bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic equilibrium of the sustainable ecosystem variables
Authors: Perroni Marcos G. , Veiga Claudimar Pereira da , Su Zhaohui , Ramos Fernando Maciel , Silva Wesley Vieira da
Published: March 2022

Strategies for achieving sustainability equilibrium between human activity and nature are essential to the global and local scenario. Our work highlights the importance of restoring the stability between economic activity and nature. Developing indicators to monitor this equilibrium is necessary to reduce uncertainty in formulating strategies, decisions, or actions. The Matrix decomposition analysis (MDA) adapts the Leontief input-output equations for the disaggregated structural decomposition of key performance indicators (KPI). At the farm level, three experiments denominated “marginal exponentiation” are proposed to compare the MDA with the Data envelopment analysis (DEA) and Stochastic frontier analysis (SFA). RMarkdown was used for methodological operationalization. Data science steps are coded in specific chunks, applying a layered process with modeling and successive analyses such as descriptive statistics, correlation, cluster, and Linear discriminant analysis (LDA). Given the results, we may argue that the MDA is a Leontief partial equilibrium model that produces indicators with dual interpretation, enabling measurement of the dynamic equilibrium of the sustainable ecosystem variables. The method offers a new ranking system that detects relative changes in the use of resources correlated with efficiency analysis. MDA might provide a new robust ranking system capable of detecting relative changes in the use of resources that can be applied to input-output relationships of many organizations. We found that MDA can identify if a given ecosystem is in equilibrium and that the instability can be caused by the excessive use of resources or abnormal productivity.
The privilege of I- SCAN over white light Endoscopy in the diagnosis of Portal HypertensiveGastropathy in an Egyptian population.
Authors: Marwan Ahmed , Gaheen Mahmoud , Moniem Sawsan M. Abdel , Elshazly Tarek Amin
Published: March 2022

Background: Endoscopic imaging of Portal Hypertensive Gastropathy (PHG) depends on white light endoscopy (WLE). Sometimes WLE may miss many lesions and may cause misinterpretation of findings, leading to delayed or inefficient therapeutic modalities. The aim was to assess the privilege of using I-SCAN over conventional WLE in the diagnosis of PHG among liver cirrhosis patients. One hundred fifty-three patients with cirrhosis and portal hypertension were examined endoscopically with both conventional WLE and I-SCAN modes (1, 2 &3).Results: I-SCAN modes were able to define PHG with higher cut off value for the platelets count and lower cut off values for Portal Vein diameter and splenic size. I-SCAN 2 &3 almost share the ability to detect the red color of the blood vessels, capillaries and submucosal hemorrhage. All I-SCAN modes showed statistically significant difference against WLE in detection of mosaic pattern in fundus of the stomach (P<0.001) with both I-SCAN 1 &2 having the highest true positive rate (95.3%). I-SCAN 2 was the best mode to detect mosaic pattern compared to WLE and other I-SCAN modes with sensitivity 95.3%, specificity 51.9% and accuracy 87.7%. Regarding red spots detection, I-SCAN 2 was the only mode with statistically significant difference against WLE. Although, I-SCAN 3 had the highest true positive rate (75.6%) versus (69.3%) for I-SCAN 2. Both I-SCAN 2 &3 shared sensitivity value 100%. But; regarding the specificity I-SCAN 2 was 52.8% against 39.6% for I-SCAN 3. I-SCAN 3 detected more positive cases with red spots of PHG (72.1%) than WLE and other I-SCAN modes. Regarding the severity both I-SCAN 2 &3 detected the same number of cases with severe red spots (16.9%). Conclusions: I-SCAN 2 is considered a better visualizing modality for PHG and its criteria (mosaic pattern & red spots) in gastric mucosa. Combining magnification technique with I-SCAN functionality could enhance the diagnostic ability depending on the gastric mucosal pit patterns and comparing it to the patterns associated with other diseases.
Dynamic analysis and optimization of a novel reconfigurable parallel mechanism
Authors: Huang Guanyu , Zhang Dan , Zou Qi , Kong Ling-Yu
Published: March 2022

In this paper, a new reconfigurable parallel mechanism by applying a spatial multi-loop over-constrained mechanism is proposed. The reconfigurable parallel mechanism has 4 degrees of freedom (DOF), and its different performance indices can be continuously changed. According to its inverse kinematic model, its workspace, dexterity, and stiffness are all analyzed. This paper also establishes the dynamics model, and a novel dynamic index is proposed to optimize the proposed mechanism. With these novel performance indices, both the kinematic and the dynamic performance for this mechanism are shown to be greatly improved.
Transcriptome sequencing of PBMC reveals Hsa-miR-124-5p regulates cell cycle and metabolism of lipids via targeting CSTF2/ TXNRD1 in hearing loss patients
Authors: Zhang Dongdong , Sun Yixin , Zou Cong , Hong Yongjun , Lei Min , Wang Yue , Zeng Peiji , Wang Wei , Qi Fangyu , Cai Chengfu
Published: March 2022

BackgroundHearing loss (HL) is a public health event, which seriously affects the happiness of people’s life. Hsa-miR-124-5p has not been reported in HL. This study aimed to construct a miRNA-mRNA network associated with HL.MethodsSubjects were screened through clinical audiology experiments. MiRNA-seq was performed on the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC), and the differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs, P-Value < 0.05, ∣log FC | ≥1) were obtained by analysis. We selected the most significantly up-regulated DEMs for research. We predicted the downstream target genes of the most significantly up-regulated DEMs through miRDB, mirDIP, mirtarbase and TargetScan databases, and four database overlapping genes were considered as downstream target genes. Enrichment analysis was performed on overlapping genes. Then, a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of overlapping genes was performed through STRING database, aimed to pick out hub genes. Finally, we construct the miRNA-mRNA network.ResultsThere were 6 clinical participants, 3 hearing loss patients and 3 healthy subjects.There are 29 DEMs, of which hsa-miR-124-5p is the most significantly up-regulated DEMs. 13 downstream target genes corresponding to hsa-miR-124-5p were screened, which were significantly enriched in cell cycle and metabolism of lipids. PPI analysis was performed on 13 target genes, and two hub genes (CSTF2/ TXNRD1) were finally obtained. Most importantly, miRNA-mRNA networks containing hsa-miR-124-5p/CSTF2 and hsa-miR-124-5p/TXNRD1 were successfully constructed.ConclusionsIn summary, hsa-miR-124-5p may be a novel biomarker for hearing loss patients and play a important role in hearing loss patients by targeting CSTF2 and TXNRD1. Hsa-miR-124-5p may participate in cell cycle and metabolism of lipids biological process in hearing loss patients.
Effects and Mechanism of the Conditions of Sintering on Heavy Metal Leaching Characteristic in Municipal Solid Waste Incineration Fly Ash
Authors: He Sheng , Zhou Yitong , Yu Peng , Xia Xin , Yang Hongtao
Published: March 2022

Municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) fly ash treated with toxicity metals holds enormous potential for constructure use to economize on resources and protect environment. To reach the goal, this study investigated the effects of sintering conditions on leaching characteristic of heavy metals for MSWI fly ash, especially Cr, Cr6+, Ag, and Ba, with orthogonal and Box-Benhnken design experiment, which considered grain size (D50=30, 45, and 60μm), fluxing agent (CaO=0, 2.5, and 5%), setting temperature (1000, 1050, and 1100℃), and setting time (120, 180, and 240min). The mechanism of immobilization for heavy metals was also discussed through the analyses of morphological characterizations, mineral phases, chemical composition and leaching values of metals. The results indicated that changing grain size and adding fluxing agent of CaO has positive influence on reducing the leaching of heavy metals compared with direct sintering. The leaching values of As, Pb, Cd, Cu, Ni, Zn, Mn, Hg, Be, Se and fluoride are not detected after sintering. Ideal sintered condition with desirability of 1.00 was predicted and optimized by Box-Benhnken response method in grain size of D50=30μm, fluxing agent of CaO=5%, setting temperature=1050℃, and setting time=180min, which immobilized Cr, Cr6+, Ag, and Ba lower than the limitation of standards. Actual experiment was consistent with numerical optimization. Furthermore, the model of leaching characteristic for heavy metals in MSWI fly ash was established to better explain the mechanism during sintering.
Role of “banker plants” in integrated Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders) and Earias insulana (Boisd.) management
Authors: Mesbah Hassan A. , Massoud Magdy A. , El-Kady Magda B. , Henady zainb M. , El-bassouiny Hisham
Published: March 2022

To reduce global warming caused by the overuse of conventional chemical pesticides used for pest management, this study tested the effectiveness of okra and corn as banker plants with Trichogramma evanescens release for the sustainable management of cotton bollworms in comparison to conventional chemical pesticides and the release of T. evanescens alone (control). We found that okra and corn with T. evanescens release were more effective in decreasing the incidence of cotton bollworms than the conventional chemical pesticides or T. evanescens alone. We also found that okra and corn encouraged the spread of bollworm natural enemies in the treated cotton fields, which had a large impact on the number of cotton bollworm larvae, thus reducing the need for conventional pesticides. Thus, banker plants combined with T. evanescens release can support agrobiodiversity and help realize the integrated management of the cotton bollworm by reducing the use of conventional chemical pesticides and contributing to global warming reduction.
A Functional Reference Map of RNF8 Interactome in Cancers
Authors: Liu Chuanyang , Kuang Jingyu , Wang Yuxuan , Duan Ting , Min Lu , Lu Chenyu , Zhang Tianyi , Chen Ruifen , Wu Ying , Zhu Lingyun
Published: March 2022

BackgroundRNF8 was an E3 ligase identiﬁed as a critical DNA damage-responsive protein. Recently, massive reports showed that RNF8 could be used as an important therapeutic target for cancer chemo/radiotherapy. However, the in-depth understanding of RNF8 remains limited for the lack of its interactome reference map and comprehensive analysis in divergent cancers, which underscore the need to identify the interactome of RNF8 via high-throughput methods. ResultsA two-way identification method based on LC-MS was designed for the identification of RNF8 interactome with high-specificity. By in silico analysis and in vitro validation, we identified a new reference map of RNF8 interactome network containing substantial new targets, such as YBX1, DNMT1, and HDCA1, new biological functions and the gene-disease associations of RNF8. Our results implied a close relationship between RNF8 and neurodegenerative diseases or tumor-infiltrating immune cells using bulk RNA-seq and scRNA-seq datasets. As a proof of concept of our interactome map, we validated the direct binding between RNF8 and YBX1, and showed that RNF8 catalyzed the ubiquitination of YBX. These results demonstrated that RNF8 might be a crucial regulator of YBX1.ConclusionsOur work provides a unique framework for researchers and clinicians who seek to better explore or understand RNF8-regulated biological functions in cancers. This study hopefully will facilitate rational design and further development of anti-RNF8 therapy in cancers.
Retrospective evaluation of the impact of dose escalation using pre-operative simultaneous integrated boost volumetric modulated arc therapy on the outcome of locally advanced rectal cáncer patients
Authors: Elashwah Ahmed , Alsuhaibani Abdullah , Abduljabbar Alaa , Alsanea Nasser , Alhomoud Samar , Ashari Luai , Bazarbashi Shouki , Aljubran Ali , Alzahrani Ahmed , Awad Ahmed , Almanea Hadeel , Alhussini hussah , Alshabanah Mohammed
Published: March 2022

BackgroundRadiation therapy has a well-established role in the management of locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) patients. Several strategies have been investigated to improve the pathological complete remission (PCR) rate including radiation dose escalation utilizing simultaneous integrated boost volumetric modulated arc therapy (SIB-VMAT) technique.Methodsevaluating the outcome of preoperative SIB-VMAT concomitant with Capecitabine to patients diagnosed with LARC who were treated at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSH&RC), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia during the period January 2013 - December 2019.ResultsThe study enrolled 134 patients. The median age at diagnosis was 59 (25-102) years. All patients received pre-operative concurrent chemo-radiation therapy (CCRT) using SIB-VMAT with oral capecitabine. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy was administered prior to CCRT in 32 patients (23.9%). The dose of radiation was 55 Gy in 94 patients (70.1%), while 40 patients (29.9%) received 50 Gy. All patients completed the CCRT treatment without breaks. No records of acute and late grade III and IV toxicities. Acute toxicity grades I and II occurred in 40 patients (29.9%). Curative surgery was performed in all patients with a median interval of 11 (6-52) weeks between the end of CCRT and the date of surgery. No reported 30-days postoperative mortality and no grade III and IV Clavien-Dindo complications. PCR was reported in 26 patients (19.4%), while pathologically negative nodes (pN0) were achieved in 103 patients (76.9%). Adjuvant chemotherapy was utilized in 57 patients (42.5%). The 5-year local recurrence-free survival (LRFS), disease-free survival (DFS), and overall survival (OS) were 93.2%, 67.1%, and 87.3%, respectively. Only Tumor regression grade (TRG) was significantly correlated with LRFS,(p-value 0.043). On multivariate analysis, only (TRG) and achievement of pN0 were significantly correlated with DFS,(p value<0.001).ConclusionDose escalation utilizing (SIB-VMAT) in the preoperative treatment of LARC is well tolerated and provides effective local control.
Co-evolutions of temperature and monsoonal precipitation patterns from the latest Pleistocene to the mid-Holocene in Japan: Carbonate clumped isotope record of a stalagmite
Authors: Kato Hirokazu , Mori Taiki , Amekawa Shota , Wu Chung-Che , Shen Chuan-Chou , Kano Akihiro
Published: March 2022

Quantitative paleotemperature reconstruction is a challenging and important issue in paleoenvironmental studies, for which carbonate clumped isotope (Δ47) thermometry is a promising approach. Here we analyzed Δ47 values from 66 layers of OT02 stalagmite from Ohtaki Cave in central Japan, covering two separate time intervals (2.6–8.8 and 34.8–63.5 ka) to reconstruct terrestrial temperature and meteoric δ18O records. The average Δ47 temperature of the Holocene portion of this stalagmite was 16.3°C ± 5.6°C and the average of the latest Pleistocene portion was 9.7°C ± 4.6°C. Δ47 thermometry also revealed that the coldest intervals (5°C–10°C) correspond to the Heinrich stadials HSs4–6, and the warmest interval (up to 19.9°C ± 6.0°C) in middle Holocene (approximately 6–5 ka) accompanied by the Hypsithermal climate optimum. We also reconstructed past meteoric δ18O by subtracting the temperature effect from stalagmite δ18O. Average meteoric δ18O was − 8.22‰ ± 0.99‰ VSMOW in the Holocene and − 8.81‰ ± 0.84‰ in the latest Pleistocene. Over centennial timescales, meteoric δ18O was lower during colder periods, such as Heinrich stadials and the cooling event around 7 ka, and higher in warmer periods, such as Hypsithermal warming. These relations indicated synchronicities of terrestrial paleotemperature and paleoprecipitation in our study region. A temperature dependency of total 18O fractionation from sea water to precipitation is a likely reason for the negative correlation between temperature and meteoric δ18O. Additionally, East Asian summer monsoon (EASM) brought larger rainfall of high δ18O during the warm periods, whereas larger snow/rainfall of low δ18O brought from East Asian winter monsoon (EAWM) in colder periods. δ18O of OT02 had thus reflected changes in terrestrial temperature and meteoric δ18O, which are both strongly related to EASM and EAWM conflicting in a centennial timescale.
Full-length ITS Amplicon Sequencing of Feline Gut Mycobiome of Malaysian Local Breeds Using Nanopore Flongle
Authors: Tay Darren Dean , Siew Shing Wei , Kamal Shamrulazhar Shamzir , Razali Mohd Najib , Ahmad Hajar Fauzan
Published: March 2022

The gut mycobiome exhibits major influence on the gastrointestinal health and disease but received less attention due to low abundance. This study characterises the fungal community and compares the microbial diversity between indoor and outdoor cats. Genomic DNA was extracted and sequenced by targeting the full-length internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region using Flongle flow cell on MinION™ sequencing platform. Results show the Ascomycota and Peniophorella were numerous in indoor cats, whereas the Basidiomycota and Pichia were abundant in outdoor cats. Peniophorella formed the core mycobiome in both feline populations. Furthermore, alpha (p-value = 0.0207) and beta diversities results (p-value = 0.009) showed significant differences between the two groups. Overall, indoor cats have greater amounts of Peniophorella, whereas outdoor cats have higher Trichosporon and unclassified Sordariaceae. The study also suggests that keeping a cat indoors or left as a stray will affect their respective gut mycobiome.
Analysis of renewable energy generation efficiency and its influencing factors considering competition between decision making units: A case study of China
Authors: Yang Yugui , Dong Fugui
Published: March 2022

Currently, China's renewable energy power generation industry is facing problems such as mismatch between output and input, and regional imbalance in power generation efficiency. Measuring power generation efficiency and identifying the key constraints to improving it is an important way of exploring measures to improve power generation efficiency from a management perspective. This paper constructs a system of input-output assessment indicators for the efficiency of renewable energy generation in China, and evaluates and analyses the efficiency of hydro, wind and solar power generation in each province of China for the period 2016–2020 using the DEA game cross-efficiency model. The results show widespread inefficiencies and uneven regional development in the three renewable energy generation industries. The hydropower generation efficiency changed little, the wind power generation efficiency decreased slightly, and the solar power generation efficiency gradually increased. On this basis, the key factors affecting the efficiency of hydro, wind and solar power generation in China were analyzed separately through the Tobit model. The results show that natural resources, grid conditions, and inter-provincial power transmission are important factors in improving the efficiency of renewable energy generation. This paper also makes recommendations for improving the efficiency of renewable energy generation in China in terms of policy formulation, technology promotion and grid construction.
Analysis on The Current Situation of Geography Teaching Research in Middle School -Taking China as An Example
Authors: Ni Yunzhang , Gu Hongliang
Published: March 2022

The analysis of the current situation of middle school geography teaching research is of great significance to the future teaching and research. Through combing the research results in recent 20 years, the results show that: (1) The number of documents issued changed gently before 2005, then increased rapidly, but showed a significant downward trend after 2019. (2) Among the top 100 document issuing institutions, urban, county town, and township account for 73%, 22% and 5% respectively. As far as the number of middle school geography teachers is concerned, it has continued to grow over the years, and the number of cities and counties has been higher than that of villages, and villages show a downward trend. (3) In terms of the education background of middle school geography teachers, the proportion of obtaining graduate education increased from 0.78% in 2000 to 7.09% in 2020, and the proportion of less than undergraduate education is becoming less and less. Although the Chinese government's investment in education has increased year by year over the past 20 years, the proportion of education investment in GDP in recent years is about 4%, which is lower than the world average 5.1%. (4) In terms of keyword analysis, there are similarities and differences between Chinese and English literature. The same research hotspots are GIS, environmental education, and map etc. (5) In terms of the number of papers published by researchers, Xu Baofang has the most achievements, with 11 papers and less than 10 others. On the author's cooperative relationship, there is only one cooperative team within the nine-year scale.
A Comprehensive Voltammetric Characterization of In Vivo Histamine Dynamics Reveals Critical Modulatory Roles of This Elusive Messenger
Authors: Berger Shane , Baumberger Beatrice , Samaranayake S , Hersey M , Mena Sergio , Bain Ian , Duncan W , Reed M C , Nijhout F , Best J , Hashemi Parastoo
Published: March 2022

Histamine is well known for mediating peripheral inflammation, but histamine is also found in high concentrations in the brain where amongst other roles, this amine is thought to be neuromodulator. Neuromodulation is critical for brain function, yet histamine dynamics are very difficult to measure and thus several fundamental aspects of the mechanisms that control the extracellular and modulatory behavior of this messenger remain undefined. In this work we undertake the first in-depth characterization of in vivo histamine dynamics in real time using fast-scan cyclic voltammetry at carbon fiber microelectrodes. We measure electrically evoked histamine in the mouse hypothalamus and find that histamine release is sensitive to pharmacological manipulation at the level of synthesis, packaging, autoreceptor control of release, and metabolism. We find two breakthrough aspects of histamine modulation. First, there are differences in H3 receptor regulation of histamine between sexes showing that histamine release in female mice is more much tightly regulated than in male mice under H3 or inflammatory drug challenge. We hypothesize that this finding may contribute to hormone-mediated neuroprotection mechanisms in female mice. Second, we find that a high dose of a commonly available antihistamine, the H1 receptor inverse agonist diphenhydramine, rapidly decreases serotonin levels. This high dose is considered overdose; however, this finding highlights the sheer significance of better consideration of the modulatory nuances of histamine on serotonin.We, thus, present the first in depth in vivo characterization of fast histamine dynamics and highlight two breakthrough regulatory aspects of this elusive modulator. The implications of our study are new avenues to better understand and treat histamine related disorders of the brain (such as neuroinflammation), emphasizing that sex and modulation (of serotonin) are critical factors to consider when studying/designing new histamine targeting therapeutics.
Circulating Y-RNAs, a predicted function controlling the Immune System, Cell Signaling, and DNA Replication in Pediatric Patients with Pilocytic and Diffuse Astrocytoma
Authors: Rodríguez-Corona Juan Manuel , Esparza-Garrido Ruth Ruiz , Horta-Vega Jorge , Velázquez-Flores Miguel Ángel
Published: March 2022

Background. Y-RNAs are small noncoding RNAs firstly identified in patients suffering the Sjögren’s syndrome and lupus erythematosus, having different predicted cellular functions. In this work, circulating Y-RNAs were detected in blood serum from pediatric patients with pilocytic or diffuse astrocytoma, by means of the HTA 2.0 arrays. In addition, a bioinformatic approximation of the possible biological functions of Y-RNAs was determined with the “Random Forest” and “Vector Support Machine” algorithms. Results. Data showed a differential expression of RNY-3, RNY-4, and -5 in tumors relative to the control. Meanwhile, RNY-1 was shown to be highly upregulated in the Diffuse condition versus the Pilocytic one. The bioinformatic analysis showed the interaction of all these Y-RNAs with different proteins, but RNY-4 and RNY-5 had the highest scores of interaction with the Claudin domain-containing protein 1, isoform α and Toll-like receptor 5, and the Hyaluronidase-1 isoform 3. Because Y-RNAs are processed in vivo to produce fragments through RNase processing, a second analysis was performed to determine the Y-RNAs loop domain interactions with these receptors. Results showed the highest score of interaction for RNY-3/B cell receptor CD22 isoform 1, followed by RNY-4/Toll-like receptor 7 and 3. Conclusions. Altogether, our results showed, for the first time a differential expression of circulating Y-RNAs in pediatric astrocytoma, allowing to distinguish pediatric patients without cancer from patients with pediatric diffuse or pilocytic astrocytoma and their potential involvement in regulating diverse biological processes, such as immune activation or suppression, cell signaling, selective transcription, and cell proliferation through DNA replication activation.
The implementation of an online mindfulness-based program for pediatric patients at a tertiary hospital in South America: a study protocol
Authors: Pasqualucci Paula Lage , Seifert Georg , Filho Vicente Odone , Santos Angelica Carreira dos
Published: March 2022

Background: The prevalence of chronic and complex pediatric health conditions has quickly risen over the last decades. Chronic and complex health conditions make pediatric patients and their families more susceptible to many distressing events during their lifespan. Mindfulness-based interventions have become a popular intervention for individuals living with chronic illnesses and have been adapted for pediatric populations with good results, including online versions. This study intends to report an implementation protocol of an online mindfulness-based program for adolescents to address an important gap in stress relief and health promotion for pediatric patients.Methods: In this article, we describe the rationale and design of an implementation study of an online mindfulness-based program for pediatric patients at a tertiary pediatric hospital in South America. Participants will be recruited during one year to participate in an eight-session online mindfulness-based program. To assess our primary aim of feasibility, we will exam recruitment, retention and participation rates. Participants will also complete a symptomatology evaluation (i.e., depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms) at baseline and immediately at posttreatment and fidelity will be evaluated by a structured questionnaire.Discussion: This study will be the first known to assess the implementation of an online mindfulness-based program for a pediatric population at a tertiary pediatric center in South America under real-life conditions. This study will establish the feasibility of a novel intervention aimed at promoting mental health and positive coping strategies among pediatric patients with chronic and complex health conditions. Evidence from this study would be useful to patients, families, clinicians, and policymakers and will help to devise strategies of health promotion for the pediatric population, as well as serve as a model for a future trial to examine efficacy of the proposed intervention.Trial registration: This research has been registered at Ensaiosclinicos.gov.br, identifier RBR-23trp87. Registered 25 February 2022 - Retrospectively registered, https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-23trp87
Design and Modelling of ZnO-Memristive Temperature Sensor
Authors: Kailasam Rathnakannan , cs Ajai Kumar
Published: March 2022

This paper discuss about design and modeling of a ZnO based memristive temperature sensorthat can be used for ambient temperature measurement and for smart home ambience system(s) that is best shown with improvement in its temperature measurement variation rate. The model under discussion incorporates memristor-technology bringing in better scalability, higher utilization and overall lower power consumption. The results show that this memristive sensor gives better sensitivity and thus suitable for dynamic applications. The sensor comprises of ZnO film, being pyroelectric in nature act as the active region while sandwiched between electrodes build over a silicon substrate. In this study, the voltage and frequency play a major role in depicting the memristor characteristics while the dimensions decide the more efficient pyroelectric sensitivity of the model. This sensor does not require bias and can be used as an autonomous sensor in application like IoT.
Relationship of retinopathy of prematurity with trajectory of hemoglobin, anemia and blood transfusion in very premature/very low birth weight neonates: a repeated measurement analysis
Authors: Xu Doudou , Zhang Jingling , Cheng Zimei , Gao Hui , Wang Yang
Published: March 2022

Purpose : To investigate the effects of trajectory of hemoglobin and duration of anemia over the first 5 weeks of life on risk of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).Methods: We enrolled 465 premature infants with <32 gestational weeks or <1500g. Logistic regression was performed to analyze associations between the risk of ROP and hemoglobin, anemia and the number of blood transfusions at each gestational week. Generalized estimating equation was used to analyze the association of ROP with repeated-measured hemoglobin, anemia and blood transfusions. Finally, the dose-response relationship between hemoglobin level during the first week and the risks of ROP were analyzed using restrictive cubic spline analysis.Results: ROP was associated with decreased hemoglobin concentrations [OR = 0.997, 95%CIs = 0.994～1.000), anemia (OR = 1.175, 95%CIs = 1.011～1.364) and increased numbers of blood transfusion (OR = 1.373, 95%CIs = 1.233～1.528). Compared to the high trajectory of hemoglobin, infants with low hemoglobin trajectory had high risk of ROP (OR = 1.553, 95%CIs = 1.040～2.320). The hemoglobin during the postnatal first week was associated with risk of ROP in a nonlinear manner. The risk of ROP was lowest when the concentration of hemoglobin was approximate 140g/L.Conclusions: Anemia and blood transfusion after birth were independent risk factors of ROP. Besides, the concentrations of hemoglobin during the first five weeks of life was associated with the risk of ROP, and should be controlled at 140g/L in premature neonates immediately.
Alleviation of 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid accumulation on Verticillium dahliae infection of upland cotton
Authors: Jia Ming-zhu , Li Zhi-fang , Han Shuan , Wang Song , Jiang Jing
Published: March 2022

Background
Verticillium wilt of cotton is a serious disease caused by the infection of soil borne fungus Verticillium dahliae Kleb, but the infection mechanisms remain to be explored. Here, we investigated how phytohormones ethylene affected the infection of V. dahliae strain Vd991 on cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) cultivar YZ1. The precursor of ethylene biosynthesis is 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC), whose production in vivo depends on activation of ACC synthase (ACS).
Results
Preliminary observations indicated that ACC applications reduced the disease incidence, disease index and stem vascular browning by impeding fungal biomass accumulation. Transcriptome and qRT-PCR data disclosed that Vd991 induced GhACS2 and GhACS6 expression. GhACS2- or GhACS6-overexpressing transgenic YZ1 lines were created, respectively. In a Verticillium disease nursery, these ACC-accumulated transgenic plants showed decreased disease indexes, stem fungal biomasses and vascular browning. More importantly, these ACC-accumulating plants decreased the green fluorescent protein-marked Vd991 colonization and diffusion in root tissues. Further, either ACC treatment or ACC-accumulating cotton plants activated salicylic acid (SA)-dependent resistance responses.
Conclusions
The GhACS2- and GhACS6-denpendent ACC accumulations enhanced the resistance of cotton to V. dahliae in a SA-dependent manner, and this lays a foundation for cotton resistance breeding.
Identification of Mesenchymal stem cells Functions in the development of osteosarcoma：A bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Cui Ying , Li Dongli , Ma Tianjun , Song Qingfeng , Liu Haizhou , Wu Hong , Sun Wen , He Mei
Published: March 2022

Background：Mesenchymal stem cells can promote osteosarcoma cell proliferation and migration, while the underlying mechanism remains unknown. The aim of the study was to identify the crucial genes between mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) and osteosarcoma cells (OS) to investigate the potential molecular mechanism of osteosarcoma.Methods：GSE42352 and GSE39262 were downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The GEO2R calculation method was used to analyze these two gene profiles. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between mesenchymal stem cells and osteosarcoma cells. Moreover, FunRich was utilized to conduct functional enrichment analysis. These DEGs were mapped to STRING database to construct a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, and hub genes were identified by Cytoscape plug-in CytoHubba and CytoNCA. Furthermore, the expression of identified hub genes was validated by the GEPIA database. The correlations between microRNA (miRNA) and hub genes were analyzed by the online website StarBase. The correlation among microRNA (miRNA), transcription factors (TFs) and hub genes were analyzed by Cytoscape plug-in iRegulon and TRRUST database. Cytoscape was used to establish a regulatory network of TF‐miRNA‐target gene. Finally, the TCGA clinical data was used to verify the clinical pathological features of CCNA2.Results: A total of 225 markedly robust DEGs were identified (101 upregulated and 124 downregulated). Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analysis showed that these DEGs were related to various cancer-related biological pathways and functions. A PPI network was constructed including 225 nodes and 1695 edges, and 9 hub genes were found in the PPI networks. Re-analysing a PPI network of all cell cycle genes showed CCNA2 is the most important node in biological networks. Analysis of human samples confirmed that miR-381 and CCNA2 exhibited an inverse pattern of expression in human osteosarcomas. Analysis of the original patients data from TCGA Website confirmed that CCNA2 expression increased in patients was associated with metastatic. Investigating the relationship between CCNA2 and tumour immunity showed CCNA2 was involved in the infiltration of CD4+ T cells in SARC and had a significant coexpression relationship with CD274 and TOX.Conclusions: CCNA2 is a promising prognostic biomarker and potential therapeutic target for OS patients. In particular, miR-381 may inhibit the proliferation of OS by specifically targeting CCNA2.
Investigation of SNPs in the Precision ID Identity Panel using next-generation sequencing in a Myanmar population
Authors: Joo Su Min , Kwon Ye-Lim , Moon Mi Hyeon , Shin Kyoung-Jin
Published: March 2022

Background—Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have become popular in forensic genetics as an alternative to short tandem repeats (STRs) due to low mutation rates and small amplicon sizes. The Precision ID Identity Panel (Thermo Fisher Scientific), consisting of 90 autosomal SNPs and 34 Y-SNPs, was introduced for human identification by next-generation sequencing (NGS), enabling many studies on the global population; however, few reports are available on the Southeast Asian population.Methods and Results—A total of 96 unrelated male samples from Myanmar (Yangon) were analyzed with the Precision ID Identity Panel on a MiSeq (Illumina) using an in-house TruSeq compatible universal adapter. The sequencing performance was evaluated by locus balance and heterozygote balance, and the results were comparable to those of the Ion Torrent platform. For 90 autosomal SNPs, minor allele frequencies ranged between 0.068 and 0.500, and combined match probability (6.994×10−34) was lower than that of 22 PowerPlex Fusion autosomal STRs (3.130×10−26). Moreover, we identified 51 cryptic variations around the target SNPs using a custom variant caller, Visual SNP. For 34 Y-SNPs, 14 Y-haplogroups were observed—mostly O2 and O1b groups. Interpopulation analysis revealed that the Myanmar population is genetically closer to the East and Southeast Asian populations than the South Asian population.Conclusions—We demonstrate that the Precision ID Identity Panel can be successfully analyzed on a MiSeq using a custom data analysis pipeline and provide high discrimination power for human identification in the Myanmar population, while extending the accessibility of NGS analysis for SNPs in forensics.
Ochratoxin Determination in Food Samples by Fabric Phase Sorptive Extraction Coupled with High- Performance Liquid Chromatography Technique
Authors: Olia Aida Esmati Arze , Mohadesi Alireza , Feizy Javad
Published: March 2022

The sample preparation step is very useful in results precision and accuracy. Achievement to a quickly performed, inexpensive, sensitive, and accurate analytical approach for measuring extremely small amounts of a dangerous compound such as mycotoxin, in addition to environmental issues, is always required and important. In this paper, fabric phase sorptive extraction (FPSE), a novel sorbent-based microextraction method, was used for the first time to obtain a basic and quick ochratoxin A extraction from cereals and legumes. To achieve maximum efficiency, key experimental factors in FPSE process were optimized. At the extraction stage, volume and type of solvent, time of extraction and salt effect, and in the desorption step, volume and pH of back-extraction solvent and time of desorption were evaluated. Extracted ochratoxin A was analyzed by HPLC-FLD method. The chromatographic separation was performed using mobile phase H2O: ACN: acetic acid (49:49:2, v/v/v) at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min on C18 column with fluorescence detection (λex = 333 nm and λem = 447 nm). Limit of detection was found to be 0.49 ng/mL, whereas absolute acceptable recoveries (76.34-112.96%) with low relative standard deviations within day and between-day precision were (≤ 9.2% and ≤ 11.0, respectively) achieved.
Current status and trends in researches based on public intensive care databases: A scientometric investigation
Authors: Li Min , Du Shuzhang
Published: March 2022

Objective
Public intensive care databases cover a wide range of data produced in intensive care units which would provide scientific basis for clinical diagnosis and treatment. Public intensive care databases draw attention of medical researchers since they were time-saving and money-saving in obtaining large amounts of data. This study aimed to explore status and trends of researches based on public intensive care databases via CiteSpace.
Method
Articles based on public intensive care databases, published from 2001 to 2021 in the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC), were retrieved on October 18, 2021. CiteSpace was used to generate network maps and reveal hot spots and frontiers of researches based on public intensive care databases.
Results
A total of 456 studies were collected. China, Zhejiang Uni and Zhongheng Zhang were the most prolific country, institution and author in this field, respectively. Meanwhile, USA and MIT have more closed cooperative relationship with others. Six hot topics and knowledge bases were concluded through keyword analysis and reference analysis. Researches based on public intensive care databases are in the stage of rapid development, with more problem types and disease types being investigated. Machine learning is still the main research method in this field.
Conclusions
This scientometric investigation could help researchers directly perceived the research status and trends in this field. With more researchers know about public database, they would be fully explored by clinicians and scientists and finally promote the development of critical care medicine.
Effects of a chair positioning session in awake non-intubated COVID-19 pneumonia patients: a multicenter, observational, pilot study using lung ultrasound
Authors: Lopez Alexandre , Simeone Pierre , Delamarre Louis , Duclos Gary , Arbelot Charlotte , Lakbar Ines , Pastene Bruno , Bezulier Karine , Dahan Samuel , Joffredo Emilie , Jay Lucille , Velly Lionel , Allaouchiche Bernard , Hraiech Sami , Leone Marc , Zieleskiewicz Laurent
Published: March 2022

BackgroundLung ultrasound (LUS) is a validated tool for the management of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-related pneumonia. An awake prone positioning (PP) improves oxygenation and outcomes in COVID-19 non-intubated patients, but its tolerance remains an issue. A chair positioning (CP) may have beneficial effects on oxygenation and lung aeration. Thus, CP could be an easier alternative to PP. This study assessed the effects of a CP session on oxygenation (using SpO2:FiO2 ratio) and lung aeration (using lung reaeration score) changes in non-intubated COVID-19 patients. Methods An observational multicenter study was conducted in three university hospital intensive care units (ICUs). We retrospectively analyzed prospectively collected data from LUS exams performed before and after a CP session in non-intubated COVID-19 patients. Patients were divided into groups of responders or non-responders in terms of oxygenation and lung aeration.ResultsOf the 33 patients included in the study, 14 (44%) were oxygenation non-responders and 18 (56%) were oxygenation responders, and 13 (40.6%) and 19 (59.4%) patients were classified as lung aeration non-responders and responders, respectively. Changes in oxygenation and lung aeration before and after a CP session were not correlated (Pearson’s r = -0.19, p = 0.3, 95% CI: -0.5–0.17). The reaeration scores did not differ between oxygenation responders and non-responders (1 [-0.75–3.75] vs. 4, [-1–6], p = 0.41). The LUS score was significantly correlated with SpO2:FiO2 ratio before a CP session (Pearson’s r = 0.37, p = 0.04, 95% CI: 0.03–0.64) but not after (Pearson’s r = 0.17, p = 0.35, 95% CI: -0.19–0.50). Conclusion A CP session was associated with improved oxygenation and lung aeration in more than half of the non-intubated COVID-19 patients. However, oxygenation and lung aeration changes were not associated, suggesting that a CP session induces a ventilation:perfusion matching alteration.
Design and Synthesis of Novel 3- Arylil 2-oxindole for Sirtuin 2 Inhibition
Authors: Arabi Mehdi Sheikh , Asadi Pouyan , Khajeniazi Safoura
Published: March 2022

Class III histone deacetylases (sirtuins) have essential roles in many cellular processes. They are related to prolonged longevity and to the cancer pathogenesis and neuronal illnesses. Sirtuin 2 inhibition as a vital enzyme which are involved in overexpression and the process of aging, rise the lifespan of yeasts. According to the signs, these enzymes are incorporated in causing viral disorders and also mediate cancer. Although today potent inhibitors of SIRT2 are existing, 3-Arylideneindolin-2-ones byproducts as potent compounds with least side effects and high efficiency have been defined as the candidate for a new generation of SIRT2 inhibitors. In computational study, sunitinib was used as the template for reference drug. Molecular docking to identify potential hit compounds carried out. So as to confirm our hit compounds, molecular dynamics simulations and related analysis were done and the findings propose that our hit compound which can be potential inhibitors of the sirtuin 2. Novel sirtuin 2 inhibitors based on a 6,7-dichloro-2-oxindole scaffold with low micromolar activity are presented. In vitro activity was justified by docking studies, and sirtuin 2 targets hyperacetylation could be exhibited in cell culture.
Workforce situation of the Chinese mental health care system: results from a cross-sectional study
Authors: Yue Jing-Li , Li Na , Que Jian-Yu , Hu Si-Fan , Xiong Na-Na , Deng Jia-Hui , Ma Ning , Sun Si-Wei , Chi Rui , Shi Jie , Sun Hong-Qiang
Published: March 2022

Background High-quality mental health services can improve outcomes for disabled people with mental health problems and abate the burden of mental disorders. We sought to identify the challenges the country’s mental health system currently faces and provide recommendations on how the human resource situation in mental health could be addressed in China.Methods This study used a cross-sectional survey design. A web-based questionnaire approach and a convenience sampling method were adopted. It was carried out from September 2020 to January 2021 in China and we finally included 3824 participants in analysis. Descriptive statistical analysis of characteristics of study sample was performed. The risk factors for competence in psychological counseling/psychotherapy was assessed using multiple linear regression analysis. Results Workforces related to psychotherapy are scarce in China, especially in Western China and community mental health sectors. Psychiatrists (39.1%) and nurses (38.9%) were the main service providers of psychotherapy in psychiatric hospitals, and clinical psychologists (6.9%) and counsellors (5.0%) were seriously scarce in mental health care sectors. A total of 74.2% of the respondents had no systematic psychological training, and 68.4% and 69.2% of them had no self-experience and professional supervision respectively. Compared with clinical psychologists and counsellors, psychiatrists and nurses had less training. Systematic psychological training (β = -0.884), self-experience (β = -0.586) and professional supervision (β = -1.260) significantly influenced psychotherapy capacity (P＜0.001).Conclusions Sustained effort will be required to provide a high-quality, equitably distributed psychotherapy mental health workforce in China, despite challenges for community mental health sectors and western China being likely to continue for some time. Because mental illness is implicated in so many burgeoning social ills, addressing this shortfall could have wide-ranging benefits.
A comprehensive study of Iraqi marshlands, with the emphasis on the development possibilities
Authors: Alani Mina A. , Shen Jie , Koko Auwalu Faisal
Published: March 2022

Iraqi Marshes is one of the most important historical heritage in Iraq and in the middle east, it has a very important geographical location and unique architecture and landscape design. For many years, Iraqi marshlands was always appealing to the scholars from all around the word. In 2016, marshlands had been inscribed on the “World Heritage List” during the 40th session if the World Heritage Committee. Marshland’s Inhabits usually enjoy a very unique life style. This area have different kind of animal, birds, and plants. Back in the 90s, there was a destructive action that done by the former Iraqi government which involves drainage of the marshlands, that led the inhabitants to leave the area. After 2003 there was a refolding of the marshlands, however, despite the cultural and historical importance of the marshlands, until now this area is still neglected and not getting the enough attention for development, the paper focus on investigating and fully analyses these area using data collection from literature review for the possibilities of future development and emphasizing the importance of the environmental tourism that can play a major role in Iraq’s national income. The result of the research has shown a poor managements to the marshland, there is no any governmental plans to develop the marshlands. Thus we should shed a light on this area and put its development into consideration.