bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SAR and LIDAR Datasets for Building Damage Evaluation Based on Support Vector Machine and Random Forest Algorithms—A Case Study of Kumamoto Earthquake, Japan
Authors: Hajeb Masoud , Karimzadeh Sadra , Matsuoka Masashi
Published: December 2020

The evaluation of buildings damage following disasters from natural hazards is a crucial step in determining the extent of the damage and measuring renovation needs. In this study, a combination of the synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and light detection and ranging (LIDAR) data before and after the earthquake were used to assess the damage to buildings caused by the Kumamoto earthquake. For damage assessment, three variables including elevation difference (ELD) and texture difference (TD) in pre- and post-event LIDAR images and coherence difference (CD) in SAR images before and after the event were considered and their results were extracted. Machine learning algorithms including random forest (RDF) and the support vector machine (SVM) were used to classify and predict the rate of damage. The results showed that ELD parameter played a key role in identifying the damaged buildings. The SVM algorithm using the ELD parameter and considering three damage rates, including D0 and D1 (Negligible to slight damages), D2, D3 and D4 (Moderate to Heavy damages) and D5 and D6 (Collapsed buildings) provided an overall accuracy of about 87.1%. In addition, for four damage rates, the overall accuracy was about 78.1%.
Boosting Face Recognition under Drastic Views Using a Pose AutoAugment Manner
Authors: Gao Wanshun , Zhao Xi , Zou Jianhua
Published: December 2020

Face recognition under drastic pose drops rapidly due to the limited samples during the model training. In this paper, we propose a pose-autoaugment face recognition framework (PAFR) based on the training of a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) with multi-view face augmentation. The proposed framework consists of three parts: face augmentation, CNN training, and face matching. The face augmentation part is composed of pose autoaugment and background appending for increasing the pose variations of each subject. In the second part, we train a CNN model with the generated facial images to enhance the pose-invariant feature extraction. In the third part, we concatenate the feature vectors of each face and its horizontally flipped face from the trained CNN model to obtain a robust feature. The correlation score between the two faces is computed by the cosine similarity of their robust features. Comparable experiments are demonstrated on Bosphorus and CASIA-3D databases.
Investigation of Electrical Conductivity, Optical Property, and Stability of 2D MXene Nanofluid Containing Ionic Liquids
Authors: Bakthavatchalam Balaji , Habib Khairul , Saidur R. , Aslfattahi Navid , Rashedi A.
Published: December 2020

The addition of ionic liquids with MXene nanofluid has a substantial impact on the solar thermal collectors’ working fluid’s optical properties that effectively absorb and distribute solar radiation. Increased solar radiation absorption potential ensures that heats are transported more rapidly and effectively. This research endeavors to investigate the concept of accumulating solar energy via the usage of ionic liquid-based 2D MXene nanofluid (Ionanofluids) for solar applications. In this study, the optical potential of Diethylene Glycol/MXene nanofluid incorporated with 1-ethyl-3-methyl imidazolium octyl sulfate ([Emim][OSO4]) ionic liquid was extensively investigated with respect to MXene concentration (0.1 to 0.4 wt%) and time (first day and seventh day) through UV-Vis Spectroscopy. A two-step approach was employed to synthesize the proposed ionanofluids with nanoparticle concentrations from 0.1 to 0.4 wt%. In wavelengths between 240 to 790 nm, the effect of ionic liquids, MXene concentration, and dispersion stability played a significant part in enhancing the absorbance capacity of the formulated MXene based Ionanofluid. Furthermore, the increase in the concentration of MXene nanoparticles resulted in more absorbance peaks facilitating high light absorption. Finally, the electrical conductivity of the ionanofluids is also analyzed as MXene renders them promising for solar cell applications. The utmost electrical conductivity of the formulated fluids of 571 μS/cm (micro siemens per centimeter) was achieved at 0.4 wt% concentration.
Immediate Implant Placement and Provisionalization in the Esthetic Zone Revisited: The Marginal Migration Concept (MMC)
Authors: Valavanis Konstantinos , Vergoullis Ioannis , Papastamos Michalis , Salama Henry
Published: December 2020

Immediate implant placement and provisionalization in the esthetic zone is a desirable approach that presents several advantages but at the same time embosses several risk factors that can lead to sever esthetic complications. The purpose of this article was to propose a new protocol that could allow for the maintenance and even the improvement of the hard and soft tissue topography, leading to superior esthetic results. The proposed protocol, when certain criteria are met, could be applied even for cases where the extraction socket morphology is currently proposed as a contra-indication for immediate implant placement and provisionalization.
Application of Hydrochar, Digestate, and Synthetic Fertilizer to a Miscanthus x giganteus Crop: Implications for Biomass and Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Authors: Adjuik Toby , Rodjom Abbey M. , Miller Kimberley E. , Reza M. Toufiq M. , Davis Sarah C.
Published: December 2020

Miscanthus x giganteus (miscanthus), a perennial biomass crop, allocates more carbon belowground and typically has lower soil greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions than conventional feedstock crops, but best practices for nutrient management that maximize yield while minimizing soil GHG emissions are still debated. This study evaluated the effects of four different fertilization treatments (digestate from a biodigester, synthetic fertilizer (urea), hydrochar from the hydrothermal carbonization of digestate, and a control) on soil GHG emissions and biomass yield of an established miscanthus stand grown on abandoned agricultural land. Soil GHG fluxes (including CH4, CO2, and N2O) were sampled in all treatments using the static chamber methodology. Average biomass yield varied from 20.2 Mg ha−1 to 23.5 Mg ha−1, but there were no significant differences among the four treatments (p > 0.05). The hydrochar treatment reduced mean CO2 emissions by 34% compared to the control treatment, but this difference was only statistically significant in one of the two sites tested. Applying digestate to miscanthus resulted in a CH4 efflux from the soil in one of two sites, while soils treated with urea and hydrochar acted as CH4 sinks in both sites. Overall, fertilization did not significantly improve biomass yield, but hydrochar as a soil amendment has potential for reducing soil GHG fluxes.
On a Wing and a Prayer: Ibis Mummies in Material Culture at Abydos
Authors: McKnight Lidija
Published: December 2020

The production of millions of artificially mummified animals by the ancient Egyptians is an extraordinary expression of religious piety. Millions of creatures of numerous species were preserved, wrapped in linen and deposited as votive offerings; a means by which the Egyptians communicated with their gods. The treatment of animals in this manner resulted in a wealth of material culture; the excavation and distribution of which formed a widely dispersed collection of artefacts in museum and private collections around the world. Due to ad hoc collection methods and the poorly recorded distribution of animal mummies, many artefacts have unknown or uncertain provenance. Researchers at the University of Manchester identified a group of eight mummies positively attributed to the 1913–1914 excavation season at Abydos, now held in the collections of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, Massachusetts. This paper presents the investigation of this discreet group of provenanced mummies through stylistic evaluation of the exterior, and the assessment of the contents and construction techniques employed using clinical radiography. Dating of one mummy places the artefact—and likely that of the whole assemblage—within the Late Period (c.664–332BC). Considering these data enables the mummies to be interpreted as the Egyptians intended; as votive artefacts produced within the sacred landscape at Abydos.
Evaluating Satellite Sounding Temperature Observations for Cold Air Aloft Detection
Authors: Esmaili Rebekah , Smith Nadia , Schoeberl Mark , Barnet Chris
Published: December 2020

Cold Air Aloft (CAA) can impact commercial flights when cold air descends below 12,192 m (40,000 ft) and temperatures drop dramatically. A CAA event is identified when air temperature falls below −65 °C, which decreases fuel efficiency and poses a safety hazard. This manuscript assesses the performance of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Unique Combined Atmospheric Processing System (NUCAPS) in detecting CAA events using sounders on polar-orbiting satellites. We compare NUCAPS air temperature profiles with those from Constellation Observing System for Meteorology, Ionosphere, and Climate (COSMIC) for January–March 2018. Of 1311 collocated profiles, 236 detected CAA. Our results showed that NUCAPS correctly detects CAA in 48.1% of profiles, while 17.2% are false positives and 34.7% are false negatives. To identify the reason for these detection states, we used a logistic regression trained on NUCAPS diagnostic parameters. We found that cloud cover can impact the skill even at higher vertical levels. This work indicates that a CAA-specific quality flag is feasible and may be useful to help forecasters to diagnose NUCAPS in real-time. Furthermore, the inclusion of an additional sounder data source (e.g., NOAA-20) may increase CAA forecast accuracy. Cloud scenes change rapidly, so additional observations provide more opportunities for correct detection.
Structural Basis for Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor Activation and Implications for Disease Therapy
Authors: Shaik Faheem , Cuthbert Gary , Homer-Vanniasinkam Shervanthi , Muench Stephen , Ponnambalam Sreenivasan , Harrison Michael
Published: December 2020

Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) bind to membrane receptors on a wide variety of cells to regulate diverse biological responses. The VEGF-A family member promotes vasculogenesis and angiogenesis, processes which are essential for vascular development and physiology. As angiogenesis can be subverted in many disease states, including tumour development and progression, there is much interest in understanding the mechanistic basis for how VEGF-A regulates cell and tissue function. VEGF-A binds with high affinity to two VEGF receptor tyrosine kinases (VEGFR1, VEGFR2) and with lower affinity to co-receptors called neuropilin-1 and neuropilin-2 (NRP1, NRP2). Here, we use a structural viewpoint to summarise our current knowledge of VEGF-VEGFR activation and signal transduction. As targeting VEGF-VEGFR activation holds much therapeutic promise, we examine the structural basis for anti-angiogenic therapy using small-molecule compounds such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors that block VEGFR activation and downstream signalling. This review provides a rational basis towards reconciling VEGF and VEGFR structure and function in developing new therapeutics for a diverse range of ailments.
Negative (Workaholic) Emotions and Emotional Exhaustion: Might Job Autonomy Have Played a Strategic Role in Workers with Responsibility during the Covid-19 Crisis Lockdown?
Authors: Spagnoli Paola , Molinaro Danila
Published: December 2020

Decision-making autonomy may have played a crucial role in protecting, or on the contrary, intensifying the onset of negative psychological outcomes for workers with roles with responsibilities during the lockdown due to the Covid-19 crisis. The present study analyzed the emotional dimension of workaholism in relation to emotional exhaustion, considering decision-making autonomy as a moderator of this relationship, in a sample of 101 managers and freelancers in the middle of the lockdown in Italy (early April 2020). Results showed that the relationship between negative (workaholic) emotions and emotional exhaustion was moderated by decision-making autonomy and this moderation differed for managers and freelancers. In particular, the results showed that in the target of managers high levels of negative emotional experiences related to workaholism and low decision-making autonomy are associated with higher levels emotional exhaustion, while high levels of emotional experiences linked to workaholism and high decision-making autonomy produced significantly lower levels of emotional exhaustion. On the contrary, low levels of job autonomy were associated to higher level of emotional exhaustion when negative (workaholic) emotions were low for the freelancers. Limitations are related to the limited sample and the cross-sectional nature of the study. Practical implications lie in considering decision-making autonomy as a double-edged sword, such that when low it could be a risk for managers and when high it could be a risk for freelancers.
Creative Decision-Making Processes in Parametric Design
Authors: Lee Ju Hyun , Ostwald Michael J.
Published: December 2020

Decision-making in design is a cognitive process wherein alternatives are generated and evaluated, potentially enabling a more creative design process. In recent years parametric design’s heightened capacity for automatically generating and evaluating options has been celebrated by researchers and designers, but it has also placed an increased emphasis on decision-making activities which have not previously been studied in this context. This paper conducts the first in-depth protocol analysis of the decision-making process (DMP) in parametric design. Using empirical data, it identifies three parametric DMPs at the conceptual design stage: (i) “conclusive” DMP, (ii) “confirmative” DMP, and (iii) “simulative” DMP. The results of this research indicate that while conclusive DMP generates and evaluates design alternatives, its “forward incrementation” approach has only limited potential for creativity. The confirmative DMP develops three creative operation loops in parametric design, suggesting it may be an important creative process. The simulative DMP simultaneously addresses divergent and convergent thinking, also indicating potential creative operations and outcomes. The identification and analysis of these DMPs contributes to developing new knowledge about the processes used in parametric design and their capacity to support creative results.
The Evolving Knowledge on T and NK Cells in Classic Hodgkin Lymphoma: Insights into Novel Subsets Populating the Immune Microenvironment
Authors: Ferrarini Isacco , Rigo Antonella , Visco Carlo , Krampera Mauro , Vinante Fabrizio
Published: December 2020

Classic Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) is a unique lymphoid neoplasm characterized by extensive immune infiltrates surrounding rare malignant Hodgkin Reed–Sternberg (HRS) cells. Different subsets of T and NK cells have long been recognized in the cHL microenvironment, yet their distinct contribution to disease pathogenesis has remained enigmatic. Very recently, novel platforms for high dimensional analysis of immune cells, such as single-cell RNA sequencing and mass cytometry, have revealed unanticipated insights into the composition of T- and NK-cell compartments in cHL. Advances in imaging techniques have better defined specific T-helper subpopulations physically interacting with neoplastic cells. In addition, the identification of novel cytotoxic subsets with an exhausted phenotype, typically enriched in cHL milieu, is shedding light on previously unrecognized immune evasion mechanisms. This review examines the immunological features and the functional properties of T and NK subsets recently identified in the cHL microenvironment, highlighting their pathological interplay with HRS cells. We also discuss how this knowledge can be exploited to predict response to immunotherapy and to design novel strategies to improve PD-1 blockade efficacy.
Pharmacokinetic Analysis of Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging at 7T for Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Characterization
Authors: Ochoa-Albiztegui R. Elena , Sevilimedu Varadan , Horvat Joao V. , Thakur Sunitha B. , Helbich Thomas H. , Trattnig Siegfried , Morris Elizabeth A. , Reiner Jeffrey S. , Pinker Katja
Published: December 2020

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether ultra-high-field dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) of the breast at 7T using quantitative pharmacokinetic (PK) analysis can differentiate between benign and malignant breast tumors for improved breast cancer diagnosis and to predict molecular subtypes, histologic grade, and proliferation rate in breast cancer. In this prospective study, 37 patients with 43 lesions suspicious on mammography or ultrasound underwent bilateral DCE-MRI of the breast at 7T. PK parameters (KTrans, kep, Ve) were evaluated with two region of interest (ROI) approaches (2D whole-tumor ROI or 2D 10 mm standardized ROI) manually drawn by two readers (senior reader, R1, and R2) independently. Histopathology served as the reference standard. PK parameters differentiated benign and malignant lesions (n = 16, 27, respectively) with good accuracy (AUCs = 0.655–0.762). The addition of quantitative PK analysis to subjective BI-RADS classification improved breast cancer detection from 88.4% to 97.7% for R1 and 86.04% to 97.67% for R2. Different ROI approaches did not influence diagnostic accuracy for both readers. Except for KTrans for whole-tumor ROI for R2, none of the PK parameters were valuable to predict molecular subtypes, histologic grade, or proliferation rate in breast cancer. In conclusion, PK-enhanced BI-RADS is promising for the noninvasive differentiation of benign and malignant breast tumors.
Comprehensive Functional Characterization and Clinical Interpretation of 20 Splice-Site Variants of the RAD51C Gene
Authors: Sanoguera-Miralles Lara , Valenzuela-Palomo Alberto , Bueno-Martínez Elena , Llovet Patricia , Díez-Gómez Beatriz , Caloca María José , Pérez-Segura Pedro , Fraile-Bethencourt Eugenia , Colmena Marta , Carvalho Sara , Allen Jamie , Easton Douglas F. , Devilee Peter , Vreeswijk Maaike P. G. , de la Hoya Miguel , Velasco Eladio A.
Published: December 2020

Hereditary breast and/or ovarian cancer is a highly heterogeneous disease with more than 10 known disease-associated genes. In the framework of the BRIDGES project (Breast Cancer Risk after Diagnostic Gene Sequencing), the RAD51C gene has been sequenced in 60,466 breast cancer patients and 53,461 controls. We aimed at functionally characterizing all the identified genetic variants that are predicted to disrupt the splicing process. Forty RAD51C variants of the intron-exon boundaries were bioinformatically analyzed, 20 of which were selected for splicing functional assays. To test them, a splicing reporter minigene with exons 2 to 8 was designed and constructed. This minigene generated a full-length transcript of the expected size (1062 nucleotides), sequence, and structure (Vector exon V1- RAD51C exons_2-8- Vector exon V2). The 20 candidate variants were genetically engineered into the wild type minigene and functionally assayed in MCF-7 cells. Nineteen variants (95%) impaired splicing, while 18 of them produced severe splicing anomalies. At least 35 transcripts were generated by the mutant minigenes: 16 protein-truncating, 6 in-frame, and 13 minor uncharacterized isoforms. According to ACMG/AMP-based standards, 15 variants could be classified as pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants: c.404G > A, c.405-6T > A, c.571 + 4A > G, c.571 + 5G > A, c.572-1G > T, c.705G > T, c.706-2A > C, c.706-2A > G, c.837 + 2T > C, c.905-3C > G, c.905-2A > C, c.905-2_905-1del, c.965 + 5G > A, c.1026 + 5_1026 + 7del, and c.1026 + 5G > T.
Clarifying the Role of the Reducers-to-Oxidizers Ratio in the Solution Combustion Synthesis of Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3-δ Oxygen Electrocatalysts
Authors: Deganello Francesca , Liotta Leonarda F. , Aliotta Chiara , Barbucci Antonio , Viviani Massimo , Clematis Davide , Carpanese Maria Paola , Presto Sabrina
Published: December 2020

Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3-δ perovskite-type compounds are well-known mixed ionic-electronic conductors for oxygen electrocatalytic applications, although their performance is strictly dependent on the selected preparation methodology and processing parameters. The reducers-to-oxidizers ratio (Φ) is a very important parameter in the solution combustion synthesis of mixed ionic-electronic conductors. Selection of Φ is not trivial and it strongly depends on the type of fuel used, the chemical composition and the specific application of the material. This work clarifies the role of Φ in the solution combustion synthesis of Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3-δ for application as oxygen electrocatalysts. Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3-δ powders were synthesized by solution combustion synthesis using sucrose-polyethylene glycol fuel mixtures with reducers-to-oxidizers ratio values between 1 (stoichiometric) and 3 (over-stoichiometric). Chemical-physical properties were studied by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, N2 adsorption at −196 °C, H2-temperature programmed reduction and thermogravimetric analysis. The results evidenced the direct role of Φ on the intensity and redox environment of the combustion process, and its indirect influence on the Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3-δ electrode materials properties. Taking into account the general picture, the highly over-stoichiometric Φ was selected as the optimal one and the electrochemical activity of the corresponding powder was tested by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy on electrolyte-supported half-cells employing a Ce0.8Sm0.2O2-x electrolyte.
Capillary Rarefaction in Obesity and Metabolic Diseases—Organ-Specificity and Possible Mechanisms
Authors: Paavonsalo Satu , Hariharan Sangeetha , Lackman Madeleine H. , Karaman Sinem
Published: December 2020

Obesity and its comorbidities like diabetes, hypertension and other cardiovascular disorders are the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. Metabolic diseases cause vascular dysfunction and loss of capillaries termed capillary rarefaction. Interestingly, obesity seems to affect capillary beds in an organ-specific manner, causing morphological and functional changes in some tissues but not in others. Accordingly, treatment strategies targeting capillary rarefaction result in distinct outcomes depending on the organ. In recent years, organ-specific vasculature and endothelial heterogeneity have been in the spotlight in the field of vascular biology since specialized vascular systems have been shown to contribute to organ function by secreting varying autocrine and paracrine factors and by providing niches for stem cells. This review summarizes the recent literature covering studies on organ-specific capillary rarefaction observed in obesity and metabolic diseases and explores the underlying mechanisms, with multiple modes of action proposed. It also provides a glimpse of the reported therapeutic perspectives targeting capillary rarefaction. Further studies should address the reasons for such organ-specificity of capillary rarefaction, investigate strategies for its prevention and reversibility and examine potential signaling pathways that can be exploited to target it.
The PARP Inhibitor Olaparib Modulates the Transcriptional Regulatory Networks of Long Non-Coding RNAs during Vasculogenic Mimicry
Authors: Fernández-Cortés Mónica , Andrés-León Eduardo , Oliver Francisco Javier
Published: December 2020

In highly metastatic tumors, vasculogenic mimicry (VM) involves the acquisition by tumor cells of endothelial-like traits. Poly-(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors are currently used against tumors displaying BRCA1/2-dependent deficient homologous recombination, and they may have antimetastatic activity. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging as key species-specific regulators of cellular and disease processes. To evaluate the impact of olaparib treatment in the context of non-coding RNA, we have analyzed the expression of lncRNA after performing unbiased whole-transcriptome profiling of human uveal melanoma cells cultured to form VM. RNAseq revealed that the non-coding transcriptomic landscape differed between olaparib-treated and non-treated cells: olaparib significantly modulated the expression of 20 lncRNAs, 11 lncRNAs being upregulated, and 9 downregulated. We subjected the data to different bioinformatics tools and analysis in public databases. We found that copy-number variation alterations in some olaparib-modulated lncRNAs had a statistically significant correlation with alterations in some key tumor suppressor genes. Furthermore, the lncRNAs that were modulated by olaparib appeared to be regulated by common transcription factors: ETS1 had high-score binding sites in the promoters of all olaparib upregulated lncRNAs, while MZF1, RHOXF1 and NR2C2 had high-score binding sites in the promoters of all olaparib downregulated lncRNAs. Finally, we predicted that olaparib-modulated lncRNAs could further regulate several transcription factors and their subsequent target genes in melanoma, suggesting that olaparib may trigger a major shift in gene expression mediated by the regulation lncRNA. Globally, olaparib changed the lncRNA expression landscape during VM affecting angiogenesis-related genes.
Epigenetic Silencing of Tumor Suppressor miR-124 Directly Supports STAT3 Activation in Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: García-Colmenero Lidia , González Jéssica , Sandoval Juan , Guillén Yolanda , Diaz-Lagares Angel , Andrades Evelyn , Iglesias Arnau , Nonell Lara , Pujol Ramon Maria , Bigas Anna , Espinosa Lluís , Gallardo Fernando
Published: December 2020

Increasing evidence supports a potential role for STAT3 as a tumor driver in cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (CTCL). The mechanisms leading to STAT3 activation are not fully understood; however, we recently found that miR-124, a known STAT3 regulator, is robustly silenced in MF tumor-stage and CTCL cells. Objective: We studied here whether deregulation of miR-124 contributes to STAT3 pathway activation in CTCL. Methods: We measured the effect of ectopic mir-124 expression in active phosphorylated STAT3 (p-STAT3) levels and evaluated the transcriptional impact of miR-124-dependent STAT3 pathway regulation by expression microarray analysis. Results: We found that ectopic expression of miR-124 results in massive downregulation of activated STAT3 in different CTCL lines, which resulted in a significant alteration of genetic signatures related with gene transcription and proliferation such as MYC and E2F. Conclusions: Our study highlights the importance of the miR-124/STAT3 axis in CTCL and demonstrates that the STAT3 pathway is regulated through epigenetic mechanisms in these cells. Since deregulated STAT3 signaling has a major impact on CTCL initiation and progression, a better understanding of the molecular basis of the miR-124/STAT3 axis may provide useful information for future personalized therapies.
Research on the Metal Corrosion Process in the Sea Mud/Seawater/Atmosphere Interface Zone
Authors: Chen Zhiwei , Xia Wenting , Yao Caiqi , Lin Zhifeng , Zhang Wei , Li Weihua
Published: December 2020

Corrosion in the interface zone is a complicated local corrosion phenomenon. The conventional single-electrode method finds it difficult to obtain the kinetic information of corrosion occurrence and development process. In this paper, metal corrosion was studied by Wire Beam Electrode (WBE) technology on the interfaces of sea mud/seawater and seawater/atmosphere. The study found that the metal corrosion in the interface is a process of coupling a dual corrosion cell into a single corrosion cell. Initially, a corrosion cell is formed with the seawater/atmosphere interface acting as the cathode and the upper part of the metal in the seawater area as the anode. This is due to the oxygen concentration cell caused by the waterline effect. The cathode area is always enriched near the seawater/atmosphere interface. The lower part of the metal in the seawater area and the metal in the sea mud area are the anode and the cathode, respectively, of another corrosion cell. Along with the immersion time, the anodic area of the first corrosion cell gradually extends to the lower part of the metal in the seawater zone and finally the sea mud zone, resulting in the disappearance of the second corrosion cell. In the single corrosion cell stage, the seawater/atmosphere interface is the cathode area; the seawater area and the sea mud area are the anode areas, and the electrode adjacent to the cathode area becomes the anode area with the largest current density. During the whole experiment, the sea mud zone is a process of polarity transition from the cathode zone to the anode zone, and finally forms the anode zone of the whole electrode together with the anode zone in the sea zone.
Surface Modification of 316L SS Implants by Applying Bioglass/Gelatin/Polycaprolactone Composite Coatings for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Mojarad Shafiee Behzad , Torkaman Reza , Mahmoudi Mohammad , Emadi Rahmatollah , Derakhshan Maryam , Karamian Ebrahim , Tavangarian Fariborz
Published: December 2020

In this study, various composites of bioglass/gelatin/polycaprolactone (BG/GE/PCL) were produced and coated on the surface of 316L stainless steel (SS) to improve its bioactivity. X-ray diffractometry (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) were utilized to characterize the specimens. The results showed that bioglass particles were distributed uniformly in the coating. By increasing the wt.% of bioglass in the nanocomposite coatings, the surface roughness and adhesion strength increased. The corrosion behavior of GE/PCL (PCL-10 wt.% gelatin coated on 316L SS) and 3BG/GE/PCL (GE/PCL including 3 wt.% bioglass coated on 316L SS) samples were studied in PBS solution. The results demonstrated that 3BG/GE/PCL sample improved the corrosion resistance drastically compared to the GE/PCL specimen. In vitro bioactivity of samples was examined after soaking the specimens for 7, 14 and 28 days in simulated body fluid (SBF). The results showed a significant apatite formation on the surface of 3BG/GE/PCL samples. The cell viability evaluation was performed using 3- (4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5 diphenyltetrazoliumbromide (MTT) tests which confirmed the enhanced cell viability on the surface of 3BG/GE/PCL samples. The in vivo behavior of specimens illustrated no toxicity and inflammatory response and was in a good agreement with the results obtained from the in vitro test.
Magnetoelectric Coupling in Bismuth Ferrite—Challenges and Perspectives
Authors: N. V. Srihari , Vinayakumar K. B. , Nagaraja K. K.
Published: December 2020

Multiferroic materials belong to the sub-group of ferroics possessing two or more ferroic orders in the same phase. Aizu first coined the term multiferroics in 1969. Of late, several multiferroic materials’ unique and robust characteristics have shown great potential for various applications. Notably, the coexisting magnetic and electrical ordering results in the Magnetoelectric effect (ME), wherein the electrical polarization can be manipulated by magnetic fields and magnetization by electric fields. Currently, more significant interests lie in significantly enhancing the ME coupling facilitating the realization of Spintronic devices, which makes use of the transport phenomenon of spin-polarized electrons. On the other hand, the magnetoelectric coupling is also pivotal in magnetic memory devices wherein the application of small electric voltage manipulates the magnetic properties of the device. This review gives a brief overview of magnetoelectric coupling in Bismuth ferrite and approaches to achieve higher magnetoelectric coupling and device applications.
Folding-BSD Algorithm for Binary Sequence Decomposition
Authors: Martin-Navarro Jose Luis , Fúster-Sabater Amparo
Published: December 2020

The Internet of Things (IoT) revolution leads to a range of critical services which rely on IoT devices. Nevertheless, they often lack proper security, becoming the gateway to attack the whole system. IoT security protocols often rely on stream ciphers, where pseudo-random number generators (PRNGs) are an essential part of them. In this article, a family of ciphers with strong characteristics that make them difficult to be analyzed by standard methods is described. In addition, we will discuss an innovative technique of sequence decomposition and present a novel algorithm to evaluate the strength of binary sequences, a key part of the IoT security stack. The density of the binomial sequences in the decomposition has been studied experimentally to compare the performance of the presented algorithm with previous works.
Change of Ellipsoid Biovolume (EV) of Ground Beetles (Coleoptera, Carabidae) along an Urban–Suburban–Rural Gradient of Central Slovakia
Authors: Langraf Vladimír , David Stanislav , Babosová Ramona , Petrovičová Kornélia , Schlarmannová Janka
Published: December 2020

Changes in the structure of ground beetle communities indicate environmental stability or instability influenced by, e.g., urbanization, agriculture, and forestry. It can affect flight capability and ellipsoid biovolume (EV) of ground beetles. Therefore, we analyzed ground beetles in various habitats. In the course of the period from 2015 to 2017, we recorded in pitfall traps 2379 individuals (1030 males and 1349 females) belonging to 52 species at six localities (two rural, two suburban, two urban). We observed the decrease in the average EV value and morphometric characters (length, height, and width of the body) of ground beetles in the direction of the rural–suburban–urban gradient. Our results also suggest a decrease in EV of apterous and brachypterous species and an increase in macropterous species in the urban and suburban landscapes near agricultural fields. The increasing EV of apterous and brachypterous species and the decreasing of macropterous species was observed in rural landscape conditions with not continuous cover forestry and partial forest management. The creation of habitat fragments in urbanized conditions is key to maintaining the average EV in apterous and brachypterous species in urban and suburban landscapes.
A Comparative Study of Carabid Beetles in Green Spaces and Former Natural Habitats
Authors: Park Yonghwan , Kim Chang-Jun , Choi Moon-Bo , Do Yuno
Published: December 2020

Urban expansion threatens ecosystems through direct habitat conversion. To secure urban biodiversity and enhance ecosystem services, a common focus of planning and growth management efforts is to establish green spaces. This study aimed to understand the formation process of newly created green spaces after urban development. We investigated the carabid beetle assemblages in its current habitat in a new city and in its former habitats for assessing the loss of species diversity by urban development and to identify the initial status of species assemblages in the current urban habitats, including green spaces. The diversity and composition of the carabid beetle assemblages significantly changed in the new city. The former habitat loss by urban development leaves large numbers of carabid species to dramatically decline. Carabid assemblages in current habitats may show a critical response to habitat loss, although former habitats were converted to green spaces. Some carabid species were only present in current habitats, including the green space from former habitats. In addition, the current habitat, including green spaces and other habitats, have similar carabid assemblages. Our results indicated that the loss of former habitat has a much greater effect on species diversity persistence than changes in habitat configuration and the creation of green spaces. Consequently, most carabid beetles were already lost during development. Urban habitats in new cities, including green spaces, represent simple and homogeneous habitats, although the development was designed and planned to enhance biodiversity. The present design and planning practice for green spaces that destroyed all former habitats to prepare the ground of urban areas and thereby created urban habitats, including green space, may need to be changed to secure biodiversity. Designing and planning the green spaces should consider the species’ former habitats, for instance, creating a similar type of green space to agricultural land, forest, and wetland, and thereby the former habitat remains intact to enhance biodiversity and function.
Simple Stepwise Approach to Differentiate Cyst-Like Soft-Tissue Masses by Using Time-Resolved Magnetic Resonance Angiography
Authors: Lai Ying-Chieh , Juan Yu-Hsiang , Ng Shu-Hang , Lo Tzu-Chin , Chuang Wen-Yu , Chen Chun-Chieh , Liau Chi-Ting , Lin Gigin , Lin Yu-Jr , Lin Yu-Ching
Published: December 2020

This retrospective study aimed to differentiate cyst-like musculoskeletal soft-tissue masses by using time-resolved magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). During May 2015 to November 2019, patients with cyst-like soft-tissue masses examined through contrast-enhanced MRI followed by histologic diagnosis were included. The masses were classified into vascular lesions, solid lesions, and true cysts. Size, T1 hyperintensity, T2 composition, perilesional edema, time-resolved MRA, and static internal enhancement were assessed. The time-resolved MRA manifestations were classified into vascular pooling, solid stain, and occult lesion. Imaging predictors for each type of mass were identified through logistic regression and were used to develop a diagnostic flowchart. A total of 80 patients (47 men; median age, 42 years) were included, with 22 vascular lesions, 38 solid lesions, and 20 true cysts. The T2 composition, time-resolved MRA, and static internal enhancement were significantly different among the masses. Vascular pooling on time-resolved MRA was the sole predictor of vascular lesions (odds ratio = 722.0, p < 0.001). Solid stain on time-resolved MRA was the sole predictor of solid lesions (odds ratio = 73.6, p < 0.001). Occult lesion on time-resolved MRA (odds ratio = 7.4, p = 0.001) and absence of static internal enhancement (odds ratio = 80.0, p < 0.001) both predicted true cysts, while the latter was the sole predictor of true cysts after multivariate analysis. A diagnostic flowchart based on time-resolved MRA correctly classified 89% of the masses. In conclusion, time-resolved MRA accurately differentiates cyst-like soft-tissue masses and provides guidance for management.
Salivary Metabolic Profile of Patients with Lung Cancer, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease of Varying Severity and Their Comorbidity: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Bel’skaya Lyudmila V. , Sarf Elena A. , Solomatin Denis V. , Kosenok Victor K.
Published: December 2020

The aim of the work was to study the features of the salivary biochemical composition in the combined pathology of lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) of varying severity (COPD I, COPD II). The study group included patients with lung cancer (n = 392), non-malignant lung pathologies (n = 168) and healthy volunteers (n = 500). Before treatment, the salivary biochemical composition was determined according to 34 indicators. Survival analysis performed by the Kaplan-Meier method. Biochemical parameters (catalase, imidazole compounds ICs, sialic acids, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)) that can be used to monitor patients at risk (COPD I) for timely diagnosis of lung cancer are determined. A complex of salivary biochemical indicators with prognostic value in lung cancer was revealed. For patients with lung cancer without COPD, a group of patients with a favorable prognosis can be distinguished with a combination of ICs < 0.478 mmol/L and LDH >1248 U/L (HR = 1.56, 95% CI 0.40–6.07, p = 0.03891). For COPD I, a level of ICs < 0.182 mmol/L are prognostically favorable (HR = 1.74, 95% CI 0.71–4.21, p = 0.07270). For COPD II, combinations of pH < 6.74 and LDH >1006 U/L are prognostically favorable. In general, for patients with lung cancer in combination with COPD I, the prognosis is more favorable than without COPD.
Capturing Student Satisfaction: A Case Study on the National Student Survey Results to Identify the Needs of Students in STEM Related Courses for a Better Learning Experience
Authors: Sofroniou Anastasia , Premnath Bhairavi , Poutos Konstantinos
Published: December 2020

The UK higher education has been one of the top destinations for international students over the last few decades, and it is beneficial to the UK local and national economy. However, recent changes of the governmental policies on the way UK universities are funded and the recession that still affects economies around the world have left many universities around the UK at financial survival risk. With relatively limited access to reduced research funds, student recruitment has a vital importance for most universities. It has been well established in the literature that academic reputation and the level of services have the most significant impact on national and international students. Thus, universities, to maintain their market share, must spend much energy and resources to improve the level of services offered to their students. The recently introduced National Student Survey (NSS) has become one of the most important metrics to assess student satisfaction that influences directly the university league tables and the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), which in turn effects international and national student recruitment. It is not surprising that underpinning student satisfaction has become the major target of UK universities. Therefore, a research investigation has been carried out to identify the most influential factors that comprise to the decision of overall satisfaction for the students studying Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects. On this purpose, a detailed statistical analysis was carried out on the NSS results and it was concluded that there is strong evidence, that “teaching” and “organisation and management” are the vital influential factors on the overall satisfaction of students.
Weathering Behaviour of Cunninghamia lanceolata (Lamb.) Hook. under Natural Conditions
Authors: Cui Xinjie , Matsumura Junji
Published: December 2020

Information on the weathering behaviour of Cunninghamia lanceolata (Lamb.) Hook. is needed to provide references for wood weatherproof pre-treatment and to improve wood utilization. Therefore, this study was conducted to understand the variation in the intrinsic weathering behaviour of Cunninghamia lanceolata (Chinese fir) under natural conditions. Wood samples from 15 Cunninghamia lanceolata trees aged 26–30 years old were used. The structural degradation and discoloration of wood surfaces before and after exposure were compared. The results show that the weathering behaviour of wood was weakened from heartwood to sapwood and enhanced from the bottom to the top. This study provided information for weatherability research and improved wood utilization of Cunninghamia lanceolata.
Aspergillus tubingensis Is a Pre-Emergent Pathogen of Date Palm Seedlings
Authors: Alomran Maryam , Houbraken Jos , Newcombe George
Published: December 2020

Many diseases of date palm are known. However, pathogens that might affect seed germination and seedling emergence from soil are poorly studied, perhaps because date palm cultivars are propagated vegetatively. Here, we first determined the effects of date seed fungi on the germination and emergence of 600 seeds overall (i.e., 200 of each of three cultivars: ‘Thoory’, ‘Halawi’, and ‘Barhi’). In each cultivar, 100 seeds were from Saudi Arabia (part of the native range), and 100 were from the southwestern USA (where the date palm was introduced around 1765). Just four fungal genera (i.e., Alternaria, Aspergillus, Chaetomium, and Penicillium) were isolated from the surface-sterilized date seeds. Aspergillus isolates all belonged to Aspergillus sect. Nigri; collectively they were in the highest relative abundance at 39%, and significantly more common in Saudi Arabian seeds than in American seeds. Aspergillus reduced seed germination and also reduced emergence when germinated and non-germinated seeds were planted in potting mix in a greenhouse. In contrast, Penicillium species were more common in American than in Saudi seeds; Penicillium did not affect germination, although it did have a positive effect on seedling emergence. In a second experiment with 17 seeds of the ‘Halawi’ cultivar, fungus-free seeds were either inoculated with isolates of Aspergillus sect. Nigri or not, and then planted. Controls emerged whereas Aspergillus-inoculated seeds did not. Finally, a third experiment was conducted with Aspergillus tubingensis Mosseray, a sect. Nigri member, as sole inoculum of 100 ‘Halawi’ seeds versus 100 uninoculated controls. Aspergillus tubingensis exerted the same pathogenic effects on germinating and emerging seedlings as the isolates identified only to Aspergillus sect. Nigri. Aspergillus tubingensis is thus a previously unreported, seedborne pathogen affecting date palm seedlings. Our findings also suggest that A. tubingensis may be more common in seeds in the host’s native range than in its introduced range.
Estimating the Potential for Forest Degradation in the Eastern United States Woodlands from an Introduction of Sudden Oak Death
Authors: Haller Dillon J. , Wimberly Michael C.
Published: December 2020

Research Highlights: This research identified areas of the eastern United States forests that may be at particular risk from Sudden Oak Death (SOD) if it becomes established in the region. The highest suitability for SOD occurs where there are both species at risk of serious infection and species that could spread SOD to new hosts. Background and Objectives: SOD, caused by Phytophthora ramorum, can cause serious damage to forests. Although SOD is not believed to exist in the wild in the eastern United States, the presence of potential P. ramorum hosts in the area has led to questions about the potential for its establishment there. The present project expanded on previous efforts by examining both the possibility and potential consequences of P. ramorum establishment based on the presence of suitable hosts. Materials and Methods: We developed a map of the potential severity of tree loss that could result from a P. ramorum establishment in the eastern United States as well as a habitat suitability index based on the density of P. ramorum susceptible and spreader host species. We also implemented a connectivity analysis method for determining patches important to the spread of P. ramorum in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Results: The Ozarks and Appalachians both had a high potential severity of infection due to their high percentage of susceptible species, but the Appalachians had a higher overall level of risk due to the presence of more spreader tree species in the area. Connectivity analysis in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park identified patches likely to be particularly important to P. ramorum spread. Conclusions: Analysis of the presence of potential P. ramorum hosts in the eastern United States identified suitable conditions for SOD establishment there, particularly in the Appalachians. Techniques developed in this research can identify critical areas for SOD spread at both landscape and regional scales.