bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonlinear phonon laser with dissipation-governed levitated optomechanics
Authors: Kuang Tengfang , Huang R. , Xiong Wei , Zuo Yunlan , Han Xiang , Nori Franco , Qiu Cheng-Wei , Luo Hui , Jing H. , Xiao Guangzong
Published: January 2022

Phonon lasers, exploiting coherent amplifications of phonons, have been a cornerstone for exploring quantum phononics, imaging nanomaterial structures, and realizing force sensors or phonon frequency combs. Single-mode phonon lasers, governed by dispersive optomechanical coupling, have been recently demonstrated via levitating a nanoparticle using an optical tweezer. Such levitated optomechanical (LOM) devices, with fundamental minimum of noises in high vacuum, can flexibly control large-mass objects with no internal discrete energy levels. However, it is still elusive to realize nonlinear multi-frequency phonon lasing with levitated microscale objects, dominated instead by dissipative LOM coupling due to much stronger optical scattering loss. Here, we report such a nonlinear phonon laser by employing a Yb3+-doped active LOM system. We observe a 3-order of magnitude enhancement for the fundamental-mode phonon lasing, compared with that in its passive counterparts. Above the lasing threshold, higher-order mechanical sidebands emerge spontaneously. Coherent correlations are also identified for the phonon modes. Our gain-assisted dissipative LOM platform no longer relies on any complicated external feedback control. Our work drives LOM into a new regime where it becomes promising to study mechanical properties or quantum entanglement of typical micro-size objects, such as atmospheric particulates and living cells, and build levitated force sensors with these objects for biomedical or astronomical applications.
Predictors of family planning usage among multiparous women in the Nkwanta-South Municipality of Ghana
Authors: Ekuwornu Lucky , Amenu Johnpaul , Asem Livingstone
Published: January 2022

Background: Family planning use is one of the most cost-effective public health interventions; averting unplanned pregnancies, reducing maternal deaths, and helps individuals and couples to decide freely and responsibly when to have children. Despite these benefits, several research findings have reported low levels of family planning usage hence the need to determine factors influencing family planning usage among multiparous women in the Nkwanta South Municipality.Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was done using a structured questionnaire to collect data from 328 selected multiparous women living in the Nkwanta south municipality. Data were analyzed using STATA 16. Descriptive statistics were performed to determine the levels of knowledge, acceptance, and family planning usage, while multivariate analysis was done to determine the factors influencing family planning usage.Results: The findings of this study show that 318 (96.9%) of the multiparous women had already heard of family planning. Most of the respondents, 204 (62.6%) had good knowledge of family planning, however, a little above average 172 (52.4%) accepted family planning. The proportion currently using some form of family planning was 75 (22.9%), of which 31 (41.3%) were using Jadelle. Multiparous women with good knowledge of family planning were 4.5 (95% CI: 2.30-8.89) times more likely to use family planning compared to those with poor knowledge, while multiparous women with poor acceptance of family planning were 0.43 (95% CI: 0.25-0.75) times less likely to use family planning compared to those with good acceptance of family planning.Conclusions: The result of the study shows low levels of knowledge, acceptance, and usage of family planning among multiparous women. Thus, there is a need to improve health promotion activities in the municipality to increase knowledge, acceptance, and usage of family planning among multiparous women.
Vertical Distribution Characteristics of the Phenotypic Traits of High-Yielding Wheat Varieties Under Limited Irrigation and Nitrogen Supply
Authors: Zang He-Cang , Wang Yan-Jing , Liu Yun-Peng , Zhang Ying-Hua , Zheng Guo-Qing , Li Guo-Qiang , Wang Zhi-Min
Published: January 2022

To clarify the vertical distribution characteristics of the phenotypic traits of high-yielding wheat varieties, the canopy was used as the system, with the leaf position and node position as the level, stratified from top to bottom. The morphological structure characteristics of the leaf layer, node layer and light transmittance of the high-yielding wheat varieties under limited irrigation and nitrogen supply were studied and discussed. The results showed that two-year test yield and nitrogen fertilizer production efficiency (NPF) were the highest in the spring irrigation at jointing and anthesis stages (W2) and 192 kg/hm2 (N1), which achieved high yield and efficient nitrogen utilization. With the decrease of the leaf layer from top to bottom, the leaf area of the two wheat varieties displayed a trend of being higher in the upper layer and lower in the lower layer, while the light transmittance showed a decreasing trend. As the node layer decreased from top to bottom, the node length of the two wheat varieties decreased sequentially. Comprehensive research suggested that appropriate irrigation and nitrogen input improved the vertical distribution characteristics of wheat phenotypic traits, and can obtain higher grain yield and nitrogen fertilizer production efficiency.
Abnormal Expression and Clinical Significance of Surface Receptors on Natural Killer Cells in the Peripheral Blood of Patients With Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: liu pengcheng , Feng Xiaowen , Zhao Xiaomin , Ye Jing , He Fenglian , Liu Hui , Li Renming , Wang Xuefu , Zhao Dahai
Published: January 2022

Background Natural killer (NK) cells typically function as frontline lymphocytes against cancer although little is known about their engagement in non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This study compared the performance and activity of NK cells and their subsets in the peripheral blood of NSCLC sufferers and healthy participants. Methods In total, 67 healthy controls (40 men; 59.7%) and 56 patients with NSCLC (35 men; 62.5%) were included (mean age, 66.6 years). Flow cytometry identified NK cells and their subpopulations in external blood, and the total number, proportion, activity, surface activating and inhibitory receptor expression levels were determined. Results NK cell surface receptors CD107a, IFN-γ, and TNF-α activity were markedly reduced in lung cancer patients compared to healthy controls. The number and ratio of NK cells within the lymphocyte population were decreased in patients. The concentration of the inhibitory receptors TIGIT, TIM-3, CD96, PD-1, and Siglec-7 were increased in patients, whereas the expression level of the activating receptor NKP30 was decreased. Moreover, the expression levels of IFN-γ, TIGIT, CD96, PD-1, and TIM-3 were correlated with the clinical phase of NSCLC.Conclusions NSCLC patients have decreased number and function of external blood NK cells, and the proportion of most of the inhibitory receptors assessed on NK cells in this study increased as the disease progressed. These findings suggest that surface receptors from NK cells are likely to be involved in the evolution of NSCLC.
Metabarcoding Reveals Diverse Endophytic Fungal Communities in Vaccinium Myrtillus Plant Organs and Suggests Systemic Distribution of Some Ericoid Mycorrhizal and DSE Fungi
Authors: Perotto Silvia , Daghino Stefania , Martino Elena , Voyron Samuele
Published: January 2022

Genome sequencing data revealed unexpected similarities among plant-interacting fungi belonging to different ecological guilds. In particular, the sequenced genomes of ericoid mycorrhizal fungi (ErMF) showed closer similarities with genomes of plant endophytes than with those of other mycorrhizal fungi. ErMF are typically associated with roots of plants in the Ericaceae, but it has never been investigated whether they also colonize other organs of their natural hosts. Here, we applied a metabarcoding approach to describe the fungal community associated with the different organs of Vaccinium myrtillus plants collected in the field. Taxa in the Helotiales and Sebacinales, known to include ErMF, characterize the root endosphere, together with Agaricales and Lecanoromycetes, while the stems were enriched in Agaricomycetes, Tremellomycetes and Pleosporales, the leaves were enriched in Sordariomycetes, Hysteriales, and the flowers were enriched in Dothideomycetes. Operational Taxonomic Units attributed to known or putative ErMF and Dark Septate Endophytic fungi, namely Pezoloma ericae, Meliniomyces spp. and Phialocephala fortinii, were found in all the plant organs. The ErMF Oidiodendron sp. was rarely detected in organs other than roots in field samples, but we could detect its presence in the above-ground organs of V. myrtillus grown in vitro. This first report of ErMF colonizing the above-ground tissues of the host plant mirrors their evolutionary closeness with endophytes and increases the list of fungi found to occupy several niches.
The Economic Effects of Grazing in a Small-Scale Sheep Production System in Central Mexico via an Analysis of Scenarios
Authors: Salinas-Martínez Jesús Armando , Posadas Rodolfo Rogelio , Ángeles-Hernández Juan Carlos , Morales-Díaz Leydi Diana , Rebollar-Rebollar Samuel , Rojo-Rubio Rolando , Arriaga-Jordan Carlos Manuel
Published: January 2022

The objective was to assess grazing as an element of profitability and competitiveness of a small-scale sheep production system (SSSPS) in central Mexico and compare its economic performance by means of an analysis of scenarios. A questionnaire was applied to 66 sheep farmers on technical variables, flock management, economic and social aspects. Two scenarios were analyzed to assess the contribution of grazing on profitability and competitiveness. The first analysis was when grazing was the feed base, and secondly, costs of opportunity and economic impacts were studied under the assumption that sheep do not graze and total feed has to be bought from feed vendors. In order to determine the differences between the farmers with the highest and lowest profitability indexes, a four-stratum stratification was made (stratum 1, between 6 and 35 sheep; stratum 2, 36 to 70 sheep, stratum 3 = 71 - 105 sheep; and stratum 4, 106 to 140 sheep). Quantitative variables (technical management, flock management and social aspects) were evaluated with analysis of variance, while qualitative variables were analyzed by means of a Kruskal-Wallis test. Production cost analysis and profitability index were assessed with the Policy Analysis Matrix. Differences were found between strata, farmers with more than 70 sheep have the best profitability indices and the least vulnerability before the non-grazing scenario. Grazing had a positive effect reducing the cost of production and increasing competitiveness in the four strata assessed. However, farmers with higher technical level, specialized breeds and larger flocks (strata 3 and 4) have higher economic profits.
High Stability and Recyclable Cellulose-based Fluorescent Paper Derived from Waste Bagasse for Anti-counterfeiting
Authors: Guo Lei , Liu Hongchen , Peng Fang , Kang Jian , Haisong Qi
Published: January 2022

Developing fluorescent paper-based materials with recyclable, environmental friendly, excellent stable and uniform performances are still an urgent challenge at present. Herein, a simple, green, and high-efficiency method for the fabrication of high stability and recyclable cellulose-based fluorescent paper from waste bagasse via Hantzsch reaction is proposed. Compared to the pristine paper, the surface modification showed little effect on the morphology, mechanical properties, thermal performance and appearance. Meanwhile, the good writing and printing ability of the paper still remained. The prepared paper showed excellent fluorescence performance, which is very stable even treated with acidic, alkaline, and different solvents for 24 h. It can be processed into different security patterns. What’s more, this strategy could be extended by using other compositions with aldehyde groups. Considering their functional and recyclable features, as well as the convenient and efficient fabrication process, our fluorescent papers hold great potential to be applied in many fields such as anti-counterfeiting.
Synthesis and Characterization Studies of Mesostructured Chitosan Coated Fe3O4 Nanoparticles with Folic Acid
Authors: J Agnes , P Ajith , M Sappani Muthu , D Premanand
Published: January 2022

In this present work, Fe3O4 nanoparticles were obtained by a one-part Co-precipitation method. Secondly, a simple solvothermal method was employed to synthesis Chitosan (CS) coated Fe3O4 nanoparticles. Chitosan was used as a surface modification agent. The surface of Chitosan-coated Fe3O4 nanoparticles was conjugated with Folic Acid (FA). Various properties of the resultant products were performed by characterization studies. The structure and surface morphology of as-prepared nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The physical parameter such as strain and the crystallite size was evaluated for all the reflection peaks of the samples by using Williamson–Hall (W-H plot) method. Determination of the chemical component was marked by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX) analyses. UV- Vis experiment was carried out to record optical absorbance and bandgap energy of the nanoparticles was determined by Tauc’s plot. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) was conducted to recognize the thermal stability of the magnetic nanoparticles and endothermic peaks were observed from the first derivative of the TGA curve (DTG curve).
A BDNF-TrkB autocrine loop enhances senescent cell viability
Authors: Anerillas Carlos , Herman Allison , Munk Rachel , Payea Matthew , Rossi Martina , Tsitsipatis Dimitrios , Martindale Jennifer , Piao Yulan , Mazan-Mamczarz Krystyna , Fan Jinshui , Cui Chang-Yi , De Supriyo , Abdelmohsen Kotb , de Cabo Rafael , Gorospe Myriam
Published: January 2022

Cellular senescence is characterized by cell cycle arrest, resistance to apoptosis, and a senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) whereby cells secrete pro-inflammatory and tissue-remodeling factors. Given that the SASP exacerbates age-associated pathologies, some aging interventions aim at selectively eliminating senescent cells. In this study, a drug library screen uncovered TrkB (NTRK2) inhibitors selectively capable of triggering apoptosis of senescent, but not proliferating, human fibroblasts. Senescent cells expressed high levels of TrkB, which supported senescent cell viability, and secreted the TrkB ligand BDNF. The reduced viability of senescent cells after ablating BDNF signaling suggested an autocrine function for TrkB and BDNF, including increased expression of BCL2L2 downstream of BDNF-TrkB, favoring senescent cell survival. Strikingly, treatment with TrkB inhibitors reduced the accumulation of senescent cells in aged mouse organs. We propose that the activation of TrkB by SASP factor BDNF promotes cell survival and could be exploited therapeutically to reduce the senescent-cell burden.
Whole-brain in vivo base editing reverses autistic-like behaviors in mice
Authors: Qiu Zilong , Li Weike , Peng Wanling , Yuan Bo , Yuan Yiting , Wang Jincheng , Han Wenjian , Chen Zhi-Fang , Shan Shifang , Zhu Shujia , Xu Min , Chen Jinlong , Cheng Tian-Lin , Xue Zhenyu
Published: January 2022

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a highly heritable neurodevelopmental disorder associated with deficits in social communication and stereotypical behaviors. Numerous ASD-related genetic mutations have been identified and genome editing methods have been developed but successful genome editing in the whole-brain scale to alleviate autistic-like behaviors in animal models has not been achieved. Here we report the development of a new CRISPR-mediated cytidine base editor (CBE) system, which converts C·G base pairs to T·A. We demonstrate the effectiveness of this system by targeting an ASD-associated de novo mutation in the MEF2C gene (c.104T>C, p.L35P). We constructed a Mef2c L35P knock-in mouse and observed that Mef2c L35P heterozygous mice displayed autistic-like behaviors, including deficits in social behaviors and repetitive behaviors. We programmed the CBE to edit the C·G base pairs of the mutated Mef2c gene (c.104T>C, p.L35P) to T·A base pairs and delivered it via a single dose intravenous injection of blood brain barrier (BBB)-crossing AAV-PHP.eB vector into the mouse brain. This treatment restored MEF2C protein levels and reversed impairments in social interactions and repetitive behaviors in Mef2c L35P heterozygous mice. Together, this work presents an in vivo gene editing strategy in which correcting a single nucleotide mutation in the whole-brain scale could be successfully achieved, further providing a new therapeutic framework for neurodevelopmental disorders.
Community impact on a cryptocurrency: Twitter comparison example between Dogecoin and Litecoin
Authors: Lansiaux Edouard , Tchagaspanian Noé , Forget Joachim
Published: January 2022

Context: The 3rd generation of cryptocurrencies groups together cryptocurrencies as diverse as they are sulphurous, like Dogecoin or Litecoin. While one qualifies as memecoin, the other is of interest to a different category of investors. In our knowledge, no study has independently assessed crypto community economic impact concerning this comparable cryptocurrencies. Method: Our study has retrospectively studied (from 01/01/2015 to 03/11/2021), using open access data, the association strength (using normalized mutual information) as well as the linear correlation (using Pearson’s correlation) between Twitter social networks markers and cryptocurrency economic markers. In addition, we have computed different models in order to forecast past prices values and then we have assessed their precision. Findings and conclusions: While average Dogecoin transaction value is impacted by tweets, Litecoin transactions number and average Litecoin transaction value impacted tweets. Concerning whales, tweets are impacted by Dogecoin whales but any significant relationship was found between Litecoin whales and tweets. According to our ARIMA(0,0,0) models, we have a past values forecasting error of 0.08% on Litecoin and 0.22% on Dogecoin.Therefore, there are thus the beginnings of a scientific rationale in order to build a trading robot based on these big datas. This paper is only for academic discussion, conclusions need to be confirmed by further research.
Prevalence of depression and associated factors among heart failure patients at cardiac follow-up clinics in government teaching hospital at Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; A cross sectional study
Authors: Alemayehu Kassahun , Ayalew Yohannes , Habte Teshome
Published: January 2022

Background
Depression is one of the most co-morbid disorders in patients with heart failure and it is a major public health problem in worldwide. There is great information gap about the depression of heart failure patients in developing countries including in Ethiopia.
Objective
This study aimed to assess prevalence of depression and associated factors among heart failure patients at cardiac follow-up clinics.
Methods
Health care institution based cross-sectional study design was employed to assess the prevalence of depression and associated factors among 424 heart failure patients who were selected by using a systematic random sampling method from January 1 to 30, 2021 at four public hospitals, and the sample was proportionally allocated for each study hospital and then data were collected by using structured-interview questionnaires. Bivariate and Multivariate logistic regression analysis was done to examine the possible predictors and variables with the statistical association of P-value of < 0.05 and a 95% confidence interval were considered.
Result
Data were gathered from heart failure in cardiac follow clinic with 100% response rate. The mean and standard deviation of the age of respondents was 52.68 and17.471years respectively. The prevalence of depression in this study was 59%. According to NYHA class III and IV is highly associated with depression [(AOR:12.8(2.2--71.6),95%CI, P=0.004, (AOR:19.2(1.9-189.9), 95% CI, P=0.011)] respectively, poor self-care behaviours[(AOR: 9.1(2.4-34.6), 95%CI, P=0.001)], alcohol use[(AOR:17.7(4.14-35.65),95% CI,P=0.001)], poor social support[( AOR: 4.6(1.2-16.7),95%CI,P=0.020)], poor knowledge level [(AOR:5.1(1.3-20.6), 95%CI, P=0.020), were associated with Depression and statistically significant.
Conclusion
The evidence from this study indicates that depression is highly prevalent among heart failure patients and age of respondent, alcohol intake, self-care behaviour, social support, knowledge level, and co-morbidity was associated with depression and statistically significant. Therefore, all institutions of cardiac centre should work on screening of depression in heart failure patients, and consult psychiatrists and psychologists for early detection and measures.
An NADPH-auxotrophic Corynebacterium glutamicum recombinant strain and used it to construct L-leucine high-yielding strain
Authors: Chen Sheng-Ling , Liu Ting-Shan , Zhang Wei-Guo , Xu Jianzhong
Published: January 2022

The NADPH-regeneration enzymes in Corynebacterium glutamicum were inactivated to construct an NADPH-auxotrophic C. glutamicum strain by gene knockout and gene replacement. The resultant NADPH-auxotrophic C. glutamicum XL-1 ΔZMICg::ISm (i.e., strain Leu-1) grew well in the basic medium only with gluconate as carbon source. Replacement of the native glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (NAD-GapDHCg) by NADP-GapDHCa from Clostridium acetobutylicum is an effective strategy for producing L-leucine in NADPH-prototrophic strain XL-1 and NADPH-auxotrophic strain Leu-1, whereas the L-leucine yield did not differ significantly between these strains (14.1±1.8 g/L v.s. 16.2±1.1 g/L). Enhancing the carbon flux in biosynthetic pathway by recombinant expression plasmid pEC-ABNCE promoted L-leucine production, but the shortage NADPH supply limited the L-leucine yield. The mutated promoters of zwf and icdCg were introduced into C. glutamicum with NADP-GapDHCa and pEC-ABNCE increased L-leucine yield (32.8±1.7 g/L) and improved cell growth (OD562=41.3±4.2) because the resultant strain C. glutamicum XL-1 ΔMICg::ISm GCg::GCa Pzwf-D1 Picd-D2/pEC-ABNCE (i.e., strain Leu-9) exhibited the proper intracellular NADPH and NADH level. This is the first report of constructing an L-leucine high-yielding strain that reasonably supplies NADPH by optimizing the biosynthetic pathway of NADPH from an NADPH-auxotrophic strain.
Long-term nitrogen deposition enhances microbial capacities in soil carbon stabilization but reduces network complexity
Authors: Ma Xingyu , Wang Tengxu , Shi Zhou , Chiariello Nona R. , Docherty Kathryn , Field Christopher B. , Gutknecht Jessica , Gao Qun , Gu Yunfu , Guo Xue , Hungate Bruce A. , Lei Jiesi , Niboyet Audrey , Roux Xavier Le , Yuan Mengting , Yuan Tong , Zhou Jizhong , Yang Yunfeng
Published: January 2022

Background: Anthropogenic activities have increased the inputs of atmospheric reactive nitrogen (N) into terrestrial ecosystems, affecting soil carbon stability and microbial communities. Previous studies have primarily examined the effects of nitrogen deposition on microbial taxonomy, enzymatic activities, and functional processes. Here, we examined various functional traits and interactions of soil microbial communities in a Meditarean-type grassland administrated with 14 years of 7 g m-2 year-1 of N amendment, based on estimated atmospheric N deposition in California, USA by the end of the 21st century. Results: Soil microbial communities were significantly altered by N deposition. Consistent with higher aboveground plant biomass and litter, fast-growing bacteria, based on abundance-weighted average rRNA operon copy number, were favored in N deposited soils. The relative abundances of genes associated with labile carbon (C) degradation (e.g., amyA and cda) were also increased. In contrast, the relative abundances of functional genes associated with the degradation of more recalcitrant C (e.g., mannanase and chitinase) were either unchanged or decreased. Compared with the ambient control, N deposition significantly reduced network complexity, such as average degree and connectedness. The network of N deposited samples contained only genes associated with C degradation, suggesting that C degradation genes became more intensely connected under N deposition. Conclusions: We propose a conceptual model to summarize the mechanisms of how changes in above- and below-ground ecosystems by long-term N deposition collectively lead to more soil C accumulation.
Synthesis of 1,2,3-Benzotriazin-4(3H)-one derivatives as α-glucosidase inhibitor and their in-silico study
Authors: Khalid Zunera , Shafqat Syed Salman , Ahmad Hafiz Adnan , Muzzamil Hafiz , Munawar Munawar Ali , Ahmad Matloob , Asiri Abdullah Mohammad Ahmad , Ashraf Muhammad
Published: January 2022

α-Glucosidase inhibition is considered as an effective strategy for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. Currently, three α-glucosidase inhibitors are being used as drugs; Acarbose, Voglibose and Miglitol. The side effects of these drugs are forcing researchers to search for new and effective molecules. In this research work, novel 1,2,3-benzotriazin-4(3H)-one sulfonamides were synthesized and investigated for their α-glucosidase inhibition activity. TCT: DMF adduct have been utilized for the direct synthesis of targeted sulfonamides. All reactions were performed at room temperature under mild conditions. In-vitro enzyme inhibition studies led us to discover many potent inhibitors demonstrating good to excellent activity. The compound 5c with dimethyl substituent was found to be more potent inhibitor than acarbose with the IC50 value of 29.75±0.14 μM. Compounds 5a, 5b, 5d, 5e, 5f and 5m showed good inhibition results with IC50 value 31.97±0.03, 33.24±0.01, 33.76±1.05, 35.98±0.03, 30.87±0.51 and 37.24±0.04 µM respectively. Further structure activity relationship was analyzed by molecular docking studies.
Dilong Attenuates Pathological Cardiac Hypertrophy Through Akt/mTOR and NF-κB Signaling in Pressure Overload-induced Rats
Authors: Liang Tianming , Zhang Shiyu , Pan Ruiyan , Guo Juan , Sun Tai , Chen Yusha , Zhang Xindi , Xie Wenwen , Liu Ling , Feng Ranran , Zhang Zhijia , Zhou Jin , Zhang Lane
Published: January 2022

Background: Dilong (earthworm), a traditional Chinese medicine obtained from the dried body of Pheretima aspergillum (E. Perrier), has proven cardioprotective effects in cardiovascular disorders. We aimed to investigate the potential therapeutic application of Dilong in preventing cardiomyocyte fibrosis and inflammation during cardiac hypertrophy (CH) after pressure overload (PO).Methods: We used the active protein compounds of Dilong (DAPC) to treat CH in vivo and in vitro. Hypertrophic rats were generated by abdominal aortic constriction (AAC)-surgery in male Wistar rats. DAPC (low-dose, 400 mg/kg per day; high-dose, 800 mg/kg per day, intraperitoneal injection [i.p.]) or captopril (50 mg/kg per day, i.p.) were given to rats for 3 weeks post AAC-surgery. Primary neonatal rat ventricular myocytes (NRVMs) isolated from 1-to 2-day-old SD rats were CH induced by phenylephrine (PE, 50 μ M) with or without DAPC (low-dose, 4 mg/mL; high-dose, 8 mg/mL) or captopril (10 μ M). Myocardial hypertrophy was identified by the heart weight index. Left ventricle remodeling and fibrosis of hypertrophic rats were evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, Mason staining, and Wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) staining. Using quantitative real-time PCR to examine the expressions of hypertrophic markers and inflammatory cytokines at mRNA levels. Additionally, protein expression of the Akt/mTOR and NF-κB signaling pathways were evaluated by western blot assay. Results: DAPC markedly decreased heart weight index and improved pathological morphology of the myocardium in AAC-induced rats. Of note, DAPC inhibits hypertrophic biomarkers ANP and BNP in vivo and in vitro. Meanwhile, the levels of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α were decreased. Interestingly, DAPC inhibited the activation of Akt/mTOR and NF-κB proteins, which were in line with the in vitro findings.Conclusion: DAPC treatment in rats with PO-induced CH prevented cardiac fibrosis and had anti-inflammatory effects via regulation of the Akt/mTOR and NF-κB pathways.
Boundary Control of Stochastic Korteweg-de Vries-Burgers Equations
Authors: Liang Shuang , Wu Kai-Ning
Published: January 2022

The boundary control problem is considered for stochastic Korteweg-de Vries-Burgers equations. First, a boundary controller is proposed, and a criterion is obtained for mean square exponential stability by using Lyapunov functional method and inequality techniques. Then, when there exist uncertainties in the system parameters, the robust mean square exponential stability is considered, and a sufficient criterion is obtained. Furthermore, if there are also additive noises in the considered system, the H-infinity performance is investigated and a sufficient condition is obtained to ensure the mean square H-infinity performance. Numerical examples illustrate the validity of the theoretical results.
Assessment of Malignancy and PSMA-expression of Uncertain Bone Lesions in [18F]PSMA-1007 PET/CT for Prostate Cancer- a Single Centre Experience of PET-guided Biopsies
Authors: Afshar-Oromieh Ali , Vollnberg Bernd , Alberts Ian , Genitsch Vera , Rominger Axel
Published: January 2022

Purpose: Uncertain bone lesions (UBL) with intensive radiopharmaceutical avidity are frequently observed in patients undergoing [18F]PSMA-1007 PET/CT for the detection of prostate cancer (PC). Such lesions can pose diagnostic conundrums and risk an incorrect staging. The aim of this short communication is to share the results of PET-guided biopsies of such lesions. Methods: A retrospective analysis revealed 10 patients who were referred to our department for PET-guided biopsy of UBL visible in a previous [18F]PSMA-1007 PET/CT. [18F]-PSMA-1007 PET-guided biopsy was conducted for 11 PSMA-avid bone lesions in these 10 patients. The biopsy materials were analysed for tissue typing and immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed for prostate-specific-membrane-antigen (PSMA) expression. The scans were analysed by two experienced physicians in a consensus read for clinical characteristics and radiopharmaceutical uptake of lesions. Results: 1/11 (9.1%) of the lesions biopsied was confirmed as bone metastasis of PC with intense PSMA-expression while 10/11 (90.9%) lesions were revealed to be unremarkable bone tissue without evidence of PSMA-expression at IHC. Amongst all bone lesions assessed by biopsy, eight were visually classified as being at high risk of malignancy in the PET/CT (SUVmean 12.0 ± 8.1; SUVmax 18.8 ± 13.1), three as equivocal (SUVmean 4.6 ± 2.1; SUVmax 7.2 ± 3.0) and zero as low risk. No UBL had any CT correlate. Conclusions: In this cohort biopsy revealed that a small but relevant number of UBL are true metastases. For those confirmed as benign, no PSMA-expression at IHC was observed, suggesting a non-PSMA mediated cause for intensive [18F]PSMA-1007-uptake of which the reason remains unclear. Readers must interpret such lesions with caution in order to reduce the risk of erroneous staging and subsequent treatment. PET-guided biopsy, particularly in the absence of morphological changes in the CT, can be a useful method to clarify such lesions.
Higher Versus Lower Oxygenation Strategies in The General Intensive Care Unit Population: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis and Meta-Regression of Randomized Controlled Trials.
Authors: Wal L.I. van der , Grim C.C.A. , Westerloo D.J. van , Schultz M.J. , de Jonge E. , Helmerhorst H.J.F.
Published: January 2022

BackgroundOxygen therapy is vital in intensive care unit (ICU) patients, but it is indistinct whether higher or lower oxygen targets are favorable with regards to patient centered outcomes. Our aim was to systematically evaluate the findings of randomized controlled trials (RTCs) comparing higher and lower oxygen therapy strategies in mechanically ventilated patients.MethodsA meta-analysis and meta-regression analysis of RCTs published between 2015 and 2021 was conducted. Electronic databases of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science were systematically searched. Publications comparing the effects of higher or lower oxygen therapy in adult ICU patients were eligible. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. The primary outcome was mortality at day 90; secondary outcomes include serious adverse events (SAE), ICU and hospital length of stay and support-free days.ResultsWe included nine RCTs enrolling 5807 patients. No significant difference was observed for mortality at day 90. A significantly lower odds ratio (OR) was found for SAEs, favoring lower oxygenation (OR 0.86 [0.77, 0.96], P=0.009). Our meta-regression analysis shows that the effect sizes for 90-day mortality may be influenced by both the between-group difference in achieved oxygenation and the severity of hyperoxia in the higher group (ß=-0.0022, P=0.1).ConclusionIn the general ICU population, there was no significant difference in 90-day mortality between higher and lower oxygenation strategies. However, a lower incidence of serious adverse events was found for the lower oxygenation groups. These findings may have clinical implications for practice guidelines, yet it remains of paramount importance to continue conducting clinical trials, ideally comparing groups with a clinically relevant contrast for specific patient groups.Trial registrationThe protocol of this study was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42021286372).
The Adaptive Force of Healthy Young Women Is Influenced by Emotionally Affective Imaginations
Authors: Schaefer Laura V , Dech Silas , Wolff Lara L , Bittmann Frank N
Published: January 2022

Emotionally affective imaginations influence the Adaptive Force (AF) in healthy participants as was recently shown. The AF describes the neuromuscular holding capacity, suggested to be especially vulnerable for interfering inputs. The present study investigated the influence of neutral, pleasant, and unpleasant food imaginations on the manually assessed AF objectified by a handheld device of elbow and hip flexors in 12 healthy participants with improved design. Muscle lengthening started on a significantly lower maximal isometric AF (AFisomax) during unpleasant vs. neutral/pleasant imaginations (AFisomax/AFmax = 59 ± 22 % vs. 98 ± 5 %, p < 0.001), whereby oscillations (AFosc) occurred mainly after AFisomax (AFosc/AFisomax= 188 ± 121 % vs. 75 ± 16%). Thus, healthy participants show an impaired holding function due to negative imaginations. Assuming this leads to joint destabilization, musculoskeletal complaints might result. It could support understanding the causal chain of linked pain and mental issues. A case example (current stress vs. positive imaginations) will be presented, underpinning the hypothesis this approach might support psychomotor diagnostics and therapeutics.
Elucidating the genetic effect of vitamin D on mesenchymal stem cell differentiation in vitro
Authors: Saedi Ahmed Al , Debruin Danielle A , Hayes Alan , Kremer Richard , Duque Gustavo
Published: January 2022

The active form of vitamin D (1, Alpha 25-Hydroxyvitamin D3; [1α,25(OH)2D3]) is associated with multiple cellular processes, including bone formation. Severe vitamin D deficiency (as defined by serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D <30nmol/L) typically results in growth retardation, rickets and osteomalacia. Conversely, 1α,25-(OH)2D3 treatment demonstrates anabolic effects on bone, which could be explained via its action on differentiating mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). This study investigated the effect of 1α,25-(OH)2D3 on osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation of human MSCs (hMSC). We examined 12,000 human genes and expressed sequence tags on the array Human Genome U95A via Affymetrix DNA array. We confirmed genes with higher and lower expression by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. We found that differentiating hMSC treated with 1α,25-(OH)2D3 exhibited a significantly higher expression of distinct osteogenic genes (CYP24A1, DSP, FBLN2, HYAL3, MN1 and TBCD) and adipogenic genes (Fibulin 2 [FBLN2], DSP and G0S2) when compared to undifferentiating hMSCs. In addition, FBLN2 showed a significantly higher expression when treated with 1α,25-(OH)2D3 in both adipogenic and osteogenic conditions. Meanwhile, CYP24A1, which is associated with 1α,25-(OH)2D3 degradation, had reduced expression in adipogenic compared to osteogenic and MSCs growth media. In summary, our gene array analysis identified a direct effect of 1α,25-(OH)2D3 on a set of genes required for hMSCs differentiation, thus improving our understanding of the effect of the active form on vitamin D on bone metabolism.
Fiscal policy, uncertainty and output growth in Uganda: 1980-2020
Authors: SSEBULIME KURAYISH , Mukisa Ibrahim , Muvawala Joseph
Published: January 2022

Does uncertainty necessarily change the way in which fiscal policy affects output growth in Uganda? We provide an empirical response to this fundamental question using the latest datasets and a rigorous econometric practice. Fiscal policy is often manipulated in many countries as one of the means to provide counter-cyclical stimulus over the cycle of uncertainties. Indeed, fiscal policy operations frequently vary with uncertainty sequence and this introduces bidirectional interactions between fiscal policy, uncertainty and output growth. Using the Autoregressive Distributed Lag Model, we show that tax revenue and expenditure are the most affected fiscal policy measures in the presence of uncertainty, while borrowing is the least affected both in the short and long-run. Therefore, unless government macroeconomic frameworks fully incorporate economic uncertainties into projections, the fragility of rising global and domestic uncertainty is bound to cause large and significant divergencies between the anticipated and the actual growth outturn. We therefore recommend the need to use borrowing avenue in the most optimal means to stimulate and sustain growth. While tax revenues have proved to spur growth both in the short and the long-run, the impact is bound to shrink in the face of uncertainty.
Fractionated Gamma Knife Radiosurgery Combined with Ommaya Reservoir Implantation for Large Cystic Brain Metastases.
Authors: Noda Ryuichi , Akabane Atsuya , Kawashima Mariko , Oshima Akito , Tsunoda Sho , Segawa Masafumi , Inoue Tomohiro
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Large cystic brain metastases are relatively rare and are not good candidates for stereotactic radiosurgery. Stereotactic aspiration followed by Gamma Knife radiosurgery (GKRS) is a reasonable and effective management strategy. However, even with aspiration, the target lesion tends to exceed the dimensions of an ideal target for stereotactic radiosurgery. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of frameless fractionated GKRS (f-GKRS) for large cystic brain metastases with cyst aspiration using Ommaya reservoir implantation. Methods: Between May 2018 and April 2021, eight consecutive patients with nine lesions were treated with f-GKRS in five or ten sessions after cyst aspiration. The aspiration was repeated as needed throughout the treatment course to maintain the cyst size and shape. The patient characteristics, radiologic tumor response, and clinical course were reviewed using medical records. The mean follow-up duration was 10.2 months (2–28 months). Results: The mean pre-GKRS volume and maximum diameter were 16.7 mL (5–55.8 mL) and 39.0 mm (31–79 mm), respectively, and the mean tumor volume reduction achieved by aspiration was 55.4%. The tumor volume decreased for all lesions, and symptoms were alleviated in all patients. The median overall survival was 10.0 months, and the estimated one-year survival rate was 41.7% (95% CI: 10.9–70.8%). The local tumor control rate was 100%. No irradiation-related adverse events were observed. Conclusions: Ommaya reservoir implantation and aspiration followed by frameless f-GKRS is a less invasive, effective, and safe method, and should be considered as a management option for large cystic brain metastases.
ICS approach for Implementing Data Logging in Agent Interaction Systems from Remote Locations
Authors: S Manikandan , M Chinnadurai
Published: January 2022

Design a complex Agent Interaction system by behavior, operations and method for monitoring Data Logging in Remote Location can be tedious and time consuming. The simulation environments are desired factor and platform for investigating complex agent systems. Such environments are used to conduct various experiments on a variety of information such as localization, perception, communication and knowledge representation. Many of these systems are transferred the information to the agent by intelligent behavior and data logging procedure. We build an intelligent agent to measure the data logging from various remote locations by getting log information by using own objectives, operations, relationships and knowledge. The four methods are used to collect or process data logging from various locations. i. Number of request is injected from various effects based on time period. ii. The intelligent behavior are noticed based on constraints and limit characteristics. iii. Each log is climbed based on time factor and behavioral operations and the logs are recorded. iv. Both the numbers of nodes are traversed and variation of each node relationship collected. By utilizing the comparison in each location values are monitored by different cases. The relationship betweeneach climbed information are collected and estimated by using tracking control agents and simulation results are provided to verify effective implementation.
Molecular Detection of CCR5 D32 Allele Gene Among Discordant HIV- Infected Couples in Kaduna State, Nigeria.
Authors: Danboyi Daniel Abba
Published: January 2022

Background

Discordance is a situation where one partner is HIV positive while the other remains negative within couples and the CCR5 D32 gene is the mutant variant of the CCR5 wt. fusion protein which confers resistance to HIV infection. The research was conducted for molecular detection of CCR5 D32 allele gene in discordant HIV- infected couples in Kaduna State Nigeria. The objective of the research was to establish the incidence of discordance among HIV infected couples in Kaduna state and to determine the frequency of CCR5 D32 mutant allele gene among discordant HIV- infected couples. Existing literature has it that HIV discordance is low in several communities and CCR5 mutation is very rare in Africa; this underscores the need to establish the real situation in Nigeria.
Methods

A total of 158 couples and 317 individuals were recruited for the survey using a Stratified sampling technique. The 23Local Government Areas of Kaduna State were divided into 3 strata (senatorial Zones). These respondents accessed treatment at 9 HIV treatment centers in 9 Local Government Areas of the 23Local Government Areas of Kaduna State. Blood test was conducted to confirm their HIV status and ensure they were discordant couples. Blood samples of negative partners were analyzed using Primers of CCR5 gene in the molecular laboratory.
Results

The results showed that more women 105(33.12%) were HIV positive, and the HIV discordance prevalence for Kaduna State determined at 0.2%. The results also showed from gel electrophoresis, that the frequency of CCR5 D32 allele gene in the population was 1.3%, and there was no correlation between HIV discordance and CCR5 D32 allele gene- they both occur independently.
Conclusions

Low incidence of CCR5 D32 gene (1.3%) was discovered within the population studied. However, high presence of this gene variant in the population would have been a starting point in the research for the ultimate goal of finding a final solution in the treatment of HIV- AIDS. It is hereby recommended that more research be conducted in other states of Nigeria, and other African countries to ascertain the present status of the frequency of CCR5 D32 allele gene.
Accuracy and Social Incentives Shape Belief in (Mis)Information
Authors: Rathje Steve , Bavel Jay Van , Linden Sander van der
Published: January 2022

Liberals and conservatives are divided in their judgements about the accuracy of true and false news. Yet it is unclear whether this partisan divide reflects genuine differences in knowledge, or whether it can be overcome if people are motivated to be accurate. Across three experiments (n = 2,381), we motivated participants to be accurate by giving them a small financial incentive to provide correct responses about the veracity of news headlines. This incentive improved accuracy and reduced partisan bias in belief in news headlines – especially for conservative participants. Increasing social motivations, however, decreased accuracy. Replicating prior work, conservatives were substantially less accurate than liberals at discerning true from false headlines. Yet, this gap between liberals and conservatives closed by 60% when conservatives were motivated to be accurate. Altogether, these findings suggest that many instances of belief in (mis)information may reflect a lack of motivation to be accurate instead of a simple lack of knowledge.
Determining The Natural Radiation Level And Gamma Absorption Coefficient Of İkizdere Obsidian
Authors: DURAN Selcen UZUN , Küçükömeroğlu Belgin , Çiriş Ali , Ersoy Hakan
Published: January 2022

In the present work, natural radionuclide levels and mass attenuation coefficient of obsidian samples taken from Rize İkizdere region were investigated. The mass attenuation coefficient (μ ρ-1) is investigated experimentally and theoretically for 14 İkizdere obsidian rocks. The mass attenuation coefficients of the samples were measured experimentally at photon energies of radioisotopes 133Ba (81 keV, 302 keV, 356 keV), 137Cs (662 keV), Theoretically, the simulation results of μ ρ-1 using XCOM code was compared with experimental results. In addition, elemental analyzes of obsidian samples were made. Average 238U, 232Th and 40K activities were determined as 93±9, 67±7, 1027±19 Bq m-3, respectively. The absorption coefficient of obsidian at 356 and 662 keV energies is not much different from other rocks.
Probing elastic anisotropy of human skin in vivo with light using non-contact acoustic micro-tapping OCE and polarization-sensitive OCT
Authors: Kirby Mitchell A. , Tang Peijun , Liou Hong-Cin , Kuriakose Maju , Pitre John J. , Pham Tam N. , Ettinger Russell , Wang Ruikang K. , O'Donnell Matthew , Pelivanov Ivan
Published: January 2022

Skin broadly protects the human body from undesired factors such as ultraviolet radiation and abrasion and helps conserve body temperature and hydration. Skin’s elasticity and its level of anisotropy are key to its aesthetics and function. Currently, however, treatment success is often speculative and subjective, and is rarely based on skin’s elastic properties because there is no fast and accurate non-contact method for imaging of skin’s elasticity. Here we report on a non-contact and non-invasive method to image and characterize skin’s elastic anisotropy. It combines acoustic micro-tapping optical coherence elastography (AµT-OCE) with a nearly incompressible transversely isotropic (NITI) model to quantify skin’s elastic moduli. In addition, skin sites were imaged with polarization sensitive optical coherence tomography (PS-OCT) to help define the fiber orientation. Forearm skin areas were investigated in five volunteers. Results clearly demonstrate elastic anisotropy of skin in all subjects. AµT-OCE has distinct advantage over competitive techniques because it provides objective, quantitative characterization of skin’s elasticity without contact, which opens the door for broad translation into clinical use. Finally, we demonstrate that a combination of multiple OCT modalities (structural OCT, OCT angiography, PS-OCT and AµT-OCE) may provide rich information about skin and can be used to characterize scaring.