bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HIF3A: A Potent Prognostic Biomarker in Different Kinds of Cancer
Authors: Yazdani Behnaz , Sirous Hajar
Published: April 2021

Background: Hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) are transcription factors that get activated and stabilized in the heterodimerized form under hypoxic conditions. The three members of the HIF alpha factors share high structural similarity but have tissue-specific expression patterns. A majority of studies have reported the importance of the HIF1A and HIF2A activity in the survival, proliferation, metastatic potential, and metabolic regulation of hypoxic cancer cells. However, the importance of the expression pattern and activity of HIF3A in a variety of cancers remains unknown. Method and materials: The expression profile of 13 different types of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) cancer samples were downloaded, normalized and differential gene expression analysis (DGE) was performed to compare the expression pattern of HIF alpha family members in cancer and adjacent normal tissues, as well as at different stages and tumor-sizes. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) test and survival analysis were carried out to estimate the diagnostic potential of HIF alpha isomers in different cancers, as well as the survival rate of patients with the varying expression levels of HIF alpha factors. Results: The expression status of HIF3A was notably less in all cancer samples in contrast to their adjacent normal tissues. The expression degree of HIF1A varied among distinct types of cancer and the expression degree of HIF2A was lower in nearly all types of cancers. The expression level of HIF alpha isomers did not significantly correlate with different sizes of tumor samples and stages of different tumor tissue samples. HIF3A had very weak diagnostic potential, while HIF2A had better diagnostic potential in most types of cancers compared to HIF1A. Patients who had a higher level of HIF3A had better survival, while the higher expression levels of HIF1A and HIF2A were associated with worse survival in many types of cancers. Conclusion: Our study shows the heterogenous expression pattern of HIF alpha subunits in distinctive kinds of cancers and the influence of HIF3A expression level in the survival of patients with varying types of cancers.
Drone-Based Hyperspectral and Thermal Imagery for Quantifying Upland Rice Growth and Water Use Efficiency After Biochar Application
Authors: Jin Hongxiao , Köppl Christian Josef , Fischer Benjamin M. C. , Rojas-Conejo Johanna , Johnson Mark S. , Morillas Laura , Lyon Steve W. , Durán-Quesada Ana M. , Suárez-Serrano Andrea , Manzoni Stefano , Garcia Monica
Published: April 2021

Low-cost miniature hyperspectral and thermal cameras onboard lightweight unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) bring new opportunities for monitoring land surface variables at unprecedented fine spatial resolution with acceptable accuracy. This research applies hyperspectral and thermal imagery from a drone to quantify upland rice growth and water use efficiency (WUE) after biochar application in a Costa Rican dry region. The field flights were conducted over two experimental groups with bamboo biochar and sugarcane biochar amendments and one control group without biochar application. Rice canopy biophysical variables were estimated by inversion of a canopy radiative transfer model on hyperspectral reflectance. Variations in gross primary production (GPP) and WUE across treatments were estimated from the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), canopy chlorophyll content (CCC), and evapotranspiration. We found that GPP was increased by 41.9±3.4 % when using bamboo biochar and 17.5±3.4 % when using sugarcane biochar, which was probably due to higher soil moisture in the biochar-amended plots and led to significantly higher WUE by 40.8±3.5 % in bamboo biochar and 13.4±3.5 % in sugarcane biochar. This study demonstrated the use of hyperspectral and thermal imagery from drone to provide indicators for quantifying biochar effects on tropical dry cropland by integrating with ground point samples and physical models.
Mechanical properties of glass-based geopolymer affected by activator and curing conditions under the optimal aging conditions
Authors: Chen Tai-An
Published: April 2021

Inorganic polymeric materials react slowly at room temperature and as a result usually require high-temperature curing. This study used the Arrhenius equation to analyze the correlation between curing temperature and curing duration during high-temperature curing. The test results show that optimal values exist for each alkali equivalent of the activator (weight ratio of Na2O/glass powder), curing temperature, and curing duration. Extending the curing duration and increasing the curing temperature have positive effects when the alkali equivalent is lower than the optimal value. However, over-curing results in invisible cracking in the specimens. Furthermore, despite exhibiting high strength initially, the strength of specimens gradually diminishes after standing in air. To ensure the durability of glass-based geopolymer, the curing temperature should not exceed 70℃, and the curing duration should be less than one day.
The Molecular Mechanism of Fludioxonil Action is Different to Osmotic Stress Sensing
Authors: Bersching Katharina , Jacob Stefan
Published: April 2021

The group III two-component hybrid histidine kinase MoHik1p in the filamentous fungus Magnaporthe oryzae is known to be a sensor for external osmotic stress and essential for the fungicidal activity of the phenylpyrrole fludioxonil. The mode of action of fludioxonil has not yet been completely clarified but rather assumed to hyperactivate the high osmolarity glycerol (HOG) signaling pathway. To date, not much is known about the detailed molecular mechanism of how osmotic stress is detected or fungicidal activity is initiated within the HOG pathway. The molecular mechanism of signaling was studied using a mutant strain in which the HisKA signaling domain was modified by an amino acid change of histidine H736 to alanine A736. We found that MoHik1pH736A is as resistant to fludioxonil but not as sensitive to osmotic stress as the null mutant ∆Mohik1. H736 is required for fludioxonil action but is not essential for sensing sorbitol stress. Consequently, this report provides evidence of the difference in the molecular mechanism of fludioxonil action and the perception of osmotic stress. This is an excellent basis to understand the successful phenylpyrrole-fungicides’ mode of action better and will give new ideas to decipher cellular signaling mechanisms.
Stochastic Differential Equations in Infinite Dimensional Hilbert Space and its Optimal Control Problem with L´evy Processes
Authors: Wang Meijiao , Shi Qiuhong , Meng Qingxin , Tang Maoning
Published: April 2021

The paper is concerned with a class of stochastic differential equations in infinite dimensional Hilbert space with random coefficients driven by Teugel's martingales which are more general processes.

and its optimal control problem. Here Teugels martingales are a family of pairwise strongly orthonormal martingales associated with L\'{e}vy processes (see Nualart and Schoutens). There are three major ingredients. The first is to prove the existence and uniqueness of the solutions by continuous dependence theorem of solutions combining with the parameter extension method. The second is to establish the stochastic maximum principle and verification theorem for our optimal control problem by the classicconvex variation method and dual technique.The third is to represent an example of a Cauchy problem for a controlled stochastic partial differential equation driven by Teugels martingales which our theoretical results can solve.
Patients With Axial Spondyloarthritis Show an Altered Flexion/Relaxation Phenomenon
Authors: Aranda-Valera I. Concepción , Garrido-Castro Juan Luis , Martinez-Galisteo Alfonso , Peña-Amaro Jose , Gonzalez-Navas Cristina , Cuesta-Vargas Antonio , Jimenez-Reina Luis , Collantes-Estévez Eduardo , Lopez-Medina Clementina
Published: April 2021

Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is a chronic rheumatic disease characterised by the presence of inflammatory back pain. In patients with chronic low back pain, the lumbar flexion relaxation phenomenon measured by surface electromiography (sEMG) differs from that in healthy individuals. However, sEMG activity in axSpA patients has not been studied. The purpose of this study was to analyse the flexion relaxation phenomenon in axSpA patients. A study evaluating 39 axSpA patients and 35 healthy controls was conducted. sEMG activity at the erector spinae muscles was measured during lumbar full flexion movements. sEMG activity was compared between axSpA patients and the controls, as well as between active (BASDAI≥4) and non-active (BASDAI<4) patients. The reliability (using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC)), criterion validity and discriminant validity using the area Under the curve (AUC) for the inverse flexion/relaxation ratio (1/FRR) were evaluated. Significant differences (p<0.05) were observed between axSpA patients and the control group in lumbar electric activity, especially during flexion, relaxation and extension and in FRR and 1/FRR (0.66±0.39 vs. 0.25±0.19, respectively). In addition, significant differences were found between active and non-active but also between non-active and healthy subjects. The sEMG showed good reliability (ICC>0.8 for 1/FRR) and criterion validity. ROC analysis showed good discriminant validity for axSpA patients (AUC=0.835) vs. the control group using 1/FRR. An abnormal flexion/relaxation phenomenon exists in axSpA patients compared with controls. sEMG could be an additional objective tool in the evaluation of patient function and disease activity status.
The Concept of Engineering & Humanities: A New discipline
Authors: Yu Haoxuan , Li Shuai , Wang Xinmin
Published: April 2021

In our long-term engineering practice, we have found that it is often not enough to use only engineering knowledge to solve the practical problems in the engineering. Therefore, we believe that in the education of engineering students, we should not only pay attention to the teaching of engineering knowledge, but also pay attention to the application of knowledge of Humanities in the engineering, for the students. In this two-part concept paper, we put forward the concept of a new discipline, that is, Engineering & Humanities, which we will carry forward in future. And this concept paper serves just as a guide to the Tossing out a brick to get a jade gem with the implications for the development of the engineering education.
Covid 19: Did Preventive Restrictions Work?
Authors: Kharate Rohini , Watve Milind
Published: April 2021

In the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, if a preventive restriction (PR), intended to arrest the transmission of the virus, is effective we expect a decrease in the rate of transmission. If an effective PR is lifted or relaxed, the rate may show some increase. We test this expectation in the history of PR imposition and relaxation in all countries based on available public database. We found marginal or no negative correlation between standing stringency index of PR and change in slope of the local curve. A change in stringency index was significantly negatively correlated with change in slope, but change in stringency of PRs could explain only 6.1 percent of the variance in rates of transmission. The distribution of slope changes after imposing versus after relaxing PRs was highly overlapping with only a tail consisting of 4.5 % PR impositions being clearly non-overlapping with PR relaxation. Non-parametrically, only 9.4% of PR impositions were associated with a reduction in the slope above the expectation of a null hypothesis. In brief, globally, preventive restrictions have played a very small role in the pandemic process over the one year period. This feedback needs to be considered in making policy for disease prevention in the further course of the pandemic as well as in any future threats of respiratory disease epidemics.
Path Tracing Photons Oscillating Through Alternate Universes Inside a Black Hole
Authors: Bhattacharjee Deep
Published: April 2021

In case of the maximally rotating Black Holes (BH) through Kerr-Neumann frames, or as described in Boyer-Lindquist coordinates metrics, the rotation axis of the BHs inputs a frame dragging effect i.e., relativistically a Lens-Thirring Precession that accelerates the photon trajectories oscillates with a shaped induced rotations through the ring singularity, between alternate universes, as a means of an induced geodesics that takes a sharp turning points back and forth provided, in the prograde photon sphere, due to magnetorotational instability, the path tracing of a photons circulates as a smooth fiber bundles over the event horizon curves, that when gets interpolate between mixed trajectories behaves as a geodesics and thus forms a smooth Jacobi-fields through Jacobi-lines by mutual intersection of geodesics over the photon sphere which when somehow gets leaked inside the event horizon, then gets sucked in with not sufficient escape velocity for retardation and trapped in the compact singularity, oscillating back and forth through alternate universes.
The Intertwined Life Histories and Transmission Ecologies of Plant, Arthropod, and Vertebrate Viruses
Authors: Slingenbergh Jan
Published: April 2021

It remains poorly understood how the life history strategies and transmission ecologies of viruses of plants, arthropods, and vertebrates are interrelated. The present analysis hinges on the virus transmission success. Virus transmission reflects where in the host-body viruses are retained or replicating. Plants, arthropods, and vertebrates share a protective outer-layer, a circulatory system, and reproductive organs. The latter enables vertical virus transmission and associates with virus-host mutualism. Two broadly opposing virus life history strategies are considered. Acute viruses tend to be replicative and are swiftly transmitted to the next host. Instead, persistent viruses keep virus replicating costs and host damage to a minimum. The intertwined life histories and transmission ecologies are accordingly pieced together, based on the virus mono- or instead dual-host tropism, the location of virus retention or replication on or in the host-body, the presence of cyclical or mechanical transmission by arthropods, and of horizontal and vertical host-to-host transmission modes. It is shown that in the arthropod and in the vertebrate animal host, virus circulation in the hemocoel or blood circulation goes hand-in-hand with vertical transmission. Instead, plant phloem viruses do not transmit via seed. The latter is the rule for the plant-only viruses. The risk management implications are discussed in brief.
Rectus Femoris Mmimicking Ultrasound Phantom for Muscle Mass Assessment: Design, Research, and Training Application
Authors: Nakanishi Nobuto , Inoue Shigeaki , Tsutsumi Rie , Akimoto Yusuke , Ono Yuko , Kotani Joji , Sakaue Hiroshi , Oto Jun
Published: April 2021

Ultrasound has become widely used as a mean to measure the rectus femoris muscle in the acute and chronic phase of critical illness. Despite its noninvasiveness and accessibility, its accuracy highly depends on the skills of the technician. However, few ultrasound phantoms for the confirmation of its accuracy or to improve technical skills exist. In this study, we created a novel phantom model and used it for investigating the accuracy of measurements and for training. Study 1 investigated how various conditions affect ultrasound measurements such as thickness, cross-sectional area, and echogenicity. Study 2 investigated if the phantom can be used for training of various health care providers in vitro and vivo. Study 1 showed that thickness, cross-sectional area, and echogenicity were affected by probe compression strength, probe angle, phantom compression, and varying equipment. Study 2 in vitro showed that using the phantom for training improved the accuracy of the measurements taken within phantom, and Study 2 in vivo showed the phantom training had a short-term effect on improving the measurement accuracy in a human volunteer. The new ultrasound phantom model revealed that various conditions affected ultrasound measurements, and phantom training improved the measurement accuracy.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN TELEVISION SHOWS AND IMITATION BEHAVIOR OF CHILDREN AGED 4-5 YEARS
Authors: Hanifah Apriana Nur
Published: April 2021

The purpose of this study was to determine whether there was a relationship between the television shows that children saw on imitation behavior of children aged 4-5 years in Pojok, Mojogedang, Karanganyar. The approach in this study uses a quantitative approach with a type of correlation. This research was conducted in December 2018 by using a sample of 77 children and parents in Pojok, Mojogedang, Karanganyar. Retrieval of data from this study using questionnaires distributed to parents. The results of the hypothesis test of the Spearman Rho correlation show that the significance value is 0,000 <0.05 which means the hypothesis is accepted, namely the relationship of television shows to the imitation behavior of children aged 4-5 years in Pojok, Mojogedang, Karanganyar. The results of the Spearman Rho Hypothesis Test also show a correlation coefficient of 0.657 which means television shows had a strong influence on the imitation behavior of children. The result of the data show that the higher the television show that the children sees, the higher the imitation behavior that is raised, the lower the television show that the children sees, the lower the imitation behavior that is raised. The conclusion of this study is that television shows become models for children’s imitation behavior
THE UTILIZATION OF LOOSE PARTS MEDIA IN STEAM LEARNING FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD
Authors: Wahyuningsih Siti , Pudyaningtyas Adriani Rahma , Nurjanah Novita Eka , Dewi Nurul Kusuma , Hafidah Ruli , Syamsuddin Muhammad Munif , Sholeha Vera
Published: April 2021

STEAM-based learning (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) has begun to be developed a lot recently. This learning is considered able to answer the challenges of the times to be able to develop learning in the 21st century. STEAM is not only developed for secondary to tertiary education but is also developed for learning in early childhood. The challenges for developing STEAM-based learning are not small. The teacher considers that to provide learning about technology, for example, one must use sophisticated computer-based learning media, so it requires expensive costs. Also, science and engineering learning has not been developed much in kindergarten (TK) learning because it is considered a difficult concept to understand and requires high costs for the learning media. Learning media for early childhood is diverse and does not have to all buy new materials at a high cost. Likewise with learning media that can be used to develop STEAM-based learning. Teachers can make use of items or materials that are easily available, such as rocks, tree branches, seeds, used bottle caps, dry leaves, clothespins, etc. These removable materials are called loose parts. Loose parts are loose objects that can be moved, manipulated, and how to use them is determined by the child. These removable materials as learning media can make children think creatively and imaginatively. Loose parts can also be used as media in STEAM learning.
MICRO ROLE PLAYING METHOD FOR EMPATHY OF CHILDREN AGED 5-6 YEARS
Authors: Nurhasanah Diana Anisa , Rasmani Upik Elok Endang
Published: April 2021

This study aims to determine the effect of using the micro role playing method on empathy for children 5-6 years. This research is a quantitative research with Quasi Experimental Design in the form of Nonequivalent Control Group. The study was conducted from April to December 2018. Sampling using saturated samples. The research sample of 36 children was taken from the Dharma Wanita 1 Banaran Kindergarten and Banaran Kindergarten, Kalijambe, Sragen. The technique of collecting data uses observation, interviews and documentation. The validity of the instrument uses expert judgment which is then tested by the instrument. Data analysis consisted of prerequisite tests and hypothesis testing. The prerequisite test in data analysis consisted of a normality test and a homogeneity test, while a hypothesis test used an independent sample t-test. The prerequisite test results show normal and homogeneous data. The results of the hypothesis test show that the difference in the average value of the posttest value of the experimental group and the control group is 24.33 and 20.33 with a significance value of 0.000 <0.05. While the difference in the value of the pretest and posttest in the experimental group was 18.39 to 24.33. The conclusion of the study shows that there is an influence of the use of the micro role playing method on empathy for children aged 5-6 years.
Advances in Urban Stormwater Management in Japan: A Review
Authors: Shibuo Yoshihiro , Furumai Hiroaki ,   Department of Urban Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan,   Research Center for Water Environment Technology, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
Published: April 2021

The series of annual flood disasters that struck Japan in recent years pose challenges to urban stormwater management. Japan has been implementing nation-wide hydrometeorological observation through a dense network of rain gauges. Since the recent decade, ground radars have been deployed to observe heavy rainfall with high spatiotemporal resolution as a countermeasure. While commercial software is popular in designing stormwater drainage systems, several integrated urban flood models have been developed domestically and are applicable in stormwater management. A paradigm shift with the rise of Internet of Things (IoT) provides an inexperienced opportunity in hydrological observation, and has been implemented for monitoring sewer network conditions. Despite this broad scope of research works and technological innovations, such advancement is not internationally recognized yet. The present study aims to review the development and role of science and technology in stormwater management in Japan, focusing specifically on rainfall observation, integrated urban flood modelling, and emerging technologies for stormwater monitoring. In addition, the possible future direction of stormwater management is envisioned. Considering the series of record-breaking rainfall events that struck Japan, we will have to face more severe challenges in urban flood management alongside the impact of global climate change. As compared to structural measures, which are subject to budgetary constraints, the relative importance of non-structural measures is increasing; therefore, effective application of numerical modeling techniques is required. A common weakness of the urban flood modeling framework is the limited availability of observations in sewer networks, which can be relaxed by emerging IoT based observations. The fusion of IoT based observations with an integrated urban flood modeling technique appears to the emerging technology for stormwater management.
Study on Water Level Prediction Using Observational Data from a Multi-Parameter Phased Array Weather Radar
Authors: Yoshimi Kazuhiro , Wada Masakazu , Hiraoka Yukio ,   Defense & Electronic Systems Division, Toshiba Infrastructure Systems & Solutions Corporation 72-34 Horikawa-cho, Saiwai-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa 212-8585, Japan,   Social Systems Division, Toshiba Infrastructure Systems & Solutions Corporation, Kanagawa, Japan
Published: April 2021

A dual-polarization, phased array weather radar, also known as the multi-parameter phased array weather radar (MP-PAWR), was developed by the Japanese Cross-ministerial Strategic Innovation Promotion (SIP) Program. Since this weather radar has been made into an active phased array, three-dimensional observation of weather phenomena can be realized at high speed by means of electrical scanning in the elevation direction and mechanical scanning in the azimuth direction. This is expected to shed light on hydrological processes in river basins, such as those of urban rivers, and improve prediction accuracy. In this study, river water levels in urban areas were estimated from vertically integrated liquid (VIL) Nowcast water content results, a meteorological forecasting method based on the three-dimensional observation MP-PAWR data, using a synthesized rational formula. A runoff analysis for urban basins was carried out using the rainfall forecast results based on MP-PAWR observational data. Since it is known that this formula can be used to deliver a rapid response time for runoff phenomena in the basin, it is possible to fully exploit the features of the MP-PAWR. This study shows how MP-PAWR is used in a series of hydrological processes. In this paper, we report the results of a basic study on water level predictions based on MP-PAWR observational data and also present future prospects for the use of this technology.
Monitoring Ecological Restoration with Imagery Tools (MERIT) : Python-based decision support tools integrated into ArcGIS for satellite and UAS image processing, analysis, and classification
Authors: Lasko Kristofer , Griffin Sean
Published: April 2021

Monitoring the impacts of ecosystem restoration strategies requires both short-term and long-term land surface monitoring. The combined use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and satellite imagery enable effective landscape and natural resource management. However, processing, analyzing, and creating derivative imagery products can be time consuming, manually intensive, and cost prohibitive. In order to provide fast, accurate, and standardized UAS and satellite imagery processing, we have developed a suite of easy-to-use tools integrated into the graphical user interface (GUI) of ArcMap and ArcGIS Pro as well as open-source solutions using NodeOpenDroneMap. We built the Monitoring Ecological Restoration with Imagery Tools (MERIT) using Python and leveraging third-party libraries and open-source software capabilities typically unavailable within ArcGIS. MERIT will save US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) districts significant time in data acquisition, processing, and analysis by allowing a user to move from image acquisition and preprocessing to a final output for decision-making with one application. Although we designed MERIT for use in wetlands research, many tools have regional or global relevancy for a variety of environmental monitoring initiatives.
Efectos del incremento de la erosividad de lluvia en la estimación de pérdida de suelo (RUSLE) en el periodo 1997-2018: comparación en dos cuencas mediterráneas con diferentes condiciones pluviométricas
Authors: Sillero Medina José Antonio , Martínez Murillo Juan Francisco , Ruiz Sinoga José Damián
Published: April 2021

En la Cordilleras Béticas litorales, estudios recientes indican un incremento de la erosividad de la precipitación. Así, es necesario avanzar en la estimación de la pérdida de suelo por erosión hídrica, principal agente geomorfológico en dicha zona. Este estudio aplica la ecuación RUSLE en dos cuencas de media montaña, con diferentes condiciones pluviométricas, durante el periodo 1997-2018; ambas cuencas presentan rasgos ecogeomorfológicos propios de la montaña mediterránea. En la aplicación, se han introducido cambios metodológicos en el cálculo de la estimación de pérdida de suelo y su validación: intensidad de lluvia diezminutal (I10), en vez de 30 minutos para el factor R; estimación de la cubierta vegetal para el factor C por medio del NDVI; y validación mediante inventario en campo de los componentes superficiales del suelo. Los resultados arrojan diferencias entre ambas cuencas dadas sus diferentes condiciones ecogeomorfológicas. La precisión dada por la I10 permite valorar mejor la estimación de pérdida de suelo y sus cambios espacio-temporales. La validación con componentes superficiales del suelo es mejor en la cuenca con condiciones ecogeomorfológicas más bióticas. Este trabajo tiene evidente utilidad para detección de zonas prioritarias ante la ejecución de políticas de reforestación y control de la erosión y generación de avenidas.
Public Knowledge about Monogenic Diseases and Attitudes Toward Expanded Carrier Screening in China
Authors: Yang Jing , Chen Min , Wu Heli , Shen Wei , Han Jianmei , Fu Yuxia , Sun Jimei , Wu Wenyan
Published: April 2021

Monogenic diseases affect about 10 in 1000 live births globally and account for 20% of infant mortality and 18% of pediatric hospitalizations. Many monogenic disorders could be prevented by offering expanded carrier screening (ECS) to the general population. China is a densely populated country with 56 ethnic groups and a high incidence of congenital disabilities. Genetic variation in different ethnic groups in China has been reported. At present, the implementation of ECS in China is sporadic. There is limited data on the knowledge and acceptance of ECS in China. The purpose of our study was to assess public knowledge about monogenic diseases and attitudes toward ECS in China. Our study classified the population into the medical staff and general population to evaluate the knowledge gap and provide a reference for ECS's education programs. Using the Questionnaire Star platform, we provided the QR code of the questionnaire survey online for the general public nationwide. The respondents filled in the questionnaires through the mobile phone after scanning the WeChat QR code. We found that although the public had little knowledge about monogenic disease and ECS, most of them showed a positive attitude. Our cross-analysis showed that medical staff had more knowledge compared to the general population. Pre-test education for ECS can be carried out by medical staff who are not qualified for genetic counseling. ECS training for medical staff, especially obstetrician-gynecologist and nurse in the department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, can reduce the workload of genetic counseling.
Single cell RNA-seq data and bulk gene profiles reveal a novel signature of disease progression in multiple myeloma
Authors: Zeng Zhiyong , Lin Junfang , Zhang Kejie , Guo Xizhe , Zheng Xiaoqiang , Yang Apeng , Chen Junmin
Published: April 2021

Background

The development of multiple myeloma (MM) is considered to involve a multistep transformation process, but the role of cytogenetic abnormalities and molecular alterations in determining the cell fate of multiple myeloma (MM) remains unclear. Here, we have analyzed single cell RNA-seq data and bulk gene profiles to reveal a novel signature associated with MM development.
Methods

The scRNA-seq data from GSE118900 was used to profile the transcriptomes of cells from MM patients at different stages. Pseudotemporal ordering of the single cells was performed using Monocle package to feature distinct transcriptomic states of the developing MM cells. The bulk microarray profiles fromGSE24080 and GSE9782 were applied to identify a signature associated with MM development.
Results

The 597 cells were divided into 7 clusters according to different risk levels. They were initiated mainly from monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), newly diagnosed MM (NDMM), or relapsed and/or refractory myeloma (RRMM) with cytogenetically favorable t(11;14), moved towards the cells from smoldering MM (SMM) or NDMM without t(11;14) or t(4;14), and then finally to cells from SMM or RRMM with t(4;14). Based on the markers identified in the late stage, the bulk data was used to develop a 20-gene signature stratifying patients into high and low-risk groups (GSE24080: HR = 3.759, 95% CI 2.746–5.145; GSE9782: HR = 2.612, 95% CI 1.894–3.603), which was better than the previously published gene signatures (EMC92, UAMS70, and UAMS17) and International Staging System. This signature also succeeded in predicting the clinical outcome of patients treated with bortezomib (HR = 2.884, 95% CI = 1.994–4.172, P = 1.89e-8). The 20 genes were further verified by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction using samples obtained from the patients with MM.
Conclusion

Our comprehensive analyses offered new insights in MM development, and established a 20-gene signature as an independent biomarker for MM.
Association of epicardial fat thickness with left ventricular diastolic function parameters in a community population
Authors: Ma Wei , Zhang Baowei , Yang Ying , Qi Litong , Zhou Jin , Li Min , Jia Jia , Zhang Yan , Yong Huo
Published: April 2021

Purpose

We examined the relationship between EFT measured by echocardiography and LV diastolic function parameters in a Beijing community population.
Methods

We included 1004 participants in this study. Echocardiographic parameters including E and A peak velocity, the early diastolic velocities (e’) of the septal and lateral of mitral annulus using tissue doppler imaging, E/e’, and EFT, were measured. EFT1 was measured perpendicularly on the right ventricular free wall at end-diastole in the extension line of the aortic root. EFT2 was the maximum thickness measured perpendicularly on the right ventricular free wall at end-diastole. Multivariate linear regression was used to analyze the relationship between EFT and the mean e’ and E/e’.
Results

The mean age of the participants was 63.91 ± 9.02 years old (51.4% men). EFT1 and EFT2 were negatively correlated with e’ lat, e’ sep, and e’ mean (p < 0.05), and positively correlated with E/e’ lat, E/e’ sep, and E/e’ mean. Multivariate regression analysis showed that EFT1 and EFT2 were independently and negatively correlated with e’ mean (EFT1: β = −0.089 [95% confidence interval = − 0.177, − 0.000, p = 0.050]; EFT2: β = −0.078 [95% confidence interval = − 0.143, − 0.012, p = 0.020]). There were no interactions between EFT and any covariates, including age or heart groups, sex, BMI, or presence of hypertension, diabetes, or coronary heart disease in relation to LV diastolic dysfunction.
Conclusions

EFT was negatively and independently correlated with e’ mean, suggesting that more attention to this type of adipose fat is required for cardiovascular disease therapy.
Epidemiology of dengue virus infections in Nepal, 2006–2019
Authors: Rijal Komal Raj , Adhikari Bipin , Ghimire Bindu , Dhungel Binod , Pyakurel Uttam Raj , Shah Prakash , Bastola Anup , Lekhak Binod , Banjara Megha Raj , Pandey Basu Dev , Parker Daniel M. , Ghimire Prakash
Published: April 2021

Background: Dengue is one of the newest emerging diseases in Nepal with increasing burden and geographic spread over the years. The main objective of this study was to explore the epidemiological patterns of dengue since its first outbreak (2006) to 2019 in Nepal.Methods: This study is a retrospective analysis that covers the last 14 years (2006–2019) of reported dengue cases from Epidemiology Diseases Control Division (EDCD), Ministry of Health and Population, Government of Nepal. Reported cases were plotted over time and maps of reported case incidence were generated (from 2016 through 2019). An ecological analysis of environmental predictors of case incidence was conducted using negative binomial regression.Results: While endemic dengue has been reported in Nepal since 2006, the case load has increased over time and in 2019 a total of 17 992 dengue cases were reported from 68 districts (from all seven provinces). Compared to the case incidence in 2016, incidence was approximately five times higher in 2018 [incidence rate ratio (IRR): 4.8; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.5 – 15.3] and over 140 times higher in 2019 (IRR: 141.6; 95% CI: 45.8 – 438.4). A one standard deviation increase in elevation was associated with a 90% decrease in reported case incidence (IRR: 0.10; 95% CI: 0.01 – 0.20). However, the association between elevation and reported cases varied across the years. In 2018 there was a cluster of cases reported from high elevation Kaski District of Gandaki Province. Our results suggest that dengue infections are increasing in magnitude and expanding out of the lowland areas to higher elevations over time.Conclusions: There is a high risk of dengue outbreak in the lowland Terai region, with increasing spread towards the mid-mountains and beyond as seen over the last 14 years. Urgent measures are required to increase the availability of diagnostics and resources to mitigate future dengue epidemics.
Gly-tRF Enhances LCSCs-Like Cells Stemness and Promotes EMT of HCC Cells via Targeting NDFIP2 and Activating AKT Signaling Pathway.
Authors: Zhou Yongqiang , Hu Jinjing , Liu Lu , Yan Mengchao , Zhang Qiyu , Song Xiaojing , Lin Yan , Zhu Dan , Wei Yongjian , Fu Zongli , Hu Liming , Chen Yue , Li Xun
Published: April 2021

Background: The existence of liver cancer stem cells (LCSCs) and the occurrence of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) are generally considered to be the primary causes for migration and metastasis of Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Accumulating evidences demonstrate that tRFs and tiRNAs, are an emerging category of regulatory RNA molecules derived from transfer RNA (tRNA), are dysregulated in in various human cancer types and play crucial roles. However, their impact on tumorigenesis is still in the exploratory stage, their roles and mechanisms in HCC and LCSCs are still unknown.Methods: Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was performed to detect the expression of glycine tRNA-derived fragments (Gly-tRF) in HCC cell lines and tumor tissues. Inhibitor and mimic were performed to weaken and enhance the function of Gly-tRF. Flow cytometry and sphere formation assay to detect the representative surface markers (CD133, CD13, EpCAM, CD44) proportion and stemness of LCSCs. Transwell assay and scratched wound assay were performed to detect HCC cells migration. Western blot was used to detect the expression of EMT-related proteins. Dual luciferase reporter assay and signaling pathway analysis were performed to explore the underlying mechanism of Gly-tRF functions.Results: Gly-tRF is highly expressed in HCC cell lines and tumor tissues, compared to L02 hepatocytes and adjacent normal tissues. Flow cytometry and sphere formation assay found that Gly-tRF mimic promotes LCSCs subpopulation proportion and LCSCs-like cells stemness. Next, functional experiments confirmed that Gly-tRF mimic promotes HCC cells migration and EMT. Consistently, Loss of Gly-tRF inhibits HCC cells migration and EMT. Mechanistically, Gly-tRF inhibits the level of NDFIP2 mRNA by binding to the NDFIP2 3′ UTR. Importantly, overexpression of NDFIP2 can weaken the effect of Gly-tRF in promoting LCSCs-like cells sphere formation and HCC cells migration, NDFIP2 is the direct target of Gly-tRF. Signaling pathway exploration found that Gly-tRF enhances the abundance of phosphorylated AKT.Conclusions: Gly-tRF promotes EMT of HCC cells and enhances LCSCs-like cells stemness via targeting NDFIP2 and activating AKT signaling pathway. The tRNA-derived fragments provide a new perspective of oncology research, and can be the direction of future oncology research.
Correlation between IL-28 Polymorphism and Spontaneous Clearance in HCV Patients: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Miri Hamid Heidarian , Fazeli Pooria , Ali-Hassanzadeh Mohammad , Bemani Peyman , Kabelitz Dieter , kalantar kurosh
Published: April 2021

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a serious global health issue. Nearly 20% of HCV patients spontaneous clear the virus. While some studies have shown the association of spontaneous clearance (SC) of the virus with Interleukin (IL) 28B single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), others didn't show such a relationship. Thus, the purpose of the present study was to investigate the association of IL28B polymorphisms (12979860 SNP) and SC of HCV infection. Upon initial screening of the databases, a total of 545 articles were retrieved, of which 22 studies that met predefined eligibility criteria were entered into the meta-analysis. Odds ratios (OR) with its confidence intervals (95% CI), heterogeneity, publication bias, and sensitivity analysis were assessed. According to the meta-analysis results, a significant association was observed between the rs12979860 SNP and SC of HCV infection. The results indicated that the ORs of SC from hepatitis C virus infection were 2.75 times higher in those with cytokine gene polymorphisms, 95% CI (2.23 to 3.38). Moreover, it was found that the prevalence of rs12979860 CC was 0.33 with 95 CI (0.28–0.38) in genotype one and was 0.40 with 95 CI (0.34–0.47) in other genotypes. Our meta-analysis results suggest that IL28B rs12979860 CC is a strong predictor for SC of hepatitis C infection in PEG IFN-a/RBV-treated patients.
Current Practices On Diagnosis And Management Of Women With Vulvodynia
Authors: Bardin Marcela Grigol , Giraldo Paulo César , Fante Júlia Ferreira , Araujo Camila Carvalho , Cyr Marie Pierre , Marques Andrea Andrade
Published: April 2021

Introduction and hypothesis: To describe clinical characteristics, previous medical assessment, past treatments and vulvar pain relief among women with vulvodynia.Methods: Brazilian women with vulvodynia (n=144) were assessed for vaginal infection and vulvar pain intensity by means of a cotton swab test based on a numerical rate scale (NRS). All women answered the Female Sexual Function Index questionnaire and a structured instrument about present vulvar symptoms and previously experienced treatments. Vulvar pain relief achieved with previous treatments was qualified through a 4-point Likert-scale.Results: Previous vulvar pain duration was 5.8 (±4) years. More than 50% consulted with three or more physicians and 49% remained without a conclusive diagnosis. Diagnosis and treatment vulvovaginal infection was very common. The most commonly used treatments were lubricants (66%), topical anesthetics (36%) and vulvar care techniques (36%). All of then provided only low pain relief. Physical therapy and oral gabapentin provided strong vulvar pain relief.Conclusion: Prolonged duration of vulvar pain, multiple visits to healthcare professionals and poor relief of pain are common aspects in the clinical history of women with vulvodynia. Vulvovaginal symptoms other than pain are common, highlighting the importance of the screening tests in order to avoid misdiagnosis.Brief summary: Women suffering with vulvodynia symptoms are frequently missdiagnosed. This study described symptoms, diagnosis and treatment received by women with chronic vulvar pain.
Influence of Si Addition on the Microstructure and Mechanical Behaviour of Mg-5sn-3zn-1mn Alloy
Authors: G Sundarraju , K.R Thankathurai , C Anand Charman
Published: April 2021

The microstructural, mechanical behaviour of Mg-5Sn-3Zn-1Mn alloy with different Si additions (0.5, 1, 1.5 wt. % Si) are investigated and morphological changes of Mg-5Sn are observed with the addition of each element like 3Zn and 1Mn. Si added Mg-5Sn-3Zn-1Mn alloy exhibits two different phases namely Mg 2 Sn and Mg 2 Si. Two distinct phases observed are rod like Mg 2 Sn phase and Chinese script Mg 2 Si upto 1wt%. When Si addition exceeds 1.5% polygonal shaped primary Mg 2 Si particles are formed. In Mg-5Sn-3Zn-1Mn alloy addition of Si up to 1wt% enhances the mechanical properties adequately. Above 1 wt% of Si addition, a slight reduction on tensile property is noticed, which is due to the formation of hard, brittle polygonal primary and coarse Chinese script phases.
Microbial composition and nitrogen removal pathways in a novel sequencing batch reactor integrated with semi-fixed biofilm carrier: Evidence from a pilot study for low- and high-strength sewage treatment
Authors: Cui Bin
Published: April 2021

The sequencing batch reactor (SBR) activated sludge process is a well-established technology for sewage treatment. One of the drawbacks of SBRs, however, is the failure to conform to the standard for total nitrogen (TN) discharge. By means of introducing four improvements, including semi-fixed biofilm carrier, sludge elevation mixing and change for the mode of influent and effluent, compliant standard for TN discharge was obtained in this novel SBR configuration during low- and high- -strength sewage load. To illustrate the microbial compositions and functions of the attached biofilm on semi-fixed carrier and the suspended aggregates, as well as the nitrogen removal pathway, high throughput 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, PICRUSt2 algorithm and KEGG database were applied. The results revealed that: i) the microbial communities from suspended aggregates and biofilm samples were significantly different from each other; ii) during low-strength sewage loads, TN removal was mainly by nitrification-denitrification. The suspended aggregates was responsible for denitrification, while the biofilm was focused on ammonium oxidation; iii) during high-strength sewage loads, function of nitrate reductase from suspended aggregates was faded, and anammox and N assimilation by biofilm became dominant. Meanwhile, TN removal referring to the formation of L-glutamine via assimilation was the main pathway.
Influence of Base Oil Polarity on the Tribological Performance of Surface Active Engine Oil Additives
Authors: Cyriac Febin , Tee Xin Yi Xin , Poornachary Sendhil K , Chow Pui Shan
Published: April 2021

Friction, wear and tribofilm growth of organic friction modifiers (glycerol monooleate and oleamide), anti-wear additive (ZDDP) and binary additive system comprising the organic friction modifiers and ZDDP were studied in polyalphaolefin (PAO) and ester oil. The mechanisms underlying base oil polarity-dependent frictional performance of the OFM and AW additives at high temperature (140 oC), either singly or in combination, was investigated in the light of chemical composition analysis of the tribofilms post friction measurements using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), static and dynamic time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS). Depending on the rubbing conditions, the boundary friction coefficient of the binary additive systems were found to be either lower than that of individual additives or to lay between the values for the individual additives. Chemical composition analysis of the tribofilms indicated that the nature of base oil controlled interactions between ZDDP and OFM and consequently adsorption and reactive tribofilm formation in the boundary lubrication layer. Surface roughness and wear scar width measured post tribological tests using 3D surface profiler showed improved wear performance in both PAO and ester-based additive formulations.
Effects of Slag Treatment Conditions on Boron Removal from Metallurgical Silicon by United Gas-slag Refining Technology
Authors: Wang Qi-liang , Wu Jijun , Qian Shuang-feng , Gu Hua-zhen , Xia Zhen-fei , Wei Kui-xian , Ma Wen-hui
Published: April 2021

Impurities in industrial silicon strongly affect the performance and use value of silicon products, so that raw industrial silicon must be refined to reduce the impurity content and improve its quality. In this work, the effect of the conditions of the refining process on the removal of impurities was studied. The slag agent and industrial silicon powder are uniformly mixed, and a mixed gas of Ar-H 2 O-O 2 is blown into the melt for refining experiments when the set refining temperature is reached. 3% mass fraction high-purity boron powder is pre-melted into industrial silicon raw materials to prepare Si-3%B alloy raw materials, and then the Si-3%B alloy raw materials are refined and pickled with CaO-SiO 2 -CaCl 2 . The composition of the slag agent, the slag-agent-to-silicon mass ratio, the refining time, and the refining temperature conditions were explored, and the best efficiency of boron removal was found to be 96.77%, with the boron content in silicon decreased from 22 ppmw to the lowest value of 0.6 ppmw. The boron content in refined silicon shows a clear decrease, demonstrating that slag-making gas blowing refining is effective for the removal of impurities in industrial silicon.