bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphology And Status Transition Monitoring For Mouse Embryonic Stem Cell Colonies In Virto By LSTM Networks With Progressive Training Using Fluorescence Microscopy Images
Authors: Chu Slo-Li , Abe Kuniya , Yokota Hideo , Tsai Ming-Dar
Published: August 2021

Purpose Embryonic stem (ES) cells represent as a cellular resource for basic biological studies and for their uses as medically relevant cells in in vitro studies. Fluorescence microscopy images taken during cell culture are frequently used to manually monitor time-series morphology changes and status transitions of ES cell (ESC) colonies, and to study dynamical pattern formation and heterogeneity distribution within ESC colonies, intrinsic fluctuation and cell-cell cooperativity. Therefore, tracking and furthermore predicting morphology changes and status transitions of ESC colonies is an effective method to monitor culture medium for maintaining ES cells in undifferentiated or early differentiated stage. Methods A P-LSTM (Progressive Long Short-Term Memory) structure is proposed to incorporate some new time-lapse images real-time taken from incubators for a new RNN (Recurrent Neural Networks) training. The P-LSTM can achieve adaptive long- and short- term memories to generate accurate predicted images. On the time-lapse images, entropy and bi-lateral filtering are used to extract the range of every colony to calculate colony morphology. Colony status transitions between consecutive images are calculated by mapping the calculated colony centers and ranges. Results Accuracies for the colony status transition, area and roundness for the 15 predicted (five-hour) future frames calculated from 1500-2500 colonies for respective frames show the effectiveness of the proposed method.Conclusion We proposed an efficient and automatic method to predict and monitor status transitions and morphology changes of mouse ESC colonies in culture using time-lapse fluorescence microscopy images.
Thermo-Sensitive Electroactive Hydrogel Combined With Electrical Stimulation For Repair of Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Liu Wei , Luo Yiqian , Ning Cong , Zhang Wenjing , Zhang Qingzheng , Zou Haifeng , Fu Changfeng
Published: August 2021

The strategy of using a combination of scaffold-based physical and biochemical cues to repair spinal cord injury (SCI) has shown promising results. However, integrating conductivity and neurotrophins into a scaffold that recreates the electrophysiologic and nutritional microenvironment of the spinal cord (SC) remains challenging. In this study we investigated the therapeutic potential of a soft thermo-sensitive polymer electroactive hydrogel (TPEH) loaded with nerve growth factor (NGF) combined with functional electrical stimulation (ES) for the treatment of SCI. The developed hydrogel exhibits outstanding electrical conductance upon ES, with continuous release of NGF for at least 24 days. In cultured nerve cells, TPEH loaded with NGF promoted the neuronal differentiation of neural stem cells and axonal growth, an effect that was potentiated by ES. In a rat model of SCI, TPEH combined with NGF and ES stimulated endogenous neurogenesis and improved motor function. These results indicate that the TPEH scaffold that combines ES and biochemical cues can effectively promote SC tissue repair.
Scientometric Analysis and Identification of Research Trends in Microplastics Research for 2011-2019
Authors: Sharma Deepika , Jaiswal Shreya , Kaur Gurjot
Published: August 2021

Microplastics pollution of our environment has seen major data reporting in the last decade. Microplastics produce harmful effects on marine organisms and in humans. In this scientometric study, we have evaluated literature between years 2011-2019. Our data shows that publications counts are increasing with an important role for China and its funding agencies in the field. A majority of research articles were published by authors affiliated with Chinese Academy of Sciences. Journals ‘Marine Pollution Bulletin’ and ‘Environmental Pollution’ were identified as important Journals with 273 and 185 research publications, respectively. We have also identified the upcoming research trend and shift from microplastics presence in water to microplastics presence in air. A major shift is observed in year 2017 and United Kingdom is leading this field with 11 publications with top authors affiliated to University of Plymouth. Interestingly, the Journal Environmental Pollution has published the most research articles (~20%). Our co-authorship analysis demonstrated that China (and it’s institutions and authors) is the most collaborative country followed by the United States, together forming top cluster with a link strength of 42. Finally, our analysis provides information about prospective research and emerging trends that can be explored in the coming years.
Comparative Study of the Percutaneous Endoscopic Interlaminar Approach and Transforaminal Approach in the Treatment of Calcified Lumbar Disc Herniation
Authors: Cheng Yuanpei , Zhang Qianru , Cheng Xiaokang , Li Yongbo , Chen Xipeng , Wu Han
Published: August 2021

Background: Percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD) is a relatively safe and effective minimally invasive surgery in the treatment of calcified lumbar disc herniation (CLDH). However, studies on percutaneous endoscopic interlaminar discectomy (PEID) and percutaneous endoscopic transforaminal discectomy (PETD) for CLDH have rarely been reported. This research aimed to compare the clinical efficacy of PEID and PETD for L5-S1 CLDH.Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 42 consecutive patients with L5-S1 CLDH treated with PELD at our institution from August 2016 to December 2019. Patients were divided into PEID group (n = 24) and PETD (n = 18) group according to the surgical methods. The demographic characteristics and surgical results of the two groups were compared. Clinical outcomes were estimated by the visual analog scale (VAS) for leg pain, Oswestry disability index (ODI) and modified MacNab criteria.Results: All patients were successfully operated on by PEID or PETD. No significant differences in the demographic characteristics, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative hospital stay and complication rate were noted between the PEID and PETD groups (P > 0.05). The excellent and good rates in the PEID group were similar to those in the PETD group (91.67% vs 88.89%, P > 0.05), whereas the PEID group exhibited superior results for operative time (m) (64.58 ± 5.88 vs 85.56 ± 9.06, P < 0.05) and fluoroscopy times (n) (2.96 ± 0.96 vs 13.33 ± 2.64, P < 0.05) compared with the PETD group.Conclusions: PEID had achieved good clinical efficacy as PETD for L5-S1 CLDH. Compared with PETD, PEID had the advantages of shorter operative time and a reduced number of fluoroscopy times in the treatment of CLDH.
Estimation of the Onset Rate and the Number of Asymptomatic Patients of COVID-19 From the Proportion of Untraceable Patients
Authors: Odagaki Takashi
Published: August 2021

A simple method is devised to estimate the onset rate of COVID-19 from the proportion of untraceable patients tested positive, which allows us to obtain the number of asymptomatic patients, the number of infectious patients and the effective reproduction number. The recent data in Tokyo indicate that there are about six times as many infectious patients in the city as the daily confirmed new cases. It is shown that a quarantine measure on non-symptomatic patients is critically important in controlling the pandemic.
Prevalence of Hepatopancreatic Injury and Clinical Outcomes in Patients with COVID-19 in United States
Authors: Rastogi Vaibhav , Banwait Ranjit , Singh Devina , Toklu Hale , Finer Lexie , Parajuli Dipendra , Ganti Latha
Published: August 2021

Background: 1) To determine the prevalence of hepatopancreatic injury in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients. 2) To correlate hepatopancreatic injury in COVID-19 with mortality, disease severity and length of stay in this cohort.Results: 45,360 patients were included in the analysis, 62.82% of which had either hepatic or pancreatic injury. There was a significant upward trend in transaminases, alkaline phosphatase, prothrombin time, bilirubin, lactate dehydrogenase and lipase and a downward trend in albumin with increase in disease severity. COVID-19 positive patients with hepato-pancreatic injury have a significantly higher mortality (OR 3.39, 95%CI 3.15-3.65) after controlling for the differences in age, sex, race/ethnicity, liver cirrhosis and medication exposures. They also have increased disease severity (OR 2.7, 95%CI 2.5-2.9 critical vs mild/moderate; OR 1.4, 95% CI 1.3-1.5 severe vs mild/moderate) and longer hospital length of stay (2 days).Conclusion: COVID-19 can cause liver injury. Mortality, disease severity and hospital length of stay are increased in COVID-19 patients with hepatopancreatic injury.
Dynamic GAN for High-Quality Sign Language Video Generation from Skeletal poses using Generative Adversarial Networks
Authors: Natarajan B , R Elakkiya
Published: August 2021

The emergence of unsupervised generative models has resulted in greater performance in image and video generation tasks. However, existing generative models pose huge challenges in high-quality video generation process due to blurry and inconsistent results. In this paper, we introduce a novel generative framework named Dynamic Generative Adversarial Networks (Dynamic GAN) model for regulating the adversarial training and generating photorealistic high-quality sign language videos from skeletal poses. The proposed model comprises three stages of development such as generator network, classification and image quality enhancement and discriminator network. In the generator fold, the model generates samples similar to real images using random noise vectors, the classification of generated samples are carried out using the VGG-19 model and novel techniques are employed for improving the quality of generated samples in the second fold of the model and finally the discriminator networks fold identifies the real or fake samples. Unlike, existing approaches the proposed novel framework produces photo-realistic video quality results without using any animation or avatar approaches. To evaluate the model performance qualitatively and quantitatively, the proposed model has been evaluated using three benchmark datasets that yield plausible results. The datasets are RWTH-PHOENIX-Weather 2014T dataset, and our self-created dataset for Indian Sign Language (ISL-CSLTR), and the UCF-101 Action Recognition dataset. The output samples and performance metrics show the outstanding performance of our model.
Anemia Is a Predictive Factor for Overall Survival Rate in Patients With Non-small Cell Lung Cancer Treated With Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy
Authors: Tanaka Hidekazu , Ono Taiki , Manabe Yuki , Kajima Miki , Fujimoto Koya , Yuasa Yuki , Shiinoki Takehiro , Yamaji Yoshikazu , Matsunaga Kazuto
Published: August 2021

Purpose: Anemia has been associated with poor prognosis in patients with cancer across several cancer types. It has been identified as a prognostic factor in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who have undergone surgery or chemoradiotherapy. However, there are only a few reports that have evaluated the prognostic significance of anemia in patients with NSCLC undergoing stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). Material and Methods: A total of 77 patients were enrolled this study. The pretreatment hemoglobin (Hb) levels, within 2 weeks before SBRT, were available for all patients. The median age of the participants (56 men, 21 women) was 80 (range, 50-90) years. The median Hb level was 12.8 (range, 7.8-18.3) g/dL. The median follow-up period was 24 (range, 1-87) months. Results: Local recurrence was observed in 8 (10.4%) cases during the follow-up period. The 1- and 2-year local control (LC) rates were 94.8 and 86.4%, respectively. Seventeen (22.1%) patients died during the follow-up period. The 1- and 2-year overall survival (OS) rates were 93.1 and 85.2%, respectively. Univariate analysis identified anemia and body mass index as significant prognostic factors for predicting OS. On multivariate analysis, anemia was confirmed to be the only significant factor (p = 0.02469). Conclusion: Our data suggest that anemia is a prognostic factor for predicting the OS rate in patients with early-stage NSCLC treated with SBRT.
Explainable Learning Based on Hyperparameters Optimization of Lightweight Spatiotemporal Models for Cellular Traffic Prediction
Authors: Chien Wei-Che , Cho Hsin-Hung , Tseng Fan-Hsun , Chen Shih-Yeh
Published: August 2021

The rapid development of the Internet of Things and multimedia applications has led to an exponential growth in mobile network traffic year by year. In order to meet the demand for large amounts of data transmission and solve the problem of insufficient spectrum resources, millimeter waves are adopted for 5G communication. For B5G/6G, effective use of spectrum resources is one of the key technologies for the development of mobile communications. Therefore, this study uses a lightweight neural network to predict cellular traffic based on regional data, considering the data types of temporal and spatial dependence at the same time. Furthermore, in order to optimize the prediction performance and reduce the number of parameters of the neural network, this study uses a meta-heuristic algorithm to adjust the hyperparameters and combines local and global explanations to interpret the improvement of traffic prediction. The local explanations show the adjustment results of a single hyperparameter, and global explanations show the correlation between different hyperparameters and their influence on the amount and accuracy of model parameters. The simulation results show that compared with adjustment strategies of the manual method and greedy algorithm, the proposed explainable learning method can effectively improve the accuracy of cellular traffic prediction, reduce the number of parameters and provide a reasonable explanation.
Defining the Learning Curve Is Necessary to Improve Oocyte Retrieval Skills: Lessons From a Single High-volume Reproductive Center
Authors: Cao Mingzhu , Liu Zhi , Li Sichen , Wu Yixuan , Liu Haiying , Huang Qing , Liu Jianqiao
Published: August 2021

Background: A lack of formal and standard training program of assisted reproductive techniques, including oocyte retrieval procedure, is one common problem in China. It is obscure that how a novice trainee was trained to be qualified to perform oocyte retrieval procedure. The objective of this study was to determine the novice trainee’s learning curve for oocytes retrieval procedure through assessment of oocytes retrieval efficiency, operative time, and other operative characteristics. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 200 consecutive patients undergoing transvaginal ultrasound guided oocytes retrieval procedure. Those patients underwent oocyte retrieval procedure by a single operator and one experienced supervisor. Their clinical data, including demographic data, ovarian stimulation cycle information, surgical procedure, and laboratory data were collected over 3 months. CUSUM analyses based on the operative time were performed to determine the learning curve. Results: The mean operative time was 10.10 min. Based on the CUSUM plot of operative time, the learning curve can be divided into three separated phases, phase 1 (case 1 to case 49) was learning phase, phase 2 (case 50 to case 130) was acquisition phase, and phase 3 (case 131 to case 200) was proficiency phase. The operative time was significantly shortened from phase 1 to phase 3 (phase 1, 13.37 ± 4.83min; phase 2, 10.21 ± 3.30 min; phase 3, 7.67 ± 3.24 min, P < 0.001). The oocyte retrieval efficiency was also notably improved from phase 1 to phase 3 (78.2% to 100% based on method 1 to determine oocyte retrieval efficiency, and 104.2% to 121.1% based on method 2 to determine oocyte retrieval efficiency). The retrieved oocytes number, the fertilization rate, clinical pregnancy rate among the three phases showed no significant differences. No patients had severe adverse events. As determined by multiple linear regression, learning phase is the only independent predictor of oocyte retrieval efficiency. Conclusion: Trainees practice transvaginal ultrasound guided oocytes retrieval are expected to achieve a stabilized procedure over consecutive training cases, with acquisition of the skills at 49 cases, and proficiency at 130 cases. Cumulative operative experience can improve the operative time and oocytes retrieval efficiency, but showed minimal influence on retrieved oocytes number and reproductive outcomes.
The Prevalence of Community Acquired Salmonellosis, Associated Factors and Antibiotic Susceptibility Among Out Patients Attending Kagando Hospital, Kasese District, Mid-western, Uganda.
Authors: Kabahinda Boaz , Musinguzi Benson , Zamarano Henry , Kabajulizi Immaculate , Bazira Joel , Itabangi Herbert , Kabanda Taseera
Published: August 2021

Background: Uganda has experienced a number of typhoid fever out breaks, the most recent being in Kampala city in which 1,038 (29%) patients were positive out of 3464 suspected cases. In 2011, typhoid cases (1042) were reported in Kasese and neighboring Bundibugyo District with many more intestinal perforations (566) and with emergence of multidrug resistant strains.Objective: The study was conducted at Kagando hospital in Kasese district to determine the prevalence of community acquired Salmonellosis, evaluate antimicrobial susceptibility and document factors associated with salmonellosis. Methods: A cross sectional study was used to enroll 165 participants at Kagando hospital suspected of having salmonellosis. Data on demographics and risk factors were explored by the questionnaire. Venous blood and stool samples were taken from each participant to run a rapid test for Salmonella Typhi/ Paratyphi immunoglobulin M and G (IgM/IgG) and culture respectively. Results: Prevalence of Salmonellosis by Salmonella Typhi/Paratyphi IgM/IgG serological testing was 22% and 15.8% by culture of blood and stool. NTS accounted for a prevalence of 10.3% followed by S. Typhi 4.9% and then S. Paratyphi 0.61%. Most isolates were susceptible to levofloxacin, Gentamycin, Imipenem, Tetracycline and Cotrimoxazole. Most isolates were resistant to ampicillin, ceftriaxone and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid. Salmonellosis was associated with consumption of locally packed water, primary level of education, non-hand washing, history of gastric surgery and Helicobacter pylori treatment. Conclusion: Confirmed Community acquired salmonellosis exists among out patients attending Kagando hospital in Kasese district at a prevalence of 15.8% and a sero prevalence of 22%. Salmonellosis is associated with consumption of locally packed water, history of gastric surgery, primary level of education, Helicobacter pylori treatment and the practice of non-hand washing. Routine Culture and sensitivity is recommended for proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment of patients with clinical diagnosis of salmonellosis. Also sensitization on community acquired salmonellosis through health education programs should be considered.
Population Genetics and Evolution Analysis Reveal Diversity and Origin of Ammopiptanthus in China.
Authors: Chai Guai-qiang , Duan Yizhong , Jiao Peipei , Du Zhongyu , Kang Furen
Published: August 2021

Background：Elucidating and revealing the population genetic structure, genetic diversity and recombination is essential for understanding the evolution and adaptation of species. Ammopiptanthus, which is an endangered survivor from the Tethys in the Tertiary Period, is the only evergreen broadleaf shrub grown in Northwest of China. However, little is known about its genetic diversity and underlying adaptation mechanisms. Results：Here, 111 Ammopiptanthus individuals collected from fifteen natural populations in estern China were analyzed by means of the specific locus amplified fragment sequencing (SLAF-seq). Based on the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and insertions and deletions (InDels) detected by SLAF-seq, genetic diversity and markers associated with climate and geographical distribution variables were identified. The results of genetic diversity and genetic differentiation revealed that all fifteen populations showed medium genetic diversity, with PIC values ranging from 0.1648 to 0.3081. AMOVA and Fst indicated that a low genetic differentiation existed among populations. Phylogenetic analysis showed that NX-BG and NMG-DQH of fifteen populations have the highest homology，while the genetic structure analysis revealed that these Ammopiptanthus germplasm accessions were structured primarily along the basis of their geographic collection, and that an extensive admixture occurred in each group. In addition, the genome-wide linkage disequilibrium (LD) and principal component analysis showed that Ammopiptanthus nanus had a more diverse genomic background, and all genetic populations were clearly distinguished, although different degrees of introgression were detected in these groups. Conclusion：Our study could provide guidance to the future design of association studies and the systematic utilization and protection of the genetic variation characterizing the Ammopiptanthus.
TDG interacts with DNMT3A to inhibit the migration and invasion of human colon cancer cells
Authors: Miao Jiyu , Zhao Changan , Tang Kaijie , Xiong Xiaofan , Wu Fei , Xue Wanjuan , Duan Baojun , Zhang Huahua , Jing Xintao , Li Wen , Sun Ying , Hou Ni , Huang Chen
Published: August 2021

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignant tumors with high recurrence and mortality. Thymine DNA glycosylase (TDG) is one of the key molecules involved in base excision repair pathway. Recently, more and more attentions have been paid to the role of TDG on tumor development. However, the specific functions of TDG in CRC remain unclear.
Methods

The biological functions of TDG and DNA methyltransferase 3 alpha (DNMT3A) in CRC were evaluated using migration and invasion assay. Tumor metastasis assay was performed in nude mice to detect the role of TDG in vivo. The interaction of TDG with DNMT3A was determined by co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP). Chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis (CHIP) was applied to predict the DNA binding site of DNMT3A. We also performed methylation-specific PCR (MSP) to detect the changes in TIMP2 methylation levels.
Results

We found that TDG could inhibit the migration and invasion of human colon cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. TDG promoted the ubiquitination and degradation of DNMT3A by binding with it. Interference with siDNMT3A also inhibited the migration and invasion of human colon cancer cells. Further ChIP, MSP, and rescue experiments data confirmed that TDG accelerated the degradation of DNMT3A, and then significantly regulated the transcription and expression of TIMP2, thereby affecting the migration and invasion of human colon cancer cells.
Conclusion

Our findings reveal that TDG inhibit the migration and invasion of human colon cancer cells through DNMT3A-TIMP2 axis which may be potential therapeutic strategies in the development and treatment of CRC.
Investigation on Hospitalization of Cervical Spondylosis among Military Pilots, 2010 - 2019
Authors: Zhang Hong-xing , Chen Yu-Fei , Peng Ye , Li Jing-yuan , Huang Xiao-gang , Tian Jin-ping , Du Jun-jie
Published: August 2021

ObjectiveTo investigate and analyze the situation of hospitalization and medical appraisal of cervical spondylosis in military pilots. MethodsA single-center retrospective study was conducted on the active military pilots hospitalized for cervical spondylosis in our center from January 2010 to December 2019.After inclusion and exclusion criteria, descriptive statistics and analysis were made on age, sex, flight type, flight time, disease type, diagnosis and treatment and medical identification results of the included subjects.ResultsDuring January 2010 to December 2019, 166 military pilots with cervical spondylosis were admitted to our center, accounting for 17.61% of the total orthopaedic diseases, ranking the second place.The hospitalization rate of military pilots with cervical spondylosis in orthopedics department decreased from 2015 to 2019, but the hospitalization rate (193 person-times) was in an increasing trend compared with that in 2010-2014 (148 person-times) (P < 0.05).The average age of the pilots with cervical spondylosis was 37.37±7.37 years old, and there was no significant difference in the age of the pilots of different aircraft types. Compared with the age of other active servicemen in the same period (39.72±8.98 years), the incidence of the pilots tended to be younger (P < 0.05).The average incidence of cervical spondylosis in flight crew was 2597.09±1954.50h, and fighter pilots were more likely to have cervical spondylosis in early flight than those who flew helicopter, transport aircraft and trainer aircraft (P < 0.05).4 cases (2.41%) received surgical treatment, which was significantly lower than that of non-aircrew members (12.09%) (P < 0.05).Among the 166 cases, 87 cases (52.41%) were qualified and returned to work,53 cases of military pilots temporary unqualified flight, 26 cases of military pilots unqualified flight, unable to continue to fly.ConclusionCervical spondylosis of pilots account for the forefront of orthopedic disease spectrum, and the onset age is younger, the treatment is relatively simple, and the qualified rate of flight after treatment is low.
Secreted Salt Increases Reaumuria Soongarica 's Ability to Compete in Grassland Areas
Authors: wang changshun , wang huiqing , wang wei , liang cunzhu , liu huamin , wang lixin
Published: August 2021

Background: The aim of this study was to identify and explore the community formation mechanism of R. soongarica in the eastern Mongolian Plateau grassland. The experimental site was located in an ancient lake basin with saline soil in a desert steppe. Results: Soil conductivity of R. soongarica was significantly higher than that of the two herbs, S. glareosa and A. polyrhizum, at all soil depths (P ≤ 0.001). The daily salt secretion rate ranged from 1% to 2% of the fresh leaf weight in the different communities and increased with increased soil conductivity. With increased canopy size of R. soongarica, the distance between the shrubs and herbs also increased. The correlation between the R. soongarica canopy diameter and the distance to the nearest S. glareosa (R2 = 0.4065; P < 0.05) was higher than that to the nearest A. polyrhizum (R2 = 0.1256; P < 0.05). The growth of the three species was not salt-dependent; however, R. soongarica was significantly more salt-tolerant than the two herbs. The two herbs significantly limited the growth of R. soongarica seedlings at low soil conductivity (≤ 600 µS/cm), but not at high soil conductivity (≥ 1000 µS/cm). Conclusions: Salt secretion by R. soongarica leaves results in the formation of a “saline island,” which leads to soil conductivity increasing significantly under the canopy of R. soongarica. This increase in soil conductivity of the saline island effectively reduces the interspecies competition advantage of the two herbs. This highlights the competitiveness of R. soongarica in salt-stressed environments and facilitates the establishment of this desert shrub in saline regions on the desert steppe.
Effects of Trichoderma harzianum Fertilizer on the Soil Environment of Malus hupehensis Rehd. Seedlings under Replant Conditions
Authors: Zhang Rong , Yan Zhubing , Wang Yikun , Chen Xuesen , Yin Chengmiao , Mao Zhiquan
Published: August 2021

A pot experiment was performed to investigate the effects of Trichoderma harzianum on the root morphology of Malus hupehensis Rehd. seedlings and their soil environment under replant conditions. The experiment consisted of four treatments: continuously cropped soil (CK1), methyl bromide fumigation (CK2), carrier substrate control (T1), and T. harzianum fertilizer (T2). Plant growth parameters, soil phenolic acid content, abundance of soil microorganisms, and root respiration rate were measured. Compared with CK1, plant height, basal diameter, and fresh weight were 34.58%, 27.55%, and 32.91% greater in T2; 11.35%, 12.10%, and 18.33% greater in T1; and 54.34%, 57.64%, and 45.74% greater in CK2. These metrics were significantly higher in the CK2 treatment than in the other treatments. The second highest values were recorded in the T2 treatment. Differences in root architecture were consistent with differences in biomass. Application of T. harzianum fertilizer was associated with increases of 45.45%, 120.06%, 86.44%, and 268.29% in the activities of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX), respectively, and there was little difference between T2 and CK2. The contents of phlorizin and phloretin were 39.39% and 51.70% less in T2, respectively, and 17.85% and 18.14% less in T1, respectively, compared with CK1. Trichoderma harzianum fertilizer increased the abundance of bacteria and actinomycetes while decreasing that of fungi. The gene copy numbers of Fusarium oxysporum and Fusarium moniliforme were 64.30% and 49.35% less, respectively, in the T2 treatment. The fungus population and the gene copy number of Fusarium oxysporum and Fusarium moniliforme was the least in CK2 because of the good sterilization effect. The T. harzianum fertilizer showed satisfactory effects in promoting the root growth of M. hupehensis, increasing the root resistance, decreasing the soil phenolic acid content, and significantly reducing the gene copy number of F. oxysporum and F. moniliforme. In summary, T. harzianum fertilizer is an effective and green alternative for the prevention and control of apple replant disease (ARD).
Performance of HEC-HMS and SWAT to simulate streamflow in the sub-humid tropical Hemavathi catchment
Authors: Sanjay Shekar N. C. , Vinay D. C.
Published: August 2021

The present study was conducted to examine the accuracy and applicability of the hydrological models Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) and Hydrologic Engineering Center (HEC)- Hydrologic Modeling System (HMS) to simulate streamflows. Models combined with the ArcGIS interface have been used for hydrological study in the humid tropical Hemavathi catchment (5,427 square kilometer). The critical focus of the streamflow analysis was to determine the efficiency of the models when the models were calibrated and optimized using observed flows in the simulation of streamflows. Daily weather gauge stations data were used as inputs for the models from the 2014–2020 period. Other data inputs required to run the models included land use/land cover (LU/LC) classes resulting from remote sensing satellite imagery, soil map and digital elevation model (DEM). For evaluating the model performance and calibration, daily stream discharge from the catchment outlet data were used. For the SWAT model calibration, available water holding capacity by soil (SOL_AWC), curve number (CN) and soil evaporation compensation factor (ESCO) are identified as the sensitive parameters. Initial abstraction (Ia) and lag time (Tlag) are the significant parameters identified for the HEC-HMS model calibration. The models were subsequently adjusted by autocalibration for 2014–2017 to minimize the variations in simulated and observed streamflow values at the catchment outlet (Akkihebbal). The hydrological models were validated for the 2018–2020 period by using the calibrated models. For evaluating the simulating daily streamflows during calibration and validation phases, performances of the models were conducted by using the Nash-Sutcliffe model efficiency (NSE) and coefficient of determination (R2). The SWAT model yielded high R2 and NSE values of 0.85 and 0.82 for daily streamflow comparisons for the catchment outlet at the validation time, suggesting that the SWAT model showed relatively good results compared to the HEC-HMS model. Also, under modified LU/LC and ungauged streamflow conditions, the calibrated models can be later used to simulate streamflows for future predictions. Overall, the SWAT model seems to have done well in streamflow analysis for hydrological studies.
Clive’a S. Lewisa argument z pragnień przeciwko naturalizmowi
Authors: Bylica Piotr
Published: August 2021

W artykule przedstawione zostaną różne sformułowania argumentu z pragnień, wysuniętego przeciwko naturalizmowi, autorstwa Clive’a S. Lewisa. Analizie zostaną poddane zarzuty o brak logicznej poprawności jego wywodu oraz dotyczące zwodniczego charakteru czynników irracjonalnych, do jakich zaliczają się uczucia i pragnienia. Wykazane zostanie, że sformułowania, w których mamy do czynienia z brakiem konkluzywności antynaturalistycznego wniosku Lewisa, można jednak traktować jako poznawczo wartościowe, gdyż są one oparte na indukcyjnym schemacie wnioskowania. Istnieją natomiast sformułowania, które jedynie wielkim kosztem, jakim jest uznanie Wszechświata za absurdalny, można uznać za niekonkluzywne. Podejrzenie, iż odwołanie do czynników irracjonalnych osłabia argumentację Lewisa, okazuje się błędne. -------------- Zgłoszono: 22/07/2020. Zrecenzowano: 30/08/2020. Zaakceptowano do publikacji: 19/09/2020
Moralność jako erzac duchowości. Filozoficzne uwagi na temat współczesnej teologii
Authors: Świeżyński Adam
Published: August 2021

Pytanie o metodologiczny i teoriopoznawczy status obrazu Boga we współczesnej teologii jest jednym z najważniejszych, jakie należy postawić w świetle przemian społeczno-religijnych, następujących we współczesnym społeczeństwie. Odchodzenie od instytucjonalnie praktykowanej wiary religijnej jest bowiem często spowodowane obrazem Boga (i relacji między Bogiem a człowiekiem), który dla współczesnego człowieka staje się coraz mniej możliwy do zaakceptowania. Nie jest to jedynie kwestia ludzkiej niezgody, motywowanej postawą antyreligijną, lecz przede wszystkim skutek zniekształcenia go we współczesnym przekazie teologicznym, homiletycznym i katechetycznym. Obraz ten, kreowany najpierw w teologii, został nadmiernie obciążony elementami, nawiązującymi do powinności moralnej człowieka, a jednocześnie w znacznym stopniu zubożony o elementy wywodzące się z jego doświadczenia egzystencjalno-duchowego. Odzyskanie bardziej adekwatnego obrazu Boga wymaga wnikliwego namysłu filozoficznego nad samą teologią oraz zrekonstruowania tego obrazu na podstawie pogłębionego odniesienia do treści biblijnych, wraz z jednoczesnym powiązaniem ich z aktualnym doświadczeniem religijnym człowieka, ujawniającym się w jego egzystencji.

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Zgłoszono: 20/09/2020. Zrecenzowano: 09/11/2020. Zaakceptowano do publikacji: 20/11/2020
O prawdzie w literaturze uwag kilka
Authors: Tomaszewska Wiesława
Published: August 2021

Artykuł podejmuje zagadnienie prawdy w literaturze. Punktem wyjścia dla analiz jest koncepcja Romana Ingardena. Odmawia on dziełu literackiemu jako dziełu sztuki prawdziwości w sensie logicznym. Według Ingardena literackie dzieło sztuki jako przedmiot czysto intencjonalny niczego nie orzeka o świecie transcendentnym. Prawdę w dziele literackim można jednakże ujmować jako jej objawianie.

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Zgłoszono: 03/09/2020. Zrecenzowano: 22/10/2020. Zaakceptowano do publikacji: 10/11/2020
ZnCl2/SiO2 as a New Catalyst for the Eco-Friendly Synthesis of N-Thiocarbamoyl Pyrazoles and Thiosemicarbazones with Antioxidant and Molecular Docking Evaluation as (UppS) Inhibitor
Authors: Shaker Noha , Kandil Ezz Mohamed , Osama Yasmen , Khatab Tamer Kamal , Khalifa Mohamed E.
Published: August 2021

The study aimed at a novel catalytic eco-friendly one-pot reaction for the synthesis
of some new thiosemicarbazone and N-thiocarbamoyl pyrazole derivatives. The prepared and
characterized silica-supported zinc chloride (ZnCl2/SiO2) catalyst has been presented for promoting
the one-pot reaction between isothiocyanates (1 mmol), hydrazine (1.2 mmol) and 1,3-
dicarbonyl (1 mmol) compounds under solvent-free conditions. The identification data explained
that the thiosemicarbazones products were obtained in the case of using ethyl acetoacetate
as an example of 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds and N-thiocarbamoyl pyrazole derivatives
products were obtained in the case of using acetylacetone as an example of 1,3-
dicarbonyl compounds. The presented catalyst silica-zinc chloride has been considered an
eco-friendly and recyclable catalyst compared to the other reported catalyst. The biological
activity of the synthesized compounds targeting the bacterial cell wall was predicted by the
molecular docking as an undecaprenyl pyrophosphate synthase (UppS) inhibitor. Antioxidant data revealed the compounds
2a, 3d, 3e, 3f, 3g, 3h, and 3j to be promising antioxidant agents compared to ascorbic acid as a reference
molecule.
Factors Affecting the Penetration of Niosome into the Skin, Their Laboratory Measurements and Dependency to the Niosome Composition: A Review
Authors: Kheilnezhad Bahareh , Hadjizadeh Afra
Published: August 2021

Skin, the most significant protective organ in the body, may face serious problems, including
cancer, infectious diseases, etc., requiring different drugs for the treatment. However, most
of these drugs have poor chemical and physical stability, and insufficient penetration through the
skin layers. In recent years, with the development of nanotechnology, it has been possible to load a
variety of drugs into nanocarriers, to effectively targeted drug delivery. The unique structure of niosome
presents an effective novel drug delivery system with the ability to load both hydrophilic and
lipophilic drugs, having many potential therapeutic applications including skin treatment. However,
surveying and discussing these recent, rapidly growing reported studies, along with their theoretical
principals, are required for the full understanding and exploring the great potential of this approach
in skin diseases and cosmetic treatments. To this aim, an emphasis has been given to the factors
affecting the penetration of niosome into the skin and their laboratory measurements and dependency
on the niosome composition. In sum, longer tail surfactants for storing hydrophobic
drugs and intracellular passing and surfactants with a large head group for penetrating hydrophilic
drugs are more suitable. Cholesterol and oleic acid are commonly used lipids to gain more stability
and permeability, respectively. The ionic component in the niosome interrupts cellular connectivity,
thus making it more permeable, but it may cause relative cell toxicity. Herbal oils have been
used in the structure to make the nanoparticles elastic and allow them to pass through pores without
changing the size of the particles.
Covid 19 May Limit the Use of Anti-hyperglycemic Agents. Does it Call
for the Development of New Anti-hyperglycemic Agents?
Authors: Sibiya Ntethelelo , Mbatha Bonisiwe , Arineitwe Charles , Onyekwuluje Chiamaka , Ngubane Phikelelani , Khathi Andile
Published: August 2021

Diabetes mellitus has been identified as a major risk factor for developing severe
COVID 19 complications. In this review article, the efforts were directed to provide insights and
the possible extent to which some diabetic pharmacological interventions may exacerbate COVID
19 or may not be idyllic options for COVID 19 patients. Articles reviewed were identified using
the Google scholar database, and search was done using the English language. Anti-hyperglycemic
is associated with undesirable effects including episodes of hypoglycemia, diarrhea, lactic acidosis,
and increased risks of cardiovascular and hepatic hazards. These undesirable effects associated
with the anti-hyperglycemic agents possess a threat of developing severe COVID19 complications
Therefore, this calls for more studies to understand the extent of the risks these agents possess in diabetic
COVID 19 patients. Almost all the anti-hyperglycemic agents have the potential to worsen
COVID 19, despite their class. COVID 19 may limit the options in terms of available anti-hyperglycemic
agents which may not heighten the risk of developing severe COVID 19 complications.
The research towards the discovery and development of new compounds and also new therapeutic
targets for hyperglycemia should be encouraged and welcome.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Sagittal TSE-T2W, Variable Flip Angle 3D TSET2W
and High-resolution 3D Heavily T2W Sequences for the Stenosis of
Two Localizations: The Cerebral Aqueduct and the Superior Medullary
Velum
Authors: Özcan Ayşe Nur Şirin , Aslan Kerim
Published: August 2021

Objectives:

This study aimed to investigate the accuracy of conventional Sagittal Turbo
spin Echo T2-weighted (Sag TSE-T2W), variable flip angle 3D TSE (VFA-3D-TSE) and high-resolution
3D heavily T2W (HR-3D-HT2W) sequences in the diagnosis of primary aqueductal stenosis
(PAS) and Superior Medullary Velum Stenosis (SMV-S), and the effect of stenosis localization on
diagnosis.

Methods:

Seventy-seven patients were included in the study. The diagnosis accuracy of the
HR-3D-HT2W, Sag TSE-T2W and VFA-3D-TSE sequences, was classified into three grades by
two experienced neuroradiologists: grade 0 (the sequence has no diagnostic ability), grade 1 (the sequence
diagnoses stenosis but does not show focal stenosis itself or membrane formation), and
grade 2 (the sequence makes a definitive diagnosis of stenosis and shows focal stenosis itself or
membrane formation). Stenosis localizations were divided into three as Cerebral Aquaduct (CA),
Superior Medullary Velum (SMV) and SMV+CA. In the statistical analysis, the grades of the sequences
were compared without making a differentiation based on localization. Then, the effect of
localization on diagnosis was determined by comparing the grades for individual localizations.

Results:

In the sequence comparison, grade 0 was not detected in the VFA-3D-TSE and HR-3DHT2W
sequences, and these sequences diagnosed all cases. On the other hand, 25.4% of grade 0
was detected with the Sag TSE-T2W sequence (P<0.05). Grade 1 was detected by VFA-3D-TSE in
23% of the cases, while grade 1 (12.5%) was detected by HRH-3D-T2W in only one case, and the
difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). When the sequences were examined according to
localizations, the rate of grade 0 in the Sag TSE-T2W sequence was statistically significantly higher
for the SMV localization (33.3%) compared to CA (66.7%) and SMV+CA (0%) (P<0.05). Localization
had no effect on diagnosis using the other sequences.

Conclusion:

In our study, we found that the VFA-3D-TSE and HR-3D-HT2W sequences were successful
in the diagnosis of PAS and SMV-S contrary to the Sag TSE-T2W sequence and especially
SMV localization decreases the diagnostic accuracy of Sag TSE-T2W sequence.
Identification of Novel Indazole-based Inhibitors of Fibroblast Growth
Factor Receptor 1 (FGFR1)
Authors: Volynets Galyna , Vdovin Vasyl , Lukashov Sergiy , Borovykov Oleksiy , Borysenko Iryna , Gryshchenko Andrii , Bdzhola Volodymyr , Iatsyshyna Anna , Lukash Lyubov , Bilokin Yaroslav , Yarmoluk Sergiy
Published: August 2021

Background:

Overactivity of fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1) is associated with
various tumors, particularly breast cancer, prostate cancer, non-small-cell lung carcinoma, myeloproliferative
diseases, which makes this protein kinase a promising therapeutic target for anticancer therapy.

Objective:

The main aim of this study is to identify novel FGFR1 inhibitors.

Method:

In order to find FGFR1 inhibitors, virtual screening experiments were performed using AutoDock
software. Best-scored compounds were tested in vitro using P32 radioactive kinase assay.

Results:

Small-molecular inhibitors of protein kinase FGFR1 were identified among indazole derivatives.
The most active compound [3-(3,4-dichloro-phenyl)-1H-indazol-5-yl]-(2,3-dihydro-1Hcyclopenta[
b]quinolin-9-yl)-amine (1) inhibits FGFR1 with IC50 value of 100 nM. According to molecular
docking results, this compound interacts simultaneously with adenine- and phosphate-binding regions
of protein kinase FGFR1. The structure-activity relationships have been investigated and binding
mode has been predicted.

Conclusion:

Compound 1 can be used for further structural optimization and biological research.
Rho GTPase Activating Protein 9 (ARHGAP9) in Human Cancers
Authors: Zhang Wenzhou , Li Liang , Song Wenping , Chen Jinhua , Li Shuolei , Li Ding , Zhang Yongna , Zhou Hanqiong , Yu Weijiang , He Baoxia
Published: August 2021

Background:

In recent years, targeted therapy combined with traditional chemoradiotherapy
and surgery has brought new opportunities for cancer treatment. However, the complex
characteristics of cancer, such as heterogeneity and diversity, limit the clinical success of targeted
drugs. Discovering of new cancer targets and deepening the understanding of their functional mechanisms
will bring additional promising application prospects for the research and development of
personalized cancer-targeted drugs.

Objective:

This study aimed to summarize the role of the Rho GTPase activating protein 9 (ARHGAP9)
gene in tumorigenesis and development to discover therapeutic targets for cancer in the future.

Methods:

For this review, we collected patents from the databases of Espacenet and WIPO and articles
from PubMed that were related to the ARHGAP9 gene.

Results:

Genetic/epigenetic variations and abnormal expression of the ARHGAP9 gene are closely
associated with a variety of diseases, including cancer. ARHGAP9 can inactivate Rho GTPases by
hydrolyzing GTP into GDP and regulate cancer cellular events, including proliferation, differentiation,
apoptosis, migration and invasion, by inhibiting JNK/ERK/p38 and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways.
In addition to reviewing these mechanisms, we assessed various patents on ARHGAP9 to determine
whether ARHGAP9 might be used as a predictive biomarker for diagnosis/prognosis evaluation
and a druggable target for cancer treatment.

Conclusion:

In this review, the current knowledge of ARHGAP9 in cancer is summarized with an
emphasis on its molecular function, regulatory mechanism and disease implications. Its characterization
is crucial to understanding its important roles during different stages of cancer progression
and therapy as a predictive biomarker and/or target.
Cardioprotective Effects and in-silico Antioxidant Mechanism of L-Ergothioneine in Experimental Type-2 Diabetic Rats
Authors: Dare Ayobami , Elrashedy Ahmed A , Channa Mahendra L. , Nadar Anand
Published: August 2021

Background:

Diabetic cardiotoxicity is commonly associated with oxidative injury, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction. L-ergothioneine (L-egt), a diet-derived amino acid, has been reported to decrease mortality and risk of cardiovascular injury, provides cytoprotection to tissues exposed to oxidative damage, and prevents diabetes-induced perturbation.

Objective:

This study investigated the cardioprotective effects of L-egt on diabetes-induced cardiovascular injuries and its probable mechanism of action.

Methods:

Twenty-four male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into non-diabetic (n = 6) and diabetic groups (n = 18). Six weeks after the induction of diabetes, the diabetic rats were divided into three groups (n = 6) and administered distilled water, L-egt (35mg/kg), and losartan (20mg/kg) by oral gavage for six weeks. Blood glucose and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were recorded pre-and post-treatment, while biochemical, ELISA, and RT-qPCR analyses were conducted to determine inflammatory, injury-related and antioxidant biomarkers in cardiac tissue after euthanasia. Also, an in-silico study, including docking and molecular dynamic simulations of L-egt toward the Keap1- Nrf2 protein complex, was done to provide a basis for the molecular antioxidant mechanism of Legt.

Results:

Administration of L-egt to diabetic animals reduced serum triglyceride, water intake, MAP, biomarkers of cardiac injury (CK-MB, CRP), lipid peroxidation, and inflammation. Also, Legt increased body weight, antioxidant enzymes, upregulated Nrf2, HO-1, NQO1 expression, and decreased Keap1 expression. The in-silico study showed that L-egt inhibits the Keap1-Nrf2 complex by binding to the active site of Nrf2 protein, thereby preventing its degradation.

Conclusion:

L-egt protects against diabetes-induced cardiovascular injury via the upregulation of the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway and its downstream cytoprotective antioxidants.