bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and implement of the automatic wetland waterfowl identification system based on YOLOv5 algorithm
Authors: Wang Dehui , Que Xiang , Liu Jinfu , Chen Ruohai , Li Yimin , Zhang Yingqian
Published: September 2022

Because waterfowl are sensitive to the environment, the abundance and quantity of waterfowl species are often used to evaluate the ecological status of wetlands. Traditional methods of detecting waterfowl are not only time-consuming but also inaccurate. Some investigations may even be at risk. To solve these problems, we designed an intelligent waterfowl auto monitoring system for supporting the detections of native waterfowl which can reduce unnecessary and unsafe investigations. To implement the framework, we utilized a Model-View-Viewmodel (MVVM) and deployed a waterfowl identification model (WIM) of YOLOv5 at a back-end for real-time detecting the species of waterfowl and counting their numbers for different time intervals. It is integrated into a GIS-based platform, which is helpful for analyzing the spatial distributions and variation laws of different species of waterfowl. To manage the related geospatial data, we used the PostgreSQL database and designed the corresponding APIs. In addition, we implemented a tool for uploading and labeling images online which can be used to retrain recognition models on the backend. In our current system, the image database plays a vital role in building recognition models. The image database can be set to auto-update, which means that once the users upload images on the front-end, the pre-trained WIM on the back-end will be updated automatically. Results show that our system performs well although it is still in the testing phase. It meets the basic requirements of detecting the native wetland waterfowl species, and help summarizing the maximum observed number of different species over a certain period of time. The rate of identifying waterfowl exceeds 80% and the recall rate exceeds 90%. These can support some in-depth analysis and decision-making for the managers of wetland reserve.
A Heuristics approach based hybrid method for Feature Selection for Ranking using Machine Learning with Learning to Rank
Authors: Chavhan Sushilkumar , Dharmik R. C.
Published: September 2022

Learning-to-Rank is a trending area for research for a variety of applications. Learning-to-Rank is Machine Learning based information Retrieval. Many Algorithms were proposed to handle the problems spe- cially features oriented with Learning-to-Rank. Objective behind this research is to provide the alternative framework for selection of features. The proposed framework makes the use of heuristics approach for objects retrieval using learning-to-rank with L2 regularization. In this research, we collect a new subset of active subset in each iteration of heuristics approach where we used the Simulated Annealing for features collection. For optimization L2 regularization is used to handle the dropout of the active feature. Unlike, other features frameworks, we do not added rather maintained new specified list for new iteration. In each iteration, new sub- set of feature were accepted and replace with discreet features there by tried to minimize the computation time of query processing time with this framework. The results confirm that it provides a high quality feature list with an existing framework using machine learning techniques only. Mod- ified objective function of existing Lamdamart and heuristics frameworks confirms the competitive performance of the proposed model. Analysis is done on best suggested LTR methods with all evaluation measures.
Changes in Fasting Plasma Glucose and Risk of Mortality Events for Individuals without Diabetes over Two Decades of Follow-up: a Pooled Cohort Analysis
Authors: Kohansal Karim , Masrouri Soroush , Khalili Davood , Ramezankhani Azra , azizi Fereidoun , Blaha Michael J , Hadaegh Farzad
Published: September 2022

Background: To assess the gender-specific impact of 3-year changes in fasting plasma glucose (FPG) status on the risk of all-cause, cardiovascular (CV), and cancer mortality in individuals without type 2 diabetes during an 18-year follow-up.
Methods: The study population included 14,378 participants aged 30-60 years (8272 women) from three population-based cohort studies, including Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities, Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis, and Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study. Subjects were classified into six categories based on the approximately three-year changes in FPG status: 1) normal FPG (NFG) to NFG (NFG-NFG, reference category); 2) NFG-impaired fasting glucose (IFG, i.e., 126> FPG ≥100 mg/dl); 3) NFG-type 2 diabetes (T2DM); 4) IFG-NFG; 5) IFG-IFG; 6) IFG- T2DM. Multivariable stratified Cox regression, adjusting for age, body mass index (BMI), BMI-Change, smoking status, hypertension, and hypercholesterolemia, was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs [95% CI]) for all-cause and cause-specific mortality events. Women-to-men ratios of HRs (RHRs) for each category were also estimated.
Results: During follow-up, 2362 incidences of all-cause mortality were recorded. Among women, all categories of FPG change, excluding IFG-NFG (HR, 95% CI; 1.24 [0.98–1.57], p-value=0.07), were associated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality compared to the NFG-NFG category. Moreover, women in IFG-T2DM (2.21 [1.42–3.44]) group were at increased risk for CV mortality. We also found that women in NFG-IFG (1.52 [1.20–1.91]), NFG-T2DM (2.90 [1.52–5.51]), and IFG-IFG (1.30 [1.02–1.66]) categories had a higher risk for cancer mortality. However, among men, a higher risk of all-cause mortality was found for only two groups of NFG-T2DM (1.78 [1.15–2.74]) and IFG-T2DM (1.34 [1.04–1.72]). Women with IFG-IFG had a 24% higher risk for all-cause mortality events than their men counterparts with the same condition (RHR; 1.24 [1.01–1.54]).
Conclusion: In women, the IFG status, whether as incident, persistent, or converted to T2DM, had a higher risk for mortality events; however, among men, only conversion to T2DM conferred an excess risk of all-cause mortality.
Spontaneous, persistent T-cell dependent IFN-γ release in patients who progress to Long COVID
Authors: Krishna Benjamin A. , Lim Eleanor Y. , Mactavous Lenette , Jackson Sarah , Team NIHR BioResource , Lyons Paul A. , Doffinger Rainer , Bradley John R. , Smith Kenneth G. C. , Sinclair John , Matheson Nicholas J. , Lehner Paul J. , Sithole Nyaradzai , Wills Mark R.
Published: September 2022

After acute infection with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), a significant proportion (0.2–30%) of patients experience persistent symptoms beyond 12 weeks, termed Long COVID. Understanding the mechanisms which cause this debilitating disease and identifying biomarkers for diagnostic, therapeutic and monitoring purposes is urgently required. Persistently high levels of IFN-γ were detected from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of Long COVID patients using highly sensitive FluoroSpot assays. This IFN-γ release was seen in the absence of ex vivo peptide stimulation and remains persistently elevated in Long Covid patients, unlike the resolution seen in patients recovering from acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. IFN-γ release was CD8+ T cell mediated and dependent on MHC-I antigen presentation by CD14+ cells. After vaccination, a significant decrease in IFN-γ correlated with resolution of some Long COVID symptoms. Our study highlights a key mechanism underlying Long COVID, enabling the search for biomarkers and therapeutics in patients with Long COVID.
Stochastic-based approach to quantify the uncertainty of groundwater vulnerability
Authors: Ni Chuen-Fa , Vu Tien-Duc , Li Wei-Ci , Tran Minh-Tuan , Bui Van-Cuong , Truong Minh-Hoang
Published: September 2022

The study proposes a stochastic approach to quantify the uncertainty of groundwater vulnerability (GV) produced by classical index-overlay methods. In the analysis, the physical-based MODFLOW model has been integrated with the DRASTIC method and modified by the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) technique. Specifically, the flow fields from the MODFLOW model provide the parameters of depth to water and the associated hydraulic conductivity (K) for the DRASTIC method. The integrated loops between the MODFLOW and DRASTIC models enable the evaluations of GV maps by considering sources of uncertainty in geological parameters and stress changes in an aquifer system. In illustrating the approach for practical implementations, the study considers the uncertainty produced by the heterogeneity of K in the Pingtung Plain groundwater basin in southern Taiwan. Different degrees of K heterogeneity were assessed to quantify the impact of the K heterogeneity on the GV mappings. Results show that quantification of parameter uncertainty from the GW model can improve the accuracy and reliability of the GV map. The stochastic GV maps have accounted for the source of the K uncertainty. There are significant discrepancies in GV values in the spatial distribution and intensity in all GV classes. The results clarify the potential risk of groundwater contaminations in the Pingtung Plain groundwater basin.
A method that can measure the delivered patient dose in Total Marrow Lymphoid Irradiation IMRT treatment based on kilovolt fan-beam CT-linac
Authors: Jiang Dazhen , Deng Di , Xiong Yu , Wang Dajiang , Gong Jian , Zhao Hongli , Bao Zhirong , Wei Yongchang , Xie Conghua , Jia Lecheng , Liao Can , Liu Shuo , Liu Hui , Wang Xiaoyong
Published: September 2022

Background: A novel CT-linac (kilovolt fan-beam CT-linac) has been introduced into total marrow and lymphoid irradiation (TMLI) treatment. Its integrated kilovolt fan-beam CT scanner enables accurate evaluation of the dose distribution difference between plan and delivery, which is crucial for the TMLI treatment improvement for the future.
Purpose: This study evaluated the technical feasibility of kilovolt fan-beam CT-linacfor TMLI treatment and investigated the true dose distribution of the delivery.
Methods: 11 sets of data from 5 male and 6 female patients who had underwent the TMLI treatment with uRT-linac 506c were selected for this study. The planning target volumes consist of all skeletal bones exclusion of the mandible and lymphatic sanctuary sites. A planned dose of 10Gy was prescribed to all skeletal bones exclusion of the mandible in two fractions and 12Gy in two fractions was prescribed to lymphatic sanctuary sites. Each TMLI plan contained two sub-plans, one dynamic IMRT for the upper body and the other VMAT for the lower extremity. Two attempts were made to obtain homogeneous dose in the overlapping region, i.e., applying two plans with different isocenters for the treatment of two fractions, and using a dose gradient matching scheme. The CT scans, including planning CT and fan-beam CT (obtained during image-guided radiation therapy) were stitched to a whole body CT scan for dose distribution evaluation.
Results: Firstly, the kilovolt fan-beam CT-linac can provide the adequate target dose coverage (90% for planning and delivery) and critical organ sparing that satisfied the clinical requirements. Secondly, the beam-on time of kilovolt fan-beam CT-linac is apparently shorter than helical tomotherapy for the TMLI treatment. Thirdly, there exists the dose distribution difference of PTVs between plan and delivery (p<0.05, Wilcoxon signed-rank test), but the PTV coverage of delivery is clinically acceptable (larger than 90%). There is no significant difference (p>0.05) between the dose distribution of the plan and delivery for most organs at risk, except for right len. Fourthly, for the treatment delivery, applying two plans with different isocenters for one patient in two fractions performed better than employing only one plan for one patient in two fractions on PTV coverage for PTVbone, maximum dose for small bowel, heart, and liver.
Conclusion: This radiation therapy treatment planning has proved to be effective. This research first exhibited that the dose difference between planning and delivery was evaluated, which is important for treatment evaluation and plan improvement for the future studies.
Synergistic repellent and irritant effects of a binary mixture of β-caryophyllene oxide and vetiver oil against mosquito vectors
Authors: Nararak Jirod , Sanguanpong Unchalee , Sukkanon Chutipong , Manguin Sylvie , Chareonviriyaphap Theeraphap
Published: September 2022

Mosquito repellents play a major role in reducing the risk of mosquito borne diseases by preventing mosquito bites. The present study evaluated the mosquito-repellent activity of β-caryophyllene oxide 1% (BCO), vetiver oil 2.5% (VO) and their binary mixtures [BCO+VO (1:1), BCO+VO (2:1), BCO+VO (1:2)] against four laboratory-colonized mosquito species: Aedes aegypti (L.), Aedes albopictus (Skuse), Anopheles minimus (Theobald), and Culex quinquefasciatus Say using an excito-repellency assay system. In general, the compound mixtures produced a much stronger response by the mosquitoes than single compounds, regardless of the test conditions and species. The greatest synergetic effect was achieved for the combination of BCO+VO (1:2) in both the contact and non-contact trials with An. minimus (74.07–78.18%) and Cx. quinquefasciatus (55.36–83.64%). Knockdown responses to the binary mixture of BCO+VO were observed for Ae. albopictus, An. minimus and Cx. quinquefasciatus, in the range 18.18–33.33%. The synergistic repellent activity of BCO and VO used in the study may support increased opportunities to develop safer alternatives to synthetic repellents for personal protection against mosquitoes.
An exotic 3-center/4-electron carbon-carbon pi long-bond: Is it tangible?
Authors: Singh Narinder , . Vikas
Published: September 2022

Centrosymmetric species with AB2 boding motif where central atom (A) is relatively more electronegative than the end ligands (B atoms) have been predicted to exhibit an unusual form of three-center/four-electron (3c/4e) long-bonding where bonding/antibonding interactions occur between the two end ligands (B-B) bypassing the central atom albeit via sharing the latter’s lone pair. Such a long-bond of sigma- and pi-type, has so far been predicted as single bonds, and mainly as linear (B-A-B) bonding motifs. This work, through computations based on density-functional theory (DFT) and natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis, reveals pi-type long-bonding between carbon atoms separated by more than 2 angstroms in the gas phase chain species, namely, CnX (X = O,N; n = 2,4,6,8). Notably, this work, through DFT and NBO analysis, not only successfully predicts pi-type long-bonding in linear and non-linear CnX species (mainly those where X is the central atom) but is also able to reveal multiple pi long-bonds particularly in the triplet-C2O as well as a pi long-bond in an isomer of C8N where N is not the central atom. However, preliminary computations using complete active space self-consistent field (CASSCF) multi-reference method performed in this work could only confirm antibonding pi long-bond orbital whereas the validity of bonding pi long-bond orbital of the proposed long-bond could not be ascertained through the CASSCF.
Clinical and Economic Burden Associated with Graft-Versus-Host Disease Following Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation in France
Authors: Thiruvillakkat Kris , Michonneau David , Quignot Nadia , Jiang Heng , Reichenbach Dawn , Kelly Maebh , Burrell Anita , Zhang Xiang , Mohty Mohamad
Published: September 2022

The real-world clinical and economic burden of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation has not been comprehensively studied in France. Clinical outcomes, healthcare resource utilization and costs associated with acute GVHD (aGVHD), chronic GVHD (cGVHD), acute plus chronic GVHD (a + cGVHD) versus no GVHD were compared using French administrative claims data. After propensity score matching, 1 934, 408, and 1 268 matched pairs were retained for the aGVHD, cGVHD, and a + cGVHD cohorts, respectively. Compared with patients with no GVHD, odds of developing severe infection was greater in patients with aGVHD (odds ratio (OR): 1.7, [95% confidence interval: 1.4, 2.1]). Compared with patients with no GVHD, mortality rates were higher in patients with aGVHD (rate ratio (RR): 1.6 [1.4, 1.7]) and in patients with a + cGVHD (RR: 1.1 [1.0, 1.2]) but similar in patients with cGVHD (RR: 0.9 [0.7, 1.1]). Mean overnight hospital admission rates per patient-year were significantly higher in patients with aGVHD and a + cGVHD compared with no GHVD. Total direct costs were 1.2, 1.5, and 1.9 times higher for patients with aGVHD, cGVHD, and a + cGVHD, respectively, versus patients with no GVHD. These results highlight the significant unmet need for effective treatments of patients who experience GVHD.
The Computer, A Choreographer? Aesthetic Responses to Computer-Generated Dance Choreography
Authors: Darda Kohinoor M. , Cross Emily S.
Published: September 2022

Is artificial intelligence (AI) changing our culture or creating its own? With advancements in AI and machine learning, artistic creativity is moving to a brave new world of possibility and complexity, while at the same time posing challenging questions, such as what defines something as art, what is the role of human creativity in an automated world, and do we evaluate artificial art in the same way as art made by humans? Across two pre-registered and statistically powered experiments we shed light on the nature of aesthetic responses toward computer-generated art by investigating observer prejudices against computer-generated dance choreography, and the impact of expertise and pre-conceived beliefs about the origin of artistic creation. Our results provide substantive evidence that an explicit bias exists among dance experts against computer-generated choreography, and the mere belief about a dance work’s origin biases aesthetic responses toward artworks among both dance experts and dance naïve participants. The implications of the current study serve to inform several disciplines across the arts and sciences including but not limited to empirical aesthetics, artificial intelligence, engineering, robotics, and social cognition and neuroscience. Along with physical form and content of artificial agents and art productions, the viewers’ knowledge and attitudes toward artistic AI and artificial agents will need to be taken into consideration for effective human-computer/human-AI interactions.
Analysis of the dynamics of the resonant planetary system HD 45364
Authors: MIA RAJIB , Paul Arjun Kumar
Published: September 2022

The aim of this work is to analyse the orbital dynamics and stability of exoplanetary system in which two planets are in nearly 3:2 MMR. We have taken HD 45364 system for our study in which two planets are most likely in a 3:2 MMR. We have plotted two resonant angles and the relative apsidal longitudes and it is observed that they are librating around a constant value. From this observation our opinion is that there exist nearly 3:2 MMR between HD 45364b and HD 45364c. The perturbative solution is obtained for the time variation of the semi-major axes. The short and long term variations of semimajor axes are studied. For the validation of our analytical results we have compared our analytical solutions with the numerical solutions. The effect of planetary perturbations on eccentricity is studied with the help of secular resonance dynamics theory. The short and long term variations of eccentricities of HD 45364b and HD 45364c are shown graphically. Moreover, using the latest stability criteria, we have studied the dynamical stability of HD 45364 system.
Investigations on the Dual-Core Photonic Crystal Fiber Sensor Based on Surface Plasmon Resonance with Two Segmented Tantalum Film Coating
Authors: Vayghan Nader Sobhkhiz
Published: September 2022

In this paper, a dual-core D-shaped photonic crystal fiber (PCF) based surface plasmon resonance (SPR) refractive index sensor coated by tantalum in two segments has been designed and studied. The sensing performance of the proposed sensor in the visible to near infrared (800–1300 nm) region for detecting low refractive index analytes is numerically investigated. The finite element method (FEM) is used to design and study the influence of different structure parameters by the optical loss spectrum on the sensing performance of the sensor. The chemically stable plasmonic material tantalum (Ta) is used to produce excitation between the core and plasmonic modes. On a pure silica (SiO2) substrate, a rectangular structured dual core is used to facilitate the coupling strength between the cores and the surface plasmon polariton (SPP) mode and thus improves the sensing performance. By tuning the geometric parameters, simulation results show a maximum wavelength sensitivity of 10400 nm/RIU (Refractive Index Unit) for analyte refractive indices ranging from 1.25 to 1.39. The sensor also attains a maximum figure of merit (FOM) of 35.25 /RIU and fine refractive index resolution of 9.615 × 10 −6 RIU. Owing to Ta chemical stability, low cost, simple structure, high sensitivity, relatively high FOM and improved sensing resolution, the proposed sensor is suited for real-time, inexpensive and accurate detection of biomedical and biological analytes, bimolecular, and hazardous corrosive gases.
Microbial antagonism against phytopathogenic Botrytis cinerea in highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) cultivars. Contribution of leaf-associated microorganisms from native Andean Ericaceae
Authors: Sanhueza Tedy , Herrera Héctor , Arriagada Cesar
Published: September 2022

Leaf-associated microorganisms are the least studied symbiotic microbes in Ericaceous plants and they represent a novel and interesting source of microbial strains for exploring their biocontrol potential against phytopathogenic fungi. In this study, the diversity of leaf-associated microorganisms of the native Andean ericaceous plants Gaultheria pumila and Empetrum rubrum were screened to identify and characterize microorganisms with biocontrol capability against the phytopathogenic fungus Botrytis cinerea affecting Vaccinium corymbosum (highbush blueberry) cultivars. Microbial strains with biocontrol potential against Botrytis cinerea were selected, and in vivo tests were performed to evaluate the biocontrol activity of the selected strains. Four fungal, four yeast, and five bacterial strains were isolated, including the fungi Epicoccum nigrum (strains HFE11 and HFG20), Epicoccum layuense (strain HFG13), and Aspergillus sp. (strain HFG1), the yeasts Aureobasidium pullulans (strains BFG22 and BFG24) Sporobolomyces roseus (strains BFE10 and BFE11), and the bacteria Bacillus mycoides (strains BFE4 and BFE14), Bacillus sp. (strains BFG8), Pseudomonas fluorescens (strains BFE6), and Pseudomonas sp. (strains BFG21). In vitro biocontrol activity of the selected strains (BFE14, BFE6, and HFG13) showed inhibition percentages ranging from 60% to 80. The screening of plant growth-promoting traits detected phosphate solubilization, indole acetic acid production, and ammonium production in most of the isolates. The in vivo experiments showed that the inoculation of the isolates BFG22, BFE6, and HFG13 on V. corymbosum leaves before infection avoids severe damage to the infected tissues. Additionally, inoculation with BFG22 decreases the lipid peroxidation levels (malondialdehyde 36% lower) when the leaves were infected with B. cinerea. Our results provide evidence of beneficial traits of microorganisms inhabiting the phyllosphere of native Andean Ericaceae which can be used as microbial inoculants in agricultural production. These beneficial effects enhance plant growth and avoid damage by B. cinerea in V. corymbosum cultivars.
Detection of a Pair Density Wave State in UTe2
Authors: Gu Qiangqiang , Carroll Joseph , Wang Shuqiu , Ran Sheng , Broyles Christopher , Siddiquee Hasan , Butch Nicholas , Saha Shanta , Paglione Johnpierre , Davis JC Seamus , Liu Xiaolong
Published: September 2022

Although UTe2 is a very promising candidate material to embody bulk topological superconductivity, its superconductive order-parameter ∆(k) remains unknown. Many diverse forms for ∆(k) are physically possible because, in uranium-based heavy fermion materials, strongly hybridized flat bands of composite fermions generate highly complex interactions. Moreover, in such materials intertwined density waves of spin (SDW), charge (CDW) and pairs (PDW) may interpose, with the latter state exhibiting spatially modulating, superconductive order-parameter ∆(r), electron pair density and pairing energy gap. Hence, the newly discovered CDW state in UTe2 motivates the exciting prospect that a PDW state may exist in this material. To search for a PDW in UTe2, we visualize the pairing energy-gap with μV-scale energy-resolution made possible by superconductive STM tips at subkelvin temperatures. We detect three PDWs, each with peak-peak gap modulations circa 10 μeV and at incommensurate wavevectors P_(i=1,2,3) that are indistinguishable from the wavevectors Q_(i=1,2,3) of the prevenient CDW. Concurrent visualization of the UTe2 superconductive PDWs and the non-superconductive CDWs reveals that every Pi: Qi pair is registered to each other spatially, but with a relative phase δϕ≈π. From these observations, and given UTe2 as a spin-triplet superconductor, the PDW state detected here should be a spin-triplet pair density wave. While such states do exist in superfluid 3He, for superconductors they are unprecedented.
From Waste to Wealth: A Cellulose-based Fibrous Membrane from Recycled Cigarettes Supported with Dual Perovskite for Formaldehyde Degradation at Room Temperature
Authors: Duan Anyang , Wang Tian , Wu Shuanglin , Ji Chenhao , Ma Qiyao , Huang Fenglin
Published: September 2022

Formaldehyde, as a hazardous indoor contaminant following house decoration, is essential to its efficient removal at room temperature. This paper reports an eco-friendly approach for extracting cellulose acetate (CA) from waste cigarette filters to construct a nanofibrous composite membrane for formaldehyde degradation at ambient temperature. A composite nanofibrous membrane was fabricated by salable electrospinning of cellulose acetate and La2CoMnO6/CeO2(LC), followed by hydrolysis and potassium doping with KOH. The membrane demonstrates excellent catalytic activity (97.56 % of conversion), super stability (95.35 % of conversion after 50 h) and long service life (93.96 % of conversion after 3 catalysis cycles), which is ascribed to the synergistic catalytic effect of double perovskite and rapid hygroscopic properties of cellulose. In addition, the obtained membrane has a higher moisture regain (7.82 %) than that of the LC/CA nanofibrous membrane (2.21 %), and higher than that of the commercial air filter membrane using polypropylene (PP) fiber (near zero), accelerating formaldehyde adsorption and fastening the water removal, thereby allowing for the long-term positive progress of formaldehyde catalytic oxidation reaction. This work provides encouraging guidance for further exploration into formaldehyde degradation, which is promising for application in air cleaning.
Short-Course Empiric Antibiotic Therapy for Possible Early-Onset Sepsis in the NICU
Authors: Sanchez Pablo , Prusakov Pavel , Romero Concepcion de Alba , Zamora-Flores Elena , Escamilla María Reyes , White Natalie , Miller Randy , Moraille Richard , Thiele Anthony , Magers Jacqueline
Published: September 2022

Objective. On 2/2019, the Neonatal Antimicrobial Stewardship Program at Nationwide Children’s Hospital recommended reducing empirical antibiotic therapy for early-onset sepsis (EOS) from 48 to 24 hours with a TIME-OUT. We describe our experience with this guideline and assess its safety.
Methods. Retrospective review of all newborns evaluated for possible EOS at <72 hours of age at 6 neonatal intensive care units from 12/2018-7/2019. Safety endpoints were re-initiation of antibiotics within 7 days after discontinuation of the initial course, positive bacterial blood or cerebrospinal fluid culture in the 7 days after antibiotic discontinuation, and overall and sepsis-related mortality.
Result. Among 414 newborns evaluated for EOS, 196 (47%) received a 24 hour rule-out sepsis antibiotic course while 218 (53%) were managed with a 48 hour course. Infants in the two groups did not differ in the predefined safety endpoints.
Conclusion. Antibiotic therapy for suspected EOS may be discontinued safely within 24 hours.
Innovation and Commercialization in Pandemic Times: a Case Study From Sultanate of Oman
Authors: Hussain Shaik Asif. , Hakro Ahmed Nawaz
Published: September 2022

COVID-19 health-related global urgency has witnessed a substantive impact on research and innovation activities. The uncertain situations have completed the governments and higher education institutions to change and adjust their work environment, but it also affected the research, teaching, and innovation development activities in Higher Education Institutions (HEI). The pandemic situation has posed few challenges and provided ample opportunities to reflect on the way the usual business is being conducted. It provides interesting experiences and novel mechanisms to adopt suitable mechanisms to adjust to the new normal and a few lessons learned to be better equipped to face such realities in the future. This paper aims to share the experience of one such situation in a pandemic as how the challenges and responses faced in one such situation at the institutional level during the pandemic and deliberated some interesting lessons learned to further formulate the strategic response to carry out planned innovation activities. The lessons learned are insightful for future practices to support in the areas of social innovation, technology transfer, and entrepreneurship activities. The reflective account of case study responses collected from faculty and students' insights provides rich and diverse experiences that contextualize the achievements and mitigating effects. Furthermore, witnessing awareness, marketing, knowledge transfer, dissemination, and commercialization of innovation activities conducted during these testing times. The shared experiences are summarized in detail and diverse backgrounds are upheaved at the Technology Transfer Office (TTO) of the case study. The lessons learned in adjusting to the new remote learning environment provide an interesting account of innovation activities. The findings suggest that a strong, focused approach with a professional commitment to the strategic direction of the institution makes relative success in achieving the objectives of the commercial office. The efficient management of commercial 0perations during and after COVID-19 to witness the real-time collaboration between researchers across the globe. The findings may be taken in careful application in other similar situations.
Precise co-delivery of drug and cytotoxic exosomes using a biomimetic nanorobot for glioma regression and recurrence prevention
Authors: Hao Wenyan , Li Peiying , Li Chuntong , Fan Yueyue , Li Chen , Chen Mengyu , Liu Qianqian , Yang Meiyan , Chen Mengli , Gao Chunsheng , Yang Yang
Published: September 2022

BackgroundAn increasing number of research studies have demonstrated the superiority of NK cells in clinical applications for cancer therapy. For a long time, the brain was considered as restricted area for immune cells because of the BBB, making the efficacy of NK cell-based immunotherapy on glioma is still insufficient. Therefore, a strategy to overcome the therapeutic bottlenecks of NK cell therapy for brain disease are urgently needed.In this study, we designed a biomimetic nanorobot termed “DTX@aNK Exos-NM” for enhancing the targeting ability and antitumor capacity. DTX@aNK Exos-NM was predesigned to have enhanced BBB penetration characterization and precise residual tumor targeting ability for delivery of both chemotherapeutic drugs and cytotoxic NK cell exosomes.ResultsThe biomimetic nanorobot was successfully established with both NK cell-liked and neutrophil-liked properties, as well as high loading efficiency and encapsulation efficiency of cytotoxic exosomes and chemotherapy drug. The transwell BBB model and C6-Luc glioma model in vivo study showed that DTX@aNK Exos-NM could penetrate the BBB and migrate to the residual tumor area efficiently in response to the inflammatory factors and Hsp70. In addition, DTX@aNK Exos-NM could effectively inhibit tumor proliferation and prolong survival time in a glioma mouse model.ConclusionOur results indicate that the the well-designed DTX@aNK Exos-NM not only enhances the antitumor effect of NK cells but also efficiently promoting cellular uptake of cytotoxic exosomes and DTX by endothelial cells and tumor cells. The co-delivery of chemotherapeutic drugs and cytotoxic exosomes could slow the recurrence of residual tumor growth and significantly improves survival. This personalized both drugs and exosomes delivery platform responsive to post-radiotherapy microenvironment may provide a new opportunity for cancer treatment.
Attribution of Wintertime Extreme Rainfall over the Pearl River Delta to Anthropogenic Influences
Authors: Zhao Rui , Tam Chi-Yung Francis , Lee Sai Ming
Published: September 2022

During 14 to 17 December 2013, the Pearl River Delta (PRD) in South China received its largest wintertime 4-day precipitation of above 100 mm since 1998, due to strong cold air intrusion. Here we investigate the extent to which such extreme rainfall can be attributed to human activities, by carrying out Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model multi-physics integrations at a convection-permitting resolution. The factual WRF runs were conducted using the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) Reanalysis (ERA)-Interim as boundary and initial conditions, and the counterfactual runs by the same ERA-Interim forcing with human influences removed. The latter was deduced by subtracting the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5) historical-natural from the historical run outputs. Results show that human-induced thermodynamic (TH) forcing alone accounts for ~9% increase in the 4-day mean rainfall for 1.2 K near-surface warming, whereas combined dynamic (DY) and TH (“DY+TH”) forcing contributes to ~14% increase for 2 K warming (nearly CC rates). However, TH and DY+TH forcing can intensify the 95th percentile daily rainfall by ~13% and ~19%, respectively. This suggests that human-caused DY forcing can further exacerbate the TH-driven rainfall enhancement. Indeed, under the combined TH and DY effects, there is stronger land-sea thermal contrast with anomalous low-level southerly wind and convergence in coastal South China. The frontal system and ascending motion are therefore intensified, resulting in even stronger rain rates than TH-only forcing. Moisture budget analysis reveals that the DY component accounts for most of the 95th percentile rainfall changes while the TH contribution is negligible. Our findings highlight the salient role of dynamic effects on intensifying PRD’s extreme rainfall in wintertime.
Twitter Data Analysis using Distill BERT and Graph Based Convolution Neural Network during Disaster
Authors: Danday Anusha , Murthy T Satyanarayana
Published: September 2022

TDS (Twitter Data Analysis) in Social media plays an essential role in spreading information during disasters and needy situations. May it be for seeking help or sharing and updating seriousness of situation or communicating the status or response to public in need social media plays a major role in case of emergencies. This research focuses on to prepare the data by performing cleansing and various transformations, to generate word embedding vectors using DistillBERT and generate a similarity matrix , to construct the(Graph based Convolution Network) GCN model to classify text sequences, to analyze the performance of the DistillBERT with GCN model in Text classification. To implement this, contextual word embedding’s introduced for generating word vectors. The contextual word embedding’s and concept of graph neural networks which has gained its importance to capture contextual relationship among the text which further improves the performance of classification. In this work proposed a semi supervised ML model to detect and classify Need and Availability of Resources tweets with accuracy of 98% as compared with state-of-the-art approaches.
Does the shape of the copper intrauterine device play a role in expulsion? Results from the ongoing European Active Surveillance Study on LCS12
Authors: Boehnke Tanja , Bauerfeind Anja , Eggebrecht Lisa , Cellier Camille , Lange Jens A. , Heinemann Klaas , Madden Tessa
Published: September 2022

Purpose: To compare the incidence of partial and complete expulsion for different copper intrauterine device (IUD) shapes.
Materials and methods: A secondary analysis of the ongoing, prospective, non-interventional European Active Surveillance Study on LCS12 - an IUD with a total amount of 13.5 mg levonorgestrel (EURAS-LCS12). Women with newly inserted IUDs were recruited in 10 European countries (Austria, Germany, Poland, Czech Republic, Spain, Italy, United Kingdom, France, Sweden, and Finland) via a network of approximately 1,200 health care professionals. We calculated the cumulative incidence, crude and adjusted hazard ratios for expulsion.
Results: For this analysis, 27,822 copper IUD users from the EURAS-LCS12 study were considered. The most frequently used IUD shape was T or Y (73.7%), followed by chains (12.1%), Omega (10.5%), and balls (3.8%). Cox regression analysis regarding partial expulsions yielded an adjusted hazard ratio (HRadj) of 1.8 (95% CI, 1.3-2.4), 0.2 (95% CI, 0.2-0.4), and 2.9 (95% CI, 2.1-3.9) for Omega-shape, chain, and ball versus T/Y-shape, respectively. For complete expulsions, HRadj was 0.5 (95% CI, 0.3-0.8), 1.7 (95% CI, 1.3-2.3) and 2.9 (95% CI, 2.0-4.2) for Omega-shape, chain and ball versus T/Y-shape, respectively.
Conclusion: The shape of the copper IUD is associated with the risk of device expulsion and thus, should be considered at the time of contraceptive counseling.
Properties and mechanism of two-way shape memory polyurethane composite under stress-free condition
Authors: Yang Haowen , Shi Ruixin , Jiang Qinglong , Ren Juanna
Published: September 2022

Two-way shape memory polymer can exhibit reversible shape transformation, which shows great application potential as a smart material. It is necessary to develop new reversible shape memory composite systems to achieve accurate and wide-range control of two-way shape memory behavior, especially under the condition of no external force. A chemically cross-linked two-component crystalline block copolymer was prepared based on the independence of crystallization of PLA and PCL. The mechanism of two-way shape memory behavior under stress-free condition of the material is revealed. The results show that both the crystallization and thermal property of PLA/PCL-PU can be significantly changed by adjusting the proportion between PLA and PCL, and the dosage of crosslinking agent, and thus the shape memory property of PLA/PCL-PU can be regulated accordingly. The two-way shape recovery rate of the material can reach to 41.11%. This work provides a facile strategy to fabricate a biodegradable thermally induced two-way shape memory material under the stress-free condition with tunable shape memory properties.
Being poor and being NEET in Europe: Are these two sides of the same coin?
Authors: Mussida Chiara , Sciulli Dario
Published: September 2022

We implement a dynamic bivariate probit model to explore the possible relation between at-risk-of-poverty and NEET (Not in Employment, Education or Training) in 21 European countries using 2016–2019 European Union Statistics on Income and Living Conditions panel data. We identify genuine state dependence and account for possible feedback effects from past poverty to the NEET status. We also consider two alternative definitions of NEET, i.e. unemployed and inactive NEET and inactive NEET only. We find that both poverty and NEET are characterized by significant genuine state dependence. We also observe a vicious circle between the phenomena, especially when adopting the definition that includes unemployed and inactive NEETs. This suggests a leading role of unemployment in the detrimental effect of being NEET on poverty. We also offer supplementary analyses and further insights on country heterogeneity by looking at the role of social protection expenditure.
Mitochondrial connexin43 and mitochondrial KATP channels modulate triggered arrhythmias in mouse ventricular muscle
Authors: Sato Haruka , Nishiyama Masami , Morita Natsuki , Satoh Wakako , Hasegawa Taiki , Someya Yuka , Okumura Tsuyoshi , Koyama Sana , Shindoh Chiyohiko , Miura Masahito
Published: September 2022

Aim: Connexin43 (Cx43) exits as hemichannels in the inner mitochondrial membrane. We examined how mitochondrial Cx43 and mitochondrial KATP channels affect the occurrence of triggered arrhythmias.
Methods and Results: To generate cardiac-specific Cx43-deficient (cCx43-/-) mice, Cx43flox/flox mice were crossed with α-MHC (Myh6)-cre+/- mice. The resulting offspring, Cx43flox/flox/ Myh6-cre+/- mice (cCx43-/- mice) and their littermates (cCx43+/+ mice), were used. Trabeculae were dissected from right ventricles of mouse hearts. Cardiomyocytes were enzymatically isolated from ventricles of mouse hearts. Force was measured with a strain gauge in trabeculae (22°C). To assess arrhythmia susceptibility, the minimal extracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]o,min), at which arrhythmias were induced by electrical stimulation, was determined in trabeculae. ROS production was estimated with 2’,7’-dichlorofluorescein (DCF), mitochondrial membrane potential with tetramethylrhodamine methylester(TMRM), and Ca2+ spark frequency with fluo-4 and confocal microscopy in cardiomyocytes. Mitochondrial Ca2+ was estimated with rhod-2 in trabeculae. Diazoxide was used to open mitochondrial KATP. Most of cCx43-/-mice died suddenly within 8 weeks. Cx43 was present in the inner mitochondrial membrane in cCx43+/+mice, but not in cCx43-/-mice. In cCx43-/- mice, the [Ca2+]o,min was lower, Ca2+ spark frequency and DCF oxidation rate were more increased, and TMRM fluorescence was more decreased. These changes in cCx43-/-mice were suppressed by diazoxide. Besides, in cCx43-/- mice, antioxidant peptide SS-31 increased the [Ca2+]o,min. Rhod-2 fluorescence was increased at high [Ca2+]o only in Cx43-/- mice.
Conclusions: These results suggest that the deficiency of Cx43 activates Ca2+ leak from the SR probably due to an increase in ROS production, depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential, and an increase in mitochondrial Ca2+, thereby causing triggered arrhythmias and that the deficiency of Cx43 hemichannels may be compensated by activation of mitochondrial KATP channels in mouse hearts.
Robotic Bilateral Nephrectomy for Large Polycystic Kidney Disease
Authors: Masterson John M. , Zhao Hanson , Taich Lior , Naser-Tavakolian Aurash , Johnson Hayley , Najjar Reiad , Kim Irene K. , Gupta Amit
Published: September 2022

Objective
To describe our technique and review our experience with synchronous robotic bilateral nephrectomy for large kidneys in ADPKD with the Da Vinci XI and Da Vinci Single Port platforms (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA).
Materials and Methods
We performed a retrospective review of all robotic bilateral nephrectomy cases from January 2020 to October 2021 at a high-volume robotic single center. Demographic data and perioperative details including preoperative CT scans, indication for nephrectomy, and renal function were collected. We also collected post-op course data and final specimen data details.
Results
Eleven cases were included. Patient demographics, indications for surgery, and specimen data are outlined in table 1. The largest kidney removed measured 32 cm in largest dimension on preoperative imaging. Median operating time from incision to closure was 299 minutes (IQR 260, 339). Median estimated blood loss was 100cc (IQR 50, 175). Two patients were transfused intraoperatively. Median pre- and post-operative Hgb was 11.3 and 9.7 respectively. Median length of stay was 3 days (IQR 2, 3.5). There were no intraoperative complications and no open conversions. Post-operative complications included one incisional hematoma, and one superficial wound infection. One patient was admitted to the surgical ICU post operatively for ventilatory support. Two patients were readmitted within 30 days of surgery.
Conclusion
The robotic approach to bilateral native nephrectomy for ADPKD should be considered when native nephrectomies are indicated. The operative times and outcomes compare favorably to prior series and this technique works even for very large kidneys.
A novel circulating RNA circELMOD3 functions as a tumor suppressor in hepatocellular carcinoma through TRIM13/P53 signal axis
Authors: Lai Mingshuang , zeng xiao yun , Liu Meiliang , Li Deyuan , Zhang Ruirui , Wang Lijun , Li Xiaofei , Chen Sixian , Wu Siqian , Xiao Suyang , Wei Liling , Wang Xiaogang , Nan Aruo
Published: September 2022

Background
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been identified as key regulatory factors in tumor development based on accumulating studies. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of the circulating circRNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) haven't t been fully elucidated.
Methods
Five pairs of HCC and adjacent normal tissues were processed using RNA-sequencing to determine the differential expressed circRNAs. The expression levels of genes and proteins were detected by qPCR and Western blotting, respectively. CCK-8, EdU, Flow cytometry, wound healing assay, Transwell assays, and xenograft mouse model were performed to investigate the biological function of circELMOD3 both in vitro and in vivo. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), RNA antisense purification (RAP) and dual luciferase reporter assay were carried out to verify the interaction between circELMOD3, miR-6864-5P and TRIM13.
Results
CircELMOD3 was downregulated in plasma and tissues from HCC patients and was related to their clinicopathological characteristics. Significantly, plasma circELMOD3 was shown to be a highly sensitive and non-invasive biomarker to distinguish HCC from healthy controls (AUC = 0.908). Functionally, circELMOD3 prevented HCC cells from proliferating and caused them to undergo apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, circELMOD3 increased the expression of TRIM13 by acting as a sponge for miR-6864-5P. In addition, overexpression of circELMOD3 lead to enhanced stability and higher expression level of TRIM13 mRNA, to which it directly binds, and in turn activated the P53 signaling pathway.
Conclusion
CircELMOD3 plays a tumor suppressor role in HCC via TRIM13/P53 signaling axis, which can serve as a potential target for early diagnosis and treatment of HCC patient.
Variational Iteration Method for 2D Hyperbolic Quasi-linear Pde
Authors: Sahu Subrata Kumar , Derkee Simon
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we have constructed two dimensional (2D ) hyperbolic quasi-linear partial differential equations (HQLPDE) by considering two cases. The Cauchy data is given in the form of exponential curve in the 1st case. The initial value problems (IVP) are mentioned as sin x in the 2nd case where as all the cases are associated with time. We have obtained the solutions by using variational iteration method (VIM). In the both cases, we found that solution represents flat surface during the initial stage. We have observed exponential surface in the 1st case and the curved surface in the 2nd case subject to the increasing values of x and y.
Mathematics subject classification: 35Lxx, 35L04