bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Modeling of Ink Widening and Coating Gap in Roll-to-Roll Slot-Die Coating of Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Electrolytic Layer
Authors: Kim Seongyong , Lee Jongsu , Jo Minho , Lee Changwoo
Published: November 2020

Slot-die coatings are advantageous when used for coating large-area flexible devices; in particular, the coating width can be controlled, and simultaneous multi-layer coatings can be processed. Till date, the effects of ink widening and coating gap on the coating thickness have only been considered in a few studies. To this end, we developed two mathematical models to accurately estimate the coating width and thickness considering these two effects. We used root mean square deviation (RMSD) to experimentally verify the developed method. The coating width was seen to increase and the coating thickness was seen to decrease when the coating gap was increased. Experimental results showed that the estimation performances of the coating width and thickness models were as high as 98.46 % and 95.8 %, respectively. We believe that the developed models can be useful for determining the coating conditions according to the ink properties to coat a functional layer with user-defined widths and thicknesses in both lab- and industrial-scale roll-to-roll slot-die coating processes.
Evaluation of new endothall and florpyrauxifen-benzyl use patterns for controlling crested floating heart and giant salvinia
Authors: Mudge Christopher , Netherland Michael
Published: November 2020

The purpose of this research was to (1) evaluate concentration exposure time (CET) relationships for florpyrauxifen-benzyl (ProcellaCOR) for control of the floating leaved plant crested floating heart (Nymphoides cristata, CFH) and (2) evaluate foliar applications of endothall (Aquathol K) for control of CFH and the floating fern giant salvinia (Salvinia molesta).
Las brechas digitales en Dabeiba y Frontino, Colombia: un desafío para la educación virtual para la paz
Authors: Torres-Madroñero María Constanza , Torres-Madroñero Esperanza Milena
Published: November 2020

Este es un estudio de casos centrado en la incorporación y apropiación de las Tecnologías de la Información y la Comunicación (TIC) para la educación en la ruralidad colombiana. Desde la implementación del proyecto PAZRED y su objetivo de construir una cultura de paz desde una apuesta virtual y pedagógica, se han identificado diferentes dimensiones de las brechas digitales en los municipios de Dabeiba y Frontino, en el Occidente antioqueño. Estas dimensiones se encuentran relacionadas con el acceso y uso de las tecnologías, el acompañamiento en los procesos de aprendizaje y la incorporación de la multiculturalidad de la población indígena. Este artículo expone el estado actual de las brechas digitales en estas dos zonas, así como los desafíos que presenta la educación virtual en estos escenarios. La metodología implementada en el proceso fue de carácter cualitativo, principalmente a través de entrevistas semiestructuradas, observación sistemática y revisión documental. De esta manera, se pudo dar cuenta de las brechas digitales en las zonas de estudio en términos de acceso, calidad y complejidad que se demanda para la educación en contextos con amplia diversidad cultural y de carácter rural. El análisis concluye que es necesario ampliar el concepto de «cobertura tecnológica», puesto que la apropiación tecnológica por parte de las comunidades rurales e indígenas debe ir más allá de la incorporación de TIC. Se requiere generar contenidos propios, modelos educativos y comunicativos con soporte tecnológico posicionados ética y políticamente, que reflejen las necesidades de aprendizaje, comprendan las lógicas y lenguajes propios de las comunidades.
Comments: Changes Coming to JPT
Authors: Boschee Pam
Published: November 2020

SPE has always weathered the ups and downs of serving a cyclical industry by adapting as necessary to continue providing our members with high-quality content in JPT and across our wide variety of offerings such as events, webinars, training courses, and other member programs.

This year’s simultaneous pandemic and oil and gas market downturn has led to challenges requiring difficult decisions throughout our industry. As SPE President Tom Blasingame wrote in his column this month, “The truth is we are all in the same storm of pandemic+economic crisis=chaos.”

SPE has made the difficult decision to stop printing and mailing JPT magazine as a cost-savings measure as of the November 2020 issue. For now, this change will be effective only through March 2021 but may extend as we consider future economic conditions and member response. The degree of uncertainty surrounding the oil and gas supply/demand outlook and the global course of COVID-19 will be determining factors in this decision making.

In addition to the October print issue, we’ll also provide a new digital edition, available to SPE members who normally receive the print JPT. It offers the convenience of a mobile app or a web browser experience.

Members often note that JPT is their most-valued member benefit, and we understand that a portion of membership will still prefer print. However, the cost savings are necessary to continue providing JPT and our other member programs. Also, members who previously received their JPT issues at their office and are now working from home may not have been receiving it. Some international members are also not receiving their issues due to countries’ restrictions on shipping and mailing. The digital edition brings access to JPT to you at any time or place.
Multi-Basin Real-Time Perforation Assessment Using Tube Wave Measurements
Authors: Dalamarinis Panagiotis , Merry Hoagie
Published: November 2020

This article addresses a means to improve hydraulic fracturing operations by measuring the perforation effectiveness on a stage-by-stage basis before the hydraulic fracturing process begins. Observations lead to the conclusion that pre-frac measurements provide meaningful insight about well-to-reservoir opening, allowing operators to identify the difficult-to-treat stages before the treatment begins. Based on the results of a case study from a North American unconventional basin, the limitations and conditions for employing pre-frac measurements are discussed.

Background

Often, perforation operations fail to initiate a well-established hydraulic communication between the wellbore and the reservoir rock. When hydraulic fracturing operations begin, a lack of wellbore to reservoir connectivity may cause unexpected difficulties such as unusually high pumping pressures, difficulty injecting the design volumes of fluid and proppant, and/or the inability to achieve design pumping rate or screenouts.

The hydraulic fracturing industry is increasingly looking for an efficient, nonintrusive method for identifying poor wellbore to reservoir connectivity. Currently, step-rate tests are commonly used (Massaras et al. 2007) to give the operator an estimate of open perforations taking fluid, as well as frictional losses within the wellbore and near-field region. However, these tests are costly, time-consuming, and rarely accurately confirm the number of poor perforations (Cramer et al. 2019). Fiber-optic technologies can improve these uncertainties but are costly and susceptible to damage during installation and/or operation.

How the Method Works

Low-frequency hydraulic tube waves, or Stoneley waves (Stoneley 1924), are induced at the surface by equipment connected to the wellhead. Tube waves travel rapidly through the fluid within the wellbore and reflect by any changes within the hydraulically connected parts of the wellbore. In this case, the reflection off the bottom of the well influences the tube-wave properties - dispersion and attenuation of the normal modes (Hsu, Kostek, and Johnson 1997), depending on the condition and number of the perforations, the quality of their connection with the near-field region, and the quality of the near-field region itself (e.g., a region already naturally fractured) [Dunham et al. 2017].
Study Quantifies Stress Sensitivity of Fractured Tight Reservoirs
Authors: Feder Judy
Published: November 2020

This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Judy Feder, contains highlights of paper IPTC 20260, “Stress Sensitivity of Fractured Tight Reservoirs,” by Gang Han, SPE, Aramco, and Kirk Bartko, SPE, Consultant, prepared for the 2020 International Petroleum Technology Conference, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, 13-15 January. The paper has not been peer reviewed. Copyright 2020 International Petroleum Technology Conference. Reproduced by permission.

Wells in unconventional reservoirs can experience sharp rate declines in the early stage of production, especially when experiencing aggressive drawdown. One key factor affecting rate decline is rock sensitivity to increasing compressive stress. The complete paper describes and quantifies the stress-dependence of compaction and permeability for anisotropic rock matrices, natural fractures, and hydraulic fractures, based on comprehensive rock tests of a fractured tight reservoir.

Stress Sensitivity and Drawdown

Laboratory data show that rock permeability can be reduced by 10 to 99% with increasing confining stress. Controlling factors include rock characteristics such as authigenic cementation, pore structure, clay content, natural fractures, and pore volume compressibility. Additional factors include pore throat size and shape. Low-permeability rocks are more sensitive to stress changes than are high-permeability rocks.

A direct link exists between stress-dependent permeability reduction and production decline, especially in unconventional reservoirs in which production declines rapidly during the first year. As production starts and bottomhole pressure is lowered, the effective stress on the rock near the wellbore, defined as the difference between total stresses and pore pressure, increases. Higher loading stress reduces the permeabilities (or conductivities) of induced fractures, natural fractures (or laminations), and the matrix. The increase in effective stress can lead to proppant embedment and crushing, formation spalling, fines migration, rock compaction, and closing of natural fractures. Many of these processes are irreversible and lead not only to rapid production decline but also to reduction of estimated ultimate recovery (EUR).

In 2011, analysis of a shale consortia database found that wells with restricted rate (limited drawdown) have 2 to 3 bcf higher EUR than wells with open rate (unlimited drawdown). The analysis also observed that the decline of stress-dependent permeability in propped fractures (millidarcy) is not as severe as the reduction in unpropped fractures (microdarcy) and matrix (nanodarcy).
Knowledge about Diabetic Retinopathy, Eye Check-up Practice and Associated Factors among Adult Patients with Diabetes Mellitus Attending at Debark Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Assem Abel Sinshaw , Tegegne Mebratu Muusew , Alemu Destaye Shiferaw , Woredekal Asamere Tsegaw , Tefera Tsehay Kassa
Published: November 2020

Background: Routine eye examination plays a vital role in detecting diabetic retinopathy in its earliest stage before the onset of blindness. Patients’ knowledge about the nature and the consequences of diabetic retinopathy and routine eye checkup helps for timely identification and early treatment. However, there is limited evidence on knowledge of patients with diabetes mellitus on diabetic retinopathy and their eye check-up practices in Ethiopia. The aim of this study was to assess knowledge about diabetic retinopathy, eye check-up practice and associated factors of diabetic retinopathy among adult diabetic patients at Debark hospital, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods: Institution based cross-sectional study was conducted at Debark hospital, Northwest Ethiopia, from April 20/2018- May 20/2018. A pretested interviewer administered structured questionnaire was used to collect data among 230 diabetic patients aged 18 years and above. Data were entered in to Epi Info version 7 and exported to SPSS version 20 for analysis. Bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were done. Odds ratio with 95% confidence level was determined and variables with p–value of < 0.05 were considered as statistically significant. Result: Out of 238 sample 230 were participated, among this, 119 (51.7%) were males. The mean age of the respondents was 49 (SD ±17.6) years. One hundred nine (47.4%) participants had good knowledge and 91 (39.6%) had good eye check-up practice. Urban residence [AOR= 2.65;95% CI: 1.16-6.07)]), monthly income of 3501-8000 birr [AOR=4.54;(1.31-15.7)], type II diabetes mellitus [AOR=3.9;(1.6-9.6)], duration of diabetes (6-12 years[AOR=4.4;(1.4-13.5)]), history of eye disease [AOR=5.5;(2.3-13.0)] were associated with good knowledge. Similarly, longer duration of diabetes (13-25 years [AOR=3.77; (1.05-13.5)]) and history of eye disease [AOR=2.47; (1.09-5.62)] were associated with good eye check-up practice. Conclusion: The proportion of good knowledge about diabetic retinopathy among diabetic patients at Debark hospital was fair (47.4%) and good eye check-up practice (eye examination at least once in the past year) was low (39.6%). Longer duration of diabetes and history of eye disease were identified as positive factors for good knowledge and eye check-up practice. Knowledge and regular eye check-up practice needs to be enhanced through provision of appropriate health education.
Increased Association of Deamidated αA-N101D with Lens Membrane of Transgenic αAN101D vs. Wild Type αA Mice: Potential Effects on Intracellular Ionic Imbalance and Membrane Disorganization 
Authors: Srivast Om , Srivast Kiran , Joseph Roy , Wilson Landon
Published: November 2020

We have generated two mouse models, in one by inserting the human lens αAN101D transgene in CRYαAN101D mice, and in the other by inserting human wild-type αA-transgene in CRYαAWT mice. The CRYαAN101D mice developed cortical cataract at about 7-months of age relative to CRYαAWT mice. The objective of the study was to determine the following relative changes in the lenses of CRYαAN101D- vs. CRYαAWT mice: age-related changes with specific emphasis on protein insolubilization, relative membrane-association of αAN101D vs. WTαA proteins, and changes in intracellular ionic imbalance and membrane organization. Methods: Lenses of varying ages from CRYαAWT and CRYαAN101D mice were compared for an age-related protein insolubilization. The relative lens membrane-association of the αAN101D- and WTαA proteins in the two types of mice was determined by immunohistochemical-, immunogold-labeling-, and western blot analyses. The relative levels of membrane-binding of recombinant αAN101D- and WTαA proteins was determined by an in vitro assay, and the levels of intracellular Ca2+ uptake and Na, K-ATPase mRNA were determined in the cultured epithelial cells from lenses of the two types of mice.Results: Compared to the lenses of CRYαAWT, the lenses of CRYαAN101D mice exhibited: (A) An increase in age-related protein insolubilization beginning at about 4-months of age. (B) A greater lens membrane-association of αAN101D- relative to WTαA protein during immunogold-labeling- and western blot analyses, including relatively a greater membrane swelling in the CRYαAN101D lenses. (C) During in vitro assay, the greater levels of binding αAN101D- relative to WTαA protein to membranes was observed. (D) The 75% lower level of Na, K-ATPase mRNA but 1.5X greater Ca2+ uptake were observed in cultured lens epithelial cells of CRYαAN101D- than those of CRYαAWT mice. Conclusions: The results show that an increased lens membrane association of αAN101D--relative WTαA protein in CRYαAN101D mice than CRYαAWT mice occurs, which causes intracellular ionic imbalance, and in turn, membrane swelling that potentially leads to cortical opacity.
Oxytocin Use in Trial of Labor after Cesarean and Its Relationship with Risk of Uterine Rupture in Women with One Previous Cesarean Section: A Meta-analysis of Observational Studies
Authors: ZHANG Huan , LIU Haiyan , LUO Shouling , Gu Weirong
Published: November 2020

Background: Trial of labor after a previous cesarean delivery (TOLAC) has reduced the rate of cesarean sections (CS). Nevertheless, the widespread use of TOLAC has been limited by an increase in adverse outcomes, the most serious one being the risk of symptomatic uterine rupture, which is possibly associated with oxytocin. In this meta-analysis, we explored the risk association between oxytocin use and uterine rupture in TOLAC.Methods: Multiple electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar) were searched for cross-sectional studies reporting on TOLAC, oxytocin and uterine rupture, which were published between January 1986 and October 2019. The bias-corrected Hedge's g was calculated as the effect size using the random-effects model. A two-sample Z test was used to compare the differences in synthetic rates between groups. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used to evaluate the risk of bias. Quality of the evidence was assessed with the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) certainty ratings system.Results: A total of 14 studies, which included 48457 women who underwent TOLAC, met the inclusion criteria. The pooled rate of vaginal birth after a cesarean section (VBAC) and the rate of uterine rupture in spontaneous labor were 74.3% and 0.7%, respectively. In addition, the pooled rate of VBAC and the rate of uterine rupture in the induction labor group was 60.7% and 2.2%, respectively. The women who had spontaneous labor had a significantly higher rate of VBAC (p=0.0032) and a lower rate of uterine rupture (p=0.0003) compared to induced labor. The pooled rates of uterine rupture in women using oxytocin and women not using oxytocin in TOLAC were 1.4% and 0.5%, respectively, and the difference was significant (p=0.0002). Also, the synthetic rate of uterine rupture in oxytocin augmentation among women with spontaneous labor and women who had a successful induction of labor were 1.7% and 2.2%, respectively, without significant difference (p=0.443).Conclusions: Women with induced labor had a higher risk of uterine rupture compared to women with spontaneous labor following TOLAC. Oxytocin use may increase this risk, which could be influenced by the process of induction or individual cervix condition. Consequently, simplified and standardized intrapartum management, precise protocol, and cautious monitoring of oxytocin use in TOLAC are necessary.
Fabrication of Nanomechanical Biosensors to Map 3D Surface Strain in Live Cells and Tissue
Authors: Shiwarski Daniel J. , Tashman Joshua W. , Tsamis Alkiviadis , Bliley Jacqueline M. , Blundon Malachi A. , Aranda-Michel Edgar , Jallerat Quentin , Szymanski John M. , McCartney Brooke M. , Feinberg Adam W.
Published: November 2020

This protocol details the step-by-step fabrication process to create an extracellular matrix (ECM) protein-based nanomechanical biosensor (NMBS) via an adaptation of the surface-initiated assembly (SIA) procedure1. The NMBS is a fluorescently labeled, ultra-thin fibronectin lattice-mesh with spatial resolution tailored by adjusting the width and spacing of the lattice from 2-100 µm. By applying the NMBS to the surface of cells and tissues one can directly measure deformation from subcellular to tissue length-scales. The procedure outlined here covers all aspects of NMBS construction from pattern design, photolithography for mold creation, casting of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) silicone stamps, conjugation of fluorescent dye to fibronectin, microcontact printing of fibronectin, creation of gelatin carriers2, transfer of the NMBS to gelatin carriers, and the use of gelatin carriers for application of the NMBS onto cells and tissue. The protocol can be broken down into three phases: material preparation (2 days), NMBS patterning (4 hours), and transfer to cell or tissue (1 hour). Material preparation and NMBS patterning can be performed ahead of time and the patterned NMBS can be stored for up to 1 year prior to use.
Grain-boundary-rich 2D materials for attomolar-ability biochemical sensors
Authors: Xue Tianyu , Liu Lixuan , Ye Kun , Lin Changqing , Jia Zhiyan , Nie Anmin , Cheng Yingchun , Xiang Jianyong , Mu Congpu , Wang Bochong , Wen Fusheng , Zhai Kun , Zhao Zhisheng , Gong Yongji , Liu Zhongyuan , Tian Yongjun
Published: November 2020

Next-generation high-performance biological and chemical sensors based on the emerging multitudinous two-dimensional (2D) layered materials have been attracting great attention in recent years. The performance of 2D biochemical sensors is strongly dependent on the structural defects, which provide indispensable active sites for sensitive and selective adsorption of analytes. However, achieving controllable defect engineering is still a big challenge. In the present work, we propose achieving superior biochemical sensor performance with high-surface-density grain boundaries (GBs), a kind of ubiquitous structural defects, in polycrystalline 2D thin films, which can be controllably synthesized. As a proof-of-concept, by utilizing the high-density GBs in monolayer (1L) WS2 films, we fabricated a series of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensors for mercury ion (Hg2+) detection. Our investigation has demonstrated substantial sensitivity enhancement of Hg2+ detection down to trace attomolar-level quantification (detection limit of 1 aM), which is ascribed to the abundance of active sites on high-density GBs. This work provides a promising avenue for the design of ultra-sensitive sensors toward commercialized products based on the GB-rich 2D layered materials.
Real-time imaging of accelerated solid-liquid-gas reactions with nanobubbles
Authors: Wang Wen , Xu Tao , Chen Jige , Shangguan Junyi , Dong Hui , Ma Huishu , Zhang Qiubo , Bai Tingting , Guo Zhirui , Fang Haiping , Zheng Haimei , Sun Litao
Published: November 2020

Solid-liquid-gas reactions are ubiquitous. An understanding of how gases influence the reactions at the nanoscale is significant for achieving the enhanced triple-phase reactions. Here, we report a real-time observation of the accelerated etching of gold nanorods with oxygen nanobubbles in aqueous hydrobromic acid using liquid cell transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Our observation reveals that when an oxygen nanobubble is close to a nanorod below the critical distance (~1nm), the local etching rate is significantly enhanced with over an order of magnitude faster. Molecular dynamics simulations results show that the strong attractive van der Waals interaction between the gold nanorod and oxygen molecules facilitates the transport of oxygen through the thin liquid layer to the gold surface and thus plays a crucial role in increasing the etching rate. This result sheds light on the rational design of solid-liquid-gas reactions for enhanced activities.
Quantum many-body attractors
Authors: Buca Berislav , Purkayastha Archak , Guarnieri Giacomo , Mitchison Mark , Jaksch Dieter , Goold John
Published: November 2020

Real-world complex systems often show robust, persistent oscillatory dynamics, e.g.~non-trivial attractors. On the quantum level this behaviour has only been found in semi-classical or weakly correlated systems under restrictive assumptions. However, strongly interacting systems without classical limits, e.g.~electrons on a lattice or spins, typically relax quickly to a stationary state (trivial attractors). This raises the puzzling question of how non-trivial attractors can arise from the quantum laws. Here, we introduce strictly local dynamical symmetries that lead to extremely robust and persistent oscillations in quantum many-body systems without a classical limit. Observables that do not have overlap with the symmetry operators can relax, losing memory of their initial conditions. The remaining observables enter complex dynamical cycles, signalling the emergence of a quantum many-body attractor. We provide a recipe for constructing Hamiltonians featuring local dynamical symmetries. As an example, we introduce the spin lace – a model of a quasi-1D quantum magnet.
Single-cell Transcriptome of Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid Reveals Dynamic Change of Macrophages During SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Ferrets
Authors: Lee Jeong Seok , Koh June-Young , Yi Kijong , Kim Young-Il , Park Su-Jin , Kim Eun-Ha , Kim Se-Mi , Park Sung Ho , Ju Young Seok , Choi Young Ki , Park Su-Hyung
Published: November 2020

Although the profile of immune cells changes during the natural course of SARS-CoV-2 inflection in human patients, few studies have used a longitudinal approach to reveal their dynamic features. Here, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid cells longitudinally obtained from SARS-CoV-2-infected ferrets. Landscape analysis of the lung immune microenvironment showed dynamic changes in cell proportions and characteristics in uninfected control, at 2 days post-infection (dpi) (early stage of SARS-CoV-2 infection with peak viral titer), and 5 dpi (resolution phase). NK cells and CD8+ T cells exhibited activated subclusters with interferon-stimulated features, which were peaked at 2 dpi. Intriguingly, macrophages were classified into 10 distinct subpopulations, and their relative proportions changed over the time. We observed prominent transcriptome changes among monocyte-derived infiltrating macrophages and differentiated M1/M2 macrophages, especially at 2 dpi. Moreover, trajectory analysis revealed gene expression changes from monocyte-derived infiltrating macrophages toward M1 or M2 macrophages and identified the distinct macrophage subpopulation that had rapidly undergone SARS-CoV-2-mediated activation of inflammatory responses. Finally, we found that different spectrums of M1 or M2 macrophages showed distinct patterns of gene modules downregulated by immune-modulatory drugs. Overall, these results elucidate fundamental aspects of the immune response dynamics provoked by SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Integrated Transcriptome and Proteome Analysis Reveals Complex Regulatory Mechanism of Cotton in Response to Salt Stress
Authors: Chen Lin , Sun Heng , Kong Jie , Xu Haijiang , Yang Xiyan
Published: November 2020

BackgroundSoil salt stress seriously restricts the yield and quality of cotton worldwide. To investigate the molecular mechanism of cotton response to salt stress, a main cultivated variety Gossypium hirsutum L. acc. Xinluzhong 54 was used to perform transcriptome and proteome integrated analysis. ResultsThrough transcriptome analysis of cotton treated with salt stress for 0 h (T0), 3 h (T3) and 12 h (T12), we identified 8,436, 11,628 and 6,311 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) inT3 / T0, T12 / T0 and T12 / T3, respectively. A total of 459 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified by proteomic analysis, of which 273, 99 and 260 DEPs were identified in T3 / T0, T12 / T0 and T12 / T3, respectively. Metabolic pathways, biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, photosynthesis and plant hormone signal transduction were the main enrichment pathways by annotation of DEGs or DEPs. Detail analysis of the DEGs or DEPs revealed that complex signal pathways, such as ABA and JA signal, calcium signal, MAPK signal cascade, transcription factors, followed by activation of antioxidant and ion transporters, were identified to participate in regulating salt response in cotton.ConclusionsOur results not only contribute to understand the mechanism of cotton response to salt stress, but also provide nine candidate genes, which might be used for molecular breeding to improve salt-tolerance in cotton.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Profile Analysis of WRKY Family Genes in Teak (Tectona Grandis)
Authors: Wang Xi-Yang , Song Jie , Xing Jia-Hui , Liang Jun-Feng , Ke Bi-ying
Published: November 2020

Background: WRKY proteins comprise a large family of transcription factors that play vital roles in many aspects of physiological processes and adaption to environment. However, little information was available about the WRKY genes in teak (Tectona grandis). The recent release of the whole-genome sequence of teak allowed us to perform a genome-wide investigation into the organization and expression profiling of teak WRKY genes. Results: In the present study, 102 teak WRKY (TgWRKY) genes were identified and renamed as per their positions on chromosome and scaffolds. According to their structural and phylogenetic analysis, the 102 TgWRKYs were further classified into three main groups with seceral subgroups. The segmental duplication event played a major role in the expansion of teak WRKY gene family and three WGD events were inferred. Expression profiles derived from transcriptome data exhibited distinct expression patterns of TgWRKY genes in various tissues and inresponse to different abiotic stress.Conclusions: 102 TgWRKY genes were identified in teak and the structure of their encoded proteins, their evolutionary characteristics and expression patterns were examined in this study. This study generated an important resource that will provide helpful information for further exploration of the TgWRKY genes role in the regulatory mechanism in response to abiotic stresses.
Different Pulsed Radiofrequency Modes on Gasserian Ganglion Improved Acute/subacute Zoster-related Trigeminal neuralgia: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Controlled Trial
Authors: Wan Cheng-fu , Song Tao
Published: November 2020

Background: Trigeminal postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), developed from herpes zoster virus infected on gasserian ganglion, is a severe neuropathic pain and often refractory to existing treatment. Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) is known to be effective for treating acute/subacute zoster-related pain, but the effectiveness of different PRF mode has not been tested.Objective: This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of different PRF modes on gasserian ganglion in patients with acute/subacute zoster-related trigeminal neuralgia.Methods: 120 patients were equally randomized into 2 groups (n = 60): high-voltage, long-duration PRF(HL-PRF) group and standard PRF(S-PRF) group. One cycle high-voltage, long-duration PRF was applied in HL-PRF group and three cycles standard PRF were performed in S-PRF group. Visual analog scales (VAS), 36-item short form health survey scores (SF-36) and average doses of pregabalin were recorded at different time points. Results: There were significant declined in VAS and SF-36 scores in both two groups at different time point after PRF treatment (P < 0.001). The scores of VAS and SF-36 in HL-PRF group were significantly lower than those in S-PRF group at different time points after treatment (P < 0.05). The dosages of pregabalin were also lower in HL-PRF group at days 3, 14 and 28 after treatment (P < 0.05). There was no serious adverse effect in either group. Conclusion: High-voltage, long-duration PRF on gasserian ganglion is more effective than standard PRF for acute/subacute zoster-related trigeminal neuralgia patients. Clinical Trial Registration: ChiCTR2000038775
Tunable Intermediate-Logic Ternary Circuits based on MoSe2-WSe2 Heterojunction
Authors: Hong Seongin , Park Hyeon Jung , Cho Hae won , Park Junwoo , Kim Sunkook , Yoo Hocheon
Published: November 2020

Van der Waals (vdW) heterojunctions, which consist of p-type and n-type semiconductors, have provided new features for transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs). In this work, a negative differential transconductance (NDT) transistor based on a MoSe2-WSe2 heterojunction (MoSe2-WSe2 H-TR) is proposed. The MoSe2-WSe2 H-TR provides desirable device characteristics for ternary circuit operation with a switching behavior of off-state / p-type turn-on / NDT region / p-type turn-on. As a result, a 100% output voltage (VOUT) swing inverter can be achieved in a ternary inverter, which consists of the proposed MoSe2-WSe2 vdW-H-TR and a MoS2 floating-gate transistor. Furthermore, a tunable intermediate-logic ternary circuit operation is demonstrated by controlling the threshold voltage (VTH) in a pull-down n-type MoS2 floating-gate transistor. We also investigated that a light-induced operation on the MoSe2-WSe2 vdW-H-TR offers control of the VOUT amplitude at the intermediate-logic state. Based on the proposed MoSe2-WSe2 vdW-H-TR, this work suggests a strategy to obtain a tunable ternary circuit, thus providing a new concept of heterojunction electronics using layered TMDs.
Deep Learning Based BackCom Multiple Beamforming for 6G UAV IoT Networks
Authors: Qi Fei , Li Wenjing , Yu Peng , Feng Lei , Zhou Fanqin
Published: November 2020

Combining unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with 6G, Internet of Things (IoT) and other emerging communication technologies could better satisfy various IoT applications and create more innovative services. This paper develops a novel hierarchical 6G IoT network with UAVs in the sky and intelligent reflective surface (IRS) equipped. The system employs backscattering communication (BackCom) to transmit data in a free-ride manner. Through beamforming, IRS enhances the energy of the reflectable signal, thereby improving the distance and performance of the BackCom. Simulation results reveal that our approach makes a significant improvement to the performance of the whole system, and takes obvious advantage over traditional solutions.
Neuroendocrine Liver Metastasis From the Small Intestine – Is Surgery Beneficial for Survival?
Authors: Selberherr Andreas , Freermann Simon , Kopererk Oskar , Niederle Martin , Riss Philipp , Scheuba Christian , Niederle Bruno
Published: November 2020

Background Neuroendocrine neoplasia of the small intestine (siNEN) are frequently diagnosed with liver metastases. The impact of the presence of liver metastases on overall survival and the necessity of surgery for liver metastasis is discussed controversially. The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare the overall long-term survival of patients with neuroendocrine neoplasia of the small intestine (siNEN) with and without liver metastasis at initial diagnosis and the possible benefit of surgical treatment as compared to active surveillance of metastases. 123 consecutive patients with siNENs were treated between 1965 and 2016. All clinical and histological records were reevaluated including analysis of the proliferation rates in all specimens. The one-, five-, ten and twenty-year overall survival was estimated by Kaplan-Meier analysis for patients with and without liver metastasis and according to the type of treatment (surgical vs. surveillance) of liver metastases if present. Results The one-, five-, ten- and twenty-year overall survival rate was 89.0%, 68.4%, 52.8% and 31.0% in patients without and 89.5%, 69.5%, 33.2% and 3.6% in those with liver metastases. No statistically significant differences were observed comparing the two groups. Within the group of patients with liver metastases, the type of treatment (surgical vs. surveillance) was in favor of patients undergoing surgery.ConclusionThe presence of liver metastasis at initial diagnosis does not have a statistically significant influence on survival. Surgery for hepatic metastasis seems to show a benefit for overall survival and may be indicated especially in patients symptomatic due to high tumor burden and serotonin hypersecretion to reduce hormone activity.
Saving Structure, Speculation Housing and Economic Growth in the Iranian Economy
Authors: Refah-Kahriz Arash , Mohammadzadeh Yousef
Published: November 2020

Economic theories maintain that saving is a significant financial resource for financial investment and economic growth; however, its structure has received little scholarly attention. If the structure of saving contributes into economic sterilization, it may result in undesirable consequences. This study investigates the relationship between saving structure, speculation housing and economic growth in Iranian economy, experiencing a high level of saving in the period 1970-2016. The results indicate that saving did not contributed into economic growth in Iranian economy; instead, a large proportion of saving was directed into speculation activities accumulating in the form of land and housing sector. During the time, this action increased the housing and land price index, much more than the total price index in Iranian economy. Therefore, it would be considerably difficult to start a business since the land is expensive; moreover, Iranian households assign a considerable amount of their money to housing and land section casing economic stagnation in other economic sections. Hence, despite the fact that Iran enjoys a high level of saving, it constantly suffers from enough budget resources for financial investment.JEL: D14. D84. O16. O47
The discovery of a novel knockdown resistance (kdr) mutation A1007G in the Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel (vgsc) on Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) from Malaysia
Authors: Zuharah Wan Fatma , Sufian Maryam
Published: November 2020

Background: The usage of insecticide rendered the successful vector control program with the high usage of the pyrethroid. However, the intensive and extensive use of pyrethroid, causing resistance in Aedes aegypti and hampered the control program. Knockdown resistance (kdr) resulting from the Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel (vgsc) is one of the mechanisms of resistance in pyrethroid group insecticide. Investigating the phenotypic status of Ae. aegypti mosquitoes is a lead in knowing the current resistance status and as an indicator of the genotypic resistance. In this study, we investigate the resistance in phenotypic and genotypic of Ae. aegypti with a new kdr mutation point, A1007G was detected. Methods: Using the adult bioassay, we tested the phenotypic resistance from the Selangor state against 0.75% permethrin, 0.05% deltamethrin with and without the addition of PBO synergist. Permethrin-resistant and deltamethrin-resistant, including susceptible samples, were subjected to genotyping analysis on mutation point in domain II and domain III of Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel (vgsc). Results: Adult bioassay revealed that the Ae. aegypti was highly resistance toward 0.75% permethrin and 0.05% deltamethrin. The bioassay with the presence of PBO synergist showed an increment of mortality rate, but the status of Ae. aegypti is still resistance towards both insecticides. Genotyping result showed that three common kdr mutations (S989P, V1016G, and F1534C) have existed in the Ae. aegypti population. Luckily, a new mutation on A1007G was also detected in this population, and this is the first time reported. Conclusions: This study has brought a piece of information on the current resistance status in Ae. aegypti in Malaysia. The detection of new mutation point of A1007G has added the knowledge on the resistance in mosquitoes. Thus, this study will aid the decision in using the insecticide usage in vector control program before this invaluable insecticide rendered ineffective in killing mosquitoes.
Construction of potential periodontitis-related miRNA-mRNA regulatory network
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Zheng Youli , Bian Xiaowei , Jin Mingguang
Published: November 2020

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are found to be involved in the pathogenesis of periodontitis, a major cause of tooth loss in adults. However, a comprehensive miRNA-mRNA regulatory network has still not been established.
Methods

One miRNA expression profile and 2 gene expression profiles were downloaded from the GEO database and analyzed using GEO2R. Candidate genes commonly appeared in differentially expressed mRNAs (DE-mRNAs) and target genes of differentially expressed miRNAs (DE-miRNAs) were selected for functional and pathway enrichment analyses using Enrichr database. Multivariate Logistic regression analysis was used to screen independent variables among candidate genes. The diagnostic values of screened genes were determined by the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC).
Results

A total of 5 DE-miRNAs (4 upregulated and 1 downregulated) and 11 candidate genes (3 upregulated and 8 downregulated) were screened. After the construction of miRNA-mRNA regulatory network, 12 miRNA-mRNA pairs were identified. In the network, the upregulated genes were significantly enriched in cellular triglyceride homeostasis and positive regulation of B cell differentiation, whereas the downregulated genes were enriched in vesicle organization, negative regulation of lymphocyte and leukocyte migration. EPCAM and RAB30 were screened as risk factors of periodontitis. The combined AUC of these 2 genes was 0.896 (GSE10334) and 0.916 (GSE16134).
Conclusion

In this study, we established a potential periodontitis-related miRNA-mRNA regulatory network, which brings new insights into the molecular mechanisms and provides key clues in seeking novel therapeutic targets for periodontitis. In the future, more experiments need to be carried out to validate our current findings.
New lineages of Asterochloris photobionts in Bolivian lichens, and expand our knowledge on habitat preferences and distribution of Asterochloris algae
Authors: Kosecka Magdalena , Guzow-Krzemińska Beata , Černajová Ivana , Škaloud Pavel , Jabłońska Agnieszka , Kukwa Martin
Published: November 2020

We studied biodiversity of Asterochloris photobionts found in lichen symbioses in Bolivian Andean vegetation and, to better understand global spatial distribution and adaptation strategies of this algae, in relation to worldwide phylogeny of the genus. Based on nuclear ITS rDNA, chloroplast rbcL gene and actin type I gene we constructed a phylogenetic tree that recovered 12 new Asterochloris lineages; and 29 Bolivian photobiont samples were assigned to 11 previously recognized Asterochloris lineages. We showed that some Asterochloris photobiont species and lineages known to date may occur in a broader spectrum of climatic conditions and mycobiont species and photobionts may show different preferences in the altitude gradient. To reveal general patterns of specificity of the mycobionts towards the photobiont in Asterochloris dependent symbiosis on global range, we tested the influence of climate, altitude, geographical distance and effects of symbiotic partner (mycobiont) at the species level of three genera of lichen forming fungi, i.e. Stereocaulon, Cladonia and Lepraria. Also, we compared specificity of mycobionts towards Asterochloris photobionts in cosmopolitan, Neotropical, and Pantropical lichen forming fungi. Interestingly, cosmopolitan species showed the lowest specificity to their photobionts’, but also the lowest haplotype diversity. While, Neotropical and Paleotropical mycobionts were more specific.
Statins in Patients with COVID-19: A Retrospective Cohort Study in Iranian COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Peymani Payam , Dehesh Tania , Aligolighasemabadi Farnaz , Sadeghdoust Mohammadamin , Kotfis Katarzyna , Ahmadi Mazaher , Mehrbod Parvaneh , Iranpour Pooya , Dastghaib Sanaz , Nasimian Ahmad , Ravandi Amir , Kidane Biniam , Ahmed Naseer , Sharma Pawan , Shojaei Shahla , Lankarani Kamran Bagheri , Madej Andrzej , Rezaei Nima , Madrakian Tayyebeh , Los Marek , Labouta Hagar Ibrahim , Mokarram Pooneh , Ghavami Saeid
Published: November 2020

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection has profoundly affected the lives of millions of people. To date, there is no approved vaccine or specific drug to prevent or treat COVID-19, while the infection is spreading at an alarming rate globally. Because the development of effective vaccines or novel drugs could take several months (if not years), repurposing existing drugs is considered a more efficient strategy that could save lives now. Statins constitute a class of lipid-lowering drugs with proven safety profiles and many known beneficial pleiotropic effects. Our previous investigations showed that statins have antiviral effects and are involved in the process of wound healing in the lung. This triggered us to evaluate if statin use reduces mortality in COVID-19 patients. Results: After initial recruitment of 459 patients with COVID-19 (Shiraz province, Iran) and careful consideration of the exclusion criteria, a total of 150 patients, of which 75 received statins, were included in our retrospective study. Cox proportional-hazards regression models were used to estimate the association between statin use and rate of death. After propensity score matching, we found that statin use appeared to be associated with a lower risk of morbidity [HR=0.85, 95% CI=(0.02, 3.93), P=0.762] and lower risk of death [(HR= 0.76; 95% CI=(0.16, 3.72), P=0.735)]; however, these associations did not reach statistical significance. Furthermore, statin use reduced the chance of being subjected to mechanical ventilation [OR=0.96, 95% CI=(0.61–2.99), P=0.942] and patients on statins had a more normal computed tomography (CT) scan result [OR=0.41, 95% CI= (0.07–2.33), P=0.312]. Conclusions: Although we could not demonstrate a significant association between statin use and a reduction in mortality in patients with COVID19 , we do feel that our results are promising and of clinical relevance and warrant the need for prospective randomized controlled trials and extensive retrospective studies to validate the potential beneficial effects of statin treatment on clinical symptoms and mortality rates associated with COVID-19.
The Appropriate Time Interval Between Hysteroscopic Polypectomy and the Start of FET : A Retrospective Corchort Study
Authors: Wang Zhong-Kai , Qiao Hong-Wu , Wu She-Ling , Zhang Wen , Yu Xiao-Na , Li Jing , Wang Xing-Ling , Lou Hua , Guan Yi-Chun
Published: November 2020

Objective: To investigate when is the appropriate time interval between hysteroscopic polypectomy and the start of FET cyclesDesign: Retrospective cohort study. Setting: Academic center. Patient(s): All patients diagnosed with endometrial polyps undergoing hysteroscopic polypectomy before FET.Intervention(s): Hysteroscopic polypectomy.MainOutcomeMeasure(s): Patients were divided into four groups based on the time interval between hysteroscopic polypectomy and the start of FET Demographics, baseline FET characteristics, pregnancy outcomes after FET were compared among the groups. A total of 1703 patients met inclusion criteria: 547 patients in group 1 who underwent FET after hysteroscopic polypectomy 1-3menses cycles, 389 patients in group 2 who underwent FET after hysteroscopic polypectomy 4-6 menses cycles, 421 patients in group 3 who underwent FET after hysteroscopic polypectomy 7-12menses cycles, and 373 patients in group 4 who underwent FET after hysteroscopic polypectomy more than 12 menses cycles, whats more the group 1 were divided into 3 groups depend on the time interval between hysteroscopic polypectomy and the start of FET. The FET outcomes were compared.Result(s): There were no differences in the mean number of embryos transferred. The overall pregnancy outcomes were similar for groups 1, 2, 3,and 4: implantation rate (38%, 38.2%, 39.5%and 36.8, respectively), clinical pregnancy rate (51.9%, 48%, 53.2and 50%), spontaneous miscarriage rate (8.4%,8.4%, 12.2and 8.9%), and live birth rate (42.4%. 40.4%, 42.8% and 40.9%). Conclusion(s): IVF outcomes seem to be unrelated to the time interval between the hysteroscopic polyp resection and the initiation of the FET; The abortion rates may be lower if the treatment is started in the first few months post operatively.