bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review of Lessons Learned in Changing Agricultural Landscapes in Ethiopia: What Worked Well and What Didn’t Work so Well?
Authors: Haileslassie Amare , Mekuria Wolde , schmitter Petra , Uhlenbrook Stefan , Ludi Eva
Published: October 2020

Ethiopia has decades of experience in implementing land and water management interventions. Nonetheless, there remains persisting challenges to follow an adaptive management (AM) approach in efforts of restoring and transforming agricultural landscapes. This review was carried out to synthesize evidences on the impact on agricultural landscapes following the implementation of land and water management practices and to evaluate the use of AM approaches. We explored how elements of the structures and functions of landscapes have been transformed, and how the components of AM, such as structured decision-making and learning processes, have been applied. Despite numerous environmental and economic benefits of land and water management interventions in Ethiopia, this review revealed gaps in AM approaches. These include: (i) insufficient efforts in relation to evidence based contextualization of interventions, (ii) insufficient efforts in monitoring of bio-physical and socio-economic processes and changes post implementation, (iii) lack of trade-off analyses, and (iv) inadequacy of local community engagement and provision of feedback. Given the many uncertainties we must deal with, efforts to restore and transform agricultural landscapes cannot follow a business-as-usual approach. Future investment, in AM approach, tailored to the needs and context would help to achieve the goals of sustainable agricultural landscape transformation. The success depends on three interdependent pillars of action: the ability to make a robust, co-developed plan of interventions, the ability to continuously monitor changes based on key variables, and to learn from the knowledge generated and apply the learning as implementation evolves.
Genomic Fabric Remodeling in Metastatic Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma (ccRCC): A New Paradigm and Proposal for a Personalized Gene Therapy Approach
Authors: Iacobas Dumitru A , Mgbemena Victoria E , Iacobas Sanda , Menezes Kareena M , Wang Huichen , Saganti Premkumar B
Published: October 2020

Published transcriptomic data from surgically removed metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) samples were re-analyzed from the Genomic Fabric Perspective that considers the transcriptome a multi-dimensional mathematical object, constrained by a dynamic set of expression correlations among genes. Every gene in the chest wall metastasis (MET), two primary tumors (PTA, PTB) and the surrounding normal tissue (NOR) of the right kidney was characterized by three independent measures: average expression level (AVE), relative expression variation (REV) and expression correlation (COR) with each other gene. AVE was used to determine the regulation of the genomic fabrics of ccRCC, apoptosis, chemokine and VEGF signaling pathways. REV quantified the alteration of the transcripts’ abundances control, while COR determined the remodeling of the transcriptomic networks of chemokine signaling and oxidative phosphorylation genes. The gene hierarchy was established in based on Gene Commanding Height and the Gene Master Regulators (GMR) TASOR (PTA), FAM27C (PTB) and ALG13 (MET) and DAPK3 (NOR) were identified in each profiled region. We predict that TASOR overexpression would block transcription in PTA but not in PTB, while slightly stimulating it in NOR. Silencing of ALG3 would slow-down the cell-cycle in all three cancer regions with practically no effect in NOR.
Mirrors for Space Telescopes: Degradation Issues
Authors: Garoli Denis , Rodriguez de Marcos Luis V. , Larruquert Juan I. , Corso Alain J. , Proietti Zaccaria Remo , Pelizzo Maria G.
Published: October 2020

Mirrors are a subset of optical components essential for the success of current and future space missions. Most of the telescopes for space programs ranging from Earth Observation to Astrophysics and covering the whole electromagnetic spectrum from X-rays to Far-Infrared are based on reflective optics. Mirrors operate in diverse and harsh environments that range from Low-Earth Orbit, to interplanetary orbits and the deep space. The operational life of space observatories spans from minutes (sounding rockets) to decades (large observatories), and the performance of the mirrors within the mission lifetime is susceptible to degrade, which results in a drop of the instrument throughput, which in turn affects the scientific return. Therefore, the knowledge of potential degradation mechanisms, how they affect mirror performance, and how to prevent them is of paramount importance to ensure the long-term success of space telescopes. In this review we report an overview on current mirror technology for space missions with a focus on the importance of degradation and radiation resistance of the coating materials. A special attention will be given to degradation effects on mirrors for the far and extreme UV as in these ranges the degradation is enhanced by the strong absorption of most contaminants.
Rise of The Tools and Dawn of The Giants: Defaunation of Paleo Mammals of Pawon 6-9 ka
Authors: Wibowo Andri
Published: October 2020

One of factors causing decline of paleo fauna is related to the hunting activities and the use of tools by early hominin. This study aims to observe the relationships of tools and abundances of mammals in early hominin occupancy in Pawon cave for the period of 6000-9000 year ago (ka). The results show low abundances of medium to large mammals. While obsidian tools numbers were observed high. From 8 to 9 ka there were abrupt reductions and followed with the disappearance of medium-large sized mammals included Tragulidae and Bovidae in 6 ka. Simultaneously, uses of obsidian tools in 8-9 ka were common. The reconstructed paleo climate may contribute to the decline of paleo mammal abundances. The temperatures were increasing from 27 0C in 9 ka to 28 0C in 6 ka. Periods of 6-7 ka were indicated by declines of Bovidae and obsidian tools as well. Nonetheless in these periods, there were increase in numbers of pottery and Suidae remains indicated the transition from hunting-gatherer to sedentary prehistoric life
Measuring Lift-off Distance and Electromagnetic Property of Metal Using Dual-Frequency Linearity Feature
Authors: Lu Mingyang , Meng Xiaobai , Huang Ruochen , Chen Liming , Peyton Anthony , Yin Wuliang
Published: October 2020

Lift-offs of the sensor could significantly affect the measurement signal and reconstruction of material properties when using the electromagnetic (inductive) eddy current sensor. Previously, various methods (including novel sensor designs, and features like zero-crossing frequency, lift-off point of intercept) have been used for eliminating the measurement error caused by the lift-off distance effect of the sensor. However, these approaches can only be applied for a small range of lift-off variations. In this paper, a linear relationship has been found between the sensor lift-off and ratio of dual-frequency eddy current signals, particularly under the high working dual frequencies. Based on this linear relationship, the lift-off variation can be reconstructed firstly with a small error of 2.5 % when its actual value is up to 10 mm (10.1 % for 20 mm). The reconstructed lift-off is used to further get the property of the material under a low single frequency. Experiments on different ferrous metals have been carried out for the testing of the reconstruction scheme. Since the inductance is more sensitive to the material property (and less sensitive to the lift-off) under low frequencies, the reconstruction error of the material property is much smaller than that of the lift-off, with 1.4 % under 12 mm (and 4.5 % under 20 mm).
Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Sugarcane Response to Aluminum Stress by RNA-Seq
Authors: Rosa-Santos Thiago Mateus , Silva Renan Gonçalves da , Kumar Poornasree , Kottapalli Pratibha , Crasto Chiquito , Kottapalli Kameswara Rao , França Suzelei Castro , Zingaretti Sonia Marli
Published: October 2020

Sugarcane is an important sugar-source crop. As any other plant, it can be exposed to several abiotic stress conditions. Though some metals contribute to critical physiological processes in plants, the presence of aluminum ions (Al3+) can be very toxic. In order to develop plants that flourish in acidic soils, it is critical to gain insights into the molecular mechanisms of sugarcane response to aluminum stress. To determine the genes involved in sugarcane response to aluminum stress we generated 372 million paired-end RNA sequencing reads, from roots of CTC-2 and RB855453 two contrasting cultivars. Data normalization resulted in 162,161 contigs and 97,335 trinity genes. After the read cutoff, the differentially expressed genes were 4,858 in CTC-2 and 1,307 in the RB855453, Treatment Vs Control, respectively. The differentially expressed genes were annotated into 34 functional categories. The majority of the genes were upregulated in the CTC-2 (tolerant cultivar) and down regulated in RB855453 (sensitive cultivar). Here, we present the first root-transcriptome of sugarcane under aluminum stress. The results and conclusions of this study provide a valuable resource for future genetic and genomic studies in sugarcane. This transcriptome analysis points out that sugarcane tolerance to aluminum may be explained by an efficient detoxification mechanism combined with the lateral root formation and activation of redox enzymes. Following our results, we present here, a hypothetical model for the aluminum tolerance in CTC-2 cultivar.
Non-Coding RNAs: Uncharted Mediators of Thyroid Cancer Pathogenesis
Authors: Tabatabaeian Hossein , Yang Peiling Samantha , Tay Yvonne
Published: October 2020

Thyroid cancer is the most prevalent malignancy of the endocrine system and the ninth most common cancer globally. Despite the advances in the management of thyroid cancer, there are critical issues with the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid cancer that result in the poor overall survival of undifferentiated and metastatic thyroid cancer patients. Recent studies have revealed the role of different non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), such as microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs) that are dysregulated during thyroid cancer development or the acquisition of resistance to therapeutics, and may play key roles in treatment failure and poor prognosis of the thyroid cancer patients. Here, we systematically review the emerging roles and molecular mechanisms of ncRNAs that regulate thyroid tumorigenesis and drug response. We then propose the potential clinical implications of ncRNAs as novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for thyroid cancer.
The school's function and the influence of cultural capital on students' performance
Authors: Carmignolli Andreza Olivieri Lopes , Muzzeti Luci Regina , Oliveira Maria Fernanda Celli de
Published: October 2020

This is an excerpt of a master’s dissertation titled “The influence of cultural, social and economic capitals on the students’ school trajectory success”. It aimed to analyse how cultural capital influences the students' school performance through their family's mores and school experiences, when observing their behaviours regarding musical styles, reading practices and sports activities. The family environment is where people initially acquire cultural capital, being legitimized within a set of socially recognized knowledge and cultural assets. The studies of Pierre Bourdieu through the concepts of habitus, cultural, economic and social capital guided the theoretical reference. We chose the qualitative research method named Bourdieusian praxeology, because it is related to the restructuring of the habitus. The results of the work show how important is the partnership between the school and the family for a successful school performance.
Optimization of the Verkhnechonskoye Field Development Process by Mapping Geomechanical Properties and Stresses
Authors: Kuleshov Vasiliy , Pavlov Valeriy , Pavlyukov Nikolay , Korolev Dmitriy , Samoilov Mikhail , Kozyrev Aleksandr
Published: October 2020

On the basis of geological, hydrodynamic and 1D geomechanical models based on full-wave sonic log, results of AVO-inversion from 3D seismic survey, a 3D/4D sector geological and geomechanical model of the Verkhnechonskoye field has been constructed. A large number of vertical wells with the availability full-wave sonic log data and its uniform distribution over the field area allowed us to characterize the research interval in details in terms of elastic and strength characteristics. A wide range of input data was used to calibrate the model: MDT and XPT data, core laboratory studies, and hydraulic fracturing data.

It was the first time for the VCH1 and VCH2 groups formations of the Verkhnechonskoye oil and gas condensate field geomechanical model was introduced into the permanent geological and technological model of the field. A comprehensive approach has been implemented to assess the geomechanical risks of hydraulic fracturing over the field area with calibration based on the actual results of hydraulic fracturing.
Multi-Interval Hydraulic Sandblast Perforation of Wells with Selective Hydraulic Fracturing. Application Results, Prospects
Authors: Sabitov Ramil Magirovich , Panasenko Aleksey Andreevich , Rodionov Anton Vladimirovich , Khakimov Timur Alfredovich
Published: October 2020

This article proposes one of the methods of process operation optimization for hydraulic fracturing (HF) in wells with horizontal completion.

The aim of the approach is to increase well productivity within the target intervals, reduction of hydraulic fracturing time.

Results of analytical work on assessment of alternative technologies applied contributed to search and test of the new approach, as a result of this analytical work the conditions for various technological solutions for stimulation of wells with horizontal completion were developed and advanced technologies, methods, procedures of selective reservoir stimulation were searched.

One of the methods studied was determined as the potential method for operational tests. This method was tested in 18 wells of operating stock for various geological and technical conditions (various diameter and type of liner completion).

As a result of works executed, the performance targets were achieved: planned process efficiency, labor content was reduced, and hydraulic fracturing time was optimized.

Taking into account availability of positive results of technology application at the company's fields, it was recommended for distribution at the similar targets, including the possibility of testing in wells that are put into production from drilling with HF.
Efficacy of Unilateral Ilioinguinal Transversus Abdominis Plane Block for Alleviation of Catheter-related Bladder Discomfort in Male Patients after Emergence from General Anesthesia: a Prospective, Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Zhao Xiyue , Wang Liangrong , Hu Yi , Chen Lei
Published: October 2020

Research Square has withdrawn this preprint due to ethical concerns.
Demographic and cardiovascular risk factors associated with drug use in truck drivers in the state of São Paulo, Brazil: A cross-sectional study.
Authors: Pereira Mariana Moura , Mansur Antonio Padua , Takada Julio Yoshio , Leyton Vilma
Published: October 2020

Background: The irregular routine of truck drivers favors the development of chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), especially cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), which can be exacerbated by the use of illicit drugs. This study analyzed the association between the previous use of illicit drugs by truck drivers with the health risk variables.Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out with data from 2,071 truck drivers who traveled through the state of São Paulo between 2010 and 2016. Socioeconomic and occupational variables, risk factors for CVD, use of illicit drugs were analyzed. Clinical and toxicological tests were also carried out. The stepwise logistic regression model was used for adjusted analysis. The dependent variable was previous use of illicit drugs, and the independent variables were those with p<0.1 at bivariate analysis.Results: The average age of the truck drivers was 42.27 ± 11.07 years, and the use of illicit drugs, at least once while working, was reported or detected in 388 (18.7%) drivers. Compared to non-users, drug users were younger (37.25 ± 9.45 vs. 43.43 ± 11.1 years; p <0.001) and single (43.3% vs. 28.4%; p <0.001). The independent variables age [OR = 0.93 (95% CI: 0.91 - 0.95; p<0.001)], smoking [OR = 2.18 (95% CI: 1.39 - 3.44; p = 0.001)], alcohol consumption [OR = 1.626 (95% CI: 1.06 - 2.49; p = 0.026)] and hours of driving per day [OR = 1.08 (95% CI: 1.01 - 1.15; p = 0.012)] were also associated with the use of illicit drugs.Conclusion: The use of illicit drugs was higher in young and single drivers and was associated with a higher prevalence of smoking, alcohol consumption and more driving hours, which are risk factors for NCDs, CVD and traffic accidents.
Screening for Genetic Variants Suggests β-fibrinogen -455 G/A Genotype as a Contributor to Cardiovascular Complications in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Ivelina Mihaleva , Maria Mincheva , Mariela Hristova-Savova , Veronika Petkova , Rumen Nikolov , Markova Tzvetanka , Pavlina Gateva , Dimova Ivanka
Published: October 2020

Background

Diabetes mellitus is associated with a wide range of cardiovascular diseases that comprise the largest cause of both morbidity and mortality for the diabetic patients. Our objective was to study the allelic and genotypic frequencies of genetic variants that have shown a strong association with cardiovascular disease in diabetic patients with and without cardiovascular complications and to assess the additional contribution of genetic variation in determining the risk for such complications.
Methods

We have used cardiovascular disease StripAssay kit (Vienna Lab) based on polymerase chain reaction and reverse hybridization. The following mutations were studied: FV G1691A (Leiden), FV H1299R (R2), Prothrombin G20210A, Factor XIII V34L, β-Fibrinogen − 455 G-A, PAI-1 4G/5G, GPIIIa L33P (HPA-1), MTHFR C677T, MTHFR A1298C, ACE I/D, Apo B R3500Q, Apo E2/E3/E4. 36 diabetic patients divided in 2 groups were analyzed: 1) 20 diabetic patients with cardiovascular disease and 2) 16 diabetic patients without cardiovascular disease.
Results

We found higher than population frequency for the following alleles/genotypes – 5.5% for FV Leiden allele, 9.7% for FVR2 allele, 38.9% for β-Fibrinogen genotype − 455G/A, 58.9% for PAI-1 4G allele, 36.1% for ACE D/D genotype. Statistically higher frequency was established for β-Fibrinogen − 455 G-A in the patients with cardiovascular disease compared to non- cardiovascular disease (55% vs. 18.7%).
Conclusions

We detected high frequency of β-Fibrinogen − 455 G/A genotype in diabetic patients, especially in these with cardiovascular disease. Based on its pro-inflammatory role and its connection to possible thrombotic events, patients would benefit from anti-inflammatory treatment.
Assessment of dental arch relationships in 5-year-old children with unilateral cleft lip and palate after neonatal cleft lip repair
Authors: Rousi Margarita , Brysova Alena , Vokurkova Jitka , Koskova Olga , Holla Lydie Izakovicova
Published: October 2020

Background

Non-syndromic cleft lip and palate (CLP) is one of the most common craniofacial malformations. The purpose of this study was to assess the dental arch relationships in 5-year-old children with non-syndromic unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) and to compare the results with the data published by other cleft centers.
Methods

The models of forty-six patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate taken at the age of five were scored. Neonatal cleft lip repair and one-stage palatal closure at the age from 6 to 13 months were performed in all patients by the same surgeon according to the same protocol. The outcomes of the dental arch relationships were assessed and categorized by three orthodontists experienced in cleft care; for scoring the 5 Year Olds´ index was used.
Results

The mean score of the 5 Year Olds´ index was 2.42. Of all the patients, 57% belonged to groups 1 and 2 (good result), 24% to group 3 (fair result), and 19% to groups 4 and 5 (poor result). These results were compared with the data published by other cleft centers. The outcomes of our method were comparable to the results achieved by other cleft centers which followed different surgical protocols.
Conclusions

The results of our study showed that neonatal cleft lip repair and one-stage palatal closure lead to satisfactory maxillary growth and interdental relationships.
The Effectiveness of Binaural Beat Audio on Anxiety State In Patients Undergoing Fiberoptic Bronchoscopy: A Prospective Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Opartpunyasarn Pornchai , Vichitvejpaisal Pornpattana , Oer-areemitr Nittha
Published: October 2020

Background: Fiberoptic bronchoscopy is an invasive procedure known to contribute anxiety in patients. Binaural beat, an audio technology with different frequency between ears to entrain the brainwaves, has been used to reduce anxiety in some operations. This study aimed to determine the anxiolytic effects of binaural beat in patients undergoing fiberoptic bronchoscopy. Methods: All eligible subjects were randomly assigned to receive binaural beat music, plain music, or no music. They were asked to wear earphones approximately 15 minutes before, during, and after the bronchoscopy. The level of anxiety was measured with State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) questionnaires. Blood pressure, heart rate, and sedative drug use were also recorded.Results: One hundred and twelve subjects were included and randomised into 3 groups, including binaural beat music (n=38), plain music (n=38), and no music (n=36). Baseline characteristics were non-significantly different between the groups. The mean change of post-bronchoscopy STAI state scores in binaural beat music, plain music, and no music groups was -7.26 (p<0.001), -3.92 (p=0.005), and -1.12 (p=0.454), respectively. The mean systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure were significantly decreased from baseline for -9.89 (p=0.002) and -5.76 (p=0.005), respectively in binaural group. The mean heart rate were increased from baseline for 3.32 (p=0.035), 5.21 (p=0.038), and 3.64 (p=0.149) in binaural beat music, plain music, and no music groups, respectively.Conclusions: The binaural beat music was proven to reduce anxiety among patients undergoing fiberoptic bronchoscopy.Trial registration: TCTR, TCTR20200915002. Registered 14 September 2020 - Retrospectively registered.
Targeted Quality Improvement Project Dramatically Reduced Admission Hypothermia in Very Low Birth Weight Infant in China: A Multicentre Study
Authors: Wang Li , Yu Yong-hui , Liu Zhi-jie , Liu Feng-min , Bi Shu-yu , Li Bin , Xu Hai-yan , Yang Chun-yan
Published: October 2020

Background: Hypothermia is still a common problem and is associated with increased mortality and morbidity in preterm infants, especially in China. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a targeted quality improvement (QI) project of hypothermia preventive measures in very low-birth weight (VLBW) infants in 3 tertiary neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) in China.Methods: Based on the literature, our preliminary findings and the needs of each unit, our team decided to focus efforts on equipment (transport incubator, pre-warmed hats and polyethylene wrap), team training and education, as well as temperature documentation and workflow. The primary outcome measure was the incidence of hypothermia, defined as temperature (rectal temperature) below 36.5ºC on admission to the NICU. This quality improvement (QI) initiative used the rapid cycle Plan - Do - Study - Act (PDSA) approach. The outcomes of pre–quality improvement (pre-QI) group (January 1, 2018– December 31, 2018) were compared with post-QI group (January 1, 2019–December 31, 2019). The study enrolled preterm infants born at less than 32 weeks’ gestation with very low birth weight less than 1500 g born at 3 academic, tertiary-care hospitals including Shandong Provincial Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, LiaoCheng People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University between January 2018 and December 2019.Results: A total of 636 VLBW infants were included in this analysis, of which 235 infants (36.9%) were included in the pre-QI group and 295 infants (46.4%) in the post-QI group. The incidence of hypothermia decreased significantly from 92.3% to 62% (P < 0.001), and the mean body temperature on admission to NICU increased significantly from 35.5˚C to 36˚C (P < 0.001). There were one cases (0.3%) of neonatal hyperthermia. Infants in the post-QI group had lower rates of mortality (16.1% vs 8.8%, P = 0.01). Conclusions: Targeted interventions can dramatically reduce admission hypothermia and improve the outcome of VLBW infants in China.
RNA Sequencing Reveals Transcriptomic Changes in Tobacco (Nicotiana Tabacum) Following NtCPS2 Knockout
Authors: Xu Shixiao , He Lingxiao , Liu Huabing , Cheng Changhe , Cai Dongfang , Sun Jutao , Yang Tiezhao , Xue Gang , Xu Qingquan
Published: October 2020

Background: Amber-like compounds form in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) during leaf curing and impact aromatic quality. In particular, cis-abienol, a polycyclic labdane-related diterpenoid, is of research interest as a precursor of these compounds. Glandular trichome cells specifically express copalyl diphosphate synthase (NtCPS2) at high levels in tobacco, which, together with NtABS, are major regulators of cis-abienol biosynthesis in tobacco. Results: To identify the genes involved in the biosynthesis of cis-abienol in tobacco, we constructed transgenic tobacco lines based on an NtCPS2 gene-knockout model, using CRISPR/Cas9 genome-editing technology to inhibit NtCPS2 function in vitro. In mutant plants, cis-abienol and labdene-diol contents decreased, whereas gibberellin and abscisic acid (ABA) contents increased compared with those in wild-type tobacco plants. RNA sequencing analysis revealed the presence of 9,514 differentially expressed genes (DEGs; 4,279 upregulated, 5,235 downregulated) when the leaves of wild-type and NtCPS2-knockout tobacco plants were screened. Among these DEGs, the genes encoding cis-abienol synthase, ent-kaurene oxidase, auxin/ABA-related proteins, and transcription factors were found to be involved in various biological and physiochemical processes, including diterpenoid biosynthesis, plant hormone signal transduction, plant-pathogen interactions, etc. Conclusions: Our findings provide clues to the molecular regulatory mechanism underlying NtCPS2 activity, allowing for a better understanding of the interactions among related genes in tobacco.
SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Evolution may Cause Difficulties for Vaccine
Authors: Zhou Jian , Jingjing Sun , Lu Gang , Wang Wanchun , Wang Lin
Published: October 2020

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) poses a great threat to human health and life. We performed a bioinformatics analysis to compare the sequence, structure, and epitopes of SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein in 10 different countries. Methods: The amino acid sequences of SARS-CoV-2 S protein were obtained from the NCBI database. We used DNASTAR Lasergene software to analyze the protein’s secondary structures. SWISS-MODEL combined with VMD software was used to construct a 3D model of SARS-CoV-2 S protein. DNASTAR Protean and the IEDB database were used to analyze the B cell epitopes and T cell epitopes, respectively. Results: The results of B cell epitopes analysis indicated that the epitopes of SARS-CoV-2 S protein in Korea and American increased, which suggested that the antigenicity of SARS-CoV-2 in Czech, Korea and American might be enhanced. A small number of B cell epitopes disappeared in the SARS-CoV-2 S protein sequence from Greece, Australia, Sweden and India, which suggested that the antigenicity of SARS-CoV-2 in Greece, Australia, Sweden and India may be weakened. T cell epitope analysis indicated that the antigenicity of SARS-CoV-2 in Czech, Korea and American was enhanced, while antigenicity of SARS-CoV-2 in Greece, Australia, Inida, Sweden and Thailand may be weakened. The sequence of SARS-CoV-2 S protein has changed as the virus has spread, and the structures and epitopes have changed accordingly. Conclusion: The mutation leads to a decrease in the antigenicity of SARS-CoV-2, which may be a mechanism for the virus to evade surveillance by the immune system.
Establishment of a Method for The Distinguishment of Taxilli Herba Parasitizing Mulberry, Willow, and Cinnamon Based on Dual-Component Measurement 
Authors: Chai Zishu , Ru Mei , Su Benwei , Liu Renyuan , Lu Hailin , Li Lizhang , Zhu Kaixin , Qin Wenhui , Li Yonghua
Published: October 2020

Background: Taxilli Herba (TH) is a commonly used Chinese medicinal herb that parasitizes different tree types, but objective methods to determine its quality and detect contamination from host substances have not been reported. Thus, we aimed to establish methods to improve the safety and quality of TH. Methods: We collected 10 samples each of TH hosted by mulberry, willow, and cinnamon trees from different regions and batches, along with twigs of the corresponding host trees. Samples were prepared by ultrasonic extraction with methanol as a solvent. HPLC was used to measure the content of quercitrin, the intrinsic component of TH, as well as of morusin, salicin, and cinnamaldehyde, characteristic of mulberry, willow, and cinnamon, respectively.Results: Quercitrin was detected in all host trees but not in host twigs. However, the accumulation of the characteristic components of the hosts in TH substantially varied among the three hosts. The contents of morusin, salicin, and cinnamaldehyde in mulberry, willow, and cinnamon twigs were 134.78-437.60, 1787.91-2564.65 and 7219.36-10783.21 µg/g respectively, and the corresponding values in TH obtained from mulberry, willow, and cinnamon were 0.27-4.27、102.62-545.83 and 11.33-120.97 µg/g, respectively. Conclusions: The host influences TH quality to varying degrees via the transfer of characteristic components. In this study, we successfully detailed a potentially generalizable, accurate, and reproducible dual-component measurement method to identify the TH host.
Identification of Core Genes Related with Trophinin-Associated Protein (TROAP) Expression in Liver Cancer
Authors: Ji Bai , Cai Hongqiao , Jiao Yan , Liu Yahui
Published: October 2020

Background: Liver cancer is one of the malignant tumors with the highest incidence in the world. Trophinin-associated protein (TROAP) was related with prognosis in liver cancer. However, the core genes associated with TROAP have not been identified yet. Methods: In this study, we performed in vitro cell experiments and bioinformatics analysis including screening of differentially expressed genes (DEGs), gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Gene and Genome (KEGG) enrichment analysis. Hub genes with high degree of connectivity was picked out by establishing protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. Results: Our in vitro cell experiments suggested that down regulation of TROAP inhibited the proliferation and migration of liver cancer cells. A total of 20530 genes were analyzed and 953 differential expressed genes including 529 up-regulated DEGs and 424 down-regulated DEGs were detected. 10 hub genes with higher degree of connectivity including BUB1B, TOP2A, KIF23, UBE2C, KIF15, CDC20, PLK1, HJURP, BUB1, and DLGAP5 were selected. Conclusions: Our study may provide some evidence for the future genomic individualized treatment of liver cancer.
Urban-rural differences in catastrophic health expenditure among households with chronic non-communicable disease patients: evidence from China Family Panel Studies
Authors: Fu Xian-zhi , Sun Qi-wei , Sun Chang-qing , Xu Fei , He Jun-jian
Published: October 2020

BackgroundThe prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) challenges the Chinese health system reform. Little is known for the differences in catastrophic health expenditure (CHE) between urban and rural households with NCD patients. This study aims to measure the differences above and quantify the contribution of each variable in explaining the urban-rural differences.MethodsThe second and the fourth waves of the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) data, conducted in 2012 and 2016, were employed in this cross-sectional study. The techniques of Fairlie nonlinear decomposition and Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition were employed to measure the contribution of each independent variable to the urban-rural differences.ResultsThe CHE incidence and intensity of households with NCD patients were significantly higher in rural areas than in urban areas. The explained disparity of CHE incidence increased from 3.15% in 2012 to 27.04% in 2016, and the corresponding values of CHE intensity rose from 21.30% in 2012 to 53.37% in 2016. The major contribution to the urban-rural differences in CHE was associated with household economic status, education level, health status and supplementary medical insurance (SMI).ConclusionsCompared with urban households with NCD patients, rural households with NCD patients have higher risk of incurring CHE and heavier economic burden of diseases. Policy interventions should give priority to decreasing the urban-rural disparity in observable characteristics mentioned above.
Increased interleukin-6 levels in neuron-derived plasma small extracellular vesicles of subarachnoid haemorrhage patients
Authors: Lai Niansheng , Yao Yang , Yu Tao , Xia Dayong , Zhao Xintong , Wu Degang , Li Zhenbao , Fang Xinggen , Sheng Bin
Published: October 2020

Background: Aneurismal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is a serious type of stroke with high mortality and disability. Identifying circulating biomarkers is helpful to improve theranostics of aSAH. In this study, we are for the first time to report circulating interleukin-6(IL-6) in neuron-derived small extracellular vesicles(NDSEVs) were identified to be the potential biomarkers in prognosis of aSAH. Methods: We extracted small extracellular vesicles from the plasma of aSAH patients and healthy controls and were enriched by sequential precipitation and anti-L1CAM antibody immunoabsorption. Subsequently,we determined IL-6 levels by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Result: Plasma IL-6 NDSEVs showed distinct pattern differences between aSAH patients and healthy controls. The IL-6 NDSEVs levels were increased and positively associated with disease monitoring and prognosis of aSAH patients. These data suggest an elevated neuroinflammatory cascade in aSAH patients. Conclusion: The IL-6 NDSEVs maybe prospective biomarkers to indicate its progression, and thus may own great potential in applications such as prognostic evaluation of aSAH in the near future.
Research on Chinese word-formation
Authors: Feng Lang
Published: October 2020

Pinyin text uses letters that are closely related to speech to record speech, but we don’t know much about how ideographic text is represented. We analyzed the relationship between the glyph and the meaning of nine thousand Chinese characters and found that the combination of the glyph is actually to construct imagery, and this imagery is the psychological representation of the experience situation that forms the concept of its character, so the meaning and glyph of the characters are ideographically connected. We find out the imagery and system structure of these 9,000 Chinese characters, and summarize the five cognitive modes of their combination. These results reveal the ideographic mechanism of the dual-code hierarchical combination of the internal formation of Chinese characters and its imagery, demonstrate the application of cognitive linguistics and cognitive psychology in the study of ideographic characters, and put forward a guiding theory of Chinese word-formation.
Braking-Style-Based Optimization for Regenerative Braking System of an Electric Commercial Vehicle
Authors: Pi Da-wei , Xue Peng-yu , Cheng Qing , Chu Wen-bo , Fan Jing-jing , Xie Bo-yuan
Published: October 2020

With the development of intelligent transportation system, intelligent network technology has been studied on a large scale in vehicle field. Electrification of vehicles and drive-by-wire chassis provide possibilities for the application of connected autonomous electrified vehicles. Regenerative braking control is an important field among drive-by-wire chassis control technologies. Regenerative braking control is a multi-objective optimization problem, which has the aim of improving regenerative energy efficiency, brake performance, and brake comfort. Therefore, a model predictive control (MPC) is proposed to solve the problem with consideration of different brake styles, such as aggressive, moderate and conservative. Then, the models of the main components associated with the regenerative braking system are designed and built up in a typical deceleration process for simulation and analysis. The simulation results show that the aggressive style mode is the best brake performance, which cause issues on brake comfort as well. The conservative style mode makes full use of motor braking and has advantage of the brake comfort and regenerative energy efficiency. But, it is not good at rapid braking performance of low brake intensity. The moderate style mode is suitable for most drivers, which is balanced of the above characteristics. Finally, experimental tests under ECE driving cycle are also carried out to further verify the characteristics of proposed three brake modes.
Are "fibrosis-like" strips on chest CT in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia true fibrosis?
Authors: Sun Qiulian , Xu Xinjian , Yang Hai , Wang Guanliang , Li Jingjing , Wu Juan
Published: October 2020

Objective: To investigate the evolution and characteristics of "fibrosis-like" strips on chest CT in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia. Methods: From January 17, 2020, to February 27, 2020, inpatients diagnosed with COVID-19 pneumonia in Enze Hospital, Taizhou, Zhejiang Province, were selected. The chest CT data of the patients were collected, and patients were included in the present study according to the predefined inclusion criteria. The dynamic evolution process and outcome of "fibrosis-like" strips on chest CT were analyzed.Results: A total of 36 patients (20 males and 16 females) with COVID-19 were included in the study, all of whom were diagnosed with mild or common COVID-19; "fibrosis-like" strips were observed in 29 patients (80.6%) on the first chest CT scan, and "fibrosis-like" strips were observed in 7 patients (19.4%) on the second chest CT scan, Repeated chest CT during the course of treatment showed that all patients with "fibrosis-like" strips had varying degrees of absorption. "Fibrosis-like" strips in 15 patients demonstrated a trend of first increasing in number, and then decreasing in number; "fibrosis-like" strips in 3 patients demonstrated a trend of first decreasing in number first, followed by an increase in number and then a decrease in number; and "fibrosis-like" strips in 18 patients demonstrated a trend of a gradual decrease in number. Follow-up chest CT after treatment showed that "fibrosis-like" strips in 15 patients completely disappeared in both lungs, and "fibrosis-like" strips completely disappeared in unilateral lung of 8 cases.Conclusion: In the present study, we observed that "fibrosis-like" strips in COVID-19 patients had characteristics of early appearance and rapid morphological changes as well as rapid absorption, suggesting that "fibrosis-like" strips may be a sign of subsegmental atelectasis rather than fibrotic changes.
CXCL12, A Potential Biomarker and A Vital Modulator of Tumor Immune Microenvironment (TIME) of Bladder Cancer: From A Comprehensive Analysis of TCGA Database
Authors: Wang Jinyan , Wang Jinqiu , Gu Quan , Yang Yan , Ma Yajun , zhang quanan
Published: October 2020

Background: Tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) played a significant role in the initiation and progression of bladder cancer (BC). However, there are few researches regarding the association between immune-related genes (IRGs) and tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TICs) in TME of BC. Methods: We calculated the proportion of immune/stromal component and TICs in TME of 414 BC samples and 19 normal samples downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database with the help of ESTIMATE and CIBERSORT algorithms. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained from the comparison between Stromal and Immune Score and further analyzed by GO and KEGG enrichment analysis, as well as protein–protein interaction (PPI) network and COX regression analysis. CXC chemokine ligand-12 (CXCL12) was overlapping from the above analysis. Afterwards, single gene analysis of CXCL12 was carried out through difference analysis, paired analysis and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). The association between the expression of CXCL12 and TICs was assessed by difference analysis and correlation analysis.Results: The results indicated that immune and stromal component in TME of BC were associated with patients’ clinic-pathological characteristics. We further confirmed that 284 DEGs were primarily enriched in immune-associated activities and CXCL12 was the most significant gene, which shared the leading nodes in PPI network and closely related with BC patients’ survival. Single gene analysis revealed that CXCL12 was down-regulated in BC samples and significantly related with the clinic-pathological characteristics of patients. Further analysis indicated that CXCL12 greatly participated in immune-associated activities through closely communicating with TICs in TIME of BC.Conclusions: CXCL12 might be a potential biomarker and a vital modulator of TIME through communicating with multiple TICs, which might provide an extra insight for the immunotherapy of BC.
Mir-483-3p, Mediated by KLF9, Functions as Tumor Suppressor in Testicular Seminoma via Targeting MMP9
Authors: Zhang Lei , Ruan Yashi , Gao Xian , Xu Kai , Shi Xiaokai , Qin Zhiqiang , Zhang Lifeng , Zuo Li , Zhang Wei
Published: October 2020

Background: Seminoma (SEM) is the most frequent testicular germ cell tumor with a high incidence in young men. The present study aims to explore the function and regulatory mechanism of miR-483-3p in SEM.Methods: RT-qPCR was performed to investigate miR-483-3p levels in SEM tissues. The effect of miR-483-3p on TCam-2 cells was assessed by CCK-8, colony formation, cell migration and invasion assays. Luciferase reporter assays were performed to investigate the interaction between miR-483-3p and MMP9 and then the recovery experiments were performed. Moreover, the potential upstream regulator of miR-483-3p was predicted based on JASPAR database.Results: miR-483-3p was down‐regulated in SEM tissues versus paracancerous normal tissues. The expression level of miR-483-3p was significantly associated with tumor stage by RT-qPCR. Functionally, miR-483-3p over-expression suppressed cell growth, migration and invasion in SEM cell lines. Mechanically, miR-483-3p negatively regulated MMP9 by directly binding to its 3’-UTR. The over-expression of miR-483-3p could reverse the promoting role of MMP9 over-expression on the proliferation, migration and invasion of TCam-2 cells. Moreover, KLF9 was identified as a potential upstream regulator of miR-483-3p and functions as a tumor suppressor.Conclusions: In general, our study suggested that miR-483-3p could inhibit the cell growth, migration and invasion of testicular SEM by targeting MMP9. Moreover, KLF9 is an upstream positive regulator of miR-483-3p and also functions as a tumor suppressor in SEM.
The Predictive Value of Vessels Encapsulating Tumor Clusters in Treatment Optimization for Recurrent Early-Stage Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Chen Zhi-Yuan , Guo Zhi-Xing , Lu Liang-He , Mei Jie , Lin Wen-Ping , Wei Wei , Guo Rong-Ping
Published: October 2020

Background. The vessels encapsulating tumor clusters (VETC) pattern is an effective predictor of survival in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after resection. The predictive value of VETC in recurrent early-stage HCC remains unclear. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the prognostic significance of VETC in patients with recurrent early-stage HCC after repeat hepatic resection (RHR) or radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Methods. From December 2005 to December 2016, 138 patients who underwent RHR and 188 patients who underwent RFA were enrolled. VETC was evaluated by immunohistochemical staining for CD34. The survival outcomes of treatment for patients with or without the VETC pattern was investigated. Results. Among VETC-positive HCC patients, 50 patients underwent RHR, and 69 patients underwent RFA; among VETC-negative HCC patients, 88 patients underwent RHR, and 119 patients underwent RFA. There was no significant difference between the RHR and RFA groups in disease-free survival (DFS) or overall survival (OS) as determined by univariate analysis of the whole cohort. In the subgroup analysis of the VETC-positive cohort, the patients in the RHR group had a longer median DFS time compared to those in the RFA group (15.0 vs 5.0 months, P=0.001). Similarly, the patients in the RHR group had a longer median OS time compared to those in the RFA group (39.5 vs 19 months, P=0.001). In the VETC-negative cohort, there was no significant difference in DFS and OS rates between the RHR and RFA groups (P>0.05).Conclusions. The results of our study suggested that RHR was relatively safe and superior to RFA in improving survival outcomes for recurrent early-stage HCC after initial hepatectomy. Furthermore, the VETC pattern may represent a reliable marker for selecting HCC patients who may benefit from RHR.