bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonality and weather condition’s effect on human perception of the urban-rural transitional landscape
Authors: Półrolniczak Marek , Kolendowicz Leszek
Published: July 2022

Landscape perception research into the impact of seasonally changing landscape characteristics with the simultaneous influence of the weather are rare. Therefore, eye-tracking metrics were calculated (fixation and saccades) for the whole tested landscape, while its areas of interest (AOIs) were established based on clustering methods. Moreover, the gaze pattern was analysed using the Voronoi cells method. To identify significant differences in landscape perception according to various weather and seasonality, nonparametric tests were applied. The significant influence of weather/seasonality and their synergistic influence is noticed. The results indicate a rather complex influence of the types of weather in warmer and cooler seasons. Regardless of the weather type, seasonal changes cause greater visual span and shorter fixations in the warmer season. The fixations and saccades are shorter in the warmer season in two AOI’s during positive weather, but are longer in negative weather during the colder season in most AOI’s. The main reasons for the influence of weather and seasonality on the visual perception include seasonal changes in the landscape, resulting in the appearance of the landscape from more urban to natural and vice versa (phenological changes) as well as lighting changes (due to seasonality and type of weather).
Unit Root Tests of Airline’s Stock Returns Considering Alliances
Authors: ölçen olcay
Published: July 2022

This paper, it is aimed to make a unit root analysis of the stock return time series of 20 air carrier’s companies due to alliance membership. Five important unit root tests, which can be classified as Fourier or linear, have been utilized. Although there are some meaningful results on an individual basis, there is not any meaningful result considering alliances. The conclusions were made.
Ecofriendly pretreatment of cotton knit fabrics by ultrasonic irradiation and reusing bath chemicals
Authors: Hoque Mohammad M. U. , Rimu Sunzida H. , Mallik Abul K. , Rahman Mohammed Mizanur
Published: July 2022

Bangladesh's cotton knit industries contribute significantly to the country's economy, accounting for more than 40% of total annual export. Efficient water use in knit dyeing might result in considerable water savings and environmental sustainability. Textile wet processing consumes a lot of energy (water, gas, and electricity), generates a lot of waste, and has significant chemical costs. The cotton knit fabric used in this study was pretreated and dyed utilizing ultrasonication at a lower temperature than conventional pretreatment and dyeing techniques in an attempt to establish ecofriendly wet processing in the textile industry. For pretreatment and dyeing, bath chemicals were reused 1–3 times, and several fabric attributes including whiteness index, weight loss (%), bursting strength, color fastness to light, washing, perspiration, and rubbing were tested and compared to the traditional method. By dying with reactive dyes, the feasibility of color matching using ultrasonic aided pretreated fabric with and without reusing bath chemicals was determined. The whiteness index of the low temperature sonicated scoured and bleached fabric was found to be acceptable, with relatively low weight loss; nevertheless, the bursting strength was found to be enhanced. Color fastness to light, washing, perspiration, and rubbing of ultrasonicated dyed knitted fabric at lower temperatures than conventional techniques were found to be comparable, showing that there was no color deterioration during ultrasonication. FT-IR spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed no significant changes in the chemical composition of cellulose or the fabric shape of pretreated and dyed cotton knit fabric after ultrasonication.
Contribution of hydrological connectivity in maintaining aquatic plant communities in remnant floodplain ponds in agricultural landscapes.
Authors: Nagata Yu , Ishiyama Nobuo , Nakamura Futoshi , Shibata Hideaki , Fukuzawa Karibu , Morimoto Junko
Published: July 2022

The expansion of the agricultural landscape in recent times has led to the fragmentation of floodplains. In this context, remnant floodplain ponds serve as important habitats for aquatic plants. Hydrological connectivity between floodplain ponds, facilitated by artificial watercourses, plays an important role in providing a migration course for mobile animals, such as fish. However, little is known about the contribution of artificial watercourses to the dispersal of aquatic plants, which are passive dispersers, between floodplain ponds. This study aimed to elucidate the effects of hydrological connectivity through artificial watercourses and environmental factors on the structure and composition of aquatic plant communities in lowland floodplain ponds. Vegetation and environmental surveys of 20 floodplain ponds were conducted in the agricultural landscape of northern Japan. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to clarify the effects of local- and landscape-scale environmental variables on aquatic plant communities with respect to species richness and species coverage. We found that hydrological connectivity between floodplain ponds was a determinant of the species richness of aquatic plant communities; however, its effect was weaker than that of eutrophication. The study findings indicate that water quality management, connectivity conservation, and restoration should be prioritized to maintain aquatic plant communities in degraded floodplain ponds.
Prevalence and characteristics of musculoskeletal complaints: an analysis from the POpulation Level and Analysis Reporting (POLAR) database
Authors: Haas Romi , Gorelik Alexandra , Busija Ljoudmila , O'Connor Denise , Pearce Christopher , Mazza Danielle , Buchbinder Rachelle
Published: July 2022

BackgroundElectronic health record datasets have been used to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints in general practice but not to examine the associated characteristics and healthcare utilisation at the primary care level.AimTo describe the prevalence and characteristics of patients presenting to general practice with musculoskeletal complaints.Design and SettingA five-year analysis within three Primary Health Networks (PHNs) in Victoria, Australia. MethodWe included patients with at least one face-to-face consultation 2014 to 2018 inclusive and a low back (≥18 years), and/or neck, shoulder or knee (≥45 years) complaint determined by SNOMED codes derived from diagnostic text within the medical record. We determined prevalence, socio-demographic characteristics and diagnostic codes for patients with an eligible diagnosis; and number of consultations within one year of diagnosis.Results324,793/1,294,021 (25%) presented with at least one musculoskeletal diagnosis, of whom 41% (n=133,279) fulfilled our inclusion criteria. There were slightly more females (n=73,428, 55%), two-thirds (n=88,043) were of working age (18-65 years) and 83,816 (63%) had at least one comorbidity. Over half had a low back diagnosis (n=76,504, 57%) followed by knee (n=33,438, 25%), shoulder (n=26,335, 20%) and neck (n=14,492, 11%). Most codes included ‘pain’ and/or ‘ache’ (low back: 58%, neck: 41%, shoulder: 32%, knee 26%). Median (IQR) all-cause consultations per patient within one year of diagnosis was 7 (4-12). ConclusionThe burden of MSK complaints at the primary care level is high as evidenced by the prevalence of people with musculoskeletal complaints presenting to a general practitioner, the preponderance of comorbidities and the numerous consultations per year. Identification and evaluation of strategies to reduce this burden are needed.
Analysis of the “circular plastics economy” phenomena and its long-term implications for demand for petroleum market
Authors: Kapustin Nikita , Grushevenko Dmitry
Published: July 2022

In recent years, the problems of polymer pollution and carbon footprint have stirred up an active debate around the future of the plastic industry, which over the past 50 years has been a significant driver of global oil demand. It is assumed that the transition to a "circular plastic economy" should resolve environmental issues for the industry, but so far neither at the state level nor in the business and expert environment there is a common understanding of this concept or its implementation. In this work the authors attempted to untangle the discussion around the “circularity of plastics” and assess the current state and prospects of the impact of this phenomenon on the market of liquid hydrocarbons. Even in the Moderate scenario of the calculations, the "circular plastics economy" does become an important factor in demand for hydrocarbons in plastics industry, reducing it by 5–10% of the Buisiness-as-Usual case by 2050 and greatly slowing down demand growth rates after 2045, and the more drastic scenario even sees hydrocarbon demand peak by 2040. These findings indicate the importance of taking into account the "circularity" when making long-term forecasts of global oil market.
Theoretical and experimental analysis of circularly polarized luminescence spectrophotometers for artifact-free measurements using a single CCD camera.
Authors: baguenard bruno , Bensalah-Ledoux amina , Guy Laure , Riobé François , Maury Olivier , Guy Stephan
Published: July 2022

We demonstrate the feasibility of artifact-free measurements of Circularly Polarised Luminescence (CPL) spectra on an
imaging spectrometer. The polarization is spatially separated on two
measurement channels using an achromatic quarter-wave plate associated with a
polarizing beam splitter. The two channels are then imaged on a spectrometer to
give the left and right circularly polarized spectra. The artifacts have been highlighted via the Mueller formalism and verified experimentally. As they add spectral contributions from either the shape of the luminescence or its derivative, they are almost impossible to eliminate by pre-calibration.
We show that, at the cost of a second measurement that reverses the role of the two measuring arms, these artifacts are reduced in proportion to the stability of the lamp. The experimental results show the ability of our setup to measure CPL spectra on different kind of molecules in an accurate way with a dramatic (3 orders of magnitude) reduction in the recording time compared to a standard step by step measurement.
Integration of in vivo exposure and network pharmacology to investigate the pharmacodynamic material basis and action mechanism of Sinomenii Caulis in the treatment of myocardial infarction
Authors: Yang Cui , Guo Xiaodan , Li Yangling , Chen Jiayun , Zhu Chunyan , Wang Hao , Yang Xinyi , Huang Zhengrong , Wu Caisheng
Published: July 2022

Background
It is generally believed that the materials basis of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) are chemical substances and their metabolites entering the systemic circulation or target organs. In this case, analyzing and screening the possible pharmacodynamic substances of drugs from the perspective of in vivo exposure might provide the basis or direction for network pharmacology, a powerful tool for exploring the bioactive components and potential targets of TCM. Based on these, this study aims to develop a novel strategy to quickly screen out the pharmacodynamic substances and mechanisms of TCM in diseases, and further applied it to the pharmacodynamic substances and action mechanism study of Sinomenii Caulis (SC) in treating myocardial infarction (MI).
Methods
Firstly, ultra-high performance liquid chromatography tandem high resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC-HRMS) technology was used to study the exposed components of SC in mice. According to the main exposed components, the key genes, proteins, and mechanisms of SC in MI were predicted by network pharmacology. Finally, the effects of SC and its main pharmacodynamic substances on MI were evaluated by building a model of MI in vivo, and the possible key proteins were docked and verified by molecular docking or western blotting.
Results
The analysis of substances exposed in vivo revealed that the main exposed substances in mice were sinomenine, magnoflorine, menisperine, and their metabolites. Network pharmacology and molecular docking, combined with exposure to substances of SC in vivo, revealed that sinomenine was the potential pharmacodynamic substance of SC. By establishing a mouse model of MI in vivo, it was found that sinomenine had the same therapeutic effect on MI as SC containing the same dose of sinomenine. By western blotting and molecular docking, sinomenine was found to play a therapeutic role by inhibiting AKT phosphorylation.
Conclusions
The study indicates that the rational combination of exposure research in vivo and network pharmacology might be beneficial to discover the pharmacodynamic substances and their mechanisms of TCM. Meanwhile, this is a pioneer report that sinomenine, the main exposed substance of SC, had the same therapeutic effect on MI as SC containing the same dose of and inhibited AKT phosphorylation.
Cortistatin prevents glucocorticoid-associated osteonecrosis of the femoral head via the GHSR1a/Akt pathway
Authors: Li Weiwei , Gao Yuan , You Yunhao , Zhang Pengfei , Liu Zhicheng , Yu Ruixuan , Jin Gaoxin , Zhao Yunpeng , Xia Yanni , Li Yuhua
Published: July 2022

Long-term use of glucocorticoids (GCs) is known to be a predominant cause of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). Moreover, GCs can mediate apoptosis of various cell types by exaggerating oxidative stress. Previous studies have reported that the AKT pathway might be closely associated with apoptosis and metabolism of osteoblasts in ONFH mediated by GCs. We have previously found that cortistatin (CST) antagonizes oxidative stress and improves cell metabolism as well as apoptosis in several conditions. In this study, we detected that local and systemic CST expression levels were diminished in patients with ONFH compared with femoral neck fracture (FNF). In addition, a GC-induced rat ONFH model was established, which impaired bone quality and angiogenesis and improved osteoblastogenesis in the femoral head. Then, administration of CST attenuated these ONFH phenotypes in this model. Furthermore, osteoblast and endothelial cell lines were cultured and stimulated with dexamethasone (Dex) in the presence or absence of recombinant CST. As a result, Dex induced apoptosis and impaired anabolic metabolism of osteoblasts and suppressed tube formation as well as migration in endothelial cells, while additional treatment with CST reversed this damage to the cells. Moreover, blocking GHSR1a, a well-accepted receptor of CST, or blocking the AKT signaling pathway largely abolished the protective function of CST in Dex-induced disorder of the cells. Taken together, our results indicate that CST has the capability to prevent GC-induced apoptosis and metabolic disorder of osteoblasts in the pathogenesis of ONFH via the GHSR1a/AKT signaling pathway.
Universal compilation for quantum state tomography
Authors: Hai Vu Tuan , Binho Le
Published: July 2022

Universal compilation is a training process that compiles a trainable unitary into a target unitary. It has vast potential applications from depth-circuit compressing to device benchmarking and quantum error mitigation. Here we propose a universal compilation algorithm for quantum state tomography in low-depth quantum circuits. We apply the Fubini-Study distance as a trainable cost function and employ various gradient-based optimizations. We evaluate the performance of various trainable unitary topologies and the trainability of different optimizers for getting high efficiency and reveal the crucial role of the circuit depth in robust fidelity. The results are comparable with the shadow tomography method, a similar fashion in the field. Our work expresses the adequate capability of the universal compilation algorithm to maximize the efficiency in the quantum state tomography. Further, it promises applications in quantum metrology and sensing and is applicable in the near-term quantum computers for various quantum computing tasks.
Additional anterolateral ligament reconstruction helps patients improve dynamic postural stability in revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction
Authors: Lee Joon Kyu , Cho Seung Ik , Lee Dhong Won , Yang Sang Jin , Lee Donghwan , Kim Jin Goo
Published: July 2022

Introduction: The goal in treating anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, especially in revision cases is to return to sports activity by regaining dynamic postural stability. Additional anterolateral ligament reconstruction (ALLR) is gaining attention to achieve this goal. The purpose was to evaluate the effects of additional ALLR in revision ACL reconstruction (RACLR). Methods: Patients who underwent RACLR between July 2015 and June 2018 were enrolled. The exclusion criteria were less than the 1-year follow-up, age older than 45 years, concomitant multiple ligament injuries, contralateral knee injury, subtotal or total meniscectomized state, and cartilage lesions worse than Outerbridge grade 3. Thirty-nine patients (20 patients; RACLR only (Group A), 19 patients; RACLR with additional ALLR (Group B)) were included. Clinical scores, isokinetic strength test, single-leg-hop for distance test (SLHDT), and Y-balance test (YBT) were checked preoperatively and 1-year postoperatively.Results: Limb symmetry index values in YBT showed significantly better results in Group B 1-year postoperatively, although there were no differences preoperatively between groups. Regarding clinical scores, isokinetic strength tests, and SLHDT, there were no differences between groups preoperatively or 1-year postoperatively.Conclusion: Additional ALLR in RACLR helped patients gain better dynamic postural stability at 1-year postoperative follow-up.
Peptains Block Retinal Ganglion Cell Death in Animal Models of Ocular Hypertension: Implications for Neuroprotection in Glaucoma
Authors: Nam Mi-Hyun , Stankowska Dorota , Johnson Gretchen , Nahomi Rooban , Pantcheva Mina , Nagaraj Ram H.
Published: July 2022

Ocular hypertension is a significant risk factor for vision loss in glaucoma due to the death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). This study investigated the effects of the antiapoptotic peptides peptain-1 and peptain-3a on RGC death in vitro in rat primary RGCs and in mouse models of ocular hypertension. Apoptosis was induced in primary rat RGCs by trophic factor deprivation for 48 h in the presence or absence of peptains. The effects of intravitreally injected peptains on RGC death were investigated in mice subjected to retinal ischemic/reperfusion (I/R) injury and elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). I/R injury was induced in mice by elevating the IOP to 120 mm Hg for one h, followed by rapid reperfusion. Ocular hypertension was induced in mice by injecting microbeads (MB) or silicone oil (SO) into the anterior chamber of the eye. Whole retinal flat mounts were immunostained with RGC and activated glial markers. Effects on anterograde axonal transport were determined by intravitreal injection of cholera toxin-B (CT-B). Peptain-1 and peptain-3a inhibited neurotrophic factor deprivation-mediated RGC apoptosis by 29% and 35%, respectively. I/R injury caused 52% RGC loss, but peptain-1 and peptain-3a restricted RGC loss to 13% and 16%, respectively. MB and injections resulted in 31% and 36% loss in RGCs following 6 weeks and 4 weeks of IOP elevation, respectively. Peptain-1 and peptain-3a inhibited RGC death; the loss was only 4% and 12% in MB-injected eyes and 16% and 15% in SO-injected eyes, respectively. Anterograde transport was defective in eyes with ocular hypertension, but this defect was substantially ameliorated in peptain-injected eyes. In addition, peptains suppressed ocular hypertension-mediated retinal glial activation. Peptains block RGC somal and axonal damage and neuroinflammation in animal models of glaucoma. Peptain-1 and − 3a have the potential to be developed as therapeutics against neurodegeneration in glaucoma.
Observer-based decentralized fuzzy control for connected nonlinear vehicle systems
Authors: Meng Li , Chen Yong , Hu Kun , Pan Chengwei , Mao Zhenhai
Published: July 2022

This article analyzes the tracking control of a type of connected nonlinear vehicle system, where the problem of hacker attacks and external disturbance is considered . A decentralized fuzzy control method based on observer is constructed. Specifically, first of all, the mathematical model of an automobile system with disturbance and false data injection attacks is built, which is composed of a head vehicle and N following vehicles. Then, in order to obtain prior knowledge of disturbance and states, a disturbance estimator on fuzzy sliding mode technique is proposed and a state observer is designed. Thirdly, an observer-based decentralized secure control strategy via fuzzy and backstepping control technique is designed to achieve the tracking control. Furthermore, the boundness of closed-loop signals and existence of appropriate safety distance between vehicles are certificated by Lyapunov theory. Finally, the potential of presented approaches are simultaneously illustrated by a numerical simulation and a semi-physical simulation.
Effectively Improving the Anti-corrosive Properties of Triazine-based Mixed Corrosion Inhibitors by the Adjustment of Bridge Heteroatoms: a Combined DFT and MD Simulation Study
Authors: Jia Xiao-yu , Xu Yan , WU QIONG , Zhu Wei-hua
Published: July 2022

In this study, to develop new advanced corrosion inhibitors with high corrosion inhibition efficiency at low concentration, a simple but effective strategy that is the adjustment of bridge heteroatoms in a mixed corrosion inhibitor named 2-(n-hexylamino)-4-(3-N,N-dimethylaminopropyl)amino-6-(2-aminobenzimidazol)-1,3,5-s-triazine (BDCT) was used to improve the anti-corrosive properties. Two series of new compounds were designed by adjusting three bridge N atoms in BDCT by different number of O and S atoms at three different positions. The molecular structures and different kinds of anti-corrosive properties of 14 designed compounds were investigated by the DFT and MD methods. The results showed that when compared to BDCT, the molecular area, electrophilicity, electronegativity, strength of feed-back bonding, softness, chemical reactivity and binding energy on the Fe(110) surface were improved obviously by the introduced bridge O and S atoms, leading to higher corrosion inhibition efficiency. This effect could be further enhanced with the increased number of them, and S atoms were found to better than O atoms obviously. The introduction positions of O and S atoms also made effects on anti-corrosive properties, introducing them at the R1 position was more helpful for improving anti-corrosive properties than R2 than R3. As a result, the compound with three bridge S atoms (B7) has the best anti-corrosive properties. The adsorption sites, type of bonding with metals and corrosion inhibition mechanism of BDCT were also changed completely by O and S atoms.
Investigation of Cyclo-Z Therapeutic Effect on Insulin Pathway in Alzheimer's Rat Model: Biochemical and Electrophysiological Parameters
Authors: Acun Alev Duygu , Kantar Deniz , Er Hakan , Erkan Orhan , Derin Narin , Yargıcoglu Piraye
Published: July 2022

Background
Cyclo (his-pro-CHP) plus zinc (Zn+ 2) (Cyclo-Z) is the only chemical agent known to stimulate IDE synthesis and reduction of inactive cellular insulin fragments.
Objectives
The aim of this study was to characterize the effects of Cyclo-Z on insulin pathway, memory functions and brain oscillations in the Alzheimer's disease (AD) rat model.
Methods
The rat model of AD was established by bilateral injection of Aβ42 oligomer (2,5nmol/10µl) into the lateral ventricles. Cyclo-Z (10mg Zn+ 2/kg and 0,2mg CHP/kg, daily) was administered orally by gavage for 21 days. At the end of the experimental period, memory tests and electrophysiological recordings were performed which followed by the biochemical analysis.
Results
Aβ42 oligomers led to a significant increase in fasting blood glucose, serum insülin, Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance(HOMA-IR) and phospho-tau-Ser356 levels. Moreover, Aβ42 oligomers caused a significant decrement in body weight, hippocampal insulin, brain insulin receptor substrate(IRS-Ser612), and glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta(GSK-3β) levels. Also, Aβ42 oligomers resulted in a significant reduction in memory. The Cyclo-Z treatment prevented the observed alterations in the ADZ group except for phospho-tau levels and attenuated the increased Aβ42 oligomers levels in the ADZ group. We also found that the Aβ42 oligomer decreased the left temporal spindle and delta power during ketamine anesthesia. Cyclo-Z treatment reversed the Aβ42 oligomer-related alterations in the left temporal spindle power.
Conclusions
Cyclo-Z prevents Aβ oligomer-induced changes in the insulin pathway, amyloid toxicity, and may contribute to the improvement of memory deficits and neural network dynamics in this rat model.
Binding organophosphate pesticides to acetylcholinesterase: Risk assessment using the Monte Carlo method
Authors: Toropova Alla P. , Toropov Andrey A. , Roncaglioni Alessandra , Benfenati Emilio
Published: July 2022

Binding to acetylcholinesterase may cause toxic effects in humans. Organophosphates simultaneously are both dangerous and useful substances: dangerous since they are employed in chemical warfare; and useful when they are applied as pesticides. Here we suggest the models for organophosphates binding to acetylcholinesterase developed via representing the molecular structure by a simplified molecular input-line entry system (SMILES) using so-called optimal SMILES-based descriptors calculated with the Monte Carlo technique using the CORAL software available on the Internet (http://www.insilico.eu/coral). Quantitative structure-activity relationships (QSARs) serve to develop predictive models for organophosphates. The predictive potential of these models is quite good: the determination coefficient for the validation set ranged from 0.87 to 0.90. These models were built up according to the principle "QSAR is a random event", i.e. predictive potential of an approach should be checked up with several splits of available data into the training and test sets. The special scheme of mechanistic interpretation definition is represented. The mechanistic interpretation is based on probabilities of molecular features to be in the sub-group of promoters of increase for endpoint or in sub-group of promoters of its' decrease.
The LMR-SSIGN-MAPS model Predicts Disease-free Survival in Patients with Localized Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: wen hongzhuang , zhang yong , Yang Zhan , Zhai Zhao , Wang Mingshuai , Shi Hongzhe , Chen Xi , Wahafu Wasilijiang , Guan Kaopeng , Wang Xiaolu
Published: July 2022

Background: To develop a comprehensive model for predicting disease-free survival (DFS) in patients with localized clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Methods: A retrospective analysis of 612 patients was performed between 2010 and 2015.The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression analysis was performed to identify significant predictors. Furthermore, the multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed to reconfirm risk factors, then the prognosis model was constructed. The Harrell’s concordance index (C-index) was conducted to assess the model’s accuracy for predicting DFS in localized ccRCC.Results: The lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) (HR: 1.04, P = 0.009), the Mayo Clinic stage, size, grade, and necrosis score (SSIGN) (HR: 1.36, P < 0.001) and Mayo adhesive probability score (MAPS) (HR: 1.99, P＜0.001) were the significant risk factors screened by LASSO Cox regression and reconfirmed by multivariate Cox regression analysis in 44 variables. The LMR-SSIGN-MAPS model was constructed by combining the LMR, SSIGN, and MAPS. In the training and validation cohorts, the Harrell’s C-index was larger for the LMR-SSIGN-MAPS model (0.854, 0.848) than the SSIGN score (0.782, 0.772). The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis demonstrated the significant association between higher LMR-SSIGN-MAPS score and poorer DFS (P < 0.001) in the overall cohorts.Conclusions: The LMR-SSIGN-MAPS model which consists of preoperative inflammation biomarkers, perinephric adipose tissue image-based scoring system, and pathological features showed the strengths of easy-to-use and high predictability and might be also used as a promising prognosis model in predicting DFS for patients with localized ccRCC.
Functional modular networks identify the pivotal genes associated with morphine addiction and potential drug therapies
Authors: Jiang Yage , Wei Donglei , Xie Yubo
Published: July 2022

Background
Chronic morphine usage induces lasting molecular and microcellular adaptations in distinct brain areas, resulting in addiction-related behavioural abnormalities, drug-seeking, and relapse. Nonetheless, the mechanisms of action of the genes responsible for morphine addiction have not been exhaustively studied.
Methods
We obtained morphine addiction-related datasets from the GEO database and screened for differential genes (DEGs) by GEO2R analysis.WGCNA functional modularity constructs were analyzed for genes associated with clinical traits. Venn diagrams were filtered for intersecting common differential genes (CDEGs). Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis for functional annotation. Protein-protein interaction network (PPI) and CytoHubba were used to screen for hub genes (Hub). Potential treatments for morphine addiction were figured out with the help of an online database.
Results
65 common differential genes linked to morphine addiction were identified, and functional enrichment analysis showed that they were primarily involved in ion channel activity, protein transport, the oxytocin signalling pathway, neuroactive ligand-receptor interactions, and other signalling pathways. Based on the PPI network, ten Hub genes (Chn2, Olig2, Ugt8a, Cacnb2, Timp3, Fkbp5, Zbtb16, Tsc22d3, Isl1, and Slc2a1) were checked. In the data set GSE7762, all of the AUC values for the Hub gene ROC curves were greater than 0.8. We also used the DGIdb database to look for eight small-molecule drugs that might be useful for treating morphine addiction.
Conclusions
The Hub genes are crucial genes associated with morphine addiction in the mouse striatum, and morphine addiction is highly correlated with these genes. The oxytocin signalling pathway may play a vital role in developing morphine addiction.
Genome-wide identification and ABCE-class proposal of the MADS-box gene family in Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge
Authors: Cui Ning , Guo Fengdan , Chen Weixu , Liao Baosheng , Chu Yang , Li Xiwen , Wang Ping
Published: July 2022

MADS-box transcription factors, as the heart of the classic ABCE model of floral development, play critical roles in several aspects of plant flowering. In recent years, to comprehensively utilise and improve the added value of Chinese herbal medicine, the non-medicinal part (flower) development of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge has been promoted, thereby focusing the attention of researchers on the flower organ of S. miltiorrhiza. However, an analysis of the complete MADS-box family along with a comprehensive expression profiling was still awaited after the completion of S. miltiorrhiza genome sequencing. This work systematically characterised S. miltiorrhiza MADS-box genes (SmiMADSes) and predicted those likely involved in the floral development of this medicinal plant. Seventy-two MADS-box genes were identified in the S. miltiorrhiza genome and categorised into MIKC*, MIKCc, Mα, Mβ and Mγ groups based on phylogeny. Genomic localisation analysis revealed that these genes were evenly localised on 10 genome scaffolds. The expression profiles of all the SmiMADSes were analysed in four organs and four flower tissues, as well as in the three stages of floral development. Transcripts for 13 genes accumulated preferentially in flowers. SmiMADS44 was specifically expressed in stems. SmiMADS57 and SmiMADS31 showed specific expressions in roots and leaves, respectively. Based on transcriptome data and homology with functionally validated ABCE class genes in Arabidopsis, a prediction was made to gain insight into ABCE-class SmiMADSes that were strongly expressed in all flowering stages of S. miltiorrhiza, including the following: SmiMADS65 and SmiMADS67 of A-class; SmiMADS26, SmiMADS28 and SmiMADS29 of B-class; SmiMADS45, SmiMADS50 and SmiMADS51 of C-class; and SmiMADS70, SmiMADS71 and SmiMADS72 of E-class. The results of this study lay a foundation for the further exploration of molecular and regulatory mechanisms controlling floral organ development and provide a basis for the selection of candidate genes for functional validation studies.
Investigation of poor prognostic factors in extensive-stage small cell lung cancer under etoposide- platinum-atezolizumab treatment
Authors: Lim Jeong Uk , Kang Hye Seon , Shin Ah Young , Yeo Chang Dong , Kim Sung Kyoung , Kim Jin Woo , Kim Seung Joon , Lee Sang Haak
Published: July 2022

The phase III trial IMpower133 showed that platinum and etoposide plus atezolizumab was associated with improved overall survival (OS) and progression free-survival (PFS) when compared to the placebo group in treatment-naïve extensive-stage (ES)-small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Due to superiority in clinical outcomes, combination immunotherapy plus chemotherapy became mainstay treatment modalities as first line treatment in ES-SCLC. Nevertheless, real-world data are still lacking and search for potential biomarkers is necessary. This study aims to evaluate potential predictive biomarkers applicable in ES-SCLC under the combination therapy. Patients with ES-SCLC who are under etoposide-platinum-atezolizumab enrolled from 7 university hospitals affiliated to the Catholic University of Korea were evaluated. Pretreatment clinical parameters were evaluated for association with OS and PFS. Adverse events (AEs) during induction and maintenance phases were also evaluated. P-value below 0.05 was counted as statistically significant. Total of 41 patients were evaluated. Six-month survival was 68.6%. As best response to treatment, 26 (63.4%) showed partial response, 9 (22.0%) showed stable disease, and 4 (9.8%) showed progressive disease. During induction phase, grade I-II AEs occurred in 22 (53.7%) patients, and grade III-IV AEs occurred in 26 (63.4%) patients. During maintenance phase, 9 out of 25 (36.0%) patients experienced any grade AEs. In multivariate analysis for OS, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), c-reactive protein (CRP), and forced vital capacity (%) were significant factors. In multivariate analysis for PFS, sex, and LDH were significant. In ES-SCLC under etoposide-platinum-atezolizumab, pretreatment CRP, LDH and FVC (%) were independent prognostic factors.
How does Apolipoprotein E genotype influence the relationship between physical activity and Alzheimer’s disease risk? A novel integrative model
Authors: Lucas Jaisalmer Frutos , Sewell Kelsey , García-Colomo Alejandra , Markovic Shaun , Erickson Kirk I. , Brown Belinda M.
Published: July 2022

Background: Wide evidence suggests that physical activity (PA) confers protection against Alzheimer’s disease (AD). On the other hand, the Apolipoprotein E gene (APOE) ε4 allele represents the greatest genetic risk factor for developing AD. Extensive research has been conducted to determine whether frequent PA can mitigate the increased AD risk associated with APOE ε4. However, thus far these attempts have produced inconclusive results. In this context, one possible explanation could be that the influence of the combined effect of PA and APOE ε4 carriage might be dependent on the specific outcome measure utilized.Main body: In order to bridge these discrepancies, the aim of this theoretical article is to propose a novel model on the interactive effects of PA and APOE ε4 carriage on well-established mechanisms underlying AD. Available literature was searched to investigate how PA and APOE ε4 carriage, independently and in combination, may alter several molecular pathways involved in AD pathogenesis. The reviewed mechanisms include amyloid beta (Aβ) and tau deposition and clearance, neuronal resilience and neurogenesis, lipid function and cerebrovascular alterations, brain immune response and glucose metabolism. Finally, combining all this information we have built an integrative model, which includes evidence-based and theoretical synergistic interactions across mechanisms. Moreover, we have identified key knowledge gaps in the literature, providing a list of testable hypotheses that future studies need to address. Conclusions: We conclude that PA influences a wide array of molecular targets involved in AD neuropathology. A deeper understanding of where, when and, most importantly, how PA decreases AD risk even in the presence of the APOE ε4 allele will enable the creation of new protocols using exercise along pharmaceuticals in combined therapeutic approaches.
An Alternative Modeling and Control Approach for Fixed Boundary Motion Requirement in Industrial Automation and Robotics Using Constraint Following Method
Authors: Zhang Xinrong , Zhao Ruiying , Chen Ye-Hwa , Zhang Xiaoyan
Published: July 2022

In industrial automation and robotics, the motion control of the automatic equipment (e.g., mobile robots, assembling manipulators, machine tools, etc.) is an important task for intelligent and flexible manufacturing. Because of the limited space on the factory floor and limited operating conditions, most tasks require work in confined spaces and subject to regulatory requirements. This confined motion control objective is considered as the constraints in the paper (hence, it belongs to the constraint following control field). There are two categories of constraints for the motion control: equality and inequality which are corresponding to the two motion requirements. The problem of motion requirement with fixed boundary has not been solved systematically using constraint following method. The equation of motion for a constrained mechanical system which addresses both constraints is presented. This can be considered a generalization of the Udwadia-Kalaba (U-K) equation. The advantages of the equation include that it does not require additional pseudo variables and the solution is analytical. This exhibits profound applications. As a demonstration, a pan/tilt device mounted under the firefighting unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is manipulated. The water-jet nozzle need motion requirements of swaying horizontally and not overshooting limits in vertical. Simulation and experimental results are presented to validate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Inventory System with Generalized Triangular Neutrosophic Cost Pattern incorporating Maximum Lifetime based Deterioration and Novel Demand through PSO
Authors: Bhavani G. Durga , Mahapatra G S
Published: July 2022

At the manufacturing plant or while the products are being transferred from one supply layer to another, there is a considerable possibility of receiving damaged or faulty items mixed in with non-defective commodities.
This research focuses on the non-defective and defective products that are shipped to retailers by their suppliers. The retailer reworks faulty items to make them non-defective, and the retailer receives a discount on the cost of purchasing defective items.
The presented inventory system addresses the uncertainty in inventory costs and also considers the deterioration of items with prioritized maximum product life. In this study, our aim is to minimize the total inventory cost when demand rate as a function of quality and power pattern of time under crisp and generalized triangular neutrosophic environments.
Based on the payment deal, interest charges are imposed only when the payment delay has passed a particular allowable time limit.
The neutrosophic number, which provides three different types of membership functions representing truth, hesitation, and falseness, is used in the inventory model to handle the cost pattern's uncertainty. A particle swarm optimization approach is used to analyze the proposed inventory model, and the results are validated using a numerical example and sensitivity analysis for various parameters.
Improving awareness of kidney function through electronic urine output monitoring: a comparative study
Authors: Murad Omar , Cruz Daniel F Orjuela , Goldman Aliza , Stern Tal , Heerden Peter Vernon van
Published: July 2022

Background: The current classification for acute kidney injury (AKI) according to the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria integrates both serum creatinine (SCr) and UO. Most reports on AKI claim to use KDIGO guidelines but fail to include the UO criterion. It has been shown that patients who had intensive UO monitoring, with or without AKI, had significantly less cumulative fluid volume and fluid overload, reduced vasopressor use, and improved 30-day mortality. We examined whether real-time monitoring of this simple, sensitive, and easy-to-use biomarker in the ICU led to more appropriate intervention by healthcare providers and better outcomes. Methods: RenalSense Clarity RMS Consoles were installed in the General ICU at the Hadassah Medical Center, Israel, from Dec 2019 to Nov 2020. Using its Sensor Kit, the system continuously monitors UO in real-time. 100 patients were randomly selected from this period as the study group (UOreal-time) and compared to a matched control group (UOmanual) from the same period two years earlier. To test whether there was an association between oliguric hours and fluid treatment in each group, the correlation was calculated and analyzed for each of the different UO monitoring methods. Results: Therapeutic intervention: The correlation of the sum of all oliguric hours on Day 1 and 2 with the sum of any therapeutic intervention (fluid bolus or furosemide) showed a significant correlation for the study group UOreal-time (P = 0.017). The matched control group UOmanual showed no such correlation (P = 0.932). Length of Stay (LOS): Median LOS [IQR] in the ICU of UOreal-time versus UOmanual was 69.46 [44.7, 125.9] hours and 116.5 [62.46, 281.3] hours, respectively (P = 0.0002). Conclusions: The results of our study strongly suggest that ICU patients had more meaningful and better medical intervention, and improved outcomes, with electronic UO monitoring than with manual monitoring.
Validation of SIMIND Monte Carlo for 99mTc and 177Lu
Authors: Domenico Giovanni Di , Biaso Simona Di , Longo Lorenzo , Turra Alessandro , Tonini Eugenia , Longo MariaConcetta , Uccelli Licia , Bartolomei Mirco
Published: July 2022

Purpose : Monte Carlo (MC) simulation in Nuclear Medicine is a powerful tool for modelling many physical phenomena which are difficult to track or to measure directly. MC simulation in SPECT/CT imaging is particularly suitable for optimizing the quantification of activity in a patient, and, consequently, the absorbed dose to each organ. To do so, it is mandatory validate MC results with real data acquired with gamma camera. The aim of this study was the validation of SIMIND Monte Carlo code for modelling a Siemens Symbia Intevo Excel SPECT-CT gamma camera both for 99m Tc and 177 Lu. Methods : Phantom experiments using 99m Tc and 177 Lu have been performed with the purpose to measure spatial resolution, sensitivity and evaluate the calibration factor (CF) and recovery coefficients (RC) from acquired data. The geometries used for 2D planar imaging were (1) Petri dish and (2) capillary source while for 3D volumetric imaging were (3) a uniform filled cylinder phantom and (4) a Jaszczack phantom with spheres with different volumes. The experimental results have been compared with the results obtained from Monte Carlo simulations performed in the same geometries. Results : Comparison shows good accordance between simulated and experimental data. The measured planar spatial resolution was 8.3±0.8mm for 99m Tc and 12.2±0.7mm for 177 Lu. The corresponding data obtained by SIMIND for 99mTc was 7.4±0.1 mm, while for 177Lu was 11.7±0.1 mm. The CF was 110.1±5.5 cps/MBq for Technetium and 18.3±1.0 cps/MBq for Lutetium. The corresponding CF obtained by SIMIND for 99mTc was 100.1±0.3 cps/MBq, while for 177 Lu 20.4±0.7 cps/MBq. Moreover, a complete curve RCs vs Volume (ml) both for Technetium and Lutetium was determined to correct the PVE for all volumes of clinical interest. In none of the cases a RC factor equal to 100 was found. Conclusions : The results of validation process show that SIMIND can be used for simulating both gamma camera planar and SPECT images of Siemens Symbia Intevo using 99mTc and 177Lu radionuclides for different medical purposes and treatments.
Activation of the NF-κB pathway by the Human Cytomegalovirus Envelope Protein gpUL132 in human trophoblast cells
Authors: Huang Ying , Wang Min
Published: July 2022

Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a widespread double-stranded DNA virus, which can cause serious complications in fetuses and neonates after infection by pregnant women. HCMV can synthesize a variety of glycoproteins, among which gpUL132,a 270-amino-acid type I envelope glycoprotein has attracted more and more attention because it was found to be involved in the formation of viral assembly compartment in recent years. Human placental trophoblast cells, as the first layer of placental barrier cells, can play an antiviral role after pathogen invasion. However, whether gpUL132 is involved in HCMV infection of human placental trophoblast cells and its specific mechanism is still unclear. In this study, we found gpUL132 protein of HCMV could activate the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathway induced by polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid [poly(I:C)], a synthetic analog of double-stranded RNA. Poly(I:C) treatment induced a higher level of P65 phosphorylation in HPT-8 cells expressing gpUL132 as compared to control cells. Additionally, HCMV gpUL132 activated NF-κB P65 via the toll-interleukin 1 receptor homology-domain-containing adapter-inducing interferon-β (TRIF)-dependent TLR3 pathway. Finally, gpUL132 protein could increase the TRIF level by extending its half-life.
Association of MARCH7 with tumor progression and T-cell infiltration in esophageal cancer
Authors: Singh Shivam , Bano Arjumand , Saraya Anoop , Das Prasenjit , Sharma Rinu
Published: July 2022

MARCH7 is an E3 ubiquitin ligase known to regulate neuronal development, T-cell proliferation, and cell and tissue differentiation. But, the altered expression of MARCH7 has been observed in various malignancies. Herein, the cellular localization and role of MARCH7have been elucidated in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), the information regarding which is currently limited. To check the expression of MARCH7 and its correlation with immune cells infiltration in ESCC, immunohistochemical analysis was performed. RNAi approach was used to investigate the role of MARCH7 in esophagealcancer cells. Interestingly, we found a significantly higher expression of MARCH7 protein in 84% of ESCC tissues than in distant matched non-malignant tissues (p ≤ 0.001). In addition to this, immunohistochemistry results have shown a negative correlation between MARCH7 protein expression and tumor-infiltrating immune cells such as CD8 + T cells (r=-0.667, p = 0.035) and PD1 + T cells (r=-0.509, p = 0.133). Furthermore, MARCH7 silencing inhibited the ESCC cell growth and reduced the clonogenic and invasion/migration potential of ESCC cells. MARCH7 silencing also significantly increased E-cadherin protein levels in ESCC cells relative to those in negative control cells (p < 0.05). Thus, MARCH7 is oncogenic and might have a possible role in esophageal carcinogenesis. Moreover, E-cadherin may be a downstream target of MARCH7 in ESCC.