bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Full-Duplex MIMO Relay-assisted Interference Alignment Algorithm in K-user Interference Channels
Authors: Bai Lijun , Hao Li , Jia Kejun
Published: June 2022

In this paper, we investigate the transceiver design schemes for the full-duplex (FD) multiple-input multipleoutput (MIMO) relay-assisted K -user single-input multipleoutput (SIMO) interference channels (ICs). Firstly, we propose an iterative optimized reference vector for IA (IORV-IA) algorithm in the perfect channel state information (CSI) scenario. The proposed IORV-IA algorithm not only achieves the alignment of interference signals at each receiver, but also iteratively optimizes the IA reference vector by orthogonalizing the directions of the interference signals and the desired signal. With the optimized IA reference vector, the relay processing matrix and the receiving filter vectors are designed to further improve the system performance. Considering that the relay cannot obtain perfect CSIs in practice due to many factors, and the performance of the IA scheme is very sensitive to this error. Furthermore, we propose a robust transceiver design scheme based on mean square error (MSE) in the imperfect CSI scenario, which minimizes the sum of MSEs in the worst case through iteration. The proposed algorithms are evaluated in terms of the average sum rate and bit error rate (BER) performance and the simulation results show the advantages of the proposed algorithms over existing centralized IA (CIA) and centralized zero-forcing (CZF) algorithms.
Comparative genome-wide analysis of hub lncRNAs and mRNAs in brain metastatic small cell lung cancer – An in-Silico Approach
Authors: Namini Arsham Mikaeili , Jahangir Motahareh , Mohseni Maryam , Kolahi Ali Asghar , Hassanian-Moghaddam Hossein , Mazloumi Zeinab , Motallebi Marzieh , Sheikhpour Mojgan , Movafagh Abolfazl
Published: June 2022

Lung cancer is one of the most commonly prevalent globally. Metastatic lung tumours lead to most deaths in lung cancer. Predicting and preventing tumour metastasis is crucially Important for patient survivability. Hence, in the current study, we focused on a comprehensive analysis of lung cancer patients' differentially expressed genes (DEGs) on brain metastasis cell lines. DEGs are analysed through KEGG and GO databases for the most critical biological processes and pathways for enriched DEGs. Additionally, we performed PPI, GeneMANIA and Kaplan-Meier survival analyses on our DEGs. This article focused on mRNA and lncRNA DEGs for LC patients with brain metastasis and underlying molecular mechanisms. The expression data was gathered from the Gene Expression Omnibus database (GSE161968). We demonstrate that 30 distinct genes are up expressed in brain metastasis SCLC patients, and 31 genes are down-expressed. All the analyses we performed show these genes are Involve In metastatic SCLC. PPI analysis revealed two hub genes (CAT and APP). The results of this article present three lncRNAs, Including XLOC_l2_000941, LOC100507481, and XLOC_l2_007062, also notable mRNAs, have a close relation with brain metastasis in lung cancer and may have a role in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in tumour cells.
Experimental study of EDM characteristics using a 5-DOF controllable magnetic levitation actuator
Authors: Luan Boran , Zhang Xiaoyou , Xu Fangchao , Yang Guang , Jin Junjie , Xu Chengcheng , Feng Sun
Published: June 2022

The efficiency and accuracy of conventional electrical discharge machining (EDM) is limited by the stability of the voltage between the poles. To improve the efficiency of EDM, this paper proposes a machining method that combines a self-developed 5-degree-of-freedom (5-DOF) controllable magnetic levitation actuator with a conventional EDM machine tool. The stability of the inter-pole voltage is improved by the actuator micro-adjustment the electrodes of the EDM machine tool. Firstly, an EDM control system with local current feedback and decoupling control elements is designed based on the EDM servo drive principle to improve the response speed and positioning accuracy of the actuator. Secondly, the actuator was connected to the spindle of a conventional EDM machine tool, and machining experiments were carried out. The experimental results showed that the EDM machine tool connected to the actuator could control the electrode position more quickly, adjust the discharge state quickly, and increase the number of discharges per unit time. The average machining speed increased from 1.108µm/s to 3.925µm/s, which is 3.54 times faster than conventional EDM. Finally, complex shape machining experiments were carried out and the machining results showed that by adjusting the target value of the radial direction of the actuator, the various trajectories of the electrode could be controlled to depict arbitrary shapes.
Estimation of Surface Roughness in Selective Laser Sintering Using Computational Models
Authors: Koç Ebubekir , Zeybek Sultan , Kısasöz Burçin Özbay , Çalışkan Cemal İrfan , Bulduk M. Enes
Published: June 2022

In this study, a novel classification model is proposed to estimate surface roughness for the parts produced in an industrial additive manufacturing technology. The proposed model focused on selective laser sintering (SLS) technology based on polyamide 12 powder applications. A comprehensive dataset is designed to simulate the production parts and manufactured at an industrial SLS machine based on a proposed positioning strategy and random positions to test the robustness of the dataset and the model. The proposed classification model is based on Deep Neural Networks (DNN) with hyperparameters designed for the problem. Benchmark results show that the model outperforms other machine learning methods on classifying the surface roughness successfully on the test dataset. The dataset and the model provide a new user interface to estimate the surface roughness depending on the coordinates of a given product surface in a SLS production chamber and the production parameters employed in the production planning phase.
Genetic diversity and structure analysis of melon accessions using URP, SRAP, and CDDP markers
Authors: Aziz Rebwar Rafat , Tahir Nawroz
Published: June 2022

Melon (Cucumis melo L.) is an ancient and indigenous crop that grows in Iraq's Kurdistan region, and research into its genetic diversity is needed to improve this important culinary plant while also promoting a healthy diet. This study assessed the genetic diversity of 57 melon accessions using three types of molecular markers, namely universal rice primer (URP), sequence-related amplified polymorphism (SRAP), and conserved DNA derived polymorphism (CDDP) markers. The URAP + IRAP, SRAP, and CDDP primers yielded 143, 125, and 131 polymorphic alleles, respectively. The average polymorphic information content (PIC) was 0.29, 0.26, and 0.32 for URAP + IRAP, SRAP, and CDDP, respectively. Based on the average values of polymorphic bands per primer and PIC of three types of markers, the order of the power of discrimination of melon accession was as follows: URP + IRAP > CDDP > SRAP. The URP-4R, Me1-Em2, and MYB-1 primers had the highest Shannon information index values. Based on the Ward method-based cluster and STRUCTURE analysis, URAP + IRAP and SRAP markers grouped 57 accessions into two primary clusters with various sub-clusters, whereas CDDP markers divided 57 accessions into three groups. The genetic distances between accessions ranged from 0.32 to 0.84 for URP + IRAP, 0.20 to 0.78 for SRAP, and 0.25 to 0.73 for CDDP. The analysis of molecular variance revealed an increase in genetic variation within groups, as well as significant gene exchange between populations. In SRAP analysis, substantial genetic distinctiveness was identified among populations. However, in CDDP analysis, high Shannon's information index and predicted heterozygosity were observed among populations. The outcomes of this study indicated a high level of variability in Iraqi melon germplasm, which must be preserved and included in improvement programs for this ancient crop.
Adaptive trajectory tracking control and parameter identification for autonomous underwater vehicles based on contraction theory
Authors: Ma Caipeng , Tang Yu , Wang Jiaxi , Yan Jiajie , Liao Yuchen , Jiang Dapeng
Published: June 2022

In this paper, contraction theory is applied to design the trajectory tracking controller for a fully-actuated 6-degree-of-freedom (6-DOF) autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV). First, assuming that all system parameters are known, an ideal controller is given. Then, to deal with the parameter uncertainties, an adaptive controller is proposed. Combined with the adaptive law, the estimated values of the parameters converge to their real values without requiring the persistent excitation (PE) condition to be satisfied, that is, the parameter identification is realized. Exponential convergence of the system is analyzed in the framework of contraction theory. The concepts of partial contraction, virtual system and modular properties reduce the difficulty of system design and analysis. The numerical simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Who’s fit for the low-carbon transition? Emerging skills and wage gaps in job ad data
Authors: Saussay Aurélien , Sato Misato , Vona Francesco , O'Kane Layla
Published: June 2022

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
An effective methodology for software defects prediction using Principal Component-based Multi-layer Perceptron (PC-MLP): A Hybrid Technique
Authors: Mustaqeem Mohd. , Siddiqui Tamanna
Published: June 2022

Nowadays, the software is used almost in every field. The software industry is evolving rapidly, and developing quality software is challenging for developers. Defects in the software are the primary reason for degrading the quality. Software defects prediction is a difficult task. Though researchers have developed several methods to overcome this issue that support the problem, there is room for improvement in software defects prediction. The curse of dimensionality occurs when research is undertaken without feature reduction. Therefore, after consulting several other works of a similar caliber, a hybrid machine learning approach that combines Principal Component Analysis (PCA) for feature optimization with Multi-layer perceptrons for classification has been designed to overcome the hurdle. The proposed model reduces the time complexity of the traditional methods by reducing the number of attributes used for classification. We have used the PROMISE dataset CM1 & KC1 repository from the NASA directory (CM1 344 observations & KC1 2109 observations) to perform our research work. We have divided the datasets into training (240 from CM1 observations & 1476 from KC1) and testing (104 from CM1 observations & 633 from KC1). We have employed precision, recall, F-measure, and accuracy in evaluating the model. Using the proposed model, we reduced the time complexity and increased the accuracy by using the CM1 & KC1 datasets then the previously developed models. In addition, the proposed model receives a greater score on additional criteria. The primary limitation with Multi-layer perceptrons is that it requires a linearly separable dataset, which can make classifications relatively inflexible. Soon, several new strategies may be introduced to overcome this limitation and maintain a soft-based categorization margin.
Visceral adipose tissue secretome from early and late-stage oesophageal cancer patients differentially affects effector and regulatory T cells.
Authors: Davern Maria , Bracken-Clarke Dara , Donlon Noel E , Sheppard Andrew D , connell Fiona O , Heeran Aisling B , Majcher Klaudia , Conroy Melissa J , Mylod Eimear , Butler Christine , Donohoe Claire , Donnell Dearbhaile O' , Lowry Maevle , Bhardwaj Anshul , Ravi Narayanasamy , Melo Ashanty A , Sullivan Jacintha O' , Reynolds John V , Lysaght Joanne
Published: June 2022

Visceral obesity is a key risk factor in the development of oesophagogastric junctional adenocarcinoma (OGJ), predominantly via generation of systemic low grade inflammation. Obesity-induced inflammation promotes resistance to current standards of care, enhancing tumour cell growth and survival. This study investigates the effect of the visceral adicpose tissue secretome from OGJ patients with early versus advanced tumours on T-cell immunity and the role of immune checkpoint blockade in enhancing anti-tumour immunity. Visceral adipose conditioned media (ACM) from both early and late-stage OGJ patients significantly altered T cell activation status, upregulating co-stimulatory marker CD27 on T cells. ACM from both early and late-stage OGJ patients significantly altered immune checkpoint expression profiles downregulating immune checkpoints (ICs) on the surface of dual Th1/17-like and Th17-like cells and upregulating ICs on the surface of Th1-like cells and Treg cells. ACM derived from early-stage OGJ patients but not late-stage OGJ patients increased IFN-γ production by T cells. The addition of immune checkpoint blockers (ICBs) did not increase IFN-γ production by T cells in the presence of late-stage ACM, collectively highlighting the dichotomous immunostimulatory effect of early-stage ACM and immune-inhibitory effect of late-stage ACM. Interestingly, ACM from early-stage OGJ patients was more pro-inflammatory than ACM from late-stage patients, reflected by decreased levels of IL-17A/F, TNF-α, IL-1RA and IL-5. The ACM-induced upregulation of ICs on T cells highlights a therapeutic vulnerability that could be exploited by ICBs to harness anti-cancer immunity and improve clinical outcomes for OGJ patients.
Manufacturing agglomeration, urban form and haze pollution
Authors: Wei Jishi , Ye Yunling , Yu Haichao
Published: June 2022

Manufacturing agglomeration promotes rapid economic development while also causing severe environmental pollution. This paper investigates the impact and mechanism of manufacturing agglomeration on haze pollution from the Chinese city level. Furthermore, we discuss the moderating effect and threshold effect of the three urban forms of urban external shape complexity, urban compactness, and urban fragmentation on the relationship between the two. The result shows: (1) The aggregation of the manufacturing industry presents an inverted U-shaped characteristic of promoting first and then inhibiting haze pollution in China's overall, eastern and central regions. (2) The complexity of the city's external shape and the city's fragmentation has a positive moderating effect on the relationship between manufacturing agglomeration and haze pollution. And urban fragmentation shows a negative moderating effect on the relationship between the two when the level of manufacturing agglomeration is on the right side of the inverted U-shaped curve. (3) The urban form shows a significant double threshold characteristic for haze pollution, increasing the complexity of the city's external shape and the city's fragmentation. The agglomeration of manufacturing shows the characteristics of first inhibiting and then promoting haze pollution. As urban compactness increases, the inhibitory effect of manufacturing agglomeration on haze pollution increases.
The results of treatment of the congenital vertical talus by Dobb`s method
Authors: Grzegorzewski Andrzej , Lipiński Łukasz , Pruszczyński Błażej , Grzegorzewski Paweł , Buchcic Piotr
Published: June 2022

Congenital vertical talus is a rare foot deformity. The hindfoot is valgus and equinus, the midfoot is dorsiflexed and forefoot is abducted caused by a fixed dorsal dislocation of the navicular on the head of the talus and the cuboid on the anterior part of the calcaneus. The epidemiology and ethiology of vertical talus is unknown. Dobbs et al in 2006 described a minimally invasive alternative avoiding the need for extensive soft tissue release procedures in treatment a congenital vertical talus. The study material contains group of 11 congenital vertical talus feet (group 5 according to Hamanishi) in 8 children (4 boys and 4 girls). The age at the time of the diagnosis varied from 5 to 26 months (mean – 14.6). Treatment involved serial manipulation and casting and then a minimally invasive approach with temporary stabilization of the talonavicular joint by K-wire and Achilles tenotomy. On lateral radiographs measurements include the talocalcaneal angle, tibiotalar angle and talar axis – first metatarsal base angle (TAMBA) and on AP radiographs - the talocalcaneal angle and talar axis – first metatarsal angle. The Wilcoxon test was used for comparison the dependent variables. The final clinical assessment during last follow up (mean 35.8 months, range 25–52) revealed in 10 cases neutral position of the foot and normal range of motion and in one case recurrence of foot deformity. Also X-ray assessment showed normalization all of the radiological parameters except for one case and were statistically significant. The minimally invasive technique described by Dobb`s should be the first option when treating the congenital vertical talus. It allows for reducing the talonavicular joint, gives good results and preserves a mobile foot. The attention should be put on early diagnosis.
Investigation of Anti-Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Anti-Inflammation effects of Qing Fei Hua Xian Decotion on Pulmonary Fibrosis via Network Pharmacology and Experimental Verification
Authors: Yu Chao-chao , Li Rui-Jie , Wang Xiao-Fei , Wu Chao-Yan , Wang Xi , Peng Yan-Fang , Wang Xiu-Ping , Chen Wei , Ruan Lian-Guo , Zhang Ying-Wen
Published: June 2022

Background
Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a common interstitial pneumonia disease, also occurred in post-COVID-19 survivors. The mechanism underlying the anti-PF effect of Qing Fei Hua Xian Decotion (QFHXD), a traditional Chinese medicine formula applied for treating PF in COVID-19 survivors, is unclear. This study aimed to uncover the mechanisms related to the anti-PF effect of QFHXD through analysis of network pharmacology and experimental verification.
Methods
The candidate chemical compounds of QFHXD and its putative targets for treating PF were achieved from public databases, thereby we established the corresponding “herb- compound -target” network of QFHXD. Moreover, The protein–protein interaction (PPI) network of potential targets was also constructed to screen the core targets. Furthermore, Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis were used to predict targets, and pathways, then validated by in vivo experiments.
Results
A total of 188 active compounds in QFHXD and 50 target genes were identified from databases. The key therapeutic targets of QFHXD, such as PI3K/Akt, IL-6, TNF, IL-1β, STAT3, MMP-9, and TGF-β1 were identified by KEGG and GO analysis. Anti-PF effects of QFHXD (in a dose-dependent manner) and prednisone were confirmed by HE, Masson staining, and Sirius red staining as well as in vivo Micro-CT and immunohistochemical analysis in a rat model of bleomycin-induced PF. Besides, QFXHD remarkably inhibits the activity of PI3K/Akt/NF-κB and TGF‑β1/Smad2/3.
Conclusion
QFXHD significantly attenuated bleomycin-induced PF via inhibiting inflammation and EMT. PI3K/Akt/NF-κB and TGF‑β1/Smad2/3 pathways might be the potential therapeutic effects of QFHXD for treating PF.
New technology of multi-directional loading rotary extrusion
Authors: Zhang Zhimin , Xue Yong , Zhang Xing , Dong Beibei , Yan Lin , Chen Zhe
Published: June 2022

Aiming at the demand of precise forming of large-scale high-performance lightweight components with inner ring reinforcement, a new multi-directional loading rotary extrusion forming technology is developed, which matches the linear motion with the rotary motion and actively increases the strong shear force. Its principle is that while the blank is axially extruded and loaded, the radial force and rotating torque are increased. Through the synergistic action of axial, radial and rotating motion, the orderly flow of metal is controlled and the cumulative severe plastic deformation (SPD) of "uplift-trowel" micro area is generated, so as to realize the uniform strengthening and toughening of materials. At the same time, through the continuous deformation of punch "ellipse-circle", high reinforcement is grown on the cylinder wall to achieve the high-quality forming of cylindrical parts or inner ring reinforcement components. This technology enriches the plastic forming theory and widens the application field of plastic forming. In addition, the formed large-scale high-performance inner ring stiffened magnesium (Mg) components have been successfully verified in aerospace equipment, solves the problems of integral forming and severe deformation strengthening and toughening of large-scale inner ring stiffened components, and has a good prospect of popularization and application.
A ten-gene retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)/choroid complex diagnosis signature for age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Li He-Yan , Dong Li , Zhou Wen-Da , Wu Hao-Tian , Li Yi-Fan , Zhang Rui-Heng , Wei Wen Bin
Published: June 2022

Purpose
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a multifactorial disease in the elderly with a prominent genetic basis. This study aimed to apply machine learning method to develop a novel diagnostic model for AMD based on gene biomarkers in RPE/choroid complex, which may be potential therapeutic targets.
Methods
We collected RPE/choroid tissue gene expression profiles of AMD and normal patients from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database as training and validation cohorts. After differential expression analysis and the selection of gene biomarkers by random forest algorithms, selected genes were applied to the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) logistic regression to construct a diagnostic model in the training cohort. The diagnostic ability of the model was further tested in the validation cohort. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and immune cell assessment were also conducted for further analyses.
Results
A noval diagnostic model based on ten genes (BMPR2, CNOT3, CRLF1, FXYD6, HRASLS5, KRTDAP, NUDT16L1, PI16, PLAGL1, SART1) was constructed in the training cohort. The AUC in the training cohort reached 0.908 (95% CI: 0.823–0.975), while it remained 0.809 (95% CI: 0.522–0.889) in the validation cohort. According to the GSEA analysis, glutathione metabolism and phototransduction pathway are the two shared enriched pathways in the training and validation cohorts. Functional enrichment analysis and immune cell evaluation demonstrated that AMD was significantly correlated with both adaptive and innate immune cells, and the levels of neutrophil in the high-risk group were significantly higher than that in the low-risk group in both training and validation datasets
Conclusion
We identified and validated a novel ten-gene-based diagnostic model with high accuracy for AMD. The current study provided a promising tool to be used as a precise and cost-effective non-invasive test in clinical practice.
Business Constraints and Firm Exit in Developing Countries: Evidence from Nigeria
Authors: ORJIAKOR EBUKA
Published: June 2022

This study examines the impact of business constraints on firm exit using harmonized dataset of panel firms from the World Bank Enterprise Survey in Nigeria. It applies a confirmatory methodology – factor analysis to aggregate 15 firm-level indicators of business constraints into an index scale and estimates firm likelihood of exit from the market using binary probit model. Findings suggest that firm exit in Nigeria is not determined by current level of constraints in the business environment; however, additional level of constraints will result to more firms exiting the market. This finding holds true in the entire model specifications; that is, with and without accounting for firms’ differences or demographics, the squared business constraint index has a significant positive association with firm exit. By implication, addressing constraints in the business environment can improve business survival prospect and in return contribute to national development. Therefore, it is imperative that policymakers in developing countries like Nigeria should gear more efforts towards improving business environment in their economies through carefully designed policies that can foster private sector development.
Identifying Soil Erosion Hotspot Area Using GIS and MCDA Techniques, Case Study of Dengora and Meno Watersheds in Belesa Woredas, Amhara Region
Authors: Munye Kefale , Sintayehu Gashaw , Belayneh Alemshet , Mulat Chalachew
Published: June 2022

In Ethiopia soil erosion and land degradation has become a key issue, because of roughed and steep slope topography that soil erosion become accelerating. The main objective of this study was to identify soil erosion hotspot areas in Dengora and Meno watersheds using Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) and Multi Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) techniques. To achieve such objective RUSLE model was used to estimate potential soil losses by utilizing information on Soil, land use/cover, topography, and climatic data. MCDA technique considered land use, soil type, topographic wetness index, stream power index and potential location of gullies. The factors were weighted using pair-wise comparison matrix and weights were combined using Weighted Overlay. Based on RUSLE model, the average annual soil loss of Dengora and Meno watersheds were reaches up to 223.97and 256.09-ton ha-1yr-1 respectively. In Dengora watershed 70.4%, 18.7%, 10.74% and 0.14% and Meno watershed 76%, 16.54%, 7.3% and 0.14% of the total watershed area slightly, moderately, highly and very highly sensitive to soil erosion respectively. On the other hand, GIS based MCDA technique reveals that in Dengora watershed 9.7%, 64.5%, 18% and 7.8% and Meno watershed 6.1%, 71.3%, 23.23% and 0.375% of the total watershed area was highly, moderately, slightly and currently not sensitive to soil erosion respectively. Based on validation, field level observation, MCDA model prediction was more accurate than RUSLE. Both of the watersheds were at moderate risk. Bottomlands of the watersheds under were highly sensitive areas for erosion. Therefore, immediate attention for soil and water conservation practices.
The “Y”-shaped Denonvilliers’ fascia and its adjacent relationship with the urogenital fascia based on the male cadaveric anatomical study
Authors: Yi Li , Ya-Min Zhao , Yan-Bing Ma , Jin-Song Zhou , Cong Tong , Li-Kun Yan
Published: June 2022

Background
The controversies about the anatomical structure of the Denonvilliers’ fascia and the relationship with surrounding fasciae have sparked a heated discussion, especially about whether it contains multilayers. This study aimed to expound on the anatomical structure of the Denonvilliers’ fascia and its correlation with the peritoneum from the sagittal position and clarify the complex fasciae relationship.
Methods
Our study was performed on 20 adult male pelvic specimens fixed in formalin, including 2 entire pelvic specimens and 18 semi-pelvic specimens. By dissecting the local adjacent organs and fasciae, the Denonvilliers’ fascia was observed and removed for histological examination.
Results
Almost the Denonvilliers’ fascia was a single layer and tough fascia. In the sagittal position, the peritoneum constituting peritoneum reflection and the Denonvilliers’ fascia showed a “Y” shape. The Denonvilliers’ fascia was originated from the peritoneum reflection, continually ran on the ventral side of the seminal vesicles and prostate, terminated at the perineal body, and gradually both sides thinned to fuse with the urogenital fascia (UGF). In addition, the histology preliminarily manifested that the basal cell layers of the peritoneum and that of the Denonvilliers’ fascia were continuous, and they also showed a “Y” shape. Also, the basal cells of the two peritonea extended to the Denonvilliers’ fascia, showing a fused double-layer structure. Some tiny blood vessels or a network of them extended from the peritoneum to the Denonvillier’ fascia.
Conclusion
As the extension of the peritoneum in the pelvic floor, the Denonvilliers’ fascia is a “Y”-shaped monolayer layer fascia in the sagittal position. Our study provides new support for the peritoneum fusion theory of it. Understanding the anatomical characteristics of the Denonvilliers’ fascia and its relationship with the UGF is a guiding significance for youth colorectal surgeons to conduct rectal cancer surgery.
Synthesis, structural and theoretical studies on new morpholino acetamide ligand and rare earth metal complexes and corrosion Inhibition Effect
Authors: Ahmed Yasmin mamdoh hussien , Ashmawy Ashraf M. , Abbas Ashraf.A. , Mohamed Gehad G.
Published: June 2022

A series of new complexes of the general formula [Ln(H2L)Cl2]Cly.4H2O (Ln = Er and Ta) and [Yb(H2L)(H2O)2]Cl3, H2L = N,N'-((ethane-1,2-diylbis(sulfanediyl))bis(2,1-phenylene))bis(2-morpholinoacetamide) are synthesized and characterized. The physical properties of these complexes are investigated including melting point, color, and percent yield. At room temperature, complexes exhibit similar solution absorption spectra in the UV–Vis region. As shown by thermal analysis, the complexes lose water molecules first, then anions, and finally ligand molecules, leaving a metal oxide residue. The complexes were resulted from monomolar coordination of neutral tetradentate ligand through the amide nitrogen and sulfur, with octahedral geometries. Ligand and its Ta(V) complex are structurally characterized by X-ray powder diffraction. Their optical band gaps demonstrated the ligand and complexes have semiconducting property. Aluminum alloys (AlSi) corrosion inhibition was investigated in 1 M HCl using potentiodynamic polarization (PP) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The inhibition efficiency was 96.36% at 500 ppm inhibitor in 1 M HCl.. Multiple bonding patterns were discovered in molecular docking simulations of the drugs against SARS-CoV-2 (6Y84) and E. coli DNA gyrase (5MMN). The binding energy of complexes revealed active compounds capable of inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 and E. coli DNA gyrase. The antioxidant activity of the ligand and its Ln-complexes was investigated, yielding some surprising results.Finally, it is worthy to note that, the biochemical outcomes revealed that these complexes may be promising antibacterial agents.
Clinical features and treatment strategies of Helicobacter cinaedi infections in emergency departments: a descriptive study
Authors: Izuta Kento , Matsuoka Yoshinori , Hasuike Toshikazu , Hijikata Yasukazu , Kuwahara Yusuke , Mizu Daisuke , Ariyoshi Koichi
Published: June 2022

Background: Helicobacter cinaedi, a Gram-negative spiral bacterium, is a rare cause of bacteraemia in humans. It is increasingly reported in both immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients. Nevertheless, little is known about H. cinaedi infections in the emergency departments (ED). Our study aimed to describe the clinical features of H. cinaedi infections in the ED.Methods: We conducted the descriptive study at the ED of Kobe City General Hospital between November 2011 and December 2020. We included all ED patients with H. cinaedi infections, and all H. cinaedi were isolated in blood cultures. Following bacterial culture, clinical specimens with gram-negative spiral bacilli underwent polymerase chain reactions to confirm H. cineadi infection. We retrospectively obtained the patient data from the electronic medical records and described patient characteristics, clinical course, and management of H. cinaedi bacteraemia. Results: During the study period, 22 patients in the ED were diagnosed with H. cinaedi bacteraemia. The youngest patient was 32 years old, and the oldest was 91 (median: 65.5 [interquartile range, 49.3 to 63.3] years). Diabetes mellitus was the most common comorbidity (7/22, 31.8%), followed by haematological malignancy and solid tumour (5/22, 22.7%), recent chemotherapy (4/22, 18.2%), while 3/22 (13.6%) patients had no comorbidities. In our cohort, complicated cases were identified: vertebral osteomyelitis (three cases), infected aortic aneurysm (two cases), and infected cyst (renal cyst, and pancreatic cyst with concomitant empyema) (two cases). Tetracycline (minocycline) was most commonly prescribed; administered intravenously in 5/15 (33.3%) and orally in 9/20 (45.0%) patients. Only one (4.5%) patient required surgical interventions. None died in the hospital.Conclusions: We reported 22 cases of H. cinaedi bacteraemia in the ED, most of which were successfully treated with antibiotics, primarily tetracycline. This report gives an important insight into the presentation and management of such infections. We suggest that future studies are warranted to evaluate the optimal choice and route of antibiotic treatment in H. cinaedi infections.
Insights into the primitives and sequence of 7YSZ TBCs deposition mechanism
Authors: Huang Rongchen , Yang Wenchao , Fan Xiujuan , Mao Jie , Liu Min , Zhan Yongzhong , Zhang Xiaofeng
Published: June 2022

The deposition mechanism of 7YSZ (7 wt% Y2O3-ZrO2) thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) prepared by plasma spray–physical vapor deposition (PS-PVD) and electron beam–physical vapor deposition (EB-PVD) were investigated in detail. The results show that the deposition mechanism of 7YSZ TBCs can be divided into two stages, including primitives and sequences. These coating primitives (grains) were deposited using atomic vapor. The PS-PVD primitives were short rod–shaped, while the EB-PVD primitives were needle-shaped. The PS-PVD coating primitives were ordered in the interior but disordered on the surface due to quenching under the influence of the plasma jet. However, the EB-PVD coating primitives were ordered from the interior to the surface. The feather-like columnar structure in PS-PVD was sequenced due to the vapor-liquid-solid mixed-phases deposition. In contrast, the needle-like columnar structure in EB-PVD was sequenced because of the single-vapor phase deposition.
Sustainable nano-interventions to enhance crop yield, anthocyanin content, and marketability of onion (Allium cepa)
Authors: Jangir Himanshi , Kaler Brijesh , Srivast Gaurav , Das Mainak
Published: June 2022

Our reliance on synthetic agrochemicals has detrimental effects on the environment and living species. To restore the ecological balance, we need to explore strategies to minimize agrochemicals’ use without compromising agricultural production. Nano-formulations help lower dosages of agrochemicals, leading to the emergence of nano-agriculture. Judicious use of nanomaterials for enhancing plant metabolic performance and yield remains a challenge. Here, we have achieved the same by root treatment of the onion crop with nanopyrite (FeS2) and further organic goat manure fertilizer application. We report an increase in yield through root treatment with nano-pyrite plus soil application of goat dropping (Test) as compared to the use of goat dropping alone (Control). The total biomass of the test sample was 4.75 kg (n=86), while control samples weighed 3.5 kg (n=86). The total bulb weight for the control and test was 2.6 kg and 3.6 kg, respectively. We observed a yield-boosting effect of root treatment with nanopyrite in onion. There is a significant increase in the anthocyanin content in test bulbs and flavonol content in test leaves. We have integrated two types of farming systems: organic and nano-agriculture to bolster the metabolic fitness of the onion (Allium cepa) and achieve sustainable food production.
Hypoxia score for predicting prognosis and tumor response to immunotherapy in bladder urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Li Yinghao , Zhang Yanlong , Chen Chao , Zhao Sicong , Zhang Xinwei , Zhang Jian , Yan Yong
Published: June 2022

Numerous types of cancers are characterized by hypoxia. However, the effects of hypoxia on cancer immunology, tumor growth, and therapeutic responses in bladder urothelial carcinoma (BLCA) remain unknown. In this study, we examined the biological characteristics of hypoxia and hypoxia-related gene clusters in BLCA. Clustering analysis was performed to identify the subtypes of BLCA based on hypoxia biomarker genes. Principal component analysis and hypoxia-related genes were used to calculate a hypoxia score for BLCA. The level of infiltration of immune and stromal cells in the BLCA immune microenvironment was quantified using CIBERSORT and ESTIMATE. A hazard ratio was determined for the hypoxia score through meta-analysis of three separate BLCA cohorts. The association between the hypoxia score and the tumor microenvironment was determined using pan-cancer analysis. A tumor immunotherapy cohort and the Genomics of Drug Sensitivity in Cancer database were used to examine the predictive value of the hypoxia score in relation to various treatment options. We evaluated 1,449 BLCA samples, 5 cell lines, and 9,858 samples from 32 different tumor types. In the BLCA cohort, three hypoxia and two hypoxia-related gene clusters with different hypoxia levels in the tumor microenvironment were found. The final hypoxia scoring system considered 77 hypoxia-related genes. A low hypoxia score was associated with high KDM6A, FGFR3, and OBSCN mutation rates; better prognosis; and a strong response to immunotherapy. The understanding of tumor invasion and metastasis can be improved by analyzing the hypoxia patterns in different tumor microenvironments. The hypoxia scoring system may be useful for determining patient prognosis and personalized immune treatment plans.
Valorization of Residual Biomass From Forest Harvesting Through Its Pelletization
Authors: Lúcio Danielle de Moraes , Hillig Everton , Neto Raul de Abreu , Lopes Eduardo da Silva , Silva Dimas Agostinho da
Published: June 2022

Residual biomass from forest harvesting consists of a mixture of wood, bark, leaves and needles that are often used to generate energy. In addition, this biomass can remain stored in the field for up to six months, which can affect its physical and energy properties. The pelleting process can be an alternative to improve the energy properties, transport and storage of this biofuel, allowing companies to better manage these resources. Thus, the effect of storage time in the field of the harvesting residual biomass of pine and eucalyptus on the properties of its pellets were evaluated. The results show that there is little influence of the storage time on the energy properties and there is a tendency to increase the physical and mechanical properties of the pellets produced from biomass with longer storage time in the field. We show that benefits can be obtained by producing pellets with forest harvest residues, even if they contain a non-woody fraction and regardless of the storage time in the field.
Stereoisomeric Engineering of Aggregation-Induced Emission Photosensitizers towards Fungal Killing
Authors: Zhu Wenping , Li Ying , Guo Shaoxun , Guo Wu-Jie , Peng Tuokai , Li Hui , Liu Bin , Peng Hui-Qing , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: June 2022

The human health crisis caused by fungal infection is impending. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) as an alternative antifungal approach has garnered much interest due to its minimal side effects and negligible antifungal drug resistance. Herein, we develop stereoisomeric photosensitizers ((Z)- and (E)-TPE-EPy) by harnessing different spatial configurations of one molecule. They possess aggregation-induced emission characteristics and ROS, viz. 1O2 and O2−• generation capabilities that enable image-guided PDT. Also, the cationization of the photosensitizers realizes targeting of fungal mitochondria for antifungal PDT killing. Particularly, stereoisomeric engineering assisted by supramolecular assembly leads to enhanced fluorescence intensity and ROS generation efficiency of the stereoisomers due to the excited state energy flow from nonradiative decay to the fluorescence pathway and intersystem (ISC) process. As a result, the supramolecular assemblies based on (Z)- and (E)-TPE-EPy show dramatically lowered dark toxicity without sacrificing their significant phototoxicity in the photodynamic antifungal experiments. This study is the first demonstration of stereoisomeric engineering of aggregation-induced emission photosensitizers based on (Z)- and (E)-configurations.
Modeling Reference Evapotranspiration in the Arid and Humid Regions of Australia with Emotional Neural Networks
Authors: Hai Tao , Wang Kegang , Band Shahab S. , Bateni Sayed M. , Jun Changhyun , Sivandran Gajan , Thendiyath Roshni , Mirzania Ehsan
Published: June 2022

Reliable simulation of reference evapotranspiration (ETo) is critical for modeling many key hydrological processes that greatly influence water resources management. Significanat research effort hasbeen carried out to develop a suitable ETo modeling structure using various input combinations of hydro-climatic variables. Emotional Neural Network (ENN) is an efficient data-driven model that was recently implemented in hydrological studies. This study evaluates the efficiency of the proposed model to simulate the ETo time series in both daily and monthly time scales for dry and humid climatic conditions in Australia. For this purpose, the optimal lag for each time series was detected using the Average Mutual Information (AMI) method. The results of the ENN model were compared with those of conventional Support Vector Machine (SVM) models. . It is evident from the results that the developed ENN models performed better than the SVM models at the daily time scale in both sites. The superiority of ENN is due to the ability to capture and distinguish the extreme situations of daily data using hormonal parameters of Emotional Neural Network. Furthermore, the study shows that both ENN and SVM models can offer significant implications for improving the ETo modeling in both humid and arid sites.
Modified risk of breast cancer by dietary factors and HS3ST2 methylation
Authors: Li Liangliang , Gao Yu , Han Zhen , Du Jinghang , Yu Yue , Zhang Nannan , Long Zhiping , Cao Yukun , Wu Yi , Pei Bing , Ye Jingyu , Wang Fan , Wang Maoqing
Published: June 2022

Background: DNA methylation, which has been demonstrated to be influenced by dietary factors, is associated with changes in breast cancer (BC) risk and clinicopathological features.Methods: A case-control study (271 newly diagnosed cases, 326 controls) was conducted to evaluate the effect of dietary factors and HS3ST2 methylation in peripheral blood leukocyte DNA on the risk of BC. Moreover, a case-only study (298 cases) was designed to evaluate the effects of dietary factors on HS3ST2 methylation in tumor tissue and the relationship of methylation with clinicopathological features.Results: The dietary consumption of fruit, poultry, marine fish, milk, and pork and regular exercise was significantly associated with changes in the risk of BC. We also found a significant association between HS3ST2 hypermethylation and BC risk (odds ratio [OR] = 1.618, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.077–2.243). The combined effects of HS3ST2 hypermethylation and lower fruit intake (<500 vs. ≥500 g/week, OR = 2.553, 95% CI = 1.328–4.908), poultry (<1 vs. ≥1/week, OR = 3.197, 95% CI = 1.598– 6.385), marine fish (<1 vs. ≥1 time/month, OR = 4.272, 95% CI = 2.117–8.621), and milk (<3 vs. ≥3 times/week, OR = 6.072, 95% CI = 2.399–15.568) and irregular exercise (<1 vs. ≥1 time/week, OR = 4.149, 95% CI = 1.908–9.022) were significantly associated with an increased risk of BC. The consumption of canned meat was associated with the hypermethylation status of HS3ST2 in BC tissues (OR = 3.884, 95% CI = 1.078–13.991). HS3ST2 hypermethylation was significantly associated a basal-like status (vs. luminal A, OR = 1.981, 95% CI = 1.036–3.787) and estrogen receptor negativity (Negative vs. Positive, OR = 1.744, 95%CI = 1.053-2.887) in BC tissues and TNM stages II–IV (II–IV vs. I, OR = 1.692, 95% CI = 1.040–2.752) in peripheral blood leukocyte DNA. Conclusion: Maintaining healthy dietary habits is of great significance for preventing BC, especially for women with HS3ST2 hypermethylation.
Epstein-Barr virus and cryptococcus are more predominant pathogens in cerebrospinal fluid of people living with HIV with low CD4 + cell counts
Authors: Dai Fangfang , Zhang Lili , Lu Xinxin , Lou Jinli , Yu Yanhua , Chen Ming
Published: June 2022

Background: To investigate the pathogen spectrum in central nervous system (CNS) of patients with HIV can provide early diagnosis and timely treatment.Methods: Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), cytomegalovirus (CMV) and tuberculous bacillus (TB) DNA were measured by real time (RT)-PCR. Enzyme linked immunosorbent assays were used to test the antibodies to CMV and EBV, and the antigen to cryptococcus. The CSF was cultured for microorganisms. Results: The most common virus was EBV (29.3% positive detection rate) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), followed by CMV (6% positive detection rate). Interestingly, the positive rate of CMV-IgG antibody was 58.5% in CSF and 95.2% in plasma while the positive rate of CMV-IgM antibody was 2.4% in CSF and 14.3% in plasma. The positive rate of cryptococcal antigen was 27% in CSF and 43.6% in plasma. The total positive rate of pathogenic microbe culture in CSF was 21%, and the higher positive rate was related with the lower CD4+ cell count. Almost 96% positive cultured microbe in CSF were cryptococcus. Conclusions: These results suggest that EBV and cryptococcus were the most common pathogens in CNS of patients living with HIV, more attention need to be paid to the role of EBV and cryptococcus in AIDS progression.
Regulation of the bE and bW Genes in Sporisorium scitamineum using Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized with Carissa Spinarum Extract
Authors: Nkhabindze Bongani Z. , Ateka Elijah , Earnshaw Diana , Wanyika Harrison N.
Published: June 2022

Background: Sugarcane smut is a disease that is caused by the fungus Sporisorium scitamineum. This is a disease of economic importance in the sugarcane industry because it can cause losses of up to 50%. Current management practices have shown to be ineffective in controlling the fungal disease and hence there is a need for the development of antifungal agents that are biocompatible, non-toxic, environmentally friendly and easy to develop. Biosynthesized silver nanoparticles have been found to possess antimicrobial properties, and have not been explored in S. scitamineum. Results: The synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Carissa spinarum yielded particles that were spherical, smooth and had a size range from 3nm to 33nm in size. Optimization of the mixtures using ultraviolet-visual spectroscopy (UV-Vis) showed peaks in the range of 340nm to 450nm. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis identified proteins to be essential capping agents and reducing sugars were responsible for the reduction of the silver nitrate to nanoparticles and stabilizing the nanoparticles. The biosynthesized silver nanoparticles had the highest antifungal activity at 5mg/ml, while the minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum fungal concentration were 78µg/ml. The in-vivo assays showed a significant (at P=0.05) reduction of the pathogen biomass concentration on the plants that were treated with the nanoparticles when compared to the control plants. The application of 58.5µg/ml of the b-AgNPs to the S. scitamineum resulted in a significant (P=0.05) increase in expression of the bE and bW genes, while the treatment with 39 µg/ml significantly (P=0.05) increased the expression of the bE gene, but had no significant (P=0.05) change in the expression of the bW gene. Conclusion: Silver nanoparticles that were synthesized successfully using C. spinarum crude extract inhibited the growth of S. scitamineum both in-vitro and in-vivo. The silver nanoparticles had a regulatory effect on the expression of the bE and bW genes in the fungus.