bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Genetic Diversity of Some Squash (Cucurbita Maxima L.) Germplasm Using Morphological and Molecular Markers in Erzincan
Authors: OZTURK HALIL IBRAHIM , Dönderalp Veysel , Bulut Hüseyin , Korkut Recep , HOSSEINPOUR Arash , DURSUN Atilla
Published: September 2021

Background Plant genetic resources constitute the most valuable assets of countries. It is of great importance to determine the genetic variation among these resources and to use the data in breeding studies. Cucurbita maxima species in the cucurbitaceae family have high genetic diversity, but its genetic diversity at the molecular level is inadequately characterized. Methods and Results To determine the genetic diversity among genotypes of Cucurbita maxima species of squash, which is widely grown in Erzincan, 14 different squash genotypes collected were examined based on the morphological parameters and molecular characteristics. SSR (Simple sequence repeat) markers were used to determine genetic diversity at the molecular level. The analysis of morphological characterization within genotypes showed a wide variability in morphological traits of plant, flower, fruit, and leaf. Seven SSR markers yielded a total of 23 polymorphic bands, the number of alleles per marker ranged from 2 to 5, and the mean number of alleles was 3.286. Polymorphic information content (PIC) ranged from 0.00 (GMT-M61) to 0.202 (GMT-P25), and the mean PIC value per marker was 0.130. Cluster analysis using Nei's genetic distance determined that 14 genotypes were divided into 3 major groups. Conclusions The SSR markers used were effective in distinguish among similar winter squash or pumpkin and therefore can be beneficial for consideration of Cucurbita maxima species diversity, screening of genetic resources and their selection.
Comparison Analysis Between Simulation and Experiment of Cutting Force and Cutting Stress as Well as Chip Morphology During the Macro and Nano Cutting of Single Crystal Copper
Authors: Chen Dongju , Wu Shuiyuan , He Yazhong , Li Shupei , Luo Yuchi , Wang Xiang
Published: September 2021

In this paper, the simulation and experiment comparison of cutting force, cutting stress and chip morphology during the macro and nano cutting of single crystal copper are carried out. Firstly, a finite element method based on Johnson-Cook metal strength and failure model were used to establish a macro cutting model, and the cutting force, cutting stress, cutting displacement and chip morphology were obtained. Then a molecular dynamics simulation was used to establish a nano cutting model, and the cutting force, von mises stress and chip morphology were obtained. Afterwards, a comparative analysis of the two was carried out. Finally, the external turning experiment was used to verify the simulation results of the macro cutting model. The results show that: 1. The change trend of the cutting force in x and y directions are different,but the corresponding ratios of cutting forces in x and y directions in macro and nano cutting process are very close, and the corresponding ratios of the average macro and nano cutting forces in x and y directions are also very close. 2. The cutting stress in nano cutting process was about 100 times of macro cutting stress. 3. The chip length in macro cutting process is larger than the chip length in nano cutting process, and the shape is more regular. 4. The experimental cutting force change trend is very similar to the simulation cutting force change trend, but there exits difference in the value between the experiment cutting forces and simulated cutting forces.
Globalization And Capital Flows: Cases of Nigeria And Ghana
Authors: Danladi. Jonathan D. , Tunbosun Ogundipe Adebayo , Falaye Motunrayo Helen , James Barka Rejoice
Published: September 2021

This study aimed at examining the effect of globalization on capital flows (capital inflows and capital outflows) in Nigeria and Ghana for the period 1981 to 2019. Secondary data obtained from the World Bank Development Indicators was used to examine this effect. The ADF unit root test was used to test for stationarity of the variables and the result indicated that all variables are stationary at first difference in both countries. The Johansen co-integration test revealed that co-integration exists among the variables in all models used in this study. In Nigeria, the result of the error correction model indicated that globalization has a negative relationship with capital inflows in the current period while the relationship is positive and significant in the first lag. In Ghana, the result of the error correction model indicated that globalization has a positive and significant relationship with capital inflows in both the current period and the first lag. For the effect of globalisation on capital outflows, the error correction result showed that globalization has a positive and significant relationship with capital outflows in Nigeria in both the first lag and the current year. In Ghana however, globalization has a positive relationship with capital outflows in the current period but in the first lag, the relationship is negative and significant. It was then recommended that the issue of insecurity and policy inconsistency so as to allow the free flow of capital into both countries should be looked into. Also, the Nigerian and Ghanaian government should undertake policy measures and reforms that will help in providing sound macroeconomic policies which will create a more stable and conducive environment for investment. Finally, there should be an intensification of government efforts in its anti-corruption campaign as this will improve the country’s image and attract inflow of funds from abroad for investment purposes in both countries.
The trajectory of a photon emitted by an accelerating light source. The apparent motion of a light source
Authors: Deligiannis John
Published: September 2021

In this article the concept of ``tachy-photons'' is introduced. The tachy-photons are photons emitted by an accelerating light source. The tachy-photons can travel faster than the speed of light, but their average speed is equal to the speed of light.
Using the trajectories of tachy-photons, the apparent motion of an accelerating light source is calculated. This apparent motion of the light source is dramatically different from its actual motion.
The diagnostic accuracy and era for improvement for frameless stereotactic brain biopsy: a series of 109 procedures and a systemic review
Authors: He Zhexi , Zhu Xian Lun , Chan Tat Ming Danny , Cheung Chi Yan Tom , Ng Ho-Keung , Mok Chung Tong Vincent , Poon Wai Sang
Published: September 2021

PurposeTo evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of frameless stereotactic brain biopsy and review the era for improvement.MethodsThis is a prospectively collected cohort study from 2007 to 2020. We reviewed patients who received frameless stereotactic brain biopsy in Prince of Wales Hospital and evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of the frameless stereotactic brain biopsy procedures. The biopsy result was classified into conclusive, inconclusive or negative, based on the pathological, radiological and clinical diagnosis concordance. For inconclusive or negative results, we further evaluated the pre-operative planning and post-operative imaging to review if further improvement could be made. The complication rate of symptomatic hemorrhage and mortality rate was also analyzed.ResultsThere were 106 patients with 109 biopsy procedures performed from 2007 to 2020. The conclusive diagnosis was reached in 103 (94.5%) procedures. The inconclusive diagnosis was noted in four (3.7%) procedures and negative diagnosis was yielded in two (1.9%) procedures. Symptomatic hemorrhage was noted in one patient (0.9%). There was no mortality case (0.0%) in our case series. The registration errors occurred in three cases (2.8%), sampling of the non-representative part of the lesion occurred in two cases (1.8%), and one biopsy (0.9%) for lymphoma was negative after the commencement of steroids. Systemic review showed that the diagnostic accuracy under the structurally defined diagnosis criteria was comparable with published literatures in recent ten years.ConclusionThe stereotactic biopsy is a safe procedure with high diagnostic accuracy only if meticulous pre-operative planning and careful intra-operative registration is performed. The common pitfalls precluding a conclusive diagnosis are errors during registration and non-representative biopsy sites.
Effects of Complex Heavy Metal Stress on the Hydrodynamic Parameters, Stem Anatomy and Photosynthetic Properties of Three Desert Species in the Jinchang Mining Area
Authors: Gao Tian Peng , Wang Hao Ming , Li Changming , Zuo Mingbo , Wang Xueying , Liu Yuan , Yang Yingli , Liu Yubing , Yao Guangqian , Chang Guohua , Xu Danghui , Fang Xiangwen
Published: September 2021

PurposeThe physiological mechanism and phytoremediation effects of heavy metal pollution by local desert plants, namely, Kochia scoparia, Chenopodium glaucum and Atriplex centralasiatica, around tailings were investigated. MethodsTwo different types of local soils (native soil and native soil + tailings, which are labeled CK and T, respectively) were used for potting experiments in the open, and the photosynthesis performance, chlorophyll content, hydraulics and stem anatomy of the potted plants were analyzed. The collection of soil samples has been approved by the soil resources management department of the local government.ResultsIt was found that the chlorophyll content, photosynthetic rate and transpiration rate decreased but the chlorophyll a and b (Chl a/b) and intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci) values increased in Kochia scoparia under complex heavy metal stress. Nonstomatal restriction led to a decrease in the net photosynthetic rate (Pn) and damage to the chloroplasts. Additionally, four hydrodynamic parameters were elevated under heavy metal stress along with a decrease in duct density and diameter and a significant thickening of the duct wall. Under heavy metal stress, the changes in the chlorophyll parameters of Chenopodium glaucum, Atriplex centralasiatica and Kochia scoparia exhibited the same pattern, with stomatal restriction causing a decrease in Pn and Ci and a significant increase in the leaf specific conductance, hydraulic conductivity, and duct diameter. ConclusionsAtriplex centralasiatica is the dominant desert plant in the region and demonstrates good adaptability and heavy metal accumulation under the stress of heavy metal tailings; therefore, it is a good candidate for tailings remediation in the Jinchang desert mining area.
Predictive Factors of Acute Complicated Appendicitis: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Hiroi Sawako , Hamaoka Michinori , Miguchi Masashi , Misumi Toshihiro , Yamamoto Yuji , Ikeda Satoshi , Matsugu Yasuhiro , Nakahara Hideki , Itamoto Toshiyuki
Published: September 2021

Background: Complicated appendicitis is an indication for emergency surgery. Therefore, the predictive factors for appendicitis based on the patient background needs identification. Previously, factors predicting non-complicated and complicated appendicitis were reported. However, most of those reports were deemed unsuitable as a standard for emergency use, since those comprised too many items as predictors. We previously reported three items that preoperatively predicted complicated appendicitis (body temperature, C-reactive protein, and fluid retention around the appendix). In this study, we re-evaluated different cases to confirm the usefulness of these three items can for accurately predicting complicated appendicitis preoperatively. In addition, we compared the effectiveness of these predictor items with those reported by other researchers.Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 417 adult patients who underwent surgery for acute appendicitis between January 2013 and December 2019, and compared our predictor items with those used in previous reports on the preoperative prediction of complicated appendicitis (criteria A consisting of eight predictor items and criteria B consisting of seven predictor items). Results: The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) for the sensitivity to diagnose complicated appendicitis according to our criteria, criteria A, and criteria B were 0.823, 0.839, and 0.856, respectively. The AUC of our criteria and criteria A were similar (P = 0.356); those of criteria A and B were also similar (P = 0.352). However, the AUC of criteria B was statistically higher than that of our criteria (P < 0.05).Conclusion: Diagnostic criteria B were statistically the best predictor items for characterizing complicated and uncomplicated appendicitis. However, like criteria A and B, the AUC of our criteria exceeded 0.8, and only involved three predictor items; therefore, they can be considered useful predictors.
Phosphohistone H3 Immunohistochemical Labeling: a Potentially Useful Tool for Risk Stratification and Prognostic Analysis in Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors.
Authors: Li Xiaohong , Zhang Yutao , Li Feng , Tang Yun , Zhou Hongyuan
Published: September 2021

BackgroundIt is well recognized that risk stratification of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) is closely related to tumor size, mitotic index (MI), and primary location. Among these three parameters, tumor size and primary location are easily established, while MI is subjective and its repeatability is poor. It is thus necessary to identify a biomarker to represent the true MI. Expression status and biological or prognostic significance of mitotic marker phosphohistone H3 (PHH3) and cell proliferation marker Ki67 in GIST have not been clearly understood until now. MethodsAn immunohistochemistry experiment was performed to detect the expression status of PHH3 and Ki67 in 125 paraffin-embedded GIST samples. All of the patients were followed up until September 30, 2019. ResultsThe MI determined using stained hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) sections (MI-H&E) and immunohistochemically positive PHH3 index (PHH3-IHC) was compared among groups of different genders, ages, primary locations, and histological subtypes, showing that the difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05). MI-H&E and the immunohistochemically positive Ki67 index were positively correlated (r=0.273, P=0.001), but the correlation was lower than that with the PHH3-positive index (r=0.705, P=0.000). The PHH3-positive index was also positively correlated with the Ki67 index (r=0.224, P=0.006). MI-H&E were positively correlated with MI quantified using immunohistochemically stained PHH3 sections (MI-PHH3) (P<0.05). After using PHH3 to perform MI quantification, the risk stratification of five GIST cases was changed, where two cases were given a higher risk grade and three cases were given a lower risk grade. Follow-up data were obtained from 98 cases (98/125, 78.4%), including two cases of metastasis and one death. Both metastatic and death cases had high MI-H&E. One metastatic case and one death case had high PHH3-positive indexes, while the remaining metastatic case had a low PHH3-positive index. ConclusionImmunohistochemical PHH3 labeling is a potentially useful tool for risk stratification and prognostic analysis in GIST. Using immunohistochemical PHH3 labeling makes it more convenient for pathologists to determine the MI for GIST. MI quantification with immunohistochemical PHH3 sections can be used as an adjunct tool for risk stratification and prognostic analysis of GIST, but cannot completely replace MI quantification using stained H&E sections. The Ki67 index is positively correlated with MI-H&E, although the efficiency of tumor risk stratification is lower than that of PHH3.
Nuclear Respiratory Factor 1 Promotes The Growth of Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells Via E2F1 Transcriptional Activation
Authors: Wang Dan , Wan Baolan , Zhang Xiaojing , Sun Pingping , Lu Shu , Liu Chenxu , Zhu Li
Published: September 2021

Background Recent studies have shown that functional mitochondria are essential for cancer cells. Nuclear respiratory factor 1 (NRF1) is a transcription factor that activates mitochondrial biogenesis and the expression of the respiratory chain, but little is known about its role and underlying mechanism in liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC). Methods NRF1 expression was analyzed via public databases and 24 paired LIHC samples. Clinical-pathological information and follow-up data were collected from 165 patients with LIHC or online datasets. Furthermore, cellular proliferation and the cell cycle were analyzed by MTT, Clone-forming assay and flow cytometric analyses. NRF1 target genes were analyzed by Chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-Seq). PCR and WB analysis was performed to detect the expression of related genes. ChIP and luciferase activity assays were used to identify NRF1 binding sites.Results Our results showed that NRF1 expression was upregulated in LIHC compared to normal tissues. NRF1 expression was associated with tumour size and poor prognosis in patients. Knockdown of NRF1 repressed cell proliferation, and overexpression of NRF1 accelerated the G1/S phase transition. Additionally, data from ChIP-seq pointed out that some NRF1 target genes are involved in the cell cycle. Our findings indicated that NRF1 directly binds to the E2F1 promoter as a transcription factor and regulates its gene expression. Conclusion Therefore, this study revealed that NRF1 promotes cancer cell growth via the indirect transcriptional activation of E2F1 and is a potential biomarker in LIHC.
Effect of Cerebrospinal Fluid Area Mask Correction on 123I-FP-CIT SPECT Images in Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus
Authors: Ohba Makoto , Kobayashi Ryota , Iseki Chifumi , Kirii Kazukuni , Morioka Daichi , Otani Koichi , Ohta Yasuyuki , Sonoda Yukihiko , Suzuki Koji , Kanoto Masafumi
Published: September 2021

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) mask correction has been developed to reduce the influence by CSF area dilatation for 123I-FP-CIT accumulation. In this study, we assessed the effect of CSF mask correction on the specific binding ratio (SBR) for 25 patients with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH). The SBRs with and without CSF mask correction were calculated, and changes in quantitative values were verified. Additionally, the volume removed from striatal and background (BG) volume of interest (VOI) by the CSF mask correction was calculated, the volumes removed were compared to verify their effect on SBR. Twenty and five patients had low and high SBRs, respectively, after CSF mask correction. The images of 20 and 5 patients with SBRs that were decreased and increased, respectively, by CSF mask correction showed that the volumes removed from the BG region VOI were higher and lower, respectively, than those in the striatal region. In conclusion, the SBR before and after CSF mask correction was associated with the ratio of the volume removed from the striatal and BG VOIs, and the SBR was high or low according to the ratio. The results may indicate that CSF mask correction is effective in patients with iNPH. This study was registered in the UMIN Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN-CTR) as UMIN study ID: UMIN000044826.
Effect of N-acyl-homoserine lactones（AHL) on biogenic amine formation by Pantoea agglomerans
Authors: Lu Jing , Li Ziqin , Yang Hui , Zhang Qiang , Jia wenting
Published: September 2021

The effect of N-acyl-homoserine lactone (AHL)-based quorum sensing (QS) on biogenic amine (BA) formation by Pantoea agglomerans was studied. Agrobacterium tumefaciens A136 and KYC55-based bioassays confirmed AHLs production by Pantoea agglomerans. The production ability of AHLs was quantified on the basis of β-galactosidase activity. The influence of temperature (10°C and 20°C) and pH (5.5 and 6.5) on β-galactosidase activity and BAs production by Pantoea agglomerans was determined. Acidification of the environment adversely affected the growth and β-galactosidase activity of Pantoea agglomerans, and AHLs production and BAs accumulation by Pantoea agglomerans was inhibited at low temperature. A significant correlation between β-galactosidase activity and BAs (putrescine, histamine, putrescine and tryptamine) was identified (P < 0.01). Based on the results of this study, the AHL-based QS system influences the concentrations and types of BAs produced by Pantoea agglomerans.
Opinions About the Most Appropriate Surgical Management of Diabetes-Related Foot Infection: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Seng Leonard , Drovandi Aaron , Fernando Malindu E , Golledge Jonathan
Published: September 2021

Background: There is a lack of high quality evidence to guide the optimal management of diabetes-related foot infection, particularly in severe cases of diabetes-related foot infection and diabetes-related foot osteomyelitis. This study examined the opinions of surgeons about the best management of severe diabetes-related foot infection. Methods: Vascular and orthopaedic surgeons in Australia and New Zealand were invited to complete an online survey via email. The survey included multi-choice and open-ended questions on clinical management of diabetes-related foot infection. Responses of vascular surgeons and orthopaedic surgeons were compared using non-parametric statistical tests. Open-text responses were examined using inductive content analysis. Results: 29 vascular and 20 orthopaedic surgeons completed the survey. One-third (28.6%) used best-practice guidelines to assist in decisions about foot infection management. Areas for guideline improvement identified included more specific advice regarding the indications for available treatments, more information about the overall non-surgical patient management and advice on how management can be varied in regions with limited health service resource. The probe-to-bone test and magnetic resonance imaging were the preferred methods of diagnosing osteomyelitis. Approximately half (51.2%) of respondents indicated piperacillin combined with Tazobactam as the preferred antibiotic choice for empirical treatment of severe diabetes-related foot infection. Negative pressure wound therapy was the most common way of managing a wound following debridement. All vascular surgeons (100%) made revascularisation decisions based the severity of ischemia while most orthopaedic surgeons (66.7%) were likely to refer to vascular surgeons to make revascularisation decisions. Vascular surgeons preferred using wound swabs while orthopaedic surgeons favoured tissue or bone biopsies to determine the choice of antibiotic. Respondents perceived a moderate variation in management decisions between specialists and supported the need for further trials to test different management pathways. Conclusions: Most vascular and orthopaedic surgeons do not use best-practice guidelines to assist in decisions about management of diabetes-related foot infection. Vascular and orthopaedic surgeons appear to have different preferences for wound sampling to determine choice of antibiotic. There is a need to advance available evidence supporting different treatments and the related guidelines for the surgical managing of diabetes-related foot infection.
3C based DNA hybridization method for chromosomal translocation screening
Authors: Absalan Moloud , Jabbarpour Zahra , Ghahremani Mohammad Hossein , Motevaseli Elahe , Mahmoudian Fatemeh , Karimi Roya , Tavoosidana Gholamreza
Published: September 2021

Background

DNA probes have been widely used as diagnostic tools for chromosomal translocations in malignancies. PCR-based methods often fail to detect translocations such as MYC/TRD in chronic lymphocytic leukemia. In addition, microscopic techniques cannot be helpful due to size detection limitations. This study sought to design a screening tool using immobilized ssDNA probes on a nitrocellulose membrane followed by 3C library fragments hybridization.
Results

Hence, we focused on developing a suitable 27 bp specific probe for the juxtaposed region of MYC and TRD. Colloidal gold nanoparticles (AuNP) functionalized translocation fragments of the MYC gene with a thiol group (MYC-AuNP-probe). Then TRD-probes were immobilized on nitrocellulose surface to detect TRD/MYC translocation in the SKW3 cells. Hybridization between DNA probes and 3C-library fragments of SKW3 cells was determined by color intensity. Optimal hybridization of the 3C library sample of the cell line to TRD-probe and MYC-AuNP-probe showed higher color intensity due to their convenient proximity to the juxtaposed region compare with normal cells.
Conclusions

Our results demonstrated that DNA hybridization colorimetric assay could be a helpful technique in chromosomal rearrangements screening. Accordingly, the combination of 3C based techniques and DNA-DNA hybridization can identify cancer cells with high specificity and sensitivity.
Fibrinogen, a Promising Marker to Evaluate Severity and Prognosis of Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Retrospective Observational Study.
Authors: Sun Wei , Cao Zhixin , Ma Yingmin , Wang Jing , Zhang Liming , Luo Zujin
Published: September 2021

Background: Fibrinogen is increasingly studied as an inflammatory biomarker in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and there are limited data about the role of fibrinogen to assess the severity of acute exacerbation of COPD. This study aimed to explore whether circulating fibrinogen could be used as a surrogate to measure the severity and predict the prognosis of acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD).Methods: A total of 523 AECOPD patients diagnosed at our center from January 2016 to June 2021 were retrospectively enrolled in this study. Electronic medical record of each patient was retrieved to collect data regarding baseline characteristics and laboratory parameters, as well as the use of noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) and patients’ prognosis. Multiple linear regression analyses were used to identify the independent factors that associated with fibrinogen values. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve and multivariate logistic regression analysis were applied to further verify the use of fibrinogen to predict NPPV failure. Results: Compared to patients with low levels of fibrinogen (≤3.5g/L), patients with increased fibrinogen levels (>3.5g/L) were associated with increased CRP expression, leukocyte, neutrophil counts and more frequent antibiotics use. In addition, the average fibrinogen level among patients with NPPV failure was significantly increased compared to non-NPPV patients and NPPV success patients. The presence of emphysema, pneumonia, history of long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT) and the CRP value were independent risk factors associated with increased fibrinogen levels in AECOPD. Furthermore, our data indicated that fibrinogen could be considered as an reliable biomarker to predict NPPV failure (AUC, 0.890; 95% CI 0.832–0.947) with an odds ratio of 6.1 (95% CI, 1.86-19.98; P=0.03). Conclusions: The level of fibrinogen could be used as a surrogate to measure severity, and among AECOPD patients who required NPPV, higher fibrinogen could independently predict NPPV failure.
Comparative Actualistic Study Hints at Origins of Intriguing Miocene “Coprolites” of Poland
Authors: Brachaniec Tomasz , Środek Dorota , Surmik Dawid , Niedźwiedzki Robert , Georgalis Georgios L. , Płachno Bartosz J. , Duda Piotr , Lukeneder Alexander , Gorzelak Przemysław , Salamon Mariusz A.
Published: September 2021

Excrement-shaped siderite masses have been the subject of much controversy. They have been variously interpreted either as being coprolites, cololites or pseudofossils created by mechanical deformation of plastic sediment. Here we report excrement-shaped ferruginous masses recovered from the Miocene of the Turów mine in south-western Poland.
Mineralogical, geochemical, petrographic and microtomographical analyses indicate that these masses consist of siderite and iron oxide rather than phosphate, and rarely contain recognizable food residues, which may suggest abiotic origins of these structures. On the other hand, evidence in support of a faecal origin include: (i) the presence of two distinct morphotypes differing in size and shape, (ii) the limited quantity of specimens, (iii) the presence of rare hair-like structures or coalified inclusions and (iv) the presence of fine striations on the surface. Importantly, comparative actualistic studies of Recent vertebrate feces show overall resemblance of the first morphotype (sausage-shaped with rare coalified debris) to excrements of testudinoid turtles (Testudinoidea), whose shell fragment was found in the investigated locality. The second morphotype (rounded to oval-shaped with hair-like structures), in turn, is similar to the feces of some snakes (Serpentes), the remains of which were noted in the Miocene of the neighborhood areas.
Transcriptome and proteomics analysis revealed key genes in rabbit skeletal muscle after weight loss
Authors: Wang Jie , Li YanHong , Elzo Mauricio A. , Xia Siqi , Fan Huimei , Tang Tao , Shao Jiahao , Jia Xianbo , Chen Shiyi , Lai Songjia
Published: September 2021

Skeletal muscle is one of the important organs of energy metabolism and is closely related to insulin secretion. Its metabolic characteristics have a major influence on fat distribution in various body tissues. However, rabbit skeletal muscle has lower intramuscular fat content, and its metabolic mechanism is still unclear. We investigated skeletal muscle growth and metabolic differences among rabbits using a comparative multi-omics approach after a 14-day weight loss by a restricted diet. Rabbit body weight and perirenal fat were significantly reduced after the weight loss. Transcriptomics data revealed 917 differentially expressed genes in skeletal muscle primarily enriched in the FOXO signaling, Glutathione metabolism, and AMPK signaling pathways. Proteomics data found 127 differential proteins concentrated in protein metabolism and immunoinflammatory pathways. Conbined analysis demonstrated that eight genes (ATP2A2, PDLIM3, GPX7, FKBP5, MYL3, COL5A2, UCHL1, and COL3A1) were strongly correlated at the transcriptional and translational levels. These results provide a good reference for further revealing the mechanism of skeletal muscle metabolism in rabbits.
Comparative Analysis of Whole Blood Ionised Calcium, Lactate and Chloride Concentrations by Gem Premier 3000 and Edan I15 Vet and the Effect of Parity and Postpartum Blood Collection Time on Blood Calcium Status in Holstein With and Without Subclinical Hypocalcemia - Part 1
Authors: Deniz Abdulkerim , AKSOY Kemal , Metin Mert , Pekmezci Aytaç
Published: September 2021

Lactating Holstein (n=125) were enrolled randomly for the coccygeal whole blood analysis by blood gas devices GEM Premier 3000 (GEM) and Edan i15 Vet (EDAN) between calving to postpartum day 3 (G1) and postpartum day 4 to 27 (G2). Blood pH, ionised calcium (ICA7.4) and lactate analysis were significantly correlated between GEM and EDAN (r=0.86, 0.94, 0.87 respectively). The bias for ICA7.4, lactate and pH analysis was -0.054, -0.344 mmol/L and +0.009 respectively. ICA7.4 was correlated negatively with parity and chloride, but positively with lactate. The averages of ICA7.4 and serum total calcium (TC) was significantly lower in G1 than G2. Chloride and lactate were significantly higher in G1 than G2. Subclinical hypocalcemia prevalence (SCH) (serum TC<2.15 mmol/L, as reference) was 52.9% in G1 and 21.1% in G2. Cows with SCH had frequently over 50% ICA7.4/TC ratio. Sensitivity analysis provided a sensitivity of 57.4% for ICA7.4 cut-points of 1.02 (GEM) and 1.05 (EDAN) mmol/L to detect SCH based on reference serum TC. Primiparous (PRP) with and without SCH in G1 had significantly higher ICA7.4 than multiparous (MUL). Cows with SCH had significantly higher chloride in G1 than G2. MUL had significantly higher lactate and chloride in G1 than G2. Conclusively, ICA7.4 and pH analysis between GEM and EDAN were correlated well with acceptable biases, but high differences occurred in lactate analysis. MUL was at risk in G1 due to lower ICA7.4 and TC over PRP. Higher ICA7.4 of PRP can reduce the risk and frequency of clinical hypocalcemia. SCH correlated negatively with Cl concentration in G1, but not lactate.
The Plasma Proteome
Authors: Chen Zhuo Zhen , Wang Wei-Cheih , Johnson Lloyd , Dufresne Jaimie , Bowden Peter , Trahtemberg Uriel , DosSantos Claudia , Ho Hsin-Yu , Ho Ja-An , Hsu Cheng-Chih Richard , Marshall John
Published: September 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Machine-learning analysis for discriminating radial pulse-waveform quality by applying different contact pressures
Authors: OuYoung Te , Weng Wan-Ling , Hu Ting-Yu , Lee Chia-Chien , Wu Li-Wei , Hsiu Hsin
Published: September 2021

Pulse measurements made using wearable devices can aid the monitoring of the human physiological condition. However, accurate estimation of waveforms is often difficult for nonexperts and motion artifacts may occur during tonometry measurements when the skin-sensor contact pressure is insufficient. An alternative approach is to extract only high-quality pulses for use in index calculations. The present study aimed to determine the effectiveness of using machine-learning analysis in discriminating between high-quality and low-quality pulse waveforms induced by applying different contact pressures. Radial blood pressure waveform (BPW) signals were measured noninvasively in healthy young subjects using a strain-gauge transducer. One-minute-long trains of pulse data were measured when applying the appropriate contact pressure (67.80±1.55 mmHg) and a higher contact pressure (151.80±3.19 mmHg). Eight machine-learning algorithms were employed to evaluate the following 40 harmonic pulse indices: amplitude proportions and their coefficients of variation, and phase angles and their standard deviations. Significant differences were noted in BPW indices between applying appropriate and higher skin-surface contact pressures. The present appropriate contact pressure could not only provide a suitable holding force for the wearable device, but also helped to maintain the physiological stability of the underlying tissues. Machine-learning analysis provides an effective method for distinguishing between the high-quality and low-quality pulses with excellent discrimination performance (leave-one-out test: random-forest AUC=0.96). This approach will aid the development of an automatic screening method for waveform quality, and thereby improve the reliability of pulse waveforms acquired by wearable devices. The effects of other possible interfering factors in practical wearable applications can also be systematically studied using a similar procedure.
Mechanical properties and acoustic emission characteristics of coal samples with different fissure angle
Authors: Gu Xuebin , Zhao Tongbin , Guo Weiyao , Gong Xufei , Zhao Yongqiang , Chen Yang , Xu Ninghui
Published: September 2021

To study the influence of fissure angle on the failure mechanism of coal mass, uniaxial compression tests were conducted on coal specimens with different fissure angles. The failure process and acoustic emission characteristics during loading were obtained. The mechanical properties and failure mode were further analyzed. The results showed that (1) The stress-strain behavior of specimens with different fissure angles can be divided into four typical stages, compaction, elastic deformation, crack growth and propagation, and strain-softening. The existence of pre-existing fissures reduces the duration of the elastic stage with an obvious influence on the crack growth and propagation stage, and strain-softening stage. (2) The uniaxial compressive strength, elastic modulus of the specimens containing pre-existing fissure are all lower than those of the unfissured. The strength and elastic modulus do not change significantly with fissure angle, which is closely related to the primary fracture of the coal. (3) With the increase of the fissure angle, the crack initiation location moves from the center of the pre-existing fissure to the tip. While fissure angle has no obvious effect on the crack propagation direction, the cracks develop along the loading direction. (4) The AE characteristics can be divided into three typical periods, quiet period, active period, and remission period. With the increase of the fissure angle, the duration proportion of the quiet period increases, indicating that the energy storage time of coal increases. With the increase of the fissure angle, the occurrence time of low frequency and high energy signal is delayed, indicating that the large-size rupture gradually concentrates in the late loading period. (5) Compared with rock samples containing pre-existing fissure, coal specimens have more primary fractures, and the failure mechanism of coal is dominated by the non-uniform primary fractures.
Bilateral Helicoid Peri-papillary Sub-retinal Fibrosis Due to a Biallelic NR2E3 Mutation: Describing Variable Expressivity of a Single Genetic Mutation
Authors: Hassanpoor Narges , Ebrahimiadib Nazanin , Riazi-Esfahani Hamid , Moghaddasi Afrooz , Suri Fatemeh
Published: September 2021

Background: To describe different clinical presentations of NR2E3 (nuclear receptor subfamily 2, group E, member 3; OMIM 604485) recessive mutation in two families and within one family. Design: Interventional family study. Results: Our first case was a one-year-old male child with high hyperopia and refractive accommodative esotropia. In retinal examination, peri-papillary sub-retinal fibrosis with a helicoid configuration was observed in both eyes. Parents and the only sibling had no pathologic finding in the eyes. The child showed to have severely reduced responses in both photopic and scotopic electroretinogram components. In genetic investigation, a homozygous autosomal recessive mutation in NR2E3 gene was discovered in the affected child, while the other family members were heterozygous for this mutation. We followed up the patient for 3 years and no new lesion developed during this time period. The second case was a 13-year-old male child who was referred to retina clinic for decreased vision in the right eye. In retina examination, there were nummular pigmentary changes at the level of retinal pigment epithelium and along the vascular arcades with foveo-schitic changes in both eyes. A choroidal neovascularization (CNV) was noticed in macula of his right eye. Genetic evaluation proved the same mutation in NR2E3 gene. Family history was remarkable for an uncle, an aunt and two cousins with night blindness. In retina examination, asymptomatic father of proband showed to have slight pallor of optic nerve head and arterial narrowing in both eyes. Conclusion: NR2E3 gene mutation can cause heterogeneous clinical manifestations such as slight retinal changes in the absence of any visual symptoms to high hyperopia associated with helicoid peri-papillary sub-retinal fibrosis.
Angiotensin Receptor Blocker is Associated with A Lower Fracture Risk: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wu Jing , Du Xin-Yi , Guo Man , Wang Mei , Tan Xiao-Zhen , Teng Fang-Yuan , Xu Yong
Published: September 2021

Background

The angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) and angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) are prevalently used in the treatment of hypertension. Hypertension often presents with osteoporosis. However, over the past decade, it has been unclear whether long-term use of ACEI/ARB reduces fracture risk. This meta-analysis aims to investigate the potential clinical effects of ACEI/ARB on osteoporosis fracture (OF).
Methods

This meta-analysis was identified through PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. Related studies about ACEI/ARB with the risk of fracture were published from inception to September, 2021.
Results

Nine qualified prospective designed studies, involving 3,649,785 subjects, were included in this analysis. Overall, the RR of ACEI compared with the non-users were 0.98 (95% CI: 0.88, 1.10; P < 0.001) for composite fractures and 0.96 (95% CI: 0.87, 1.05; P = 0.048) for hip fractures; the RR of ARB compared to the non-users were 0.82 (95% CI: 0.73, 0.91; P < 0.001) for composite fractures and 0.85 (95% CI: 0.74, 0.97; P = 0.028) for hip fractures. Furthermore, in the subgroup analysis, male may benefit from ARB (RR = 0.65, 95% CI 0.49, 0.89, P = 0.028), and the European may also benefit from ARB (RR = 0.86, 95% CI 0.80, 0.93, P = 0.015).
Conclusions

ACEI usage will not decrease the risk of osteoporosis fracture. On the contrary, ARB usage can decrease the risk of total fracture and hip fracture, especially for the male and European. Compared with ACEI, for patients at higher risk of fracture in cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, the protective effect of ARB should be considered.
Multiband and Low-Profile Frequency Reconfigurable Microstrip Patch Antenna Design Using Single PIN diode for WiFi/GPS applications
Authors: Patel Shobhit K. , khalifa sana ben , chebaane saleh , Lavadiya Sunil , Parmar Yagnesh , Parmar Juveriya
Published: September 2021

The novel and simple approach for achieving frequency tunability is presented. The frequency tunability is achieved using a single PIN diode. PIN diode located on the upper side of the structure to reduces the biasing complexity. The superstrate structure along with the corner truncation helps for enhancing the performance parameters, as well the location of feed and slot of the patch is varied for locating best performing points. This design provides the multiband frequency tunability behavior with the maximum frequency tunability of 100 MHz. The design provides the minimum reflectance coefficient of -22.56 dB, the directivity of 6.98 dB, the total gain of 3.683 dB, normalized directivity of 88 0 using the low profile (FR-4) substrate which helps for the cost reduction and mass production. The simulation is carried out using the HFSS tool. The fabrication of the proposed design is also presented. This design suitable for Wifi, GPS, and many more wireless communication applications.
Strain-mediated Ferromagnetism and Low-field Magnetic Reversal in Co Doped Monolayer W S2
Authors: Jena Anjan Kumar , Mallik Sameer Kumar , Sahu Mousam Charan , Sahoo Sandhyarani , Sahoo Ajit Kumar , Sharma Neha Kapila , Mohanty J. , Gupta Sanjeev K. , Ahuja Rajeev , Sahoo Satyaprakash
Published: September 2021

Strain-mediated magnetism in 2D materials and dilute magnetic semiconductors hold multi-functional applications for future nano-electronics. Herein, First principles calculations are employed to study the influence of biaxial strain on the magnetic properties of Co-doped monolayer W S2. The non-magnetic W S2 shows ferromagnetic signature upon Co doping due to spin polarization, which is further improved at low compressive (-2 %) and tensile (+2 %) strains. From the PDOS and spin density analysis, the opposite magnetic ordering is found to be favourable under the application of compressive and tensile strains. The double exchange interaction and p-d hybridization mechanisms make Co-doped W S2 a potential host for magnetism. More importantly, the competition between exchange and crystal field splittings, i.e. (∆ ex > ∆ c f s), of the Co-atom play pivotal roles in deciding the values of the magnetic moments under applied strain. Micromagnetic simulation reveals, the ferromagnetic behavior calculated from DFT exhibits low-field magnetic reversal (190 Oe). Moreover, the spins of Co-doped W S2 are slightly tilted from the easy axis orientations showing slanted ferromagnetic hysteresis loop. The ferromagnetic nature of Co-doped W S2 suppresses beyond ±2 % strain, which is reflected in terms of decrease in the coercivity in the micromagnetic simulation. The understanding of low-field magnetic reversal and spin orientations in Co-doped W S2 may pave the way for next-generation spintronics and straintronics applications.
Synthesis and Characterization of Functionalized Hafnium Oxide Nanoparticles for Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: M Jayavel , J Venkatachalam , N RAMALAKSHMI , A SIVASANKARAN
Published: September 2021

Functionalized metal oxide electrode material plays an important role in the energy application of the supercapacitor. In this work, the comparative study of super-capacitance performance of hafnium oxide (HfO2) and sulfonated hafnium oxide (S-HfO2) nanomaterials is reported. The HfO2 nanoparticles were synthesized by the precipitation method. Subsequently, the prepared HfO2 nanoparticles were functionalized using sulfuric acid (H2SO4). Further, the synthesized nanoparticles were characterized and confirmed by X-Ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, High-resolution transmission electron microscope (HR-TEM), Field-Emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-Ray spectroscopy (EDS) techniques. The electrochemical properties and ion transfer characteristics of the supercapacitor were investigated by the cyclic voltammeter (CV) and galvanostatic charge-discharge (GCD) experiments. Moreover, the internal resistances of the material (HfO2 and S-HfO2) were analysed using Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy
Flood Susceptibility Prediction Using Hybrid-Based Approaches of Support Vector Regression Model and Meta-Heuristic Algorithms
Authors: Sorajar Hossein Hamedi , Alesheikh Ali Asghar , Panahi Mahdi , Lee Saro
Published: September 2021

Landslides are one of the most destructive natural phenomena in the world, which occur mostly in mountainous areas and cause damage to the economic sectors, agricultural lands, residential areas and infrastructures of any country, and also threaten the lives and property of human beings. Therefore, landslide susceptibility mapping (LSM) can play a critical role in identifying prone areas and reducing the damage caused by landslides in each area. In the present study, deep learning algorithms including convolutional neural network (CNN) and long short-term memory (LSTM) were used to identify landslide prone areas in Ardabil province, Iran. Equql to 312 landslide locations were identified and randomly divided into train and test datasets at 70–30% ratios. Then, according to previous studies and environmental conditions in the study area, twelve factors affecting the occurrence of landslides were selected, namely altitude, slope angle, slope aspect, topographic wetness index (TWI), profile curvature, plan curvature, land-use, lithology, distance to faults, distance to rivers, distance to roads, and rainfall. The ratio of the importance of each influential factor in landslide occurrence was obtained through information gain ranking filter (IGRF) method and it was found that land-use and profile curvature had the highest and lowest impacts, respectively. Afterwards, LSMs were generated using CNN and LSTM algorithms. In the next step, the performance of the models was evaluated based on the area under curve (AUC) value of receiver operating characteristics curve and the root mean square error (RMSE) method. The AUC values for CNN and LSTM models were 0.821 and 0.832, respectively. Furthermore, the RMSE values in the CNN model for each of the training and testing dataset were 0.121 and 0.132, respectively. The RMSE values in the LSTM model for each of the training and testing dataset were 0.185 and 0.188, respectively. Therefore, it can be concluded that CNN performance is slightly better than LSTM; but in general, both models have close performance and the accuracy of both models is acceptable.