bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CHILDREN'S CAPITAL AS A TOOL OF TARGETED SOCIAL SUPPORT
OF HOUSEHOLDS
Authors: GOVAKA A.
Published: July 2021

The article discusses the feasibility of implementation of programs of targeted assistance to the "children's capital" for high-quality reproduction of households by level of disposable financial resources below the median. It shows that households from low-income decile groups are limited in the ability to meet the basic needs of children, as well as the implementation of requests for socialization. The proposed program "children's capital" will be able to compensate the cost of the child in the amount of 30 % of the calculated minimum consumer budget for one child. Such state support will enable parents to pay up to 40 % of the price of Belarusian goods and services for children participating in the program "children's capital"for eighteen years. Thus, the program "children's capital" will improve the quality of life of families with children.
THE ANALYSIS OF COMPETITIVE ENVIRONMENT IN THE MARKET
OF CORRUGATED PAPER OF THE REPUBLIC OF BELARUS
Authors: POLONIK S. , CHERNOBAEVA А.
Published: July 2021

In the article is described competitive environment of the market of corrugated containers of the Republic of Belarus. The main players of the market, the alignment of forces, the
structure of supply and demand are indicated. The defining vectors of market development are outlined. Based on this, the authors developed an applied model of the competitiveness polygon and made recommendations for raising its level.
Un fenómeno urbano enquistado en el cambio de paradigma de la urbanización informal: parcelaciones ilegales en el municipio de Córdoba
Authors: López-Casado David
Published: July 2021

El inicio de las parcelaciones ilegales suele situarse coincidiendo con la crisis económica de los años setenta. Unos autores vinculan su comienzo y rápido desarrollo con los efectos de dicha crisis sobre el fenómeno de las urbanizaciones de segunda residencia, cuyos promotores buscarían ahora extender la oferta hacia una demanda más amplia. Otros, además, apuntan a la excesiva rigidez del nuevo marco normativo vigente tras la aprobación de la Ley del Suelo de 1975. Partiendo de las características iniciales de las parcelaciones ilegales, el artículo se centra en el estudio de las localizadas en el municipio de Córdoba, y se plantea, primero, si tras el rápido desarrollo inicial, el proceso ha tenido un comportamiento similar en los siguientes períodos de crisis que han seguido a los ciclos expansivos de la economía. Y, segundo, si las nuevas parcelaciones mantienen las mismas características o, por el contrario, estas han mutado. Se acude a la bibliografía científica para identificar dichos elementos; se añaden las fuentes documentales, estadísticas y cartográficas, en este caso, referidas al municipio de Córdoba. El trabajo concluye que se asiste a una nueva etapa del fenómeno parcelario que apunta hacia la necesidad de actualizar las características que lo definen.
Environmental Regulation, Economic Policy Uncertainty, and Green Technology Innovation
Authors: Li Xiaoqing , Hu Zongyi , Zhang Qing
Published: July 2021

Green technology innovation is imperative to sustainable and environmentally sound economic development and is currently facing increasingly serious environmental threats. However, existing research has overlooked the uncertainties in economic policies. Based on the logical relationship between environmental regulation, economic policy uncertainty, and green technology innovation, this study empirically analyzed the quantitative relationship among these three variables using the fixed-effect panel method and provincial panel data from 2000 to 2017 for 30 administrative regions of China. The results show that environmental regulation is positively correlated with green innovation, whereas economic policy uncertainty has a negative influence on green innovation, thereby regulating the relationship between the remaining two factors. Moreover, considerable regional heterogeneity exists in these causal influences, i.e., environmental regulation promotes green innovation in the eastern and middle regions but not significantly in the west. The uncertainty actively moderates the impact of environmental regulation on green innovation in all regions with an adjustment coefficient of approximately 0.8; however, it inhibits green innovation in different degrees, especially in the eastern and middle regions. Based on empirical results, we conclude that strict and appropriate environmental regulations are necessary and effective in China to encourage green technology innovation, especially in regions with uncertain economic policies.
Gradient-based training of Gaussian Mixture Models for High-Dimensional Streaming Data
Authors: Gepperth Alexander , Pfülb Benedikt
Published: July 2021

We present an approach for efficiently training Gaussian Mixture Model (GMM) by Stochastic Gradient Descent (SGD) with non-stationary, high-dimensional streaming data. Our training scheme does not require data-driven parameter initialization (e.g., k-means) and can thus be trained based on a random initialization. Furthermore, the approach allows mini-batch sizes as low as 1, which are typical for streaming-data settings. Major problems in such settings are undesirable local optima during early training phases and numerical instabilities due to high data dimensionalities. We introduce an adaptive annealing procedure to address the first problem, whereas numerical instabilities are eliminated by using an exponential-free approximation to the standard GMM log-likelihood. Experiments on a variety of visual and non-visual benchmarks show that our SGD approach can be trained completely without, for instance, k-means based centroid initialization. It also compares favorably to an online variant of Expectation-Maximization (EM) – stochastic EM (sEM), which it outperforms by a large margin for very high-dimensional data.
Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of Leaves of Sour Jujube Seedlings under Salt Stress
Authors: Lyu Ruiheng , Wang Rui , Wu Cuiyun , Bao Yajing , Guo Peng
Published: July 2021

Sour jujube ( Ziziphus jujuba Mill. var. spinosa ) is a native tree species in China. It is often used as the rootstock of jujube, its fruit can also be used as medicine. So it has high scientific and ecological value. Sour jujube is mostly planted in Northwest China and has extremely high salt tolerance. But the molecular mechanism of its salt tolerance is rarely studied. This study was carried out in the laboratory of Environment and Resources College of Dalian Nationalities University, two treatments were performed on the leaves of sour jujuba seedlings, the experimental group (H3): 300 mM Nacl for 3 h, and the control group (CK): sterile water for 3 h. A total of 47.02GB of valid data and 32730 annotated genes were obtained. Based on the analysis of gene expression in the comparison group, a total of 2295 genes with significant differential expression were obtained, of which 807 were up-regulated and 1488 were down-regulated. According to gene function annotation and enrichment analysis, we finally screened 148 genes. These genes were mainly involved in signal transduction of plant hormones (38), homeostasis of cell walls (27), secondary metabolism of organic matter (32), redox reactions (20) in leaves of sour jujuba seedlings under salt stress. It was also accompanied by some stress-related transcription factors (31). In addition, under salt stress, raffinose family oligosaccharides (RFO) metabolism of sour jujube seedlings was accelerated. Studying the molecular response of sour jujuba seedlings under salt stress provides a scientific basis for its cultivation in saline areas and is beneficial to further improve the salt tolerance of grafted jujube trees.
Activation of Embryonic/germ Cell-like Axis Links Poor Outcomes of Gliomas
Authors: Ma Zhan , Zhang Fengyu , Zhang Haishi , Lin Hui-Kuan , liu chunfang
Published: July 2021

It is unclear which core events drive the malignant progression of gliomas. Earlier studies have revealed that the embryonic stem (ES) cell/early PGC state is associated with tumourigenicity. Here, our findings showed that germ cell-like cells were present in human gliomas and cultured glioma cells and that the formation of germ cell-like cells was essential for glioma tumours. Bioinformatic analysis showed that the mRNA levels of genes related to embryonic/germ cell development could be detected in most gliomas. Our findings showed that the activation of genes related to reprogramming or the germ cell-like state alone seemed to be insufficient to lead to a malignant prognosis, whereas increased mRNA levels of genes related to the activation of the embryonic/germ cell-like cycle (somatic PGC-EGC-like cycle and somatic parthenogenetic embryo-like cycle) were positively correlated with malignant prognoses and poor clinical outcomes of gliomas. Genes related to the embryonic/germ cell cycle alone or in combination with the WHO grade or 1p19q codeletion status could be used to subdivide gliomas with distinct clinical behaviours. Together, our findings indicated that a crucial role of germ cell-like cell formation in glioma initiation as well as activation of genes related with the parthenogenetic embryo-like cycle and PGC-EGC-like cycle link to the malignant prognosis and poor outcomes of gliomas, which might provide a novel way to better understand the nature of and develop targeted therapies for gliomas as well as important markers for predicting clinical outcomes in gliomas.
Novel Hollow Octagonal Core Photonic Crystal Fiber (PCF) based Cholesterol Sensor
Authors: Bulbul Abdullah Al-Mamun , Podder Etu , Faragallah Osama S. , Baz Mohammed , Eid Mahmoud M. A. , rashed ahmed nabih zaki
Published: July 2021

Cholesterol, also known as the pulpy fat of human body, may cause the body vulnerable to heart malady by filling blood-vessel with fatty substances. This urges a precise, simple, and effective method of cholesterol detection. Considering this, a novel hollow equilateral-octagon core PCF model has been presented as a cholesterol sensor. The sensor is modeled and simulated using finite element method (FEM). Multiple performance metrics suggests the effectiveness of the proposed sensor model. The relative sensitivity attained for the model is 92.34% at optimum frequency (OF), 3.6THz. Besides, the model shows ultra-lower confinement loss of 3.77×10− 18cm−1 at OF along with standard values for other performance metrics. In addition, the feasible implementation of the model by exercising existing fabrication strategies ensures the practicability of the proposed sensor.
Spatiotemporal Change in the Land Use and Ecosystem Service Value in the Aral Sea basin (1993–2018)
Authors: He Jing , Yu Yang , Sun Lingxiao , Zhang Haiyan , Malik Ireneusz , Wistuba Malgorzata , Yu Ruide
Published: July 2021

The Aral Sea started shrinking since the 1960s due to natural factors and human activities; however, the relationship between land cover change and ecosystem services (ES) in the Aral Sea basin has not been fully studied. To analyze and explore the spatiotemporal variation characteristics of ecosystem service values (ESVs) in this region, we used the European Space Agency CCI Global Land Cover product with a spatiotemporal resolution of 300 × 300 m and the annual scale. The land use data of 1993, 1998, 2003, 2008, 2013, and 2018 in the study area were extracted, the study area’s ESV in the corresponding years was calculated, and the temporal and spatial evolution characteristics were analyzed. Additionally, the change rate and sensitivity were analyzed. The results revealed that the area of urban land, bare land, grassland, wetland, and cropland in the Aral Sea basin increased from 1993 to 2018; water body and forestland decreased. The integrated value of water bodies, cropland, and grassland ES accounted for more than 96% of the total ESV; the change rate of land use types differed. Urban land and water changed the fastest; cultivated land, woodland, grassland, and wetland changed the slowest. From 1993 to 2018, the total ESV of the Aral Sea basin decreased from 455.10 to 414.56 billion (Overall decrease = − 8.91%). The ESV study shows that the water area decreased sharply from 1993 to 2018, resulting in a loss of USD 46.84 billion. Biodiversity, food production, and water regulation were the main ES, accounting for 78.5% of the total ESV. The ESV of the Aral Sea basin declined from 1993 to 2018, and significant differences were observed among its regions. Some regions should thus focus on this aspect. A close correlation was observed between the ESV and land use. Hence, effective land use policies can control the expansion of cropland; protect water bodies, ecological environments, grassland, and forestland; and promote a more sustainable ecosystem.
A Cross-Sectional Survey on Attitudes of Men Who Have Sex With Men Towards Anal Self-Examination for Detection of Anal Syphilis
Authors: Aung Ei T , Fairley Christopher K , Ong Jason J , Phillips Tiffany P , Chen Marcus Y , Tran Julien , Maddaford Kate , Rodriguez Elena R , Chow Eric P.F.
Published: July 2021

Studies suggest men who have sex with men (MSM) practising receptive anal sex are more likely to present with secondary syphilis, implying primary anorectal lesions are likely to be missed. If men could detect anorectal lesions in the primary stage by regular anal self-examination (ASE), transmission could be reduced by early diagnosis and treatment. We aimed to explore the attitudes of MSM on performing ASE to detect primary anorectal syphilis. An online anonymous cross-sectional survey among MSM over 18 years of age living in Australia, was conducted between July and November 2020 and recruitment was from a sexual health clinic and social media. A total of 574 MSM completed the survey (median age: 34 [IQR 27–45]): 32% (183) had previously performed ASE. Among 56% (374) who had never performed ASE, 68% (250) would consider performing ASE in the future with a preferred median frequency of 2 times per 4 weeks (IQR: 1–4), whilst men who were already performing ASE were performing it at median 1 per 4 weeks (IQR: 0.2-3). Almost two-thirds of MSM who had never performed ASE were willing to adopt ASE practice in the future. Studies are required to determine the effectiveness of ASE for syphilis detection.
A Novel Hybrid Range-free Approach to locate Sensor Nodes in 3D WSN using GWO-FA Algorithm
Authors: Singh Prabhjot , Mittal Nitin , Singh Parulpreet
Published: July 2021

The precise node location of the sensor nodes is an essential requirement in Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) to determine the place or event occurring at a particular instant of time. In WSN, existing localization schemes considers two-dimensional (2D) space, while in actual life, sensor nodes are placed in three-dimensional (3D) space. In 3D localization, there are many research challenges, such as higher computational complexity, poor location prediction, lesser coverage, and depending only on fewer anchor nodes. To address various research issues in 3D environment we propose a range-free technique applied in an anisotropic scenario having Degree of Irregularity (DOI) as 0.01 using the concepts of fuzzy logic system (FLS). Anisotropic properties of nodes are considered to determine the efficiency of Grey wolf with Firefly algorithm. In our proposed scenario, the received signal strength (RSS) information is necessary among the target nodes and their corresponding anchor nodes for determining the location of target nodes using the information based on edge weights. These edge weights are further modelled using Hybrid GWO-FA to estimate the location of target nodes. The proposed algorithms is energy efficient as a single location aware node is used for localization. Further, the concept of virtual anchors is introduced that helps the algorithm to determine 3D positions.
Prediction of Molecular Interactions And Physicochemical Properties Relevant For Vasopressin V2 Receptor Antagonism
Authors: Veulens Ania de la Nuez , Ginarte Yoanna María Álvarez , Fernandez Rolando Eduardo Rodríguez , Leclerc Fabrice , Cabrera Luis Alberto Montero
Published: July 2021

We have developed two ligand and receptor-based computational approaches to study the physicochemical properties relevant to the biological activity of vasopressin V2 receptor (V2R) antagonist and eventually to predict the expected binding mode to V2R. The obtained Quantitative Structure Activity Relationship (QSAR) model showed a correlation of the antagonist activity with the hydration energy (EH2O) , the polarizability (P) and the calculated partial charge on atom N7 (q6) of the common substructure. The first two descriptors showed a positive contribution to antagonist activity, while the third one had a negative contribution. V2R was modeled and further relaxed on a 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocoline (POPC) membrane by molecular dynamics simulations. The receptor antagonist complexes were guessed by molecular docking, and the stability of the most relevant structures were also evaluated by molecular dynamics simulations. As a result, amino acid residues Q96, W99, F105, K116, F178, A194, F307, and M311 were identified with the probably most relevant antagonist-receptor interactions on the studied complexes. The proposed QSAR model could explain the molecular properties relevant to the antagonist activity. The contributions to the antagonist-receptor interaction appeared also in agreement with the binding mode of the complexes obtained by molecular docking and Molecular Dynamics. These models will be used in further studies to look for new V2R potential antagonist molecules.
In Situ Liquid Crystal Gel as a New Ophthalmic Drug Delivery System for Pilocarpine Nitrate: Improving Preocular Retention and Ocular Bioavailability
Authors: Wu Wenqing , Cao Wenxuan , Cai Ye , Zhang Menghe , Chen Tiantian , Zhang Nannan , Wang Mengzhen , Chu Lin , Chu xiaoqin
Published: July 2021

The purpose of this article is to develop an in-situ liquid crystal gel that can be used as a novel ocular delivery system for pilocarpine nitrate (PN). The phytantriol (PT) -based in situ liquid crystal gels were prepared by a vortex method using PT, PEG400, Triglyceride (TAG) and water (in the ratio of 61.15:30:3.85:5, w/w). Firstly, the internal structure of the PN-loaded liquid crystal gel was characterized by polarizing microscope (PLM), small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and rheology. In vitro drug release behavior and ex vivo corneal permeation were investigated. Finally, eye irritation test，preocular residence time evaluation,were studied in vivo and compared with eye drops.Based on various characterization techniques, it is proved that the internal structure of the gel is a hexagonal phase.In vitro release results identified that PN could be released continuously from HII gel over a period of 24 h. The in vitro obvious permeability coefficient of HII gel was 3.19-fold (P < 0.01) higher than that of the eye drops. Compared with eye drops,the HII gel had good bioadhesion and displayed longer residence time on the eyeballs surface using fluorescent labeling technology.In addition, through Corneal hydration level and eye irritation test ., it is conjectured that HII gel will not cause eye irritation. In short, the formulation has the advantages of high efficiency, slow release and non-toxicity, and will become a promising pharmaceutical strategy to improve the efficacy of glaucoma.
Teardrop Fracture of the Axis: An Evaluation of Vertebral Instability and Individualized Treatment
Authors: Xin Xin , Yue Chen , Li Guoqing , Liu Xinxin
Published: July 2021

Background: Teardrop fractures of the axis (TDFAs) are avulsion fractures of the anterior-inferior part of the axis. Whether conservative or surgical treatment is better for TDFAs is controversial. Previously, image-based evaluations of the fractures have mainly focused on the teardrop fragment, the intervertebral disc and the prevertebral soft tissue. The treatment plan depends on the doctor's evaluation of fracture stability based on personal experience. Methods: From January 2012 to December 2018, a total of 12 patients with TDFA were included in this prospective study. The stability of the TDFA vertebral body was evaluated by lateral X-ray measurements. Based on the evaluation of vertebral body stability, as well as the disease characteristics of the patients, individualized treatment schemes were adopted. Results: Through the classification and treatment process, 6 patients with absolute instability and 6 patients with relative instability were identified. A total of 8 patients underwent surgery, and 4 patients were treated conservatively. A total of 12 patients finally achieved osseous fusion. Conclusion: The treatment for TDFA should be determined by considering both the instability of the axial vertebra and the disease characteristics of the patient. With an appropriate classification and treatment process, both surgery and conservative treatment can yield good clinical outcomes.
High Mortality Rate Among Latin American Immigrants With Covid-19 Hospitalised in Milan, Italy: Data From the Luigi Sacco Hospital Registry
Authors: Giacomelli Andrea , Ridolfo Anna Lisa , Bonazzetti Cecilia , Oreni Letizia , Conti Federico , Pezzati Laura , Siano Matteo , Bassoli Cinzia , Casalini Giacomo , Schiuma Marco , Covizzi Alice , Passerini Matteo , Piscaglia Marco , Borgonovo Fabio , Galbiati Claudia , Colombo Riccardo , Catena Emanuele , Rizzardini Giuliano , Milazzo Laura , Galli Massimo , Brucato Antonio , Antinori Spinello
Published: July 2021

Background

To assess differences in the probability of COVID-19-related death between native Italians and immigrants hospitalised with COVID-19.
Methods

This was a retrospective study of prospectively collected data conducted at the ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco Hospital in Milan, Italy, between 21 February and 31 November 2020. Uni- and multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were used to assess the impact of the patients' origin on the probability of COVID-19-related death.
Results

The study population consisted of 1,179 COVID-19 patients: 921 Italians (78.1%) and 258 immigrants (21.9%) from Latin America (99, 38.4%), Asia (72, 27.9%), Africa (50, 19.4%) and central/eastern Europe (37, 14.3%). The Italians were older (p < 0.001) and more frequently affected by co-morbidities (p < 0.001). Mortality was significantly greater among the Italians than the immigrants as a whole (26.6% vs 12.8%; p < 0.001), and significantly greater among the immigrants from Latin America than among those from Asia, Africa and central/eastern Europe (21.2% vs 8.3%, 6% and 8.1%, respectively; p = 0.016). Multivariate analyses showed that a Latin American origin was independently associated with an increased risk of death (adjusted hazard ratio 1.95, 95% confidence interval 1.17–3.23).
Conclusions

Our findings support the need to strengthen COVID-19 information and prevention initiatives in the Latin American community living in Milan.
Insights From The Frontline of COVID-19 in Residential Care Settings for Older People in The Republic of Ireland: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Sweeney Mary Rose , Boilson Andrew , White Ciara , Nevin Mary , Casey Briege , Boylan Patrick , Staines Anthony
Published: July 2021

Background The COVID-19 pandemic had a disproportionate effect among residents, family members and staff in residential care settings for older people in Ireland relative to other health care settings, particularly in wave one of the virus. The purpose of this study was to explore the COVID-19 pandemic as it was experienced by people on the front line of the virus - residents, family members and staff in residential care settings for older people in the Republic of Ireland (ROI). Method A 2-phased mixed methods cross-sectional study was conducted. This consisted of a survey administered anonymously online shortly after the 1st wave of the virus (June - August 2020), via our nursing and health care networks, advocacy organisations for older people and on social media targeting - staff, residents and family members. Family members who took part in the survey were invited to take part in phase 2 - qualitative one-to-one interviews which were conducted shortly after wave 2 of the virus (November - December 2020). ResultsSeventy-six staff members completed the survey as well as 28 family members and 2 residents. Eleven family members took part in the qualitative interviews. Good infection control protocols, good governance/management structures, being prepared and agile responses were important factors in determining better outcomes. Isolation, loss of connectedness (to family, staff members and other residents) as well as a reduction in the level/quality of care provision led to significant adverse impacts for both residents and their families. Staff reported high levels of stress, trauma and burnout. A strong theme emerging from the qualitative element was the important role that family members typically have in supplementing care provision which suddenly and completely ceased during the pandemic. This caused huge distress amongst family members and physical decline and mental anguish amongst residents. ConclusionsThis is the first research study to explore the experiences of residents, family members and staff who were at the front line of the pandemic in residential care settings in ROI when the pandemic struck. This study provides valuable insights which could be used by staff in residential care settings, policy makers/implementers in further waves of the pandemic or in future communicable disease outbreaks. The rights and needs of residents must be carefully balanced with infection control and prevention measures. Strategies to ensure that residents and staff are appropriately supported during future waves of the pandemic should now be implemented.
Drivers learn city-scale dynamic equilibrium
Authors: Zhang Ruda , Ghanem Roger
Published: July 2021

Understanding driver behavior in on-demand mobility services is crucial for designing efficient and sustainable transport models. Drivers' delivery strategy is well understood, but their search strategy and learning process still lack an empirically validated model. Here we provide a game-theoretic model of driver search strategy and learning dynamics, interpret the collective outcome in a thermodynamic framework, and verify its various implications empirically. We capture driver search strategies in a multi-market oligopoly model, which has a unique Nash equilibrium and is globally asymptotically stable. The equilibrium can therefore be obtained via heuristic learning rules where drivers pursue the incentive gradient or simply imitate others. To help understand city-scale phenomena, we offer a macroscopic view with the laws of thermodynamics. With 870 million trips of over 50k drivers in New York City, we show that the equilibrium well explains the spatiotemporal patterns of driver search behavior, and estimate an empirical constitutive relation. We find that new drivers learn the equilibrium within a year, and those who stay longer learn better. The collective response to new competition is also as predicted. Among empirical studies of driver strategy in on-demand services, our work examines the longest period, the most trips, and is the largest for taxi industry.
Spectrum and Clinical Characteristics of Gene Mutations in Chinese Pediatric Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Shen Diying , Liu Lixia , Xu Xiaojun , Song Hua , Zhang Jingying , Xu Weiqun , Zhao Fenying , Liang Juan , Liao Chan , Wang Yan , Xia Tian , Wang Chengcheng , Lou Feng , Cao Shanbo , Qin Jiayue , Tang Yongmin
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The 5-year survival rate of children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is 85–90%, with a 10–15% rate of treatment failure. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) identified recurrent mutated genes in ALL that might alter the diagnosis, classification, prognostic stratification, treatment, and response to ALL. Few studies on gene mutations in Chinese pediatric ALL have been identified. Thus, an in-depth understanding of the biological characteristics of these patients is essential.. The present study aimed to characterize the spectrum and clinical features of recurrent driver gene mutations in a single-center cohort of Chinese pediatric ALL.
Methods

We enrolled 219 patients with pediatric ALL in our single center. Targeted sequencing based on NGS was used to detect gene mutations in patients. The correlation was analyzed between gene mutation and clinical features, including patient characteristics, cytogenetics, genetic subtypes, risk stratification and treatment outcomes using χ2-square test or Fisher’s exact test for categorical variables.
Results

A total of 381 gene mutations were identified in 66 different genes in 152/219 patients. PIK3R1 mutation was more common in infants (p = 0.021). KRAS and FLT3 mutations were both more enriched in patients with hyperdiploidy (P < 0.0001, P = 0.0003, respectively). NRAS, PTPN11, FLT3, and KMT2D mutations were more common in patients who did not carry the fusion genes (all p < 0.05). PTEN mutation was significantly associated with high-risk ALL patients (P = 0.011), while NOTCH1 mutation was common in middle-risk ALL patients (P = 0.039). Patients with ETV6 or PHF6 mutations were more sensitive to steroid treatment (P = 0.033, P = 0.048, respectively).
Conclusion

This study depicted the specific genomic landscape of Chinese pediatric ALL and revealed the relevance between mutational spectrum and clinical features of Chinese pediatric ALL, which highlights the need for molecular classification, risk stratification, and prognosis evaluation.
Minimisation of Overestimation of River Flows in 1D- Hydrodynamic Modeling
Authors: Vashist Komal , Singh K. K.
Published: July 2021

One-dimensional hydrodynamic models overestimate river cross-section derived from freely available SRTM DEMs. The present study aims to minimize the overestimation of river flow. DEM-extracted cross-sections obtained from 30 m and 90 m resolutions show higher elevation values than the actual river cross sections of Krishna and Bhima rivers, India. To minimize the overestimation of the river flow, DEM-extracted cross-sections are modified using known cross-section of the river. The corrections for cross sections extracted from DEM, are obtained by subtracting the DEM-derived cross-sections from a known cross-section of the river. Monsoons flows that occurred in years 2006 and 2009 in Krishna and Bhimariver have been used for modeling. The MIKE HYDRO River model performance with modified DEM-extracted cross-sections of river improves as the correlation coefficient, root mean square error, index of agreement, Nash Sutcliffe efficiency & Percentage deviation in peak (%) values are improved.
Preparation of Activated Carbon From Sunflower Straw by H3PO4 Activation and Its Application for Acid Fuchsin Adsorption
Authors: Zhao Wende , Chen Liping
Published: July 2021

In this work, sunflower straw (SS) was used as the raw material, H3PO4 was used as the activator, and the sunflower straw activated carbon (SSAC) was prepared by the one-step activation method under the impregnation ratio of 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:5 (SS/H3PO4, g/g). The adsorption of acid fuchsin (AF) simulated dye wastewater by SSAC prepared under different immersion ratios has been studied. As the impregnation ratio increases, the pore structures of SSAC changed greatly. SSAC3 had the largest specific surface area (1794.01 m2/g), and SSAC4 had the smallest microporosity (0.0527 cm3/g) and the largest pore volume (2.549 cm3/g). The adsorption kinetics of four types of SSAC to AF were more in line with the quasi-second-order adsorption kinetic model. The Langmuir isotherm model was suitable for describing SSAC3 and SSAC4, and the Freundlich isotherm model was suitable for describing SSAC1 and SSAC2. Thermodynamics showed that the adsorption process was spontaneous and endothermic. At 303 K, SSAC4 showed a removal rate of 97.73% for 200 mg/L AF, and the maximum adsorption capacity of 2763.36 mg/g, which was the highest among the four types of SSAC. This study shows that the sunflower straw activated carbon prepared by the H3PO4 one-step activation method is a green and efficient carbon material and has great application potential in the treatment of dye-containing wastewater.
Toxicopathological and Molecular Studies on Imidacloprid and Hexaflumuron-induced Hepatorenal Toxicity in Rats.
Authors: Hassanen Eman I. , Hussien Ahmed M. , Mehanna Sally , Ibrahim Marwa A. , Hassan Neven H.
Published: July 2021

Pesticides are considered the main source of environmental pollution and causing severe hazardous effects on humans and livestock. Imidacloprid (IC) and hexaflumuron (HFM) are broadly used insecticides for crop protection in the world. Some studies discussed IC toxicity in rats, but the toxicity of HFM doesn’t elucidate yet. So that, the current study aimed to investigate the pathogenesis and the mechanistic way of both IC and HFM induced hepatorenal toxicity in rats with comprehensive insight into its molecular mechanism. 21 male Wistar albino rats were divided into 3 groups as the following: group (1), normal saline; group (2), receiving IC; and group (3), receiving HFM. All the following materials were orally administered every day for 28 days. At the end, all rats were euthanized to collect blood and organ samples (liver and kidneys). The results revealed behavioral alterations in walking, body tension, alertness, and head movement as well as a decrease in body weight of rats receiving either IC or HFM. In addition to increasing the levels of MDA with decreasing GHS levels in liver and kidney homogenates. Both liver and kidney tissues showed extensive histopathological alterations associated with increasing the serum levels of ALT, AST, urea, and creatinine as well as reduction in total proteins, albumin, and globulin levels. Furthermore, there was upregulation of m-RNA levels of caspase-3, JNK, and HO-1 genes with strong positive reaction of caspase-3, TNF-ὰ and NF-KB proteins in both liver and kidneys of rats receiving either IC or HFM compared with the control group. We can conclude that both IC and HFM induced oxidative hepatorenal damage via ROS overproduction that activate NF-KB signaling pathways and mitochondrial and JNK dependent apoptosis pathway.
The Two-years Immune Effect Between 0-1-2-months and 0-1-6-months of HBV Vaccination Schedule in Adults
Authors: Wang Juan , Liu Chang-Hai , Ma Yuanji , Zhu Xia , Luo Liru , Ji Yulin , Tang Hong
Published: July 2021

Background: The short-term 0-1-2-months hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination schedule was previously proposed in the adult population; however, its long-term immune effect remains unclear. The present study was aimed to investigate 1) the 2-months and 2-year immune effect of HBV vaccination; and 2) compliance rate between 0-1-2-months and 0-1-6-months vaccination schedules in adults.Method: A total of 1281 subjects tested for HBsAg(-) and Hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs)(-) were recruited. Participants from two distant counties were inoculated hepatitis B yeast vaccine for 10ug per dose each time, with 0-1-2-months (n=606) and 0-1-6-months (n=675) vaccination schedule, sequentially followed-up at two months and two years after the 3rd injection.Results: There was no statistical difference in anti-HBs seroconversion rate between 0-1-2-months and 0-1-6-months vaccination schedule at two months (91.96% vs 89.42%, p=0.229) and two years (81.06% vs. 77.14%, p=0.217). Quantitative anti-HBs level of 0-1-2-months vaccination schedule was not different with 0-1-6-months vaccination schedule at 2 months (anti-HBs1) (342.12 ± 378.42 m IU/ml vs. 392.38 ± 391.96 m IU/ml, p=0.062), but was higher at two years (anti-HBs2) (198.37 ± 286.44 m IU /ml vs. 155.65 ± 271.73 m IU /ml, p=0.048). By subgroup analysis, 0-1-2-months vaccination schedule showed better maintenance (p=0.041) and delayed reinforcement (p=0.019) in comparison to 0-1-6 vaccination schedule. The 0-1-2-months vaccination schedule also increased the 3rd-time injection completion rate (89.49% vs. 84.49%, p=0.010).Conclusion: the 0-1-2-months vaccination could obtain a similar short-term immune effect, but achieve a better long-term immune memory and a higher completion rate in the adult population.Trial registration: None
Removal of Phosphorus from Domestic Sewage by a Constructed Wetland Coupled Microbial Fuel Cell System
Authors: Yu Shuang , Dou Peng , Yin Yue , Wang Peijing , Wang Hao , Han Jinlong , Xu Duo
Published: July 2021

A constructed wetland (CW) coupled microbial fuel cell (MFC) system that treats wastewater and generates electricity was constructed. The total phosphorus in the simulated domestic sewage was used as the treatment target, and the optimal phosphorus removal effect and electricity generation were determined by comparing the changes in substrates, hydraulic retention times, and microorganisms. The mechanism underlying phosphorus removal was also analyzed. The experimental results showed that the best removal efficiencies of the two CW-MFC systems that used magnesia and garnet as substrates were 80.3% and 92.4%, respectively. Phosphorus removal by the garnet matrix mainly depends on a complex adsorption process whereas the magnesia system relies on ion exchange reactions. The CW-MFC system can also generate electricity. The highest output voltage and stable voltage of the garnet system were both higher than those of the magnesia system. The maximum stable voltage of the garnet device was 500 mV, while that of the magnesia device was 290 mV. The microorganisms in the soil and in the electrode within the wetland sediments also substantially changed, indicating that microorganisms positively respond to the removal of organic matter and power generation. Combining the advantages of constructed wetlands and microbial fuel cells also improves phosphorus removal in the coupled system. Therefore, when studying a CW-MFC system, the selection of electrode materials, matrix, and system structure should be taken into account in order to find a method that will improve the power generation capacity of the system and remove phosphorus.
Acute Occlusion of Abdominal Aorta: Duration of Bilateral Limb Ischemia and its Influence on Early-Term and Mid-Term Outcomes
Authors: Skrypnik Denis , Butaev Sultan , Arakelyan Artur , Falco Coral , Vinogradov Roman , Baryshev Alexander , Porhanov Vladimir
Published: July 2021

Background To investigate the influence of duration of bilateral acute limb ischemia (BALI) due to acute aortic occlusion (AAO) on the amputation-free survival in the early- and mid-term follow-ups (FUs). Methods A retrospective analysis of patients treated due to primary occlusion of the infrarenal aorta and BALI was performed. Univariate analysis was used to determine the risk factors of adverse outcomes and to compare the duration of BALI between amputation-free survival and the non-amputation-free survival group. The log-rank test was used to compare amputation-free survival in the FU. Results The data of 16 patients, with a mean age of 70 ± 11 years, were analyzed. Predominantly females (56.3%, 9/16) were included in the study. The median FU was 32 months (range, 26–108 months). The mean ischemia time was significantly shorter in the amputation-free survival group compared to that in the non-amputation-free survival group (7.4 ± 3.5 hours vs. 22.4 ± 16.3 hours, p = .01). The time frame for successful bilateral lower limb revascularization was at <11h (p= .001, Cramer’s V= .71). Amputation-free survival in the early- and mid-term FUs was improved, if the duration of BALI was < 11 hours (log rank test, p = .006). Conclusions The duration of BALI due to AAO < 11 hours was shown to be associated with improved amputation-free survival in the early- and mid-term FUs. Trial registration: The study was retrospectively registered in TCTR international registry (identification no. TCTR20210609002).
Gender Differences are Noted in Factors Associated with Insomnia in Older Adult Outpatients: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Peng Yu-Ting , Hsu Ying-Hsin , Chou Ming-Yueh , Chu Che-sheng , Su Chen-San , Liang Chih-Kuang , Wang Yu-Chun , Yang Tsan , Chen Liang-Kung , Lin Yu-Te
Published: July 2021

Background: Insomnia is a common sleep disturbance in older adults and is associated with many poor health outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the relevance of insomnia in older adult outpatients and to analyze differences between genders in factors associated with insomnia.Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the outpatient clinics of a tertiary hospital in Southern Taiwan from July to September 2018. A total of 400 consecutive subjects aged 60 years or older were recruited. Insomnia was defined as a score of > 6 points on the Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS). Socio-demographics, health behaviors and clinical data were collected by face-to-face interview. Multivariable logistic regression was adopted for statistical analysis of the entire sample and stratified by gender.Results: Participants’ mean age was 74.74 ± 8.54 years, and the majority (93%) had more than one chronic disease. The prevalence of insomnia accounted for 30% (120/400) of all subjects, with males 22.9% (46/201) and females 37.2% (74/199). Gender, appetite, exercise, depressive symptoms, and sleep-related conditions such as short sleep duration, sleeping pills usage, medium-high risk of obstructive sleep apnea(OSA) and restless leg syndrome(RLS) were factors associated with insomnia in older adults. Exercise, sleeping pills usage, and RLS had an independent association with insomnia only in men, while appetite was associated with insomnia in women only.Conclusions: Insomnia is highly prevalent among older adults, predominantly females. Significant differences are found between genders in factors associated with insomnia. Understanding gender differences may help clinicians to modify associated factors when managing older adults with insomnia.
Burden of Liver Cancer Attributable to Five Risk Factors by Specific Etiologies in 204 Countries and Territories
Authors: Li Yizhen , Wei Bajin , Deng Yujiao , Liu Yuanxing , Deng Xinyue , Xiang Dong , Hu Jingjing , Zheng Yi , Xu Peng , Yao Jia , Zhai Zhen , Zhou Linghui , Yang Si , Wu Ying , Zheng Shusen , Dai Zhijun
Published: July 2021

Background Liver cancer has caused a serious disease burden worldwide wherein prognostic risk factors may have had a significant role. However, previous studies have focused on liver cancer distributions and trend variations without analyzing the role of risk factors. Methods We assessed liver cancer burden attributable to five recognized risk factors as well as temporal trends from 1990 to 2019 based on the 2019 Global Burden of Disease Study. The risk exposure levels and their contributed burden were estimated by cause, sex, age, and location. Furthermore, the relationship between the risks and social-demographic index (SDI) was investigated. Results The total liver cancer burden attributable to risk factors is still increasing year by year in terms of death and disability-adjusted life years. However, the burden attributable to alcohol use and smoking has shown a downward trend in recent years. Risk-related burden in males was more than three times as that in females, the burden among the middle-aged and elderly was the most serious, and Central Asia, high-income Asia Pacific and East Asia exhibited the highest burden worldwide. The exposure levels of the five recognized risk factors were generally positively correlated with SDI value. However, the risk-related liver cancer burden first increased and then decreased with the SDI value. Conclusion These findings could help in understanding the role of prognostic risk factors in liver cancer burden, in promoting the development of relevant studies, and in proposing better prevention and control policies tailored to local conditions.
Molecular Diversity, Haplotype Distribution and Gene Flow of Bipolaris Sorokiniana Fungus Causing Spot Blotch Disease in Different Wheat Growing Zones
Authors: Kashyap Prem Lal , Kumar sudheer , Sharma Anju , Kumar Ravi Shekhar , Mahapatra Sunita , Jasrotia Poonam , Singh Gyanendra Pratap
Published: July 2021

Bipolaris sorokiniana (BS) is an economically important fungal pathogen causing spot blotch of wheat (Trtiticum aestivum) and found in all wheat growing zones of India. Very scanty and fragmentary information is available on its genetic diversity. The current research is the first detailed report on the geographic distribution and evolution of BS population in five geographically distinct wheat growing zones [North Western Plain Zone (NWPZ), North Eastern Plain zone (NEPZ); North Hill Zone (NHZ), Southern Hill Zone (SHZ) and Peninsular Zone (PZ)] of India, studied by performing nucleotide sequence comparison of internal transcribed spacer region of 183 isolates. A moderate to high levels of haplotypic diversity was noticed in different wheat growing zones. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that B. sorokiniana exist in two distinct lineages as all isolates under study were grouped in two different clades and found analogous to the findings of haplotypic and median joining network analysis. The genetic parameters revealed the existence of 59 haplotypes with three major haplotypes (H_2, H_3, and H_25) which showed star-like structure network surrounded by several single haplotypes, revealing high frequency of the mutations ((Eta = 2 – 437) in total analyzed population. H_3 was observed as a predominant haplotype and prevalent in all the five zones. Moderate level of genetic differentiation was found between NEPZ and PZ (Fst = 0.563), whereas it was low between NEPZ and NHZ (Fst = -0.062). High level of gene flow was noticed between NWPZ and NEPZ (Nm = 14.32), while it was found minimum between SZ and NHZ (Nm = 0.50). Moreover, negative score of neutrality statistics (Tajima’s D and Fu’s FS test) for NWPZ, PZ and SHZ populations, suggested recent population expansion in these zones. However, positive score for both the neutrality tests observed in NEPZ and NHZ indicated the dominance of balancing selection in structuring their population. Recombination events were observed in the NWPZ, NEPZ and NHZ population, while it was absent in SHZ and PZ population. Thus, the lack of any specific genetic population structure in all the zones indicates for the expansion history only from one common source population i.e. NWPZ, a mega zone of wheat production in India. Overall, it seems that the predominance of individual haplotypes with a moderate level of genetic variation and men mediated movement of contaminated seed and dispersal of inoculum, mutations and recombination as prime evolutionary processes play essential role in defining the genetic structure of BS population.