bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Upregulated SPOCK2 Predicts a Worse Overall Survival and Correlates with Abundance of Tumor Infiltrating Immune Cells for High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Hao Jiatao , Cao Yumeng , Gu Xiaoya , Ma Minghai , Wang Weihong , Xue Yan , An Ruifang
Published: September 2021

Background

SPOCK2 is a member of the SPOCK family, a 424-amino acid protein that binds to glycosaminoglycans to form proteoglycans. The purpose of this study was to explore expression profile of SPOCK2, and evaluate prognostic potential and its correlation with immune infiltration in high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC).
Methods

Expression of SPOCK2 mRNA and protein between normal and tumor tissues were analyzed using the Cancer Genome Atlas database (TCGA), Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), Clinical Proteomic Tumor Analysis Consortium (CPTAC), and the Human Protein Atlas (HPA) databases. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate diagnostic performance of SPOCK2. Kaplan-Meier method and Cox regression analysis were conducted to assess the effect of SPOCK2 on survival. Nomogram was used to predict the impact of SPOCK2 on prognosis. LinkedOmics were used to find correlated genes and perform functional enrichment analyses. The relationships between SPOCK2 and tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) were determined by tumor-immune system interaction database (TISIDB) and GSVA package (V1.34.0).
Results

SPOCK2 was highly expressed in HGSOC tissue compared to normal tissue at both mRNA (P < 0.001) and protein (P = 0.03) levels. The area under the curve (AUC) is 0.894 (CI: 0.865–0.923). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that HGSOC patients with high-level SPOCK2 mRNA expression had a worse overall survival (OS) than those with a low expression (HR = 1.45, P = 0.005). Univariate logistic regression analysis found that age, primary therapy outcome, tumor status, tumor residual, and SPOCK2 expression level were significantly associated with OS (P < 0.05). The nomogram model indicated an effective predictive performance of SPOCK2. Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) and gene ontology (GO) term analyses showed that SPOCK2 were mainly involved in regulating extracellular matrix. Immune infiltration analysis showed that SPOCK2 may correlate with abundance of TILs.
Conclusion

SPOCK2 has potentials to estimate diagnosis and prognosis for HGSOC and is involved in regulating extracellular matrix and immune cell infiltration.
Acute cardiac events following ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 corona virus vaccine: report of three cases
Authors: Singh Rohit , Chakrabarti Sankha Shubhra , Gambhir Indrajeet Singh , Verma Ashish , Kumar Ishan , Ghosh Soumik , Tiwari Ashutosh , Chandan Gourav , Chakrabarti Sasanka , Kaur Upinder
Published: September 2021

Acute myocarditis following COVID-19 vaccination has been observed majorly following mRNA vaccines. Recently a single case of ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccination induced myocarditis with an ischemic presentation has been reported. Here we report three cases of acute cardiac events following ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccination, in an elderly female, a middle-aged male and a middle-aged female. The first case presented with an ischemic phenotype, the second with acute heart failure, and the third with cardiac symptoms and magnetic resonance imaging evidence of myocardial inflammation. The patients were all managed successfully with conservative treatment and showed symptomatic improvement within few weeks which was further corroborated by improved electrocardiographic and echocardiographic findings in the first two patients. The possibilities of molecular mimicry, autoimmunity and direct S-protein induced toxicity to the heart may need to be evaluated in the future to explain cardiac adverse events of COVID-19 vaccines.
Evaluating Elimination Thresholds and Stopping Criteria for Interventions Against the Vector-borne Macroparasitic Disease, Lymphatic Filariasis, Using Mathematical Modelling
Authors: Sharma Swarnali , Smith Morgan , Michael Edwin
Published: September 2021

We leverage the ability of the EPIFIL transmission model fit to field data for allowing calculations of the probabilities of transmission elimination and recrudescence once infection levels are predicted to fall below the threshold used in the WHO Transmission Assessment Surveys (TAS) versus site-specific model-estimated thresholds to evaluate the implications of using these thresholds for making Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) intervention stopping decisions. Our results, overall, indicate that understanding the underlying parasite transmission and extinction dynamics will be crucial for choosing the right intervention stopping thresholds, and indeed the right interventions connected with these thresholds, if we are to bring about the sustainable elimination of LF. They also warn that applying stopping criteria set for operational purposes without a full consideration of population dynamics, as employed in the current TAS strategy, could, by risking infection recrudescence especially over the long-term, seriously undermine the goal of achieving global LF elimination.
Current Account Determinants in Jordan: An ARDL Approach
Authors: Abu-Murad Malak Samih
Published: September 2021

As one of the major indicators of assessing the external sector performance of any country, this paper empirically investigates the determinants of current account for Jordan. To this end, I rely on the estimation of a time series Auto-Regressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model over the period 1994-2020. Consistent with the literature, I show that the fiscal deficit, trade openness, oil prices and the reserve changes are key determinants of the current account of Jordan. The relationships exposed in this paper complement the empirical literature by providing new evidence from a developing country like Jordan.
Adsorbed Cobalt Porphyrins Act like Metal Surfaces in Electrocatalysis
Authors: Kaminsky Corey , Weng Sophia , Wright Joshua , Surendranath Yogesh
Published: September 2021

Carbon electrodes chemically modified with molecular active sites are potent catalysts for key energy conversion reactions. Generally, it is assumed that these molecularly modified electrodes operate by the same redox mediation mechanisms observed for soluble molecules, in which electron transfer and substrate activation occur in separate elementary steps. Here, we uncover that, depending on the solvent, carbon-bound cobalt porphyrin can carry out electrolysis by the non-mediated mechanisms of metal surfaces in which electron transfer and substrate activation are concerted. We chemically modify glassy carbon electrodes with cobalt tetraphenylporphyrin units that are anchored by flexible aliphatic linkages to form CH-CoTPP. In acetonitrile, CH-CoTPP displays a clear outer-sphere Co(II/I) process which catalyzes the H2 evolution reaction by a step-wise, redox-mediated reaction sequence. In contrast, clear surface redox waves are not observed for CH-CoTPP in aqueous media and H2 evolution proceeds via a non-mediated, concerted proton-electron transfer reaction sequence over a wide pH range. The data suggest that, in aqueous electrolyte, the CoTPP fragments reside inside the electrochemical double layer and are electrostatically coupled to the surface. This coupling allows CH-CoTPP to carry out catalysis without being pinned to the redox potential of the molecular fragment. These studies highlight that the simple adsorption of molecules can lead to reaction mechanisms typically reserved for metal surfaces, ex-posing new principles for the design of molecularly-modified electrodes.
Comparison Benefit between Hydrogen Peroxide and Adrenaline in Tonsillectomy: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: HSIEH CHENG-YU , Hsu Chuan-Jen , Wu Hung-Pin , Sun Chuan-Hung
Published: September 2021

This study aimed to further evaluate the benefit of topical hemostasis agents in tonsillectomy. Towards this goal, we compared the clinical effects of topical application between hydrogen peroxide and adrenaline in tonsillectomy. Overall, 60 patients (120 tonsils) were prospectively enrolled for tonsillectomy between February 2018 and December 2020. The patients were randomly assigned to either the hydrogen peroxide or adrenaline group. Then, tonsillectomy was performed using hydrogen peroxide as a hemostatic agent on the assigned side, while adrenaline was applied to the other side. All procedures were performed by a surgeon blinded to the randomization. Outcome measurements of operation time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative pain, and hemorrhage events were analyzed.The intraoperative blood loss was significantly lower in the hydrogen peroxide group than in the adrenaline group (9.99 ± 4.51 ml vs 13.87 ± 6.32 ml, p = 0.0). The median operation time was also significantly lower in the hydrogen peroxide group (8.02 ± 3.59 min vs 9.22 ± 3.88 min, p = 0.019). Meanwhile, the visual analogue scale (VAS) scores were significantly higher in the hydrogen peroxide group (4.98 ± 1.94 vs 4.27 ± 1.97, p = 0.001). The topical application of hydrogen peroxide as a hemostatic agent effectively decreases the operation time and intraoperative blood loss. Thus, hydrogen peroxide can be used as a routine hemostatic agent for bleeding control in tonsillectomy.
Asteroids are young: global-scale reshaping and resurfacing by small-scale impacts
Authors: Raducan Sabina , Jutzi Martin
Published: September 2021

The fraction of the asteroid population that survived since the Solar System formation has experienced numerous collisional, dynamical and thermal events, which have shaped their structures and orbital properties. Small asteroids are often considered to be rubble-pile objects, aggregates held together only by self-gravity or small cohesive forces (1; 2). The artificial impact experiment of JAXA’s Hayabusa2 mission on the surface of asteroid Ryugu (3) created a surprisingly large crater (≈14 m). This unexpected result suggests that at least the near-surface of the asteroid is controlled to a large extent by its rather weak gravity rather than strength. Due to the inability to re-create these impact conditions in laboratory experiments, this observed regime of low-gravity, low-strength cratering remained largely unexplored so far. In addition, the very large times scales involved in the crater growth made it impossible to numerically simulate these impact processes up to now.
Here we use a novel approach to model the entire cratering process resulting from impacts on small, weak asteroids, which uses shock physics code calculations directly. We found that small impacts can significantly deform weak asteroids, causing global resurfacing at the same time. We also show that even very low asteroid cohesions can drastically influence the outcome of an impact and that the collisional life-time of the overall asteroid shapes is significantly lower than the traditionally used life-time based on catastrophic disruption events. Consequently, we predict that NASA’s Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) impact on Dimorhpos (4; 5) will not lead to a cratering event, as originally anticipated (i.e., 6; 7). Rather, the impact is going to change the global morphology of the asteroid, if the surface cohesion is less than ≈ 10 Pa. Our results, together with the future observations by the ESA’s Hera mission (8) will provide constraints regarding the evolution of the shapes and structures of small asteroids by sub-catastrophic impacts.
Reduce the Degradation of Polyhydroxyalkanoates: Feeding in the Oxygen-limiting Section Increases the Accumulation of PHAs
Authors: Xiao Yanyu , Fang Qian , Xie Yihan , Zhang Kequan , Ping Qiqi , Wang Zhihui
Published: September 2021

To solve the problem that the content of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) in the aerobic section of the traditional anaerobic-aerobic process continues to decrease, two different feeding modes in the oxygen-limiting section were explored under the anaerobic-oxygen limiting process(for reducing the energy consumption of aeration). Based on 16SrRNA sequence analyses, the results show that the abundance of Hydrogenovora(9.57%), Zoogloea(6.73%), Thaurea(1.49%) and other bacterial genera in the microbial community had increased after enrichment. PHAs were synthesized in the oxygen-limiting stage of both one-time feeding and batch feeding mode. The maximum content of PHA reached 52.17% when C/N increased to 150 in the one-time feeding mode, and that reached 42.04% in batch feeding mode when C/N was 100. The one-time feeding mode shows a more significant accumulation potential of PHAs than the batch feeding mode. The content of PHAs shows an increasing trend with the increase of C/N ratio, and a high C/N ratio may lead to sludge bulking and other problems, making the sludge system unsteady.
CDC20 is a Potential Prognostic and Immunological Biomarker in Pan-Cancer
Authors: Tao Chen , Bing Hu , Xiangpeng Zhan , Xiaoqiang Liu , Wen Deng , Jiahui Long , Ming Jiang , Yunqiang Xiong , Luyao Chen , Fu Bin
Published: September 2021

BackgroundCDC20(cell division cycle 20 homologue) plays a vital role in the cell cycle progression through targeting key substrates for destruction. Current studies have shown that CDC20 functions as an oncogene in various cancers. However, the potential correlations of CDC20 with prognosis and immune infiltrates in different cancers remain unclear.ResultCDC20 expression was higher in most cancers, compared with normal tissues, and the high expression of CDC20 was correlated with poor prognosis and a higher pathological stage. Furthermore, there were significant correlations between CDC20 dysregulation with tumor mutation burden(TMB), microsatellite instability(MSI), tumor microenvironment and tumor- and immune-related genes.ConclusionCDC20 may be used as a potential prognostic and immunotherapeuticbiomarker which affects tumor progression.
New Strategies for Early Diagnosis and Treatment of Osteoid Osteoma of the Lesser Trochanter of Femur
Authors: Qiu Xinzhu , He Hongbo , Zeng Hao , Tong Xiaopeng , Liu Qing
Published: September 2021

Aims: Herein, we examined the efficacy of open resection in proximal femoral osteoid osteoma (OO) treatment. Besides, we analysed the causes of misdiagnosis of proximal femoral OO to provide a reference for its diagnosis and treatment.Methods: This was a retrospective study involving 29 patients with proximal femoral OO admitted into our hospital from January 2010 to January 2018. The baseline characteristics of the participants included; 21 males and 9 females, aged between 13 to 25 (mean 16.2) years old, and the course of the disease was 1 to 14 (mean 6.1) months. We used previous medical experience records of the patients to analyze for the causes of misdiagnosis. Moreover, we compared the difference between preoperative and postoperative treatment practices in alleviating pain in OO patients and restoring hip function. Follow-ups were conducted regularly, and patients advised to avoid strenuous exercises for 3 months.Results: We followed up 29 patients (21 intercortical, 2 sub-periosteal, and 6 medullary) for an average of 42.5 months. We found that 13 patients (44.8%) had been misdiagnosed of synovitis, Perthes disease, osteomyelitis, intra-articular infection, and joint tuberculosis, whose average time from symptoms to diagnosis were 9.8 months. Postoperative pain score and joint function score improved significantly compared with preoperative, and complications were rare.Conclusion: Open surgical resection constitutes an effective treatment for proximal femoral OO by accurately and completely removing the nidus. Lack of understanding, wrong choice of examination, and the complexity and diversity of clinical manifestations constitute the main reasons for the misdiagnosis of proximal femoral OO.
One Year of COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross Sectional Study on Teaching Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Authors: Bock Anna , Peters Florian , Winnand Philipp , Kniha Kristian , Heitzer Marius , Lemos Martin , Hölzle Frank , Modabber Ali
Published: September 2021

Background: The pandemic has challenged educational institutions to catalyze digitalization and rapidly develop online teaching formats. The aim of the study was to evaluate the teaching offer for oral and maxillofacial surgery at our university during the pandemic and to investigate the students’ perceptions of the current situation. Methods: A 38-item questionnaire with five sections (demographic information, lectures, internships, e-learning, and pandemic-related solutions/effects) was created online. Most questions were answered on a 10-point Likert scale, with 1 indicating “fully agree/positive” and 10 indicating “totally disagree/negative.” The remaining questions were either answered with yes/no, percent value, or open-ended text responses. All 3rd-5th year dental students were invited to voluntarily participate and were sent an anonymous link by email. Results: A total of 63.7% of the participants had no prior experience with online courses before the pandemic. The students stated that the change from face-to-face to online teaching worked very well in the last two semesters (mean = 2.73, standard deviation = 2.05). Overall, the pandemic had a rather positive influence on the acquisition of theoretical skills and a negative influence on the acquisition of practical skills (p < 0.0001). The evaluation showed that, compared to other dental clinics at our university, the department for oral and maxillofacial surgery was well prepared for the pandemic.Conclusion: Digitalization of oral and maxillofacial surgery teaching in dental education is possible but depends on the institution’s preparatory work and technological possibilities. The students declared a high acceptance of digital learning formats and indicated an increased motivation to learn due to e-learning. The pandemic’s influence on the students’ education was rated ambivalent.
Roles of GFPT2 Expression Levels On the Prognosis and Tumor Microenvironment of Colon Cancer
Authors: Ding Xiaorong , Liu Hua , Yuan Ying , Zhong Qin , Zhong Xiaomin
Published: September 2021

Background Recently, increasing evidence has suggested that Glutamine-fructose-6-phosphate transaminase 2 (GFPT2) is related to carcinogenesis. However, the potential roles of GFPT2 in colon cancer still need to be fully investigated.Methods We examined the protein levels of GFPT2 by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in tissues collected from 83 patients with colon cancer. We checked the relationship between GFPT2 expression levels and overall survival (OS), stromal and immune scores and immune components from The Cancer Gene Atlas (TCGA) database. Expression of GFPT2 in single cell subpopulations was calculated from The Tumor Immune Single Cell Center (TISCH). GFPT2 levels and drug sensitivity data were performed from CellMiner dataset. Results GFPT2 was highly expressed and correlates with poor pathological features in 83 colon cancer patients. Moreover, increased GFPT2 expression was significantly associated with poorer OS in 329 colon adenocarcinoma (COAD). Gene oncology (GO) and KEGG analysis showed the differentially expressed genes of GFPT2 were mostly enriched in focal adhesion, ECM receptor interaction, JAK/STAT signaling pathway and immune related pathways. In addition, GFPT2 levels were correlated with the tumor microenvironment (TEM). GFPT2 expression was linked to CAFs-associated factors and EMT-related factors. GFPT2 was positively correlated with immunosuppressive cells and regulated immunosuppressive factors and T-cell exhaustion. Finally, our data suggested that the expression of GFPT2 may be a judgment of the sensitivity of a certain class of drugs. Conclusions Our work revealed the roles of GFTP2 in tumorigenesis, especially in immune response, tumor microenvironment and drug resistance, which is crucial for the development of customized cancer therapies.
Prevention of Gestational Diabetes in Pregnant Women with Obesity: Protocol for a Pilot Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Quotah Ola , Nishku Glen , Hunt Jessamine , Seed Paul T , Gill Carolyn , Brockbank Anna , Fafowora Omoyele , Vasiloudi Ilektra , Olusoga Opeoluwa , Cheek Ellie , Phillips Jannelle , Nowak Katarzyna G , Poston Lucilla , White Sara L , Flynn Angela C
Published: September 2021

BackgroundObesity in pregnancy increases the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and associated adverse outcomes. Despite metabolic differences, all pregnant women with obesity are considered to have the same risk of developing GDM. Improved risk stratification is required to enable targeted intervention in women with obesity who would benefit the most. The aim of this study is to identify pregnant women with obesity at higher risk of developing GDM and in a pilot randomised controlled trial (RCT), show efficacy of a lifestyle intervention and/or metformin to improve glycaemic control.MethodsWomen aged 18 years or older with a singleton pregnancy and body mass index (BMI) ≥30kg/m2 will be recruited from one maternity unit in London, UK. Risk of GDM will be assessed using a multivariable GDM prediction model combining maternal age, mid-arm circumference, systolic blood pressure, serum triglycerides and whole blood HbA1c. Women identified at higher risk of developing GDM will be randomly allocated to one of two intervention groups (lifestyle advice with or without metformin) or standard antenatal care. Primary outcome; reduction in mean glucose/24hr of 0.5mmol/l as assessed by continuous glucose monitoring. A sample of 60 high risk women is required.DiscussionEarly risk stratification of GDM in pregnant women with obesity and targeted intervention using lifestyle advice with or without metformin could improve glucose tolerance compared to standard antenatal care. If successful, an adequately powered RCT will be performed to investigate whether this strategy is effective in preventing GDM in women with obesity. Ethics and trial registrationThis study has been approved by the NHS Research Ethics Committee (UK IRAS integrated research application system; reference 18/LO/1500). EudraCT Number 2018-000003-16.
Genetic and Morphological Variation of Vespa Velutina Nigrithorax, an Invasive Species in Mountainous Areas
Authors: Do Yuno , Park Woong-Bae , Park Jun-Kyu , Kim Chang‐Jun , Choi Moon Bo
Published: September 2021

The yellow-legged hornet (Vespa velutina nigrithorax) is an invasive species in South Korea with negative economic, ecological, and public health impacts. We investigated genetic and morphological variation in the species populations on Mt. Jiri, the tallest mountain in South Korea. We hypothesized that a high-altitude would be negatively correlated with the genetic diversity of the hornet population, and hornet wing morphology would change with an increase in altitude. Our results showed that the genetic diversity of yellow-legged hornets did not decrease as altitude increased. Regardless of the altitude, the inbreeding coefficient was high at the newly colonized sites. A single genetic population occurred in the mountainous areas examined and gradually expanded its range. Wing morphology, especially shape, did not change with an increase in altitude or decrease in temperature. Although snow cover and cool temperatures at high altitudes could limit nest-building activities, they did not prevent the extension of the range of the species. Therefore, the yellow-legged hornet cannot be controlled naturally by climate or topography; combined approaches, including chemical control, nest removal, and bait-trapping techniques should be implemented.
Heterosis and Combining Ability For Floral and Yield Characters in Rice Using Cytoplasmic Male Sterility System
Authors: ElShamey Essam A. Z. , Sakran Raghda M. , ElSayed Mahmoud A. A. , Selim Mahmoud E. , Germoush Mousa O. , Mansour Elsayed , El-Moneim Diaa Abd
Published: September 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Therapeutic Strategies for Asymptomatic Upper Urinary Tract Urothelial Carcinoma
Authors: Lin Deng , Hong Yun , Yang Zesong , Ye Liefu
Published: September 2021

A total of 136 patients with upper urinary tract epithelial carcinoma (UTUC) were recruited, of which 21 patients with asymptomatic UTUC were group A, and 115 UTUC patients with hematuria or low back pain were group B. The clinicopathological features, oncologic outcomes, and surgical methods of patients were evaluated. The full-length renal ureterectomy+bladder sleeve resection was the main surgical treatment which was included (group A 80.95%, group B 90.43%). Other patients were treated with kidney-retaining surgery. No statistically significant difference was observed in the grading between groups A and B, pathological stage (p >0.05). During a median follow-up period of 44.3 months, tumor-specific mortality of group A was 7.14%, and that of group B was 5.10%. At the same period, the clinical data of 106 patients with asymptomatic bladder tumor were collected: 31 patients of them had asymptomatic bladder urothelial carcinoma. The asymptomatic UTUC group had a higher stage and grade clinicopathological features (P = 0.00), more aggressive than the asymptomatic bladder urothelial carcinoma group. The principle of asymptomatic UTUC treatment is the same as that of symptomatic UTUC. Risk stratification should be carried out according to clinical staging and other parameters, and the corresponding surgical treatment should be selected.
Effect of Blastocyst Quality on Human Sex Ratio at Birth in Single Blastocyst Frozen Thawed Embryo Transfer Cycle
Authors: Mao Yuling , Zeng Ming , Meng Ya-ming , Wang Chunyan , Qiao Jingda , Li Lei
Published: September 2021

ObjectiveThis study aimed to determine whether blastocyst quality affect on sex ratio at birth through in single blastocyst frozen thawed embryo transfer cycle.Materials and MethodsWe ran this retrospective study on 4205 singleton infants born following single blastocyst frozen thawed embryo transfer from January 2016 to October 2020 at a single institution. We compared the sex ratios of these infants with respect to blastocyst quality, embryo growth rate and morphology.ResultsThe main outcomes of this study were that the sex ratio at birth of single blastocyst frozen thawed embryo transfer babies was 56.67% which was higher than the normal level (51.22%). The sex ratio of mothers older than 40 years was significantly lower than that of mothers younger than 40 years (0.39vs1.3, P<0.05). Transplanting good quality blastocysts significantly increased the proportion of boys (1.35vs0.94, P<0.05). Transplanting grade 5 and 6 blastocysts significantly increased the proportion of male babies born compared with grade 3 and 4 blastocysts (1.91vs1.28, P<0.05). There were no significant differences in the sex ratio with respect to the inner cell mass (ICM) score. In addition, the higher the trophectoderm (TE) score, the higher the sex ratio (2.79vs1.18vs0.91, P<0.05).ConclusionsOur study indicated that blastocyst quality, especially trophoblastic cell score, had a significant effect on sex ratio.
Lycium Barbarum Polysaccharide Attenuates Pseudomonas-Aeruginosa Pyocyanin Induced Cellular Injury in Mice Airway Epithelial Cells
Authors: Lin Xue , Song Fuyang , Xue Di , Wang Yujiong
Published: September 2021

Background: Lycium barbarum berries have been utilized in Asia for many years. However, the mechanisms of its lung-defensive properties are indeterminate. Methods: We investigate whether L. barbarum polysaccharide could weaken Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection-induced lung injury. Mice primary air-liquid interface epithelial cultures were pretreated with L. barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) and subsequently treated with pyocyanin (PCN). Lung injury, including apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress, was estimated by western blot, ELISA and Q-PCR. Flow cytometry was used to test cell apoptosis. Moreover, Balb/c mice were used to evaluate the tissue injury. We used hematoxylin-eosin staining and immunofluorescence to detect the expression of related proteins and tissue damage in mouse lungs and spleen. Results: The flow cytometric analysis shows the potential of Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) to reduce time-dependent cell death by PCN. Mechanistically, LBP reduces PCN-induced expression of proapoptotic proteins, caspase3, and induces the activation of Bcl-2 in mice bronchial epithelial cells. Similarly, LBP reduces PCN-induced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Moreover, LBP inhibits the production of inflammatory cytokines, IL-1β, TNF, IL-6, and IL-8. Conclusion: Our study confirms the ability of LBP to retard PCN-induced injury in mice lung and spleen. Inhibition of PCN-induced lung injury by LBP is capable of protecting mice cells from injury.
Coin paradox spin-orbit interaction enhances magneto-optical effect and its application in on-chip integrated optical isolator
Authors: Hu Hao , Qi Jiwei , Wu Qiang , Fu Xianhui , Wu Hongjin , Zhang Sihao , Chen Zongqiang , Chen Jing , Yao Jianghong , Yu Xuanyi , Sun Qian , Xu Jingjun
Published: September 2021

We designed a simple on-chip integrated optical isolator made up of a MIM waveguide and a disc cavity filled with magneto-optical material to enhance the transverse magneto-optical effect through the coin paradox spin-orbit interaction (SOI). The simulation results of the non-reciprocal transmission properties of this optical structure show that a high-performance on-chip integrated optical isolator is obtained. The maximum isolation ratio (IR) is greater than 40 dB with a corresponding insertion loss (IL) of about 2 dB. The great performance of the optical isolator is attributed to the strong transverse magneto-optical effect, which is enhanced by the coin paradox SOI. Moreover, the enhancement of the transverse magneto-optical effect through the coin paradox SOI is more substantial for smaller azimuthal mode number n. Benefitting from this, the transverse magneto-optical effect remains strong in a wide wavelength range. Additionally, a smaller cavity has a stronger transverse magneto-optical effect in the same wavelength range. Our research provides a new perspective for creating highly integrated magneto-optical devices.
Safety and Feasibility of Autologous Adipose-derived Stromal Vascular Fraction in the Treatment of Keloids: a Phase One Randomised Controlled Pilot Trial
Authors: Mbiine Ronald , Kayiira Anthony , Wayengera Misaki , Munabi Ian , Kiwanuka Noah , Alenyo Rose , Kalanzi Edris Wamala , Muwonge Haruna , Nakanwagi Cephas , Joloba Moses , Galukande Moses
Published: September 2021

Autologous adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction (SVF) is described as a therapeutic alternative in keloid treatment. However, most conclusions are based on observational with the majority conducted in high-income countries and yet the highest-burden of keloids is in Low-and middle-income countries (LMICs). In order to explore the therapeutic benefits of SVF in keloids, the safety and feasibility of their use in LMICs need to be evaluated.Methods: In this phase 1 randomized controlled pilot clinical trial conducted in the Plastic Surgery Unit of Kirruddu National Referral Hospital Kampala, 8 patients were assigned 1:1 ratio into either SVF or Triamcinolone Acetonide (TAC) arms. In the SVF arm, a median (IQR) number of stromal cell infiltration of 2.7x106 (11x106) was administered while the controls received 10mg/ml TAC in a ratio of 1:1 TAC into keloid volume. Primary end-points were adverse events development based on the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) v5.0 tool and Feasibility assessment based on ≥70% recruitment feasibility and ≥80% interventional feasibility rates. Results: Participant mean age was 27.9 (±6.5) years with a female predilection of 5(63%). Overall, no adverse events were reported in the SVF arm while an ulceration in a single patient in the TAC arm which was a grade II adverse event was reported. Recruitment feasibility of 80% as well as interventional feasibility with 100% completion were reported. Conclusion: Based on our findings, autologous adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction is feasible and safe for the treatment of keloids. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04553159. Registered 17th September 2020. Link: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04553159
Persistent cough and asthma-like symptoms post COVID-19 hospitalization in children
Authors: esmaeilzadeh hossein , Dashti Anahita Sanaei , Mortazavi Negar , Fatemian Fatemian , Vali Mohebat
Published: September 2021

Backgrounds: Respiratory viruses are the main triggers of asthma. Coronavirus is shown to contribute to infections of the respiratory tract that can lead to prolong cough and asthma. Objectives: Present study aimed to determine the risk of developing Persistent cough and asthma-like symptoms in hospitalized children due to COVID-19. Methods: This prospective study was carried out in a tertiary referral center. During the COVID-19 pandemic, 69 hospitalized pediatric patients admitted with COVID-19 were observed from February2020 to January 2021. Clinical and laboratory data were recorded, and after discharge, patients were followed and visited for cough and asthma evaluation in one, 2 and 6 months later. Patients with asthma-like diagnosis in follow up define as asthma-like group and patients without any sign of asthma categorized as the non-asthma group. Asthma-like co-morbids and risk factors were evaluated and compared between two groups. Results: Most of the COVID-19 hospitalized patients (N=42) (58.5%) were not affected by asthma-like symptoms in follow-up. 60.9% of the COVID-19 patients were male. The asthma-like group cases had a significantly familial history of asthma (63.0%), past medical history of asthma (33.3%), and Allergic rhinitis (85.2%). Rates of signs and symptoms during hospitalization were significantly higher in patients with COVID-19 and past medical history of asthma. Conclusions: We found an asthma-like prevalence of 41.5% in the cohort of COVID-19 hospitalized children. Family history of asthma and previous history of asthma and allergic rhinitis are risk factors for asthma-like after COVID-19 hospitalization. COVID-19 presentations are more severe in the asthma-like group.
Comparison of the health-related quality of life of community dwelling patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and the general population
Authors: Jun Hye Suk , Lee Su Jung
Published: September 2021

Background

The goal of care for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is not only diagnosis and treatment, but also improving health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This study compared the HRQoL of community dwelling patients with COPD and the general population, using the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.
Methods

We defined COPD groups among patients with less than 70% of forced expiratory volume in 1 second value (FEV1)/forced vital capacity (FVC) ratio in a pulmonary function test. To control for covariates that affect HRQoL, we used propensity score matching with a 1:1 ratio. Finally, 2,230 people were analyzed in both the COPD and non-COPD groups.
Results

There were no significant differences between COPD and matched non-COPD groups on the EuroQol-5 Dimensions (EQ-5D), after adjusting for clinico-socioeconomic status (e.g., age, sex, education, household income level, marital status, BMI, current smoking, drinking and comorbidities). However, according to the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) criteria, as the severity of COPD increased, HRQoL decreased. In particular, this difference was prominent in the domain related to physical health.
Conclusion

Proper community support and financial stability might be important for the maintenance of HRQoL of persons with COPD, in addition to early detection and treatment.
Principles and Practices of Plant-based Irrigation Management
Authors: Levin Alexander , Nackley Lloyd
Published: September 2021

Many consider tools for plant-based irrigation management methods to be the most precise way to manage irrigation in either a research or a commercial settings. Although many types of tools are available, they all measure some aspect of water movement along the soil–plant–atmosphere continuum. This article presents some of the more commonly used tools and the methods involved to properly employ them. In addition, recent literature is reviewed to provide context to the methods themselves and also to highlight each one’s specific advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, there is no clear winner or “best” tool as all have disadvantages, either due to prohibitive cost, the amount of data output, the difficulty of data interpretation, lack of signal resolution, or lack of dynamic ability to provide decision support. Therefore, we conclude that the user should carefully weigh these varied advantages and disadvantages in the context of their production goals before deciding on a given tool for irrigation management.
Development of a Subsystem for Steganalysis of Digital Images Based on a Convolutional Neural Network to Detect and Prevent Attacks Using Hidden Steganographic Channels
Authors:   Academy of the Federal Guard Service, Yandashevskaya E. A.
Published: September 2021

This article presents a way to implement the subsystem for steganalysis of digital images circulating in the information system. This subsystem expands the functionality of existing intrusion detection / prevention systems in terms of detecting covert channels used in computer attacks. In the presented solution, a parametric model of a convolutional neural network is proposed and implemented to detect a payload in digital images, performed by a number of steg-nesting algorithms recognized in real attacks. A software implementation of a modular generator of a training sample (dataset) that supports these algorithms has been developed. An experimental assessment of the accuracy has been carried out
Window Processing of EEG Records by the Prony’s Method
Authors:   Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics (TUSUR), Elenetz M. V. , Nemirovich-Danchenko M. M. ,   Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics (TUSUR)
Published: September 2021

The paper considers the application of the Prony analysis for processing digital data in a sliding window. The stages of the algorithm are stated; the basic equations are given. On a model example, the features of constructing the Prony spectra are shown. Particular attention is paid to biometric data (EEG recordings). For them, the method of windowing with the extraction and visualization of complex roots is discussed. The possibility of using window processing to identify mental correlates in EEG records is shown and substantiated. Isolation of features in individual sections of the EEG can be of significant importance in the problems of biometric identification
Resonant LCL Converter with Frequency-Pulse-Width Control
Authors:   Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics (TUSUR), Osipov A. V. , Rulevskiy V. M. ,   Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics (TUSUR)
Published: September 2021

The paper considers the features of frequency-pulse-width control in a resonant LCL converter with an active rectifier in the mode of parametric stabilization of the output current. The analysis of the properties of the LCL converter during regulation by the rectifier is carried out, the phase frequency characteristic and the coefficient of parametric stabilization are obtained. It is shown that the rectifier introduces a reactive component into the impedance of the resonant circuit. It is illustrated that the introduction of the control angle leads to the loss of roots by the equation on a part of the load range. The estimation of the frequency adjustment in the converter is carried out, the control characteristic is obtained, the energy advantages of frequency-pulse-width control are demonstrated, which consists in the zero phase of the inverter current and minimization of the recuperation interval
Migration of mercury in the food chains of the Beloosipovo biocenosis (part 1)
Authors: Prosekov Alexander
Published: September 2021

Introduction. Mercury and its compounds are among the most dangerous toxic substances, which makes mercury pollution one of the most urgent environmental issues. The present research objective was to study the accumulation of mercury and its impact on the terrestrial ecosystems in the area of the Beloosipovo mercury deposit (Kemerovo Region, West Siberia, Russia).

Study objects and methods. The study used standard methods to test soil, herbs, herpetobiont insects, and small mammals. The sampling was conducted at 13 points in the cardinal directions at 0.5, 1.5, and 3 km from the pollution source. The method of atomic absorption was employed to measure the concentration of mercury in the samples prepared by the wet mineralization method.

Results and discussion. The main components of terrestrial ecosystems revealed no excessive concentration of mercury in the soil. However, the water samples from the Belaya Osipova river demonstrated an excess in the maximum permissible concentration of mercury from 5 to 20% (0.00056–0.00074 mg/L). Further up the food chains, the concentration of mercury in organisms decreased by 1–2 orders of magnitude, depending on the sampling point. The study also revealed Siberian trout lily (Erythronium sibiricum (Fisch. et C. A. Mey) Kryl.), which is protected at the federal and regional levels, as well as several nemoral tertiary relics.

Conclusion. The decreasing concentration of mercury in the food chains means the ecosystem is under no severe negative impact.
Inseminación artificial a tiempo fijo y reinseminación de vacas para carne tratadas con y sin gonadotropina coriónica equina
Authors: Espinoza Villavicencio José Luis , Palacios-Espinosa Alejandro , Ortega-Pérez Ricardo , Guillén-Trujillo Ariel , Manríquez-Hirales Eduardo
Published: September 2021

Introducción: los objetivos fueron evaluar el estro y la gestación en vacas Bos Taurus, tratadas con un protocolo para la inseminación artificial a tiempo fijo (IATF) con y sin gonadotropina coriónica equina (eCG). Se evaluó también la gestación acumulada con la resincronización de la ovulación 30 días después de la primera IATF.
Método: las vacas se asignaron al azar a dos tratamientos: Tratamiento 1 (n = 60), se sincronizó con 2 mg de benzoato de estradiol y un dispositivo intravaginal (DIV) de progesterona (1.3 g) el día 0; el DIV se retiró el día 8 y se aplicaron 25 mg de prostaglandina F2-alfa, 1 mg de cipionato de estradiol y 300 UI de eCG; 48-52 horas después se realizó la IATF. El Tratamiento 2 (n = 50) consistió en el mismo protocolo, sin incluir eCG. Se resincronizó la ovulación en las vacas que resultaron vacías en el diagnóstico de gestación, realizado 30 días después de la primera IATF. En todas las vacas se usó el mismo protocolo aplicado en el Tratamiento 1 para la primera IATF. La segunda IATF se realizó a los 40 días de haber iniciado el programa. Se clasificó la CC en baja (< 2.5), moderada (2.5 a 3.5) y alta (> 3.5). El día de la IATF, el diámetro del folículo preovulatorio (DFP) se dividió en tres categorías (DFP1: < 11 mm; DFP2: 11 a 14 mm; DFP3: > 14 mm).
Resultados: el porcentaje de gestación resultó diferente entre tratamientos (p = 0.04; 73 % Tratamiento 1 y 53 % Tratamiento 2). La proporción de vacas en estro antes de la IATF fue de 75 % en el grupo con eCG y 57 % en el testigo (p = 0.04). Las vacas con DFP2 y DFP3 registraron mayor tasa de gestación (p = 0.03), que DFP1. El porcentaje de gestación fue mayor (p = 0.04) en vacas con CC moderada y alta. La gestación general en la primera IATF fue de 63 %. El 51.61 % resultó gestante con la segunda IATF, acumulando 82.1 % en 40 días.
Conclusión: la eCG incrementó la proporción de vacas en estro y la gestación; y la resincronización permite acumular un porcentaje adicional de vacas gestantes.
A practical methodology to perform global sensitivity analysis for 2D hydrodynamic computationally intensive simulations
Authors: Alipour Saba Mirza , Engeland Kolbjørn , Leal Joao
Published: September 2021

Sensitivity analysis is a commonly used technique in hydrological modeling for different purposes, including identifying the influential parameters and ranking them. This paper proposes a simplified sensitivity analysis approach by applying the Taguchi design and the ANOVA technique to 2D hydrodynamic flood simulations, which are computationally intensive. This approach offers an effective and practical way to rank the influencing parameters, quantify the contribution of each parameter to the variability of the outputs, and investigate the possible interaction between the input parameters. A number of 2D flood simulations have been carried out using the proposed combinations by Taguchi (L27 and L9 orthogonal arrays) to investigate the influence of four key input parameters, namely mesh size, runoff coefficient, roughness coefficient, and precipitation intensity. The results indicate that the methodology is adequate for sensitivity analysis, and that the precipitation intensity is the dominant parameter. Furthermore, the model calibration based on local variables (cross-sectional water level) can be inaccurate to simulate global variables (flooded area).
Enhancing the resilience of the rainwater for drinking (RFD) system through systematic monitoring: a case study at the Ly Nhan rural hospital in Vietnam
Authors: Lee Hakyung , Son Tran Hoai , Dzung Dao Anh , Lee Jongkook , Han Mooyoung , Anh Nguyen Viet
Published: September 2021

Many rainwater harvesting systems have been installed and operated to supply drinking water to rural regions. However, they often lacked the management method to supply safe and reliable drinking water. The current practice of operating rainwater harvesting systems did not have systematic monitoring as the basis of reliable operation so that the operators did not have confidence in their operation. To overcome these limitations, a rainwater for drinking (RFD) system has been suggested which was to produce drinking water by adding the proper treatment processes and setting up the proper operational mode. This study aimed to evaluate stable regular monitoring results from a pilot RFD system at a local hospital in Vietnam. Water quality and quantity were monitored by the trained local operator on a quarterly and weekly basis. The raw dataset was then shared with the study team by uploading into an open data access platform, from where the technical support was provided to prevent the provision of unsafe water to users. Ultimately, employing systematic monitoring would help to enhance the resilience of the RFD system, contributing to resolving the drinking water issue in rural areas of developing countries, aiming at the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 6.
Experimental and numerical investigation of flow over a spillway bend with different combinations of permeable spur dikes
Authors: Yang Jinmeng , Shen Zhenzhong , Zhang Jing , Teng Xiaomin , Zhang Wenbing , Dai Jie
Published: September 2021

In this paper, the effects of different combinations of permeable spur dikes installed in the bend section of spillway on flow characteristics and energy dissipation rate were experimentally and numerically investigated. The results indicate that the permeable spur dikes installed in the spillway bend appreciably contributes to the improvement on the water surface uniformity, and the water surface uniformity can reach 90.13% with three permeable spur dikes installed in the bend. The permeable spur dike can lead to different degrees of decrease in the time-averaged longitudinal velocity in each zone of spillway bend. Different from previous study, no circulation zone is formed upstream and downstream of permeable spur dike due to the presence of permeable holes, and the flow upstream of permeable spur dikes could be divided into three distinctly different flow modes according to dye tracing. The presence of permeable spur dikes causes the concentration of TKE zone at concave bank of the spillway bend, except for TKE zone immediately next to the bottom plate. The TKE first increases and then decreases with the increase in the vertical distance from the bottom plate of the spillway bend, exhibiting a typical parabolic distribution. The energy dissipation rate in the spillway bend with permeable spur dike was calculated using a modified integral method, and the dissipation rate can reach as high as 21.08% with three spur dikes installed in the bend.