bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Asymmetric load transmission induces facet joint subchondral sclerosis and hypertrophy in patients with idiopathic adolescent scoliosis: Evaluation using finite element model and surgical specimen
Authors: Yahara Yasuhito , Seki Shoji , Makino Hiroto , Futakawa Hayato , Kamei Katsuhiko , Kawaguchi Yoshiharu
Published: January 2023

Background
Physiological and ideal spinal alignment is critical for efficient load transfer to support and maintain our body. However, in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), imbalanced load transfer occurs due to abnormal twisting and rotation of the spinal column. This study aimed to investigate the asymmetric stress overload and distribution on the facet joints of AIS patients using finite element (FE) analysis and surgical specimens.
Methods
FE models of the thoracic spine were created from a total of 13 female AIS patients (Lenke type 1, n = 4: Lenke type 2 n = 5; Lenke type 3, n = 4). A load of 200 N on the T3 vertebra and 30 N each on the bilateral superior articular processes were applied in the vertical direction to quantify the contact force on the facet joints from T3 to T11. In addition, morphological and histological analyses were performed on the inferior articular processes taken during surgery.
Results
Contact forces of the facet joint progressively increased from the mid to lower thoracic spine of the concave side, reaching a maximum around the apex. More than 90% of the load was transmitted by the facet joints at the concave side, resulting in facet joint subchondral sclerosis and hypertrophy.
Conclusions
FE models revealed the asymmetric stress overload and distribution on the facet joints of AIS. The asymmetric load transmission could be responsible for degeneration, such as hypertrophy and subchondral sclerosis of the facet joint of AIS.
The impact of access to credit and capitalmarkets on fertility: Evidence from China
Authors: Yu Kaizhi , Chen Xinyue
Published: January 2023

Based on the micro-financial perspective of optimizing householdresource allocation, combined with Becker’s family theory, this paperexamines the impact of broader access to credit and capital marketon household decisions with respect to the number of children by constructinga revised four-period life cycle model. The results show thatloosening borrowing constraints significantly promotes the fertility rate,while opportunities for financial investment inhibits the fertility rate.We find that disposable income weakens the direct positive impact ofcredit quota and promotes the direct negative impact of on fertility.The excessive consumption of households strengthens credit constraintsand encourages household consumption, which accelerates a crowdingout effect on fertility. In addition, endowment insurance prompts households’investment in the capital market, which suppresses reproductivebehavior.
Foster adopting Lean management by public services using BPMN
Authors: Abdelmalek Ismail Ait , Houfaidi Souad
Published: January 2023

Purpose. Governments around the world has tried to rethink, adapt and modify service processes by incorporating methods and tools that have made significant progress in many areas. In this paper, we discuss the possibilities offered by Business Process Management (BPM) tools to public services to adopt Lean management as a continuous improvement process. Methodology. Lean Management is an effective managerial method based on eliminating waste, but which leads only to isolated improvements by improving part of the process. To skirt this problem, we propose to use the BPM tools that allow to connect all activities and easily identify value-added activities in a process. Results. A case study, using Business Process Modelling and Notation (BPMN), allowed us to illustrate the role of BPM in improving a public service process. The theoretical contribution. The current state model (As is) of the process developed by using BPMN2.0 standard, allowed us to highlight qualitative results, we also noted that the employees appreciated the BPMN language and were able to visualize certain weaknesses of the process thanks to this tool. This result is an essential step (identify and eliminate activities with no-added value) to adopt a lean management approach. Practical implications. Articles dealing with the adoption of Lean management in Moroccan public sector are very rare, and even those dealing with the modalities of its adoption are almost absent. This paper is therefore a first in the field and will be a reference for future research.
Genetic analysis of potential biomarkers in cuproptosis from multiple myeloma
Authors: Zhu Yidong , Lin Zhikang , Liu Jun
Published: January 2023

Background
Multiple myeloma (MM) accounts for 1% of neoplastic diseases. Cuproptosis, a copper-triggered modality of mitochondrial cell death, might be a promising therapeutic target for cancer treatment. However, the role of cuproptosis-related genes (CRGs) in MM is not well characterized. Thus, we aimed to explore the diagnostic value of CRGs in MM and further illustrate the potential mechanism.
Methods
The differential expression of CRGs between MM and control samples was identified and validated in the GSE6477 and GSE47552 datasets downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and support vector machine-recursive feature elimination (SVM-RFE) algorithms were applied to identify potential CRGs as diagnostic biomarkers for MM. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was applied to determine the diagnostic performance of the biomarkers. Functional enrichment and correlation analyses were then conducted to figure out the underlying mechanisms.
Results
Based on the differentially expressed CRGs by the gene expression difference of samples, LASSO and SVM-RFE algorithms were used to identify a final number of two CRGs as potential biomarkers for MM: CDKN2A and GLS. The all area under the curve (AUC) values of the 2 marker gene-based logistic regression model were 0.933 and 0.886 in the training and validation cohort, respectively, indicating a good performance in predicting MM diagnosis. Functional enrichment and correlation analyses suggested that the biomarkers may promote MM cell tumorigenesis and survival by modulating the immune cells through its immune-related pathways.
Conclusion
Two CRGs (CDKN2A and GLS) were identified and validated as possible MM biomarkers, which developed a diagnostic potency and provided an insight for exploring the mechanism for MM.
Construction of a Cuproptosis-Related lncRNA Signature for Predicting Prognosis and Immune Response in Cervical Cancer
Authors: Zhang He , Chen Shuning , Kong Weimin , Luo Dan , Zhao Xiaoling , Deng Boer , Xie Yunkai , Pan Zhendong , Qiu Yuchen
Published: January 2023

Background:Cuproptosis is a novel form of cell death, which is triggered by targeted mitochondria that bind the acylated lipid components of the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. Recent studies have suggested that targeting cuproptosis may be a new treatment strategy for cancer, but its association with cervcal cancer (CC) has not been elucidated.
Methods: Data were downloaded from the TCGA-CESC. The cuproptosis-related lncRNAs were identified and prognostic risk models were constructed. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, ROC curve, PCA and stratified analysis were used to validate the predictive ability of the model. A nomogram for predicting CC prognosis was established. The biological mechanisms associated with cuproptosis were investigated by GO and KEGG enrichment analysis. The CIBERSORT algorithm, immunoassay and TIDE score were used to measure different immune responses. Finally, we screened for sensitive drugs based on cuproptosis correlation.
Results: We constructed a cuproptosis-related lncRNAs signature as a risk prognostic prediction model. The risk score was proved and the risk model had higher diagnostic efficiency than other features. The Kaplan-Meier curve indicated that lower risk score was significantly associated with better OS rate in training (P<0.001), testing group (P=0.004), and all groups (P<0.001). The time-dependent ROC curves showed the AUC reached 0.738 at 1 year, 0.698 at 3 years, and 0.699 at 5 years. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis found that the DEGs of low- and high-risk groups may be related to immune regulation. Further study of immune cell infiltration demonstrated that cuproptosis-related lncRNAs signature was significantly associated with the immune response of CC. A total of 23 drugs showed significant differences in the semi-inhibitory concentration (IC50) value, suggesting the signature may participate in the influence on drug efficacy.
Conclusions: Our study reveals that assessing cuproptosis patterns in individual tumors will help improve our understanding of the immune mechanisms and prognosis of cervical cancer and thus guide immunotherapy more effectively. Establishing an independent prognostic model based on cuproptosis-associated lncRNAs could serve as a predictor of overall survival and also as a predictor of immunotherapy. The model may help provide personalized medical therapy and new insights into cancer treatment.
Evaluation of toxicity and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson-like induced by rotenone in zebrafish animal model
Authors: de Andrade André Lucas Correa , Silva Renatta Priscilla Ferreira , Soares Priscila Rafaela Leão , Santos Thamiris Pinheiro , Padilha Renata Meireles Oliveira , Bastos Paulo Eduardo da Silva , Cadena Pabyton Gonçalves
Published: January 2023

In this study, the effects of exposure to rotenone on development were evaluated, particularly teratogenic and behavioral endpoints in the early life stages of zebrafish. This can serve as a model for Parkinson-like motor and non-motor symptoms, and anxiety-like behavior. The endpoints of percent epiboly, teratogenic effects, mortality, morphometry, thigmotaxis (TH), touch sensitivity (TS), and optomotor response (OMR) were analyzed in zebrafish embryo-larvae stage exposed to rotenone (5 to 20 µg/L). An increase in mortality of zebrafish was observed at 15 and 20 µg/L rotenone concentrations. The rotenone reduced the percent epiboly and increased the presence of teratogenic effects at concentrations of 10, 15, and 20 µg/L. Head and body size reductions were observed at all rotenone concentrations tested. Anxiety-like behaviors were observed with decreased displays of TH behavior in larvae exposed to 15 and 20 µg/L of rotenone. TS was reduced by 20 µg/L rotenone treatment. OMR and the eye diameter of zebrafish were not affected by rotenone exposure. Our results showed that rotenone has the potential to provoke non-motor symptoms, mainly anxiety-like behaviors, in the zebrafish's early life stages, making it a potential model for the study of Parkinson-like disease.
Toxicokinetics of recombinant human fibroblast growth factor 21 for injection in cynomolgus monkey for three months
Authors: Lu Chao , Jin Lei , Bi Jianing , Jin Hongyi , You Xinyi , Peng Lulu , Wang Liangshun , Fan Zhengkai , Wang Xiaojie
Published: January 2023

Recombinant human fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF-21) is a potential therapeutic agent for multiple metabolic diseases. However, little is known about the toxicokinetic characteristics of FGF-21. In the present study, we investigated the toxicokinetics of FGF-21 delivered via subcutaneous injection in vivo. Twenty cynomolgus monkeys were injected subcutaneously with different doses of FGF-21 for 86 days. Serum samples were collected at eight different time points (0, 0.5, 1.5, 3, 5, 8, 12, and 24 h) on day 1 (d1), d37, and d86 for toxicokinetic analysis. The serum concentrations of FGF-21 were measured using a double sandwich ELISA. Necropsy and pathological analysis were performed on d87 and d116 (after recovery for 29 days). The average AUC(0-24h) values of low-dose FGF-21 on d1, d37, and d86 were 5253, 25268, and 60445 μg·h/L, and the average AUC(0-24h) values of high-dose FGF-21 on d1, d37, and d86 were 19964, 78999, and 1952821 μg·h/L, respectively. The peak concentrations (Cmax) of low-dose FGF-21 on d1, d37, and d86 were 621.1, 2767.9, and 4182.0 μg/L, respectively. The Cmax values of high-dose FGF-21 on d1, d37, and d86 were 2196.8, 6637.5, and 13430.4 μg/L, respectively. The elimination half-lives (t1/2z) of low- and high-dose FGF-21 on d1, d37, and d86 were 3.1–4.8, 4.2–6.7, and 6.2–8.8 h, respectively. The anatomical and pathological results showed that continuous subcutaneous injection of FGF-21 for 86 days did not affect organ weight, the organ coefficient, and histopathology in cynomolgus monkeys. Our results have guiding significance for the preclinical research and clinical use of FGF-21.
Functional Connectome Hierarchy in Schizotypy and Its associations with Expression of Schizophrenia-Related Genes
Authors: Dong Debo , Wang Yulin , Zhou Feng , Chang Xuebin , Qiu Jiang , Feng Tingyong , He Qinghua , Lei Xu , Chen Hong
Published: January 2023

Schizotype has been conceptualized as a continuum with symptoms of schizophrenia with marked genetic, neurobiological, sensory-cognitive overlaps. Hierarchical organization represents a general organizing principle for both the brain connectome supporting sensation-to-cognition continuum and gene expression patterns. However, the underlying changes in neuroimaging maps reflecting the cortical hierarchy that mechanistically link gene expressions to schizotypy are unclear. Using a large cohort of resting state-fMRI data from 1013 healthy young adults, the present study investigated schizotypy-associated sensorimotor-to-transmodal connectome hierarchy and assessed the connectome hierarchy similarity between schizotypy and schizophrenia. Furthermore, the normative and differential postmortem gene expression data were employed to investigate the transcriptional profiles associated with the schizotypy-associated connectome hierarchy. We found that schizotypy was associated with a compressed functional connectome hierarchy, including compressed global topography and focal alterations in sensory and transmodal cognitive areas, suggesting diminished functional system differentiation. Interestingly, the pattern of schizotypy-related hierarchy is tightly correlated with the pattern of hierarchy organization observed in schizophrenia. Notably, schizotypy-related connectome hierarchy was most closely colocated with expression of schizophrenia-related genes compared with other psychiatric disorders, with the correlated genes being enriched in biological processes well-known involved in schizophrenia, i.e., transsynaptic and receptor signaling, calcium ion binding, and channel activity. These findings not only shed light on the neurobiological and molecular genetic mechanisms underlying the sensory-cognitive deficits in schizotypy, but also provide new insights into the neurobiological continuum of psychosis thus advanced our understanding of how genetic propensity for schizophrenia-alike traits play an enduring role in creating biological vulnerability to psychosis.
Resveratrol induces proliferation and differentiation of mouse preosteoblast MC3T3-E1 by promoting autophagy
Authors: Cai Weiye , Sun Bin , Song Chao , Liu Fei , Wu Zhengliang , Liu Zongchao
Published: January 2023

Background: The MC3T3-E1 mouse pre-osteoblast can grow and differentiate more rapidly when resveratrol is present, according to study. Uncertainty exists over whether resveratrol (The following grouping is represented as Res) regulates the impact of autophagy on the proliferation and differentiation of mouse pre-osteoblast, despite the fact that autophagy is crucial in the control of osteoblast development.
Purpose: To investigate the involvement of autophagy in the proliferation and differentiation of mice pre-osteoblasts as a result of resveratrol.
Methods: 1） MC3T3-E1 cells were separated into blank control group and various concentrations (0.01, 0.1, 1, 10, 100μmol/L) of group in order to determine the ideal resveratrol concentration. In the resveratrol group, CCK8 was used to measure the proliferation activity of pre-osteoblasts in mice in each group after resveratrol intervention; ALP and alizarin red staining were used to gauge the degree of osteogenic differentiation; and RT-qPCR was used to measure the expression levels of Runx2 and OCN in the osteogenic differentiation ability of the cells. 2）In the experiment, four groups were set up: the control group, 3MA, Res group, and Res +3MA group. To examine cell mineralization, ALP and alizarin red staining were utilized. RT-qPCR and Western blot detection of cell autophagy activity levels and osteogenic differentiation capacity in each group following intervention.
Results: 1) Resveratrol might increase the number of mice pre-osteoblast, with the impact being most pronounced at 10μmol/L (P < 0.05); The nodules developed substantially more often than in the blank control group, and Runx2 and OCN expressions significantly increased (P < 0.05); 2) In contrast to the resveratrol group, after 3MA purine blocked autophagy, the Res+3MA group's alkaline phosphatase staining and the development of mineralized nodules were reduced; Runx2, OCN, LC3II / LC3I expression decreased, p62 expression increased (P <0.05).
Conclusion: By increasing autophagy, resveratrol may induce osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells.
Clinical efficacy of robot-assisted subxiphoid versus lateral thoracic approach in the treatment of anterior mediastinal tumors
Authors: Hong Ziqiang , Sheng Yannan , Bai Xiangdou , Cui Baiqiang , Lu Yingjie , Wu Xusheng , Cheng Tao , Jin Dacheng , Gou Yunjiu
Published: January 2023

Background: The purpose of this study was to compare the perioperative efficacy and safety of da Vinci robot assisted thoracoscopic surgery (RATS) for the treatment of anterior mediastinal tumors through the subxiphoid and lateral thoracic approaches under the anesthesia of non tracheal intubation (i.e. laryngeal mask airway).
Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 116 patients with anterior mediastinal tumors treated by RATS under laryngeal mask anesthesia completed by the same operator in the Department of Thoracic Surgery, Gansu Provincial People's Hospital from October 2016 to October 2022. There were 52 patients, 24 males and 28 females, with a mean age of (45.40±4.94) years, in the subxiphoid approach (subxiphoid group) and 64 patients, 34 males and 30 females, with a mean age of (46.86±5.46) years, in the lateral thoracic approach (lateral thoracic group). The operating time, intraoperative bleeding and total postoperative drainage in the two groups were compared and analyzed.
Results: All patients in both groups successfully completed resection of the anterior mediastinal tumor without the occurrence of perioperative death. In terms of total postoperative drainage flow [(229.90±25.00) ml vs. (242.03±35.99) ml], postoperative drainage time [(2.56±0.78) days vs. (2.97±0.94) days], postoperative hospital stay [(3.69±0.92) days vs. (4.14±1.13) days], and VAS pain on postoperative day 2 and 3,
the subxiphoid group had more advantages and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). In terms of docking time [(10.23±1.29) min vs. (12.40±2.13) min], the lateral chest group was more advantageous and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of operative time, total operative time, total postoperative drainage, postoperative day 1 VAS pain score and postoperative complications (P>0.05).
Conclusion: The subxiphoid approach of RATS under laryngeal mask anesthesia is safe and feasible for resection of anterior mediastinal tumors. Compared with the lateral thoracic approach, the subxiphoid approach has advantages in terms of rapid postoperative recovery and postoperative patient pain, and patient acceptance is also higher, which is worth promoting in hospitals where it is available.
Factors influencing COVID-19 vaccine uptake among Nigerians: evidence from a national survey
Authors: OJO Temitope Olumuyiwa , OJO Ayodeji Oluwole , OJO Olajumoke Elizabeth , AKINWALERE Bosede Olufunmilayo , AKINWUMI Adebowale Femi
Published: January 2023

Objectives
. This study assessed the factors influencing COVID-19 vaccine uptake among Nigerian households. Data from the COVID-19 High-Frequency Phone Survey of Households that was collected in 2021 by the National Bureau of Statistics was used for this study. Relevant data was analyzed using descriptive statistical tools and the multivariate binary logistic regression model.
Results
Only 32 percent of the respondents were vaccinated against COVID-19. Respondents living in urban areas (34.4%) had a higher level of COVID-19 vaccine uptake relative to those living in rural Nigeria (30.9%). Results from the Multivariate Regression model revealed a significant association between COVID-19 vaccination uptake and age, access to health insurance, and information from health workers, government, and the media. The study also found households living in North Central, North East and South West had higher odds of being vaccinated. Therefore, the study recommended increased media campaigns and advocacy for COVID-19 vaccination. Younger persons should be targeted with COVID-19 information given that those aged 18–29 years were less likely to be vaccinated
Sorption properties of paper treated with silane-modified starch
Authors: Majka Jerzy , Perdoch Waldemar , Czajkowski Łukasz , Mazela Bartłomiej , Olek Wiesław
Published: January 2023

Sorption properties of paper products are important when applying paper as the packaging material. Hydrophobicity, i.e. reduced affinity of paper surface to liquid water, is of a particular importance from the point of view of the direct impact on packed goods. However, hygroscopicity of the material is significant during storage of goods. The analysis of changes in the hygroscopic properties of paper products induced by the treatment with silane modified starch was presented. The results on the hygroscopicity of treated paper were related to the previously published results on the hydrophobicity. The discrete values equilibrium moisture content allowed constructing adsorption and desorption isotherms. The three-parameter Guggenheim, Anderson, and De Boer (GAB) model, the four-parameter Generalized D’Arcy and Watt (GDW), and Yanniotis and Blahovec (Y-B) sorption isotherm models were used to quantify the hygroscopic properties for all options of untreated and modified paper samples. The effectiveness of silanes for improving hygroscopic properties was determined and compared to their impact on hydrophobicity of the studied materials. It was found that 1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorooctyltriethoxysilane was the only silane improving hydrophobic and hygroscopic properties. The analysis of the applied models of sorption isotherms depicted that the GAB model was not valid for describing water sorption isotherms in the case of the tested materials, while the GDW and Y-B models provided a much more realistic description of water sorption mechanisms. The evaluation of the results of fitting the GDW model indicated that water molecules bonding to the primary sites was the dominating mechanism of sorption.
On doubly symmetric periodic orbits
Authors: Frauenfelder Urs , Moreno Agustin
Published: January 2023

In this article, for Hamiltonian systems with two degrees of freedom, we study doubly symmetric periodic orbits, i.e. those which are symmetric with respect to two (distinct) commuting antisymplectic involutions. These are ubiquitous in several problems of interest in mechanics. We show that, in dimension four, doubly symmetric periodic orbits cannot be negative hyperbolic. This has a number of consequences: (1) all covers of doubly symmetric orbits are good, in the sense of Symplectic Field Theory [6]; (2) a non-degenerate doubly symmetric orbit is stable if and only if its CZ-index is odd; (3) a doubly symmetric orbit does not undergo period doubling bifurcation; and (4) there is always a stable orbit in any collection of doubly symmetric periodic orbits with negative SFT-Euler characteristic (as coined in [11]). The above results follow from: (5) a symmetric orbit is negative hyperbolic if and only its two B-signs (introduced in [10]) differ.
Approximate blocked Gibbs sampling for Bayesian neural networks
Authors: Papamarkou Theodore
Published: January 2023

In this work, minibatch MCMC sampling
for feedforward neural networks is made more feasible.
To this end,
it is proposed to sample subgroups of parameters
via a blocked Gibbs sampling scheme.
By partitioning the parameter space,
sampling is possible irrespective of layer width.
It is also possible to alleviate vanishing acceptance rates
for increasing depth
by reducing the proposal variance in deeper layers.
Increasing the length of a non-convergent chain
increases the predictive accuracy in classification tasks,
so avoiding vanishing acceptance rates and
consequently enabling longer chain runs
have practical benefits.
Moreover, non-convergent chain realizations
aid in the quantification of predictive uncertainty.
An open problem is how to perform minibatch MCMC sampling
for feedforward neural networks
in the presence of augmented data.
Evidence-Based Policy Making: Analysis and Policy Recommendations for how the Philippines can manage a Cost-Effective Clean Energy Transition
Authors: Alexander Kane
Published: January 2023

The purpose of this research was to assess different scenarios for a cost-effective clean energy transition in the Philippines. This was done by using the Open Source Energy Modelling System (OSeMOSYS), which is a modelling software that can be used to project future energy capacities for a country, among other relevant factors such as capital investment and carbon emissions. The six scenarios modelled were least cost (LC), coal phase out (CPO), Philippines energy plan (PEP), combined energy plan (CEP), nationally determined contribution (NDC) and net zero (NZ). The key findings indicated that the CEP scenario was the most cost-effective scenario as the emissions are over 50% less compared to the LC scenario, as well as phasing out coal by 2050 and supporting the goals of the Philippines Development Plan. However, the ambitious NDC and NZ scenarios should be worked towards if funding can be secured to support them. For the Philippines, the main focus must be on the phasing out of coal, as well as a particular focus on certain renewables and the importance of finance, among other factors. This study therefore presents a discussion based on the results about the most crucial factors and what can be done to make an energy transition successful.
Creation of Fragrant Rice by Targeted Editing of fgr Gene Using Magnetic Nanoparticle- mediated Pollen Magnetofection in Rice
Authors: Shen Renjia , Peng Ziai , Zhao Lin , Chen Chun , Wang Hui , Chen Zhiqiang , Wang Jiafeng , Guo Tao
Published: January 2023

Background
CRISPR/Cas9 technology has been widely used for plant genome editing, while the delivery of gene editing components mainly depends on Agrobacterium or bombardment. They both need a long period of tissue culture process and some varieties are very difficult to regenerate from tissue culture, which seriously limits the process of gene editing.
Result
The CRISPR/Cas9 expression vector of fragrance gene fgr was constructed and combined with magnetic nano particles (MNPs) to form a gene carrier complex. To determine the suitable method of magnetofection, the appropriate mass ratios of MNPs / vector was explored, and the location of the complex in pollen was confirmed. The T1 plants obtained from the pollination of magnetofected pollen on wild-type rice showed decreased height and seed setting rate, with the hygromycin resistant rate (i.e. positive rate) 13.07% and 3 lined mutated. T2 plants were obtained from the self-crossing of positive T1 lines, with positive rate 58.80% and 8 lines mutated. According to the mutation of T1 and T2 generation, the genetic modes of magnetofected rice mainly included “continuous-generation editing” and “interval-generation editing”. It showed great potential that negative and homozygous mutated plants (ho/-C) could be obtained as early as in T2 generation in lines with “continuous-generation editing”.
Conclusion
Gene targeted editing mediated by pollen magnetofection is tissue culture independent, which shortens the breeding cycle, provides new technical support for rice breeding, and is of great significance to accelerate the breeding process of fine varieties.
Long non-coding RNA-GDA-1 Regulates Keratinocyte Proliferation and Psoriasis Inflammation by Regulating Forkhead Box M1 via the STAT3/NF-κB Signaling Pathway
Authors: li xueqing , chen fuqiang , Ju Jiaoying , Yin Xiran , Yang Zhenxian , Li Zhengjun , Sun Qing
Published: January 2023

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease associated with multiple comorbidities and complex pathogenesis. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play an important regulatory role in many diseases, including psoriasis. In this study, We aimed to investigate the role and mechanism of lncRNA GDA-1 (GDA) in M5-treated psoriatic keratinocytes. GDA expression was significantly upregulated in psoriatic tissues and M5-treated keratinocytes. By silencing and overexpressing GDA in NHEKs and Ker-CT cells, we showed that GDA regulated proliferation and cell cycle, and increased secretion of interleukin-1β [IL‐1β], IL-6, chemokine ligands 2 and 20 (CCL2 and CCL20). RNA sequencing after GDA silencing led to identification of a close regulatory relationship between GDA and Forkhead Box M1 (FOXM1). GDA significantly influenced FOXM1 expression at both mRNA and protein levels and activated STAT3/NF-κB signaling pathways. STAT3 and NF-κB inhibition abrogated GDA effects on keratinocyte proliferation and inflammation. In conclusion, our study is the first to report that Lnc-GDA-1 distinctly regulates FOXM1 expression and mediates proliferation and inflammation of psoriatic keratinocytes through the STAT3/NF-κB signaling pathway, which may be a potent target for psoriasis treatment.
Superresolution fluorescence microscopy of platelet subcellular structures as a potential tumor liquid biopsy
Authors: Zhang Yu-Hui , Xu Peng , Deng Huan , Hong Zhenya , Zhong Simei , Chen Feifan , Wang Liangliang , Wang Zhenhao , Mei Yu , Luo Ziying , He Ziliang , Li Haiwen , Gan Chao , Zhang Huaqiu , Ma Yan , Han Zhiqiang
Published: January 2023

Blood-based tumor liquid biopsies are promising as an alternative or complement to tissue biopsies due to their noninvasiveness, convenience, and safety, and there is still a great demand for the discovery of new biomarkers for these biopsies. Here, we present nanoscale distribution patterns of subcellular structures in platelets, as imaged by structured illumination superresolution fluorescence microscopy, as a new type of potential biomarker for tumor liquid biopsies. We established a standardized protocol for platelet sample preparation and developed an automated high-throughput image analysis workflow. We explored the diagnostic capability based on the statistical analysis of 200,000 superresolution images of individual platelets from a variety of tumor patients, benign mass patients, and healthy volunteers (n=163). Our results suggest that the nanoscale distribution patterns of α-granules in platelets have the potential to be biomarkers for several cancers, including glioma and cervical, endometrial and ovarian cancers, facilitating not only diagnosis but also therapeutic monitoring. This study provides a promising novel type of platelet parameter for tumor liquid biopsies at the subcellular level rather than the existing cellular or molecular level and opens up a new avenue for clinical applications of superresolution imaging techniques.
Modeling canopy water content in the assessment for rainfall induced surface and groundwater nitrate contamination index from cropland N-fertilizer in Bilate downstream
Authors: Assa Bereket Geberselassie , BhowmicK Anirudh , Elias Bisrat
Published: January 2023

Crop canopy water content and crop root zone soil water content have been predicted and observed for estimation of crop water balance for the rainy season nitrate runoff and leaching index of the Bilate watershed cropland. For the calibration of earth data observation, the watershed rain gauge station estimated the pattern of rainfall for the main cropping season of crop growth. Cropping season (Apr, May and Jun) monthly mean rainfall between (125mm/month to 165 mm/month) of agro metrological station has predicted time series crop canopy water in the analysis for crop land nitrate-nitrogen leaching/runoff index for the quantification of groundwater and surface runoff nitrate from the Bilate watershed farming zone. May and June were the months in which crops grew in the cropland of the study area, as indicated by the crop biomass statistics from MODIS 006 MOD13Q1-EVIof (Mine 0.19 and Max, 0.57) which is the average crop coefficient Kc for crop growth curve analyzed for model crop parameter. Hyper-spectral indices derived from enhanced vegetation indices (EVI) have been calculated for the analysis of crop zonal biomass statistics (kc) and integrated into the prediction model. The objective of the current research was to predict crop canopy water content in order to determine crop water balance for farmland Nitrogen Nitrate (NO− 3-N) runoff\leaching index for surface and groundwater pollution in the Bilate downstream. The overall predicted result of crop canopy water content has been validated with a regression coefficient (R2) with observed crop root zone soil water content. And the crop land nitrogen balance has been used to confirm the nitrate-nitrogen leaching and runoff index for the study area by comparing the current result with the crop land nitrogen balance.
Performance of Seismically Design Special Moment Resisting Steel Frame against Progressive Collapse as per Indian standard
Authors: Pujari Atul B. , Sangle Keshav K
Published: January 2023

U.S. General Service Administration (GSA), 2013 guideline were used in the progressive collapse analysis of seismically designed three-dimensional special moment resistant frame. The analysis was carried out to assess the vulnerability of low-rise, mid-rise and high-rise three-dimensional special moment resistant frame with six bays in either direction. All the structures considered for this study were designed according to the Indian Standard codes. To evaluate the behaviour of the structure, linear static analysis (LSA), non-linear static analysis (NLSA), linear dynamic analysis (LDA) and non-linear dynamic analysis (NLDA) have been carried out by using Alternate Path Method (APM) for column removal at the critical locations based on these guidelines. The results show negligible displacement versus time history when compared between LDA and NLDA. It also reveals that the removal of the internal column leads to less vibration when compared to the other two locations during sudden removal. The height of the structure will largely affect the behaviour of the structure during any sudden column removal.
Negative conversion, lymphocyte/monocyte ratio, and bilirubinemia in COVID-19 with mental disorders
Authors: Sun Yang , Lin Ping , Li Qingtian , Zhou Xiaoliang , Wang Jinxin , Li Yi , Guo Xiaokui , Shi Yun , Li Dan , Lou Xiaoyan , Li Zhenhua , Li Ping , Jin Weifeng , Chen Shuzi , huang Yuji , li Li , Cheng Xunjia , Sun Jing
Published: January 2023

This retrospective study explored the changes in biomarkers indicators and prognosis in COVID-19 patients with mental disorders (n = 60) from the author’ Hospital between 2/13/2020 and 4/15/2020. Significant differences before and after negative conversion were observed in lymphocytes, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, aspartate aminotransferase, albumin, albumin/globulin ratio, direct bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, uric acid, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and ApoA1 (all P < 0.05). Compared with the patients who had a negative conversion within 3 weeks, those who did not turn negative within 3 weeks had a higher frequency of cardiovascular diseases (27.3% vs. 4.2%, P = 0.040), a higher lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (median, 4.72 vs. 3.35, P = 0.003), and higher total bilirubin levels (median, 12.0 vs. 8.6 µmol/L, P = 0.031). The results present the changes in laboratory parameters in COVID-19 patients with a mental disorder. Cardiovascular diseases and higher lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio, and total bilirubin levels could be associated with the amount of time required for negative conversion.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Neutrophil Gelatinase-associated Lipocalin (NGAL) in Periprosthetic Joint Infection: A Meta-analysis
Authors: WANG Huhu , HE Jiaming , LI Hongwei , DING Shuai , HU Qiaolong , FU Ting
Published: January 2023

Background: Periprosthetic joint infection(PJI) is a catastrophic complication after arthroplasty and is currently challenging to diagnose. A large number of diagnostic biomarkers have been used for the diagnosis of PJI. Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin(NGAL) is a novel diagnostic biomarker for PJI, and its diagnostic efficacy remains to be investigated. The purpose of this study is to investigate the value of NGAL in the diagnosis of PJI.
Methods: Six databases, including Cochrane Library, Scopus, OVID, PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase, were searched for literature related to NGLA in the PJI diagnosis from the inception to December 25, 2022. The diagnostic accuracy of NGAL was evaluated by pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio(PLR), negative likelihood ratio(NLR), diagnostic odds ratio(DOR), and the area under the summarized receiver operating characteristic curve(AUSROC).
Results: A total of seven studies were included in the meta-analysis, with 201 PJIs and 299 aseptic revisions. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, PLR, NLR, DOR, and AUSROC of NGLA were 0.93(95%CI, 0.88-0.96), 0.93(95%CI, 0.89-0.96), 13.65(95%CI, 4.64-40.18), 0.09(95%CI, 0.04-0.21), 202.89(95%CI, 39.00-1055.53), 0.973, respectively.
Conclusion: This study shows that NGLA is an excellent diagnostic biomarker for diagnosing PJI. NGLA can be applied to the clinical diagnosis of PJI in the future.
Performance analysis of channels coding and space time trellis codes on free-space fading channel for diversity coding free-space optics under atmospheric turbulences
Authors: Elsayed Ebrahim E.
Published: January 2023

In this Paper we review and analyze space time trellis codes with & without ideal beam forming for the free-space optics (FSO) under atmospheric turbulences. Space time trellis code with ideal beam forming at transmitter termed as weighted space. Smart antenna technology provides a wide variety of options, ranging from single-input,multiple-output (SIMO) architectures that collect more energy to improve the signal to noise ratio (SNR) at the receiver, to multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO) architectures that open up multiple data pipes over a link. Atmospheric turbulence can cause signiﬁcant performance degradation in free space optical communication systems. An efﬁcient solution could be to exploit the temporal diversity to improve the performance of the FSO- transmission link.
Ischemic complications in patients with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors:   , Gärtner Matthias
Published: January 2023

Background: During ECMO therapy ischemia of the limbs or internal organs are potential lethal complications. This study analyzed incidence and type of ischemic complications during ECMO therapy, divided in limb, mesenteric, cardiac and neurological ischemia. Methods: In this single-center retrospective observational study data from 348 patients treated with veno-venous, veno-arterial or veno-venous-arterial ECMO at the Asklepios Klinik Langen between April 1st 2011 and March 31st 2020 was screened. 321 patients with diagnosis of acute respiratory distress syndrome, cardiogenic or septic shock were included. Primary outcome variable was type of ischemic complication. Further variables were serum lactate levels 24h before and immediately after diagnosis of the ischemic complication, duration of ICU and hospital stay, ECMO therapy and duration of invasive ventilation and arterial blood gas analysis on day of admission to the ICU. Age, sex, ECMO mode, diagnosis, SAPS II, SOFA score, hospital mortality, the use of renal replacement therapy and tracheotomy, the occurrence of infections during the ICU stay and the need of CPR before ECMO implantation were recorded as well. Results: 62/321 patients (19.3%) were diagnosed with an ischemic complication. Most common areas were limbs (n=32) and mesenteric ischemia (n=21). Patients who were diagnosed with a septic shock had the highest rate of ischemic complications (36.2%). In VV mode there was a difference in survival between patients with and without ischemic complication (p=0.025). Using multivariate logistic regression, age ≥50 years (p=0.029; OR=2.793; CI 1.109 – 7.033), use of hemodialysis (p=0.003; OR=3.283; CI=1.513 – 7.124) and initial diagnosis of a septic shock (p=0.049; OR=2.144; CI=1.003 – 4.583) could be identified as predictors for ischemic complications. Conclusions: Ischemic complications are frequent during ECMO therapy. An age of at least 50 years, the use of hemodialysis and diagnosis of a septic shock were predictors of ischemic complications. No correlation between ECMO mode and ischemic complications was found. An influence of ischemic complications on survival could be found only in patients treated with VV mode.
Robot Recruiting
Authors: Stöcklin Fabia
Published: January 2023

Nach Jahren intensiver Forschung ist die Entwicklung von Künstlicher Intelligenz («KI») an einem Punkt angelangt, an dem der Einsatz von KI-Software auch im Arbeitsprozess immer alltäglicher wird. Besonders im Stadium des Bewerbungsverfahrens kam es diesbezüglich in jüngster Zeit aufgrund verschiedenster Medienberichte immer wieder zu Diskussionen, insbesondere im Hinblick auf die Haftung der KI-einsetzenden Arbeitgeber. Der Gesetzgeber hat bis dato auf eine explizite rechtliche Regelung verzichtet. Aus diesem Grund wird im Folgenden aufgezeigt, ob beziehungsweise wann ein Arbeitgeber aufgrund der heute bestehenden Gesetzeslage für den Einsatz oder eine Handlung einer KI im Bewerbungsprozess haftbar gemacht werden kann.

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Après des années de recherche intensive, le développement de l'intelligence artificielle ("IA") a permis de rendre l'utilisation de logiciels d'IA de plus en plus courante, y compris dans le monde du travail. Selon certains médias, la phase d'embauche est particulièrement controversée, notamment en ce qui concerne la responsabilité de l'employeur qui utilise l'IA. Jusqu'à présent, le législateur a renoncé à une réglementation juridique spécifique. Nous allons donc examiner ici, sur la base de la situation juridique actuelle, dans quelles conditions un employeur peut être tenu pour responsable de l'utilisation ou de l'action d'une IA dans le cadre d'une procédure de recrutement.
Networked control system stability analysis of pipeline system with networked-induced delay
Authors: Rosa Muhammad Ridho , Susanto Erwin , Hassan Mohd Fadzil
Published: January 2023

This paper presents the design of Networked Control Systems (NCS) for pipeline systems. NCS plays an important role in controlling and monitoring large-scale systems such as pipeline systems. To implement the NCS, one must derive the pipe model and consider the network communication constraints. Here, the pipeline model is divided into two sections for simplicity. For example, in a long pipeline system, one can use a higher number of sections in order to give a better result for the analysis. Then let’s consider a networked-induced delay as the network communication constraint. The discretize pipe dynamics model is derived to support the NCS scheme in the pipeline system. The stability analysis of the proposed NCS is derived by taking into account the small and the large networked-induced delay. Then the optimal LQR control is designed for both stabilizing and tracking. The stability region of the pipeline system in the NCS scheme with networked-induced delay is derived and depicted to provide stability information. The design of the proposed controller under network constraint (networked-induced delay) must consider the stability plot that is divided into the stable region and unstable region. In this research, let’s assume that it is possible to measure the exact time delay and then consider the allowable sampling time for the controller. The proposed controller is designed by considering the NCS scheme with time delay both for regulator and tracking problems. By using the proposed controller, the pipeline system can be controlled in the presence of network-induced delay, which commonly occurs in a distributed system. The simulation verifies the stability analysis of the proposed optimal control for the pipeline systems with the NCS scheme under networked induced delay
Application of a PCA-based fault detection and diagnosis method in a power generation system with a 2 MW natural gas engine
Authors: Cardenas Yulineth , Carrillo Gaylord , Alviz Anibal , Alviz Antistio , Portnoy Ivan , Fajardo Juan , Ocampo Eric , Da-Costa Edson
Published: January 2023

Based on increasing global energy demand, electric power generation from Internal Combustion Engines (ICE) has increased over the years. On this idea, the industries have adopted different methods and procedures to prevent failures in these engines, achieve an extension of the life cycle of the machines, improve their safety, and provide financial savings. For this reason, this work implements a methodology for detecting and identifying failures in a natural gas engine (JGS 612 GS-N. L), based on the integration of Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and alarm streak analysis.

A method used to describe a data set in terms of new uncorrelated variables or components. The components are ordered by the amount of original variance they describe, making the technique useful for reducing the dimensionality of a data set.

Technically, PCA searches for the projection according to which the data are best represented in terms of least squares, using the T2 and Q statistics. In the initial stage, a PCA-based algorithm was developed to detect abnormal process trends and identify the variables of greater impact when these anomalies arise. In the next stage, an algorithm was developed and implemented, based on the analysis of alarm streaks, to identify the system’s behavior and thus classify fluctuations into either normal operating condition drifts or system failures. The application of the proposed methodology with real operation data of the engine (JGS 612 GS-N. L) shows that the method outperforms operators in detecting and identifying faults, as it performs these tasks considerably earlier than operators.
THE EXTINCTION OF THE IGNIS FATUUS
Authors: Pavão Antonio , Paiva Gerson , Bastos Cristiano
Published: January 2023

Ignis fatuus, a luminous phenomenon witnessed over the centuries by observers around the world, is no longer seen in modern times, suggesting that it is extinct. An explanation for this disappearance can be found in the description of ignis fatuus as a cool flame of methane. Unlike a conventional flame, which generates large amounts of heat, ignis fatuus is a flame that glows without heat through a chemiluminescence process. Its characteristic bluish color is due to the emission of excited formaldehyde, which is formed in the slow combustion of methane. It is generally accepted that the phenomenon is a spontaneous combustion of swamp gas in contact with the oxygen in air, but an analysis of the energies involved in the cool flame process indicates that the phenomenon is not spontaneous in nature. Experiments carried out in the 19th century show torches being used to ignite ignis fatuus. The abandonment of fire in favor of night lighting may hold the secret to this mystery of ignis fatuus’s extinction.