bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neurodevelopmental outcomes of infants born to mothers with SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy: A national prospective study in Kuwait
Authors: Ayed Mariam , Embaireeg Alia , Kartam Mais , More Kiran , Alqallaf Mafaza , AlNafisi Abdullah , Alsaffar Zainab , Bahzad Zainab , Buhamad Yasmeen , Alsayegh Haneen , Al-Fouzan Wadha , Alkandari Hessa
Published: February 2022

BackgroundAn increasing proportion of women are being infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) during pregnancy. Intrauterine viral infections induce an increase in the levels of proinflammatory cytokines, which inhibit the proliferation of neuronal precursor cells and stimulate oligodendrocyte cell death, leading to abnormal neurodevelopment. Whether a maternal cytokine storm can affect neonatal brain development is unclear. The objective of the present study is to assess neurodevelopmental outcomes in neonates born to mothers with SARS-CoV-2 infections during pregnancy. MethodsIn this prospective cohort study, the neurodevelopment status of infants (N=298) born to women with SARS-CoV-2 infections during pregnancy was assessed at 10-12 months post discharge using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire, 3rd edition (ASQ-3). The ASQ-3 scores were classified into developmental delays (cutoff score: ≤2 standard deviations (SDs) below the population mean) and no delay (score >2 SDs above the population mean).ResultsApproximately 10% of infants born to mothers with SARS-CoV-2 infections during pregnancy showed developmental delays. Two of 298 infants tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, and both had normal ASQ-3 scores. The majority of the pregnant women had SARS-CoV-2 infection during their third trimester. The risk of developmental delays among infants was higher in those whose mothers had SARS-CoV-2 infections during the first (P=0.039) and second trimesters (P=0.001) than in those whose mothers had SARS-CoV-2 infections during the third trimester. Infants born at <31 weeks gestation were more prone to developmental delays than those born at >31 weeks gestation (10% versus 0.8%; P=0.002).ConclusionThe findings of the study highlight the need for long term neurodevelopmental assessment of infants born to mothers with SARS-CoV-2 infection.
The electron-proton bottleneck of photosynthetic oxygen evolution
Authors: Dau Holger , Greife Paul , Schönborn Matthias , Capone Matteo , Assuncao Ricardo , Narzi Daniele , Guidoni Leonardo
Published: February 2022

Photosynthesis fuels life on Earth by storing solar energy in chemical form, inspiring technological schemes for sustainable fuel production. Today’s oxygen-rich atmosphere results from photosynthetic O2-production during water-splitting at the protein-bound manganese cluster of photosystem II. Formation of the O2 molecule starts from a state with four accumulated electron holes, the S4-state, postulated half a century ago1 and remaining enigmatic ever since. Here we resolve this missing key element in photosynthetic O2-formation and its crucial mechanistic role. We tracked 230,000 excitation cycles of dark-adapted photosystems with microsecond infrared spectroscopy. Combing these results with computational chemistry reveals that in S4 not only are four electron holes accumulated by metal ion and protein sidechain oxidation, but also a crucial proton vacancy is created through gated sidechain deprotonation. Subsequently, a reactive oxygen radical is formed in an astonishing single-electron multi-proton transfer event. This is the slowest step in photosynthetic O2-formation – despite its low energetic barrier – due to entropic slowdown. In conjunction with previous breakthroughs in experimental and computational investigations, a compelling atomistic picture of photosynthetic O2-formation emerges. Our results provide insight into a biological process that has probably operated in the same unique way for three billion years and are expected to support the knowledge-based design of artificial water-splitting systems.
Network Coordinator Perceptions of Early Childhood Community Systems Building and Development Efforts
Authors: Hoang Tuyet-Mai Ha , Bentley Brandie , Jenkins Karen V. , Reinhart Crystal , Tabb Karen M
Published: February 2022

Background: Networks for building and developing community systems to support early childhood rely upon volunteer efforts of organization and leadership efforts of coordinators to bring together relevant stakeholders.Aims: The purpose of this study was to explore the perspectives of network coordinators from 10 different communities in the All Our Kids Early Childhood Networks initiative in and across one Midwestern state.Methods: We conducted two focus group interviews with 10 participants who worked as network coordinators in public health district offices. A semi-structured focus group interview guide was used to examine community coordinators’ perceptions related to lessons learned with community systems development efforts around early childhood outcomes. All interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic network analysis was used to analyze all focus group data. Results: From interviews with network coordinators, three salient themes emerged: (1) strengths of networks to build systems; (2) challenges for coordinators, such as burnout; and (3) the importance of the networks’ role within the community.Conclusions: The study contributes to the existing literature by identifying success and hindering factors that impact the implementation process to sustain long-term impact. The findings can be useful for other ongoing state-supported community-based programs across the US.
Road Traffic Death Rate and Human Development Index in 2007-2016 at the Global Level: Trend Analysis
Authors: Sayari Mohammad , Haghighi Mohammad Reza Rahmanian , Lankarani Kamran Bagheri , Ghahramani Sulmaz , Honarvar Behnam
Published: February 2022

Background: Numerous studies working on the association between the human development index (HDI) and road traffic death rate (RTDR) , merely focused on developed countries, have not thus far reflected on the relationship between the HDI components and RTDR. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the trends of RTDR and their association with the HDI and its components from 2007 to 2016.Methods: The RTDR data for 131 countries were imported into the unconditional latent growth model (LGM) to assess the trends of RTDR between 2007 and 2016. The impact of the HDI and its components (viz. education, income and life expectancy [LE viz]) on the trajectory of RTDR was also evaluated using the conditional LGM. Classification and regression trees (CARTs) were then applied to classify the countries based on the HDI and its components into downward or upward trends. The importance of the HDI components in the CART models was further extracted through random forests (RFs). Results: The results of the unconditional LGM indicated an overall decreasing trend in RTDR. A total number of 106 and 25 countries also had a downward and upward trend of RTDR, respectively. Based on the conditional LGM, the outcomes revealed the negative effect of the HDI and its components on the model parameters. The accuracy of the CARTs was at least by 85%, indicating its high classification performance. According to the findings of RFs, LE was the most crucial variable in the CART models. Conclusion: Overall, RTDR is concluded to be multifactorial. As this study showed, the HDI and its LE component are the main determinants of RTDR at the global level. In addition, legislative factors and sociocultural context of countries are assumed as important issues that should be considered by policy-makers to control RTD.
Kynurenine Metabolites Predict Survival in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: A Role for IL-6/IL-6Rα
Authors: Cai Zongye , Tian Siyu , Klein Theo , Tu Ly , Geenen Laurie W. , Bosch Annemien E. , Rijke Yolanda B. , Reiss Irwin K. M. , Boersma Eric , Ley Claude , Faassen Martijn , Kema Ido , Duncker Dirk J. , Boomars Karin A. , Tran-Lundmark Karin , Guignabert Christophe , Merkus Daphne
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Activation of the kynurenine pathway (KP) has been reported in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) undergoing PAH therapy. We aimed to determine KP-metabolism in treatment-naïve PAH patients, investigate its prognostic values, evaluate the effect of PAH therapy on KP-metabolites and identify cytokines responsible for altered KP-metabolism. Methods: KP-metabolite levels were determined in plasma from PAH patients (median follow-up 42 months) and in rats with monocrotaline- and Sugen/hypoxia-induced PH. Blood sampling of PAH patients was performed at the time of diagnosis, six months and one year after PAH therapy. Results: KP activation with lower tryptophan, higher kynurenine (Kyn), 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-HK), quinolinic acid (QA), kynurenic acid (KA), and anthranilic acid was observed in treatment-naïve PAH patients compared with controls. A similar KP-metabolite profile was observed in monocrotaline, but not Sugen/hypoxia-induced PAH. Human lung primary cells (microvascular endothelial cells, pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells, and fibroblasts) were exposed to different cytokines in vitro. Following exposure to interleukin-6 (IL-6)/IL-6 receptor a (IL-6Ra) complex, all cell types exhibit a similar KP-metabolite profile as observed in PAH patients. PAH therapy partially normalized this profile in survivors after one year. Increased KP-metabolites correlated with higher pulmonary vascular resistance, shorter six-minute walking distance, and worse functional class. High levels of Kyn, 3-HK, QA, and KA measured at the latest time-point were associated with worse long-term survival. Conclusion: KP-metabolism was activated in treatment-naïve PAH patients, likely mediated through IL-6/IL-6Ra signaling. KP-metabolites predict response to PAH therapy and survival of PAH patients.
Under-five Child Survival and Asociated Risk Factors in Zambia
Authors: Mulenga James Nilesh , Bwalya Bwalya Bupe , Mapoma Chabila Christopher , Siyoto Erica , Banda James
Published: February 2022

Background: Under-five mortality remains a global public health challenge faced by several developing countries particularly those in Sub-Sahara African. This study aimed to analyse risk factors for under-five mortality in Zambia. Methods: In order to achieve this objectives, the most recent 2018 Zambia Demographic and Health Survey Children’s dataset was used. Microsoft Excel 2013 and Stata 13 software were used to analyse the data by first establishing percentage and graphical distributions of variables of interest and thereafter apply Survival analysis to produce Kaplan – Meier results with the log-rank test and Cox proportional hazard regression models. Results: Our findings show that various factors pose risks to under-five mortality. In this regard, the mother’s education, higher birth order, being from a household classified as rich and residing in rural areas has a protective effect for under-five mortality, while older mothers and being in female headed household increases the risk of under-five mortality. Conclusion and Policy Implication: It is clear that Under-five mortality remains high in Zambia and influenced in a significant way by two major factors – older ages at birth for mothers and female headed households. While the latter is a result of society and community settings and how they interact with various cultural and traditional norms as well as power relations and the gender perspective, the former could be associated with access to comprehensive reproductive health services coupled with access to education. In view of the findings, the study has important policy implications at national level in monitoring the implementation of various infant and under five interventions aimed at reducing IMR and U5M and also to ensure that it achieves the SDG 3.2, as such, all interventions should have a demographic and socio-economic lens at all levels of service provision and implementation. Nonetheless, these should be implemented in line with known high impact under-5 interventions already being implemented if maximum results are to be achieved.
Psychometric Properties of the Mental Health Continuum-Short Form (MHC-SF) in Iranian Adolescents
Authors: afrashteh majid yousefi
Published: February 2022

Background
Psychological tests are necessary to assess and assess the mental state of individuals. Mental health is one of the important psychological indicators and is increasingly considered as having various aspects of well-being. The Mental Health Continuum-Short Form (MHC-SF) is a 14-item instrument that assesses mental health, focusing on emotional, psychological, and social well-being. The present study examined the psychometric properties of the Persian version of the MHC-SF among adolescents, focusing on its factor structure, internal consistency, construct validity, and gender measurement invariance.
Methods
The population of this study was Iranian adolescents between 11 and 18 years old who were enrolled in the seventh to twelfth grades. A convenience sample of 822 Adolescents from four large cities in the Iran (Tehran, Zanjan, Hamedan and Ghazvin) participated in the present study. Questionnaires were completed online. Statistical analyses to evaluate the factor structure, internal consistency, construct validity, gender and age factorial invariance were performed in SPSS and LISREL.
Results
The results of confirmatory factor analysis supported the 3-factor structure of MHC-SF (emotional, psychological, and social well-being). Reliability was confirmed by Cronbach's alpha method and composite reliability (>.7). Measurement invariance were confirmed among girls and boys. Convergent and divergent validity were also evaluated and confirmed by correlating the test score with similar and different tests.
Conclusion
This study examined and confirmed the psychometric properties of GHQ in the Iranian adolescent community. This instrument can be used in psychological research and diagnostic evaluations.
Roost Culling as an Effective Management Strategy for Reducing Invasive Rose-Ringed Parakeet (Psittacula Krameri) Populations
Authors: Anderson C. Jane , Brennan Leonard , Bukoski William , Hess Steven , Hilton Clayton , Shiels Aaron , Siers Shane , Kluever Bryan , Klug Page
Published: February 2022

Rose-ringed parakeets (Psittacula krameri) are one of the most widespread invasive avian species worldwide. This species was introduced to the island of Kaua‘i, Hawai‘i, USA, in the 1960s. Depredation of crops by this species causes extensive economic losses. Large congregations in evening roosts damage trees and lead to excessive noise and droppings in public areas. We evaluated the efficacy of a roost culling program conducted by an independent contractor from March 2020 – March 2021. We estimated island-wide minimum abundance was 10,512 parakeets in January 2020 and 7,372 in April 2021. Over 30 nights of culling, approximately 6,030 parakeets were removed via air rifles with 4,415 (73%) confirmed via carcasses retrieval. An estimated average of 45 parakeets were removed per hour of shooter effort. The ratio of culled juveniles to adults was approximately 1.6:1.0. Age and sex structure of animals removed varied seasonally; the proportion of adult females removed in 2020 was 1.9× greater when culled outside of the estimated nesting season. Of the four roosts where culling occurred, the parakeets fully abandoned three and partially abandoned one site; of the three fully abandoned roosts, an estimated average of 29.6% of birds were culled prior to roost abandonment. This study was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic, when tourist numbers and foot traffic were greatly reduced; it is unknown how public perception of roost culling in public areas may impact future efforts. Findings can be used to inform implementation of roost culling for management of nonnative rose-ringed parakeet populations.
Exosomal lncRNA TUG1 Derived From Human Urine-derived Stem Cells Attenuates Renal Ischemia/reperfusion Injury by Interacting With SRSF1 to Regulate ASCL4 Mediated Ferroptosis
Authors: Sun Zejia , Wu Jiyue , Bi Qing , Wang Wei
Published: February 2022

Background: Human urine-derived stem cells (USCs) derived exosomes protect against kidney ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI), while the underlying mechanisms of this protective effect remain unclear. Methods: Human USCs and USCs derived exosomes (USC-Exo) were isolated and verified by morphology and specific biomarkers. The effects of USC-Exo on ferroptosis and kidney injury were detected in the IRI-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) model in C57BL/6 mice. The effects of USC-Exo on ferroptosis and lncRNA taurine upregulated gene 1 (TUG1) were detected in hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) treated human proximal tubular epithelial cells (HK-2). The interaction of SRSF1 and TUG1, ACSL4 were checked via RNA pull down/RIP and RNA stability assays. The effects of LncRNA TUG1 on SRSF1/ACSL4 mediated ferroptosis were verified in H/R treated HK-2 cells and the IRI-induced AKI mouse models.Results: USC-Exo treatment improved kidney injury and ameliorated ferroptosis in IRI-induced AKI mouse models. USC-Exo were rich in lncRNA TUG1, which regulated ferroptosis in HK-2 cells exposed to H/R. Mechanistically, lncRNA TUG1 regulates the stability of ACSL4 mRNA by interacting with RNA binding protein SRSF1. In addition, SRSF1 up-regulation or ACSL4 down-regulation partially reversed this protective effect of lncRNA TUG1 on ferroptosis in H/R treated HK-2 cells. Further, ACSL4 up-regulation partially reversed the protective effect on kidney injury and cell ferroptosis by lncRNA TUG1 in IRI-induced AKI mice. Conclusion: Collectively, lncRNA TUG1 carried by USC-Exo regulated ASCL4 mediated ferroptosis by interacting with SRSF1, then protected IRI-induced AKI. Potentially, USC-Exo rich in lncRNA TUG1 can serve as a promising therapeutic method for IRI-induced AKI.
Organic Residue Analysis Reveals the Function of Bronze Age Metal Daggers
Authors: Caricola Isabella , Charles Alasdair , Tirillò Jacopo , Charlton Fraser , Barton Huw , Breglia Francesco , Rossi Alberto , Deflorian Maria Chiara , Marinis Anna Maria , Harris Susanna , Pellegrini Alessio , Scacchetti Federico , Boccuccia Paolo , Miari Monica , Dolfini Andrea
Published: February 2022

The article discusses results of organic residue analysis performed on ten copper-alloy daggers from Bronze Age Pragatto, Italy, c.1550-1250 BCE. Metal daggers are widespread in Chalcolithic and Bronze Age Europe, yet their social and practical roles are still hotly debated. Are they symbolic or functional? Are they tools or weapons? How were they used? For what tasks and on what materials? The research addresses these questions through a novel application of biochemical staining and SEM-EDX analysis. The method has proved successful in extracting and identifying animal residues located on cutting edges including bone, muscle, and tendons. These are interpreted as evidence of prehistoric carcass butchering and carving. Further residues were observed on blade faces and hafting plates or tangs; these are interpreted as remnants of bone handles and sheaths, the latter made of either wood fibers or processed hide and fur. The readings proposed in the article are validated by original experiments with replica daggers, as detailed in the Supplementary Materials. The analysis and experiments shed new light on Bronze Age metal daggers, showing that they were fully functional tools (and perhaps tool-weapons) primarily utilized for the processing of animal carcasses. This original research result contributes significant knowledge towards interpreting an under-studied, yet socially salient, prehistoric metal artifact.
A Systematic Review On Correlates of Risk of TB Disease In Children And Adults
Authors: Siddhi P , Raveendranath R , Chinnaswamy A , Pulgari P , Song R , Welch Steven
Published: February 2022

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the leading causes of death in the world. Targeted treatment to prevent progression from TB exposure and infection to disease is a key element of WHO End-TB strategy. A systematic review to identify and develop correlates of risk (COR) of TB disease is timely.Method: EMBASE, MEDLINE, PUBMED were searched using relevant keywords and MeSH terms published between 2000-2020 on COR of TB disease in children and adults. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) framework was used for structuring and reporting of outcomes. Risk of bias was assessed using Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies tool-2 (QUADAS-2).Results: 4105 studies were identified. Following eligibility screening, 27 studies were quality assessed. Risk of bias was high in all studies. Broad variations in COR type, study population, methodology and result reporting were observed. Tuberculin skin test (TST) and interferon gamma release essays (IGRA) are poor COR. Transcriptomic signatures although promising require validation studies to assess wider applicability. Performance consistency of other CORs- cell marker, cytokines and metabolites are much needed.Conclusion: This review identifies the need for a standardized approach to identify a universally applicable COR signature to achieve the WHO END-TB targets.
Psychometric Properties of the Farsi Version of the Gaming Disorder Scale for Adolescents
Authors: MazaheriZadeh Ali , TaheriFar Zahra , Farahani Hojjatollah
Published: February 2022

Background

Gaming disorder was added to the 11th international classification of disorders by the World Health Organization in early 2019. Adolescents are the most vulnerable group in this area, thus a screening tool for this age range is essential. This study aims to examine psychometric properties of the Gaming Disorder Scale for Adolescents (GADIS-A) in Iranian male sample.
Methods

260 students -7th to 12th grade- of Isfahan city in the academic year 2020-21 were selected using convenience sampling. The participants responded to the Farsi version of the GADIS-A and problematic online game questionnaire (POGQ). Thirty participants answered the scale again to assess validity of the retest. Pearson’s correlation analysis, Cronbach's alpha and confirmatory factor analysis were used in this research. The data were analyzed by SPSS version 24 and LISREL version 8.8.
Results

Confirmatory factor analysis revealed that the two-factor model, which included cognitive-behavioral symptoms and negative consequences, had good fitness indices. The GADIS-A convergent validity is confirmed by the scale's significant correlation with the POGQ. Cronbach's alpha coefficient was used to determine the scale's validity, which was 0.85 for the full scale and 0.70 and 0.75 for two factors. The validity of the retest after two weeks also showed a correlation of 0.88.
Conclusion

The Farsi version of the Gaming Disorder Scale for adolescents has a two-factor structure and is valid for use in Iran.
Epidemiological Assessment of Sars-Cov-2 Reinfection
Authors: AlMadhi Marwa , Alsayyad Adel Salman , Conroy Ronan , Atkin Stephen , Awadhi Abdulla Al , Al-Tawfiq Jaffar A. , AlQahtani Manaf
Published: February 2022

Introduction. Vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 infection has been shown to reduce the severity of infection; however, the overall reinfection rate in those unvaccinated, partially vaccinated and fully vaccinated remains unclear. Therefore, this study was undertaken to elucidate the rates and associated factors for such occurrences.Methods. This was a retrospective epidemiological report analysing 1362 COVID-19 reinfection cases in the Kingdom of Bahrain between April 2020 and July 2021. The differences in disease severity and characteristics of reinfection between various levels of vaccination statuses were determined among fully vaccinated, interrupted vaccination (positive test less than 14 days after receiving the second dose of vaccine), one dose of vaccination, post-reinfection vaccination and unvaccinated. Data were collected from the National COVID-19 Contact Tracing Team Database of individuals who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2.Results. During the study, reinfection cases increased from zero cases per month in April – June 2020 to a sharp peak of 579 reinfection cases in May 2021 followed by a rapid decline. Males constituted a significantly larger proportion of reinfections (n=821, 60.3%) than females (39.7%) (p<0.0001). Reinfection episodes were highest amongst the 30-39 years of age (n=405, 29.7%). The rate of reinfection increased with time from the initial infection with the lowest reinfection rate occurring at 3-6 months after the first infection (n=281, 20.6%) and the highest episodes occurring ≥9 months after initial infection (n=632, 46.4%). Comparison of the symptomatology between initial infection and reinfection episode for each individual showed that most individuals were asymptomatic during both episodes (n=486, 35.7%), while 265 (19.5%) individuals were symptomatic during both episodes. Reinfection disease severity was mild and differed across the cohort (X2 test p=0.003) with vaccinated patients less likely to have symptomatic reinfection (OR 0·71, p=0·004). Only 89 (6.6%) reinfection cases required hospitalization and there were no deaths (Poisson exact, 97.5% Cl 2.7 per 1000).Conclusion. Vaccine induced immunity and prior infection with or without vaccination were effective in reducing disease severity of reinfection episodes.
Prospective Intraoperative and Histologic Evaluation of Cavernous Sinus Medial Wall Invasion by Pituitary Adenomas: Implications for Acromegaly Outcomes
Authors: Mohyeldin Ahmed , Katznelson Laurence , Hoffman Andrew , Asmaro Karam , Ahmadian Saman , Eltobgy Mostafa , Nayak Jayakar , Patel Zara , Hwang Peter , Fernandez-Miranda Juan Carlos
Published: February 2022

Recurrence and biochemical remission rates vary widely among different histological subtypes of pituitary adenoma. In this prospective study, we evaluated 107 consecutive primary pituitary adenomas operated on by a single neurosurgeon including 28 corticotroph, 27 gonadotroph, 24 somatotroph, 17 lactotroph, 5 null-cell and 6 plurihormonal. In each case, we performed direct endoscopic intraoperative inspection of the medial wall of the cavernous sinus, which was surgically removed when invasion was visualized. This was performed irrespective of tumor functional status. Medial wall resection was performed in 47% of pituitary adenomas, and 39/50 walls confirmed pathologic evidence of invasion, rendering a positive predictive value of intraoperative evaluation of medial wall invasion of 78%. We show for the first-time dramatic disparities in the frequency of medial wall invasion among pathological subtypes. Somatotroph tumors invaded the medial wall much more often than other adenoma subtypes, 81% intraoperatively and 69% histologically, followed by plurihormonal tumors (40%) and gonadotroph cell tumors (33%), both with intraoperative positive predictive value of 100%. The least likely to invade were corticotroph adenomas, at a rate of 32% intraoperatively and 21% histologically, and null-cell adenomas at 0%. Removal of the cavernous sinus medial wall was not associated with permanent cranial nerve morbidity nor carotid artery injury, although 4 patients (all Knosp 3-4) experienced transient diplopia. Medial wall resection in acromegaly resulted in the highest potential for biochemical remission ever reported, with an average postoperative day 1 GH levels of 0.96 ug/L and surgical remission rates of 92% based on normalization of IGF-1 levels after surgery (mean = 15.56 months; range 3-12 months). Our findings suggest that tumor invasion of the medial wall of the cavernous sinus may explain the relatively low biochemical remission rates currently seen for acromegaly and illustrate the relevance of advanced intradural surgical approaches for successful and durable outcomes in endonasal pituitary surgery for functional adenomas.
The Effects of Green Credit Policy On The Formation of Zombie Firms: Evidence From Chinese Listed Firms
Authors: Chen Rui
Published: February 2022

This paper examines the effects of the green credit policy on forming three types of "zombie firms," namely, credit-subsidized zombie firms, poorly managed zombie firms, and comprehensive zombie firms, considering the quasi-natural experiment of the implementation of the "Green Credit Guidelines" in 2004. In this paper, I implement a difference-in-differences method and use the data of all Chinese A-share non-financial listed companies from 2008 to 2017. The results show that the green credit policy attempts to inhibit the formation of credit-subsidized zombie firms by reducing bank loan subsidies and evergreen lending. However, the green credit policy promotes poorly managed zombie firms by strengthening firms' financial constraints and reducing the working capital and investment efficiency. The green credit policy has not shown a significant impact on comprehensive zombie firms. Moreover, the green credit policy has shown a more significant impact on state-owned firms, firms in industries that heavily rely on external financing and are highly competitive, and firms involved in high financial marketization areas.
Influence of size and shape of the auricular surfaces on subchondral bone density distribution in the sacroiliac joint
Authors: Poilliot Amélie , Hammer Niels , Toranelli Mireille , Doyle Terence , Gay Max Hans-Peter , Müller-Gerbl Magdalena
Published: February 2022

The sacroiliac auricular surface is morphologically variable. The impact of morphology variations on subchondral mineralization distribution has not been investigated. Sixty-nine subject datasets were subjected to CT-osteoabsorptiometry for chronic loading visualization. Auricular surface morphologies were sorted into three types based on posterior angle size: >160°, 130-160° and <130°. Mineralization was qualitatively classified into four patterns: two marginal (M1, M2) and two non-marginal patterns (N1, N2), and each surface was assessed. The auricular surfaces averaged 15.4±3.6 cm2, with higher values in males. Sacral and iliac areas were significantly different between sexes. Type 2 was the most common (75%) and type 3 the least common morphology (9%). M1 was the most common pattern (62% of surfaces) by sex (males 60%, females 64%) with the anterior border as the maxima region in all three morphologies. Sacra have a majority of surfaces with patterns from the marginal group (98%). Ilia have mineralization concentrated at the anterior border (patterns M1+N2=83%). Load distribution differences related to morphological diversity seems to have little effect on stress-related bone adaptation visualized with CT-osteoabsorptiometry. Higher iliac side mineralization was observed in larger joints potentially related to cartilage distribution. Chronic loading adaptation might account for age-related morpho-mechanical size alterations in males.
The effect of tetrastarch on the endothelial glycocalyx layer in early hemorrhagic shock using fluorescence intravital microscopy: a mouse model
Authors: Uzawa Kohji , Ando Tadao , Yoshikawa Takahiro , Shingo Mitsuda , Yorozu Tomoko , Ushiyama Akira
Published: February 2022

Background: This study aimed to clarify the effects of the optimal timing of infusion therapy during massive hemorrhage by measuring the glycocalyx (GCX) damage and its effect on vascular endothelial cell dysfunction.Methods: In this randomized control animal study, we withdrew 1.5 mL of blood and administered 1.5 mL of infusion resuscitation. The mice were divided into the following six groups according to the type of infusion and administration timing: group NS-NS (Normal Saline (NS)→NS), group NS-Hydroxyethyl starch (HES) (NS→ Hydroxyethyl starch 130/0.4/9 (HES130)), group HES-NS (HES130→NS), group NS-Albumin (ALB) (NS→albumin), group ALB-NS (albumin→NS), and group C (control, no withdrawal or infusion). We investigated the vascular endothelial dysfunction based on the GCX impairment, measured indirectly through the interstitial fluorescence intensity and syndecan-1 concentration. Results: The GCX index (GCXI) of a 40 μm artery was significantly larger in group C than in the other groups (P<0.01). Similarly, the GCXI for a 60 μm artery was significantly larger compared with the NS-NS (P≤0.05), NS-HES (P≤0.01), and NS-ALB groups (P≤0.05). The plasma syndecan-1 concentration, at 7.70±5.71 ng/mL, was significantly lower in group C than in group NS-NS (P≤0.01). The tetramethylrhodamine-labeled dextran (TMR-DEX40) fluorescence intensity in the ALB-NS and HES-NS groups, as well as the fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled hydroxyethyl starch (FITC-HES130) fluorescence intensity in the NS-HES and HES-NS groups, were not significantly different from those of group C at any time point. FITC-HES130 was localized on the inner wall of the vessels in groups without HES130 infusion but uniformly distributed in groups treated with HES130. Conclusions: In an acute massive hemorrhage mouse model, initial fluid resuscitation therapy with saline administration impaired GCX and increased the vascular permeability. Prior administration of HES130 prevented the progression of GCX damage. Early colloid resuscitation may improve endothelial cell function.
Meta-QTLs for multiple disease resistance involving three rusts in common wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Pal Neeraj , Jan Irfat , Saini Dinesh Kumar , Kumar Kuldeep , Kumar Anuj , Sharma Pradeep Kumar , Kumar Sundip , Balyan Harinder Singh , Gupta Pushpendra Kumar
Published: February 2022

Rust diseases in wheat are a major threat to global food security, therefore, the development of multiple disease-resistant cultivars (resistant to all three rusts) is a major goal in all wheat breeding programs worldwide. In the present study, meta-QTLs and candidate genes for multiple disease resistance (MDR) involving all the three rusts were identified using 152 individual QTL mapping studies for resistance to leaf rust (LR), stem rust (SR), and yellow rust (YR). From these 152 studies, a total of 1,146 QTLs for resistance to the three rusts were retrieved, which included 368 QTLs for LR, 291 QTLs for SR, and 487 QTLs for YR. Of these 1,146 QTLs, only 718 QTLs could be projected onto the consensus map saturated with 234,619 markers. Meta-analysis of the projected QTLs resulted in the identification of 86 MQTLs, which included 71 MDR-MQTLs. Ten of these MDR-MQTLs were referred to as the ‘Breeders’ MQTLs’. Seventy-eight of the 86 MQTLs could also be anchored to the physical map of the wheat genome and 54 MQTLs were validated by marker-trait associations identified during earlier genome-wide association studies. Twenty MQTLs (including 17 MDR-MQTLs) identified in the present study were co-localized with 42 known R genes. In silico expression analysis allowed identification of several differentially expressed candidate genes encoding proteins carrying different domains including the following: NBS-LRR, WRKY domains, F-box domains, sugar transporters, transferases, etc. The introgression of these MDR loci into high-yielding cultivars should prove useful for developing high yielding cultivars with resistance to all three rusts.
High Wear Resistance of Ultralow-wear Polyethylene With Different Molecular Weights Under Different Contact Pressure
Authors: CUI Wen , Yang Shu , Zhang Xiaogang , Zhang Yali , Shao Yilun , Li Xinle , Bian Yanyan , Weng Xisheng , Xin Shixuan , Jin Zhongmin
Published: February 2022

Ultralow-wear polyethylene (ULWPE), a type of polyethylene homocomposite with excellent wear resistance, has recently been reported, however its underlying wear mechanism has yet to be clarified. In the current study, three different molecular weights of ULWPE from 205 to 748 Kg/mol, were experimentally evaluated on a multidirectional motion pin-on-disk (POD) wear tester under a contact pressure from 2 to 4 MPa, compared with conventional UHMWPE. The high wear resistance mechanism of ULWPE was investigated with respect to mechanical, microstructural, and surface properties. Compared with UHMWPE, ULWPE had excellent wear resistance. Structure and mechanical characterization showed that the crystallinity and lamellar thickness of ULWPE were significantly higher than those of UHMWPE, which endowed ULWPE with high hardness and strength. Despite its considerably smaller molecular weight than that of UHMWPE, ULWPE still had high interphase content, leading to its superior toughness. The crystallinity, lamellar thickness, Young’s modulus, yield stress, and elongation at break of ULWPE exhibited a downward trend with the increase of molecular weight. Conversely, the interphase content of ULWPE increased with the molecular weight increase. Among all the ULWPE samples, ULWPE with a molecular weight 748 Kg·mol-1 had the least wear, as a result of combined both excellent strength and adequate toughness. With an increase in contact pressure, the wear losses of different polymers tended to increase. The wear losses of the least wear ULWPE were 4.71±0.04 mm3/Million Cycles (Mc), 5.11±0.37 mm3/Mc, and 5.77±0.62 mm3/Mc under 2, 3, and 4 MPa. Comprehensive strength and toughness reduced abrasive wear and adhesion wear, endowing ULWPE with excellent wear resistance.
Polymeric Coacervate Coating for Flame Retardant Paper
Authors: Palen Bethany , Rabaey Matthew G , Rodriguez-Melendez Danixa , Iverson Ethan T , Grunlan Jaime
Published: February 2022

Cellulosic paper (from wood fibers) is a highly flammable material that is used in corrugated carboard, packaging, printing, and construction. While there is significant work focused on depositing a flame retardant coating onto the individual wood pulp fibers, there are very few studies that apply flame retardant coatings to already-cast paper. In an effort to improve the flame retardant properties of paper, a polymer-dense coacervate composed of polyethylenimine (PEI) and poly(sodium phosphate) (PSP) was deposited in a single step and subsequently crosslinked with glutaraldehyde. In a vertical flame test, the crosslinked PEI/PSP coacervate-coated paper achieves self-extinguishing behavior, and an average char length of 3.4 in, with only a 35% weight gain. Additionally, the crosslinked coating retains its flame retardant properties after water immersion and conditioning tests. This coacervate system is the first polymeric coating to be successfully deposited onto commercially available cellulosic paper for the purpose of flame retardancy.
Sepiolite as an effective supplement for low protein diets with the constant energyprotein ratio in broilers
Authors: yalçın sakine , Gebeş Emre Sunay , Ramay Muhammad Shazaib , Güntürkün Oğuz Berk , Yalçın Suzan , Ahlat Ozan
Published: February 2022

The present study aimed to examine the influence of sepiolite on growth performance, meat quality, intestinal health, some blood parameters, and digestibility of nutrients in broilers fed low protein diets with the constant energy-protein ratio. A total of 252, daily male broiler chicks were allocated to four treatment groups further divided into 9 replicates each containing 7 chicks. Low protein diets having a constant energy-protein ratio were formulated by lowering protein and energy levels of the control group diet by 5%. Sepiolite was used at the level of 1% in the diets. After 42 days trial total feed consumption, total body weight gain, total feed conversion ratio, and carcass yield were not influenced by reducing protein, sepiolite supplementation, and interaction between low protein-low energy diet and sepiolite. Reducing protein in the diets led to reducing the digestibility of nutrients, increasing ileal viscosity, decreasing villus height, villus surface area in duodenum and jejunum, and increasing abdominal fat, ether extract, cooking losses, total oxidant status, and oxidative status index in breast meat. Sepiolite supplementation to low protein diets increased crude protein digestibility, reduced viscosity, increased villus height/crypt depth values, reduced cooking losses, and increased water holding capacity. Blood serum biochemical parameters and minerals were not affected by sepiolite supplementation to low protein diets. Therefore, it is concluded that sepiolite can be added as a beneficial supplement in broiler diets as well as in low protein diets with a constant energy-protein ratio.
Molecular and connectomic vulnerability shape cross-disorder cortical abnormalities
Authors: Hansen Justine , Shafiei Golia , Vogel Jacob , Smart Kelly , Bearden Carrie , Hoogman Martine , Franke Barbara , Rooij Daan van , Buitelaar Jan , McDonald Carrie , Sisodiya Sanjay , Schmaal Lianne , Veltman Dick , Heuvel Odile van den , Stein Dan , Erp Theo van , Ching Christopher , Andreassen Ole , Hajek Tomas , Opel Nils , Modinos Gemma , Aleman André , Werf Ysbrand van der , Jahanshad Neda , Thomopoulos Sophia , Thompson Paul , Carson Richard , Dagher Alain , Misic Bratislav
Published: February 2022

Numerous brain disorders demonstrate structural brain abnormalities, which are thought to arise from molecular perturbations or connectome miswiring. The unique and shared contributions of these molecular and connectomic vulnerabilities to brain disorders remain unknown, and has yet to be studied in a single multi-disorder framework. Using MRI morphometry from the ENIGMA consortium, we construct maps of cortical abnormalities for thirteen neurodevelopmental, neurological, and psychiatric disorders from N=21,000 patients and N=26,000 controls, collected using a harmonized processing protocol. We systematically compare cortical maps to multiple micro-architectural measures, including gene expression, neurotransmitter density, metabolism, and myelination (molecular vulnerability), as well as global connectomic measures including number of connections, centrality, and connection diversity (connectomic vulnerability). We find that regional molecular vulnerability and macroscale brain network architecture interact to drive the spatial patterning of cortical abnormalities in multiple disorders. Local attributes, particularly neurotransmitter receptor profiles, constitute the best predictors of both disorder-specific cortical morphology and cross-disorder similarity. Finally, we find that cross-disorder abnormalities are consistently subtended by a small subset of network epicentres in bilateral sensory-motor, medial temporal lobe, precuneus, and superior parietal cortex. Collectively, our results highlight how local biological attributes and global connectivity jointly shape cross-disorder cortical abnormalities.
Optimization of BPN Parameters Using PSO for Intrusion Detection in Cloud Environment
Authors: J Sajith P , Nagarajan G
Published: February 2022

The usage of internet is getting increased in all aspect, like from building various models that are fully connect with internet to the usage of digital media for 24/7. As this is rising in a way, on the other side the concern about “data security” is raising and everybody’s information needs to be protected from any other attacks or can say there shouldn’t be no data leakage. So, for detecting these attacks, intrusion detection system is placed. But placing this traditional Intrusion Detection System (IDS) will increase the concerns of security even more, so to amp the process integration of latest technology such deep learning comes in action. Thereby this paper proposes an IDS using Back-propagation Network (BPN) where intrusions are identified based on the system calls that we collected in the dataset KDD cup 99. Also, to increase the optimization of neural network, we used Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) thereby increase the accurate detection of the system saying if that is normal or abnormal in behavior. We evaluate our proposed model with other methods like ANFIS, F-GNP, FCM in which the proposed model gives 96.5% accurate detection.
The Association between Popliteal Artery Variation and Atherosclerosis Risks and its Benefits in Preoperative CTA for Surgical Planning in Fibular Free Flap Harvest
Authors: Patharateeranart Karnkawin , Kongkunnavat Natthapong , Sinmaroeng Chanya , Yodrabum Nutcha
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Popliteal artery has several branching variations, understanding its vasculature is substantial for fibular free flap (FFF) harvest. The atherosclerosis affects popliteal vasculature and leads to some acquired variants, which preclude FFF harvest. This study determined the variation of popliteal artery by computed tomography angiography (CTA) and association between atherosclerosis risks and stenosis of the popliteal vasculature to determine the benefit of preoperative CTA for surgical planning in FFF harvest.Materials and methods: The data and CTA images of legs from 443 patients, who underwent CTA of legs between January 2016 and December 2020, were retrieved and retrospectively reviewed. Popliteal artery branching patterns were classified according to the systems proposed by Kim, et al. and Abou-Foul and Borumandi. Then, we analyzed the correlation between atherosclerosis risks and degree of vessel stenosis. Results: The most common patterns were type I-A (90.5%), III-A (4.3%), and III-B (1.8%), and the prevalence of acquired variant was 4.3%. The mean diameter of anterior tibial artery, posterior tibial artery, and peroneal artery was 4.1±1.1 mm, 3.5±1.0 mm, and 3.7±1.0 mm, respectively. Popliteal artery branches were susceptible to different risk factors. Stenosis of the anterior tibial artery was influenced by peripheral arterial disease (PAD), hypertension (HT), and diabetes mellitus (DM); stenosis of the posterior tibial artery was influenced by PAD, chronic kidney disease (CKD), and DM; and, stenosis of peroneal artery was influenced by CKD and coronary artery disease. Conclusion: Although CTA is not a routine preoperative investigation in this setting, the results of this study suggest its benefit in patients with risk factors for atherosclerosis to determine the suitable limb for FFF harvest with consideration of cost-effectiveness and prevalence of variations in population.
Physiological and Performance Parameters of Changthangi Sheep in Response to Cold and Nutritional Stress
Authors: Malik Asma Altaf , Khan Hilal Musadiq , Shah Anees Ahmad , Sheikh Gowher Gull , Pampori Zahoor Ahmad , Ayman Niha
Published: February 2022

Physiological and performance parameters of 33 pregnant Changthangi sheep divided into three groups (G1, G2 and G3) of 11each on the basis of body weight, age and parity was undertaken during winter months. Ewes of G1 and G2 were kept inside the closed shed all the time whereas the ewes of G3 were kept in an open area which was chain-link fenced from four sides and was provided with a roof shelter to protect from direct rain or snow. G1 and G3 were fed 400g concentrate and 600g fodder per head per day as per ICAR feeding standard. Ewes of G2 were given concentrate @ 500g and fodder @ 1000g per head per day. Environmental parameters (temperature, relative humidity and wind velocity) were recorded on a daily basis in animal houses and wind chill index was calculated using these parameters. Physiological parameters (rectal temperature, pulse rate and respiration rate) were recorded weekly in the morning. Fortnightly weight of ewes and monthly weight of lambs was recorded upto weaning. Extreme Wind Chill Index was observed throughout the study period in open house. Pulse rate of supplemented ewes with closed housing was significantly (p<0.05) higher than G1 and G3 ewes while respiration rate and rectal temperature were significantly (p<0.05) higher in group reared in open house. Significantly (p<0.05) higher body weight of ewes, birth weight and weaning weight of lambs was obtained in the supplemented group G2 than G1 and G3 ewes. Economic appraisal revealed a net gain of Rs. 3672.15 in the group reared in a closed shed and supplemented with extra feed and a loss of Rs. 593 in the group reared in open housing system than ewes reared in a closed shed without supplementation.