bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Develop an Integrated Conceptual Model to Determine Ecological Buffers in Urban Streams
Authors: Sarang Amin , Andik Behnam , Ardestani Mojtaba , Kermani Farnoosh Moradizadeh
Published: June 2021

For many years, buffers are playing an important role for protecting as well as exploiting urban streams environment. In 40s & early 50s Tehran with 5 urban streams which flow from northern mountains to southern deserts of the city had been created unique aesthetic nature. At that time no specific environmental regulatory implemented by the government but since lack of any disturbing population and any urban development, the urban nature was self protecting. But in recent decades a huge development occurs leading to impaired streams which no conventional buffers such as static quantitative buffer zone and qualitative buffer zone. This paper is deeply investigating ecological restoration and promoting a new conceptual model as ecological buffer zone for Urban Streams. This buffer is agile, dynamic, and variable in both stream directions (longitudinal and latitudinal) consist of many layers such as biological (both fauna and flora), geotechnical, artificial infrastructure buffer, legal, historical, social, economical and etc Layers. If this model properly implemented longtermly will protect current urban nature and even enhance the environment eventually, partially, and gradually reverse to their historical natures. Ecological should be tailored for each individual river and stream based on few rules, tools and techniques. The paper is based on three years extensive research study for all 5 major urban streams in Tehran and implementing on Farahzad upstream specifically. It elaborates how to define different above-mentioned layers and finally how to integrate all together. EB has been currently implemented in Tehran urban streams by the municipality.
Analysis of the Radiation Balance Components Over Low-turbidity Water Stored in an Agricultural Reservoir in a Tropical Climate
Authors: BORGES TATYANA KEYTY DE SOUZA , DE OLIVEIRA AUREO SILVA , ALLEN RICHARD G. , KILIC AYSE , COUTO JOÃO PAULO CHAVES , SANTANA CARLOS EDUARDO
Published: June 2021

Understanding how solar and terrestrial radiation fluxes interact with natural surfaces and impact water consumption is of wide interest. In eastern sub-humid Bahia, Brazil, scarce surface water stored in lined ponds is used to drip irrigate Sumatra tobacco plants grown under partial shading. This work aimed at monitoring, over two irrigation seasons (2015 and 2016), the water turbidity, the radiation balance (shortwave – SW and longwave – LW components), and the skin water temperature (Tw) in the center of a large storage pond to better understand the energy balance of the storage pond and its impact on evaporation. Auxiliary data from a collocated weather station were also collected. The water turbidity was very low (around 2.6 NTU on average) due to filtration and reverse osmosis of water prior to storage. The mean daily Tw (26.1°C) was nearly always higher than the mean air temperature Ta (21.8°C) due to near-surface absorption of solar radiation. Incoming (Sg) and net SW (Snet) fluxes decreased by 70% on average with cloud cover while downward LW flux increased by 14% due to increased net atmospheric temperature with the presence of clouds. A mean daily albedo of 0.05 was measured for the type of water stored in the irrigation tanks. The net LW flux (Lnet) was consistently negative (−55.1 W m−2 average). Two approaches are proposed for estimating daily net all-wave radiation Rn. The first is Rn = −27.357 + 0.832⋅Snet (r2 = 0.998 and SEE = 9.66 W m− 2) and the second is Rn = Snet – Lnet(MLR) where Snet = 0.95∙Sg for both approaches and MRL represents a multiple linear regression model (r2 = 0.721 and SEE = 6.87 W m− 2). Both approaches use data that are easily collected from a standard automatic weather station.
Enhanced Wireless Grid Technologies for the Harmonized Devices in Future IoT Systems
Authors: Kojima Fumihide
Published: June 2021

The paper proposes the enhanced wireless grid technologies for the future Internet of Things (IoT) systems. The paper shows a realization of the wireless grid by suitably exploiting the existing wireless Smart Utility Networks (SUN) that is standardized by IEEE 802.15.4g/4e task groups and is certified by Wi-SUN alliance. Medium Access Control (MAC) layer functions that is mainly defined by IEEE 802.15.4e standard and IEEE 802.15.10 recommended practice are effectively modified according to the assumed IoT services and satisfy the requirement of harmonized mesh activities by massive radio devices. In order to realize this function, SUN radio devices that exploit Layer 2 Routing (L2R) control scheme in IEEE 802.15.10 are employed to realize the autonomous mesh management function as well as the multiple service supporting function. The performance is evaluated through the experiments by employing the developed SUN devices as well as simulator evaluations. The paper also proposes novel data retransmission schemes by exploiting the data concatenation functions in IEEE 802.15.10 as well as evaluating its performances by computer simulations and experiments. Consequently, this paper confirms that the obtained results through both simulator evaluations and experiments matches to each other.
Extreme Room Temperature Compression and Bending in Ferroelectric Oxide Pillars
Authors: Liu Ying , Cui Xiangyuan , Niu Ranming , Zhang Shujun , Liao Xiaozhou , Moss Scott , Finkel Peter , Garbrecht Magnus , Ringer Simon , Cairney Julie
Published: June 2021

Plastic deformation in ceramic materials is normally only observed in nanometre-sized samples. However, we have observed unprecedented levels of plasticity (>50% plastic strain) and excellent elasticity (6% elastic strain) in perovskite oxide Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3-Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-PbTiO3 (PIN-PMN-PT), under compression along <100>pc pillars up to 2.1 μm in diameter. The extent of this deformation is much higher than has previously been reported for ceramic materials, and the sample size at which plasticity is observed is almost an order of magnitude larger. Bending tests also revealed over 8% flexural strain. Plastic deformation occurred by slip along {110} <110>. Calculations indicate that the resulting strain gradients will give rise to extreme flexoelectric polarization. First principles models predict that a high concentration of oxygen vacancies (Vo) weaken the covalent/ionic bonds, giving rise to the unexpected plasticity. Mechanical testing on Vo-rich Mn-doped PIN-PMN-PT confirmed this prediction. These findings will facilitate the design of plastic ceramic materials and the development of flexoelectric-based nano-electromechanical systems.
Effects of Lower Extremities Constraint Induced Movement Therapy on Gait and Balance of Chronic Hemiparetic Patients After Stroke: Description of a Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.
Authors: Oliveira Elaine Menezes , Matuti Gabriela da Silva , de Oliveira Clarissa Barros , de Freitas Simone Ferreira , Kawamura Catia Miyuki , Lopes José Augusto Fernandes , Arida Ricardo Mario
Published: June 2021

BackgroundProtocols involving intensive practice have shown positive outcomes. Constraint Induced Movement Therapy (CIT) appears to be one of the best options for better outcomes in upper limb rehabilitation, but we still have little data about Lower Extremities - Constraint Induced Movement Therapy (LE-CIT) and its effects on gait and balance.ObjectiveTo evaluate the effects of an LE-CIT protocol on gait functionality and balance in chronic hemiparetic patients following a stroke.MethodsThe study adopts a randomized, controlled, single-blinded study design. 42 patients who suffered a stroke event, in the chronic phase of recovery (>6 months), with gait disability (no community gait), able to walk at least 10 meters with or without the advice or support of 1 person, will be randomly allocated to 2 groups: the LE-CIT Group or the Control Group (Intensive Conventional Therapy). People will be excluded if they have speech deficits that render them unable to understand and/or answer properly to evaluation scales and exercises selected for the protocol and/or if they have suffered any clinical event between the screening and the beginning of the protocol. Outcome will be assessed at baseline (T0), immediately after the intervention (T1), and after 6 months (T2). The outcome measures chosen for this trial are: 6 minute walk test (6minWT), 10 meter walk test (10mWT), Timed Up and Go (TUG), 3-D gait analysis (3DGA), Mini Balance Evaluation Systems Test (Mini-BESTest) and, as a secondary measure, Lower Extremity Motor Activity Log will be evaluated (LE-MAL). The participants in both groups will receive 15 followed days of daily exercise. The participants in the LE-CIT Group will be submitted to this protocol 2.5 hour/day for 15 followed days. It will include: 1) intensive supervised training, 2) use of shaping as strategy for motor training, and 3) application of a transfer package (plus 30 minutes). The Control Group will receive conventional physiotherapy for 2.5 hours/day over 15 followed days (the same period as the CIT intervention). Repeated measures analyses will be made to compare differences and define clinically relevant changes between groups.ResultsData collection is currently on-going and results are expected in 2021.Discussion: LE-CIT seems to be a good protocol for inclusion into stroke survivors’ rehabilitation as it has all the components needed for positive results, as well as intensity and transference of gains to daily life activities.Trial Registration: www.ensaiosclinicos.gov.br (Register Number: RBR-467cv6). Date of registration: October 10, 2017. “Effects of Lower Extremities - Constraint Induced Therapy on gait and balance function in chronic hemipretic post-stroke patients”.
Design and Analysis of Silicon Nanowire FET for the Detection of Cardiac Troponin I Biomarker
Authors: Ahmadsaidulu Shaik , Krsihna B. Vamsi , Satyanarayana B V V , Matta Durga Prakash
Published: June 2021

Cardiac arrests are one of the major health problems in present days. Cardiac Troponin-I (cTnI) is one of the important enzymes that causes cardiac arrest. Early diagnosis and proper medication of this saves human life. One of the prominent devices to diagnose troponin I is FET based bio-sensor. Normally, for these sensors’ higher sensitivities will be obtained as these biosensors structure consists of nanowire FETs. Proper selection of materials, dimensions, and doping concentrations of nanowire FET imply the perfection of a nanowire FET-based biosensor. In this work, Silicon Nanowire (SiNW) FET sensor is designed and simulated using COMSOL Multiphysics. Through this design, Identified the presence of different concentrations of cTnI present in human blood. The presence of different enzymes like cTnT, cTnI etc., bring changes in characteristics of SiNW FET sensor. With these changes in characteristics, we can identify the presence of these enzymes of a lower concentration also. The lower concentrations of these biomarkers will bring notable changes in the drain current. The characteristics were analysed with the SiNW FET which is equipped with immobilized antibodies on it. The considerable changes observed in these characteristics of FET sensor identifies the presence of cTnI biomarker and are attached to the monoclonal Antibodies (mAb). Our observations shown that the properties of designed SiNW FET changes with presence of these bio marker materials and a limit of detection is obtained the order of 2pg/mL. with further the design bio sensor with SiNW FET can be used for microfluidic and Lab-on-Chip applications also.
A theoretical and computational investigation of mixed mode creep crack growth along an interface
Authors: Elmukashfi Elsiddig , Cocks Alan
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we propose a theoretical framework for studying mixed mode (I and II) creep crack growth under steady state creep conditions. In particular, we focus on the problem of creep crack growth along an interface, whose fracture properties are weaker than the bulk material, located either side of the interface. The theoretical framework of creep crack growth under mode I, previously proposed by the authors, is extended. The bulk behaviour is described by power-law creep, and damage zone models that account for mode mixity are proposed to model the fracture process ahead of a crack tip. The damage model is described by a traction-separation rate law that is defined in terms of an effective traction and separation which couple the different fracture modes. Different models are introduced, namely, a simple critical displacement model, empirical Kachanov type damage models and a micromechanical based model. Using the path independence of the C * -integral and dimensional analysis, analytical models are developed for mixed mode steady-state crack growth in a double cantilever beam specimen (DCB) subjected to combined bending moments and tangential forces. A computational framework is then implemented using the Finite Element method. The analytical models are calibrated against detailed Finite Element models and a scaling function (C k ) is determined in terms of a dimensionless quantity Φ 0 (which is the ratio of geometric and material length scales), mode mixity χ and the deformation and damage coupling parameters. We demonstrate that the form of the C k -function does not change with mode mixity; however, its value depends on the mode mixity, the deformation and damage coupling parameters and the detailed form of the damage zone. Finally, we demonstrate how parameters within the models can be obtained from creep deformation, creep rupture and crack growth experiments for mode I and II loading conditions.
Barriers and Opportunities for Cooperative Wetland Management: A Case Study in the Greater Rocky Mountain National Park Ecosystem
Authors: Tait Meghan K. , Brunson Mark W.
Published: June 2021

The boundaries of most protected areas are not large enough to encompass natural processes such as hydrologic and ecological connections between wetlands and within watersheds. Therefore, management is likely to be improved by working across boundaries with multiple jurisdictions. This research explores barriers and opportunities for cross-boundary cooperation for wetland stewardship in Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), Colorado, USA, and surrounding areas, using semi-structured interviews with staff members of government agencies, nonprofits, research organizations, and municipalities. Results show that wetlands outside of RMNP are experiencing similar cross-boundary disturbances to those within the park. Although participants recognize that working cooperatively with neighboring jurisdictions can decrease the effects of boundaries on wetland integrity, they also reported that the most significant cross-boundary challenge is working with others to exchange resources, develop a common goal, and implement projects cooperatively. We provide recommendations on how to address cooperative management challenges while taking advantage of opportunities to facilitate cross-boundary wetland stewardship at the ecosystem-scale.
The Rapid Construction Method of Human Body Model for Virtual Try-On on Mobile Terminal Based on MDD-Net
Authors: Fang Naiyu , Qiu Lemiao , Zhang Shuyou , Wang Zili , Gu Ye , Hu Kerui
Published: June 2021

Traditional anthropometric evaluation needs professional measuring tools and operations, which is time- consuming, expensive, and not suitable for virtual try-on. As the mobile internet develops, the issue of human body reconstruction toward virtual try-on needs to be solved. This paper proposes a rapid human body reconstruction method for virtual try-on based on Multidimensional Dense Net (MDD-Net) on mobile terminal. MDD-Net takes the input of fusion features acquired by mobile as input and outputs 3D human body model to mobile supporting for virtual try-on. In the learning fuzzy anthropometric feature module, the example-guided fuzzy anthropometric feature matrix is acquired and default coding elements are interpolated. In the learning multi-perspective silhouette feature module, the fine human body shape features are learned based on DenseNet201. A corresponding fusion feature data set based on SMPL also is generated for MDD-Net training. In the experiments, without append fault-tolerant training samples, on the segmentation noise, nonstandard pose, and perspective error test set, the predicted accuracy of MDD-Net is improved by 13.34%, 55.77%, 34.6% and 43.4%, 37.2%, 9.0% respectively compared to Hs-Net and BfSNet proving its robust with the impact of uncertain positions and poses. And MDD-Net has a small error and standard deviation on critical anthropometric features explaining the effectiveness of our method.
Material-Specific Phenomena and Developing Higher Yield Process Parameters in Selective Laser Melting of 17-4 PH Stainless Steel
Authors: YASA EVREN , Atik İlker , Kandemir İpek
Published: June 2021

Although Selective Laser Melting has become attractive in industrial applications seeking a high geometrical complexity with short lead times and customization, some bottlenecks still exist for wider adoption. Build rate is one of them while the high number of process parameters and their interactions easily exceeding hundreds which affects the part performance is the second. The machine manufacturers supply parameter sets generally optimized for maximum density leading to good mechanical properties. However, other factors need to be considered in process development. This study aims at increasing the build rate of at least 2 times for 17-4 PH stainless steel without any significant effect on the density, surface quality, material composition, mechanical properties and residual stresses. The results show an excessive ultimate tensile strength to yield strength ratio in comparison to reported literature which is attributed to the double yield phenomenon mainly attributed to the phases present in the microstructure as a result of powder chemical composition and processing gas. Thus, it is concluded that powder chemical composition and processing gas are much more effective on the outcome while the process parameters with an increased build rate do not significantly change the results provided that almost full density is reached.
Modeling Thermal Systems With Fractional Models: Human Bronchus Application
Authors: Duhé Jean-François , victor stephane , Melchior Pierre , Abdelmoumen Youssef , Roubertie François
Published: June 2021

Thermal modeling of systems allows heat and temperature simulations for many applications, such as refrigeration design, heat dissipation in power electronics, melting processes and bio-heat transfers. Sufficiently accurate models are especially needed in open-heart surgery where lung thermal modeling will prevent pulmonary cell dying. For simplicity purposes, simple RC circuits are often used but such models are too simple and lack of precision in dynamical terms. A more complete description of conductive heat transfer can be obtained from the heat equation by means of a two-port network. The analytical expressions obtained from such circuit models are complex and nonlinear in the frequency $\omega$. This complexity in Laplace domain is difficult to handle when it comes to control applications and more specifically during surgery, as heat transfer and temperature control of a tissue may help in reducing necrosis and preserving a greater amount of a given organ. Therefore, a frequency domain analysis of the series and shunt impedances will be presented and different techniques of approximations will be explored in order to obtain simple but sufficiently precise linear fractional transfer function models. Several approximations are proposed to model heat transfers of a human middle bronchus and will be quantified by the absolute errors.
Enhancement of Methane Generation from the Sewage by the Addition of Fish Waste ​
Authors: S ANAND KUMAR VARMA , A SUVALAKSHMI
Published: June 2021

Purpose-Fish waste affects the area surrounding and can change a broad oceanfront zone at unlike environment levels by its effluent. In order to reduce the environmental impacts of improper disposal of both fish waste and sewage in the vicinity of the fishing industry in the coastal zone, an attempt has been made to convert the mixture of fish waste and sewage into energy.Findings-The by-product wastes mainly head, bones, skin, gut, tail and sometimes full whole fish waste. The main composition of fish waste is Protein 65%, fat 18% and minerals 17%. So fish waste having a large amount of biodegradable matter when compared to fresh sewage and also by adding higher amount of fish waste we can able to generate higher methane emissions. Methodology-The ultimate aim of the project is to find the optimum methane gas emission from fish waste mixed with fresh sewage using the anaerobic digestion for the experimental part. And for the stoichiometry combustion equation for the theoretical part.Value-Using stoichiometries equations methane gas generated has been calculated from the mixture of sewage and fish waste. Using the Orsat’s apparatus methane gas generated hasbeen measured from the mixture of sewage and fish waste. The correlation coefficient - R2 value is 0.9906 indicating a strong correlation for the predicted values and the measured values.
Development of Mosquito Protective Textiles Using Nanoemulsion of Eucalyptus Globulus and Syzygium Aromaticum Essential Oils Against Malaria Vector, Anopheles Stephensi (Liston)
Authors: Sheikh Zahra , Amani Amir , Basseri Hamid Reza , MoosaKazemi Seyed Hassan , Sedaghat Mohammad Mehdi , Azam Kamal , Yousefpoor Yaser , Amirmohammadi Fatemehzahra , Azizi Majid
Published: June 2021

Background

The aim of current study was to determine the protection efficacy of Eucalyptus globulus and Syzygium aromaticum essential oils nanoemulsions-loaded textiles versus bulk essential oil- treated textiles against the malaria vector, Anopheles stephensi.
Methods

The components of E. globulus and S. aromaticum essential oils were determined using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Then, the nanoemulsions of both essential oils were prepared using a low energy emulsification method. Their stability and droplet sizes were determined, and the repellent efficacy against landings/bites of the starve mosquito females was examined using textile panels of polyester/cotton, impregnated with serial concentrations of the nano-emulsion.
Results

The main compositions of E. globulus essential oil were 1, 8-cineol (64.58%) and alpha-pinene (10.63%), whereas those of S. aromaticum essential oil were 2-methoxy-3-(2-propenyl) (77.04%) and trans-caryophyllene (11.99%). Transparent oil in water nanoemulsion system consisting of essential oils, Tween-20, Tween-80 and propylene glycol was developed. The median droplet size was 11.2-23.1nm depending on dilution ratio. Protection time of nanoemulsion-loaded textile (285 ± 30 min) was noticeably higher than that of bulk essential oils (< 5 min).
Conclusions

It was concluded that nanoemulsion of essential oils may be interesting options in control of mosquito-related diseases.
The Impact of Frailty Screening of Older Adults With Multidisciplinary Assessment of Those at Risk During Emergency Hospital Attendance on the Quality, Safety and Cost-Effectiveness of Care (SOLAR): A Randomised Controlled Trial.
Authors: Leahy Aoife , McNamara Rachel , Reddin Catriona , Corey Gillian , Carroll Ida , Team Solar , O'Neill Aoife , Flannery Darragh , Devlin Collette , Barry Louise , MacCarthy Brian , Cummins Niamh , Shanahan Elaine , Shchetkovsky Denys , Ryan Damien , O'Connor Margaret , Galvin Rose
Published: June 2021

BackgroundOlder people account for 25% of all Emergency Department (ED) admissions. This is expected to rise with an ageing demographic. Older people often present to the ED with complex medical needs in the setting of multiple comorbidities. Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) has been shown to improve outcomes in an inpatient setting but clear evidence of benefit in the ED setting has not been established. It is not feasible to offer this resource intensive assessment to all older adults in a timely fashion. Screening tools for frailty have been used to identify those at most risk for adverse outcomes following ED visit. The overall aim of this study is to examine the impact of CGA on the quality, safety and cost-effectiveness of care in an undifferentiated population of frail older people with medical complaints who present to the ED and Acute Medical Assessment Unit. MethodsThis will be a parallel 1:1 allocation randomised control trial. All patients who are ≥75 years will be screened for frailty using the Identification of Seniors At Risk (ISAR) tool. Those with a score of ≥2 on the ISAR will be randomised. The treatment arm will undergo geriatric medicine team-led CGA in the ED or Acute Medical Assessment Unit whereas the non-treatment arm will undergo usual patient care. A dedicated multidisciplinary team of a specialist geriatric medicine doctor, senior physiotherapist, specialist nurse, pharmacist, senior occupational therapist and senior medical social worker will carry out the assessment, as well as interventions that arise from that assessment. Primary outcomes will be length of stay in the ED or Acute Medical Assessment Unit. Secondary outcomes will include ED re-attendance, re-hospitalisation, functional decline, quality of life and mortality at 30 days and 180 days. These will be determined by telephone consultation and electronic records by a research nurse blinded to group allocation.Ethics and DisseminationEthical approval was obtained from the Health Service Executive (HSE) Mid-Western Regional Hospital Research Ethics Committee (088/2020). Our lay dissemination strategy will be developed in collaboration with our Patient and Public Involvement stakeholder panel of older people at the Ageing Research Centre and we will present our findings in peer reviewed journals and national and international conferences. Trial Registration: Clinical Trials.gov NCT04629690
Clinical, Diagnostic, and Treatment Features of Body Packing in Brazil: Drugs, Cell Phones and Beyond
Authors: Guimarães Vinícius Henrique Almeida , Cassiano Carolina , de Queiroz Dylmadson Iago , Elias Christian Tales , Lenza Roberto da Mata , Pastore Ricardo , Oliveira Carlo José Freire
Published: June 2021

Introduction: Body packing is the smuggling of drugs and other contents inside the human body. However, non-narcotic contents studies are limited to rare case reports in literature. Thus, the objective of this study was to investigate cases of body packers in Brazil considering narcotic and non-narcotic contents. Methods: Retrospective study analyzing the medical records of body packers admitted from January 2015 to December 2019 at one of the main tertiary hospitals in central Brazil. Results: Ten cases of body packing were observed. Only 50% of the patients carried drugs, while surprisingly, 70% carried non-content, especially cell phones and accessories. All the patients were male, prisoners and young adults. In 60%, there were gastrointestinal obstruction and in 30%, there was acute narcotic intoxication. Abdominal radiography was enough for diagnosis in 80% of the cases. In 90% of the cases, emergency laparotomy was required, but all the patients successfully recovered. Conclusions: There was a higher prevalence of body packing of non-narcotic content; however, clinical and radiological presentations were similar to those of narcotic content. Emergency surgery proved to be effective for both content types. This study highlights the concerning high prevalence of body packing of cell phones and accessories in addition to drugs.
Improving of Cognition and Quality of Life in Schizophrenia With One-month and Three-month Paliperidone Palmitate Treatment
Authors: Chang Chen-Lin , Huang Yong-Chen , Yang Pinchen , Lung For-Wey
Published: June 2021

An antipsychotic drug, Paliperidone palmitate (PDP), is administered to schizophrenics as injections at one-month (Sustenna) or three-month (Trinza) intervals. The present study was a series of clinical trial study, which included two sub-study, sought to compare the effects of treatment, social function, and side effects between two treatments in schizophrenics. In Study 1, total of 42 participants were received the Sustenna treatment for three months. In Study 2, total of 72 participants were recruited for Trinza treatment. The results showed Personal and Social Performance scales (PSP) significantly increased over time with both two treatments. Total cholesterol levels significantly decreased with Sustenna, which negatively influenced the cognitive functions, and the quality of life. UKU scales significantly decreased with Trinza after 15 months. In Brief, schizophrenics receiving PDP treatment presented improvements in their cognitive and social functions over the time, whether with the Sustenna or Trinza treatment. Total cholesterol and waist circumference decreased, and the LDL/HDL ratios increased over the time after PDP treatment. Furthermore, patients receiving Trinza treatment experienced decreased side effects. Nonetheless, schizophrenics had a significantly better quality of life after both Sustenna and Trinza treatment. Future studies should be consider larger samples and longer follow up.
A NR2E1-Interacting Peptide of LSD1 Inhibits the Proliferation of Brain Tumor Initiating Cells
Authors: Hu Rong , Hameed Umar , Sun Xiang , Moorthy Balakrishnan , Zhang Wen , Jeffrey Philip , Zhou Li , Ma Xin , Chen Fangjin , Pei Jianfeng , Giri Pankaj , Mou Yonggao , Swaminathan Kunchithapadam , Yuan Ping
Published: June 2021

The recurrence of malignant brain tumor, like glioblastoma, is often due to the existence of brain tumor initiating cells (BTICs) with stem cell properties. As the mortality ratio of brain tumor relapsed patients is very high and lack of efficient therapies, there is an urgent need to develop novel therapeutic methods targeting BTICs. NR2E1 (TLX), an orphan nuclear receptor, is critical for the self-renewal of BTICs. In this study, we found that NR2E1 recruits LSD1, a lysine demethylase, to demethylate mono- and di-methylated histone 3 Lys4 (H3K4me/me2) at the Pten promoters and repress its expression, thereby promoting BTIC proliferation. Using Amide Hydrogen/Deuterium Exchange and Mass Spectrometry (HDX-MS) method, we identified four LSD1 peptides that may interact with NR2E1. One of the peptides that locates at the LSD1 SWIRM domain strongly inhibited BTIC proliferation by promoting Pten expression through interfering NR2E1 and LSD1 function. Furthermore, overexpression of this peptide in human BTIC can inhibit its formation of brain tumor. Hence, this peptide exhibits an interesting potential for therapeutic intervention in malignant brain tumors in future.
Application of Multivariate Statistical Analysis and Water Quality Index for Quality Characterization of Parbati River, Northwestern Himalaya, India
Authors: Sharma Gaurav , Lata Renu , Thakur Nandini , Bajala Vishal , Kuniyal J. C. , Kumar Kireet
Published: June 2021

The present study is an attempt to accomplish the understanding of the factors impacting surface water quality of Parbati river in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. The main objective is to assess the overall water quality, to explore its hydrogeochemical characteristics including major ion contents and other chemical parameters using Water Quality Index (WQI), statistical techniques (principal component analysis) and conventional graphical representation such as Piper trillinear diagram, Durov. Eighteen surface water sampling sites were selected to analyze physico-chemical parameters for June 2019 and September 2019. Analytical outcomes of thirty six surface water samples for both seasons are well within the permissible limits as per BIS, 2012 & WHO 2011 for drinking and domestic purposes. Water quality characterization for the assigned use shows that maximum surface water samples falls under excellent to good water quality index and are suitable for drinking without conventional treatment. The Piper trillinear diagram classified 100% of surface water samples for both seasons’ falls in the fields of Ca2+ - Mg2+ -HCO3− water type indicating temporary hardness. Abundance of ions in the water samples is in the order: anions HCO3− > Cl−> SO42−>NO3− and cations Mg2+> Ca2+> Na+> K+. PCA identifies that the surface water chemistry is influenced by natural factors as well as minor anthropogenic activities in both the seasons.
Slope Stability Analysis Under Pore-Water Pressure: A Case Study in Zarm-Rood Earthfill Dam, Iran
Authors: Gholamzade Mojtaba , Khalkhali Ahad Bagherzadeh
Published: June 2021

It is well known that construction of dams or reservoirs have geomorphological impacts on the environment and could potentially accelerate the occurrence of landslides. One of the most common impact is the occurrence of new landslides and activation of the old one, which may turn into a natural disaster. Thus, controlling the stability of landslides become challenging issue specifically in the presence of f pore-water pressure. In general, the presence of water or pore-water pressure reduces the soil resistance and also leads to increase in stimulus loads, resulting in reduction of stability coefficients. In the present study, using GeoStudio SLOPE/W software, the effect of the proximity of the dam reservoir in terms of different operating conditions on the stability analysis of the landslide area of ​​Zarm-Rood Dam is investigated. In the first step, the evaluation of internal stability of landslides and the effect of the presence of water on stability coefficients were evaluated and then the sustainable design of landslides was proposed. It was found that when extra pore-water pressure ranges from 0.2 to 0.4, safety factor is decreased by about 10%. Accordingly, safety factor is decreased by about 17% when extra pore-water pressure range from 0.4 to 0.6. This research demonstrates successful implementation of GeoStudio SLOPE/W for slope stability analysis in dam construction projects.
Main Effect and Epistatic QTL Affecting Spike Shattering and Association with Plant Height Revealed in Two Spring Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Populations
Authors: Bokore Firdissa , Cuthbert Richard D. , Knox Ron E. , Campbell Heather L. , Meyer Brad , N'Diaye Amidou , Pozniak Curtis J. , DePauw Ron
Published: June 2021

Spike shattering can cause severe grain yield loss in wheat. Development of cultivars with reduced shattering but having easy threshability is the target of wheat breeding programs. This study was conducted to determine quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with shattering resistance, and epistasis among QTL in the Carberry/AC Cadillac and Carberry/Thatcher populations. Response of the populations to spike shattering was evaluated near Swift Current, SK, in four to five environments. Plant height data recorded in different locations and years was used to determine the relationship of the trait with spike shattering. Each population was genotyped and mapped with the wheat 90K Illumina iSelect SNP markers. Main effect QTL were analyzed by MapQTL 6 and epistatic interactions between main effect QTL were determined by QTLNetwork 2.0. Positive correlations were observed both within trait location-year combinations as well as between trait location-year combinations. Carberry contributed two major QTL associated with spike shattering on chromosome arms 4BS and 5AL, detected in both populations. Carberry also contributed two minor QTL on 7AS and 7AL. AC Cadillac contributed five minor QTL on 1AL, 2DL, 3AL, 3DL and 7DS. Nine epistatic QTL interactions were identified, out of which the most consistent and synergistic interaction, that reduced the expression of shattering, occurred between 4BS and 5AL QTL. The 4BS QTL was consistently associated with reduced shattering and reduced plant height in the coupling phase. The present findings shed light on the inheritance of shattering resistance and provide genetic markers for manipulating the trait to develop wheat cultivars.
APOE E2 Carriers Showed Worse Associative Learning Than E3 Carriers in a Cognitively Normal Aging Han Chinese Population
Authors: Li Wei , Yue Ling , Li Xia , Xiao Shifu
Published: June 2021

Background: Polymorphism in the APOE gene has been shown to be associated with cognitive function, however, the related studies are not consistent. To investigate the relationship between APOE gene polymorphism and cognitive function, we conducted the current cross-sectional study specifically to investigate the effect of different APOE genotypes on cognitive performance in normal elderly adultsMethods: A total of 156 older adults with normal cognitive function were enrolled in the current study. According to different genetic types, they were divided into three groups: 1) E2/2 or E2/3 (APOE E2); 2) E3/3 (APOE E3); and 3) E2/4, E3/4, or E4/4 (APOE E4). Then Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and Neuropsychological Test Battery (NTB) were used to assess their global cognitive function and domain-specific cognitive function, respectively. Results: The results of Kruskai-Wallis H test showed that the scores of associative learning in APOE E2 group were lower than that in E3 groups (p<0.05), but there was no statistical difference (p>0.05) in associative learning between E2 group and E4 group, and E3group and E4 group. Similarly, there was no difference (p>0.05) in the global cognitive function among the three groups.Conclusion: APOE E2 is associated with decreased associative learning function than APOE E3 in a cognitively normal aging Han Chinese population.
Key Genes in the Jaz Signaling Pathway Are Up-regulated Faster and More Abundantly in Caterpillar-resistant Maize
Authors: Han Yang , LUTHE DAWN
Published: June 2021

Jasmonic acid (JA) and its derivatives, collectively known as jasmonates (JAs), are important signaling hormones for plant responses against chewing herbivores. In JA signaling networks, jasmonate ZIM-domain (JAZ) proteins are transcriptional repressors that regulate JA-modulated downstream herbivore defenses. JAZ repressors are widely presented in land plants, however, there is only limited information about the regulation/function of JAZ proteins in maize. In this study, we performed a comprehensive expression analysis of ZmJAZ genes with other selected genes in the jasmonate pathway in response to feeding by fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda, FAW), mechanical wounding, and exogenous hormone treatments in two maize genotypes differing in FAW resistance. Results showed that transcript levels of JAZ genes and several key genes in JA-signaling and biosynthesis pathways were rapidly and abundantly expressed in both genotypes in response to these various treatments. However, there were key differences between the two genotypes in the expression of ZmJAZ1 and ZmCOI1a, these two genes were expressed significantly rapidly and abundantly in the resistant line which was tightly regulated by endogenous JA level upon feeding. For instance, transcript levels of ZmJAZ1 increase dramatically within 30 min of FAW-fed Mp708 but not Tx601, correlating with the JA accumulation. The results also demonstrated that wounding or JA treatment alone was not as effective as FAW feeding; this suggests that insect-derived factors are required for optimal defense responses.
Long-Term Changes in Premature Death of Lung Cancer in a Developed Region of China: A Population-Based Study From 1973 to 2019
Authors: Ye Wenjing , Lu Weiwei , Ding Yibo , Chen Yichen , Wang Lin , Zeng Guangwang , Xu Chen , Ji Chen , Cai Yuyang , Yang Ling , Li Xiaopan
Published: June 2021

Background: Lung cancer is a leading cause of deaths worldwide, and its incidence shows an upward trend. The study in the long-term changes in premature death of lung cancer in a developed region of China has a great exploratiory significance to further clarify the effectiveness of intervention measures.Methods: Cancer death data were collected from the Mortality Registration System of Shanghai Pudong New Area (PNA). We analysed crude mortality rate (CMR), age-standardized mortality rate by Segi’s world standard population (ASMRW), and years of life lost (YLL) of lung cancer from 1973 to 2019. Temporal trends of CMR, ASMRW, and rate of YLL were calculated by joinpoint regression expressed as an annual percent change (APC) with corresponding 95% confidence interval.Results: 80,543,137 person-years were enrolled in this study in PNA from 1973 to 2019. There were 42,229 deaths in permanent residents from lung cancer. The CMR and ASMRW were 52.43/105 person-years and 27.79/105 person-years. YLL due to premature death from lung cancer was 481779.14 years, and the rate of YLL was 598.16/105 person-years. The CMR, and rate of YLL for deaths had significantly increasing trends in males, females, and the total population (P<0.001). The CMR in the total population increased by 2.86% (95% CI=2.66%-3.07%, P < 0.001) per year during the study period. The YLL rate increased with an APCC of 2.21% (95% CI = 1.92% to 2.51%, P < 0.001) per year. The contribution rates of increased values of CMR caused by demographic factors were more evident than non-demographic factors.Conclusion: The aging population, progress of treatment, smoking, and even environmental pollution may be the factors that affect the long-term changes in premature death of lung cancer in PNA from1973 to 2019. Our research can help us to understand the changes of lung cancer mortality, and our results could also be used for other similar cities in designing future prevention plans.
Polymeric Foam Pressure-sensing Pens for Measuring Written Language Production
Authors: Rigoli Carson Miller , Pruvost Mickäel , Colin Annie , Wittenberg Eva
Published: June 2021

To understand human cognition, cognitive and behavioral scientists measure external behavior using a variety of tools. However, many of these tools are not sensitive enough to detect small changes in behavior, they are too costly, or they can only be used in dedicated lab space, thus limiting behavioral science from studying many populations. Here, we present a reliable, robust, cost-effective device that can measure small modulations in human handwriting behavior through pressure sensing on the writing instrument itself. This is made possible through a cross-disciplinary approach, combining advantages of new, high-sensitivity pressure sensors and experimental psycholinguistics. We show that this instrument is reliable and sensitive to the typical pressure range in writing. Then, we present a proof of concept from an experimental replication and demonstrate the utility of handwriting pressure measurement in a classic experimental paradigm, thus opening new research directions in psycholinguistics, cognitive science, and psychology.
Estimation of Carbon Pools in the Biomass and Soil of Mangrove Forests in Sirik Azini Creek, Hormozgan Province (Iran)
Authors: Askari Mahmood , Homaei Ahmad , Kamrani Ehsan , Zeinali Farrokhzad , Andreetta Anna
Published: June 2021

Despite the increasing interest on mangroves due to their recognition as one of the most carbon rich ecosystem, arid mangroves are still poorly investigated. We aimed to improve the knowledge on biomass and soil carbon sequestration for an arid mangrove forest located at the Azini creek, Sirik, Hormozgan Province (Iran). Three different regions were considered based on the composition of the principal species growing in the study area: 1) Avicennia marina, 2) mixed forest of A. marina and Rhizophora mucronata, and 3) R. mucronata. Biomass carbon storage, considering both aboveground (AGB) and belowground biomass (BGB), was significantly different between the cover areas. Significantly higher values of soil organic carbon stock were found in the sites under Rhizophora spp. than in the site with pure stand of Avicennia spp. . Overall, the mean forest biomass (TFB) was 305 Mg ha-1 and the highest proportion of organic carbon (62 %) was found to be stored in the soil, while the lowest was located in the root biomass (BGB; 10%). The AGB accounted for about 28% of the C stored in the studied site, with significant differences between the three vegetation areas. Our results on carbon storage can be used by local policy to promote conservation actions in arid mangrove forests, which also represent an important climatic threshold of mangrove worldwide distribution.
Early Corneal and Optic Nerve Changes In Paediatric Population Affected By Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome
Authors: Bonacci Erika , Fasolo Adriano , Zaffanello Marco , Merz Tommaso , Brocoli Giacomo , Pietrobelli Angelo , Clemente Maria , De Gregorio Alessandra , Longo Rosa , Bosello Francesca , Marchini Giorgio , Pedrotti Emilio
Published: June 2021

PURPOSE: The relation between OSAS and eye diseases is well-known in adults, while very few and contradictory data can be found regarding paediatric ages. The aim of this study is to explore the early corneal, macular and optic nerve changes in paediatric patients with OSAS. METHODS: prospective study that enrolled children aged ≥ 4 years referred to the Paediatric Pneumology Clinic in Verona for suspected obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) and investigated with the overnight respiratory polygraphy. Patients with apnea-hypopnea index (AHI)>1 were classified as OSAS, those with AHI<1 were classified non-OSAS. All patients underwent comprehensive eye examination including slit lamp, refraction, intraocular pression (Goldman applanation tonometry), corneal tomography (corneal astigmatism, corneal keratometry at the apex, Surface Asymmetry Index, Central corneal Thickness and Thinnest corneal Thickness), optical coherence tomography (central macular thickness, macular volume, and retinal nerve fiber layer).RESULTS: 72 children were enrolled in the study. The overall prevalence of OSAS was 48.6%. Statistically significant differences were found between OSAS and non-OSAS group for corneal asymmetry (0.9 ± 0.5 and 0.6 ±0.3, respectively; p=0.02), thinnest corneal thickness (551.8 ± 33.9 and 563.7 ±32.5; p= 0.04), average retinal nerve fiber layer (102.8 µm ± 10.5 and 98.1 µm ±12.3; p=0.012) and in nasal quadrant (76.2±15.4 µm and 66.5 ±12.6 µm; p= 0.0002).CONCLUSIONS: comprehensive eye examination with corneal and optic nerve imaging showed early corneal and optic nerve changes in children newly diagnosed with OSAS. These could be prelude of the known ocular manifestations associated with OSAS in adult patients.
Long-term Risk of Shunt Failure After Brain Tumor Surgery
Authors: Hosainey Sayied Abdol Mohieb , Lykkedrang Benjamin Lassen , Meling Torstein R
Published: June 2021

Long-term risks and survival times of ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunts implanted due to hydrocephalus (HC) after craniotomy for brain tumors are largely unknown. The aim of this study was to establish the overall VP shunt survival rates during a decade post-shunt insertion and to determine risks of failure after brain tumor surgery in the long-term period. In this population-based cohort from a well-defined geographical region, all adult patients (> 18 years) from 2004-2013 who underwent craniotomies for intracranial tumors leading to VP shunt dependency were included. Our brain tumor database was cross-linked to procedure codes for shunt surgery (codes AAF) to extract brain tumor patients who became VP shunt dependent after craniotomy. The VP shunt survival times, i.e. the shunt longevity, was calculated from the day of shunt insertion after brain tumor surgery until the day of its failure. A total of 4174 patients underwent craniotomies, of whom 85 became VP shunt-dependent (2%) afterwards. Twenty-eight patients (33%) had one or more shunt failures during their long-term follow-up, yielding 1-, 5- and 10-year shunt success rates of 77%, 71%, and 67%, respectively. Patient age, sex, tumor location, primary/repeat craniotomy, ventricular entry, post-craniotomy hemorrhage, post-shunting meningitis/infection and multiple shunt revisions were not statistically significant risk factors for shunt failure. Median shunt longevity was 457.5 days and 21.5 days for those with and without pre-craniotomy HC, respectively (p < 0.01). This study can serve as benchmark for future studies.