bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Network size variation of geographical aided routing protocols in MANET
Authors: B. Al-Bayram Radhwan , M. Abdullah Radhwan
Published: January 2021

In position-based or geo-casting ad hoc networking applications, the data packets flooded in a limited area of the expected region toward the destination node. In such networks, a multi-hop routing is to followed when the position of the destination node is residing off-range the wireless transmission of the source node. Scientific literature references in this concept have been conducted depended on the diversity of quantitative metrics-tests regarding the size of the assigned networks so that this space is intended to be the variation in the density of the moving nodes (the number of nodes per unit of measurement). In this work, we studied the impact of the change in the size (area) of the ad hoc network with the concept of variation in the network's area while remaining the total number of nodes as a constant volume. In this paper, three of the position-based routing protocols have evaluated in terms of a network size variation. These routing protocols are: locations aided routing LAR, the distance routing effect algorithm for mobility DREAM, and the greedy perimeter stateless routing GPSR. With each simulation test, a quantitative metrics evaluation determined the most efficient protocol and the most efficient accessibility with the network environment changes in terms of actual workspace. 
Show off the efficiency of dai-liao method in merging technology for monotonous non-linear problems
Authors: Z. Al-Kawaz Rana , Y. Al-Bayati Abbas
Published: January 2021

In this article, we give a new modification for the Dai-Liao method to solve monotonous nonlinear problems. In our modification, we relied on two important procedures, one of them was the projection method and the second was the method of damping the quasi-Newton condition. The new approach of derivation yields two new parameters for the conjugated gradient direction which, through some conditions, we have demonstrated the sufficient descent property for them. Under some necessary conditions, the new approach achieved global convergence property. Numerical results show how efficient the new approach is when compared with basic similar classic methods.
Live to learn: learning rules-based artificial neural network
Authors: I. Hilaiwah Aseel Shakir , Alwally Abed Allah Hanan Abed , Akhudir Abbas Basim , Sutikno Tole
Published: January 2021

An extensive review of the artificial neural network (ANN) is presented in this paper. Previous studies review the artificial neural network (ANN) based on the approaches (algorithms) used or based on the types of the artificial neural network (ANN). The presented paper reviews the ANN based on the goal of the ANN (methods, and layers), which become the main objective of this paper. As a famous artificial intelligent model, ANN mimics the human nervous system in handling the information transmited by different nodes (also known as neurons) in this model. These nodes are stacked in layers and work collectively to bring about solution to complex problems. Numerous structures exist for ANN and each of these structures is designed to addressa a specific task. Basically, the ANN architecture is comprised of 3 different layers wherein the first layer rpresents the input layer that consist of several input nodes that represent the input parameterfor the model. The hidden layer is te second layer and consists of a hidden layer of neurons. The neurons in this layer are directly connected to the neurons in the output layer. The third layer is the output layer which is the models’ response layer. The output layer neurons have the activation functions for the calculation of the ANN final output. The connection between the nodes in the ANN model is mediated by synaptic weights. This paper is a comprehensive study of ANN models and their layers.
DoS attacks detection in MQTT networks
Authors: Dikii Dmitrii , Arustamov Sergey , Grishentsev Aleksey
Published: January 2021

The paper considers the problem of protecting the Internet of things infrastructure against denial-of-service (DoS) attacks at the application level. The authors considered parameters that affect the network gateway workload: message frequency, payload size, number of recipients and some others. We proposed a modular structure of the attack detection tool presented by three classifiers that use the following attributes: username, device ID, and IP-address. The following types of classifiers have been the objects for the research: multilayer perceptron, random forest algorithm, and modifications of the support vector machine. Some scenarios for the behavior of network devices have been simulated. It was proved that for the proposed feature vector on simulated training and test data sets, the best results have been shown by a multilayer perceptron and a support vector machine with a radial basis function of the kernel and optimization with SMO algorithm. The authors also determined the conditions under which the selected classifiers have the best quality of recognizing abnormal and legitimate traffic in MQTT networks. 
An end to end key establishment scheme for detecting black hole attacks in mobile ad hoc networks
Authors: Mahmood Baban Ahmed , Majeed Aso Ahmed , Shakir Ahmed Chalak
Published: January 2021

The wireless technology is in consistent and rapid development in this century such that it produces fast data rate and strong connectivity. Mobile ad hoc network (MANET) is an independent network wherein nodes function as both host and router. Routing protocols in MANET are prone to different attacks. Malicious nodes usually interfere the process of establishing routes and make it hard to build a valid route. In the literature, different mechanisms proposed to prohibit black hole attacks in which an adversary node blindly drops data packets. In this paper, a study is fulfilled of the advantages and disadvantages of some of the protocols presented in the literature and a novel method proposed that detects black hole attacks. A thorough, precise, and theoretical analysis is presented to show how the proposed method can prevent malicious nodes from impersonating benign nodes. A theoretical compareison conducted between the proposed method and some of the other methods presented in the literature. The comparison shows that the attacks exist on these protocols are detected and prevented by the proposed protocol.
Determining an optimum zone radius for zone routing protocol (ZRP) based on node mobility
Authors: W. Al-Ani Khalid , Yussof Salman , M. Haglan Hussein , Shaker Hothefa , Mahdi Alani Linda
Published: January 2021

Mobility is one of the important issues in Mobile Ad hoc Networks (MANET). By definition, MANET nodes are free to move around and this may cause difficulty in routing. MANET routing protocols must consider this factor when making routing decision. Zone Routing Protocol (ZRP) is a hybrid routing protocol, which utilizes the proactive and reactive routing protocols advantages. ZRP proactively maintains routing information within a routing zone, while reactively discovering routes to destinations beyond the routing zone. Since ZRP is based on the concept of routing zone, determining an optimum routing zone radius has the major impact on the performance of that protocol. In this research, we studied the effect of zone radius on the performance of ZRP with different levels of node mobility. Node mobility is defined using two different parameters: node speed and pause time. Based on the simulation results, ZRP protocol using zone radius of two provides the best packet delivery fraction, throughput and normalized routing load. However, a larger zone radius will provide a lower delay.
Improved dynamic performance of photovoltaic panel using fuzzy Logic-MPPT algorithm
Authors: W. Nasser Khalid , J. Yaqoob Salam , A. Hassoun Zainab
Published: January 2021

The nonlinear characteristics and intense credence dependence of photovoltaic (PV) panel on the solar irradiance and ambient temperature demonstrate important challenges for researchers in the PV panel topic. To overcome these problems, the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) controller is needed which can improve the PV panel efficiency. In other words, for maximum efficiency, the MPPT controller can help to extract the optimal and overall available output power from the PV panel at different output load conditions. Fuzzy logic (FL) is one of the strongest techniques in the extracting of MPP in the PV panel since it has several advantages; robust; no requirement to have an accurate mathematical model, and works with imprecise inputs. Therefore, in this paper, fuzzy logic (FL-MPPT) has been designed and simulated to improve dynamic performance PV panel at different solar irradiance and then increased the efficiency. Therefore, "MATLAB/Simulink software" has been used to build the proposed algorithm and the simulation results have been adequate as well. Besides, a robust FL-MPPT algorithm has been presented with high dynamic performance under different weather conditions. Finally, the proposed algorithm has a quicker response and less oscillatory comparison of the conventional algorithms in the subject of extracting the maximum PV power.
A novel collective health monitoring of a wind park
Authors: Sodha Kritika , Fernandez S. George , K. Vijayakumar , D. Sattianadan
Published: January 2021

Compared to a time-based maintenance schedule, condition-based maintenance provides better diagnostic information on the health condition of the different wind turbine components and subsystems. Rather than using an offline condition monitoring technique, which require the WT to be taken out of service, online condition monitoring does not require any interruption on the WT operation. The online condition monitoring system uses different types of sensors such as vibration, acoustic, temperature, current/voltage etc. Using a machine learning approach, we aim to establish a data driven fault prognosis framework. Instead of traditional wired communications, wireless communication systems such as Wireless Sensor Network have the advantages of easier installation and lower capital cost. We propose the use of WSN for collecting and transmitting the condition monitoring data to enhance the reliability of Wind Parks. Using data driven approach the collective health of the WP can be represented based on the condition of the individual wind turbines, which can be used for predicting the Remaining Useful Life of the system.
Revealing and evaluating the influence of filters position in cascaded filter: application on the ECG de-noising performance disparity
Authors: Allali Abdenour , Bartil Arres , Ziet Lahcene , Hebibi Amar
Published: January 2021

In this paper, a new optimization on windowing technique based on finite impulse response (FIR) filters is proposed for revealing and evaluating the Influence of filters position in cascaded filter tested on the ECG signal de-noising. baseline wander (BLW), power line interference (PLI) and electromyography (EMG) noises are getting removed. The performance of the adopted method is evaluated on the PTB diagnostic database. Subsequently, the comparisons are based on signal to noise ratio (SNR) improvement and mean square error (MSE) minimization. Where the Rectangular, and Kaiser windows have been used for the more potent performances. The disparity average (DA) of SNR values is detected; in both Kaiser and Rectangular windows are assessed by ±0.38046dB and ±0.70278dB respectively, while the MSE values were constant. The excellent configuration or filters position (H-B-L) of the filtration system is selected according to high measurements of SNR and low MSE too, to de-noise the ECG signals. First of all, this applied approach has led to 31.30 dB SNR improvement with MSE minimization of 26. 43%. This means that there is a significant contribution to improving the field of filtration.
Content based video retrieval using discrete cosine transform
Authors: Hamad Sumaya , Farhan Ahmeed Suliman , Khudhur Doaa Yaseen
Published: January 2021

A content based video retrieval (CBVR)framework is built in this paper.  One of the essential features of video retrieval process and CBVR is a color value. The discrete cosine transform (DCT) is used to extract a query video features to compare with the video features stored in our database. Average result of 0.6475 was obtained by using the DCT after implementing it to the database we created and collected, and on all categories. This technique was applied on our database of video, Check 100 database videos, 5 videos in each category.
Performance evaluation of WLAN in enterprise WAN with real-time applications based on OPNET modeler
Authors: Al-Hamiri Mohammed Ghadhban , J. Abd Haider , Al Abboodi Hanaa M.
Published: January 2021

Wireless local area networks (WLAN) has been used recently due to their benefits which exhibits outstanding mobility with easier and faster configurations. The wireless local area network performance is much influenced by both network topology and hardware specifications and thus will impact the quality of service (QoS) parameters which are delay, load, and response time. This works estimated the performance of WLAN in enterprise WAN based on the OPNET modeler. Three scenarios have been suggested which are FDDI scenario, FDDI Hybrid Star scenario, and FDDI hybrid ring scenario involving web browsing (HTTP) and file transfer protocol (FTP). Hardware objects and software configurations kept the same for all proposed scenarios. Different types of links and topologies have been applied among WLAN subnets as well as the involved gateway has been changed to measure parameters of quality of services (QoS) for all scenarios used. The findings confirmed that the FDDI Hybrid Ring scenario presents better performance than the FDDI Hybrid Star Scenario and FDDI scenario in terms of WLAN delay, WLAN load, FTP download response time, and HTTP object response time.
القَدَر: دراسة في المقامة الأسديّة لبديع الزمان الهمذانيّ
Authors: رمضان هاني مصطفى
Published: January 2021

Badīʿ al-Zamān al-Hamadhānī’s maqāmāt are very well known and of great interest to researchers, most of whom consider – according to the apparent meaning of the maqāmāt – that al-Hamadhānī’s attitude towards destiny is one of constant war and underestimation. This paper focuses on the maqāma known as “the maqāma of the lion” to interrogate al-Hamadhānī’s position on destiny. We suggest that this maqāma shows a different attitude towards destiny, and describe how in this case al-Hamadhānī asserts destiny’s control over everything in our lives.

Our paper is based on an internal analysis of this maqāma, focusing on its events and their characteristics in terms of time, place, and characters. Moreover, we analyze the language of the maqāma through its vocabulary, lexical field meanings, and contextual symbols in the context of our main thesis. We also explain our personal understanding of this maqāma as a part of al-Hamadhānī’s collection, and through observations on the two main characters. Finally, as many researchers have noticed a link between al-Hamadhānī’s maqāmāt and the Qur’ān, we compare “the maqāma of the lion” with the story of Prophet Joseph in the Qur’ān, as the two present a number of similarities.
Taxonomic and nomenclatural notes on Lantana and Lippia (Verbenaceae)

Authors: VALÉRIO VANESSA IMACULADA DOS REIS , CARDOSO PEDRO HENRIQUE , NETO LUIZ MENINI , SALIMENA FÁTIMA REGINA GONÇALVES
Published: January 2021

Lantana and Lippia are two large and taxonomically complicated genera of Verbenaceae. During studies of these genera for the “Flora do Brasil 2020” project some taxonomic problems were identified. Here, we propose the reestablishment of the species Lippia subracemosa, nine new synonyms and three lectotypes for Lippia jangadensis, Lippia thymoides, and Lippia vernonioides, the last one also with the designation of an epitype.
Lipid Coated and Chlorin e6 Loaded Calcium Carbonate for Effective In Situ Immunotheraphy of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Dai Wenxin , Lu Shaoquan , Zeng Wangyuan , Lee Dongwon
Published: January 2021

Cancer vaccine is well recognized as a novel but effective way for cancer immunotherapy. Especially, the role of dendritic cells (DCs) in antigen presentation properties is critical for the final performance of cancer vaccine. Herein, a lipid (Li) coated calcium carbonate (CC) vehicle
(Li/CC) was employed to load chlorin e6 (Ce6) to serve as a potential in situ vaccine (Li/CC-Ce6) for effective immunotherapy of colorectal cancer. It was suggested that the loaded Ce6 within Li/CCCe6 can be activated under laser irradiation. The photodynamic therapy (PDT) of Ce6 was
expected to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) to cause cell death and expose tumor-associated antigen (TAA). In addition, the produced ROS can mimic the inflammatory responses for the recruitment of DC to initiate strong immune response cascade. Moreover, the recruitment of DC can recognize
the exposed TAA to stimulate DC for effective vaccination in situ. Results from in vitro and in vivo assays demonstrated the strong ability of this platform to enhance DC vaccination, resulting in promising growth inhibition of both primary and distant tumors.
Improvement of Structural, Electrical, and Optical Properties of Sol–Gel-Derived Indium–Tin-Oxide Films by High Efficiency Microwave Irradiation
Authors: Kim Sung-Hun , Cho Won-Ju
Published: January 2021

Herein, indium–tin-oxide (ITO) thin films are prepared by a solution-based spin-coating process followed by a heat-treatment process with microwave irradiation (MWI). The structural, electrical and optical properties of the films are investigated. The properties of the microwave-irradiated
sol–gel ITO films are compared with those of as-spun ITO films and sol–gel ITO films subjected to conventional furnace annealing (CFA) or a rapid thermal process (RTP). After microwave irradiation, the sol–gel ITO thin films are found to have crystallized, and they indicate
enhanced conductivity and transparency. Furthermore, the resistances of the ITO films are decreased considerably at increased microwave power levels, and the resistivity of the films almost saturate even at a low microwave power of 500 W. The improved physical properties of the MW-irradiated
samples are mainly due to the increase in the electron concentration of the ITO films and the increase in the carrier mobility after MWI.
Preparation and Characterization of Planar-Type ZnO Powder with High Aspect Ratio for Application in Ultraviolet- and Heat-Shield Cosmetics
Authors: Lee Jung-Hwan , Lee Gun-Sub , Park Eung-Nam , Hong Sung-Eun , Kye Sung-Bong , Kim So-Won , Gwack Ji-Yoo , Lee Hee-Chul
Published: January 2021

In this study, a [0001]-plane planar-type ZnO ceramic powder material with a high aspect ratio ranging from 20:1–50:1 is synthesized using the electrolyte collected from zinc air battery power generation. This high aspect ratio may be due to the Zn(OH)2-4
anion dissolved in the electrolyte. The obtained planar-type ZnO exhibits excellent formulation stability and applicability, even when formulated as a cosmetic with a single inorganic ingredient. Compared to commercial ZnO or TiO2 powders, relatively better protection against infrared
and ultraviolet (UV) radiation is realized due to its asymmetric characteristics, with a width of approximately 1 μm and thickness of tens of nm. The synthesized planar-type ZnO is mixed with nanosized ZnO or TiO2 commercial powders and formulated into various combinations to
achieve a high UV protection rate and heat-blocking effect. In particular, the addition of planar-type ZnO to nanosized TiO2 powders increases the heat-blocking effect, and improves the applicability and formulation stability of the cosmetic formulation, despite the decrease in
turbidity. Among all the ceramic powder combinations examined in this study, the best UV protection rate and heat-blocking effect are obtained when the synthesized planar-type ZnO is mixed with microsized and nanosized TiO2.
Can Sex Improve Nasal Function?—An Exploration of the Link Between Sex and Nasal Function
Authors: Bulut Olcay Cem , Oladokun Dare , Lippert Burkard M. , Hohenberger Ralph
Published: January 2021

Objectives:

This study was conducted to examine the impact of sexual activity on nasal breathing and compare such effect to that of a nasal decongestant.

Methods:

We evaluated nasal breathing at 5 different times: (1) before sexual activity (baseline), (2) immediately after sexual activity, (3) 30 minutes, (4) 1 hour (5), and 3 hours after sexual climax. Same measurements were taken on the second day following application of nasal decongestant spray. For evaluation of nasal breathing, we used a visual analogue scale (VAS). Additionally, we used a portable rhinometric device to measure resistance and nasal flow.

Results:

Nasal breathing improved significantly after sexual intercourse with climax to the same degree as after application of nasal decongestant for up to 60 minutes, as measured subjectively with the VAS (sex −3.6, P < .001; spray −3.2, P < .001). This was confirmed in the objective rhinometric data as mean nasal flow (mL/s) increased while resistance decreased immediately (flow sex +214, P < .001; flow spray +235, P < .001), 30 (flow sex +249, P < .001; flow spray +287, P < .001), and 60 minutes (flow sex +180, P < .001; flow spray +287, P < .001) post-intervention. Nasal breathing was back to the baseline level after 3 hours following sexual intercourse, while it continued to be improved for longer after application of nasal decongestant. Only participants having nasal obstruction (Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation score >30) showed nasal function improvement after sex.

Conclusions:

Sexual intercourse with climax can improve nasal breathing to the same degree as application of nasal decongestant for up to 60 minutes in patients having nasal obstruction.
Bronchoscopic diagnosis and treatment of endobronchial carcinoid: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Papaporfyriou Anastasia , Domayer Julian , Meilinger Michael , Firlinger Irene , Funk Georg-Christian , Setinek Ulrike , Kostikas Konstantinos , Valipour Arschang
Published: January 2021

Carcinoid tumours are rare neuroendocrine neoplasms that mostly occur in younger adults with low tendencies to metastasise. Based on their histological characteristics, they are divided into typical and atypical subtypes. The most common presenting symptoms are due to central airway obstruction.

The first step in the diagnostic assessment should be a computed tomography (CT) scan, as it provides information both for local tumour extent and lymph node involvement. Bronchoscopy is the main tool for histological confirmation, evaluation of bronchial wall invasion and removal of endobronchial manifestation with subsequent resolution of atelectasis. Endobronchial ultrasound may be necessary to rule out lymph node metastasis. Somatostatin receptor scintigraphy in combination with CT can rule out further metastatic disease.

Surgical resection using parenchyma-sparing techniques remains the gold standard for treatment. For selected patients, endobronchial therapy could be an alternative for minimal invasiveness. Long-term follow-up is suggested due to the high likelihood of recurrence.

Here, we describe our clinical experience in a 35-year-old male patient who originally presented with haemoptysis and a central polypoid tumour in the left main bronchus revealed by a CT scan. The histological characteristics were indicative of a typical carcinoid. The patient was treated using an endobronchial approach only. No complications and no recurrences have been observed in a follow-up of 2 years.
Interfacial Morphology and Bonding Mechanism of Explosive Weld Joints
Authors: Zhang Tingting , Wang Wenxian , Yan Zhifeng , Zhang Jie
Published: January 2021

Interfacial structure greatly affects the mechanical properties of laminated plates. However, the critical material properties that impact the interfacial morphology, appearance, and associated bonding mechanism of explosive welded plates are still unknown. In this paper, the same base plate (AZ31B alloy) and different flyer metals (aluminum alloy, copper, and stainless steel) were used to investigate interfacial morphology and structure. SEM and TEM results showed that typical sine wave, wave-like, and half-wave-like interfaces were found at the bonding interfaces of Al/Mg, Cu/Mg and SS/Mg clad plates, respectively. The different interfacial morphologies were mainly due to the differences in hardness and yield strength between the flyer and base metals. The results of the microstructural distribution at the bonding interface indicated metallurgical bonding, instead of the commonly believed solid-state bonding, in the explosive welded clad plate. In addition, the shear strength of the bonding interface of the explosive welded Al/Mg, Cu/Mg and SS/Mg clad plates can reach up to 201.2 MPa, 147.8 MPa, and 128.4 MPa, respectively. The proposed research provides the design basis for laminated composite metal plates fabrication by explosive welding technology.
Regulated Surface Morphology of Polyaniline/Polylactic Acid Composite Nanofibers via Various Inorganic Acids Doping for Enhancing Biocompatibility in Tissue Engineering
Authors: Liu Rongtao , Zhang Shiyang , Zhao Chen , Yang Dong , Cui Tingting , Liu Yidong , Min Yonggang
Published: January 2021

Conductive and degradable nanofibrous scaffolds have great potential in promoting cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation under an external electric field. Although the issue of inferior electrical conductivity in body fluids still exists, polyaniline (PANI)-based degradable nanofibers can promote cell adhesion, growth, and proliferation.
To investigate whether the effect is caused by the PANI morphology, we selected three inorganic acids as dopants in the process of PANI in situ oxidative polymerization: hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, and perchloric acid. The obtained polyaniline/polylactic acid (PANI/PLA) composite nanofibers were characterized via SEM, FTIR, and XPS analysis, and we confirmed that the PLA nanofibers were successfully coated by PANI without any change to the porous structure of the PLA nanofibers. The in vitro mechanical properties and degradability indicated that the oxidation of acid dopants should be considered and that it was likely to have a higher oxidation degradation effect on PLA nanofibers. The contact angle test demonstrated that PANI/PLA composite nanofibers with different surface morphologies have good wettability, implying that they meet the requirements of bone tissue engineering scaffolds. The surface roughness and cell viability demonstrated that different PANI morphologies on the surface can promote cell proliferation. The higher the surface roughness of the PANI, the better the biocompatibility. Consequently, the regulated surface morphology of PANI/PLA composite nanofibers via different acids doping has positive effect on biocompatibility in tissue engineering.
Strain Investigation on Spin-Dependent Transport Properties of γ-Graphyne Nanoribbon Between Gold Electrodes
Authors: Li Yun , Li Xiaobo , Zhang Shidong , Cao Liemao , Ouyang Fangping , Long Mengqiu
Published: January 2021

Strain engineering has become one of the effective methods to tune the electronic structures of materials, which can be introduced into the molecular junction to induce some unique physical effects. The various γ-graphyne nanoribbons (γ-GYNRs) embedded between gold (Au) electrodes with strain controlling have been designed, involving the calculation of the spin-dependent transport properties by employing the density functional theory. Our calculated results exhibit that the presence of strain has a great effect on transport properties of molecular junctions, which can obviously enhance the coupling between the γ-GYNR and Au electrodes. We find that the current flowing through the strained nanojunction is larger than that of the unstrained one. What is more, the length and strained shape of the γ-GYNR serves as the important factors which affect the transport properties of molecular junctions. Simultaneously, the phenomenon of spin-splitting occurs after introducing strain into nanojunction, implying that strain engineering may be a new means to regulate the electron spin. Our work can provide theoretical basis for designing of high performance graphyne-based devices in the future.
Skyrmion Phase in MnSi Thin Films Grown on Sapphire by a Conventional Sputtering
Authors: Choi Won-Young , Bang Hyun-Woo , Chun Seung-Hyun , Lee Sunghun , Jung Myung-Hwa
Published: January 2021

Topologically protected chiral skyrmions are an intriguing spin texture that has attracted much attention because of fundamental research and future spintronic applications. MnSi with a non-centrosymmetric structure is a well-known material hosting a skyrmion phase. To date, the preparation of MnSi crystals has been investigated by using special instruments with an ultrahigh vacuum chamber. Here, we introduce a facile way to grow MnSi films on a sapphire substrate using a relatively low vacuum environment of conventional magnetron sputtering. Although the as-grown MnSi films have a polycrystalline nature, a stable skyrmion phase in a broad range of temperatures and magnetic fields is observed via magnetotransport properties including phenomenological scaling analysis of the Hall resistivity contribution. Our findings provide not only a general way to prepare the materials possessing skyrmion phases but also insight into further research to stimulate more degrees of freedom in our inquisitiveness.
OsMS188 Is a Key Regulator of Tapetum Development and Sporopollenin Synthesis in Rice
Authors: Han Yu , Zhou Si-Da , Fan Jiong-Jiong , Zhou Lei , Shi Qiang-Sheng , Zhang Yan-Fei , Liu Xing-Lu , Chen Xing , Zhu Jun , Yang Zhong-Nan
Published: January 2021

Background

During anther development, the tapetum provides essential nutrients and materials for pollen development. In rice, multiple transcription factors and enzymes essential for tapetum development and pollen wall formation have been cloned from male-sterile lines.

Results

In this study, we obtained several lines in which the MYB transcription factorOsMS188was knocked out through the CRISPR-Cas9 approach. Theosms188lines exhibited a male-sterile phenotype with aberrant development and degeneration of tapetal cells, absence of the sexine layer and defective anther cuticles.CYP703A3,CYP704B2,OsPKS1,OsPKS2,DPWandABCG15are sporopollenin synthesis and transport-related genes in rice. Plants with mutations in these genes are male sterile, with a defective sexine layer and anther cuticle. Further biochemical assays demonstrated that OsMS188 binds directly to the promoters of these genes to regulate their expression.UDT1,OsTDF1,TDR,bHLH142andEAT1are upstream regulators of rice tapetum development. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSAs) and activation assays revealed that TDR directly regulatesOsMS188expression. Additionally, protein interaction assays indicated that TDR interacts with OsMS188 to regulate downstream gene expression.

Conclusion

Overall, OsMS188 is a key regulator of tapetum development and pollen wall formation. The gene regulatory network established in this work may facilitate future investigations of fertility regulation in rice and in other crop species.
A noninvasive model to predict liver histology for antiviral therapy decision in chronic hepatitis B with alanine aminotransferase < 2 upper limit of normal
Authors: Chen Shanshan , Huang Haijun , Huang Wei
Published: January 2021

Background

At present, most assessments of liver fibrosis staging mainly focus on non-invasive diagnostic methods. This study aims to construct a noninvasive model to predict liver histology for antiviral therapy in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) with alanine aminotransferase (ALT) < 2 times upper limit of normal (ULN).

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 577 patients with CHB who received liver biopsy and whose ALT was less than 2 ULN. Then they were randomly divided into a training group and a validation group. Through logistic regression analysis, a novel predictive model was constructed in the training group to predict significant changes in liver histology [necro-inflammatory activity grade (G) ≥ 2 or fibrosis stage (S) ≥ 2] and then validated in the validation group.

Results

If liver biopsy showed moderate or severe inflammation or significant fibrosis, antiviral treatment was recommended. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), anti-hepatitis B virus core antibody (anti-HBC) and glutamine transpeptidase (GGT) were identified as independent predictors for antiviral therapy, with area under the ROC curve (AUROC) of 0.649, 0.647 and 0.616, respectively. Our novel model index, which combined AST, anti- HBC and GGT with AUROC of 0.700 and 0.742 in training set and validation set.

Conclusions

This study established a noninvasive model to predict liver histology for antiviral treatment decision in patients with CHB with ALT < 2 ULN, which can reduce the clinical needs of liver biopsy.
Transverse colonic volvulus due to mesenteric fibromatosis: a case report
Authors: Yoshida Akihiro , Uchima Yasutake , Hosaka Naoki , Minaga Kosuke , Kudo Masatoshi
Published: January 2021

Background

Colonic volvulus, a condition in which a colonic segment partially twists around its base, is the third leading cause of large bowel obstruction after colonic neoplasms and diverticular disease. However, volvulus of the transverse colon is the rarest type of large intestinal volvulus. Moreover, the occurrence of transverse colonic volvulus secondary to a benign tumor originating from outside the intestine has never been reported. We hereby report a case of transverse colonic volvulus caused by mesenteric fibromatosis.

Case presentation

A 53-year-old female with a history of rheumatoid arthritis and thyroid tumor presented with abdominal pain for 1 day. Abdominal computed tomography revealed intestinal torsion at the hepatic flexure. Twisted and obstructed mucosa of the transverse colon was observed during colonoscopy, but no tumor invasion of the mucosal surface was detected. A solid mass of a mesenteric origin with involvement of the transverse colon was observed during surgery. The mass was diagnosed surgically as transverse colonic volvulus induced by a mesenteric tumor. Hence, the patient underwent a right hemicolectomy. Histopathological results indicated mesenteric desmoid-type fibromatosis. The postoperative recovery was uneventful, and the patient was discharged 8 days after surgery.

Conclusions

Although mesenteric fibromatosis is rare, this disease should be considered when managing transverse colonic volvulus resulting from nonmucosal tumors.
Clinical effect of minimally invasive surgery for inguinal cryptorchidism
Authors: Wang Yunjin , Chen Liu , Cui Xu , Zhou Chaoming , Zhou Qing , Zhang Zhengmian
Published: January 2021

Background

The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical effect of minimally invasive surgery for inguinal cryptorchidism.

Methods

The patients were divided into the minimally invasive surgery group (n = 100) and the traditional surgery group (n = 58). In the minimally invasive surgery group, patients with low inguinal cryptorchidism (n = 54) underwent surgery with a transscrotal incision, and patients with high inguinal cryptorchidism (n = 46) underwent laparoscopic surgery.

Results

There was no difference in the hospital stay duration or cost between the minimally invasive surgery group and the traditional surgery group (P > 0.05). As for the operative time, minimally invasive surgery of low inguinal cryptorchidism was shorter than traditional surgery (P = 0.033), while minimally invasive surgery of high inguinal cryptorchidism was comparable to traditional surgery (P = 0.658). Additionally, there were no cases of testicular atrophy, testicular retraction, inguinal hernia or hydrocele in either group. There was no significant difference in the incidence of poor wound healing between the two groups (P > 0.05). Although there was no significant difference in the incidence of scrotal hematoma between the two groups (P > 0.05), the incidence in the minimally invasive surgery group was higher than that in the traditional surgery group.

Conclusions

Minimally invasive surgery including a transscrotal incision for low inguinal cryptorchidism and laparoscopic surgery for high inguinal cryptorchidism is as safe and effective as traditional surgery, and could also provide a good cosmetic effect for children.
A randomised controlled trial of expressive arts-based intervention for young stroke survivors
Authors: Chan Caitlin Kar Pui , Lo Temmy Lee Ting , Wan Adrian Ho Yin , Leung Pamela Pui Yu , Pang Marco Yiu Chung , Ho Rainbow Tin Hung
Published: January 2021

Background

Stroke causes lasting brain damage that has numerous impacts on the survivor’s physical, psychosocial, and spiritual well-being. Young survivors (< 65 years old) tend to suffer more because of their longer overall survival time. Expressive arts-based intervention is considered a holistic approach for stroke rehabilitation because it allows participants to express their thoughts and emotions through the arts. The group environment also promotes mutual support among participants. The creative art-making process helps expand participants’ creativity and imagination as well as promote a sense of aesthetic appreciation. Previous studies have shown the effectiveness of the arts-based intervention in managing stroke and its psychosocial-spiritual comorbidities. Nevertheless, a systematic study has not been conducted, including in young survivors. This trial plans to investigate the effectiveness of an expressive arts-based intervention on bio-psychosocial-spiritual outcomes in young Chinese stroke survivors.

Methods/design

A single-blind, two-arm cluster randomised control trial with a waitlist control design will be adopted. One hundred and fifty-four stroke survivors, aged 18–64 years with modified Rankin Scale scores of 1–4, will be screened and randomised to either an expressive arts-based intervention group or a treatment-as-usual waitlist control group. The intervention group will receive a 90-min session once a week for a total of 8 weeks. All participants will be assessed three times: at baseline, 8 weeks, and 8 months after the baseline. Study outcomes include measures of depression and anxiety, perceived stress, perceived social support, hope, spiritual well-being, quality of life, salivary cortisol, blood pressure, and heart rate.

Discussion

This study is expected to contribute to the current knowledge on the effectiveness of an arts-based intervention on the holistic wellness of young stroke survivors. The findings will help stroke survivors and healthcare professionals make better choices in selecting practices that will yield maximum benefits, satisfaction, adherence, and sustainability. In addition, the examination of the relationships between bio-psychosocial-spiritual variables will help contribute to the development of holistic care for the survivors.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03729648. Registered 31 October 2018 - Retrospectively registered, (329 words)
Rapid protein evolution, organellar reductions, and invasive intronic elements in the marine aerobic parasite dinoflagellate Amoebophrya spp
Authors: Farhat Sarah , Le Phuong , Kayal Ehsan , Noel Benjamin , Bigeard Estelle , Corre Erwan , Maumus Florian , Florent Isabelle , Alberti Adriana , Aury Jean-Marc , Barbeyron Tristan , Cai Ruibo , Da Silva Corinne , Istace Benjamin , Labadie Karine , Marie Dominique , Mercier Jonathan , Rukwavu Tsinda , Szymczak Jeremy , Tonon Thierry , Alves-de-Souza Catharina , Rouzé Pierre , Van de Peer Yves , Wincker Patrick , Rombauts Stephane , Porcel Betina M. , Guillou Laure
Published: January 2021

Background

Dinoflagellates are aquatic protists particularly widespread in the oceans worldwide. Some are responsible for toxic blooms while others live in symbiotic relationships, either as mutualistic symbionts in corals or as parasites infecting other protists and animals. Dinoflagellates harbor atypically large genomes (~ 3 to 250 Gb), with gene organization and gene expression patterns very different from closely related apicomplexan parasites. Here we sequenced and analyzed the genomes of two early-diverging and co-occurring parasitic dinoflagellate Amoebophrya strains, to shed light on the emergence of such atypical genomic features, dinoflagellate evolution, and host specialization.

Results

We sequenced, assembled, and annotated high-quality genomes for two Amoebophrya strains (A25 and A120), using a combination of Illumina paired-end short-read and Oxford Nanopore Technology (ONT) MinION long-read sequencing approaches. We found a small number of transposable elements, along with short introns and intergenic regions, and a limited number of gene families, together contribute to the compactness of the Amoebophrya genomes, a feature potentially linked with parasitism. While the majority of Amoebophrya proteins (63.7% of A25 and 59.3% of A120) had no functional assignment, we found many orthologs shared with Dinophyceae. Our analyses revealed a strong tendency for genes encoded by unidirectional clusters and high levels of synteny conservation between the two genomes despite low interspecific protein sequence similarity, suggesting rapid protein evolution. Most strikingly, we identified a large portion of non-canonical introns, including repeated introns, displaying a broad variability of associated splicing motifs never observed among eukaryotes. Those introner elements appear to have the capacity to spread over their respective genomes in a manner similar to transposable elements. Finally, we confirmed the reduction of organelles observed in Amoebophrya spp., i.e., loss of the plastid, potential loss of a mitochondrial genome and functions.

Conclusion

These results expand the range of atypical genome features found in basal dinoflagellates and raise questions regarding speciation and the evolutionary mechanisms at play while parastitism was selected for in this particular unicellular lineage.
IL-17A polymorphism (rs2275913) and levels are associated with preeclampsia pathogenesis in Chinese patients
Authors: Lang Xiao , Liu Wei , Hou Yanyan , Zhao Wenxia , Yang Xingyu , Chen Lan , Yan Qi , Cheng Weiwei
Published: January 2021

Background

Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-related condition that affects both the infant and the mother. Although the role of various inflammatory molecules in PE has been demonstrated, the importance of pro-inflammatory molecules such as IL-17A, IL-23 is not well understood. In the present investigation, a potential association of common genetic variants in the IL-17A and IL-23A genes with PE was investigated.

Methods

115 PE clinically diagnosed patients who registered to the International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital were enrolled in this research. One hundred two pregnant women and 147 healthy Chinese women were also included. ELISA was used to measure IL-17A and IL-23 serum levels in all enrolled subjects. Common genetic polymorphisms inIL-17A(rs 2,275,913, rs1974226, and rs1974226),IL-23A(rs11171806), andIL-12B(rs3212227) were genotyped using the PCR-RFLP or TaqMan probe-based method.

Results

Elevated serum IL-17A levels were found in PE patients compared to pregnant (P < 0.0001) and healthy women (P < 0.0001). However, IL-23 levels were comparable across various clinical groups. In addition, heterozygous (GA) and minor allele (A) for IL-17A (rs2275913) and IL-23A (rs11171806) were more prevalent in PE patients compared to pregnant women indicating an important role in the predisposition to PE growth. Interestingly, IL-17A (r 2,275,913) mutants were associated with elevated IL-17A levels relative to wild type (GG).

Conclusions

IL-17A (rs2275913) variants are associated with higher serum levels of cytokine, and predisposed PE development.
Correlation between ZBRK1/ZNF350 gene polymorphism and breast cancer
Authors: Wu Jun , Eni Alibiati , Roussuri Eliar , Ma Binlin
Published: January 2021

Background

This study is to explore the relationship between the ZBRK1/ZNF350 (Zinc finger and BRCA1-interacting protein with KRAB domain-1; also known as zinc-finger protein 350) gene polymorphism and early-onset breast cancer.

Methods

The ZBRK1/ZNF350 gene exon detection analysis was performed with the direct sequencing and Snapshot methods in 80 cases of breast cancer (aged ≤ 40 years old) and 240 healthy subjects (aged ≤ 40 years old).

Results

Totally 9 sequence variants were detected, including 5 missense mutations and 4 synonymous mutations, located at EXON3, EXON4 and EXON5, respectively. The rs4987241 and rs3764538 variants were published for the first time, while the remaining variants had been reported before. There were significant differences in the frequency distribution of family history between the breast cancer and control groups. Moreover, there were significant differences in the CT genotype frequency at the rs138898320 locus between the breast cancer and healthy control groups. Compared with the carriers of CC wild genotype at rs138898320, the risk of breast cancer was reduced by 88.3% in the CT mutant genotype carriers, with significant difference. In the stratification with no family history, compared with the carriers of CC wild genotype at rs138898320, significant differences were observed for the CT mutant genotype carriers. In the stratification with family history, there was no significant difference in the variation of rs138898320.

Conclusion

The rs138898320 CT mutation genotype of ZBRK1/ZNF350 may reduce the risk of breast cancer, and the protecting effect would be increased in the stratification with no family history.

Trial registration Not applicable.
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients with severe physiologic impairment: characteristics and outcomes
Authors: Pastre Jean , Barnett Scott , Ksovreli Inga , Taylor Jeannie , Brown A. Whitney , Shlobin Oksana A. , Ahmad Kareem , Khangoora Vikramjit , Aryal Shambhu , King Christopher S. , Nathan Steven D.
Published: January 2021

Research question

There is no widely accepted grading system for IPF disease severity, although physiologic impairment based on pulmonary function testing is frequently employed. We sought to describe clinical and functional characteristics as well as outcomes of patients with severe physiologic impairment.

Patients and methods

IPF patients with severe physiologic impairment defined by FVC ≤ 50% and/or DLco ≤ 30% predicted evaluated in the Inova Advanced Lung Disease Program between 2011 and 2019 were included. Demographic, physiologic, functional treatment and outcome data were collated.

Results

There were 531 patients with IPF evaluated of whom 242 (46%) had severe physiologic impairment. Mean age was 72 ± 8 years; baseline FVC was 53 ± 17% and DLCO 28 ± 9% of predicted. The mean 6 min walks test (6MWT) distance was 304 ± 121 m with 59% of the patients requiring supplemental oxygen ($${\text{6MWT}}_{{{\text{O}}_{{2}} }}$$

6MWT

O
2

group). There was a poor correlation between the 6MWT distance and both FVC% and DLco%. Patients in the 6MWTRA group had a better transplant-free survival than the $${\text{6MWT}}_{{{\text{O}}_{{2}} }}$$

6MWT

O
2

group (p = 0.002). Patients managed before October 2014 and not receiving antifibrotic therapy had worse outcomes with reduced transplant-free survival compared with patients presenting after this date who did receive antifibrotic therapy (n = 113) (log rank p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

IPF patients often present with severe physiologic impairment which may be poorly correlated with their functional status. Assessment of IPF disease severity should not be based on physiologic impairment alone, but should also encompass functional status as well as need for supplemental oxygen. Antifibrotic therapy in patients with severe physiologic impairment is associated with improved outcomes.