bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Exploratory Analysis of Forme Fruste Keratoconus Sensitivity Diagnostic Parameters
Authors: Zhang Hui , Zhang Xue , Hua Lin , Li Lin , Tian Lei , Zhang Xinxin , Zhang Haixia
Published: November 2021

Purpose: To re-statistical analysis of the Pentacam or Corvis ST parameters from literatures, and to obtain more sensitive diagnostic parameters for clinical keratoconus (CKC) and forme fruste keratoconus (FFKC), respectively. Methods: The parameters and the corresponding area of ROC curve (AUC) in previous studies were extracted and screened to obtain the database of CKC (Data-CKC) and FFKC (Data-FFKC), respectively. Two different importance evaluation methods (%IncMSE and IncNodePurity) of random forest were used to preliminary select the important parameters. Then, based on the partial dependency analysis, the sensitive diagnostic parameters that had promotion to the diagnostic performance were obtained. Data-FFKC was analyzed in the same way. Finally, a diagnostic test meta-analysis on the sensitive parameter of interest was conducted to verify the reliability of the above analysis methods.Results: There were 88 parameters with 766 records in Data-CKC, 57 parameters with 346 records in Data-FFKC. Based on two importance evaluation methods, 60 important parameters were obtained, of which 20 were further screened as sensitive parameters of keratoconus, and most of these parameters were related to the thinnest point of cornea. The stiffness parameter at first applanation (SPA1) was the only Corvis ST output parameter sensitive to FFKC except the Tomographic and Biomechanical Index (TBI) and the Corvis Biomechanical Parameter (CBI). A total of 4 records were included in the meta-analysis of diagnostic tests on SPA1. The results showed that there was threshold effect, but no significant heterogeneity (I2=33%), and the area under the SROC curve was 0.87 (95% CI, 0.84-0.90).Conclusions: the sensitive diagnostic parameters of keratoconus mainly include the 7 categories. The diagnostic value of SPA1, which represents the biomechanical properties of cornea, is worthy of further attention in the diagnosis of keratoconus in forme fruste keratoconus. Moreover, the morphological parameters based on the typical position of the thinnest point of corneal thickness have potential special significance for the diagnosis of disease.
Complement protein C1q is a therapeutic target for neuropathic pain
Authors: Yousefpour Noosha , Tansley Shannon , Locke Samantha , Sharif Behrang , Parisien Marc , Deamond Haley , Mathur Vidhu , Yednock Ted , Austin Jean-Sebastien , Bourassa Valerie , Wang Chengyang , Cabana Valérie , Wong Calvin , Lister Kevin , St-Louis Manon , Andrews-Zwilling Yaisa , Séguéla Philippe , Mogil Jeffrey , De Koninck Yves , Diatchenko Luda , Khoutorsky Arkady , Ribeiro-da-Silva Alfredo
Published: November 2021

Activation of spinal microglia following peripheral nerve injury is a central component of neuropathic pain pathology. While the contributions of microglia-mediated immune and neurotrophic signalling have been well-characterized, the phagocytic and synaptic pruning roles of microglia in neuropathic pain remain unknown. Here, we show that peripheral nerve injury induces engulfment of dorsal horn synapses by microglia, leading to a preferential loss of inhibitory synapses. This synapse removal is dependent on the microglial complement-mediated synapse pruning pathway, as mice deficient in complement C3 do not exhibit synapse elimination. Furthermore, pharmacological inhibition of the complement protein C1q prevents dorsal horn inhibitory synapse loss and attenuates neuropathic pain. Thus, these results demonstrate that the complement pathway promotes persistent pain hypersensitivity via microglia-mediated engulfment and loss of inhibitory synapses in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord, revealing C1q as a novel therapeutic target in neuropathic pain.
Accuracy of CT Evaluation for Cervical Spine Clearance in the Ground Level Fall Population – A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Culhane John , Parr Alan , Mercier Philippe
Published: November 2021

BackgroundClinically occult cervical spine (CS) injuries are well described in blunt trauma, however delay in identifying these injuries and clearing the CS can result in morbidity. Our study examines the ground level fall (GLF) population to analyze whether computed tomography (CT) alone can rule out unstable injury in this group with lower force mechanism.MethodsThis is a single center, retrospective cohort study. Cases of GLF between 6/1/2012 through 12/31/2019 were queried. Characteristics of GLF and non-GLF patients were compared. Significance for categorical data was calculated with Chi Square, Student’s t-test for continuous data, and Mann-Whitney U test for ordinal data. CT negative CS injuries were identified. Binary classification tests were calculated for the ability of CT to identify CS injury using a generalized linear regression model with binomial distribution and identity link.Results69 (2.0%) of patients had CS injury without acute CT abnormality. Of these, 11 (0.3%) required surgery and were considered unstable. All patients who required surgery had a neurologic deficit. Negative predictive value (NPV) of CT for unstable CS injury was 99.7%. The combination of acute CT findings and neurologic deficit ruled out unstable CS injury with 100% NPV.ConclusionIn the GLF population, CT alone rules out unstable CS injury with high, but not perfect NPV. The combination of absence of acute CT findings and acute neurologic deficits rules out unstable CS injury with 100% NPV.
A Fatal Case of Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome Caused By Genotype Emm1 In The Third Trimester of Pregnancy, China
Authors: Luo Yasha , Zheng Minling , Chen Yanyuan , Gu Chunming , Lv Lijuan , Mu Xiaoping
Published: November 2021

Background: Group A streptococcal (GAS) toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare invasive disease, causing a high risk of maternal and fetal mortality during pregnancy. We report a fatal case of a female caused by GAS-TSS in the third trimester of pregnancy in Guangzhou, China. Case presentation: The patient is a 33-year-old female who presented at 37 weeks’ gestation with a history of three hours fever. The patient underwent an early onset and rapid progression with dramatic clinical picture and laboratory characters within 24 hours. The neonate survived after an aggressive anti-infection treatment.The GAS strains were isolated from two bottles of blood cultures and airway secretion culture, which confirmed as Streptococcus pyogenes associated with genotype emm1 by molecular analysis.Conclusion: Dramatic clinical picture and laboratory characters of the pregnant woman presented here might help improve clinicians' awareness and recognition of Streptococcus pyogenes, which could be of great importance for the early diagnosis of GAS- TSS in pregnancy.
Optoelectronic and Birefringence Properties of Weakly Mg Doped ZnO Thin films Prepared By Spray Pyrolysis.
Authors: Bouachibaa Yassine , MAMMERI ABDELOUADOUD , Bouabellou Abderrahmane , Oualid Rabia , Saidi Saber , Taabouche Adel , Rahal Badis , Benharrat Lyes , Serrar Hacene , Boudissa Moukhtar
Published: November 2021

MgxZn1−xO thin films were deposited on glass substrate with x varied between 0.01 and 0.05 by spray pyrolysis at a temperature of 450 °C. The structural investigation showed that all thin films had ZnO wurtzite structure with a preferred (002) orientation. The gap energy was calculated using Tauc’s plot and it decreased over the Mg content by 0.07 eV. The charge carriers’ density dropped by an order of 105 as Mg content increased whereas the resistivity and the mobility increased. SEM observations revealed a significant difference between undoped and doped thin films. A 632.8 nm laser source prism coupler revealed 2 optical modes for every thin film in each Transverse Electric and Transverse Magnetic mode, the birefringence of the Mg doped films was positive. Both ordinary and extraordinary refractive indexes were found to decrease as the Mg content increased. Great intention has been paid to the relation between the refractive, charge carriers density and the optical band gap.
Bioinformatics-Based Study to Investigate Potential Differentially Expressed Genes and miRNAs in Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
Authors: Guoquan Li , Junwei Du , Qi He , Xinghao Fu , Feihong Ji , Ming Gao , Xinguang Qiu
Published: November 2021

BackgroundHashimoto's thyroiditis (HT), also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is a common autoimmune disease, which mainly occurs in women. The early manifestation was hyperthyroidism, however, hypothyroidism may occur if HT was not controlled for a long time. Numerous studies have shown that multiple factors, including genetic, environmental, and autoimmune factors, were involved in the pathogenesis of the disease, but the exact mechanisms were not yet clear. The aim of this study was to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) by comprehensive analysis and to provide specific insights into HT. MethodsTwo gene expression profiles (GSE6339, GSE138198) about HT were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The DEGs were assessed between the HT and normal groups using the GEO2R. The DEGs were then sent to the Gene Ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis. The hub genes were discovered using Cytoscape and CytoHubba. Finally, NetworkAnalyst was utilized to create the hub genes' targeted microRNAs (miRNAs). ResultsA total of 62 DEGs were discovered, including 60 up-regulated and 2 down-regulated DEGs. The signaling pathways were mainly engaged in cytokine interaction and cytotoxicity, and the DEGs were mostly enriched in immunological and inflammatory responses. IL2RA, CXCL9, IL10RA, CCL3, CCL4, CCL2, STAT1, CD4, CSF1R, and ITGAX were chosen as hub genes based on the results of the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and CytoHubba. Five miRNAs, including mir-24-3p, mir-223-3p, mir-155-5p, mir-34a-5p, mir-26b-5p, and mir-6499-3p, were suggested as likely important miRNAs in HT. ConclusionsThese hub genes, pathways and miRNAs contribute to a better understanding of the pathophysiology of HT and offer potential treatment options for HT.
Antitumor activity of gambogic acid lysinate in human SiHa cells in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Niu Jie , Sun Jingyu , Liu Yahua , Guo Jun , Zhang Xin , Liu Yinghua , Lin Yajun
Published: November 2021

Background: Cervical cancer is a major cause of death for women worldwide and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the main cause of cervical cancer. The purpose of this study was to explore the anti-tumor activity of gambogic acid lysinate and clarify its mechanism in SiHa cells. Methods: In the present study, cell viability was detected by means of an MTT assay, a cell growth curve was drawn with Microsoft Excel 2010, the cell cycle and cell apoptosis were evaluated by flow cytometry, Western blotting was employed to explore the mechanism of gambogic acid lysinate, and caspase-3 activity was determined with a colorimetric Caspase-3 assay kit. Additionally, the in vivo antitumor activity of gambogic acid lysinate was studied through a xenograft tumor model established with nude mice. Results: The results showed that gambogic acid lysinate inhibited the proliferation of both SiHa cells (half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values: 0.83 μmol/l and 0.77 μmol/l for 48 h and 72 h) and HeLa cells (IC50 >2 μmol/l). In SiHa cells, gambogic acid lysinate (1 and 2 μmol/l) inhibited cell proliferation and 2 μmol/l gambogic acid lysinate induced cell apoptosis and decreased the number of S phase cells. Both 1 and 2 μmol/l gambogic acid lysinate increased the number of G0/G1 phase cells. The results of a Western blot assay demonstrated that P53 and P21 were involved in SiHa cell G0/G1 phase arrest and that Bcl-2 and BAX were involved in SiHa cell apoptosis. An in vivo study showed that the growth of SiHa cell xenograft tumors was inhibited by gambogic acid lysinate (2.5 mg/kg body weight), however, gambogic acid lysinate (2.5 mg/kg body weight) had no significant effect on mouse weight gain. Conclusions: gambogic acid lysinate is a promising candidate for cervical cancer therapy.
Prognostic Significance of Thyroid Hormone For Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation In Critically Ill Patients With Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Shen Xiao , Sun Jiakui , Hong Liang , Song Xiaochun , Zhang Cui , Liu Ying , Liu Han , Mu Xinwei
Published: November 2021

Background: This study aimed to examine the correlation between thyroid hormone and prolonged mechanical ventilation (MV) in the adult critically ill patients having undergone cardiac surgery. Methods: The present study refers to a retrospective, cohort study that was conducted at Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit (CVICU) of Nanjing First Hospital from March 2019 to December 2020. Patients receiving cardiac surgery and admitted to the center of the authors in the study period were screen for a potential inclusion. Demographic information, thyroid hormone and other laboratory measurements and outcome variables were recorded for analyses. Prolonged MV was defined as the duration of MV after cardiac surgery longer than 5 days. Thyroid hormones were assessed for the prognostic significance for prolonged MV.Results: On the whole, 118 patients having undergone cardiac surgery were included and analyzed in this study. Patients fell to the control (n=64) and the prolonged MV group (n=54) by complying with the duration of MV after cardiac surgery. The median total triiodothyronine (TT3) and free triiodothyronine (FT3) were 1.03 nmol/L and 3.52 pmol/L in the prolonged MV group before cardiac surgery, significantly lower than 1.23 nmol/L (P=0.005) and 3.87 pmol/L, respectively in the control (P=0.038). multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that TT3 before surgery (pre-op TT3) had a good prognostic significance for prolonged MV (OR: 0.049, P=0.012). Conclusions: This study concluded that decreased triiodothyronine (T3) could be common in the cardiac patients with prolonged MV, and it would be further reduced after patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Besides, decreased T3 before surgery could act as an effective predictor for prolonged MV after cardiac surgery.
Esophageal Stenosis in a Patient with Breast Cancer after Chemotherapy: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Ou Zhenfei , Ren Linlin , Yin Xiaoyan , Zhang Cuiping , Min Congcong
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Esophageal stenosis after chemotherapy in breast cancer patients is rare. It is important to distinguish esophageal stenosis from esophageal metastasis caused by breast cancer.Case presentation: We present the case of a 62-year-old woman who was diagnosed with breast cancer 4 months prior, had dysphagia and was referred to our department for further treatment after 2 cycles of chemotherapy. She suffered from severe mouth ulcers, painful swallowing and large areas of skin pigmentation with overlying scaliness after every chemotherapy session. Endoscopy revealed that the lumen of the lower esophagus was obviously narrow with ulceration above the stenosis. Histological results demonstrated inflammatory fibrinous necrosis and granulation tissue, with no clear neoplastic component. Conclusion: Short-term esophageal stenosis after chemotherapy may be caused by local mucosal injury, but malignant tumors need to be excluded.
Irregular Vector Turbo Codes with Low Complexity
Authors: Sholiyi Abiodun , Farrell Timothy O
Published: November 2021

The term Block Turbo Code typically refers to the iterative decoding of a serially concatenated two-dimensional systematic block code. This paper introduces a Vector Turbo Code that is irregular but with code rates comparable to those of a Block Turbo Code (BTC) when the Bahl Cocke Jelinek Raviv (BCJR) algorithm is used. In Block Turbo Codes, the horizontal (or vertical) blocks are encoded first and the vertical (or horizontal) blocks second. The irregular Vector Turbo Code (iVTC) uses information bits that participate in varying numbers of trellis sections, which are organized into blocks that are encoded horizontally (or vertical) without vertical (or horizontal) encoding. The decoding requires only one soft-input soft-output (SISO) decoder. In general, a reduction in complexity, in comparison to a Block Turbo Code was achieved for the same very low probability of bit error (10−5 ). Performance in the AWGN channel shows that iVTC is capable of achieving a significant coding gain of 1.28 dB for a 64QAM modulation scheme, at a bit error rate (BER) of 10−5over its corresponding Block Turbo Code. Simulation results also show that some of these codes perform within 0.49 dB of capacity for binary transmission over an AWGN channel.
Life Prediction of Crude Oil Pipeline to Mitigate Leakages: A Case Study of an NPDC Major Pipeline in OML30, Nigeria
Authors: Ifowodo Henry Freedom , Mgbemena Chinedum Ogonna , Izelu Christopher Okechukwu
Published: November 2021

Pipeline leak or failure is a dreaded event in the oil and gas industries. Top events such as catastrophes and multiple fatalities have occurred in the past due to pipeline leak or failure especially when loss of contents was met with fire incidents. It is therefore imperative that the causes of pipeline failure are tackled to prevent or mitigate leak incidents. This is expedient to curb the menace that goes with leak incidents, such as destruction of the environment and ecosystem; loss of assets, finance, lives and property; dangers to workers and personnel, production downtime, litigation and dent to company’s reputation. This work focuses on the investigation of the actual cause of sudden pipeline failures and frequent pipeline leaks that often result to sectional pipeline replacement before the expiration of their anticipated life cycle in OML30 oil and gas field. The pipeline material selected, the standard of the minimum wall thickness of the material, the corrosive nature of the pipeline content and the observed internal corrosion rate were probed. An analysis of the rate of thinning and diminution of the internal wall of the pipeline by monitoring the interior rate of corrosion was used to forecast the remaining life of a crude oil pipeline and predict the life expectancy of a newly replaced or installed pipeline or installed pipeline.
Numerical Simulation and Active Protection of Lightning Discharge Based on Quantum Heuristic Evolutionary Algorithm
Authors: Wu Mingfa , Qian Yufeng , Yang Chongjing
Published: November 2021

Thunder is a discharge phenomenon that often occurs in nature. Due to its physical influences such as strong current, high temperature, strong shock waves, strong electromagnetic radiation, etc., it has a huge destructive effect instantly, which may bring serious threats to people's lives and property safety. This paper aims to study the lightning discharge numerical simulation and active protection based on the quantum heuristic evolutionary algorithm, and proposes to apply the lightning discharge numerical simulation to the prevention of lightning disasters. This article gives a detailed description of the quantum algorithm, the generation and harm of lightning discharge. In addition, this article conducts related experiments on lightning discharge numerical simulation and active protection. The experimental results show that targeted active protection and effective numerical simulation are important measures to prevent lightning disasters. Active lightning protection measures can reduce lightning by 30%. Losses caused by disasters.
Cervical Cord Compression With Lower Limbs Sensory Disturbance Presentation: Three Case Reports and Literature Review
Authors: Cao Yafei , Wu Yihong , Yu Weiji , Liu Weidong , Sun Shufen , Gao Kun
Published: November 2021

Background: Lower limb sensory disturbance presentation can be a false localizing cervical cord compressive myelopathy (CSM). It may lead to delayed or missed diagnosis, resulting in the wrong management plan, especially in the presence of concurrent lumbar lesions.Case presentation:Three Asian patients with lower limb sensory disturbances presentation were treated ineffectively in the lumbar. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed cervical disc herniation and cervical level spinal cord compression. Anterior cervical discectomy surgery and zero-p interbody fusion were performed. After operations, imagings showed that the spinal cord compression were relieved, and the lower limbs sensory disturbances were also relieved. Three-months follow-up after operation showed good recovery.Conclusions:These three cervical cord compression cases of lower limb sensory disturbance presentation were easily misdiagnosed with lumbar spondylosis. Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion operation had a good therapeutic effect. Therefore, cases that present with lower limb sensory disturbance, but in a non-radicular classical pattern, should always alert a suspicion of a possible cord compression cause at a higher level.
Whole-Genome Analysis of Coxsackievirus B3 Reflects Its Genetic Diversity in China and Worldwide
Authors: Yang Qian , Yan Dongmei , Song Yang , Zhu Shuangli , He Yun , Han Zhenzhi , Wang Dongyan , Ji Tianjiao , Zhang Yong , Xu Wenbo
Published: November 2021

Background
Coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) has emerged as an active pathogen in myocarditis, aseptic meningitis, hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD), and pancreatitis, and is a heavy burden on public health. However, CVB3 has not been systematically analyzed with regard to whole-genome diversity and recombination. Therefore, this study was undertaken to systematically examine the genetic characteristics of CVB3 based on its whole genome.
Methods
We combined CVB3 isolates from our national HFMD surveillance and global sequences retrieved from GenBank. Phylogenetic analysis was performed to examine the whole genome variety and recombination forms of CVB3 in China and worldwide.
Results
Phylogenetic analysis showed that CVB3 strains isolated worldwide could be classified into groups A–E based on the sequence of the entire VP1 region. The predominant CVB3 strains in China belonged to group D, whereas group E CVB3 might be circulated globally compared to other groups. The average nucleotide substitution rate in the P1 region of CVB3 was 4.82 × 10−3 substitutions/site/year. Myocarditis was more common with group A. Groups C and D presented more cases of acute flaccid paralysis, and group D may be more likely to cause HFMD. Multiple recombination events were detected among CVB3 variants, and there were twenty-three recombinant lineages of CVB3 circulating worldwide.
Conclusions
Overall, this study provides full-length genomic sequences of CVB3 isolates with a wide geographic distribution over a long-term time scale in China, which will be helpful for understanding the evolution of this pathogen. Simultaneously, continuous surveillance of CVB3 is indispensable to determine its genetic diversity in China as well as worldwide.
Path Planning for an HEXA Parallel Mechanism using a Modified PSO Algorithm
Authors: Milica Lucian , Milica Adina
Published: November 2021

This paper presents a method for determining the optimal trajectory of the characteristic point based on the kinematic analysis of a HEXA parallel mechanism. The optimization was performed based on a modified PSO algorithm based on Hermite polynomials (MH-PSO). The change made to the initial algorithm consists in restricting the search space of the solutions by using the Hermite polynomial expressions of the geometric parameters as time functions for defining the movements of the end-effector. The MH-PSO algorithm, from its inception, ensures a faster convergence of solutions and ease of computational effort and is the main advantage of the method presented. During the optimization process, the function followed was the length of the trajectory described by the sequence of positions of the characteristic point, belonging to the end effector element, in compliance with additional conditions imposed. The use of the Hermite functions and PSO algorithm leads to minimal effort for analysis and mathematical formulation of the optimization problem.
Towards FAIR Data for Low Carbon Energy - Current State and Call for Action
Authors: Schwanitz Valeria Jana , Wierling August , Biresselioglu Mehmet , Celino Massimo , Demir Muhittin , Balazinska Maria , Kruczek Mariusz , Paier Manfred , Suna Demet
Published: November 2021

With the continued digitization of the energy sector, the problem of sunken scholarly data investments and forgone opportunities of harvesting existing data is exacerbating. It adds to the problem that the reproduction of knowledge is incomplete, impeding the transparency of science-based evidence for the choices made in the energy transition. We comprehensively test FAIR data practices in the energy domain with the help of automated and manual tests. We document the state-of-the art and provide insights on bottlenecks from the human and machine perspectives. We propose action items for overcoming the problem with FAIR and open energy data and suggest how to prioritize activities.
The Diagnostic Value of Eosinophil Count And Platelet-To-Lymphocyte Ratio In Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis
Authors: Lin Qiong , Zhou Renmin , Wujuan Hao , Ni Zhumeng , Li Xiaozhong
Published: November 2021

Objective: To evaluate the diagnostic value of eosinophil (EO) count and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in eosinophilic gastroenteritis (EGE). Methods: In total, 91 patients with EGE and 83 age–sex matched patients without EGE were selected as study subjects during January 2018 to December 2020. Data on blood cell count, and serum, C-reactive protein (CRP), and albumin levels were obtained from the Wuxi children's hospital electronic medical record system; the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), PLR, and CRP-to-albumin ratio (CAR) in the peripheral blood were recorded. Independent sample t-test, non-parametric test, or χ2 test was used according the data type to compare the difference between two groups, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to evaluate the diagnostic value for EGE. Results: The EO counts and PLR were significantly higher in the EGE group than those in the control group, whereas differences in the white blood cell, lymphocyte, neutrophil, and platelet counts, and the CRP level, NLR, and CAR were not significant. After treatment(Corticosteroids, 1mg/kg.d, lasting for 2 weeks）, the EO counts and PLR in the EGE group decreased gradually and the difference was significant. The diagnostic value of EO counts and PLR was determined with an area under the ROC curve as 0.756 and 0.616, sensitivity was 75.00% and 34.29%, and specificity was 74.29% and 92.31%, respectively. Conclusions EO and PLR represent potential predictive markers for diagnosing EGE.
Bacterial Endophytes As Indicators of Susceptibility To Cercospora Leaf Spot (CLS) Disease In Beta vulgaris L.
Authors: Broccanello Chiara , Ravi Samathmika , Deb Saptarathi , Bolton Melvin , Secor Gary , Richards Christopher , Maretto Laura , Lucia Maria Cristina Della , Bertoldo Giovanni , Orsini Elena , Lopez Marie Gabriele Ronquillo , Concheri Guiseppe , Campagna Giovanni , Squartini Andrea , Stevanato Piergiorgio
Published: November 2021

Background: The fungus Cercospora beticola causes Cercospora Leaf Spot (CLS) of sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.). Despite the global importance of this disease, durable resistance to CLS has still not been obtained. Therefore, the development of tolerant hybrids is still a major goal for sugar beet breeding. Although recent studies have suggested that the leaf microbiome composition can offer useful predictors to assist plant breeders, this is an untapped resource in sugar beet breeding efforts. Methods: Using Ion GeneStudio S5 technology to sequence amplicons from seven 16S rRNA hypervariable regions, the most recurring endophytes discriminating CLS-symptomatic and symptomless sea beets (Beta vulgaris L.ssp. maritima) were identified. This allowed the design of taxon-specific primer pairs to quantify the abundance of the most representative endophytic species in large naturally occurring populations of sea beet and subsequently in sugar beet breeding genotypes under either CLS symptomless or infection stages using qPCR. Results: Among the screened bacterial genera, Methylobacterium and Mucilaginibacter were found to be significantly (p<0.05) more abundant in symptomatic sea beets with respect to symptomless. In cultivated sugar beet material under CLS infection, the comparison between resistant and susceptible genotypes confirmed that the susceptible genotypes hosted higher contents of the above-mentioned bacterial genera. Conclusions: These results suggest that the abundance of these species can be correlated with increased sensitivity to CLS disease. This evidence can further prompt novel protocols to assist plant breeding of sugar beet in the pursuit of improved pathogen resistance.
Decreased CD44v3 Expression Impairs Endometrial Stromal Cell Decidualization in Women With Recurrent Implantation Failure
Authors: Zhou Xiaowei , Cao Yi , Zhou mingjuan , Han Mi , Liu mengyu , Hu Yanqin , Xu Bufang , Zhang Aijun
Published: November 2021

BackgroundThe precise pathogenesis of poor endometrial receptivity in recurrent implantation failure (RIF) still remains unclear. This study aims to explore the effects of different CD44 isoforms in the mid-secretory phase endometrium on endometrial receptivity in women with RIF.MethodsMid-secretory phase endometrial tissue samples were obtained from two groups of women who had undergone IVF: a) 24 patients with RIF, b) 18 patients with infertility due to tubal obstruction, who had achieved a successful clinical pregnancy after the first embryo transfer in IVF (control group). Identification of differentially expressed CD44 isoforms in endometrial tissues was assessed with immunohistochemistry, qPCR and western blotting. Effects of CD44v3 overexpression and knockdown on proliferation and decidualization of Immortalized human endometrial stromal cells (T-HESCs) and primary HESCs were investigated by qPCR and Western blot. A heterologous co-culture system of embryo implantation was constructed to mimics the process of trophoblast invasion during implantation.ResultsCD44v3 was significantly higher expressed in mid-secretory phase of endometrial stromal cells than proliferation phase, but was notably lower in RIF patients. The expression of decidualization markers, prolactin (PRL) and insulin like growth factor binding protein-1 (IGFBP1), was notably decreased following CD44v3 knockdown, whereas the expression levels of both PRL and IGFBP1 increased after CD44v3 overexpression in HESCs. Furthermore, the CD44v3-knockdown HESCs displayed a significantly deficiency in supporting trophoblast outgrowth through a co-culture system of embryo implantation; however, CD44v3 overexpression in HESCs promoted trophoblast outgrowth.ConclusionThe reduced expression of CD44v3 suppresses HESCs proliferation and decidualization, which might play a pivotal role in poor endometrial receptivity in women with RIF.
Animal Feed from Microalgae Grown on Biogas Digestate as Sustainable Alternative to Imported Soybean Meal
Authors: Elshamy Mohamed , Rösch Christine
Published: November 2021

This work investigates the environmental potential to develop a circular economy solution to create benefit from agricultural waste by integrating microalgae technology into the nutrient-rich digestate (NRD) stream from anaerobic digestion plants. Different environmental benefits can be captured by algal uptake of nitrate and the scarce resource phosphorus from biogas digestate. First, unwanted excess nutrients polluting groundwater are reduced and second, the algal animal feed can substitute soybean meal (SM) imported to North-Western Europe (NWE). That allows a decentralised circular bio-economy and avoids deforestation of rainforests due to SM overseas import. Life cycle assessments were conducted based on novel data from engineers in academia and industry, acquired through pilot-scale research facilities in United Kingdom, France, and Belgium. The findings of this study highlight the environmental impacts of three different technologies with varying scales of production and offer recommendations based on sensitive analysis for more sustainable pathways. In this study, a pilot-scale bio-refinery is considered a promising solution to excess nutrients in fertilisers in the NWE and an alternative source for imported SM as an animal feed source, having a comparable environmental footprint.
Fossil-extraction bans are not enough to achieve the Paris agreement but can facilitate it
Authors: Andreoni Pietro , Reis Lara Aleluia , Drouet Laurent , Dessens Olivier , Fragkos Panagiotis , Pietzcker Robert , Pye Steve , Rodrigues Renato , Tavoni Massimo
Published: November 2021

Given concerns about the ambition and effectiveness of current climate pledges, a case has been made for the integration of demand-side policies such as carbon pricing with supply-side bans on fossil fuel extraction. However, little is known about their interplay in the context of climate stabilization. Here, we present the first multi-model assessment quantifying the effectiveness of supply-side policies and their interactions with demand-side ones. We design narratives of fossil fuel bans and explore a variety of scenarios with four process-based integrated assessment models. We find that supply side treaties reduce emissions but not enough to stabilize temperature increase to well below 2°C. When combined with demand-side policies, supply side policies reduce the required carbon price to meet the Paris goals, dampen reliance on CO2 removal and increase investment in renewable energy while increasing fossil producer revenues. The results indicate the opportunity to integrate price-based policies with fossil bans when exploring climate neutrality pathways.
Interventions for Managing Occupational Burnout Among Residential Aged Care Staff: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Protocol
Authors: Low Yin Siu , Bhar Sunil S , Chen Won Sun
Published: November 2021

Background: Staff who are employed in residential aged care settings face a unique set of challenges and stressors in their workplaces which intensify their risks of occupational stress and burnout. Staff also experience low job satisfaction, increased sick time and absenteeism and high job turnover rates as a result of occupational burnout. As the population ages, there is an increased need for residential aged care (RAC) staff in Australia. It is both urgent and necessary to explore interventions that can prevent the likelihood of occupational burnout on RAC staff. A systematic review will be conducted on the effectiveness of interventions for preventing occupational burnout in RAC staff, with a view to determine the most effective type or types of intervention for such staff.Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of interventions compared to inactive control intervention (usual care or practice) for preventing occupational burnout in RAC staff. Methods: This protocol was developed in accordance to the reporting standards of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P). Included studies that meet the eligibility criteria will be identified by systematic searches of electronic databases. The PRISMA flowchart will also be utilised to record the selection process. Two reviewers will extract data and assess the quality of each study independently. The Standardised Mean Differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) will be utilised in order to combine different burnout measures or scales. Extracted studies which are sufficiently similar will be included for meta-analyses. The Cochrane risk of bias (RoB 2) tool will also be utilised in order to assess the methodological quality of randomised controlled trials.Results: Systematic searches will begin at the end of 2021. Data extraction will commence in early to mid-2022. Data analyses and writing will start in late 2022.Conclusions: Intervention studies from systematic searches of databases will be identified and recommendations will be made regarding the effectiveness of interventions for RAC staff.
Condensed phase isomerization through tunneling gateways
Authors: Wodtke Alec , Choudhury Arnab , DeVine Jessalyn , Sinha Shreya , Lau Jascha , Kandratsenka Alexander , Schwarzer Dirk , Saalfrank Peter
Published: November 2021

We observe that the orientational isomerization of CO on a NaCl(100) surface proceeds by thermally-activated tunneling between 19 and 24K. The rate constants of three isotopomers follow an Arrhenius temperature dependence, exhibiting activation energies below the reaction’s predicted barrier height and anomalously small prefactors. In addition, the rates depend strongly on isotope, but non-intuitively on mass. A quantum rate theory of condensed-phase tunneling qualitatively explains these observations. Vibrationally excited states, accidentally close in energy but localized on opposite sides of the isomerization barrier, provide tunneling gateways between the isomers in a process that can be many orders-of-magnitude faster than rates predicted by commonly used semi-classical models. This suggests heavy-atom condensed-phase tunneling may be more important than currently assumed.
Modeling and Analysis of Mixed Traffic Networks with Human-driven and Autonomous Vehicles
Authors: Xu Qing , Chen Chaoyi , Chang Xueyang , Cao Dongpu , Cai Mengchi , Wang Jiawei , Li Keqiang , Wang Jianqiang
Published: November 2021

The emergence of connected and automated vehicles (CAV) indicates improved traffic mobility in future traffic transportation systems. This study addresses the research gap in macroscopic traffic modeling of mixed traffic networks where CAV and human-driven vehicles coexist. CAV behavior is explicitly included in the proposed traffic network model, and the vehicle number non-conservation problem is overcome by describing the approaching and departure vehicle number in discrete time. The proposed model is verified in typical CAV cooperation scenarios. The performance of CAV coordination is analyzed in road, intersection and network scenario. Total travel time of the vehicles in the network is proved to be reduced when coordination are applied. Simulation results validate the accuracy of the proposed model and the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Anaerobic Digestion Characteristics and Key Microorganisms Associated With Low-Temperature Rapeseed Cake and Sheep Manure Fermentation
Authors: Liu Li , Xiong Rongbo , Li Yi , Chen Laisheng , Han Rui
Published: November 2021

Qinghai rural household biogas digesters were used to evaluate fermentation characteristics, including gas production and key microbial community changes, associated with low-temperature (15.2-17.8℃) mixed rapeseed cake and sheep manure anaerobic fermentations across 40 days using seven different ratios of material. Different raw material ratios resulted in significantly different effects on biogas yields and microbial community compositions. When the ratio of sheep manure to rapeseed cake was 1:2, the highest level of cumulative gas production was observed (122.92 m3·t−1). Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Actinobacteria were the dominant bacterial phyla among the 29 digester samples (total relative abundances > 79.23%), followed by Synergistetes (4.09%-10.7%). Lactobacillus was the most abundant genus in the biogas digesters with high rapeseed cake contents (average relative abundances: 14.68%), while Peptoniphilus exhibited higher abundances (12.69%) in the mixed fermentation digester treatments. In addition, unclassified Synergistaceae abundances (6.64%) were positively associated with biogas production variation among treatments. Bacteroides (5.74%) and Pseudomonas (5.24%) both accounted for larger proportions of communities in the digesters that used more sheep manure. Methanomicrobiales (66.55%) was the most dominant archaeal group among digesters, with Methanogenium (41.82%) and Methanoculleus (16.55%) representing the main gas-producing archaeal genera; they were more abundant in biogas digesters with higher sheep manure contents and higher rapeseed cake contents, respectively. Regardless of the raw material ratios, Methanoculleus exhibited the highest abundances on the 4th day of fermentation. VFAs and pH were the main factors associated with differences in microbial communities among the 29 samples. Specifically, VFA concentrations were positively correlated with Lactobacillus and Methanoculleus abundances, while pH was positively correlated with Bacteroides, Pseudomonas, Methanobrevibacter, and Methanobacterium abundances.
Evanescing Beauty and Viability of Coastal Beaches of Colombo District.
Authors: Sivaramanan Sivakumaran , Kotagama Sarath Wimalabandara
Published: November 2021

According to a weekly beach survey conducted for two months and data analysis done by Clean Coast Index (CCI) method, some beaches in the Colombo district are located in the backyard of suburb residences and become the dumping sites for the adjacent community, such as Moratuwa and Ratmalana. Beaches in Wellawatte, Dehiwala, Bambalapitiya, and Kollupitiya hold trash from mixed sources such as domestic dumping, wastes from commercial activities such as hotels, from running trains and beach visitors, and beaches in Mt.Lavania, Galle face, and Mattakuliya hold similar kind of wastes that are mostly from beach visitors including tourists. Furthermore, wastes from fishing-related activities are abundant in Dehiwala, they are nylon fishing nets, ropes, and polystyrene floats. Besides, PET bottle usage by the fisherman also significantly high. In urban areas such as Kollupitiya, Bamblapitiya, Wellawatte, and Dehiwala most of the wastes are carried by the drainage canals. Mechanized beach grooming is not possible in most of the locations due to the presence of the Southern railway track and the rocks. Thus, to seek sustainable solutions source-level mitigation plans have to be implemented such as source-level waste categorization (already in action), penalties, waste bins in public transport (trains), and billboards in public transport (“Please do not through your garbage outside”), deposit refund scheme (DRS) for plastic bottles, public awareness and stewardship programmes, waste bins at identified locations in the beach, screening floating plastics at canals by sieves and banning of certain types of plastics (e.g. plastic wraps or packaging materials, straws, spoons, yoghurt cups, and styrofoam). Also, it is possible to design regenerative solutions such as provide incentives e.g. offering travel free pass for waste plastic bottles (in Indonesia) and waste to energy projects ( Muthurajawela).
Real-world size of objects serves as an axis of object space
Authors: Huang Taicheng , Song Yiying , Liu Jia
Published: November 2021

Our mind can represent various objects from the physical world metaphorically into an abstract and complex high-dimensional object space, with a finite number of orthogonal axes encoding critical object features. However, little is known about what features serve as axes of the object space to critically affect object recognition. Here we asked whether the feature of objects’ real-world size constructed an axis of object space with deep convolutional neural networks (DCNNs) based on three criteria of sensitivity, independence and necessity that are impractical to be examined altogether with traditional approaches. A principal component analysis on features extracted by the DCNNs showed that objects’ real-world size was encoded by an independent axis, and the removal of this axis significantly impaired DCNN’s performance in recognizing objects. With a mutually-inspired paradigm of computational modeling and biological observation, we found that the shape of objects, rather than retinal size, co-occurrence, task demands and texture features, was necessary to represent the real-world size of objects for DCNNs and humans. In short, our study provided the first evidence supporting the feature of objects’ real-world size as an axis of object space, and devised a novel paradigm for future exploring the structure of object space.
Trehalose pathway regulates filamentation response in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Iyer Revathi , Bhat Paike Jayadeva
Published: November 2021

In Saccharomyces cerevisae , the diploid cells undergo either pseudohyphal differentiation or sporulation in response to carbon and nitrogen source depletion. Distinct pathways are known to regulate the processes of filamentation and sporulation in response to nutritional stress. Here, we report the novel finding that the trehalose pathway which is essential for sporulation, is involved in pseudohyphae formation both via GPR1 as well as RAS2 mediated signaling. Our observations indicate that GPR1 is epistatic over TPS1 in signaling for filamentation. Further, we have demonstrated that the pseudohyphal defect of the ras2 mutant is overcome upon disruption of TPS2 . Thus, our results indicate that TPS1 and TPS2 may be involved in cell fate decision between meiosis and filamentation response under nutrient depleting conditions. Further, monitoring pseudohyphae formation under limiting glucose condition unravelled the possibility that TPS1 and TPS2 exert opposing effects to trigger filamentation response.
Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus with New-Onset Diabetic Ketoacidosis in a Child- Challenges in Fluid and Electrolyte Management
Authors: Tseng Yu-Shan , Swaney Nicole , Cashen Katherine , Jain Amrish , Ma Nina , Prout Andrew
Published: November 2021

BackgroundIntensive care management of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is targeted to reverse ketoacidosis, replace the fluid deficit, and correct electrolyte imbalances. Adequate restoration of circulation and treatment of shock is key. Pediatric treatment guidelines of DKA have become standard but complexities arise in children with co-morbidities. Congenital nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (NDI) is a rare hereditary disorder characterized by impaired renal concentrating ability and treatment is challenging. NDI and DKA together have only been previously reported in one patient.Case Diagnosis/TreatmentWe present the case of a 12-year-old male with NDI and new onset DKA with hyperosmolality. He presented in hypovolemic shock with altered mental status. Rehydration was challenging and isotonic fluid resuscitation resulted in increased urine output and worsening hyperosmolar state. Use of hypotonic fluid and insulin infusion led to lowering of serum osmolality faster than desired and increased the risk for cerebral edema. Despite the rapid decline in serum osmolality his mental status improved so we allowed him to drink free water mixed with potassium phosphorous every hour to match his urinary output (1:1 replacement) and continued 0.45% sodium chloride based on his fluid deficit and replacement rate with improvement in his clinical status.ConclusionsThis case illustrates the challenges of managing hypovolemic shock, hyperosmolality, and extreme electrolyte derangements driven by NDI and DKA.