Search Results (67)

The increasing pace of climate-driven changes in forest ecosystems calls for reliable remote sensing techniques for quantifying above-ground carbon storage. In this article, we compare the methodology and results of traditional field surveys, mobile laser scanning, optical drone imaging and photogrammetry, and both drone-based and light aircraft-based aerial laser scanning to determine forest stand parameters, which are suitable to estimate carbon stock. Measurements were conducted at four designated sampling points established during a large-scale project in deciduous and coniferous tree stands of the Dudles Forest, Hungary. The results of the surveys were first compared spatially and quantitatively, followed by a summary of the advantages and disadvantages of each method. The mobile laser scanner proved to be the most accurate, while optical surveying—enhanced with a new diameter measurement methodology based on detecting stem positions from the photogrammetric point cloud and measuring the diameter directly on the orthorectified images—also delivered promising results. Aerial laser scanning was the least accurate but provided coverage over large areas. Based on the results, we recommend adapting our carbon stock estimation methodology primarily to mobile laser scanning surveys combined with aerial laser scanned data. Full article

The effects of physical activity on skeletal muscle mass and cardiac function are well-documented, but there is limited information on the relationship between the two. Furthermore, differentiating between the ‘athlete’s heart’ and pathological cardiac conditions often presents challenges. We aimed to analyze resting echocardiographic parameters in elite water polo athletes, considering sex, anthropometrics, and body composition. We examined 161 youth and adult athletes (age: 19.7 ± 5.6 years, male: 50.9%). Data analysis was performed with R software (version 4.2), using multivariate linear regression models. Confounders besides the main predictor were sex, age, and height. Male players had higher weight (87.55 ± 12.83 vs. 69.77 ± 9.8 kg), height (188.59 ± 6.82 vs. 173.47 ± 6.76 cm), skeletal muscle mass (SMM, 43.87 ± 5.50 vs. 30.38 ± 3.95 kg), and fat-free mass (FFM, 76.60 ± 9.23 vs. 54.52 ± 6.68 kg) and lower percentage of body fat values (12.14 ± 4.00.vs 21.51 ± 4.76%) compared to the female players. Youth players had lower height (178.51 ± 9.53 vs. 186.74 ± 9.27 kg) and weight (74.34 ± 12.12. vs. 88.23 ± 14.66 kg) compared to adults. Left ventricular end-diastolic and end-systolic diameters correlated positively with SMM (Est: 0.38, StE: 0.08, p < 0.001 and Est: 0.42, StE: 0.11, p < 0.001) and FFM (Est: 0.25, StE: 0.05, p < 0.001 and Est: 0.25, StE: 0.06, p < 0.001). Right ventricular end-diastolic diameter correlated positively with SMM (Est: 0.18, StE: 0.08, p < 0.05) and FFM (Est: 0.12, StE: 0.05, p < 0.05). Interventricular septal wall thickness showed positive correlation with SMM (Est: 0.16, StE: 0.04, p < 0.001) and FFM (Est: 0.10, StE: 0.02, p < 0.001). Left ventricular posterior wall thickness correlated with SMM, with a stronger correlation in females (Est: 0.17, StE: 0.05, p < 0.001) than in males (Est:0.7, StE: 0.04, p < 0.05). The close relationship between body composition and cardiac dimensions provides an opportunity for professionals to distinguish between athlete’s heart and pathological conditions. Full article

Right ventricular (RV) involvement in left ventricular hypertrabeculation (LVNC) remains under investigation. Due to its complex anatomy, assessing RV function is challenging, but 3D transthoracic echocardiography (3D_TTE) offers valuable insights. We aimed to evaluate volumetric, functional, and strain parameters of both ventricles in LVNC patients with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) and compare findings to a control group. This study included 37 LVNC patients and 37 age- and sex-matched controls. 3D_TTE recordings were analyzed using TomTec Image Arena (v. 4.7) and reVISION software to assess volumes, EF, and global/segmental strains. RV EF was further divided into longitudinal (LEF), radial (REF), and antero-posterior (AEF) components. LV volumes were significantly higher in the LVNC group, while RV volumes were comparable. EF and strain values were lower in both ventricles in LVNC patients. RV movement analysis showed significantly reduced LEF and REF, whereas AEF remained normal. These findings suggest subclinical RV dysfunction in LVNC, emphasizing the need for follow-up, even with preserved EF. Full article

We present our carbon stock estimation method developed for mixed coniferous and deciduous forests in the Hungarian hilly region, covering diverse site conditions. The method consists of four complex steps, integrating traditional field surveys with modern remote sensing and GIS. The first step involves comprehensive field data collection at systematically distributed sampling points. The second step is tree species mapping based on satellite image time series. The third step uses Airborne Laser Scanning to estimate aboveground biomass and derive the carbon stock of roots. The final step involves evaluating and spatially extending field and laboratory data on litter and humus from sampling points using geostatistical methods, followed by aggregating the results for the forest block and individual forest sub-compartments. New elements were developed and implemented into the complex methodology, such as aboveground biomass calculation with voxel aggregation and underground carbon stock spatial extension with EBK regression prediction. Additionally, we examined how the accuracy of our method, designed for a 200 m sampling grid, decreases as the distance between sampling points increases. Full article

Currently, limited information is available on the influence of quadriceps femoris muscle–tendon unit morphological parameters on mechanical efficiency; therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the interaction between these variables. The morphological characteristics of the quadriceps femoris muscle–tendon unit of nine healthy females (22 ± 0.9 years) were assessed using magnetic resonance imaging. The mechanical efficiency was assessed using a dynamometer. During contractions, the electromyographic activity of the vastus lateralis and rectus femoris was recorded. The highest mechanical efficiency was achieved with moderate pretension and a 20 J stretch load, resulting in an efficiency of 54.14 ± 2.24%. A large correlation was found between the patella tendon cross-sectional area and mechanical efficiency (r = 0.93; p < 0.01). No correlation was observed between the muscle-to-tendon cross-sectional ratio and mechanical efficiency. The association between the patella tendon cross-sectional area and mechanical efficiency aligns with previous research, suggesting that a larger cross-sectional area can reduce tendon stress under a given force, potentially lowering the risk of strain injuries. The lack of association between the muscle-to-tendon cross-sectional ratio and mechanical efficiency indicates that the relative cross-sectional dimensions of muscle and tendon do not influence muscle–tendon dynamics. Full article

Genetically determined left ventricular excessive trabeculation (LVET) has a wide clinical spectrum ranging from asymptomatic subjects to severe heart failure with arrhythmias and thromboembolic events. Unlike other cardiomyopathies, the relatives of LVET patients never reach the spotlight of guidelines and clinical practice, although these family members can be often affected by these conditions. Thus, we aimed to investigate the relatives of LVET by multidimensional analysis, such as genetic testing, ECG and cardiac ultrasound (ECHO). We included 55 blood relatives from the family of 18 LVET patients (male = 27, age = 44 ± 20.8y), who underwent anamnesis registration. With Sanger sequencing, the relatives were classified into genetically positive (GEN-pos) and unaffected (GEN-neg) subgroups. In addition to regular ECG parameters, Sokolow-Lyon Index (SLI) values were calculated. 2D ECHO images were analysed with TomTec Arena, evaluating LV volumetric, functional (EF) and strain parameters. Individuals were categorized into JENNI-pos and JENNI-neg morphological subgroups according to the Jenni LVET ECHO criteria. Family history showed frequent involvement (arrhythmia 61%, stroke 56%, syncope 39%, sudden cardiac death 28%, implanted device 28%), as well as personal anamnesis (subjective symptoms 75%, arrhythmias 44%). ECG and ECHO parameters were within the normal range. In terms of genetics, 78% of families and 38% of relatives carried the index mutation. LV_SLI and QT duration were lower in the GEN-pos group; ECHO parameters were comparable in the subgroups. Morphologically, 33% of the relatives met Jenni-LVET criteria were genetically affected and showed lower LV_EF values. The frequently found genetic, morphological and clinical involvement may indicate the importance of screening and, if necessary, regular follow-up of relatives in the genetically affected LVET population. Full article

This paper explores the integration of Business Process Management (BPM) with blockchain technology to enhance pension systems, using Hungary as a case study. Specifically, it addresses scientific challenges related to data access management, regulatory compliance, and system scalability within blockchain-based pension frameworks. This study investigates how BPM can improve the transparency, efficiency, and security of blockchain applications in pension administration by optimizing workflows and automating compliance with regulations such as GDPR. By analyzing operational flow diagrams and implementing architectural models, this paper presents an innovative approach to pension management, demonstrating significant improvements in service quality and operational efficiency. Findings from this research provide empirical evidence of the benefits of BPM-enhanced blockchain systems, offering insights applicable to pension systems beyond the Hungarian context, including examples from other countries. Full article

We developed a versatile 100 Hz laser system based on negatively and positively chirped pulse amplification. The few-cycle output provides pulses with 7.1 fs and 0.25 mJ, while the power output supports 26 fs pulses with 50 mJ. The energy as well as the pulse duration stability of the system are below 1%, while the pointing stability is within 25% of the diffraction-limited spot size. We also show applications in high repetition rate target development and preparation for a laser-generated X-ray source for industrial CT imaging. Full article

Background/Objectives: Immune checkpoint blockade, particularly targeting the programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) receptor, is a promising strategy in cancer immunotherapy. The interaction between PD-1 and its ligands, PD-L1 and PD-L2, is crucial in immune evasion by tumors. Blocking this interaction with monoclonal antibodies like Nivolumab can restore anti-tumor immunity. This study aims to develop a stable expression system for Nivolumab-based anti-PD-1 in the Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) DG44 cell line using two different expression vector systems with various signal sequences. Methods: The heavy chain (HC) and light chain (LC) of Nivolumab were cloned into two expression vectors, pOptiVEC and pcDNA3.3. Each vector was engineered with two distinct signal sequences, resulting in the creation of eight recombinant plasmids. These plasmids were co-transfected into CHO DG44 cells in different combinations, allowing for the assessment of stable antibody production. Results: Both pOptiVEC and pcDNA3.3 vectors were successful in stably integrating and expressing the Nivolumab-based anti-PD-1 antibody in CHO DG44 cells. This study found that the choice of signal sequence significantly influenced the quantity of antibodies produced. The optimization of production conditions further enhanced antibody yield, indicating the potential for large-scale production. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that both pOptiVEC and pcDNA3.3 expression systems are effective for the stable production of Nivolumab-based anti-PD-1 in CHO DG44 cells. Signal sequences play a critical role in determining the expression levels, and optimizing production conditions can further increase antibody yield, supporting future applications in cancer immunotherapy. Full article

Hypercholesterolemia forms the background of several cardiovascular pathologies. LDL receptor-knockout (LDLR-KO) mice kept on a high-fat diet (HFD) develop high cholesterol levels and atherosclerosis (AS). Cannabinoid type 1 receptors (CB₁Rs) induce vasodilation, although their role in cardiovascular pathologies is still controversial. We aimed to reveal the effects of CB₁Rs on vascular function and remodeling in hypercholesterolemic AS-prone LDLR-KO mice. Experiments were performed on a newly established LDLR and CB₁R double-knockout (KO) mouse model, in which KO and wild-type (WT) mice were kept on an HFD or a control diet (CD) for 5 months. The vascular functions of abdominal aorta rings were tested with wire myography. The vasorelaxation effects of acetylcholine (Ach, 1 nM–1 µM) were obtained after phenylephrine precontraction, which was repeated with inhibitors of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX), Nω-nitro-L-arginine (LNA), and indomethacin (INDO), respectively. Blood pressure was measured with the tail-cuff method. Immunostaining of endothelial NOS (eNOS) was carried out. An HFD significantly elevated the cholesterol levels in the LDLR-KO mice more than in the corresponding WT mice (mean values: 1039 ± 162 mg/dL vs. 91 ± 18 mg/dL), and they were not influenced by the presence of the CB₁R gene. However, with the defect of the CB₁R gene, damage to the Ach relaxation ability was moderated. The blood pressure was higher in the LDLR-KO mice compared to their WT counterparts (systolic/diastolic values: 110/84 ± 5.8/6.8 vs. 102/80 ± 3.3/2.5 mmHg), which was significantly elevated with an HFD (118/96 ± 1.9/2 vs. 100/77 ± 3.4/3.1 mmHg, p < 0.05) but attenuated in the CB₁R-KO HFD mice. The expression of eNOS was depressed in the HFD WT mice compared to those on the CD, but it was augmented if CB₁R was knocked out. This newly established double-knockout mouse model provides a tool for studying the involvement of CB₁Rs in the development of hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis. Our results indicate that knocking out the CB₁R gene significantly attenuates vascular damage in hypercholesterolemic mice. Full article

The article thoroughly investigates the relationships between terrain features and tree measurements derived from aerial laser scanning (ALS) data and field surveys in a 1067-hectare forested area. A digital elevation model (DEM) was generated from ALS data, which was then used to derive additional layers such as slope, aspect, topographic position index (TPI), and landforms. The authors developed a mathematical procedure to determine the radii for the topographic position index. The canopy height model was created, and individual trees were segmented using a novel voxel aggregation method, allowing for the calculation of tree height and crown size. Accuracy assessments were conducted between ALS-derived data and field-collected data. Terrain variability within each forest unit was evaluated using characteristics such as standard deviation, entropy, and frequency. The relationships between tree height and the derived topographic features within forest subcompartments, as well as the correlation between the height yield map for the entire area and the TPI layer, were analysed. The authors found strong correlation between the topographic position index and tree heights in both cases. The presented remote-sensing-based methodology and the results can be effectively used in digital forest site mapping, complemented by field sampling and laboratory soil analyses, and, as final goal, in carbon stock assessment. Full article

In this work, the authors provide a case study of time series regression techniques for water quality forecasting. With the constant striving to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), the need for sensitive and reliable water management tools has become critical. Continuous online surface water quality monitoring systems that record time series data about surface water parameters are essential for the supervision of water conditions and proper water management practices. The time series data obtained from these systems can be used to develop mathematical models for the prediction of the temporal evolution of water quality parameters. Using these mathematical models, predictions can be made about future trends in water quality to pinpoint irregular behaviours in measured data and identify the presence of anomalous events. We compared the performance of regression models with different structures for the forecasting of water parameters by utilizing a data set collected from the Kis-Balaton Water Protection System (KBWPS) wetland region of Hungary over an observation period of eleven months as a case study. In our study, autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) regression models with different structures have been compared based on forecasting performance. Using the resulting models, trends of the oxygen saturation, pH level, electrical conductivity, and redox potential of the water could be accurately forecast (validation data residual standard deviation between 0.09 and 20.8) while in the case of turbidity, only averages of future values could be predicted (validation data residual standard deviation of 56.3). Full article

Previous research confirmed gut dysbiosis and translocation of selected intestinal bacteria into the vessel wall in abdominal aortic aneurysm patients. We studied the stool, blood, thrombus and aneurysm microbiomes of 21 abdominal aortic aneurysm patients using 16S rRNA sequencing. Our goals were to determine: 1. whether the microbiome characteristic of an aneurysm differs from that of a healthy vessel, 2. whether bacteria detectable in the aneurysm are translocated from the gut through the bloodstream, 3. whether the enzymatic activity of the aneurysm microbiome can contribute to the destruction of the vessel wall. The abundance of Acinetobacter, Burkholderia, Escherichia, and Sphingobium in the aneurysm samples was significantly higher than that in the microbiome of healthy vessels, but only a part of these bacteria can come from the intestine via the blood. Environmental bacteria due to the oral cavity or skin penetration route, such as Acinetobacter, Sphingobium, Enhydrobacter, and Aquabacterium, were present in the thrombus and aneurysm with a significantly higher abundance compared to the blood. Among the enzymes of the microbiome associated with the healthy vessel wall, Iron-chelate-transporting ATPase and Polar-amino-acid-transporting ATPase have protective effects. In addition, bacterial Peptidylprolyl isomerase activity found in the aneurysm has an aggravating effect on the formation of aneurysm. Full article

Background: Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) based neuronal differentiation is valuable for studying neuropsychiatric disorders and pharmacological mechanisms at the cellular level. We aimed to examine the effects of typical and atypical antipsychotics on human iPSC-derived neural progenitor cells (NPCs). Methods: Proliferation and neurite outgrowth were measured by live cell imaging, and gene expression levels related to neuronal identity were analyzed by RT-QPCR and immunocytochemistry during differentiation into hippocampal dentate gyrus granule cells following treatment of low- and high-dose antipsychotics (haloperidol, olanzapine, and risperidone). Results: Antipsychotics did not modify the growth properties of NPCs after 3 days of treatment. However, the characteristics of neurite outgrowth changed significantly in response to haloperidol and olanzapine. After three weeks of differentiation, mRNA expression levels of the selected neuronal markers increased (except for MAP2), while antipsychotics caused only subtle changes. Additionally, we found no changes in MAP2 or GFAP protein expression levels as a result of antipsychotic treatment. Conclusions: Altogether, antipsychotic medications promoted neurogenesis in vitro by influencing neurite outgrowth rather than changing cell survival or gene expression. This study provides insights into the effects of antipsychotics on neuronal differentiation and highlights the importance of considering neurite outgrowth as a potential target of action. Full article

Diastolic dysfunction (DD) is a prevalent and clinically significant complication after heart transplantation (HTX). We aimed to characterize the diastolic function of HTX recipients with both short-term and long-term follow-ups by applying left atrial (LA) deformation analysis. We consecutively enrolled and followed up with 33 HTX patients. Three assessments were performed one month, 3–5 months, and 3–5 years after surgery. Beyond conventional echocardiographic measurements, apical four-chamber views optimized for speckle tracking analysis were acquired and post-processed by dedicated software solutions (TomTec AutoStrain LA and LV). Left atrial phasic functions were characterized by reservoir, conduit, and contraction strains. We categorized diastolic function according to current guidelines (normal diastolic function, indeterminate, DD). At the first assessment, nine (27%) patients were in the DD category, and eleven (33%) were indeterminate. At the second assessment, only one patient (3%) remained in the DD category and six (18%) were indeterminate. At the third assessment, 100% of patients were categorized as having normal diastolic function. LA reservoir strain gradually increased over time. LA contraction strain significantly improved from the second to the third assessment. We found a correlation between the LA reservoir strain and NT-proBNP (r = 0.40, p < 0.05). DD is prevalent immediately after HTX but rare until the end of the first postoperative quarter. Speckle tracking analysis enables the characterization of LA phasic functions that may reflect both short- and long-term changes in diastolic function and correlate with NT-proBNP. Full article