bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Toxicity and Sublethal Effect of Farnesyl Acetate on Diamondback Moth, Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae)
Authors: Yusoff Norazila , Abd Ghani Idris , Othman Nurul Wahida , Aizat Wan Mohd , Hassan Maizom
Published: January 2021

The diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae), is the most important pest of cruciferous vegetables worldwide. In this study, we evaluated the properties of selected farnesyl derivative compounds against P. xylostella. The toxicity and sublethal concentration (LC50) of farnesyl acetate, farnesyl acetone, farnesyl bromide, farnesyl chloride, and hexahydrofarnesyl acetone were investigated for 96 h. The leaf-dip bioassays showed that farnesyl acetate had a high level of toxicity against P. xylostella compared to other tested farnesyl derivatives. The LC50 value was 56.41 mg/L on the second-instar larvae of P. xylostella. Then, the sublethal effects of farnesyl acetate on biological parameters of P. xylostella were assessed. Compared to the control group, the sublethal concentration of farnesyl acetate decreased pupation and emergence rates, pupal weight, fecundity, egg hatching rate, female ratio, and oviposition period. Furthermore, the developmental time of P. xylostella was extended after being exposed to farnesyl acetate. Moreover, the application of farnesyl acetate on P. xylostella induced morphogenetic abnormalities in larval–pupal intermediates, adults that emerged with twisted wings, or complete adults that could not emerge from the cocoon. These results suggested that farnesyl acetate was highly effective against P. xylostella. The sublethal concentration of farnesyl acetate could reduce the population of P. xylostella by increasing abnormal pupal and adults, and by delaying its development period.
A Systematic Histopathologic Evaluation of Type-A Aortic Dissections Implies a Uniform Multiple-Hit Causation
Authors: Grewal Nimrat , Velders Bart J. J. , Gittenberger-de Groot Adriana C. , Poelmann Robert , Klautz Robert J. M. , Van Brakel Thomas J. , Lindeman Jan H. N.
Published: January 2021

(1) Background: The pathophysiologic basis of an acute type A aortic dissection (TAAD) is largely unknown. In an effort to evaluate vessel wall defects, we systematically studied aortic specimens in TAAD patients. (2) Methods: Ascending aortic wall specimens (n = 58, mean age 63 years) with TAAD were collected. Autopsy tissues (n = 17, mean age 63 years) served as controls. All sections were studied histopathologically. (3) Results: Pathomorphology in TAAD showed predominantly moderate elastic fiber fragmentation/loss, elastic fiber thinning, elastic fiber degeneration, mucoid extracellular matrix accumulation, smooth muscle cell nuclei loss, and overall medial degeneration. The control group showed significantly fewer signs of those histopathological features (none-mild, p = 0.00). It was concluded that the dissection plane consistently coincides with the vasa vasorum network, and that TAAD associates with a significantly thinner intimal layer p = 0.005). (4) Conclusions: On the basis of the systematic evaluation and the consistent presence of diffuse, pre-existing medial defects, we hypothesize that TAAD relates to a developmental defect of the ascending aorta and is caused by a triple-hit mechanism that involves (I) an intimal tear; and (II) a diseased media, which allows (III) propagation of the tear towards the plane of the vasa vasorum where the dissection further progresses.
The Management of Peutz–Jeghers Syndrome: European Hereditary Tumour Group (EHTG) Guideline
Authors: Wagner Anja , Aretz Stefan , Auranen Annika , Bruno Marco J. , Cavestro Giulia M. , Crosbie Emma J. , Goverde Anne , Jelsig Anne Marie , Latchford Andrew R. , van Leerdam Monique E. , Lepisto Anna H. , Puzzono Marta , Winship Ingrid , Zuber Veronica , Möslein Gabriela
Published: January 2021

The scientific data to guide the management of Peutz–Jeghers syndrome (PJS) are sparse. The available evidence has been reviewed and discussed by diverse medical specialists in the field of PJS to update the previous guideline from 2010 and formulate a revised practical guideline for colleagues managing PJS patients. Methods: Literature searches were performed using MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane. Evidence levels and recommendation strengths were assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE). A Delphi process was followed, with consensus being reached when ≥80% of the voting guideline committee members agreed. Recommendations and statements: The only recent guidelines available were for gastrointestinal and pancreatic management. These were reviewed and endorsed after confirming that no more recent relevant papers had been published. Literature searches were performed for additional questions and yielded a variable number of relevant papers depending on the subject addressed. Additional recommendations and statements were formulated. Conclusions: A decade on, the evidence base for recommendations remains poor, and collaborative studies are required to provide better data about this rare condition. Within these restrictions, multisystem, clinical management recommendations for PJS have been formulated.
Impact Damage Detection in Composite Beams by Analysis of Non-Linearity under Pulse Excitation
Authors: Loi Gabriela , Porcu Maria Cristina , Aymerich Francesco
Published: January 2021

To detect the presence of damage, many structural health monitoring techniques exploit the nonlinear features that typically affect the otherwise linear dynamic response of structural components with internal defects. One of them is the Scaling Subtraction Method (SSM), which evaluates nonlinear features of the response to a high-amplitude harmonic excitation by subtracting a scaled reference signal. Originally tested on granular materials, the SSM was shown to be effective for composite materials as well. However, the dependence of the technique efficiency on the testing frequency, usually selected among the natural frequencies of the system, may limit its application in practice. This paper investigates the feasibility of applying the SSM through a broadband impulsive excitation, which would avoid the need of a preliminary modal analysis and address the issue of the proper selection of the excitation frequency. A laminated composite beam was tested in intact and damaged conditions under both scaled harmonic excitations of different frequency and broadband impulsive signals of scaled amplitude. Two damage indicators working on the frequency domain were introduced. The results showed a good sensitivity of the SSM to the presence and level of impact damage in composite beams when applied through a broadband impulsive excitation.
Testing Segmentation Popular Loss and Variations in Three Multiclass Medical Imaging Problems
Authors: Furtado Pedro
Published: January 2021

Image structures are segmented automatically using deep learning (DL) for analysis and processing. The three most popular base loss functions are cross entropy (crossE), intersect-over-the-union (IoU), and dice. Which should be used, is it useful to consider simple variations, such as modifying formula coefficients? How do characteristics of different image structures influence scores? Taking three different medical image segmentation problems (segmentation of organs in magnetic resonance images (MRI), liver in computer tomography images (CT) and diabetic retinopathy lesions in eye fundus images (EFI)), we quantify loss functions and variations, as well as segmentation scores of different targets. We first describe the limitations of metrics, since loss is a metric, then we describe and test alternatives. Experimentally, we observed that DeeplabV3 outperforms UNet and fully convolutional network (FCN) in all datasets. Dice scored 1 to 6 percentage points (pp) higher than cross entropy over all datasets, IoU improved 0 to 3 pp. Varying formula coefficients improved scores, but the best choices depend on the dataset: compared to crossE, different false positive vs. false negative weights improved MRI by 12 pp, and assigning zero weight to background improved EFI by 6 pp. Multiclass segmentation scored higher than n-uniclass segmentation in MRI by 8 pp. EFI lesions score low compared to more constant structures (e.g., optic disk or even organs), but loss modifications improve those scores significantly 6 to 9 pp. Our conclusions are that dice is best, it is worth assigning 0 weight to class background and to test different weights on false positives and false negatives.
Development of a New Predictive index (Bathing Water Quality Index, BWQI) Based on Escherichia coli Physiological States for Bathing Waters Monitoring
Authors: Bonamano Simone , Madonia Alice , Caruso Gabriella , Zappalà Giuseppe , Marcelli Marco
Published: January 2021

Bacterial pathogens in coastal aquatic ecosystems pose a potential public health hazard for bathing water use. The European Bathing Water Directive (2006/7/EC) currently relies on the culturability of fecal pollution bacterial indicators such as Escherichia coli, without considering dormant or quiescent (Viable But Not Culturable, VBNC) cells, whose possible resuscitation after bathers ingestion cannot be excluded. Standard methods are also time-consuming and therefore hardly meet early warning needs of marine monitoring. To solve this issue, a new index, the Bathing Water Quality Index (BWQI), has here been developed, allowing to identify the most favorable coastal zones for recreational use. The index was calculated by combining numerical simulations of living and dormant E. coli abundances and their residence times. To specifically set up the model with the different physiological states of the whole E. coli population, an ad hoc experiment based on the fluorescent antibody method was performed. The BWQI application to Santa Marinella bathing area highlights a potential risk for human health in the zone most frequented by bathers. This study provides a predictive tool to support preventive decisions of the competent authorities and to properly protect bathers’ health, stressing the need for improved methods for environmental monitoring.
Preliminary Microbiological Coastal Water Quality Determination along the Department of Atlántico (Colombia): Relationships with Beach Characteristics
Authors: Soto-Varela Zamira E. , Rosado-Porto David , Bolívar-Anillo Hernando José , Pichón González Camila , Granados Pantoja Bertha , Estrada Alvarado Dalidier , Anfuso Giorgio
Published: January 2021

Beach water quality is an important factor concerning public health and tourism linked to the “Sun, Sea and Sand” market and is usually assessed in international regulations by the quantification of Escherichia coli and enterococci counts. Despite Salmonella spp. detection not being included in international normative, the presence/absence of this bacteria is also an indicator of seawater quality. The objective of this study was to determine microbiological quality of beach water at 14 beaches along the Department of Atlántico (Colombia) and its relationship with beach characteristics as beach typology (i.e., urban, village, rural and remote areas), presence of beach facilities (e.g., bars, restaurants, etc.) and streams outflowing into the coastline. Sampling program aimed to analyse E. coli and Salmonella spp., by culture-based and real time PCR methods, respectively. Microbiological outcomes were compared with beach characteristics, and a cluster analysis was performed. E. coli and Salmonella spp. were detected in 70% and 20% of samples, respectively. Highest E. coli counts were observed at beaches classified as urban and at Sabanilla, a rural beach with presence of numerous beach restaurants/bars. Salmonella spp. presence was associated with streams that lack wastewater treatment systems. Cluster analysis clearly evidenced the relationship between E. coli and Salmonella spp. and beach characteristics, allowing to obtain indications to implement management programs. According to data obtained, monitoring programs have to be especially carried out in urban areas and at places with beach facilities. This could enhance microbiological water quality and consequently, beachgoers safety and touristic beach attractiveness to international visitors.
Energy-Saving Devices in Ship Propulsion: Effects of Nozzles Placed in Front of Propellers
Authors: Lungu Adrian
Published: January 2021

The hydrodynamic effect exerted by a nozzle placed in front of a KP505 propeller on the propulsive performances is studied by using extensive numerical simulations. The influence of a NACA 0015 nozzle with a chord length of 0.3 of the propeller diameter, D, mounted at 0.2 D in front of the propeller plane is studied for a various range of relevant nozzle diameters and different angles of attack. A detached eddy simulation (DES)-based hybrid technique implemented on the ISIS-CFD finite volume solver of the Numeca’s FineTM/Marine environment is proposed to fit the purpose. Systematically conducted simulations have proven that the net thrust reflecting the overall drag, which includes the nozzle, depends on the duct size. The duct presence determines two regions of the inflow into the propeller. One is the inner region of the nozzle where the high-speed flow exists because of the contraction of the duct. The other is the outer region of the nozzle where the flow decelerates due to the duct wake. Lower- and higher-pressure coefficients on the suction and pressure sides, cover a significantly wider area than those of the case without the nozzle, leading therefore to greater thrust and torque. The existence of a critical attack angle for which the magnitude of the relative axial force becomes maximum for the smallest nozzle diameter has been noticed.
Effect of Varying Wind Intensity, Forward Speed, and Surface Pressure on Storm Surges of Hurricane Rita
Authors: Musinguzi Abram , Akbar Muhammad K.
Published: January 2021

Hurricane storm surges are influenced by several factors, including wind intensity, surface pressure, forward speed, size, angle of approach, ocean bottom depth and slope, shape and geographical features of the coastline. The relative influence of each factor may be amplified or abated by other factors that are acting at the time of the hurricane’s approach to the land. To understand the individual and combined influence of wind intensity, surface pressure and forward speed, a numerical experiment is conducted using Advanced CIRCulation + Simulating Waves Nearshore (ADCIRC + SWAN) by performing hindcasts of Hurricane Rita storm surges. The wind field generated by Ocean Weather Inc. (OWI) is used as the base meteorological forcing in ADCIRC + SWAN. All parameters are varied by certain percentages from those in the OWI wind field. Simulation results are analyzed for maximum wind intensity, wind vector pattern, minimum surface pressure, forward speed, maximum water elevation, station water elevation time series, and high water marks. The results for different cases are compared against each other, as well as with observed data. Changes in the wind intensity have the greatest impact, followed by the forward speed and surface pressure. The combined effects of the wind intensity and forward speed are noticeably different than their individual effects.
Developmental Roles of the Hog1 Protein Phosphatases of the Maize Pathogen Cochliobolus heterostrophus
Authors: Zuchman Rina , Koren Roni , Horwitz Benjamin A.
Published: January 2021

Protein phosphorylation cascades are universal in cell signaling. While kinome diversity allows specific phosphorylation events, relatively few phosphatases dephosphorylate key signaling proteins. Fungal mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPK), in contrast to their mammalian counterparts, often show detectable basal phosphorylation levels. Dephosphorylation, therefore, could act as a signal. In Cochliobolus heterostrophus, the Dothideomycete causing Southern corn leaf blight, ferulic acid (FA)—an abundant phenolic found in plant host cell walls—acts as a signal to rapidly dephosphorylate the stress-activated MAP kinase Hog1 (High Osmolarity Glycerol 1). In order to identify the protein phosphatases responsible, we constructed mutants in Hog1 phosphatases predicted from the genome by homology to yeast and other species. We found that Cochliobolus heterostrophus mutants lacking PtcB, a member of the PP2C family, exhibited altered growth, sporulation, and attenuated dephosphorylation in response to FA. The loss of the dual-specificity phosphatase CDC14 led to slow growth, decreased virulence, and attenuated dephosphorylation. Mutants in two predicted tyrosine phosphatase genes PTP1 and PTP2 showed normal development and virulence. Our results suggest that a network of phosphatases modulate Hog1’s dual phosphorylation levels. The mutants we constructed in this work provide a starting point to further unravel the signaling hierarchy by which exposure to FA leads to stress responses in the pathogen.
The Ustilago hordei–Barley Interaction is a Versatile System for Characterization of Fungal Effectors
Authors: Ökmen Bilal , Schwammbach Daniela , Bakkeren Guus , Neumann Ulla , Doehlemann Gunther
Published: January 2021

Obligate biotrophic fungal pathogens, such as Blumeria graminis and Puccinia graminis, are amongst the most devastating plant pathogens, causing dramatic yield losses in many economically important crops worldwide. However, a lack of reliable tools for the efficient genetic transformation has hampered studies into the molecular basis of their virulence or pathogenicity. In this study, we present the Ustilago hordei–barley pathosystem as a model to characterize effectors from different plant pathogenic fungi. We generate U. hordei solopathogenic strains, which form infectious filaments without the presence of a compatible mating partner. Solopathogenic strains are suitable for heterologous expression system for fungal virulence factors. A highly efficient Crispr/Cas9 gene editing system is made available for U. hordei. In addition, U. hordei infection structures during barley colonization are analyzed using transmission electron microscopy, showing that U. hordei forms intracellular infection structures sharing high similarity to haustoria formed by obligate rust and powdery mildew fungi. Thus, U. hordei has high potential as a fungal expression platform for functional studies of heterologous effector proteins in barley.
Application of Real-Time PCR for the Detection and Quantification of Oomycetes in Ornamental Nursery Stock
Authors: Puertolas Alexandra , Bonants Peter J. M. , Boa Eric , Woodward Steve
Published: January 2021

Numerous Phytophthora and Pythium disease outbreaks have occurred in Europe following inadvertent introduction of contaminated ornamental plants. Detection and identification of pathogens are crucial to reduce risks and improve plant biosecurity in Europe and globally. Oomycete diversity present in roots and compost was determined in 99 hardy woody plants bought from nurseries, retailers and internet sellers, using both isolations and molecular analyses. Oomycete DNA was quantified using real-time PCR of environmental DNA from the plants using three loci: ITS, trnM-trnP-trnM and atp9-nad9. At least one oomycete species was isolated from 89.9% of plants using classical techniques. In total, 10 Phytophthora spp., 17 Pythium spp. and 5 Phytopythium spp. were isolated. Oomycetes were isolated from 86% of asymptomatic plants, but real-time PCR demonstrated that oomycetes were associated with all plants tested. More oomycete DNA occurred in composts in comparison with roots and filters from baiting water (a mean of 7.91 ng g−1, 6.55 × 10−1 ng g−1 and 5.62 × 10−1 ng g−1 of oomycete DNA detected in compost with ITS, trnM and atp9 probes, respectively); the ITS probe detected the highest quantities of oomycete DNA. No significant differences were found in quantities of oomycete DNA detected using real-time PCR in plants purchased online or from traditional retailers.
Autopsy Proven Pulmonary Mucormycosis Due to Rhizopus microsporus in a Critically Ill COVID-19 Patient with Underlying Hematological Malignancy
Authors: Zurl Christoph , Hoenigl Martin , Schulz Eduard , Hatzl Stefan , Gorkiewicz Gregor , Krause Robert , Eller Philipp , Prattes Juergen
Published: January 2021

Viral infections can cause acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), consequently leading to susceptibility for secondary pulmonary infections. Over the past few weeks, a number of studies have reported on secondary pulmonary aspergillosis complicating severe COVID-19. We report the case of a 53-year old male patient with secondary acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who suffered from COVID-19 ARDS and was diagnosed postmortem with mucormycosis.
Transcriptomic Profiling of Populus Roots Challenged with Fusarium Reveals Differential Responsive Patterns of Invertase and Invertase Inhibitor-Like Families within Carbohydrate Metabolism
Authors: Su Tao , Zhou Biyao , Cao Dan , Pan Yuting , Hu Mei , Zhang Mengru , Wei Haikun , Han Mei
Published: January 2021

Fusarium solani (Fs) is one of the notorious necrotrophic fungal pathogens that cause root rot and vascular wilt, accounting for the severe loss of Populus production worldwide. The plant–pathogen interactions have a strong molecular basis. As yet, the genomic information and transcriptomic profiling on the attempted infection of Fs remain unavailable in a woody model species, Populus trichocarpa. We used a full RNA-seq transcriptome to investigate the molecular interactions in the roots with a time-course infection at 0, 24, 48, and 72 h post-inoculation (hpi) of Fs. Concomitantly, the invertase and invertase inhibitor-like gene families were further analyzed, followed by the experimental evaluation of their expression patterns using quantitative PCR (qPCR) and enzyme assay. The magnitude profiles of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were observed at 72 hpi inoculation. Approximately 839 genes evidenced a reception and transduction of pathogen signals, a large transcriptional reprogramming, induction of hormone signaling, activation of pathogenesis-related genes, and secondary and carbohydrate metabolism changes. Among these, a total of 63 critical genes that consistently appear during the entire interactions of plant–pathogen had substantially altered transcript abundance and potentially constituted suitable candidates as resistant genes in genetic engineering. These data provide essential clues in the developing new strategies of broadening resistance to Fs through transcriptional or translational modifications of the critical responsive genes within various analyzed categories (e.g., carbohydrate metabolism) in Populus.
PD-L1 Expression Is Associated with Deficient Mismatch Repair and Poor Prognosis in Middle Eastern Colorectal Cancers
Authors: Siraj Abdul K. , Parvathareddy Sandeep Kumar , Annaiyappanaidu Padmanaban , Haqawi Wael , Al-Rasheed Maha , AlManea Hadeel M. , AlHussaini Hussah F. , Al-Dayel Fouad , Al-Kuraya Khawla S.
Published: January 2021

Several clinical trials are investigating the use of immune-targeted therapy with Programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) inhibitors for colorectal cancer (CRC), with promising results for patients with mismatch repair (MMR) deficiency or metastatic CRC. However, the prognostic significance of PD-L1 expression in CRC is controversial and such data are lacking in CRC from Middle Eastern ethnicity. We carried out this large retrospective study to investigate the prognostic and clinico-pathological impact of PD-L1 expression in Middle Eastern CRC using immunohistochemistry. A total of 1148 CRC were analyzed for PD-L1 expression. High PD-L1 expression was noted in 37.3% (428/1148) cases and was correlated with aggressive clinico-pathological features such as high malignancy grade (p < 0.0001), larger tumor size (p = 0.0007) and mucinous histology (p = 0.0005). Interestingly, PD-L1 expression was significantly higher in patients exhibiting MMR deficiency (p = 0.0169) and BRAF mutation (p = 0.0008). Furthermore, the expression of PD-L1 was found to be an independent marker for overall survival (HR = 1.45; 95% CI = 1.06–1.99; p = 0.0200). In conclusion, the results of this study indicate that PD-L1 expression could be a valid biomarker for poor prognosis in Middle Eastern CRC patients. This information can help in decision-making for anti-PD-L1 therapy in Middle Eastern CRC, especially for patients with MMR deficient tumors.
Investor Intention in Equity Crowdfunding. Does Trust Matter?
Authors: Alharbey Mohammed , Van Hemmen Stefan
Published: January 2021

Equity crowdfunding (ECF) is becoming a convenient alternative instrument for investing in entrepreneurs’ projects in many countries. The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors that affect the investor’s intentions toward ECF platforms in Saudi Arabia, where they have not been introduced until very recently. This context offers a unique opportunity to test the role of investors’ perceived trust in the context of ECF. The proposed framework builds on two critical layers: (1) trust in the platform (intermediary) and (2) trust in the fundraiser. Structured equation modelling was applied to examine the factors that affect investors’ trust and intentions. The framework was analysed using survey data from 216 users of Manafa, one of the largest ECF platforms in Saudi Arabia. Our findings showed that both fundraiser and platform trust have a significant effect on the investor’s intentions. In particular, trust in the platform substantially impacts the fundraiser’s trust, showing the importance of the fundraiser’s reliance on trusted institutions. On the other hand, to build investors’ trust, fundraisers must deliver high-quality information for their projects.
Observation Time Effects in Reinforcement Learning on Contracts for Difference
Authors: Wehrmann Maximilian , Zengeler Nico , Handmann Uwe
Published: January 2021

In this paper, we present a study on Reinforcement Learning optimization models for automatic trading, in which we focus on the effects of varying the observation time. Our Reinforcement Learning agents feature a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) together with Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and act on the basis of different observation time spans. Each agent tries to maximize trading profit by buying or selling one of a number of contracts in a simulated market environment for Contracts for Difference (CfD), considering correlations between individual assets by architecture. To decide which action to take on a specific contract, an agent develops a policy which relies on an observation of the whole market for a certain period of time. We investigate whether or not there exists an optimal observation sequence length, and conclude that such a value depends on market dynamics.
Fostering a Wildlife-Friendly Program for Sustainable Coffee Farming: The Case of Small-Holder Farmers in Indonesia
Authors: Campera Marco , Budiadi Budiadi , Adinda Esther , Ahmad Nabil , Balestri Michela , Hedger Katherine , Imron Muhammad Ali , Manson Sophie , Nijman Vincent , Nekaris K.A.I.
Published: January 2021

There is an urgent need for a global transition to sustainable and wildlife-friendly farming systems that provide social and economic equity and protect ecosystem services on which agriculture depends. Java is home to 60% of Indonesia’s population and harbors many endemic species; thus, managing agriculture alongside human well-being and biodiversity is vital. Within a community of ~400 coffee farmers in the province of West Java, we assessed the steps to develop a wildlife-friendly program until reaching certification between February 2019 and October 2020. We adopted an adaptive management approach that included developing common objectives through a process of stakeholder consultation and co-learning. We firstly investigated via interviews the expectations and the issues encountered by 25 farmers who converted to organic production in 2016. Their main expectations were an increase in income and an increase in coffee quality, while they had issues mainly in finding high quality fertilizers, reducing pests, and increasing productivity. We used this information to establish a problem-solving plan for the transition to community-wide wildlife-friendly practices. As part of the adaptive evaluation, we assessed the quality of coffee plantations before and after the implementation of coproduced actions. The quality of coffee significantly improved after our interventions to reduce the coffee berry borer, especially in the fields that started as inorganic and converted to organic. We uncovered additional issues to meet the standards for certification, including banning hunting and trapping activities and increasing coffee quality for international export. We describe the coproduced actions (agroforestry, conservation education, local law, organic alternatives) and phases of the program and discuss the potential barriers. We provide novel evidence of adaptive management framework successfully used to implement management actions and reach shared goals.
Development of Flood Damage Regression Models by Rainfall Identification Reflecting Landscape Features in Gangwon Province, the Republic of Korea
Authors: Choi Hyun Il
Published: January 2021

Torrential rainfall events associated with rainstorms and typhoons are the main causes of flood-related economic losses in Gangwon Province, Republic of Korea. The frequency and severity of flood damage have been increasing due to frequent extreme rainfall events as a result of climate change. Rainfall is a major cause of flood damage for the study site, given a strong relationship between the probability of flood damage over the last two decades and the maximum rainfall for 6 and 24 h durations in the 18 administrative districts of Gangwon Province. This study aims to develop flood damage regression models by rainfall identification for use in a simplified and efficient assessment of flood damage risk in ungauged or poorly gauged regions. Optimal simple regression models were selected from four types of non-linear functions with one of five composite predictors averaged for the two rainfall datasets. To identify appropriate predictor rainfall variables indicative of regional landscape features, the relationships between the composite rainfall predictor and landscape characteristics such as district size, topographic features, and urbanization rate were interpreted. The proposed optimal regression models may provide governments and policymakers with an efficient flood damage risk map simply using a regression outcome to design or forecast rainfall data.
Lung Microbiome in Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Scialo Filippo , Amato Felice , Cernera Gustavo , Gelzo Monica , Zarrilli Federica , Comegna Marika , Pastore Lucio , Bianco Andrea , Castaldo Giuseppe
Published: January 2021

The defective mucociliary clearance due to CFTR malfunctioning causes predisposition to the colonization of pathogens responsible for the recurrent inflammation and rapid deterioration of lung function in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). This has also a profound effect on the lung microbiome composition, causing a progressive reduction in its diversity, which has become a common characteristic of patients affected by CF. Although we know that the lung microbiome plays an essential role in maintaining lung physiology, our comprehension of how the microbial components interact with each other and the lung, as well as how these interactions change during the disease’s course, is still at an early stage. Many challenges exist and many questions still to be answered, but there is no doubt that manipulation of the lung microbiome could help to develop better therapies for people affected by CF.
Metabolomics of Dry Versus Reanimated Antarctic Lichen-Dominated Endolithic Communities
Authors: Fanelli Giuseppina , Coleine Claudia , Gevi Federica , Onofri Silvano , Selbmann Laura , Timperio Anna Maria
Published: January 2021

Cryptoendolithic communities are almost the sole life form in the ice-free areas of the Antarctic desert, encompassing among the most extreme-tolerant organisms known on Earth that still assure ecosystems functioning, regulating nutrient and biogeochemical cycles under conditions accounted as incompatible with active life. If high-throughput sequencing based studies are unravelling prokaryotic and eukaryotic diversity, they are not yet characterized in terms of stress adaptations and responses, despite their paramount ecological importance. In this study, we compared the responses of Antarctic endolithic communities, with special focus on fungi, both under dry conditions (i.e., when dormant), and after reanimation by wetting, light, and optimal temperature (15 °C). We found that several metabolites were differently expressed in reanimated opposite sun exposed communities, suggesting a critical role in their success. In particular, the saccharopine pathway was up-regulated in the north surface, while the spermine/spermidine pathway was significantly down-regulated in the shaded exposed communities. The carnitine-dependent pathway is up-regulated in south-exposed reanimated samples, indicating the preferential involvement of the B-oxidation for the functioning of TCA cycle. The role of these metabolites in the performance of the communities is discussed herein.
Special Issue: Photoactive Materials: Synthesis, Applications and Technology
Authors: Blanche Pierre-Alexandre
Published: January 2021

The science of light–matter interaction is one of the greatest accomplishment of the past 100 years [...]
The Photostability of Novel Boron Hydride Blue Emitters in Solution and Polystyrene Matrix
Authors: Ševčík Jakub , Urbánek Pavel , Hanulíková Barbora , Čapková Tereza , Urbánek Michal , Antoš Jan , Londesborough Michael G. S. , Bould Jonathan , Ghasemi Bita , Petřkovský Lukáš , Kuřitka Ivo
Published: January 2021

In recent work, the boron hydride anti-B18H22 was announced in the literature as a new laser dye, and, along with several of its derivatives, its solutions are capable of delivering blue luminescence with quantum yields of unity. However, as a dopant in solid polymer films, its luminescent efficiencies reduce dramatically. Clarification of underlying detrimental effects is crucial for any application and, thus, this contribution makes the initial steps in the use of these inorganic compounds in electrooptical devices based on organic polymer thin films. The photoluminescence behavior of the highly luminescent boron hydrides, anti-B18H22 and 3,3′,4,4′-Et4-anti-B18H18, were therefore investigated. The quantum yields of luminescence and photostabilities of both compounds were studied in different solvents and as polymer-solvent blends. The photophysical properties of both boranes are evaluated and discussed in terms of their solvent-solute interactions using photoluminescence (PL) and NMR spectroscopies. The UV degradability of prepared thin films was studied by fluorimetric measurement. The effect of the surrounding atmosphere, dopant concentration and the molecular structure were assessed.
Graphene on SiC Substrate as Biosensor: Theoretical Background, Preparation, and Characterization
Authors: Lebedev Alexander A. , Davydov Sergey Yu , Eliseyev Ilya A. , Roenkov Alexander D. , Avdeev Oleg , Lebedev Sergey P. , Makarov Yurii , Puzyk Mikhail , Klotchenko Sergey , Usikov Alexander S.
Published: January 2021

This work is devoted to the development and optimization of the parameters of graphene-based sensors. The graphene films used in the present study were grown on semi-insulating 6H-SiC substrates by thermal decomposition of SiC at the temperature of ~1700 °C. The results of measurements by Auger and Raman spectroscopies confirmed the presence of single-layer graphene on the silicon carbide surface. Model approach to the theory of adsorption on epitaxial graphene is presented. It is demonstrated that the Green-function method in conjunction with the simple substrate models permit one to obtain analytical results for the charge transfer between adsorbed molecules and substrate. The sensor structure was formed on the graphene film by laser. Initially, a simpler gas sensor was made. The sensors developed in this study demonstrated sensitivity to the NO2 concentration at the level of 1–0.01 ppb. The results obtained in the course of development and the results of testing of the graphene-based sensor for detection of protein molecules are also presented. The biosensor was fabricated by the technology previously developed for the gas sensor. The working capacity of the biosensor was tested with an immunochemical system constituted by fluorescein and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) binding this dye.
Characteristics of Preplaced Aggregate Concrete Fabricated with Alkali-Activated Slag/Fly Ash Cements
Authors: Siddique Salman , Kim Hyeju , Son Hyemin , Jang Jeong Gook
Published: January 2021

This study assesses the characteristics of preplaced aggregate concrete prepared with alkali-activated cement grout as an adhesive binder. Various binary blends of slag and fly ash without fine aggregate as a filler material were considered along with different solution-to-solid ratios. The properties of fresh and hardened grout along with the properties of hardened preplaced concrete were investigated, as were the compressive strength, ultrasonic pulse velocity, density, water absorption and total voids of the preplaced concrete. The results indicated that alkali-activated cement grout has better flowability characteristics and compressive strength than conventional cement grout. As a result, the mechanical performance of the preplaced aggregate concrete was significantly improved. The results pertaining to the water absorption and porosity revealed that the alkali-activated preplaced aggregate concrete is more resistant to water permeation. The filling capacity based on the ultrasonic pulse velocity value is discussed to comment on the wrapping ability of alkali-activated cement grout.
Impact of Electronic Radiation on the Morphology of the Fine Structure of the Surface Layer of R6M5 Steel
Authors: Rakhadilov Bauyrzhan , Kengesbekov Aidar , Zhurerova Laila , Kozhanova Rauan , Sagdoldina Zhuldyz
Published: January 2021

In recent decades, great efforts have been made to significantly improve the performance characteristics of high-speed steel using various surface hardening techniques. Electron beam modification is engaging because it has an exceptionally high thermal efficiency and can significantly improve steels’ physical and mechanical properties. This work is devoted to researching the fine structure and changing the structural phase state of the surface layer of R6M5 high-speed steel after exposure to an electron beam. Electron beam treatment of steel R6M5 was carried out on a vacuum installation. The structure and phase composition of P6M5 steel samples were studied by transmission electron microscopy. Determined that after electron irradiation, the steel structure as in the initial state consists of martensite, carbides and residual austenite. After electron irradiation, an increase in the volume fraction of lamellar martensite is observed: the fraction of lamellar martensite in the initial state is 80%, and after irradiation, it is ~90% of the total fraction of α′-martensite. The action of the electron beam led to an increase in internal stresses in α′-martensite. Revealed, the value of the scalar dislocation density in R6M5 steel after exposure to an electron beam is higher than in the initial state. A cardinal difference in the state of the material after exposure to an electron beam is the presence of bending extinction contours in all M6C carbide particles.
Evaluation of Grip Force and Energy Efficiency of the “Federica” Hand
Authors: Esposito Daniele , Savino Sergio , Cosenza Chiara , Andreozzi Emilio , Gargiulo Gaetano Dario , Polley Caitlin , Cesarelli Giuseppe , D’Addio Giovanni , Bifulco Paolo
Published: January 2021

The actual grip force provided by a hand prosthesis is an important parameter to evaluate its efficiency. To this end, a split cylindrical handlebar embedding a single-axis load cell was designed, 3D printed and assembled. Various measurements were made to evaluate the performances of the “Federica” hand, a simple low-cost hand prosthesis. The handlebar was placed at different angular positions with respect to the hand palm, and the experimental data were processed to estimate the overall grip force. In addition, piezoresistive force sensors were applied on selected phalanxes of the prosthesis, in order to map the distribution of the grasping forces between them. The electrical current supplied to the single servomotor that actuates all the five fingers, was monitored to estimate the force exerted on the main actuator tendon, while tendon displacement was evaluated by a rotary potentiometer fixed to the servomotor shaft. The force transfer ratio of the whole system was about 12.85 %, and the mean dissipated energy for a complete cycle of closing-opening was 106.80 Nmm, resulting lower than that of many commercial prostheses. The mean grip force of the “Federica” hand was 8.80 N, that is enough to support the user in many actions of daily life, also considering the adaptive wrapping capability of the prosthesis. On average, the middle phalanges exerted the greatest grip force (2.65 N) on the handlebar, while the distal phalanges a force of 1.66 N.
Use of Bayesian Markov Chain Monte Carlo Methods to Model Kuwait Medical Genetic Center Data: An Application to Down Syndrome and Mental Retardation
Authors: Aljarallah Reem , Kharroubi Samer A
Published: January 2021

Logit, probit and complementary log-log models are the most widely used models when binary dependent variables are available. Conventionally, these models have been frequentists. This paper aims to demonstrate how such models can be implemented relatively quickly and easily from a Bayesian framework using Gibbs sampling Markov chain Monte Carlo simulation methods in WinBUGS. We focus on the modeling and prediction of Down syndrome (DS) and Mental retardation (MR) data from an observational study at Kuwait Medical Genetic Center over a 30-year time period between 1979 and 2009. Modeling algorithms were used in two distinct ways; firstly, using three different methods at the disease level, including logistic, probit and cloglog models, and, secondly, using bivariate logistic regression to study the association between the two diseases in question. The models are compared in terms of their predictive ability via R2, adjusted R2, root mean square error (RMSE) and Bayesian Deviance Information Criterion (DIC). In the univariate analysis, the logistic model performed best, with R2 (0.1145), adjusted R2 (0.114), RMSE (0.3074) and DIC (7435.98) for DS, and R2 (0.0626), adjusted R2 (0.0621), RMSE (0.4676) and DIC (23120) for MR. In the bivariate case, results revealed that 7 and 8 out of the 10 selected covariates were significantly associated with DS and MR respectively, whilst none were associated with the interaction between the two outcomes. Bayesian methods are more flexible in handling complex non-standard models as well as they allow model fit and complexity to be assessed straightforwardly for non-nested hierarchical models.
Lower-Estimates on the Hochschild (Co)Homological Dimension of Commutative Algebras and Applications to Smooth Affine Schemes and Quasi-Free Algebras
Authors: Kratsios Anastasis
Published: January 2021

The Hochschild cohomological dimension of any commutative k-algebra is lower-bounded by the least-upper bound of the flat-dimension difference and its global dimension. Our result is used to show that for a smooth affine scheme X satisfying Pointcaré duality, there must exist a vector bundle with section M and suitable n which the module of algebraic differential n-forms Ωn(X,M). Further restricting the notion of smoothness, we use our result to show that most k-algebras fail to be smooth in the quasi-free sense. This consequence, extends the currently known results, which are restricted to the case where k=C.
Decisions and Coordination in E-Commerce Supply Chain under Logistics Outsourcing and Altruistic Preferences
Authors: Wang Yuyan , Yu Zhaoqing , Shen Liang , Fan Runjie , Tang Rongyun
Published: January 2021

Considering the peculiarities of logistics in the electronic commerce (e-commerce) supply chain (ESC) and e-commerce platform’s altruistic preferences, a model including an e-commerce platform, third-party logistics service provider, and manufacturer is constructed. Based on this, three decision models are proposed and equilibrium solutions are obtained by the Stackelberg game. Then, an “altruistic preference joint fixed-cost” contract is proposed to maximize system efficiency. Finally, numerical analysis is used to validate the findings of the paper. The article not only analyzes and compares the optimal decisions under different ESC models, but also explores the intrinsic factors affecting the decisions. This paper finds that the conclusions of dual-channel supply chains or traditional supply chains do not necessarily apply to ESC, and that the effect of altruistic behavior under ESC is influenced by consumer preferences. Moreover, there is a multiparty win–win state for ESC, and this state can be achieved through the “altruistic preference joint fixed-cost” contract. Therefore, the findings of this paper contribute to the development of an e-commerce market and the cooperation of ESC members.
Epidemiology of Chronic Kidney Disease in Children: A Report from Lithuania
Authors: Masalskienė Jūratė , Rudaitis Šarūnas , Vitkevič Renata , Čerkauskienė Rimantė , Dobilienė Diana , Jankauskienė Augustina
Published: January 2021

Background and Objectives: The data on the prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the pediatric population are limited. The prevalence of CKD ranges from 56 to 74.7 cases per million of the age-related population (pmarp). The most common cause of CKD among children is congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT). With progressing CKD, various complications occur, and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) can develop. The aim of the study was to determine the causes, stage, prevalence, and clinical signs of CKD and demand for RRT (renal replacement therapy) among Lithuanian children in 2017 and to compare the epidemiological data of CKD with the data of 1997 and 2006. Materials and Methods: The data of 172 Lithuanian children who had a diagnosis of CKD (stage 2–5) in 1997 (n = 41), in 2006 (n = 65), and in 2017 (n = 66) were retrospectively analyzed. Physical development and clinical signs of children who had CKD (stage 2–5) in 2017 were assessed. Results: The prevalence of CKD stages 2–5 was 48.0 pmarp in 1997; 88.7 in 2006; and 132.1 in 2017 (p < 0.01). Congenital and hereditary diseases of the kidney in 1997 accounted for 66% of all CKD causes; in 2006, for 70%; and in 2017, for 79%. In 2017, children with CKD stages 4 or 5 (except transplanted children) had hypertension (87.5%) and anemia (50%) (p < 0.01). Children under ≤2 years with CKD were at a 3-fold greater risk of having elevated blood pressure (OR = 3.375, 95% CI: 1.186–9.904). Conclusions: There was no change in the number of children with CKD in Lithuania; however, the prevalence of CKD increased due to reduced pediatric population. CAKUT remains the main cause of CKD at all time periods. Among children with CKD stages 4 or 5, there were more children with hypertension and anemia. In children who were diagnosed with CKD at an early age hypertension developed at a younger age.
Multitarget Approach to Cardiogenic Shock after Acute Myocardial Infarction: Extracorporeal Life Support (ECLS) and Beyond
Authors: Pappalardo Federico , Malara Giulia , Montisci Andrea
Published: January 2021

Cardiogenic shock following acute myocardial infarction is associated with high mortality, substantially unchanged for the previous 20 years. Several approaches have been sought to achieve a therapeutic breakthrough, from myocardial revascularization strategies to the use of mechanical circulatory support. Many issues are, as yet, unresolved. Systemic inflammation seems to play a key role but is still lacking in effective therapies, and is potentially compounded by the death spiral of hypoperfusion and/or artificial devices. In this review, a multitarget approach to cardiogenic shock following acute myocardial infarction is proposed.