bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gallbladder Polyps With Metabolic Comorbidities Increase the Risk of Ischaemic Heart Disease in Korean Adults
Authors: Lee Yong-Jae , Park Byoungjin , Hong Kyung-Won , Jung Dong-Hyuk
Published: March 2021

Background: This study aimed to investigate the longitudinal effects of gallbladder (GB) polyps, as a surrogate metabolic indicator, on incident ischaemic heart disease (IHD). We also assessed the combined effects of GB polyps and comorbidities on the risk of developing IHD.Methods: We enrolled 19,612 participants from the health risk assessment study and Korean Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service database. The control group without GB polyps consisted of 18,413 patients, and the GB polyp group comprised 1,119 patients. We calculated hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for IHD according to the presence of GB polyps using multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression models. Results: The prevalence of newly developed IHD was 2.4% during an average follow-up period of 50 months. Individuals with GB polyps had an increased risk of IHD compared with the control group after adjusting for potential confounding variables (HR = 1.425; 95% CI, 1.028–1.975). Furthermore, the coexistence of hypertension or dyslipidaemia resulted in an increased risk (HR = 2.14, 95% CI, 1.34–3.44 or HR = 2.09, 95% CI, 1.32–3.31, respectively) of new-onset IHD in the GB polyp group. However, this cumulative effect was observed only in patients with impaired fasting blood glucose (HR=1.86, 95% CI, 1.06–3.26), but not in those with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Conclusion: The presence of GB polyps was positively associated with increased risk of developing IHD and was independent of cardiovascular risk factors. In addition, GB polyps in patients with impaired fasting blood glucose increased the risk of IHD as those in the presence of the comorbidities hypertension or dyslipidaemia.
CENPL, ISG20L2, LSM4 , MRPL3 Are Four Novel Hub Genes and May Serve as Diagnostic and Prognostic Markers in Breast Cancer
Authors: Yin Jinbao , Lin Chen , Jiang Meng , Tang Xinbin , Xie Danlin , jingwen chen , Ke Rongqin
Published: March 2021

As a highly prevalent disease among women worldwide, breast cancer remains in urgent need of further elucidation its molecular mechanisms to improve the patient outcomes. Identifying hub genes involved in the pathogenesis and progression of breast cancer can potentially help to unveil mechanism and also provide novel diagnostic and prognostic markers. In this study, we integrated multiple bioinformatic methods and RNA in situ detection technology to identify and validate hub genes. EZH2 was recognized as a key gene by PPI network analysis. CENPL, ISG20L2, LSM4, MRPL3 were identified as four novel hub genes through the WGCNA analysis and literate search. Among these, many studies on EZH2 in breast cancer have been reported, but no studies are related to the roles of CENPL, ISG20L2, MRPL3 and LSM4 in breast cancer. These four novel hub genes were up-regulated in tumor tissues and associated with cancer progression. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis indicated that these four hub genes are promising candidate genes that can serve as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for breast cancer. Moreover, these four newly identified hub genes as aberrant molecules in the maintenance of breast cancer development, their exact functional mechanisms deserve further in-depth study.
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Nonoperative Management Versus Open and Laparoscopic Surgery for Uncomplicated Acute Appendicitis in Colombia.
Authors: Guevara-Cuellar Cesar Augusto , Rengifo-Mosquera María Paula , Parody-Rúa Elizabeth
Published: March 2021

BackgroundTraditionally, uncomplicated acute appendicitis (AA) has been treated with appendectomy. However, the surgical alternatives might carry out significant complications, impaired quality of life, and higher costs than nonoperative treatment. In consequence it is necessary to evaluate the efficiency of the different therapeutic alternatives in patients diagnosed with uncomplicated appendicitis. MethodsWe performed a model-based cost-effectiveness analysis comparing nonoperative management (NOM) with open appendectomy (OA) and laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) in patients otherwise healthy adults aged 18 years and older with a diagnosis of uncomplicated AA in the Colombian health system. The time horizon was five years. A discount rate of 5% was applied to both costs and outcomes. The health outcomes were quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). Costs were identified, quantified, and valorized from a payer perspective; therefore, only direct health costs were included. An incremental analysis was estimated to determine the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). In addition, the net monetary benefit (NMB) was calculated for each alternative using a willingness to pay lower than a one gross domestic product. A deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analysis was performed.ResultsLA presents a lower cost ($ 363±35) than OA ($ 384±41) and NOM ($392±44). NOM exhibited higher QALYs (3.3332±0.0276) in contrast with LA (3.3310± 0.057) and OA (3.3261±0.0707). LA dominated the OA. The ICER between LA and NOM was $24 000/QALY. LA has a 52% probability of generating the highest NMB versus its counterparts, followed by NOM (30%) and OA (18%). There is a probability of 0.69 that laparoscopy generates more significant benefit than medical management. The mean value of that incremental NMB would be $93.7 per patient.ConclusionsLA is more likely to produce more significant monetary benefits than NOM and OA in uncomplicated AA. This feature becomes the most efficient alternative as long as the conditions for its adequate performance exist. However, NOM may be a more acceptable alternative from the patient's perspective or when only the OA option is available.
Joint DNA-based Disaster Victim Identification
Authors: Vigeland Magnus Dehli , Egeland Thore
Published: March 2021

We address computational and statistical aspects of DNA-based identification of victims in the aftermath of disasters. Current methods and software for such identification typically consider each victim individually, leading to suboptimal power of identification and potential inconsistencies in the statistical summary of the evidence. We resolve these problems by performing joint identification of all victims, using the complete genetic data set. Individual identification probabilities, conditional on all available information, are derived from the joint solution in the form of posterior pairing probabilities.
A closed formula is obtained for the a priori number of possible joint solutions to a given DVI problem. This number increases quickly with the number of victims and missing persons, posing computational challenges for brute force approaches. We address this complexity with a preparatory sequential step aiming to reduce the search space. The examples show that realistic cases are handled efficiently. User-friendly implementations of all methods are provided in the R package dvir, freely available on all platforms.
Prediction of Geometrical Characteristics and Process Parameter Optimization of Laser Deposition AISI 316 Steel Using Fuzzy Inference
Authors: Velázquez Daniel René Tasé , Helleno André Luís , Fals Hipólito Carvajal , Santos Raphael Galdino dos
Published: March 2021

Laser Metal Deposition (LMD) process is an additive manufacturing technique that has attracted the interest of the automotive and aerospace industries due to its ability to manufacture parts with complex geometries and different types of metallic materials. However, the structure of the deposited layers and the geometrical characteristics of the manufactured parts are influenced by the interaction among the deposition process parameters. In this paper, fuzzy inference (FIS) technique was used to develop two models for predicting the geometrical characteristics and, for optimizing the LMD process parameters using AISI 316 stainless steel powder and substrate. An experimental design, based on factorial analysis, was used to correlate the influence of selected deposition process parameters, laser power (Lp), powder flow (Pf) and focal length (Fl) with the process geometrical characteristics bead height (Bh), bead width (Bw), depth of penetration (Dp), dilution (d) and wetting angle (wa). The factors Lp and Fl were used with three operating levels each: Lp = 225 W, 250 W, 275 W, and Fl = 4.8 mm, 5.0 mm, 5.2 mm. The factor Pf was used with two levels, 9.40 g/s and 13.35 g/s. Analysis of variance allowed identifying that the Pf affect the Bh, Bh/Bw ratio, d and wa. The increase in Laser power (Lp) resulted in an increase of the geometric characteristics Bw and Dp. The first FIS, for predicting the bead’s geometrical characteristics, presented high adequacy (relative error up to 8.43 %) for assessing the experimental conditions. The second FIS indicated the best possible interaction, given the studied operating conditions and the variables evaluated. The maximum Output Defuzzified Index (ODI = 0.845) was obtained with the deposition process parameters Lp = 250 W, Fl = 5 mm, and Pf = 9.40 g/s.
Design and Introduction of Thermal Collection Network (TCN) for the Thermal Management in 3-D IC Structures
Authors: Patil Chandrashekhar , M.S Suma
Published: March 2021

Power in Watts of the chip, per unit area is growing exponentially in the electronic industry. At the same time, thermal problems becoming side effects of huge power consumption. Continuous efforts are getting made to remove the thermal problems of electronic packaging and systems. Thermal problems if not alleviated or suppressed, will lead the dielectric breakdown, electromigration, material creep, thermal cycling, chemical reactions, board warpage, performance drift, indirect heating, and many more problems. Likewise, a dedicated Power Delivery/distribution Network (PDN), can deliver the power to the chip base, this paper has introduced a new methodology of a dedicated Thermal Collection Network (TCN) in the same Back End Of Line (BEOL) area of the System in Package (SiP), System on Chip (SOC) and any other power-consuming chips. Adding a Thermal Through Silicon Via (TTSV) is another advantage in it. Using such an apparatus or methodology connected to TTSV will quickly pump-up the thermal energy to the heat-sink-fan assembly. Hence, preempting of heat from its sources can manage the thermal problems inside the chips or 3-D IC structures. The methodology uses the same copper metal stripes inside the Inter-Layer/Level-Dielectric (ILD), which will not lead to any extra copper to introduce more Coefficient of Thermal Efficiency (CTE) mismatch problems. It would be considered as one among the other metal stripes. The experimental results using the Finite Element Method (FEM) tool shown that 32% heat suction occurs in the TCNs, in monolithic ICs, and 11% in 3-D IC structures, compared to without such an approach. The junction temperature remained at 35%, with and without such an approach, in 3-D IC structures. This might lead to a new methodology for designing electronic chips and 3-D IC structures, in the future.
Endoscopic Management of Complicated High-Grade Vesicoureteral Reflux in the First Year of Life
Authors: TEKIN ALI , Tiryaki Sibel , Yağmur İsmail , Kılıç Özge , Avanoğlu Ali , Ulman İbrahim
Published: March 2021

Purpose:The treatment of high-grade vesicoureteral reflux in infants is controversial. Subureteric injection has been tried recently with its advantage of easy application and less invasiveness. In this study, we aimed to assess the efficacy of endoscopic sub-ureteric injection to correct high-grade reflux in infants with documented indications for anti-reflux surgery.Materials and Methods:Hospital records of high-grade (grade 4-5) VUR patients who had undergone endoscopic sub-ureteric injection in the first year of life with documented breakthrough infections, between 2009-2016 were reviewed. Radiologic success was defined as complete resolution of reflux in VCUG obtained at least three months after the injection and clinical success was defined as the downgrading of reflux degree below three and absence of urinary infection.Results:A total of 23 patients with 34 high-grade refluxing units were included in the study. The mean age at first injection was 6.3±1.8 months (1-11 months). Radiologic success rate with initial injection was 61.7% and increased to 85.2% after repeated injections. The overall clinical success rate at first injection was 70.6% and 97.1% after repeated injections. Mean injected material volume was 0.34±0.27 (0.1-1) ml per ureter. Conclusion:Endoscopic treatment is a successful alternative in infants with high-grade vesicoureteral reflux suffering breakthrough infections.
Dendrites Nanostructures of Co3O4 for the Selective Determination of Uric Acid
Authors: Lal Ramesh , Bhattia Bhajan Lal , Alsalme Ali M. , Al-Othman Asma A. , Nafady Ayman , Ibupoto Zafar Hussain
Published: March 2021

The gout is mainly found due to accumulation of uric acid crystals into the joints which produces the inflammatory symptoms. Thus, it is highly demanded to detect uric acid from our body. Herein, we used wet chemical method for the preparation of composite material of cobalt oxide (Co3O4) with hydroxide functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). The analytical techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and Infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR) were used to characterize the composite material. The Co3O4 exhibits a dendrite morphology and very well chemically coupled with MWCNTs. The elemental analysis confirmed the presence of Co, O and C as main constituent of the composite material. The Co3O4 exhibits a cubic unit cell crystallography in the composite system. The FTIR study has revealed the characteristic bands of Co-O bands in the composite material. The cyclic voltammetry was used to study the electrochemical properties of prepared materials. The composite sample with highest percentage of MWCNTs showed an excellent electrochemical activity towards the oxidation of uric acid in phosphate buffer solution pH 7.3. The enzyme free uric acid sensor possessed a linear range of 0.1 mM to 3 mM with a quantified limit of detection of 0.005 mM. The modified electrode is stable, selective, and very sensitive towards uric acid, therefore it may be used for the monitoring of uric acid from clinical samples. The proposed composite material is low cost, and earth abundant, thus it can be of great interest for energy and biomedical fields.
Tailorable and Repeatable Normal Contact Stiffness via Micropatterned Interfaces
Authors: Perris Jack , Xu Yang , Kartal Mehmet E. , Gadegaard Nikolaj , Mulvihill Daniel
Published: March 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Discrepancy of Karyotype and CMA /NGS in PGD Patient with Cryptical Complex Chromosomal Rearrangement
Authors: WANG TING , Chen Hanbiao , Lu Jian , Huang Weiwei , Huang Huamei , Chen Chuangqi , Guo Li
Published: March 2021

Background: Complex chromosome rearrangement (CCR) is a structural rearrangement involving more than two breakpoints. CCR carriers are at high risk for phenotypic abnormalities or reproductive failure, such as chromosomal abnormalities in fetuses and infertility.Methods: We presented a carriers with chromosome (3,18) apparent balanced translocation diagnosed in eleswhere, whose fetus had duplications in chromosome 3 and deletions in chromosome 10 demonstrated by chromosome microarray analysis(CMA). Results: Through the high resolution of GTG-banding, a cryptical translocation in chromosome 10 was found and the karyotype of the carrier was revised as 46,XY,t(3;10;18) (p26.3;q26.1;q21.1).In the cycle of preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD),21 oocytes were retrieved, and 15 were fertilized. At last 7 embryos were biospied and sent to diagnosis by next generation sequencing(NGS).Unfortunately, none of the NGS results from the 7 biopsy embryos were normal. Combining previous literature and our results, we assessed the odds of a balanced embryo in a CCR carrier to be about 9.3%(28/302).The transferable embryo rate was approximately 71.4%(20/28) and healthy live born delivery rate was 55%(11/20).Conclusions: NGS and CMA featured high automation, relatively low cost, high throughput, and high repeatability, which made them commonly used during prenatal diagnosis and PGD. The multiple technology combination can provide more accurate diagnosis and better fertility services for CCR patients.
Invariant Solutions and Bifurcation Analysis of the Nonlinear Transmission Line Model
Authors: Kumar Sachin
Published: March 2021

In this paper, the nonlinear transmission line model with the power law nonlinearity and the constant capacitance and voltage relationship is studied using Lie symmetry analysis. Corre- sponding to the infinitesimals obtained, using commutation relations, abelian and non abelian Lie subalgebras are obtained. Also, using the adjoint table, the one dimensional optimal system of subalgebra is presented. Based on the optimal system, corresponding Lie symmetry reduc- tions are obtained. Moreover, variety of new similarity solutions in the form of trigonometric functions, hyperbolic functions are obtained. Corresponding to one similarity reduction, by bifurcation of dynamical system, the stable and unstable regions are determined, which show the existence of soliton solutions from the nonlinear dynamics view point. Some of the obtained solutions are represented graphically and observations are also discussed.
Successful Outcomes of Single‐Port Insufflation Endoscopic Breast‐Conserving Surgery for Breast Cancer
Authors: Wang Zi-Han , Wu Shan-Shan , Gang Tian-Ran , Gao Guo-Xuan , Xie Fang , Qu Xiang
Published: March 2021

PurposeIn the surgical treatment of breast cancer, the goal of surgeons is to continuously create and improve minimally invasive surgical methods to increase the quality of life of the patient. Currently, routine breast-conserving surgery is performed using two obvious incisions. Here, we compare the clinical efficacy and aesthetic perspectives between a novel technique using one incision called single-port insufflation endoscopic breast-conserving surgery and conventional breast-conserving surgery in early stage breast cancer.MethodsA total of 180 patients with stage I or stage II breast cancer participated in this study. Single-port insufflation endoscopic breast-conserving surgery was performed on 63 patients, while conventional breast-conserving surgery was performed on 117 patients. The evaluation of the aesthetic outcome was carried out by the BREAST-Q scale. Logistic regression was conducted to assess the risk of local recurrence and metastasis.ResultsThere were significant differences between the two groups for chest well-being, psychological well-being, and adverse effects of radiation. The scores for satisfaction of breasts and sexual well-being showed no statistical differences between the two groups. There was no statistical significance in local recurrence or metastasis between the two groups. Single-port insufflation endoscopic breast-conserving surgery did not increase the risk of local recurrence or metastasis.ConclusionThe novel surgical technique, single-port insufflation endoscopic breast-conserving surgery, is a feasible and safe surgery and has advantages in terms of cosmetic outcome and psychological status.
Impact of Endometriosis on Pregnancy and Delivery – a Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Schäfer Sebastian Daniel , Berkenkamp Moritz , Götte Martin , Schmitz Ralf , Kiesel Ludwig
Published: March 2021

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the impact of endometriosis on subsequent pregnancy and delivery.Methods: retrospective analysis by questionnaire / interview of cases (endometriosis laparoscopically removed / child wish) vs. controls (endometriosis laparoscopically excluded / child wish) from the University Hospital Muenster, Germany, treated between 2009 and 2016; analysis of pregnancy rate, mode of delivery and complications using Clavien-Dindo-classification, role of deep infiltrating endometriosis using ENZIAN classification; data analysis using t-test with p < 0.050% being considered significant.Results:Identification of 973 consecutive cases vs 789 consecutive controls; inclusion of 501 cases: (pregnancy rate 57.5%) and 219 controls (pregnancy rate 60.7%). Primary cesarean section: trend to more in controls (p=0.202). Secondary cesarean section: trend to more in cases (p=0.111). Miscarriage: more in controls (p=0.038). DIE with risks equal to other types of endometriosis. Adenomyosis and bladder endometriosis: increased risk of secondary cesarean section. Pregnancy: more bleeding (p=0.005), early uterine contractions (p=0.012), cervical insufficiency (p=0.042), slightly more pre-eclampsia (p=0.080), amniorrhexis (p=0.220). Delivery: more bleeding (p=0.007), vaginal tear (p=0.009), symphysis diastasis (p=0.022), less episiotomy (p=0.002), prolonged labour (p=0.011). Puerperium: more bleeding (p=0.022), infectious complications p=0.007). Complications more in cases (Clavien Dindo I (p=0.005) or II (p=0.010); controls slightly more III (p=0.055)). Cases vs published control groups from general population: more placenta praevia (p=0.042), placental abruption, miscarriage (p<0.001; relative risk 2.23 (1.84-2.70)), delivery by cesarean section (p<0.001).Conclusion: Complications during pregnancy, delivery and puerperium occur more frequently in cases. The risk of miscarriage and delivery by cesarean section is increased. Endometriosis patients should receive counselling with regard to pregnancy and delivery. They should have access to specialized centers of care. Recommendations regarding mode of delivery should not exclude vaginal delivery also in cases of deep infiltrating endometriosis
Incidence Evaluation of Acute Kidney Injury and Pharmacoeconomic Analysis Among Critically Ill Patients With Use of Antipseudomonal β-Lactams and Vancomycin
Authors: Dong Yalin , Zhang Ying , Wang Yan , Lian Jiangping , Yang Ruixia , Long Lihui , Wu Yin , Yan Jianhua , Shang Fei , Zhang Kanghuai , Peng Lirong , Huang Jianlin , Liu Dong , Jiao Xialing , Huang Linghong , Yan Kangkang , Li Xiaoe , Zhang Hefeng , Shi Yaling , Sun Bao , Hai Wenli , Li Xiaoting , Zhang Jianping , Cai Yan , Han Xiaonian , Duan Wangwang , Zhang Jin , Jiang Kai , Zhang Le , Chen Minchun , Kang Yansheng
Published: March 2021

Background: Whether vancomycin (VAN) plus piperacillin-tazobactam (PTZ) could increase the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) is still controversial in critically ill patients. The purpose of this study was to compare the risk of developing AKI and risk of developing AKI and treatment cost among this population receiving VAN/PTZ to a matched group receiving VAN/other antipseudomonal β-lactams. Methods: This multicenter, retrospective, matched study included 700 critically ill patients who received ≥48 hours of VAN/PTZ or VAN/other antipseudomonal β-lactams. The risk of developing AKI was compared between these two combination therapies using propensity-adjusted analysis. Furthermore, a pharmacoeconomic decision-analytic model was performed.Results: According to three AKI-defined criteria, VAN/PTZ was associated with significantly higher incidence of than VAN/other antipseudomonal β-lactams (all P < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, regardless of any VAN/other antipseudomonal β-lactams, VAN/PTZ was an independent predictor for stage 2 or 3 AKI. In the empiric treatment, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratios per additional nephrotoxic episode of 1147.35$, 1845.11$, and 3989.95$ were found for VAN/PTZ relative to, vancomycin plus imipenem-cilastatin, vancomycin plus meropenem, and vancomycin plus cefoperazone-sulbactam, respectively. Conclusion: In critically ill patients, VAN/PTZ was associated with both higher AKI risk and treatment cost when considering AKI occurence compared to VAN/other antipseudomonal β-lactams.Trial registration: retrospectively registered, ClinicalTrials.gov number: NCT03776409.
Insight into the Underlying Synergy between Exo–Lytic Cellulases
Authors: Zong Zhiyou , Li Qiyu , Hong Zhangyong , Cai Wensheng , Shao Xueguang
Published: March 2021

Lignocellulosic biomass can be converted into biofuels and biochemicals, through a synergetic degradation by cellulases. The underlying cooperative mechanism is of paramount importance for the development of efficient enzyme cocktails. The synergy between exo–lytic cellulases, however, still remains poorly understood. In the present contribution, we decipher the synergism by investigation of the enzyme–enzyme interactions (EEIs) between two exo–lytic cellulases––Talaromyces emersonii Cel7A (TeCel7A) and Trichoderma reesei Cel6A (TrCel6A), and between TeCel7A and other main components in the cocktails, and propose a novel synergistic way. The enzymes are found to be apt to bind around the eight substrate–enclosing loops (SELs) of TeCel7A, of which the TrCel6A possesses the strongest binding energy with TeCel7A. The combination between TeCel7A and TrCel6A is further investigated experimentally by Microscale Thermophoresis, confirming the existence of their interactions. Due to the EEIs, the flexibility of the SELs, which mediate dissociation of TeCel7A from cellulose, is increased. We further found that the improved flexibility of loop B3 is pivotal to accelerate dethreading process, helping improving enzymatic hydrolytic efficiency. In view of our theoretical and experimental results here and previous experimental phenomena, the carbohydrate binding modules of the exo–lytic enzymes, which enable them to absorb on the same plane of the substrate, are conjectured to enhance the degree of the EEIs. This work brings to light an underlying synergy between exo–lytic cellulases, and is conducive to a systematic understanding of the synergetic actions in cellulase cocktails.
Fast Determination of the Rubber Content in Taraxacum Kok-Saghyz Fresh Biomass Using Portable Near Infrared Spectroscopy and Pyrolysis-Gas Chromatography
Authors: Chen Ying , Yiyang Dong , Ma Xiang , Li Jiaru , Guo Minmin , Zhang Jichuan
Published: March 2021

Background: Taraxacum kok-saghyz (TKS), a plant native to the Tianshan valley on the border between China and Kazakhstan and inherently rich in natural rubber, inulin and other bioactive ingredients, is an important industrial crop. TKS rubber is a good substitute for natural rubber. TKS's breeding work necessitates the need to screen high-yielding varieties, hence rapid determination of rubber content is essential for the screening. Conventional analytical methods cannot meet actual needs in terms of real-time testing and economic cost. Near-infrared spectroscopy analysis technology, which has developed rapidly in the field of industrial process analysis in recent years, is a green detection technology with obvious merits of fast measurement speed, low cost and no sample loss. This research aims to develop a portable non-destructive near-infrared spectroscopic detection scheme to evaluate the content of natural rubber in TKS fresh roots. Pyrolysis gas chromatography (PyGC), was chosen as the reference method for the development of NIR prediction model. Results: 208 TKS fresh root samples were collected from the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region of China. Near-infrared spectra were acquired for all samples. Randomly two-thirds of them were selected as the calibration set, the remaining one-third as the verification set, and the partial least squares method was successfully used to establish a good NIR prediction model at 1080-1800nm with a performance to deviation ratio (RPD) of 5.54 and coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.95. Conclusions: This study showed that portable near-infrared spectroscopy could be used with ease for large-scale screening of TKS plants in farmland, and could greatly facilitate TKS germplasm preservation, high-yield cultivation, environment-friendly, high-efficiency and low-cost rubber extraction, and comprehensive advancement of the dandelion rubber industry thereof.
Synthesis, Characterization and Enhanced visible light induced photocatalytic activity of NiO/g-C3N4 nanocomposite
Authors: Gayathri M. , Jayaprakssh N. , E Sundaravadivel
Published: March 2021

Heterogeneous binary nanocomposite based photocatalysis is a potential strategy to resolve the worldwide ecological issues. Here, graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) containing NiOnanocomposite (NC) was synthesized by simple mixing. Pure NiO and g-C3N4 was synthesised by hydrothermal and thermal decomposition methods respectively. As synthesized g-C3N4, NiO, and NiO/g-C3N4, composite were characterized by XRD, FTIR, UV-vis spectroscopy, FE-SEM, and HR-TEM. NiO nanoparticles were uniformly distributed on C3N4 matrix. Photocatalytic degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) was investigated under visible light irradiation. The results confirm that 81% of RhB was degraded within 60 min under NiO/g-C3N4 visible light system. This study suggests that potential in environmental applications.
Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery in Patients on Ticagrelor Therapy Is Not Associated with Adverse Perioperative Outcomes
Authors: Diab Sammer , Arazi Mattan , Sternik Leonid Leonid , Raanani Ehud Raanani Ehud , Kachel Erez , Grosman-Rimon Liza , Shalabi Amjad , Amir Offer Amir Offer , Carasso Shemy
Published: March 2021

Background

Management of patients treated with ticagrelor is challenging, as stopping Ticagrelor prior to coronary bypass graft surgery (CABG) may increase the risk of acute stent thrombosis. The aim of the study was to compare bleeding complications in patients treated with ticagrelor combined with acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) until one day before surgery versus ASA alone.
Methods

Bleeding complications, defined as the composite of red blood cells transfusion ≥ 1000ml, chest drainage ≥ 2000ml, and bleeding requiring surgical re-exploration, were compared in 161 patients, 101 on preoperative acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) alone (group A) and 65 on ticagrelor + ASA (group B).
Results

There were no differences in bleeding complications between the two groups (26% vs. 27% in group A and B, respectively), with similar chest drainage in the first 24 hours (569 ± 393ml and 649 ± 427ml, respectively).
Conclusions

Continuing ticagrelor until coronary artery bypass surgery was not associated with increased bleeding complications, suggesting that with appropriate perioperative management, continuing ticagrelor until surgery may be safe.
Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-2(HER-2) expression in Sri Lankan gastric adenocarcinoma patients: An analysis of the concordance of HER2 expression and survival based on silver in-situ hybridization (SISH)
Authors: Subasinghe Duminda , Acott Nathan , Mahesh PKB , Sivaganesh Sivasuriya , Samarasekera Ananthi , Kumarasinghe Marian Priyanthi , Samarasekera Dharmabandu Nandadeva , Lokuhetty Menaka Dilani Samarwickrema
Published: March 2021

Background: Accurate HER2 status is crucial for gastric adenocarcinoma (GC) patient selection for antiHER2 therapy. It is assessed immunohistochemically (IHC) for protein expression, and by silver in-situ hybridization (SISH) for gene copy number. This study aimed to evaluate the concordance of HER2 status by IHC/SISH analyses and HER2-SISH based survival.Methods: This prospective study includes 145 GC’s (excluding gastro-oesophageal-junction tumours) from the National Hospital of Sri Lanka with defined demographic, clinical-radiological-pathological characteristics. HER2-IHC was assessed by DAKO A0485, RealTM Envision system and interpreted using Ruschoff criteria. HER2-SISH was assessed with INFORM HER2 dual ISH DNA Probe Cocktail. Concordance between HER2 IHC/SISH results was determined by Cohens kappa statistics. The association between the survival and HER2-SISH positivity was evaluated using the cox-regression method. Adjustments were done for age, gender, Lauren classification, tumour location and the tumour staging.Results: Of the 69 gastrectomies and 76 biopsies, 8.3% (n = 12) were HER2-IHC positive (n = 7, + 2 and n = 5, + 3). HER2-SISH positivity was 4.8 % (n = 7). All IHC + 3 were SISH positive, while two + 2 cases were SISH positive. Concordance for IHC 0, + 1, +3 were 100%. There was a significant overall correlation (kappa = 0.72, p < 0.001) between HER2-IHC and HER2-SISH indicating substantial concordance. The mean overall survival of HER2-SISH negative and positive patients were 41.7 (0-210) and 14.6 (3–51) weeks respectively, after a mean duration of patient follow up for 40.4 weeks (range 0-210). Survival was relatively lower (p = 0.001) in the group with HER2-SISH positivity.Conclusion: HER2-IHC was well concordant with HER2-SISH for 0, + 1, +3 scores and could be used for treatment and prognostication in low resource settings, where SISH facility is unavailable. HER2-IHC + 2, without gene amplification may be due to transcriptional activation by other genes or post-transcriptional events, mandating further evaluation by SISH. Survival of GC patients is significantly affected by HER2-SISH positive status.
Renin and (pro)renin receptor induced vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and neointimal hyperplasia by activating oxidative stress and inflammation
Authors: Zhang Nana , Song Xiaosu , Bian Yunfei , Bai Rui , Yang Huiyu , Wang Gang , Li Hong , Xiao Chuanshi
Published: March 2021

Background
Numerous studies have shown that the proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) were the pathological basis of restenosis occurrence. And Renin and prorenin could promote the proliferation of VSMCs through (pro)renin receptor ((P)RR). Therefore, this study aimed to observe the role of (P)RR in the proliferation of VSMCs in vitro and neointimal hyperplasia in the arterial injury model.
Methods
Cell proliferation was measured by CCK-8 and flow cytometry; RT-PCR and WB assays were used to detect the expressions of cyclin D1, PCNA, (P)RR, NOX1, and PI3K/AKT signal proteins; immunofluorescent staining was conducted to measure the expression of (P)RR; the levels of renin, PDGF-BB, inflammatory factors, and oxidative stress were determined by ELISA; pathological change was observed by HE staining.
Results
In this study, we demonstrated that renin could promote the proliferation of rat VSMCs by enhanced cell viability and cell cycle proteins, but silencing (P)RR restrained this. Then, we found that renin could enhance the levels of NOX1-mediated oxidative stress and inflammation by activating ERK1/2-AKT pathway in vitro. Similarly, inhibition of (P)RR resulted in opposite phenomenon. Importantly, inhibition of (P)RR could inhibit the neointimal hyperplasia in vivo after common carotid artery injury through restraining NOX1-mediated oxidative stress by down-regulating ERK1/2-AKT pathway.
Conclusion
We concluded that renin and (P)RR induced vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and neointimal hyperplasia by activating oxidative stress, inflammation and ERK1/2-AKT pathway in an angiotensin Ⅱ (Ang Ⅱ)-independent manner.
Printed Circuit Board Design of a Low Power, Lightweight and Compact 3D Structured Air Quality Monitoring System
Authors: Purkayastha Koel Datta , Nath Debanjali , Singh Vivek Kumar , Pradhan Sambhu Nath
Published: March 2021

This paper presents wireless integrated compact, lightweight and portable printed circuit board (PCB) device of air quality monitoring system (AQMS). The system is fabricated in double-sided three PCBs to observe real-time data of CO2, CO, NO2 and weather parameters. For the convenience of 3D stacking, the PCB design is built on three boards so that it consumes minimum area. The volume of the entire board is found 110 mm × 80 mm × 24 mm. Strategy of power reduction has been adopted in the design. To reduce power consumption, switching technique is applied to the electronic sensors. This technique is controlled by the use of demultiplexer device. This low power switching technique enhances the battery life of the AQMS structure has been enhanced. Experimental results show that with the chosen batery bank, average power is 1.0588992 Watt during runtime operation of the device. Thus, AQMS runs in safe mode for 33.75 hours continuously using a fully charged power bank. Electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection has been introduced in the PCB to prevent the circuit damage from high voltage during data transmission. The system is capable of being powered by natural resources such as the solar system, which is installed to charge lithium-ion battery. Moreover, the physical weight of the fabricated device is 172gm excluding the weight of the package.
Deaths for Hospital Acquired Infections in Intensive Care Units and COVID Departments in Italy That May Be Biased for Coronavirus Caused Mortality. Warning for Science and Politics and Further Suggestions
Authors: Chirumbolo Salvatore , Simonetti Vincenzo , Franzini Marianno , Valdenassi Luigi , Bertossi Dario , Pandolfi Sergio
Published: March 2021

Background Hospital acquired infections (HAIs) are a serious concern for COVID-19 pandemic and its emergency in hospitals and healthcare units in Italy. The incidence of nosocomial infections in the clinical outcomes of COVID-19 is a quite dismissed feature in the crowded debate about how addressing and managing COVID-19 outbreak in Italy. Methods Statistical methods using Kaplan-Meier plots, Bayesian calculation on RR and Or, regression calculation and confounder ANCOVA tests were applied on publicly data from the Italian Ministry of Health to highlight the rate of HAIs on COVID diagnosis. Results RR value to die in hospitals during COVID-19 pandemic because of nosocomial infections in 2020, taking into account the number of deaths provided by the Italian Ministry of Health on December 31st 2020 and values about HAIs in current literature, leads to RR = 8.47 (CI95 = 8.38-8.56, odds ratio (OR) = 8.55). Hospitalized people have more probability to be healed (median, Me = 35.92) respect to non hospitalized ones (Me = 30.28), whereas hospitalization increased the median of deaths (Me = 29.37) respect to non hospitalized people (Me =24.26). Conclusions Nosocomial infections may exert a major role, as a confounder, in increasing the dramatic amount of deceases so far accounted to exclusively SARS-CoV2 infections. If such, politics should be much more aware of this concern.
Clinical characteristics and long-term outcomes following surgery combined with adjuvant radiotherapy for primary frontal sinus malignancies: A single-center analysis
Authors: Wang Zekun , Zhang Jianghu , Wu Runye , Zhang Ye , Xu Guozhen , Gao Li , Yi Junlin , Luo Jingwei
Published: March 2021

Objective

This study aimed to determine clinicopathologic characteristics of primary frontal sinus malignancies (FSMs) and provide long-term survival results.
Materials and methods

A retrospective study of six cases of primary FSMs at our center from 2006 to 2016 was performed. The demographics characteristics, tumor characteristics, treatment modalities and survival outcomes were recorded.
Results

In this series, the median age was 48 years (30–53 years) and all patients were male. There were five cases with squamous cell carcinoma, and one with osteosarcoma. All cases presented with locally advanced disease without regional lymphatic metastasis, including 5 cases of stage Ⅲ and one of stage Ⅱ. The two most common pathways of tumor invasion were as follows: local tumor broke posteriorly through bone wall and invaded dura mater, followed by frontal lobe; local tumor infiltrated downward through the floor of frontal sinus into ethmoid sinus, thereafter invaded laterally orbit and orbital contents. All patients received surgery followed by postoperative radiotherapy at the total doses of 50Gy to 75.95Gy. Among them, only one patient underwent R0 resection, the rest of patients underwent R1/R2 resection. With a median survival time of 56 months (32 to 76 months), two patients receiving R1/R2 resection developed treatment failure and died within 5 years, including one case with local recurrence, and one with local recurrence thereafter distant metastasis.
Conclusion

The majority of FSMs presented with peripherally invasive progression lesions, which led to a high ratio of R1/R2 resection. Surgery combined with postoperative radiotherapy might result in satisfactory efficacy.
Novel bacterial chloromethane degraders of a living tree fern evidenced by 13C-chloromethane incubations
Authors: Kröber Eileen , Wende Sonja , Kanukollu Saranya , Buchen-Tschiskale Caroline , Besaury Ludovic , Keppler Frank , Vuilleumier Stéphane , Kolb Steffen , Bringel Françoise
Published: March 2021

Background: Chloromethane (CH3Cl) is the most abundant chlorinated volatile organic compound in the atmosphere and contributes to stratospheric ozone depletion. CH3Cl has mainly natural sources such as emissions from vegetation. In particular, ferns have been recognized as strong emitters. Mitigation of CH3Cl to the atmosphere by methylotrophic bacteria, a global sink for this compound, is likely underestimated and remains poorly characterized.
Results and Conclusions: We investigated chloromethane-degrading taxa associated with intact and living tree fern plants of the species Cyathea australis by stable isotope probing (SIP) with 13C-labelled CH3Cl combined with metagenomic DNA sequencing. Metagenome assembled genomes (MAGs) related to Methylobacterium and Friedmanniella were identified as being involved in the degradation of CH3Cl in the phyllosphere, i.e., the aerial parts of the tree fern, while a MAG related to Sorangium was linked to CH3Cl degradation in the fern rhizosphere. The only known metabolic pathway for CH3Cl degradation, via a methyltransferase system including the gene cmuA, was not detected in metagenomes or MAGs identified by SIP. Hence, a yet uncharacterised methylotrophic cmuA-independent pathway likely drives CH3Cl degradation in the investigated tree ferns.
THAP9 transposase cleaves DNA via conserved acidic residues in an RNaseH-like domain
Authors: Sharma Vasudha , Thakore Prachi , MAJUMDAR Sharmistha
Published: March 2021

Background: The catalytic domain of most ‘cut and paste’ DNA transposases have the canonical RNase-H fold which is also shared by other polynucleotidyl transferases like the retroviral integrases and the RAG1 subunit of V(D)J recombinase. The RNase-H fold is a mixture of beta sheets and alpha helices with three acidic residues (Asp, Asp, Glu/Asp - DDE/D) that are involved in the metal-mediated cleavage and subsequent integration of DNA. Human THAP9 (hTHAP9), homologous to the well-studied Drosophila P-element transposase (DmTNP), is an active DNA transposase that, although domesticated, still retains the catalytic activity to mobilize transposons.Results: In this study we have modelled the structure of hTHAP9 using the recently available cryo-EM structure of DmTNP as a template to identify an RNase-H like fold along with important acidic residues in its catalytic domain. Site-directed mutagenesis of the predicted catalytic residues followed by screening for DNA excision and integration activity, has led to the identification of candidate Ds and Es in the RNaseH fold that can be a part of the catalytic triad in hTHAP9.Conclusions: Many DNA transposases execute DNA excision via a catalytic domain, which has a canonical RNase-H fold. Despite the similar nature of the catalytic domain, these transposases exhibit mechanistically different strategies of transposition. We identify a potential RNase-H fold in hTHAP9 with conserved DDE motif required for cutting DNA. Additionally, we have found a residue, which when mutated, leads to an increase in hTHAP9’s transposition activity. Such hyperactive transposase mutants can be exploited as tools in genome engineering and gene therapy. This study has helped widen our knowledge about the catalytic activity of a functionally uncharacterised transposon-derived gene in the human genome.
Microstructure and properties of a vacuum tempered glass with low-temperature sintered silver paste
Authors: Sun Qin , Sun Guoji , Liu Yihan , Li Yufeng , Chen Hongtao , li Mingyu , Hang Chunjin , Zhu Wenbo
Published: March 2021

A low-temperature sintered silver paste was used for metallization on tempered glass to prepare a vacuum tempered glass by soldering with Sn 96.5 Ag 3 Cu 0.5 paste (SAC305). The effects of the glass content and the sintering temperature on the microstructures, shear strengths, and fracture mechanisms of the bondlines were investigated in detail. The microstructure of the thick silver film and its interface with the tempered glass was characterized. The dissolution and precipitation behaviors of the silver in Bi-B-Zn glass were also analyzed. Bi 4 B 2 O 9 crystals were detected in the microstructure of the thick silver film when the joining temperature was increased above 450 °C, which can strengthen the silver film and the interface with the tempered glass. After soldering at 450 °C for 10 min, an excellent bondline was formed with a shear strength of 42.3 MPa and a leak rate of 7.2 × 10 -3 Pa.cm 3 /s by using the low-temperature sintered paste, which had a composition of 80 wt.% silver and 20 wt.% glass powder. Furthermore, heat transfer tests revealed that the vacuum tempered glass had excellent thermal insulation properties. The results showed that the low-temperature sintered silver paste combined with soldering was an effective method to prepare vacuum tempered glass.
D-GF-CNN Algorithm for Modulation Recognition
Authors: Du Ruiyan , Liu Fulai , Xu Jialiang , Gao Fan , Hu Zhongyi , Zhang Aiyi
Published: March 2021

This paper presents a novel modulation recognition algorithm based D-GF convolutional neural networks, named as D-GF-CNN algorithm. Firstly, a asynchronous delay sampling (ADS) technique is introduced. Via the defined ADS, the received signal is converted into asynchronous delay histogram (ADH). The ADH of different modulation signal has distinct characteristics, which provides great convenience for the neural network to identify the modulation mode. Then, the pixel point matrix of histogram is convolved with the dilated convolution kernel of the convolutional neural network, and the automatic extraction of signal features is completed so that the manual feature extraction processing can be effectively avoid. According to the optimization theory, a novel GF regularization function is given, which can improve the constraint ability of the loss function on the weight and effectively weaken the influence of network over-fitting on the modulation recognition accuracy. Theoretical analysis and simulation experiments show that the proposed algorithm can offer several advantages, such as automatically extract features, effectively prevent network over-fitting and improve recognition accuracy, etc.