bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Changes in Storm Track over the Southeast Europe: A Mechanism for Changes in Extreme Cyclone Variability
Authors: Caian Mihaela , Georgescu Florinela , Pietrisi Mirela , Catrina Oana
Published: October 2021

Recent changes in cyclone tracks crossing Southeast Europe are investigated for the last few decades (1980–1999 compared with 2000–2019) using a developed objective method. The response in number, severity, and persistence of the tracks are analyzed based on the source of origin (the Mediterranean Sea sub-domains) and the target area (Romania-centered domain). In winter, extreme cyclones became more frequent in the south and were also more persistent in the northeast of Romania. In summer, these became more intense and frequent, mainly over the south and southeast of Romania, where they also showed a significant increase in persistence. The regional extreme changes are related to polar jet displacements and further enhanced by the coupling of the sub-tropical jet in the Euro-Atlantic area, such as southwestwards shift in winter jets and a split-type configuration that shifts northeastwards and southeastwards in the summer. These provide a mechanism for regional variability of extreme cyclones through two paths, respectively, by shifting the origins of the tracks and by shifting the interaction between the anomaly jet streaks and the climatological storm tracks. Large-scale drivers of these changes are analyzed in relation to the main modes of atmospheric variability. The tracks number over the target domain is mainly driven during the cold season through a combined action of AO and Polar–European modes, and in summer by the AMO and East-Asian modes. These links and the circulation mode’s recent variability are consistent with changes found in the jet and storm tracks.
A Semantic Web Framework for Automated Smart Assistants: A Case Study for Public Health
Authors: Sermet Yusuf , Demir Ibrahim
Published: October 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic elucidated that knowledge systems will be instrumental in cases where accurate information needs to be communicated to a substantial group of people with different backgrounds and technological resources. However, several challenges and obstacles hold back the wide adoption of virtual assistants by public health departments and organizations. This paper presents the Instant Expert, an open-source semantic web framework to build and integrate voice-enabled smart assistants (i.e., chatbots) for any web platform regardless of the underlying domain and technology. The component allows non-technical domain experts to effortlessly incorporate an operational assistant with voice recognition capability into their websites. Instant Expert is capable of automatically parsing, processing, and modeling Frequently Asked Questions pages as an information resource as well as communicating with an external knowledge engine for ontology-powered inference and dynamic data use. The presented framework uses advanced web technologies to ensure reusability and reliability, and an inference engine for natural-language understanding powered by deep learning and heuristic algorithms. A use case for creating an informatory assistant for COVID-19 based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data is presented to demonstrate the framework’s usage and benefits.
MicroRNAs and Metabolism: Revisiting the Warburg Effect with Emphasis on Epigenetic Background and Clinical Applications
Authors: Gaál Zsuzsanna
Published: October 2021

Since the well-known hallmarks of cancer were described by Hanahan and Weinberg, fundamental advances of molecular genomic technologies resulted in the discovery of novel puzzle pieces in the multistep pathogenesis of cancer. MicroRNAs are involved in the altered epigenetic pattern and metabolic phenotype of malignantly transformed cells. They contribute to the initiation, progression and metastasis-formation of cancers, also interacting with oncogenes, tumor-suppressor genes and epigenetic modifiers. Metabolic reprogramming of cancer cells results from the dysregulation of a complex network, in which microRNAs are located at central hubs. MicroRNAs regulate the expression of several metabolic enzymes, including tumor-specific isoforms. Therefore, they have a direct impact on the levels of metabolites, also influencing epigenetic pattern due to the metabolite cofactors of chromatin modifiers. Targets of microRNAs include numerous epigenetic enzymes, such as sirtuins, which are key regulators of cellular metabolic homeostasis. A better understanding of reversible epigenetic and metabolic alterations opened up new horizons in the personalized treatment of cancer. MicroRNA expression levels can be utilized in differential diagnosis, prognosis stratification and prediction of chemoresistance. The therapeutic modulation of microRNA levels is an area of particular interest that provides a promising tool for restoring altered metabolism of cancer cells.
Investigating the Regulation of Neural Differentiation and Injury in PC12 Cells Using Microstructure Topographic Cues
Authors: Sun Xindi , Li Wei , Gong Xiuqing , Hu Guohui , Ge Junyi , Wu Jinbo , Gao Xinghua
Published: October 2021

In this study, we designed and manufactured a series of different microstructure topographical cues for inducing neuronal differentiation of cells in vitro, with different topography, sizes, and structural complexities. We cultured PC12 cells in these microstructure cues and then induced neural differentiation using nerve growth factor (NGF). The pheochromocytoma cell line PC12 is a validated neuronal cell model that is widely used to study neuronal differentiation. Relevant markers of neural differentiation and cytoskeletal F-actin were characterized. Cellular immunofluorescence detection and axon length analysis showed that the differentiation of PC12 cells was significantly different under different isotropic and anisotropic topographic cues. The expression differences of the growth cone marker growth-associated protein 43 (GAP-43) and sympathetic nerve marker tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) genes were also studied in different topographic cues. Our results revealed that the physical environment has an important influence on the differentiation of neuronal cells, and 3D constraints could be used to guide axon extension. In addition, the neurotoxin 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) was used to detect the differentiation and injury of PC12 cells under different topographic cues. Finally, we discussed the feasibility of combining the topographic cues and the microfluidic chip for neural differentiation research.
Modulation of Visual Working Memory Performance via Different Theta Frequency Stimulations
Authors: Guo Xue , Li Ziyuan , Zhang Liangyou , Liu Qiang
Published: October 2021

Previous studies have found that transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) can significantly enhance individuals’ working memory performance. However, it is still unclear whether the memory performance enhancement was attributed to the quantity or the quality of working memory. The current study applies tACS over the right parietal cortex at slower (4 Hz) and faster (7 Hz) frequencies to participants with high and low working memory capacities in a color recall memory task. This enabled us to explore the tACS effects on the quantity and quality of the working memory for individuals with different memory capacities. The results revealed that slower frequency (4 Hz) tACS enhanced the quality of memory representations, and faster frequency (7 Hz) tACS principally impaired the quantity of working memory. The underlying mechanism of this effect might be that tACS at different frequencies modulate the memory resources, which then selectively affect the quantity and quality of memory representations. Importantly, individual traits, as well as memory strategies, may be crucial factors to consider when testing the effect of tACS on working memory performance.
Fiber-Reinforced Polymers in Freeform Structures: A Review
Authors: Moskaleva Anastasiia , Safonov Alexander , Hernández-Montes Enrique
Published: October 2021

This article is a survey discussing the application of fiber-reinforced polymer composites in freeform structures and their impact on the design and shape generation process. The analysis of case studies showed that the use of FRP composites not only helps to overcome some challenges in the construction of objects with complex geometry, but also creates brand new types of structures and design approaches. On the other hand, there is a problem—although FRP materials are frequently used in construction, the shapes of structures and design methods are often traditional and are simply copied from materials such as wood, concrete, and steel. FRP composites have been applied in civil engineering for several decades, since the 1960s, as building envelopes, façade skins, load-bearing structures, and internal and external reinforcement. The article aims to analyze this accumulated experience and to explore the role of FRP materials in the design of buildings with free, complex, fluid, and organic shapes. A new classification of freeform composite structures is proposed. They are classified in this article according to the methodology applied at the conceptual design stage: structures created by using a geometric approach, a form-finding (equilibrium) approach, or a biomimetic approach. Each approach is described in its own separate section, with a thorough literature and state-of-the-art review.
The Microenvironment’s Role in Mycosis Fungoides and Sézary Syndrome: From Progression to Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Pileri Alessandro , Guglielmo Alba , Grandi Vieri , Violetti Silvia Alberti , Fanoni Daniele , Fava Paolo , Agostinelli Claudio , Berti Emilio , Quaglino Pietro , Pimpinelli Nicola
Published: October 2021

Background: Mycosis fungoides (MF) and Sezary Syndrome (SS) are the most common cutaneous T-cell lymphomas. It has been hypothesized that the interaction between the immune system, cutaneous cells, and neoplastic elements may play a role in MF/SS pathogenesis and progression. Methods: This paper aims to revise in a narrative way our current knowledge of the microenvironment’s role in MF/SS. Results and Conclusions: Literature data support a possible implication of microenvironment cells in MF/SS pathogenesis and progression, opening up new therapeutic avenues.
Shedding Light on the Possible Link between ADAMTS13 and Vaccine—Induced Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Szóstek-Mioduchowska Anna , Kordowitzki Paweł
Published: October 2021

Several recent reports have highlighted the onset of vaccine-induced thrombotic thrombocytopaenia (VITT) in some recipients (approximately 1 case out of 100k exposures) of the ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine (AstraZeneca). Although the underlying events leading to this blood-clotting phenomenon has yet to be elucidated, several critical observations present a compelling potential mechanism. Thrombus formation requires the von Willebrand (VWF) protein to be in ultra-large multimeric state. The conservation of this state is controlled by the ADAMTS13 enzyme, whose proteolytic activity reduces the size of VWF multimers, keeping blood clotting at bay. However, ADAMTS13 cannot act on VWF that is bound to platelet factor 4 (PF4). As such, it is of particular interest to note that a common feature between subjects presenting with VITT is high titres of antibodies against PF4. This raises the possibility that these antibodies preserve the stability of ultra-large VWF complexes, leading to the formation of endothelium-anchored VWF strings, which are capable of recruiting circulating platelets and causing uncontrolled thrombosis in terminal capillaries. Here, we share our viewpoint about the current understanding of the VITT pathogenesis involving the prevention of ADAMTS13’s activity on VWF by PF4 antibody-mediated stabilisation/ protection of the PF4-VWF complex.
The Effect of Adenotonsillectomy on Children’s Behavior and Cognitive Performance with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome: State of the Art
Authors: Di Mauro Paola , Cocuzza Salvatore , Maniaci Antonino , Ferlito Salvatore , Rasà Deborak , Anzivino Roberta , Vicini Claudio , Iannella Giannicola , La Mantia Ignazio
Published: October 2021

(1) Background: This systematic review was designed to analyze adenotonsillectomy’s role in treating behavioural disorders and sleep-related quality of life in pediatric OSAS. (2) Methods: Papers that report pre-operative and post-operative outcomes by using the Epworth sleepiness scale, OSA-18, NEPSY, Conners’ rating scale, BRIEF, PSQ-SRBD, PedsQL and CBCL. We performed a comprehensive review of English papers published during the last 20 years regarding behavioural disorders in OSAS patients and adenotonsillectomy. (3) Results: We included 11 studies reporting behavioral outcomes and sleep related quality of life after surgery. We investigated changes in behavior and cognitive outcomes after AT, and we found significant improvements of the scores post-AT in almost all studies. After comparing the AT group and control group, only one study had no difference that reached significance at one year post-AT. In another study, it did not show any significant improvement in terms of all behavioural and cognitive outcomes. The questionnaires on sleep-related quality of life after AT (PSQ-SRBD or ESS or OSA-18 or KOSA) may improve with positive changes in sleep parameters (AHI, ODI and SpO2). Furthermore, there is a significantly higher decrease in OSAS symptoms than the pre-AT baseline score. (4) Conclusion: Future studies should pay more attention to characterizing patient populations as well as rapid surgical treatments through existing criteria.
Developmental Traits of Impulse Control Behavior in School Children under Controlled Attention, Motor Function, and Perception
Authors: Chen Hsin-Yung , Meng Ling-Fu , Yu Yawen , Chen Chen-Chi , Hung Li-Yu , Lin Shih-Che , Chi Huang-Ju
Published: October 2021

This research surveyed the characteristics of the developmental traits of impulse control behavior in children through parent-report questionnaires. After matching for gender and attention behavior, as well as controlling for variables (motor and perception) which might confound impulse control, 710 participants (355 girls and 355 boys; grade, 1–5; age, 7–12 years) were recruited from a database of 1763 children. Results demonstrated that there was a significant difference between grade 1 and grade 5 in impulse control. Conversely, no significant differences were found when comparing other grades. The present findings indicate that a striking development of impulse control occurs from grade 4 to 5. Moreover, the plateau of impulse control development from grade 1 to 4 implies that a long transition period is needed to prepare children to develop future impulse control. In conclusion, the age-dependent maturation associated with stage-wise development is a critical characteristic of impulse control development in school age children. Further discussions are made regarding this characteristic, such as from the perspective of frontal lobe development.
Regurgitation under the ERAS Program: A Case Report
Authors: Pires Marta , Marcelino Margarida
Published: October 2021

Introduction: Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) is an evidence-based concept that reduces the recovery period after major abdominal surgery. Ingestion of carbohydrate solutions up until two hours before elective surgery has shown positive results. The authors present a case of regurgitation in a patient with apparently low risk for delayed gastric emptying who drank a carbohydrate solution two hours before induction of anaesthesia. Case report: An 80-year-old male patient with a relevant history of ischemic heart disease, atrial fibrillation, stage 3 chronic kidney disease and hypertension, was diagnosed with rectal cancer. He was scheduled for an anterior rectal resection hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery under the ERAS program, which included a 200 mL carbohydrate drink the night before and in the morning of the surgery, no less than two hours before the induction of anaesthesia. Immediately after loss of consciousness, there was regurgitation of a significant amount of clear fluid. Discussion: Even though ingestion of oral carbohydrate drinks is considered to be safe up to two hours before anaesthesia, further evaluation (e.g., gastric ultrasonography) may be considered in non-high-risk patients.
A Comparative Study of the Mechanical Properties of Selected Dental Composites with a Dual-Curing System with Light-Curing Composites
Authors: Domarecka Monika , Szczesio-Wlodarczyk Agata , Krasowski Michał , Fronczek Magdalena , Gozdek Tomasz , Sokolowski Jerzy , Bociong Kinga
Published: October 2021

Dual-curing composites have a wide spectrum of use in practice (rebuilding, reconstruction, and luting). The characterization of this type of material and comparative study of selected mechanical properties with light-cured materials were carried out for this paper. In this study, we used six materials with a dual-cure system—Bulk EZ, Fill-Up!, StarFill 2B, Rebilda DC, MultiCore Flow, Activa Bioactive-Restorative—and three light-cured materials—Filtek Bulk Fill Posterior, Charisma Classic, and G-aenial Universal Flo. The materials were conditioned for 24 h in water at 37 °C before testing. Selected material properties were determined: three-point bending flexural strength, diametral tensile strength, hardness, microhardness, and shrinkage stress. The highest three-point bending flexural strength (TPB) was 137.0 MPa (G-aenial Universal Flo), while the lowest amounted to 86.5 MPa (Activa Bioactive). The diametral tensile strength (DTS) values were in a range from 39.2 MPa (Rebilda DC) to 54.1 MPa (Charisma Classic). The lowest hardness (HV) value of 26 was obtained by the Activa Bioactive material, while the highest values were recorded for Filtek Bulk Fill Posterior and Charisma Classic-53. The shrinkage stress of the tested materials ranged from 6.3 MPa (Charisma Classic) to 13.2 MPa (G-aenial Universal Flo). Dual-curing composites were found to have similar properties to light-cured composites.
Application of the Electrochemical Permeation Method for Hydrogen Diffusion Coefficient Determination in Pipeline Steel 10G2
Authors: Borodin Vladislav I. , Lun-Fu Aleksandr V. , Kudiiarov Victor N. , Lider Andrey M. , Sakvin Ivan S. , Bubenchikov Mikhail A. , Kaparulin Dmitry S. , Ovchinnikov Vyacheslav A.
Published: October 2021

In this article, we conduct research on the effect of corrosion tests on the hydrogen diffusion process in gas steel in electrochemical permeability tests. This tests show that a long corrosion test time reduces the hydrogen diffusion coefficient by an order of magnitude, indicating the formation of aging defects in the steel. During operation, the diffusion coefficient decreases by two orders of magnitude, which also indicates the formation of a large number of defects in the steel. Consequently, based on the change in the diffusion coefficient in the material, it is possible to assess the degree of material failure.
Dedifferentiated Melanoma: A Diagnostic Histological Pitfall—Review of the Literature with Case Presentation
Authors: Cazzato Gerardo , Lospalluti Lucia , Colagrande Anna , Cimmino Antonietta , Romita Paolo , Foti Caterina , Demarco Aurora , Arezzo Francesca , Loizzi Vera , Cormio Gennaro , Sablone Sara , Resta Leonardo , Rossi Roberta , Ingravallo Giuseppe
Published: October 2021

Dedifferentiated melanoma is a particular form of malignant melanoma with a progressive worsening of the patient’s clinical outcome. It is well known that melanoma can assume different histo-morphological patterns, to which specific genetic signatures correspond, sometimes but not always. In this review we address the diagnostic difficulties in correctly recognizing this entity, discuss the major differential diagnoses of interest to the dermatopathologist, and conduct a review of the literature with particular attention and emphasis on the latest molecular discoveries regarding the dedifferentiation/undifferentiation mechanism and more advanced therapeutic approaches.
Obesity and Bone Loss at Menopause: The Role of Sclerostin
Authors: Marzullo Paolo , Mele Chiara , Mai Stefania , Nardone Antonio , Scacchi Massimo , Aimaretti Gianluca
Published: October 2021

Background. Peripheral fat tissue is known to positively influence bone health. However, evidence exists that the risk of non-vertebral fractures can be increased in postmenopausal women with obesity as compared to healthy controls. The role of sclerostin, the SOST gene protein product, and body composition in this condition is unknown. Methods. We studied 28 severely obese premenopausal (age, 44.7 ± 3.9 years; BMI, 46.0 ± 4.2 kg/m2) and 28 BMI-matched post-menopausal women (age, 55.5 ± 3.8 years; BMI, 46.1 ± 4.8 kg/m2) thorough analysis of bone density (BMD) and body composition by dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), bone turnover markers, sclerostin serum concentration, glucose metabolism, and a panel of hormones relating to bone health. Results. Postmenopausal women harbored increased levels of the bone turnover markers CTX and NTX, while sclerostin levels were non-significantly higher as compared to premenopausal women. There were no differences in somatotroph, thyroid and adrenal hormone across menopause. Values of lumbar spine BMD were comparable between groups. By contrast, menopause was associated with lower BMD values at the hip (p < 0.001), femoral neck (p < 0.0001), and total skeleton (p < 0.005). In multivariate regression analysis, sclerostin was the strongest predictor of lumbar spine BMD (p < 0.01), while menopausal status significantly predicted BMD at total hip (p < 0.01), femoral neck (p < 0.001) and total body (p < 0.05). Finally, lean body mass emerged as the strongest predictor of total body BMD (p < 0.01). Conclusions. Our findings suggest a protective effect of obesity on lumbar spine and total body BMD at menopause possibly through mechanisms relating to lean body mass. Given the mild difference in sclerostin levels between pre- and postmenopausal women, its potential actions in obesity require further investigation.
Thermal Sensor Calibration for Unmanned Aerial Systems Using an External Heated Shutter
Authors: Virtue Jacob , Turner Darren , Williams Guy , Zeliadt Stephanie , McCabe Matthew , Lucieer Arko
Published: October 2021

Uncooled thermal infrared sensors are increasingly being deployed on unmanned aerial systems (UAS) for agriculture, forestry, wildlife surveys, and surveillance. The acquisition of thermal data requires accurate and uniform testing of equipment to ensure precise temperature measurements. We modified an uncooled thermal infrared sensor, specifically designed for UAS remote sensing, with a proprietary external heated shutter as a calibration source. The performance of the modified thermal sensor and a standard thermal sensor (i.e., without a heated shutter) was compared under both field and temperature modulated laboratory conditions. During laboratory trials with a blackbody source at 35 °C over a 150 min testing period, the modified and unmodified thermal sensor produced temperature ranges of 34.3–35.6 °C and 33.5–36.4 °C, respectively. A laboratory experiment also included the simulation of flight conditions by introducing airflow over the thermal sensor at a rate of 4 m/s. With the blackbody source held at a constant temperature of 25 °C, the introduction of 2 min air flow resulted in a ’shock cooling’ event in both the modified and unmodified sensors, oscillating between 19–30 °C and -15–65 °C, respectively. Following the initial ‘shock cooling’ event, the modified and unmodified thermal sensor oscillated between 22–27 °C and 5–45 °C, respectively. During field trials conducted over a pine plantation, the modified thermal sensor also outperformed the unmodified sensor in a side-by-side comparison. We found that the use of a mounted heated shutter improved thermal measurements, producing more consistent accurate temperature data for thermal mapping projects.
A Novel Motion Blur Resistant vSLAM Framework for Micro/Nano-UAVs
Authors: Şimşek Buğra , Bilge Hasan Şakir
Published: October 2021

Localization and mapping technologies are of great importance for all varieties of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to perform their operations. In the near future, it is planned to increase the use of micro/nano-size UAVs. Such vehicles are sometimes expendable platforms, and reuse may not be possible. Compact, mounted and low-cost cameras are preferred in these UAVs due to weight, cost and size limitations. Visual simultaneous localization and mapping (vSLAM) methods are used for providing situational awareness of micro/nano-size UAVs. Fast rotational movements that occur during flight with gimbal-free, mounted cameras cause motion blur. Above a certain level of motion blur, tracking losses exist, which causes vSLAM algorithms not to operate effectively. In this study, a novel vSLAM framework is proposed that prevents the occurrence of tracking losses in micro/nano-UAVs due to the motion blur. In the proposed framework, the blur level of the frames obtained from the platform camera is determined and the frames whose focus measure score is below the threshold are restored by specific motion-deblurring methods. The major reasons of tracking losses have been analyzed with experimental studies, and vSLAM algorithms have been made durable by our studied framework. It has been observed that our framework can prevent tracking losses at 5, 10 and 20 fps processing speeds. vSLAM algorithms continue to normal operations at those processing speeds that have not been succeeded before using standard vSLAM algorithms, which can be considered as a superiority of our study.
Pain Management in Geriatric Burn Patients: A Scoping Review of Strategies and Key Issues
Authors: Bayuo Jonathan
Published: October 2021

The effect of poorly treated pain is well documented in the literature. To offer support for the development of geriatric-specific pain management protocols, this review sought to scope the literature to identify what has been accomplished in geriatric burn pain management and offer suggestions. Arksey and O’Malley’s scoping review methodology was employed with extensive database and grey literature searches. A narrative synthesis was employed to analyse the evidence. The PRISMA extension guidelines for scoping reviews were followed in reporting this review. Sixteen evidence types comprising eleven reviews, two retrospective studies, two book chapters, and one practice guideline were retained in the review. The two retrospective studies emerged from the United States. The review findings suggest that though a plethora of generic pain assessment tools exist, they are yet to be validated in the older adult burn population. Pain management strategies involved the use of pharmacological agents (mainly opioids), but no outcome regarding pain relief was reported. Key issues identified include cautious use of opioids, oversedation concerns, and varied complexities associated with pain management. Though the literature remains largely unexplored, the complexities associated with geriatric burn pain management suggest a need for a multidisciplinary approach. More prospective studies are also needed to evaluate both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions in the geriatric burn population.
Voltage Regulation Performance Evaluation of Distributed Energy Resource Management via Advanced Hardware-in-the-Loop Simulation
Authors: Wang Jing , Padullaparti Harsha , Ding Fei , Baggu Murali , Symko-Davies Martha
Published: October 2021

This paper evaluates the performance of coordinated control across advanced distribution management systems (ADMS), distributed energy resources (DERs), and distributed energy resource management systems (DERMS) using an advanced hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) platform. This platform provides a realistic laboratory testing environment, including accurate dynamic modeling of a real-world distribution system from a utility partner, real controllers (ADMS and DERMS), physical power hardware (DERs), and standard communications protocols. One grid service—voltage regulation—is evaluated to show the performance of the coordinated grid automation system. The testing results demonstrate that the coordinated DERMS and ADMS system can effectively regulate system voltages within target operation limits using DERs. The realistic laboratory HIL testing results give utilities confidence in adopting the grid automation systems to manage DERs to achieve system-level control and operation objectives (e.g., voltage regulation). This helps utilities mitigate potential risks (e.g., instability) prior to field deployment.
Fungi Detected in the Previous Year’s Leaf Petioles of Fraxinus excelsior and Their Antagonistic Potential against Hymenoscyphus fraxineus
Authors: Kowalski Tadeusz , Bilański Piotr
Published: October 2021

Studies on fungal communities in the previous year’s leaf petioles of Fraxinus excelsior found in litter in five ash stands in southern Poland were made in 2017. Fungi were identified on the basis of isolation from 300 surface sterilized leaf petioles and by in situ inventory of fruit bodies (on 600 petioles, in spring and autumn). Identification was based on morphology of colonies and fruit bodies, and sequencing of ITS region of the rRNA gene cluster. In total, 2832 isolates from 117 taxa (Ascomycota—100; Basidiomycota—15; Mucoromycota—2 taxa) were obtained with the isolation method. The most frequent taxa (with frequency >10%) were: Nemania serpens, Hymenoscyphus fraxineus, Alternaria sp. 1, Boeremia sp., Helotiales sp. 1, Epicoccum nigrum, Venturia fraxini, Fusarium sp., Fusarium lateritium, Nemania diffusa, Typhula sp. 2 (in descending order). In total, 45 taxa were detected with the in situ inventory method. Eleven taxa were classified as dominant: Hymenoscyphus fraxineus, Venturia fraxini, Leptosphaeria sp. 2, Cyathicula fraxinophila, Typhula sp. 2, Hypoderma rubi, Pyrenopeziza petiolaris, Cyathicula coronata, Hymenoscyphus scutula, Leptosphaeria sclerotioides and Hymenoscyphus caudatus. Among 202 leaf petioles colonized by H. fraxineus, 177 petioles also showed fructification of 26 other fungi. All the isolated saprotrophs were tested in dual-culture assay for antagonism to two strains of H. fraxineus. Three interaction types were observed: type A, mutual direct contact, when the two fungi meet along the contact line (occurred with 43.3% of test fungi); type B, with inhibition zone between colonies (with 46.9% of test fungi); type C, when the test fungus overgrows the colony of H. fraxineus (with 9.8% of test fungi). The possible contribution of the fungal saprotrophs in limiting of the expansion of H. fraxineus in ash leaf petioles, which may result in reduction in the inoculum of ash dieback causal agent, is discussed.
Fluid Dynamics in Curvilinear Coordinates without Fictitious Forces
Authors: Cardall Christian Y.
Published: October 2021

The use of curvilinear coordinates is sometimes indicated by the inherent geometry of a fluid dynamics problem, but this introduces fictitious forces into the momentum equations that spoil the strict conservative form. If one is willing to work in three dimensions, these fictitious forces can be eliminated by solving for rectangular (Cartesian) momentum components on a curvilinear mesh. A thoroughly geometric approach to fluid dynamics on spacetime demonstrates this transparently, while also giving insight into a greater unity of the relativistic and nonrelativistic cases than is usually appreciated.
High-Dimensional Single-Cell Transcriptomics in Melanoma and Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Quek Camelia , Bai Xinyu , Long Georgina V. , Scolyer Richard A. , Wilmott James S.
Published: October 2021

Recent advances in single-cell transcriptomics have greatly improved knowledge of complex transcriptional programs, rapidly expanding our knowledge of cellular phenotypes and functions within the tumour microenvironment and immune system. Several new single-cell technologies have been developed over recent years that have enabled expanded understanding of the mechanistic cells and biological pathways targeted by immunotherapies such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, which are now routinely used in patient management with high-risk early-stage or advanced melanoma. These technologies have method-specific strengths, weaknesses and capabilities which need to be considered when utilising them to answer translational research questions. Here, we provide guidance for the implementation of single-cell transcriptomic analysis platforms by reviewing the currently available experimental and analysis workflows. We then highlight the use of these technologies to dissect the tumour microenvironment in the context of cancer patients treated with immunotherapy. The strategic use of single-cell analytics in clinical settings are discussed and potential future opportunities are explored with a focus on their use to rationalise the design of novel immunotherapeutic drug therapies that will ultimately lead to improved cancer patient outcomes.
Telomerase (hTERT) Overexpression Reveals a Promising Prognostic Biomarker and Therapeutical Target in Different Clinical Subtypes of Pediatric Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia
Authors: Nogueira Beatriz Maria Dias , da Costa Pantoja Laudreísa , da Silva Emerson Lucena , Mello Júnior Fernando Augusto Rodrigues , Teixeira Eliel Barbosa , Wanderley Alayde Vieira , da Silva Maués Jersey Heitor , de Moraes Filho Manoel Odorico , de Moraes Maria Elisabete Amaral , Montenegro Raquel Carvalho , Khayat André Salim , Moreira-Nunes Caroline Aquino
Published: October 2021

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) is a neoplasm of the hematopoietic system defined as a clonal expansion of an abnormal lymphoid precursor cell. It mostly affects children under five years of age and is the most common tumor to afflict pediatric patients. The expression of the human telomerase gene (hTERT) in patients with ALL has been studied as a biomarker and could become a new therapeutic target. We evaluate the role of hTERT gene expression in ALL pediatric patients, through quantitative real-time PCR technique, and the possible correlation between hTERT expression and clinical variables: gender, age, white blood cells (WBC), gene fusions, and immunophenotyping. The analysis between healthy controls and ALL patients (N = 244) was statistically significant (p < 0.001), demonstrating hTERT overexpression in these patients. In comparison with the usual set of clinical variables, the data were not statistically significant (p > 0.05), indicating that hTERT is equally overexpressed among patients regardless of gender, age, gene fusions, and immunophenotyping. Moreover, patients who presented a higher hTERT expression level had a significant (p < 0.0001) lower overall survival rate. In summary, hTERT expression emerges as an important molecular pathway in leukemogenesis regardless patient’s clinical variables, thus, the data here presented pointed it as a valuable biomarker in pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia and a promising target for new therapeutic and prognostic measures.
Maternal One-Carbon Metabolism during the Periconceptional Period and Human Foetal Brain Growth: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rubini Eleonora , Baijens Inge M. M. , Horánszky Alex , Schoenmakers Sam , Sinclair Kevin D. , Zana Melinda , Dinnyés András , Steegers-Theunissen Régine P. M. , Rousian Melek
Published: October 2021

The maternal environment during the periconceptional period influences foetal growth and development, in part, via epigenetic mechanisms moderated by one-carbon metabolic pathways. During embryonic development, one-carbon metabolism is involved in brain development and neural programming. Derangements in one-carbon metabolism increase (i) the short-term risk of embryonic neural tube-related defects and (ii) long-term childhood behaviour, cognition, and autism spectrum disorders. Here we investigate the association between maternal one-carbon metabolism and foetal and neonatal brain growth and development. Database searching resulted in 26 articles eligible for inclusion. Maternal vitamin B6, vitamin B12, homocysteine, and choline were not associated with foetal and/or neonatal head growth. First-trimester maternal plasma folate within the normal range (>17 nmol/L) associated with increased foetal head size and head growth, and high erythrocyte folate (1538–1813 nmol/L) with increased cerebellar growth, whereas folate deficiency (<7 nmol/L) associated with a reduced foetal brain volume. Preconceptional folic acid supplement use and specific dietary patterns (associated with increased B vitamins and low homocysteine) increased foetal head size. Although early pregnancy maternal folate appears to be the most independent predictor of foetal brain growth, there is insufficient data to confirm the link between maternal folate and offspring risks for neurodevelopmental diseases.
Exploring the Ingredient Choices and Maximum Budget for Fresh Food Boxes in Taiwan
Authors: Vo Nguyen Minh-Trang , Kim Man-Keun , Yang Shang-Ho
Published: October 2021

Fresh food boxes have been popular in many countries for providing convenience and supporting local production, while the convenient access of various market channels in Taiwan makes it difficult to develop. The COVID-19 events shed light on the opportunity to promote fresh food boxes. Due to the complexity of consumer preferences, it is important to investigate the market opportunity of fresh food boxes. A total of 748 valid survey data were collected throughout Taiwan from July to September in 2019. The analysis of variance and interval regression model with random utility theory was adopted to explore food product preferences and to elicit the maximum budget for the fresh food box. Results show that marrow vegetables, fruits, and meats are the major categories that must be included in the list of the fresh food box. The average maximum budget for a fresh food box is about NTD 702 (about USD 25), while the highest maximum budget can reach up to NTD 1202 (about USD 43) for some potential consumers. Although fresh food boxes have a market opportunity in Taiwan, the market potential may be more focused on those who have online market shopping experiences. Marketers would need more marketing strategies to enhance more potential shoppers to adopt the online purchase for fresh food boxes.
Applications of a Chronic Care Model for Self-Management of Type 2 Diabetes: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Ansari Rashid , Harris Mark , Hosseinzadeh Hassan , Zwar Nicholas
Published: October 2021

The main aim of this study was to explore the suitability, practicality, and acceptability of the self-management support and delivery system design components of the Chronic Care Model (CCM) in type 2 diabetes self-management in primary care settings in rural Pakistan. Thirty patients living with type 2 diabetes and 20 healthcare professionals (10 general practitioners and 10 nurses) were recruited from Al-Rehman Hospital at Abbottabad, Pakistan. The study data were collected using semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. The self-management element of the CCM played an important role in managing type 2 diabetes, and self-efficacy in relation to diet and diabetes management were the most effective strategies. Surprisingly, considering the local culture around diabetes, patient care reflecting their cultural background was identified as an important factor by patients not healthcare professionals. The delivery system design element of the CCM promoted multidisciplinary teamwork. Our findings suggest that the self-management support and delivery system design components of the CCM provided an effective framework for supporting diabetes self-management education and support in rural areas.
Is Self-Efficacy Related to the Quality of Life in Elite Athletes after Spinal Cord Injury?
Authors: Goraczko Agata , Zurek Alina , Lachowicz Maciej , Kujawa Katarzyna , Zurek Grzegorz
Published: October 2021

Background: A spinal cord injury (SCI) is a traumatic event that affects every aspect of life: physical, mental, economic, and social. The main aim of this study was to investigate self-efficacy, quality of life, and their correlations among outstanding athletes who have suffered spinal cord injuries, and to determine whether these individuals have specific psychological characteristics that contribute to a better quality of life. Methods: The study involved nine athletes with at least national-level achievements in sports prior to an SCI. Participation in the study consisted of an interview via an online communicator, followed by an online questionnaire consisting of a personal questionnaire and two scales: The World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale (WHOQoL-BREF), and the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES). Results: Spearman’s correlation showed a correlation between general self-efficacy, perception of quality of life, and satisfaction with own physical health, as well as psychological resources and environmental support. Conclusions: Involvement in an environment that was important to the injured person before the accident, in either a passive (in the absence of functional capacity) or active form, promotes a greater sense of self-efficacy and good QoL, regardless of the time that has passed since the accident, and despite high levels of pain or secondary health issues. To fill the gap in professional long-term healthcare services for athletes after SCIs, intervention programs should be considered that support self-efficacy, which is an important factor that can be subject to improvement.
Relativistic Effects on Satellite–Ground Two–Way Precise Time Synchronization
Authors: Guo Yanming , Bai Yan , Gao Shuaihe , Pan Zhibing , Han Zibin , Zou Decai , Lu Xiaochun , Zhang Shougang
Published: October 2021

An ultrahigh precise clock (space optical clock) will be installed onboard a low-orbit spacecraft (a usual expression for a low-orbit satellite operating on an orbit at an altitude of less than 1000 km) in the future, which will be expected to obtain better time-frequency performance in a microgravity environment, and provide the possible realization of ultrahigh precise long-range time synchronization. The advancement of the microwave two-way time synchronization method can offer an effective solution for developing time-frequency transfer technology. In this study, we focus on a method of precise satellite-ground two-way time synchronization and present their key aspects. For reducing the relativistic effects on two-way precise time synchronization, we propose a high-precision correction method. We show the results of tests using simulated data with fully realistic effects such as atmospheric delays, orbit errors, and earth gravity, and demonstrate the satisfactory performance of the methods. The accuracy of the relativistic error correction method is investigated in terms of the spacecraft attitude error, phase center calibration error (the residual error after calibrating phase center offset), and precise orbit determination (POD) error. The results show that the phase center calibration error and POD error contribute greatly to the residual of relativistic correction, at approximately 0.1~0.3 ps, and time synchronization accuracy better than 0.6 ps can be achieved with our proposed methods. In conclusion, the relativistic error correction method is effective, and the satellite-ground two-way precise time synchronization method yields more accurate results. The results of Beidou two-way time synchronization system can only achieve sub-ns accuracy, while the final accuracy obtained by the methods in this paper can improved to ps-level.
Effect of Hybrid Fibres on the Durability Characteristics of Ternary Blend Geopolymer Concrete
Authors: Sathish Kumar V. , Ganesan N. , Indira P. V.
Published: October 2021

The need to develop sustainable concrete in the civil infrastructure industry increases day by day, resulting in new eco-friendly materials such as geopolymer concrete. Geopolymer concrete is one of the eminent alternatives to conventional concrete for sustainable development by reducing the carbon footprint. Ternary blend geopolymer concrete (TGPC) is a sustainable and environmentally friendly concrete produced with three different source materials to form a binder. The main advantage of TGPC is that it possesses densely packed particles of different shapes and sizes, which results in improved properties. This paper deals with the experimental investigations to evaluate the durability properties of plain and hybrid fibre reinforced TGPC. The durability of concrete is defined as the ability to withstand a safe level of serviceability and different environmental exposure conditions without any significant repair and rehabilitation throughout the service life. Conventional concrete is vulnerable to cracking due to its low tensile and durability properties. The TGPC considered in this work consists of fly ash, GGBS and metakaolin as source materials, selected mainly based on the material’s silica and alumina content, shape, size, and availability. The grade of concrete considered was M55. The main variables considered in this study were the proportions of crimped steel fibres (Vf), viz., 0.5% and 1% and proportions of polypropylene fibres (Vp)viz., 0.1%, 0.15%, 0.20% and 0.25%. The durability properties like water absorption, sorptivity, resistance to marine attack, acid attack, sulphate attack, and abrasion were studied in this investigation. The experimental test results were compared with the requirements provided in the standard/literature and found to be well within limits. The study also indicates that the inclusion of fibres in a hybrid form significantly improves the durability parameters of TGPC. The TGPC with 1% steel fibre and 0.15% polypropylene fibre performs better than the other combination of fibres considered in this experimental investigation.
Infrequent Placental and Fetal Involvement in SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Pathology Data from a Large Medical Center
Authors: Thomas Jeffrey , Sun Yu , Debelenko Larisa
Published: October 2021

In order to determine the frequency of SARS-CoV-2 placental and fetal involvements, we analyzed placentas of 197 women positive for infection at delivery and fetal tissues in cases of pregnancy loss in women positive by SARS-CoV-2 PCR (N = 2) and COVID-19 serology (N = 4), using in situ hybridization (ISH), immunohistochemistry (IHC) and, in selected cases, RT-PCR of tissue homogenates. The virus was identified in situ, accompanied by intervillositis, in 2 of 197 placentas (1.02%). In three more cases, SARS-CoV-2 was detected by tissue PCR without in situ localization and placental inflammation. There were no maternal mortality or association of placental infection with the clinical severity of COVID-19. All tested neonates born to SARS-CoV-2-positive women (N = 172) were negative for the virus. There were three pregnancy losses among 197 infected women and in two cases available fetal tissues were negative for SARS-CoV-2. In one of four fetal autopsies performed in women with positive COVID-19 serology, the mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) could be inferred based on positive SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid IHC in fetal pulmonary endothelium. Placental involvement by SARS-CoV-2 is rare, but may be underestimated due to its transient nature. MTCT is even rarer, supporting the protective role of placenta in SARS-CoV-2 infection.