bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Some results on the possible number of periodic factors in words
Authors: Kolpakov Roman Maksimovich
Published: November 2022

The exponent of a formal word is the relation between its length and its minimal period. A repetition (subrepetition) in a word is a factor of exponent not less than 2 (less than 2). A gapped repeat in a word is a pair of identical factors with a positive gap between these factors. In the paper we present a review of some new results concerning the possible number of repetitions, subrepetitions and gapped repeats in words of fixed length .
Reciprocal inputs in arithmetic and tropical circuits
Authors: Seiwert Hannes , Sergeev Igor Sergeevich , Jukna Stasys
Published: November 2022

It is known that the size of monotone arithmetic (+, ·) circuits can be exponentially decreased by allowing just one division “at the very end,” at the output gate. A natural question is: can the size of (+, ·) circuits be substantially reduced if we allow divisions “at the very beginning,” that is, if besides nonnegative real constants and variables x1, …, xn, the circuits can also use their reciprocals 1/x1, ..., 1/xn as inputs. We answer this question in the negative: the gain in circuit size is then always at most quadratic. Over tropical (min, +) and (max, +) semirings, division turns into subtraction; so, reciprocal inputs are then -x1, …, -xn. We give the same negative answer also for tropical circuits. The question of whether reciprocal inputs can substantially speed up tropical (min, +, max) circuits, remains open.
Effect of Powder Mold Release Agent on Aluminum Alloy Melt Under Gravity Casting Conditions
Authors: Mu Kuiyuan , Nikawa Makoto , Hayakawa Kunio , Shima Hidetaka , Yamashita Minoru ,   Graduate School of Engineering, Gifu University 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu-shi, Gifu 501-1193, Japan,   Department of Mechanical Engineering, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan,   Graduate School of Science and Technology, Shizuoka University, Shizuoka, Japan,   MORESCO Corporation, Kobe, Japan
Published: November 2022

To explore the influence of the release agent on the fluidity of the aluminum alloy melt, continuous experiments were carried out. First, through a flat mold filling experiment, the aluminum alloy melt and temperature change of the flat mold were obtained via measurements under the condition in which the mold was coated with a powder mold release agent. Stable and minimal, the excellent thermal insulation performance of heat transfer coefficient. Then, fluidity measurement experiments and computer simulation were conducted to verify the influence of the density change of the powder mold release agent on the fluidity of the aluminum alloy melt during the casting process. It was found that this relationship was affected by the temperature difference between the mold and aluminum alloy melt. The experimental results showed that changes in the powder mold release agent density changed the distribution density of its components through the thickness of the coating, thereby affecting the fluidity and thermal insulation function.
TECHNOLOGICAL EQUIPMENT FOR GEARWORKING OF HARDENED WHEELS
Authors: GASANOV Magomedemin Isamagomedovich , Permyakov Oleksandr , Klochko Oleksandr , Fedorenko Vitalii
Published: November 2022

The relationship between the theoretical dependence of the cutting speed on various technological factors, the physical and mechanical properties of the tool materials and the hardened gear allows the choice of rational cutting conditions in each specific production case, taking into account the required indicators of tool life, processing productivity, accuracy and quality of the surface layer. Cutting schemes and technological equipment were developed for intensive and high-quality gear cutting using the method of numerical simulation of the surface layer shaping process, which made it possible to obtain the stress-strain state of the surface layer of the gear being machined, tool and chips, and recommendations were developed for choosing the technological processing schedule. The numerical simulation method is based on solving a system of continuum mechanics equations (equations of motion, continuity, energy). The constitutive relations of the theory of elasticity, plasticity, and fracture are used as closing equations for the system.
RESEARCH OF THE DEPTH OF GRINDING
Authors: SYZYI YURII , STALІNSKIY Dmytro
Published: November 2022

The article presents a model of a dynamic rough grinding system (DSOS) with the impact on it ofthe curvature of the rolled product and the discontinuous surface of the grinding wheel. The analysis ofthe model of a dynamic system for rough grinding is carried out by direct simulation on a computer andby means of the amplitude-frequency characteristic of the system. This analysis allows you to assignrough grinding conditions to achieve the quality requirements for rolled products after rough grinding.
ON THE ROLE OF PERSONALITY IN THE HISTORY OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF CONTINUOUS CASTING OF BILLETS FROM METALS AND ALLOYS
Authors: Horoshylov Oleh , Kipenskyi Andrii
Published: November 2022

The purpose of the work was to determine the significance of the personal contribution of the Kharkiv foundryscientist professor Oleg Oleksandrovich Shatagin to the development and improvement of the technological processof continuous casting of blanks from metals and alloys. Biographical data of the scientist are provided, his path to thedevelopment and implementation of continuous casting in production processes at numerous industrial enterprises isshown. It is noted that the development of the technological process took place not only because of the enthusiasmand efficiency of O.O. Shatagin, but mostly on the basis of his scientific approaches, which were later embodied indissertations for obtaining a scientific degree, first a candidate of technical sciences, and later a doctor of technicalsciences. The scientist's scholarly achievements and public recognition of his scientific activity are noted. The featuresof one of the latest projects, which was managed by Professor O.O. Shatagin and which was dedicated to the creationof a new generation machine for vertical semi-continuous casting of hollow cylindrical blanks of large diameters fromnon-ferrous metals and alloys, were revealed. It is shown that despite the objective circumstances that did not allowthe project to be fully implemented, the value of this project for the development of science, engineering andtechnology is undeniable. The conclusions state that thanks to Oleg Oleksandrovych's talent, diligence and hard work,dozens of continuous casting machines are still working at industrial enterprises today, which definitely gives reasonto consider him an outstanding personality in the field of continuous casting technologies of metals and alloys.
STEM Learning for Science Education Program: Reference to Indonesia
Authors: Nugroho Oktian Fajar , Permanasari Anna , Firman Harry , Riandi
Published: November 2022

STEM education has now become a concern for researcher of education to be considered as a highly demanding learning. In Southeast Asia, Indonesia is one of the largest countries that has a lot of human resources that need to be improved in skills and abilities. This study aims to examine whether the urgency of STEM learning in Indonesia by looking at 21st century skills, this study uses content analysis methods, including examining the best implementation of STEM education aimed at teachers by investigating technical design skills training for teachers and students and also reviewed the literature from previous research from 1990 to 2016 which focused on developing STEM learning education throughout the world. In this study it was found that STEM education showed very significant developments throughout the world and had a major impact in efforts to improve students' understanding of concepts, literacy and creativity. From various research sources have provided evidence that implementation in implementing STEM Education to teachers. STEM is an application of daily life that is close and increases students' awareness of the environment.
Achievement Motivation, Affiliation Motivation, and Student Learning Behavior During The Covid-19 Pandemic: A Structural Equation Model
Authors: Nuryono Wiryo
Published: November 2022

Learning behavior can be driven by motivation, when the quality of this motivation is high it will have a positive impact on welfare, but when motivation is of low quality it will have a detrimental impact on welfare. This study aims to determine the relationship between achievement motivation, affiliation motivation, and student learning behavior during the Covid-19 pandemic. Research design correlation with SEM analysis techniques. The subjects that will be used consist of 2941 junior high school students who were selected using the cluster random sampling technique. The research data was taken using 3 psychological scales, namely achievement motivation, affiliation motivation, and learning behavior. The data that has been collected is then analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) based on Partial Least Square (PLS) assisted by Warp â€“ PLS version 7.0. The results of the analysis show that the coefficient of achievement motivation on learning behavior is 0.64. It shows that achievement motivation is significantly correlated. The coefficient of affiliated motivation on learning behavior is 0.1. It shows that affiliation motivation is influential but not significant, even though affiliation motivation supports learning behavior.
The Effectiveness of The Video Critic Method in Multiple Intelligences-Based Learning for VIII Class Students at Madrasah Tsanawiyah
Authors: Ru'iya Sutipyo , Masduki Yusron , Latifah Amrih
Published: November 2022

Strategy is important in the learning process to encourage student success. The teacher's expertise in compiling and using appropriate-strategies with learning materials will increase the effectiveness of learning. This study is a pre-experimental design study, intending to know the effectiveness of the video critic method in multiple intelligences-based-learning in class VIII students at Madrasah Tsanawiyah. The sample used was 30 students that choosen by random sampling. The data collection instrument was a cognitive test. The data analysis technique used a different test "t" test with the help of the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 21. The results showed learning-outcomes incrased before and after using the video critic method based on multiple intelligences research (MIR). The results of the "t" difference test obtained a value of 10,806 (p < .00), so it can be concluded that there is a significant difference between the learning outcomes before using the MIR-based video critic method and the learning outcomes after using the MIR-based video critic method. This happens because students can learn according to their learning style, so they enjoy learning and learning more meaningfully.
ANALISIS DAYA SAING KOMPETITIF KANADA DAN INDONESIA DARI SEGI SOSIAL, EKONOMI, DAN POLITIK
Authors: Christian Natalis , Andrianto  , Jessica
Published: November 2022

Bisnis internasional telah menjadi subjek penelitian akademis sejak awal abad ke-20, terutama berfokus pada perdagangan dan hubungan antar perusahaan. Tujuan dari penelitian ini untuk mengetahui perbedaan antara Kanada dan Indonesia dari segi geologi, sosial, hingga ekonomi. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kuantitatif berdasarkan data statistik yang diperoleh dari website instansi pemerintahan Indonesia dan Kanada. Penelitian ini dilakukan dengan menganalisis laporan statistik negara Indonesia dan Kanada yang meliputi aspek sosial, populasi, ekonomi dan perdagangan serta pemerintahan dan politik masing-masing negara dalam jangka waktu sepuluh tahun sejak tahun 2011 hingga 2021. Hasil dari penelitian ini menunjukan perbedaan sistem ekonomi dan pemerataan pendapatan dari kedua negara ini. Dari segi pendapatan per orang lebih banyak di Kanada. Hal ini terjadi karena pengaruh banyaknya pendapatan perkapita dari negara Kanada sendiri, beda dengan negara Indonesia yang kaya akan sumber daya alam namun tidak dapat menghasilkan sebuah produk dengan nilai tinggi yang diakibatkan oleh kurangnya sumber daya yang unggul. Selain itu, penelitian ini diharapkan dapat memberikan manfaat kepada peneliti dan kalangan akademis untuk mengetahui perbedaan antara negara Kanada dengan Indonesia serta memberikan informasi tentang perkembangan pada negara Kanada maupun Indonesia.
Modelo vibratorio de un sistema de transmisión de potencia para detección y caracterización de fallas
Authors: Villanueva-Rodríguez Julián Andrés , Barreto-Reyes Nelson Stiven , Calero-Arellano Diego Patricio
Published: November 2022

El comportamiento vibratorio de un sistema de transmisión de potencia permite caracterizar las señales, a fin de detectar posibles fallas en los componentes del sistema. Esta estrategia de mantenimiento predictivo contribuye a la estimación de la vida útil de los sistemas rotatorios, lo cual disminuye el tiempo y los costos de mantenimiento. Esta caracterización se realiza considerando modelos de diferentes grados de libertad de sistemas rotodinámicos, en los cuales es posible simular fallas comunes en los sistemas de transmisión —desgaste, roturas, sobrecarga—. Teniendo en cuenta lo anterior, este trabajo consiste en modelar un sistema de transmisión de potencia de dos etapas: la primera, engranajes helicoidales, y la segunda con engranajes hipoidales, usando como base el modelo de Jeffcott. Además, se implementa el acoplamiento de los ejes de transmisión a través de los engranajes, donde también es simulado el comportamiento de las fallas. La ejecución del modelo y la obtención de resultados es realizada usando el software MATLAB®. Así, fue posible completar un modelo matemático de múltiples grados de libertad que permite evaluar el comportamiento de la dinámica del sistema por etapas y, finalmente, acoplar cada una de ellas en un sistema completo. Para ello se consideraron varios factores para lograr similitudes con respecto a la realidad. Las especificaciones de algunos materiales —revisión de catálogos, entre otros— permitieron suponer valores que representaran de manera adecuada todas las partes del sistema, y, de esta forma, estar en capacidad de simular para las etapas del desarrollo del proyecto.
GPU accelerated digital twins of the human heart open new routes for cardiovascular research
Authors: Viola Francesco , Corso Giulio Del , De Paulis Ruggero , Verzicco Roberto
Published: November 2022

The recruitment of patients for rare or complex cardiovascular diseases is a bottleneck for clinical trials and digital twins of the human heart have recently been proposed as a viable alternative.
In this paper we present an unprecedented cardiovascular computer model which, relying on the latest GPU–acceleration technologies, replicates the full cardiac dynamics within a few hours. This opens the way to extensive simulation campaigns to study the response of synthetic cohorts of patients to cardiovascular disorders, novel prosthetic devices or surgical procedures. As a proof–of–concept we show the results obtained for left bundle branch block disorder and the subsequent cardiac resynchronization obtained by pacemaker implantation. The in–silico results closely match those obtained in clinical practice, confirming the reliability of the method.
This innovative approach makes possible a systematic use of digital twins in cardiovascular research, thus reducing the need of real patients with their economical and ethical implications. This study is a major step towards in–silico clinical trials in the era of digital medicine.
Design and simulation of a semiconductor detector-based Compton imaging system with efficiency analysis
Authors: Niknami Mostafa , Hosseini Seyed Abolfazl , Loushab Mahdy Ebrahimi
Published: November 2022

In recent years, Compton cameras that use electronic collimators have become common. One or more scatterer detectors and an absorber detector make up the Compton camera, which is sensitive to the energy and location of scattered gamma rays. It predicts the distribution of gamma-ray sources by reflecting all valid events in the image space using conical surfaces. Compton cameras are designed for specific applications and image reconstruction using various methods.
Based on studies on the efficiency of the Compton camera, the current work provides a novel detector design that includes scatterer and absorber detectors. This design includes eight scatterer detectors spaced 1 mm apart and an absorber detector 30 mm from the last scatterer detector. The distance between the source and the first scatterer detector was 5 mm. The scatterer and absorber detector plates were 70x70x2.125mm3 and 70x70x10mm3, respectively. The Compton imaging system is simulated using the GEANT4 toolkit.
In addition, this study uses an analytical method to reconstruct Compton camera images. The method used for analytical reconstruction in the Compton imaging system differs slightly from simple restoration methods used in other imaging systems. In the analytical method, the equation related to the data reflected by the image must be solved to reconstruct the image directly. This method, the C + + code was developed to reconstruct Compton camera images.
According to the results, using the analytical method to identify the best circumstances and the parameters impacting efficiency, the value of FWHM achieved was 3.7 mm with an angular uncertainty of about 2.7 at an energy of 0.662 MeV. Furthermore, the FWHM value decreased by 0.7 mm, compared to another (experimental) design that employed the analytical image reconstruction approach.
First non-covalent inhibitors of thioredoxin glutathione reductase with schistosomicidal activity in vivo
Authors: Petukhova Valentina , Aboagye Samuel , Ardini Matteo , Lullo Rachel , Byrne Margaret , Martin Lucy , Fata Francesca , Gabriele Federica , Ippoliti Rodolfo , Ling Wai Li , Effantin Grégory , Harding Luke , Nikolic Dejan , Lantvit Daniel , Dangi Bikash , Gone Vamshikrishna , Johnson Jeremy , Thatcher Gregory , Angelucci Francesco , Williams David , Petukhov Pavel
Published: November 2022

Only one drug, praziquantel, is available for treating schistosomiasis, a disease affecting more than 200 million people. Laboratory studies have shown that schistosome worms can develop resistance to praziquantel and low cure rates from mass drug administration programs suggest that resistance is evolving in the field. Previous studies have identified thioredoxin glutathione reductase (TGR), a selenoprotein, as essential for schistosome survival, and therefore, a target for much-needed new therapeutics for schistosomiasis. Compounds targeting TGR identified to date are irreversible and/or covalent inhibitors. Both potassium antimonial tartrate and oltipraz inhibit TGR and were used clinically for schistosomiasis treatment but their use was discontinued due to unacceptable side effects. These findings highlight the importance of the development of non-covalent, metabolically stable, and druglike TGR inhibitors. To identify TGR inhibitors for clinical use, small molecule fragments obtained by X-ray crystallography screening were ligated and partially optimized as first-in-class non-covalent inhibitors of TGR. A first cryo-EM structure of TGR demonstrated that these inhibitors bind at a secondary site preventing the NADPH oxidation steps. These compounds display schistosomicidal activity against different parasite-life cycle stages reaching the nanomolar range. Most importantly, novel druglike and orally bioavailable TGR inhibitors demonstrated efficacy against schistosome infections in mice, meeting the criteria for lead progression indicated by WHO and significantly outperformed praziquantel against juvenile worms. These findings open a new avenue for the development of therapeutics for the treatment of schistosomiasis.
A Dual-Population Cooperative Water Wave Optimization Algorithm with Knowledge-Driven Learning Mechanism and Its Performance Analysis
Authors: Zhao Fuqing , Shao Dongqu , Wang Ling , Cao Jie , Tang Jianxin
Published: November 2022

The water wave optimization algorithm (WWO), which is inspired by the shallow water wave theory, is a promising meta-heuristic in continuous optimization problems. However, the canonical WWO algorithm has proved to fall into the local optimum as lacking the guidance of the search direction and iteration step sizes in the search process. In this paper, a dual-population cooperative WWO with a knowledge-driven learning mechanism (DCLWWO) is proposed to relieve the drawback. The improved learning mechanism of WWO with the searching operations of different types of the population is combined to strengthen the self-learning and self-adapting capabilities of the algorithm. The wavelength [[EQUATION]] was redefined with a fixed external archive to further control the size of the search step during the iterations. DCLWWO is compared with the existing variants of WWO and several well-established algorithms to substantiate the performance of the algorithm. Meanwhile, DCLWWO is applied to solve the blocking flow shop scheduling problem (BFSP), which has been widely studied in artificial intelligence manufacturing. Experimental results and systematic analysis indicate the effectiveness of DCLWWO in solving complex optimization problems.
Residual behavior and risk assessment of fluopyram, acetamiprid and chlorantraniliprole used individually or in combination on strawberry
Authors: Li Yanjie , Luo Yuqin , Jiang Jinhua , He Hongmei , Zhang Changpeng , Zhao Xueping
Published: November 2022

In this study, fluopyram (FOR), acetamiprid (ATP) and chlorantraniliprole (CAP) were used individually or in combination at the maximum recommended dose in greenhouse strawberries to research the dissipation dynamics and dietary risks. A multi-residue analytical method for FOR, ATP and CAP in strawberries using UPLC-MS/MS integrated with QuEChERS approach was develop with a strong linearity (R2 ≧ 0.9990), accuracy (recoveries of 82.62–107.79%), and precision (relative standard deviations of 0.58–12.73%). The limits of quantification were 0.01 mg kg− 1. Field results showed that the half-lives of FOR, ATP and CAP in strawberry fruits were 11.6–12.4 days, 6.1–6.7 days and 10.9–11.7 days, respectively. The half-lives of the three investigated pesticides showed no significant difference when used individually or in combination. A risk assessment indicated that the dietary intake risks of the three pesticides in grown strawberries were 0.0041–7.63% whether applied alone or joint, which demonstrated that the dietary intake risks of three pesticides in grown strawberries could be negligible for Chinese male and female consumers, and even though pesticides were used in combination, there was no need to be concerned about the safety. This paper serves as a guide for the safe use of FOR, ATP and CAP on greenhouse strawberries.
Biomphalaria alexandrina snail as a bio-indicator of pollution with Manganese metal and its effect on physiological, immunological, histopathological parameters and larvicidal potencies
Authors: Ibrahim Amina , Abdel-Haleem Ahmed , Taha Rania Gamal
Published: November 2022

Metal pollution results in many dangerous consequences to the environment and human health due to the bioaccumulation in their tissues. The present study aims to measure the bioaccumulation factor of the Manganese (Mn) heavy metal in Biomphlaria alexandrina snails' tissues and water samples. The present results showed the concentration of Mn heavy metal in water (87.5 mg/l) and its bioaccumulation factor in Helisoma duryi tissue was higher than that in tissues of Physa acuta and B. alexandrina snails. Results showed that 87.5 mg/l Mn concentration had miracidial and cercaricidal activities. Also, this concentration decreased the mean total number of the hemocytes after exposure for 24h or 48h, while increased both the mean mortality and phagocytic indices of the hemocytes of exposed snails. It caused alterations in the cytomorphology of the hemocytes of exposed snails after 24 or 48h, where, the granulocytes had irregular cell membrane, and forming pseudopodia. Besides, both levels of Testosterone (T) and Estradiol (E) were increased after exposure to 87.5mg/l Mn metal compared to the control group. Also, it increased MDA (Malonaldehyde) and TAC (Total antioxidant capacity) contents, while, decreased SOD (superoxide dismutase). Besides, it caused great histopathological damages in both hermaphrodite and digestive glands, represented in the degeneration of the gonadal, digestive, secretory cells and the connective tissues. Therefore, B. alexandrina might be used as sensitive bio-indicator of pollution with Mn heavy metal to avoid ethics rules; beside they are easily available and large in number.
Improvement of 5-Fluorouracil Chemosensitivty In Colorectal Cancer Cells by siRNA-Mediated Silencing of STAT6 Oncogene
Authors: Farzam Omid Rahbar , Baradaran Behzad , Najafi Souzan , Amini Mohammad , Kaleybar Vahid Pourabdollah , Dabbaghipour Reza , Khosroshahi Shiva Ahdi , akbari bahman
Published: November 2022

Background: One of the cancers that occur most frequently around the world is colorectal cancer (CRC). STAT6 transcription factor is involved in cellular multipotency, tumor cell growth, drug resistance, stemness, and migration, showing potential as a cancer therapy target for a variety of cancers, including CRC. In this regard, the current study aimed to investigate the effect of STAT6 silencing via small interference RNA (siRNA) in combination with 5-FU on CRC development.
Methods: The MTT assay and the Annexin V/PI staining were used to examine cell proliferation and apoptosis induction, respectively. Flow cytometry was performed to investigate cell cycle progression. Wound healing assays were also used to examine HT-29 cell migration. A colony formation assay was used to examine cell stemness features of HT-29 cells. The qRT-PCR was used to measure the gene expression levels in the samples.
Results: Apoptosis induction by STAT6 inhibition significantly improved the HT-29 cell chemosensitivity to 5-FU. Both caspase-9 apoptotic gene and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio were upregulated when STAT6 suppression and 5-FU were combined. Additionally, combination therapy led to cell cycle arrest at the sub-G1 phase in CRC cells. The combined therapy also significantly reduced MMP9 expression, which in turn reduced the migration of HT-29 cells. Furthermore, STAT6 knockdown inhibited HT-29 cell colony formation by reducing the expression of the Sox2 and CD44 genes, either alone or in combination with 5-FU.
Conclusions: The findings show that combination therapy of 5-FU and STAT6 silencing may be an effective treatment for patients with CRC.
Aberrant somatic L- and T-type calcium channel function in cNurr1 and LRRK2-G2019S mice
Authors: Chergui Karima , Skiteva Olga , Yao Ning , Mantas Ioannis , Zhang Xiaoqun , Perlmann Thomas , Svenningsson Per
Published: November 2022

In Parkinson’s disease (PD), axons of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) degenerate before their cell bodies. Calcium influx during pacemaker firing is suggested to contribute to neuronal loss, but it is not known if, and at which stage of the disease, dysfunctions of voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) occur in DA neurons somata and axon terminals. We investigated T-type and L-type calcium channels in the somata and axon terminals of SNc-DA neurons of mice with a deletion of the Nurr1 gene in DA neurons from an adult age (cNurr1 mice) and mice bearing the G2019S mutation in the gene coding for LRRK2 (G2019S mice). Adult cNurr1 mice displayed motor and DA deficits (symptomatic stage), while middle-aged G2019S mice did not (prodromal stage). We found that the number and morphology of DA neurons as well as most of their intrinsic membrane properties and pacemaker firing were unaltered in cNurr1 and G2019S mice. However, in G2019S mice, but not cNurr1 mice, the function of somatic L-type VGCCs was increased. In cNurr1 mice, the function of somatic T-type VGCCs was reduced, and somatic dopamine-D2 autoreceptors desensitized more. These changes were reversed by a LRRK2 kinase inhibitor in G2019S mice, and by kaempferol, a flavonoid with antioxidant activity, in both G2019S and cNurr1 mice. The role of L-type and T-type calcium channels in controlling dopamine release from axon terminals in the striatum was unaltered in cNurr1 and G2019S mice. Our findings uncover opposite changes, linked to oxidative stress, in the function of two calcium channels in DA neurons somata, but not axon terminals, in symptomatic and prodromal experimental PD models.
Remimazolam tosilate has a lower incidence of hypotension than propofol in painless colonoscopy
Authors: Li Sitong , Zhang Yi , Wang Hongbai , Ye Gang , Yao Nana , Xiang Jun , Mou Junying , Zhu Xianlin
Published: November 2022

Background: Remimazolam tosilate is an ultra-short-acting sedative drug with the advantages of rapid onset, rapid recovery, and mild respiratory and circulatory inhibition. We aim to compare the incidence of hypotension of remimazolam with propofol in patients undergoing painless colonoscopy and explore the stability of remimazolam in circulation.
Methods: This is a randomized, double-blind trial. 116 patients with outpatient appointment for painless colonoscopy in our hospital from December 2020 to March 2021 were randomly divided into the remimazolam group and the propofol group. The modified observer’s assessment of alert/sedative (MOAA/S) was used to evaluate the depth of the patient's sedation. The Narcotrend score was monitored throughout the whole process. Taking the incidence of hypotension as the primary outcome indicators, records the incidence of respiratory depression, nausea, vomiting and other adverse events during sedation in the two groups of patients, and record the effective time of anesthesia, awakening time, sedative success rate, etc. to evaluate the effect of remimazolam on circulation.
Results：The incidence of hypotension during sedation (13.8%) in the remimazolam group was significantly lower than that in propofol (37.9%), and the success rate of remimazolam (98.3%) was slightly lower than propofol (100.0%), but the awakening time was significantly shorter (P<0.001); The incidence of respiratory inhibition, nausea, vomiting and other adverse events during colonoscopy, remimazolam was significantly lower than that of propofol (P<0.05).
Conclusion：Remimazolam tosilate has higher circulatory stability in patients undergoing painless colonoscopy.
Trial registration:
The trial was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2000040398), data of registration: 28/11/2020.
Application of weighted gene co-expression network analysis to explore potential prognostic markers of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: He Liming , Zeng Yiyu , Gao Yijun , Xie Xiaoyan
Published: November 2022

Currently, there are no specific head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) prognostic markers. We explored the potential HNSCC prognostic markers using weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). We obtained raw datasets of HNSCC and matched normal mucosal tissues and screened out differentially expressed genes (DEGs), then analyzed DEG enrichment. DEG co-expression network modules for both tumor and normal tissues were constructed using WGCNA, then hub genes in tumor set-specific modules were selected. Key genes underwent survival analysis using the HNSCC dataset in The Cancer Genome Atlas database. The key gene expression profiles in the clinical samples were verified with RT-qPCR and western blotting. We identified 893 DEGs: 518 were upregulated (mainly distributed in the exogenous metabolic processes, epidermal development, regulation of inflammatory mediators of TRP channels, and tyrosine metabolism) and 375 were downregulated (mainly related to cell adhesion, osteoblast and adipocyte lipolysis regulation, and the RIG-I-like receptor signaling pathway). The WGCNA constructs of the HNSCC co-expression module uncovered 10 hub genes. Survival analysis determined that EOMES (eomesodermin) and SPRYD3 (SPRYD domain-containing protein 3) were closely related to HNSCC prognosis and differentially expressed in oral cancer clinical tissues. EOMES and SPRYD3 might be potential HNSCC prognostic markers and therapeutic targets.
Significance of immunogenic cell death-related prognostic gene signature in cervical cancer prognosis and anti-tumor immunity
Authors: Jiang Shan , Cui Zhaolei , Zheng Jianfeng , Wu Qiaoling , Yu Haijuan , You Yiqing , Zheng Chaoqiang , Sun Yang
Published: November 2022

BACKGROUND
Immunogenic cell death (ICD) can reshape the tumor immune microenvironment, and ICD, as a type of regulated cell death, activates the adaptive immunity of the body to achieve better therapeutic results through direct tumor cell killing. ICD has never been associated with cervical cancer (CC), hence the purpose of this research was to find and evaluate ICD-related genetic characteristics as cervical cancer prognostic ators.
METHODS
Data of CC patients from The Tumor Genome Atlas (TCGA) was used as the basis to obtain immunogenic cell death-related prognostic genes (IPGs) in patients with CC, using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator and Cox regression screening, and the IPGs scoring system was constructed to classify patients into high- and low-risk groups, with the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset as the validation group. Finally, the difference analysis of single-sample gene set enrichment analysis, tumor microenvironment (TME), immune cells, tumor mutational burden, and chemotherapeutic drug sensitivity between the high-risk and low-risk groups was investigated. The PDIA3 gene was identified as the major gene in immunogenic death-related genes (IRG) with the greatest hazard ratio (HR), and in vitro experiments were performed to confirm its expression in colorectal cancer (CC) and its influence on the prognosis of the patient.
RESULTS
A prognostic model with four IPGs (PDIA3, CASP8, IL1 and LY96) was developed, and it was found that the group of CC patients with a higher risk score of IPG expression had a lower survival rate. Multiple regression analysis also showed that this risk score was a reliable predictor of overall survival (HR = 1.058, P 0.01). In comparison to the low-risk group, the high-risk group had lower TME scores and immune cell infiltration, and gene set variation analysis showed that immune-related pathways were more enriched in the high-risk group. Chemotherapeutic drug sensitivity analysis revealed that IC50 value of common chemotherapeutic agents for CC was lower in the high-risk compared with that in the low-risk group. In addition, high expression of the PDIA3 gene, a key gene in IPGs, was linked to worse patient prognosis.
CONCLUSION
A risk model constructed from four IPGs can independently predict the prognosis of CC patients and recommend more appropriate immunotherapy strategies for patients.
Skewed X-chromosome Inactivation in Unsolved Neurodevelopmental Disease Cases Can Guide Re-evaluation for X-linked Genes
Authors: Brusco Alfredo , Giovenino Chiara , Trajkova Slavica , Pavinato Lisa , Cardaropoli Simona , Pullano Verdiana , Sukarova-Angelovska Elena , Carestiato Silvia , Salmin Paola , Rinninella Antonina , Battaglia Anthony , Bertoli Luca , Fadda Antonio , Palermo Flavia , Carli Diana , Mussa Alessandro , Dimartino Paola , Bruselles Alessandro , froukh Tawfiq , Mandrile Giorgia , Pasini Barbara , De Rubeis Silvia , Buxbaum Joseph , Pippucci Tommaso , Tartaglia Marco , Rossato Marzia , Delledonne Massimo , Ferrero Giovanni Battista
Published: November 2022

Despite major technical and genetic advances, more than half of the neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) cases remain undiagnosed.
We explored the frequency of non-random XCI in the mothers of male patients and in affected females from a clinically heterogeneous cohort of unsolved NDD cases, negative at FRAXA, chromosomal microarray analysis and Trio Exome Sequencing. We hypothesize that an unbalanced XCI could unmask previously discarded genetic variants on the X chromosome connected both to XCI and NDD.
A multiplex fluorescent-PCR-based assay was used to screen the XCI pattern after methylation sensitive HhaI digestion. Trio-based ES re-analysis was performed in families with skewed XCI occurrence. Linkage analysis and RT-PCR were used to further study the X-chromosome inactive allele. X-drop was used to define the chromosome deletion boundaries.
We found a skewed XCI (>90%) in 16/186 mothers of affected NDD males (8.6%) and 12/90 female patients (13.3%), far beyond the expected XCI in normal population (3.6%, OR=4.10; OR=2.51). Reanalyzing ES and clinical data, we solved 7/28 cases (25%). These included variants in the KDM5C, PDZD4, PHF6, TAF1, OTUD5, and ZMYM3, and a genomic deletion spanning exons 3-4 of the ATRX gene.
The identification of a skewed XCI is an easy assay that can help selecting a subgroup of patients for the re-evaluation of X-linked variants, improving the diagnostic yield in NDD patients, and allowing the identification of new X-linked disorders.
Genome-wide analysis of bHLH57 and functional identification of the involvement of BcbHLH57 in abiotic stress in wucai (Brassica campestris L.)
Authors: Zhang Liting , Zhang Bingsheng , Lan Tian , Zhu Shidong , Hou Jinfeng , Chen Guohu , Tang Xiaoyan , Gan Defang , Wang Chenggang , Yuan Lingyun
Published: November 2022

Wucai (Brassica campestris L. ssp. chinensis var. rosularis Tsen), a variety of Brassica cabbage in the Cruciferous family, is a kind of cold-tolerant vegetable widely cultivated in the Jianghuai River Basin of China. To breed new varieties of resistance to stress, it is necessary to study the tolerance of Resistance to different stresses. Transcriptomic data showed that exogenous application of 2, 4-epbrassinolide (EBR) significantly increased bHLH genes in wucai at low temperature, and bHLH57 was up regulated significantly. BHLH (Basic helix-loop-helix) TFs (transcription factor) is a superfamily of TFs with complex functions and related to various plant life activities. In this study, a total of 239 bHLH genes were identified, and their amino acid physicochemical properties, chromosome location, gene structure, phylogeny and cis-acting elements were analyzed by bioinformatics. Phylogenetic analysis showed that bHLH gene families in Chinese cabbage and Arabidopsis were divided into six groups, and the distribution of bHLH genes in Chinese cabbage was uneven. Cis-acting elements analysis showed that the promoter region of bHLH family genes in Chinese cabbage had more responsive elements related to light, hormone and abiotic stress. The BcbHLH57 overexpressing Arabidopsis thaliana lines were subjected to different stress treatments, and the seed germination rate, root growth, survival rate and various plant physiological indexes were determined. The results showed that the transgenic lines were more tolerant to salt, heat and drought stress. In this study, the response of BcbHLH57 gene to salt, heat and drought stress was reported for the first time, which provided a basis for further research on the function of BcbHLH57 in abiotic stress.
Productivity and Efficiency Heterogeneity Among Maize Smallholder Farmers in Ethiopia
Authors: Alemu Mengistu , Berihun Daregot , Lokossou Jourdain C. , Yismaw Bedilu
Published: November 2022

The paper used stochastic frontier analysis to investigate factors contributing to productivity and efficiency heterogeneity among smallholder maize producers in Ethiopia. Findings showed that the supply of inputs and technology significantly impacted maize productivity, and they are significant efficiency differences among farmers. We found that women-managed households were more efficient than their male-managed counterparts. We also offer new insights into a non-linear effect of farmers’ education on their efficiency level. Furthermore, we documented that households would benefit from a 20.80% productivity gain and 14% production cost savings if they were operating at the full economic efficiency level. Land fragmentation and distance from the main market were the key factors that adversely affected the efficiency level of smallholder maize farmers. Hence, policies leading to reduction of land fragmentation and developing market infrastructure in rural areas could promote the efficiency of farmers which enhances farm productivity.
Assessment of the potential of cold plasma-pretreated beta-tricalcium phosphate in combination with periodontal ligament stem cells to enhance bone regeneration in vivo
Authors: Miletić M , Puač N , Škoro N , Brković B , Andrić M , Prokić BB , Danilović V , Milutinović-Smiljanić S , Mitrović-Ajtić O , Mojsilović S
Published: November 2022

Objectives

A new strategy in the field of regenerative bone tissue medicine involves the combination of artificial bone substitutes and progenitor cells. In this approach the positive interaction of biomaterials and cells is crucial for successful bone regeneration.

Materials and methods

Herein, we examined if cold atmospheric plasma (CAP)-pretreated beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) alone, or in combination with periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs), increases the bone regeneration in rabbit calvarial critical-size defect model. After two and four weeks of bone regeneration we analyzed and compared the bone formation in experimental groups using histology and histomorphometry. In addition, we used immunohistochemistry to analyze the protein expression of bone healing markers.

Results

After two and four weeks of bone regeneration, the results of histological and histomorphometric, analysis demonstrated significantly higher bone regeneration capacity and absence of inflammatory reaction in the implant of plasma-treated β-TCP in combination with PDLSCs compared to the β-TCP alone. Furthermore, immunohistochemical analysis showed the highest percentages of immunostained cells for the bone healing markers, bone morphogenic proteins 2 and 4, runt-related transcription factor 2, collagen-1, and osteonectin in the defects filled with CAP-treated β-TCP and PDLSC which additionally support beneficial therapeutic effects of such combined approach on osteoregeneration.

Conclusion

The CAP-pretreated β-TCP implant seeded with PDLSCs shows significantly higher bone regeneration capacity and absence of inflammatory reaction in vivo in comparison to the β-TCP alone.

Clinical relevance

Cold atmospheric plasma could be an effective method of treating β-TCP to improve the interaction of the material with stem cells enhancing regeneration of the bone.
Adherence, safety and satisfaction of a cardio-oncology rehabilitation program framework versus community exercise training for cancer survivors: findings from the CORE trial
Authors: Viamonte Sofia Gonçalves , Joaquim Ana , Alves Alberto , Vilela Eduardo , Capela Andreia , Ferreira Cristina , Costa Ana João , Teixeira Madalena , Duarte Barbara , Rato Nuno , Tavares Aida , Santos Mário , Ribeiro Fernando
Published: November 2022

Purpose
To assess safety, satisfaction and overall adherence of a cardiac rehabilitation (CR) based framework for cancer patients at increased cardiovascular (CV) risk, compared to a community-based exercise training (CBET)
Methods
The CORE study (NCT05132998) was a single-center, prospective, randomized controlled trial enrolling cancer survivors exposed to cardiotoxic cancer treatment and/or with previous CV disease. Participants were randomized to an eight-week center-based CR program (CBCR) or CBET, twice a week. Overall feasibility (consent, retention, and completion rates) as well as intervention adherence (percentage of exercise session attended) and safety were assessed. Adverse events (AEs) were registered, and patients’ satisfaction was measured at the end of the study through a 5-item questionnaire.
Results
Eighty patients were included. The consent rate was 72.4%, and 77 (96.2%) patients started the study (retention rate 100% in CBCR vs 92.5% in CBET). The completion rate was 92.5%. Intervention adherence was higher in CBCR (90.3 ± 11.8% vs 68.4 ± 22.1%, p < 0.001). Exercise-related AEs were mainly musculoskeletal, accounting for exercise prescription modification in 47 sessions, none of them motivating exercise discontinuation. Major CV events were not reported. Patients revealed higher satisfaction in the CBCR (86.8% reported being very satisfied with the program vs 45.9% in CBET, p < 0.001).
Conclusion
The CORE trial suggests that both exercise-based interventions are feasible and safe in this setting. The higher intervention adherence and patient satisfaction in the CBCR group suggests that this comprehensive approach could be of interest in this patient population.
An Ultra-Efficient Nano-Scale Arithmetic and Logic Unit Using a New Conservative Reversible Block and Quantum-Dots
Authors: Navimpour Nima Jafari , Ahmadpour Seyed-Sajad , Yalcin Senay
Published: November 2022

Reversible logic has attracted significant attention recently due to its inherent ability to decrease energy dissipation, which is the primary need of low-power digital circuits. One of the newest areas of study is reversible logic, which has applications in several areas, including nanotechnology, DNA computing, quantum computing, fault tolerance, and low-power CMOS. On the other hand, Quantum-dot Cellular Automata (QCA) is one of the stunning approaches that can be used as an alternative to traditional technologies. An Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU) is considered for performing essential instructions such as addition, subtraction, division, multiplication, and logic operations, including OR, XOR, AND, and XNOR. In other words, ALUs perform essential functions in digital processing circuits because of their wide applications in Central Processing Units (CPUs). Accordingly, ALUs have become a necessary part of microprocessors and are extensively used to solve procedural problems more efficiently and reliably. Hence, this paper proposes an efficient ALU with low power and high speed. At first, a full adder and a 4:1 multiplexer circuit are developed using a unique reversible gate. At last, using all the suggested circuits, an ALU with four mathematical and logical operations is developed. Moreover, several physical validations are presented to confirm the functionality of the QCA gate. The simulations of the structures and power consumption analysis are performed using QCADesigner 2.0.03 and QCAPro software. The suggested ALU's consumption power under various energy ranges (0.5 Ek, 1 Ek, and 1.5 Ek) showed significant advancements from previous designs.
Quality of life and anxiety in an underdeveloped city in IRAN during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross sectional study
Authors: Abdi Mohammadamin , Dahouei Arefeh Arabpour , Araghi Navid Mirzakhani
Published: November 2022

Purpose
Studies have widely explored the quality of life in wealthy communities during COVID-19 pandemics; the present study selected the earthquake-prone and underdeveloped city, Zarand (Iran) to examine quality of life and anxiety.
Methods
291 patients who were infected with COVID-19 in the last 14 days were included in the study .They were selected using systematic non-random sampling. The quality of life and anxiety of the participants were evaluated using online WHO-Quality of Life-BREF and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) respectively. The analysis was not limited to significance and also included the effect size.Data were analyzed by SPSS software version 26 using Spearman's correlation, T-test and Kruskal-Wallis.
Results
The quality of life scores were less than 50 out of 100 on average. 58% of patients reported moderate to severe anxiety and there was a negative correlation between all of the four physical(P value < 0.001), psychological(P value < 0.001), social(P value < 0.007) ,and environmental(P value < 0.001) domains of quality of life and anxiety, respectively. Education and quality of life were positively correlated in all domains except for the environmental domain. Participants' age ranged from 18 to 58 and the correlation between age and the physical and psychological domain was significant. No significant correlation was found between the quality of life, sex and marital status.
Conclusions
The current study provides evidence of low Quality of life and high levels of anxiety in patients who were experienced COVID-19. This implicates immediate considerations to be taken into account by policymakers and officials.