bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distribution Trends of Cadmium and Lead in Timberline Coniferous Forests in the Eastern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Jia Longyu , Luo Ji , Peng Peihao , Li Wei , Yang Danli , Shi Wenbo , Xu Qian , Lai Xiyi
Published: January 2021

The concentrations of Pb and Cd in the needles and twigs of fir and spruce collected from 26 sites in the Eastern Tibetan Plateau were measured and analyzed in this study. The mean concentrations of Cd and Pb were 0.034 and 1.291 mg/kg, respectively, in the needles and 0.101 and 2.511 mg/kg, respectively, in the twigs. These concentrations increased significantly with needle and twig age and peaked at 5 years. The twigs were significantly enriched in Pb and Cd compared with the needles. The spatial distributions of Pb and Cd were determined using the inverse-distance-weighted spatial interpolation method on the basis of the mean concentration of the elements in the needles and twigs from each site. The highest concentrations of Pb and Cd in twigs and needles were found in Yunnan Province and Gongga Mountain. They showed a tendency to decline from Yunnan Province to the northern direction, as well as from Gongga Mountain to the western area. Principal component analysis showed that Pb and Cd originated from the anthropogenic activities in this area. The mining activities and climatic factors may be the main sources of Pb and Cd in this area. Combining the HYSPLIT (The Hybrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory) model and PCA, the results implied that exterior Pb and Cd sources from Southeast Asia and the eastern developed cities in China can infiltrate the ecosystem through long-range transportation and accumulate in timberline forests, with atmospheric deposition in the Eastern Tibetan Plateau. This plateau suffers from severe Pb pollution but slight Cd contamination.
Evaluation of a Passive Upper-Limb Exoskeleton Applied to Assist Farming Activities in Fruit Orchards
Authors: Wang Hsien-Min , Le Dang Khanh Linh , Lin Wei-Chih
Published: January 2021

Work-related musculoskeletal disorder (WMSD) is a common occupational injury. Among the occupational injuries of agricultural workers, 93% are related to WMSD, with the shoulder being the second most affected area. This paper presents a passive upper-limb exoskeleton (PULE) with a gas spring and four-bar mechanism developed to aid the daily activities associated with orchard farming. The PULE is used to assist the arm-lifting process, reducing the physical exertion of farmers and the risk of developing WMSD. Electromyography (EMG) measurements of 26 participants were obtained to evaluate the difference in physical exertion with and without the PULE. Two arm activities: fruit thinning, with the arms raised and maintained at 100°, and pesticide spraying, with the hands swinging from 0° to 100° and back, were simulated. Using the PULE decreased muscle tension of the anterior deltoid (AD) by 17.64–19.86%. The PULE also decreased the AD activity by 37.67–39.57% during the actual orchard farming operations. The Qualisys motion capture system indicated that the difference in the lifting angle of the upper limb with and without the PULE was less than 1° and not significant (α > 0.05). Thus, the PULE did not affect the flexibility of the wearer in orchard farming activities.
Fracture System and Rock-Mass Characterization by Borehole Camera Surveying: Application in Dimension Stone Investigations in Geologically Complex Structures
Authors: Pavičić Ivica , Galić Ivo , Kucelj Mišo , Dragičević Ivan
Published: January 2021

The successful exploration of dimension stone mainly depends on the quality, size, and shape of extractable blocks of dimension stone. The investigated area is in the Pelješac Peninsula (Croatia), in the External Dinarides orogeny, built from thick carbonate succession, characterized by relatively small deposits of high-quality dimension stone. These conditions demand challenging geological investigations in the “pre-quarry” phase to find optimal quarry location. The size and shape of dimension stone blocks are mainly controlled by fracture pattern systems. In the rugged, covered terrains, it is very hard to obtain a satisfactory amount of fracture data from the surface, so it is necessary to collect them from the underground. Borehole camera technology can visualize the inner part of the rock mass and measure the fracture characteristics. The main conclusions are as follows: (1) the digital borehole camera technology provides a quick, effective, and low-cost geological survey of fractured rock mass; (2) statistical fracture distribution parameters, P10, fracture spacing, Volumetric Joint Count (Jv) based on borehole wall survey can reflect the integrity of rock mass, providing a solid decision-making base for further investment plans and dimension stone excavation method.
Low-Frequency Sound Prediction of Structures with Finite Submerge Depth Based on Sparse Vibration Measurement
Authors: Wang Wenbo , Yang Desen , Shi Jie
Published: January 2021

In the non-free-field, with the effect of reflection sounds from the reflection boundary, the vibration character of a submerged structure often changes, which may have significant influences on the measurement system configurations. To reduce the engineering cost in low-frequency sound prediction of a submerged structure with finite depth, two methods based on the theory of acoustic radiation mode (ARM) are proposed. One is called the vibration reconstruction equivalent source method (VR-ESM), which utilizes the ARM to reconstruct the total vibration of the structure, and the sound prediction is completed with the equivalent source method (ESM); the other is called the compressed modal equivalent source method (CMESM), which utilizes the theory of compressive sensing (CS) and the ARM to reinforce the sparsity of source strengths. The sound field separation (SFS) technology is combined with the above two methods for constructing the ARMs accurately in the non-free field. Simulations show that both methods are efficient. Compared with the traditional method based on the structural modal analysis, the methods based on the ARM could efficiently reduce the scale of the measurement system. However, the measurement point arrangement should be optimized to keep the prediction results accurate. In this paper, the optimization process is completed with the efficient independence (EFI) method. In addition, some factors that may affect the prediction accuracy are also analyzed in this paper. When the submerge depth is large enough, the process of contrasting ARMs could be further simplified. The results of the paper could help in saving engineering costs to predict the low-frequency sound radiation of submerged structures in the future.
Using Fractal Dimension Analysis with the Desikan–Killiany Atlas to Assess the Effects of Normal Aging on Subregional Cortex Alterations in Adulthood
Authors: Jao Chi-Wen , Lau Chi Ieong , Lien Li-Ming , Tsai Yuh-Feng , Chu Kuang-En , Hsiao Chen-Yu , Yeh Jiann-Horng , Wu Yu-Te
Published: January 2021

Normal aging is associated with functional and structural alterations in the human brain. The effects of normal aging and gender on morphological changes in specific regions of the brain are unknown. The fractal dimension (FD) can be a quantitative measure of cerebral folding. In this study, we used 3D-FD analysis with the Desikan–Killiany (DK) atlas to assess subregional morphological changes in adulthood. A total of 258 participants (112 women and 146 men) aged 30–85 years participated in this study. Participants in the middle-age group exhibited a decreased FD in the lateral frontal lobes, which then spread to the temporal and parietal lobes. Men exhibited an earlier and more significant decrease in FD values, mainly in the right frontal and left parietal lobes. Men exhibited more of a decrease in FD values in the subregions on the left than those in the right, whereas women exhibited more of a decrease in the lateral subregions. Older men were at a higher risk of developing mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and exhibited age-related memory decline earlier than women. Our FD analysis using the DK atlas-based prediagnosis may provide a suitable tool for assessing normal aging and neurodegeneration between groups or in individual patients.
3D Cell Cultures as Prospective Models to Study Extracellular Vesicles in Cancer
Authors: Bordanaba-Florit Guillermo , Madarieta Iratxe , Olalde Beatriz , Falcón-Pérez Juan M. , Royo Félix
Published: January 2021

The improvement of culturing techniques to model the environment and physiological conditions surrounding tumors has also been applied to the study of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in cancer research. EVs role is not only limited to cell-to-cell communication in tumor physiology, they are also a promising source of biomarkers, and a tool to deliver drugs and induce antitumoral activity. In the present review, we have addressed the improvements achieved by using 3D culture models to evaluate the role of EVs in tumor progression and the potential applications of EVs in diagnostics and therapeutics. The most employed assays are gel-based spheroids, often utilized to examine the cell invasion rate and angiogenesis markers upon EVs treatment. To study EVs as drug carriers, a more complex multicellular cultures and organoids from cancer stem cell populations have been developed. Such strategies provide a closer response to in vivo physiology observed responses. They are also the best models to understand the complex interactions between different populations of cells and the extracellular matrix, in which tumor-derived EVs modify epithelial or mesenchymal cells to become protumor agents. Finally, the growth of cells in 3D bioreactor-like systems is appointed as the best approach to industrial EVs production, a necessary step toward clinical translation of EVs-based therapy.
IFN-γ and CD38 in Hyperprogressive Cancer Development
Authors: Angelicola Stefania , Ruzzi Francesca , Landuzzi Lorena , Scalambra Laura , Gelsomino Francesco , Ardizzoni Andrea , Nanni Patrizia , Lollini Pier-Luigi , Palladini Arianna
Published: January 2021

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) improve the survival of patients with multiple types of cancer. However, low response rates and atypical responses limit their success in clinical applications. The paradoxical acceleration of tumor growth after treatment, defined as hyperprogressive disease (HPD), is the most difficult problem facing clinicians and patients alike. The mechanisms that underlie hyperprogression (HP) are still unclear and controversial, although different factors are associated with the phenomenon. In this review, we propose two factors that have not yet been demonstrated to be directly associated with HP, but upon which it is important to focus attention. IFN-γ is a key cytokine in antitumor response and its levels increase during ICI therapy, whereas CD38 is an alternative immune checkpoint that is involved in immunosuppressive responses. As both factors are associated with resistance to ICI therapy, we have discussed their possible involvement in HPD with the conclusion that IFN-γ may contribute to HP onset through the activation of the inflammasome pathway, immunosuppressive enzyme IDO1 and activation-induced cell death (AICD) in effector T cells, while the role of CD38 in HP may be associated with the activation of adenosine receptors, hypoxia pathways and AICD-dependent T-cell depletion.
Unexpected Link between the Template Purification Solvent and the Structure of Titanium Dioxide Hollow Spheres
Authors: Gyulavári Tamás , Kovács Kata , Magyari Klára , Baán Kornélia , Szabó Anna , Veréb Gábor , Pap Zsolt , Hernadi Klara
Published: January 2021

Carbon spheres were applied as templates to synthesize titanium dioxide hollow spheres. The templates were purified with either ethanol or acetone, and the effects of this treatment on the properties of the resulting titania were investigated. The photocatalytic activity of the catalysts was measured via the decomposition of phenol model pollutant under visible light irradiation. It was found that the solvent used for the purification of the carbon spheres had a surprisingly large impact on the crystal phase composition, morphology, and photocatalytic activity. Using ethanol resulted in a predominantly rutile phase titanium dioxide with regular morphology and higher photocatalytic activity (r0,phenol = 3.9 × 10−9 M∙s−1) than that containing mainly anatase phase prepared using acetone (r0,phenol = 1.2 × 10−9 M∙s−1), surpassing the photocatalytic activity of all investigated references. Based on infrared spectroscopy measurements, it was found that the carbon sphere templates had different surface properties that could result in the appearance of carbonate species in the titania lattice. The presence or absence of these species was found to be the determining factor in the development of the titania’s properties.
Improved Catalytic Propylene Epoxidation for Extruded Micrometer TS-1: Introducing Mesopores and Macropores Insides the Crystals
Authors: Li Jiangbo , Zhang Feifei , Zong Lukuan , Wang Xiangyu , Wei Huijuan
Published: January 2021

In the paper, mesopores and macropores are introduced inside the crystals of micrometer microporous titanium silicate-1 (TS-1) to solve the problem of active site coverage and mass transfer during extrusion. Hierarchically porous titanium silicalite-1 (HPTS-1) was acquired by treating micrometer microporous TS-1 with TPABr and ethanolamine. Extruded HPTS-1 maintained greatly superior catalytic performance and possessed high mechanical strength. Characterization results showed that extruded HPTS-1 possessed macroporous, mesoporous structure inside the crystals. These abundant pores are not only beneficial for diffusion reactants, but also make Ti-peroxo species (η2), active oxidation sites in TS-1/H2O2 system become much more reactive. The formula of extruded HPTS-1 was optimized using an orthogonal experiment. The maximum strength of extruded HPTS-1 was up to 200 N/cm, the highest yield of propylene oxide was 92.5% and the specific rate was up to 41.9%. The research provides a scientific basis for producing extruded catalysts with excellent catalytic performance and high mechanical strength in industrial applications.
Lignocellulose Biomass as a Multifunctional Tool for Sustainable Catalysis and Chemicals: An Overview
Authors: Testa Maria Luisa , Tummino Maria Laura
Published: January 2021

Today, the theme of environmental preservation plays an important role within the activities of the scientific community and influences the choices of politics and the common population. In this context, the use of non-fossil substances should be promoted for different reasons: to avoid the depletion and damage of the areas involved in the fossil fuel extraction, decrease the impact of emissions/by-products related to the industrial transformation of fossil-based products and possibly exploit residual biomasses as sources of carbon. This latter aspect also can be viewed as a way to revalorize lignocellulose waste, generally destined to dump as putrescible matter or to be incinerated. In this review, we are aiming to present a concise overview of the multiple functions of lignocellulose biomass in the broad field of catalysis for a sustainable development. The originality of the approach is considering the lignocellulose-derived matter in three different aspects: (i) as a precursor to convert into platform molecules, (ii) as an active material (i.e., humic-like substances as photosensitizers) and (iii) as a green support for catalytic applications. We find that this perspective can widen the awareness level of scientists involved in the catalysis field for the exploitation of residual biomass as a valuable and complementary resource.
Immune Cell-Associated Protein Expression Helps to Predict Survival in Muscle-Invasive Urothelial Bladder Cancer Patients after Radical Cystectomy and Optional Adjuvant Chemotherapy
Authors: Taubert Helge , Eckstein Markus , Epple Elena , Jung Rudolf , Weigelt Katrin , Lieb Verena , Sikic Danijel , Stöhr Robert , Geppert Carol , Weyerer Veronika , Bertz Simone , Kehlen Astrid , Hartmann Arndt , Wullich Bernd , Wach Sven
Published: January 2021

Bladder cancer (BCa) is the tenth most commonly diagnosed malignant cancer worldwide. Although adjuvant chemotherapy following radical cystectomy is a common therapy for muscle invasive bladder cancer patients, no applicable biomarkers exist to predict which patients will benefit from chemotherapy. In this study, we examined three immune cell markers, the chemokine CC motif ligand 2 (CCL2), the pan macrophage marker cluster of differentiation 68 (CD68) and the M2 macrophage marker cluster of differentiation 163 (CD163), using immunohistochemistry to determine their predictive value for the chemotherapy response in different nodal stage (pN0 vs. pN1 + 2) and tumor stage subgroups (pT2 vs. pT3 + 4). The prognosis was studied in terms of the overall survival (OS), disease-specific survival (DSS), and recurrence-free-survival (RFS) in 168 muscle invasive BCa patients. Chemotherapy was associated with a poorer prognosis in patients with a higher expression of the immune markers CCL2 (RFS), CD68 (DSS and RFS), and CD163 (DSS and RFS) in the N0 group and with poorer survival in patients with a higher expression of the immune markers CCL2 (OS, DSS, and RFS), CD68 (OS, DSS, and RFS), and CD163 (OS, DSS, and RFS) in the pT2 group when compared with treatments without chemotherapy. In contrast, chemotherapy was associated with a better prognosis in patients with a low expression of the immune markers CCL2 (DSS and RFS), CD68 (OS, DSS, and RFS), and CD163 (OS) in the N1 + 2 group. In addition, chemotherapy was associated with improved survival in patients with a low expression of the immune marker CD68 (OS and DSS) and there was a trend for a better prognosis in patients with a low expression of CD163 (OS) in the pT3 + 4 group compared to patients not treated with chemotherapy. Interestingly, CD68 appeared to be the most applicable immune marker to stratify patients by the outcome of chemotherapy in the nodal stage and tumor stage groups. Overall, we suggest that, in addition to the clinical factors of tumor stage and nodal stage, it is also meaningful to consider the abundance of immune cells, such as macrophages, to better predict the response to chemotherapy for BCa patients after radical treatment.
The Metabolic Role of GRK2 in Insulin Resistance and Associated Conditions
Authors: Sorriento Daniela , Rusciano Maria Rosaria , Visco Valeria , Fiordelisi Antonella , Cerasuolo Federica Andrea , Poggio Paolo , Ciccarelli Michele , Iaccarino Guido
Published: January 2021

Insulin resistance (IRES) is a pathophysiological condition characterized by the reduced response to insulin of several tissues, including myocardial and skeletal muscle. IRES is associated with obesity, glucose intolerance, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, evolves toward type 2 diabetes, and increases the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Several studies designed to explore the mechanisms involved in IRES allowed the identification of a multitude of potential molecular targets. Among the most promising, G Protein Coupled Receptor Kinase type 2 (GRK2) appears to be a suitable one given its functional implications in many cellular processes. In this review, we will discuss the metabolic role of GRK2 in those conditions that are characterized by insulin resistance (diabetes, hypertension, heart failure), and the potentiality of its inhibition as a therapeutic strategy to revert both insulin resistance and its associated phenotypes.
Pyroelectric Properties of Bismuth Borate BZBO Single Crystals
Authors: Chen Feifei , Jiang Chao , Cheng Xiufeng , Zhao Xian
Published: January 2021

Pyroelectric properties of orthorhombic Bi2ZnB2O7 (BZBO) crystals were investigated by using the charge integration method. The primary and the secondary pyroelectric coefficients of BZBO crystals were found to be 6.4 and −6.5 µC/(m2·°C), respectively. The pyroelectric performance was evaluated by different figure of merits (FOMs), where BZBO crystals possessed relatively high current responsivity Fi (10.38 pm/V), and detectivity Fd (11.31 × 10−5/Pa1/2). In addition, the temperature dependent behaviours of primary pyroelectric coefficients and FOMs were studied from 15 °C to 155 °C; the pyroelectric properties were found to decrease with increases in temperature.
Preoperative Evaluation through Dermoscopy and Reflectance Confocal Microscopy of the Lateral Excision Margins for Primary Basal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Lupu Mihai , Voiculescu Vlad Mihai , Caruntu Ana , Tebeica Tiberiu , Caruntu Constantin
Published: January 2021

Complete removal of malignant skin lesions with minimal impact on the aesthetic and functional aspects is the ideal of every dermatologic surgeon. Incomplete surgical excisions and tumor recurrences of basal cell carcinomas (BCC) commonly occur due to the subclinical extension of tumor lateral margins. Presently, the lateral excision margins for BCC cannot be objectively assessed preoperatively, dermoscopy proving to be relatively inefficient in this respect. The question is whether BCC lateral excision margins can be precisely determined preoperatively through the use of complementary non-invasive imaging techniques such as dermoscopy and reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM), thus permitting the complete removal of the lesion in a single stage, estimation of the post-excisional defect, and planning an appropriate reconstruction, especially in medical centers where Mohs micrographic surgery is not available. We present the results of a prospective, histopathologically controlled study designed to determine the feasibility of preoperative, non-invasive, in vivo evaluation of the lateral excision margins for primary basal cell carcinoma, through dermoscopy and RCM.
Incidental Finding of a PSMA-Positive Pancreatic Cancer in a Patient Suffering from a Metastasized PSMA-Positive Prostate Cancer
Authors: Sirtl Simon , Todica Andrei , Ilhan Harun , Zorniak Michal , Bartenstein Peter , Mayerle Julia
Published: January 2021

An 82-year-old man suffering from prostate cancer that was scheduled for a radioreceptor-ligand therapy (RLT) presented with jaundice to our service. An abdominal ultrasound (US) revealed obstructive extrahepatic cholestasis due to a solid lesion located in the uncinate process of the pancreas. The Prostate Specific Membrane Antigen (PSMA) PET/CT prior to RLT showed multilocular PSMA positive tumor lesions in the lymph nodes, the lung and the pancreas. On request of the cancer board, an Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)-guided Fine-Needle Aspiration (FNA) of the pancreatic mass was performed revealing invasive pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma incompatible with a prostate cancer metastasis leading to the diagnosis of a PSMA positive pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.
Applications of Distributed-Order Fractional Operators: A Review
Authors: Ding Wei , Patnaik Sansit , Sidhardh Sai , Semperlotti Fabio
Published: January 2021

Distributed-order fractional calculus (DOFC) is a rapidly emerging branch of the broader area of fractional calculus that has important and far-reaching applications for the modeling of complex systems. DOFC generalizes the intrinsic multiscale nature of constant and variable-order fractional operators opening significant opportunities to model systems whose behavior stems from the complex interplay and superposition of nonlocal and memory effects occurring over a multitude of scales. In recent years, a significant amount of studies focusing on mathematical aspects and real-world applications of DOFC have been produced. However, a systematic review of the available literature and of the state-of-the-art of DOFC as it pertains, specifically, to real-world applications is still lacking. This review article is intended to provide the reader a road map to understand the early development of DOFC and the progressive evolution and application to the modeling of complex real-world problems. The review starts by offering a brief introduction to the mathematics of DOFC, including analytical and numerical methods, and it continues providing an extensive overview of the applications of DOFC to fields like viscoelasticity, transport processes, and control theory that have seen most of the research activity to date.
Assessment of Cable Length Limit for Effective Protection by Z-Source Circuit Breakers in DC Power Networks
Authors: Fu Ruiyun , Bhatta Sagar , Keller Joseph M. , Zhang Yucheng
Published: January 2021

This paper introduces groundbreaking research on how to assess the Cable Length Limit (CLL) to ensure effective protection by Z-source Circuit Breakers (ZCBs) in DC power networks. It has been revealed that the line parameters of power cables have a significant impact on the cutoff performance of ZCBs. The question of assessing the CLL has been raised as an unsolved problem. In this paper, a method of CLL assessment is proposed based on physical models and simulation tests. To verify the proposed method, two studies were performed to assess the Cable Length Limits depending on fault levels and power delivery levels, respectively. The ZCB parameters were specified for a simulation testing system for a 5 MW distribution line feeder. The effectiveness of ZCB protection was tested in groups of simulation tests with various impacting quantities, i.e., cable lengths, fault current levels, and power delivery levels. The effective cable lengths for the ZCB to detect and successfully interrupt a faulty branch in the DC network were assessed and analyzed. The testing results prove that the CLL decreases along with a decreasing fault current level, as well as an increasing power delivery level. Based on data analysis, an equation was derived to calculate the effective length of the ZCB for DC lines, and the equation can be used to generate new CLL curves for various load-power requirements. This study could increase the reliability of a ZCB’s response to a fault in DC transmission and distribution lines. It could also help power system designers/operators to maintain reliable protection with ZCBs in DC power system networks.
The Strong and the Stronger: The Effects of Increasing Ozone and Nitrogen Dioxide Concentrations in Pollen of Different Forest Species
Authors: Pereira Sónia , Fernández-González Maria , Guedes Alexandra , Abreu Ilda , Ribeiro Helena
Published: January 2021

The knowledge of pollen sensitivity and tolerance to stress factors such as air pollution is important for forest sustainability, ensuring the most efficient production with the highest benefits and lowest resource losses. This study intended to evaluate the influence of common air pollutants in four forest trees species, Betula pendula Roth, Corylus avellana L., Acer negundo L. and Quercus robur L., through a comparative analysis at the same experimental conditions. We aimed to investigate the effect that may occur in pollen fertility, protein content, oxidative stress and wall composition after exposure in vitro to ozone and nitrogen dioxide at concentration levels for vegetation protection in Europe. Our results suggest changes in pollen viability, protein content and differential sensitivity related to ROS synthesis, NADPH oxidase activity, as well as in wall composition. The results indicate that NO2 exposure affected more the pollen species studied mostly at the highest concentration exposure. As for ozone, there were less significant differences between samples; however, a different behavior occurs in O3 expositions, where the most influence happens at the legal limit for vegetation protection in Europe. Our study showed that significant pollen functions could be compromised even at common air pollutant’s concentrations.
Increased Litter Greatly Enhancing Soil Respiration in Betula platyphylla Forests of Permafrost Region, Northeast China
Authors: Wei Hong , Man Xiuling
Published: January 2021

The change of litter input can affect soil respiration (Rs) by influencing the availability of soil organic carbon and nutrients, regulating soil microenvironments, thus resulting in a profound influence on soil carbon cycle of the forest ecosystem. We conducted an aboveground litterfall manipulation experiment in different-aged Betula platyphylla forests (25-, 40- and 61-year-old) of the permafrost region, located in the northeast of China, during May to October in 2018, with each stand treated with doubling litter (litter addition, DL), litter exclusion (no-litter, NL) and control litter (CK). Our results indicated that Rs decreased under NL treatment compared with CK treatment. The effect size lessened with the increase in the stand age; the greatest reduction was found for young Betula platyphylla forest (24.46% for 25-year-old stand) and tended to stabilize with the growth of forest with the reduction of 15.65% and 15.23% for 40-and 61- year-old stands, respectively. Meanwhile, under DL treatment, Rs increased by 27.38%, 23.83% and 23.58% on 25-, 40- and 61-year-old stands, respectively. Our results also showed that the increase caused by DL treatment was larger than the reduction caused by NL treatment, leading to a priming effect, especially on 40- and 61-year-old stands. The change in litter input was the principal factor affecting the change of Rs under litter manipulation. The soil temperature was also a main factor affecting the contribution rate of litter to Rs of different-aged stands, which had a significant positive exponential correlation with Rs. This suggests that there is a significant relationship between litter and Rs, which consequently influences the soil carbon cycle in Betula platyphylla forests of the permafrost region, Northeast China. Our finding indicated the increased litter enhanced the Rs in Betula platyphylla forest, which may consequently increase the carbon emission in a warming climate in the future. It is of great importance for future forest management in the permafrost region, Northeast China.
Wood Products for Cultural Uses: Sustaining Native Resilience and Vital Lifeways in Southeast Alaska, USA
Authors: Johnson Adelaide , Clavijo Audrey E. , Hamar Glenn , Head Deborah-Aanutein , Thoms Andrew , Price Wayne , Lapke Arianna , Crotteau Justin , Cerveny Lee K. , Wilmer Hailey , Petershoare Lillian , Cook Andrea , Reid Sienna
Published: January 2021

Ongoing revitalization of the >5000-year-old tradition of using trees for vital culture and heritage activities including carving and weaving affirms Alaska Native resilience. However, support for these sustained cultural practices is complicated by environmental and political factors. Carving projects typically require western redcedar (Thuja plicata) or yellow cedar (Callitropsis nootkatensis) trees more than 450 years of age—a tree life stage and growth rate inconsistent with current even-aged forest management strategies. Herein, we qualitatively assess the significance of wood products to rural communities and Indigenous cultures with implications for natural heritage sustainability. In partnership with Alaska Native Tribes, we engaged local youth programs to lead community discussions throughout southeast Alaska to provide specificity to the suite of cultural activities linked to regional forest lands. Results from 58 discussions across 11 southeast Alaska communities (primarily Alaska Native participants) highlighted the cultural importance of forest products including totem poles, dugout canoes, longhouses, woven hats, and woven baskets. Findings indicated spiritual well-being, health, education, tourism, and livelihood significance attributed to these products. Participant-suggested management strategies for increasing supply and expanding access to trees on public lands included: engaging local artisans in forest planning, selecting and delivering specific trees to roads as part of ongoing timber sales, allowing bark removal prior to forest-timber sales, simplifying the tree-acquisition permit process, and setting aside cultural forest groves to sustain trees seven generations into the future. By facilitating discussions, this study fostered relevant place-based youth and community engagement, benefiting youth and enhancing community knowledge transfer while simultaneously summarizing the significance of forest products for resilient culture and heritage activities. Forest management plans aiming to support Alaska Native lifeways may benefit from improved understanding of Indigenous perspectives and worldviews; designation of “culture market values” and “culture targets” can help deliver a broad array of ecosystem services.
Consumer Perception of Food Quality and Safety in Western Balkan Countries: Evidence from Albania and Kosovo
Authors: Haas Rainer , Imami Drini , Miftari Iliriana , Ymeri Prespa , Grunert Klaus , Meixner Oliver
Published: January 2021

Domestic food markets are of significant importance to Kosovar and Albanian companies because access to export markets is under-developed, partly as a result of the gaps in food safety and quality standards. Kosovar and Albanian consumers’ use of food safety attributes and their evaluation of the quality of domestic food versus imported food are the research objectives of this study. The paper is based on a structured consumer survey of 300 Kosovars and 349 Albanians analyzing their perceptions of issues related to food safety and quality, measured through two respective batteries of items using a 5-point Likert scale. We used the t-test to identify differences between populations, correlation analysis and the bootstrapping method. Despite the prevalent problems with food safety, consumers in both countries consider domestic food to be safer as well as of higher quality than imported products. Kosovars are more likely than Albanians to perceive domestic food products to be significantly better than imported products. Female and better educated consumers use information related to food safety more often. Expiry date, domestic and local origin, and brand reputation are the most frequently used safety and quality cues for both samples. International food standards such as ISO or HACCP are less frequently used as quality cues by these consumer groups. It is important to strengthen the institutional framework related to food safety and quality following best practices from EU countries.
Reclassification of Microseismic Events through Hypocenter Location: Case Study on an Unstable Rock Face in Northern Italy
Authors: Zhang Zhiyong , Arosio Diego , Hojat Azadeh , Zanzi Luigi
Published: January 2021

Passive seismic methods are increasingly used in monitoring unstable rock slopes that are likely to cause rockfalls. Event classification is a basic step in microseismic monitoring. However, the classification of events generated by the propagation of fractures and rockfalls is still uncertain due to their similar features in the time and frequency domains. Hypocenter localization might be a powerful tool to distinguish events generated by fracture propagation from those caused by rockfalls. In this study, a classification procedure based on hypocenter location was validated using a selected subset of high-quality data recorded by a five-geophone network installed on a steep rock slope in Northern Italy. Considering the complexity and heterogeneity of the rock mass, a 3D velocity model that was derived from a tomographic experiment was used. We performed the localization using the equal differential time method. The location results fairly fit our expectations on suspected rockfall events because most signals were located near the rock face. However, only 4 out of 20 suspected fracture events were unquestionably confirmed as fractures being located inside the rock mass and far enough from the rock face. Further improvements in location accuracy are still necessary to distinguish suspected fracture events located close to the rock face from rockfalls. This study demonstrates that hypocenter location is a promising method to improve the final classification of microseismic events.
School in Digital Age: How Big Data Help to Transform the Curriculum
Authors: Vachkova Svetlana Nikolaevna , Petryaeva Elena Yurevna , Kupriyanov Roman B. , Suleymanov Ruslan S.
Published: January 2021

The transition to digital society is characterised by the development of new methods and tools for big data processing. New technologies have a substantial impact on the education sector. The article represents the results of applying big data to analyse and transform the learning content of Moscow’s schools. The analysis of the school curriculum comprised the following: (a) identifying one-topic lesson scripts, (b) analysing cross-disciplinary connections between subjects, (c) verifying the compliance of the lesson script digital content to the Federal Educational Standards. The analysed material included 36,644 lesson scripts. The analysis has been conducted using specifically designed digital tools featuring data mining algorithms. The article considers the issue of applying data mining algorithms to analyse school curriculum for the improvement of its quality.
Intercropping Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) with Sweet Pepper (Capsicum annum) Reduces Major Pest Population Densities without Impacting Natural Enemy Populations
Authors: Li Xiao-wei , Lu Xin-xin , Zhang Zhi-jun , Huang Jun , Zhang Jin-ming , Wang Li-kun , Hafeez Muhammad , Fernández-Grandon G. Mandela , Lu Yao-bin
Published: January 2021

Intercropping of aromatic plants provides an environmentally benign route to reducing pest damage in agroecosystems. However, the effect of intercropping on natural enemies, another element which may be vital to the success of an integrated pest management approach, varies in different intercropping systems. Rosemary, Rosmarinus officinalis L. (Lamiaceae), has been reported to be repellent to many insect species. In this study, the impact of sweet pepper/rosemary intercropping on pest population suppression was evaluated under greenhouse conditions and the effect of rosemary intercropping on natural enemy population dynamics was investigated. The results showed that intercropping rosemary with sweet pepper significantly reduced the population densities of three major pest species on sweet pepper, Frankliniella intonsa, Myzus persicae, and Bemisia tabaci, but did not affect the population densities of their natural enemies, the predatory bug, Orius sauteri, or parasitoid, Encarsia formosa. Significant pest population suppression with no adverse effect on released natural enemy populations in the sweet pepper/rosemary intercropping system suggests this could be an approach for integrated pest management of greenhouse-cultivated sweet pepper. Our results highlight the potential of the integration of alternative pest control strategies to optimize sustainable pest control.
Serum Calponin 3 Levels in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis: Possible Association with Skin Sclerosis and Arthralgia
Authors: Kotani Hirohito , Yoshizaki Ayumi , Matsuda Kazuki M. , Norimatsu Yuta , Kuzumi Ai , Fukayama Maiko , Fukasawa Takemichi , Ebata Satoshi , Yoshizaki-Ogawa Asako , Asano Yoshihide , Oba Koji , Sato Shinichi
Published: January 2021

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disease characterized by tissue fibrosis and vasculopathy in various organs with a background of inflammation initiated by autoimmune abnormalities. Calponin 3 plays a role in the cell motility and contractibility of fibroblasts during wound healing in the skin. We aimed to evaluate serum calponin 3 levels in SSc patients and their association with clinical manifestations of SSc. Serum samples were collected from 68 patients with SSc and 20 healthy controls. Serum calponin 3 levels were examined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits, and their association with clinical features of SSc was statistically analyzed. The upper limit of the 95% confidence interval of serum calponin 3 levels in healthy controls was utilized as the cut-off value when dividing SSc patients into the elevated and normal groups. Serum calponin 3 levels were significantly higher in SSc patients than in healthy controls (mean (95% confidence interval), 15.38 (14.66–16.11) vs. 13.56 (12.75–14.38) ng/mL, p < 0.05). The modified Rodnan total skin thickness score was significantly higher in the elevated serum calponin 3 level group than in the normal level group (median (25–75th percentiles), 10.0 (2.0–16.0) vs. 6.5 (3.25–8.75), p < 0.05). Moreover, SSc patients with increased serum calponin 3 levels also had a higher frequency of arthralgia (40% vs. 9%, p < 0.05). Elevated serum calponin 3 levels were associated with skin sclerosis and arthralgia in SSc patients. Serum calponin 3 levels might be a biomarker that reflects the severity of skin sclerosis and joint involvement in SSc.
The Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic and Lockdown Measures on Quality of Life among Italian General Population
Authors: Epifanio Maria Stella , Andrei Federica , Mancini Giacomo , Agostini Francesca , Piombo Marco Andrea , Spicuzza Vittoria , Riolo Martina , Lavanco Gioacchino , Trombini Elena , La Grutta Sabina
Published: January 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic that has hit the world in the year 2020 has put a strain on our ability to cope with events and revolutionized our daily habits. On 9 March, Italy was forced to lockdown to prevent the spread of the infection, with measures including the mandatory closure of schools and nonessential activities, travel restrictions, and the obligation to spend entire weeks in the same physical space. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown measures on quality of life (QoL) in a large Italian sample, in order to investigate possible differences in QoL levels related to both demographic and pandemic-specific variables. A total of 2251 Italian adults (1665 women, mainly young and middle adults) were recruited via a snowball sampling strategy. Participants were requested to answer to an online survey, which included demographic and COVID-related information items, and the World Health Organization Quality of Life BREF questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF). The results showed statistically significant differences in QoL depending on a number of variables, including sex, area of residence in Italy, and being diagnosed with a medical/psychiatric condition. To our knowledge, this is the first study to assess QoL during COVID-19 pandemic in Italy, therefore the present findings can offer guidelines regarding which social groups are more vulnerable of a decline in QoL and would benefit of psychological interventions.
The Impact of Binge Drinking on Mortality and Liver Disease in the Swiss HIV Cohort Study
Authors: Surial Bernard , Bertholet Nicolas , Daeppen Jean-Bernard , Darling Katharine , Calmy Alexandra , Günthard Huldrych , Stöckle Marcel , Bernasconi Enos , Schmid Patrick , Rauch Andri , Furrer Hansjakob , Wandeler Gilles ,   The Swiss HIV Cohort Study
Published: January 2021

Whereas excessive alcohol consumption increases liver disease incidence and mortality, evidence on the risk associated with specific drinking patterns is emerging. We assessed the impact of binge drinking on mortality and liver disease in the Swiss HIV Cohort Study. All participants with follow-up between 2013 and 2020 were categorized into one of four drinking pattern groups: “abstinence”, “non-hazardous drinking”, “hazardous but not binge drinking” (Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test Consumption [AUDIT-C] score ≥ 3 in women and ≥4 in men), and “binge drinking” (≥6 drinks/occasion more than monthly). We estimated adjusted incidence rate ratios (aIRR) for all-cause mortality, liver-related mortality and liver-related events using multivariable quasi-Poisson regression. Among 11,849 individuals (median follow-up 6.8 years), 470 died (incidence rate 7.1/1000 person-years, 95% confidence interval [CI] 6.5–7.8), 37 experienced a liver-related death (0.6/1000, 0.4–0.8), and 239 liver-related events occurred (3.7/1000, 3.2–4.2). Compared to individuals with non-hazardous drinking, those reporting binge drinking were more likely to die (all-cause mortality: aIRR 1.9, 95% CI 1.3–2.7; liver-related mortality: 3.6, 0.9–13.9) and to experience a liver-related event (3.8, 2.4–5.8). We observed no difference in outcomes between participants reporting non-hazardous and hazardous without binge drinking. These findings highlight the importance of assessing drinking patterns in clinical routine.
Matching Clinical Diagnosis and Amyloid Biomarkers in Alzheimer’s Disease and Frontotemporal Dementia
Authors: Giacomucci Giulia , Mazzeo Salvatore , Bagnoli Silvia , Casini Matteo , Padiglioni Sonia , Polito Cristina , Berti Valentina , Balestrini Juri , Ferrari Camilla , Lombardi Gemma , Ingannato Assunta , Sorbi Sandro , Nacmias Benedetta , Bessi Valentina
Published: January 2021

Background: The aims of this study were to compare the diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values (PPV, NPV) of different cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) amyloid biomarkers and amyloid-Positron Emission Tomography (PET) in patients with a clinical diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD); to compare concordance between biomarkers; and to provide an indication of their use and interpretation. Methods: We included 148 patients (95 AD and 53 FTD), who underwent clinical evaluation, neuropsychological assessment, and at least one amyloid biomarker (CSF analysis or amyloid-PET). Thirty-six patients underwent both analyses. One-hundred-thirteen patients underwent Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) genotyping. Results: Amyloid-PET presented higher diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, and NPV than CSF Aβ1–42 but not Aβ42/40 ratio. Concordance between CSF biomarkers and amyloid-PET was higher in FTD patients compared to AD cases. None of the AD patients presented both negative Aβ biomarkers. Conclusions: CSF Aβ42/40 ratio significantly increased the diagnostic accuracy of CSF biomarkers. On the basis of our current and previous data, we suggest a flowchart to guide the use of biomarkers according to clinical suspicion: due to the high PPV of both amyloid-PET and CSF analysis including Aβ42/40, in cases of concordance between at least one biomarker and clinical diagnosis, performance of the other analysis could be avoided. A combination of both biomarkers should be performed to better characterize unclear cases. If the two amyloid biomarkers are both negative, an underlying AD pathology can most probably be excluded.
High Expression Level of PPARγ in CD24 Knockout Mice and Gender-Specific Metabolic Changes: A Model of Insulin-Sensitive Obesity
Authors: Shapira Shiran , Kazanov Dina , Dankner Rachel , Fishman Sigal , Stern Naftali , Arber Nadir
Published: January 2021

Background: The heat-stable HSA/CD24 gene encodes a protein that shows high expression levels in adipocyte precursor cells but low levels in terminally differentiated adipocytes. Its high expression in many types of human cancer suggests an association between cancer, diabetes, and obesity, which is currently unclear. In addition, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) is a regulator of adipogenesis that plays a role in insulin sensitivity, lipid metabolism, and adipokine expression in adipocytes. Aim: To assess gender-dependent changes in CD24 KO and its association with PPARγ expression. Experimental approach: WT and CD24 KO mice were monitored from birth up to 12 months, and various physiological and molecular characteristics were analysed. Mean body weight and adipose mass were higher in KO mice than in WT mice. Male, but not female, KO mice showed increased insulin sensitivity, glucose uptake, adipocyte size, and PPARγ expression than WT mice. In addition, enteric bacterial populations, assessed through high-throughput sequencing of stool 16S rRNA genes, were significantly different between male KO and WT mice. Conclusions: CD24 may negatively regulate PPARγ expression in male mice. Furthermore, the association between the CD24 and insulin sensitivity suggests a possible mechanism for diabetes as a cancer risk factor. Finally, CD24 KO male mice may serve as a model of obesity and insulin hyper-sensitivity.