bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
T3 Up-Regulates PDZK1 to Promote the Proliferation of Papillary Thyroid Cancer Cells
Authors: Wang Yan , Cheng Yanan , Sun Rongxin , Lang Jianan , Yang Longyan , Zhao Dong
Published: August 2021

Aim: Thyroid cancer (TC) is the most common malignant tumor of the endocrine system. Studies have showed that Triiodothyronine (T3) promotes the proliferation of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) cells, but the specific mechanism remains unclear. Several studies have showed that PDZK1 played important roles in the occurrence and development of cancer. However, the biological function of PDZK1 in PTC remains unclear. Therefore, the aims of this study were to investigate the effect of PDZK1 in PTC and the underlying mechanism.Materials and Methods: The effect of T3 on proliferation of PTC cell (TPC-1) was analyzed by colony formation assay and real time cell analysis. Immunofluorescence staining aimed to analyze protein expression. RNA-seq was used to analyze the expression of PDZK1. Meanwhile, Western blot was used to verify the protein expression. The effect of PDZK1 on PTC cell proliferation was investigated by Cell Counting Kit-8(CCK8), real time cell analysis, flow cytometry and transwell assay, respectively. Results: We found that T3 increased the expression of PDZK1 in TPC-1 cells and promote the proliferation of TPC-1 cells which can be weakened after PDZK1 was knocked down. Immunofluorescence staining showed that the expression of PDZK1 was higher in PTC than paracancerous tissues. And the analysis of 6 benign thyroid nodules and 4 thyroid cancer tissues by RNA-Seq showed that the expression of PDZK1 was increased in PTC tissues, the expression of PDZK1 was also increased in PTC cells compared with the normal thyroid epithelium. In addition, PDZK1 promoted TPC-1 cell proliferation was detected by real-time cell analysis (RTCA) and CCK8. Flow cytometry analysis showed that PDZK1 increased cell cycle at S phase and decreased at G1 phase of TPC-1. PDZK1 promoted the invasion of TPC-1 cell was tested by transwell. Conclusion: These results suggest that T3 can promote the proliferation of PTC cells, which may be mediated by PDZK1. This study illustrates a possible mechanism by which T3 promotes the proliferation of PTC and provides a theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of PTC.
Impact Assessment of Indigenous Field-Level Water Storage Structure (Diggi) on Agriculture in the Great Indian Desert
Authors: Moharana Pratap Chandra , Goyal R.K. , Machiwal Deepesh , Pandey C.B.
Published: August 2021

In the arid region of Rajasthan, India, it is very often a challenge to store rain/surface water for year-round use by human and livestock. The inhabitants of this desert area have developed several water storage structures, which they used to construct based on their indigenous knowledge of local terrain conditions. Recently, farmers living in the lower command areas of Indira Gandhi canal have constructed micro-farm water storage structures, called diggi, in their cropland. They store allocated canal water in diggi to timely utilize it as per irrigation requirements, and thus, done away with problems of deficit and untimely canal water supply. This impact assessment study, carried out in Poogal tehsil of Bikaner district, analyzed high-resolution satellite images of two years and used geographic information system to quantify diggi structures and studied the diggi-growth interactions with changing rainfall pattern as well as land use/land cover. Results showed that during 2018, about 3243 number of structures were constructed compared to 241 existed during 2004-05. The mean annual rainfall increased by 30% and crop area by 12772 ha during the same period that included 7.86% increase in irrigated and 2.98% in rainfed croplands. Thus, diggi based water management has been immensely helpful in the perspective of irrigated agriculture in the desert region.
Analysis of Lung Ground-glass Nodules From the Perspective of Inflammation-to-cancer Transition Based on Il-6 Level and Clinical Features
Authors: Shen Changxing , Xia Qing , Li Zhuang , Wen Jing , Zhai Hong , Cao Chuanwu , Wang Fei , Wang Lai , Li Ming , Zhang Lijuan , Fan Lihong
Published: August 2021

Objective：To explore the potential impact of interleukin-6 (IL-6) in promoting the development and progression of lung ground-glass nodules (GGN) based on multiple clinical features using multi-dimensional analysis (MDA). Methods: Sample collected from data taken from patients with lung GGN who received treatment in Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, between September 2018 and September 2020. Sample data were grouped according to GGN diameter as well as IL-6 levels and screened according to the solitary GGN (d<0.8cm) after more than one year of follow-up observation. Differences in associated complications, peripheral superoxide dismutase (SOD), IgE and T cell subsets, tumor markers, and CT malignant signs were compared between the two sample groups. Results：A total of 145 patients was included in the study. From the results, the diameter of GGN was ≥5mm in 95 patients and <5mm in 50 patients. There were significant differences in peripheral IL-6 levels between the two groups (p<0.05). Whereas the IL-6 level was elevated in 53 patients, the levels were normal in 92 patients. There was a corresponding significant increase in complications such as anxiety, sleep disturbances, feeling of fatigue, and history of coronary stent implantation in the group of GGN patients with elevated levels of IL-6, when compared to the group with the normal IL-6 levels (p<0.05). Peripheral SOD and IgE levels were observed to be significantly higher in the group with elevated IL-6 levels than seen in the group with normal IL-6 levels (p<0.05). In addition, there was also a significant difference in T helper (Th) and T suppressor (Ts) cell levels between the two groups (p<0.05). Levels of tumor markers such as NSE and CY21-1 were also found to be elevated in the group with elevated IL-6 levels than in the group with normal IL-6 levels (p<0.05). Finally, the group with elevated Il-6 levels was observed to have a higher proportion of patients with vascular convergence sign (VCS) and mixed ground-glass opacity (mGGO) as compared to the sample with normal IL-6 levels (p<0.05). Conclusion: Chronic inflammation is an important factor in the malignant transformation of GGN. IL-6 plays a significant role in promoting the formation of early lung cancer through multiple pathways, including mediating imbalance of the human mitochondrial antioxidant system and reactive elevation of IgE, inhibiting the anti-tumor immune function of T cells, and promoting tumor tissue angiogenesis. The probability of malignant transformation is even higher in lung GGN accompanied with IL-6 elevation.
Drivers of the Distribution of Soil Organic Carbon Stocks in the Topsoil Under Pinus Hartwegii Lindl. Forest, Along an Elevation Gradient in Central Mexico
Authors: Carrillo-Arizmendi LIZBETH , Pérez-Suárez Marlín , Vargas-Hernández Jesús , Rozenberg Philippe
Published: August 2021

Background: Mountain forest soils (≥2,500 m a.s.l.[1]), where elevation is crucial in the ecosystem dynamic, have a great capacity to capture and preserve carbon for a long time. The aim of this research was to determine the role of elevation combined with soil, climate, and vegetation variables on soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks distribution under P. hartwegii in the Nevado de Toluca Volcano, a protected area in Mexico. Topsoil samples (0-15 cm depth) collected every 100 m in elevation (3,400-4,000 m) were chemically and physically examined in statistical analysis together with vegetation structure and climate variables. Derived from field forest conditions, elevation plots were additional analyzed as logged (3,400-3,800 m) vs no-logged (3,900-4,000 m). Results: SOC stocks followed a significant linear trend (r2= 0.70; p= 0.02) along the elevation gradient, being highest at 4,000 m (173.1 ± 5.2 Mg C ha-1) and lowest at 3,700 m (146.8 Mg C ha-1). Multiple regression analyses showed that SOM, BD, and mean annual temperature (MAT) were the main abiotic drivers of SOC stocks variability (94.5 %) along the elevation gradient. Meanwhile, from the logistic multiple regression, higher tree shrubs and herbs density, in addition to lower tree height and grass cover at lower elevations, indicate a significant effect of logging on soil traits and vegetation structure, depending on the elevation plot. Conclusions: This research evaluated the SOC stocks and the potential effect of current warming over mountain soils, using the elevation as a proxy for both environmental and human drivers of SOC stocks in mountain forest ecosystems. Higher SOM and grass cover, larger-diameter trees together with low temperatures and logging restrictions in the high elevation range suggest a slower decomposition rate and SOC long-term stability. Despite the fact that we do not know about the intensity and cutting cycle, nor the size of the clearings derived from the trees removed, results from this research show how logging could exacerbate these effects and diminish SOC stocks, as well as the capacity of mountain soils to mitigate the effects of climate change.
Titanium dioxide nanoparticles exacerbate allergic airway inflammation via TXNIP upregulation in a mouse model of asthma
Authors: Lim Je-Oh , Lee Se-Jin , Kim Woong-Il , Pak So-Won , Moon Changjong , Shin In-Sik , Heo Jeong-Doo , Kim Jong-Choon
Published: August 2021

Background
Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) are widely used in the fields of industry and medicine and in various consumer products. With the increasing use of TiO2NPs, there has been an increase in the number of toxicity studies; however, studies investigating the mechanism underlying its toxicity are very rare. In this study, we evaluated the potential toxic effects of TiO2NPs exposure on the lungs as well as the development of asthma in ovalbumin (OVA)-induced mouse model of asthma. We also investigated the related toxic mechanism.
Results
TiO2NPs caused pulmonary toxicity by exacerbating the inflammatory response, indicated by an increase in the number of inflammatory cells and levels of inflammatory mediators. Exposure of mice with OVA-induced asthma to TiO2NPs led to significant increases in inflammatory mediators, cytokines, and airway hyperresponsiveness compared with non-exposed mice with asthma. This was also accompanied by an increase in inflammatory cell infiltration and mucus production in the lung tissues. TiO2NPs also decreased the expression of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl2) and increased the expression of thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP), phospho-apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1, Bcl2-associated X, and cleaved-caspase 3 in the lungs of asthmatic mice compared with those of non-exposed asthmatic mice. These responses were consistent with in vitro results obtained using human airway epithelial cells. TiO2NPs treated cells exhibited an increase in the mRNA and protein expression of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α with an elevation of TXNIP signaling compared to non-treated cells. Moreover, pathophysiological changes induced by TiO2NPs treatment were significantly decreased by TXNIP knockdown in the airway epithelial cells.
Conclusion
Taken together, TiO2NPs exposure induced toxicological changes in the respiratory tract and exacerbated the development of asthma via activation of the TXNIP-apoptosis pathway. These results provide insights into the mechanism underlying TiO2NPs-mediated respiratory toxicity.
Accelerated 3D T2-Weighted SPACE Using Compressed Sensing for Paediatric Brain Imaging
Authors: Kim Hyun Gi , Oh Se Won , Han Dongyeob , Kim Jee Young , Lim Gye Yeon
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this study was to compare the image quality of the single-slab, 3D T2-weighted turbo-spin-eco sequence with high sampling efficiency (SPACE) with accelerated SPACE using compressed sensing (CS-SPACE) in paediatric brain imaging. A total of 116 brain MRI (53 in SPACE group and 63 in CS-SPACE group) were obtained from children aged 16 years old or younger. Quantitative image quality was evaluated using the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR). The sequences were qualitatively evaluated for overall image quality, SNR, general artifact, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-related artifact and grey-white matter differentiation. The two sequences were compared for the total and for two age groups (< 24 months vs. ≥ 24 months). CS application in 3D T2-weighted imaging resulted in 8.5% reduction in scanning time. Quantitative image quality analysis showed higher SNR (Median [Interquartile range]; 29 [25] vs. 23 [14], P = .005) and CNR (0.231 [0.121] vs. 0.165 [0.120], P = .027) with CS-SPACE compared to SPACE. Qualitative image quality analysis showed better image quality with CS-SPACE for general artifact (P = .024) and CSF-related artifact (P < .001). CSF-related artifacts reduction was more prominent in the older age group (≥ 24 months). Overall image quality (P = .162), SNR (P = .726), and grey-white matter differentiation (P = .397) were comparable between SPACE and CS-SPACE. In conclusion, compressed sensing applied 3D T2-weighted images showed comparable or superior image quality compared to conventional images with reduced acquisition time for paediatric brain.
Erector Spinae Plane Block for Post-Operative Analgesia for Above the Knee Amputation: A Case Report
Authors: Langnas Erica , Gray Andrew , Braehler Matthias
Published: August 2021

Background: Above the knee amputations (AKA) are common surgeries that frequently use neuraxial or peripheral nerve blocking techniques for both intraoperative and postoperative analgesia. It is not uncommon that patients present with contraindications to neuraxial anesthesia. Case presentation: We identified a relatively novel use of erector spinae plane block (ESP) for above the knee amputation that allows for adequate pain control postoperatively when there are contraindications for neuraxial. Conclusion: While data on ESP at the thoracic level is well described, less is known about the expected coverage for lumbar ESP. This case suggests that at the level of L3 there is sufficient dermatomal spread for an AKA.
Complete Mitochondrial Genome Sequence of Bos Frontalis (Gayal) of Bangladesh
Authors: Deb Gautam Kumar , Khatun Razia , Hossain Shakh Mohammed Jahangir , Rahaman Shamsur , Bhuiyan Md. Anamul Bahar , Mobassirin Sabrina , Afrin Sajia , Islam Md. Sirazul , Sarker Nathu Ram , Bhuyian Mohammed Shamsul Alam , Siddiki AMAM Zonaed
Published: August 2021

Background: Complete mitochondrial genome of Bos frontalis will aid in the investigation of evolutionary links between closely related species. Bos frontalis mitogenome contains 37 genes and a control region. We discover the first complete mitogenome of Bos frontalis found in Bangladesh which was obtained from whole-genome sequencing of Bos frontalis.Results: Bos frontalis mitogenome is 16,347 bp long, with an AT-based nucleotide composition (60.21%). It contains 37 genes, including 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, 2 rRNA genes and a control region (D-loop). This circular genome starts with ND6(negative strand) and ends at ND5(positive strand). Protein coding genes lost 24 bases and tRNA genes gained 27 bases compared to closely related species. Phylogenetic analysis of the mitochondrial genome of 26 closely related species from 8 congeneric species was conducted by the maximum likelihood method with 1000 bootstrap iteration.Conclusion: Our studied Bos frontalis mitochondrial genome has a similar gene arrangement compared with other Bos species. It has almost the same amount of AT and GC content, but notably the ND6 gene lacks AT skew and GC skew than that of the other two comparing species. PCG’s loss in size might be a continuous process of evolution. The mitochondrial genome is regarded as a critical tool for species identification and monitoring populations of conservation concern.
Effect of pressurised intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy on the survival rate of patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis of gastric origin
Authors: Tidadini Fatah , Abba Julio , Quesada Jean-Louis , Baudrant Magalie , Bonne Aline , Foote Alison , Faucheron Jean-Luc , Glehen Olivier , Villeneuve Laurent , Arvieux Catherine
Published: August 2021

INTRODUCTION: Pressurised intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC) is a new surgical technique, developed for the treatment of initially unresectable peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC). The objective of this study was to compare the results of PIPAC associated with systemic chemotherapy (PIPAC_CHEM) with those of systemic chemotherapy alone (ONLY_CHEM) in patients with gastric PC without metastasis other than peritoneal, and WHO performance status < 3. METHODS: This was a retrospective, single centre, comparative and non-randomised study. Seventeen PIPAC_CHEM patients were compared to 29 ONLY_CHEM patients. The primary endpoint was overall survival at 6 months from diagnosis of PC. RESULTS: 98 patients were screened and 46 were included (PIPAC_CHEM, n = 17; ONLY_CHEM, n = 29). The 6-month survival rate was significantly higher in the PIPAC_CHEM group than in the ONLY_CHEM group 16/17 (94.1% [65-99.2]) vs 19/29 (65.5% [45.4–79.7]), respectively; p = 0.029. The median total hospital stay at 6 months was significantly shorter for PIPAC_CHEM (median 2 days [2–7]) vs (median 11 days [3–21]) (p = 0.045). Over the entire follow-up, the median survival [95% CI] in PIPAC_CHEM was 12.8 months [7.2–34.3] vs 9.1 months [5.4–11.5] for the ONLY_CHEM group; p = 0.056. CONCLUSION: The overall survival at 6 months after the diagnosis of carcinomatosis was significantly better for PIPAC_CHEM patients. This difference appears to continue until at least 18 months. The total hospital stay at 6 months was significantly shorter in the PIPAC_CHEM group.
Molecular identification of Sarcocystis funereus sp. nov. (Apicomplexa, Sarcocystidae) in offspring of Tengmalm’s owls Aegolius funereus (Aves, Strigidae)
Authors: Máca Ondřej , Kouba Marek , Korpimäki Erkki , González-Solís David
Published: August 2021

The spectrum of species of Sarcocystis in birds and the role of the latter in the transmission of coccidia are still incomplete for many avian species including Tengmalm’s owl Aegolius funereus (Linnaeus, 1758). Therefore, this study is focused on the morphological and molecular description of a new Sarcocystis species found in the intestine of the Tengmalm’s owl and its possible role as definitive host. Ten fledgling owls from the Kauhava region of west-central Finland were parasitized by numerous sporocysts and oocysts in the intestinal mucosa scrapings (prevalence 100%). Sporulated oocysts and sporocysts measured 16.34−16.96 × 11.47−12.09 µm and 11.85−13.52 × 7.77−9.25 µm, respectively. Skeletal and heart muscles were negative for sarcocysts. Sarcocystis funereus sp. nov. is closely related to Sarcocystis strixi from the barred owl (Strix varia Barton, 1799) from the USA and Sarcocystis sp. isolate 5 from the European shrew (Sorex araneus Linnaeus, 1758) from the Czech Republic. This is the first and most comprehensive record on Sarcocystis from owls obtained in Finland, thus highlighting the importance of molecular data in the species identification.
Efficient Calculation of Fractal Properties via the Higuchi Method
Authors: Wanliss James , Wanliss Grace
Published: August 2021

Higuchi’s method of determining fractal dimension (HFD) is an important research tool that, compared to many other methods, gives rapid, efficient, and accurate estimations for the range of possible fractal dimensions. One major difficulty in applying the method is the correct choice of tuning parameter (kmax) to compute the most accurate results as a poor choice can generate spurious results. We analyze synthetic fractional Brownian motion to offer a general equation that allows determination, a priori, of the best value for the tuning parameter, given a particular length data set.
Epidemiology and Genotyping of Patients with Lysosomal Storage Disease in Malaysia.
Authors: Omar Affandi , Mohamed Rosnani , Nordin Fatimah Diana Amin , Shakrin Norashareena Mohamed , Nasohah Sofwatul Mukhtaroh , Salleh Nor Shuhaili , Azize Nor Azimah Abdul , Wahab Siti Aishah Abdul , Lua Seok Hian , Yakob Yusnita , Jalil Julaina Abdul
Published: August 2021

Background: Lysosomal storage disorders (LSD) are storage disorders involving malfunction of degradation enzymes in lysosome. More than 50 types of LSD have been discovered, which includes the group of mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS), sphingolipidoses, oligosaccharidoses, mucolipidoses, lipoprotein storage disorders, lysosomal transport defects and neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses and others. The aims of this study were to calculate the birth prevalence and carrier frequency of LSDs in the Malaysian population; to compare our results with reported epidemiologic data from other populations, and to describe the mutation spectrum in Malaysia. From 2008 to 2017, 2.1% (92/4338) suspected patients were diagnosed with LSD. Results: The prevalence of LSD in Malaysia was 1/231,904 live births. The combined prevalence of MPS was 1/292,401 with its subtype of MPS II presented the highest calculated birth prevalence of 1/221,425. Within the group of sphingolipidoses, the combine prevalence was 1/770,777 with Fabry as the most common disorder with calculated prevalence of 1/193,203 followed by metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD) (1/494,514). MLD is more common among people of Iban ethnicity with the prevalence of 1/6,981. Pompe and mucolipidoses type II are the less common subtypes of LSD with a prevalence of 1/1,694,634 and 1/2,229,516, respectively.Conclusion: Overall, although the prevalence of LSD in Malaysia may be underestimated, the prevalence of MPS is consistent with other reported in East Asian countries.
Identification of Core Predication-Related Candidate Genes in Ovarian Cancer Based on Integrated Bioinformatics and Experienment
Authors: Bi Jiaqing , Qin Qian , Ma Huihan , Ma Meijie , Feng Qinmei
Published: August 2021

Background: Ovarian cancer is one of the deadliest and most common gynecological malignancies. This study aims to use comprehensive bioinformatics analysis to try to identify the core candidate genes related to the prediction of ovarian cancer for the early diagnosis and prognosis of ovarian cancer. Methods: Obtain expression profiles from Gene Expression Omnibus database, identify differentially expressed genes (DEG) with p<0.05 and (logFC)>1.5, perform functional enrichment, protein-protein interaction (PPI) network construction, functional module analysis, and survival analysis And correlation analysis to obtain the target gene, through immunohistochemical staining, clinicopathological feature analysis to verify the expression and clinical significance of TTK.Results: 1. Identified 135 genes with the same expression. 33 up-regulated DEG were mainly enriched in mitotic spindle assembly checkpoints, chromosome segregation regulation, etc.; 102 down-regulated DEG was mainly enriched in neurotransmitter level regulation, protein serine/threonine Regulation of acid kinase activity, etc. Then the PPI network was constructed to screen 20 hub genes and perform survival analysis and expression correlation analysis. At the same time, the modules that met the requirements were screened and the genes were analyzed by pathway enrichment. It was found that TTK was highly expressed in ovarian cancer and led to a poor prognosis.2. Distant metastasis, lymph node metastasis, clinical staging (stage III-IV), and poor differentiation are independent risk factors for high TTK expression (P<0.05).3. TTK, CA125, HE4 three biological indicators show excellent diagnostic value in joint monitoring of ovarian cancer.Conclusions: TTK plays a vital role in the tumorigenesis, aggressiveness and malignant biological behavior of EOC, and can be used as a potential biomarker and potential therapeutic target for early diagnosis and predictive evaluation of EOC.
Stunting and Associated Factors Among Children Aged 6-59 Months From Households in Productive Safety Net Program and Non-productive Safety Net Program in Meta District, East Hararghe Zone, Eastern Ethiopia: a Comparative Cross – Sectional Study.
Authors: Tesfaye Aklilu , Egata Gudina
Published: August 2021

Background: Undernutrition is one of the major public health problems affecting children in developing settings. Despite impressive interventions such as productive safety net program (PSNP) in Ethiopia, there is paucity of information on the prevalence of stunting and its predictors among children aged 6-59 months born to beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries of the program in Ethiopia. Methods: Community based comparative cross sectional study design was used among randomly selected 1555 children aged 6 to 59 months from households using and not using PSNP respectively in Meta distinct from 5th-20th of March, 2017. Data were collected using pre-tested structured questionnaire. Measuring board was used to measure the length/height of the children. Length/height for age z-score was generated using world Health Organization (WHO) Anthros version 3.2.2. Descriptive statistics was used to describe all relevant data. Bivariable and Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to predictors of the outcome variable. Odds ratio along with 95% confidence interval were estimated to measure the strength of the association. Level of statistical significance was declared at p-value less than 0.05. Result: The prevalence of stunting was 47.7%, 95% CI: (44.1%, 51.5%) among children from PSNP beneficiary households and 33.5%, 95% CI: (29.9%, 36.9%) from non-PSNP households respectively. Lack of maternal education [AOR = 3.39; 95% CI: (1.12, 5.11)], lack of women’s empowerment [AOR= 3.48; 95% CI: (2.36, 5.12)], non-attendance of antenatal care fourth visit [AOR= 4.2, 95% CI (2.5, 6.8)], practicing hand washing [AOR= 0.46; 95% CI: (0.28, 0.76)], childhood illness [AOR= 8.41; 95%CI: (4.58, 12.76)], non-exclusive breastfeeding [AOR= 3.6; 95% CI: (2.30, 4.80)], low dietary diversity score [AOR= 4.7; 95% CI (3.0, 7.40)] , and child ‘s age between 24 to 59 months [AOR = 3.2; 95% CI (1.6, 6.3)] were predictors of stunting. Conclusions: The prevalence of stunting was high among children from PSNP households in the study area. Stunting was significantly associated with maternal socio-demographic and obstetric and child related factors. Therefore, empowering women on household’s issues and improving infant and young child feeding practices could reduce the magnitude of stunting and its impacts on child health.
Reliability and Power Analysis of FinFET Based SRAM
Authors: Navaneetha Alluri , Bikshalu K.
Published: August 2021

Demand for accommodating more and new functionalities within a single chip such as SOC needs a novel devices and architecture such as FinFET device instead of MOSFET. FinFET is emerged as non-planar, multigate device to overcome short channel effects such as subthreshold swing deterioration, drain induced barrier lowering, threshold voltage roll off which degrade circuit performance. As the need of device technology is mounting in electronic gadgets the important parameters are taken into consideration such as low leakage, high reliability, low power dissipation, and high operating speed. Reliability is one of key considerations in converting a proof of concept into reality. In this work Reliability of FinFET device is studied experimentally according to ITRS (international technology roadmap for semiconductor) roadmap using several standard test protocols such as multiple current stressing, harsher environment conditions, and effect of electromigration. Furthermore, power analysis of FinFET based SRAM is done by using 7nm bsimcmg PTM files in mentor graphics tool. The FinFET based SRAM shown low leakage, power dissipation, delay compared to existing conventional MOSFET based SRAM.
Role of survival-associated alternative splicing events in the prognosis of ovarian cancer
Authors: Yue Congbo , Zhao Tianyi , Zhang Shoucai , Liu Yingjie , ZHENG GUIXI , Zhang Yi
Published: August 2021

Objective

Alternative splicing (AS) events play a crucial role in the tumorigenesis and progression of various cancers. In the present study, we aimed to identify specific AS events, which might be prognostic markers and therapeutic targets for ovarian cancer (OV).
Methods

Transcriptome data, clinical information, and Percent Spliced In (PSI) values were downloaded from TCGA database and TCGA SpliceSeq to explore the role of AS events in the prognosis of OV patients. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to identify survival-associated AS events and develop multi-AS-based prognostic models. The K-M curves and ROC curves were conducted based on prognostic AS event models. Moreover, a splicing regulatory network was established according to the correlation between AS events and splicing factors (SFs). Finally, we performed functional enrichment analysis by GO terms and KEGG pathways.
Results

We identified 1,472 AS events that were associated with the survival of OV patients, and exon skipping (ES) was the most important type. We also found that prognostic models based on AS events were good predictors of OV prognosis, which could discriminate the high-risk group from the low-risk group (P < 0.05). Notably, the AUC value of AD, AP, AT, ES, ME, and the whole cohort was more than 0.70, indicating that these six models had valuable prediction strength. The risk score of prognostic models was identified as an independent prognostic factor. Furthermore, the AS-SF correlation network revealed several hub SF genes, including DDX39B, PNN, LUC7L3, ZC3H4 and SRSF11, and so on.
Conclusions

In the present study, we constructed powerful prognostic predictors for OV patients and uncovered interesting splicing networks. Collectively, our findings provided valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms of OV.
Safety of Bedside Placement of Tunneled Hemodialysis Catheters In The Intensive Care Unit: Translating From The Covid-19 Experience – Retrospective Single-Center Case Series
Authors: Sohail Mohammad Ahsan , Hanane Tarik , Lane James , Vachharajani Tushar
Published: August 2021

Background: Critically-ill patients with coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) and kidney dysfunction often require tunneled hemodialysis catheter (TDC) placement for kidney replacement therapy (KRT), typically under fluoroscopic guidance to minimize catheter-related complications. This entails transportation of patients outside the intensive care unit (ICU) to a fluoroscopy suite, which may potentially expose many healthcare providers to COVID-19. One potential strategy to mitigate the risk of viral transmission is to insert TDCs at the bedside, using ultrasound (US) and anatomic landmarks only, without fluoroscopic guidance. Methods: We reviewed all COVID-19 patients in the ICU who underwent right internal jugular (RIJ) TDC insertion at the bedside between April and December 2020. Outcomes included procedural complications such as bleeding, venous air embolism, arrhythmias, pneumothorax and catheter tip malposition. TDC insertion was considered successful if the catheter was able to achieve blood flow sufficient to perform a single hemodialysis treatment. Results: We report a retrospective single-center case series of 25 patients with COVID-19 who had RIJ TDCs placed at the bedside, 10 of whom underwent simultaneous insertion of small-bore RIJ tunneled central venous catheters (T-CVC). Continuous veno-venous hemodialysis was the KRT modality employed in all patients. A median catheter blood flow rate of 200 ml/min (IQR:200-200) was achieved in all patients without any deviation from the dialysis prescription. No catheter-related complications were observed and none of the catheter tips were mal-positioned. Conclusions: Bedside RIJ TDC placement in COVID-19 patients, using US and anatomic landmarks without fluoroscopic guidance, may potentially reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission amongst healthcare workers without compromising patient safety or catheter function.
Methanol-Based Esterification of Palm Oil Sludge – Preparation of Palmitic and Oleic Fatty Acid Ethyl Esters via Ethyl Acetate Transesterification
Authors: CHAPARRO-ACOSTA Javier , URBINA-GONZÁLEZ Juan-Manuel
Published: August 2021

Acid-catalyzed Fischer esterification of fatty acids with methanol as a reagent and solvent is used to prepare long chain alkyl methyl esters. Transesterification of palm oil in basic media using methanol is a synthesis route to prepare monoalkyl methyl esters of fatty acids. In this work, we report performing Fischer esterification of a sample of local palm oil sludge (rich in fatty acids) in the presence of methanol and obtaining ethyl esters of oleic and palmitic acids from transesterification reactions during extractions with ethyl acetate.
Sociocultural drivers of spirituality in Indian Saints; A Principal Component Analysis.
Authors: Mishra Prof. Badrinarayan
Published: August 2021

Human health is multidomain. However, the physical component has dominated health research. Spiritual health, the component traditionally considered as the pivot for health and wellness has taken a back seat. Exploring its’ different determinants in the traditional preachers will enhance our understanding of them and will be a guide for their use in the common man’s life. Aim: To find out important sociocultural factors/drivers to the spiritual health in Indian Saints. Objectives: To identify the important social and cultural determinants of spirituality in the study group by factor extraction through Principal Component Analysis (PCA). Methodology: 958 connecting Indian Saints who congregated at Kumbh Mela at the holy city of Ujjain in 2016 were randomly selected in equal proportion from different sects(clans). Their sociocultural background and spiritual score were evaluated by a sociocultural questionnaire and SAI (Spiritual Assessment Inventory). The contribution of sociocultural factors to spiritual score was analysed by Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and linear regression modelling. Statistical significance was established at p < 0.05. Results: 20 sociocultural factors were evaluated for component loading (factor extraction) and their impact on the spiritual score. The KMO (Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin Measure) score of Sampling Adequacy, Bartlett's test of sphericity and Communalities extraction were 0.57, sig. of 0.00 and ≥ 0.4 respectively thereby supporting; factor analysis. On PCA 6 had an eigenvalue > 1. All of these 6 principal components were found maintainable on The Monte Carlo PCA for Parallel Analysis and they together explained 66.20% of the cumulative variance. Their respective taxonomies were emancipation (PC 1), family heritage (PC 2), stimuli (PC 3), faith (PC 4), education (PC 5), and self-hegemony (PC 6). On regression analysis, the four important influencers of spirituality were; participant’s origin from a joint family (p – 0.00), their daily routine for spiritual enhancement (p-0.01), respect for other religions (p-0.00), and self-motivation (p-0.01). Conclusion: Emancipation (freedom from family bondage), the presence of religious family background, a fixed daily routine, belief in all religions, an unremitting drive for spiritual education, and self-hegemony were dominant components that determined spirituality in Indian Saints. Translating these drivers for the benefit of commoners may enrich their overall health and wellness.
The visual encoding of graspable unfamiliar objects
Authors: Federico Giovanni , Osiurak François , Brandimonte Maria Antonella , Salvatore Marco , Cavaliere Carlo
Published: August 2021

We explored by eye-tracking the visual encoding modalities of participants (N = 20) involved in a free-observation task in which three repetitions of ten unfamiliar graspable objects were administered. Then, we analysed the temporal allocation (t = 1500ms) of visual-spatial attention to objects’ manipulation (i.e., the part aimed at grasping the object) and functional (i.e., the part aimed at recognizing the function and identity of the object) areas. We found a reversed quadratic trend in the way participants visually explored the objects. Within the first 750ms, participants tended to shift their gaze on the functional areas while decreasing their attention on the manipulation areas. Then, participants reversed this trend, decreasing their visual-spatial attention to the functional areas while relatively increasing fixations to the manipulation areas. Crucially, the global amount of visual-spatial attention for objects’ functional areas significantly decreased as an effect of stimuli repetition while remaining stable for the manipulation areas, thus indicating stimulus familiarity effects. These findings support the action reappraisal theoretical approach, which considers object processing and tool use as abilities emerging from the integration among semantic, technical/mechanical, and sensorimotor knowledge.
Silver decorated myconanoparticles control growth and biofilm formation in uropathogenic E. coli
Authors: S Ranjani , U U. Rubiya Kathun , Hemalatha S
Published: August 2021

Nanotechnology involves the synthesis of nanoparticles that has been used in therapeutic application for treating diseases. In this present study we have adopted the synthesis of myconanoparticles from the extracellular extract of endophytic fungi Penicillium sclerotiorum (PsNps) and validated for its antibacterial potential against antibiotic resistant uropathogenic E. coli and ATCC (25922) strain of E. coli. Endophytic fungi were isolated from the healthy leaves of Tamarindus indica. The genomic DNA from endophytic fungi was isolated and ITS region was amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using universal fungal primers ITS1 and ITS4and sequenced for the identification of endophytic fungal isolates. Penicillium sclerotiorum extract were used for the synthesis silver nanoparticles (PsNps) and were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform- infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Zeta potential, FE-SEM and Energy- Dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX). Antibacterial activity of PsNps was tested against the antibiotic resistant uropathogenic E. coli and ATCC (25922) strain of E. coli. Further experiments were carried out to explore the potential of PsNps in regulating the CTX-M-15 gene. The antimicrobial activity showed that the PsNps inhibited growth, biofilm formation in both the strains of E. coli. The expression of gene encoding CTX-M-15 was down regulated in resistant strain of uropathogenic E. coli. Our results suggest that the PsNps could be used as an alternative source for the antibiotics. Thus, further studies can be conducted to prove the in vivo potential of PsNps and can be formulated for commercialization.
An alternative approach to the relation between accretion luminosity and mass accretion rate
Authors: Pezzuto Stefano
Published: August 2021

In this paper I introduce and discuss an alternative approach to the relation between accretion luminosity, Lacc, and mass accretion rate, ˙M : instead of the universally adopted Lacc = GM ˙M/R, I propose the dynamical definition Lacc = v2f˙M/2 where vf is the final velocity of the infalling matter at the surface of the accreting object of mass M and radius R. Both definitions are based on the energy conservation, but while the former assumes that matter is in free fall, the latter is valid always. By adopting the alternative form for Lacc, I show that the Eddington luminosity Led, when the outward radiation pressure wins on gravity, is never produced with a finite ˙M. Instead, Led is a limit asymptotically reached when ˙M → ¥. My argument is very simple, so I felt the need to find a possible explanation to why no one arrived to this conclusion before. To this aim, I give a brief presentation of the history of accretion, from the pioneer work of Hoyle and collaborators until the ’60s of last century, to show how the perception of the role of the radiation pressure in accretion evolved. I give also some practical applications of the formulae I derived, in the case of high-mass star formation and of the growth of super massive black holes. The study of these two processes, already complex per se, becomes more difficult to solve because of the existence of a limiting ˙M, named Eddington mass accretion rate or ˙Med, that it is supposed to generate a luminosity equal to Led, making it impossible to accrete at rate ˙M > ˙Med. Accretion rates higher than ˙Med are however necessary, as theory and observations show. My definition of Lacc takes naturally into account the work done by radiation pressure to slow down the infalling matter: as a consequence, Lacc does not increase linearly with ˙M and Led is only an asymptotic value.
Contribution of reduced graphene oxidetohemicelluloses-basedfilms with enhanced mechanical and conductivity properties
Authors: Wu Yule , Rao Jun , Peng Feng , Zhang Liping , Gao Hui , Guan Ying
Published: August 2021

Aquaternized hemicellulose (QH)/chitosan/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) composite film with good mechanical propertyand electrical conductivity was prepared bysolution-casting method. The effects of reduced graphene oxide contents on the structures and properties of the composite films were investigated.The mechanical property and electrical conductivity of the film with rGO containing 0.5 wt.% was reached 102.09 MPa and 12.8 × 10− 2 S/cm, respectively.Under the functions of hydrogen bonds and Van Der Waals forces, three components were combined to obtain QH/CS/rGO composite films with higher thermal stability and conductivity. Due to the compositing of rGO, the composite films showed good UV-blocking properties.This work provided a low-cost and sustainable pathway for the application of high-strength hemicellulose composite films with electrical conductivity and UV resistance in flexible electrode materials.
Upgraded valorization of copper (II) immobilization onto Schiff base-functionalized pectin grafted magnetic nanoparticles: A thermostable, reusable, and efficient nanocatalyst for the green synthesis of 1,2,3-triazole in pure water
Authors: Siuki Hossein Khashei , Kargar Pouya Ghamari , Bagherzade Ghodsieh
Published: August 2021

In this project, the new catalyst copper defines as Fe3O4@Pectin@(CH2)3-Acetamide-Cu(II) was successfully manufactured and fully characterized by different techniques, including FT-IR, XRD, TEM, FESEM, EDX, VSM, and ICP analysis. All results showed that copper was successfully supported on the polymer‐coated magnetic nanoparticles. One of the most important properties of a catalyst is the ability to be prepared from simple materials such as pectin that’s a biopolymer that is widely found in nature. The catalytic activity of Fe3O4@Pectin@(CH2)3-Acetamide-Cu(II) was examined in a classical, one pot, and the three-component reaction of terminal alkynes, alkyl halides, and sodium azide in water and observed, proceeding smoothly and completed in good yields and high regioselectivity. The critical potential interests of the present method include high yields, recyclability of catalyst, easy workup, using an eco-friendly solvent, and the ability to sustain a variety of functional groups, which give economical as well as ecological rewards. The capability of the nanocomposite was compared with previous works, and the nanocomposite was found more efficient, economical, and reproducible. Also, the catalyst can be easily removed from the reaction solution using an external magnet and reused for five runs without reduction in catalyst activity.
Short-term traffic flow prediction based on cuckoo search-wavelet neural network
Authors: Lv Haibo , Kang Yuheng , Shen Zhou
Published: August 2021

The nonlinear fluctuation and uncertainty that characterize urban traffic flow are well-known. An Improved Cuckoo Search-Wavelet Neural Network (ICS-WNN) prediction model for urban traffic flow is suggested in order to increase the accuracy of traffic flow predictions. After the original traffic flow data have been cleaned up and normalized, the traffic flow prediction network model is built by optimizing the wavelet neural network weights and wavelet shrinkage and translation factors based on the adaptive step size and discovery probability of the cuckoo algorithm, and then adding the neural network momentum factor. The traffic flow prediction network model is built in two stages. The results of the experimental simulations demonstrate that the ICS-WNN prediction algorithm has a better fit and accuracy than numerous common optimization prediction techniques, which is encouraging.
Municipal and legal views of L. von Stein
Authors: Sukhonos V.V.
Published: August 2021

Considering the essence of self-government, L. Stein believed that the easiest way to understand it is to trace the historical course of the development of the idea of self-government, the creation and strengthening of its organs. Self-government could not arise with absolutism, both monarchical and republican. It is possible only in the context of a constitutional order that ensures the freedom of development of self-governing local institutions. L. Stein's views closely adhered to the public theory of self-government. He was closer to her than R. Gneist. In particular, for him the state and the self-governing unions are social organisms. The state has the task of carrying out tasks of national importance, and on the bodies of self-government the implementation of local, special tasks, which, by virtue of their local importance, must be entrusted to the bodies of local self-government, as institutions close to the locality and directly interested in the implementation of local affairs. Recognizing the community as a social organism and the presence of special local public affairs, which are the competence of local governments, L. Stein pointed out that at the same time these special public affairs are also public affairs. He did not oppose the self-government bodies of governmental bodies, but acknowledged that both of them and others make one common state business, only the first local and the second general. L. Stein considered that local self-government is a participation in government, since it expresses the representation of only those local interests that are conditioned by land ownership, through which only at least mainly the interests associated with this can be combined. possession. But in self-government there are many interests that have nothing to do with land ownership and a large number of citizens who do not have such ownership, so they, on the basis of L. Stein's definition, should be excluded from local self-government. Thus, in defining local self-government as his main feature, L. Stein took not land or territorial district but land property. As for the structure of local self-government bodies, L. Stein believed that any public association that performs the tasks of government should be a permanent, organized and recognized government. His organization should be similar to the state, which achieves the unity of free government. Thus, L. Stein, distinguishing between the competences of state bodies and self-government bodies, did not oppose them to each other, but believed that local self-government bodies could even cope better with “assigned cases” than the state authorities themselves. He considered the main feature of local selfgovernment not land or territorial district, but land ownership. At the same time, the basis of the election, from his point of view, is not ownership, but belonging to well-known corporations and paying taxes.