bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Scoping Review on Gaps in the Diagnostic Criteria for Proliferative Verrucous Leukoplakia: A Conceptual Proposal and Diagnostic Evidence-Based Criteria
Authors: González-Moles Miguel Ángel , Ramos-García Pablo , Warnakulasuriya Saman
Published: July 2021

Proliferative verrucous leukoplakia (PVL) is considered as an oral potentially malignant disorder (OPMD) that presents with a high tendency to recurrence after treatment and has the highest malignant transformation ratio among all OPMD (50%). Evidence-based publications have indicated that the malignant evolution reported is significantly related to the inconsistent diagnostic criteria used in primary-level studies; so, it has been hypothesized that the risk of oral cancer for this disease could even be underestimated. This is important because PVL requires specific management protocols, evidence-based, aimed at the early diagnosis of cancer developing in these lesions. We present a scoping review—a novel approach to mapping the available literature on a given topic to provide an overview of the available research evidence and to highlight possible gaps in the evidence—especially related in our study to the diagnostic aspects of PVL, and to issue a conceptual proposal and diagnostic criteria for PVL. We conclude that PVL is a white, multifocal and progressive lesion with a high malignant transformation rate which is diagnosed mainly around the age of 60 years without any specific histological characterization. We also advise a personal reflection on the level of certainty with which the clinician makes the diagnosis of a particular case of PVL.
Catalytic Liquefaction of Kraft Lignin with Solvothermal Approach
Authors: Sebhat Woldemichael , El Roz Ayman , Fongarland Pascal , Vilcocq Léa , Djakovitch Laurent
Published: July 2021

Lignin is a natural biopolymer present in lignocellulosic biomass. During paper pulp production with the Kraft process, it is solubilized and degraded in Kraft lignin and then burned to recover energy. In this paper, the solvolysis of Kraft lignin was studied in water and in water/alcohol mixtures to produce oligomers and monomers of interest, at mild temperatures (200–275 °C) under inert atmosphere. It was found that the presence of alcohol and the type of alcohol (methanol, ethanol, isopropanol) greatly influenced the amount of oligomers and monomers formed from lignin, reaching a maximum of 48 mg·glignin−1 of monomers with isopropanol as a co-solvent. The impact of the addition of various solid catalysts composed of a metal phase (Pd, Pt or Ru) supported on an oxide (Al2O3, TiO2, ZrO2) was investigated. In water, the yield in monomers was enhanced by the presence of a catalyst and particularly by Pd/ZrO2. However, with an alcoholic co-solvent, the catalyst only enhanced the formation of oligomers. Detailed characterizations of the products with FTIR, 31P-NMR, 1H-NMR and HSQC NMR were performed to elucidate the chemical transformations occurring during solvolysis. The nature of the active catalytic specie was also investigated by testing homogeneous palladium catalysts.
Affinity Tag Coating Enables Reliable Detection of Antigen-Specific B Cells in Immunospot Assays
Authors: Köppert Sebastian , Wolf Carla , Becza Noémi , Sautto Giuseppe A. , Franke Fridolin , Kuerten Stefanie , Ross Ted M. , Lehmann Paul V. , Kirchenbaum Greg A.
Published: July 2021

Assessment of humoral immunity to SARS-CoV-2 and other infectious agents is typically restricted to detecting antigen-specific antibodies in the serum. Rarely does immune monitoring entail assessment of the memory B-cell compartment itself, although it is these cells that engage in secondary antibody responses capable of mediating immune protection when pre-existing antibodies fail to prevent re-infection. There are few techniques that are capable of detecting rare antigen-specific B cells while also providing information regarding their relative abundance, class/subclass usage and functional affinity. In theory, the ELISPOT/FluoroSpot (collectively ImmunoSpot) assay platform is ideally suited for antigen-specific B-cell assessments since it provides this information at single-cell resolution for individual antibody-secreting cells (ASC). Here, we tested the hypothesis that antigen-coating efficiency could be universally improved across a diverse set of viral antigens if the standard direct (non-specific, low affinity) antigen absorption to the membrane was substituted by high-affinity capture. Specifically, we report an enhancement in assay sensitivity and a reduction in required protein concentrations through the capture of recombinant proteins via their encoded hexahistidine (6XHis) affinity tag. Affinity tag antigen coating enabled detection of SARS-CoV-2 Spike receptor binding domain (RBD)-reactive ASC, and also significantly improved assay performance using additional control antigens. Collectively, establishment of a universal antigen-coating approach streamlines characterization of the memory B-cell compartment after SARS-CoV-2 infection or COVID-19 vaccinations, and facilitates high-throughput immune-monitoring efforts of large donor cohorts in general.
Rho-Proteins and Downstream Pathways as Potential Targets in Sepsis and Septic Shock: What Have We Learned from Basic Research
Authors: Hahmeyer Maria Luísa da Silveira , da Silva-Santos José Eduardo
Published: July 2021

Sepsis and septic shock are associated with acute and sustained impairment in the function of the cardiovascular system, kidneys, lungs, liver, and brain, among others. Despite the significant advances in prevention and treatment, sepsis and septic shock sepsis remain global health problems with elevated mortality rates. Rho proteins can interact with a considerable number of targets, directly affecting cellular contractility, actin filament assembly and growing, cell motility and migration, cytoskeleton rearrangement, and actin polymerization, physiological functions that are intensively impaired during inflammatory conditions, such as the one that occurs in sepsis. In the last few decades, Rho proteins and their downstream pathways have been investigated in sepsis-associated experimental models. The most frequently used experimental design included the exposure to bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS), in both in vitro and in vivo approaches, but experiments using the cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) model of sepsis have also been performed. The findings described in this review indicate that Rho proteins, mainly RhoA and Rac1, are associated with the development of crucial sepsis-associated dysfunction in different systems and cells, including the endothelium, vessels, and heart. Notably, the data found in the literature suggest that either the inhibition or activation of Rho proteins and associated pathways might be desirable in sepsis and septic shock, accordingly with the cellular system evaluated. This review included the main findings, relevance, and limitations of the current knowledge connecting Rho proteins and sepsis-associated experimental models.
Gelsolin Contributes to the Motility of A375 Melanoma Cells and This Activity Is Mediated by the Fibrous Extracellular Matrix Protein Profile
Authors: Mazurkiewicz Ewa , Makowiecka Aleksandra , Mrówczyńska Ewa , Kopernyk Iryna , Nowak Dorota , Mazur Antonina Joanna
Published: July 2021

Skin melanocytes reside on the basement membrane (BM), which is mainly composed of laminin, collagen type IV, and proteoglycans. For melanoma cells, in order to invade into the skin, melanocytes must cross the BM. It has been reported that changes in the composition of the BM accompany melanocytes tumorigenesis. Previously, we reported high gelsolin (GSN)—an actin-binding protein—levels in melanoma cell lines and GSN’s importance for migration of A375 cells. Here we investigate whether melanoma cells migrate differently depending on the type of fibrous extracellular matrix protein. We obtained A375 melanoma cells deprived of GSN synthesis and tested their migratory properties on laminin, collagens type I and IV, fibronectin, and Matrigel, which resembles the skin’s BM. We applied confocal and structured illuminated microscopy (SIM), gelatin degradation, and diverse motility assays to assess GSN’s influence on parameters associated with cells’ ability to protrude. We show that GSN is important for melanoma cell migration, predominantly on laminin, which is one of the main components of the skin’s BM.
Specialized Pediatric Palliative Care Services in Pediatric Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Centers
Authors: Mekelenkamp Hilda , Schröder Teija , Trigoso Eugenia , Hutt Daphna , Galimard Jacques-Emmanuel , Kozijn Anne , Dalissier Arnaud , Gjergji Marjola , Liptrott Sarah , Kenyon Michelle , Murray John , Corbacioglu Selim , Bader Peter ,   on behalf of the EBMT-Nurses Group,   Paediatric Diseases Working Party
Published: July 2021

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is widely used in pediatric patients as a successful curative therapy for life-threatening conditions. The treatment is intensive, with risks of serious complications and lethal outcomes. This study aimed to provide insight into current data on the place and cause of death of transplanted children, the available specialized pediatric palliative care services (SPPCS), and what services HSCT professionals feel the SPPCS team should provide. First, a retrospective database analysis on the place and cause of death of transplanted pediatric HSCT patients was performed. Second, a survey was performed addressing the availability of and views on SPPCS among HSCT professionals. Database analysis included 233 patients of whom the majority died in-hospital: 38% in the pediatric intensive care unit, 20% in HSCT units, 17% in other hospitals, and 14% at home or in a hospice (11% unknown). For the survey, 98 HSCT professionals from 54 centers participated. Nearly all professionals indicated that HSCT patients should have access to SPPCS, especially for pain management, but less than half routinely referred to this service at an early stage. We, therefore, advise HSCT teams to integrate advance care planning for pediatric HSCT patients actively, ideally from diagnosis, to ensure timely SPPCS involvement and maximize end-of-life preparation.
Frasier Syndrome: A Rare Cause of Refractory Steroid-Resistant Nephrotic Syndrome
Authors: Huang Yung-Chieh , Tsai Ming-Chin , Tsai Chi-Ren , Fu Lin-Shien
Published: July 2021

Frasier syndrome is a rare disease that affects the kidneys and genitalia. Patients who have Frasier syndrome develop nephrotic syndrome (NS) featuring focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) that is resistant to steroid treatment in early childhood. Male patients can have female external genitalia (pseudo-hermaphroditism) at birth and develop gonado-blastoma in their adolescence. Frasier syndrome is caused by mutations in the splice donor site at intron 9 of the Wilms’ tumor WT1 gene; these mutations result in an imbalanced ratio of WT1 protein isoforms and affect the development of the urogenital tract, podocyte function, and tumor suppression. Here, we report on a patient with long-term refractory NS who developed a malignant mixed germ cell tumor arising in a gonado-blastoma of the ovary 8 years after the onset of proteinuria.
The Microstructure and Mechanical and Corrosion Behaviors of Thermally Aged Z3CN20-09M Cast Stainless Steel for Primary Coolant Pipes of Nuclear Power Plants
Authors: Xue Fei , Shi Fangjie , Zhang Chuangju , Zheng Qiaoling , Yi Dawei , Li Xiuqing , Li Yefei
Published: July 2021

The effects of thermal aging time at 400 °C on the microstructure and mechanical and corrosion behaviors of Z3CN20.09M cast stainless steel were investigated; and the corresponding thermal aging mechanism was studied. It was revealed that the changes in mechanical properties after thermal aging were mainly caused by the iron-rich phase (α) and the chromium-rich phase (α’) produced by the amplitude-modulation decomposition of ferrite. A similar trend of thermoelectric potential during thermal aging was determined in relation to the Charpy impact energy. However, the corrosion resistance of Z3CN20.09M cast stainless steel deteriorates as thermal aging time increases. When the thermal aging is longer than 3000 h, the precipitation of G phase has a great influence on the corrosion resistance. The interfacial matching relationship between G phase and the surrounding ferrite was established by selected area electron diffraction of HRTEM. The relationship is of cube-on-cube phase boundary type. The impact fracture mechanisms in relation to thermal aging time were also studied and compared.
Pulmonary Congestion Assessment in Heart Failure: Traditional and New Tools
Authors: Pirrotta Filippo , Mazza Benedetto , Gennari Luigi , Palazzuoli Alberto
Published: July 2021

Congestion related to cardiac pressure and/or volume overload plays a central role in the pathophysiology, presentation, and prognosis of heart failure (HF). Most HF exacerbations are related to a progressive rise in cardiac filling pressures that precipitate pulmonary congestion and symptomatic decompensation. Furthermore, persistent symptoms and signs of congestion at discharge or among outpatients are strong predictors of an adverse outcome. Pulmonary congestion is also one of the most important diagnostic and therapeutic targets in chronic heart failure. The aim of this review is to analyze the importance of clinical, instrumental, and biochemical evaluation of congestion in HF by describing old and new tools. Lung ultrasonography (LUS) is an emerging method to assess pulmonary congestion. Accordingly, we describe the additive prognostic role of chest ultrasound with respect to traditional clinical and X-ray assessment in acute and chronic HF setting.
The Diagnosis of Perineural Invasion: A Crucial Factor in Novel Algorithm of Coexistence of Conventional and Nerve-Sparing Radical Hysterectomy
Authors: Skręt Andrzej , Skręt-Magierło Joanna Ewa , Książek Mariusz , Gawlik Bogusław , Bielatowicz Joanna , Barnaś Edyta
Published: July 2021

Nerve-sparing radical hysterectomy (NSRH) was introduced to mitigate adverse effects associated with conventional radical hysterectomy (CRH) in cervical cancer. However, the introduction of NSRH was compromised by possible existence of perineural invasion (PNI). Additionally, the coexistence of NSRH and CRH is currently the fact. The aim of the study was to review the literature and attempt to construct a novel and preliminary PNI diagnostic algorithm that would establish the coexistence of NSRH and CRH in one system of early-stage cervical cancer (ESCC) surgical treatment. This algorithm takes into account the PNI risk factors and current and future diagnostic methods such as imaging and biopsy.
Comparison of In Vivo and Ex Vivo Magnetic Resonance Imaging in a Rat Model for Glioblastoma-Associated Epilepsy
Authors: Bouckaert Charlotte , Christiaen Emma , Verhoeven Jeroen , Descamps Benedicte , De Meulenaere Valerie , Boon Paul , Carrette Evelien , Vonck Kristl , Vanhove Christian , Raedt Robrecht
Published: July 2021

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is frequently used for preclinical treatment monitoring in glioblastoma (GB). Discriminating between tumors and tumor-associated changes is challenging on in vivo MRI. In this study, we compared in vivo MRI scans with ex vivo MRI and histology to estimate more precisely the abnormal mass on in vivo MRI. Epileptic seizures are a common symptom in GB. Therefore, we used a recently developed GB-associated epilepsy model from our group with the aim of further characterizing the model and making it useful for dedicated epilepsy research. Ten days after GB inoculation in rat entorhinal cortices, in vivo MRI (T2w and mean diffusivity (MD)), ex vivo MRI (T2w) and histology were performed, and tumor volumes were determined on the different modalities. The estimated abnormal mass on ex vivo T2w images was significantly smaller compared to in vivo T2w images, but was more comparable to histological tumor volumes, and might be used to estimate end-stage tumor volumes. In vivo MD images displayed tumors as an outer rim of hyperintense signal with a core of hypointense signal, probably reflecting peritumoral edema and tumor mass, respectively, and might be used in the future to distinguish the tumor mass from peritumoral edema—associated with reactive astrocytes and activated microglia, as indicated by an increased expression of immunohistochemical markers—in preclinical models. In conclusion, this study shows that combining imaging techniques using different structural scales can improve our understanding of the pathophysiology in GB.
Information Entropy Algorithms for Image, Video, and Signal Processing
Authors: Jeon Gwanggil
Published: July 2021

Information entropy is a basic concept in information theory associated with any random variable [...]
Seeing the Woods for the Trees Again: Analyzing Evolutionary Diagrams in German and US University-Level Textbooks
Authors: Schramm Thilo , Jose Anika , Schmiemann Philipp
Published: July 2021

Phylogenetic trees are important tools for teaching and understanding evolution, yet students struggle to read and interpret them correctly. In this study, we extend a study conducted by Catley and Novick (2008) by investigating depictions of evolutionary trees in US textbooks. We investigated 1197 diagrams from 11 German and 11 United States university textbooks, conducting a cross-country comparison and comparing the results with data from the 2008 study. A coding manual was developed based on the 2008 study, with extensions focused on additional important aspects of evolutionary trees. The US and German books showed only a low number of significant differences, typically with very small impacts. In both samples, some characteristics that can render reading trees more difficult or foster misconceptions were found to be prevalent in various portions of the diagrams. Furthermore, US textbooks showed fewer problematic properties in our sample than in the 2008 sample. We conclude that evolutionary trees in US and German textbooks are represented comparably and that depictions in US textbooks have improved over the past 12 years. As students are confronted with comparable depictions of evolutionary relatedness, we argue that findings and materials from one country should easily be transferable to the other.
Novel MOA Fault Detection Technology Based on Small Sample Infrared Image
Authors: Wei Baoquan , Zuo Yong , Liu Yande , Luo Wei , Wen Kaiyun , Deng Fangming
Published: July 2021

This paper proposes a novel metal oxide arrester (MOA) fault detection technology based on a small sample infrared image. The research is carried out from the detection process and data enhancement. A lightweight MOA identification and location algorithm is designed at the edge, which can not only reduce the amount of data uploaded, but also reduce the search space of cloud algorithm. In order to improve the accuracy and generalization ability of the defect detection model under the condition of small samples, a multi-model fusion detection algorithm is proposed. Different features of the image are extracted by multiple convolutional neural networks, and then multiple classifiers are trained. Finally, the weighted voting strategy is used for fault diagnosis. In addition, the extended model of fault samples is constructed by transfer learning and deep convolutional generative adversarial networks (DCGAN) to solve the problem of unbalanced training data sets. The experimental results show that the proposed method can realize the accurate location of arrester under the condition of small samples, and after the data expansion, the recognition rate of arrester anomalies can be improved from 83% to 85%, showing high effectiveness and reliability.
Case Study on Integrated Architecture for In-Memory and In-Storage Computing
Authors: Kim Manho , Kim Sung-Ho , Lee Hyuk-Jae , Rhee Chae-Eun
Published: July 2021

Since the advent of computers, computing performance has been steadily increasing. Moreover, recent technologies are mostly based on massive data, and the development of artificial intelligence is accelerating it. Accordingly, various studies are being conducted to increase the performance and computing and data access, together reducing energy consumption. In-memory computing (IMC) and in-storage computing (ISC) are currently the most actively studied architectures to deal with the challenges of recent technologies. Since IMC performs operations in memory, there is a chance to overcome the memory bandwidth limit. ISC can reduce energy by using a low power processor inside storage without an expensive IO interface. To integrate the host CPU, IMC and ISC harmoniously, appropriate workload allocation that reflects the characteristics of the target application is required. In this paper, the energy and processing speed are evaluated according to the workload allocation and system conditions. The proof-of-concept prototyping system is implemented for the integrated architecture. The simulation results show that IMC improves the performance by 4.4 times and reduces total energy by 4.6 times over the baseline host CPU. ISC is confirmed to significantly contribute to energy reduction.
Theoretical and Numerical Study on Electrical Resistivity Measurement of Cylindrical Rock Core Samples Using Perimeter Electrodes
Authors: Kim Ji-Won , Hong Chang-Ho , Kim Jin-Seop , Chong Song-Hun
Published: July 2021

The estimation of hydraulic and mechanical properties of bedrock is important for the evaluation of energy-related structures, including high-level nuclear waste repositories, hydraulic fracturing wells, and gas-hydrate production wells. The hydraulic conductivity and stress–strain curves of rocks are conventionally measured through laboratory tests on cylindrical samples. Both ASTM standards for hydraulic conductivity and compressive strength involve the use of the planar bases of a cylindrical sample. Hence, an alternative test method is required for the simultaneous measurement of hydraulic conductivity and stress–strain curves. This study proposes a novel electrical resistivity estimation method using two perimeter electrodes for the estimation of hydraulic properties. The theoretical background for the perimeter electrode setup is derived and the COMSOL MultiPhysics® finite element numerical simulation tool is employed to verify the derived theoretical equation. The accuracy of the numerical simulation tool is first validated by simulating the ASTM standard testing method for electrical resistivity. The electrical resistance values derived from the theoretical equation and numerical simulation are compared for different electrical resistivity and electrode radius. The assumed equidistant, circular equipotential surface results in a theoretical lower bound for the measured electrical resistance in the cylindrical specimen. The introduction of a phenomenological distortion factor to correct for the theoretical equipotential surface results in a good fit with the numerical simulation results. The effects of electrode length and equivalent strap electrodes were investigated to assess the applicability of the suggested method for laboratory testing. Consequently, this study presents an effective alternative theoretical assessment method for the lower bound electrical resistivity of cylindrical rock core samples under confining conditions when the installation of base electrodes is infeasible.
Assessing Vehicle Emissions from a Multi-Lane to Turbo Roundabout Conversion Using a Microsimulation Tool
Authors: Mądziel Maksymilian , Campisi Tiziana , Jaworski Artur , Kuszewski Hubert , Woś Paweł
Published: July 2021

The development of urban strategies for the reduction of environmental impacts and decarbonization requires ongoing monitoring from the local scale and further deployment of actions to improve transport demand (user characteristics and modal choice) and supply (infrastructure and services). The analysis of pollution sources and the evaluation of possible scenarios are preliminary to the mitigation of impacts. In particular, the study of geometrical and functional characteristics of infrastructures through micro-simulation allows understanding of which schemes can support the reduction of emissions and guarantee high levels of service (LOS), reducing the problem of vehicular congestion in urban areas. The present work focuses on the small-scale analysis of vehicular traffic emissions at a multi-lane roundabout road intersection and the comparison of geometric schemes (current and design) and use with a turbo roundabout scheme as traffic volumes changes. These volumes have plummeted due to the current COVID-19 pandemic. The results show that the geometric-functional modification of the roundabout intersection from a multi-lane to a turbo-roundabout intersection allows a reduction of up to 30% of the emissions considering the current composition of the traffic fleet in the city of Rzeszow in Poland. The proposed comparative analysis methodology can contribute to the drafting of sustainable urban mobility plans (SUMPs) proposing a set of investments for new road works and considering a number of scenarios with interventions that can be implemented in the medium and long term that can provide the incentive to reduce road congestion and vehicular emissions.
Effect of the Temperature on the Magnetic and Energetic Properties of Soft Magnetic Composite Materials
Authors: Ferraris Luca , Franchini Fausto , Pošković Emir , Actis Grande Marco , Bidulský Róbert
Published: July 2021

In recent years, innovative magnetic materials have been introduced in the field of electrical machines. In the ambit of soft magnetic materials, laminated steels guarantee good robustness and high magnetic performance but, in some high-frequency applications, can be replaced by Soft Magnetic Composite (SMC) materials. SMC materials allow us to reduce the eddy currents and to design innovative 3D magnetic circuits. In general, SMCs are characterized at room temperature, but as electrical machines operate at high temperature (around 100 °C), an investigation analysis of the temperature effect has been carried out on these materials; in particular, three SMC samples with different binder percentages and process parameters have been considered for magnetic and energetic characterization.
Parametric Study of a Long-Duration Energy Storage Using Pumped-Hydro and Carbon Dioxide Transcritical Cycles
Authors: Byrne Paul , Lalanne Pascal
Published: July 2021

The urgent energy transition needs a better penetration of renewable energy in the world’s energy mix. The intermittency of renewables requires the use of longer-term storage. The present system uses water displacement, in a lined rock cavern or in an aerial pressurised vessel, as the virtual piston of compressor and expander functions in a carbon dioxide heat pump cycle (HPC) and in an organic transcritical cycle (OTC). Within an impermeable membrane, carbon dioxide is compressed and expanded by filling and emptying pumped-hydro water. Carbon dioxide exchanges heat with two atmospheric thermal storage pits. The hot fluid and ice pits are charged by the HPC when renewable energy becomes available and discharged by the OTC when electricity is needed. A numerical model was built to replicate the system’s losses and to calculate its round-trip efficiency (RTE). A subsequent parametric study highlights key parameters for sizing and optimisation. With an expected RTE of around 70%, this CO2 PHES (pumped-hydro electricity storage) coupled with PTES (pumped thermal energy storage) could become a game-changer by allowing the efficient storage of intermittent renewable energy and by integrating with district heating and cooling networks, as required by cities and industry in the future.
Social Housing Customization in Brazil
Authors: Dalla Vecchia Luisa Felix , Medvedovski Nirce Saffer
Published: July 2021

Social housing customization in Brazil refers to the current processes of development and evolution of government-funded neighborhoods for the lowest-income population. The mass production of small housing units that do not satisfy family needs instigates a self-design and self-construction process post-occupancy to customize the units. Ultimately, these changes to the units bring unintended negative consequences for the families and the city. In this context, mass customization is seen as an alternative to address some of the problems related to unit design.
Vegetation Types Attributed to Deforestation and Secondary Succession Drive the Elevational Changes in Diversity and Distribution of Terrestrial Mosses in a Tropical Mountain Forest in Southern China
Authors: Hao Jiewei , Chu L. M.
Published: July 2021

(1) Background: Detailed diversity information regarding terrestrial mosses in a tropical forest ecosystem and an understanding of the drivers behind moss distribution provide crucial data for the management and conservation of forest ecosystems. Mosses are critical components of tropical forest ecosystems due to their high diversity and biomass, and they also fulfill essential ecological functions. Here, we report the first study into the relative importance of vegetation types and elevational gradient for the diversity, distribution and community structure of terrestrial moss species in southern China. (2) Methods: Five elevations spaced 200 m apart in the tropical mountain forest on the northern aspect of Tai Mo Shan were selected. The diversity, distribution, and geographical patterns of terrestrial mosses in response to altitudinal changes were examined. Differences in the biotic variables of terrestrial mosses between elevations were tested using a one-way ANOVA. Curve estimation regression models were used to describe the responses of the biotic variables to the elevation gradient. Canonical correlation analysis (CCA) was performed to identify and measure the associations among biotic variables of terrestrial mosses and abiotic environmental factors. (3) Results: Fifty-three terrestrial moss species belonging to 20 families and 31 genera were recorded along the altitudinal gradient on Tai Mo Shan. Microclimate factors including dew point and rainfall were strongly associated with the cover and thickness of the ground moss species. There were no obvious richness changes of terrestrial mosses along the elevation gradient. In total, 33 of the 51 species were tropically distributed, 14 species were found across East Asia and the tropical regions, 10 species had an East Asian pattern and 8 were temperate species. (4) Conclusions: Vegetation types significantly affect the diversity and distribution of terrestrial moss species. Although they are influenced by the East Asian and temperate climate with frequent human activities, terrestrial mosses on Tai Mo Shan are primarily tropical in nature. Forest conservation and restoration should be implemented to sustain and improve the diversity of terrestrial mosses and understory plants on Tai Mo Shan, especially at higher elevations.
Modeling and Application of Fractional-Order Economic Growth Model with Time Delay
Authors: Lin Ziyi , Wang Hu
Published: July 2021

This paper proposes a fractional-order economic growth model with time delay based on the Solow model to describe the economic growth path and explore the underlying growth factors. It effectively captures memory characteristics in economic operations by adding a time lag to the capital stock. The proposed model is presented in the form of a fractional differential equations system, and the sufficient conditions for the local stability are obtained. In the simulation, the theoretical results are verified and the sensitivity analysis is performed on individual parameters. Based on the proposed model, we predict China’s GDP in the next thirty years through optimization and find medium-to-high-speed growth in the short term. Furthermore, the application results indicate that China is facing the disappearance of demographic dividend and the deceleration of capital accumulation. Therefore, it is urgent for China to increase the total factor productivity (TFP) and transform its economic growth into a trajectory dependent on TFP growth.
Organic Materials and Their Chemically Extracted Humic and Fulvic Acids as Potential Soil Amendments for Faba Bean Cultivation in Soils with Varying CaCO3 Contents
Authors: M. Farid Ihab , A. El-Ghozoli Mohamed , H. H. Abbas Mohamed , S. El-Atrony Dalia , Abbas Hassan H. , Elsadek Mohamed , A. Saad Hosam , El Nahhas Nihal , Mohamed Ibrahim
Published: July 2021

Organic amendments are important sources of nutrients that release upon organic matter degradation, yet the stability of these organics in arid and semi-arid regions is relatively low. In contrast, humic substances (HS) are resistant to biodegradation and can keep nutrients in the soil available for the plant over a long time. Combinations between humic substances (HS) and mineral-N fertilizers are assumed to retain higher available nutrients in soils than those recorded for the sole application of either mineral or organic applications. We anticipate, however, that humic substances might not be as efficient as the organics from which they were extracted in increasing NP uptake by plants. To test these assumptions, faba bean was planted in a pot experiment under greenhouse conditions following a complete randomized design while considering three factors: two soils (calcareous and non-calcareous, Factor A), two organics (biogas and compost, Factor B) and combinations of the organics and their extracts (HA or FA) together with complementary doses of mineral-N ((NH4)2SO4) to attain a total rate of 50 kg N ha−1 (the recommended dose for faba bean plants) (Factor C). Results indicated that nitrogenase activity increased significantly due to the application of the used organics. In this respect, compost manure caused higher nitrogenase activity than biogas manure did. Humic substances raised NP-availability and the uptake by plants significantly; however, the values of increase were lower than those that occurred due to the compost or biogas manure. Moreover, the sole application of the used organics recorded the highest increases in plant biomass. Significant correlations were also detected between NP-availability, uptake and plant biomass. This means that HS could probably retain nutrients in available forms for long time periods, yet nutrients released continuously but slowly upon decomposition of organics seemed more important for plant nutrition.
Proposal for Modeling Motivational Strategies for Autonomy Support in Physical Education
Authors: Moreno-Murcia Juan Antonio , Barrachina-Peris Julio , Ballester Campillo Manuel , Estévez Estefanía , Huéscar Elisa
Published: July 2021

The motivational style that teachers adopt during their interactions with their students in class can have a significant influence on the search for optimal and balanced development. Knowing the role of motivation in generating positive change, the key is to define the strategies that constitute an adaptive motivational style of teaching. The aim of this study was to design and validate the set of motivational strategies to support autonomy that are framed within the Self-Determination Theory in the context of physical education classes. For this purpose, a five-phase process was designed and carried out in one study involving different samples of experts, teachers and students. On the one hand, 25 autonomy-supportive motivational strategies were obtained and organized according to their perceived difficulty. We also analyzed the importance attributed by teachers and the difficulty of implementing them, as well as the autonomy support perceived by students through these strategies. The results obtained made it possible to present a behavior-optimizing solution consisting of a progression of 25 autonomy support strategies. The results obtained are discussed in terms of their value in the design of educational scenarios that promote high-quality student motivation.
How Is Work Ability Shaped in Groups of Shift and Non-Shift Workers? A Comprehensive Approach to Job Resources and Mediation Role of Emotions at Work
Authors: Baka Łukasz , Ścigała Dawid , Kapica Łukasz , Najmiec Andrzej , Grala Krzysztof
Published: July 2021

There is much less research on the relationship between shift work and positive states experienced in the workplace, e.g., emotions and work ability. Using the job demands-resources model, conservation of resources theory and the broaden-and-build theory as theoretical frameworks, the direct and indirect (mediated via positive and negative emotions) relations between the complex of job resources and work ability were tested in the group of shift and non-shift workers. Three types of resources related to task, leadership and interpersonal relations were taken into account. Data were collected among 1510 workers. Structural equation modelling (SEM) showed that only leadership was directly related to high work ability in both occupational groups. Indirect effects of positive and negative emotions were strongly supported. Both of them mediate the effects of the three analysed job resources on work ability, but individual job resources impacted were different. Leadership resources led to “good” work ability by the intensification of positive and reduction of negative emotions. Interpersonal resources decrease negative emotions. Task resources, conversely, intensified positive emotions, which in turn increased work ability. These research results shed more light on the ways of shaping work ability among shift and non-shift workers.
Muscle Fatigue When Riding a Motorcycle: A Case Study
Authors: Torrado Priscila , Marina Michel , Baudry Stéphane , Ríos Martín
Published: July 2021

This case study was conducted to assess muscle pattern, as measured by surface electromyography (sEMG), and its changes during a controlled superbike closed-road track training session. The sEMG signals were recorded unilaterally from biceps brachii (BB), triceps brachii (TB), anterior and posterior part of the deltoid (DA and DP respectively), flexor digitorum superficialis (FS), extensor carpi radialis (CR), extensor digitorum communis (ED) and pectoralis major (PM) during three rounds of 30 min. sEMG signals selected for analysis came from the beginning of the braking action to the way-out of the curves of interest. Considering the laps and rounds as a whole and focusing on the forearm muscles, ED was more systematically (84%) assigned to a state of fatigue than FS (44%) and CR (39%). On the opposite, the TB and DP muscles showed a predominant state of force increase (72%). Whereas the BB showed alternatively a state of fatigue or force increase depending on the side of the curve, when taking into account only the sharpest curves, it showed a predominant state of force increase. In conclusion, the fact that forearm muscles must endure a long-lasting maintenance of considerable activity levels explains why they easily got into a state of fatigue. Moreover, TB and DA are particularly relevant when cornering.
Appropriateness of Care for Common Childhood Infections at Low-Level Private Health Facilities in a Rural District in Western Uganda
Authors: Mwanga-Amumpaire Juliet , Alfvén Tobias , Obua Celestino , Källander Karin , Migisha Richard , Stålsby Lundborg Cecilia , Ndeezi Grace , Kalyango Joan Nakayaga
Published: July 2021

In Uganda, >50% of sick children receive treatment from primary level-private health facilities (HF). We assessed the appropriateness of care for common infections in under-five-year-old children and explored perspectives of healthcare workers (HCW) and policymakers on the quality of healthcare at low-level private health facilities (LLPHF) in western Uganda. This was a mixed-methods parallel convergent study. Employing multistage consecutive sampling, we selected 110 HF and observed HCW conduct 777 consultations of children with pneumonia, malaria, diarrhea or neonatal infections. We purposively selected 30 HCW and 8 policymakers for in-depth interviews. Care was considered appropriate if assessment, diagnosis, and treatment were correct. We used univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses for quantitative data and deductive thematic analysis for qualitative data. The proportion of appropriate care was 11% for pneumonia, 14% for malaria, 8% for diarrhea, and 0% for neonatal infections. Children with danger signs were more likely to receive appropriate care. Children with diarrhea or ability to feed orally were likely to receive inappropriate care. Qualitative data confirmed care given as often inappropriate, due to failure to follow guidelines. Overall, sick children with common infections were inappropriately managed at LLPHF. Technical support and provision of clinical guidelines should be increased to LLPHF.
Automatic Road Extraction from Historical Maps Using Deep Learning Techniques: A Regional Case Study of Turkey in a German World War II Map
Authors: Ekim Burak , Sertel Elif , Kabadayı M. Erdem
Published: July 2021

Scanned historical maps are available from different sources in various scales and contents. Automatic geographical feature extraction from these historical maps is an essential task to derive valuable spatial information on the characteristics and distribution of transportation infrastructures and settlements and to conduct quantitative and geometrical analysis. In this research, we used the Deutsche Heereskarte 1:200,000 Türkei (DHK 200 Turkey) maps as the base geoinformation source to construct the past transportation networks using the deep learning approach. Five different road types were digitized and labeled to be used as inputs for the proposed deep learning-based segmentation approach. We adapted U-Net++ and ResneXt50_32×4d architectures to produce multi-class segmentation masks and perform feature extraction to determine various road types accurately. We achieved remarkable results, with 98.73% overall accuracy, 41.99% intersection of union, and 46.61% F1 score values. The proposed method can be implemented in DHK maps of different countries to automatically extract different road types and used for transfer learning of different historical maps.
Multiple Introductions of the Pestiferous Land Snail Theba pisana (Müller, 1774) (Gastropoda: Helicidae) in Southern California
Authors: Vendetti Jann E. , Sandig Kimiko , Sahakyan Armenuhi , Granados Alyana
Published: July 2021

The terrestrial land snail Theba pisana is circum-Mediterranean in native range and widely introduced and pestiferous in regions around the world. In California, USA, T. pisana has been recorded intermittently since 1914, but its source population(s) are unknown, and no morphological or molecular analyses within or between California populations have been published. Therefore, we compared molecular data (CO1, 16S, ITS2) and internal morphology (jaw, radula, reproductive system) in T. pisana collected from Los Angeles and San Diego counties in 2019–2020. DNA barcode (CO1 mtDNA) analysis revealed that T. pisana from Los Angeles County was most similar to T. pisana from the Mediterranean island of Malta, and northern San Diego County-collected specimens were most similar to T. pisana from Morocco. Morphology of the jaw and mucous glands also differed between Los Angeles and San Diego populations, but it is unclear if traits are lineage-specific or artifacts of ontogeny. Several pathways of introduction into Southern California are possible for this species, but evidence for intentional vs. accidental introduction of present populations is lacking. Subsequent investigation(s) could use the data generated herein to assess the provenance of T. pisana elsewhere in California and/or worldwide and inform analyses of reproductive biology and systematics in this widespread species.
Field Effectiveness of Drones to Identify Potential Aedes aegypti Breeding Sites in Household Environments from Tapachula, a Dengue-Endemic City in Southern Mexico
Authors: Valdez-Delgado Kenia Mayela , Moo-Llanes David A. , Danis-Lozano Rogelio , Cisneros-Vázquez Luis Alberto , Flores-Suarez Adriana E. , Ponce-García Gustavo , Medina-De la Garza Carlos E. , Díaz-González Esteban E. , Fernández-Salas Ildefonso
Published: July 2021

Aedes aegypti control programs require more sensitive tools in order to survey domestic and peridomestic larval habitats for dengue and other arbovirus prevention areas. As a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic, field technicians have faced a new occupational hazard during their work activities in dengue surveillance and control. Safer strategies to monitor larval populations, in addition to minimum householder contact, are undoubtedly urgently needed. Drones can be part of the solution in urban and rural areas that are dengue-endemic. Throughout this study, the proportion of larvae breeding sites found in the roofs and backyards of houses were assessed using drone images. Concurrently, the traditional ground field technician’s surveillance was utilized to sample the same house groups. The results were analyzed in order to compare the effectiveness of both field surveillance approaches. Aerial images of 216 houses from El Vergel village in Tapachula, Chiapas, Mexico, at a height of 30 m, were obtained using a drone. Each household was sampled indoors and outdoors by vector control personnel targeting all the containers that potentially served as Aedes aegypti breeding sites. The main results were that the drone could find 1 container per 2.8 found by ground surveillance; however, containers that were inaccessible by technicians in roofs and backyards, such as plastic buckets and tubs, disposable plastic containers and flowerpots were more often detected by drones than traditional ground surveillance. This new technological approach would undoubtedly improve the surveillance of Aedes aegypti in household environments, and better vector control activities would therefore be achieved in dengue-endemic countries.
Fused Graphical Lasso Recovers Flowering Time Mutation Genes in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Kapoor Rajan , Datta Aniruddha , Thomson Michael
Published: July 2021

Conventional breeding approaches that focus on yield under highly favorable nutrient conditions have resulted in reduced genetic and trait diversity in crops. Under the growing threat from climate change, the mining of novel genes in more resilient varieties can help dramatically improve trait improvement efforts. In this work, we propose the use of the joint graphical lasso for discovering genes responsible for desired phenotypic traits. We prove its efficiency by using gene expression data for wild type and delayed flowering mutants for the model plant. Arabidopsis thaliana shows that it recovers the mutation causing genes LNK1 and LNK2. Some novel interactions of these genes were also predicted. Observing the network level changes between two phenotypes can also help develop meaningful biological hypotheses regarding the novel functions of these genes. Now that this data analysis strategy has been validated in a model plant, it can be extended to crop plants to help identify the key genes for beneficial traits for crop improvement.