bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-Term Trends of Air Pollution at National Atmospheric Observatory Košetice (ACTRIS, EMEP, GAW)
Authors: Váňa Milan , Holubová Smejkalová Adéla , Svobodová Jaroslava , Machálek Pavel
Published: May 2020

The National Atmospheric Observatory Košetice operated by the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute was established in 1988 as a station specializing in air quality monitoring at the background scale. The observatory is located in the free area outside of the settlement and represents the Czech Republic in various international projects. The objective of the present study is to detect the long-term trends of air quality at the background scale of the Czech Republic. The statistical method used for trend analysis is based on the nonparametric Mann–Kendall test. Generally, the results show that the fundamental drop in emission of basic air pollutants was reflected in the significant decrease in pollution levels. A most significant drop was detected for sulphur. No trend was found for NO2 in 1990–2012, but a visibly decreasing tendency was registered in the last 7 years. A slightly decreasing trend was registered for O3 in the whole period, but a slightly increasing tendency was found after 2006. More importantly, the number of episodes exceeding the target value for human health dropped significantly. The reduction of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emissions was reflected in a statistically significant decrease of concentrations. Only isoprene, which is of natural origin, displays an inverse trend. Concentrations of elemental carbon (EC) and organic carbon (OC) dropped since 2010, but only for EC is the trend statistically significant.
Initial Value Problem For Nonlinear Fractional Differential Equations With ψ-Caputo Derivative Via Monotone Iterative Technique
Authors: Derbazi Choukri , Baitiche Zidane , Benchohra Mouffak , Cabada Alberto
Published: May 2020

In this article, we discuss the existence and uniqueness of extremal solutions for nonlinear initial value problems of fractional differential equations involving the ψ -Caputo derivative. Moreover, some uniqueness results are obtained. Our results rely on the standard tools of functional analysis. More precisely we apply the monotone iterative technique combined with the method of upper and lower solutions to establish sufficient conditions for existence as well as the uniqueness of extremal solutions to the initial value problem. An illustrative example is presented to point out the applicability of our main results.
Study of Synthesis Pathways of the Essential Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid 20:5n-3 in the Diatom Chaetoceros Muelleri Using 13C-Isotope Labeling
Authors: Remize Marine , Planchon Frédéric , Loh Ai Ning , Le Grand Fabienne , Bideau Antoine , Le Goic Nelly , Fleury Elodie , Miner Philippe , Corvaisier Rudolph , Volety Aswani , Soudant Philippe
Published: May 2020

The present study sought to characterize the synthesis pathways producing the essential polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) 20:5n-3 (EPA). For this, the incorporation of 13C was experimentally monitored into 10 fatty acids (FA) during the growth of the diatom Chaetoceros muelleri for 24 h. Chaetoceros muelleri preferentially and quickly incorporated 13C into C18 PUFAs such as 18:2n-6 and 18:3n-6 as well as 16:0 and 16:1n-7, which were thus highly 13C-enriched. During the experiment, 20:5n-3 and 16:3n-4 were among the least-enriched fatty acids. The calculation of the enrichment percentage ratio of a fatty acid B over its suspected precursor A allowed us to suggest that the diatom produced 20:5n-3 (EPA) by a combination between the n-3 (via 18:4n-3) and n-6 (via 18:3n-6 and 20:4n-6) synthesis pathways as well as the alternative ω-3 desaturase pathway (via 20:4n-6). In addition, as FA from polar lipids were generally more enriched in 13C than FA from neutral lipids, particularly for 18:1n-9, 18:2n-6 and 18:3n-6, the existence of acyl-editing mechanisms and connectivity between polar and neutral lipid fatty acid pools were also hypothesized. Because 16:3n-4 and 20:5n-3 presented the same concentration and enrichment dynamics, a structural and metabolic link was proposed between these two PUFAs in C. muelleri.
Optimal Control Method for HVAC Systems in Offices with a Control Algorithm Based on Thermal Environment
Authors: Kim Sung-Kyung , Hong Won-Hwa , Hwang Jung-Ha , Jung Myung-Sup , Park Yong-Seo
Published: May 2020

This study examined a method to reduce energy consumption in office buildings. Correspondingly, an optimal control method was proposed for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems via two control algorithms that considered the indoor thermal environment. The control algorithms were developed by considering temperature and humidity as the factors of the indoor thermal environment that influence the control of HVAC systems and the predicted mean vote comfort ranges. Furthermore, an experiment was performed using office equipment that incorporated the two control algorithms for HVAC systems, and the correlation between changes in the thermal environment within the office and the occupant’s comfort levels was estimated via an actual survey. The results demonstrated that the proposed control method for HVAC systems, which considered the comfort ranges of temperature and humidity and the thermal adaptation capability, can efficiently maintain the occupant’s comfort with lower energy usage compared with conventional HVAC systems. Thus, the use of the control method contributes to the reduction of total energy consumption in buildings with HVAC systems.
Adenovirus and Immunotherapy: Advancing Cancer Treatment by Combination
Authors: Sato-Dahlman Mizuho , LaRocca Christopher J. , Yanagiba Chikako , Yamamoto Masato
Published: May 2020

Gene therapy with viral vectors has significantly advanced in the past few decades, with adenovirus being one of the most commonly employed vectors for cancer gene therapy. Adenovirus vectors can be divided into 2 groups: (1) replication-deficient viruses; and (2) replication-competent, oncolytic (OVs) viruses. Replication-deficient adenoviruses have been explored as vaccine carriers and gene therapy vectors. Oncolytic adenoviruses are designed to selectively target, replicate, and directly destroy cancer cells. Additionally, virus-mediated cell lysis releases tumor antigens and induces local inflammation (e.g., immunogenic cell death), which contributes significantly to the reversal of local immune suppression and development of antitumor immune responses (“cold” tumor into “hot” tumor). There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that the host immune response may provide a critical boost for the efficacy of oncolytic virotherapy. Additionally, genetic engineering of oncolytic viruses allows local expression of immune therapeutics, thereby reducing related toxicities. Therefore, the combination of oncolytic virus and immunotherapy is an attractive therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment. In this review, we focus on adenovirus-based vectors and discuss recent progress in combination therapy of adenoviruses with immunotherapy in preclinical and clinical studies.
Clinical Significance of Systemic Inflammation Markers in Newly Diagnosed, Previously Untreated Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Yu Jeong Il , Park Hee Chul , Yoo Gyu Sang , Paik Seung Woon , Choi Moon Seok , Kim Hye-Seung , Sohn Insuk , Nam Heerim
Published: May 2020

This study aimed to investigate the clinical significance of systemic inflammation markers (SIMs)—including neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR)—in patients with newly diagnosed, previously untreated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The present study was performed using prospectively collected registry data of newly diagnosed, previously untreated HCC from a single institution. The training set included 6619 patients from 2005 to 2013 and the validation set included 2084 patients from 2014 to 2016. The SIMs as continuous variables significantly affected the overall survival (OS), and the optimal cut-off value of NLR, PLR, and LMR was 3.0, 100.0, and 3.0, respectively. There were significant correlations between SIMs and the albumin-bilirubin grade/Child-Turcotte-Pugh class (indicative of liver function status) and the staging system/portal vein invasion (indicative of the tumor burden). The OS curves were well stratified according to the prognostic model of SIMs and validated using the bootstrap method (1000 times, C-index 0.6367, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.6274–0.6459) and validation cohort (C-index 0.6810, 95% CI 0.6570–0.7049). SIMs showed significant prognostic ability for OS, independent of liver function and tumor extent, although these factors were significantly correlated with SIMs in patients with newly diagnosed, previously untreated HCC.
Adaptor CAR Platforms—Next Generation of T Cell-Based Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Arndt Claudia , Fasslrinner Frederick , Loureiro Liliana R. , Koristka Stefanie , Feldmann Anja , Bachmann Michael
Published: May 2020

The success of conventional chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) therapy in the treatment of refractory hematologic malignancies has triggered the development of novel exciting experimental CAR technologies. Among them, adaptor CAR platforms have received much attention. They combine the flexibility and controllability of recombinant antibodies with the power of CARs. Due to their modular design, adaptor CAR systems propose answers to the central problems of conventional CAR therapy, such as safety and antigen escape. This review provides an overview on the different adaptor CAR platforms available, discusses the possibilities and challenges of adaptor CAR therapy, and summarizes the first clinical experiences.
POM@MOF Hybrids: Synthesis and Applications
Authors: Sun Jiamin , Abednatanzi Sara , Van Der Voort Pascal , Liu Ying-Ya , Leus Karen
Published: May 2020

The hybrid materials that are created by supporting or incorporating polyoxometalates (POMs) into/onto metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have a unique set of properties. They combine the strong acidity, oxygen-rich surface, and redox capability of POMs, while overcoming their drawbacks, such as difficult handling, a low surface area, and a high solubility. MOFs are ideal hosts because of their high surface area, long-range ordered structure, and high tunability in terms of the pore size and channels. In some cases, MOFs add an extra dimension to the functionality of hybrids. This review summarizes the recent developments in the field of POM@MOF hybrids. The most common applied synthesis strategies are discussed, together with major applications, such as their use in catalysis (organocatalysis, electrocatalysis, and photocatalysis). The more than 100 papers on this topic have been systematically summarized in a handy table, which covers almost all of the work conducted in this field up to now.
Extracellular Vesicles as Drug Carriers for Enzyme Replacement Therapy to Treat CLN2 Batten Disease: Optimization of Drug Administration Routes
Authors: Haney Matthew J. , Zhao Yuling , Jin Yeon S. , Batrakova Elena V.
Published: May 2020

CLN2 Batten disease (BD) is one of a broad class of lysosomal storage disorders that is characterized by the deficiency of lysosomal enzyme, TPP1, resulting in a build-up of toxic intracellular storage material in all organs and subsequent damage. A major challenge for BD therapeutics is delivery of enzymatically active TPP1 to the brain to attenuate progressive loss of neurological functions. To accomplish this daunting task, we propose the harnessing of naturally occurring nanoparticles, extracellular vesicles (EVs). Herein, we incorporated TPP1 into EVs released by immune cells, macrophages, and examined biodistribution and therapeutic efficacy of EV-TPP1 in BD mouse model, using various routes of administration. Administration through intrathecal and intranasal routes resulted in high TPP1 accumulation in the brain, decreased neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation, and reduced aggregation of lysosomal storage material in BD mouse model, CLN2 knock-out mice. Parenteral intravenous and intraperitoneal administrations led to TPP1 delivery to peripheral organs: liver, kidney, spleen, and lungs. A combination of intrathecal and intraperitoneal EV-TPP1 injections significantly prolonged lifespan in BD mice. Overall, the optimization of treatment strategies is crucial for successful applications of EVs-based therapeutics for BD.
SPON1 Can Reduce Amyloid Beta and Reverse Cognitive Impairment and Memory Dysfunction in Alzheimer’s Disease Mouse Model
Authors: Park Soo Yong , Kang Joo Yeong , Lee Taehee , Nam Donggyu , Jeon Chang-Jin , Kim Jeong Beom
Published: May 2020

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a complex, age-related neurodegenerative disease that is the most common form of dementia. However, the cure for AD has not yet been founded. The accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) is considered to be a hallmark of AD. Beta-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1), also known as beta secretase is the initiating enzyme in the amyloidogenic pathway. Blocking BACE1 could reduce the amount of Aβ, but this would also prohibit the other functions of BACE1 in brain physiological activity. SPONDIN1 (SPON1) is known to bind to the BACE1 binding site of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) and blocks the initiating amyloidogenesis. Here, we show the effect of SPON1 in Aβ reduction in vitro in neural cells and in an in vivo AD mouse model. We engineered mouse induced neural stem cells (iNSCs) to express Spon1. iNSCs harboring mouse Spon1 secreted SPON1 protein and reduced the quantity of Aβ when co-cultured with Aβ-secreting Neuro 2a cells. The human SPON1 gene itself also reduced Aβ in HEK 293T cells expressing the human APP transgene with AD-linked mutations through lentiviral-mediated delivery. We also demonstrated that injecting SPON1 reduced the amount of Aβ and ameliorated cognitive dysfunction and memory impairment in 5xFAD mice expressing human APP and PSEN1 transgenes with five AD-linked mutations.
MicrobioLink: An Integrated Computational Pipeline to Infer Functional Effects of Microbiome–Host Interactions
Authors: Andrighetti Tahila , Bohar Balazs , Lemke Ney , Sudhakar Padhmanand , Korcsmaros Tamas
Published: May 2020

Microbiome–host interactions play significant roles in health and in various diseases including autoimmune disorders. Uncovering these inter-kingdom cross-talks propels our understanding of disease pathogenesis and provides useful leads on potential therapeutic targets. Despite the biological significance of microbe–host interactions, there is a big gap in understanding the downstream effects of these interactions on host processes. Computational methods are expected to fill this gap by generating, integrating, and prioritizing predictions—as experimental detection remains challenging due to feasibility issues. Here, we present MicrobioLink, a computational pipeline to integrate predicted interactions between microbial and host proteins together with host molecular networks. Using the concept of network diffusion, MicrobioLink can analyse how microbial proteins in a certain context are influencing cellular processes by modulating gene or protein expression. We demonstrated the applicability of the pipeline using a case study. We used gut metaproteomic data from Crohn’s disease patients and healthy controls to uncover the mechanisms by which the microbial proteins can modulate host genes which belong to biological processes implicated in disease pathogenesis. MicrobioLink, which is agnostic of the microbial protein sources (bacterial, viral, etc.), is freely available on GitHub.
Integrating Biophysics in Toxicology
Authors: Del Favero Giorgia , Kraegeloh Annette
Published: May 2020

Integration of biophysical stimulation in test systems is established in diverse branches of biomedical sciences including toxicology. This is largely motivated by the need to create novel experimental setups capable of reproducing more closely in vivo physiological conditions. Indeed, we face the need to increase predictive power and experimental output, albeit reducing the use of animals in toxicity testing. In vivo, mechanical stimulation is essential for cellular homeostasis. In vitro, diverse strategies can be used to model this crucial component. The compliance of the extracellular matrix can be tuned by modifying the stiffness or through the deformation of substrates hosting the cells via static or dynamic strain. Moreover, cells can be cultivated under shear stress deriving from the movement of the extracellular fluids. In turn, introduction of physical cues in the cell culture environment modulates differentiation, functional properties, and metabolic competence, thus influencing cellular capability to cope with toxic insults. This review summarizes the state of the art of integration of biophysical stimuli in model systems for toxicity testing, discusses future challenges, and provides perspectives for the further advancement of in vitro cytotoxicity studies.
In Vitro-Generated Hypertrophic-Like Adipocytes Displaying PPARG Isoforms Unbalance Recapitulate Adipocyte Dysfunctions In Vivo
Authors: Aprile Marianna , Cataldi Simona , Perfetto Caterina , Ambrosio Maria Rosaria , Italiani Paola , Tatè Rosarita , Blüher Matthias , Ciccodicola Alfredo , Costa Valerio
Published: May 2020

Reduced neo-adipogenesis and dysfunctional lipid-overloaded adipocytes are hallmarks of hypertrophic obesity linked to insulin resistance. Identifying molecular features of hypertrophic adipocytes requires appropriate in vitro models. We describe the generation of a model of human hypertrophic-like adipocytes directly comparable to normal adipose cells and the pathologic evolution toward hypertrophic state. We generate in vitro hypertrophic cells from mature adipocytes, differentiated from human mesenchymal stem cells. Combining optical, confocal, and transmission electron microscopy with mRNA/protein quantification, we characterize this cellular model, confirming specific alterations also in subcutaneous adipose tissue. Specifically, we report the generation and morphological/molecular characterization of human normal and hypertrophic-like adipocytes. The latter displays altered morphology and unbalance between canonical and dominant negative (PPARGΔ5) transcripts of PPARG, paralleled by reduced expression of PPARγ targets, including GLUT4. Furthermore, the unbalance of PPARγ isoforms associates with GLUT4 down-regulation in subcutaneous adipose tissue of individuals with overweight/obesity or impaired glucose tolerance/type 2 diabetes, but not with normal weight or glucose tolerance. In conclusion, the hypertrophic-like cells described herein are an innovative tool for studying molecular dysfunctions in hypertrophic obesity and the unbalance between PPARγ isoforms associates with down-regulation of GLUT4 and other PPARγ targets, representing a new hallmark of hypertrophic adipocytes.
Inhibition of Anti-Apoptotic Bcl-2 Proteins in Preclinical and Clinical Studies: Current Overview in Cancer
Authors: D’Aguanno Simona , Del Bufalo Donatella
Published: May 2020

The dynamic interplay between pro-death and pro-survival Bcl-2 family proteins is responsible for a cell’s fate. Due to the recognized relevance of this family in cancer progression and response to therapy, different efforts have made in recent years in order to develop small molecules able to target anti-apoptotic proteins such as Bcl-2, Bcl-xL and Mcl-1. The limitations of the first Bcl-2 family targeted drugs, regarding on-target and off-target toxicities, have been overcome with the development of venetoclax (ABT-199), the first BH3 mimetic inhibitor approved by the FDA. The purpose of this review is to discuss the state-of-the-art in the development of drugs targeting Bcl-2 anti-apoptotic proteins and to highlight the potential of their application as single agents or in combination for improving anti-cancer therapy, focusing in particular on solid tumors.
Making at Home: Interest-Driven Practices and Supportive Relationships in Minoritized Homes
Authors: Peppler Kylie , Sedas R. Mishael , Dahn Maggie
Published: May 2020

The maker movement advocates hands-on making with emerging technologies because of its value for promoting innovative and personally meaningful transdisciplinary learning. Educational research has focused on settings that primarily serve youth from dominant groups, yet we know surprisingly little about making among minoritized youth and the kinds of resources that support their making. This study sought to better understand the extent to which maker practices are present in the lives of minoritized youth and the network of resources that support their engagement. In this study, we analyzed survey responses of 52 youth from an urban, under-resourced community in Chicago and conducted an inductive thematic analysis of 20 interviews through a model of connected learning. Findings showed these youth participated in a diverse range of interest-driven, low-tech maker activities in their own homes more often than in school, after school programs, or through online resources and communities (i.e., YouTube, Internet, social media). Many youths displayed different levels of participation with intergenerational support, as parents and extended family members supported youth in their hands-on making. This work opens up pathways for fostering connected learning opportunities within minoritized communities by building on existing learning experiences within home settings and supportive relationships.
Whole Class or Small Group Fluency Instruction: A Tutorial of Four Effective Approaches
Authors: Kuhn Melanie R.
Published: May 2020

Four scientifically validated approaches to fluency instruction (Fluency-Oriented Reading Instruction, Wide Fluency-Oriented Reading Instruction, Fluency-Oriented Oral Reading, and Wide Fluency-Oriented Oral Reading) are reviewed. Two for the whole class and two for small groups. Key components of fluency, automaticity, and prosody are defined, and their contribution to reading comprehension is discussed. Automaticity contributes through its freeing up of attention to attend to meaning, and prosody contributes through its addressing of pacing and expression that, in turn, reflect textual meaning. Four principles for effective fluency instruction are also presented: Modeling, extensive opportunities for practice, the use of scaffolding, and the incorporation of prosodic elements. The four instructional approaches presented in this article are based on two different strategies for integrating extensive opportunities to read: Repeated versus wide reading. All four approaches use challenging texts, or texts at the upper end of the learners’ zone of proximal development, thus providing learners with access to a broader range of vocabulary and concepts than would be the case if they read only instructional level texts. All four also provided highly effective procedures for either whole-class or small-group reading instruction. The goal of this summary is to provide readers with effective approaches for classroom instruction.
In-Band Full-Duplex Relaying for SWIPT-Enabled Cognitive Radio Networks
Authors: Nguyen Hieu V. , Nguyen Van-Dinh , Shin Oh-Soon
Published: May 2020

This paper studies sum rate maximization of a cognitive radio network, where a full-duplex relay (FDR) is considered to assist data transmission. An FDR equipped with multiple transmit/receive antennas is introduced to harvest energy from the radio frequency signal of the primary system to reuse the energy for its own data transmission. By exploiting the time-switching relaying protocol, we first formulate an optimization problem for the sum rate of primary and secondary receivers and then propose a low-complexity algorithm to find the optimal solution. Numerical results verify the effectiveness of the proposed technique for wireless information and power transfer in cognitive radio systems.
A Blockchain and Machine Learning-Based Drug Supply Chain Management and Recommendation System for Smart Pharmaceutical Industry
Authors: Abbas Khizar , Afaq Muhammad , Ahmed Khan Talha , Song Wang-Cheol
Published: May 2020

From the last decade, pharmaceutical companies are facing difficulties in tracking their products during the supply chain process, allowing the counterfeiters to add their fake medicines into the market. Counterfeit drugs are analyzed as a very big challenge for the pharmaceutical industry worldwide. As indicated by the statistics, yearly business loss of around $200 billion is reported by US pharmaceutical companies due to these counterfeit drugs. These drugs may not help the patients to recover the disease but have many other dangerous side effects. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) survey report, in under-developed countries every 10th drug use by the consumers is counterfeit and has low quality. Hence, a system that can trace and track drug delivery at every phase is needed to solve the counterfeiting problem. The blockchain has the full potential to handle and track the supply chain process very efficiently. In this paper, we have proposed and implemented a novel blockchain and machine learning-based drug supply chain management and recommendation system (DSCMR). Our proposed system consists of two main modules: blockchain-based drug supply chain management and machine learning-based drug recommendation system for consumers. In the first module, the drug supply chain management system is deployed using Hyperledger fabrics which is capable of continuously monitor and track the drug delivery process in the smart pharmaceutical industry. On the other hand, the N-gram, LightGBM models are used in the machine learning module to recommend the top-rated or best medicines to the customers of the pharmaceutical industry. These models have trained on well known publicly available drug reviews dataset provided by the UCI: an open-source machine learning repository. Moreover, the machine learning module is integrated with this blockchain system with the help of the REST API. Finally, we also perform several tests to check the efficiency and usability of our proposed system.
Analog Realization of a Fractional Recursive Variable-Type and Order Operator for a Particular Switching Strategy
Authors: Sierociuk Dominik , Macias Michal , Malesza Wiktor , Wiraszka Michał Sławomir
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we propose a method of practical realization and an actual, physical hardware implementation of a fractional variable-type and order difference operator that switches between two (i.e., B - and D -type) variable-order definitions. After the theoretical model of such a switch, we report the experimental validation on an analog model to prove its adequacy. The tests prove with great certainty that the proposed model and the realization behave correctly. They also let the authors assume that the proposed method is the only one suitable for this case, based on the counterexamples presented.
Electrical Material Properties of Carbon Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Hegler Sebastian , Seiler Patrick , Dinkelaker Max , Schladitz Frank , Plettemeier Dirk
Published: May 2020

Carbon fiber reinforced concrete is poised to be the building material of the future. We present a study to quantify the influence of this novel reinforcement material on RF propagation in the range from 0.4 to 67 GHz. The measured attenuation effects of the reinforcement material are explained and quantified using a metallic wire screen model. It can be used to as a simple model of the material’s influence in radio propagation scenarios. For reference and completeness, data on the complex dielectric permittivity of the investigated concrete brand is also included. The production process of the concrete samples used for the measurements is documented, facilitating comparability and reproducibility. Finally, implications for current and future radio communication applications are outlined.
Restoration Treatments Improve Overstory Tree Resistance Attributes and Growth in a Ponderosa Pine/Douglas-Fir Forest
Authors: Crotteau Justin S. , Keyes Christopher R.
Published: May 2020

Research Highlights: This study provides much needed insight into the development of resistance to disturbance and growth dynamics of overstory trees in response to restoration-based fuel reduction, and will be useful to scientists and managers attempting to better grasp the relative merits of restoration treatment types. Background and Objectives: Restoration-based fuel reduction treatments are common in dry, fire-prone forests of the western United States. The primary objective of such treatments is to immediately reduce a stand’s crown fire hazard. However, the impact of these treatments on residual trees is relevant to assess their longevity and resistance to future disturbances. In this study, we evaluate the effects of restoration on retained overstory ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa Lawson & C. Lawson) and Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco) trees in western Montana, where treatments were experimentally implemented 13 years prior as part of the national Fire and Fire Surrogate study. Materials and Methods: We examined tree attributes in response to the following replicated treatments: thin-only, burn-only, thin + burn, and a no-action control. We analyzed three different tree attributes that confer resistance to common disturbances: height-to-diameter ratio (resistance to wind), bark thickness (resistance to surface fire), and growth efficiency (resistance to bark beetles). Results: Our models suggest that thinning (with or without burning) alters tree attributes relative to the control in a manner that may increase tree resistance to wind and snow breakage, surface fire, and biotic agents such as bark beetles. Further analysis of annual growth of ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir varied by treatment type: thinning-based restoration (thin-only and thin + burn) increased diameter growth for both species, crown length and width in ponderosa pine, and crown length in Douglas-fir relative to unthinned treatments. Burning (burn-only and thin + burn) did not significantly affect tree growth relative to unburned treatments. Conclusions: While low-severity prescribed burning treatments are often used for restoration and have various ecosystem benefits, this study demonstrates that thinning (alone or in addition to burning) produces more measureable, beneficial results to overstory tree disturbance resistance metrics and growth.
Physiological and Biochemical Traits in Korean Pine Somatic Embryogenesis
Authors: Peng Chunxue , Gao Fang , Wang Hao , Shen Hailong , Yang Ling
Published: May 2020

Korean pine broadleaf mixed forest is an important ecosystem for maintaining biodiversity in Northeast China. Korean pine is also an important species for the production of timber and nuts in the mountainous areas of Northeast China. In this study, we compared three types of Korean pine callus and found that embryogenic callus had high amounts of storage substances (protein, sugar and starch). Non-embryonic callus had high levels of polyphenols and polyphenol oxidation, while callus that lost somatic embryogenesis potential had lower levels of storage substances (protein, sugar and starch) and higher contents of peroxidase and catalase. These results indicate that high contents of storage substances (protein, sugar and starch), and low levels of polyphenols and polyphenol oxidase can be used as physiological markers of callus with somatic embryogenic potential. During the development process of Korean pine somatic embryos, fresh weight and dry weight gradually increased, while water content gradually decreased. Soluble protein, starch, soluble sugar and superoxide dismutase also increased during development, while peroxidase and catalase levels reduced over time. These results indicate that somatic embryogenesis involves energy storage, and antioxidant enzymes cooperate to regulate the occurrence and development of embryos. These results provide physiological markers for identification of embryogenic callus with somatic embryogenesis, to evaluate callus suitable for somatic embryogenesis, and provide basis for further research on the molecular mechanisms of somatic embryogenesis.
Ecosystem Management of Eastern Canadian Boreal Forests: Potential Impacts on Wind Damage
Authors: Ruel Jean-Claude
Published: May 2020

Research Highlights: Windthrow can interfere significantly with ecosystem management practices. In some cases, their goal could still be reached but this may prove more complex in other cases, like the partial cutting of old-growth stands. In situations where windthrow is common without any human intervention, the use of partial cutting to maintain some stand structures may lead to a feedback loop leading to additional windthrow. Background and Objectives: Forest ecosystem management using natural disturbances as a template has become the management paradigm in many regions. Most of the time, the focus is on fire regime and effects. However, windthrow can be common in some places or can interfere with practices implemented in an ecosystem management strategy. This paper looks at interactions between ecosystem management and windthrow. Materials and Methods: The paper builds on three case studies looking at various elements that could be part of ecosystem management strategies. The first one looks at the impact of green tree retention, while the second one looks at the impact of reducing the size and dispersing clearcuts, and the last one examines the impact of a range of cutting practices in irregular old-growth stands. Results: Green tree retention leads to increased windthrow, especially when applied within mature even-aged stands. Reducing the size of clearcuts and dispersing them over the landscape also involves substantial windthrow along edges. Partial cutting in old-growth stands can lead to relatively high mortality, but part of it is not necessarily related to wind since it occurs as standing dead trees. Differences in the amount of damage with tree size and species have been found and could be used to reduce wind damage. Conclusions: Approaches to minimize wind damage in ecosystem management can be designed using existing knowledge. However, using windthrow as a template to design management strategies would prove more complex.
Forest Disturbances in Polish Tatra Mountains for 1985–2016 in Relation to Topography, Stand Features, and Protection Zone
Authors: Ochtyra Adrian
Published: May 2020

For more than four centuries, the Tatra Mountains were affected by many factors, such as forest and pastoral management, mining and metallurgy, windthrows, snow avalanches, and bark beetle outbreaks. Due to the availability of the long-running Landsat program enabling acquisition of spatially and spectrally consistent information, it is possible to the use these data for forest disturbance analysis. The main aim of this study was to analyze the relationships between the frequency of disturbances detected over the period of 1985–2016 and selected topographic features, such as elevation, exposure, and slope, derived from a digital elevation model (DEM); stand features, such as vegetation community type, age, structure, and degree of naturalness of the stand; and the management protection zone, which was extracted from thematic layers of the Tatra National Park (TNP). Using the normalized difference moisture index (NDMI), we detected forest disturbances in each year and analyzed them in the context of these topographic features, forest stand characteristics, and the management protection zone. We observed that forest stands in the lower montane zone, slopes between 10°–30°, and eastern exposures were primarily affected by disturbances. These consisted of artificially planted spruce stands aged between 51 and 100 years old.
Variations of Saponins, Minerals and Total Phenolic Compounds Due to Processing and Cooking of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) Seeds
Authors: Mhada Manal , Metougui Mohamed Louay , El Hazzam Khadija , El Kacimi Kamal , Yasri Abdelaziz
Published: May 2020

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) is a grain of great nutritional interest that gained international importance during the last decade. Before its consumption, this grain goes through many processes that can alter its nutritional value. Here we report the effect of processing (polishing and milling) and cooking (boiling and steaming) on the saponin content, mineral profile of 14 elements using Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES), protein content, and total phenolic compound. The polishing caused an average drop in the saponin content from 1.7% to 0.46% but induced important losses in mineral content (K, Mg, Ca, Zn, Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Ni), and phenolic compounds. However, the greatest nutritional degradation happened after milling due to the elimination of seed teguments and embryos, where over 50% of many minerals, 60% of protein content, and almost the totality of phenolic compounds, were lost. Cooking effect was less important than processing, but some significant losses were attested. Boiling caused a loss of up to 40% for some minerals like K, B, and Mo because of their hydrosolubility, and 88% of the polyphenols, while steaming allowed a better retention of those nutrients. Consuming polished quinoa instead of semolina and using steaming instead of boiling are trade-offs consumer needs to make to get optimal benefits from quinoa virtues.
The Occurrence of Permafrost within the Glacial Domain
Authors: Dobiński Wojciech
Published: May 2020

The occurrence of permafrost within glacial environments has never been comprehensively defined based on scientific evidence, despite its importance in determining how all the components of the cryosphere associate and interact. Here, the relation between glaciers and permafrost is discussed based on what scientific field they have been traditionally associated with. As the most accepted definition of permafrost is not exclusively linked to the presence of a geological medium, this can also be ice of any origin, including snow and glacial ice. Thus, active glaciers can act as permafrost medium. Indeed, all thermal types of glaciers meet the definition of permafrost as they remain at or below 0 °C for certainly more than two consecutive years. Active rock glaciers, regardless of the origin of the ice within, also meet the definition of permafrost. The presence of an active layer is not a prerequisite for the existence of permafrost either. Therefore, a comprehensive definition of permafrost occurrence across the cryosphere is essential to appropriately understand the phenomenon as a whole, not only as seen from our planet but also as it occurs for example on the icy moons of the Solar System and other frozen rocky bodies.
Zircon as a Mineral Indicating the Stage of Granitoid Magmatism at Northern Chukotka, Russia
Authors: Alekseev Viktor I. , Alekseev Ivan V.
Published: May 2020

A comparative study of the zircon composition and texture in granites of a three-stage Late Cretaceous magmatism in the Chaun area, Chukotka, Russia, was conducted in biotite granites (BG), quartz monzonites-monzogranites (MG), and zinnwaldite granites (ZG). The significance of the study entails determining the mineralogical indicators of similar granitoids in areas of multi-stage petrogenesis. It is shown that in the rock series of Northern Chukotka, BG → MG → ZG, a morphological evolution of zircon takes place: a reduction in size, elongation, a growing complexity of the crystallography, and an individual texture. In later generations of zircon, as a result of the recrystallization and metasomatism, rare-metal overgrowths, defects in the crystal structure, pores and fissures, and mineral inclusions appear, whereas the crystal-face indices and patterns become more complicated. We can observe the geochemical evolution of zircon: a gradual change in the concentration of trace elements (Hf, U, Y, Th, Nb, and Ti), rare earth elements (Yb, Er, and Dy, as well as Ce and Nd), and uncommon elements (Ca and Al). Rare elements (REE, Y, Hf, Nb, U, and Th) at the post-magmatic stage of the regional history acquired economic abundances. Zircon is therefore indicative of productive ore-magmatic systems.
Shape and Dimension Estimations of Landslide Rupture Zones via Correlations of Characteristic Parameters
Authors: Domej Gisela , Bourdeau Céline , Lenti Luca , Martino Salvatore , Pluta Kacper
Published: May 2020

For many geotechnical purposes, the proper estimation of shapes and dimensions of landslide rupture zones is of significant importance. Very often, this exact delineation is difficult due to the lack of information on rupture zone extents in 3D. Based on a global landslide inventory, this work presents statistical analyses correlating dimension-related and shape-related parameters characterizing a rupture zone in 3D to its volume. Dimension-related parameters are approximated by linear regressions increasing with greater volumes, whereas shape-related parameters appear stable throughout the entire range of volumes. Revealing themselves as very stable, these correlations can be used, hence, to extrapolate from a distinct parameter to the volume of a landslide rupture zone. In a second stage, ratios of dimension-related parameters are correlated with rupture zone volumes. Furthermore, this type of correlation delivers very stable results showing that ratios are constant throughout the entire range of volumes. Making use of this ratio consistency, it is possible to deduce one of the two parameters when the other one is given. This latter aspect seems to be promising for remote sensing surveys when initial rupture areas or rupture volumes should be delineated or for numerical modeling of landslides in 3D.
Effect of Anxiety on Empathy: An Observational Study Among Nurses
Authors: Ayuso-Murillo Diego , Colomer-Sánchez Ana , Santiago-Magdalena Carlos Romero , Lendínez-Mesa Alejandro , Benítez De Gracia Elvira , López-Peláez Antonio , Herrera-Peco Iván
Published: May 2020

Empathy, defined as an emotional ability to put oneself in the place of others, read their state of mind, and think how they are feeling, is an essential pillar of nursing care. On the other hand, anxiety is a frequent emotion that can be generated in stressful work environments, like nurses developing their activity. The aim of the present study is to explore the value of empathy and anxiety personal traits in staff nurses. The sample was comprised of 197 staff nurses from tertiary level hospitals from Madrid, Spain, where 79.2% were women and 20.8% were men in the present study. The instrument used for analysis was the Spanish adaptation of the 16PF5 questionnaire. The results showed the following measurements to warmth (5.58), lively (5.25), socially bold (5.6), privacy (5.82), open to change (5.62), self-reliance (6.12), and anxiety (6.38). Furthermore, anxiety affects positively to warmth (t: 2.66; p > 0.0001) and lively (t = 2.36; p < 0.05), but in a negative way to social bold (t = −3.17; p < 0.001) or open to change (t = −5.81; p < 0.0001). However, it was not seen to have any effect over privacy (t = 1.96; p = 0.052) and self-reliance (t = 1.19; p = 0.234). Finally, it is recommended that healthcare professionals reinforce their personal competencies to strengthen their skills to manage anxiety and improve their empathy competencies.
Smoking-Mediated Upregulation of the Androgen Pathway Leads to Increased SARS-CoV-2 Susceptibility
Authors: Chakladar Jaideep , Shende Neil , Li Wei Tse , Rajasekaran Mahadevan , Chang Eric Y. , Ongkeko Weg M.
Published: May 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic is marked by a wide range of clinical disease courses, ranging from asymptomatic to deadly. There have been many studies seeking to explore the correlations between COVID-19 clinical outcomes and various clinical variables, including age, sex, race, underlying medical problems, and social habits. In particular, the relationship between smoking and COVID-19 outcome is controversial, with multiple conflicting reports in the current literature. In this study, we aim to analyze how smoking may affect the SARS-CoV-2 infection rate. We analyzed sequencing data from lung and oral epithelial samples obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). We found that the receptor and transmembrane protease necessary for SARS-CoV-2 entry into host cells, ACE2 and TMPRSS2, respectively, were upregulated in smoking samples from both lung and oral epithelial tissue. We then explored the mechanistic hypothesis that smoking may upregulate ACE2 expression through the upregulation of the androgen pathway. ACE2 and TMPRSS2 upregulation were both correlated to androgen pathway enrichment and the specific upregulation of central pathway regulatory genes. These data provide a potential model for the increased susceptibility of smoking patients to COVID-19 and encourage further exploration into the androgen and tobacco upregulation of ACE2 to understand the potential clinical ramifications.
Media Education in the ICT Era: Theoretical Structure for Innovative Teaching Styles
Authors: Gómez-Galán José
Published: May 2020

The era of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in which we live has transformed the foundations of education. This article starts from the premise that there is a convergence between technologies and media that makes ICTs adopt strategies and forms similar to traditional media, especially in their quest to create influence on citizens. For this reason, curricular objectives should include a critical analysis of this new reality in order to train new generations. We propose, based on the traditional parameters of media education, a new theoretical framework for their development that includes innovative teaching styles to achieve these goals. We used a critical pedagogy methodology with a qualitative and descriptive approach through the analysis of the content of theoretical studies and field work through which to establish an innovative pedagogical structure. The main result is that the influence that ICTs have on children and young people today is as strong as, or stronger than, that traditionally received by the classical media, and that there is a lack of adequate framework to address the problem. In this sense, and as a conclusion, we consider that they must create critical attitudes before the power of influence that ICT has from very early ages, which generate problems like consumerism, addiction, cyber-bullying, and ignorance of the reality. This requires new teaching styles in line with the current social context.
Capturing the Silences in Digital Archaeological Knowledge
Authors: Huggett Jeremy
Published: May 2020

The availability and accessibility of digital data are increasingly significant in the creation of archaeological knowledge with, for example, multiple datasets being brought together to perform extensive analyses that would not otherwise be possible. However, this makes capturing the silences in those data—what is absent as well as present, what is unknown as well as what is known—a critical challenge for archaeology in terms of the suitability and appropriateness of data for subsequent reuse. This paper reverses the usual focus on knowledge and considers the role of ignorance—the lack of knowledge, or nonknowledge—in archaeological data and knowledge creation. Examining aspects of archaeological practice in the light of different dimensions of ignorance, it proposes ways in which the silences, the range of unknowns, can be addressed within a digital environment and the benefits which may accrue.