bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Performance of Medium-Chain-Length Polyhydroxyalkanoates Production Between Pseudomonas Aeruginosa and Pseudomonas Putida
Authors: Boonyawanich Siriorn , Tanikkul Pinanong , Thenchartanan Pornpanna , Pisutpaisal Nipon
Published: February 2021

Non-degradable polymer waste enlarged over increasing of human population. This badly affected on environmental pollution and biosphere changing. Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), an eco-friendly biopolymer, were substituted for conventional- or petrochemical-derived polymer. They are reserve carbon energy produced from diversity of microorganisms in granular under limited nutrient for bacterial growth (e.g. nitrogen and phosphorus). Pseudomonas aeruginosa TISTR 1287 was used to catalyze emulsified palm oil to produce valuable PHAs. The highest yield of PHAs production (0.65 g/L, 38.0%) was obtained in MSM supplemented with 0.75% (v/w) emulsified palm oil after 72-hr cultivation, which was a few lower than that produced by Pseudomonas putida TISTR 1522 (0.95 g/L, 40.15%) cultivated in 1% (w/v) fatty acid salt for after 24-hr cultivation. The intracellular PHAs were detected by staining with Nile red . The characters of intracellular PHAs examined by Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) exhibited that PHAs accumulate in white and roundish-shaped granules with 0.2-0.5 m m diameter inside the cells, about 2-3 granules per rod-shaped bacterium cell. These optimizations were successfully demonstrated high content of intracellular PHAs accumulation in P. aeruginosa TISTR 1287 by utilization of emulsified palm oil.
Calculation of Electron Transport in Branched Semiconductor Nanostructures Using Quantum Network Model
Authors: Tsurikov Davyd
Published: February 2021

Electron transport in branched semiconductor nanostructures provides many possibilities for creating fundamentally new devices. We solve the problem of its calculation using a quantum network model. The proposed scheme consists of three computational parts: S-matrix of the network junction, S-matrix of the network in terms of its junctions’ S-matrices, electric currents through the network based on its S-matrix. To calculate the S-matrix of the network junction, we propose scattering boundary conditions in a clear integro-differential form. As an alternative, we also consider the Dirichlet-to-Neumann and Neumannto- Dirichlet map methods. To calculate the S-matrix of the network in terms of its junctions’ S-matrices, we obtain a network combining formula. We find electrical currents through the network in the framework of the Landauer– B¨uttiker formalism. Everywhere for calculations, we use extended scattering matrices, which allows taking into account correctly the contribution of tunnel effects between junctions. We demonstrate the proposed calculation scheme by modeling nanostructure based on two-dimensional electron gas. For this purpose we offer a model of a network formed by smooth junctions with one, two and three adjacent branches. We calculate the electrical properties of such a network (by the example of GaAs), formed by four junctions, depending on the temperature.
Experimental Design Modelling and Optimization of Triazine Herbicides Removal With Reduced Graphene Oxide Using Response Surface Method
Authors: Foschi Martina , Capasso Paola , Maggi Maria Anna , Ruggieri Fabrizio , Fioravanti Giulia
Published: February 2021

In this work, triazines were chosen as the organic micropollutants model, to develop a useful method for the removal of triazine products, using a reduced derivative of graphene oxide as adsorbent material. The pristine graphene oxide and its thermally reduced derivatives under mild conditions were tested, optimizing the GO reduction conditions by means of DOE coupled with the response surface methodology. For the reduction it was decided to choose the mildest and simplest conditions possible, using an air heat treatment in a common laboratory oven. The optimal reduction conditions deduced from the response surface were calculated at a reduction temperature of 110 °C maintained for 24 hours and rGO sample was employed in the adsorption of the triazines. All the adsorbent materials have been characterized before use, by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Brunauer-Emmett- Teller (BET) surface area analysis. Triazine analyses were performed by HPLC. The data obtained from the adsorption isotherms have been fitted with the Langmuir and Freundlich models, and the Freundlich model was the best one, especially for the Atraton and the Prometryn. The maximum adsorption capacity obtained was 4.4 mg/g for Atrazine, 19.4 mg/g for Atraton and 18.4 mg/g for Prometryn, at room temperature.
Development the Flexible Magnetic Abrasive Finishing Process by Transmitting the Magnetic Fields
Authors: moghanizadeh abbas
Published: February 2021

The objective of this research is to present a novel approach in magnetic abrasive finishing to improve its potential for creating different finishing patterns in free-form surface using no special fixtures or tool machines to minimize the complexity of the process. The key point of this idea is that magnetic abrasive particles can move in especial patterns by transfer magnetic fields (similar a magnetic train moving on a magnetic rail) and create the desired polishing patterns on the surface simultaneously. The coils are placed under a thin plate, then a flexible magnetic path is created by a special arrangement of magnetic coils, after that, the coils are turned on and off in turn, and the magnetic abrasive particles move in the created path and abrasive the surface. The continuous movement of magnetic abrasive particles under the magnetic field will lead to abrasive the surface of thin sheets. The tests were performed on copper sheets with a thickness of 1 mm. Experimental parameters include electric current (0.25, 0.5, and 0.75A), speed of turning on and off of the coils (speed of magnetic abrasive particle movement) (20, 30, and 40 mm/s), and process time (1, 2, and 3 hours). The experiments were performed on an L-shaped and free-form sheets. The results show that using a transmission magnetic field in the MAF (TMAF) makes it easy to create different surface roughness patterns in different directions simultaneously. While in one part of the L shape the electric current is 0.25A, the surface roughness of is around 0.9 µm, in the other part, where the electric current is 0.75A, the surface roughness of is around 0.55 µm. Meanwhile, TMAF makes it possible to finish a free-form surface with no special fixtures. Moreover, there is a direct relationship between the change in the surface roughness and the electric current and process time.
Optimization of Metallic Powder Filaments for Additive Manufacturing Extrusion (MEX)
Authors: Cerejo Fábio Silva , Gatões Daniel , Vieira Teresa
Published: February 2021

Additive manufacturing (AM) of metallic powder particles has been establishing itself as sustainable, whatever the technology selected. Material Extrusion (MEX) integrates the ongoing effort to improve AM sustainability, in which low-cost equipment is associated with a decrease of powder waste during manufacturing. MEX has been gaining increasing interest for building 3D functional/structural metallic parts because it incorporates the consolidated knowledge from powder injection moulding/extrusion feedstocks into the AM scope—filament extrusion layer-by-layer. Moreover, MEX as an indirect process can overcome some of the technical limitations of direct AM processes (laser/electron-beam-based) regarding energy-matter interactions. The present study reveals an optimal methodology to produce MEX filament feedstocks (metallic powder, binder and additives), having in mind to attain the highest metallic powder content. Nevertheless, the main challenges are also to achieve high extrudability and a suitable ratio between stiffness and flexibility. The metallic powder volume content (vol.%) in the feedstocks was evaluated by the critical powder volume concentration (CPVC). Subsequently, the rheology of the feedstocks was established by means of the mixing torque value, which is related to the filament extrudability performance.
Narrowing but Persisting Gender Pay Gap among Employees of the US Department of Health and Human Services during 2010-2018
Authors: Chen Zhuo (Adam) , Zhang Yihong , Luo Huabin , Zhang Donglan , Rajbhandari-Thapa Janani , Wang Yuheng , Wang Ruoxi , Bagwell-Adams Grace
Published: February 2021

Background. The gender pay gap in the United States (US) has narrowed over the last several decades, with the female/male earnings ratio in the US increased from about 60% before the 1980s to about 79% by 2014. However, the gender pay gap among the healthcare workforce persists. The objective of this study is to estimate the gender pay gap in the US federal health workforce during 2010-2018. Methods. We used an administrative dataset including annual pay rates and job characteristics of employees of the US Department of Health and Human Services. Employees’ gender was classified based on first names. Regression analyses were used to estimate the gender pay gap using the predicted gender. Results. Women employees of the DHHS earn about 13% less than men in 2010, and 9.2% less in 2018. Occupation, pay plan, and location explain more than half of the gender pay gap. Controlling job grade further reduces the gap. The unexplained portion of the gender pay gap in 2018 may fall between 1.0% and 3.5%. Women have a small advantage in terms of pay increase over the study period.Conclusions. While the gender pay gap has narrowed within the last two decades, the pay gap between men and women in the federal health workforce persists and warrants continuing attention and research. Continued efforts should be implemented to reduce the gender pay gap among the health workforce.
Analogical Reasoning as an Inference Scheme
Authors: Walliser Bernard , ZWIRN Denis , ZWIRN Hervé
Published: February 2021

Analogy plays an important role in science as well as in non-scientific domains such as taxonomy or learning. We make explicit the difference and complementarity between the concept of analogical statement, which merely states that two objects have a relevant similarity, and the concept of analogical inference, which relies on the former in order to draw a conclusion from some premises. For the first, we show that it is not possible to give an absolute definition of what it means for two objects to be analogous; a relative definition of analogy is introduced, only relevant from some point of view. For the second, we argue that it is necessary to introduce a background over-hypothesis relating two sets of properties; the belief strength of the conclusion is then directly related to the belief strength of the over-hypothesis. Moreover, we assert the syntactical identity between analogical inference and single case induction despite important pragmatic differences.
Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs): the importance of human capital
Authors: Campino José , Brochado Ana , Rosa Álvaro
Published: February 2021

The Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) subject has been gaining relevance due to its novelty, due to the capital amounts involved in the projects, as well as the disruptive technology and methods involved. ICOs are a disruptive way to finance new projects which involve high risks and which are mainly technological. This way to finance a project has been compared to others, namely, crowdfunding, venture capital or Initial Public Offerings (IPOs). Nevertheless, ICOs have very specific characteristics which make them unique. We have studied the ICO projects and developed a literature review on the topic. Building on the Human Capital Theory (HCT), we have also studied the importance given to the project’s team and its perceived impact on projects’ success. Our contribution to fill in this literature gap was to develop an econometric model which measures the impact of team’s characteristics on the success of a project. The database was collected with the combination of two data sources and is composed of 3158 profiles and 340 ICO projects. We have concluded that team variables are significant contributors to project’s success. Our data suggests that people’s location contributes to projects’ success as well as promoters’ networks. The ratings attributed by external parties to the project are also indicators of success. Several control variables such as the implementation of thresholds to investment, the number of currencies accepted, the platform in which the ICO is developed, the existence of bonus schemes and the year of the project were found to be statistically significant having an impact on projects’ outcome.
Canopy Characterization of Sweet Chestnut Coppice in the North of Spain From Lidar Data
Authors: Prada Marta , Canga Elena , MAJADA Juan , Martínez-Alonso Celia
Published: February 2021

One important part of a forest stand that is impacted by forest management is the canopy structure. Canopy structure is closely related to ecosystem functions as it plays an important role in the relationships between structural complexity, biodiversity and stand productivity. The Leaf Area Index (LAI) is a key parameter that helps to understand the connection between canopy structure and ecosystem functions. In this study, the main aims were to examine the impact of forest management on canopy structure using LiDAR data to characterize the canopy vertical profile, the development of LAI models and a descriptive mapping tool for sweet chestnut (Castanea Sativa Mill.) coppice. Twenty-one circular plots (r=10m) were established, each of which was submitted to one of the following forest management treatments: Control, with no intervention (3300-3700 stems ha-1); Treatment 1, one thinning to leave a living stock density of 900–600 stems ha-1; or Treatment 2, a more intensive thinning, leaving 400 stems ha-1. An LAI field measurement was made in all plots and the study area was recorded by LiDAR. With the LiDAR two types of metrics were calculated: standard elevation metrics and canopy metrics. The latter allowed the complete characterization of the canopy from ground to maximum height. The results showed the different canopy layers of the study area, highlighting how the resprout layer influences the canopy structure of sweet chestnut coppice. By combining the LiDAR data and the LAI field estimates various linear and non-linear models were developed and tested, the linear model being found to have the best accuracy for the study area (Cross-validation: R2 (0.79) and RMSE (0.20)). With the selected linear model and other LiDAR data of interest such as the 95th percentile, an automatic mapping tool was designed. This tool allows spatially information to be generated that can be used to implement management strategies to improve productivity, ecosystem functions, forest management planning and/or fuel management.
Comparison of Airborne Laser Scanning (3D) with Sentinel-2 (2D) for Estimating Above Ground Biomass/Carbon Stock in a Subtropical Chir Pine Forest of Balakot, Pakistan
Authors: Ullah Sami , Saeed Tahir , Shafique Muhammad , Saad Muhammad , Khan Adnan
Published: February 2021

Forest ecosystems act as a sink of atmospheric carbon dioxide in the form of biomass, and plays one of the crucial role for carbon sequestration and in regulating the global carbon cycle. Few studies based on ground sample plots were conducted for estimating forest biomass/carbon stock across Pakistan. This study comparing the first time the potential of three dimensional (3D) airborne laser scanning (ALS) with two dimensional (2D) Sentinel-2 to estimate above-ground biomass/carbon stock (AGB/C) in a Subtropical Chir Pine forest of Balakot, Pakistan. We derived height and density metrics from the ALS canopy height model (CHM), and different metrics from Sentinel-2 images, and were regressed with field measured AGB/C at sample plots locations. We found R2 = 0.86 with RMSE% = 25.70, and R2 = 0.62 with RMSE% = 43.92 for ALS and for Sentinel-2 respectively with ground measured AGB/C at sample plots locations. Our study demonstrated that 3D ALS technology has greater potential and is the most accurate option as compared to 2D Sentinel-2 for regular planning and monitoring of AGB/C in the context of the national forest inventory of Pakistan. Our study will be useful for the accomplishment of the REDD+ in measuring, reporting, and verification of forest resources, and future sustainable utilization of forest, safeguarding the livelihoods of forest-dependent people, and reducing pressure on forest ecosystems.
Proteomics Analysis: Inhibiting the Expression of P62 Protein by Chloroquine Combined with Dacarbazine Can Reduce the Malignant Progression of Uveal Melanoma
Authors: Fei xifeng , Xie Xiangtong , Qin Ruwei , Wang Anqi , Meng Xuan , Sun Fei , Zhao Yifan , Ji Xiaoyan , Huang Qiang , Wang Zhimin
Published: February 2021

Background: Although uveal melanoma (UM) at the early stage is controllable to some extent, it inevitably ultimately leads to death due to widespread metastasis to the entire body. At present, the difficulty is that there is no way to effectively tackle the metastasis. It is hypothesized that these will be treated by target molecules, but the recognized target molecule has not yet been found. In this study, the target molecule was explored through proteomics.Methods: Transgenic enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) inbred nude mice, which spontaneously display a tumor microenvironment (TME), were used as model animal carriers. The UM cell line 92.1 was inoculated into the brain ventricle stimulating metastatic growth of UM, and a graft re-cultured Next, the UM cell line 92.1-A was obtained through monoclonal amplification, and a differential proteomics database, between 92.1 and ectopic 92.1-A, was established. Finally, bioinformatics methodologies were adopted to optimize key regulatory proteins, and in vivo and in vitro functional verification and targeted drug screening were performed. Results: Cells and tissues displaying green fluorescence in animal models were determined as TME characteristics provided by hosts. The data of various biological phenotypes detected proved that 92.1-A were more malignant than 92.1. Besides this malignancy, p62 protein, selected from 5267 quantifiable differential proteomics databases, was a multifunctional autophagy linker protein, and its expression could be suppressed by chloroquine and dacarbazine that are commonly applied in clinics. Inhibition of p62 could reduce the malignancy degree of metastatic UM. Conclusion: As the carriers of human UM orthotopic and ectopic xenotransplantation, transgenic EGFP inbred nude mice clearly display the characteristics of TME. In addition, the p62 protein optimized by the proteomics is the key protein that increases the malignancy of 92.1 cells, which therefore provides a basis for further exploration of target molecule therapy for refractory metastatic UM.
A Network Pharmacology Exploring the Mechanism of a Chinese Medicine Pair for the Treatment of Gout
Authors: Zhao Wenjia , Liu Wei , Wu Yuanhao
Published: February 2021

Background:Gout is a crystalline-related arthropathy aroused by monosodium urate aggradation, which directly have a bearing on the disturbance of purine excretory and/or hyperuricemia, and seriously affects human health. In China, Dioscoreae Hypoglaucae Rhizoma (DH) and Smilacis Glabrae Rhixoma (SG) are widely used as medicinal pairs to prevent and treat gout. However, there is still a lack of research on the mechanism of DS (DH and SG). The aim of this study is to identify the absorbable components, potential targets and related therapeutic pathways of DS by means of network pharmacology.Material/Methods:We searched the effective chemical components of DS from TCMSP database, and explored the target of DS from GeneCards, a Bioinformatics Analysis Tool for Molecular mechANism of Traditional Chinese Medicine (BATMAN-TCM) and STITCH database. Databases such as Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM), Therapeutic Target Database (TTD) and Pharmacogenomics Knowledgebase (PharmGkb) were used to query treatment targets for gout. Cytoscape software was applied to build the network map, KEGG database was applied to analyze the pathway of action, and finally a multi-component-multi-target-multi-channel DS treatment gout network was formed.Results: We found 16 active components, 24 KEGG metabolic pathways and 47 common targets of DS. The herb couple DS shares 9 targets with gout, including NOD like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3), Steryl-sulfatase (STS), Ephrin type-B receptor 2 (EPHB2), 5'-AMP-activated protein kinase catalytic subunit alpha-1 (PRKAA1), ROS Proto-Oncogene 1, Receptor Tyrosine Kinase (ROS1), Solute carrier family 22 member 12 (SLC22A12), Phospholipid-transporting ATPase IB (ATP8A2), Interferon regulatory factor 6 (IRF6) and P2X purinoceptor 7 (P2RX7), which may be the key point of DS in the treatment of gout.Conclusions:In this study, we tried to explain the mechanism of DS in the prevention and treatment of gout by using the network pharmacological method and provided an alternative way to study the effect of this Chinese medicine pair.
Biosafety Evaluation and Quantitative Determination of Poly(hexamethylene biguanide) (PHMB) Coated on Cellulosic Fabrics by Kubelka-Munk Equation
Authors: Wang Wen-Yi , Chiou Jia-Chi , Chen Wan-Xue , Yu Jia-Li , Kan Chi-wai
Published: February 2021

It is a challenge to determine the quantity of cationic finishing agents on the surface of cellulosic fabrics. Herein, we report a direct and feasible method by Kubelka-Munk equation to quantify the cationic poly (hexamethylene biguanide) hydrochloride (PHMB) adsorbed onto cotton fabrics based on the principle of formation of a stable blue dye between PHMB and bromophenol blue sodium (BPB). The adsorption of PHMB onto cotton fabrics was first investigated and the maximum adsorption of PHMB was found to be around 8 mg per gram of cotton fabric. After being dyed with BPB, colour strength shows a positive correlation with PHMB at low concentrations (< 2400 mg/L). A linear relationship with a high correlation (C(PHMB) = (K/S—0.7411)/3.4517, R2 = 0.9983) was thus established between colour strength and PHMB concentration. However, this equation should fulfill four requirements for quantifying PHMB: (1) the distribution of PHMB on the surface of cellulosic fabric should be in the form of a monolayer with the content less than 5.3 mg/g; (2) an excess of BPB dyebath should be applied; (3) the dyeing should come to equilibrium; and (4) the fabrics should be evenly dyed. Moreover, MTT assay results indicate that excess PHMB coated on cotton fabrics can cause cytotoxicity and the quantity of PHMB should not exceed 4.62 mg per gram of cotton fabrics for the purpose of biosafety. The sample can be considered non-cytotoxic if the K/S value is lower than 13.2 after dyeing with BPB.
Potential Use of Renewable Energy for Rural Electrification in Pakistan by Incorporating Blockchain Technology
Authors: Rana Aqsa , Gróf Gyula
Published: February 2021

Background: Significant innovations in technology and progressing use of renewable energy sources (RES) reinforce the demand for the sustainable, continuous and abundant supply of energy to every consumer. Blockchain, as an emerging technology promises to provide temper proof, secure, transparent and decentralized energy trading mechanisms that help to provide sustainable environmental solutions by circulating economy to empower both consumers and prosumers. The rapid development of blockchain technology has gained interest from energy start-ups, innovation developers, finance suppliers, academic institutions and government. Results: This study outlines potential significance, benefits and application of blockchain technology and analyses how Pakistan can integrate blockchain technology into its distribution system to cope with current challenges. Although the substantial renewable potential of Pakistan is an opportunity to implement blockchain technology but financial management, innovative technology development and acceptance of decentralized technology are the biggest obstacles. After a detailed discussion of Pakistan's current financial position, digital market structure, energy policy and technology situation for the implication of blockchain technology, Photographic Geographical Information System (PVGIS-5) data base tool is used to estimate solar power generation capacity from prosumer community in potential areas of country like Baluchistan. Conclusion: This study recommended feasible site for solar power generation according to PVGIS tool. Then introduces a street scenario about domestic power generation and blockchain based distribution into Pakistan's energy sector like Brooklyn energy system by regulating laws, revising energy polices and suitable development subsidies.
Electrical Energy Transition in the Context of Ghana
Authors: Osei-Tutu Paul , Boadi Samuel , Kusi-Kyei Vincent
Published: February 2021

Background In Ghana, energy transition as a research theme is new and its manifestations are not glaring. It is inconclusive as to whether energy transition has occurred or not, and in what form if it has occurred. The study sought to find out if energy transition has occurred in Ghana’s electrical energy sector and how. Methods Pieces of information on Ghana’s electrical energy transition manifestations were obtained from reviews of Ghana’s renewable energy policy documents, namely the Ghana Renewable Energy Act (2011) and the Ghana Renewable Energy Master Plan (2019); reviews of Ghana energy sector reports, newspaper articles and information on the websites of Ghana’s energy sector institutions such as the Volta River Authority, Ghana Grid Company Limited, Electricity Company of Ghana and the Northern Electricity Distribution Company; and personal observations.Results The study found that fundamental changes have occurred in Ghana’s electrical energy sector: in the form of transition from exclusive hydro energy to hydro-thermal mix, with thermal constituting about 69% of the 2020 generation mix; and transition from exclusively State supply to State-private supply mix, with about 56% of present supply coming from private companies. These changes have been motivated by need to expand energy supply in response to increasing demand of 10-15% per annum. Renewable energy has attracted attention in policy, with targets such as 10% renewable energy in the energy mix by 2030 and provision of renewable energy to 1,000 off grid communities by 2030. However, renewable energy currently constitutes less than 1% of the electrical energy mix. There has been no change in heavy reliance on fossil energy for vehicular transportation.Conclusions Energy transition in its broad sense of fundamental changes in a country’s electrical energy system has occurred in Ghana but sustainability energy transition in the sense of transition to greener energy has not occurred in Ghana. It is recommended that further studies are conducted on why Ghana’s renewable energy agenda has so far only been agenda in policy with very minimal implementation in practice.
Transcriptome Characterization of Panax Quinquefolius L. seedlings in Response to Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi using RNA-seq
Authors: Ran Zhifang , Yang Xiaotong , Zhang Yongqing , Zhou Jie
Published: February 2021

Panax quinquefolius L. has been considered as an important traditional Chinese medicine with a history of more than 300 years in China. Ginsenoside is the main bioactive component. Our research group has found that the accumulation of ginsenoside could be affected by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). However the underlying mechanism how AMF affected the biosynthesis of ginsenoside in P. quinquefolius is still unclear. In this study, the RNA-seq analysis was used to evaluate the effects of AMF (Rhizophagus intraradices, R. intraradices) on the expression of ginsenoside synthesis related genes in P. quinquefolius root. The results indicated that a symbiotic relationship between R. intraradices and P. quinquefolius was established. RNA-seq achieved approximately 48.62 G reads of all samples. Assembly of all the reads involved in all samples produced 63420 transcripts and 24137 unigenes. Differential expression analysis was performed between the control and AMF group. A total of 111 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in response to AMF vs control were identified, 78 and 33 transcripts were upregulated and downregulated, respectively. Based on the functional analysis, Gene ontology (GO) analysis revealed that most DEGs were related to stress responses and cellular metabolic processes. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis identified transduction, plant hormone signal transduction and terpenoids and polyketides biosynthesis pathways. Furthermore, the expression of glycolysis-related genes and ginsenoside synthesis related genes was largely induced by AMF. In conclusion, our results comprehensively elucidated the molecular mechanism how AMF affected the biosynthesis of ginsenoside in P.quinquefolius by transcriptome profiling.
Comprehensive Comparison on Optical Properties of Samarium Oxide (Micro/nano) Particles Doped Tellurite Glass for Optoelectronics Applications
Authors: M.N Azlan , S.S Hajer , Kamari Halimah Mohamed , S.A Umar , M.H.M Zaid , R. Hisam , S.M Iskandar , B.K Kenzhaliyev , G.K Kassymova , N.N Yusof
Published: February 2021

Rare-earth oxides microparticles doped tellurite-based glass have been studied extensively to improve the capability of optoelectronic devices. We report a detailed comparison between two sets of glass series containing samarium microparticles and nanoparticles denoted as ZBTSm-MPs and ZBTSm-NPs respectively. The two sets of glass have been successfully fabricated via melt-quenching technique with chemical formula {[(TeO2)0.70 (B2O3)0.30]0.7 (ZnO)0.3}1-y (Sm2O3 (MPs/NPs)) y with y = 0.005, 0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04 and 0.05 mol fraction. The TEM analysis confirmed the existence and formation of nanoparticles in ZBTSm-NPs glasses. The density of ZBTSm-NPs glasses was found higher than ZBTSm-MPs glasses due to the distributions of nano-scale particles in tellurite glass network. There was a linear trend of increment in the refractive index in both sets of glass series along with the concentrations of dopants. The refractive index of ZBTSm-NPs glasses was found higher than ZBTSm-MPs glasses due to the shift in compactness of glass structure with nano-scale particles. In comparison, the absorption peaks of ZBTSm-MPs glasses were greater than ZBTSm-NPs glasses which were mainly due to the restriction of electrons mobility in glass network with nano-scale particles. The optical band gap energy in ZBTSm-NPs glasses was found greater than ZBTSm-MPs glasses which correspond to the widening of forbidden gap with nano-scale particles. The polarizability of ZBTSm-NPs and ZBTSm-MPs was found in non-linear trend along with dopant concentrations. Based on these findings, the improvement of optical properties have been made by introducing samarium oxide nanoparticles in tellurite glass which is beneficial for optoelectronic devices.
Light Therapy Reduces Fatigue in Patients With Cancer: Protocol for a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Xiao Panpan , Ding Siqing , Duan Yinglong , Li Lijun , Zhou Yi , Luo Xiaofei , Xie Jianfei , Cheng Andy SK
Published: February 2021

BackgroundFatigue is a common symptom in cancer patients that can occur throughout the course of cancer, with a prevalence ranging from 75% to 100%. Nonpharmacological intervention is currently mainly used to address cancer-related fatigue (CRF). Light therapy has been gradually used to treat CRF and has been found to be effective. However, to date, there is no systematic review on light therapies for reducing CRF to verify its effectiveness. This is a protocol for a systematic review that aims to evaluate the effectiveness of light therapies for treating fatigue in cancer survivors. This systematic review protocol was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) database.MethodsThis protocol was designed in accordance with the PRISMA-P guidelines. We will search the PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; The Cochrane Library), Embase (OVID), and CINAHL databases as well as relevant sources of gray literature. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-experimental trials that have evaluated the use of light therapy among cancer patients at any survival phase, with fatigue as an outcome measure, will be included. Two members of the review team will independently extract data from the selected studies and assess their methodological quality using the Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias Tool.DiscussionThis systematic review and meta-analysis will build upon previous evaluations of light therapies in patients during and after cancer treatment. Due to the multifactorial nature of CRF and the growing demand for etiological-based intervention research, this review seeks to highlight a gap in current practice and to strengthen the evidence base of randomized controlled trials in the area.Systematic review registrationCRD42020215446
Establishment of Qualified Integrated Care System after Total Knee Arthroplasty as a Role of Regional Rheumatoid and Degenerative Arthritis Center
Authors: Han Eun Young , Kim Sang Rim , Im Sang Hee
Published: February 2021

Elderly population and advanced knee osteoarthritis are rapidly increasing in Korea and the socioeconomic burden of total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This study aimed to analyze the demographic, clinical and socioeconomic characteristics in patients who underwent TKA and to differentiate the factors affecting participation in inpatient- intensive rehabilitation program after TKA in oo regional rheumatoid and degenerative arthritis center established by government. This retrospective cohort study included 845 patients (735 females; 72.0 ± 5.8 years) diagnosed with primary osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee and who performed an elective unilateral primary TKA between January 2013 and June 2016. Demographic, clinical and socioeconomic characteristics including age, body mass index, obesity, length of stay, OA severity, underlying disease, education level, occupation, location of residence) were reviewed and Patients were allocated to TKA only group (home discharge) and to TKA + rehab group (participation in post-TKA rehabilitation). The variables were analyzed and compared before and after establishment of center and according to participation in intensive rehabilitation. They showed predominance of female and elderly and high prevalence of comorbidities and obesity. Also, the only factor differentiating participation in intensive rehabilitation was the location of residence. Therefore, the regional rheumatoid & degenerative arthritis center was appropriate to meet the high need for participating in intensive rehabilitation after TKA and for the qualified integrated post-TKA care system. The policy support should ensure early rehabilitation and qualified integrated care system and prepare for the increased burden of revision and the future longitudinal study should be conducted for long-term effect of the integrated post-TKA rehabilitation program on functional outcome and patients’ survivorship free from revision.
Long Noncoding RNA FER1L4 Promotes Papillary Thyroid Cancer Progression by Targeting miR-612/CDH4 Axis
Authors: Wu Luyao , Ding Yu , Zhuang Xi , Cai Jingsheng , Tong Houchao , Si Yan , Zhang Hao , Wang Xiaoting , Shen Meiping
Published: February 2021

Background: Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as crucial regulators in various cancers. However, the functional roles of most lncRNA in papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) are not detailly understood. This study aims to investigate the biological functions and the molecular mechanism of lncRNA FER1L4 in PTC.Methods: The expression of FER1L4 in PTC was determined via operating RT-PCR assays. Meanwhile, the clinical significance of FER1L4 in PTC patients was described. The biological functions of FER1L4 on PTC cells were evaluated by gain and loss of function experiments. Moreover, animal experiments were performed to reveal the effect on tumor growth. Subcellular distribution of FER1L4 was determined by fluorescence in situ hybridization and subcellular localization assays. Luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation assay were applied to define the relationship between FER1L4, miR-612, and CDH4. Results: Upregulated expression of FER1L4 in PTC tissues was correlated with higher lymph node metastasis rate (p=0.020), extrathyroidal extension (p=0.013), and advanced TNM stage (p=0.013). In addition, knockdown of FER1L4 suppressed PTC cell proliferation, migration and invasion, whereas ectopic expression of FER1L4 inversely promoted these processes. Mechanistically, FER1L4 could competitively bind with miR-612 to prevent the degradation of its target gene Cadherin 4 (CDH4). This condition was further confirmed in the rescue assays.Conclusions: This study firstly demonstrates FER1L4 plays an oncogenic role in PTC via FER1L4-miR-612-CDH4 axis and may provide a new therapeutic and diagnostic target for PTC.
Multi Response Optimization of ECDM Process Parameters for Machining of Microchannel in Silica Glass Using Taguchi–GRA Technique
Authors: Bellubbi Sadashiv , Nanjundaswamy Sathisha , Mallick Bijan
Published: February 2021

In this work, machining of microchannel in silica glass was successfully carried out using electro chemical discharge machining (ECDM) process. The experiments were planned according to L27 orthogonal array with applied voltage, stand-off distance (SOD), electrolyte concentration, pulse frequency and pulse-on-time (TON) as control factors. The material removal rate (MRR), overcut (OC) and tool wear rate (TWR) were considered as response characteristics. In this study the effects of control parameters on MRR, OC and TWR have been investigated. The multi-objective optimization of ECDM was carried out through grey relational analysis (GRA) method. Optimal combination of process parameters achieved from GRA was 45V applied voltage, 25wt.% electrolyte concentration, 1.5mm SOD, 400Hz pulse frequency and 45μs TON. ANOVA for GRG study revealed that the applied voltage (70.33%) was most significant factor affecting output responses followed by electrolyte concentration (11.69%), pulse frequency (4.98%) and SOD (4.13%). Furthermore, the regression equations were formulated for the optimum combination to predict the collaboration and higher-order effects of the control parameters. In addition confirmation test was conducted for the optimal setting of process parameters and the comparison of experimental results exhibited a good agreement with predicted values. The microstructural observation of machined surface for the optimum combination was carried out.
Biomechanical Evaluation of Cortical Bone and Traditional Trajectories for Lumbar Single Level Segment Fixation
Authors: Dai Yuan , Jiang Jianyuan , Shao Minghao , Lu Feizhou
Published: February 2021

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the biomechanical stability of a lumbar internal fixation system with 3 different fixation techniques by the establishment of a three-dimensional finite element (FE) model of lumbar single level fixation.Methods: A three-dimensional osseoligamentous nonlinear FE model of osteoporosis lumbar 4-5 (male, aged 57 years, height 170 cm, weight 70 kg, bone mineral density T value -2.8SD) was built to detect the biomechanical stability of an internal fixation system with the following 3 screw trajectories: traditional pedicle screw trajectory fixation (TT), cortical bone trajectory (CBT) screw and hybrid pedicle screw fixation (CBT + TT). The location and area of maximal equivalent stress and the angular displacement of this lumbar model with different screw trajectories were measured in anterior bending, posterior extension, lateral bending and during rotation.Results: The angular displacement of this lumbar model with the 3 different screw trajectories was similar, all of which could restrict the angular displacement of lumbar vertebrae. The maximal equivalent stress was located at the border of the CBT screw and rod, with the hybrid screw fixation technique in axial rotation. Conclusion: The use of CBT and TT screws in lumbar internal fixation had similar stability. The CBT screw could be an alternative solution to lumbar short-segmented fixation, but temporary immobilization would be required to avoid the failure of CBT screw fixation due to the increasing stress in position of extensive lateral bending and rotation.
Knowledge and Perceptions of Preconception Care Among Health Workers and Women of Reproductive Age in Mzuzu City, Malawi. A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Munthali-Nkhoma Mtondera Eness , Kazanga-Chiumia Isabel , Mandiwa Chrispin , Mwale Saul
Published: February 2021

Background: Preconception care is one of the preventive strategies in maternal and new-born health as recommended by WHO. However, in sub-Saharan Africa there is poor preconception care practices. This study examined knowledge and perceptions of preconception care among health workers and women of reproductive age group in Mzuzu city, Malawi. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional mixed methods approach utilizing quantitative and qualitative methods was employed. Selection of respondents was done through a multistage and purposive sampling techniques. A total of 253 women of reproductive age from 9 townships of Mzuzu City responded to the questionnaire and 20 health workers were interviewed.Results: Of the 253 women, 57.7% (n =146) demonstrated a good level of knowledge of preconception care while 42.3 % (n =107) had poor knowledge level. About 72% (n =105) of those with good level of knowledge lacked awareness on possibilities of talking to a health care provider on intentions of getting pregnant. About 74.7 % (n =189) of women had a positive perception towards preconception care. Knowledge level of women was a good predictor of positive perception (AOR = 2.5; 95% CI = 1.215 – 5.023), however its prediction capacity varied with the academic level attained. Those with secondary (AOR =10.2; 95% CI = 3.285 - 26.276) and tertiary (AOR=2.3; 95% CI = 1.146 – 4.952) were more likely to have good knowledge than those with primary school level education. About 95% (n =19) of health workers lacked details about preconception care but they admitted their role in preconception care.Conclusion: Preconception care practice among health workers and women of reproductive age in Mzuzu City is low but there is positive perception towards preconception care among both parties. There is an opportunity in existing platforms for implementation of interventions targeting identified predictors for increased knowledge and uptake of preconception care.
The Effect of Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Co-transplantation with Hematopoietic Stem Cells on Liver Fibrosis Alleviation and Survival in Patients with Class III β-thalassemia Major
Authors: Rostami Tahereh , Kasaeian Amir , Maleki Nasrollah , Nikbakht Mohsen , Kiumarsi Azadeh , Tavangar Seyed Mohammad , Taheri Amir Pejman Hashemi , Mousavi Seied Aasadollah , Ghavamzadeh Ardeshir
Published: February 2021

Background: Hepatic fibrosis is a common complication in transfusion-dependent thalassemia patients. Data on the co-transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) with hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) in beta-thalassemia major (BTM) patients are scarce. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the effect of co-transplantation of bone marrow-derived MSC with HSCs on the liver fibrosis alleviation and transplant outcomes in class III BTM.Methods: Between April 1998 and January 2017, a total of 224 consecutive patients with class III BTM underwent allogeneic HSCT in the Research Institute for Oncology, Hematology and Cell Therapy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. To assess liver fibrotic changes after transplantation, 47 patients participated in the MSC plus HSC group and 30 patients in the HSC only group at the end of the follow-up period. All patients underwent laboratory tests, especially serum ferritin and liver function testing, hepatic T2* MRI, liver biopsy, and FibroScan before and two years after transplantation. Kaplan–Meier curves were derived to determine survival, and were compared using the log-rank test. Repeated-measure, mixed-effect linear regression models were used to examine changes in liver fibrosis over time.Results: The 10-year OS rate was 71.84% in the mesenchymal group and 61.89% in the non-mesenchymal group (P-value = 0.294), while the 10-year TFS rate was 63.64% in the mesenchymal group and 52.78% in the non-mesenchymal group (P-value = 0.285). No significant difference was observed in the 10-year NRM, rejection rate, ANC engraftment, platelet engraftment, acute GvHD, and chronic GvHD between the two groups. In addition, the results of repeated-measure, mixed-effect linear regression models showed that none of the variables determining hepatic fibrosis had a significant difference between patients receiving MSCs and patients who did not receive MSCs.Conclusions: Based on the results of this study, the co-transplantation of bone marrow-derived MSCs and HSCs to patients with class III beta-thalassemia major could not significantly improve the liver fibrosis alleviation and transplantation outcomes, including OS, TFS, TRM, rejection rate, ANC engraftment, platelet engraftment, acute GvHD, and chronic GvHD.
Open-Circuit Photovoltage Measurements Towards Determination of the Quintessential Features of Metal Titanates in Photo(Electro)catalytic Applications
Authors: Wojtyła Szymon , Baran Tomasz
Published: February 2021

Conduction band potential is one of the most crucial physicochemical properties of semiconductor towards photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical aplications. Inexpensive home-made Arduino devices is proposed for determination of flat band potential, based on the well-established method: open-circuit photovoltage measurements. To verify proposed measurement procedure, series of titanates has been prepared by a straightforward hydrothermal procedure and characterized – band structure of materials has been determined, in terms of band gap energy and conduction band edge potential. Finally we demonstrated the photocatalytic formation of superoxide anion radical. Interestingly, the efficiency of O2-• can be correlated, in part, with the potential of conduction band edge. Photocatalyst characterized by particularly low potential of conduction band edge can generate the superoxide anion radical with highest efficiency.