bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Modeling, Simulation and Evaluation of Conventional and Hybrid Photovoltaic Modules Interconnection Configurations under Partial Shading Conditions
Authors: Saeed Faisal , Tauqeer Haider Ali , Gelani Hasan Erteza , Yousuf Muhammad Hassan
Published: October 2021

Partial shading on solar photovoltaic (PV) arrays is a prevalent problem in photovoltaic systems that impair the performance of PV modules and is responsible for reduced power output as compared to that in standard irradiance conditions thereby resulting in the appearance of multiple maximas on panel output power characteristics. These maxims contribute to mismatch power losses among PV modules. The mismatch losses depend on shading characteristics together with different interconnected configuration schemes of PV modules. The research presents a comparative analysis of partial shading effects on a 4 x4 PV array system connected in series(S), parallel (P), serries-parallel (SP),total-cross-tied (TCT),central-cross-tied(CCT),bridge-linked(BL),bridge-linked total cross-tied (BLTCT) ,honey-comb(HC), honey-comb total-cross-tied (HCTCT) and ladder (LD) configurations using MATLAB/Simulink. The PV module SPR-X20-250-BLK was used for modeling and simulation analysis. Each module is comprised of 72 number of PV cells and a combination of 16 PV modules was employed for the contextual analysis. Accurate mathematical modeling for the HCTCT configuration under partial shading conditions (PSCs) is provided for the first time and is verified from the simulation. The different configuration schemes were investigated under short-narrow,short-wide,long-narrow,long-wide, diagonal, entire row distribution, and entire column distribution partial shading condition patterns with mathematical implementation and simulation of passing clouds. The performance of array configurations is compared in terms of maximum power generated ), mismatch power loss (∆), relative power loss ) and the fill factor (FF). It was inferred that on average, TCT configuration yielded maximum power generation under all shading patterns among all PV modules interconnection configurations with minimum mismatch power losses followed by hybrid and conventional PV array configurations respectively.
Assessment of Extreme Wave Impact on Coastal Decks with Different Geometries via the Arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian Method
Authors: Xiang Tao , Istrati Denis
Published: October 2021

Given the documented wave-induced damage of elevated coastal decks during extreme natural hazards (e.g. hurricanes) in the last two decades, it is of utmost significance to decipher the wave-structure-interaction of complex deck geometries and quantify the associated loads. Therefore, this study focuses on the assessment of solitary wave impact on open-girder decks that allow the air to escape from the sides. To this end, an arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian (ALE) numerical method with a multi-phase compressible formulation is used for the development of three-dimensional hydrodynamic models, which are validated against a large-scale experimental dataset of a coastal deck. Using the validated model as a baseline, a parametric investigation of different deck geometries with a varying number of girders Ng and three different widths, was conducted. The results reveal that the Ng of a superstructure has a complex role and that for small wave heights the horizontal and uplift forces increase with the Ng, while for large waves the opposite happens. If the Ng is small the wave particles accelerate after the initial impact on the offshore girder leading to a more violent slamming on the onshore part of the deck and larger pressures and forces, however, if Ng is large then unsynchronized eddies are formed in each chamber, which dissipate energy and apply out-of-phase pressures that result in multiple but weaker impacts on the deck. The decomposition of the total loads into slamming and quasi-static components, reveals surprisingly consistent trends for all the simulated waves, which facilitates the development of predictive load equations. These new equations, which are a function of Ng and are limited by the ratio of the wavelength to the deck width, provide more accurate predictions than existing empirical methods, and are expected to be useful to both engineers and researchers working towards the development of resilient coastal infrastructure.
Evaluation and Improvement of a Transformerless High-Efficiency DC-DC Converter for Renewable Energy Applications Employing a Fuzzy Logic Controller
Authors: Saravanan S. , Usha Rani P. , Thakre Mohan P.
Published: October 2021

This article discusses a transformer-free, high-efficiency DC-DC converter besides renewable energy applications. The traditional buck-boost, classic Zeta, Sepic, and Cuk converter does have the benefits of a simple design, low cost, as well as the capacity to execute voltage step-up and step-down. Conversely, because of the detrimental consequences of the parasitic constraints of the device, the voltage conversion gain of the traditional DC-DC converter is much more restricted and the efficiency is also significantly smaller, whereas this proposed converter does have a higher voltage gain and efficiency because it is used in a single power switch, resulting in reduced switching losses and voltage stress. The said converter's design is very simple, which simplifies the operation control and reduces switching and conduction losses, leading to an efficiency of 97.4 percent. This converter seems to have the same capabilities as the Zeta converter, including continuous desired output current and desired buck-boost operation. Such an article offers the operation principle and steady evaluation, as well as a comparison with other existing high step-up configurations. The proposed converter employs a fuzzy logic controller, which improves the voltage level as well as reduces the time taken to set the voltage output of a conventional PI and ANN controller, especially in comparison to the FLC controller. For deployment, Experimental Result and MATLAB/Simulink has been used, and the modeling results indicate that the proposed controller performance has improved
M-Center in Neutron Irradiated 4H-SiC
Authors: Capan Ivana , Brodar Tomislav , Makino Takahiro , Radulovic Vladimir , Snoj Luka
Published: October 2021

We report on metastable defects introduced in n-type 4H-SiC material by epithermal and fast neutron irradiation. The epithermal and fast neutron irradiation defects in 4H-SiC are much less explored compared to electron or proton irradiation induced defects. In addition to silicon vacancy (Vsi) and carbon antisite-carbon vacancy (CAV) complex, the neutron irradiation has introduced four deep level defects, all arising from the metastable defect, the M-center. The metastable deep level defects were investigated by deep level transient spectroscopy (DLTS), high-resolution Laplace DLTS (L-DLTS) and isothermal DLTS. The existence of the fourth deep level M4, recently observed in ion implanted 4H-SiC, has been additionally confirmed in neutron irradiated samples. The isothermal DLTS technique has been proven as a useful tool for studying the metastable defects.
Is There Any Non-functional Training? A Conceptual Review
Authors: Ide Bernardo N. , Silvatti Amanda P. , Marocolo Moacir , Santos Clarcson P.C. , Silva Bruno V.C. , Oranchuk Dustin J. , Mota Gustavo R.
Published: October 2021

This conceptual review aimed to investigate whether "functional training" (FT) programs are different from traditional strength, power, flexibility, and endurance training programs. A search for the twenty most recent papers published involving FT was performed in the PubMed/Medline database. Definition, concepts, benefits, and the exercises employed in FT programs were analyzed. The main results were: 1) there is no agreement about a universal definition for FT; 2) FT programs aim at developing the same benefits already induced by traditional strength, power, flexibility, and endurance training programs; 3) exercises employed are also the same. The inability to define FT makes differentiation difficult. Physical training programs can be easily described and classified as strength, power, flexibility, endurance, and the specific exercises employed (e.g., traditional resistance training, ballistic exercises, plyometrics and Olympic-style weightlifting, continuous and high-intensity interval training). This proper description and classification may improve communication in sports science and improve interdisciplinary integration. Aiming to avoid confusion and misconceptions, and based on the current evidence, we recommend that the terms FT, high-intensity FT, and functional fitness training no longer describe any physical training program.
Immigrant Communities and COVID-19: Strengthening the Public Health Response
Authors: Đoàn Lan N. , Chong Stella K. , Misra Supriya , Kwon Simona C. , Yi Stella S.
Published: October 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the many broken fragments of US health care and social service systems, reinforcing extant health and socioeconomic inequities faced by structurally marginalized immigrant communities. Throughout the pandemic, even during the most critical period of rising cases in different epicenters, immigrants continued to work in high-risk-exposure environments while simultaneously having less access to health care and economic relief and facing discrimination.

We describe systemic factors that have adversely affected low-income immigrants, including limiting their work opportunities to essential jobs, living in substandard housing conditions that do not allow for social distancing or space to safely isolate from others in the household, and policies that discourage access to public resources that are available to them or that make resources completely inaccessible. We demonstrate that the current public health infrastructure has not improved health care access or linkages to necessary services, treatments, or culturally competent health care providers, and we provide suggestions for how the Public Health 3.0 framework could advance this.

We recommend the following strategies to improve the Public Health 3.0 public health infrastructure and mitigate widening disparities: (1) address the social determinants of health, (2) broaden engagement with stakeholders across multiple sectors, and (3) develop appropriate tools and technologies. (Am J Public Health. 2021;111(S3):S224–S231. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2021.306433 )
Buku Ajar Bahasa Indonesia MI/SD
Authors: Astuti Ruli
Published: October 2021

Puji syukur penulis panjatkan kehadirat Allah SWT atas rahmat, berkah, dan karuniaNya penyusunan buku ajar Bahasa Indonesia MI/SD dapat terselesaikan.Buku ini disusun sebagai salah satu bahan ajar untuk menunjang pelaksanaan kegiatan perkuliahan.Dalam buku ini disajikan berbagai materi yang berkaitan dengan linguistik dan sastra yang mencakup konsep perkembangan bahasa, morfologi, fonologi, kesusastraan Indonesia dan apresiasi sastra. Buku ini dilengkapi dengan rangkuman materi dan soal evaluasi di tiap-tiap akhir bab sehingga memudahkan para mahasiswa dalam mendalami materi. Penulis menyampaikan ucapan terima kasih yang sebesar- besarnya kepada unit LP3IK Universitas Muhammadiyah Sidoarjo yang telah memfasilitasi penerbitan buku ajar ini.
Analisis Risiko dan Distribusi Pendapatan Budidaya Bandeng (Chanos chanos) Kabupaten Pati
Authors: Aeni Nurul , Rahayu Endang Siti , Adi Raden Kunto , Antriyandarti Ernoiz
Published: October 2021

Pesisir Kabupaten Pati sebagian besar digunakan sebagai budidaya bandeng. Terdapat faktor-faktor penghambat proses pembudidayaan hingga penjualan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui biaya, pendapatan, risiko (produksi, harga dan pendapatan) dan penanggulangannya, serta distribusi luas tambak dan pendapatan. Proporsi sampel ditentukan melalui proportional sampling. Metode analisis data berupa Analisis usahatani; Analisis risiko; Analisis deskriptif analitis; serta Indeks Gini dan Kurva Lorenz. Hasil penelitian per luas rata-rata menunjukkan risiko produksi dan risiko pendapatan yang tinggi. Risiko produksi dan pendapatan per ha dan risiko harga tergolong rendah. Nilai batas bawah pendapatan per luasan rata-rata adalah negatif sedangkan per ha bernilai positif. Upaya penanggulangan risiko dilakukan melalui tindakan pencegahan. Nilai IG distribusi luas tambak dan distribusi pendapatan usahanya berada dalam tingkat ketimpangan sedang. Distribusi pendapatan diluar budidaya bandeng bernilai tinggi, karena sumber pendapatannya berbeda. Tingkat kelengkungan kurva Lorenz menunjukkan kecenderungan yang sama dengan nilai distribusinya.
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura with typical pentalogy in a child: a case report and literature review
Authors: Wan Qian , Ye Yao , Zhong Xiaohong , Xu Zhongjin , Li Jian
Published: October 2021

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a rare and life-threatening thrombotic microangiopathy with clinical quintuple symptoms, including fever, thrombocytopenia, microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, neurological symptoms, and renal insufficiency. TTP onset in children is rare, and the percentage of acute TTP with these five symptoms at the same time is <10%. In this study, we reported a typical case of TTP onset in a child with clinical quintuple symptoms.
Increase Renal Tubular Pressure to Treat Congestive Renal Failure
Authors: pang xingxue , Han Xiaowan , Wang Xian
Published: October 2021

Background: Congestive renal failure commonly result from cardiorenal syndrome related renal venous hypertension(RVH)，which is more linked to the renal venous pressure than mean arterial pressure and systematic vascular resistance. But its mechanism and treatment strategy is still being explored.Methods: We did an investigator-initiated,open-label study to explore a novel treatment strategy and mechanism of renal venous hypertension related acute kidney injury(AKI).A patient with acute kidney injury(AKI) due to cardiorenal syndrome related renal venous hypertension was enrolled.The estimated pressure of renal vein (ePrv) was measured by ultrasound. Prior to the trial,residual urinary was detected by bedside ultrasound so as to rule out lower urinary tract obstruction.A three-lumen catheter was inserted into bladder for elevating tubular pressure and monitor intrabladder pressure.In the first phase,pressure of intrabladder was maintained equal to ePrv+8mmHg for 3 hours.In the second phase, intrabladder pressure was adjusted and maintained equal to ePrv for 21 hours. The urine volume is equal to the fluid expelled from bladder minus infused 0.9% Sodium chloride.Result: 130 milliliter urine output was secreted in the first phase and 370 milliliter in the second phase.A total of 500 milliliter urine output was secreted during the trial period (24 hours). 5 days after treatment, the patient's creatinine level dropped significantly.Conclusions: We first proposed a new therapeutic exploration, acute kidney injury secondary to cardiorenal syndrome related renal venous hypertension can be treated by increasing tubular pressure.Tubular compressed or even collapsed under renal venous hypertension may be an important mechanism of acute kidney injury due to RVH.
Halomonas Salinarum sp. nov., a Moderately Halophilic Bacterium, Isolated from Saline Soil in Yingkou, China
Authors: Yin Ya-Lin , Li Fang-Ling , Wang Lei
Published: October 2021

Strains of Halomonas, thought to play vital roles in the environment for their versatility, are ubiquitous in hypersaline environments. A Gram-staining-negative, moderately halotolerant, facultatively aerobic, motile bacterium, designated G5-11T, was isolated from saline soil in Yingkou of Liaoning, China. The cells of strain G5-11T grew at 4-35 ℃ (optimum 30 ℃), at pH 6.0-9.0 (optimum 8.0) and in the presense of 3-15 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum 5 %). The strain could be clearly distinguished from the related species of the genus Halomonas by its phylogenetic position and biochemical characteristics. It presented Q-9 as the major respiratory quinone and the dominant cellular fatty acids were summed feature 8 (C18:1 ω7c/ C18:1 ω6c), C16:0 and summed feature 3 (C16:1 ω7c/ C16:1 ω6c). The polar lipids consisted of phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine and diphosphatidylglycerol as the major components. The G+C content of strain G5-11T genome was 61.0 mol%. 16S rRNA analysis showed that strain G5-11T had the highest similarity to Halomonas niordiana LMG 31227T and Halomonas taeanensis DSM 16463T, both reaching 98.3 %, followed by Halomonas pacifica NBRC 102220T with a value of 95.8 %. Based on phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and phylogenetic inferences, strain G5-11T represents a novel species of the genus Halomonas, for which the name Halomonas salinarum sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of Halomonas salinarum is G5-11T (=CGMCC 1.12051T=LMG 31677T).
Comparison Effects of two Muscle Relaxant Strategies on Postoperative Pulmonary Complications in Transapical Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation: A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis
Authors: Yu Hong , Zuo Yiding , Xu Zhao , Zhao Dailiang , Yue Jianming , Liu Lulu , Guo Yingqiang , Huang Jiapeng , Deng Xiaoqian , Liang Peng
Published: October 2021

Background: Prior studies have reported conflicting results on the effect of sugammadex on postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) and research on this topic in transapical-transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TA-TAVI) was sparse. The current study aimed to investigate whether there were differences in the incidence of PPCs between two muscle relaxant strategies (rocuronium/sugammadex vs. cisatracurium/neostigmine) in patients undergoing TA-TAVI. Methods: This retrospective observational study enrolled 245 adult patients underwent TA-TAVI between October 2018 and January 2021. The patients were grouped according to the type of muscle relaxant strategies (115 with rocuronium/sugammadex in the R/S group and 130 with cisatracurium/neostigmine in the C/N group, respectively). Pre- and intraoperative variables were managed by propensity score match (PSM) at a 1:2 ratio. PPCs (i.e., respiratory infection, pleural effusion, pneumothorax, atelectasis, respiratory failure, bronchospasm and aspiration pneumonitis) were evaluated from the radiological and laboratory findings. Results: After PSM, 91 patients in the R/S group were selected and matched to 112 patients in the C/N group. Patients in the R/S group showed lower PPCs rate (45.1% vs. 61.6%, p=0.019) compared to the C/N group. In addition, the R/S group showed significant shorter extubation time (7.2±6.2 vs. 10.3±8.2 min, p=0.003) and length of hospital stay (6.9±3.3 vs. 8.0±4.0 days, p=0.034). Conclusions: The rocuronium/sugammadex muscle relaxant strategy decreases the incidence of PPCs in patients undergoing TA-TAVI when compared to cisatracurium/neostigmine strategy. Trial registration: ChiCTR, ChiCTR2100044269. Registered March 14, 2021-Prospectively registered, http://www.Chictr.org.cn
Long-Term Prognosis of Patients with Hepatitis B Virus-Related Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Wang Lu , Xu Wenxiong , Li Xuejun , Chen Dabiao , Zhang Yeqiong , Chen Yuanli , Wang Juan , Luo Qiumin , Xie Chan , Peng Liang
Published: October 2021

Introduction and Objectives: The long-term prognosis of patients with hepatitis B virus-related acute-on-chronic liver failure (HBV-ACLF) is not well characterized. We sought to assess the short-term and long-term outcomes and the associated risk factors of HBV-ACLF patients in south China.Patients and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed clinical data, adverse events, and clinical endpoint events of HBV-ACLF patients treated at our department between January 2014 and December 2018. Results: A total of 1177 HBV-ACLF patients were included in the study, including 616 (52.3%) cirrhotic patients and 561 (47.7%) non-cirrhotic patients. 973 (83%) patients were associated only with HBV, and 204 (17%) patients had two or more etiologies. The leading cause of simple HBV-ACLF patients was lack of antiviral treatment and the proportion of patients receiving antiviral treatment for HBV was low (20%). Further analyses indicated non-cirrhotic patients had a significantly lower 90-day transplantation‐free mortality and greater 5‐year survival rate than cirrhotic patients (59.5% vs. 27.6%, 62% vs. 36%, P＜0.05). Age, hepatic encephalopathy, liver cirrhosis, nucleoside (acid) analogues (NAs) withdrawal, total bilirubin, and prothrombin time were independent risk factors for 90-day mortality in HBV-ACLF patients. Cirrhosis at admission (AOR=3.675, 95% CI: 2.408–6.594) was a strong independent risk factor for long-term prognosis. Conclusion: The proportion of HBV-ACLF patients receiving antiviral treatment was extremely low in south China. HBV combined with acute hepatitis E, or DILI had no significant effect on the short-term mortality rate in HBV-ACLF patients. Remarkably, the effect of withdrawal of NAs and cirrhosis on short-term outcomes cannot be ignored. No significant improvement in the short-term prognosis of HBV-ACLF patients was observed compared with previous studies. Trial Registration: The trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (CT.gov identifier: NCT04231565). Registered 13 May 2020https://register.clinicaltrials.gov/prs/app/action/SelectProtocol?sid=S0009OZY&selectaction=Edit&uid=U00036P1&ts=2&cx=27seqt
De-Novo Malignancies After Liver Transplantation: Experience of A High-Volume Center
Authors: Saglam Kutay , Sahin Tevfik Tolga , Ogut Zeki , Ince Volkan , Usta Sertac , Yilmaz Sezai
Published: October 2021

Purpose Patient care, newer immunosuppressive medications, and advances in surgical technique, have resulted in significant prolongation of survival after liver transplantation in recent years. However, as life expectancy increased and the early mortality rates have decreased, different problems have evolved due to chronic immunosuppressive therapy. The aim of the present study is to evaluate patients who were transplanted and then developed de novo malignancies, in terms of the type of malignancies and the follow-up period.MethodsThe study was conducted on 2814 patients who received liver transplantation between 2008 to 2020 in Inonu University Liver Transplant Institute. In total, the data of 23 patients were evaluated retrospectively.ResultsNon-melanoma skin cancer was the most common de-novo malignancy (21.7%), followed by gynecological cancers (17.3%). The interval between the time of transplantation until the development of de novo malignancy was 36 (6-75) months. The median follow-up period after the diagnoses of the de novo malignancies was 4.11 years. One, 3, 5-year survival rates of patients after the diagnoses of de novo malignancies were 69.6%, 56.5% and 41.9%; respectively. ConclusionNon-melanotic skin cancers were the most common de novo cancers in liver transplant recipients. A strict surveillance programs is very important in the follow-up of liver transplant recipients.
Post-extinction recovery of the Phanerozoic oceans and the rise of biodiversity hotspots
Authors: Cermeño Pedro , García-Comas Carmen , Pohl Alexandre , Williams Simon , Benton Michael , Gland Guillaume Le , Muller R Dietmar , Ridgwell Andy , Vallina Sergio
Published: October 2021

The fossil record of marine invertebrates has long fueled the debate on whether or not there are limits to global diversity in the sea1–4⁠. Ecological theory states that as diversity grows and ecological niches are filled, the strengthening of biological interactions imposes limits on diversity5–7⁠. However, the extent to which biological interactions have constrained the growth of diversity over evolutionary time remains an open question1–4,8–12⁠, largely because of the incompleteness and spatial heterogeneity of the fossil record13–15⁠. Here we present a regional diversification model that reproduces surprisingly well the Phanerozoic trends in the global diversity of marine invertebrates after imposing mass extinctions. We find that the dynamics of global diversity is best described by a diversification model that operates broadly within the exponential growth regime of a logistic function. A spatially resolved analysis of the diversity-to-carrying capacity ratio reveals that only < 2% of the global flooded continental area exhibits diversity levels approaching ecological saturation. We attribute the overall increase in global diversity during the Late Mesozoic and Cenozoic to the development of diversity hotspots under prolonged conditions of Earth system stability and maximum continental fragmentation. We call this the "diversity hotspots hypothesis", which is proposed as a non-mutually exclusive alternative to the hypothesis that the Mesozoic marine revolution led this macroevolutionary trend16,17.
Poly(Methyl Methacrylate) Grafted Wheat Straw for Economical and Eco-friendly Treatment of Oily Wastewater.
Authors: Suresh Kavya , Islam Muhammad Amirul , Rastgar Masoud , Fleck Brian A. , Sadrzadeh Mohtada
Published: October 2021

The sustainable development of oil-gas and petrochemical industries necessitates the development of cost-effective and eco-friendly technologies to treat mass-produced oily wastewater discharge from these industries. This study applied a simple radical polymerization to enhance the oil adsorption efficiency of agricultural waste biomass wheat straw (WS) by grafting biocompatible PMMA. Diesel oil adsorption from oil-in-water emulsion using the PMMA grafted WS was thoroughly studied for the first time in the quest of developing an economical and eco-friendly adsorbent for the adsorptive treatment of oily wastewater. Initially, the pristine WS was subjected to alkaline hydrogen peroxide pre-treatment to remove the materials that can lead to secondary pollution during operation, to expose the reactive cellulose surface sites that can enhance grafting efficiency, and to break the inner interconnected tubular pore channel walls; otherwise, the tubular pore channels will not be accessible to viscous oil due to limited capillary penetration. The success of pre-treatment of pristine WS and the subsequent PMMA grafting were evaluated by SEM morphology, BET analysis, EDX and XPS elemental analysis, FTIR, and contact angle measurements. SEM images indicated that the inner interconnected tubular pore channels of WS are exposed significantly upon alkaline hydrogen peroxide pretreatment. PMMA grafting substantially improved oil adhesivity, as evident from the 0º oil contact angle for WS-g-PMMA film. Oil absorptivity was thoroughly evaluated by batch oil adsorption study using variable adsorbent dosages and oil emulsion concentrations. The WS-g-PMMA exhibited explicitly higher adsorption capacity (ca. 1129 mg/g) compared to that of the pristine (ca. 346 mg/g) and pretreated (ca. 741 mg/g) due to high accessibility to exposed inner interconnected tubular pore channels and strong hydrophobic interactions between the WS-g-PMMA surface and oil droplets. Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherms were applied to evaluate the adsorption mechanism. The experimental data fit well with the Freundlich isotherm, clearly indicating the heterogeneity of adsorption sites, as well as multilayer adsorption of oil. The experimental adsorption data fit well with the pseudo-second-order rate equation with R2 as high as 0.999, which confirmed the multilayer adsorption of oil. The high oil adsorption capacity of the WS-g-PMMA makes it a very promising material for oily wastewater treatment. This will simultaneously resolve issues with the treatment of oily wastewater and facilitate the recycling of abundant quantities of waste WS. This study serves as a reference for analyzing the suitability of wheat straw for treating extremely challenging waste streams, such as SAGD produced water containing BTEX and PAHs that are also hydrophobic like diesel oil.
Identification of WIPI1 as A Potential Ferroptosis-Related Biomarker in Sepsis and Validation in CLP Mice Model.
Authors: Zhu Sizhe , Ye Chenglin , Huang Yabing
Published: October 2021

BackgroundSepsis is the leading cause of death and critical illness worldwide. Ferroptosis is a new type of programmed cell death that is different from apoptosis, cell necrosis, and autophagy, which might contribute to development of sepsis. However, it lacks of a rapid, accurate diagnostic method and a therapeutic target of sepsis. In this work, we identified a novel promising biomarker related to ferroptosis in sepsis.MethodsThe expression profiles of mRNAs were downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, and ferroptosis-related genes were used to screen differential genes. Furthermore, we identified potential ferroptosis-related biomarkers through a series of comprehensive bioinformatics analysis, such as differential analysis, enrichment analysis, protein-protein interactions (PPI). Moreover, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) was used to evaluate the diagnostic value of biomarkers and the relative expressions of biomarker were measured by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) in cecum ligation and puncture (CLP) mice model. Finally, immune infiltration analysis was preformed to explore the relationship between ferroptosis-related biomarkers and immune regulation. ResultsTotally 52 (36 upregulated and 16 downregulated) overlapped ferroptosis-related differential expression genes differentially expressed genes (FRDEGs) from two GEO datasets were identified between sepsis and normal samples. Upregulated ferroptosis-related WD Repeat Domain, Phosphoinositide Interacting 1 (WIPI1), with high area under curve (AUC) was selected as a promising biomarker, according to expression of WIPI1, septic samples were divided into high-expression and low-expression group. There are significant differences in the infiltration of some immune cells between the two group. ConclusionIn summary, we identified WIPI1 as a novel biomarker that may involve in immune regulation of sepsis by ferroptosis. In addition, this work contributes to the rapid, accurate and convenient diagnosis of sepsis.
Cognitive reserve estimated with a life experience questionnaire outperforms education in predicting performance on MoCA: Italian normative data
Authors: Montemurro Sonia , Daini Roberta , Tagliabue Chiara , Guzzetti Sabrina , Gualco Giulia , Mondini Sara , Arcara Giorgio
Published: October 2021

Normative data of neuropsychological tests typically take into account the effect of demographic variables like age and education on performance. However, a broad literature has shown that, after the school age, other cognitively stimulating experiences (e.g., occupational attainment and a variety of leisure-time activities) may increase and build up cognitive reserve (CR), which is positively associated with better performance in neuropsychological tests. With these premises, we investigated the predictive ability of education and a life-experience proxy of CR on a widely used cognitive screening, i.e., the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Results show that including the more comprehensive life-experience CR proxy is better than considering only education in predicting expected cognitive performance. Based on the results of our analyses we provide normative data and cut-offs on 440 Italian individuals aged 50-90 years, by taking into account, for the first time for the Italian population, a CR index, together with demographic variables and Education, in the calculation of regression-based norms. Accounting for life-experience CR proxies can improve the accuracy of normative data and allow a finer estimation of cognitive performance, which lead to a more tailored approach to patient assessment.
Transboundary Watershed Pollution Control and Product Market Competition With Ecological Compensation and Emission Tax: A Dynamic Analysis
Authors: yi yongxi , Ding Caini , Fu Chunyan , Li Yuqiong
Published: October 2021

Product competition and pollution control are closely related to watershed environmental management, but existing literature rarely investigates them in an identical framework. Therefore, this paper develops a multiple differential game model to analyze product market competition and ecological compensation games between watershed regions based on the assumption that a region can choose four strategies to regulate its manufacturers while cooperating with other regions in the basin. Then, solve the model and obtain a simultaneous equilibrium between the governments and manufacturers for the first time. The results show that: the combination of emissions tax and ecological compensation results in the highest social welfare and water ecology for all regions in a basin. Furthermore, the ecological compensation rate independent of emissions tax policy and ecological compensation does not shift investment from downstream to upstream, but it can induce the upstream region to increase investment in management. In addition, if the governments impose an emissions tax, manufacturers' output in both regions decreases, and the upstream region is higher than in the downstream region.
Environmental Stress Determines The Colonization and Impact of An Endophytic Fungus On Invasive Knotweed
Authors: Garnica Sigisfredo , Liao Zhiyong , Hamard Samuel , Waller Frank , Parepa Madalin , Bossdorf Oliver
Published: October 2021

There is increasing evidence that microbes play a key role in some plant invasions. A diverse and widespread but little understood group of plant-associated microbes are the fungal root endophytes of the order Sebacinales. They are associated with exotic populations of invasive knotweed (Reynoutria ssp.) in Europe, but their effects on the invaders are unknown. We used the recently isolated Sebacinales root endophyte Serendipita herbamans to experimentally inoculate invasive knotweed and study root colonisation and effects on knotweed growth under different environmental conditions. We verified the inoculation success and fungal colonisation through immunofluorescence microscopy and qPCR. We found that S. herbamans strongly colonized invasive knotweed in low-nutrient and shade environments, but much less under drought or benign conditions. At low nutrients, the endophyte had a positive effect on plant growth, whereas the opposite was true under shaded conditions. Our study demonstrates that the root endophyte S. herbamans has the potential to colonize invasive knotweed fine roots and impact its growth, and it could thus also play a role in natural populations. Our results also show that effects of fungal endophytes on plants can be strongly environment-dependent, and may only be visible under stressful environmental conditions.
Coxiella burnetii seroprevalence in primiparous and multiparous ewes from southern Australia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Clune Thomas , Lockwood Amy , Hancock Serina , Thompson Andrew N. , Bruce Mieghan , Beetson Susan , Campbell Angus J , Glanville Elsa , Brookes Daniel , Trengove Colin , Jacobson Caroline
Published: October 2021

Coxiella burnetii can cause reproductive disease in sheep and zoonotic Q-fever infections in humans. The role of infectious diseases including coxiellosis in causing poorer reproductive performance of primiparous ewes is not well studied. The aim of this study was to determine if natural exposure to C. burnetii is associated with poor reproductive performance of primiparous ewes and compare seroprevalence of primiparous and multiparous ewes. Coxiella burnetii seroprevalence was 0.08% (95% confidence interval 0.01, 0.36) in primiparous ewes and 0.36% (0.07, 1.14) in mature ewes. Coxiella burnetii was not detected in tissue samples from aborted or stillborn lambs using molecular diagnostic tests (qPCR). These findings suggest that C. burnetii infection was unlikely to be an important contributor to abortion and perinatal mortalities observed for primiparous ewes, and exposure to C. burnetii was not widespread in ewes on farms located over wide geographical region of southern Australia.
Computational Identification of Guillain-Barre Syndrome Related Genes by an mRNA Gene Expression Profile and a Protein-Protein Interaction Network
Authors: Wang Chunyang , Liao Shiwei , Hu Xiaowei , Xu Jing
Published: October 2021

Background
In this study, we developed a computational method to identify Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) related genes based on (i) a gene expression profile, and (ii) the shortest path analysis in a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network.
Results
Totally 30 GBS related genes were screened out, in which 20 were retrieved from PPI analysis of up-regulated expressed genes and 23 were from down-regulated expressed genes (13 overlap genes). GO enrichment and KEGG enrichment analysis were performed respectively. Results showed that there were some overlap GO terms and KEGG pathway terms in both up-regulated and down-regulated analysis, which indicated these terms may play critical role during GBS process.
Discussion
These results could shed some light on the understanding of the Genetic and molecular pathogenesis of GBS disease, providing basis for future experimental biology studies and for the development of effective genetic strategies for GBS clinical therapies.
Sex Differences in Blood Pressure and the Kidney Cortex Transcriptome in Nonhuman Primates
Authors: Riojas Angelica M , Spradling-Reeves Kimberly D. , Shade Robert E. , Puppala Sobha R. , Christensen Clinton L. , Birnbaum Shifra , Glenn Jeremy P. , Hall-Ursone Shannan , Cox Laura A.
Published: October 2021

Hypertension is a complex disease influenced by sex, and genetic and environmental factors. Blood pressure (BP) is a continuous trait that is heritable in primates, including humans and baboons. The kidneys play a role in systemically regulating BP. Sex differences in BP onset and control with antihypertensive drug therapies have been observed in humans and rodents. Hypertension studies in nonhuman primates (NHP) to date have focused on males. We hypothesized that there are differences in renal molecular networks associated with BP in female and male primates. Sodium-naïve female (n=8) and male (n=9) baboons were fed a low-sodium chow diet prior to and during the study. Implantable telemetry devices continuously monitored heart rate and blood pressure over 24-hours, and ultrasound-guided kidney biopsies were collected for RNA-Seq. Serum 17 beta-estradiol concentration correlated BP in females. BP in males correlated with Na+ intake, blood urea nitrogen, and glucose. Cell type composition of renal biopsies was consistent between females and males. Sex differences were observed in the kidney transcriptomes by principal components analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis. Network analysis revealed HNF4A, ESR1, ESR2, SMARCA4, TP53, and NR3C1 as BP regulators in males. Our results demonstrate sex differences in primate kidney molecular networks and provide evidence of a novel link between renal transcription factors and BP regulation in males. Understanding sex differences and transcriptome variation in primate kidneys correlated with BP and clinical measures associated with BP will inform better therapies towards the goal of precision medicine for women and men.
The confidante method to measure abortion: implementing a standardized comparative analysis approach across seven contexts.
Authors: Owolabi Onikepe Oluwadamilola , Giorgio Margaret , Leong Ellie , Sully Elizabeth
Published: October 2021

Background
Obtaining representative abortion incidence estimates is challenging in restrictive contexts. While the confidante method has been increasingly used to collect this data in such settings, there are several biases commonly associated with this method. Further, there are significant variations in how researchers have implemented the method and assessed/adjusted for potential biases, limiting the comparability and interpretation of existing estimates. This study presents a standardized approach to analyzing confidante method data, generates comparable abortion incidence estimates from previously published studies and recommends standards for reporting bias assessments and adjustments for future confidante method studies.
Methods
We used data from previous applications of the confidante method in Côte d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, Ghana, Java (Indonesia), Nigeria, Uganda, and Rajasthan (India). We estimated one-year induced abortion incidence rates for confidantes in each context, attempting to adjust for selection, reporting and transmission bias in a standardized manner.
Findings:
In each setting, majority of the foundational confidante method assumptions were violated. Adjusting for transmission bias using self-reported abortions consistently yielded the highest incidence estimates compared with other published approaches. Differences in analytic decisions and bias assessments resulted in the incidence estimates from our standardized analysis varying widely from originally published rates.
Interpretation:
We recommend that future studies clearly state which biases were assessed, if associated assumptions were violated, and how violations were adjusted for. This will improve the utility of confidante method estimates for national-level decision making and as inputs for global or regional model-based estimates of abortion.
Emergency Information Sharing Mechanism and Efficiency Measurement in Coastal Cities, China
Authors: Huang Xing , Huang Jieru
Published: October 2021

To establish and improve the theoretical framework and operation mechanism of emergency information sharing, and to establish the index system and evaluation method of the efficiency of emergency information sharing are the key work to improve the disaster prevention and mitigation capacity of coastal cities in China. In this paper, the synergetic theory is introduced into the construction of emergency information sharing framework. By clarifying the operation relationship between the participants and the information transmission, the framework and operation mechanism of emergency information sharing are constructed. Around the 3 dimensions of emergency information sharing mechanism construction, resource guarantee ability and collaborative driving force of emergency information sharing, the evaluation index system of emergency information sharing collaborative efficiency in coastal cities is proposed, and the evaluation method of emergency information sharing collaborative efficiency based on coupling degree model is proposed. The empirical results show that the efficiency of emergency information sharing in coastal cities in China is generally on the rise, and the contribution rate of the construction level of emergency information sharing mechanism is higher than that of the resource guarantee ability and the collaborative driving force of emergency information sharing, but the efficiency of emergency information sharing in coastal cities in China is still at the bottom level. The research results provide theoretical basis and methods for the emergency management departments of coastal cities in China.
Beta-Adrenergic Receptor Blockers and Hepatocellular Carcinoma Survival. A Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chang Hyun , Lee Sung Hyun
Published: October 2021

IntroductionPre-clinical data has revealed that beta-adrenergic stimulation can affect the growth and progression of different types of malignancies. Beta-adrenergic receptor blockers have been associated with improved survival in patients with many types of cancer. We performed a meta-analysis to investigate the association between beta-blocker use and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) prognosis.MethodsIn this meta-analysis, a full search was conducted using PubMed, the Cochrane library, and Embase to identify all relevant studies published up to May 2021. Available hazard ratios (HRs) were extracted for overall survival (OS), cancer-specific survival (CSS) and pooled using a random effects meta-analysis.ResultsFour studies involving 7252 patients with HCC met the inclusion criteria and were included in the systemic review. Three studies that reported OS data of 5148 patients were included in the meta-analysis. The random-effects model showed that beta-blocker use was associated with significantly improved OS in HCC (HR = 0.69, 95% CI = 0.54-0.88, P = 0.0031), without significant heterogeneity (I2 = 41%; Q = 6.42, P = 0.18)ConclusionThis meta-analysis suggested that beta-blocker use can be associated with prolonged OS of patients with HCC.
Dietary Supplementation Of Rice Bran Crude Lecithin Affect Feed Digestion, Blood And Rumen Profile In Crossbred Calves
Authors: Tewari Dharmesh , Chaturvedi V.B. , Chaudhary Lal Chandra , Verma Ashok Kumar , Chaudhary Sandeep Kumar
Published: October 2021

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of rice bran crude lecithin (RBCL) on nutrient digestion and balance, performance, methanogenesis, blood and rumen profile. Eighteen crossbred calves were randomly divided into three groups; RBCL-0, RBCL-8 and RBCL-12 and fed wheat straw based diet with concentrate mixture containing 0, 8 and 12 % RBCL respectively. The dry matter, organic matter and crude protein intake were comparable but tended to decrease with the RBCL levels. The digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, total carbohydrate and gross energy tended to decrease while crude protein and ether extract digestibility tended to increase were with RBCL levels. The fibre fractions (NDF and ADF) digestibility was significantly (P < 0.01) lower in RBCL supplemented groups in comparison to control group. The body weight gain and average daily gain tended to decrease with increasing the level of rice bran crude lecithin. The percent of nitrogen and calcium retention tended to decrease, while phosphorus retention was significantly (P < 0.01) lower with inclusion level of RBCL. The methane production (L/d, L/kgW0.75) were significantly (P < 0.05) lower in RBCL-12 followed by RBCL-8 as compared to RBCL-0 group. Serum biochemical did not show significant difference among dietary treatment groups. The cholesterol and blood urea concentration was significantly (P < 0.01) higher in RBCL-12 group as compared to control group. The rumen metabolites and microbiota showed reduction in RBCL-8 group as compare to RBCL-0 group without reach to significant (P < 0.05) level. It can be concluded, that detrimental effect of present levels (8 and 12%) of RBCL was seen in the performance of crossbred calves, which was associated with decreased fibre digestibility and fermentation in rumen. Beside this, RBCL is helpful in methane mitigation for cleaner production and can be a cheap source of energy in place of corn for ruminant. Further studies in large number of livestock are warranted to explore the potential of RBCL in the ruminant ration.