bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Singing for the Rehabilitation of Acquired Neurogenic Communication Disorders: Continuing the Evidence Dialogue with a Survey of Current Practices in Speech-Language Pathology
Authors: Behaghel Estelle , Zumbansen Anna
Published: May 2022

Therapeutic applications of singing (e.g., melodic intonation therapy) for acquired neurogenic communication disorders (ANCD) such as post-stroke aphasia, dysarthria, or neurodegenerative diseases have emerged from innovations by clinical speech-language pathologists (SLPs). However, these specialists have never been systematically consulted about the use of singing in their practices. We report a survey of 395 SLPs in France using an online questionnaire (September 2018–January 2019). Most (98%) knew that singing could be a therapeutic tool. A wide variety of uses emerged in our data. Some practices (e.g., song games) have not yet been investigated in research settings. Melodic therapy, which is supported by scientific evidence, is familiar to clinicians (90%), but they lack training and rarely follow a full protocol. Over half of respondents (62%) recognize group singing for various benefits, but do not often use it, mainly due to the lack of adapted or welcoming choirs in their area. These results provide key information for continued dialogue between researchers, clinicians, and the community. Considering the aging population and the associated increase in the prevalence of ANCD, access to group singing in particular could be facilitated for these patients from a social prescription perspective with further research evidence.
Diabetes and Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy: What Can We Hope for?
Authors: Stoica Sorana A. , Valentini Giulia , Dolci Marco , D’Agostino Silvia
Published: May 2022

Diabetes and periodontal disease share the same inflammatory pattern. Both these pathologies, if left untreated, lead to a cytokine storm that carries pro-inflammatory factors throughout the body. Periodontitis has recently been assumed to be the sixth complication of diabetes and the latest studies suggest a biunivocal connection between these two conditions. Most recent evidence-based studies propose that having a controlled periodontal situation with proper and timely therapy could improve glycemic management in diabetic patients. In order to provide the newest findings on this topic, a systematic literature research was performed on PubMed following the PRISMA statement. The keywords used were: “Diabetes; Periodontitis; Non-surgical periodontal therapy”. Only free full texts and abstracts in English were enrolled considering a time range of the last 10 years, from 2011 to 2021. A total of 308 studies arose from the first search, and only 73 were strictly related to our topic, while 235 were excluded. The bidirectional link between diabetes and periodontitis is well known. To the best of our knowledge, in the last 10 years there is increasing evidence that non-surgical periodontal treatment is associated with improved glycemic control. Further studies are needed to empower this relation.
Effects of Individual Amino Acids on PPARα Transactivation, mTORC1 Activation, ApoA-I Transcription and pro-ApoA-I Secretion
Authors: Tayyeb Jehad Z. , Popeijus Herman E. , van de Sanden Janna , Zwaan Willem , Mensink Ronald P. , Plat Jogchum
Published: May 2022

A higher concentration of apolipoprotein A-I (ApoA-I) is associated with increased high density lipoprotein functionality and reverse cholesterol transport (RCT). A promising strategy to prevent cardiovascular diseases is therefore to improve RCT by increasing de novo ApoA-I production. Since experimental animal models have suggested effects of amino acids on hepatic lipoprotein metabolism, we here examined the effects of different amino acids on hepatic ApoA-I production. Human hepatocytes (HepG2) were exposed to six individual amino acids for 48 h. ApoA-I transcription and secreted pro-ApoA-I protein concentrations were analyzed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), respectively. Additionally, CPT1 and KEAP1 mRNA expression, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) transactivation, and mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) phosphorylation were determined. Leucine, glutamic acid, and tryptophan increased ApoA-I and CPT1 mRNA expression. Tryptophan also strongly increased PPARα transactivation. Glutamine, proline, and histidine increased pro-ApoA-I protein concentrations but mTORC1 phosphorylation remained unchanged regardless of the amino acid provided. In conclusion, individual amino acids have different effects on ApoA-I mRNA expression and pro-ApoA-I production which can partially be explained by specific effects on PPARα transactivation, while mTORC1 phosphorylation remained unaffected.
Effects of Linkers and Substitutions on Multitarget Directed Ligands for Alzheimer’s Diseases: Emerging Paradigms and Strategies
Authors: Pravin Narayanaperumal , Jozwiak Krzysztof
Published: May 2022

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is multifactorial, progressive and the most predominant cause of cognitive impairment and dementia worldwide. The current “one-drug, one-target” approach provides only symptomatic relief to the condition but is unable to cure the disease completely. The conventional single-target therapeutic approach might not always induce the desired effect due to the multifactorial nature of AD. Hence, multitarget strategies have been proposed to simultaneously knock out multiple targets involved in the development of AD. Herein, we provide an overview of the various strategies, followed by the multitarget-directed ligand (MTDL) development, rationale designs and efficient examples. Furthermore, the effects of the linkers and substitutional functional groups on MTDLs against various targets of AD and their modes of action are also discussed.
A New Perspective on Huntington’s Disease: How a Neurological Disorder Influences the Peripheral Tissues
Authors: Gómez-Jaramillo Laura , Cano-Cano Fátima , González-Montelongo María del Carmen , Campos-Caro Antonio , Aguilar-Diosdado Manuel , Arroba Ana I.
Published: May 2022

Huntington’s disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by a toxic, aggregation-prone expansion of CAG repeats in the HTT gene with an age-dependent progression that leads to behavioral, cognitive and motor symptoms. Principally affecting the frontal cortex and the striatum, mHTT disrupts many cellular functions. In fact, increasing evidence shows that peripheral tissues are affected by neurodegenerative diseases. It establishes an active crosstalk between peripheral tissues and the brain in different neurodegenerative diseases. This review focuses on the current knowledge of peripheral tissue effects in HD animal and cell experimental models and identifies biomarkers and mechanisms involved or affected in the progression of the disease as new therapeutic or early diagnostic options. The particular changes in serum/plasma, blood cells such as lymphocytes, immune blood cells, the pancreas, the heart, the retina, the liver, the kidney and pericytes as a part of the blood–brain barrier are described. It is important to note that several changes in different mouse models of HD present differences between them and between the different ages analyzed. The understanding of the impact of peripheral organ inflammation in HD may open new avenues for the development of novel therapeutic targets.
Genetic Association Analysis of Anti-VEGF Treatment Response in Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Strunz Tobias , Pöllmann Michael , Gamulescu Maria-Andreea , Tamm Svenja , Weber Bernhard H. F.
Published: May 2022

Anti-VEGF treatment for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) has been FDA-approved in 2004, and since then has helped tens of thousands of patients worldwide to preserve vision. Still, treatment responses vary widely, emphasizing the need for genetic biomarkers to robustly separate responders from non-responders. Here, we report the findings of an observational study compromising 179 treatment-naïve nAMD patients and their reaction to treatment after three monthly doses of anti-VEGF antibodies. We show that established criteria of treatment response such as visual acuity and central retinal thickness successfully divides our cohort into 128 responders and 51 non-responders. Nevertheless, retinal thickness around the fovea revealed significant reaction to treatment even in the formally categorized non-responders. To elucidate genetic effects underlying our criteria, we conducted an undirected genome-wide association study followed by a directed replication study of 30 previously reported genetic variants. Remarkably, both approaches failed to result in significant findings, suggesting study-specific effects were confounding the present and previous discovery studies. Of note, all studies so far are greatly underpowered, hampering interpretation of genetic findings. In consequence, we highlight the need for an extensive phenotyping study with sample sizes exceeding at least 15,000 to reliably assess anti-VEGF treatment responses in nAMD.
Review about Powerful Combinations of Advanced and Hyphenated Sample Introduction Techniques with Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) for Elucidating Trace Element Species in Pathologic Conditions on a Molecular Level
Authors: Michalke Bernhard
Published: May 2022

Element analysis in clinical or biological samples is important due to the essential role in clinical diagnostics, drug development, and drug-effect monitoring. Particularly, the specific forms of element binding, actual redox state, or their spatial distribution in tissue or in single cells are of interest in medical research. This review summarized exciting combinations of sophisticated sample delivery systems hyphenated to inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), enabling a broadening of information beyond the well-established outstanding detection capability. Deeper insights into pathological disease processes or intracellular distribution of active substances were provided, enabling a better understanding of biological processes and their dynamics. Examples were presented from spatial elemental mapping in tissue, cells, or spheroids, also considering elemental tagging. The use of natural or artificial tags for drug monitoring was shown. In the context of oxidative stress and ferroptosis iron, redox speciation gained importance. Quantification methods for Fe2+, Fe3+, and ferritin-bound iron were introduced. In Wilson’s disease, free and exchangeable copper play decisive roles; the respective paragraph provided information about hyphenated Cu speciation techniques, which provide their fast and reliable quantification. Finally, single cell ICP-MS provides highly valuable information on cell-to-cell variance, insights into uptake of metal-containing drugs, and their accumulation and release on the single-cell level.
Oral Fibrosis and Oral Cancer: From Molecular Targets to Therapeutics
Authors: Hsieh Pei-Ling , Yu Cheng-Chia
Published: May 2022

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) belongs to a group of potentially malignant disorders that are characterized by the progressive fibrosis of the lining mucosa as well as an increasing loss of tissue mobility [...]
Transcriptional Basis of Psoriasis from Large Scale Gene Expression Studies: The Importance of Moving towards a Precision Medicine Approach
Authors: Krishnan Vidya S. , Kõks Sulev
Published: May 2022

Transcriptome profiling techniques, such as microarrays and RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), are valuable tools for deciphering the regulatory network underlying psoriasis and have revealed large number of differentially expressed genes in lesional and non-lesional skin. Such approaches provide a more precise measurement of transcript levels and their isoforms than any other methods. Large cohort transcriptomic analyses have greatly improved our understanding of the physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying disease pathogenesis and progression. Here, we mostly review the findings of some important large scale psoriatic transcriptomic studies, and the benefits of such studies in elucidating potential therapeutic targets and biomarkers for psoriasis treatment. We also emphasised the importance of looking into the alternatively spliced RNA isoforms/transcripts in psoriasis, rather than focussing only on the gene-level annotation. The neutrophil and blood transcriptome signature in psoriasis is also briefly reviewed, as it provides the immune status information of patients and is a less invasive platform. The application of precision medicine in current management of psoriasis, by combining transcriptomic data, improves the clinical response outcome in individual patients. Drugs tailored to individual patient’s genetic profile will greatly improve patient outcome and cost savings for the healthcare system.
Generation and Selection of Specific Aptamers Targeting Brucella Species through an Enhanced Cell-SELEX Methodology
Authors: El-Husseini Dalia M. , Sayour Ashraf E. , Melzer Falk , Mohamed Magda F. , Neubauer Heinrich , Tammam Reham H.
Published: May 2022

Brucellae are Gram-negative, aerobic, non-motile coccobacilli causing brucellosis in man and animals. The disease is one of the most significant yet neglected global zoonoses. Especially in developing countries, brucellosis is causing public health problems and economic losses to private animal owners and national revenues. Composed of oligonucleotides, aptamers are chemical analogues of antibodies that are promising components for developing aptamer-based rapid, sensitive, and specific tests to identify the Brucella group of bacteria. For this purpose, aptamers were generated and selected by an enhanced protocol of cell systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (cell-SELEX). This enhanced cell-SELEX procedure involved the combination of both conventional and toggle cell-SELEX to boost the specificity and binding affinity to whole Brucella cells. This procedure, combined with high-throughput sequencing of the resulting aptamer pools, comprehensive bioinformatics analysis, and wet lab validation assays, led to the selection of a highly sensitive and specific aptamer for those Brucella species known to circulate in Egypt. The isolated candidate aptamer showed dissociation constant (KD) values of 43.5 ± 11, 61.5 ± 8, and 56 ± 10.8 nM for B. melitensis, B. abortus, and B. suis, respectively. This is the first development of a Brucella-specific aptamer using an enhanced combination of conventional and toggle cell-SELEX to the authors’ best knowledge.
Mechanical Properties of TC11 Titanium Alloy and Graphene Nanoplatelets/TC11 Composites Prepared by Selective Laser Melting
Authors: Ou Bingxian , Lu Lixin , Wang Qinsheng , He Qing , Xie YiLin , Yan Junxia
Published: May 2022

Titanium matrix composites (TMCs) with excellent mechanical properties, reinforced by graphene, is deemed the lightweight and high strength structural materials. In this study, TC11 titanium alloy powder and graphene nanosheets (GNPs) were used as raw materials, and the composite powder with good uniformity and fluidity was obtained through non-interventional homogeneous mixing by a planetary mixer. The microstructure and mechanical properties of the GNPs-TC11 composites and TC11 alloy were compared. The results showed that the microstructure of TC11 and the composites was acicular martensite α’ phase under the process parameters of 280 W laser power, 1200 mm/s scanning speed, and 0.1 mm hatch spacing. The GNPs in addition, in the composites, reduced the acicular martensite particle size and expanded the proportion of low-angle grain boundaries. The tensile strength and percentage elongation after the fracture of the TC11 titanium alloy were 1265 MPa and 4.3%, respectively. Because of addition of the GNPs, the strength and percentage elongation after the fracture of the composite increased to 1384 MPa and 8.1%, respectively, at a GNPs mass content of 0.2%. The enhancement of mechanical properties can be attributed to grain refinement, dislocation strengthening, Orowan strengthening, and load transfer strengthening.
Regio- and Stereoselective Synthesis of (Z,Z)-Bis(3-amino-3-oxo-1-propenyl) Selenides and Diselenides Based on 2-propynamides: A Novel Family of Diselenides with High Glutathione Peroxidase-like Activity
Authors: Potapov Vladimir A. , Andreev Mikhail V. , Musalov Maxim V. , Sterkhova Irina V. , Amosova Svetlana V. , Larina Lyudmila I.
Published: May 2022

The efficient regio- and stereoselective syntheses of (Z,Z)-bis(3-amino-3-oxo-1-propenyl) selenides and diselenides in high yields based on the nucleophilic addition of sodium selenide to 2-propynamides and sodium diselenide to 3-(trimethylsilyl)-2-propynamides have been developed. The first examples of the addition of a selenium-centered nucleophile to 2-propynamides with a terminal triple bond and diselenide anion to 3-(trimethylsilyl)-2-propynamides have been carried out. Bis(3-amino-3-oxo-1-propenyl) diselenides are a novel family of compounds, none of which has yet been described in the literature. The glutathione peroxidase-like activity of the obtained compounds has been evaluated and products with high activity have been found. It was established that diselenides are superior to selenides with the same substituents in glutathione peroxidase-like activity. The results of the structural studying of products by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis and 77Se-NMR data are discussed.
Comparison of Three Different Waves in Healthcare Workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Retrospective Observational Study in an Italian University Hospital
Authors: De Maria Luigi , Sponselli Stefania , Caputi Antonio , Pipoli Antonella , Giannelli Gianmarco , Delvecchio Giuseppe , Zagaria Silvia , Cavone Domenica , Stefanizzi Pasquale , Bianchi Francesco Paolo , Tafuri Silvio , Vimercati Luigi
Published: May 2022

Background: SARS-CoV-2 has infected many healthcare workers and (HCWs) worldwide. The aim of this study was to determine, analyze, and compare the frequency and characteristics of COVID-19 cases among HCWs of the University Hospital of Bari. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted after preventive protocol implementation. The SARS-CoV-2 infection frequency was determined by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction on nasopharyngeal samples. Results: Overall, 519 HCWs (9%) tested positive among a total of 6030 HCWs during the three waves. The highest frequency of COVID-19 cases (n = 326; 63%) was observed during the 2nd wave, from September 2020 to December 2020, and the lowest (n = 34; 7%) was observed during the 1st wave, from March 2020 to August 2020 (p < 0.001). Working in a designated COVID-19 department was not a risk factor for infection. Conclusions: The correct use of personal protective equipment and the early identification of symptomatic workers are still essential factors to avoid nosocomial clusters, even in this current phase of vaccine availability.
Improving Cardiovascular Outcomes: The Era of Personalized Therapy in Atherosclerosis
Authors: Kabłak-Ziembicka Anna
Published: May 2022

Data from the European Society of Cardiology report that cardiovascular disease (CVD) is responsible for app [...]
Sacubitril/Valsartan in the Treatment of Resistant Hypertension: Raising Star or Illusion?
Authors: Tadic Marijana , Cuspidi Cesare
Published: May 2022

Sacubitril/valsartan represents the combination that became “sine qua non” in the treatment of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) with significant positive effect on major cardiovascular events [...]
Influence of Selected Air Pollutants on Mortality and Pneumonia Burden in Three Polish Cities over the Years 2011–2018
Authors: Dąbrowiecki Piotr , Badyda Artur , Chciałowski Andrzej , Czechowski Piotr , Wrotek August
Published: May 2022

Poland has one of the worst air qualities in the European Union, particularly regarding concentrations of particulate matter (PM). This study aimed to evaluate the short-term effects of air pollution and weather conditions on all-cause mortality and pneumonia-related hospitalizations in three Polish agglomerations. We investigated data from 2011 to 2018 on a number of health outcomes, concentrations of PM2.5, PM10, nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3), and selected meteorological parameters. To examine the impact of air pollutants and weather conditions on mortality and pneumonia burden, we identified optimal general regression models for each agglomeration. The final models explained <24% of the variability in all-cause mortality. In the models with interactions, O3 concentration in Warsaw, NO2, O3, and PM2.5 concentrations in Cracow and PM10 and O3 concentrations in the Tricity explained >10% of the variability in the number of deaths. Up to 46% of daily variability in the number of pneumonia-related hospitalizations was explained by the combination of both factors, i.e., air quality and meteorological parameters. The impact of NO2 levels on pneumonia burden was pronounced in all agglomerations. We showed that the air pollution profile and its interactions with weather conditions exert a short-term effect on all-cause mortality and pneumonia-related hospitalizations. Our findings may be relevant for prioritizing strategies to improve air quality.
Effect of New Zealand Blackcurrant Extract on Force Steadiness of the Quadriceps Femoris Muscle during Sustained Submaximal Isometric Contraction
Authors: Cook Matthew D. , Dunne Aaron , Bosworth Michael , Willems Mark E. T.
Published: May 2022

Intake of anthocyanin-rich New Zealand blackcurrant (NZBC) can alter physiological responses that enhance exercise performance. In two studies, we examined the effects of NZBC extract on force steadiness during a sustained submaximal isometric contraction of the quadriceps femoris muscle. With repeated measures designs, male participants in study one (n = 13) and study two (n = 19) performed a 120 s submaximal (30%) isometric contraction of the quadriceps femoris muscle following a 7-day intake of NZBC extract and placebo (study one) and following 0 (control), 1-, 4- and 7-day intake of NZBC extract (study two). Participants for both studies were different. In study one, NZBC extract enhanced isometric force steadiness during the 120 s contraction (placebo: 6.58 ± 2.24%, NZBC extract: 6.05 ± 2.24%, p = 0.003), with differences in the third (60–89 s) and fourth quartile (90–120 s) of the contraction. In study two, isometric force steadiness was not changed following 1 and 4 days but was enhanced following 7-day intake of NZBC extract in comparison to control. In study two, the enhanced isometric force steadiness following 7-day intake did occur in the second (30–59 s), third (60–89 s) and fourth (90–120 s) quartiles. Daily supplementation of anthocyanin-rich NZBC extract can enhance force steadiness of the quadriceps femoris muscle during a sustained submaximal isometric contraction. Our observations may have implications for human tasks that require postural stability.
Camera-LiDAR Cross-Modality Fusion Water Segmentation for Unmanned Surface Vehicles
Authors: Gao Jiantao , Zhang Jingting , Liu Chang , Li Xiaomao , Peng Yan
Published: May 2022

Water segmentation is essential for the autonomous driving system of unmanned surface vehicles (USVs), which provides reliable navigation for making safety decisions. However, existing methods have only used monocular images as input, which often suffer from the changes in illumination and weather. Compared with monocular images, LiDAR point clouds can be collected independently of ambient light and provide sufficient 3D information but lack the color and texture that images own. Thus, in this paper, we propose a novel camera-LiDAR cross-modality fusion water segmentation method, which combines the data characteristics of the 2D image and 3D LiDAR point cloud in water segmentation for the first time. Specifically, the 3D point clouds are first supplemented with 2D color and texture information from the images and then distinguished into water surface points and non-water points by the early 3D cross-modality segmentation module. Subsequently, the 3D segmentation results and features are fed into the late 2D cross-modality segmentation module to perform 2D water segmentation. Finally, the 2D and 3D water segmentation results are fused for the refinement by an uncertainty-aware cross-modality fusion module. We further collect, annotate and present a novel Cross-modality Water Segmentation (CMWS) dataset to validate our proposed method. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first water segmentation dataset for USVs in inland waterways consisting of images and corresponding point clouds. Extensive experiments on the CMWS dataset demonstrate that our proposed method can significantly improve image-only-based methods, achieving improvements in accuracy and MaxF of approximately 2% for all the image-only-based methods.
Multi-Platforms and Multi-Sensors Integrated Survey for the Submerged and Emerged Areas
Authors: Karaki Ali Alakbar , Bibuli Marco , Caccia Massimo , Ferrando Ilaria , Gagliolo Sara , Odetti Angelo , Sguerso Domenico
Published: May 2022

In this paper, the state-of-the-art concerning new methodologies for surveying in coastal areas in order to obtain an efficient quantification of submerged and emerged environments is described and evaluated. This work integrates an interdisciplinary approach involving both geomatics and robotics and focuses on definition, implementation, and development of a methodology to execute integrated aerial and underwater survey campaigns in shallow water areas. A preliminary test was performed at Gorzente Lakes near Genoa (Italy), to develop and integrate different survey techniques, enabling working in a smarter way, reducing costs and increasing safety for the operators. In this context, Remote Sensing techniques were integrated with a UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) carrying an aerial optical sensor for photogrammetry and with an ASV (Autonomous Surface Vehicle) expressly addressed to work in extremely shallow water with underwater acoustic sensors (single echo sounder). The obtained continuous seamless DSM (Digital Surface Model) for the entire environment was reconstructed by the combination of different sensing systems by limiting reliance on the GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) support. The obtained DSM was displayed in a 3D model leading to the evaluation of the water flow volume and rendering of 3D visualization.
Spatiotemporal Distribution Characteristics of Copepods in the Water Masses of the Northeastern East China Sea
Authors: Shin Sang Su , Choi Seo Yeol , Seo Min Ho , Lee Seok Ju , Soh Ho Young , Youn Seok Hyun
Published: May 2022

To understand the effects of variable water masses in the northeastern East China Sea (Korea South Sea), planktonic copepods were seasonally sampled. Out of a total of 106 copepod species, 85 were oceanic warm-water species, and the number of species varied in summer, autumn, spring, and winter. The study area was divided into two or three regions according to the degree of influence of the water masses. Canthocalanus pauper, Clausocalanus furcatus, Oithona plumifera, Oncaea venella, Oncaea venusta, and Paracalanus aculeatus showed a positive correlation with water temperature and salinity and were indicator species of warm currents. Calanus sinicus, known as an indicator species of the Yellow Sea Bottom Cold Water, showed a high abundance and occurrence ratio in the western sea of the study area from spring to autumn. Moreover, Acartia pacifica indicated the extension of coastal waters to offshore areas. Several oceanic warm-water species (A. danae, Centropages gracilis, Labidocera acuta, Rhincalanus nasutus, and Temoropia mayumbaensis) were considered indicator species of the Taiwan Warm Current. Our results suggest that the spatiotemporal distribution patterns of indicator species are partly explained by different water masses.
Wealth Inequality in South Africa—The Role of Government Policy
Authors: Fortuin Marlin Jason , Grebe Gerhard Philip Maree , Makoni Patricia Lindelwa
Published: May 2022

In South Africa, high levels of wealth inequality have persisted since 1994, to the extent that 1% of the population owns 50% of the wealth. This study examines how macroeconomic policies influenced wealth inequality in South Africa over the period 2010 to 2019 using a behavioural life-cycle model. Despite a decrease in wealth inequality over this period, the extent of this decrease is almost negligible. Results show government’s current policy model to redirect wealth from a very small tax base that is under increasing financial strain is unable to meet wealth redistributive targets. The South African government should change the wealth redistribution policy from redistribution through predominantly lump sums to creating an environment in which private enterprises are able to absorb the labour capital that South Africa possesses. An open labour market would support private and foreign direct investment into the economy, thereby strengthening economic growth and upliftment through increased income and the consequent ability to accumulate wealth.
Impacts of Historical Land Use Changes on Ecosystem Services in Guangdong Province, China
Authors: Chen Haizhen , Chen Yi , Chen Xiaosong , Zhang Xingzhong , Wu Haowei , Li Zhihui
Published: May 2022

Assessing land use change and its impacts on ecosystem services is of great significance for optimizing land use management and enhancing ecosystem sustainability. This study explores land use changes and their impacts on five typical ecosystem services, namely grain production (GP), water yield (WY), soil conservation (SC), habitat quality (HQ), and carbon sequestration (CS), during 1990–2020 using the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Trade-offs (InVEST) model in Guangdong province, which has experienced substantial land use change. During the study period, cultivated land, forest land, grassland, water areas, built-up land, and unused land correspondingly had changed by −10.7%, −1.9%, −5.1%, 13.7%, 97.9%, and −38.8%. For ecosystem services, the GP, SC, and HQ averagely decreased by −8.66% (−12.3 t·km−2), −0.02% (−2 t·km−2), and−2.74% (−0.02), respectively, while WY and CS increased by 3.10% (22 mm) and 20.70% (515 t·km−2), respectively. Land use changes that had the greatest average negative impacts on GP, WY, SC, HQ, and CS were cultivated land to built-up land (−150.9 t·km−2), unused land to water areas (−1072 mm), grassland to unused land (−10,166 t·km−2), forest land to built-up land (−0.65), and forest land to water areas (−2974 t·km−2) respectively, and that had the greatest average positive impacts were grassland to cultivated land (78.8 t·km−2), water areas to built-up land (943 mm), unused land to forest land (3552 t·km−2), built-up land to forest land (0.40), and water areas to forest land (3338 t·km−2), respectively. The results indicated that land use and its changes had a significant impact on ecosystem services.
Frontier of Rural Revitalization in China: A Spatial Analysis of National Rural Tourist Towns
Authors: Zhan Zirui , Cenci Jeremy , Zhang Jiazhen
Published: May 2022

As the national economic situation improves, concerns about rural issues in China, a large agricultural country, are gradually increasing. Hence, rural tourism has been thrust into the limelight. This research is based on the National Rural Tourist Towns of China (NRTTC). It aims to analyze the spatial structure, influencing factors and their relevance to rural tourism development. Initially, this research examines the spatial distribution pattern in terms of kernel density. Subsequently, the imbalance index and Lorenz curve are used to distinguish the differences in spatial distribution. The Gini coefficient is used to explore the clustered regional distribution. The results indicate the following: (1) the number of NRTTC in each province is relatively even; and (2) the spatial distribution is highly uneven. The degree of aggregation is bounded by the Hu Huanyong boundary, with more in the southeast and less in the northwest. The capital circle is the core density area. Additionally, those NRTTC in the eastern and southeastern regions have a large distribution density and a more comprehensive radiation range. This study additionally analyzed the factors influencing the spatial distribution characteristics of NRTTC, and found four crucial aspects, namely, the national development strategy, the social environment, the geographical environment, and historical development. This research can provide a reference for the construction of rural tourist towns in different countries and regions.
A Case Study of the Snow Leopard in Sanjiangyuan National Park Boundaries regarding Park Boundary Divergence
Authors: Feng Xiang , Peng Qian , Chen Yunnan , Li Weiyue
Published: May 2022

This paper uses remote sensing data from the Sanjiangyuan National Park (SNP) to explore the divergence between the boundaries of national parks and the distribution of natural habitats. Results are used to argue that these discrepancies evolve along with the potential impact of global warming. Using the example of the habitat change of snow leopards and the conflicts between local people and snow leopards, we reflect on the consequences of this divergence. Results show that divergence between the political boundaries and natural habitats as well as the consequent influence on the living conditions of local people are strikingly visible, and the effects of global warming on such conflicts are apparent. The authors conclude that both notions of ‘political boundaries’ and ‘natural habitats’ are expected to come together as the SNP region is spatially configured, while ‘global warming’ seems to be relevant as an essential reference when delimiting the region in the future. Finally, the proposal for the establishment of cooperative conservation areas is presented, emphasizing the role of cooperative governance in/around national parks.
Mineralogical and Genomic Constraints on the Origin of Microbial Mn Oxide Formation in Complexed Microbial Community at the Terrestrial Hot Spring
Authors: Tsukamoto Yuya , Kakegawa Takeshi
Published: May 2022

Manganese (Mn) oxides are widespread on the surface environments of the modern Earth. The role of microbial activities in the formation of Mn oxides has been discussed for several decades. However, the mechanisms of microbial Mn oxidation, and its role in complex microbial communities in natural environments, remain uncertain. Here, we report the geochemical, mineralogical, and metagenomic evidence for biogenic Mn oxides, found in Japanese hot spring sinters. The low crystallinity of Mn oxides, and their spatial associations with organic matter, support the biogenic origin of Mn oxides. Specific multicopper oxidases (MCOs), which are considered Mn-oxidizing enzymes, were identified using metagenomic analyses. Nanoscale nuggets of copper sulfides were, also, discovered in the organic matter in Mn-rich sinters. A part of these copper sulfides most likely represents traces of MCOs, and this is the first report of traces of Mn-oxidizing enzyme in geological samples. Metagenomic analyses, surprisingly, indicated a close association of Mn oxides, not only in aerobic but also in anaerobic microbial communities. These new findings offer the unique and unified positions of Mn oxides, with roles that have not been ignored, to sustain anaerobic microbial communities in hot spring environments.
A Systematic Mapping Study on Machine Learning Techniques Applied for Condition Monitoring and Predictive Maintenance in the Manufacturing Sector
Authors: Phan Thuy Linh Jenny , Gehrhardt Ingolf , Heik David , Bahrpeyma Fouad , Reichelt Dirk
Published: May 2022

Background: Today’s production facilities must be efficient in both manufacturing and maintenance. Efficiency enables the company to maintain the required output while reducing production effort or costs. With the increasing interest in process automation and the Internet of things since Industry 4.0 was introduced, such shop floors are growing in complexity. Every component of the production needs to be continuously monitored, which is the basis for predictive maintenance (PdM). To predict when maintenance is needed, the components’ conditions are monitored with the help of a condition monitoring (CM) system. However, this task is difficult for human employees, as the monitoring and analysis is very demanding. To overcome this, machine learning (ML) can be applied to ensure more efficient production. Methods: This paper aims to investigate the application of ML techniques for CM and PdM in the manufacturing sector. For this reason, a systematic mapping study (SMS) is conducted in order to structure and classify the current state of research and identify potential gaps for future investigation. Relevant literature was considered between January 2011 and May 2021. Results: Based on the guidelines for SMSs and previously defined research questions, existing publications are examined and a systematic overview of the current state of the research domain is provided. Conclusions: Techniques such as reinforcement learning and transfer learning are underrepresented, but increasingly attracting more attention. The findings of this study suggest that the most promising results belong to the applications of hybrid ML methods, where a set of methods are combined to build a more powerful model.
Foaming of PCL-Based Composites Using scCO2—Biocompatibility and Evaluation for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Kosowska Katarzyna , Krzysztoforski Jan , Henczka Marek
Published: May 2022

The process of foaming poly(caprolactone)-based composite materials using supercritical carbon dioxide was analyzed, especially in terms of the biocompatibility of the resultant materials. The influence of foaming process conditions and composite material properties on the functional properties of polymer solid foams, intended for artificial scaffolds for bone cell culture, was investigated. The relationship between wettability (contact angle) and water absorption rate as a result of the application of variable conditions for the production of porous structures was presented. For the evaluation of potential cytotoxicity, the MTT and PrestoBlue tests were carried out, and animal cells (mouse fibroblasts) were cultured on the materials for nine days. There was no toxic effect of composite materials made of poly(caprolactone) containing porogen particles: hydroxyapatite, crystalline nanocellulose, and graphene oxide on cells. The desired effect of the porogens used in the foaming process on the affinity of cells to the resultant material was demonstrated. The tested materials have been shown to be biocompatible and suitable for applications in biomedical engineering.
Effects of the Crystalline Properties of Hollow Ceria Nanostructures on a CuO-CeO2 Catalyst in CO Oxidation
Authors: Jang Se-Jin , Lee Hyeonkyeong , Kim Jiyull , Kim Na-Yeon , Choi Dong-Seop , Joo Ji Bong
Published: May 2022

The development of an efficient and economic catalyst with high catalytic performance is always challenging. In this study, we report the synthesis of hollow CeO2 nanostructures and the crystallinity control of a CeO2 layer used as a support material for a CuO-CeO2 catalyst in CO oxidation. The hollow CeO2 nanostructures were synthesized using a simple hydrothermal method. The crystallinity of the hollow CeO2 shell layer was controlled through thermal treatment at various temperatures. The crystallinity of hollow CeO2 was enhanced by increasing the calcination temperature, but both porosity and surface area decreased, showing an opposite trend to that of crystallinity. The crystallinity of hollow CeO2 significantly influenced both the characteristics and the catalytic performance of the corresponding hollow CuO-CeO2 (H-Cu-CeO2) catalysts. The degree of oxygen vacancy significantly decreased with the calcination temperature. H-Cu-CeO2 (HT), which presented the lowest CeO2 crystallinity, not only had a high degree of oxygen vacancy but also showed well-dispersed CuO species, while H-Cu-CeO2 (800), with well-developed crystallinity, showed low CuO dispersion. The H-Cu-CeO2 (HT) catalyst exhibited significantly enhanced catalytic activity and stability. In this study, we systemically analyzed the characteristics and catalyst performance of hollow CeO2 samples and the corresponding hollow CuO-CeO2 catalysts.
Mesoscale Modeling Study on Mechanical Deterioration of Alkali–Aggregate Reaction-Affected Concrete
Authors: Wang Weijia , Wang Jimin , Wang Jinting , He Jinrong , Pan Jianwen
Published: May 2022

The alkali–aggregate reaction (AAR) is a harmful chemical reaction that reduces the mechanical properties and weakens the durability of concrete. Different types of activated aggregates may result in various AAR modes, which affect the mechanical deterioration of concrete. In this paper, the aggregate expansion model and the gel pocket model are considered to represent the two well-recognized AAR modes. The mesoscale particle model of concrete was presented to model the AAR expansion process and the splitting tensile behavior of AAR-affected concrete. The numerical results show that different AAR modes have a great influence on the development of AAR in terms of expansion and microcracks and the deterioration of concrete specimens. The AAR mode of the gel pocket model causes slight expansion, but generates microcracks in the concrete at the early stage of AAR. This means there is difficulty in achieving early warning and timely maintenance of AAR-affected concrete structures based on the monitoring expansion. Compared with the aggregate expansion model, more severe cracking can be observed, and a greater loss of tensile strength is achieved at the same AAR expansion in the gel pocket model. AAR modes determine the subsequent reaction process and deterioration, and thus, it is necessary to develop effective detection methods and standards for large concrete projects according to different reactive aggregates.
The Mechanism of Porcelain Toughened by Activated Kaolinite in a Lower Sintering Temperature
Authors: Lin Shaomin , Yu Yaling , Tan Yue , Yang Huan , Zhong Mingfeng , Zhang Chenyang , Zhang Zhijie , Wu Yunying
Published: May 2022

A high sintering temperature is usually required to acquire excellent performance in the ceramic industry, but it results in high fuel consumption and high pollution. To reduce the sintering temperature and to toughen the porcelain, a self-produced sintering additive of citric acid activated kaolinite was added to the raw material; X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscope (TEM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and thermal gravity analysis and differential scanning calorimetry (TG-DSC) were used to characterize the samples, and the toughening mechanism was discussed. The citric acid activated kaolinite obtained high activity and a large specific surface area. After introducing the activated kaolinite, the bending strength of porcelain at 1270 °C increased from 100.08 MPa to 124.04 Mpa, which was 11.45% higher than that of porcelain without activated kaolinite at 1350 °C. The results of XRD revealed that the content of mullite increased and the quartz decreased at 1270 °C, and the well-distributed needle-like mullite was observed in the images of SEM with the addition of citric acid activated kaolinite. The TG-DSC results indicated adding activated kaolinite to porcelain raw materials reduced the formation of mullite to 994.6 °C. The formation of mullite in a lower temperature served as mullite seeds in a green body during firing, and it enhanced the growth of mullite. These contributed to the appropriate phase composition and the excellent microstructure of porcelain. Thus, the distinguished mechanical performance of porcelain was obtained. Moreover, the sintering additive had no adverse effect on the porcelain body as citric acid-activated kaolinite was one of the main components of the porcelain raw material.
In Situ Tensile Deformation and Mechanical Properties of α Platelets TC21 Alloy
Authors: Yang Chunlin , Zhang Song , Ou Meigui
Published: May 2022

The present study was focused on the relationship between an α platelet microstructure and the properties of TC21 alloy, and the tensile deformation process was revealed by in situ observation. To obtain the α platelet microstructures, the samples were administered a solution treatment (1000 °C for 15 min) and then cooled to room temperature by different cooling methods (furnace cooling (FC), open-door furnace cooling (OFC), air cooling (AC), and water quench (WQ), corresponding to an increased cooling rate). It is found that α platelets become thinner and colonies become narrower with the increase in cooling rate. The formation of the platelet microstructure is based on the preferred Burgers orientation relationship of {110}β//{0001}α and <111>β//<112¯0>α. The α platelets orientation changes with the cooling rate. These differences in α platelets thickness and orientation result in the excellent ductility of the sample with thick platelets and the high strength of the samples with thin platelets. During the in situ tensile deformation process, the crack propagation path is deflected in the presence of grain boundaries, α platelets, and α colonies with different orientations. The fracture of the sample with thick α platelets shows better ductility compared to those with thin α platelets.
Analysis of Mechanical Properties Related to Fiber Length of Closed-Loop-Recycled Offcuts of a Thermoplastic Fiber Composites (Organo Sheets)
Authors: Hummel Sabine , Obermeier Katharina , Zier Katja , Krommes Sandra , Schemme Michael , Karlinger Peter
Published: May 2022

Increasing demand for energy-efficient means of transport has steadily intensified the trend towards lightweight components. Thermoplastic glass fiber composites (organo sheets) play a major role in the production of functional automotive components. Organo sheets are cut, shaped and functionalized by injection molding to produce hybrid components, such as those used in car door modules. The cutting process produces a considerable amount of production waste, which has thus far been thermally recycled. This study develops a closed mechanical recycling process and analyzes the different steps of the process. The offcuts were shredded using two shredding methods and implemented directly in the injection-molding process. Using tensile tests and impact bending tests, the material properties of the recycled materials were compared with the virgin material. In addition, fiber length degradation via the injection-molding process and the influence of the waterjet-cutting process on the mechanical properties are investigated. Recycled offcuts are both comparable to new material in terms of mechanical properties and usability, and are also economically and ecologically advantageous. Recycling polypropylene waste with glass fiber reinforcement in a closed loop is an effective way to reduce industrial waste in a sustainable and economical production process.