bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Benchmarking landslide inventory data handling strategies for landslide susceptibility modeling based on different random forest machine learning workflows
Authors: Samodra Guruh , Nugroho Ferman Setia
Published: April 2022

Machine learning (ML) algorithms are frequently used in landslide susceptibility modeling. Different data handling strategies may generate variations in landslide susceptibility modeling, even when using the same ML algorithm. This research aims to compare the combinations of inventory data handling, cross validation (CV), and hyperparameter tuning strategies to generate landslide susceptibility maps. The results are expected to provide a general strategy for landslide susceptibility modeling using ML techniques. The authors employed eight landslide inventory data handling scenarios to convert a landslide polygon into a landslide point, i.e., the landslide point is located on the toe (minimum height), on the scarp (maximum height), at the center of the landslide, randomly inside the polygon (1 point), randomly inside the polygon (3 points), randomly inside the polygon (5 points), randomly inside the polygon (10 points), and 15 m grid sampling. Random forest models using CV–nonspatial hyperparameter tuning, spatial CV–nonspatial hyperparameter tuning, and spatial CV–forward feature selection–no hyperparameter tuning were applied for each data handling strategy. The combination generated 24 random forest ML workflows, which are applied using a complete inventory of 743 landslides triggered by Tropical Cyclone Cempaka 2017 in Pacitan Regency, Indonesia, and 11 landslide controlling factors. The results show that grid sampling with spatial CV and spatial hyperparameter tuning is favorable because the strategy can minimize overfitting, generate a relatively high-performance predictive model, and reduce the appearance of susceptibility artifacts in the landslide area. Careful data inventory handling, CV, and hyperparameter tuning strategies should be considered in landslide susceptibility modeling to increase the applicability of landslide susceptibility maps in practical application.
Multiple datasets to explore the molecular mechanism of sepsis
Authors: Lin Shuang , Luo Bin , Ma Junqi
Published: April 2022

Background: This study aimed to identify potential biomarkers, by means of bioinformatics, affecting the occurrence and development of septic shock.Methods: The self-test data and differential genes in GSE131761 were screened, and the diagnostic model of sepsis was further constructed by Lasso regression to identify key genes. The stability of the model was verified by ROC curve. Finally, immune infiltration analysis, enrichment analysis, transcriptional regulation analysis and correlation analysis were performed.Results: A total of 292 differential genes were screened out from the self-test data, 294 differential genes were screened out by GSE131761, Lasso regression was performed on the intersection genes of the two, a diagnostic model was constructed, and 5 genes were identified as biomarkers of septic shock. These 5 genes were SIGLEC10, VSTM1, GYPB, OPTN, and GIMAP7. The five key genes were strongly correlated with immune cells, and the ROC results showed that the five genes had good predictive performance on the occurrence and development of diseases. In addition, the key genes were strongly correlated with immune regulatory genes.Conclusion: In this study, a series of algorithms were used to identify five key genes that are associated with septic shock, which may become potential candidate targets for septic shock diagnosis and treatment.Trial registration：Approval number：2019XE0149-1，Project name：Study on the relationship between TLRs signaling pathway and sepsis.
Association of hemoglobin levels with bone mineral density in the thoracic and lumbar spine for adults over 18 years of age: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Liu En Qi , Hou Xin Zheng , Liu Si Qi , Han Jing , Lv Hao
Published: April 2022

Aim:The overall object of this study is to find out the association between hemoglobin (HGB) and bone mineral density (BMD) in the lumbar and thoracic spine among adults over the age of 18.Methods:The current cross-sectional study used the non-institutionalised US population from the National Health and Nutrition Survey (NHANES) as the sample source. A multiple linear regression model and smoothed curve fitting were used to show the assessment of the relationship between hemoglobin and bone mineral density in the lumbar and thoracic spine, with analysis of subgroups according to gender and race.Results:After accounting for relevant confounders, HGB was negatively associated with bone mineral density in multiple regression models. In subgroup analyses stratified by sex or race, however, the relationship between HGB and thoracic spine BMD was only found in women and Mexican-Americans, and the association with lumbar spine BMD was present in males and females, Mexican-American and Non-Hispanic White. Among participants in other races and those whose race was not reported, the relationship between HGB with BMD in the lumbar spine and the thoracic spine showed an inverted U-shaped curve (turning point: HGB 11.9 g/dL).Conclusion: HGB was negatively associated with BMD in the lumbar spine and BMD in the thoracic spine. However, this significant correlation varies by gender and race.
Study of the Intraocular Pressure Changes after Phacoemulsification in Patients with Refractive Errors
Authors: Zeid Mona M. , Abdel Tarek H. , Helaly Hany H. , Said Amr
Published: April 2022

Purpose: to investigate the intraocular pressure (IOP) changes after phacoemulsification surgery, and its relationship with refractive conditions. Materials and Methods: This prospective, observational study comprised 100 eyes from 100 patients who had no glaucoma and underwent phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation in one eye. Patients were classified into four groups by refractive conditions: Emmetropia, mild to moderate myopia, high myopia and hyperopia. Basic information was collected including age, sex, anterior chamber depth and axial length before surgery. IOP and refractive conditions measured before surgery, and at 1st day, 1st week, 1st month, and 3rd months after surgery. Results: all group showed a significant lower IOP at 3rd month compared with that before surgery. patients with emmetropia, mild to moderate myopia and hyperopia showed exactly the same results. In these 3 groups, IOP after surgery presented with a statistically significant drop at 1st week, 1st month and 3rd months after operation, especially at 1week. In patients with high myopia, IOP showed a lower IOP at 1st week and 1st month compared with IOP before surgery but this drop was not statistically significant (P= 0.505 and P = 0.146, respectively) but there is a statistically significant reduction between preoperative IOP and postoperative IOP at 3rd months (P =0.001). Conclusions: a significant lower IOP at 3rd month than that before surgery was found in patients groups with different refractive conditions. This indicate that cataract surgery had an effect on IOP reduction despite the refractive conditions. However, high myopic patients showed a non-significant lower speed of IOP reduction at 1st week and 1st month. This conclude that refractive conditions might influence the IOP fluctuation in first 90 days after surgery.
Serum diamine oxidase activity derived from responce to chemotherapy affects adverse events and serum amino acid levels
Authors: Sato Yuta , Tanaka Yoshihiro , Imai Takeharu , Okumura Naoki , Matsuhashi Nobuhisa , Takahashi Takao , Shimokawa Toshio , Yoshida Kazuhiro
Published: April 2022

Purpose The relation between activity of the small intestinal villi and the effectiveness of chemotherapy remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate how serum diamine oxidase (DAO) activity affects antitumor effects, adverse events, and amino acid absorption.Methods We performed a single-center prospective cohort study that enrolled 50 patients with esophageal cancer (EC) receiving docetaxel, cisplatin, and 5-fluorouracil therapy. We determined the cut-off value of serum DAO activity contributing to a response to chemotherapy using a generalized additive model. Additionally, we compared adverse events, inflammatory markers, blood amino acid levels, and quality of life between the high and low DAO activity groups during chemotherapy.Results The cut-off value of serum DAO activity at the first visit that contributed to a chemotherapy response was 6.5 units/L. Leukopenia and neutropenia of Grade ≥3 were significantly higher in the DAO low (<6.5 units/L) group (p = 0.044, 0.017, respectively). Interleukin-6 was significantly lower in the DAO high (≥6.5 units/L) group at the first visit and at 4 weeks after the end of chemotherapy (p = 0.039, 0.011, respectively). Glutamine was higher in the DAO high group at all measurement points during chemotherapy. Fatigue was significantly lower in the DAO high group (p = 0.001).Conclusion Serum DAO activity may be a predictor of the response to chemotherapy in patients with EC. The absorption capacity of amino acids was maintained in the group with high DAO activity, which may have contributed to the anti-inflammatory effect and provided a background for reducing adverse events.
Influences of a Novel Cylindrical Solar Dryer on Farmer’s Income and its Impact on Environment
Authors: Sharma Kirtika , Kothari Surendra , Panwar NL , Patel Maga Ram
Published: April 2022

Poor grain drying facilities along with the burden of drying cost bound the farmers to market their produce soon after harvest. Thus, this research paper intends to study the influences of a novel cylindrical solar assisted dryer on farmer’s income and its impact on environment. The paper also presents design and fabrication of a drying system for maize cobs by the use of non-conventional solar energy. Performance of the solar assisted drying system was also investigated for drying of yellow dent maize cobs. Drying, as a very energy-intensive post-harvest process, consumes a lot of electricity, which is usually provided by conventional energy. Here, solar dryers are the perfect solution in terms of efficiency, uniform drying of agricultural food products, less drying time, increased marketability of agricultural products as well as reducing load on farmer’s pocket for drying. With a high internal rate of return of 66 percent, the designed dryer proved to be technically and economically viable. When compared to open sun drying, the solar drying system produced better results in terms of quality and drying time. When compared to other models, the Middili model fits the experimental maize drying data better, with a coefficient of determination R2= 0.89729. Energy analysis inferred savings of 1352.97 kWh electrical energy and 128.18 liter of diesel fuel plus a reduction of 1.22 t CO2 per annum can be achieved by using this dryer.
Assessment of the Effects of Dexmedetomidine on Outcomes of Traumatic Brain Injury Using Propensity Score Analysis
Authors: Xu Jinbu , Xiao Qing
Published: April 2022

Background: Dexmedetomidine has been found to be protective against traumatic brain injury(TBI) in animal studies and safe to for use in previous clinical studies, but whether it improves TBI patient survival remains to be determined. We sought to answer this question through the analysis of data from the MIMIC clinical database.Methods: Data from TBI patients from the MIMICⅢ and MIMICⅣ databases were extracted and divided into a dexmedetomidine group and a control group. In the former group, dexmedetomidine was used for sedation, while in the latter, it was not used. Parameters including patient age, sex, the Acute Physiology score Ⅲ, the Charlson Comorbidity Index score, the Glasgow Coma Scale, other sedatives used, and pupillary response within 24h were employed in propensity score matching to achieve a balance between groups for further analysis. The length of hospital stay and outcome upon discharge were used to perform survival analysis. Subgroup analysis was performed to consolidate the results. Results: Different types of survival analyses demonstrated the same trend. Dexmedetomidine significantly improved TBI patient survival in the univariate analysis, multivariate analysis, analysis based on propensity score matching, and analysis based on the inverse probability of treatment weighting. Different doses, durations, and start time did not alter the beneficial efficacy of dexmedetomidine.Conclusions: Dexmedetomidine can be used to improve the outcomes of TBI patients.
Active monitoring of live virus: A Tale of Two Experimental Infectious Disease Vaccines
Authors: McCracken Reilly , Davide Joseph , Salovich Daniel , Whitmer Travis , Bhat Aditya , Vlasak Josef , Ha Sha , Yi Sijia , Mukherjee Malini , Sehlin Darrell , Ploeger Kristin , Califano Joseph
Published: April 2022

In the development of end-to-end large-scale live virus vaccine (LVV) manufacturing, process analytical technology (PAT) tools enable timely monitoring of critical process parameters (CPP) and significantly guide process development and characterization. In a commercial setting, these very same tools can enable real time monitoring of CPPs on the shop floor and inform harvest decisions, predict peak potency, and serve as surrogates for release potency assays. Here we introduce the development of four advanced PAT tools for upstream and downstream process monitoring in LVV manufacturing. The first tool explores the application of capacitance probes for real time monitoring of viable cell density in bioreactors. The second tool utilizes high content imaging to determine optimum time of infection in a microcarrier process. The third tool uses flow virometry (or nanoscale flow cytometry) to monitor total virus particle counts across upstream and downstream process steps and establishes a robust correlation to virus potency. The fourth and final tool explores the use of nucleic acid dye staining to discriminate between “good” and “damaged” virus particles and uses this strategy to also monitor virus aggregates generated sometimes during downstream processing. Collectively, these tools provide a comprehensive monitoring toolbox and represent a significantly enhanced control strategy for the manufacturing of LVVs.
SIGIRR Deficiency Contributes to CD4 T Cell Abnormalities by Facilitating the IL1/C/EBPβ/TNF-α Signaling Axis in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: TENG Xiu , Mou Da-Chao , Tang Meng , Li Hui-Fang , Wu Sha-Sha , Jiao Ling , Pi Jin-kui , Wang Yan , Zhu Meng-Li
Published: April 2022

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a complex autoimmune disease with multiple etiological factors, among which aberrant T-cell activation plays a key role in the initiation and perpetuation of the disease. The factors that trigger T cell abnormalities in these inflammatory processes are incompletely understood. SIGIRR (single immunoglobulin IL-1R-related receptor) is a member of the IL-1 receptor (ILR) family with distinct structural and functional characteristics, acting as a negative regulator of ILR and Toll-like receptor (TLR) downstream signaling pathways and inflammation. Here, we identified defects in SIGIRR in activated CD4 T cells as an underlying dysregulation. SIGIRR was preferentially distributed by human memory CD4 T cells, as revealed by single-cell RNA sequencing, and its expression was substantially reduced in RA patient-derived memory CD4 T cells, which was inversely associated with RA disease activity. SIGIRR-deficient mice were more susceptible to antigen-induced arthritis (AIA) attributed to unleashed tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α production in antigen-specific CD4 T cells. Mechanistically, SIGIRR regulates the IL-1/C/EBPβ/TNF-α signaling axis, as established by experimental evidence and cis-acting factor bioinformatics analysis. Taken together, SIGIRR deficiency in RA CD4 T cells raised the possibility that receptor interference can target key abnormalities in T cells and represents a potentially novel strategy for immunomodulatory therapy.
Drainage volume on postoperative day one to predict clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula following distal pancreatectomy
Authors: Zhou Quanyu , he Wei , liu Yao , liao Bo , Liang Yong , bing Mo , Yin Shujun , Tang Weian , Shi Yuhong , Xia Yuxiao
Published: April 2022

Background: The purpose of this study was to determine how the drain fluid volume on the first day after surgery (DFV 1) can be used to predict clinically relevant post-operative pancreatic fistula following distal pancreatectomy (PD).Method: A retrospective analysis of 175 patients who underwent distal pancreatectomy in hepatobiliary surgery at Chengdu 363 Hospital (China) from January 2015 to January 2021 has been performed. Depending on the presence of pancreatic fistula, all patients were divided into two groups: POPF and non-POPF. In accordance with clinical impact on a patient's hospital course, the ISGPFD has defined three levels of POPF (grades A, B, C). The clinical factors were analyzed using SPSS 17.0 and Medcalc software. In order to assess the effectiveness of DFV 1 in predicting POPF after surgery, ROC curves were used to calculate its cut-off point. ﻿Result: Of the 175 patients who underwent distal pancreatectomy, 33 suffered with biochemical leaks, 28 (93.3%) with grade B POPFs, and 2 (6.7%) with grade C POPFs. The results from univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the drain fluid volume on the first postoperative day (OR=0.99, P = 0.02) and the preoperative ALT level (OR=0.98, P =0.03) were independent risk factors associated with CR-POPF. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed that a drainage volume of 156 mL in 24 hours was an optimal threshold for the association with complications. The area under the curve was 0.624 (95% CI: 0.548-0.696). An average sensitivity and specificity of 46.67% and 76.55% were achieved respectively.﻿Conclusion: After distal pancreatectomy, the drainage volume on the first postoperative day can predict the presence of a clinically relevant pancreatic fistula.
Review on the Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention implementation, effect on malaria incidence in a context of development of P. falciparum resistant genotypes with potential reduction of the effectiveness in western and central African countries
Authors: Nikiema Séni , Soulama Issiaka , Sombié Salif , Tchouatieu André-Marie , Serme Sindié Samuel , Henry Noélie , Ouaré Nathalie , Ily Raissa , Ouédraogo Oumarou , Zongo Dramane , Djigma Florencia Wendkuuni , Tiono Alfred B. , Sirima Sodiomon B. , Simpore Jacques
Published: April 2022

Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention (SMC), which combines amodiaquine (AQ) with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP), is an effective and promising strategy, recommended by WHO, for controlling malaria morbidity and mortality in areas of intense seasonal transmission. Despite this strategy, the number of malaria cases in the target group, children under five years old, has increased while the implementation of SMC will be extended in several African countries. This increase in the prevalence of malaria cases suggests the need to evaluate SMC and understand some of the factors that may hinder the success of this strategy in the intervention areas. The present review discusses the impact of SMC on target population morbidity, parasite resistance to antimalarial drugs, molecular and the immunity affecting the incidence of malaria in children under five years old. This approach will contribute to improving the malaria control strategy in highly seasonal transmission areas.
Time to Remission of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis following Intraarticular Steroid Injection
Authors: Pratiwi Afrilia Intan , Julia Madarina , Satria Cahya Dewi , Sumadiono Sumadiono
Published: April 2022

Background: Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) is one of the most common chronic rheumatologic diseases of childhood and the ultimate treatment goal is disease remission with optimal physical functions. Intraarticular corticosteroid injection is widely used in children with JIA to relieve joint pain, swelling, and impaired mobility. Recently, there is a shift towards an early aggressive treatment with the intention to attenuate inflammation earlier since there may be a window of opportunity to prevent chronicity. This study aimed to investigate association between different onset of intraarticular corticosteroid injection and the duration of remission.Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted in Allergy and Immunology Clinic Dr. Sardjito Hospital Yogyakarta. Patients aged ≤ 16 years diagnosed JIA were included. Data were recorded from medical records. Survival analysis was used to identify time from first joint injection to the time of remission in patient with JIA.Results: Medical records from 115 JIA patients were reviewed from 2015 until 2020. 44% subjects had oligoarticular subtype and 43,47% achieved remission. Mean time to achieve remission in no injection, early injection (<3 months), and late injection (>3 months) groups were 24, 26, 39 months respectively (log rank p=0,090). Patient with NSAID monotherapy had higher probability to achieve remission as compared to other groups (HR 6.90, p=0,000). Conclusion: There was no difference in remission time between no injection, early injection, and late injection groups. There was also no significant difference in remission time between oligoarticular and non-oligoarticular subtype. Patient with JIA that need only NSAID monotherapy was the best predictor for remission.
Prediction of annual coffee production yield using artificial neural network and multiple linear regression techniques
Authors: Kittichotsatsawat Yotsaphat , Tippayawong Nakorn , Tippayawong Korrakot Yaibuathet
Published: April 2022

Crop yield and its prediction are crucial in agriculture production planning. This study investigates and analyzes annual coffee yield prediction in order to match the market demand, using artificial neural networks and multiple linear regression. Data were collected for six variables, including areas, productivity zones, rainfalls, relative humidity, and minimum and maximum temperature. The predicted yield of the cherry coffee crop continuously increases each year. It was found that the prediction accuracy of the R2 and RMSE were 0.9524 and 0.0642, respectively. The multiple linear regression showed potential in determining the relationship of cherry coffee yield.
Why Dentistry? A Qualitative Enquiry into Dental Students’ Perceptions in the State of Qatar.
Authors: Daud Alaa , Matoug-Elwerfelli Manal , Ali Kamran , Du Xiangyun
Published: April 2022

Background: Career choice is a complex, multifaceted process affecting all aspects of life. Motivational factors of aspiring dentists are crucial to inform institutions and aid with the admission process. The aim of this study was to investigate undergraduate dental students’ perceived motivation for their career choice in the first dental institution in the State of Qatar. Methods: Qualitative methods using face-to-face focus group sessions were utilized. All focus groups were conducted in English and contained a moderator and observer. Purposive sampling technique was employed to collect data from five focus groups of undergraduate dental students to gain a deeper insight into their motivation of career choice. A topic guide was used to ensure data collection standardization. Participants’ views were recorded and filed notes obtained. Data was transcribed and analysis performed utilizing an inductive thematic approach.Results: A total of 34 students (89.5%) from year 2 and 3 participated in the focus groups. Data analysis revealed six main themes emerging from this study namely; altruism and patient care, family influence, childhood aspirations, practical skills, professional and social status, and reconsideration and transfer opportunity. Altruism, opportunities to learn practical skills and professional status appeared to be the main drivers influencing their career choice. Conclusion: This qualitative study provided insightful information regarding current undergraduate dental students’ decision process involved in their profession selection. Students perceived their motivation to be patient care-centered, there was also a strong inclination towards performing practical hands-on tasks as a dentist, and developing a professional status. Interestingly, financial reward did not feature as a motivational factor in this study. This data could help the dental institutions better understand future applicant’s motivations to join dentistry and assist with the academic recruitment process and targeting students with a potential to excel in the profession.
Identification of hub genes and molecular genetic mechanisms in Alzheimer’s Disease and Schizophrenia
Authors: Zeng Yixuan , Zheng Yuxi , Ren Lijie , Chen Ting
Published: April 2022

Cognitive impairment and psychotic symptoms are both common in schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease (AD), affecting more than half of the patients. Shared symptoms between AD and SCZ indicating similar cerebral pathophysiologies exist, common in both clinical and subclinical settings. Neurochemical alterations of the dopaminergic/cholinergic axis are important in schizophrenia and AD, as well as high-risk genes. Insights drawn from these observations enrich the understanding of the relationship between schizophrenia and AD, helping to further the symptomatic control of each disease.
Impact of the dead-time correction method on quantitative 177Lu-SPECT (QSPECT) and dosimetry during radiopharmaceutical therapy
Authors: Desy Alessandro , Bouvet Guillaume F. , Lafrenière Nancy , Zamanian Atefeh , Després Philippe , Beauregard Jean-Mathieu
Published: April 2022

Background: Dead-time correction is required for accurate quantitative SPECT-based dosimetry in the context of personalised 177Lu radiopharmaceutical therapy. We aimed to evaluate the impact of applying dead-time correction on the reconstructed SPECT image vs. on the acquisition projections before reconstruction. Methods: Data from 16 SPECT/CT acquisitions of a decaying 177Lu-filled phantom (up to 20.75 GBq) and dual-timepoint SPECT/CT in 14 patients treated with personalised 177Lu peptide receptor radionuclide therapy were analysed. Dead-time was determined based on the acquisition wide-spectrum count rate for each projection and averaged for the entire acquisition. Three dead-time corrections methods (DTCMs) were used: the per-projection correction, where each projection was individually corrected before reconstruction (DTCM1, the standard of reference); and two per-volume methods using the average dead-time correction factor of the acquisition applied to all projections before reconstruction (DTCM2), or to the SPECT image after reconstruction (DTCM3). Relative differences in quantification were assessed for various VOIs on the phantom and patient SPECT images. In patients, the resulting dosimetry estimates for tissues of interest were also compared between DTCMs.Results: Both per-volume DTCMs (DTCM2 and DTCM3) were found to be equivalent, with VOI count differences not exceeding 0.8%. When comparing the per-volume post-reconstruction DTCM3 vs. the per-projection pre-reconstruction DTCM1, differences in VOI counts and absorbed dose estimates did not exceed 2%, with very few exceptions. The largest absorbed dose deviation was observed for a kidney at 3.5%. Conclusion: While per-projection dead-time correction appears ideal for QSPECT, post-reconstruction correction is an acceptable alternative that is more practical to implement in the clinics and that results in minimal deviations in quantitative accuracy and dosimetry estimates, as compared to the per-projection correction.
Development of ruthenium oxide modified polyethersulfone membranes for improvement of antifouling performance including decomposition kinetic of polymer
Authors: Yigit Basak , Ozay Yasin , Emen Fatih Mehmet , Ozsoy Emine , Ocakoglu Kasım , Dizge Nadir
Published: April 2022

In this study, RuO2-embedded PES membrane was prepared and it was used for protein separation. The antifouling properties of the fabricated composite membranes were also investigated using bovine serum albumin (BSA) as protein solution. The mean roughness increased proportionally by introducing RuO2 particles. The porosity of the composite membranes was higher than that of the pristine PES membrane. On the other hand, composite membranes has smaller average pore size after addition of RuO2 particles. The blending of RuO2 particles to the PES membrane caused to increase the hydrophilicity of the pristine membrane from 76.67° to 67.13°. The thermal studies of the PES/RuO2 membranes were performed by DTA/TG. The Activation Energy (Ea) values of the PES/RuO2 membranes were found to be 57.67-641.34 kJ/mol for Flynn-Wall-Ozawa (FWO) and 55.13–659.10 kJ/mol for Kissenger-Akahira-Sunose (KAS). The pure water flux of the composite membranes decreased from the pristine PES to PES/RuO2 1.00 wt%. The pore size was calculated as 14.5 nm and pore size decreased up to 6.5 nm when blended RuO2 particles increased up to 1.00 wt.%. BSA fluxes were 84.1 ± 2.1, 86.3 ± 2.5, and 93.9 ± 3.2 L/m2/h for pristine, PES/RuO2 0.50 wt%, and PES/RuO2 0.75 wt% membranes, respectively. PES/RuO2 1.00 wt%. membrane supplied the lowest BSA flux (73.6 ± 3.1 L/m2/h). BSA rejection efficiencies increased from 45.5 ± 1.8% to 92.6 ± 1.5% when blended RuO2 particles increased from 0 to 1.00 wt%. The results depicted that Rir values decreased while Rr values increased after the blending of RuO2.
Towards the development of a conceptual framework for Complex interaction between environmental changes and rural-urban migration
Authors: Mianabadi Ameneh , Davary Kamran , Mianabadi Hojjat , Kolahi Mahdi , Mostert Erik
Published: April 2022

Dealing with environmental migration is a complex problem that may transform into a wicked problem. To investigate the environment-migration nexus, it is necessary to develop a conceptual model that considers the complexity of environmental changes as a cause of rural-urban migration (RUM). This paper provides such a model, focusing on the decline of agricultural lands and products and relevant economic consequences. It links the three leading “push factors” of RUM—climate change, human mal-activities, and hydro-climatic disasters— and migration. Also, it incorporates the pull factors in cities and intervening factors, such as governmental plans and individuals’ characteristics. The model contributes to bridging the knowledge gap on the effects of migration policymaking on the one hand and environmental and climate change on the other hand. It increases understanding of the full range of human responses to environmental and climate change and can be used for policymaking through sustainable management plans.
Pharmacokinetics, tissue distribution, effect on proliferation inhibition and apoptosis of hepatic stellate cells and molecular mechanism of Suc-GTS- lip which is glycyrrhetinic acid derivative receptor-mediated liver- targeting liposome
Authors: Lin Tao , Wang Xiuli , Guan Huida , Lin Jiahao , Li Geng , Wang Yurong
Published: April 2022

Objective To investigate the liver targeting effect of salvianolic acid B (Sal B)-tanshinone IIA (TSN)-glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) liposomes (GTS-lip) with the incorporation of 3-succinic-30-stearyl glycyrrhetinic acid (18-GA-Suc)and To confirm the efficacy of it in treating hepatic fibrosis at the cellular level. Method 18-GA-Suc was inserted into GTS-lip to prepare GA-derived receptor-mediated active targeting liposomes (Suc-GTS-lip). Compared the pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution of Suc-GTS-lip with GTS-lip.The proliferative inhibition rate of hepatic stellate cell (HSC) affected by Suc-GTS-lip was determinded by MTT assay. The apoptosis rate of HSC was measured with Annexin V-FITC / PI method using flow cytometry. The expression levels of MMP-1, TIMP- 1, TIMP-2, Collagen-Ⅰ and Collagen-Ⅲ mRNA in HSC were determined by RT-PCR. Result The results of the pharmacokinetic study showed that incorporation of ligands changed the bioavailability of the three liposomal drugs in mice. Tissue distribution results showed that the AUC and Cmax of Sal B were increased in Suc-GTS-lip compared with GTS-lip. The liver targeting effect of Sal B, which was entrapped in the aqueous phase, was achieved with the help of ligands. The in vivo imaging study showed that the modified liposomes tended to accumulate in the liver, with the liver fluorescence intensity reaching its peak at 30 min. The MTT test results showed that Suc-GTS-lip could significantly inhibit the proliferation of HSC and high, medium, low dose groups of Suc-GTS-lip induced apoptosis rates of HSC, which were 75.23 ± 2.56%, 27.60 ± 0.95%, 20.77 ± 3.97%.The RT-PCR results showed that, compared with the blank control group, the Suc-GTS-lip could increase matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-1), high-dose, medium-dose group(P < 0.001), low-dose group(P < 0.01);decrease tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMP-1 and TIMP-2), high-dose group(P < 0.001), medium-dose group(P < 0.01); and lessen synthesis of collagen-Ⅰand collagen-Ⅲ, high-dose, medium-dose group(P < 0.001), low-dose group(P < 0.05), suggesting that Suc-GTS-lip may induce the apoptosis of HSC from many ways. Conclusion Suc-GTS-lip could therefore promote the -stabilities of the drugs and enhance their liver targeting ability.The efficacy of Suc-GTS-lip in the treatment of hepatic fibrosis was confirmed from the cellular level, which provided a basis for the animal efficacy in vivo.
The Go-Lab Platform, an Inquiry-Learning Space: Investigation into Students’ Technology Acceptance, Knowledge Integration, and Learning Outcomes
Authors: Sui Chi Jung , Chen Hsin-Chueh , Cheng Ping-Han , Chang Chun-Yen
Published: April 2022

Utilizing an inquiry-learning space (ILS) via the Go-Lab platform, we investigated students’ technology acceptance, knowledge integration [KI] process, and learning outcomes of both the high-achiever KI student and low-achiever KI student. This study aimed to understand how students engage in knowledge integration tasks using an inquiry-learning space to learn Mendelian genetics and realize the relationship between student KI and domain knowledge. We conducted a pre-experimental study with 41 seventh-grade students in Taiwan. The students completed Mendelian genetics KI tasks in ILS, pre/post-testing of domain knowledge tests, and a technology acceptance questionnaire. The analysis of students’ interaction in the ILS and domain knowledge tests was conducted through descriptive statistics, t-tests, Pearson correlation, and content analysis to indicate the direction and relationship between students’ KI processes and learning outcomes. A technology acceptance questionnaire was analyzed through descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation to reveal whether students accepted learning on the Go-Lab platform. The study showed that i) students responded positively to the perceived usefulness of the Go-Lab platform, ii) the high-achiever KI students could gradually construct links from simple to complex and diverse among genetic ideas, and the low-achiever almost built simple links, but iii) the high-achiever and low-achiever KI students had similar learning outcomes. These findings have implications that instruction design of knowledge integration tasks promotes students’ Mendelian genetics conceptual understanding and KI progress.
Efficacy and Safety of Lenvatinib in Patients with Recurrent Hepatocellular Carcinoma after Liver Transplantation
Authors: Bang Kyunghye , Casadei-Gardini Andrea , Yoo Changhoon , Iavarone Massimo , Ryu Min-Hee , Park Sook Ryun , Kim Hyung-Don , Yoon Young-In , Jung Dong-Hwan , Park Gil-Chun , Ahn Chul-Soo , Moon Deok-Bog , Hwang Shin , Kim Ki-Hun , Song Gi-Won , Mazzarelli Chiara , Alimenti Eleonora , Chan Stephen L. , De Giorgio Massimo , Ryoo Baek-Yeol , Lee Sung-Gyu
Published: April 2022

Background: Lenvatinib is approved for patients with metastatic or recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC); however, its clinical outcomes in patients experiencing HCC recurrence after liver transplantation (LT) remain unclear. Thus, we investigated the efficacy and safety of lenvatinib in patients with recurrent HCC after LT.Methods: This multinational, multicenter, retrospective study included 45 patients with recurrent HCC after LT who received lenvatinib at six institutions in three countries (Korea, Italy, and Hong Kong) from June 2017 to October 2021.Results: At the time of lenvatinib initiation, 95.6% (n = 43) of patients were Child–Pugh A, with 35 (77.8%) and 10 (22.2%) patients classified as albumin-bilirubin (ALBI) grades 1 and 2, respectively. The objective response rate was 20.0%. With a median follow-up duration of 12.9 months (95% confidence interval [CI]: 11.2–14.7), median progression-free survival and overall survival (OS) were 7.6 (95% CI: 5.3–9.8) months, and 14.5 (95% CI: 0.8–28.2) months, respectively. Patients with ALBI grade 1 showed significantly better OS (52.3 months, [95% CI: not assessable]) than patients with ALBI grade 2 (11.1 months [95% CI: 0.0–30.4 months], p = 0.003). The most common adverse events were hypertension (n = 25, 55.6%), fatigue (n = 17, 37.8%), and anorexia (n = 14, 31.1%).Conclusion: Lenvatinib showed consistent efficacy and toxicity profiles in patients with recurrent HCC after LT compared to the results of previous studies of non-LT HCC patients. The baseline ALBI grade was correlated with better OS in lenvatinib-treated patients with LT.
Microglial reprogramming by Hv1 antagonism provides protection from inflammatory neurotoxicity
Authors: Hernández-Espinosa Diego Rolando , Gale Jenna R. , Scrabis Mia G. , Aizenman Elias
Published: April 2022

Background
The precise mechanisms determining the neurodestructive or neuroprotective activation phenotypes in microglia remain unknown. Emerging evidence suggest, however, that metabolic changes are important for microglial phenotype determination. Metabolism, in turn, can be tightly regulated by changes in intracellular pH. The aim of this work was to establish whether pharmacological targeting of the microglial voltage gated proton channel 1 (Hv1), an important regulator of intracellular microglial pH, is critical for reducing inflammatory neurotoxicity while maintaining the neuroprotective components of activation, as well as to describe the mechanism behind this process.
Methods
We used lipopolysaccharide/gamma interferon (LPS/IFNγ) to activate a microglial cell line and primary microglia isolated from mouse and established the activation profile in the absence and presence of pharmacological Hv1 inhibition. Additionally, we utilized co-cultures of microglia and cortical rat neurons to assess the role of Hv1 in inflammatory neurotoxicity and the modulation of excitotoxic injury using a range of neuronal viability assays.
Results
Activation with LPS/IFNγ induced widespread production of proinflammatory mediators, as well as reactive species and phagocytic activity. The ensuing neurotoxicity was mainly attributable to the release of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), reactive oxygen species and zinc. Strikingly, pharmacological inhibition of Hv1 largely abrogated inflammatory neurotoxicity not only by reducing the production of cytotoxic mediators, but also by promoting neurotrophic molecule production and restraining phagocytic activity. Furthermore, we demonstrate that this Hv1-mediated change from a pro-inflammatory to a neuroprotective phenotype is associated with metabolic microglial reprogramming. Finally, we show that Hv1 antagonism not only reduces inflammatory neurotoxicity, but also promotes neuroprotection against excitotoxic injury.
Conclusions
We present a comprehensive characterization of the molecular components that are modulated by Hv1 activity during microglial activation in both a cell line and in primary microglial cells. Moreover, we show that Hv1 antagonism retains the beneficial aspects of microglial activation, not only by reducing inflammatory neurotoxicity, but also by providing neuroprotection in an in vitro model of excitotoxicity. Our results suggest that Hv1 blockers are likely to provide an important therapeutic tool against a wide range of inflammatory neurodegenerative disorders.
AURKA is a prognostic potential therapeutic target in skin cutaneous melanoma modulating the tumor microenvironment, apoptosis, and hypoxia
Authors: Zhang Xuan Fen , Long ShengYong
Published: April 2022

Background: AURKA, Aurora kinase A encoding gene, is an important signaling hub gene for mitosis. In recent years, AURKA has been implicated in the occurrence and development of several cancers. However, its relationship with the tumor microenvironment in skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM) and the molecular mechanisms underlying its effects are still unclear. Method：We adopted a variety of bioinformatics methods to comprehensively analyze the potential carcinogenesis of AURKA in SKCM, and constructed a prognostic nomogram model. We also dentified an inhibitor targeting AURKA and verified its therapeutic effects against SKCM using the molecular docking technology. Results: We found that abnormally high expression of AURKA was responsible for driving the occurrence and development of SKCM, and affected various pathological factors in SKCM. In addition, AURKA was established as an independent marker of poor SKCM prognosis. We also characterized the potential mechanisms by which AURKA manifests its effects in SKCM and found that AURKA inhibits the infiltration of CD8+ T cells and promotes hypoxia by activating the TGF-β signaling pathway. At the same time, the high AURKA expression group had higher tumor stemness index and promoted cell proliferation and metastasis. Finally, the small molecule compound ZNC97018978 targeting AURKA screened by molecular docking technology can inhibit the proliferation, invasion and metastasis of SKCM. The possible mechanism is that ZNC97018978 induces apoptosis by arresting the cell cycle, thereby inhibiting cell proliferation. Conclusion: AURKA is the core hub gene driving the occurrence and development of SKCM, and its expression is regulated by epigenetic modifications. AURKA can regulate the infiltration level of various immune cells in the tumor microenvironment, reshape the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, and apoptosis, and hypoxia. Thus, it is a prognostic biomarker and potential therapeutic target in SKCM. ZNC97018978 is an effective and safe inhibitor of AURKA in vitro; its safety and effectiveness in vivo as a potential treatment for cutaneous melanoma should be further determined.
Mono-PEGylated Thermostable Bacillus caldovelox Arginase Mutant (BCA-M-PEG20) Induces Apoptosis, Autophagy, Cell Cycle Arrest and Growth Inhibition on Gastric Cancer Cells
Authors: Chung Sai-Fung , Tam Suet-Ying , Kim Chi-Fai , Chong Hiu-Chi , Lee Leo Man-Yuen , Leung Yun-Chung
Published: April 2022

Gastric cancer is one of the most common malignant solid tumors in the world, especially in Asia with high mortality due to a lack of effective treatment. With our newly constructed arginine-depleting enzyme - mono-PEGlyated Bacillus caldovelox arginase mutant (BCA-M-PEG20) drug against multiple cancer cell lines such as cervical and lung cancers, we have explored the potential usage of BCA-M-PEG20 for the treatment of gastric cancer. Our results indicated that BCA-M-PEG20 significantly inhibited argininosuccinate synthetase (ASS) positive gastric cancer cells, MKN-45 and BGC-823, while another arginine-depleting enzyme - arginine deiminase (ADI, currently under Phase III clinical trial), failed to suppress the growth of gastric cancer cells. In vitro studies demonstrated that our BCA-M-PEG20 inhibited MKN-45 cells by inducing autophagy and cell cycle arrest at the S phase under 0.58 U/mL (IC50 values). Significant caspase-dependent apoptosis was induced in MKN-45 after the treatment of 1.16–2.32 U/mL of BCA-M-PEG20. Our in vivo studies showed that administrations of BCA-M-PEG20 with 250 U/mouse twice per week significantly suppressed about 50% of tumor growth in the MKN-45 gastric cancer xenograft model. Taken together, BCA-M-PEG20 demonstrates a superior potential to be an anti-gastric cancer drug.
In vivo Functional Effects of Weissella confusa VP30 Exopolysaccharides on Loperamide-Induced Constipation in Rats
Authors: Park Se-Ho , Lee Mi-Ra , Young Yang Su , Yeon Lee Ju , Ha Lee Hyun , Seong Yeong-Je , Kim Bohye , Kim Hee-Jun , Jin Hui , Johnston Tony V. , Ku Seockmo , Park Myeong Soo
Published: April 2022

In our previous work, we characterized the in vitro biofunctionality and evaluated the biosafety of exopolysaccharide (EPS)-producing Weissella confusa VP30 (VP30), newly isolated from healthy children’s feces. Since the purified EPS (pEPS) from fermented milk with VP30 (VP30-EPS) showed significant water holding capacity, it was theorized that its consumption would relieve constipation. In this work, the in vivo functionalities of VP30-EPS and pEPS were evaluated for their effect on constipation using an experimental constipated rat model. Rats were randomly divided into four groups: (i) negative control (PBS administered normal group), (ii) loperamide treated positive control (constipation group), (iii) constipation with loperamide plus VP30-EPS (1 g/kg) and (iv) constipation with loperamide plus pEPS (0.6 g/kg) groups. Loperamide treatment induced animal constipation and significantly reduced the frequency of defecation, intestinal transit ratio, and water content of feces. However, all four fecal parameters were improved in both the loperamide plus VP30-EPS and pEPS administered groups as compared to the loperamide treated positive control group. No significant changes in dietary intake or serum hepatocellular necrosis maker levels were observed in any experimental group. These results suggest that the addition of VP30-EPS or pEPS potentially improves the functional laxative effects of commercial products. No other published research relating in vivo functional effects of EPS from Weissella spp. on constipation could be identified. This study suggests the possibility that VP30-EPS and pEPS can be applied to fermented and/or functional foods to relieve constipation.
Design and Electromechanical analysis of Shunt configuration-based RF MEMS Switch for Tunable filter applications
Authors: Ganesh G. V. , Pardhasaradhi P. , Siddaiah N.
Published: April 2022

This paper gives an overview of Radio Frequency Micro Electromechanical Systems (RF MEMS) shunt switch design and electromechanical analysis. The performance, efficiency and reliability of the switch structure depends on numerous factors. The materials used in various layers of switch like beam, dielectric is varied along with the thickness and width of both beam and dielectric. The comparisons are made regarding the performance of the switch for different materials, thicknesses, and widths. The switch which is giving lower displacement for the applied voltage is selected which will result in better performance from the above combinations. The designed shunt switch's electromechanical performance like pull-in voltage, switching time, upstate and downstate capacitance are analyzed using FEM analysis