bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of Electrical and Photovoltaic Properties of Au/n-Si Schottky diode with BOD-Z-EN Interlayer
Authors: Tezcan Ali Osman , Eymur Serkan , Taşcı Enis , Emrullahoğlu Mustafa , Tuğluoğlu Nihat
Published: February 2021

4,4-Difluoro-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene (BODIPY) based BOD-Z-EN compound was used as an interfacial organic layer to fabrication of Au/BOD-Z-EN/n-Si/In diode. The electrical parameters of Au/BOD-Z-EN/n-Si/In diode such as ideality factor (n), barrier height (ΦB) and series resistance (Rs) have been investigated through current-voltage (I-V) studies at dark and under various illumination intensities to understand the effect of interlayer on the device properties. The values found for the n varied from 2.33 to 1.55 and the ΦB ranged from 0.86 eV to 0.90 eV as the illumination condition changed from dark to 100 mW/cm2. Series resistance (Rs) values calculated using Cheung’s method were found to decrease with increasing illumination level. ໿The forward bias I-V characteristics of the diode were explained by the space charge limited current (SCLC) theory. The main photovoltaic parameters such as open circuit voltage (Voc), short circuit current (Jsc) and fill factor (FF) were determined for various light intensity. The Au/BOD-Z-EN/n-Si/In diode exhibits a photovoltaic behavior with a Voc of 0.15 V and Jsc of 0.01 mA/cm2 under 100 mw/cm2. Also, photosensitivity and photoresponsivity properties of the diode were determined. These all results indicate that Au/BOD-Z-EN/n-Si/In device can be used as photosensor in optoelectronic applications.
WITHDRAWN: HSPA2 Expression Predicts Early Postsurgical Relapse and Promotes Tumor Cell Migration and Invasion in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Zhai Lu-Lu , Qiao Pei-Pei , Sun Yue-Shen , Tang Zhi-Gang , Ju Tong-Fa
Published: February 2021

Background: Heat shock protein A2 (HSPA2) is known to relate to the pathogenesis and progress of cancer. This study aimed to investigate the connection between HSPA2 and early postsurgical relapse, and the influences of HSPA2 on cell biological behaviors in pancreatic cancer (PC).Methods: Expression of HSPA2 in cancerous and noncancerous samples was determined by bioinformatics and immunostaining methods. The significance of HSPA2 expression in predicting early postsurgical recurrence was assessed. The biological role and potential mechanisms of HSPA2 in PC progression were uncovered by enrichment analysis. HSPA2 expression in human PC cells was detected by immunoblotting. Silencing of HSPA2 in BxPC-3 cells and upregulation of HSPA2 in PANC-1 cells were achieved with siRNA and overexpression plasmid, respectively, and then the impacts of HSPA2 downregulation and upregulation on cancer cell biological behaviors were estimated.Results: HSPA2 expression in tumor specimens was markedly elevated compared with nontumor specimens. HSPA2 overexpression could independently predict early postsurgical recurrence, and combined with malignant clinicopathological characteristics had greater predictive power and potential application value. Enrichment analysis revealed that HSPA2 expression was closely associated with PC progression. HSPA2 was expressed in BxPC-3, PANC-1 and SW1990 cells, with the highest and lowest levels in BxPC-3 and PANC-1 cells, respectively. Cell migration and invasion abilities were remarkably restrained in HSPA2-silenced BxPC-3 cells and significantly enhanced in HSPA2-overexpressed PANC-1 cells.Conclusion: HSPA2 expression predicts early postoperative recurrence and promotes cell migration and invasion, and is expected to become a useful molecular target of antitumor treatment in PC.
Preliminary Study on the Performance of a Redox Capacitor with the use of Ionic Liquid-based Gel Polymer Electrolyte and Polypyrrole Electrodes
Authors: PRASADINI KAPURALAGE WATHSALA , Perera Kumudu Sandhya , Vidanapathirana Kamal Pushpakumara
Published: February 2021

Redox capacitor, which is one type of supercapacitor, has been attracted tremendously as they show a satisfactory specific capacitance, good cycle ability, and good stability. The present study reveals a redox capacitor fabricated with an ionic liquid (IL) based gel polymer electrolyte (GPE). Electrodes of the redox capacitor were fabricated with the conducting polymer, polypyrrole (PPy). The composition of the GPE was polyvinylidenefluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene (PVdF-co-HFP) : 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonate (1E3MITF) : ZnTF. Characterization of redox capacitor was done by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and galvanostatic charge-discharge (GCD) tests. The relaxation time constant (τ0) of the redox capacitor is about 31.57 s implying somewhat fast redox reactions. Initial single electrode specific capacitance (CSC) was 150.16 Fg-1 and at the 500th cycle, it was 40.03 Fg-1. The decrease of the CSC may be due to the formation of the passivation layer at the GPE / electrode interface resulting in degradation upon cycling. The GCD test resulted 48.40 Fg-1 of initial single electrode specific discharge capacitance (Csd) value. Upon 1000 cycles, it was reached 22.25 Fg-1. The decrease of Csd may be due to the degradation of the electrode and the IL-based GPE upon prolonged cycling.
Spousal and Living Related Kidney Transplantation: Our Center Experience
Authors: OZBAN Murat , OZGEN Utku , BIRSEN Onur , DURSUN Belda , CERI Mevlut , EKER MESUT , AYDIN Cagatay
Published: February 2021

Objectives: Kidney transplantation is the most preferred type of renal displacement therapy for ESRD patients. More patients developed end stage renal disease (ESRD). The most important source is the donations from unrelated spouses. In this study, we aimed to compare the transplantation data obtained from the spouses of the patients with the transplantation data obtained from other relatives.Material and Methods: The data including 167 living kidney transplantations performed between January 2006 and December 2019 were retrospectively collected. The patients were divided into two groups; spousal donor group (n: 53) and living-related donor group (n: 114).Results: There was no significant difference in delayed graft function in both groups. There were no patients with acute rejection proven by biopsy or considered biochemically in the spousal donor group. With regard to 3-year results in the living-related donor group the patient survival rate was 100%, while it was 98.2% in terms of graft survival.Conclusion: In conclusion, similar patient and graft survival rates between spousal donor kidney transplantation and living-related kidney transplantation has made spousal donor kidney transplantation, with possible problems in terms of tissue compatibility, an acceptable alternative to donor supply.
Flexible Chemiresistive Nitrogen Oxides Sensors Based on a Nanocomposite of Polypyrrole- Reduced Graphene Oxide Grafted Carboxybenzene Diazonium Salts.
Authors: GUETTICHE Djamil , MEKKI Ahmed , Lilia BENMOULOUD , Fatma-zohra Tighilt , BOUDJELLAL Amar
Published: February 2021

Nanocomposites of polypyrrole/reduced graphene oxide (PPy/rGO) and polypyrrole/ functionalized reduced graphene oxide with aryl 4-carboxybenzene diazonium salt (PPy/rGO-aryl-COOH) were prepared through covalent bonding by simple one-step chemical oxidative synthesis. The as-prepared nanocomposites were deposited on BOPET substrate by spin coating to test their chemiresistive sensitivity properties on a homemade modular for online detection of (NO2) vapors at ambient temperature. Results showed that PPy/rGO-aryl-COOH forms a homogeneous nanocomposite within the size of 80 nanometers and improvement of the crystalline ordering. The more enhanced NO2 sensing properties have been shown by PPy/rGO- aryl-COOH in terms of higher sensitivity (1.01%/ppm), the faster response time (129 s), and the detection limit of (2ppm). Reproducibility features were also investigated.Moreover, humidity rates and temperature effects were also tested. Finally, impedance spectroscopy is conducted in the fresh air and in the presence of gas. These results highlight the paramount role of functionalization of reduced graphene oxide (rGO-aryl-COOH).
Bactericidal Activity of Serum By Brucella Abortus RB51 Outer Membrane Protein’s Combined By Brucella Abortus S99 Lipopolysaccharide Induction
Authors: Attar Adeleh , Afkhami Hamed , Khaledi Mansoor , S.Sadati Mahdi
Published: February 2021

Brucellosis vaccines are designed to induce the cellular immunity. An effective brucellosis vaccine is one that could induce both cellular and humoral immunity. Serum Bactericidal Assay(SBA) is an important method for the determination of vaccine humoral immunity. This study is the first to observe humoral immunity in brucellosis by SBA. Extracted B.abortus LPS and OMP’s were injected to rabbits. Group1 injected by 25µg of LPS, Group2 injected by 50µg of OMP ‘s and Group3 injected by 1ml of combined vaccine, 3 times every 2 weeks. The Groups were challenged with B.abortus 544 in the second injection. Sera were separated 2 weeks after the last injection. SBA was performed, each well was streak cultured into a plate of Brucella Agar. Colony count was done for each plate. Results have shown, the third injection of the combined vaccine, had the highest titer of 1/64, and the efficacy of the vaccine was %87.71.
Multi-scale Observation and Data-driven Modeling of Magnetic Reconnection in Flaring Chromospheric Plasmas on the Sun
Authors: Yan Xiaoli , Xue Zhike , Jiang Chaowei , Priest Eric , Kliem Bernhard , Yang Liheng , Wang Jincheng , Kong Defang , Song Yongliang , Feng Xueshang , Liu Zhong
Published: February 2021

Magnetic reconnection is a multi-faceted process of energy conversion in astrophysical, space and laboratory plasmas that operates at microscopic scales but has macroscopic drivers and consequences. Solar flares present a key laboratory for its study, leaving imprints of the microscopic physics in radiation spectra and allowing the macroscopic evolution to be imaged, yet a full observational characterization remains elusive. Here we combine high resolution imaging and spectral observations of a solar flare at multiple wavelengths with data-driven magnetohydrodynamic modeling to study the dynamics of the involved plasma from the current sheet to the plasmoid scale. The flare resulted from the interaction of a twisted filament and chromospheric fibrils. By inferring the reconnection to be fast and mediated by plasmoids, the relevance of this reconnection mode is found to extend beyond hot flare plasmas to such cool structures in the chromosphere, which have many analogs in astrophysical objects.
Molecular Analysis Revealed that Namibian Cheetahs (Acinonyx Jubatus) are definitive hosts of a so far undescribed Besnoitia species
Authors: Schares Gereon , Joeres Maike , Rachel Franziska , Tuschy Mareen , Czirják Gábor Á. , Maksimov Pavlo , Conraths Franz J. , Wachter Bettina
Published: February 2021

Background: Besnoitia darlingi, B. neotomofelis and B. oryctofelisi are closely related coccidian parasites with felids as definitive hosts. These parasites use a variety of animal species as intermediate hosts. North American opossums (Didelphis virginiana), North American southern plains woodrats (Neotoma micropus) and South American domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) are intermediate hosts of B. darlingi, B. neotomofelis and B. oryctofelisi, respectively. Based on conserved regions in the Internal Transcribed Spacer-1 (ITS-1) sequence of the ribosomal DNA (rDNA), a real-time PCR for a sensitive detection of these Besnoitia spp. in tissues of intermediate hosts and faeces of definitive hosts has recently been established. Available sequence data suggest that species such as B. akodoni and B. jellisoni are also covered by this real-time PCR. It has been hypothesised that additional Besnoitia spp. exist worldwide, which are closely related to B. darlingi or B. darlingi-like parasites (B. neotomofelis, B. oryctofelisi, B. akodoni or B. jellisoni). Related but not closely related to these species is B. besnoiti, the cause of bovine besnoitiosis.Methods: Faecal samples from two free-ranging cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) from Namibia that had previously tested positive for coccidian parasites by coproscopy, were used for this study. A conventional PCR verified the presence of coccidian parasite DNA. To clarify the identity of these coccidia, the faecal DNA samples were further characterised by species-specific PCRs and Sanger sequencing.Results: One of the samples tested positive for B. darlingi or B. darlingi-like parasites by real-time PCR, while no other coccidian parasites including Toxoplasma gondii, Hammondia hammondi, H. heydorni, B. besnoiti, and Neospora caninum were detected in the two samples. The rDNA of the B. darlingi-like parasite was amplified and partially sequenced. Comparison with existing sequences in GenBank revealed a close relationship to other Besnoitia spp., but showed also clear divergences. Conclusions: Our results suggest that a so far unknown Besnoitia species exists in Namibian wildlife, which is closely related to B. darlingi, B. neotomofelis, B. oryctofelisi, B. akodoni or B. jellisoni. The cheetah appears to be the definitive host of this newly discovered parasite, while a prey species of the cheetah may act as intermediate hosts.
Breast Cancer Incidence and Early Diagnosis in a Family History Risk and Prevention Clinic: 33-Year Experience in 14,311 Women
Authors: Evans D. Gareth R. , Howell Sacha J , Gandhi Ashu , Veen Elke M van , Woodward Emma R , Harvey James , Barr Lester , Wallace Andrew , Lalloo Fiona , Wilson Mary , Hurley Emma , Lim Yit , Maxwell Anthony J , Harkness Elaine F. , Howell Anthony
Published: February 2021

Purpose:Women at increased familial breast cancer risk have been offered screening starting at an earlier age and increased frequency than national Screening Programmes for over 30years. There are limited data on longer-term largescale implementation of this approach on cancer diagnosis.Methods:Women at our institution at ≥17% lifetime breast cancer risk have been offered enhanced screening with annual mammography starting at age 35 or 5-years younger than youngest affected relative, with upper age limit 50 for moderate and 60 for high-risk. Breast cancer pathology, stage and receptor status were assessed as well as survival from cancer diagnosis by Kaplan-Meier analysis.Results:Overall 14,311 women were seen and assessed for breast cancer risk, with 649 breast cancers occurring in 129,119.5 years follow up (post-prevalent annual incidence=4.55/1,000). Of 323/394 invasive breast cancers occurring whilst on enhanced screening, most were LN negative (72.9%), T1 (≤20mm,73.2%) and stage-1 (61.4%). Ten-year breast cancer specific survival was 91.3%(95%CI=87.4–94.0) significantly better than the 75.9%(95%CI=74.9-77.0) published for England in 2013-2017. As expected, survival was significantly better for women with screen detected cancers(p<0.001). Ten-year survival was particularly good for those with diagnosed ≤40 at 93.8% (n=75;95%CI=84.2–97.6). Women with lobular breast cancers had worse 10-year survival at 85.9% (95%CI=66.7–94.5). Breast cancer specific survival was good for 119 BRCA1/2 carriers with 20-year survival in BRCA1:91.2%(95%CI=77.8-96.6) and 83.8% (62.6-–93.5) for BRCA2Conclusions:Targeted breast screening in women aged 30-60 years at increased familial risk is associated with good long-term survival that is substantially better than expected from population data.
Identification of an Oligosaccharide Dehydrogenase from Pycnoporus Cinnabarinus Provides Insights into Fungal Breakdown of Lignocellulose
Authors: Cerutti Gabriele , Gugole Elena , Montemiglio Linda Celeste , Turbé-Doan Annick , Chena Dehbia , Navarro David , Lomascolo Anne , Piumi François , Exertier Cécile , Freda Ida , Vallone Beatrice , Record Eric , Savino Carmelinda , sciara giuliano
Published: February 2021

Background: Fungal glucose dehydrogenases (GDHs) are FAD-dependent enzymes belonging to the glucose-methanol-choline oxidoreductase superfamily. These enzymes are classified in the “Auxiliary Activity” family 3 (AA3) of the Carbohydrate-Active enZymes database, and more specifically in subfamily AA3_2, that also includes the closely related flavoenzymes aryl-alcohol oxidase and glucose 1-oxidase. Based on sequence similarity to known fungal GDHs, an AA3_2 enzyme active on glucose was identified in the genome of Pycnoporus cinnabarinus, a model Basidiomycete able to completely degrade lignin.Results: In our work, substrate screening and functional characterization showed an unexpected preferential activity of this enzyme toward oligosaccharides containing a b(1à3) glycosidic bond, with the highest efficiency observed for the disaccharide laminaribiose. Despite its sequence similarity to GDHs, we defined a novel enzymatic activity, namely oligosaccharide dehydrogenase (ODH), for this enzyme. The crystallographic structures of ODH in the sugar-free form and in complex with glucose and laminaribiose unveiled a peculiar saccharide recognition mechanism which is not shared with previously characterized AA3 oxidoreductases and accounts for ODH preferential activity toward oligosaccharides. The sugar molecules in the active site of ODH are mainly stabilized through CH-p interactions with aromatic residues rather than through hydrogen bonds with highly conserved residues, as observed instead for the fungal glucose dehydrogenases and oxidases characterized to date. Finally, three sugar-binding sites were identified on ODH external surface, which were not previously observed and might be of importance in the physiological scenario.Conclusions: Structure-function analysis of ODH is consistent with its role as an auxiliary enzyme in lignocellulose degradation and unveils yet another enzymatic function within the AA3 family of the Carbohydrate-Active enZymes database. Our findings allow deciphering the molecular determinants of substrate binding and provide insight into the physiological role of ODH, opening new perspectives to exploit biodiversity for lignocellulose transformation into fuels and chemicals.
Janus Kinase Inhibition Ameliorates Cerebral Ischemic Injury and Neuroinflammation through Reducing NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation via JAK2/STAT3 Pathway Inhibition
Authors: Zhu Hua , Zhong Yi , Jian Zhihong , Ye Yingze , Zhang Yonggang , Pu Bei , Hu Xinyao , Xu Qingxue , Xiong Xiaoxing , Gu Lijuan
Published: February 2021

BackgroundEvidence shows that inflammatory responses play multiphasic roles in stroke pathogenesis. Ruxolitinib (Rux), a selective oral JAK 1/2 inhibitor, is efficacious in COVID-19 by reducing inflammation via the JAK2/STAT3 pathway. MethodsHere, we investigated whether JAK2 inhibition has neuroprotective effects against ischemic stroke (IS) in MCAO mice in vivo and in vitro oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) model, and explored the potential molecular mechanisms. Rux was applied to MCAO mice. Immunofluorescence staining, RT-qPCR, and western blots were used to measure the expression of NLRP3 inflammation components and proinflammatory cytokines as well as JAK2/STAT3 pathway. Local STAT3 deficiency in brain tissue was established to investigate the interplay between NLRP3 and STAT3 signaling.ResultsRux treatment obviously improved neurological scores, decreased the infarct size and ameliorated cerebral edema 3 days after stroke. In addition, immunofluorescence staining and western blots showed that Rux application inhibited the expression of NLRP3 inflammasome components, proteins related to the NLRP3 inflammasome and phosphorylated STAT3 (p-STAT3) in neurons. Furthermore, Rux administration inhibited the expression of proinflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α, IFN-γ, HMBG1, IL-1β, IL-2, and IL-6 in middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model mice, suggesting that Rux may alleviate IS injury by inhibiting proinflammatory reactions via JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway regulation. Local STAT3 deficiency decreased histone H3 and H4 acetylation on the NLRP3 promoter and the NLRP3 inflammasome component expression, indicating that the NLRP3 inflammasome may be directly regulated by STAT3 signaling. Finally, the effect of Rux on the NLRP3 inflammasome was further assessed in a HT22 cell OGD/R model in vitro. Rux application markedly suppressed lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced NLRP3 inflammasome secretion and JAK2/STAT3 pathway activation in vitro the in OGD/R HT22 cell model.ConclusionJAK2 inhibition by Rux in MCAO mice decreased STAT3 phosphorylation, thus inhibiting downstream proinflammatory cytokines and H3 and H4 acetylation on the NLRP3 promoter, resulting in downregulation of NLRP3 inflammasome component expression.
The APOBEC3A deaminase drives episodic mutagenesis in cancer cells
Authors: Maciejowski John , Petljak Mia , Chu Kevan , Dananberg Alexandra , Bergstrom Erik , von Morgen Patrick , Alexandrov Ludmil , Stratton Michael
Published: February 2021

The APOBEC3 family of cytidine deaminases is widely speculated to be a major source of somatic mutations in cancer1–3. However, causal links between APOBEC3 enzymes and mutations in human cancer cells have not been established. The identity of the APOBEC3 paralog(s) that may act as prime drivers of mutagenesis and the mechanisms underlying different APOBEC3-associated mutational signatures are unknown. To directly investigate the roles of APOBEC3 enzymes in cancer mutagenesis, candidate APOBEC3 genes were deleted from cancer cell lines recently found to naturally generate APOBEC3-associated mutations in episodic bursts4. Deletion of the APOBEC3A paralog severely diminished the acquisition of mutations of speculative APOBEC3 origins in breast cancer and lymphoma cell lines. APOBEC3 mutational burdens were undiminished in APOBEC3B knockout cell lines. APOBEC3A deletion reduced the appearance of the clustered mutation types kataegis and omikli, which are frequently found in cancer genomes. The uracil glycosylase UNG and the translesion polymerase REV1 were found to play critical roles in the generation of mutations induced by APOBEC3A. These data represent the first evidence for a long-postulated hypothesis that APOBEC3 deaminases generate prevalent clustered and non-clustered mutational signatures in human cancer cells, identify APOBEC3A as a driver of episodic mutational bursts, and dissect the roles of the relevant enzymes in generating the associated mutations in breast cancer and B cell lymphoma cell lines.
Spatial patterns of tumour growth impact clonal diversification: computational modelling and evidence in the TRACERx Renal study
Authors: Fu Xiao , Zhao Yue , Lopez Jose , Rowan Andrew , Au Lewis , Fendler Annika , Hazell Steve , Xu Hang , Horswell Stuart , Shepherd Scott , Spain Lavinia , Byrne Fiona , Stamp Gordon , O'Brien Tim , Nicol David , Augustine Marcellus , Chandra Ashish , Rudman Sarah , Toncheva Antonia , Furness Andrew , Pickering Lisa , Orton Matthew , Doran Simon , Koh Dow-Mu , Messiou Christina , Dafydd Derfel ap , Kumar Santosh , Larkin James , Swanton Charles , Sahai Erik , Litchfield Kevin , Turajlic Samra , Bates Paul
Published: February 2021

Intra-tumour genetic heterogeneity (ITH) fuels cancer evolution. The role of clonal diversity and genetic complexity in the progression of clear-cell renal cell carcinomas (ccRCCs) has been characterised, but the ability to predict clinically relevant evolutionary trajectories remains limited. Here, towards enhancing this ability, we investigated spatial features of clonal diversification through a combined computational modelling and experimental analysis in the TRACERx Renal study. We observe through modelling that spatial patterns of tumour growth impact the extent and trajectory of subclonal diversification. Moreover, subpopulations with high clonal diversity, and parallel evolution events, are frequently observed near the tumour margin. In-silico time-course studies further showed that budding structures on the tumour surface could indicate future steps of subclonal evolution. Such structures were evident radiologically in 15 early-stage ccRCCs, raising the possibility that spatially resolved sampling of these regions, when combined with sequencing, may enable identification of evolutionary potential in early-stage tumours.
Comparing Death or Neurodevelopmental Outcomes of Haemodynamically Significant Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Very Low Birth Weight Preterm Infants
Authors: Wu Jia-Ying Jania , Niduvaje Krishnamoorthy , Lee Le Ye , Amin Zubair
Published: February 2021

BackgroundOptimal management of haemodynamically significant patent ductus arteriosus (HsPDA) remains controversial for premature infants. Treatment options include conservative treatment with fluid restriction and diuretics, medical treatment with cyclo-oxygenase (COX) inhibitors or surgical ligation. Our primary objective is to compare the death and/or adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes among very low birth weight (VLBW) infants with HsPDA who were managed with conservative, medical and/or surgical treatment. The secondary objectives are to examine antenatal factors predisposing to surgical treatment and the neonatal short-term morbidities between three groups.MethodsThis was a retrospective, gestational age-stratified study of VLBW infants born in National University Hospital (NUH) in Singapore and admitted to the intensive care unit from 2007–2016.. Perinatal variables, short-term neonatal outcomes and neurodevelopmental outcomes were studied. Statistical analysis were performed with chi square and t-test.. Results124 infants were included. 17 VLBW infants managed conservatively [C] were identified and compared with 83 VLBW infants managed medically [M] and 24 VLBW infants managed surgically [S]. The main group analysis compared outcomes between infants managed [C] and those who received either medical or surgical treatment [M+S]. The subgroup analysis compared outcomes between infants managed [C] vs [M] and [C] vs [S]. The main group analysis found group M+S infants had a higher incidence of chronic lung disease (CLD) (p=0.005) than group C. The odds ratio (OR) of group M+S developing CLD was significant (OR 6.83). They were significantly shorter (p=0.017) and had a smaller head circumference (p=0.039) at discharge. Group S infants were older at discharge, due to a longer NICU stay , and were lighter , shorter and had a smaller head circumference (p<0.05). No significant differences in death, composite outcome of death and global development delay and neurological outcomes such as hearing loss, cerebral palsy (CP) and speech delay were found. Conclusions: Comparing the management, infants requiring surgical treatment for hsPDA were more likely to have short-term complications such as CLD, longer hospitalization, and poorer growth. Despite a more turbulent postnatal course, death and/or adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes were not worse in these infants. Further randomized control studies will be useful to verify these findings.
Investigation of the Motor Skills Assessments of Typically Developing Preschool Children in China
Authors: Song Huiqi , Wang Jing Jing , Lau Patrick WC
Published: February 2021

Background: The assessment of perschoolers’ motor skills is essential to know young children’s motor development and evaluate the intervention effects of promotion in children’s sport activities. The purpose of this study was to review the motor skills assessment tools in Chinese preschool-aged children, compare them in the international context, and provide guidelines to find appropriate motor skill assessment tool in China. Methods: The comprehensive literature search was carried out in WANGFAGN, CNKI, VIP, ERIC, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Ovid PsycINFO, SPORTDiscus and BIOSIS previews databases. Relevant articles published between January 2000 and May 2020 were retrieved. Studies that described the discriminative and evaluative measures of motor skills among the population aged 3-6 years in China were included. Results: A total of 17 studies were included in this review describing 7 tools including 4 self-developed tools and 3 international tools used in China. TGMD-2 appeared in a large proportion of studies, international tools used in China were incomplete in terms of translation, verification of reliability and validity, item selection and the implementation. Regarding the self-constructed tools, the CDCC was the most utilized self-developed tool, but it was mainly applied in intellectual development assessment. Through the comparison between Chinese self-constructed and international tools, the construction of the CDCC and the Gross Motor Development Assessment Scale contained relatively complete development steps. The test content, validity and reliability, implementation instruction, and generalizability of self-constructed tools are still lacking. Conclusions: Both international and self-developed motor skills assessment tools have been rarely applied in China, available tools lack enough validation and appropriate adjustments. Cultural differences in motor development between Chinese and Western populations should be considered when constructing a Chinese localized MSAT.
Congenital Bilateral and Multifocal Mesenchymal hamartoma of the chest wall: A Case in a Neonate and Differential Diagnosis
Authors: li jiwei , Zhang Tie song , Li li , Wang Meifen , shen lan
Published: February 2021

Background:Mesenchymal hamartoma of the chest wall(MHCW) is a rare benign extrapleural lesion that arises from rib or spine of neonates or early infancy, and commonly presents as a unilateral mass. Here, we describe a rare case of bilateral and multifocal MHCW in the right 5th rib and the left 11-12th thoracic and 1st lumbar vertebrae.Case presentation:A male neonate of 3700g weight transferred to our hospital with mild respiratory distress and an asymptomatic, progressively enlarging intra-thoracic mass. Computed tomography scan(CT) and magnetic resonance imaging(MRI) indicated a large well-circumscribed, heterogeneous enhancing mass, arising from the posterior-medial aspect of the right chest wall, involving 3-5th posterior ribs. Other smaller sizes lesions observed in vertebral arch and transverse process of the left 11-12th thoracic and 1st lumbar vertebrae. The thoracotomy with en bloc resection of the mass and the 5th rib was performed. Microscopically, the lesion was cystic and solid, consisted of hyaline cartilages, mesenchymal cells, and various-sized hemorrhagic spaces. Immunohistochemically, the cartilages and mesenchymal cells were positive for S-100, Smooth Muscle Actin(SMA), CD163 and CD68. The epithelium cells of aneurysmal bone cyst(ABC)-like were negative for CD34. Ki-67 estimated at 5%-10%. Fluorescence in situ hybridization(FISH) was negative for USP6 gene break-apart probe, which ruled out primary ABC. At 8-month follow-up postoperatively, the right chest walls with no sign of recurrence and the lesions of left vertebral arch and transverse process were stable, no increased in size.Conclusion:The bilateral and multifocal MHCW is considerably rare and related clinical research is limited. Fortunately, we clearly observed the tumor’s origin, growth process from the earlier pregnancy to delivery, different effects during the fetal periods, and differential diagnosis. This report may raise awareness regarding the MHCW.
A land-neutral expansion of Brazilian renewable fuel production
Authors: Camargo Luis Ramirez , Castro Gabriel , Gruber Katharina , Jewell Jessica , Klingler Michael , Turkovska Olga , Wetterlund Elisabeth , Schmidt Johannes
Published: February 2021

Biofuels are currently the only available bulk renewable fuel. They have, however, limited expansion potential due to high land requirements and associated risks for biodiversity, food security, and land conflicts. We, therefore, propose to increase output from ethanol refineries in a land-neutral methanol pathway: surplus CO2-streams from fermentation are combined with hydrogen from renewably powered electrolysis to synthesize methanol. We illustrate this pathway with the Brazilian sugarcane ethanol industry using a spatio-temporal model. The fuel output of existing ethanol generation facilities can be increased by 42%-49% or ~100TWh without using additional land. This amount is sufficient to cover projected growth in Brazilian biofuel demand in 2030. We identify a trade-off between renewable energy generation technologies: wind power requires the least amount of land whereas a mix of wind and solar costs the least. In the cheapest scenario, green methanol is competitive to fossil methanol at a carbon price of 80EUR/tCO2
WITHDRAWN: Effects of the Sole or Combined Use of Chemical Admixtures on Properties of Self-Compacting Concrete
Authors: Sevim Ozer , Kalkan İlker , Demir İlhami , Akgüngör Ali Payıdar
Published: February 2021

Chemical additives are very important in determining the behavioral characteristics of self-compacting concrete. For this reason, determining the building materials that make up the chemical structure of self-compacting concrete and the interactions of these materials is of great importance. The present study pertains to the effects of the use of different chemical admixtures (high-range water-reducing, i.e., superplasticizer, hydration accelerating, air-entraining, shrinkage reducing, and hydration heat reducing admixtures) on the fresh and hardened properties of self-compacting concrete. The influence of using a single one or a hybrid combination of the air-entraining, hydration-accelerating, heat-reducing, and shrinkage-reducing admixtures on the mechanical properties of fresh and hardened SCC was investigated through a set of tests. For this purpose, sixteen different SCC mixtures with different combinations of chemical additives were prepared and tested. The properties of fresh concrete were examined as well as the compressive and tensile strengths of the mixtures. SCC mixtures with shrinkage-reducing admixtures were evaluated in terms of shrinkage development. The effect of the use of admixtures was found to be more pronounced on the early-age concrete strength. The use of any type of additive in addition to the shrinkage reducing admixture increased the speed of flow of fresh concrete.
Historical Heroes of modern Ukrainian Students
Authors: Kamionka M.
Published: February 2021

Ukrainian youth from the beginning of the country’s independence was a catalyst for democratic changes. From the Revolution on Granite, through the Sumy’s Revolution on Grass and Orange Revolution to the Revolution of Dignity and the war in the East, undeniably it was the youth who fought for the future of Ukraine. While appreciating the contribution of young people to the contemporary history of Ukraine, it is essential to ask which national heroes and what historical events are important to the young generation. Thanks to the research conducted in 2017-2018 on a representative group of Ukrainian youth (1043 respondents), the author can answer that question. The results show that there are no surprises; the research confirms the all-Ukrainian results and shares knowledge on this subject. However, it is worth emphasizing some surprises, as well as the frequent selection of the answer “neutral attitude” to historical events, which may indicate the lack of historical knowledge among the surveyed youth.
Marketing research as the basis for the development of a product range in the light industry
Authors: Христофорова И.В. , Деменкова А.Б.
Published: February 2021

В статье представлено исследование, определяющее характеристики мирового рынка футболок, его конъюнктуру, а также выявляющее предпочтения потребителей к дизайну принтов на футболках для формирования оптимального товарного ассортимента и эффективного сбыта произведённой продукции. Информационную базу составили научные публикации авторитетных в области исследования ученых, статистические данные компании «5КармаNов» и данные итальянских производителей текстильной продукции.

The article presents a study that determines the characteristics of the world market for T-shirts, its conjuncture, as well as identifying consumer preferences for the design of prints on T-shirts to form an optimal product range and effective marketing of manufactured products. The information base was composed of scientific publications of authoritative scientists in the field of research, statistical data of the company «5KarmaNov» and data from Italian manufacturers of textile products
Statistical analysis of consumer market trends in Russia
Authors: Кузьмичев А.В.
Published: February 2021

В научной статье отражены теоретические основы функционирования потребительского рынка России, проведен комплексный статистический анализ состояния и тенденций его развития. В рамках исследования отражена содержательная часть и особенности функционирования потребительского рынка России, упорядочены и систематизированы данные, характеризующие текущее состояние потребительского рынка России, посредством финансово-экономических показателей, произведена количественная оценка влияния (воздействия) на состояние потребительского рынка определяющих факторов, отражена динамика развития потребительского рынка России, составление прогнозных значений.

The scientific article reflects the theoretical foundations of the functioning of the consumer market in Russia, carried out a comprehensive statistical analysis of the state and trends of its development. The study reflects the substantive part and features of the functioning of the consumer market in Russia, ordered and systematized data characterizing the current state of the consumer market in Russia, through financial and economic indicators, made a quantitative assessment of the impact (impact) on the state of the consumer market of determining factors, reflected the dynamics of the consumer market Russia, drawing up forecast values.
Economic assessment of the effectiveness of implementing an intelligent system for educational organizations
Authors: Кручинина С.А.
Published: February 2021

Статья посвящена вопросу экономической эффективности внедрения проблемно-ориентированной интеллектуальной системы управления и поддержки принятия решений для образовательных организаций. В частности приведены результаты расчетов, в основе которых лежит методология ROI – оценка возврата инвестиций, позволяющая, в том числе, определить сроки окупаемости инвестиционного проекта.

The article is devoted to the economic efficiency of implementing a problem-oriented intellectual management system and decision support for educational organizations. In particular, the results of calculations based on the ROI methodology – an assessment of the return on investment, which allows, among other things, to determine the payback period of an investment project.
State and structure of the Russian machine-building industry in the context of global economic transformations
Authors: Измайлов М.К. , Родионова Е.С.
Published: February 2021

В статье проведено исследование основных тенденций развития машиностроительной отрасли России за последние годы. Проведено сравнение темпов развития машиностроения с другими отраслями промышленности. На основе проведенного исследования выделены приоритетные направления развития машиностроительной отрасли в России в условиях глобальных экономических трансформаций.

The article examines the main trends in the development of the Russian machine-building industry in recent years. A comparison of the pace of development of mechanical engineering with other industries is made. Based on the research, priority areas of development of the machine-building industry in Russia in the context of global economic transformations are identified.
Development of credit risk management tools: assessment of a potential borrower (individual)
Authors: Усов А.С. , Бабина Н.В.
Published: February 2021

В статье анализируется роль риск-менеджмента в современном банковском бизнесе. Особое внимание уделено процессу оценки экономической безопасности потенциального заёмщика (физического лица). Делается вывод о том, что в современных условиях требуется усовершенствование кредитными организациями модели скоринга. Для оценки качества потенциальных заемщиков предлагается разработать и применять методику рейтинговой оценки.

The article analyzes the role of risk management in the modern banking business. Particular attention is paid to the process of assessing the economic security of a potential borrower (individual). The conclusion is made that in modern conditions the improvement of the scoring model by credit organizations is required. To assess the quality of potential borrowers, it is proposed to develop and apply a rating assessment methodology.
Digitalization of the insurance business: Systematization of net effects through the example of Russia
Authors: Kaigorodova Gulnara , Mustafina Alfiya , Pyrkova Guzel , Grzebyk Mariola , Belinskaja Larisa
Published: February 2021

The pace of digitalization of the insurance industry lags behind similar processes in the banking sector. The main tasks that a Russian insurer solves when using IT technologies are the automation of business operations and the formation of an online system of interaction with customers with the main focus on sales.The purpose of this study is to systematize the effects achieved by insurance market participants when introducing IT technologies and identify incentives to accelerate the insurance sector digitalization. The goal of digitalization of Russian insurers should be the formation of a client interface with a full cycle of services; the transfer to a qualitatively new level of business processes while ensuring the required level of protection; formation of fundamentally new and timely renewal of the existing insurance products. The priority areas of IT technologies used by Russian insurers are identified: cloud computing, chat bots, and information resources that provide online interaction with customers. Factors that have a stimulating effect on the digitalization of the insurance sector are identified: cost reduction, acceleration of business processes, improvement of the quality of customer service and increased competitiveness. The problems and risks of insurers that restrain the use of IT technologies are formulated: high costs of digitalization, lack of qualified personnel, cyber risks, moral and ethical problems.
Özel Eğitimde Etik ve Etik Değerlendirmeler
Authors: ÖZDEMİR Onur
Published: February 2021

Giriş: Meslek etiği; çalışanların mesleklerini icra ederken sergilemeleri ya da kaçınmaları gereken davranışları belirleyen, bildiren ve gözeten standartlar olarak ifade edilebilir. Etik ve uygulama ilkeleri, bu standartları somut biçimde tanımlamakta ve çalışanlara uygun mesleki davranışlara ilişkin kılavuzluk etmektedir. Bu nedenle etik ve uygulama ilkeleri, meslek etiğinin önemli bir parçasıdır. Çalışanlara, uygun mesleki davranışlar için yol gösteren bir diğer unsur ise etik değerlendirmelerdir. Etik değerlendirmeler, etik ihlallerde ya da ikilemlerde uygun kararlar vermeyi sağlayan sistematik problem çözme süreçleri olarak tanımlanmaktadır. Diğer alanlara kıyasla, özel eğitim alanının etik ihlallere ve ikilemlere karşı daha hassas bir konumda olduğu söylenebilir. Bu nedenle, eğitimcilerin etik ve uygulama ilkeleri ile etik değerlendirmeler hakkında bilgi ve becerilere sahip olmaları gerekmektedir. Bu gereksinimlere rağmen, Türkiye’de özel eğitim alanındaki meslek etiğine ilişkin çalışmaların yakın tarihte ortaya çıkmaya başladığı ve henüz sınırlı sayıda olduğu görülmektedir. Bu gereksinimler doğrultusunda, mevcut çalışmada öncelikle; etik ve meslek etiği kavramları ile özel eğitim alanındaki etik ilkelere ilişkin kuramsal bilgilerin sunulması, sonrasında da etik değerlendirmelere ilişkin bir uygulama örneğinin paylaşılması amaçlanmıştır.Sonuç ve Öneriler: Mevcut çalışmada sunulan etik değerlendirme çerçevesi, özel gereksinimli öğrencilerle çalışanlar için faydalı olabilecek bir örnek sunmaktadır. Gelecek çalışmalar için Türkiye şartları gözetilerek geliştirilen çerçevelerin deneysel yöntemlerle değerlendirilmesi önerilmektedir. Bu ve benzeri çalışmalar, hem hizmet alanların hem de hizmet sağlayanların esenliğine katkı sağlayacaktır.
Sustainability assessment of wastewater treatment techniques in urban areas of Iraq using multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA)
Authors: Omran Isam I. , Al-Saati Nabeel H. , Al-Saati Hyam H. , Hashim Khalid S. , Al-Saati Zainab N.
Published: February 2021

Sustainable development is based on environmental, social, economic, and technical dimensions. In this study, the sustainability of wastewater treatment techniques in urban areas of Iraq was assessed using a multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA)/the weighted sum model (WSM). The analysis was performed on 13 operating wastewater treatment plants in 10 provinces, Iraq, using a questionnaire sheet with the assistance of 52 specialists in the Ministry of Municipalities and Public Works, Iraq. Four types of wastewater treatment techniques (Conventional Treatment, Oxidation Ditches, Aeration Lagoons, and membrane bio-reactor (MBR)) were assessed. The environmental, social, economic, and technical dimensions were represented by 11, 5, 7, and 4 indicators, respectively. The main results of this study indicate that the sustainability of MBR recorded the highest total importance; the order of the total importance from the highest to the lowest was: MBR > Oxidation Ditches > Aeration Lagoons > Conventional Treatment. The environmental dimension proved its dominance in the four studied treatment techniques' sustainability as it recorded the maximum contribution to sustainability. While the technical dimension recorded the least contribution to sustainability, the order from the highest to the lowest was: Environmental Dimension > Economic Dimension > Social Dimension > Technical Dimension.
Study on Transcriptional Responses and Identification of Ribosomal Protein Genes for Potential Resistance against Brown Planthopper and Gall Midge Pests in Rice
Authors: Moin Mazahar , Saha Anusree , Bakshi Achala , D. Divya , M.S. Madhav , P.B. Kirti
Published: February 2021

Background:

Our previous studies have revealed the roles of ribosomal protein (RP)
genes in the abiotic stress responses of rice.

Methods:

In the current investigation, we examine the possible involvement of these genes in insect
stress responses. We have characterized the RP genes that included both Ribosomal Protein
Large (RPL) and Ribosomal Protein Small (RPS) subunit genes in response to infestation by two
economically important insect pests, the brown planthopper (BPH) and the Asian rice gall midge
(GM) in rice. Differential transcript patterns of seventy selected RP genes were studied in a susceptible
and a resistant genotype of indica rice: BPT5204 and RPNF05, respectively. An in silico
analyses of the upstream regions of these genes also revealed the presence of cis-elements that are
associated with wound signaling.

Results:

We identified the genes that were up or downregulated in either one of the genotypes, or
both of them after pest infestation. The transcript patterns of a majority of the genes were found to
be temporally-regulated by both the pests. In the resistant RPNF05, BPH infestation activated
RPL15, L51 and RPS5a genes while GM infestation induced RPL15, L18a, L22, L36.2, L38, RPS5,
S9.2 and S25a at a certain point of time. These genes that were particularly upregulated in the resistant
genotype, RPNF05, but not in BPT5204 suggest their potential involvement in plant resistance
against either of the two pests studied.

Conclusion:

Taken together, RPL15, L51, L18a, RPS5, S5a, S9.2, and S25a appear to be the genes with possible roles in insect resistance in rice.