bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vascular Resection in Perihilar Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Serrablo Alejandro , Serrablo Leyre , Alikhanov Ruslan , Tejedor Luis
Published: August 2021

Abstract: Perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (phCC) is the most common type of cholangiocarcinoma, accounting for approximately 60 % of cases, followed by the distal and then the intrahepatic forms. There is not a staging system that allows comparation of all series and extract some conclusions to increase the long-survival rate in this dismal disease. The extension of the resection, which theoretically dependes on the type of phCC, is not closed subject. As surgery is the only known way to achieve a cure, many aggressive approachs have been adopted. Despite extended liver resections and even vascular resections, margins are positive in around one third of patients. In the past two decades, with advances in diagnostic and surgical techniques, the surgical outcomes and survival rates have gradually improved, although variability is the rule, with morbidity and mortality rates ranging from 14% to 76% and from 0% to 19%, respectively. Extended hepatectomies and portal vein resection even right hepatic artery reconstruction for the left side tumors are frequently needed. Salvage procedures when arterial reconstruction is not feasible, as well as hepatopancreatoduodenectomy, are still under evaluation too. In this article, we discuss the aggressive surgical approach to phCC focused on vascular resection. Disparate results on the surgical treatment of phCC made it impossible to reach clear-cut conclusions.
Tashi-Bot: A Intelligent Personal Assistant for Users in an Educational Institution
Authors: Carlos Henriquez , German Sánchez-Torres , Dixon Salcedo
Published: August 2021

The number of AI applications in education is growing every day. One recent AI application in the educational sector is Chatbot technology, which is used to support teaching and administrative tasks. This document presents the design and implementation of a Chatbot called Tashi-Bot that helps applicants and university students to obtain information from an educational institution about certain academic and administrative processes. Among these are processes related to well-being, tuition, costs, admission, and other services. In order to design the Chatbot, an analysis of the state of the art, methodologies, and suitable tools was carried out, and a survey was conducted to discover the needs of users and their preferences in the use of a Chatbot for this specific purpose. Tashi-Bot was implemented on the SnatchBot platform and later deployed on a Telegram channel. In its evaluation, a final survey was carried out to check on the satisfaction of the users. The results suggest that Tashi-Bot could help applicants and university students to find information on academic and administrative processes with great certainty and without the need for human interaction. Tashi-Bot can be found at: https://web.telegram.org/#/im?p=@TashiE_Bot..
Development of a Care Robot Based on Needs Survey
Authors: Kawata Junji , Morimoto Jiro , Kaji Yoshio , Higuchi Mineo , Matsumoto Kajiro , Booka Masayuki , Fujisawa Shoichiro ,   Faculty of Science and Engineering, Tokushima Bunri University 1314-1 Shido, Sanuki, Kagawa 769-2193, Japan,   Faculty of Human Life Sciences, Tokushima Bunri University 180 Nishihama, Yamashiro, Tokushima 770-8514, Japan,   Department of Occupational Therapy, Shikoku Medical College 5-62-1 Hama, Utazu, Ayauta, Kagawa 769-0205, Japan,   NPO Yuto-no-Tsumugi 1089-5 Nishiyama, Nankoku, Kochi 783-0029, Japan
Published: August 2021

Expectations for care robots are increasing owing to the aging of society with a declining birthrate and shortage of manpower in the care field. However, the use of care robots has not yet become widespread. In this study, we explained the artificial intelligence (AI) technology to care staff and conducted a questionnaire survey to understand their needs. Then, we began to develop a care robot that was required in the care field. In this paper, we report an overview and the current status of the study.
Impedance Control Considering Velocity Saturation of a Series Elasticity System with a Motor
Authors: Fukui Ren , Kusakabe Yasuhito , Ikeura Ryojun , Hayakawa Soichiro ,   Sinfonia Technology Co., Ltd. Shiba NBF Tower, 1-30 Shibatdaimon 1-chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-8564, Japan,   Faculty of Engineering, Mie University 1577 Kurimamachiya, Tsu, Mie 514-8507, Japan
Published: August 2021

Human-machine cooperative robots are required to drive their arms with low impedance and high torque. As a compact mechanism that generates a large torque and has low impedance characteristics, the series elastic drive system, in which an elastic element is inserted between the motor and driving unit, has been proposed. In this paper, we propose a method of applying impedance control to a series elasticity system with a torque-compensating motor that uses a torsion bar as an elastic body that enables its use under high loads. The stability of the system was verified via simulation and experiment by considering the allowable speed and maximum torque of the motor. The experimental results from the conventional system and the proposed system were compared. The proposed system was confirmed to be superior to the conventional system in terms of both stability and tracking performance. Consequently, the effectiveness of our proposed system was confirmed.
State Abortion Policies and Maternal Death in the United States, 2015‒2018
Authors: Vilda Dovile , Wallace Maeve E. , Daniel Clare , Evans Melissa Goldin , Stoecker Charles , Theall Katherine P.
Published: August 2021

Objectives. To examine associations between state-level variation in abortion-restricting policies in 2015 and total maternal mortality (TMM), maternal mortality (MM), and late maternal mortality (LMM) from 2015 to 2018 in the United States.

Methods. We derived an abortion policy composite index for each state based on 8 state-level abortion-restricting policies. We fit ecological state-level generalized linear Poisson regression models with robust standard errors to estimate 4-year TMM, MM, and LMM rate ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) associated with a 1-unit increase in the abortion index, adjusting for state-level covariates.

Results. States with the higher score of abortion policy composite index had a 7% increase in TMM (adjusted rate ratio [ARR] = 1.07; 95% CI = 1.02, 1.12) compared with states with lower abortion policy composite index, after we adjusted for state-level covariates. Among individual abortion policies, states with a licensed physician requirement had a 51% higher TMM (ARR = 1.51; 95% CI = 1.15, 1.99) and a 35% higher MM (ARR = 1.35; 95% CI = 1.09, 1.67), and states with restrictions on Medicaid coverage of abortion care had a 29% higher TMM (ARR = 1.29; 95% CI = 1.03, 1.61).

Conclusions. Restricting access to abortion care at the state level may increase the risk for TMM.
Terrain coefficients for predicting energy costs of walking over snow
Authors: Richmond Paul , Potter Adam , Looney David , Santee William
Published: August 2021

Predicting the energy costs of human travel over snow can be of significant value to the military and other agencies planning work efforts when snow is present. The ability to quantify, and predict, those costs can help planners determine if snow will be a factor in the execution of dismounted tasks and operations. To adjust predictive models for the effect of terrain, and more specifically for surface conditions, on energy costs, terrain coefficients (ƞ) have been developed. By applying knowledge gained from prior studies of the effects of terrain and snow, and by leveraging those existing dismounted locomotion models, we seek to outline the steps in developing an improved terrain coefficient (ƞ) for snow to be used in predictive modeling. Using published data, methods, and a well-informed understanding of the physical elements of terrain, e.g., characterization of snow sinkage (z), this study made adjustments to ƞ-values specific to snow. This review of published metabolic cost methods suggest that an improved ƞ-value could be developed for use with the Pandolf equation, where z=depth (h)*(1 - (snow density (ρ0)/1.186)) and ƞ=0.0005z3 + 0.0001z2 + 0.1072z + 1.2604. This paper provides data-driven improvements to models that are used to predict the energy costs of dismounted movements over snow.
Decision synthesis in engineering design of technological attachment
Authors: Kunkevich D. P. , Kovaleva I. L. , Baryshau A. A.
Published: August 2021

Synthesis of the engineering design decisions is considered. The fixtures for locating and clamping parts to be tooled at the manufacturing operations are the design objects. An approach to topology and parametric design are proposed. Most efficiently these tasks are solved at the function level. Finally, geometry models and design drawings are needed for manufacturing. Fixture action is to mate bases of fixture object with function faces of fixture locators. This is constraining the degrees of freedom of object. Every base constrains certain degree of freedom. In accordance with quantity and quality of that degrees, certain locators are appointed to the base and them must be positioned resulting in the a locating chart. The quality of the locating chart may be evaluated by the several criteria, for example, by it dimensions. Unsatisfactory solution may be followed by redistributing degrees of freedom among the bases or editing positions of locators within the bases. Thus the design is decomposed onto two independent tasks of different levels.
Application of methods of system analysis for modeling the process of distance learning
Authors: Zhukovich S. Ya.
Published: August 2021

A mathematical model of distance learning based on control theory in the form of an inhomogeneous linear differential equation is proposed. On the basis of the coefficients of assimilation and forgetting, determined with the help of special tests, it is possible to predict, in some approximation, the level of current knowledge of both the individual trainee and the group or stream of students.
ДИНАМИКА КОНКУРЕНТОСПОСОБНОСТИ ЭКОНОМИК СТРАН ЕВРАЗИЙСКОГО ЭКОНОМИЧЕСКОГО СОЮЗА
Authors: МАРГАРЯН А. , ГАЛОЯН Д.
Published: August 2021

В данной статье была произведена оценка конкурентоспособности стран-членов ЕАСТ на основе данных
разных рейтинговых организаций. Структура торговли стран-членов Евразийского экономического союза (ЕАСТ) имеет сырьевое направление и примерно соответствует структуре региональных интеграционных группировок развивающихся стран. Такая структура торговли уменьшает взаимодополняемость экономик государств-членов ЕАСТ, снижает экономический интерес друг к другу, и часто даже делает их соперниками на одинаковых товарных рынках. Структурные проблемы торговли стран-членов являются результатом их техническо-экономического низкого уровня, что приводит к снижению конкурентоспособности этих стран на мировом рынке.
ТРАНСФЕР ТЕХНОЛОГИЙ КАК ЭКОНОМИЧЕСКИЙ РЕСУРС
Authors: ВАСЮЧЕНОК Л.
Published: August 2021

Статья посвящена исследованию особенностей трансфера технологий как экономического ресурса. Показано, что специфика трансфера технологий (ТТ) состоит в особенностях предмета трансфера – технологий, имеющих товарную и нетоварную составляющую (явное и неявное знание), особенностях субъектов ТТ, предполагающих как минимум трехкратную полную смену команд доноров и реципиентов технологий, и особенных формах трансфера, из которых наиболее предпочтительным для Республики Беларусь является инновационный кластер, включающий в себя больше частей цепочки ценности, чем другие формы ТТ.
РАЗВИТИЕ РЕГИОНАЛЬНОГО ТРАНСПОРТНО-ЛОГИСТИЧЕСКОГО КЛАСТЕРА: НА ПРИМЕРЕ РЕСПУБЛИКИ БЕЛАРУСЬ
Authors: МЕЛЕШКО Ю.
Published: August 2021

В статье изложены основные теоретические подходы к понятию «кластер», выделены и рассмотрены его основные признаки. Изучены свойства транспортно-логистического кластера как кластера сферы услуг, определены особенности его формирования и развития на территории Республики Беларусь. Рассмотрены дополнительные конкурентные преимущества, которые наравне с использованием основных факторных условий позволят занять нашей стране место на международном транспортно-логистическом рынке.
ЗНАЧЕНИЕ ПРОГНОЗОВ НАСЕЛЕНИЯ И ПЕРСПЕКТИВЫ ДЕМОГРАФИЧЕСКОГО РАЗВИТИЯ РЕСПУБЛИКИ БЕЛАРУСЬ
Authors: ШАХОТЬКО Л.
Published: August 2021

Статья посвящена перспективам демографического развития Республики Беларусь. Рассмотрены вопросы назначения демографических прогнозов, методика их разработки в стране. Представлены результаты шести гипотетических прогнозов, которые позволили оценить роль в воспроизводстве населения каждого из трех его основных составляющих (рождаемости, смертности и миграции). Приведены гипотезы развития демографических процессов на перспективу и результаты разработки демографического прогноза Республики Беларусь по трем сценариям на период до 2030 года. Доказывается, что полностью и, главное, надолго погасить депопуляцию в стране в ближайшие годы не представляется возможным и таким образом, демографическая безопасность и в долгосрочной перспективе будет выступать одним из наиболее проблемных аспектов социальной безопасности, требующего к себе повышенного внимания. Предлагаются меры, своевременное принятие которых, поможет значительно сгладить негативные
явления и предотвратить нежелательные последствия.
Profile and patterns of dual use of e-cigarettes and combustible cigarettes among Mexican adults
Authors: Zavala-Arciniega Luis , Barrientos-Gutiérrez Inti , Arillo-Santillán Edna , Gallegos-Carrillo Katia , Rodríguez-Bolaños Rosibel , F Thrasher James
Published: August 2021

Objective. To describe the profile and patterns of dual uses (n=954) and exclusive cigarette users (n=2 070) and determine the correlates of more frequent e-cigarette use among dual users and their reasons for e-cigarette use. Materials and methods. An online survey of Mexican adult smokers. Logistic models regressed dual-use (exclusive smoking vs. dual user) on sociodemographic, smoking varia­bles and substance use behaviors. We conducted censorial binomial models to estimate the correlates of frequency of e-cigarette use among dual users. Results. Dual users were younger had higher education (AOR=2.22) and higher levels of smoking dependence (AOR=1.31), preferred cigarettes with flavor capsules (AOR=1.58) and had recently attempted to quit smoking (AOR=1.38). Marijuana use and being daily smokers were correlates of higher frequency of use among dual users. Conclusion. Dual users had a higher risk profile than exclusive smokers, which was even more prominent in dual-users who used e-cigarettes frequently.
What Works in Appraisal Meetings for Newly Graduated Doctors? – and What doesn't ?
Authors: Møller Marianne Kleis , Sørensen Anita , Andreassen Pernille , Malling Bente
Published: August 2021

Background: In Denmark, an educational advisor is assigned to all doctors in each clinical rotation of postgraduate medical education. The advisor conducts at least three appraisal meetings with the trainee to guide and oversee his/her work and learning progress.This study explores why trainees evaluated the advisory program as either beneficial (successes) or not beneficial (non-successes). Methods: Inspired by the Success Case Method, a survey was conducted among all 129 doctors employed in their first six-month clinical rotation of postgraduate medical education in the Central Denmark Region. A cluster analysis resulted in groups with eight successes and seven non-successes. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six successes and five non-successes. Results: In contrast to non-successes, the successes had longer appraisal meetings and their advisor introduced them to purpose and process of meetings including use of the personal learning plan. Successes received feedback on clinical skills, overall global performance and career plans. The successes perceived their advisors as prepared, skilled and motivated and the advisor acted as a contact person.To the successes, the appraisal meetings fostered clarification of and reflections on educational goals, progress and career as well as self-confidence and a sense of security. Conclusion: Success with appraisal meetings seemed to depend on advisor’s skills and motivation including willingness to prioritize time for this task. The results from this study indicate the importance of faculty development. It also raises the question if all doctors should serve as advisors or if this task should be assigned to the most motivated candidates.
Delayed-interval Delivery in Multiple Pregnancies: Short- and Long-term Outcome
Authors: Hüner Beate , Essers Jochen , Schiefele Lisa , Schütze Sabine , Reister Frank , Janni Wolfgang , Deniz Miriam
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Multiple pregnancies are at higher risk of preterm birth due to premature labor, cervical insufficiency, or premature rupture of membranes. However, both children do not necessarily have to be born and exposed to the morbidity of prematurity depending on the age of gestation. One option is a delayed-interval delivery with reduction of morbidity and mortality for the second twin, considering maternal morbidity.
Methods

Retrospective study of delayed-interval deliveries in multiple pregnancies with evaluation of short-and long-term outcome from 2003 to 2020 at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital of the University Hospital < blinded>.
Results

In 17 cases, the delivery of the second twin could be prolonged, on average for 36 days. Pregnancies with delivery of the first twin before 22 weeks of gestation had a longer prolongation than pregnancies with delivery of the first twin after 22 weeks (53 vs. 22 days). In cases where a cerclage was placed, on average a longer prolongation interval (45 vs. 19 days) was observed. The short- and long-term follow-up of the second twin is comparable to the usual complication rate of premature birth.
Conclusion

Multiple pregnancies endangered by premature birth can be successfully prolonged for the second twin without serious maternal morbidity. If the first twin is born before 22 weeks of gestation and a cerclage is performed afterwards, a longer prolongation interval appears.
Modularisation of published and novel models toward a complex KIR2DL4 pathway in pbNK cell
Authors: Ismail Nurul Izza
Published: August 2021

KIR2DL4 is an interesting receptor expressed on the peripheral blood natural killer (pbNK) cell as it can be either activating or inhibitory depending on the amino acid residues in the domain. This model uses mathematical modelling to investigate the downstream effects of natural killer cells’ activation (KIR2DL4) receptor after stimulation by key ligand (HLA-G) on pbNK cells. Development of this large pathway is based on a comprehensive qualitative description of pbNKs’ intracellular signalling pathways leading to chemokine and cytotoxin secretion, obtained from the KEGG database (https://www.genome.jp/kegg-bin/show pathway?hsa04650). From this qualitative description we built a quantitative model for the pathway, reusing existing curated models where possible and implementing new models as needed. This large pathway consists of two published sub-models; the Ca2+ model and the NFAT model, and a newly built FCeRIγ sub-model. The full pathway was fitted to HLA-G-KIR2DL4 pathway published dataset and the model that we developed fitted well to one of two secreted cytokines. The model can be used to predict the production of IFNγ and TNFα cytokines.
Expert-Generated Standard Practice Elements for Evidence-Based Home Visiting Programs Using a Delphi Process
Authors: Haroz Emily , Ingalls Allison , Sorby Karla Decker , Dozier Mary , Kaye Miranda P , Sarche Michelle , Supplee Lauren , Whitaker Daniel J , Grubin Fiona , Daro Deborah
Published: August 2021

Background. States, territories, non-profits, and tribes are eligible to obtain federal funding to implement federally-endorsed evidence-based home visiting programs. This represents a massive success in translational science, with $400 million a year allocated to these implementation efforts. This legislation also requires that 3% of this annual funding be allocated to tribal entities implementing home visiting in their communities. However, implementing stakeholders face challenges with selecting which program is best for their desired outcomes and context. Moreover, recent reviews have indicated that when implemented in practice and delivered at scale, many evidence-based home visiting programs fail to replicate the retention rates and effects achieved during clinical trials. To inform program implementers and better identify the active ingredients in home visiting programs that drive significant impacts, we aimed to develop an expert derived consensus taxonomy on the elements used in home visiting practice that are essential to priority outcome domains. Methods. We convened a panel of 16 experts representing researchers, model representatives, and program implementers using a Delphi approach. We first elicited standard practice elements (SPEs) using open-ended inquiry, then compared these elements to behavior change techniques (BCTs) given their general importance in the field of home visiting; and finally rated their importance to 10 outcome domains. Results. Our process identified 48 SPEs derived from the panel, with 83 additional BCTs added based on the literature. Six SPEs, mostly related to home visitor characteristics and skills, were rated essential across all outcome domains. Fifty-three of the 83 BCTs were rated unnecessary across all outcome domains. Conclusions. This work represents the first step in a consensus-grounded taxonomy of techniques and strategies necessary for home visiting programs and provides a framework for future hypothesis testing and replication studies.
Analysis of Genetic Variants in Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Using a 22-Gene Next-Generation Sequencing Panel
Authors: Tan Jaymi , Chow Yock Ping , Abidin Norziha Zainul , Chang Kian Meng , Selvaratnam Veena , Tumian Nor Rafeah , Poh Yang Ming , Veerakumarasivam Abhi , Laffan Michael Arthur , Wong Chieh Lee
Published: August 2021

Background
The Philadelphia (Ph)-negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) (i.e. essential thrombocythaemia (ET), polycythaemia vera (PV), and primary myelofibrosis (PMF)) are a group of chronic clonal haematopoietic disorders that have the propensity to advance into bone marrow failure or acute myeloid leukaemia; often resulting in fatality. Although driver mutations have been identified in these Ph-negative MPNs, subtype-specific markers of the disease have yet to be discovered. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology can potentially improve the clinical management of Ph-negative MPNs by allowing for the simultaneous screening of many disease-associated genes.
Methods
The performance of a custom, in-house designed 22-gene NGS panel was technically validated using reference standards across two independent replicate runs. The panel was subsequently used to screen a total of 10 clinical MPN samples (ET n = 3, PV n = 3, PMF n = 4). The resulting NGS data was then analysed via a bioinformatics pipeline.
Results
The custom NGS panel had a detection limit of 1% variant allele frequency (VAF). A total of 44 variants with minor allele frequencies (MAFs) of ≥ 1%, and 20 variants with MAFs of < 1% were identified (4 of which were putatively novel variants with potential biological significance) across the 10 MPN samples. All single nucleotide variants with VAFs ≥ 15% were confirmed via Sanger sequencing.
Conclusions
The high fidelity of the NGS analysis and the identification of known and novel variants support its potential clinical utility in the management of Ph-negative MPNs.
Transmission probability through zigzag monolayer phosphorene superlattice
Authors: boroughani Atena , Faizabadi Edris , Hedayati Hamed
Published: August 2021

The transportation of charge carriers for monolayer phosphorene superlattice has been investigated utilizing a transfer matrix method. Also, the efficacy of structural parameters has been studied on the transmission of charge carriers for the system. Our findings demonstrated that the barrier number at the superlattice structures performs an essential role in the transportation probability, that can be utilized in the design of nanoelectronic sets. Further, it can be comprehended that the transmission probability of one for the normal incident has occurred in twenty obstacles. On the other hand, the transmission probability of close to one has occurred in lower landing energies by increasing the obstacle number. As well, it has been understood the transmission probability of close to one by enhancing the barrier number can happen in barriers with a smaller width. According to the results, phosphorene can be used in the novel advances of two dimensional semiconductor devices in electronic applications.
Anti-Migraine Activity of Freeze Dried-Latex Obtained From Calotropis Gigantea Linn.
Authors: Bhatia Saurabh , Al-Harrasi Ahmed , Kumar Arun , Behl Tapan , Sehghal Aayush , Singh Sukbir , Sharma Neelam , Anwer Khalid , Kaushik Deepak , Mittal Vineet , Chigurupati Sridevi , Sharma Pritam Babu , Aleya Lotfi , Vargas-de-la-Cruz Celia , Kabir Md. Tanvir
Published: August 2021

Migraine which is characterized by a pulsating headache affected an estimated population of 12% worldwide. Herbal products like latex derived from Calotropis gigantea R. Br. (Asclepiadaceae) are a representative intervention to treat migraine traditionally. However, post harvesting stability issues of latex affects its biological potential. Freeze drying has been successfully employed for the encapsulation of herbal bioactive compounds resulting in stable dried preparations. Latex derived from Calotropis gigantea (C. gigantea) was microencapsulated using chitosan by freeze-drying (FDCG) method and compared with sun rays dried latex (ADCG). Current investigation was aimed to improve the shelf life of latex by freeze drying microencapsulation technique and evaluation of its antimigraine potential. Dried latex powders (ADCG and FDCG) were evaluated in terms of phenolic content, coloring strength, first-order kinetic, color parameters (L*, a*, b*, C* and E*), moisture, water activity, solubility and hygroscopicity. Additionally, apomorphine -induced climbing behavior, l-5-HTP induced syndrome and MK 801 induced hyperactivity were used to evaluate the antimigraine potential of powdered latex. FDCG showed good physico-chemical properties due to its higher concentration of phenolic and flavonoid content. Moreover, FDCG significantly reduced the apomorphine -induced climbing behavior, l-5-HTP -induced syndrome and MK 801 -induced hyperactivity in a dose dependent manner through dopaminergic and serotonergic receptors interaction. In conclusion, method developed for shelf-life improvement of latex offered maximum protection over a period of 10 weeks with retaining its natural biological potential, thus it can be eﬀectively utilized in the treatment or management of migraine.
Phytoremediation with Kenaf (Hibiscus Cannabinus L.) for Cadmium-Contaminated Paddy Soil in Southern China: Translocation, Uptake and Assessment of Cultivars
Authors: Guo Yuan , Xiao Qingmei , Zhao Xinlin , Wu Zhimin , Dai Zhigang , Zhang Minji , Qiu Caisheng , Long Songhua , Wang Yufu
Published: August 2021

Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) is suitable for growing in heavy metal-polluted soil for non-food purposes, and can be used as a potential crop to remediate heavy metal-contaminated soil. The main objective of this study was to investigate kenaf phytoextraction of cadmium (Cd), including uptake, translocation, and accumulation differences in tissues among kenaf cultivars. A field experiment was conducted in a Cd contaminated paddy field in southern China area with 13 kenaf cultivars in 2015 and 2016. Agronomic performance, Cd concentrations in plant tissues (root, xylem, and phloem), and biomass of different tissues of each cultivar were measured and evaluated. Significant differences in Cd concentrations and accumulation among tissues and cultivars were observed. The phloem had the highest Cd accumulation and transfer capability compare with the roots and xylem. Approximately 35 ~ 65g of Cd could be taken up by the aerial parts of different kenaf cultivars within every hectare of soil. The percentage of Cd uptake by the phloem ranged from 47–61% and by the xylem ranged from 38–53%. By evaluating the agronomic traits and Cd bioaccumulation capacity, Fuhong 952, Fuhong 992, and Fuhong R1 were regarded as Cd accumulators for the phytoremediation of Cd-contaminated soil. Our study clearly demonstrated that a significant level of Cd in the soil was taken up through the phytoremediation with kenaf. In addition, harmless utilization of kenaf planting in Cd-contaminated paddy soil was discussed.
Programmably switching the NIR upconversion for orthogonal activation of photoacoustic imaging and on-demand phototherapy
Authors: Yang Yang , Huang Jinshu , Wei Wei , Zeng Qin , Li Xipeng , Xing Da , Zhou Bo , Zhang Tao
Published: August 2021

Upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) based phototheranostics offer significant expectations for the personalized cancer medicine via integrating both modalities of imaging diagnostics and phototherapeutics. However, programmably controlling the photoactivation of imaging and therapy towards the accurate diagnosis with minimum side effects for on-demand therapy has remained challenging due to the lack of ideal switchable UCNPs agents. Herein, we demonstrate a facile strategy to simply switch the near infrared emission at 800 nm from rationally designed UCNPs by modulating the irradiation laser into pulse output. Through synthesis of the theranostic UCNPs-DI agent combining with a photosensitizer and a photoabsorbing agent assembled on the UCNPs, the orthogonal activation of in vivo photoacoustic imaging and photodynamic therapy was further achieved by simply altering the excitation modes from pulse to continuous-wave output upon a single 980-nm laser. Importantly, no obvious harmful effects during photoexcitation caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) photooxidation and photohyperthermia were generated under imaging modality, which facilitates the long-term and real-time imaging-guidance for the subsequent phototherapy. This work provides a new facile approach for the orthogonal activation of imaging diagnostics and photodynamic therapeutics towards the target cancers.
Stunting and Wasting Among Children 0-59 Months of Age in Zambézia and Nampula Provinces of Mozambique: An Assessment of Population-Based Survey Results Against Global Targets
Authors: Green Ann F. , Wilson Carole J. , Gonzalez-Calvo Lazaro , Pierce Leslie , Quelhas Diana , Rodriguez Javier , Amaro Marla , Tomo Simão , Moon Troy D.
Published: August 2021

Background: The number of undernourished children worldwide has increased by 45 million since 1990. In Mozambique, Zambézia and Nampula Provinces carry a heavy burden of infectious diseases, as well as high rates of stunting and wasting. Mozambique developed a Multisectoral Action Plan for the Reduction of Stunting (2011–2014) that aimed to reduce the national prevalence of stunting to 20% by 2020, but little is documented of its impact on childhood stunting since the 2011 DHS survey.Methods: Cross-sectional data from a population-based household-level survey was collected between February and July 2019, among heads of households ≥ 15 years of age in Zambézia and Nampula Provinces. The survey tool was a 500-item questionnaire covering domains related to household health and economics, with a special emphasis on maternal and child health, nutrition and WASH and the collection of anthropometric measurements in children 0-59 months. Children were assessed for Stunting and Wasting according to the WHO Child Growth Standards. SurveyToGo software was used for developing the data collection form, gathering data on mobile devices and sending securely to a server. Descriptive statistics were calculated for continuous variables as median with interquartile range and for categorical variables as percentages. The significance level for all testing was two-sided, set at 0.05.Results: A total of 3,937 households were included in our analysis, including anthropometric measurements of 5,423 children under five. Nearly half (45%, n=2,460) of all children assessed met the criteria for stunting, with a higher prevalence in Nampula Province (51%, n=1,180) than Zambézia Province (41%, n=1,280). Four percent of children met the criteria for wasting in both provinces with children aged 6-11-months having the highest wasting prevalence overall (7%).Conclusions: Based on survey results using highly standardized anthropometric measurement methods, these two provinces are on track to meet international 2025 targets for reduction in wasting in children under 5 years. However, stunting prevalence over time in both provinces has maintained at 40-50% with no clear evidence of decline since 2003. It is doubtful the related Sustainable Development Goal targets will be reached unless a focused multi-sectoral approach is employed and closely monitored.
The Effect of The Oil Consumption Pattern on Atherogenic Index of Plasma: Evidence From a Cohort Study in West of Iran
Authors: Moradinazar Mehdi , Sahargahi Badrieh , Najafi Farid , Darbandi Mitra , Moludi Jalal , Hamzeh Behrooz , Pasdar Yahya , Shokouhizadeh Rozhan , Shakiba Ebrahim
Published: August 2021

Background

The amount and type of lipids consumed greatly impact serum lipid profile and risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). A novel index named atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) is a better predictor of CVD risk factors than lipids alone. This study aimed to investigate the effect of edible oils on AIP.
Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted on the preliminary phase of Ravansar Non-Communicable Disease (RaNCD) cohort study. The amount of consumption of edible lipids was determined based on the validated Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). AIP was calculated as log10 (TG/HDL-C).
Results

From 9996 participantes, 4738(47.4%), were male. The mean of AIP was 0.98 ± 0.6 (range from − 1.73 to 4.15), which in females (0.97 ± 0.6) was lower than males (1.10 ± 0.6). After controlling for confounding and affecting variables, the AIP index decreased with increasing consumption of a local oil named Kermanshahi oil [β(CI 95% ): -0.006(-0.008, -0.003)], butter[β(CI 95% ): -0.008(-0.011, -0.005)] and not statistically significant decrease with Hydrogenated or partial hydrogenated oil [β(CI 95% ): -0.008(-0.001, 0.001)] but the AIP index increased with un-hydrogenated oil [β(CI 95% ): 0.001(-0.001, 0.001)]
Conclusions

Kermanshahi oil and butter have a decreasing effect on AIP, the effect of margarine was neutral, and hydrogenated vegetable oil has a decreasing effect, whereas un-hydrogenated vegetable oil has an increasing effect on it. So, consumption of Kermanshahi oil may be associated with lower cardiovascular risk.
The cellular response to drug perturbation is limited: comparison of large-scale chemogenomic fitness signatures
Authors: Barazandeh Marjan , Kriti Divya , Nislow Corey , Giaever Guri
Published: August 2021

BackgroundChemogenomic profiling is a powerful approach towards understanding the genome-wide cellular response to small molecules. Developed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, chemogenomic screens provide direct, unbiased identification of drug target candidates as well as genes required for drug resistance. While many laboratories have performed chemogenomic fitness assays, they have not been assessed for reproducibility and accuracy. Here we analyze the two largest independent yeast chemogenomic datasets comprising over 35 million gene-drug interactions and more than 6000 unique chemogenomic profiles; the first from our own academic laboratory and the second from the Novartis Institute of Biomedical Research (NIBR).ResultsCombining the datasets revealed robust genetic interaction response signatures that point to common mechanism of action, despite the substantial differences in experimental and analytical pipelines. We previously reported that the cellular response to small molecules is limited and can be described by a network of 45 chemogenomic signatures. In the present study, we show that the majority of these signatures (66%) are also found in the companion dataset, providing further support for their biological relevance as systems-level, small molecule response systems. ConclusionsOur results demonstrate the robustness of chemogenomic fitness profiling in yeast, while offering guidelines for performing other high-dimensional comparisons including parallel CRISPR screens in mammalian cells.
The Numerical Simulation of the Generation of Lower Band VLF Chorus Using a Quasi-Broadband Vlasov Hybrid Simulation Code
Authors: Nunn David
Published: August 2021

In this paper we perform the numerical modelling of lower band VLF chorus in the earth’s magnetosphere. Assuming parallel propagation the 1d3v code has one spatial dimension z along the ambient magnetic field, which has a parabolic z dependence about the equator. The method used is Vlasov Hybrid Simulation (VHS) also known in the literature as the method of Kinetic Phase Point Trajectories (Nunn 1990,1993; Kazeminezhad et al. 2003). The method is straightforward and easy to program, and robust against distribution function filamentation. Importantly VHS does not invoke unphysical smoothing of the distribution function. Previous versions of the VLF/VHS code had a narrow bandwidth ~100Hz, which enabled simulation of a wide variety of discrete triggered emissions. The present quasi-broadband VHS code has a bandwidth of ~3000Hz, which is far more realistic for the simulation of chorus in its entirety. Further the quasi-broadband code does not require artificial saturation, and does not need to employ matched filtering to accommodate large spatial frequency gradients. The aim of this paper which has been achieved is to produce VLF chorus Vlasov simulations employing a systematic variety of triggering input signals, namely key down, single pulse, PLHR, and broadband hiss.
User Testing of a Scottish Intercollegiate Guideline Network Public Guideline for the Parents of Children with Autism.
Authors: Fearns Naomi , Walker Laura , Graham Karen , Gibb Norman , Service Duncan
Published: August 2021

Background: The Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) is the leading national clinical guideline producer in Scotland. Improved design and dissemination of guidelines produced for the public can empower people to take an active role in self-management and shared decision-making. The aim of this study was to test a public version of a guideline with the parents of children and young people with autism, implement improvements, and identify what works in making it usable and accessible. Methods: Parents were recruited from across Scotland. User testing involved a formal ‘think aloud’ process and semi-structured interview that guided users through the booklet. Sessions took place individually and were recorded and transcribed. Key findings were identified and themed using the honeycomb user experience model.Results: Fourteen user-testing sessions were conducted. Key facilitators for usability and desirability of the guideline included the chunking of text, consistent use of colour and the use of boxes to highlight important information. Simple language, written in a tone of partnership, helped to engage parents. Value arose from the guidelines ability to explain the process of diagnosis and make parents feel empowered in their relationship with healthcare professionals. There was a lack of consensus on the usefulness of rating the strength of evidence and recommendations. Conclusion: There was a marked similarity between what was important to the parents and what is important for other groups. The involvement of patients and carers in the guidelines development was key to its credibility. One size does not fit all in presenting evidence-based recommendations to the public and it is a challenge to provide sufficient information while avoiding information overload. Recommendations and evidence levels are suitable for use in public versions, but these should be kept as simple as possible.
Mapping Research Trends of Uveal Melanoma: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Li Senmao , Guo Yongwei , Hou Xiaoyi , Liu Jinhua , Fan Wanlin , Ju Sitong , Matos Philomena A. Wawer , Rokohl Alexander C. , Heindl Ludwig M.
Published: August 2021

Background: To explore the research trends for uveal melanoma (UM) with bibliometric methods using Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) and PubMed (PM).Methods: To find UM-related studies, “uveal melanoma” was used as search term in the WoSCC and PM for the period time from 2000 to 2020. Bibliographic coupling analysis was used to investigate the journals with the highest number of UM-related publications. VOSviewer (VV) was used for mapping the knowledge domain and visualizing the co-occurrence of terms, authors, organizations, countries, co-citation literature, and keywords. The knowledge map based on WoSCC and PM were compared.Results: In the WoSCC 3,748 articles were found, while in PM the search resulted in 3,403 articles. The number of original articles has steadily grown in general in the past two decades. The top ten authors were contributing to 23% (n= 856) of all publications, while the top 10 institutions published 41% (n= 1524) of all articles. The top 3 journals with the highest number of publications for UM-related research included Investigative ophthalmology & visual science, Ophthalmology, and British Journal of Ophthalmology. Co-occurrence analysis based on author keywords showed 6 clusters. The most frequent keywords included metastasis, prognosis, and brachytherapy. The latest research hotspots focused on BAP1, immunotherapy and GNAQ.Conclusions: Genetics and immunology are the latest research frontiers in uveal melanoma. There is a clear need for interdisciplinary, molecular and clinical research approaches to improve the fatal prognosis of uveal melanoma patients.
Theoretical Calculations of Structural, Mechanical, Electronic And Optical Properties of Sn2S3 Under Pressure
Authors: Chen Baishu , Zhu Wenxia , Wang Chunxiang , Wang Chang , Li Yuanzuo , Liu Weilong
Published: August 2021

The pressure effect on the structural, mechanical, electronic and optical properties of Sn2S3 in the pressure range of 0–35 GPa have been evaluated by means of the first-principles calculations based on the density-functional theory. The structural parameters of Sn2S3 at 0 GPa such as lattice constants and cell volumes are consistent with the previous theoretical and experiment reports. The mechanical properties about the elastic constants (Cij) and polycrystalline elastic modulus (B, G and E) under pressure are calculated for the first time. Furthermore, the results suggest that the Sn2S3 is predicted to be mechanically stable in the range of pressure from 0 to 35 GPa in the light of the mechanical stability conditions. The Sn2S3 is found to be ductile from the value of B/G. With the increasing of pressure, the ductility of Sn2S3 enhances monotonously. The pressure effect on the energy band gap and density of states of Sn2S3 is also discussed, which indicates that the pressure makes the band gap of Sn2S3 decreased. The optical properties of Sn2S3 are calculated in the range 0–35 eV, and the results show that the Sn2S3 under pressure has stronger visible light absorption in comparison with 0 GPa.
HIF-1α overexpression in adipose mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes ameliorate hypoxia-induced dysfunction and inflammation in HUVECs
Authors: Chen Xingxing , Sun Yonghong , Lei Xiaoyan , Cao Yunshan , Gao Mingdong , Chen Junhui , Bao Baixin , Chen Lili
Published: August 2021

Background
Increasing evidence suggests that ADSCs execute their paracrine function via the secretion of exosomes, especially under hypoxic conditions. However, the mechanisms by which ADSCs-derived exosomes (ADSC-exos) enhance angiogenesis under hypoxia remain unclear.
Methods
Exosomes were isolated from HIF-1α-modified ADSCs culture supernatants. To investigate the effects HIF-1α-ADSC-exos on HUVECs, cell growth, apoptosis, and tube formation assay were performed with or without HIF-1α-ADSC-exos. Moreover, to determine the function of HIF-1α-ADSC-exos, the therapeutic effects of ADSC-exos and HIF-1α-ADSC-exos were examined in PAH rats.
Results
Exosomes released by HIF-1α-modified ADSCs rescued the impaired angiogenic ability, migratory function, and inflammatory factors of hypoxia-injured HUVECs, with increased SDF-1α, Rac1, Rac2, VEGF and IL-10 expression. Furthermore, exos-HIF-1α activated SIRT3 to enhance angiogenesis in HUVECs and induced IL-10 expression to inhibit inflammatory response. Block SIRT3 or SDF-1α abolished the angiogenic effect in HUVECs.
Conclusion
Our findings indicated that the SIRT3 contributed a crucial role in HIF-1α-ADSC-exos in tissue repair under hypoxia.
Contribution of 3D genome topological domains to genetic risk of cancers: a genome-wide computational study
Authors: Jablonski Kim Philipp , Carron Leopold , Mozziconacci Julien , Forné Thierry , Hütt Marc-Thorsten , Lesne Annick
Published: August 2021

Background
Genome-wide association studies have identified statistical associations between various diseases, including cancers, and a large number of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). However, they provide no direct explanation of the mechanisms underlying the association. Based on the recent discovery that changes in 3-dimensional genome organization may have functional consequences on gene regulation favoring diseases, we investigated systematically the genome-wide distribution of disease-associated SNPs with respect to a specific feature of 3D genome organization: topologically-associating domains (TADs) and their borders.
Results
For each of 449 diseases, we tested whether the associated SNPs are present in TAD borders more often than observed by chance, where chance (i.e. the null model in statistical terms) corresponds to the same number of pointwise loci drawn at random either in the entire genome, or in the entire set of disease-associated SNPs listed in the GWAS catalog. Our analysis shows that a fraction of diseases displays such a preferential localization of their risk loci. Moreover, cancers are relatively more frequent among these diseases, and this predominance is generally enhanced when considering only intergenic SNPs. The structure of SNP-based diseasome networks confirms that localization of risk loci in TAD borders differ between cancers and non-cancer diseases. Furthermore, different TAD border enrichments are observed in embryonic stem cells and differentiated cells, consistent with changes in topological domains along embryogenesis and delineating their contribution to disease risk.
Conclusions
Our results suggest that, for certain diseases, part of the genetic risk lies in a local genetic variation affecting the genome partitioning in topologically-insulated domains. Investigating this possible contribution to genetic risk is particularly relevant in cancers. This study thus opens a way of interpreting genome-wide association studies, by distinguishing two types of disease-associated SNPs: one with a direct effect on an individual gene, the other acting in interplay with 3D genome organization.