bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication of Micron Scale Three-Dimensional Single Crystal Diamond Channel: by Micro-Jet Water-Assist Laser
Authors: Wei Qiang , Zhang Xiaofan , Lin Fang , Wang Ruozheng , Chen Genqiang , Wang Hong-Xing
Published: April 2021

Two types of trenches cross-section in conventional vertical and brand new reverse-V-shape have fabricated on SCD substrate by micro-jet water-assist laser, the epitaxial lateral overgrowth technique has applied by microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition system in forming multiple micrometer-size channels. Raman and SEM techniques have applied in analyze both types growth layer characterization. Optical microscope has used to test microchannels hollowness. As a result, with the brand new reverse-V-shape trench, epitaxial lateral overgrowth layer reaches higher SCD surface morphology and crystal quality.
Rapamycin Alternatively Modifies Mitochondrial Dynamics in Dendritic Cells to Reduce Kidney Ischemic Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Namwanje Maria , Bisunke Bijay , Rousselle Thomas V. , Lamanilao Gene G. , Sunder Venkatadri S. , Kuscu Canan , Kuscu Cem , Maluf Daniel , Kiran Manjari , Mas Valeria , Eason James D. , Bajwa Amandeep
Published: April 2021

Dendritic cells (DCs) are unique immune cells that can link innate and adaptive immune responses and Immunometabolism greatly impacts their phenotype. Rapamycin is a macrolide compound that has immunosuppressant functions and is used to prevent graft loss in kidney transplantation. The current study evaluated the therapeutic potential of ex-vivo Rapamycin treated DCs to protect kidneys in a mouse model of acute kidney injury (AKI). For the Rapamycin single (S) treatment (Rapa-S-DC), Veh-DCs were treated with Rapamycin (10 ng/ml) for 1 hour before LPS. In contrast, Rapamycin multiple (M) treatment (Rapa-M-DC) were exposed to 3 treatments over 7 days. Only multiple ex-vivo Rapamycin treatments of DCs induced a persistent reprogramming of mitochondrial metabolism. These DCs had 18-fold more mitochondria, had almost 4-fold higher oxygen consumption rates, and produced more ATP compared to Veh-DCs (Veh treated control DCs). Pathway analysis showed IL10 signaling as a major contributing pathway to the altered immunophenotype after Rapamycin treatment compared to vehicle with significantly lower cytokines Tnfa, Il1b, and Il6, while regulators of mitochondrial content Pgc1a, Tfam, and Ho1 remained elevated. Critically, adoptive transfer of Rapamycin treated DCs to WT recipients 24 hrs before bilateral kidney ischemia significantly protected the kidneys from injury with a significant 3-fold improvement in kidney function. Last, the infusion of DCs containing higher mitochondria numbers (treated ex-vivo with healthy isolated mitochondria (10 µg/ml) one day before) also partially protected the kidneys from IRI. These studies demonstrate that pre-emptive infusion of ex-vivo reprogrammed DCs that have higher mitochondria content has therapeutic capacity to induce an anti-inflammatory regulatory phenotype to protect kidneys from injury.
Effects of the Traditional Mediterranean Diet in Patients with Otitis Media with Effusion
Authors: Calatayud-Sáez Fernando M. , Calatayud Blanca , Calatayud Ana
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Otitis media with effusion (OME) is common in pediatric primary care consultations. Its etiology is multifactorial, although it has been proven that inflammation factors mediate and that immunity is in a phase of relative immaturity. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of the Traditional Mediterranean Diet (TMD) modulating inflammation and immunity in patients diagnosed with OME.
Simulation of the Injection of 25 MW Photovoltaic Energy Production: Analysis of the Impacts on the Grid of the Société Béninoise d'Energie Electrique (SBEE)
Authors: Comlan FANNOU Jean-Louis , Clarence SEMASSOU Guy , Emmanuel DANGNON , K ADJALLA Dieudonné , Gérard GEGAN
Published: April 2021

In order to make up its energy deficit and reduce its energy imports from neighbouring countries, Benin is opting for the construction of photovoltaic solar micro-power plants in the sunniest regions and to consider injecting it into the existing electricity grid if this locally produced energy is not entirely consumed. With this in mind, a decentralised electricity production project has been initiated. In particular, the project, which is the subject of this presentation, aims to simulate and analyse the impacts of injecting 25 MW of photovoltaic energy production into the existing national electricity grid of the Société Béninoise d'Energie Electrique (SBEE). For this purpose, the dimensioning of the 25MW power plant has been carried out and injected at a specific point of the 20kVA line of the existing electricity network in the NEPLAN software environment, while respecting the requirements for injecting photovoltaic energy into an existing electricity network. Only extreme operating configurations have been studied: the synchronous hollow and synchronous point configuration. Simulation results showed overloads on certain transformer stations in the network, which indicates that adjustments must be made before the actual injection of the electricity produced. Besides, the power grid did not experience any disturbance in the voltage plan and power flows. Finally, the simulations carried out led to the conclusion that the integration of solar PV plants will make it possible to limit the import of energy from Ghana and Nigeria.
No Pipe Body Downgrades - Improved Corrosion Mitigation Coating System Provides Significant Operator Savings
Authors: Johnson Buck , Cappel Timothy , Elliott Greg , Sanclemente Leianne , Moore Greg , Tritz Noah , Brock James , Sewell Chuck
Published: April 2021

Objectives/Scope

Tubulars used in completion and intervention riser applications are exposed to both the marine environment and corrosive oilfield chemicals, including salt-based completion brines. Eight years of field history from one company shows a loss of $24.3 million from pipe body downgrades due to corrosion and pitting in these salt-based environments.

Methods, Procedures, Process

This paper documents an extensive development effort spanning over eight years including: research of completion parameters and environments, evaluation of 18 potential external coating/salt neutralization products, multiple lab tests, field trials, as well as testing surface preparation methods, coating application, dry time and adhesion tests. The development of application procedures and construction of an external coating facility are discussed as are rig pipe washing systems and corrosion mitigation procedures.

Results, Observations, Conclusions

The result is an improved corrosion mitigation coating system. A modified epoxy phenolic internal coating combined with a metallic-based, moisture-cure polyurethane encapsulating external coating. Since 2015, over 1,700,000 feet, 44,000 joints, of completion and intervention tubulars utilizing this system have been deployed with zero pipe body downgrades due to corrosion or pitting, and zero operational issues. In addition to reducing replacement cost and loss of capital, this system provides the ability for longer deployment of the pipe on a multiple well program reducing logistics costs.

Novel/Additive Information

Extensive research, testing, field trials, and successful field deployments have resulted in an improved corrosion mitigation coating system providing significant savings to operators. Pipe body downgrades due to pitting and corrosion have been eliminated. Improved corrosion resistance has allowed multiple-well deployments reducing shipping, inspection, and repair costs. Ultimately this results in longer life of the tubulars reducing total cost of ownership.
Effectively Managing Lessons Learned to Optimize Subsea Well Interventions
Authors: Oughton Evan
Published: April 2021

Sharing knowledge enables employees, companies, and the broader industry to reflect on lessons learned from previous projects and increases confidence in predicting outcomes of future projects. The identification of how to become more efficient and how to measure improvements in efficiencies can be revealed when this process works efficiently. The author explores the concept of continuous improvement, by presenting newly developed processes and evaluating subsea intervention case histories in the Gulf of Mexico (GOM).

Knowledge sharing exercises can often be overlooked by companies urgently progressing through multiple projects. Best case scenario, lesson learned activities are completed in after action reviews, yielding the product of cumbersome spreadsheets, which can be easily misplaced or forgotten over time. Hess has developed an application for lessons learned, along with a structured process to maintain data quality. Recent interventions have both contributed to capturing new learnings and implementing those already identified into the planning phase of upcoming operations. Time and cost estimation accuracy and operational efficiency initiatives were then evaluated and compared to identify the true value of an effective lessons learned system.

Two coiled tubing (CT) interventions trialed Hess's new application and associated processes. The technical challenges of these projects were evaluated and compared to determine if effectively applying lessons learned could lead to continuous improvement. Observations demonstrated significant improvements to the accuracy of time and cost estimates along with enhanced operational performance, leading to time and cost savings. This practice has helped Hess to reduce the overall uncertainty typically associated with subsea well interventions and allowed for continuous improvement of well intervention performance.

This paper explores the concept and implementation of an effective system to manage lessons learned to achieve improved operational performance and efficiency. Implementing lessons learned and comparing similar projects, allows an engineer to measure precisely the improvement in efficiency. The paper concludes with the evaluation of the impact an industry wide knowledge sharing database could have, and the potential value it could provide to operators in the GOM region.
Choriocarcinoma Syndrome of Primary Pulmonary Choriocarcinoma after Lung Lobe Resection: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Chen Chen , Zhao Pei , Liu Zhenjun , Lu Song , Ji Juan , Li Xiuli , Zhao Qian
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Primary pulmonary choriocarcinoma (PPC) is extremely rare, especially in males. It is characterized by a poor response to therapy and shortened survival times. Here, we report a PPC case which was complicated by choriocarcinoma syndrome (CS) and a review of the literature.Case presentation: A 59-year-old man with 30-pack-year smoking history was referred to our hospital because of hemoptysis and chest pain. Positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) showed multiple bilateral pulmonary nodules and multiple metastases throughout the body. The patient underwent single-port thoracoscopic wedge resection of the right lung upper lobe. Histological examinations verified the diagnosis of choriocarcinoma. Three days after the operation, the patient developed massive hemoptysis. A bronchoscopic examination showed bleeding from the bilateral main bronchus. Despite management in the intensive care unit (ICU), the patient died two weeks after surgery. Conclusions: A rapid and correct diagnosis of PPC is necessary. When the patient has massive hemoptysis, we should be alert to the occurrence of CS. Surgery and modified chemotherapy, based on the physical condition of the patient, may currently be the best therapy for PPC.
Global warming levels control time of emergence of Antarctic ice loss
Authors: Lowry Daniel , Krapp Mario , Golledge Nicholas , Alevropolous-Borrill Alanna
Published: April 2021

Of all the components of the global sea level budget, the future contribution of the Antarctic Ice Sheet (AIS) is the most uncertain in sea level rise projections. Dynamic ice sheet model simulations show considerable overlap in the projected AIS sea level contribution under various greenhouse gas emissions scenarios and the timescale at which scenario-dependence will emerge is unclear. With historically-constrained ice-sheet simulations and a statistical emulator, we demonstrate that a high-emissions signature of the AIS sea level contribution will not unambiguously emerge from the wide potential range of low-emission sea level projections for over 100 years due to current limitations in our understanding in ice flow and sliding. However, the results also indicate that the total global warming that occurs over the 21st century controls the resulting long-term AIS sea level commitment, with multi-meter differences between the highest and lowest emissions scenarios in subsequent centuries.
Surgical outcomes in cardiogenic shock patients with preoperative extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)
Authors: Abuharb Mahmoud Yousef Ibrahim , Ran Dong , Jubing Zheng
Published: April 2021

Objectives

To summarise the surgical outcomes in patients with cardiogenic shock supported by preoperative extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO).

Methods

Between May 2012 and August 2017, eight patients with cardiogenic shock, who were supported by ECMO, underwent emergency surgery; four of them had isolated coronary artery bypass grafting, three had coronary artery bypass grafting with mitral replacement, and one had mitral valve replacement with left ventricular posterior wall repair.

Results

All eight patients were successfully weaned off from ECMO after their surgeries. Postoperative ECMO time ranged from 6.8 to 228.0 hours, with a median of 68.4 hours. Two patients died postoperatively while another six survived. The follow up time for the six patients ranged from three to 66 months, whereby one of them died in the third month due to septicaemia. The remaining five patients survived with good cardiac function based on the NYHA classification.

Conclusion

ECMO is a vital bridge in the preparation of critically-ill patients for cardiac surgery. It is associated with acceptable outcomes among most of the patients.
Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidies Improve the Clinical Pregnancy Outcome of Patients With AZFc Microdeletion
Authors: wang xiliang , Wang Yankun , hou kaibo , hao dongmei , zhang jinyan , tang chang , wei wei , fei jia , yu yuexin
Published: April 2021

BackgroundMicrodeletions of AZF are the most common factor causing male infertility except Klinefelter syndrome. AZF patients are able to father babies through intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF), and the ICSI embryos for IVF can be scored based on morphological criteria. However, the clinical pregnancy rate and the live birth rate are unsatisfactory.ResultsHere, we investigated the outcomes of using preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies (PGT-A) in families with AZFc microdeletions. A total of 26 intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles were performed in 22 families, 25 ICSI cycles were performed, and 81 embryos underwent PGT-A. Among them, 48 were euploid embryos (23 females and 25 males), 30 were aneuploid embryos, and three embryos did not meet the quality control standards. Thirteen ICSI cycles with female euploid embryos and one ICSI cycle with male euploid embryos entered the stage of embryo implantation. Finally, the clinical pregnancy rate was 100% (14/14), and the live birth rate was 85.7% (12/14).ConclusionCompared with other published results, PGT-A increased the chance of fertility in AZFc microdeletion patients.
Delineation of freshwater zones in the shallow coastal aquifers of Ernakulam-Chettuva region, Central Kerala, India using electrical resistivity methods
Authors: P PRIJU C , Sushanth C M , P Vipin Balan
Published: April 2021

Freshwater zones in the shallow aquifers extending from Ernakulam to Chettuva region, central Kerala coast has been studied using electrical resistivity methods. Seasonal salinity patterns and hydrochemistry in the shallow aquifers in the region also has also been studied. The coastal zone is made up of shore parallel ridges and runnels formed by alternate marine trangressive and regressive events. Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) was carried out at 33 locations in the area extending from the beach to approximately up to 10 km from the shoreline. The subsurface lithology and freshwater layers in the aquifer system was delineated from the resistivity model. The saline zones are intervening with fresh water zones at different depths along the coast. The salinity in the aquifer system seems to be either due to brackish water ingress or paleo-salinity. 107 dug wells from the study area were also monitored during 2008–2010 period in pre-monsoon, monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. The water samples collected in the post-monsoon 2008 was analysed for the physico-chemical parameters viz., pH, temperature, EC, total alkalinity, salinity, turbidity, TDS, chloride (Cl−), total hardness, Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, K+, CO32−, HCO3−, Cl−, SO42−, NO3−N and Fe2+. The pH of the water samples varied from 4.47–8.32 in the post-monsoon season and 3.5–9.21 in the pre-monsoon and 5.55–9.05 in the monsoon season. The EC values ranges from 58-4500 µ mhos/cm in the post-monsoon, 59-3753 µ mhos/cm in the pre-monsoon and 51-2637 µ mhos/cm in the monsoon season. TDS values ranges from 35-2700 mg/L in the post-monsoon, 38-21190 mg/L in the pre-monsoon and 32-1668 mg/L in the monsoon season. Hill-Piper diagram indicated Ca-HCO3 is the dominant water type followed by Na-Cl type and Na-HCO3 type. Other water types are Ca-Cl, Mg-HCO3, Mg-Cl, Ca-SO4 and MgSO4.
Gelsemium Low doses Increases Bioenergetics and Neurite Outgrowth
Authors: Lejri Imane , Grimm Amandine , Trempat Pascal , Boujedaini Naoual , Eckert Anne
Published: April 2021

Background: Gelsemium sempervirens (GS) is a traditional medicinal plant, described at ultra-low doses as a remedy for a variety of psychological and behavioral symptoms of anxiety and depression. Changes in neural plasticity have been shown to play a significant role in the onset and development of those mental illnesses. Mitochondria play an extremely important role in the central nervous system by being the main energy producer through the oxidative phosphorylation and being involved particularly in the regulation of cell survival or death, as well as synaptic plasticity. Neurite outgrowth is the differentiation process by which neurons establish synapses through the protrusion of neurons and their extension. Methods: Because the effects of GS dilutions on mitochondrial function and neuroplasticity remain elusive, we aimed to investigate whether a treatment with GS at low doses (centesimal dilutions, C) improved bioenergetics parameters such as ATP production, mitochondrial respiration as well as cellular glycolysis before to characterize its effects on neurite outgrowth. Nerve growth factor (NGF), which is known as a promotor of cell growth and survival, was used as a positive control. Results: Our results demonstrate that GS dilutions (3C and 5C) efficiently ameliorated the bioenergetics of SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells by increasing cellular ATP level and mitochondrial respiration as well as promoting the cell survival. In addition, GS dilutions significantly improved neurite extension in the 2D as well as 3D culture model after 3 days of treatment. 3C and 5C dilutions showed similar functional effects than those obtained with the positive control nerve growth factor (NGF). Conclusions: These findings indicate that GS dilutions modulate the mitochondrial bioenergetic phenotype and improve the neurite formation. The mitochondrial function improving properties of GS dilutions might represent one possible important pathway contributing to its neuroprotective effectiveness. Key words: Gelsemium dilutions, mitochondria, bioenergetics, neurite outgrowth.
Organ-specific genome diversity of replication-competent SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Cleemput Jolien Van , Snippenberg Willem van , Lambrechts Laurens , Dendooven Amélie , D’Onofrio Valentino , Couck Liesbeth , Trypsteen Wim , Vanrusselt Jan , Theuns Sebastiaan , Vereecke Nick , Bosch Thierry van den , Lammens Martin , Driessen Ann , Achten Ruth , Bracke Ken , Broeck Wim Van Den , Thüsen Jan Von der , Nauwynck Hans , Dorpe Jo Van , Gerlo Sarah , Maes Piet , Cox Janneke , Vandekerckhove Linos
Published: April 2021

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has gripped the world for over a year1,2. SARS-CoV-2 impacts people on a broad clinical spectrum from asymptomatic to severe respiratory and systemic manifestations resulting in death3. In addition, intra-host SARS-CoV-2 genomic plasticity periodically leads to emergence of new virus variants with higher transmission capacities4–6. Autopsy series have revealed several pathways to death in COVID-19 patients, including respiratory and multi-organ failure, and evidence of SARS-CoV-2 in various organs besides the lungs7,8. However, these studies did not demonstrate the presence of infectious virus in extrapulmonary sites nor did they investigate viral intra-host evolution across multiple organs. Here we report a detailed virological analysis of thirteen postmortem COVID-19 cases that confirms two stages of fatal disease evolution based on disease duration and viral loads in lungs and plasma9. More importantly, the study is the first to provide proof of viremia and presence of replication-competent SARS-CoV-2 in extrapulmonary organs of an immunocompromised patient, accompanied by tissue-specific patterns of genome diversity in organ-resident SARS-CoV-2 populations. In parallel, potentially more transmissible and virulent strains were detected in multiple organs, including identification of mutations N501Y, T1027I, and Y453F in spike (S) protein. These mutations are hallmarks of more contagious United Kingdom (lineage B.1.1.7), South African (lineage B.1.351), Brazilian (lineage P1 and B.1.1.248) or mink variants4,10. Our results provide novel insights about the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 and highlight that COVID-19 treatment and hygiene measures need to be tailored to specific needs of immunocompromised patients.
Detection of Blastocystis in Stool Isolates Using Different Diagnostic Methods
Authors: Darwish Buthaina , Aboualchamat Ghalia , Nahhas Samar Al
Published: April 2021

Background: Blastocystis is a parasite that inhabits human intestinalis. It is commonly identified in asymptomatic individuals, while its pathogenic role is underestimated. In Syria, studies on this parasite are very few, and it is not documented in the laboratory reports. The present study aimed to evaluate the sensitivity of three different diagnostic methods in the detection of Blastocystis among patients with no specific or clear symptoms. Methods: Stool samples were collected from 70 patients suffering from various gastrointestinal symptoms. All samples were examined microscopically using iodine staining smears, and after in vitro cultivation at 37°C for 48- 72 h using Jones' medium. Molecular detection of Blastocystis was determined by fragment amplification of the SSU rRNA gene using PCR. Results: Blastocystis was identified in: 49 cases (70%) by direct microscopic examination, in 60 isolate (85.7%) by in vitro culture and in 64 (91.4%) of cases using molecular detection. Comparative analysis revealed that the sensitivity of microscopic detection for Blastocystis was 73.4% while it was 90.6% for in vitro culture and 95.9 - 96.7% using PCR detection method. Blastocystis was found alone in 32 (65.3%) of cases, while co-infection was detected in 17 (34.7%) samples. Conclusions: Our findings highlighted the importance of considering Blastocystis in laboratory diagnosis. Molecular methods are recommended for screening clinical specimens for Blastocystis infection especially among individuals with no common particular symptoms. If not applicable, two different diagnostic techniques are required for accurate diagnose of this parasite.
The Cotton Ghplp2 Positively Regulates Plant Defense against Verticillium Dahliae by Modulating Fatty Acid Accumulation and Jasmonic Acid Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhu Yutao , Hu Xiaoqian , Jia Yujiao , Gao Linying , Pei Yakun , Ge Zhaoyue , Ge Xiaoyang , Li Fuguang , Hou Yuxia
Published: April 2021

Patatin-like proteins (PLPs) have nonspecific lipid acyl hydrolyze (LAH) activity, which can hydrolyze membrane lipids into fatty acids and lysophospholipids. The vital role of PLPs in plant growth and abiotic stress has been well elucidated. However, the function of PLPs in plant defense response against pathogens is still poorly understood. Here, we isolated and identified a novel cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) patatin-like protein gene GhPLP2. GhPLP2 expression was induced upon treatment with pathogens Verticillium dahliae, Fusarium xysporum, and signaling molecules jasmonic acid (JA), ethylene in cotton plants. Subcellular localization revealed that GhPLP2 was localized in the cell wall and plasma membrane. GhPLP2-silenced cotton plants showed reduced resistance to V. dahliae infection, while overexpression of GhPLP2 in Arabidopsis enhanced the resistance to V. dahliae, with mild symptoms, decreased disease index, and fungal biomass. Hypersensitive response, callose deposition, and H2O2 accumulation triggered by V. dahlia elicitor were reduced in silenced cotton plants. GhPLP2-transgenic Arabidopsis had more accumulation of JA and JA synthesis precursor linoleic acid (LA, 18:2) and α-linolenic acid (ALA, 18:3) than control plants. Consistently, linoleic acid, α-linolenic acid, and jasmonic acid have decreased in GhPLP2-silenced cotton plants. Further, the gene expression of the JA signaling pathway is up-regulated in transgenic Arabidopsis and down-regulated in silenced cotton plants, respectively. These results showed that GhPLP2 is involved in plants' resistance to V. dahliae by maintaining fatty acid metabolism pools for JA biosynthesis and activation of the JA signaling pathway.
Leveraging Global Partnerships to Achieve SDG 7: A Case Study of Pakistan
Authors: Raza Khalil , MOHAZZAM Sardar , QAYYUM Saadia , SOOMRO Manzoor Hussain
Published: April 2021

Energy is fundamental to socio-economic growth for the world; but how this energy is generated and distributed would determine whether the world could achieve a sustainable future. There is no denying the fact that energy is one of the primary sources of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Thus, addressing the climate crisis, sustainable energy lies at the core of both the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and the Paris Agreement. Among other goals, SDG 7 calls for affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all by 2030 (UNDP, 2017). Globally, about 1.2 billion people lack access to electricity. The situation is more dire for clean cooking with about 2.8 billion people – 30% of the world’s population – lacking access (Sustainable Energy for All, 2020). The fact is that the energy use in developing countries would continue to increase (Catherine, Orie, & Paul, 2012). This growth could provide an opportunity for the deployment of renewable energy sources, as well as the creation of new, more efficient energy infrastructure. Unfortunately, for developing countries, the clean energy solutions are neither affordable nor accessible, even with the decline in the cost of renewable energy technologies. As a result, many global initiatives and partnerships, such as Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL), Global Environment Facility (GEF) and Green Climate Fund (GCF) have been established and working towards achieving this goal (Global Environment Facility (GEF), 2017). However, there is still a need to emphasize and reinforce this partnership to achieve the universal energy access by 2030. The world community has developed many platforms and financing mechanisms to transfer the resources from industrialized nations to developing countries, such as Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) under Kyoto protocol (UNFCCC, 2012). However, these mechanisms have not been really effective in encouraging investments in clean energy due to low carbon pricing. Hence, this necessitates for international community to come forward for the development of innovative assistance programs for developing nations by investing more resources to achieve SDG 7. Therefore, to accelerate the clean energy transition, global parternerhips and technological platforms will be needed to make clean energy investment economically competitive and viable. This work presents a case study on Pakistan’s response to achieve the SDG 7 under the UN global mission of Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL) program. It discusses the key milestones, barriers and lessons learnt on SDG 7. Based on the experiences of Pakistan, this work explores viable alternatives of financing mechanisms to accelerate sustainable energy. The paper concludes with key recommendations as to how global partnership could unleash the technological and financial opportunities in achieving ambitious and universal goals of sustainable energy.
Defining and Characterising a Toolkit for the Development of a Successful European Registry for Rare Liver Diseases.
Authors: Pericleous Marinos , Bythel Mary , Schilsky Michael , Dhawan Anil , Kelly Claire , Ala Aftab
Published: April 2021

Background:

A rare disease is defined by the European Health Commission as a disorder affecting less than 5/10,000 population. There are at least 20 rare liver diseases seen frequently in the adult and paediatric liver clinic, signifying that the hepatology community can be influential in developing such patient databases for registering patients with rare hepatic conditions. The aim of this systematic review was to 1) identify registries for rare liver diseases in Europe and 2) design a universal blueprint for the development of a registry for rare liver diseases by using lessons learnt from the already established European registries.
Methods:

We searched PubMed, google scholar and clinicaltrials.gov using the MESH terms “registries”, “database management systems”, “database” and the non-MESH terms “database$”, “registry”, “repository” and “repositories”. We only included studies in English from countries/consortia of the European Union (EU). Our literature search was performed in 2020.
Results:

We identified 37 registries for rare liver disease in Europe. Using information from the design of these registries we developed a blueprint for the development of a patient registry for rare liver diseases consisting of a theoretical, technical and maintenance phase.
Interpretation:

It is believed that rare diseases may affect as much as 6–8% of the EU population across its 28 member states. Here we have provided a toolkit for designing a registry for rare liver disease. Our article will complement the efforts of loco-regional, national and international groups seeking to establish robust systems for data collection and analysis for orphan liver diseases.
Interfacial Manipulation via In-Situ Grown ZnSe Overlayer toward Highly Reversible Zn Metal Anodes
Authors: Yang Xianzhong , Li Chao , Sun Zhongti , Yang Shuai , Shi Zixiong , Huang Rong , Liu Bingzhi , Li Shuo , Wu Yuhan , Wang Menglei , Su Yiwen , Dou Shi Xue , Sun Jingyu
Published: April 2021

Zn metal anode has garnered growing scientific and industrial interest owing to its appropriate redox potential, low cost and good safety. Nevertheless, the instability of Zn metal, caused by dendrite formation, hydrogen evolution and side reactions, gives rise to poor electrochemical stability and unsatisfactory cycling life, greatly hampering large-scale utilization. Herein, an in-situ grown ZnSe layer with controllable thickness is crafted over one side of commercial Zn foil via chemical vapor deposition, aiming to achieve optimized interfacial manipulation between aqueous electrolyte/Zn anode. Thus-derived ZnSe overlayer not only prevents water penetration and restricts Zn2+ two-dimensional diffusion, but also homogenizes the electric field at the interface and facilitates favorable (002) plane growth of Zn. As a result, dendrite-free and homogeneous Zn deposition is obtained; side reactions are concurrently inhibited. In consequence, a high Coulombic efficiency of 99.2% and high cyclic stability for 860 cycles at 1.0 mA cm–2 in symmetrical cells is harvested. Meanwhile, when paired with V2O5 cathode, assembled full cell achieves an outstanding initial capacity (200 mAh g–1) and elongated lifespan (a capacity retention of 84% after 1000 cycles) at 5.0 A g–1. Our highly reversible Zn anode enabled by the interfacial manipulation strategy is anticipated to satisfy the demand of industrial and commercial use.
Implementation of a Clinical Decision Support System for Precision Oncology across an Academic Network
Authors: Tamborero David , Dienstmann Rodgrigo , Rachid Maan , Boekel Jorrit , Lopez-Fernandez Adria , Braña Irene , De Petris Luigi , Yachnin Jeffrey , Baird Richard , Massard Christophe , Opdam Frans , Schlenk Richard , Vernieri Claudio , Masucci Michele , Villalobos Xenia , Chavarria Elena , Balmaña Judith , Apolone Giovanni , Caldas Carlos , Bergh Jonas , Ernberg Ingemar , Fröhling Stefan , Garralda Elena , Karlsson Claes , Tabernero Josep , Voest Emile , Rodon Jordi , Lehtiö Janne
Published: April 2021

There is a growing need for systems that efficiently support the work of medical teams at the precision oncology point-of-care. Here we present the implementation of the Molecular Tumor Board Portal (MTBP), an academic clinical decision support system that creates a unified legal, scientific and technological platform to share and harness next-generation sequencing data across the Cancer Core Europe network. Automating the interpretation and reporting of sequencing results decreased drastically the need for manual procedures that are time consuming and prone to errors. In addition, the adoption of an expert-agreed process to systematically link tumor molecular profiles with clinical actions promoted consistent decision-making and structured data capture across centers. Finally, the use of information-rich patient reports with interactive content facilitated collaborative discussion of complex cases during virtual molecular tumor board meetings. Overall, we believe that streamlined digital systems like the MTBP are crucial to better address the challenges brought by precision oncology and accelerate the use of emerging biomarkers.
Grasping via entanglement
Authors: Wood Robert , Becker Kaitlyn , Teeple Clark , Charles Nicholas , Mahadevan L.
Published: April 2021

We present a grasping strategy for complex shapes via the collective entanglement of and by an array of actuated filaments. The basic unit of this array is a slender hollow elastomeric filament that is pneumatically actuated to form a highly curved structure. The multiple self and mutual contact interactions between the filaments and the object create a randomly tangled spatial assemblage that enables a soft conformable grasp. We realize this using a gripper enabled by a new fabrication method to create inexpensive and modular arrays of fluidically actuated elastomeric filaments. We demonstrate that a collective of highly compliant filamentous actuators is capable of a soft, adaptable grasp across a range of loads that vary in size, shape, and geometric and topological complexity without any feedback. A theoretical framework for the collective mechanics of filaments in contact with complex objects allows us to explain our experimental findings, while a phase diagram characterizes the design space in terms of the properties of the gripper and the target. Overall, our grasping approach adapts to the mechanical, geometric, and topological complexity of target objects via an uncontrolled, spatially distributed, and heterogeneous scheme without perception or planning, in sharp contrast with current deterministic feedback-driven robotic grasping methods.
Kosovo women’s knowledge and awareness of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, HPV vaccination, and its relation to cervical cancer
Authors: Raçi Pranvera Zejnullahu , Raçi Fitim , Hadri Teuta
Published: April 2021

Background

The objective of this study, the first of its kind in Kosovo, is to determine the level of Kosovo women’s knowledge and awareness of HPV infection, HPV vaccination, and its relation to cervical cancer.
Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted from July to October 2018 at the Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Hospital and University Clinical Service of Kosovo.
Results

Out of 800 questionnaires distributed, 645 were completed and returned (80.6%). Only 0.5% of women were vaccinated against HPV. The majority of respondents (66.4%) had no previous knowledge of HPV (human papillomavirus). Only 27.6% of respondents were aware that HPV is responsible for cervical cancer. About two-thirds (70.1%) of respondents had never heard of the HPV vaccine, and only 24% knew that the HPV vaccine can prevent cervical cancer.
Conclusion

The level of vaccination against HPV and the level of knowledge and awareness of HPV infection is extremely low. Higher education, younger age, and living in an urban area were favorable factors and correlated with awareness of HPV infection, vaccination against it, and its relation to cervical cancer. Based on this study, there is an immediate need for developing an educational program on HPV infection and the importance of HPV vaccination as a preventative measure against developing cervical cancer.
Bioremidation of Spirulina Plantesis Against Deltamethrin Mediated Toxicity and Its Chemical Residues in Chicken Meat
Authors: Ibrahim Samar Saber , Elsabagh Rasha , Allam Ali , Youssef Gehan , Fadl Sabreen Ezzat , Abdelhiee Ehab Yahya , Alkafafy Mohamed , Soliman Ahmed , Aboubakr Mohamed
Published: April 2021

Deltamethrin (DM) is a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide commonly used in veterinary and agriculture. However, both animal and human exposure is associated with hepatorenal toxicity. Our experimental goal was to assess the protective effects of Spirulina plantesis (SP) against DM-induced hepato-renal injury, growth performance, meat chemical composition and its residues in meat, liver and skin of broiler chickens. Sixty one-day-old Cobb broiler chicks were assigned to 4 experimental groups, each was divided into 3 replicates with five chicks each; 1st group received basal diet alone (Control), 2nd group supplemented with SP 20 g/kg diet, 3rd group supplemented with DM 300 mg/kg diet, and 4th group supplemented with DM and SP diet. All groups were received the treatment for 35 days. DM, decreased body weight, weight gain, and increased feed conversion rate. DM showed significant increase in ALT, AST, urea, creatinine and MDA and significant decrease in SOD, and GSH levels. Also, significant decrease in DM levels in meat, skin, and liver by SP with a reduction % 63.01, 63.00 and 62.90 % in meat, skin and liver, respectively. The DM intoxicated group showed significant decrease in protein and significant increase in fat, cholesterol and triglycerides when compared to control group. Histopathological changes were also recorded. Dietary SP improved these parameters parameters. Dietary inclusion of SP can be recommended due to the protective effects on DM induced toxicity in broiler chickens.
Changes in Soil Microbial Community Structure and Functional Genes Following with Different Functional Traits Species Afforestation
Authors: Gao Yang , Wang Xiuwei , Mao Zijun , Yang Liu , Jiang Zhiyan , Chen Xiangwei , Aubrey Doug P.
Published: April 2021

Aim Soil microbial community structure and functional genes are critical to the cycling of carbon and nutrients in forest soils. As afforestation practices increasingly promote different functional traits tree species, it becomes critical to understand how they influences soil microbial community structures and functional genes, which directly influence soil biogeochemical processes. Methods We used fungi ITS and bacteria 16S rDNA to investigate soil microbial communities and functional genes in three monoculture plantations consisting of a non-native evergreen conifer (Pinus sibirica), a native deciduous conifer (Larix gmelinii), and a native deciduous angiosperm (Betula platyphylla) to compare with two 1:1 mixed-species plantations (P. sibirica and L. gmelinii, P. sibirica and B. platyphylla).Results The fungal community structure of the conifer-angiosperm mixed plantation was similar to that of the non-native evergreen conifer, and the bacterial community structure was similar to that of the angiosperm monoculture plantation. Fungal communities were strongly related to tree species, but bacteria communities were strongly related to soil nitrogen. Microbial co-occurrence patterns varied according to plantation types and altered soil nutrient cycling. Microbial communities in forest plantations of conifer-angiosperm mixed plantation contribute to soil nitrogen fixation and coniferous mixed plantation contribute to soil carbon fixation. Conclusions Our results provide a comparative study of the soil microbial ecology in afforestation of different functional trains species. This knowledge enhances the understanding of the relative control of soil microbial community structure.
Analysing Vehicular Mobility Structure Under a Temporal Perspective
Authors: Diniz Gabriel DA Ribeiro , Cunha Felipe Domingos da , Loureiro Antonio A. F.
Published: April 2021

In recent years, Vehicular Networks have received much attention because they can contribute to solving several problems of urban scenarios. An interesting perspective to characterize these urban problems is to study vehicles' mobility records to increase our knowledge about them. Thus, an alternative is to model these records as graphs enabling us to apply algorithms and graph theory to design new solutions for vehicular networks. This work explores three different strategies to model vehicular networks and analyzes two real well-known traces from Rome and San Francisco. We perform a study on the network aspect, measuring metrics that portray some network characteristics and proprieties. We highlight the advantages and limitations of each approach evaluated. Also, we present some applications and future directions for the knowledge extracted with this analysis.
The antimicrobial potentialities of (Nk-lysin peptides of chicken, bovine, and human) against bacteria and rotavirus
Authors: Mahmoud Maged. M , Al-Hejin Ahmed M. , Abujaml Turki S , Abd-Elmaksoud S , El-Hamidy Salem M. , Yacoub Haitham
Published: April 2021

For the first time, this study was carried out to investigate and evaluate the relative antibacterial activity of three different Nk-lysin peptides from human, chicken, and bovine activity compared to Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria as well as antiviral activity against rotavirus (strain SA-11) and finally mechanisms of action optionality. This report is the first of its kind that investigates the increased antimicrobial ability of (Nk-lysin + AgNPs) and (Nk-lysin + human IL-2) combinations against S. typhi activity by carrying out direct comparison under similar experimental settings. Our results showed that gram-negative and gram-positive microorganisms, including Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus mutans, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella oxytoca, Shigella sonnei, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Salmonella typhimurium, are susceptible to NK-lysin treatment. It was shown in our findings that there was equal potentiality in mixture (Nk-lysin + AgNPs) and (Nk-lysin + human IL-2) for preventing the growth of S. typhi, however, when added together, there was minor increase in the level of action. In our study, the TOHO-1 gene was absent in treated bacteria. Following treatment with Nk-lysin peptides, the beta-lactamases genes (CTX-M-1, M-8, and M-9) were not found in any bacterial strains. The examination did not find any of the plasmid mediated quinolone resistance genes in the bacterial strains as a response to NK-lysin treatment. Nonetheless, no study has been carried out in the past that characterized the antiviral activity of bovine, human and chicken Nk-lysin peptides. Hence, this is the foremost study on the enhanced antimicrobial activity of human, bovine and chicken Nk-lysin peptides against Rotavirus (strain SA-11). The findings of the study demonstrated that the powerful antiviral activities were exhibited by Nk-lysin peptides against Rotavirus (strain SA-11). Based on the comparison between these peptides, it can be concluded that there is an evident potent antiviral activity of bovine Nk-lysin against Rotavirus (strain SA-11) as it restrains infection by up to 90%. However, growth was restricted by 80% by chicken Nk-lysin and by 50% by the human peptide.
When Efficacy and Adherence Conflict: Preferences and Patterns of Response to Public Health Advice During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Nov Oded , Dove Graham , Balestra Martina , Lawrence Katharine , Mann Devin , Wiesenfeld Batia
Published: April 2021

With recurring waves of the Covid-19 pandemic, a dilemma facing public health leadership is whether to provide public advice that is medically optimal (e.g., most protective against infection if followed), but unlikely to be adhered to, or advice that is less protective but is more likely to be followed. To provide insight about this dilemma, we examined and quantified public perceptions about the tradeoff between (a) the stand-alone value of health behavior advice, and (b) the advice’s adherence likelihood. In a series of studies about preference for public health leadership advice, we asked 1,061 participants to choose between (1) strict advice that is medically optimal if adhered to but which is less likely to be broadly followed, and (2) relaxed advice, which is less medically effective but more likely to gain adherence-given varying infection expectancies. Participants’ preference was consistent with risk aversion. Offering an informed choice alternative that shifts volition to advice recipients only strengthened risk aversion, but also demonstrated that informed choice was preferred as much or more than the risk-averse strict advice.
Exploring the Involvement of FoxM1 in CML Cells from DNA Damage Response-Regulatory Prospective
Authors: Du Lin , Wang Manli , Li Hui , Wang Fang
Published: April 2021

Background

FoxM1 is widely accepted as an oncogenesis factor, for it is one of the most frequently upregulated genes in a broad spectrum of human malignancies. Herein, we presented the status of FoxM1 in CML samples and cell lines.
Methods

We compared FoxM1 abundance and phosphorylation using PB-MNC samples from CML patients and healthy donors. DNA damage response (DDR) was investigated in the presence of oncogene or chemical. Through enforced expression of FoxM1 or lentivirus mediated silencing, we explored the participation of FoxM1 in DDR regulation.
Results

Overexpression of FoxM1 was only observed in 3 samples from patients of advanced stage. However, hyper-phosphorylation of FoxM1 was evidently detected in the CML cohort. Furtherly, the DNA damage response that in accompany with the formation of Bcr/Abl was responsible for the rise in FoxM1 phosphorylation. Bcr/Abl provoked a modest extent of DNA damage, which, in turn, roused the repair system, mirrored by phosphorylation of the ATM/ATR-CHK1/2 axis. FoxM1 was a downstream target of CHK1 which directly associated with FoxM1 in the presence of DNA damage. Activation of FoxM1 served as a DDR regulator by inducing the expression of Rad51 and Brca1, genes that participated in DNA repair. Depletion of FoxM1 impaired DNA repair, leading to cell cycle arrest in G2/M phase and the onset of apoptosis in a P53-dependent fashion. Finally, our data demonstrated that phosphorylation of FoxM1 did not rely on Bcr/Abl kinase activity. Suppression of FoxM1 showed lethal potential to primary CML cells, and most importantly, the lethality was not affected by the TKIs insensitiveness.
Conclusions

Abnormality in FoxM1 activity in CML cells enlightened us that constantly present DNA damage rendered leukemia cells more reliant upon the DNA damage repair system. Targeting FoxM1 could be exploit as an alternative strategy to overcome TKIs resistance.