bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pilot-scale Anaerobic Digestion of Food Waste: Evaluation on the Stability, Methane Production, and Kinetic Analysis
Authors: Fadzil Farizah , Fadzil Farihah , Norazman Amir Fahim , Seswoya Roslinda
Published: August 2021

Food waste was massively disposed at landfills daily, and this method is no longer effective in managing waste due to the limited space and environmental issues. An alternative solution was explored in managing the food waste, and anaerobic digestion serve as the best solution. Food waste was digested anaerobically in a lab-scale and pilot-scale anaerobic digester. The performance of a batch pilot-scale anaerobic digestion of food waste, on the other hand, is less documented. The goal of this research is to look into a batch pilot-scale anaerobic digester for food waste, with a focus on methane potential and kinetic studies. A single-stage anaerobic digestion of food waste was carried out with an inoculum to substrate ratio (I/S) of 2.0. A variety of tests were carried out to identify the properties of the food waste and the inoculum employed. Effluent was collected daily for the monitoring process. The pH and volatile fatty acid to total alkalinity ratio (VFA/TA) were monitored daily to ensure that the anaerobic digestion process remained stable. The VFA/TA ratio suggested that the anaerobic digestion process was stable throughout the anaerobic digestion process. The methane accumulation for 26 days monitoring is 463250 mL. The ultimate methane yield of 5103.6 mL CH4/gVS was observed. The maximum removal efficiency for TS, VS, and COD in this investigation was 85.32, 94.15, and 93.52 %, showing that food waste was efficiently decomposed for biomethane conversion. The Modified Gompertz (GM) and Logistic function models were used to conduct the kinetic analysis. The results reveal that the GM model provides a higher R2 value than the logistic function model, thus the GM model is more suited in explaining the performance of the anaerobic digestion process.
The Effects of Sinter-Hip Processing on the Machining Performance of Cemented Carbides Based on NBC-NI Systems as Alternative Cutting Tools
Authors: Fernandes Laerte Jose , Stoeterau Rodrigo L. , Batalha Gilmar F. , Miranda Fábio , Rodrigues Daniel
Published: August 2021

This work aims to investigate the technical feasibility of using sintered carbides based on NbC-Ni substitute of the WC-Co class, adding the Sinter-Hip step in the sintering process, with 20 bar pressure nitrogen gas. The samples were produced investigating two process variables: sintering cycles and chemical composition. The samples were qualified in terms of Vickers hardness, toughness and density by Archimedes. The machining experiments were carried out on quenched and tempered AISI 4340 steel material. Flank wear progression was defined as the control parameter, analyzing wear via CCD camera, stereoscopic magnifying glass and SEM/EDS. The best result obtained the binding phase content 10%w, when compared to a commercial WC-Co insert. It showed superior performance at 88% of the average life of the cutting edge. However, the dispersion of this lifetime was higher than the WC-Co reference tool, 15%. The samples of NbC-10%p Ni showed a higher level of porosity than WC-Co. For better densification, new samples with the same composition were produced by adding the Sinter-HIP step. New tests were carried out and the results showed that the adjustment of the sintering process was fundamental. Densification and microstructure alteration reduced the dispersion of the average lifetime of this new NbC-Ni class.
Relationship Between Pulmonary Hamartoma and Bronchus: Multislice Spiral Computed Tomography Findings
Authors: Wang Ping , Ma Heng , Yang Qinglin , Zhang Chengzhou
Published: August 2021

Objective
The aim of the present study is to investigate the relationship between pulmonary hamartomas (PHs) and bronchi on multislice spiral computed tomography (MSCT) images.
Methods
The MSCT scans of 218 PHs from 216 pathologically confirmed patients were reviewed. The PHs were divided into two groups, namely, the central endobronchial and intraparenchymal groups, in accordance with location. Multiplanar reconstruction was used to demonstrate PH–bronchus relationship patterns. The PH–bronchus relationships in the intraparenchymal group were classified into five patterns: type I, the bronchus was cut off by the tumor; type II, the bronchus was contained within the tumor (air bronchogram sign); type III, the bronchus ran at the tumor periphery or was compressed by the tumor; and type IV, no tumor–bronchus relationship was observed.
Results
Nine (4.1%) PHs were assigned to the central endobronchial group and 209 (95.9%) PHs were assigned to the intraparenchymal group. In the endobronchial group, 1 (11.1%) PH was located in the trachea with the partial stenosis of the trachea, whereas the remaining 8 (88.9%) PHs were located in the lobar or segmental bronchus with the complete occlusion of the corresponding bronchus. In the intraparenchymal group, type IV (147, 70.3%) was most common pattern, followed by type III (54, 25.8%). Type I (8, 3.8%) was rare, and type II was not observed.
Conclusion
Central endobronchial PHs often obstructed bronchi, whereas only a few intraparenchymal PHs cut off bronchi. No air bronchogram sign was observed.
Sexual Attitudes and Associated Factors of Risky Sexual Behaviors Among University Students
Authors: Jahanfar Shayesteh , Pashaei Zahra
Published: August 2021

IntroductionRisky sexual behaviors, because of its adverse health consequences, are a serious problem in the health care system. Adequate awareness of reproductive health in young people is important because they are in the early years of fertility and engaging in risky sexual behaviors are more probable. This study aimed to evaluate the sexual attitude and associated factors of risky sexual behaviors among girls and boys and the difference of sexual norms by gender among university students.MethodsA university-based study with a cross-sectional survey conducted for nine months in 2019. A total of 800 university students were studied by a random sampling technique, using a self-administered structured questionnaire derived from World Health Organization illustrative questionnaire to assess sexual attitudes among adolescents and young adultsResultsMost of the respondents were female and single. Girls were more religious, more frequently visited the cinemas, and were more likely to discuss sex-matters with family members compared to boys. There was no significant difference in the total score of sexual attitude in girls and boys, and both genders had negative attitudes toward risky sexual behavior (42/72). Those who go to parties, bars, or movies were more probable to have risky sexual behavior. Being a religious person is an essential predictor of having less risky behavior (RR = 2.02, 95% CI = 0.96,3.41).ConclusionBeing religious was a protective factor for engaging in risky sexual behavior. More interventions in schools and universities need to educate students to enhance awareness about the consequences of RSB and reduce the rate of it.
Effects of Different Silicate Minerals on Silicon Activation by Ochrobactrum sp. T-07-B
Authors: Lv Ying , Li Jia , Chen Zhenxing , Liu Xingyu , Chen Bowei , Zhang Mingjiang , Ke Xuan , Zhang Tian C.
Published: August 2021

As a kind of solid waste with a high silicon content, electrolytic manganese residue (EMR) can be utilized as silicon source by plants through bioleaching processes. EMR contains a variety of silicate minerals. In order to determine the source of available silicon in the bioleaching process of EMR, it is necessary to investigate the influence of silicate minerals in EMR on silicon-activating behavior of specific minerals. In this study, Ochrobactium sp. T-07-B was used to conduct bioleaching experiments on five kinds of silicate minerals with different structures (quartz, muscovite, biotite, olivine, and rhodonite); the growth of Ochrobactium sp. T-07-B, their acid- and polysaccharide-producing capacity, and evolution of surface morphology and structure of the silicate minerals in different systems were determined, so as to explore the silicon-activating capacity of Ochrobactium sp. T-07-B and the selectivity toward different minerals in the bioleaching process. Results showed that the effects of Ochrobactium sp. T-07-B for different silicate minerals were obviously different, and the sequence of silicon-activating efficiency from high to low was as follows: muscovite > biotite > rhodonite > olivine > quartz. Results of this study may be of guiding significance for the future research on the silicon-activating of solid waste.
Promising Anti-leukemic Effect of Zataria Multiflora Extract in Combination with Doxorubicin to Combat Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Cells (Nalm-6)
Authors: Lashkari Mahla , Fatemi Ahmad , Valandani Hajar Mardani , Khalilabadi Roohollah Mirzaee
Published: August 2021

Purpose: One of the heterogeneous hematologic malignancies of the lymphocyte precursors or lymphoblasts is ALL. ALL has two incidence peaks that were determined in 2-5 years children and 60 years old adults. Cardiotoxicity of chemotherapeutic drugs is one of important side effect which may occur during or after chemotherapy period. Methods: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Zataria Multiflora extract (ZME), DOX, and ZME/DOX combination on Nalm-6 cells. In this vein, the cell viability was assessed by Trypan blue and MTT assay. Evaluation of apoptosis was also analyzed by Annexin-V/7-PI staining. Moreover, the expression of Bax, Bcl-2, hTERT, c-Myc, P53, and P21 genes was detected by Real-Time PCR. Molecular docking as an in-silico method was performed for BCL2 and P53 as well. Result: Our achievements indicated that ZME had dose-dependent effect on Nalm-6 cells and ZME synergistically potentiated DOX effect. The expression of Bax, P53 and P21 genes increased although the expression of Bcl-2, hTERT, and c-Myc genes decreased when cells treated with ZME/DOX combination. Molecular docking showed the interactions of Carvacrol and Thymol in the active cavities of BCL2 and P53. Conclusions: Regarding to present study, ZME could be utilized as a combinatorial and potential drug for leukemic patients, which is under the treatment by DOX due to reducing the chemotherapy drug doses.
A Method for Obtaining Field Wheat Freezing Injury Phenotype Based on RGB Camera and Software Control
Authors: fu xiuqing , Bai Yang , Zhou Jing , Zhang Hongwen , Xian Jieyu
Published: August 2021

Low temperature freezing stress has adverse effects on wheat seedling growth and final yield. The traditional method to evaluate the wheat injury caused by the freezing stress is by visual observations, which is time-consuming and laborious. Therefore, to effectively and efficiently quantify the wheat freezing injury in the field environments, a high-throughput phenotyping system was developed in this paper , namely, RGB FREEZING INJURY SYSTEM. The system is able to automatically collect, processing, and analyze the wheat images collected using a mobile phenotype cabin in the field conditions. A data management system was also developed to store and manage the original images and the calculated phenotypic data in the system. A group of 128 wheat varieties were planted with replicates under a freezing environment. Canopy images of the wheat were collected at the seedling stage and three image features were extracted for each wheat samples, including ExG, ExR and ExV. The results show that the developed methods can clearly distinguish wheat samples with different wheat freezing injury scores. The automatic phenotypic analysis method of freezing injury provides a solution for high-throughput phenotypic analysis of field wheat and can quantify the stress caused by freezing injury at the seedling stage. The method has a certain guiding significance for wheat breeding.
A Novel Missense ZBTB18 Mutation Identified in an Intellectual Disability Family by Whole Genome Sequencing
Authors: Li Nana , Li Lu , Zou Yanna , Liu Zhen , Deng Ying , Qin Hong , Qiu Xiaoqiong , Kang Hong , Wang Yanping , Zhu Jun , Wang Meixian , yu ping
Published: August 2021

BackgroundIntellectual disability is a generalized neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by significantly impaired intellectual and adaptive functioning. About a quarter of cases are caused by genetic diseases, and about 5 percent are inherited from a person's parents. The objective of this study was to explore the candidate disease-causing gene in an intellectual disability family.MethodsWhole genome sequencing was performed on affected twins, their affected children, and unaffected parents, and data filtration for most rare variants and In Silico prediction tools to determine the pathogenecity. Further, Sanger sequencing was used to validate the causative mutation.ResultsIn the family, a previously undescribed heterozygous variant in ZBTB18 gene c.1323C>G (p.His441Gln) was identified. The mutation co-segregated with all affected individuals in the family and was not found in unaffected members.Conclusionsc.1323C>G mutation in ZBTB18 gene on 1 chromosome may be related with the phenotype of intellectual disability in this family. WGS is an efficient method to perform molecular diagnosis for hereditary intellectual disability.
Mesoporous Spongy Ni-Co-Oxides@Wheat Straw-Derived SiO2 For Adsorption And Photocatalytic Degradation of Methylene Blue Pollutants
Authors: Hussein Mohamed A. T. , Motawea Mohamed M , Elsenety Mohamed M. , El-Bahy Salah M. , Gomaa Hassanien
Published: August 2021

The exploitation and employment of agricultural waste in polluted water treatment is one of the most important cost-effective approaches. Therefore, a novel mesoporous spongy adsorbent/photocatalyst was successfully synthesized through the grafting of nickel and cobalt oxides nanocomposites with wheat straw-derived SiO2. Nickel and cobalt oxides were added to enhance the functionality of wheat straw-derived SiO2. This synthesis methodology presents a simplistic, cost-effective, and eco-approachable alternative to getting an adsorbent and photocatalyst for the adsorption and photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) pollutants from wastewater. The modified wheat straw-derived SiO2 (MWSS) was characterized via XRD, SEM, EDX, TGA, FTIR, and nitrogen adsorption. Molecular dynamics computational calculations were performed to comprehend the ability of methylene blue to adjust the WSDS surface. The experiments of adsorption and photodegradation trials were performed to optimize the pH, contact time, initial MB-concentration, and temperature parameters. Furthermore, kinetics and isotherm models were checked to explain the MB-removal mechanism using mesoporous spongy MWSS. The current work indicated that the mesoporous MWSS adsorbent/photocatalyst provided efficient adsorption capability (79%), significant photocatalytic performance (93%), and higher solidity during reusability as well. This study suggests an efficient composite that contributes to getting rid of the MB pollutants from wastewater.
Fluorometric Assessment of Sulfhydryl Oxidase Activity: Optimization by Response Surface Methodology
Authors: hadwan mahmoud hussein , Alsalman Abdul Razzaq S. , Almashhedy Lamia A. , Alta'ee Abdulsamie H. , Hadwan Asad M.
Published: August 2021

Sulfhydryl oxidase was studied using a spectrofluorometric assay. The current protocol operates by using a combination of hemoglobin (HB) and hematin (HT) as a peroxidase mimic to catalyze the H2O2-dependent oxidation of thiamine. The response surface methodology is used to optimize the new method (RSM). The current method is very accurate, sensitive, and linear up to 200 IU. When compared to the colorimetric method, the method produced a satisfactory correlation. The novel protocol is being used to evaluate asthenospermic patients' and fertile men's seminal SHO activity. The current protocol was used to determine reference values for seminal sulfhydryl oxidase activity. Due to the fact the newly developed spectrofluorometric method is more sensitive and precise than other colorimetric methods, and because thiamine is less expensive than other types of probes used in colorimetric and spectrofluorometric methods, it is likely to find widespread use among scientists studying SHO activity in biological tissues. The present method's analytical recovery yielded high specific findings.
Study On The Edge Defects of High Volume Fraction 70% SiCp/Al Composites In Ultrasonic-Assisted Milling
Authors: Peng Peicheng , Xiang Daohui , Lei Xiaofei , Shi Zhanli , Li Bo , Liu Gaofeng , Zhao Bo , Gao Guofu
Published: August 2021

Directing at the hard machinability of high volume fraction 70% SiCp/Al composites，a longitudinal and torsional ultrasonic-assisted milling method is proposed to improve the edge quality and machining efficiency. By observing the metallographic structure of the material, the three-dimensional finite element model of SiC particles with spherical, ellipsoidal and random polyhedra is established and analyzed by ABAQUS simulation software. The formation mechanism of edge defects, stress distribution, defect characteristics and the effect of machining parameters on milling force are investigated during ultrasonic-assisted milling. The results show that the edge defects appear at the inlet, outlet and middle edge position, especiallyis more serious at the outlet position. The SiC particles failure modes mainly include particle pullout, particle shearing, crushing, and the edge defects mainly include matrix tearing, edge breakage, burrs, bulgesandpits. In a certain range of ultrasonic amplitude, ultrasonic-assisted milling can effectively reduce the surface fragmentation rate and milling force, slow down the expansion of cracks, increase the plastic flow of material, and obtain better edge quality compared with traditional machining method. By comparing the results of finite element simulation and experimental tests, it shows that the simulation results are in good agreement with the experimental tests.
Mutant Cyclin F Impedes COPII Vesicle-Mediated ER-Golgi Trafficking and ER-Associated Degradation, Inducing ER Stress and Golgi Fragmentation in ALS/FTD
Authors: RAGAGNIN Audrey Marie Genevieve , Sundaramoorthy Vinod , Vidal Marta , Jagaraj Cyril J , Shadfar Sina , Brocardo Mariana , Parakh Sonam , Konopka Anna , Grima Natalie , Yang Shu , Rayner Stephanie , Williams Kelly , Ooi Lezanne , Blair Ian P , Chung Roger S , Lee Albert , Atkin Julie
Published: August 2021

BackgroundMutations in the CCNF gene encoding cyclin F are associated with sporadic and familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia, but the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms are unknown. Proper functioning of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is essential for physiological cellular function. MethodsWe used human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y and human embryonic kidney HEK293T cell lines and mouse primary neurons-overexpressing two familial ALS cyclin F mutants to examine whether mutant ALS/FTD-associated cyclin F perturbs key functions of the ER and Golgi compartments. Specific cellular assays were used to examine ER-Golgi transport (VSVGts045), the budding of vesicles from ER membranes and ER-associated degradation (ERAD). Immunocytochemistry was used to examine the morphology of the Golgi and ER-exit sites, and to detect ER stress and apoptosis. Western blotting was used to examine the content of vesicles budding from ER membranes and the interaction between Sec 31 and cyclin F. Flow cytometry was used to examine cell death.Results We demonstrated that mutant cyclin F inhibited protein transport from the ER to Golgi apparatus by a mechanism involving aberrant vesicle sorting from the ER. It also impeded ER-associated degradation, whereby misfolded ER proteins are ubiquitinated and degraded by the proteasome. This was associated with induction of ER stress and Golgi fragmentation, leading to apoptosis. Conclusion Together, these results demonstrate that ER dysfunction is a pathogenic pathway associated with ALS/FTD-variant cyclin F.
Ionic Liquids, Loosened the Coconut Shell Rigidity to Boost up the Biofuels Productivity
Authors: Katiyar Prashant , Srivast Shailendra Kumar , Kushwaha Deepshikha
Published: August 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Retinoic acid inhibits the pyroptosis of degenerated nucleus pulposus cells by activating Sirt1-SOD2 signaling
Authors: Li Peng-Fei , Xiong Fei , Yin Ying , Xing Hong-Yuan , Hu Shao-Jun , Zhang Ning
Published: August 2021

Background:

Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is a common disease and initiated by the degeneration of nucleus pulposus (NP). The pyroptosis of degenerated NP cells (dNPCs) plays an important role in NP degeneration and may be a potential target in the treatment of IVD degeneration. The purpose of this study is to identify a feasible solution that can inhibit NP cell pyroptosis to therapy the degeneration of the intervertebral disc.
Result:

In this study, we determined the effects of retinoic acid (RA) on dNPCs and investigated the underlying mechanism of RA mediated pyroptosis in dNPCs. We also verified the effects of RA on IVD degeneration in vivo. Our results demonstrated that RA significantly increased the proliferation and the protein expression of sox9, aggrecan, and collagen II of dNPCs. Pyroptosis-related proteins such as cleaved caspase-1, NT-GSDMD, IL-1β, IL-18, and the pyroptosis rate of dNPCs was significantly decreased by RA. We also found that Sirt1-SOD2 signaling was activated, while ROS generation and TXNIP/NLRP3 signaling in dNPCs was inhibited after the addition of RA. Furthermore, RA also recovered the structure of NP and increased the contents of sGAG and collagen in vivo.
Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that RA can inhibit the pyroptosis and increase the ECM synthesis function of dNPCs and verified that RA has a protective effect in IVD degeneration.
Chinese Younger Parents’ Quality of Life during COVID-19 Pandemic: Do Job Changes and Family Conflicts Matter?
Authors: Liu Xiaohan , Bai YaShuang , Huang Ning , GUO JING
Published: August 2021

Background：The quality of life might have been decreased owing to the social disruptionsin daily life and basic functioning afterCoronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic. This study aims to examine the relationship between job changes, family conflicts, and quality of life among parents during COVID-19 in China.Methods：We recruited 1209 adultsthrough an online cross-sectional survey in China during the COVID-19 lockdown from April 21st to April 28th, 2020.Convenient and cluster sampling methods were used to recruit parents. The global health items in the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) were used as a measurement forquality of life. Data were mainly analyzed by multiple linear regression with SPSS.Results：Both marital conflict (β=-0.243, P<.001) and parent-child conflict (β=-0.119, P=.001)were negatively associated with the quality of life among parents during the lockdown.While job changes moderatedthe relationship of marital conflict and quality of life(β=-0.256, P=.022). Besides, the interaction effects of job changesand family conflict on quality of life only significantly amongfathers andone child families.Conclusion：This study indicated the familyconflictwas acrucialfactorcorrelatedwithqualityoflifeamongyoungparents in the backdrop of COVID-19 lockdown. Job changes could interact with marital conflict and parent-child conflict on quality of life.
Time-course Alterations of Gut Microbiota and Short-chain Fatty Acids After Short-term Lincomycin Exposure in Young Swine
Authors: Tang Shanlong , Zhang Shunfen , Zhong Ruqing , Su Dan , Xia Bing , Liu Lei , Chen Liang , Zhang Hongfu
Published: August 2021

Background: Increasing evidence suggests that antibiotic administration causes gut injury, nutrient digestion, immune regulation, and colonization resistance against pathogens due to the disruption of gut microbiota. However, the time-course effects of therapeutic antibiotics on alterations of gut microbes and short-chain fatty acid in young swine are still unknown. In this study, twenty piglets were assigned into two groups and fed commercial diets with or without lincomycin in the first week for a 28-day trial period. Results: Data showed that one-week lincomycin exposure did reduce the body weight on day 14 (p = 0.0450) and 28 (p = 0.0362). The alpha-diversity notably reduced after one-week lincomycin treatment, then gradually raised and reached the control group level in the second week on cessation of lincomycin exposure, indicated by the variation of Sobs, Chao, Shannon, and ACE index (p < 0.05). Beta-diversity analysis revealed that the distinct microbial cluster existed persistently for the whole trial period between two groups (p < 0.001). The relative abundance of most microbes including fiber-degrading (e.g., Agathobacter, Coprococcus, etc.), beneficial (e.g., Lactobacillus, Mitsuokella, etc.), or pathogenic bacteria (e.g., Terrisporobacter, Lachnoclostridium, etc.) decreased and the concentration of short-chain fatty acids also diminished in the feces of one-week lincomycin-administrated young swine (LDA score > 3). After the lincomycin administration stopped, the state of gut dysbiosis gradually recovered and formed new gut-microbe homeostasis distinct from microbial homeostasis of young pigs unexposed to lincomycin. The increased presence of potential pathogens, such as Terrisporobacter, Negativibacillus, Escherichia-Shigella, etc. and decreased beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus, Agathobacter were observed in new homeostasis reshaped by short-lincomycin administration (LDA score > 3 or p < 0.05), adversely affecting gut development and health of young pigs. Conclusion: Collectively, these results suggested that severe disruption of the commensal microbiota occurred after short-term lincomycin exposure or termination of lincomycin exposure in young swine. Our study depicts the change rule of gut microbiota in young animals under the condition of short-term lincomycin treatment, providing basic data for evaluating the harmful impact on gut microbe of young animals.
Parallel Approach of Schr¨Odinger Based Quantum Corrections for Ultrascaled Semiconductor Devices
Authors: Espiñeira G. , Garc´ıa-Loureiro A. J. , Seoane N.
Published: August 2021

In the current technology node, purely classical numerical simulators lack the precision needed to obtain valid results. At the same time, the simulation of fully quantum models can be a cumbersome task in certain studies such as device variability analysis, since a single simulation can take up to weeks to compute and hundreds of device configurations need to be analyzed to obtain statistically significative results. A good compromise between fast and accurate results is to add corrections to the classical simulation that are able to reproduce the quantum nature of matter. In this context, we present a new approach of Schrödinger equation-based quantum corrections. We have implemented it using Message Passing Interface (MPI) in our in-house built semiconductor simulation framework called VENDES, capable of running in distributed systems that allow for more accurate results in a reasonable time frame. Using a 12 nm gate length Gate-AllAround Nanowire FET (GAA NW FET) as an application example, the new implementation shows an almost perfect agreement in the output data with less than a 2% difference between the cases using 1 and 16 processes. Also, a reduction of up to 98% in the computational time has been found comparing the sequential and the 16 process simulation. For a reasonably dense mesh of 150k nodes, a variability study of 300 individual simulations, can be now performed with VENDES in approximately 2.5 days instead of an estimated sequential execution of 137 days.
Open Nucleus Breeding Strategy for Fogera Cattle Breed in Ethiopia: Achievements and Lessons Learnt
Authors: Sendeku Assemu Tesfa , Tilahun Mekonnen , Asmare Zelalem , Kassahun Demelash , Bimerew Tewodross , Mengesha Wondimagegn , Bitew Addisu , Lakew Eyasu , Meseret Mulugeta
Published: August 2021

Fogera cattle are one of the promising indigenous milk type local breed of Ethiopia. The objective of this paper was to evaluate the performance of Fogera breed under open nucleus breeding scheme. The work was done in two purposively selected districts (Gondar Zuria and Fogera) with community-based breed productivity improvement (CBBPI) as an approach. The collected data was analysed by GLM procedure of SAS for fixed factors estimation. Genetic parameters estimate was made by ASREML software for heritability and correlation. The overall milk yield of the nucleus herd was 2.26 ± 0.794 litter. From the total herd, best 10% and 25% of them give a respective milk yield of 3.31 and 2.87 litter; and some elite cows give an average of 5.45 ± 0.73 litter with a maximum yield of eight litters per day. The overall birth and weaning weight of nucleus herd calves was 21.30 ± 0.06 and 103.66 ± 0.59kg, respectively. Heritability for birth and weaning weight was 0.24 ± 0.09 and 0.18 ± 0.05, respectively. The phenotypic and genotypic correlation with their respective standard error between birth and weaning weight was 0.0613 ± 0.0075 and 0.0712 ± 0.0343, respectively. For CBBPI program, 17 pure Fogera bulls were distributed to the two districts. The birth and weaning weight of the village calves was 23.77 ± 0.21 and 85.89 ± 1.07, respectively. Through the program, above 1000 households were benefiting through the breeding program, health, forage development and grazing land management. To share the achievements of the results in CBBPI program, popularization through filed days and innovation platforms; and documentation of each step via publications, videos and pictures was done. From the result, it can be concluded that the strategy implemented for the breed conservation “open nucleus breeding scheme” had shown progressive results and improvement was recorded. To widen the result and improve the livelihood of the farmer, scaling up of the activity should better be planned with stakeholders.
Early Experience of Atezolizumab Plus Bevacizumab Therapy in Japanese Patients With Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Real-world Practice
Authors: Hayakawa Yuka , Tsuchiya Kaoru , Kurosaki Masayuki , Yasui Yutaka , Kaneko Shun , Tanaka Yuki , Ishido Shun , Inada Kento , Kirino Sakura , Yamashita Koji , Nobusawa Tsubasa , Matsumoto Hiroaki , Kakegawa Tatsuya , Higuchi Mayu , Takaura Kenta , Tanaka Shohei , Maeyashiki Chiaki , Tamaki Nobuharu , Nakanishi Hiroyuki , Itakura Jun , Takahashi Yuka , Asahina Yasuhiro , Okamoto Ryuichi , Izumi Namiki
Published: August 2021

Background: We aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab therapy in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (u-HCC) based on whether they had previously received systemic therapy, as well as the association of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab with early alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) response in real-world practice. Methods: A total of 52 patients with u-HCC were treated with atezolizumab plus bevacizumab between October 2020 and April 2021. The Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) and modified RECIST were used to evaluate radiological responses. Results: The patients received atezolizumab plus bevacizumab as 1st-line (n = 23), 2nd-line (n = 16), 3rd-line (n = 6), 4th-line (n = 3), 5th-line (n = 3), or 6th-line (n = 1) therapy. The objective response rate and disease control rate in all patients were 18.4% and 63.2%, respectively. Sixteen patients experienced no adverse events (AEs), whereas 4 patients discontinued therapy due to AEs. The median time to progression (TTP) was significantly longer among patients receiving atezolizumab plus bevacizumab as 1st-line therapy than in patients receiving atezolizumab plus bevacizumab as later-line therapy (P = 0.02). Patients with an AFP response (reduction ≥20% from baseline) at 6 weeks had a significantly longer TTP than those without an AFP response (P = 0.02). Conclusion: Patients who received atezolizumab plus bevacizumab as 1st-line therapy had better clinical outcome than those who received atezolizumab plus bevacizumab in later lines. The AFP response at 6 weeks could be a predictor of disease progression.
Database Development and Statistical Analysis of Survival in a Clinical and Historical Coort of Dogs Affected by Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease Treated With Different Therapeutic Protocols Using Causal Inference Techniques
Authors: Bagardi Mara , Palermo Valentina , Locatelli Chiara , Colombo Fabio Maria , Pazzagli Laura , Brambilla Paola Giuseppina
Published: August 2021

The aim of this work was to retrospectively evaluate the influence of different therapeutic protocols (loop diuretics, ACE-inhibitors, spironolactone +/- pimobendan) on the survival time (ST) of dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease at different stages using an Inverse Probability Weighting (IPW) analysis. An IPW method was used to minimize confounding and IPW weighted time-repeated logistic model was used to approximate survival curves (SCs) and calculate survival differences. Subjects were allocated into cases (CA) and controls (CO). Dogs in American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) B2 class treated with pimobendan (+/- ACE-inhibitors) were selected for the CA group, as well as symptomatic patients (ACVIM class C) threated with triple (furosemide, ACE-inhibitor, pimobendan) or quadruple (furosemide, ACE-inhibitor, pimobendan and spironolactone) therapy. The CO group included ACVIM class B2 dogs not treated with any medication and ACVIM C dogs treated with a combination of furosemide and ACE-inhibitor/spironolactone without pimobendan.The SC of the CA group crossed the CO group at 1634 days. The difference between the two SCs at the time of maximum survival difference in favour of the CO group was 11.3% (CI 1.7%–20.9%) (significant), in favour of the CA group was 3.9% (CI -8.6%–16.4%) (not significant) and at the mean ST was 3.6% (CI -8.5%–15.7%) (not significant) in favour of the CA group. For times greater than 1634 days the survival was in favour of the CA group, there were no statistically significant differences in survival in favour of the CA group in this clinical population.
Degradation Dynamics of Quantum Dots in White LED Applications
Authors: Chen Hsiao-Chien , Tan Cher Ming , Shabir Abdul , Singh Preetpal , Wang Kai
Published: August 2021

Quantum dots (QDs) are being investigated in a hybrid white light LED structure which inculcates phosphor in the package with blue LED chip as light source. Upon prolong operation, degradation of CdS QDs is observed which can limit its practical applications. The degradation includes intensity reduction as well as emitted wavelength shift of the white light. Three stages of degradation are observed, namely an enhancement state where light intensity is observed to increase, followed by a rapid degradation stage where light intensity decreases rapidly, and finally a slower degradation state where light intensity degradation rate slows down and continue till end of test.In this work, the degradation of CdS QDs is analyzed using various material analysis tools. Density functional theory (DFT) calculation is performed to confirm the spectroscopy results. It is found that the time evolving degradation of QDs begins from the oxidation of sulfur vacancy of CdS QDs by nearby oxygen atoms due to the imperfection of the protective coating around the QDs in combination of the presence of blue light, and this oxidation renders a transformation of CdS into CdO at the initial state. The final stage is the formation of CdSO4 via some intermediate processes.
Do Vaccinated People Reduce Their Precautionary Behaviours? A Test on a British Cohort
Authors: Desrichard Olivier , Moussaoui Lisa , Ofosu Nana
Published: August 2021

Background.There is a risk that people vaccinated against COVID-19 will drop out or reduce their behaviours (i.e. a phenomenon of risk homeostasis). Our aim is to assess the occurrence of this effect in a cohort of UK participants who were interviewed 141 days before and 161 days after the start of the vaccination programme.Methods.Of the 7651 people who could be followed up before and after the start of the programme and whose vaccination status was known, 178 had not received any injection and 583 were more or less advanced in the process (one vs. two doses since less vs. more than 14 days). The frequency of 14 precautionary behaviours was assessed at both times of measurement, as well as potential covariates (gender, age, comorbidities and history of COVID-19).Findings.Controlling for covariates, we found no decrease in precautionary behaviours, including among vaccinated individuals, regardless of how far along they were in the process.Interpretation.The results observed in this sample show that a massive change in behaviour among vaccinated individuals does not threaten the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. The pressure to adopt precautionary behaviours remains strong and probably prevents the emergence of a risk homeostasis effect. Nevertheless, communication on the importance of precautionary behaviour should be maintained so that it does not regress in the long term.
Sea anemone genomes reveal ancestral metazoan chromosomal macrosynteny
Authors: Technau Ulrich , Robb Sophia , Genikhovich Grigory , Montenegro Juan , Fropf Witney , Weinguny Lukas , He Shuonan , Chen Shiyuan , Lovegrove-Walsh Jessica , Hill Eric , Ragkousi Katerina , Praher Daniela , Fredman David , Moran Yehu , Gibson Matthew , Zimmermann Bob
Published: August 2021

Draft genome sequences of non-bilaterian species have provided important insights into the evolution of the metazoan gene repertoire. However, there is little information about the evolution of gene clusters, genome architectures and karyotypes during animal evolution. Here we report chromosome-level genome assemblies of two related anthozoan cnidarians, the sea anemones, Nematostella vectensis and Scolanthus callimorphus. We find a robust set of 15 chromosomes with a clear one-to-one correspondence of the chromosomes between the two species. We show that, in contrast to Bilateria, Hox and NK clusters of investigated cnidarians are disintegrated, indicating that microsynteny conservation is largely lost. In line with that, we find no evidence for topologically associated domains, suggesting fundamental difference in long-range gene regulation compared to vertebrates. However, both sea anemone genomes show remarkable chromosomal conservation with other cnidarians, several bilaterians and the sponge Ephydatia muelleri, allowing us to reconstruct the putative cnidarian and metazoan chromosomes, consisting of 19 and 16 ancestral linkage groups, respectively. These data suggest that large parts of the ancestral metazoan genome have been retained in chromosomes of some extant lineages, yet, higher order gene regulation may have evolved only after the cnidarian-bilaterian split.
Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgical Submucosal Dissection: an Efficient Treatment Option for Giant Superficial Neoplastic Lesions of The Rectum
Authors: Kouladouros Konstantinos , Baral Jörg
Published: August 2021

PurposeThe resection of giant superficial neoplastic lesions of the rectum (>5 cm) is challenging and the ideal resection technique remains a controversial issue. Aim of our study is to assess the feasibility and outcomes of transanal endoscopic microsurgical submucosal dissection (TEM-ESD), a new hybrid technique, for the resection of giant superficial rectal neoplasms.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed all cases of TEM-ESD for superficial rectal tumors >5cm performed in the Department of Surgery of the Municipal Hospital of Karlsruhe between 2010 and 2020. ResultsWe identified 43 cases matching our criteria (35 adenomas, 8 adenocarcinomas). The median size of the lesions was 75 mm, the median operating time was 81.5 min. En bloc resection was possible in all cases. In a follow-up period of 15 months there were 2 cases of local recurrence. ConclusionsTEM-ESD is a feasible and safe therapeutic option for the treatment of giant superficial rectal neoplasms.
Controversy on the Management of Patients Carrying RET p.V804M Mutation
Authors: Alzahrani Ali , Alswailem Meshael , Alghamdi Balgees , Rafiullah Rafiullah , Aldawish Mohammed , Al-Hindi Hindi
Published: August 2021

Context: RET p.V804M is classified as a moderate-risk mutation for familial medullary thyroid cancer (FMTC). There is a significant controversy on the management of patients carrying this mutation. We describe a family incidentally discovered to have this mutation during evaluation of a newborn with dysmorphic features. We provide a comprehensive literature review of RET p.V804M mutation. Results: The proband was born to a first-degree relative parents with hypertrophy of some parts of the body and vascular skin changes. Whole exome sequencing of DNA extracted from a skin biopsy showed a mutation in the PIK3CA (c.3132T>G, p.ASN1044LYS). This variant was not found in DNA extracted from blood. This confirmed the diagnosis CLOVES syndrome (Congenital Lipomatous Overgrowth, Vascular malformations, Epidermal nevi and Scoliosis, skeletal or spinal anomalies). Another incidentally found mutation in the skin biopsy and blood sample was RET p.V804M. Although there was no family history of MTC or MEN 2 syndromes, family screening revealed RET p.V804M mutation and FMTC in the proband's father, paternal grandmother, one sister and one aunt. There was significant interfamilial heterogeneity in age of presentation and pathology. Review of data showed that RET p.V804M mutation is an indolent mutation that may be discovered incidentally and associated with low risk of FMTC, usually at middle to old age. Conclusion: This and other recent studies raise questions about whether the American Thyroid Association (ATA) guidelines for management of patients with moderate risk RET mutations should also be applied to this seemingly “low” risk RET p.V804M mutation.
An Adapted One-dimensional Computational Approach for Irregular ROI Analysis Improves Osteosarcoma Classification
Authors: Djuričić Goran J. , Ahammer Helmut , Sopta Jelena P. , Kovač Jelena Djokić , Milošević Zorica , Apostolović Milan , Radulovic Marko
Published: August 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Cis-acting Super-Enhancer lncRNAs as Biomarkers of Early-Stage Breast Cancer
Authors: Ropri Ali Salman , DeVaux Rebecca , Eng Jonah , Chittur Sridar V. , Herschkowitz Jason
Published: August 2021

Background Increased breast cancer screening over the past four decades has led to a substantial rise in the diagnosis of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Although DCIS lesions precede invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), they do not always transform into cancer. The current standard-of-care for DCIS is an aggressive course of therapy to prevent invasive and metastatic disease resulting in over-diagnosis and over-treatment. Thus, there is a critical need to identify functional determinants of progression of DCIS to IDC to allow discrimination between indolent and aggressive disease. Recent studies show that super-enhancers, in addition to promoting other gene transcription, are themselves transcribed producing super-enhancer associated long noncoding RNAs (SE-lncRNAs). These SE-lncRNAs can interact with their associated enhancer regions in cis and influence activities and expression of neighboring genes. Furthermore, they represent a novel, untapped group of therapeutic targets.MethodsWith an integrative analysis of enhancer loci with global expression of SE-lncRNAs in the MCF10A progression series, we have identified differentially expressed SE-lncRNAs which can identify mechanisms for DCIS to IDC progression. Furthermore, cross-referencing these SE-lncRNAs with patient samples in the TCGA database, we have unveiled 31 clinically relevant SE-lncRNAs that potentially interact with their enhancer to regulate nearby gene expression. To complement SE-lncRNA expression studies, we conducted an unbiased global analysis of super-enhancers that are acquired or lost in progression. ResultsHere we designate SE-lncRNAs RP11-379F4.4 and RP11-465B22.8 as potential markers of progression of DCIS to IDC through regulation of the expression of their neighboring genes (RARRES1 and miR200b respectively). Moreover, we classified 403 super-enhancer regions in MCF10A normal cells, 627 in AT1, 1053 in DCIS, and 320 in CA1 cells. Comparison analysis of acquired/lost super-enhancer regions with super-enhancer regions classified in 47 ER positive patients, 10 Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) patients, and 11 TNBC cell lines reveal critically acquired pathways including STAT signaling and NF-kB signaling. In contrast, protein folding and local estrogen production are identified as major pathways lost in progression.ConclusionCollectively, these analyses identify differentially expressed SE-lncRNAs and acquired/lost super-enhancers in progression of breast cancer important for promoting DCIS lesions to IDC.
Molecular Epidemiological Characteristics of Human Rhinovirus Circulating in Shanghai, 2012 - 2020
Authors: Jiang Haixia , Yang Chunyi , Lu Yanping , Yi Zhigang , Wang Wei
Published: August 2021

Background

Human Rhinoviruses (HRVs) are a common respiratory virus causing acute exacerbations of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other related diseases. The sequence of 5’ untranslated region (UTR) and VP4/VP2 coding region of the genome are usually analyzed to classify HRV as HRV-A, HRV-B and HRV-C. Given the interest for new viral strains, we identified the phylogenetic characteristics and molecular epidemiological analysis of human rhinovirus in Shanghai from 2012 to 2020.
Methods

6711 throat swabs and sputum samples from patients with acute respiratory infection (ARI) were collected, then the real-time reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) method was used to detect HRV. And the fragment of 5 ' untranslated region (5'UTR) and the VP4/VP2 region were amplified for sequencing and gene typing.
Results

In total, 480/6711(7.2%) HRV-positive samples were detected from 2012–2020, in which 160 samples were further genotyped to HRV-A (109/160, 68.13%), HRV-B (32/160, 20.00%), HRV-C (19/160, 11.88%). We found 13 samples with unclassified results using 5'UTR. Then, these unclassified sample were genotyped to HRV-A and HRV-C by sequencing the VP4/VP2 region. The high incidence of HRV infection occurs in the fall and it is more prevalent in children than in adults.
Conclusion

Our study suggests that it is very significant to continuously detect and analyze the genotype distribution and epidemic trend of HRV, which can provide data support for disease prevention and treatment. And the 5' UTR and VP4/VP2 should be combined for HRV genotyping accurately.
Robust Adaptive Super-twisting Sliding Mode Stability Control for Underactuated Rotary Inverted Pendulum with Experimental Validation
Authors: Mofid Omid , Alattas Khalid A , Mobayen Saleh
Published: August 2021

In this paper, an adaptive proportional-integral-derivative (PID) sliding mode control method combined with super-twisting algorithm is designed for the stabilization control of rotary inverted pendulum system in the appearance of exterior perturbation. The state-space model of rotary inverted pendulum in the presence of exterior disturbance is obtained. Then, the super-twisting PID sliding mode controller is designed for finite time stability control of this underactuated control system. The upper bounds of perturbation are presumed to be unknown; accordingly, the adaptive control procedure is taken to approximate the uncertain bound of the external disturbances. The stability control of rotary inverted pendulum system is proved by means of the Lyapunov stability theory. In order to validate accuracy and efficiency of the recommended control technique, some simulation outcomes are prepared and compared with other existing method. Moreover, experimental results are implemented to show the success of the proposed method.