bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endodontic Management of Endo-Perio Lesions
Authors: Shumilovich Bogdan R , Rostovtsev Vladimir V , Kunin Vadim A , Bishtova Irina S , Paul Russell A. , Tsesis Igor , Littner Dan
Published: November 2021

An endo-perio lesion is one of the more common tooth-related problems. An association between the presence of apical and marginal periodontitis is known in the literature and has been observed in 5.7% of individuals aged 40–45 years old. The purpose of the present article is to present three case reports describing the successful retreatment of endo-perio lesions. In each of these cases, we used a biologically active bioceramic root canal sealer, GuttaFlow Bioseal, which is a bioactive root canal filling material composed of gutta percha, polydimethylsiloxane, platinum catalyzer, zirconium dioxide, and bioglass. All cases were followed up clinically and radiographically for a period of at least 11 months.
Tri-Partition Alphabet-Based State Prediction for Multivariate Time-Series
Authors: Wen Zuo-Cheng , Zhang Zhi-Heng , Zhou Xiang-Bing , Gu Jian-Gang , Shen Shao-Peng , Chen Gong-Suo , Deng Wu
Published: November 2021

Recently, predicting multivariate time-series (MTS) has attracted much attention to obtain richer semantics with similar or better performances. In this paper, we propose a tri-partition alphabet-based state (tri-state) prediction method for symbolic MTSs. First, for each variable, the set of all symbols, i.e., alphabets, is divided into strong, medium, and weak using two user-specified thresholds. With the tri-partitioned alphabet, the tri-state takes the form of a matrix. One order contains the whole variables. The other is a feature vector that includes the most likely occurring strong, medium, and weak symbols. Second, a tri-partition strategy based on the deviation degree is proposed. We introduce the piecewise and symbolic aggregate approximation techniques to polymerize and discretize the original MTS. This way, the symbol is stronger and has a bigger deviation. Moreover, most popular numerical or symbolic similarity or distance metrics can be combined. Third, we propose an along–across similarity model to obtain the k-nearest matrix neighbors. This model considers the associations among the time stamps and variables simultaneously. Fourth, we design two post-filling strategies to obtain a completed tri-state. The experimental results from the four-domain datasets show that (1) the tri-state has greater recall but lower precision; (2) the two post-filling strategies can slightly improve the recall; and (3) the along–across similarity model composed by the Triangle and Jaccard metrics are first recommended for new datasets.
Dynamic Analysis for a Reciprocating Compressor System with Clearance Fault
Authors: Xiao Shungen , Xiao Qingfeng , Song Mengmeng , Zhang Zexiong
Published: November 2021

In order to explore the failure mechanism of a reciprocating compressor system with clearance fault, we implemented a computational framework whereby a simulation model of the mechanism is established using ADAMS software in this paper, and a typical reciprocating compressor model is introduced to validate the design model. In this work, the joint clearance faults between the crankshaft and linkage, between the linkage and crosshead, and in both locations are taken into account computationally. These faults are one of the major causes of vibration. Through dynamic calculation and analysis of a system with clearance fault, the simulated results show that these clearance faults directly influence the vibration. The larger the gap size, the more severe the vibration and the higher the amplitude of the vibration. Furthermore, the clearance number also affects the vibration greatly.
A Dynamic Decision Support System for Selection of Cloud Storage Provider
Authors: Mateen Abdul , Nam Seung Yeob , Haider Muhammad Ali , Hanan Abdul
Published: November 2021

In recent years, the cloud computing model has gained increasing attention and popularity in the field of information technology. For this reason, people are migrating their applications to public, private, or hybrid cloud environments. Many cloud vendors offer similar features with varying costs, so an appropriate choice will be the key to guaranteeing comparatively low operational costs for an organization. The motivation for this work is the necessity to select an appropriate cloud storage provider offering for the migration of applications with less cost and high performance. However, the selection of a suitable cloud storage provider is a complex problem that entails various technical and organizational aspects. In this research, a dynamic Decision Support System (DSS) for selection of an appropriate cloud storage provider is proposed. A web-based application is implemented using PHP and MySQL to facilitate decision makers. The proposed mechanism has been optimized in a way that enables the system to address static database issues for which a user might not acquire the best solution. It focuses on comparing and ranking cloud storage providers by using two modules: scraping and parsing. The evaluation of the proposed system is carried out with appropriate test cases and compared with existing tools and frameworks.
A Simple Direct Method to Obtain Kinetic Parameters for Polymer Thermal Decomposition
Authors: Lázaro David , Alonso Alain , Lázaro Mariano , Alvear Daniel
Published: November 2021

In a fire, the polymer combustion occurs when gaseous fuels react with oxygen. The heating of a material could force the release of gaseous fuels during thermal decomposition and pyrolysis. The rate of pyrolysis to define the gaseous fuels is usually interpreted by means of the Arrhenius expression and a reaction model expression, which are characterized by an activation energy, a pre-exponential factor, and a reaction order value. Many methods are available for determining kinetic parameters from thermogravimetric experimental data. However, the most challenging issue is achieving an adequate balance between accuracy and simplicity. This work proposes a direct method for determining the kinetic parameters with only a thermogravimetric experiment at a single heating rate. The method was validated with six polymers, and the results were compared with those from similar procedures, such as the Lyon method and generalized direct method. The results achieved using the simpler approach of the proposed method show a high level of accuracy.
Fe3O4 Nanoparticles: Structures, Synthesis, Magnetic Properties, Surface Functionalization, and Emerging Applications
Authors: Nguyen Minh Dang , Tran Hung-Vu , Xu Shoujun , Lee T. Randall
Published: November 2021

Magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles (NPs) are attractive nanomaterials in the field of material science, chemistry, and physics because of their valuable properties, such as soft ferromagnetism, half-metallicity, and biocompatibility. Various structures of Fe3O4 NPs with different sizes, geometries, and nanoarchitectures have been synthesized, and the related properties have been studied with targets in multiple fields of applications, including biomedical devices, electronic devices, environmental solutions, and energy applications. Tailoring the sizes, geometries, magnetic properties, and functionalities is an important task that determines the performance of Fe3O4 NPs in many applications. Therefore, this review focuses on the crucial aspects of Fe3O4 NPs, including structures, synthesis, magnetic properties, and strategies for functionalization, which jointly determine the application performance of various Fe3O4 NP-based systems. We first summarize the recent advances in the synthesis of magnetite NPs with different sizes, morphologies, and magnetic properties. We also highlight the importance of synthetic factors in controlling the structures and properties of NPs, such as the uniformity of sizes, morphology, surfaces, and magnetic properties. Moreover, emerging applications using Fe3O4 NPs and their functionalized nanostructures are also highlighted with a focus on applications in biomedical technologies, biosensing, environmental remedies for water treatment, and energy storage and conversion devices.
Sensitive Ant Algorithm for Edge Detection in Medical Images
Authors: Ticala Cristina , Pintea Camelia-M. , Matei Oliviu
Published: November 2021

Nowadays, reliable medical diagnostics from computed tomography (CT) and X-rays can be obtained by using a large number of image edge detection methods. One technique with a high potential to improve the edge detection of images is ant colony optimization (ACO). In order to increase both the quality and the stability of image edge detection, a vector called pheromone sensitivity level, PSL, was used within ACO. Each ant in the algorithm has one assigned element from PSL, representing the ant’s sensibility to the artificial pheromone. A matrix of artificial pheromone with the edge information of the image is built during the process. Demi-contractions in terms of the mathematical admissible perturbation are also used in order to obtain feasible results. In order to enhance the edge results, post-processing with the DeNoise convolutional neural network (DnCNN) was performed. When compared with Canny edge detection and similar techniques, the sensitive ACO model was found to obtain overall better results for the tested medical images; it outperformed the Canny edge detector by 37.76%.
Strength and Compressibility of Ammonia-Soda Residue from the Solvay Sodium Plant
Authors: Zięba Jakub , Rzepka Przemysław , Olek Bartłomiej Szczepan
Published: November 2021

This work presents the discussion of the results for an experimental study conducted to characterise the mechanical behaviour of ammonia-soda residue (ASR). The calcareous sludge is an alkaline waste formed during the production of soda ash and deposited at the area of the former Solvay Sodium Plant factory in Krakow, Poland. Isotropically consolidation drained (CID) triaxial tests and constant rate of strain (CRS) consolidation tests include the full saturation with water, completion of the consolidation, and the loading/strain rate choice. For this purpose, ASR undisturbed samples were collected from the ground and submitted to laboratory experiments. These samples show a distinct difference in the initial bulk density, the initial level of compaction, initial void ratio, and the natural water content. The CD triaxial tests were conducted under three different levels of confining pressure; in turn, CRS tests were run with two appropriate input strain rates. According to the physical state of ASR and the depth of sampling, two different evolutions of the critical state in the stress–strain space were observed. In the light of the assessed stress–strain–strength behaviour, key design engineering parameters of ASR were calculated.
Life Cycle Assessment of Free-Floating Bike Sharing on Greenhouse Gas Emissions: A Case Study in Nanjing, China
Authors: Lai Ruxin , Ma Xinwei , Zhang Fan , Ji Yanjie
Published: November 2021

The free-floating bike sharing (FFBS) system appears in the form of low-carbon transport mode. Life cycle assessment (LCA) is a method to analyze the environmental impact of FFBS but has rarely considered the trip chain if the intermodal transport modes were employed. This paper proposes a mathematical formalization of LCA in response to the trip chain. The environmental benefit of FFBS was analyzed by this method considering the production, use, operation, and disposal phases in Nanjing. An online survey was conducted to analyze the mechanism of modal shift influenced by FFBS. The results showed that most respondents only use FFBS in the trip, with savings of 63.726 g CO2-eq/p·km, mainly shifting from lower-emission modes (28.30% from bus, 14.86% from metro, and 33.97% from non-motorized modes), while the trip mode of connecting public transport with FFBS could better replace the motorized transport trip and generate better low-carbon benefits with savings of 300.718 g CO2-eq/p·km. One FFBS should be used for at least 227 days to generate positive environmental benefits based on the current number of FFBS and the assumption of the utilization of each bike, which is once a day on average. The research results can effectively support the environmental benefit analysis of FFBS, the subsequent planning based on the low-carbon concept, and the implementation of relevant incentive policies.
DCC Terminology Service—An Automated CI/CD Pipeline for Converting Clinical and Biomedical Terminologies in Graph Format for the Swiss Personalized Health Network
Authors: Krauss Philip , Touré Vasundra , Gnodtke Kristin , Crameri Katrin , Österle Sabine
Published: November 2021

One goal of the Swiss Personalized Health Network (SPHN) is to provide an infrastructure for FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable and Reusable) health-related data for research purposes. Semantic web technology and biomedical terminologies are key to achieving semantic interoperability. To enable the integrative use of different terminologies, a terminology service is a important component of the SPHN Infrastructure for FAIR data. It provides both the current and historical versions of the terminologies in an SPHN-compliant graph format. To minimize the usually high maintenance effort of a terminology service, we developed an automated CI/CD pipeline for converting clinical and biomedical terminologies in an SPHN-compatible way. Hospitals, research infrastructure providers, as well as any other data providers, can download a terminology bundle (currently composed of SNOMED CT, LOINC, UCUM, ATC, ICD-10-GM, and CHOP) and deploy it in their local terminology service. The distributed service architecture allows each party to fulfill their local IT and security requirements, while still having an up-to-date interoperable stack of SPHN-compliant terminologies. In the future, more terminologies and mappings will be added to the terminology service according to the needs of the SPHN community.
Compatibility of Different Automotive Elastomers in Paraffinic Diesel Fuel
Authors: Białecki Tomasz , Sitkiewicz Andrzej , Giemza Bolesław , Sarnecki Jarosław , Skolniak Marta , Gawron Bartosz
Published: November 2021

The introduction of new fuels to power internal combustion engines requires testing the compatibility of such fuels with materials commonly used in fuel supply systems. This paper investigates the influence of alternative fuels on the acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber and fluoroelastomer used in the automotive industry. In the study, conventional diesel fuel, its blend with 7% of fatty acid methyl esters and paraffinic diesel fuel produced with the Fisher Tropsch synthesis from natural gas were interacted with the elastomers. The immersion tests were carried out at room temperature (20 °C) for 168 h. The effect was evaluated based on changes in the selected rubber’s volume, mass and hardness. It has been confirmed that the synthetic component without aromatic hydrocarbons had a different effect on the tested rubber than did conventional fuel. In follow-up work, the selected rubbers were also subjected to microscopic observation. The most frequently observed effect was the washing out of the seal protective layer.
The Influence of Headform/Helmet Friction on Head Impact Biomechanics in Oblique Impacts at Different Tangential Velocities
Authors: Juste-Lorente Óscar , Maza Mario , Piccand Mathieu , López-Valdés Francisco J.
Published: November 2021

Oblique impacts of the helmet against the ground are the most frequent scenarios in real-world motorcycle crashes. The combination of two factors that largely affect the results of oblique impact tests are discussed in this work. This study aims to quantify the effect of the friction at the interface between the headform and the interior of a motorcycle helmet at different magnitudes of tangential velocity. The helmeted headform, with low friction and high friction surface of the headform, was dropped against three oblique anvils at different impact velocities resulting in three different magnitudes of the tangential velocity (3.27 m/s, 5.66 m/s, 8.08 m/s) with the same normal component of the impact velocity (5.66 m/s). Three impact directions (front, left-side and right-side) and three repetitions per impact condition were tested resulting in 54 impacts. Tangential velocity variation showed little effect on the linear acceleration results. On the contrary, the rotational results showed that the effect of the headform’s surface depends on the magnitude of the tangential velocity and on the impact direction. These results indicate that a combination of low friction with low tangential velocities may result into underprediction of the rotational headform variables that would not be representative of real-world conditions.
Enhancement of PV Panel Power Production by Passive Cooling Using Heat Sinks with Perforated Fins
Authors: Hudișteanu Sebastian Valeriu , Țurcanu Florin Emilian , Cherecheș Nelu Cristian , Popovici Cătălin George , Verdeș Marina , Huditeanu Iuliana
Published: November 2021

This paper presents a numerical model regarding the passive cooling of PV panels through perforated and non-perforated heat sinks. A typical PV panel was studied in a fixed position, tilted at 45 degrees from the horizontal with the wind direction towards its backside. A challenging approach was used in order to calibrate the base case of the numerical model according to the NOCT conditions. Further validation of the accuracy of the numerical simulation consisted of a comparison between the results obtained for the base case, or heat sink, with horizontal non-perforated fins and the experiments presented in the literature. Six types of heat sink attached to the backside of the PV panel were numerically studied. The analyzed configurations focused on heat sinks with both perforated and non-perforated fins that were distributed horizontally and vertically. The CFD simulation was also conducted by modeling the air volume around the PV panel in real wind conditions. The main output parameters were the average temperature and the convective heat transfer coefficient on the front and back of the PV panel. The most important effect of cooling was achieved in low wind conditions and high levels of solar radiation. For vair = 1 m/s, G = 1000 W/m2 and ambient temperature tair = 35 °C, the percentage of maximum power production achieved 83.33% for the base case, while in the best cooling scenario it reached 88.74%, assuring a rise in the power production of 6.49%.
Left Atrial Volume Correlates with Mitral Annulus Size: An MDCT Study
Authors: Cismaru Gabriel , Valean Iulia , Zirbo Mihnea Cantemir , Tirpe Alexandru , Cismaru Andrei , Rosu Radu , Puiu Mihai , Muresan Lucian , Gusetu Gabriel , Minciuna Ioan-Alxandru , Florea Cristian Marius , Tomoaia Raluca , Zdrenghea Dumitru , Pop Dana
Published: November 2021

Aim: Although the association between left ventricular dilation and mitral annulus dilation is well understood, the potential variation in the size of the mitral annulus during dilation of the left atrium is currently unknown. In order to investigate the link between the two variables, we used multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) and looked at patients who had a dilated left atrium, assessing if the mitral valve also dilates. Materials and Methods: The study included 107 patients with paroxysmal and persistent atrial fibrillation, in whom catheter ablation was performed using pulmonary vein isolation ± atrial substrate modification. Eighty patients were male (74.8%), with a mean age of 55.8 years (±9.87 with a minimum age of 26 years and a maximum age of 79 years), of which 57.1% had paroxysmal AF and the rest had persistent fibrillation. All the patients underwent multiple-detector CT (MDCT) with contrast medium before the ablation. CT images were integrated into the three-dimensional mapping system CARTO 3, after which the diameters of the mitral annulus, area, and circumference were measured. Left atrial size was evaluated by measuring the diameters, area, and volume. Results: The left atrial area was 247 ± 65.7 cm2 and the left atrial volume was 139 ± 56.3 mL. The transverse mitral annulus (MA) was 29.9 ± 5.3 mm and the longitudinal diameter was 41.9 ± 7.6 mm. The MA circumference and area were 15.0 ± 3.5 cm and 14.2 ± 4.6 cm2, respectively. The following statistically significant correlation was identified between the dimensions of the mitral annulus and the diameters of the left atrium: the transverse mitral annulus correlates with the antero-posterior (AP) LA diameter (R = 0.594, p < 0.01) and the longitudinal MA diameter correlates with the latero-lateral (LL) LA diameter (R = 0.576, p < 0.01). Furthermore, the MA area correlates with the LA volume (R = 0.639, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The volume of the left atrium correlates with the area of the mitral annulus. In patients with paroxysmal and persistent AF, an increase in left atrial dimensions is further associated with an increase in mitral valve dimensions.
Solar Power System Assessments Using ANN and Hybrid Boost Converter Based MPPT Algorithm
Authors: Haseeb Imran , Armghan Ammar , Khan Wakeel , Alenezi Fayadh , Alnaim Norah , Ali Farman , Muhammad Fazal , Albogamy Fahad R. , Ullah Nasim
Published: November 2021

The load pressure on electrical power system is increased during last decade. The installation of new power generators (PGs) take huge time and cost. Therefore, to manage current power demands, the solar plants are considered a fruitful solution. However, critical caring and balance output power in solar plants are the highlighted issues. Which needs a proper procedure in order to minimize balance output power and caring issues in solar plants. This paper investigates artificial neural network (ANN) and hybrid boost converter (HBC) based MPPT for improving the output power of solar plants. The proposed model is analyzed in two steps, the offline step and the online step. Where the offline status is used for training various terms of ANNs in terms of structure and algorithm while in the online step, the online procedure is applied with optimum ANN for maximum power point tracking (MPPT) using traditional converter and hybrid converter in solar plants. Moreover, a detail analytical framework is studied for both proposed steps. The mathematical and simulation approaches show that the presented model efficiently regulate the output of solar plants. This technique is applicable for current installed solar plants which reduces the cost per generation.
Circulating mRNA Expression of Astrocyte-Elevated Gene-1 Associated with Treatment Response and Survival in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients Treated with Pemetrexed
Authors: Chang You-Lung , Chen Yen-Fu , Chen Ying-Yin , Chang Shih-Chieh , Chang Cheng-Yu , Wei Yu-Feng , Chen Chung-Yu
Published: November 2021

Background: Astrocyte-elevated gene-1 (AEG-1) functions as an oncogene and regulates angiogenesis in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In this prospective study, we assessed the values of plasma AEG-1 mRNA expression by liquid biopsy associated with tumour response and survival in NSCLC patients treated with pemetrexed. Methods: Patients diagnosed with advanced NSCLC were enrolled to be treated with pemetrexed combined with platinum as first-line chemotherapy. All patients underwent blood sampling before any cancer treatment (C0) and at first response evaluation after two cycles (C2) of treatments. Response to chemotherapy and survival were assessed. Plasma mRNA was extracted from peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) and quantification of RNA was performed by real-time PCR. Results: A total of 50 patients with advanced NSCLC were included and 13 of 50 patients combined with bevacizumab. In patient groups of stable disease (SD) (n = 13) and progressive disease (PD) (n = 10), the plasma mRNA of AEG-1, thymidylate synthase (TS), and CK19 were elevated significantly at C2 compared to patients in treatment response group (PR, n = 27) (PR vs. SD or PD, AEG-1: 1.22 ± 0.80 vs. 4.51 ± 15.45, p = 0.043). NSCLC patients who had elevated AEG-1 (AEG-1 ≥ 2) after two cycles of chemotherapy had shorter PFS and OS (high AEG-1 vs. low AEG-1, median, PFS: 5.5 vs. 11.9 months, p = 0.021; OS: 25.9 vs. 40.8 months, p = 0.019, respectively). In a Cox regression analysis, increased plasma mRNA expression of AEG-1indicated poor prognosis in survival. Conclusions: Circulating mRNA concentration of AEG-1 could be a predictive and prognostic biomarker in NSCLC patients treated with pemetrexed. Increased expression of AEG-1 contributed to the chemoresistance and caused lung cancer progression.
Deep Reinforcement Learning Algorithms for Path Planning Domain in Grid-like Environment
Authors: Grzelczak Maciej , Duch Piotr
Published: November 2021

Recently, more and more solutions have utilised artificial intelligence approaches in order to enhance or optimise processes to achieve greater sustainability. One of the most pressing issues is the emissions caused by cars; in this paper, the problem of optimising the route of delivery cars is tackled. In this paper, the applicability of the deep reinforcement learning algorithms with regards to the aforementioned problem is tested on a simulation game designed and implemented to pose various challenges such as constant change of delivery locations. The algorithms chosen for this task are Advantage Actor-Critic (A2C) with and without Proximal Policy Optimisation (PPO). These novel and advanced reinforcement learning algorithms have yet not been utilised in similar scenarios. The differences in performance and learning process of those are visualised and discussed. It is demonstrated that both of those algorithms present a slow but steady learning curve, which is an expected effect of reinforcement learning algorithms, leading to a conclusion that the algorithms would discover an optimal policy with an adequately long learning process. Additionally, the benefits of the Proximal Policy Optimisation algorithm are proven by the enhanced learning curve with comparison to the Advantage Actor-Critic approach, as the learning process is characterised by faster growth with a significantly smaller variation. Finally, the applicability of such algorithms in the described scenarios is discussed, alongside the possible improvements and future work.
Acting Instead of Reacting—Ensuring Employee Retention during Successful Introduction of i4.0
Authors: Eickemeyer Steffen , Busch Jan , Liu Chia-Te , Lippke Sonia
Published: November 2021

The increasing implementation of digital technologies has various positive impacts on companies. However, many companies often rush into such an implementation of technological trends without sufficient preparation and pay insufficient attention to the human factors involved in digitization. This phenomenon can be exacerbated when these technologies become highly dependent, as during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to better understand challenges and to propose solutions for a successful implementation of digitized technology. A literature review is combined with survey results and specific consulting strategies. Data from the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany were collected by means of an online survey, with a representative sample of the German population. However, we did not reveal any correlation between home office and suffering, mental health, and physical health (indicators of digitization usage to cope with COVID-19 pandemic), but rather that younger workers are more prone to using digitized technology. Based on previous findings that older individuals tend to have negative attitudes toward digital transformation, appropriate countermeasures are needed to help them become more tech-savvy. Accordingly, a software tool is proposed. The tool can help the management team to manage digitization efficiently. Employee well-being can be increased as companies are made aware of necessary measures such as training for individuals and groups at an early stage.
Extreme Temperature Events in Serbia in Relation to Atmospheric Circulation
Authors: Tošić Ivana , Putniković Suzana , Tošić Milica , Lazić Irida
Published: November 2021

In this study, extremely warm and cold temperature events were examined based on daily maximum (Tx) and minimum (Tn) temperatures observed at 11 stations in Serbia during the period 1949–2018. Summer days (SU), warm days (Tx90), and heat waves (HWs) were calculated based on daily maximum temperatures, while frost days (FD) and cold nights (Tn10) were derived from daily minimum temperatures. Absolute maximum and minimum temperatures in Serbia rose but were statistically significant only for Tx in winter. Positive trends of summer and warm days, and negative trends of frost days and cold nights were found. A high number of warm events (SU, Tx90, and HWs) were recorded over the last 20 years. Multiple linear regression (MLR) models were applied to find the relationship between extreme temperature events and atmospheric circulation. Typical atmospheric circulation patterns, previously determined for Serbia, were used as predictor variables. It was found that MLR models gave the best results for Tx90, FD, and Tn10 in winter.
Exploring the Change in PM2.5 and Ozone Concentrations Caused by Aerosol–Radiation Interactions and Aerosol–Cloud Interactions and the Relationship with Meteorological Factors
Authors: Zhang Xin , Yuan Chengduo , Zhuang Zibo
Published: November 2021

Aerosols can interact with other meteorological variables in the air via aerosol–radiation or aerosol–cloud interactions (ARIs/ACIs), thus affecting the concentrations of particle pollutants and ozone. The online-coupled model WRF-Chem was applied to simulate the changes in the PM2.5 (particulate matter less than 2.5 μm in aerodynamic diameter) and ozone concentrations that are caused by these mechanisms in China by conducting three parallel sensitivity tests. In each case, availabilities of aerosol–radiation interactions and aerosol–cloud interactions were set differently in order to distinguish each pathway. Partial correlation coefficients were also analyzed using statistical tools. As suggested by the results, the ARIs reduced ground air temperature, wind speed, and planetary boundary height while increasing relative humidity in most places. Consequently, the ozone concentration in the corresponding region declined by 4%, with a rise in the local annual mean PM2.5 concentration by approximately 12 μm/m3. The positive feedback of the PM2.5 concentration via ACIs was also found in some city clusters across China, despite the overall enhancement value via ACIs being merely around a quarter to half that via ARIs. The change in ozone concentration via ACIs exhibited different trends. The ozone concentration level increased via ACIs, which can be attributed to the drier air in the south and the diminished solar radiation that is received in central and northern China. The correlation coefficient suggests that the suppression in the planetary boundary layer is the most significant factor for the increase in PM2.5 followed by the rise in moisture required for hygroscopic growth. Ozone showed a significant correlation with NO2, while oxidation rates and radiation variance were also shown to be vitally important.
Dynamics of Vegetation Net Primary Productivity and Its Response to Drought in the Mongolian Plateau
Authors: Guo Xiaomeng , Tong Siqin , Ren Jinyuan , Ying Hong , Bao Yuhai
Published: November 2021

Vegetation net primary productivity (NPP) is an important aspect of the global carbon cycle, and its change is closely related to climate change. This study analyzed the spatial-temporal variation of the standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI) and NPP in the Mongolian Plateau, and investigated the effect of drought on NPP. To this end, NPP was simulated using the Carnegie-Ames-Stanford Approach (CASA) model. The results showed that from 1982 to 2014, NPP exhibited an upward trend in different seasons, and a significant increasing trend in most areas in the growing season and spring. The degree of drought also showed an increasing trend in each season. Moreover, the decrease in NPP and SPEI in Mongolia was larger than that in Inner Mongolia. Vegetation showed a positive correlation with SPEI in the growing season and summer, but a negative correlation in the other seasons. Moreover, the impact of drought on vegetation in the growing season showed a lag effect, whereas the lag response was inconspicuous during the early stages of the growing season. Different vegetation NPP responded strongly to the SPEI of the current month and the previous month.
Seasonal and Spatial Variation of Volatile Organic Compounds in Ambient Air of Almaty City, Kazakhstan
Authors: Ibragimova Olga P. , Omarova Anara , Bukenov Bauyrzhan , Zhakupbekova Aray , Baimatova Nassiba
Published: November 2021

Air pollution is one of the primary sources of risk to human health in the world. In this study, seasonal and spatial variations of multiple volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were measured at six sampling sites in Almaty, Kazakhstan. The seasonal and spatial variations of 19 VOCs were evaluated in 2020, including the periods before and after COVID-19 lockdown. The concentrations of 9 out of 19 VOCs had been changed significantly (p < 0.01) during 2020. The maximum concentrations of total VOCs (TVOCs) were observed on 15, 17, and 19 January and ranged from 233 to 420 µg m−3. The spatial distribution of TVOCs concentrations in the air during sampling seasons correlated with the elevation and increased from southern to northern part of Almaty, where Combined Heat and Power Plants are located. The sources of air pollution by VOCs were studied by correlations analysis and BTEX ratios. The ranges of toluene to benzene ratio and benzene, toluene, and ethylbenzene demonstrated two primary sources of BTEX in 2020: traffic emissions and biomass/biofuel/coal burning. Most of m-, p-xylenes to ethylbenzene ratios in this study were lower than 3 in all sampling periods, evidencing the presence of aged air masses at studied sampling sites from remote sources.
Seasonal Variation of Tropical Cyclone Genesis and the Related Large-Scale Environments: Comparison between the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea Sub-Basins
Authors: Duan Wei , Yuan Junpeng , Duan Xu , Feng Dian
Published: November 2021

Using tropical cyclone data along with sea surface temperature data (SST) and atmospheric circulation reanalysis data during the period of 1980–2019, the seasonal variation of tropical cyclone genesis (TCG), and the related oceanic and atmospheric environments over the Arabian Sea (AS) and Bay of Bengal (BOB) are compared and analyzed in detail. The results show that TCG in both the BOB and AS present bimodal seasonal variations, with two peak periods in the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon season, respectively. The frequencies of TCG in the BOB and AS are comparatively similar in the pre-monsoon season but significantly different in the post-monsoon season. During the post-monsoon season of October–November, the TCG frequency in the BOB is approximately 2.3 times higher than that of the AS. The vertical wind shear and relative humidity in the low- and middle-level troposphere are the two major contributing factors for TCG, and the combination of these two factors determines the bimodal seasonal cycle of TCG in both the AS and BOB. In the pre-monsoon season, an increase in the positive contribution of vertical wind shear and a decrease in the negative contribution of relative humidity are collaboratively favorable for TCG in the AS and BOB. During the monsoon season, the relative humidity factor shows a significant and positive contribution to TCG, but its positive effect is offset by the strong negative effect of vertical wind shear and potential intensity, thus resulting in very low TCG in the AS and BOB. However, the specific relative contributions of each environmental factor to the TCG variations in the AS and BOB basins are quite different, especially in the post-monsoon season. In the post-monsoon season, the primary positive contributor to TCG in the AS basin is vertical wind shear, while the combined effect of vertical wind shear and relative humidity dominates in the BOB TCG. From the analysis of environmental factors, atmospheric circulations, and genesis potential index (GPI), the BOB is found to have more favorable TCG conditions than the AS, especially in the post-monsoon season.
Excitation of the 6d 2D → 6p 2Po Radiative Transitions in the Pb+ Ion by Electron Impact
Authors: Roman Viktoriya , Jonauskas Valdas , Kučas Sigitas , Gomonai Anna , Gomonai Aleksandr , Hutych Yuriy
Published: November 2021

Results of experimental and theoretical investigation of electron-impact excitation of the 6s26d D2→6s26p P2o spectral transitions from the ground 6s26p P21/2o level in the Pb+ ion are presented. The experimental excitation functions for the transitions, measured by a VUV spectroscopy method, using the crossed electron and ion beams technique, reveal a rather distinct resonance structure resulting mainly from the electron decay of both atomic and ionic autoionizing states. The absolute values of the emission cross-sections, obtained by normalizing the experimental data at the incident electron energy 100 eV by those calculated using the Flexible Atomic Code software package, were found to be (0.35 ± 0.17) × 10–16 cm2 for the 6s26d D23/2 → 6s26p P21/2o (λ143.4 nm) transition and (0.19 ± 0.09) × 10–16 cm2 for the 6s26d D25/2 → 6s26p P23/2o (λ182.2 nm) transition.
Electron Scattering Cross-Section Calculations for Atomic and Molecular Iodine
Authors: Ambalampitiya Harindranath , Hamilton Kathryn , Zatsarinny Oleg , Bartschat Klaus , Turner Matt , Dzarasova Anna , Tennyson Jonathan
Published: November 2021

Cross sections for electron scattering from atomic and molecular iodine are calculated based on the R-matrix (close-coupling) method. Elastic and electronic excitation cross sections are presented for both I and I2. The dissociative electron attachment and vibrational excitation cross sections of the iodine molecule are obtained using the local complex potential approximation. Ionization cross sections are also computed for I2 using the BEB model.
COVID-19 Specific Immune Markers Revealed by Single Cell Phenotypic Profiling
Authors: Sansico Francesca , Miroballo Mattia , Bianco Daniele Salvatore , Tamiro Francesco , Colucci Mattia , Santis Elisabetta De , Rossi Giovanni , Rosati Jessica , Di Mauro Lazzaro , Miscio Giuseppe , Mazza Tommaso , Vescovi Angelo Luigi , Mazzoccoli Gianluigi , Giambra Vincenzo ,   on behalf of CSS-COVID 19 Group
Published: November 2021

COVID-19 is a viral infection, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and characterized by a complex inflammatory process and clinical immunophenotypes. Nowadays, several alterations of immune response within the respiratory tracts as well as at the level of the peripheral blood have been well documented. Nonetheless, their effects on COVID-19-related cell heterogeneity and disease progression are less defined. Here, we performed a single-cell RNA sequencing of about 400 transcripts relevant to immune cell function including surface markers, in mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from the peripheral blood of 50 subjects, infected with SARS-CoV-2 at the diagnosis and 27 healthy blood donors as control. We found that patients with COVID-19 exhibited an increase in COVID-specific surface markers in different subsets of immune cell composition. Interestingly, the expression of cell receptors, such as IFNGR1 and CXCR4, was reduced in response to the viral infection and associated with the inhibition of the related signaling pathways and immune functions. These results highlight novel immunoreceptors, selectively expressed in COVID-19 patients, which affect the immune functionality and are correlated with clinical outcomes.
Challenges of Spatial Planning in Poland in the Context of Global Climate Change—Selected Issues
Authors: Andrzejewska Anna Katarzyna
Published: November 2021

Contemporary spatial planning struggles with many difficulties resulting from, inter alia, ongoing climate change. Ongoing environmental transformations pose many challenges for spatial policy across the entire globe. The aim of this paper is to analyse the effects of climate change on urban spaces in Poland and to answer the question of whether planning practice promotes adaptation to climate change and, if so, to what extent. This paper uses a descriptive and comparative research methodology to interpret planning provisions used in selected local spatial development plans in terms of the arrangements that aim to prevent the negative consequences of climate change. The subject of the analysis is the content of general and detailed plans defined in the texts of the examined resolutions of applicable local plans in the Lower Silesia and Greater Poland voivodeships. This study assessed the validity of applying specific planning provisions. This interpretation was determined on the basis of a review of the current provisions in the Polish law, literature on the subject, as well as the author’s own professional experience in the field of spatial planning. The quantitative and qualitative research results are summarized in a table and also examined and described in detail. Examples of planning records that were used in the analysis of local plans are cited and compared. Finally, the adaptation challenges posed to spatial planning in Poland at the local level (communal) based on the obtained quantitative data on the issues were studied.
Efficacy of Postoperative Unilateral Neck Irradiation in Patients with Buccal Mucosa Squamous Carcinoma with Extranodal Extension: A Propensity Score Analysis
Authors: Lin Chia-Hsin , Lin Chien-Yu , Fan Kang-Hsing , Hung Sheng-Ping , Chou Yung-Chih , Liu Chia-Jen , Chou Wen-Chi , Chen Yen-Chao , Huang Shiang-Fu , Kang Chung-Jan , Chang Kai-Ping , Wang Hung-Ming , Cheng Ann-Joy , Chang Joseph Tung-Chieh
Published: November 2021

Unilateral radiotherapy (RT) as a postoperative treatment for multiple ipsilateral lymph node (LN) metastases remains controversial. We investigated the efficacy of postoperative unilateral RT for buccal mucosa squamous cell carcinoma (BMSCC) with extranodal extensions (ENEs). We retrospectively reviewed the clinical records of 186 patients with ENE+ BMSCC who received postoperative RT during 1997–2016. Propensity score matching was used to establish comparable cohorts. The endpoints were contralateral nodal control (CLNC), overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS), local control (LC), and regional control (RC). After matching, 123 patients were selected for analysis; 45 (36.6%) and 78 (63.4%) patients underwent unilateral and bilateral RT, respectively. The median follow-up was 36.27 months. The survival outcomes in the unilateral and bilateral RT groups were similar: 3-year CLNC (85.6% vs. 89.1%, p = 0.748), OS (53.2% vs. 57.4%, p = 0.229), DFS (46.5% vs. 48.6%, p = 0.515), DMFS (70.7% vs. 72.0%, p = 0.499), LC (78.0% vs. 75.6%, p = 0.692), and RC (79.9% vs. 76.2%, p = 0.465). On multivariable Cox regression analysis, unilateral and bilateral RT showed comparable outcomes; the number of ENEs ≥ 4 was the only significant prognostic factor for all clinical outcomes. Using decision tree analysis, we classified our patients to have a low, intermediate, or high risk of contralateral failure based on three factors: number of ENEs, margin status, and tumor stage. In conclusion, postoperative unilateral RT did not worsen outcomes in patients with ENE+ BMSCC in this cohort. The decision tree model may assist physicians in optimizing and tailoring radiation fields.
Payload Delivery: Engineering Immune Cells to Disrupt the Tumour Microenvironment
Authors: Fowler Daniel , Nattress Callum , Navarrete Alba Southern , Barisa Marta , Fisher Jonathan
Published: November 2021

Although chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells have shown impressive clinical success against haematological malignancies such as B cell lymphoma and acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, their efficacy against non-haematological solid malignancies has been largely disappointing. Solid tumours pose many additional challenges for CAR T cells that have severely blunted their potency, including homing to the sites of disease, survival and persistence within the adverse conditions of the tumour microenvironment, and above all, the highly immunosuppressive nature of the tumour milieu. Gene engineering approaches for generating immune cells capable of overcoming these hurdles remain an unmet therapeutic need and ongoing area of research. Recent advances have involved gene constructs for membrane-bound and/or secretable proteins that provide added effector cell function over and above the benefits of classical CAR-mediated cytotoxicity, rendering immune cells not only as direct cytotoxic effectors against tumours, but also as vessels for payload delivery capable of both modulating the tumour microenvironment and orchestrating innate and adaptive anti-tumour immunity. We discuss here the novel concept of engineered immune cells as vessels for payload delivery into the tumour microenvironment, how these cells are better adapted to overcome the challenges faced in a solid tumour, and importantly, the novel gene engineering approaches required to deliver these more complex polycistronic gene constructs.
Resistance to Targeted Agents Used to Treat Paediatric ALK-Positive ALCL
Authors: Hare Lucy , Burke G. A. Amos , Turner Suzanne D.
Published: November 2021

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is the third most common malignancy diagnosed in children. The vast majority of paediatric NHL are either Burkitt lymphoma (BL), diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL), or lymphoblastic lymphoma (LL). Multi-agent chemotherapy is used to treat all of these types of NHL, and survival is over 90% but the chemotherapy regimens are intensive, and outcomes are generally poor if relapse occurs. Therefore, targeted therapies are of interest as potential solutions to these problems. However, the major problem with all targeted agents is the development of resistance. Mechanisms of resistance are not well understood, but increased knowledge will facilitate optimal management strategies through improving our understanding of when to select each targeted agent, and when a combinatorial approach may be helpful. This review summarises currently available knowledge regarding resistance to targeted therapies used in paediatric anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-positive ALCL. Specifically, we outline where gaps in knowledge exist, and further investigation is required in order to find a solution to the clinical problem of drug resistance in ALCL.