bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frequency Converter as Node for Edge Computing of Big Data, Related to Drive Efficiency, in Industrial Internet of Things
Authors: Hetmanczyk Mariusz Piotr , Malaka Julian
Published: May 2021

The article presents a method of generating Key Performance Indicators related to electric motor energy efficiency on the basis of Big Data gathered and processed in frequency converter. The authors proved that using the proposed solution it is possible to specify the relation between the control mode of an electric drive and the control quality-energy consumption ratio in the start-up phase as well as in the steady operation with various mechanical loads. The tests were carried out on a stand equipped with two electric motors (one driving, the other used to apply the load by adjusting the parameters of the built-in brake). The measurements were made in two load cases, for motor control modes available in industrially applied frequency converters (scalar V/f, vector Voltage Flux Control without encoder, vector Voltage Flux Control with encoder, vector Current Flux Control and Vector Current Flux Control with torque control). During the experiments values of current intensities (active and output), the actual frequency value, IxT utilization factor, relative torque and the current rotational speed were measured and processed. Based on the data the level of the energy efficiency was determined for various control modes.
Mercury-induced Phytotoxicity and Responses in Upland Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) Seedlings
Authors: Mei Lei , Zhu Yueyi , Zhang Xianwen , Zhou Xiujuan , Zhong Zhentao , Li Huazu , Li Yingjun , Li Xiaohu , Khan Muhammad Daud , Chen Jinhong , Zhu Shuijin
Published: May 2021

Cotton is a potential and excellent candidate to balance both agricultural production and reme-diation of mercury-contained soil, as its main production fiber hardly involve into food chains. However, there is known rarely about the tolerance and response to Hg environments in cotton. In this study, The biochemical and physiological damages, in response to mercury (Hg), were investigated in upland cotton seedlings. The results on cottonseeds germination, indicated the germination rate were suppressed by high Hg levels, as the decrease of percentage was more than 10% at 1000 µM Hg. Shoots and roots’ growth were significantly inhibited above 10 µM Hg. The inhibitor rates (IR) in fresh weight were close between shoots and roots, whereas that in dry weight the root growth was more obviously influenced by Hg. In comparison of organs, the growth inhibition ranked as root > leaf > stem. The declining of translocation factor (TF) op-posed the Hg level even as low to 0.05 at 50 µM Hg. The assimilation of cotton plants was af-fected negatively by Hg toxicity, as evidenced from the performances on photosynthesis pig-ments (chlorophyll a and b) and gas exchange (Intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci), CO2 assimila-tion rate (Pn) and stomatal conductance (Gs)). Sick phenotypes on leaf surface included small white zone, shrinking and necrosis. Membrane lipid peroxidation and leakage were Hg dose-dependent as indicated by malondialdehyde (MDA) content and relative conductivity (RC) values in leaves and roots. More than 10 µM Hg damaged antioxidant enzyme system in both leaves and roots (P<0.05). Concludingly, 10 µM Hg post negative consequences to upland cotton plants in growth, physiology and biochemistry, whereas high phytotoxicity and damage ap-peared at more than 50 µM Hg concentration.
Research of consensus algorithms for blockchain platforms
Authors: Bakhvalova Ekaterina Alexandrovna , Sudakov Vladimir Anatolievich
Published: May 2021

In this paper, several consensus algorithms are investigated, a comparative analysis of these algorithms is made, the results of which are important in the context of the active growth of the cryptocurrency market. In addition, in the context of pandemics, the creation of blockchain technologies for the distributed storage of reliable medical data is relevant. The key properties of consensus algorithms are highlighted, and a detailed analysis of the algorithm of the promising Istanbul BFT algorithm is carried out. Using multi-criterion analysis of alternatives, it is shown how you can select the appropriate consensus algorithm for the needs of specific tasks.
PJJ Menggunakan Model Project Based Learning dengan Kolaborasi 11 Mata Pelajaran Untuk Meningkatkan Pemahaman Siswa Terhadap Wabah Covid 19 di Kelas 8A SMPN 4 Cikalongwetan
Authors: Widiasari Endang Wahyu
Published: May 2021

PJJ Menggunakan Model Project Based Learning dengan Kolaborasi 11 Mata Pelajaran Untuk Meningkatkan Pemahaman Siswa Terhadap Wabah Covid 19 di  Kelas 8A SMPN 4 Cikalongwetan
Optimalisasi Peranan Dudi Sebagai Penguatan Ekosistem Pendidikan Di Sekolah Satu Atap
Authors: Surtini Surtini
Published: May 2021

Optimalisasi Peranan Dudi Sebagai Penguatan Ekosistem Pendidikan Di Sekolah  Satu Atap
Consequences of Student Part-Time Employment (Case Study of Sebelas Maret University Student)
Authors: Fahimah Hana Maharani , Hindrayani Aniek , Nugroho Jonet Ariyanto
Published: May 2021

The aim of the paper is to examine the consequences of students engaging in part-time employment during their studies. The research consisted of a Google form survey of all the student of Sebelas Maret University, on 2015 and 2016 who studies also doing part-time. The survey found that part-time employment, in common with many previous studies. It also found that some students were spending longer in their chosen employment than in time-tabled classes. A central finding was that unlike much previous research, it emerged here that students reported more positive than negative outcomes to improve the student skills, but effect to the learning achievement give the negative outcomes. The data shows that students continue to engage in part-time employment at a significant level and for some studying is almost a secondary activity. The paper is of value in seeking to clarify the nature of the consequences for students seeking to combine employment and studying. Furthermore the paper builds on our understanding of the effect of part-time to the student learning achievement that gives negative effects but give the positive effect about the student skill to understand about business, social relationship, etc.
Conception of Local Wisdom Nangun Sad Kerthi Loka Bali In Character Education
Authors: Mahendra Putu Ronny Angga
Published: May 2021

Local wisdom is a wealth that can be used as a philosophy of learning in life that is in accordance with the way of life of the local community. One of the local wisdoms in Bali that supports and can be utilized in this case is Nangun Sad Kerthi Loka Bali, as an alternative to the current government to provide character education based on local wisdom. As one of the things set forth as the vision and mission of the Governor of Bali in carrying out the development of Balinese society. Development does not only include physical and non-physical aspects, in this case the quality of the Balinese people themselves. The characters that can be formed from government programs in the vision of Nangun Sad Kerthi Loka Bali are the spirit of nationality, love for the country, caring for the environment, caring socially, and responsibility. This will be a provision to keep abreast of global progress and still strengthen local wisdom as one's identity.
Pancasila & Karakter Bangsa ( Basis dan Orientasi Karakter Bangsa)
Authors: Hariyono Hariyono
Published: May 2021

Pancasila & Karakter Bangsa ( Basis dan Orientasi Karakter Bangsa)
Implementation of Character Education in Higher Education through a Case Study Learning Model in the Pancasila Subject
Authors: Winata Koko Adya , Sudrajat Tatang , Ruswandi Uus
Published: May 2021

Pancasila education is a group of general compulsory courses (MKWU) taught in universities with the aim that students have the character of the Indonesian nation. Building national character is part of the goals of national education which must be carried out continuously at various levels of educational units. This study aims to identify the implementation of character education in higher education through a case study learning model in the Pancasila education course. In the learning process, Pancasila lecturers must be creative in using learning models so that Pancasila values are embedded so that they become student attitudes and characters. Through the case study learning model, the goal of Pancasila education to shape student character is expected to be achieved effectively. The method used in this research is descriptive qualitative method. The research method by collecting and recording detailed data from various problems related to the object of research is then analyzed comprehensively. The results showed that; 1) the case study learning model can improve the cognitive aspects of students towards the values of Pancasila. 2) The case study learning model can improve the student's perspective on the values of Pancasila. 3) The case study learning model can internalize the values of Pancasila into student attitudes and character.
The Value of Pancasila as Strengthening the Character Building of the Indonesian Nation
Authors: Hanpalam Teodorikus
Published: May 2021

This paper aims to: (1). To find out the value of Pancasila as a strengthening of the nation's character building. (2). To instill the value of Pancasila in building national character. (3). As an illustration of the importance of safeguarding the value of Pancasila and strengthening the nation's character in educational institutions. The writing method used in this research is literature study. Benefits of Writing: (1). As a scientific study, this writing can be used as reading material and reference about the value of Pancasila as a reinforcement of the building character. (2). For the author to get an overview of how the value of Pancasila is in building the character of the nation. (3). Providing information as an illustration of the value of Pancasila and efforts to build the nation's character.
The Relationship of Olecranon Apophyseal Ossification and Sanders Hand Scores with the Timing of Peak Height Velocity in Adolescents
Authors: Greene Janelle D. , Yu Kristin , Li Don T. , Furdock Ryan J. , Li Eric , Liu Raymond W. , Cooperman Daniel R.
Published: May 2021

Background:

The onset of peak height velocity (PHV) guides the timing of interventions in the growing child. The purpose of the present study was to validate the Diméglio olecranon grading system and to compare these scores with the Risser/triradiate closure (TRC), proximal humerus, and Sanders hand scores.

Methods:

Eighty children with annual serial radiographs were selected from the Bolton-Brush collection. The olecranon apophysis was graded with use of lateral radiographs of the elbow. The mean age to PHV was determined for each stage, and reliability was calculated with use of an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Olecranon stage was combined with age, sex, and height in a generalized estimating equation (GEE) model to predict PHV. Predictive performance of this model was evaluated with use of tenfold cross-validation such that the model was trained on 90% of the radiographs and was asked to predict the PHV of the remaining 10%.

Results:

PHV is closely associated with olecranon stage, with stage 1 occurring 3.0 years before PHV and stage 7 occurring 3.4 years after PHV. Stage 5 was found to occur at PHV. Scoring system reliability was high across an array of observers (ICC = 0.85 ± 0.07). The GEE model showed that this olecranon system outperforms the Risser/TRC system in predicting PHV and is comparable with the humerus and Sanders hand systems. When combined with age and sex, the olecranon system successfully predicted PHV such that 62% of PHV predictions were accurate within 6 months and 90% of PHV predictions were accurate within a year.

Conclusions:

Our data show that stage 5 occurs at PHV, contrary to previously published data. When combined with age and sex, the olecranon system successfully predicts PHV within a year in 90% of cases, establishing a single lateral view of the olecranon as a simple alternative to more complex grading systems. Last, we describe novel 3 variations in olecranon morphology and provide a guide for accurate olecranon staging.

Clinical Relevance:

Understanding PHV is critical in the treatment of many pediatric orthopaedic disorders. The revised olecranon staging system will allow for more accurate determination of this variable.
Uso de los programas de apoyo a la exportación por parte de los negocios verdes de Bogotá-Región
Authors: García-Castiblanco Claudia Paola , Díaz-Ariza Diana Marcela , Aguilar-Galeano Estibaliz
Published: May 2021

El deterioro ambiental causado por la intensa actividad económica desarrollada desde el siglo pasado ha llevado a que en las últimas décadas se cuestionen las formas tradicionales de producción, de modo que se ha abierto el espacio a nuevas oportunidades de negocios en las que se realice un manejo responsable de los recursos. Esta nueva tendencia, que se consolida, principalmente, en Europa y Norteamérica, está marcada por la aparición de consumidores conscientes que se preocupan por que los procesos productivos sean amigables con el medio ambiente. En este contexto, los negocios verdes se proponen como una nueva alternativa de desarrollo para Colombia, sin embargo, poco se ha indagado sobre su potencial exportador. De acuerdo con la teoría de la competitividad ambiental, este estudio tiene como objetivo establecer qué tanto emplean los negocios verdes de Bogotá-Región programas gubernamentales de fomento a la exportación para llevar a cabo sus procesos de internacionalización. Este es un estudio de corte transversal de tipo correlacional que, por medio de encuestas, indaga la relación entre las variables planteadas en las compañías que han sido clasificadas como negocios verdes en Bogotá-Región por la Secretaría Distrital de Ambiente y la Corporación Autónoma Regional de Cundinamarca (CAR). Entre los hallazgos se encuentra que existe un bajo nivel de exportación y se evidencia poco conocimiento sobre los programas de apoyo existentes, lo cual afecta su uso.
Experimental study on high-efficiency DC short electric arc milling of titanium alloy Ti6Al4V
Authors: Zhou Zongjie , Liu Kai , Xu Yan , Zhou Jianping , Wang Lizhong
Published: May 2021

Short electric arc milling (SEAM) is an efficient electrical discharge machining method, especially for the efficient removal of difficult-to-machine conductive materials with high hardness, high toughness, and wear resistance. In this study, titanium alloy Ti–6Al–4V is used as the research object to conduct machining experiments. The material removal mechanism of SEAM technology is studied using a DC power supply and different tool electrode materials (copper, graphite, Q235 steel, and titanium). The energy distribution of the discharge gap is analyzed using a data acquisition system and a high-speed camera. The arc is found to move with the spindle rotation in the process of arc discharge, and multi-point discharge occurs in the process of single-arc discharge. The voltage and current waveforms and the radius of the etched particles during the experiment were counted, the material removal rate (MRR) and relative tool wear rate (RTWR) are calculated, and the surface and cross-section micromorphology and hardness are analyzed. The experimental results show that when the electrode material is graphite, the maximum feed rate is 650 mm/min, the MRR can reach 17268 mm3/min, the ideal maximum MRR is more than 65000 mm3/min, and the RTWR is only 1.27%. When the electrode material is Q235 steel, the minimum surface roughness is 35.04 µm, and this material has good stability under different input voltages. When the electrode material is copper, the hardness of the resolidified layer is close to that of the base material, which is beneficial for further processing. The lowest specific energy consumption is 18.26 kJ/cm3 when titanium is used as the electrode material.
Isotopic Niche Partitioning and Individual Specialization in an Arctic Raptor Guild
Authors: Johnson Devin L. , Henderson Michael T. , Anderson David L. , Booms Travis L. , Williams Cory T.
Published: May 2021

Intra- and inter-specific resource partitioning within predator communities is a fundamental component of trophic ecology, and one proposed mechanism for how populations partition resources is through individual niche variation. The Niche Variation Hypothesis (NVH) predicts that interindividual trait variation leads to functional trade-offs in foraging efficiency, resulting in populations comprised of individual dietary specialists. A modified version of the NVH [mNVH] predicts niche specialization is plastic and responsive to fluctuating resource availability. We quantified niche overlap and tested the mNVH within an Arctic raptor guild, focusing on three species that employ different foraging strategies: Golden Eagles (generalists); Gyrfalcons (facultative specialists); and Rough-legged Hawks (specialists). Tundra ecosystems exhibit cyclic populations of arvicoline rodents (lemmings and voles), providing a unique system under which to examine interannual fluctuations in predator resource availability. Using blood δ13C & δ15N values from 189 raptor nestlings on Alaska’s Seward Peninsula (2014–2019), we calculated isotopic niche width and used Bayesian stable isotope mixing models (BSIMMs) to characterize individual specialization and test the mNVH. We observed a high degree of isotopic niche overlap between the three species and variable trophic responses to different stages of the arvicoline rodent cycle. Elevated arvicoline rodent abundance corresponded to reduced niche overlap among species and increased individual specialization in Golden Eagles and Gyrfalcons. Further, Gyrfalcons displayed a positive relationship between individual specialization and population niche width on an interannual basis consistent with the mNVH. Our findings suggest plasticity in niche specialization may reduce intra- and inter-specific resource competition under dynamic ecological conditions.
Polygonal patterns of cyclones on Jupiter:
Convective forcing and anticyclonic shielding
Authors: Ingersoll Andrew , Ewald Shawn P. , Tosi Federico , Adriani Alberto , Mura Alessandro , Grassi Davide , Plainaki Christina , Sindoni Giuseppe , Li Cheng , Siegelman Lia , Klein Patrice , Young William R.
Published: May 2021

From its unique pole-to-pole orbit, the Juno spacecraft discovered cyclones arranged in polygonal patterns around the poles of Jupiter. In a related modeling study the stability of the pattern depends on shielding -- a ring of anticyclonic vorticity surrounding each cyclone. Without shielding the vortices merge. Here we present high-resolution measurements obtained by tracking clouds in sequences of infrared images. There is vorticity of both signs at 200-km scales. The standard deviation is 0.32 times the vorticity of a large cyclone, whose relative vorticity is 0.46 times the planetary vorticity. Shielding exists at large scales, and it has the magnitude and distance from the vortex center predicted in the model. There is horizontal divergence of both signs at 200-km scales, with standard deviation 0.64 times the vorticity standard deviation. We propose that these intense structures are convection and that convection is the principal energy source for the large vortices.
Study on the Mechanism and Kinetics of Manganese Release from Waste Manganese Ore Waste Rock Under Rainfall Leaching
Authors: Wang Xin , Ren Bozhi , Zhou Yingying , Shi Xiyang
Published: May 2021

Manganese released from manganese ore wastes under leaching poses a serious threat to the local ecosystem and human health. The mechanism and dynamic characteristics of manganese release under the leaching of manganese ore waste rock are studied based on static and dynamic experiment. The concentration of manganese in the leaching solution under the disturbance state is twice as much as that in the static state; the manganese release from the waste rock increases with the increase of the solid-liquid ratio, and the manganese release is 922.35mg/l when the solid-liquid ratio is 1:5; when the particle size of waste rock is greater than 80 mesh, the precipitation amount of manganese is the largest, and the precipitation concentration is 491.3mg/l; at pH = 7, rainfall intensity is 80 With the increase of leaching time, the amount of manganese released rapidly decreased and gradually reached equilibrium; the cumulative release of manganese increased with the increase of rainfall duration. In the dynamic leaching process, the change of pH and EC of leachate has nothing to do with the initial pH of leachate, but has a close relationship with the hydrolysis of minerals in waste; through the fitting results of kinetic model, it is found that the double constant equation model can better fit the kinetic process of release process. The purpose of this study is to provide a scientific basis for the assessment and control of manganese pollution in soil and groundwater in manganese mining area.
Surface functionalization of natural hydroxyapatite by polymerization of β-cyclodextrin: Application as electrode material for the electrochemical detection of Pb(II)
Authors: Tchoffo Rodrigue , Ngassa Guy B. P. , Doungmo Giscard , Kamdem Arnaud T. , Kenfack Ignas Tonle , Ngameni Emmanuel
Published: May 2021

A composite material prepared by polymerization of β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) on the surface of natural hydroxyapatite using citric acid as cross linker, was employed as electrode material for the detection of Pb(II). Hydroxyapatite was obtained from bovine bones, following a three-step procedure including pre-calcination, chemical treatment with (NH4)2HPO4 and calcination. The structure of the pristine hydroxyapatite (NHAPP0.5) and its functionalized counterpart (NHAPp0.5-CA-β-CD) materials was examined using XRD and FTIR. Upon deposition as thin film on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE), the ion exchange ability of NHAPp0.5-CA-β-CD was exploited to elaborate a sensitive sensor for the detection of lead. The electroanalytical procedure was based on the chemical accumulation of lead ions under open-circuit conditions, followed by the detection of the preconcentrated species using differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry. The reproducibility of the proposed method based on different measurements in a solution containing 2 µM lead gave a coefficient of variation of 1.27%. Significant parameters that can affect the lead stripping response were optimized: a linear calibration curve for lead (II) in the concentration range of 2 × 10− 8 mol L− 1 − 20 × 10− 8 mol L− 1 (R2 = 0.998) was obtained. The detection limit (DL = 3S/M) and the sensitivity of the proposed sensor were 5.06 × 10− 10 mol L− 1 and 100.80 µA.µM− 1, respectively. The interfering effect of several ions expected to affect the stripping determination of lead was evaluated, and the proposed sensor was also successfully applied in the determination of Pb2+ ions in spring water and well water.
Biosensor-enabled on-site therapeutic drug monitoring of antibiotics
Authors: Dincer Can , Ates Hatice Ceren , Mohsenin Hasti , Wenzel Christin , Glatz Regina , Wagner Hanna , Bruch Richard , Höfflin Nico , Spassov Sashko , Streicher Lea , Lozano-Zahonero Sara , Flamm Bernd , Köhn Maja , Schmidt Johannes , Schumann Stefan , Urban Gerald , Weber Wilfried
Published: May 2021

Antimicrobial resistance is increasing with an alarming rate for which the prime suspect is the “one size-fits-all” dosage strategies of antibiotics. Personalized antibiotherapy framework appears as a viable option to counteract inadequate dosage, as it offers the application of the optimal dosage regimen for each individual. Such individualized scheme, however, needs frequent sampling to tailor the blood antibiotic concentration to respond unique pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) of the patient. Herein, there are two alternative paths for feasible therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM); transforming our understanding to utilize blood based sampling within the scope of point-of-care (POC), or focusing on non-invasive samples. Here, we present a versatile biosensor along with an antibody-free assay that can be utilized in both paths for on-site TDM. The developed platform is evaluated in a large animal study (pigs exposed with overdose, normal dose, and underdose of ß lactams), in which antibiotic concentrations are quantified in matrices including whole blood, plasma, urine, saliva, and exhaled breath condensate (EBC). Herein, the detection and the clearance of drug concentrations in EBC is demonstrated for the first time. Influence of the secretion mechanisms on measured drug concentrations is then quantified by comparing the plasma concentrations with those in EBC, saliva and urine. The potential of the developed platform for blood-based POC application is further illustrated by tracking ß lactam concentrations in untreated blood samples. Finally, multiplexing capabilities are explored successfully for multianalyte/sample analysis. Enabling a rapid, low-cost, sample-independent, and multiplexed on-site TDM, this system could pave the way for the personalized drug therapies and thus, shift the paradigm of “one size-fits-all” strategies.
Phenol Removal using Corona Discharge Plasma Combined with Porous Polyaniline Nanofiber
Authors: Khalil Ahmed El-Tayeb , Noby Hussain , ELSHAZLY AHMED H , Elkady Marwa F.
Published: May 2021

A contemporary design for a recirculated flow dual remediation system was successfully developed for phenol remediation. The system involved Corona Discharge Plasma (CDP), accompanied by Polyaniline Nanofiber (PANNFs) as a solid adsorbent. PANNFs was obtained using simple chemical oxidation polymerization at room temperature. Different chemo-physical characterization techniques were employed to examine the produced polyaniline such as Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Brunauer, Emmett, and Teller (BET) surface area analysis. The primary purpose of the used PANNF powder is to facilitate the phenol degradation using plasma by collecting the phenol molecules on the surface of PANNFs. The phenol removal percentage of 99% was attained at a treatment time of 60 min using the developed dual system. Finally, a slight synergetic effect between the used two remediation processes, PANI as adsorbent and CDP treatment, was approved. PANNFs existence in the remediation system also helps to save the consumed power in degradation using CDP.
Altering Dynamics of Autonomic Processing Therapy (ADAPT) Trial: A Novel, Targeted Treatment for Reducing Anxiety in Joint Hypermobility
Authors: Davies Geoff , Csecs Jenny LL , Ball Heather , Dare Jess , Hosking Robin , Critchley Hugo D , Grey Nick , Eccles Jessica A
Published: May 2021

Background: Hypermobility is a poorly-recognised and understood musculoskeletal disorder thought to affect around 20% of the population. Hypermobility is associated with reduced physiological and psychological functioning, quality of life, and is a known risk factor for the development of an anxiety disorder. To date no evidence-based, targeted treatment for anxiety in the context of hypermobility exists. The present intervention (ADAPT) is a novel therapy combining cognitive approaches from clinical health psychology targeting the catastrophisation of internal sensations, with bio-behavioural training improving autonomic trait prediction error.Method: Eighty individuals with diagnosed hypermobility will be recruited and the efficacy of ADAPT to treat anxiety will be compared to an Emotion-Focused Supportive Therapy (EFST) comparator therapy in a randomised, controlled trial. The primary treatment target will be post therapy score on the Beck Anxiety Inventory and secondary outcomes will also be considered in relation to anxiety, depression, alexithymia, social and work adjustment, panic symptoms and dissociation. Due to COVID restrictions, the intervention will be moved to online delivery and qualitative assessment of treatment tolerance to online therapy will also be assessed.Discussion: Online delivery of an intervention targeting anxiety would improve the quality of life for those experiencing anxiety disorder, and help the £11.7 billion that anxiety disorders cost the UK economy annually.WHO trial registration serial number 40233 registered 20/2/2019 available at https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN17018615
Comprehensive analysis of EMT-related genes and lncRNAs in the prognosis, immunity, and drug treatment of colorectal cancer
Authors: Yang Yang , Feng Mingyang , Bai LiangLiang , Liao Weiting , Zhou Kexun , Zhang Mengxi , Wu Qiuji , Wen Feng , Lei Wanting , Zhang Pengfei , Zhang Nan , Huang Jiaxing , Li Qiu
Published: May 2021

Background: EMT is an important biological process in the mechanism of tumor metastasis. However, there are still many unknowns about the specific mechanism of EMT. At present, a comprehensive analysis of EMT-related genes in colorectal cancer (CRC) is still lacking. Methods: All the data were downloaded to public databases including TCGA as a training set and GEO as a validation set. Bioinformatics methods were used to analyze the correlation between EMT-related genes (EMT-RDGs) and CRC prognosis, metastasis, drug efficacy and immunity.Results: We finally obtained 9 prognostic-related EMT-RDGs (FGF8, NOG, PHLDB2, SIX2, SNAI1, TBX5, TIAM1, TWIST1, TCF15) through differential expression analysis, Unicox and Lasso regression analysis, and then constructed a risk prognosis model. There were significant differences in clinical characteristics, 22 immune cells and immune functions between the high and low-risk groups and the different states of the 9 prognostic-related EMT-RDGs. The methylation level and mutation status of 9 prognostic-related EMT-RDGs all affect their regulation of EMT. The Cox proportional hazards regression model was also constructed by the methylation sites of 9 prognostic-related EMT-RDGs. In addition, The expression of FGF8, PHLDB2, SIX2 and SNAIL was higher and the expression level of NOG and TWIST1 was lower in the non-metastasis CRC group. 9 prognostic-related EMT-RDGs also affected the drug treatment response of CRC. Conclusions: Targeting these 9 prognostic-related EMT-RDGs can regulate CRC metastasis and immune, which is beneficial to the prognosis of CRC patients, improve drug sensitivity in CRC patients.
Investigation of the Interaction, Rheological and Tribological Properties of Bis(pinacolato)diboron with Lithium Grease During Mechanical Aging
Authors: Ren Jia , Gong Kuiliang , Zhao Gaiqing , Wu Xinhu , Wang Xiaobo
Published: May 2021

In this article, Lewis acid–base complex of lithium 12-hydroxystearate (LHS) with diboron compound is formed by the introduction of bis(pinacolato)diboron (B2Pin2) into lithium grease. The interaction between Lewis acid B2Pin2 and Lewis base RCO2− of LHS is characterized by various techniques. Moreover, the rheological and tribological behaviors of the base grease are evaluated at low and moderate temperature, and the results indicate that the addition of B2Pin2 noticeably enhanced the rheological, friction-reducing, and anti-wear (AW) properties of the base grease, which likely owing to the fact that the formation of Lewis acid–base complex is beneficial for improving the soap fiber structure strength, helping to prevent the mechanical degradation of the lithium grease during mechanical aging process.
The correlation between single nucleotide polymorphisms of the thymic stromal lymphopoietin receptor and breast cancer in a cohort of female patients in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Semlali ِAbdelhabib , Almutairi Mikhlid H. , Alharbi Sultan N. , Alamri Abdullah M. , Alrefaei Abdulwahed F. , Almutairi Bader O. , Rouabhia Mahmoud
Published: May 2021

The current study aimed to examine thymic stromal lymphopoietin receptor (TSLPR) genetic variation and breast cancer (BC) susceptibility in women in Saudi Arabia. Therefore, 127 blood samples from female patients diagnosed with BC and 116 blood samples from healthy female controls were studied using a genotyping assay to determine the association between three TSLPR single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs)—P196L, X201W, and A238V—and the risk of BC progression. In addition, gene expression was evaluated in 20 matching BC and normal tissues using immunohistochemistry. TSLPR protein levels were higher among BC patients than those with matching normal breast tissue. In addition, TSLPR SNP P196L was found to have a significant protective effect on BC progression (OR = 0.4427), although only the T allele for TSLPR P196L had this protective effect against BC progression in participants who were younger than 48 years old. In contrast, no association was found between the T allele and risk of BC in participants who were older than 48 years old, and the CT and TT genotypes were significantly associated with BC risk protection in the older group. The effects of the TT genotype and the T allele were closely associated with a decreased risk of BC in participants with estrogen receptors (ER+) and without them (ER-). Overall, the findings revealed a significant correlation between SNPs in the TSLPR genes and BC progression among women in Saudi Arabia.
A Signature of Seven Lipid Metabolism Genes to Predict Hepatocellular Carcinoma Prognosis
Authors: Li Muqi , Wu Xiwen , Liao Shufen , wang shutong , lin shuirong , song zimin , peng baogang , Shen Shunli
Published: May 2021

BackgroundLipid metabolism is important in tumor progression. However, its role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unknown. We attempt to build a lipid metabolism-related signature to evaluate its role in predicting the prognosis of HCC patients. MethodsWe obtained differential expression genes (DEGs) through differential analysis of mRNA expression between tumor tissues and paraneoplastic tissue of patients with HCC. The lipid metabolism-related genes were obtained from KEGG and MisDB. The corresponding gene expression and clinical data were acquired from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and the International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) database. Prognosis-related genes were obtained by COX regression analysis. Intersecting genes were defined as genes shared by DEGs and prognosis-related genes. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) technique was used to calculate the prognostic genes and coefficients for forming a prognostic assessment signature. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was applied to assess the model’s credibility. ICGC database was also used for external validation. ResultsA total of 39 lipid metabolism-related DEGs were analyzed that showed significant enrichment in the phospholipid metabolic process, glycerolipid metabolic process and glycerophospholipid pathways. Seven lipid metabolism genes (ELOVL3, LCLAT1, ME1, PPARGC1A, PTDSS2, SRD5A3, SLC2A1) closely related with prognosis were identified to construct the signature. Patients with low-risk scores showed better survival rates, which was also validated in the ICGC database. ConclusionWe established a signature composed of seven lipid metabolism-related genes to predict the prognosis of HCC patients, providing a new biomarker for the diagnosis and treatment of HCC.
Links between gut dysbiosis and neurotransmitter disturbance in chronic restraint stress-induced depressive behaviours: the role of inflammation
Authors: Yang Hai-long , Li Meng-Meng , Zhou Man-Fei , Xu Huai-Sha , Huan Fei , Liu Na , Gao Rong , Wang Jun , Zhang Ning , Jiang Lei
Published: May 2021

Accumulating evidence has shown that inflammation, the gut microbiota and neurotransmitters are closely associated with the pathophysiology of depression. However, the links between the gut microbiota and neurotransmitter metabolism remain poorly understood. The present study aimed to investigate the neuroinflammatory reactions in chronic restraint stress (CRS)-induced depression and to delineate the potential links between the gut microbiota and neurotransmitter metabolism. C57BL/6 mice were subjected to chronic restraint stress for 5 weeks, followed by behavioural tests (the sucrose preference test, forced swim test, open field test and elevated plus maze) and analysis. The results showed that CRS significantly increased IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6 and TNFα levels and decreased BDNF expression, accompanied by the activation of IκBα-p-NF-κB signalling in the mouse hippocampus. In addition, the neurotransmitter metabolomics results showed that CRS resulted in decreased levels of plasma 5-HT, DA, and NE and their corresponding metabolites, and gut microbiota fecal metabolites with the 16S rRNA gene sequencing indicated that CRS caused marked microbiota dysbiosis in mice, with a significant increase in Helicobacter, Lactobacillus, and Oscillibacter and a decrease in Parabacteroides, Ruminococcus, and Prevotella. Notably, CRS-induced depressive behaviours and the disturbance of neurotransmitter metabolism and microbiota dysbiosis can be substantially restored by dexamethasone (DXMS) administration. Furthermore, a Pearson heatmap focusing on correlations between the microbiota, behaviours and neurotransmitters showed that Helicobacter, Lactobacillus, and Oscillibacter were positively correlated with depressive behaviours but were negatively correlated with neurotransmitter metabolism, and Parabacteroides and Ruminococcus were negatively correlated with depressive behaviours but were positively correlated with neurotransmitter metabolism. Taken together, the results suggest that inflammation is involved in microbiota dysbiosis and the disturbance of neurotransmitter metabolism in CRS-induced depressive changes, and the delineation of the potential links between the microbiota and neurotransmitter metabolism will provide novel strategies for depression treatment.
The effects of betamethasone on clinical outcome of the late preterm neonates born between 34 and 36 weeks of gestation
Authors: Arimi Yas , Zamani Narges , Shariat Mamak , Dalili Hossein
Published: May 2021

Background:
Prenatal corticosteroid administration in preterm labor is one of the most important treatments available to improve neonatal outcomes; however its beneficial effects on late preterm infants (after the 34th week of gestation) remained unknown. We aimed to assess the effects of betamethasone on the clinical condition of the late preterm infants born between 34 and 36 weeks of gestation.
Methods:
This retrospective cohort study was performed on 100 consecutive infants born between 34 and 36 weeks of gestation and received betamethasone before delivery as the cases and 100 neonates with the same delivery conditions but without receiving betamethasone. All neonates were followed up within hospitalization to assess the neonatal outcome.
Results:
The neonates receiving betamethasone suffered more from respiratory distress syndrome (49% versus 31%, p = 0.008) and requiring more respiratory support (71% versus 50%, p = 0.002) as compared to the control group. There was no difference between the two groups in other neonatal adverse events or death.
Conclusion:
the use of betamethasone in the late preterm period (after 34 weeks of gestation) has no beneficial effects on lung maturity or preventing neonatal adverse outcomes, even may lead to increase the risk for RDS and requiring respiratory support.
Theory of Real Relativity And E=Mc2 is Not Correct.
Authors: GAJENDRA GAJENDRA SHANKHWAR
Published: May 2021

This is a new theory of relativity, which we call the theory of real relativity. The total energy of a system is made up of the inherent energy and the external energy. Each of these energies is associated with its own coefficient. These coefficients are distributed throughout the universe in space and time, providing symmetry and stability to every visible, invisible, living, and non-living, conscious and unconscious of the universe. Hence the inherent energy coefficient (G1) and external energy coefficient (G2) are responsible for the change of universe and nature.
Incentive Preferences and Its Related Factors Among Primary Medical Staff in Anhui Province, China: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Sang Lingzhi , Liu Hongzhang , Yan Huosheng , Rong Jian , Cheng Jing , Wang Li , Ding Hong , Chen Guimei , Chen Ren
Published: May 2021

Background The shortage of primary medical staff is a major problem in the management of health human resources across all countries. This study focused on the primary medical staff in Anhui Province. By determining their preferences for various motivational and related factors, we examined the correlation between staff’s motivation preference levels and staff turnover and turnover intention. This study aimed to further improve the incentive mechanism and to provide a reference for healthcare managers to formulate management strategies for the primary medical staff team.Methods A self-reported questionnaire survey was conducted to collect data. The basic survey content included demographic characteristics. The absolute level questionnaire and relative level questionnaire on the factors affecting motivation preference were used as the main assessment scales. A total of 1,112 primary-level medical workers in Anhui Province were investigated. T-test, analysis of variance (ANOVA), exploratory factor analysis, and multiple linear regression analysis were performed to analyze the data.Results The survey respondents (45.1%) reported being satisfied with their relationship with colleagues, and other social relationships (46.9 %). The Kaiser Meyer Olkin (KMO) value for the absolute preference degree for motivational factors was 0.951. Two factors (economic and non- economic factors), after using the maximum variance rotation axis method, explained 81.25% of the total variance. The regression analysis showed that primary medical staff members with high monthly income have a lower preference for non-economic factors; the higher the educational background, the higher their preference for economic factors. In addition, with the increase in participants’ age, the preference for motivational factors gradually decreased.Conclusion Both economic and non-economic factors play an important role in enhancing the enthusiasm of primary medical staff and improving their work attitude. Managers should use their influence to stabilize the primary medical staff.
The impact of intervention to the incidence of natural focus diseases during the outbreak of COVID-19 in Jiangsu Province, China
Authors: Cheng Xiaoqing , Hu Jianli , Luo Li , Zhao Zeyu , Zhang Nan , Hannah Mikah Ngwanguong , Rui Jia , Lin Shengnan , Zhu Yuanzhao , Wang Yao , Yang Meng , Xu Jingwen , Liu Xingchun , Yang Tianlong , Liu Weikang , Li Peihua , Deng Bin , Li Zhuoyang , Liu Chan , Huang Jiefeng , Bao Changjun , Chen Tianmu
Published: May 2021

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a well-known chemotherapeutic drug for most malgnencies including breast cancer and leukemia whilst the usage of DOX is limited owing to its cardiotoxicity. The present study analyzed the effects of crocin on doxorubicin’s cardiotoxic efect in rat myocardium and searched their mechanistic interaction in the pathogenesis of DOX-induced myocardial toxicity. Forty rats were divided into four groups; (a) control (received normal saline as a dose of 1 ml/kg by ip for 15 days), (b) Crocin (received crocin as a dose of 40 mg/kg/24h by ip for 15 days), (c) DOX (received DOX as a dose of 2 mg/kg/48h by ip in six injection, cumulative dose 12 mg/kg), and (d) DOX+Crocin (received DOX as a dose of 2 mg/kg/48h by ip in six injection and crocin as a dose of 40 mg/kg/24h ip for 15 days). According to the present study, DOX administration caused significant increases in lipid indices (triglyseride, low-dencity lipoproteins and very low-dencity lipoproteins) as well as cardiac markers (Creatine kinase-muscle/brain and Cardiac Troponin I). Morever, DOX caused significant increases in oxidative stress parameters (malondialdehyde and total oxidant status) as well as decreases in antioxidant defense systems (glutathione, superoxide dismutase, catalase and total antioxidant status). The present study also demonstrated that co-administration of crocin with DOX significantly ameliorated the lipid profile and biochemical parameters in rats receiving DOX. The results were supported by histopathological and immunohistochemical evaluations. Taken together, our results reveal that crocin might be a cardioprotective agent in DOX treated patients for cancer.
Validity, reliability, and ceiling and floor effects of the PROMIS Preference score (PROPr) in patients with rheumatological and psychosomatic conditions
Authors: Klapproth Christoph Paul , Fischer Felix , Merbach Marie , Matthias Rose , Obbarius Alexander
Published: May 2021

Background: The PROMIS Preference score (PROPr) is a new generic preference-based health-related quality of life (HRQoL) score that can be used as a health state utility (HSU) score for quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) in cost-utility analyses (CUAs). It is the first HSU score based on item response theory (IRT) and has favorable psychometric properties. The PROPr combines the seven PROMIS domains: cognition, depression, fatigue, pain, physical function, sleep disturbance, and ability to participate in social roles and activities. It was developed based on preferences of the US general population. We aimed to validate the PROPr in a patient sample and to compare it to the EQ-5D. Methods: We collected PROPr and EQ-5D-5L data from 141 patients treated in the rheumatology and psychosomatic departments. We evaluated the convergent validity, reliability, known-groups construct validity, and ceiling and floor effects of the PROPr and compared those characteristics to those of the EQ-5D. Results: The mean PROPr (0.26, 95% CI: 0.23; 0.29) and the mean EQ-5D (0.44, 95% CI: 0.38; 0.51) differed significantly (d = 0.18, p < 0.001). The Pearson correlation coefficient between the two scores was r = 0.72. The PROPr and EQ-5D demonstrated high reliability and similar discrimination power across sex, age, and conditions. While the PROPr showed a floor effect, the EQ-5D showed a ceiling effect. Conclusion: PROPr and EQ-5D measure HSU differently. The PROPr shows a broader definition of perfect health, with a wider range of measurements at the top end. The previous results of excellent validity and precision were confirmed.
Unveiling shrouded oceans on temperate sub-Neptunes via transit signatures of solubility equilibria vs. gas thermochemistry
Authors: Hu Renyu , Damiano Mario , Scheucher Markus , Kite Edwin , Seager Sara , Rauer Heike
Published: May 2021

The recent discovery and initial characterization of sub-Neptune-sized exoplanets that receive stellar irradiance of approximately Earth's raised the prospect of finding habitable planets in the coming decade. Some of these temperate planets may support liquid water oceans, if they do not have massive H2/He envelopes and are thus not too hot at the bottom of the envelopes. For planets larger than Earth, and especially planets in the 1.7-3.5 R_Earth population, the mass of the H2/He envelope is typically not sufficiently constrained to assess the potential habitability. Here we show that the solubility equilibria vs. thermochemistry of carbon and nitrogen gases results in observable discriminators between small H2 atmospheres vs. massive ones. On temperate sub-Neptunes, the condition to form a liquid-water ocean and that to achieve the thermochemical equilibrium are mutually exclusive. The dominant carbon and nitrogen gases are typically CH4 and NH3 due to thermochemical recycling in a massive atmosphere of a temperate planet, and those in a small atmosphere overlying a liquid-water ocean are most likely CO2 and N2, followed by CO and CH4 produced photochemically. NH3 is depleted in the small atmosphere by dissolution into the liquid-water ocean. These gases lead to distinctive features in the planet's transmission spectrum, and a moderate number of repeated transit observations with the James Webb Space Telescope should readily tell apart a small atmosphere vs. a massive one via these spectral features on planets like K2-18 b. This method thus provides a way to use near-term facilities to constrain the atmospheric mass and habitability of temperate sub-Neptune exoplanets.