reactions that form large networks with a large number of diverse species. Such complex systems may have given rise to emergent phenomena that ultimately led to the origin of life on Earth. The environmental conditions and processes involved in this emergence may not be fully recapitulable, making it difficult for experimentalists to study prebiotic systems in laboratory simulations. Computational chemistry offers efficient ways to study such chemical systems and identify the ones most likely to display complex properties associated with life. Here, we review tools and techniques for modelling prebiotic chemical reaction networks and outline possible ways to identify self-replicating features that are central to many origin-of-life models.
Temperature Effects on the Compressive Behaviors of Closed-Cell Copper Foams Prepared by Powder Metallurgy
Authors: Han Bin , Li Yunyu , Wang Zeyu , Gu Xi , Zhang Qi
Published: October 2021

A fabrication technology of closed-cell copper foams (CCCFs) based on powder metallurgy is proposed, by using the expanded polystyrene foams (EPS) spheres with the prescribed diameter as the space holder before sintering. The material characterization and the quasi-static compressive behaviors of both uniform and graded CCCFs at different temperatures were experimentally studied. A high temperature weakens the initial compressive modulus, plateau stress, and effective energy absorption for both uniform and graded CCCFs; meanwhile, the onset strain of densification and the maximum energy absorption efficiency are less sensitive to temperature, especially for the graded CCCFs. Compared with the uniform CCCF, the graded CCCF with even a small relative density exhibits superiority in terms of the effective energy absorption and the maximum energy absorption efficiency, attributed to the much larger onset strain of densification for the gradient pore arrangement. Finite element simulations based on the ideal sphere foam model can basically mimic the compressive performance of the CCCF samples. It is also found that both the decrease of pore diameter and the increase of cell wall thickness could improve the compressive performance of the CCCFs.
Finite Element Analysis and Experimental Investigation of Cut Surface Formation of Magnetic Silicon Steel in Shear Cutting
Authors: Bohdal Łukasz , Kułakowska Agnieszka , Kułakowski Marcin
Published: October 2021

Shear cutting allows for shaping materials with any length of cutting line with high efficiency and without negative thermal effects, but it causes stresses and deformations in the cutting zone of the material. This has a negative effect on the magnetic properties of the sheet in the areas of the cut edge. The main problem on production lines is to ensure appropriate control of the process so as to obtain the appropriate technological quality of the cut edge, free of not only defects in the form of burrs and shape deviations, but also the minimum deformed zone. This task is difficult due to the large number of control variables, the influence of which on the shaping of the material and the formation of the cut edge is not fully understood. The article attempts to determine the course of the cutting process and to examine the influence of control variables on the formation of the cut edge in the shear-slitting process in which the tools perform a rotary motion. For this purpose, FEM modeling, vision techniques and experimental studies were used. A 3D model of the process was developed, which enables a detailed analysis of the states of stresses, strains, displacements and fracture mechanisms of the material. The simulation results were verified using vision techniques, which were used in the work to observe the flow and cracking mechanisms of the material. Parametric analyses were performed for the process control variables. The research showed a significant influence of the cutting velocity and the clearance between the tools on the formation of the cut edge. The most homogeneous surface of the cut edge with the minimum burr height was obtained for the following parameters: rake angle α = 15–30°, horizontal clearance hc = 0.03 mm and slitting velocity v2 = 15 m/min. The developed results can be useful for controlling the cutting process on production lines in terms of maximum process efficiency while maintaining the appropriate technological quality of the cut edge.
Implementation of Alternative Mineral Additives in Low-Emission Sustainable Cement Composites
Authors: Kapeluszna Ewa , Szudek Wojciech , Wolka Paweł , Zieliński Adam
Published: October 2021

The influence of four naturally occurring mineral additives (zeolite, diatomite, trass and bentonite) on the hydration and properties of cement pastes and mortars was investigated. The materials change the phase composition, heat of hydration (determined by calorimetry) and mechanical properties of composites. After 28 days, the amount of Ca(OH)2 was reduced by up to 23% and up to 35% more C-S-H was formed, as proved by TG measurements. Differences were observed in the kinetics of heat release, especially for 25% of the addition. In the calorimetric curves, an additional exothermic effect is observed, related to the alteration in the hydration of C3A in cement. From the point of view of beneficial influence on mechanical properties of mortars, the additives could be ranked as follows: bentonite < diatomite, zeolite < trass after 2 days and bentonite < diatomite < trass < zeolite after 28 days of curing. The highest compressive strength (58.5 MPa) was observed for the sample with a 10% addition of zeolite. Zeolite, trass, bentonite and diatomite are all pozzolanic materials; however, their activity varies to an extent due to the differences in their specific surface area and the content of the amorphous phase, responsible for the pozzolanic reaction.
Laboratory Characterization of Geosynthetics-Reinforced Asphalt Mixture
Authors: Wang Xianrong , Zhou Xilong , Zhang Xuan
Published: October 2021

In order to improve the mechanical properties of asphalt pavement, geosynthetics can be employed in asphalt mixture. This research designed 12 reinforced schemes based on the types of geosynthetics, bonding layers and reinforced position. For the relative tests carried out, reinforced specimens were prepared according to each individual scheme. Moreover, rutting tests, bending creep tests and split fatigue tests were carried out on reinforced specimens in the laboratory. The results obtained in this investigation showed that the dynamic stability, bending creep rate and fatigue life of geocell-reinforced specimens are better than those of geogrid-reinforced specimens. The bonding layer of Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene (SBS) modified asphalt is better than epoxy modified asphalt. The dynamic stability and fatigue life of middle reinforcement are better than those of the lower reinforcement, while the bending creep rate of the lower reinforcement is better than middle reinforcement. In addition, reinforced scheme (9) has the largest increase in dynamic stability and fatigue life by 103 and 137%, respectively, and reinforced scheme (12) has the largest reduction in bending creep rate by 46%. However, scheme (9) improved dynamic stability and fatigue life by 43 and 29% higher than scheme (12), while the reduction of flexural creep rate of scheme (12) is only 7% higher than that of scheme (9).
An In-Situ Electrochemical Nanoindentation (ECNI) Study on the Effect of Hydrogen on the Mechanical Properties of 316L Austenitic Stainless Steel
Authors: Basa Adina , Wang Dong , Espallargas Nuria , Wan Di
Published: October 2021

In-situ electrochemical nanoindentation (ECNI) has been used to study the effect of hydrogen on the mechanical properties of austenitic stainless steel AISI 316L. Changing the electrode potential (via electrochemical charging) revealed the interconnected nature of the hydrogen effect on the nanomechanical properties of the stainless steel. At more positive cathodic potentials, a softening effect of hydrogen can be noticed, while significant hardening can be observed at more negative cathodic potentials. The hydrogen effects on the nanomechanical properties were analyzed in terms of the homogeneous dislocation nucleation (HDN) and the hydrogen-dislocation interactions from the energy point of view. The effects can be explained with the framework of the defactant theory and the hydrogen-enhanced localized plasticity (HELP) mechanism.
Investigation of the Quasi-Binary Phase Diagram FLiNaK-NdF3
Authors: Mushnikov Peter , Tkacheva Olga , Voronin Vladimir , Shishkin Vladimir , Zaikov Yuriy
Published: October 2021

The NdF3 solubility in molten eutectic FLiNaK, which is a conceivable medium for a molten salt reactor (MSR), was determined by the quasi-binary phase diagram FLiNaK-NdF3. The eutectic mixture FLiNaK was prepared by direct melting of components LiF, NaF and KF·HF. The acidic anhydrous salt (KF·HF) was used instead of the hygroscopic KF. The NdF3 was sintered by hydrofluorination of Nd2O3. The oxygen impurity in the prepared eutectic FLiNaK, determined by an oxygen analyzer LECO OH836, was 0.036 wt.%, whereas the NdF3 contained 0.04 wt.% of oxygen. A part of the FLiNaK-NdF3 quasi-binary phase diagram was obtained using two thermal analysis techniques: differential thermal analysis (DTA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The FLiNaK-NdF3 phase diagram in the region of 0–30 mol.% NdF3 contains one eutectic at 2 mol.% NdF3 and 450 °C and two peritectic points: 8 mol.% NdF3 at 500 °C and 22 mol.% NdF3 at 575 °C. The region of the FLiNaK-NdF3 phase diagram below the liquidus line is rather complicated due to the complex structure of the multicomponent system in its molten state, as in its solid state. The NdF3 solubility in FLiNaK is about 5 mol.% at 490 °C and 29 mol.% at 700 °C; this means that the process of the MA transmutation in the MSR can be carried out in molten FLiNaK with a content of actinides as high as 15–20 mol.% in the temperature range of 550–650 °C.
Development of an Intelligent Quality Management System for Micro Laser Welding: An Innovative Framework and Its Implementation Perspectives
Authors: Velázquez de la Hoz José Luis , Cheng Kai
Published: October 2021

Laser micro-welding manufacturers face substantial challenges in verifying weldment quality, as the industry and applications are requiring increasingly the miniaturization and compactness of products. The problem is compounded by new stringent demands for personalized products at competitive, low costs and the highest quality levels. High-pressure equipment manufacturers, in particular, rely on ISO 3834:2021 to assure and demonstrate best welding practices but also to manage risks associated with liability issues. ISO 3834:2021, like all conventional quality management systems, offers a one-dimensional, quasi-static overview of welding quality that may fail to deal with these new challenges and underlying complexities required to deal effectively with process variability. This paper presents a framework for welding companies to integrate horizontally their suppliers and customers with their processes and products, which are also integrated vertically in the context of Smart Manufacturing or Industry 4.0. It is focused on the development of a smart quality management system for intelligent digitization of all company manufacturing and business processes. Furthermore, an innovative data-based welding quality management framework is described for laser micro-welding applications and their implementation perspectives. The research is driven by an inductive methodology and based on a seamless integration of engineering-oriented heuristic and empirical approaches that is appropriate for intelligent and autonomous quality management, given the lack of research in this niche, but increasingly important topic area.