bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oral Administration of Cystine and Theanine Attenuates 5-Fluorouracil-Induced Intestinal Mucositis and Diarrhea by Suppressing Both Glutathione Level Decrease and ROS Production in the Small Intestine of Mucositis Mouse Model
Authors: Yoneda Junya , Nishikawa Sachiko , Kurihara Shigekazu
Published: February 2021

Background
Chemotherapy is frequently used in cancer treatment; however, it may cause adverse events, which must be managed. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been reported to be involved in the induction of intestinal mucositis and diarrhea, which are common side effects of treatment with fluoropyrimidine 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). Our previous studies have shown that oral administration of cystine and theanine (CT) increases glutathione (GSH) production in vivo. In the present study, we hypothesized that CT might inhibit oxidative stress, including the overproduction of ROS, and attenuate 5-FU-induced mucositis and diarrhea.
Methods
We investigated the inhibitory effect of CT administration on mucositis and diarrhea, as well as its mechanism, using a mouse model of 5-FU-induced intestinal mucositis.
Results
CT administration suppressed 5-FU-induced diarrhea and weight loss in the studied mice. After 5-FU administration, the GSH level and the GSH/GSSG ratio in the small intestine mucosal tissue decreased compared to normal control group; but CT administration improved the GSH/GSSG ratio to normal control levels. 5-FU induced ROS production in the basal region of the crypt of the small intestine mucosal tissue, which was inhibited by CT. CT did not affect the antitumor effect of 5-FU.
Conclusions
CT administration suppressed intestinal mucositis and diarrhea in a mouse model. This finding might be associated with the antioxidant characteristics of CT, including the improved rate of GSH redox and the reduced rate of ROS production in the small intestine mucosal tissue. CT might be a suitable candidate for the treatment of gastrointestinal mucositis associated with chemotherapy.
Brain Tissue Oxygenation Guided Therapy and Outcome in Non-Traumatic Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: BOGOSSIAN Elisa GOUVEA , DIAFERIA Daniela , DJANGANG Narcisse NDIEUGNOU , MENOZZI Marco , VINCENT Jean-Louis , TALAMONTI Marta , DEWITTE Olivier , PELUSO Lorenzo , BARRIT Sami , BARAJRAJI Mejdeddine AL , ANDRE Joachim , SCHUIND Sophie , CRETEUR Jacques , TACCONE Fabio Silvio
Published: February 2021

Background
Brain hypoxia can occur after spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), even when levels of intracranial pressure (ICP) remain normal. Brain tissue oxygenation (PbtO2) can be measured as a part of a neurological multimodal neuromonitoring Low PbtO2 has been associated with poor neurologic recovery. There is scarce data on the impact of PbtO2 guided-therapy on patients’ outcome.
Methods
This single-center cohort study (June 2014-March 2020) included all patients admitted to the ICU after SAH who required multimodal monitoring. Patients with imminent brain death were excluded. Our primary goal was to assess the impact of PbtO2-guided therapy on neurological outcome. Secondary outcome included the association of brain hypoxia with outcome.
Results
Of the 163 patients that underwent ICP monitoring, 62 were monitored with PbtO2 and 54 (87%) had at least one episode of brain hypoxia. In patients that required treatment based on neuromonitoring strategies, PbtO2-guided therapy (OR 0.33 [CI 95% 0.12–0.90]) compared to ICP-guided therapy had a protective effect on neurological outcome at 6 months. Brain hypoxia was associated with unfavorable neurological (OR 4.51 [95% CI 1.17–17.45]).
Conclusions
In this cohort of SAH patients, PbtO2-guided therapy when compared to ICP guided therapy may be associated with improved long-term neurological outcome.
Excitonic Effects in The Optical Spectra of Li2SiO3 Compound
Authors: Han Nguyen Thi , Dien Vo , Lin Ming-Fa
Published: February 2021

Li2SiO3 compound exhibits unique electronic and optical properties. The state-of-the-art analyses, which based on first-principle calculations, have successfully confirmed the concise physical/chemical picture and the orbital bonding in Li-O and Si-O bonds. Especially, the unusual optical response behavior includes a large red shift of the onset frequency due to the extremely strong excitonic effect, the polarization of optical properties along three-directions, various optical excitations structures and the most prominent plasmon mode in terms of the dielectric functions, energy loss functions, absorption coefficients and reflectance spectra. The close connections of electronic and optical properties can identify a specific orbital hybridization for each distinct excitation channel. The presented theoretical framework will be fully comprehending the diverse phenomena and widen the potential application of other emerging materials.
Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy vs. Radiofrequency Ablation for Single Small Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Propensity-score Matching Analysis of Their Impact on Liver Function and Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Ueno Masayuki , Takabatake Hiroyuki , Itasaka Satoshi , Kayahara Takahisa , Morimoto Youichi , Yamamoto Hiroshi , Mizuno Motowo
Published: February 2021

Background: Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) has high efficacy for early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and is expected as an accepted alternative to radiofrequency ablation (RFA). However, SBRT for HCC may cause subacute liver injury leading to negative clinical outcomes. In this study, we compared changes of liver function and prognosis after SBRT or RFA in patients with single, small HCC by using a propensity-score matching analysis.Methods: We reviewed medical records of 140 patients with single ≤3 cm HCC treated with SBRT or RFA at Kurashiki Central Hospital between January 2014 and February 2019. Changes of albumin-bilirubin (ALBI) score, local recurrence, and overall survival were compared between the propensity-score matched groups (31 patients treated with SBRT and 62 treated with RFA).Results: The ALBI score increased modestly but significantly after SBRT, while it was unchanged in the RFA group; the intergroup difference was statistically significant (p = 0.004). No local recurrence of tumor was identified in the SBRT group, whereas the cumulative recurrence incidence was 9.7% in the RFA group (p = 0.023). Overall survival was not significantly different between the two groups (hazard ratio 1.32, 95% confidence interval 0.60–2.89, p = 0.401).Conclusions: SBRT had modestly negative impact on liver function but better local control of HCC than did RFA. Although long-term follow-up of liver function is necessary with SBRT treatment especially in patients with impaired liver function, SBRT is a satisfactory alternative to RFA for treatment of single, small HCC.
Using the Medical Research Council Framework for the development of a communication partner training intervention for people with primary progressive aphasia (PPA): Better Conversations with PPA
Authors: Volkmer Anna , Spector Aimee , Swinburn Kate , Warren Jason D. , Beeke Suzanne
Published: February 2021

Background: Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA) is a language-led dementia resulting in a gradual dissolution of language. PPA has a significant psychosocial impact on both the person and their families. Speech and language therapy (SLT) is one of the only available management options, and communication partner training (CPT) interventions offer a practical approach to identify strategies to support conversation. The aim of this study was to define and refine a manual and an online training resource for speech and language therapists to deliver CPT to people with PPA and their communication partners (CPs) called Better Conversations with PPA (BCPPA). Methods: The BCPPA manual and training program were developed using the Medical Research Council framework for developing complex interventions. The six-stage development process included 1. Review of existing literature, 2. Consultation and co-production 3. Development of an initial draft 4. Review by a group of speech and language therapists, using consensus methods 5. Two focus groups to gather opinions of people with PPA and their families 6. Refinement.Results: The BCPPA manual and training program comprises seven modules, and four CPT intervention sessions. Eight important components of CPT were identified in the consensus work undertaken with speech and language therapists, including use of video feedback to focus on strengths as well as areas of conversation breakdown. Three themes arose from the focus groups with people with PPA and their families 1) Timing of intervention, 2) speech and language therapists’ understanding of types of dementia, and 3) Knowing what helps. Refinements to the manual included additional practice activities and useful strategies for the future. Conclusions: Using the MRC framework to develop an intervention that is underpinned by a theoretical rationale based on a review of the literature, increases the likelihood of behaviour change. Co-development of the manual and training materials ensures the intervention will meet the needs of people with PPA and their CPs. Gathering further data from speech and language therapists and people living with PPA and their families to refine the manual and the training materials enhances the feasibility of delivering this in preparation for a phase II NHS-based randomised controlled pilot-feasibility study, currently underway.
The Numerov Process Over A Non-Uniform Grid
Authors: Brunetti Rossella , Speciale Nicolò Attilio , Rudan Massimo
Published: February 2021

The Numerov process is a solution method applicable to some classes of differential equations, that provides an error term of the fifth order in the grid size with a computational cost comparable to that of the finitedifference scheme. In the original formulation of the method, a uniform grid size is required; the paper shows a procedure for extending its applicability to a non-uniform grid in one dimension. The effectiveness of the procedure is tested on a model problem. Next, a variable transformation is described, that reduces the mathematical model of semiconductor devices to a form tractable with the Numerov process. Such a transformation is considered also in the multi-dimensional case, where it is shown that it solves a long-lasting difficulty in semiconductor modeling, namely, the impossibility of reconstructing the current density over the grid elements.
Analysis of correlation and variation of Cadmium in soil around Enterprises in Fujiang River Basin
Authors: Jiaguo REN , Kun FAN , Chenxue SHI , Yutao ZHANG , qianqian WU , Bin WANG
Published: February 2021

In order to explore the correlation and spatial variation law of Cadmium (Cd) content in the soil around enterprises in the Fujiang River Basin, Global Moran's I and Anselin Local Moran's I were used to analyze the correlation, and the spatial structure was analyzed by using semivariogram. The results show that: the overall level of Cd in the soil around the enterprises in Fujiang River Basin is relatively low, which does not exceed the risk screening value of the national soil environmental quality standard (GB15618-2018), and only the content in some regions exceeds the risk screening value; The spatial correlation of soil Cd in different directions and distances is different. The distribution of high value cluster points and abnormal value points of soil Cd is less, most of them belong to low value cluster points and insignificant points, and they have a certain correlation with the number of enterprise distribution and geological background; The spatial variation of Cd in soil is of moderate intensity, and the spatial differences in different directions are different, according to the order from large to small: 0° > 90° > 45° >135°, the spatial differences are consistent with the distribution of local cold hot spots and outliers.
18F-FDG PET/CT and MRI Imaging Features of Monomorphic Epitheliotropic Intestinal T-cell Lymphoma Involving the Liver and Lymph Nodes: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Zhang Xiaoying , Yu Qian , Liu Ying , Liu Simin , Lv Zhongwei
Published: February 2021

Background: Monomorphic epitheliotropic intestinal T-cell lymphoma (MEITL) is an uncommon, rapidly progressive, primary intestinal T-cell lymphoma. The most common site of occurrence is the small intestine. The prognosis of MEITL is extremely poor due to late diagnosis and lack of targeted therapy.Case presentation: A case of MEITL involving the entire small bowel, part of colon, rectum, mesenteric lymph nodes and liver is herein reported. We are presenting the 18F-FDG PET/CT features of MEITL, which showed all involved lesions with increased FDG activity. The MRI and pathological characteristics of MEITL were also described. Furthermore, some malignant diseases should be considered in the differential diagnosis. Conclusions: Based on the lesions with high accumulation of FDG, our case shows the involved extent of MEITL, which is helpful for biopsy and treatment option decisions. We expect more and more physicians could know this disease and make an early diagnosis to improve the outcomes of MEITL.
Multiresolution Cochleagram Speech Enhancement Algorithm Using Improved Deep Neural Networks with Skip Connections
Authors: lan chaofeng , Liu Chundong , Zhang Lei
Published: February 2021

Deep learning based methods have been a recent benchmark method for speech enhancement. However, these approaches are limited in low signal-to-noise ratios (SNR) conditions, for speech loss and low intelligibility. To address this problem, we improve Multi-Resolution Cochleagram (MRCG), and gammachirp filter bank is used to decompose the speech signal in time and frequency, and the low-resolution signal is denoised by the minimum mean-square error short-time spectral amplitude estimator (MMSE-STSA). Improve Multi-Resolution Cochleagram (I-MRCG) is adopted as the input feature of Skip connections-DNN (Skip-DNN). In this paper, the source to distortion ratio (SDR) is used in the training process, and the logarithm is introduced to observe the iterative process more clearly. Experiments were performed on the TIMIT database with four noise types at four levels of SNR. I-MRCG as the input feature of the Skip-DNN model, the average PESQ is 2.6783, and the average STOI is 0.8752. Compared with MRCG, the PESQ and STOI obtained by MRCG are increased 1.4% and 1.5%, respectively. This shows that MRCG is the input feature of the Skip-DNN model, and the speech enhancement effect after training is better than other features. It can not only solve the problem of speech loss in a low SNR environment, but also obtain more robust speech enhancement. The loss function experiment shows that compared to MSE and SDR, the improved SDR as the loss function of the speech enhancement model has the best enhancement effect.
Design of Automatic Operated Modular Underwater Vehicle System for Marine Ranch BreedingDesign of Automatic Operated Modular Underwater Vehicle System for Marine Ranch Breeding
Authors: Zhang ZhongRen , Xu FengBao , Li PeiJun , Wang XinBao , Liu FuXiang , Liu GuiJie
Published: February 2021

As terrestrial resources gradually cannot meet people's needs, Countries around the world gradually increase the development and utilization of marine resources. The emergence of marine ranching overcomes many disadvantages of traditional fishery, but there is still a distance from unattended intelligent marine ranch. In this paper, designed a kind of unattended modular underwater robot system which used in marine ranch, including the main body for cage monitoring, the robot module for cleaning and repairing of net clothes and recycling of dead fish, while designed a underwater interfacing apparatus for the main body and root module,This paper introduces the underwater vehicles system of marine ranching, and designs the main body and working module in detail. This paper simply describes the interfacing process of the underwater workstation with the main body and modules.The research results of this paper compensate for the gaps in marine ranch engineering equipment and technology, and meantime proposed an underwater vehicle for cage repairing and dead fish recycling, which uses modular ideas, it can reduces costs and this paper strongly promotes the development of intelligence and automation level of marine ranching.
Comparisons of Colistin-Induced Nephrotoxicity Between Two Different Formulations of Colistin in Critically Ill Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Feng Jia-Yih , Lee Yi-Tzu , Pan Shen-Wei , Yang Kuang-Yao , Chen Yuh-Min , Yen David Hung-Tsang , Li Szu-Yuan , Wang Fu-Der
Published: February 2021

BackgroundColistin is widely used for the treatment of nosocomial infections caused by carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacilli (CR-GNB). Colistin-induced nephrotoxicity is one of the major adverse reactions during colistin treatment. Comparisons of colistin-induced nephrotoxicity between different formulations of colistin are rarely reported. MethodsWe conducted a retrospective cohort study that enrolled ICU-admitted patients with cultured isolates of CR-GNB and treatment with intravenous colistin. Occurrences of acute kidney injury (AKI) during treatment with intravenous colistin were recorded. Colistin-induced nephrotoxicity between two formulations of colistin, Locolin® and Colimycin®, were compared. The treatment outcomes associated with the occurrence of colistin-induced nephrotoxicity were also investigated.ResultsA total of 195 patients, 95 treated with Locolin® and 100 treated with Colimycin®, were included for analysis. Patients treated with Locolin® had a higher rate of occurrence of stage 2 (46.3% vs. 32%, p=0.040) and stage 3 (29.5% vs. 13%, p=0.005) AKI than did those treated with Colimycin®. In multivariate analysis, the presence of septic shock (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.07, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.05–4.06), and inappropriate colistin dosage (aOR 2.49, 95% CI 1.01–60.16) were clinical factors associated with colistin-induced nephrotoxicity. Treatment with Colimycin® was an independent factor associated with a lower risk of colistin-induced nephrotoxicity (aOR 0.36, 95% CI 0.17-0.74). Other clinical factors associated with colistin-induced nephrotoxicity included the presence of septic shock (aOR 2.17, 95% CI 1.10-4.26) and inappropriate colistin dosage (aOR 2.52, 95% CI 1.00-6.33). A comparable mortality rate was noted between patients with and without colistin-induced nephrotoxicity. ConclusionsThe risk of colistin-induced nephrotoxicity significantly varied in different formulations of colistin in critically ill patients. Colistin-induced nephrotoxicity was not associated with increased mortality.
Identification and Functional Characterization of a Novel De Novo RUNX2 Frameshift Mutation Associated With Cleidocranial Dysplasia
Authors: Gong Lei , Odilov Bekzod , Han Feng , Liu Fuqiang , Sun Yujing , Zhang Ningxin , Zuo Xiaolin , Yang Jiaojiao , Wang Shouyu , Hou Xinguo , Ren Jianmin
Published: February 2021

BackgroundCleidocranial dysplasia (CCD) is a rare genetic disorder affecting bone and cartilage development. Clinical features of CCD comprise short stature, delayed ossification of craniofacial structures with numerous Wormian bones, underdeveloped or aplastic clavicles and multiple dental anomalies. Several studies have revealed that CCD development is strongly linked with different mutations in Runt-related Transcription Factor 2 (RUNX2) gene. In this study, we report a case with typical CCD presentations. MethodsWe performed genetic testing of participants and found a novel RUNX2 frameshift mutation: c.1550delT in a sporadic case. We also compared the functional activity of the mutant and wild-type RUNX2 through immunofluorescence microscopy and osteocalcin promoter luciferase assay. ResultsBoth mutant RUNX2 and wild‑type RUNX2 protein were similarly confined in the nuclei. The novel mutation caused abrogative transactivation activity of RUNX2 on osteocalcin promoter. ConclusionsWe explored a novel RUNX2 deletion/frameshift mutation in a sporadic CCD patient. This finding emphasizes on crucial role of VWRPY domain in RUNX2 transactivation ability.
Scraping and grazing herbivorous/detritivorous fish display opposite feeding behaviours under different protection regulations
Authors: Price Nathan William , Chen Kao-Sung , Chen Chaolun Allen , Wen Colin Kuo-Chang
Published: February 2021

Background:Functional groups, especially herbivorous fishes, are important for mediating benthic community structure on coral reefs. Herbivorous and detritivorous fish display complex feeding behaviour, and research into schooling feeding behaviour and feeding rates, and how these change with environmental and social behavioural variables is lacking. Such knowledge is imperative to infer how herbivory/detritivory will change, in light of changing resources and communities, specifically whether reefs can recover from disturbance. Differences in abundance, feeding rate, body length, diet preferences, and schooling size of three major functional groups, scrapers, grazers and browsers were examined across reef habitats under different fishing regulations, such as no-take restricted zones and open-fishing general use zones. Although marine protected areas have been implemented to conserve reef fish species; further precise management based on ecological behaviour of functional groups is necessary.Results:Scrapers and grazers which were mostly parrotfishes and surgeonfishes were more abundant on reef flats and also displayed the highest feeding rates on reef flats. Although scrapers mainly resided inside the restricted zone, more grazers were found in the general use zone where macroalgae abundance was highest, indicating a higher availability of nutritional resources. Browsers, mostly rabbitfishes, were seldom observed and patchily gathered on the reef flat and slope in both zones. Thus, fishing protection did not appear to benefit grazers and browsers, whereas scrapers gathered on shallow reef flats in the protection zone. Lastly, scraper and grazer feeding rates increased from an individual to paired feeding, and increased with body size, these factors led to variations in feeding behaviours on different habitats under different protection regulations.Conclusions:Fishing protection benefits scrapers which subsequently appears to be resulting in a reduction in algal coverage, and variation in feeding rates was largely related to school sizes. The density of these functionally important grazers was influenced more by changes to benthic composition than protection status. The opposite feeding behaviours of two herbivorous/detritivorous functional groups indicates not only protection status, but fishing gear and size limit regulations are needed to help maintain fisheries and diversity on coral reefs in Taiwan.
Clitoris to Urethral Meatus Distance is Not Affected by the Obesity Compared to the Anogenital Distance
Authors: Li Zheng , Xu Meng-jiao , Xia Hong , Li Huai-fang , Zhu Binggen
Published: February 2021

Background The distance between clitoris and urethral meatus (CUMD) for women has been considered to likely reflect the extent of prenatal androgen exposure, being similar to the anogenital distance (AGD) and the digit length ratio. But no published work has examined the association between the CUMD and the AGD or digit ratio and the effect of body weight on CUMD and AGD.Methods The CUMD and AGD (including AGD-AC, from the anus to the anterior clitoris; AGD-AF, from the anus to the posterior fourchette) measurements for 117 women (18-45 years) were taken using a digital caliper, and the digit ratios were measured from photos by a digital camera. Meanwhile, data of their height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) were collected at same time. Results In bivariate correlation analyses of all 117 subjects, two AGD measurements (AGD-AC and AGD-AF) were moderately correlated with one another (r=0.474, p<0.001), but the correlation between AGD-AC and CUMD was weak (r=0.172, p=0.063). Both AGD-AC and AGD-AF were notably correlated with weight (r=0.290, p=0.002 and r=0.189, p=0.041; respectively) and BMI (r=0.341, p<0.001 and r=0.204, p=0.027; respectively), whereas the CUMD was not affected by weight or BMI. Exclusion of obese individuals, the CUMD of 86 non-overweight subjects was obviously correlated with the AGD-AC (r=0.236, p=0.028). Conclusion These results indicated that the CUMD could be a marker of prenatal androgen exposure without influence of body weight, superior to AGD-AC or AGD-AF.
The high-dose dexamethasone suppression test is inferior to pituitary dynamic enhanced MRI in the differential diagnosis of ACTH-dependent Cushing's syndrome
Authors: Shi Xiaoli , Du Tingting , Zhu Dan , Ma Delin , Dong Kun , Peng Xuemin , Huang Jiaojiao , Lei Ting , Yu Xue feng , Chen Juan , Yang Yan
Published: February 2021

Purpose
The differential diagnosis of ACTH-dependent Cushing’s syndrome remains a challenge in clinical practice. The aim of the present study was to assess the diagnostic performance of pituitary dynamic enhanced MRI(dMRI), high-dose dexamethasone suppression test༈HDDST༉and combination of both tests in patients with ACTH-dependent Cushing’s syndrome.
Methods
119 consecutive cases with surgery confirmed ACTH-dependent Cushing’s syndrome were enrolled: 101 patients with proven Cushing’s disease and 18 patients with proven ectopic ACTH syndrome. All patients underwent pituitary dMRI and HDDST. The sensitivity and the specificity of pituitary dMRI, HDDST, and combination of both tests were calculated.
Results
The sensitivity and specificity of the pituitary dMRI for the diagnosis of Cushing’s disease was 80.2% and 83.3% respectively, and the positive predictive value was 96.4%. The sensitivity and specificity of HDDST was 70.3% and 77.8%, and the positive predictive value was 94.7%. Regarding the combination of both tests, the combined criteria of a more than 50% suppression of serum cortisol in HDDST and a positive finding in pituitary dMRI had given a high specificity of 94.4% and a sensitivity of 59.4%. The combined criteria of a greater than 68% suppression in HDDST and/or a positive finding in pituitary dMRI, provide a sensitivity of 86.1% and a specificity of 83.3%.
Conclusions
Pituitary dMRI was superior to HDDST in the differential diagnosis of ACTH-dependent Cushing’s syndrome. HDDST was recommended to combined with pituitary dMRI in the diagnosis process because of the significantly increased specificity of the combination.
Layer-by-Layer Assembly of Cationic Guar Gum, Cellulose Nanocrystals and Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose based Multilayered Composite Films
Authors: Saini Arun , Sharma Deepak , Xia Yuanyuan , Saini Aman , You Xiangyu , Su Ying , Chen Lihong , Yadav Chandravati , Li Xinping
Published: February 2021

Eco-friendly sustainable materials provide an appealing template to replace contemporary synthetic-nonrenewable resource-based materials while maintaining the acceptable material properties to meet the performance requirements. Here, a layer-by-layer (LBL) self-assembly technique was used for fabricating multilayer composite films using all bio-based polymers/polysaccharides, i.e. cationic guar gum (CGg), carboxylated cellulose nanocrystals (cCNCs) and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC). A five layered composite film was fabricated by depositing polymeric layers as follows: CGg→cCNCs→HPMC→cCNCs→CGg. The structural analysis of CGg/cCNCs/HPMC multilayered composite films indicated the existence of electrostatic interaction as well as H-bonding between polymeric layers that resulted in homogenous, dense and compact film surface with improved smoothness and strength properties. As compared to pure CGg film, the CGg/cCNCs/HPMC multilayered composite films showed improved tensile strength (84.8% increment) and modulus (29.19% improvement). Importantly, the deposition of HPMC layer contributed in achieving multilayer composite films with more flexible behavior (46.55% improvement in elongation at break). Furthermore, owing to the high transparency (89.5% transmittance), appreciable gas and oil barrier performance and resistance to various solvents (e.g. acetone, THF and DMAc), these multilayer films are promising candidates for various applications including renewable/sustainable packaging materials.
Two-Year Change in 18F-Sodium Fluoride Uptake in Major Arteries of Healthy Subjects and Angina Pectoris Patients
Authors: Piri Reza , Lici Gauher , Riyahimanesh Pooriya , Gerke Oke , Alavi Abass , Carlsen Poul Flemming Høilund
Published: February 2021

PurposeTo examine 2-year changes in carotid and aortic 18F-sodium fluoride (NaF) uptake in both healthy controls and angina pectoris patients.MethodsTwenty-nine healthy subjects and 20 angina pectoris patients underwent 90-min NaF-PET/CT twice two years apart. The carotids and three sections of the aorta (arch, thoracic, abdominal) were manually segmented. NaF uptake was expressed as the mean and total standardized uptake values without and with partial volume correction (SUVmean, SUVtotal and cSUVmean, cSUVtotal). ResultsInsignificant tendencies were higher NaF uptake in angina patients at both time points with less uptake in healthy subjects and higher uptake in angina patients after 2 years. Thus, aortic cSUVmean of angina patients was 1.14±0.35 and 1.29±0.71 at baseline and after 2 years vs. 0.99±0.31 and 0.95±0.28 in healthy subjects. A similar pattern was observed for the carotid cSUVmean. NaF uptake at baseline could not predict a change in CT-calcification after 2 years. NaF uptake in all parts of the aorta correlated positively with age.Conclusions﻿Slightly, but consistently, higher arterial NaF uptake in the angina group indicated more ongoing microcalcification at both time points in patients than in healthy subjects. The 2-year changes were very small in both groups, albeit with a tendency of slight decreases among healthy controls and slight increases in angina patients despite statin therapy in half of these.
Flood Inundation Mapping and Hazard Assessment for Mitigation Analysis of Local Adaption Measures in Upper Ping River Basin, Thailand
Authors: Tansar Husnain , Akbar Haseeb , Aslam Rana Ammar
Published: February 2021

Annual monsoon flooding phenomena have caused disastrous impacts on the Upper Ping River basin and its inhabitants over the years. The existing administration set-up for flood mitigation and adaptation measures lacks effective utilization of locally available resources for complete flood protection. This study addressed this gap by flood hazard assessment at a lower administration scale (sub-district level) and performance evaluation of local adaptation measures was performed. 1D and 2D hydrodynamic models were developed and calibrated against observed discharge and water level (1D) and flood extent (2D), respectively. Flood inundation and hazard maps were reproduced and categorized into different classes based on defined critical depths for 2, 5, 10, 25, 50 and 100 years return periods. A maximum flood inundated area of 996.9 km2 (3.94% of total basin area) was simulated in a 100-year return period. The flood hazard results represent that the largest flooded area categorized under “high hazard”, followed by “very high hazard” and “low hazard” categories, and least flooded area was classified under “medium hazard” category. The current administration set-up for flood adaptation and mitigation needs to update based on an integrated flood management approach to improve its effectiveness for future flood protection.
A sensitive fluorescent sensor for highly sensitive detection of trace water in organic solvents based on substituted imidazole
Authors: Li Huiqian , Xue Weijian , Wang Jinping , Ma Jie , Zhao Bing , Guo Xiangfeng
Published: February 2021

A novel substituted imidazole derivative 1a with carboxyl and quinoline structure has been designed and synthesized. And our initial discovery is that this compound can effectively detect trace amounts of water in ethanol. And the metal in solution couldn’t affect the absorption and fluorescence Spectra of 1a. With the addition of water, the energy band appears a red-shift from 330nm to 355nm in the absorption spectra. And the emission spectrum undergoes an important change in its fluorescent effect in the presence of water. Furthermore, absorption peak of 1a displays a red-shift with increasing pH from 2.31 to 10.72. All available data (absorption and emission) strongly support the possible mechanism. Due to the pronounced fluorescence changing property, the substituted imidazole derivative 1a could be utilized as fluorescent probes for quantifying trace amount of water in ethanol. Graphic abstract
Strain improvement of native Saccharomyces cerevisiae LN ITCC 8246 strain through protoplast fusion to enhance its xylose uptake
Authors: Sharma Shalley , Ghoshal Chandrika , Arora Anju , Samar Wara , Nain Lata , Paul Debarati
Published: February 2021

Co-utilization of xylose and glucose and subsequent fermentation using Saccharomyces
cerevisiae could enhance ethanol productivity. Directed engineering approaches have met
with limited success due to interconnectivity of xylose metabolism with other intrinsic,
hidden pathways. Therefore, random approaches like protoplast fusion were used to
reprogram unidentified mechanisms.
Saccharomyces cerevisiae LN, the best hexose fermenter, was fused with xylose
fermenting Pichia stipitis NCIM 3498. Protoplasts prepared using glucanex were fused under
electric impulse and fusants were selected using 10% ethanol and cycloheximide (50 ppm)
markers. Two fusants, 1a.23 and 1a.30 showing fast growth on xylose and tolerance to 10%
ethanol, were selected. Higher extracellular protein expression observed in fusants as
compared to parents was corroborated by higher number of bands resolved by twodimensional analysis.
Overexpression of XYL1, XYL2, XKS and XUT4 in fusants as compared to S.
cerevisiae LN as observed by RT-PCR analysis was substantiated by higher specific activities
of XR, XDH and XKS enzymes in fusants. During lignocellulosic hydrolysate fermentation,
fusants could utilize glucose faster than the parent P. stipitis NCIM 3498 and xylose
consumption in fusants was higher than S. cerevisiae LN.
Coupled Effect of Thickness Optimization and Plastic Forming History on Crashworthiness Performance of Thin-Walled Square Tube
Authors: Sofuoglu Hasan , Çam Salim
Published: February 2021

Thin-walled tubes are widely used as energy absorbers due to their high crashworthiness performance. This study aims to evaluate the effect of plastic forming history carried out for thickness optimization on crashworthiness performance of thin-walled square tube (TWST). Within the scope of the study, a series of numerical analyses were conducted for the TWST using a commercial finite element (FE) software. In order to determine individual effect of optimization, FG thickness of TWST was first obtained using LS-OPT software. Later, thickness gradient was achieved by performing rolling process to consider individual plastic forming effect Afterwards, deep drawing process was carried out to shape TWST by considering springback and trimming effects. Finally, crash responses were obtained under axial high velocity impact loading to determine the coupled effect of optimization and plastic forming on the crashworthiness performance of the TWST. It was determined that the coupled effect, which takes plastic forming and optimization effects into account, reduced the peak crush force of the TWST by 24% and increased the absorbed energy value by 39%. The results obtained from this study showed that coupled effect of optimization and plastic forming processes has significant effect on the crashworthiness performance of the TWST and otherwise either overestimated or underestimated results are obtained.
Developing and Validating a Nomogram for Prediction Coronary Heart Disease in Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Yu Yun , Hu Long-long , Liu Liang , Liu Huan , Li Xiao-Zhong , Xu Jing-song
Published: February 2021

Background: Previous studies indicate that there is an association between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and coronary heart disease (CHD). Herein, we established and further validated a novel nomogram for predicting CHD in patients with COPD.Methods: In total, we assessed 421 patients with COPD admitted in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University between January 2017 to August 2019 .Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to develop a nomogram model containing variables which we screened, testing the discriminative ability and calibration of the nomogram by C-index, area under the curve(AUC) and calibration plots. Decision curve analysis was applied to evaluate the benefit of the screeing model. Further, we conducted an internal validation by using the bootstrapping validation.Results: Multivariate analysis shows that arterial thrombosis, prealbumin, albumin and estimated glomerular filtration rate are independent factors in predicting the risk of CHD. The prediction model exhibited discriminative ability with a C-index of 0.882 (95% CI: 0.848-0.916) , and the AUC at 0.878(95% CI: 0.843–0.913).The nomogram demonstrated efficient calibration and clinical applicability when deciding on interventions with a CHD possibility threshold of 7% .During the interval validation, it could still attain a C-index value of 0.869.Conclusion: The nomogram can predict the risk of CHD in patients with COPD, with a high discriminative ability and potential clinical applicability.
PECARN rule in diagnostic process of pediatric patients with minor head trauma in emergency department
Authors: Gambacorta Alessandro , Moro Marianna , Curatola Antonietta , Brancato Federica , Covino Marcello , Chiaretti Antonio , Gatto Antonio
Published: February 2021

Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of the PECARN Rule (PR) in preventing the presence of clinically important traumatic brain (ciTBI).Methods: A retrospective study was performed to our hospital between July 2015 and June 2020. Data of all children <18 years of age admitted to the Emergency Department (ED), within the 24 hours after a head trauma with GCS ≥14, were analysed. PR was retrospectively applied to all patientsResults: 3832 patients were enrolled, 2613 patients ≥2 years and 1219 were younger. In the group of children ≥2 years, 10 presented ciTBI of which 7 underwent neurosurgery and 3 hospitalized. Applying the PR, no patient with ciTBI would have been discharged without a diagnosis. Between children <2 years, only 3 patients presented ciTBI, 2 underwent neurosurgery and 1 hospitalized. According the PR also in this age group no ciTBI would have been discharged without diagnosis. Conclusions: We demonstrate the total effectiveness of the PR in our setting. We found 100% sensitivity in both age groups in identifying patients with ciTBI. Therefore, in patients classified in the low-risk category, it is a duty of the physician not to expose the child to ionizing radiation.
Study on cracks and process improvement for case hardened gear shaft straightening
Authors: Ma Wenzhen , Shen Hongyao , Xu Guanhua
Published: February 2021

Gear shaft is one of the key components for transmitting torque and speed in automotive transmission. Deflections will inevitably occur after heat treatment. It is necessary to ensure the straightness of the parts by straightening. During straightening process, cracks often appear and result in scrapped parts. This paper focuses on the situation of high straightening crack rate of internal input shaft in one dual-clutch automotive transmission, makes an in-depth analyses the pressure straightening process theory, crack generation mechanism, working process and crack detection system. After studying on the case hardened gear shaft material properties, elastoplastic process theoretical basis, crack characteristic and finite element simulation, etc., This paper has systematically improved straightening crack performance and proposes three crack rate improvement methods by using finite element analysis to find out optimal punch point which can reduce the maximum stress value; increasing the punch increments and adopt vector straightening to improve the straightening procedure; reducing the gas quenching pressure in the heat treatment process to improve the mechanical properties of the parts, etc. Finally, the scrap rate of straightening crack was reduced from 1.95% to 0.14%.
Can Co2 Emissions and Energy Consumption Determine the Economic Performance of South Korea? A Time-Series Analysis
Authors: Adebayo Tomiwa Sunday , Awosusi Abraham Ayobamiji , Kirikkaleli Dervis , Akinsola Gbenga Daniel , Mwamba Madhy Nyota
Published: February 2021

Following the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN-SDGs) which emphases on relevant concerns that encompass access to energy (SDG-7) and sustainable development (SDG-8). This research tends to re-examine the interaction between urbanization, CO2, capital formation, energy use, and economic growth in South Korea, which has not yet been assessed using the recent econometric techniques and data stretching between 1965 and 2019. The present study utilized the Autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL), Dynamic Ordinary Least Square (DOLS), and Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares (FMOLS) methods while for the causality direction the Gradual shift and Wavelet coherence method are utilized. The ARDL bounds test uncovers a long-run linkage between the variables of interest. Empirical evidence shows that emissions spur economic growth. Thus, there is also a necessity to change the energy mix in South Korea to renewables, based on increasing environmental awareness across the globe, to enable the use of sustainable energy sources and establish an environmentally sustainable ecosystem. Moreover, the energy-induced growth hypothesis is validated. This result is resonated by the causality analysis where energy consumption drives GDP one-way in South Korea. This suggests that South Korea cannot embark on energy conservative policies, as such actions will hurt economic progress. Additionally, unidirectional causality is seen between urbanization, trade opens, and economic growth. These findings have far-reaching consequences for GDP growth and macroeconomic indicators in South Korea.
Relationship Between Mean Vancomycin Trough Concentration and Mortality in Critically Ill Patients: A Multicenter Retrospective Study
Authors: Hou Yanli , Ren Jiajia , Li Jiamei , Jin Xuting , Gao Ya , Li Ruohan , Zhang Jingjing , Wang Xiaochuang , Li Xinyu , Wang Gang
Published: February 2021

Background: It remains unclear whether the mean vancomycin trough concentration (VTC) derived from the entire course of therapy is of potential benefit for critically ill patients. This study was conducted to explore the association between mean serum VTC and mortality in intensive care units (ICUs).Methods: 3,364 adult patients with two or more VTC records after receiving vancomycin therapy in the eICU Collaborative Research Database were included in this multicenter retrospective cohort study. Mean VTC was estimated using all measured VTCs and investigated as a continuous and categorical variable. Patients were categorized into four groups according to mean VTC: <10, 10–15, 15–20, and >20 mg/L. Multivariable logistic regression and subgroup analyses were performed to investigate the relationship of mean VTC with mortality.Results: After adjusting for a series of covariates, logistic regression analyses indicated that mean VTC, as a continuous variable, was positively correlated with ICU (odds ratio, 1.042, 95% confidence interval, [1.017–1.068]) and hospital (1.025 [1.004–1.046]) mortalities. As a categorical variable, mean VTC at 10–15 mg/L failed to reduce ICU mortality (1.512 [0.849–2.694]). Moreover, mean VTCs of 15–20 and >20 mg/L were significantly associated with higher ICU mortality (1.946 [1.106–3.424]; 2.314 [1.296–4.132]) than mean VTC <10 mg/L. Mean VTCs of 10–15, 15–20, and >20 mg/L were not associated with increased hospital mortality (1.154 [0.766–1.739]; 1.342 [0.896–2.011]; 1.496 [0.981–2.281]). Similar results were observed in different Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation IV score or creatinine clearance subgroups.Conclusions: Increasing mean VTC showed no benefit regarding ICU and hospital mortalities in critically ill patients. Our results suggested that continuous VTC monitoring might not guarantee vancomycin efficacy for ICU patients.
Heterosis and Combining Abilities in a Diverse Seven-Parent Pearl Millet Population Diallel Tested in West Africa
Authors: Dutta Sonali , Sattler Felix T. , Pucher Anna , Inoussa Drabo , Issaka Ahmad , Sy Ousmane , Sanogo Moussa D. , Angarawai Ignatius I. , Haussmann Bettina IG
Published: February 2021

Pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.] is an important food-security crop to smallholder farmers in West Africa (WA). Breeding for high yield and stability is a major challenge in the harsh environments of WA but could be tackled by hybrid breeding. Knowledge of combining ability patterns and quantitative-genetic parameters is required for an efficient development of hybrid varieties. Hence, our objectives were to estimate the combining ability of seven genetically diverse Sahelian pearl millet populations from Senegal, Mali, Benin, Burkina Faso, Niger, Sudan and Nigeria and the heterosis and stability of their 42 diallel-derived population hybrids to inform pearl millet hybrid breeding. The genotypes were evaluated in six environments in WA in 2007. Grain yield (GY) exhibited an average panmictic mid-parent heterosis (PMPH) of 24%, ranging from -1.51% to 64.69%. General combining ability (GCA) was significant across test environments as reflected by high heritability estimates and high GCA:SCA variance ratios. Thus, early selection for parental per se performance would be rewarding. The parental population from Sudan (IP8679) had strongly negative GCA for GY. Its lack of adaptation contributed to the predominance of additive effects in the present germplasm set. Parental populations PE02987 (Senegal), PE05344 (Mali) and ICMV IS 92222 (Niger) showed large positive GCA for GY. Their offspring, especially PE02987 × PE05344 and Kapelga × ICMV IS 92222, exhibited a high and stable GY across all test environments. Tapping the regional pearl millet genetic diversity seems therefore beneficial for hybrid breeding to increase pearl millet productivity in WA.
Electride Characteristics of M2(h5-E5)2 (M= Be, Mg; E= Sb5-)
Authors: Das Prasenjit , Chattaraj Pratim Kumar
Published: February 2021

Ab initio computation is performed on the binuclear sandwich complexes, M 2 ( h 5 -Sb 5 ) 2 . Eclipsed and staggered conformations are generated due to the h 5 mode of binding by Sb 5 - ligand with the alkaline earth metals (Be and Mg metals). The complexes are thermodynamically stable at room temperature. The electron density descriptors and the natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis confirmed the covalent nature of the M-M bond. Both Be 2 ( h 5 -Sb 5 ) 2 and Mg 2 ( h 5 -Sb 5 ) 2 complexes have one non-nuclear attractor (NNA) at the center of the M-M bond which is predicted and confirmed by the electron density analysis. At the NNA the values of the Laplacian of electron density are negative and an electron localization function basin (ELF) is present at the center of the M-M bond for localized electrons. Both the complexes show large values of nonlinear optical properties (NLO). Both the designed binuclear sandwich complexes Be 2 ( h 5 -Sb 5 ) 2 and Mg 2 ( h 5 -Sb 5 ) 2 behave as electride.