bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low frequency variants associated with leukocyte telomere length in the Singapore Chinese population
Authors: Chang Xuling , Gurung Resham L. , Wang Ling , Jin Aizhen , Li Zheng , Wang Renwei , Beckman Kenneth B. , Adams-Haduch Jennifer , Meah Wee Yang , Sim Kar Seng , Lim Weng Khong , Davila Sonia , Tan Patrick , Teo Jing Xian , Yeo Khung Keong , M. Yiamunaa , Liu Sylvia , Lim Su Chi , Liu Jianjun , van Dam Rob M. , Friedlander Yechiel , Koh Woon-Puay , Yuan Jian-Min , Khor Chiea Chuen , Heng Chew-Kiat , Dorajoo Rajkumar
Published: May 2021

The role of low frequency variants associated with telomere length homeostasis in chronic diseases and mortalities is relatively understudied in the East-Asian population. Here we evaluated low frequency variants, including 1,915,154 Asian specific variants, for leukocyte telomere length (LTL) associations among 25,533 Singapore Chinese samples. Three East Asian specific variants in/near POT1, TERF1 and STN1 genes are associated with LTL (Meta-analysis P 2.49×10−14–6.94×10−10). Rs79314063, a missense variant (p.Asp410His) at POT1, shows effect 5.3 fold higher and independent of a previous common index SNP. TERF1 (rs79617270) and STN1 (rs139620151) are linked to LTL-associated common index SNPs at these loci. Rs79617270 is associated with cancer mortality [HR95%CI = 1.544 (1.173, 2.032), PAdj = 0.018] and 4.76% of the association between the rs79617270 and colon cancer is mediated through LTL. Overall, genetically determined LTL is particularly associated with lung adenocarcinoma [HR95%CI = 1.123 (1.051, 1.201), Padj = 0.007]. Ethnicity-specific low frequency variants may affect LTL homeostasis and associate with certain cancers.
A morphology controlled surface sulfurized CoMn2O4 microspike electrocatalyst for water splitting with excellent OER rate for binder-free electrocatalytic oxygen evolution
Authors: Bahadur Ali , Hussain Waseem , Iqbal Shahid , Ullah Farman , Shoaib Muhammad , Liu Guocong , Feng Kejun
Published: May 2021

Facile synthesis of sulfurized CoMn2O4 microspikes, showing good stability and excellent OER activity for water splitting.
In situ coating amorphous boride on ternary pyrite-type boron sulfide for highly efficient oxygen evolution
Authors: Li Tingting , Jing Tianyun , Rao Dewei , Jia Xiaotian , Zuo Yunpeng , Kment Štěpán , Zbořil Radek
Published: May 2021

The ternary boron sulfide in situ coated by amorphous FeCoNiBx was synthesized as an efficient catalyst for OER. B-doping can effectively regulate the electronic structures of metal sites to attract O-intermediates and enhance the OER processes.
Zinc-electrocatalyzed hydrogenation of furfural in near-neutral electrolytes
Authors: Dhawan Manali S. , Yadav Ganapati D. , Calabrese Barton Scott
Published: May 2021

Electrocatalytic hydrogenation of furfural to furfuryl alcohol (FAL) and 2-methylfuran (MF) using a zinc catalyst represents a greener pathway to produce value added chemicals as compared to the chemo-catalytic hydrogenation.
Thermally activated carbon–nitrogen vacancies in double-shelled NiFe Prussian blue analogue nanocages for enhanced electrocatalytic oxygen evolution
Authors: Jiang Miaomiao , Fan Xiaoming , Cao Shuai , Wang Zihan , Yang Zeheng , Zhang Weixin
Published: May 2021

Double-shelled NiFe PBAs nanocages with abundant CN vacancies have been fabricated through an ion-exchange reaction based on a nanoscale Kirkendall effect followed by mild thermal activation, which have an impressive OER activity with low overpotential and long-term stability.
RuP2-based hybrids derived from MOFs: highly efficient pH-universal electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Li Ji-Sen , Huang Meng-Jie , Zhou Yu-Wei , Chen Xiao-Nan , Yang Shuang , Zhu Ji-Yu , Liu Guo-Dong , Ma Ling-Juan , Cai Sheng-Hao , Han Ji-Yuan
Published: May 2021

RuP2 embedded in P-doped porous carbon hybrids as pH-universal catalysts for the HER show extraordinary catalytic activity and long-term stability.
Quaternary tannic acid with improved leachability and biocompatibility for antibacterial medical thermoplastic polyurethane catheters
Authors: Wang Yue , Liu Shuaizhen , Ding Kaidi , Zhang Yaocheng , Ding Xuejia , Mi Jianguo
Published: May 2021

A quaternary tannic acid (QTA) was synthesized and blended into TPU using the melt extrusion process. The QTA–TPU showed improved leachability and biocompatibility and good antibacterial activity under static and flow conditions and in vivo.
Development of a 3D printable and highly stretchable ternary organic–inorganic nanocomposite hydrogel
Authors: Hu Chen , Haider Malik Salman , Hahn Lukas , Yang Mengshi , Luxenhofer Robert
Published: May 2021

A novel 3D printable hybrid hydrogel is developed and characterized in detail in this study. After chemical curing of the 3D-printed constructs, the resulting hydrogel shows excellent mechanical strength with a tensile strain at break exceeding 550%.
The role of iron in doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity: recent advances and implication for drug delivery
Authors: Qin Yan , Guo Tao , Wang Zheng , Zhao Yanjun
Published: May 2021

Doxorubicin administration induces the impairment of iron homeostasis and ferroptosis of cardiomyocytes. The delivery of iron chelators and radical trapping agents could inhibit ferroptotic cell death to relieve doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity.
Heavy-element Rydberg transition line emission from the post-giant-evolution star HD 101584
Authors: Olofsson H. , Black J. H. , Khouri T. , Vlemmings W. H. T. , Humphreys E. M. L. , Lindqvist M. , Maercker M. , Nyman L. , Ramstedt S. , Tafoya D.
Published: May 2021

Context. We report the detection of two lines at millimetre wavelengths towards the immediate surroundings of the post-giant and most likely post-common-envelope star HD 101584 using high-angular-resolution ALMA observations. The circumstellar environment of this object is rich in different molecular species, but we find no viable identifications in terms of molecular lines.

Aims. We aim to determine whether or not these lines can be attributed to the Rydberg transitions – X30α and X26α – of neutral atoms of elements heavier than carbon.

Methods. A simple model in strict local thermodynamic equilibrium for a warm-gas environment of the moderate-temperature star (Teff ≈ 8500 K) was constructed to corroborate our findings. A geometrically thin, disc-like geometry seen face-on was chosen and a distance of 1 kpc.

Results. The observed flux densities of the lines and the continuum at 232 and 354 GHz can be reproduced using ≈10−3 M⊙ of gas at a temperature of ≈2800 K and a hydrogen density of ≈1012 cm−3, assuming solar abundances for the elements. The gas lies within a distance of about 5 au from the star (assuming a distance of 1 kpc). The ionisation fraction is low, ≈3 × 10−5. The origin of such a region is not clear, but it may be related to a common-envelope-evolution phase. With these conditions, the line emissions are dominated by Rydberg transitions within the stable isotopes of Mg. A turbulent velocity field in the range 5.5–7.5 km s−1 is required to fit the Gaussian line shapes. An upper limit to the average magnetic field in the line-emitting region of 1 G is set using the Zeeman effect in these lines.

Conclusions. We speculate that Rydberg transitions of heavy elements may be an interesting probe for the close-in environments of other moderate-temperature objects like AGB stars, red supergiants, yellow hypergiants, and binaries of various types.
Stochastic model of project implementation of the new generation ecological materials – sulfur polymers in key branches of the economy
Authors: Androsiuk Iurii , Zhylinska Oksana , Balan Valeriy
Published: May 2021

In the article, the authors propose a stochastic model for the implementation of the project for the introduction of sulfur polymers in key sectors of the Ukrainian economy. A model based on GERT networks and the theory of closed flow graphs allow you to clearly and fully represent the stages, take into account the stochastic nature of both the development process itself (through the use of probabilistic considerations regarding the time of each operation and the reliability of its execution), and the influence of various factors of endo- and exogenous in nature. The project provides for the development and application of ecological polymer composite materials (sulfur asphalt concrete and sulfur concrete) with the introduction of industrial waste, including sulfur-containing ones, to ensure the principles of a circular economy. According to the authors, the project is one of the conditions for stimulating the implementation of strategic directions for the development of the domestic industry on the use of the latest environmental technologies of sulfur polymer materials in the construction of the country’s infrastructure, providing for a reduction in the ecological, carbon, sulfur-containing and material footprint, the transition to environmentally friendly technological solutions, the introduction of principles of circularity of the economy.
Decarbonisation of the economy through the introduction of innovative technologies into the energy sector
Authors: Voitko Serhii , Trofymenko Olena , Pavlenco Tetiana
Published: May 2021

The article is devoted to topical issues of decarbonisation of the economy. The main purpose of the article is to study the relationship existing among key indicators of economic development, innovation in the energy sector and the amount of emissions, in particular, GDP per capita, Fossil CO2 per capita, Global Energy Innovation Index as a resulting indicator of the level of innovative technologies development in the energy sector as well as indicators of the development of renewable energy in different countries. The article also aims to identify ways of improving innovative development of the energy sector based on the study of measures taken by leading countries. The negative global trends in the direction of decarbonisation of the economy are found, for example, the growth rate of global investment in energy efficiency in 2019 compared to 2016 decreased by almost 6%, and the growth rate of investment in renewables fell by 0.7%. The main specific results of the analysis serve as a basis for establishing the ways of improving innovative development of the energy sector of the national economy with appropriate recommendations, taking into account successful world experience, which will accelerate the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals 7 and 12.
Substantiation of innovative aspects of the use of recreational resources in tourism in the context of sustainable development
Authors: Lazarieva Olena , Smyrnova Svitlana , Mas Andriy , Sterlev Dmitro , Koval Vasil
Published: May 2021

The mechanism of recreational areas management is improved in this article based on the sustainable development, which means the interaction of components that in their dialectical unity provide a synergistic effect of their rational use and protection. The purpose of article is to generalize and develop scientific and methodological bases and practical recommendations for substantiating the innovative aspects of the use of recreational resources in the context of sustainable development. Sustainable use of lands of recreational potential is focused on the following components of the mechanism, including legislative and regulatory support, mapping of territories, land management, maintaining the state cadaster of territories and objects of recreational use. Using the main approaches to the concept of sustainable development in practice is aimed at determining the effectiveness of recreational activities. Attention is focused on the method of determining the main economic indicators of the use of recreational areas. It is determined that the main components of the land management project are territorial planning of recreational areas, organization of recreational areas, system of measures for protection and restoration of recreational resources and project effectiveness.
The role of human resource management in the concept of sustainable enterprise development
Authors: Zhykharieva Vlada , Vlasenko Olga , Poznanska Inna , Matviienko Maryna , Sokolova Mariia
Published: May 2021

In the article the sustainable development as the alternative concept of further transformation of the economic system in general and an enterprise in particular is considered. The concept of the sustainable development cycle of enterprise was improved by the authors; they specified the important role of human resources management in this cycle. The paper emphasizes the need to focus the human resources management not only on the operational activities’ results, but also on increasing the employees’ personal competitiveness and intensifying collaboration and mutual support to form a corporate knowledge due to developing corporate universities and E-learning systems aimed at continuous sustainable development of human resources. A significant attention in the concept of an enterprise sustainable development is paid to creation an effective human capital management strategy. This strategy should be focused on decomposition of the objectives in sustainable development, building a favourable organizational culture, developing business models that are based on effective communication with consumers, selecting the state-of-the-art forms of business organization and doing business; this is including, but not limiting, to those that have emerged in the field of social business, which allow to move towards implementation of the main objectives of sustainable development.
Models of management of the territorial community nature resources’ rational use
Authors: Ivanova Svitlana , Gainutdinova Lyudmila , Kvitka Sergiy , Shvydenko Mykhailo , Kulishova Olena
Published: May 2021

The aim of the article is to present the results of the applied research, carried out to develop a model of land and water resources management for a united territorial community. The material was prepared on the basis of the results, which had been obtained during the implementation of the project, aimed to developing a vision for the strategy of the territory development. Within the development of the vision, the strategy for the development of the territorial community has been collected in a certain way, and then, on the basis of this information, a so-called mental experiment has been carried out based on various methods of information analysis. In particular, it gave the opportunity to develop models for the use of community’s land and water resources. Local governments should rely on carefully prepared information about available resources for more effective management of territories. One of the ways to get such information is the mental experiment method used with the aim of modeling potential ways of municipal territories’ land and water resources rational use.
Mathematical modeling of multimodal transportation in Ukraine using methods of the graph theory
Authors: Perevozova Iryna , Minakova Svitlana , Obelnytska Khrystyna , Mykhailyshyn Liliya , Morozova Olena
Published: May 2021

One of the problems of modernizing multimodal transportation of goods in post-Soviet countries is the optimization of the transport supply chain. This requires, in particular, a software package that is to be adapted to local conditions, to the expanded set of risks and the need, in general, to perform optimization on the base of fuzzy data. When choosing the objective function, it is necessary to take into account not only the cost of the specific option of route, the time of transportation, but also the degree of reliability of both the contractors and the infrastructure. For creating a mathematical model were used graph theory and fuzzy logic. Separate types of transport are considered as directed graphs. The set of directed graphs of modes of transport is a multidimensional graph, under the presence of connecting arcs between their nodes. These nodes represent the points of transshipment. The software package assesses the reliability of each section of the supply chain. The developed software package using the proposed mathematical model will allow improving multimodal transportation of goods.
Stable development of the Ukrainian cold logistics market: research by methods of Multidimensional Statistical Analysis
Authors: Matskul Valerii , Kovalyov Anatoliy , Saiensus Mariia , Okara Diana , Chernyshev Valentyn
Published: May 2021

The article examines the market of cold logistics in Ukraine (logistics of products, which requires compliance with special temperature conditions). The main problem faced by the authors was the virtual absence of statistical data in this sector of the economy. Therefore, for the study, one of the methods of Multivariate Statistical Analysis was applied, namely, Hierarchical Cluster Analysis. This method made it possible to make a dynamic (for 2017-2020 years) classification of the regions of Ukraine with respect to a latent indicator - the stable development of the cold logistics market. A robust division of 24 regions into three groups-clusters was obtained: “leaders”, “middle peasants”, “outsiders”. The factors-symptoms that had the most significant influence on the formation of a cluster (group of regions) of leaders were determined: the volume of exports and imports, the number of modern multi-temperature logistics warehouse complexes and the income of the population of the region. To assess the environmental impact of the functioning of the cold supply logistics network, an environmental factor was used in the analysis - the volume of CO2 emissions from transport, warehousing, postal and courier activities.
Morphological response of the leaf blades of B. pendula Roth. to the influence of man-made environmental factors
Authors: Semak Uliana
Published: May 2021

Due to the technogenic transformation of ecotopes of ash and slag dumps of Burshtyn TPP, bioindications of the environment state in the zone of their influence are an urgent issue. The morphological reaction of Betula pendula Roth. leaves under the influence of man-caused factors of Burshtyn TPP ash and slag dumps was studied. The change in the shape of the leaf blades of B. pendula under the conditions of ash and slag dumps was analysed. The degree of modification of leaf blades was evaluated through the measures of shape coefficient and elongation coefficient. The use of morphological coefficients testified to their specificity. The form coefficient indicator proved to be a sensitive marker. The change in the area of leaf blades under the conditions of high levels of anthropopression was analyzed. On the territory of ash and slag dumps there was a decrease of leaf area. At the same time, a high level of necrotization of leaf blades was recorded. The condition of plants was assessed through the index of fluctuating asymmetry of B. pendula leaf blades. As a result of the study, the foliar morphometric parameters of B. pendula were determined, which showed high morphological reactivity under the influence of man-caused load and can be used as bioindication markers for assessing the state of the environment.
Ensuring safety of the use of transport enterprises’ resources participating of air carriers’ international alliances
Authors: Zhovnovach Ruslana , Levchenko Oleksandr , Muzychenko Anatolii , Koval Liliya , Vyshnevska Victoria
Published: May 2021

The basis for the formation of an effective mechanism for ensuring the sustainable development of transport enterprises in the field of air passenger transportation should be the requirements of strategic orientation to flight safety standards. The purpose of the article is to summarize the international practice of forming and using a comprehensive mechanism for the use of economic resources for sustainable development of transport enterprises participating in global alliances in the international passenger transportation cluster, which aims to ensure the maximum safety of air flights. The formation of the mechanism of management of global aviation alliances’ sustainable development resources in the passenger air transportation cluster in order to ensure the safety of air flights is associated with the need to adapt to the conditions of their activities the procedures for the constant updating of key strategic factors. To form promising strategies for unconditional safety of air passage transportation, it is necessary to form the Boston Consulting Group Matrix and single Internal-External Matrix (IEM), SPACE matrix and QSPM model for every aviation enterprises as alternative strategic management decisions, as it ensures the development of several acceptable strategic alternatives.
The evolution of Сircular Bioeconomy: a bibliometric review
Authors: Yaremova Maryna , Tarasovych Liudmyla , Kravchuk Nataliia , Kilnitska Olena
Published: May 2021

The aim of the article is a theoretical and methodological substantiation of the evolutionary preconditions for the formation and development of a circular bioeconomy on the basis of a bibliometric analysis of literature sources. Global problems of humanity regarding fossil fuels scarcity, environmental pollution and rapid climate change have initiated emerging a bioeconomy approach of society development focused on producing food and non-food goods based on renewable biological resources. Scientists and experts’ intensification during the last decades contributed to increase in scientific works dedicated to modelling circular bioeconomy, which promoted bibliometric analysis of literature sources in several areas, including type of publication, leading journals, field of study, author, country of origin. Special attention is paid to establishing keywords complementary interconnections of circular and bioeconomy concepts and their role towards integrative paradigm. The given study allowed to identify main periods of circular bioeconomy evolution in scientific field, in particular, its emergence, transformation and advanced evolution. Recently, the conception has been prospering, which is indicated by scientific publications proliferating, profound research and introduction of innovative developments in practice.
New challenges for sunflower ideotyping in changing environments and more ecological cropping systems
Authors: Debaeke Philippe , Casadebaig Pierre , Langlade Nicolas B.
Published: May 2021

As a rainfed spring-sown crop, sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) is increasingly exposed to negative impacts of climate change, especially to high temperatures and drought stress. Incremental, systemic and transformative adaptations have been suggested for reducing the crop vulnerability to these stressful conditions. In addition, innovative cropping systems based on low-input management, organic farming, soil and water conservation practices, intercropping, double-cropping, and/or agroforestry are undergoing marked in agriculture. Because of its plasticity and low-input requirements (nitrogen, water, pesticides), sunflower crop is likely to take part to these new agroecological systems. Aside from current production outputs (yield, oil and cake), ecosystem services (e.g. bee feeding, soil phytoremediation…), and non-food industrial uses are now expected externalities for the crop. The combination of climatic and societal contexts could deeply modify the characteristics of genotypes to be cultivated in the main production areas (either traditional or adoptive). After reviewing these changes, we identify how innovative cropping systems and new environments could modify the traits classically considered up to now, especially in relation to expected ecosystem services. Finally, we consider how research could provide methods to help identifying traits of interest and design ideotypes.
Applying adaptive recognition of the learner’s vowel space to English pronunciation training of native speakers of Japanese
Authors: Martens William L. , Wang Rui
Published: May 2021

When native speakers of Japanese are taught English as a second language, there are difficulties with their training in pronunciation of American English vowels that can be ameliorated though adaptive recognition of the learner’s vowel space. This paper reports on the development of an online Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) environment that provides Japanese learners with customized target utterances of 12 single-syllable words that are synthesized according to an adaptive recognition of the learner’s vowel space. These customized target utterances provide each learner with examples of each of 12 American English monophthongs in consonant-vowel-consonant (CVC) context in order to sound as if they had been uttered by the learners themselves. This adaptive process was incorporated into a successfully developed tool for Computer-Assisted Pronunciation Training (CAPT) which gave more appropriate pronunciation targets to each learner, rather than forcing the learners to attempt to match the formant frequencies of their own utterances to those of the target utterances as produced by a speaker exhibiting a different vowel space (i.e., a speaker with a different vocal tract length).
Evidence-Based Statistical Evaluation of Japanese L2-Learners’ Proficiency using Principal Component Analysis
Authors: Arai Masafumi , Tsubaki Hajime , Sagisaka Yoshinori
Published: May 2021

This paper aims at an automatic evaluation of second language (L2) learners’ proficiencies and tries to analyze English conversation data having 94 statistics and Global Scale scores of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) given to each participant. The CEFR defines Range, Accuracy, Fluency, Interaction and Coherence as 5 subcategories, which constitute the CEFR Global Scale score. The statistics were classified into the CEFR’s 5 subcategories. We used the Principal Component Analysis (PCA), an unsupervised machine learning method, on each subcategory and obtained the participants’ principal component scores (PC scores) of the 5 subcategories for estimation parameters. We predicted the participants’ CEFR Global scores using the Multiple Regression Analysis (MRA). The proposed prediction method using the PC scores was compared with conventional methods with the 94 statistics. Based on the coeﬃcients of determination (R2), the value of the proposed method (0.82) was nearly equivalent to one of values obtained by the conventional methods. Meanwhile, as for standard deviation, the proposed method showed the smallest value in the comparison. The results indicated usability of the PCA and PC scores calculated from the CEFR subcategory data for objective evaluation of L2 learners’ English proficiencies.
Adopting StudyIntonation CAPT Tools to Tonal Languages Through the Example of Vietnamese
Authors: Nguyen Van Nhi , Luu Xuan Son , Lezhenin Iurii , Bogach Natalia , Pyshkin Evgeny
Published: May 2021

In tonal languages, tones are associated with both and phonological and lexical domains. Accurate tone articulation is required in order to convey the correct meaning. Learning tones at both word and phrase levels is often challenging for L2 learners with non-tonal language background, because of possible subtle difference between the close tones. In this paper, we discuss an adoption of StudyIntonation CAPT tools to the case of Vietnamese language being a good example of register tonal language with a complex system of tones comprising such features as tone pitch, its length, contour melody, intensity and phonation. The particular focus of this contribution is to assess the adoption of StudyIntonation course toolkit and its pitch processing and visualization algorithms in order to evaluate how the combined use of audio and visual perception mechanisms supported by StudyIntonation may help learners to improve the accuracy of their pronunciation and intonation with respect to tonal languages.
Teaching young learners a foreign language via tangible and graphical user interfaces
Authors: Michailidis Heracles , Michailidi Eleni , Tavoultzidou Stavroula , Fragulis George F.
Published: May 2021

The use of tangible interfaces in teaching has been proved more effective, user -friendly and helpful in collaborative learning departments, when compared to traditional teaching approaches. In particular, the tangible interface “Makey Makey” is a modern tool that enhances collaboration between pupils, with positive results in education, despite the limited research done on this interface so far. “Makey Makey” succeeds in motivating and engaging young learners in the learning process, showing better performance and scoring results. In addition, its use in teaching has been shown to benefit the learning process in every age learning group.The development and use of such an innovative teaching/learning approach helps young learners perceive the educational process in a different way and assimilate new cognitive fields more effectively. Moreover, educators profit as well, as they can eliminate difficulties and teach more efficiently using examples based on their teaching approach, while enhancing young learners’ parallel skills as well. This study will confirm previous research results stating that assimilation of new concepts is easier with tangible interfaces than with graphical ones, as well as that young learners participating in the survey have shown significant progress in knowledge acquisition when compared to their prior knowledge.
Contrasting Ontology Modeling with Correlation Rules for Delivery Applications
Authors: Baro Dana , Neundörfer Laura
Published: May 2021

With the increasing importance of knowledge management, variant management and the ever-growing quantity of data, ontologies emerged as a form of knowledge representation, especially in the field of technical communication for modelling metadata and to create correlations between them. In the area of delivery applications, the deliverable information objects receive a certain intelligence by semantic metadata. It is expected, that ontologies offer a higher level of intelligence which could lead to an improvement in classification, connection and delivery possibilities of content. On the contrary, creating those complex ontologies requires a time-consuming effort. Thus, the question arises, whether their use offers a decisive added benefit or if alternatives, such as untyped correlations, should be preferred. In that case, the concept of Semantic Correlation Rules can offer an opportunity to derive advantages from ontologies: By defining which classifications are connected to others, it is possible to present content tailored to user-specific information requirements. By developing use cases, we aim to evaluate the required level of intelligence of the metadata resulting from its modeling method to achieve this goal.
Architectural design approach for morphing smart cities in Mexico
Authors: García-Luna Romero Ana Cristina
Published: May 2021

This academic work aims to provide an intricate definition of the terms at hand as well as explain the relationship between smart cities and the sustainable development that they present based on a comparative analysis of case studies and experiences in the Mexican context. The endeavour to achieve being an architectural proposal of an innovative solution adapted to current conditions that will be carried out by an academic team, thus incorporating sustainable criteria, universal accessibility and social inclusion. This research work reflects the theoretical aspect, providing an intricate academic reflection and giving background information also establishing the complexity that lies within Latin American metropolis emphasizing in Mexican cities, as to provide insight into the academic dynamics in order to educate professionals on the field from an updated perspective in which they´ll be able to determine and analyse the implementation of smart cities from an architectural standpoint and the impact they would have on the quality of urban life in those Mexican cities.
Using access log data to predict failure-prone students in Moodle using a small dataset
Authors: Sokout Hamidullah , Usagawa Tsuyoshi
Published: May 2021

In this paper, the authors present a predictive model for failure-prone students using access log data from two small datasets in the Moodle learning system. Although various advanced machine learning algorithms, especially supervised predictive methods, can be used with very large datasets, these tools are often not available for most initial university research, especially in developing countries, to predict learners’ future outcomes. The authors examined the use of students’ access patterns to track failure-prone students so that early interventions could be made to prevent failure or dropout. Real data were collected through explicit learners’ actions, such as completing assignments and taking quizzes, from two compulsory blended courses, Operating System (junior level, or third year) and System Analysis and Design (sophomore level, or second year). Research methods were predominantly quantitative. The proposed models correctly predicted failure-prone students before the end of the second academic month (fifth week) for both courses (88% of the class for juniors and 86% of the class for sophomores), which made it possible to intervene early and provide required support during the semester. Similarly, the study outcomes showed the students’ past performance, specifically their grade point average, could affect their final performance. The outcomes of this study can be used to analyze the behaviors of learners that lead to high success and high retention rate. Furthermore, the study results will be used to report and provide feedback to the educational parties to value the quality of teaching and learning, the improvement of course materials, and increasing learner success.
Outdoor Navigation System by AR
Authors: Hashimoto Ryohei , Cohen Michael
Published: May 2021

Mobile map applications such as Google Maps often don’t provide detailed information about facility areas such as amusement parks and university campuses. In addition, there are some people who cannot reach their destination just by reading a flat map. Therefore, in this research, we have developed an AR (Augmented Reality) navigation application for facilities to solve these problems. In addition, by using Kalman filtering to estimate user position, we could improve the accuracy of AR objects display.
Cyberbullying and Traditional Bullying in Greece: An Empirical Study
Authors: Papatsimouli Maria , Tavoultzidou Stavroula , Saprikis Vaggelis , Lazaridis Lazaros , Michailidi Eleni , Skordas Ioannis , Fragulis George F.
Published: May 2021

The use of Internet technology has changed the way people interact rendering face-to face and verbal communication a trend of the past. Thus, a new world has been created for young people, who send emails, visit websites, use webcams, chat rooms and instant messaging through social media for communication. As a result, a new type of bullying, cyber bullying has emerged. The present study aims to investigate the extent of cyber bullying in Greece in terms of: a) gender and cyber bullying, b) hours spent on line and cyber bullying, c) cyber bullying and traditional bullying victims and d) cyber bullying victims and family relations. The sample consisted of 466 participants, 27% of which (N=128) were less than 18 years old. A standardized questionnaire was formulated for data collection and Chisquare, statistical test was used to test the research hypotheses formulated. The results revealed significant theoretical and practical implications, as the majority of the research questions confirmed the relationship between cyber bullying and traditional bullying victims, as well as cyber bullying victims and family relations.
miR-204-5p and Platelet Function Regulation: Insight into a Mechanism Mediated by CDC42 and GPIIbIIIa
Authors: Garcia Alix , Dunoyer-Geindre Sylvie , Nolli Séverine , Strassel Catherine , Reny Jean-Luc , Fontana Pierre
Published: May 2021

Background Several platelet-derived microRNAs are associated with platelet reactivity (PR) and clinical outcome in cardiovascular patients. We previously showed an association between miR-204-5p and PR in stable cardiovascular patients, but data on functional mechanisms are lacking.

Aims To validate miR-204-5p as a regulator of PR in platelet-like structures (PLS) derived from human megakaryocytes and to address mechanistic issues.

Methods Human hematopoietic stem cells were differentiated into megakaryocytes, enabling the transfection of miR-204-5p and the recovery of subsequent PLS. The morphology of transfected megakaryocytes and PLS was characterized using flow cytometry and microscopy. The functional impact of miR-204-5p was assessed using a flow assay, the quantification of the activated form of the GPIIbIIIa receptor, and a fibrinogen-binding assay. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot were used to evaluate the impact of miR-204-5p on a validated target, CDC42. The impact of CDC42 modulation was investigated using a silencing strategy.

Results miR-204-5p transfection induced cytoskeletal changes in megakaryocytes associated with the retracted protrusion of proPLS, but it had no impact on the number of PLS released. Functional assays showed that the PLS produced by megakaryocytes transfected with miR-204-5p were more reactive than controls. This phenotype is mediated by the regulation of GPIIbIIIa expression, a key contributor in platelet–fibrinogen interaction. Similar results were obtained after CDC42 silencing, suggesting that miR-204-5p regulates PR, at least in part, via CDC42 downregulation.

Conclusion We functionally validated miR-204-5p as a regulator of the PR that occurs through CDC42 downregulation and regulation of fibrinogen receptor expression.
Gross Total Resection of a Recurrent Cavernous Sinus Meningioma through a Combined Transzygomatic Transcavernous and Extended Middle Fossa Approach with Cavernous Carotid Denudation
Authors: Nonaka Yoichi , Hayashi Naokazu , Fukushima Takanori
Published: May 2021

Objective The aim of this study is to describe surgical management of invasive cavernous sinus meningioma with a combination of skull base approaches.

Design This study is an operative video.

Results Resection of the recurrent skull base meningioma is still challenging, especially if the tumor involves or encases the carotid artery. In this video, we describe our experience with the successful treatment of a recurrent skull base meningioma, which involved the entire cavernous sinus and the internal carotid artery. A 53-year-old male presented with a 1-year history of progressing right-side complete oculomotor palsy and facial dysesthesia. The patient had previously undergone craniotomy for the right-side petroclival cavernous meningioma (Fig. 1A and B). Total 8 years after the first surgery, the remaining portion of the cavernous sinus grew up and extended into the posterior fossa (Fig. 1C). Then the second surgery was performed to resect only the posterior fossa component (Fig. 1D). However, the follow-up magnetic resonance imaging revealed an aggressive tumor regrowth in 2 years. The tumor occupied the right middle fossa with an extension to the posterior fossa and infratemporal fossa (Fig. 1E and F). We scheduled to perform gross total resection of the tumor through a combined transzygomatic transcavernous and extended middle fossa approach with preparation for vessel reconstruction. Mild adhesion between the tumor and the cavernous carotid artery facilitated complete resection of the intracavernous component of the tumor (Fig. 2A–C).

Conclusion A combination of skull base approaches provides multidirectional operative corridors and wide exposure of the skull base lesions.

The link to the video can be found at https://youtu.be/DB_WXFeyBvo.
Radiological Anatomy of Stomach and Duodenum with Clinical Significance
Authors: Vora Zainab , Goyal Ankur , Sharma Raju
Published: May 2021

Anatomy is the key to accurate imaging interpretation. It is essential for radiologists to thoroughly understand the normal anatomy and spatial relationships of the stomach and duodenum to accurately localize the site of abnormality. In this article, we describe in detail the gross and applied radiological anatomy of the stomach and duodenum, and the current role of various radiological investigations (including barium studies, endoscopic ultrasonography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging) in the evaluation of the diseases involving the stomach and duodenum.
The Time for Parenteral Nutrition is Now: 12 Months Caring for Patients with Severe COVID-19
Authors: Barbosa Claudio de Lima
Published: May 2021

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has brought new challenges to adequate nutrition, especially in critically ill patients. Physicians caring for these patients face great difficulties, including a different pathophysiology compared with other diseases, inadequately trained personnel, pressure from the media and family members, logistical and economic obstacles, and lack of robust medical evidence. Although the literature on COVID-19 is still limited, evidence demonstrates the need to reevaluate the use of effective nutritional support in this unprecedented, challenging clinical context. Supplemental parenteral nutrition must be considered due to the energy expenditure from COVID-19, the difficulty in achieving protein and energy goals in patients under enteral nutrition in prone position, and the worsened gastroparesis related to high doses of sedative/neuromuscular blocking agents.
Midtrimester Cervical Length in Low-Risk Nulliparous Women for the Prediction of Spontaneous Preterm Birth: Should We Consider a New Definition of Short Cervix?
Authors: Guerby Paul , Girard Mario , Marcoux Geneviève , Beaudoin Annie , Pasquier Jean-Charles , Bujold Emmanuel
Published: May 2021

Objective The study aimed to estimate the predictive value of midtrimester cervical length (CL) and the optimal cut-off of CL that should be applied with asymptomatic nulliparous women for the prediction of spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB).

Study Design This is a prospective cohort study of asymptomatic nulliparous women with a singleton gestation. Participants underwent CL measurement by transvaginal ultrasound between 20 and 24 weeks of gestation. The participants and their health care providers remained blinded to the results of CL measurement. The primary outcomes were sPTB before 35 weeks and sPTB before 37 weeks. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analyses were performed. Analyses were repeated by using multiples of median (MoM) of CL adjusted for gestational age.

Results Of 796 participants, the mean midtrimester CL was 40 ± 6 mm with a 1st, 5th, and 10th percentile of 25, 29, and 32 mm, respectively. ROC curve analyses suggest that a cut-off of 30 mm was the optimal CL to predict sPTB before 35 weeks (area under the ROC curve [AUC]: 0.70, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.56–0.85) and before 37 weeks (AUC: 0.70, 95% CI: 0.59–0.80). Midtrimester CL <30 mm could detect 35% of all sPTB before 35 weeks at a false-positive rate of 5% (relative risk: 9.1, 95% CI: 3.5–23.5, p < 0.001). We observed similar results using a cut-off of CL <0.75 MoM adjusted for gestational age.

Conclusion A midtrimester CL cut-off of 30 mm (instead of 25 mm), or CL less than 0.75 MoM, should be used to identify nulliparous women at high risk of sPTB.

Key Points
Anemia, Hepcidin, and Vitamin D in Healthy Preterm Infants: A Pilot Study
Authors: Koren Yael , Lubetzky Ronit , Mandel Dror , Ovental Amit , Deutsch Varda , Hadanny Amir , Moran-Lev Hadar
Published: May 2021

Objective The etiology of anemia in premature neonates is multifactorial and may involve anemia of inflammation mediated by hepcidin. Hepcidin expression is suppressed by vitamin D. We aimed to investigate the interrelationship between hepcidin, anemia, and vitamin D status in preterm infants.

Study Design Preterm infants aged 1 to 5 weeks were prospectively recruited at the neonatal intensive care unit of the Dana Dwek Children Hospital. Blood counts and serum levels of hepcidin, ferritin, iron, 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and C-reactive protein (CRP) were measured and compared between anemic and nonanemic preterm infants.

Results Forty-seven preterm infants (mean ± standard deviation gestational age at birth 32.8 ± 1.1 weeks, 66% males) were recruited. In total, 36% of the preterm infants were vitamin D deficient [25(OH)D < 20 ng/mL] and 15% were anemic. Hepcidin levels were significantly higher in anemic premature infants than in the nonanemic group (55.3 ± 23.9 ng/mL vs. 30.1 ± 16.3 ng/mL, respectively, p < 0.05). No differences were found in iron, ferritin, 25(OH)D, and CRP levels between anemic and nonanemic premature newborn infants. A positive correlation was found between hepcidin and ferritin (R
2 = 0.247, p = 0.02) and a negative correlation was found between 25(OH)D and CRP (R
2 = 0.1, p = 0.04). No significant correlations were found between 25(OH)D and hepcidin, iron, ferritin, or CRP.

Conclusion Anemia of prematurity was associated with high hepcidin serum levels. The exact mechanisms leading to anemia and the role of vitamin D warrant further investigation.

Key Points
kma Entscheider Blog: Neue Erlösverteilung erfordert ein Umdenken in Kliniken
Authors: Heurich Manuel
Published: May 2021

Erlöse aus Krankenhausleistungen stellen für den Großteil der deutschen Plankrankenhäuser die wichtigste Umsatzquelle dar. In den nächsten Jahren könnte sich die Erlösverteilung sowohl horizontal als auch vertikal dramatisch ändern. Nachfolgende Faktoren sollten die Entscheider im Krankenhaus hierbei auf dem Radar haben.
L

∞

bounds for Chern–Simons gauged equations in R1+1 and their applications
Authors: Huh Hyungjin , Yim Jihyun
Published: May 2021

We estimate the L∞ norm of the first derivative of the solution to the Chern–Simons gauged O(3) sigma model in R1+1 by using local energy conservation and observing the transport equation along the characteristic line. As an application of the bound, we improve the growth rate of the H2 norm of the solution from an exponential to a polynomial one. We also apply a similar idea to the Chern–Simons–Higgs model.
Grassmannian-parameterized solutions to direct-sum polygon and simplex equations
Authors: Dimakis Aristophanes , Korepanov Igor G.
Published: May 2021

We consider polygon and simplex equations, of which the simplest nontrivial examples are pentagon (5-gon) and Yang–Baxter (2-simplex), respectively. We examine the general structure of (2n + 1)-gon and 2n-simplex equations in direct sums of vector spaces. Then, we provide a construction for their solutions, parameterized by elements of the Grassmannian Gr(n + 1, 2n + 1).
Exciting extreme events in the damped and AC-driven NLS equation through plane-wave initial conditions
Authors: Diamantidis Sevastos , Horikis Theodoros P. , Karachalios Nikos I.
Published: May 2021

We investigate, by direct numerical simulations and for certain parametric regimes, the dynamics of the damped and forced nonlinear Schrödinger (NLS) equation in the presence of a time-periodic forcing. It is thus revealed that the wave number of a plane-wave initial condition dictates the number of emerged Peregrine-type rogue waves at the early stages of modulation instability. The formation of these events gives rise to the same number of transient “triangular” spatiotemporal patterns, each of which is reminiscent of the one emerging in the dynamics of the integrable NLS in its semiclassical limit, when supplemented with vanishing initial conditions. We find that the L2-norm of the spatial derivative and the L4-norm detect the appearance of rogue waves as local extrema in their evolution. The impact of the various parameters and noisy perturbations of the initial condition in affecting the above behavior is also discussed. The long-time behavior, in the parametric regimes where the extreme wave events are observable, is explained in terms of the global attractor possessed by the system and the asymptotic orbital stability of spatially uniform continuous wave solutions.