bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sex Differences In The Mortality Of Hospitalized Patients With COVID-19 And Non-ICU Policies In The Netherlands
Authors: Freytag Astrid , Hoogerwerf Jacobien , Dofferhoff Anton S.M. , Janssen Nico , Blaauw Marc , Hassing Robert-Jan , Apeldoorn Marjan van , Kerckhoffs Angèle , Veerman Karin , de Maat Josephine van , Oertelt-Prigione Sabine
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Several international studies have reported sex differences in COVID-19 mortality. The Dutch healthcare system is characterized by as strong focus on primary care and active patient participation in medical choices, such as invasive therapies. This study aims at identifying potential sex-specific predictors of in-hospital mortality and non-ICU policy in patients with COVID-19. Methods: In this observational cohort study, we included participants hospitalized with COVID-19 during the first wave (March-May 2020) of the pandemic in six regional hospitals in the Netherlands. We computed descriptive statistics and logistic regression models using sex-disaggregated data to identify predictors of in-hospital mortality. Followingly, we analyzed the clinical features of female and male COVID-19 patients who had a non-ICU policy.Results: We included 1262 patients (63.7% men) in this study. Higher age, higher LDH level, lower diastolic blood pressure, and lower peripheral oxygen saturation were associated with in-hospital mortality in female and male patients. Shorter symptom duration before admission and more comorbidities associated with in-hospital mortality only in female patients. 33.8% of the female and 30.6% of the male patients had a non-ICU policy. We identified a significant rise in this policy in female patients over the course of the first wave compared to males, which could not be explained solely by age and clinical differences. Discussion: Potential sex differences in symptom development and the sex-specific impact of immune dysfunction on COVID-19 prognosis need further evaluation. Sex differences in ICU care preferences of these patients should be examined to identify underlying gender-related patterns.
Impacts of Illegal Urbanization on Fire Crash Hazards: A Case Study of Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Md Saiful , ŞAHİN Ali
Published: February 2022

The study discusses the illegal urbanization and unfortunate fire crash hazards in different parts of Dhaka city. The security and safety of the city’s people and their entire economy’s wheel will inevitably come to a halt, even when the crisis remains the same in a particular phase. Thus, Dhaka city’s infrastructure, as well as the country’s economy, will be threatened. The quantitative method was adopted, and data was collected via an online questionnaire survey and existing published sources, official records, and survey reports. The Ordinal Logistic Regression (OLR) analysis revealed fire crash hazards in Dhaka due to illegal urbanization. Some disappointing factors of urbanization have been identified that are responsible for fire crash hazards in Dhaka city. The study results also detect that fire crash hazards have a high economic effect. For this reason, policymakers, city planners, and politicians need to search for solutions to these fire crash hazards. Requiring sustainable directions and urban progress of Dhaka city, the study outcomes come up with several relatable strategy policies and initiatives embedded at the end of the research.
SQLE inhibition suppresses the development of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and enhances its sensitivity to chemotherapeutic agents in vitro
Authors: Zhao Fengyun , Huang Yanni , Zhang Yinheng , Li Xun , Chen Caizhao , Long Yihao , Li Fugui , Ma Xiaodong
Published: February 2022

PurposeIn this study, we sought to explore the function of seven important enzymes(MSMO1, EBP, HMGCS1, IDI2, DHCR7, FDFT1, and SQLE) involved in cholesterol biosynthesis especially SQLE in PDAC therapy. Methods and results The TCGA and Oncomine dataset were used to explore the expression of the seven enzymes in normal and cancerous pancreatic individual, and their anti-proliferation efficiency against PDAC cells was measured by cell viability assay. Expression level and prognostic values of SQLE were evaluated by western blot and Kaplan-Meier analysis. The influence of SQLE knockdown by shRNA in PDAC cells was assessed by Transwell, colony formation and cell cycle analysis. RNA-seq and GSEA were utilized to investigate the potential mechanisms. The synergistic effect of SQLE inhibitor, terbinafine, combined with six chemotherapeutic drugs in PDAC cells was tested by CCK-8 method. We demonstrated that downregulation of those enzymes especially SQLE significantly suppressed PDAC cells survival. SQLE was upregulated in PDAC cell lines, and the elevated level of SQLE is correlated with poor prognosis in pancreatic cancer samples. SQLE knockdown could significantly inhibit the proliferation and migration of PDAC cells. Cell cycle was blocked in S phase after SQLE silencing. Mechanistically, GSEA analysis with RNA-seq data revealed that SQLE silencing negatively mediated mTORC1 and TNFα/NF-κB signaling pathways. Besides, SQLE inhibitor terbinafine enhanced chemotherapeutic sensitivity of the six compounds. Conclusions﻿This study demonstrated that SQLE is a novel target for PDAC therapy. The synergism role of SQLE inhibition and chemotherapy may be potential therapeutic strategies for pancreatic cancer treatment.
Prediction Of The Influence Of Cutting Conditions On Surface Morphology After Its Thermal Spraying With Stellite 6 Alloy
Authors: Řehoř Jan , Gombár Miroslav , Harničárová Marta , Kušnerová Milena , Houdková-Šimůnková Šárka , Valíček Jan , Fulemová Jaroslava , Vagaská Alena
Published: February 2022

The presented paper is devoted to the basic influences of the cutting conditions on the basic parameters of the roughness of the surface machined by longitudinal turning; the investigated surface was before the machining modified by the technology of thermal spraying. High-speed Oxy-Fuel (HVOF) thermal sprays, in particular, Stellite 6 sprays based on Cobalt and Chromium alloy, are widely used in the industry thanks to their excellent mechanical properties, wear resistance, corrosion resistance and good temperature stability in comparison with steel for example. From experimental results in the specified range of cutting speeds, feeds and cutting depths, new predictive models of roughness parameters were compiled using mathematical and statistical methods, followed by application of neural networks in order to confirm the obtained conclusions. Research results have proved that feed turning technology is a suitable technology for machining coatings generated by Stellite 6 alloy thermal sprays in such user cases where additional surface treatment is required for specific reasons.
Calculation method of static carrying curve for double-row different-diameter ball slewing bearing
Authors: Li Yunfeng , Wang Rundong , Li Jincheng
Published: February 2022

The calculation method of the static carrying curve of the double-row different-diameter ball slewing bearing was proposed. The relationship between the internal maximum rolling element load of each row and the external load combination of the slewing bearing was established by using the deformation compatibility conditions and the force equilibrium conditions. Using the rolling element load distribution range parameter of the main raceway and the auxiliary raceway of the double-row different-diameter ball slewing bearing respectively as input invariable, the corresponding external load combinations of axial load and tilting moment load of the slewing bearing were obtained. These external load combinations were plotted in the coordinate system to obtain the static carrying curve of the slewing bearing. The obtained static carrying curve was compared with that calculated by the finite element method for the verification purpose. Finally, influence laws of the detailed design parameters, such as raceway groove radius coefficient, raceway contact angle and rolling element diameter on the carrying capacity of the double-row different-diameter ball slewing bearing were analyzed by using the carrying curves. The results show that decreasing of raceway groove radius coefficient, increasing of rolling element diameter or increasing of raceway contact angle appropriately is advantageous for enhancing the carrying capacity of the double-row different-diameter ball slewing bearing.
Modeling Streamflow and Sediment Yield with Determination of Soil Erosion Prone Areas by Using the SWAT Model
Authors: KARAKOYUN ERKAN , Kaya Nihat
Published: February 2022

In this study, the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) was used to estimate the streamflow, sediment yield, and the identification of soil erosion prone areas at the sub-watershed scale to enrich the water management practices. The upper part of the Euphrates-Tigris basin called as Murat River basin was selected as a study area. Nash-Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE), coefficient of determination (R2), and percent bias (PBIAS) were used for the assessment of the model performance with the observed data at two gage stations located on the watershed, E21A074, and E21A077. The Modified Universal Soil Loss Equation was used in the SWAT model in order to predict sediment yield and soil erosion. Sediment Delivery Ratio was also computed to identify its relationship with sediment yield at the sub-watershed scale. NSE, R2, and PBIAS for monthly streamflow prediction were calculated as 0.71, 0.72, and -11.6 in the calibration period, as 0.77, 0.79, and -9.1 in the validation period, at the station E21A077, respectively. Daily simulation the results of NSE, R2, and PBIAS were calculated as 0.56, 0.57, and -15 in the calibration period, while 0.55, 0.56, and 1.2, respectively, in the validation period at the station E21A074. The statistical results for monthly sediment yield calibration and validation were calculated as follows: 0.75 and 0.80 for NSE, 0.76 and 0.84 for R2, -0.9 and 12.2 for PBIAS from the station E21A074. 32% area of the total watershed is under severe and very severe soil erosion conditions. Most of the soil erosion occurred at the barren land use and in the sub-watersheds with a slope greater than 25%. Overall, the SWAT model satisfactorily simulated the streamflow and sediment yield at the Murat River basin which may help the researchers in water resource management.
A diagnostic strategy for adjusting Covid-19 vaccination to individual immune state
Authors: Kuechler Anna Sabrina , Weinhold Sandra , Boege Fritz , Adams Ortwin , Müller Lisa , Babor Florian , Bennstein Sabrina , Pham Thi Xuan Uyen , Hejazi Maryam , Reusing Sarah , Hermsen Derik , Uhrberg Markus , Schulze-Bosse Karin
Published: February 2022

Purpose: We describe a diagnostic procedure suitable for scheduling (re-)vaccination against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) according to individual state of humoral immunization. Methods: To clarify the relation between antibody measurements and immune protection, we monitored 124 individuals before, during and six months after vaccination with Spikevax (Moderna). Antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 spike (S1) protein receptor binding domain (S1-AB) and against nucleocapsid antigen were measured by chemiluminescent immunoassay (Roche). Virus-neutralizing activities were determined by surrogate assays (NeutraLISA, Euroimmune; cPass, GenScript). Neutralization of SARS-CoV-2 in cell culture (full virus NT) served as ex-vivo correlate for humoral immunity. Results: Vaccination responses varied considerably. Six months after 2nd vaccination, participants still positive for full virus NT were safely discriminated by S1-AB levels ≥1000 U/ml. The full virus NT-positive fraction of participants with S1-AB levels <1000 U/ml was discriminated by virus-neutralizing activities >70 % as determined by surrogate assays (NeutraLISA or cPas). Participants that were full virus NT-negative and therefore presumably insufficiently immune protected could be identified by the above procedure with a sensitivity of >83 % and a specificity of >95 %. Conclusion: In summary, the described diagnostic tool strategy enables individualized (re-)vaccination schedules based on simple and rapid measurement of serum-based SARS-CoV-2 antibody levels. Our data apply only to WUHAN-type SARS-CoV-2 virus and the current version of mRNA vaccine from Moderna. Adaptation to other vaccines and more recent SARS-CoV-2 strains will require modification of cut-offs and re-evaluation of sensitivity/specificity.Study numbers: 2021-1455 and 2020-1259_1, Ethics Committee Med. Fac. HHU.
Autonomous Self-Drilling Seed Carriers for Aerial Seeding with Superior Success Rates
Authors: Yao Lining , Luo Danli , Maheshwari Aditi , Danielescu Andreea , Li Jiaji , Yang Yue , Tao Ye , Sun Lingyun , Wang Guanyun , Yang Shu , Zhang Teng
Published: February 2022

Aerial seeding can quickly cover large and physically inaccessible areas to improve soil quality and scavenge residual nitrogen in agriculture, for postfire reforestation3–6 and wildland restoration. However, it suffers from low germination rates due to the direct exposure of unburied seeds to harsh sunlight, wind, granivorous birds, and undesirable air humidity and temperature1. Inspired by Erodium seeds, we design and fabricate self-drilling seed carriers, turning wood veneer into highly stiff (7.2 GPa when dry, and 1.2 GPa when wet) and hygromorphic bending or coiling actuators with an extremely large bending curvature (1854 m-1), 45 times larger than the literature values. Our three-tailed carrier has an 80% drilling success rate on flat land after two triggering cycles due to the beneficial resting angle (25° - 30°) of its tail anchoring, whereas the natural Erodium seed’s success rate is 0%. Our carriers can carry payloads of different sizes and contents including biofertilizers and plant seeds as large as those of whitebark pine, which are 11 mm in length. We compare experiments with numerical simulation to elucidate the curvature transformation and actuation mechanisms to guide the design and optimization of the seed carriers. Our system will significantly improve the effectiveness of aerial seeding to relieve agricultural and environmental stresses, and has potential applications in energy harvesting, soft robotics and sustainable buildings.
Irisin Ameliorates Neuroinflammation and Neuronal Apoptosis Through Integrin αVβ5/AMPK Signaling Pathway After Intracerebral Hemorrhage in Mice
Authors: Wang Yao , Tian Mi , Tan Jiaying , Pei Xu , Lu Chaocheng , Xin Yuewen , Deng Shuixiang , Zhao Feng , Gao Yanqin , Gong Ye
Published: February 2022

Background: Neuroinflammation is a crucial factor in the development of secondary brain injury after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Irisin is a newly identified myokine confers strong neuroprotective effects in experimental ischemic stroke. However, whether this myokine can exert neuroprotection effects after ICH remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the impact of irisin treatment on neuroinflammation and neuronal apoptosis and the underlying mechanism involving integrin αVβ5/AMPK pathway after ICH.Methods: Two hundred eighty-five adult (8-week-old) maleC57BL/6 mice were randomly assigned to sham and ICHsurgery groups. ICH was induced via intrastriatal injection of autologous blood. Irisin was administered intranasally at 30 min after ICH. To elucidate the underlying mechanism, cilengitide (a selective integrin αVβ5 inhibitor) and dorsomorphin (a selective phosphorylatedAMPK inhibitor) were administered prior to irisin treatment. The short- and long-termneurobehavior tests, brain edema, quantitative-PCR, western blotting,Fluoro-Jade C, TUNEL, and immunofluorescence staining were performed to assess the neurofunctional outcome at the level of molecular, cell, histology and function.Results: Endogenous irisin and its receptor, integrin αVβ5, were increased, peaked at 24 h after ICH. irisin post-treatment improved both short- and long-term neurological functions, reduced brain edema after ICH. Interestingly, integrin αVβ5 was mainly located in the microglia after ICH, and irisin post-treatment inhibited microglia/macrophage pro-inflammatory polarization and promoted anti-inflammatory polarization. Moreover, irisin treatment inhibited neutrophil infiltration, andsuppressed neuronal apoptotic cell death in perihematomal areas after ICH. Mechanismly, irisin post-treatment significantly increased the expression of integrin αVβ5, p-AMPK and Bcl-2, and decreased the expression of IL-1β, TNF-α, MPO, and Bax following ICH.The neuroprotective effects of irisin were abolished by both integrin αVβ5 inhibitor cilengitide and AMPK inhibitor dorsomorphin.Conclusions:This study demonstrated that irisin post-treatment ameliorated neurological deficits, reduced brain edema, and ameliorated neuroinflammation and neuronal apoptosis, at least in part, through the integrin αVβ5/AMPKsignaling pathway after ICH. Thus, irisin post-treatment may provide a promising therapeutic approach for the early management of ICH.
Synthesis, characterization and biological activities of Co(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), and Cd(II) metal complexes of 1,10 phenanthroline based Schiff base
Authors: Sumathi S. , MAHADEVI PICHANDI
Published: February 2022

A Schiff base ligand prepared from amino acid (L-Histidine) and salicylaldehyde (L1), 1,10 phenanthroline (L2) and its transition metal complexes of general formula [ML1L2] (where M = Co(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), and Cd(II)) has been synthesized and tested for in vitro antimicrobial study against harmful bacterial strains Escherichia coli (gram negative bacteria), Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus (gram positive bacteria), and fungal organisms Aspergillus flavus, Rhizophus stolonifer and Mucor ellipsoideus respectively via agar-well diffusion technique. The larvicidal activity of the complexes was tested against Culex quinquefasciatus mosquito. The synthesized complexes exhibited excellent antioxidant properties both by DPPH and Hydrogen peroxide assays. Analytical and spectroscopic techniques such as UV-Visible, FTIR, SEM, NMR, and HRMS were used to characterize the produced Schiff base metal complexes. TGA-DTA analysis was used to investigate the thermal stability of the complexes. The redox characteristics of the complexes were examined using cyclic voltammetry. Cd(II) complex shows the maximum zone of inhibition values 20 mm and 21 mm for S. aureus, and M. ellipsoideus, respectively. Among the synthesized complexes, Cd(II) complex showed highest antimicrobial, larvicidal activity and very good antioxidant property.
ADH4 Is A TP53-Associated Immune-Metabolic Signature For The Prediction Of Prognosis In Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Jiang Hui-Hong , Wang Zhen-Yu , Zhai Bo , Lin Moubin
Published: February 2022

Background: Tumor protein p53 (TP53) is one of the most frequent mutated genes in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), whose mutations influenced tumor microenvironment (TME) and are associated with a worse prognosis. Thus, finding out an accurate prognostic signature could be beneficial for improving the prognosis of HCC.Methods: HCC genetic mutation data, transcriptome data, and clinical data were downloaded from the TCGA database to clarify specific TP53-associated signatures based on differential expression genes (DEGs). We investigated the predictive value of this signature on the overall survival (OS), immune analysis, and validation in clinical specimens.Results: In total, our research exhibited 270 mutant genes, and TP53 mutation occupied 28%. Besides, 81 upregulated genes and 27 downregulated genes were identified. Enrichment analysis showed that mutant-type TP53 were enriched for pathways related to cell cycle and cell metabolism, while clustered most enriched for terms related to metabolic process and immune response. The gene alcohol dehydrogenase4 (ADH4) was identified by univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis and a nomogram was also established to validate this prognostic signature. Moreover, the low-ADH4 group in both TP53 mutant type and wild type displayed significantly worse OS than the high-ADH4 group. In addition, immune infiltration with higher expression of B cell groups showed a differential immune microenvironment. Especially, ADH4 expression and the prognostic prediction values were further validated in clinical samples.Conclusions: The TP53-associated immune-metabolic signature is a specific and independent prognostic biomarker for HCC patients, and could provide a potential prognostic biomarker for the development of novel immunotherapies.
Reduced efficacies of diclazuril and toltrazuril against Eimeria ovinoidalis and Eimeria crandallis in two French sheep-meat farms
Authors: Bordes Léa , LeChenadec Agathe , Souchon Corentin , Berger Adeline , Claessens Alice , Bouix Geniève , Jouffroy Sophie , Grisez Christelle , Jacquiet Philippe
Published: February 2022

Background: Lamb coccidiosis, caused by intestinal parasites of the Eimeria genus, has pronounced health and economic impacts throughout the world. Eimeria ovinoidalis and Eimeria crandallis are the most pathogenic species in sheep. Control of these parasites requires the use of anticoccidial drugs such as sulfonamides, diclazuril, and toltrazuril. In this study, resistance to anticoccidial drugs was suspected in two farms as clinical signs (diarrhea) persisted after treatment. Method: On each farm, 4.5-month-old rams were divided into three groups so that they were either (i) left untreated (Control group), (ii) treated with diclazuril (1 mg/kg body weight), or (iii) treated with toltrazuril (20 mg/kg body weight). Animals were treated at day 0 (D0) and fecal samples were collected at D0 and eight days later (D8) to evaluate the reduction in intensity of Eimeria oocyst excretion. Oocyst morphology and morphometry were used to identify Eimeria species at both sampling dates. Results: Reduction of oocyst shedding was incomplete in both farms (92.44% and 93.58%) after diclazuril treatment. More specifically, the efficacy was reduced in both farms for E. ovinoidalis/Eimeria marsica (92.59% and 91.87%) and E. crandallis/Eimeria weybridgensis (75.34% and 80.10%). The general efficacy of toltrazuril was high in both farms (97.6% and 97.96%). However, a slightly reduced efficacy was noted in farm 1 for E. crandallis/E. weybridgensis (93.26%) while this efficacy was high in farm 2 (98.88%). Conclusions: We suggest a simple protocol to investigate the efficacy of anticoccidial treatments in sheep and to rapidly identify potentially resistant species. In these two farms, treating animals with diclazuril will select pathogenic species, and toltrazuril could favor resistant E. crandallis/E. weybridgensis in one of them.
Convergence of specified RUNX2, SALL1, and SAMD9 variants permits normal global immune and endocrine function despite bone marrow hypocellularity and reduced ovarian reserve
Authors: Sills E Scott , Harrity Conor , Wood Samuel H
Published: February 2022

Background
RUNX2, SALL1 and SAMD9 are independently assorted genes responsible for multisystem actions where disruption often results in severe developmental or functional impairment. Alteration in any of these ‘master regulators’ is usually diagnosed in early childhood when missed milestones, anatomical dysmorphia, or chronic infection/immune impairment initiate cross-disciplinary evaluation.
Methods
New variants were recently discovered in all three genes during SARS-CoV-19 hospitalization in an otherwise healthy 46,XX adolescent. Our research expands the clinical characterization for this unusual convergence based on medical records covering the 5 year interval before admission.
Results
Diffuse bone marrow hypocellularity without cytogenetic derangement was present, with no anemia or reduction in total immunoglobulin production. However, bone age was below mean by 1.5yrs and multiple dental anomalies were documented. Macrocytosis and elevated serum creatinine were consistent findings. Ovaries and uterus appeared undersized with collapse of endogenous estradiol output leading to secondary amenorrhea by age 13yrs. Besides oral contraceptives, no other daily hormone treatment was required. A TSH receptor gene mutation of uncertain significance was also identified.
Conclusions
This is the first work to correlate immunoglobulin patterns, bone marrow and dental morphology, hematology/renal screening, pelvic anatomy, ovarian reserve data and thyroid features with coincident variants in RUNX2, SALL1 and SAMD9. While the expected impact from each mutation alone would normally be adverse, this study suggests a milder phenotype can prevail when these three variants occur together. Nevertheless, focused monitoring is appropriate given the uncertain status of this unique combination of mutations.
Nodulation of Sulla flexuosa ecotypes by Rhizobium sullae symbiovar sullae (sv. Nov) in Northern Morocco
Authors: Anass El Yemlahi , Omar Bouhnik , Mohammed Bakkali , Amine Laglaoui , Abdelhay Arakrak , Idrissi Mustapha Missbah El
Published: February 2022

Sulla flexuosa is a protein-rich Mediterranean pastoral and forage legume that is widely used for animal feed. In this work, we analyzed the diversity of the plant as well as the phylogenetic affiliations of its microsymbiotes. To our knowledge, this is the first evaluation of Sulla natural ecotypes in Morocco. We found that the plant populations constitute two distinct ecotypes, related to their geographical origin in Northern Morocco. The phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequences of two representative strains, KS6 and BG1, isolated from the root nodules of each Sulla flexuosa L. ecotype, showed that they were closely related to Rhizobium sullae IS 123T with a similarity of 99.78%. This result was confirmed by MLSA using atpD, recA and glnII housekeeping gene sequences. Indeed, the phylogenetic analysis of the tree genes concatenated sequences sowed that the strains have 98.60 to 98.67% of similarity with R. sullae IS 123T. Furthermore, the phylogenic analysis of the nodC and nifH symbiotic genes showed that the two ecotypes Sulla flexuosa are nodulated by the same symbiovar of Rhizobium, for which we suggest the name of sullae (sv. nov.). The two representative strains tolerate water stress but are very sensitive to salinity, and can’t grow at temperatures higher than 35°C.
The comparison of OpenCV library algorithms for tracking movements of liver tumors in ultrasound video.
Authors: Levin Alexander A. , Klimov Daniil D. , Nechunaev Alexey A. , Prokhorenko Leonid S. , Mishchenkov Denis S. , Nosova Anastasia G. , Astakhov Dmitriy A. , Poduraev Yuri V. , Panchenkov Dmitry N.
Published: February 2022

This study aims to compare the tracking algorithms provided by the OpenCV library to use on ultrasound video. Despite the widespread application of this computer vision library, few works describe the attempts to use it to track the movement of liver tumors on ultrasound video. Movements of the neoplasms caused by the patient`s breath interfere with the positioning of the instruments during the process of biopsy and radio-frequency ablation. The main hypothesis of the experiment was that tracking neoplasms and correcting the position of the manipulator in case of using robotic-assisted surgery will allow positioning the instruments more precisely. Another goal of the experiment was to check if it is possible to ensure real-time tracking with at least 25 processed frames per second. OpenCV version 4.5.0 was used with 7 tracking algorithms from the extra modules package. They are: Boosting, CSRT, KCF, MedianFlow, MIL, MOSSE, TLD. More than 4900 frames of standard definition were processed during the experiment. Analysis of the results shows that two algorithms – CSRT and KCF – could solve the problem of tumor tracking. They lead the test with more than 70% of ROI coverage and more than 95% successful searches. They could also be used in real-time processing with an average processing speed of up to 30 frames per second in CSRT and up to 100 frames per second for KCF. This experiment also shows that no frames made CSRT and KCF algorithms fail simultaneously. So, the hypothesis for future work is combining these algorithms to work together, with one of them – CSRT – as support for the KCF tracker on the rarely failed frames.
WITHDRAWN: Non-Uniform Diffraction Pattern of 2D-Cross-Grating---Rotating Grating Around Three Axes (4)
Authors: peng hui
Published: February 2022

The orientation-dependence of the diffraction patterns of the 1D-grating experiments have been systematically studied by utilizing the 3-axis-rotation apparatus. It is shown that the spacings between adjacent diffraction orders are non-uniform. Namely, from “one end” of the pattern to “other end”, the spacings between adjacent diffraction orders gradually increase. In this article, we systematically study the orientation-dependence of the diffraction patterns of the 2D-cross-grating. The experiments show that the diffraction patterns are non-uniform as that of the 1D-grating experiments. This extraordinary phenomenon challenges the existing theoretical description of the grating experiments. The above observed phenomena provide the comprehensive phenomena to theoretical study of the grating experiments. We suggest that the complete mathematical model should contain three rotation angles as parameters and should be able to describe the phenomena of the non-uniform-spacing, curved, expanded, inclined and mirror-symmetric diffraction patterns consistently.
Discovery and characterization of magnetic monopoles
Authors: Wang Xuelin
Published: February 2022

Abstract: In 1931, Paul Dirac, a physicist of Britain, theoretically predicted that magnetic monopoles can exist independently, and believed that since electricity has electrons with basic charges, magnetism should also have magnetic monopoles with basic magnetic charges. Decades later, many scientists failed to find magnetic monopoles although they tried to do that in any way. Some outstanding physicists, such as Fermi, an Italian American physicist, and Yang Zhenning, a Chinese American physicist, believe that magnetic monopoles exist and have improved and supplemented Paul Dirac's theory.
In this paper, the author found a new crystal topological material that emits positive and negative magnetic monopole pairs (magnetic dipoles) and magnetic monopoles into space when excited by both alternating magnetic field and heat. A "string" predicted by Dirac exists when the magnetic dipole runs in space and extends and contracts under the action of external magnetic field, and separates into positive and negative magnetic monopoles at given magnetic field strength. Strong “γ” ray is released from annihilation which occurs when positive and negative magnetic monopoles collide with each other. The space speed, magnetic field intensity and magnetic monopole mass under different magnetic fields were measured and calculated. The catalytic fission of magnetic monopoles and the repulsion of antimagnetic materials were characterized. The existence of magnetic monopoles predicted by Dirac was proven by experiments and observations from different perspectives.
Comprehensive Understanding of Multiple Resonance Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence via Quantum Chemistry Calculations
Authors: Shizu Katsuyuki , Kaji Hironori
Published: February 2022

Molecules that exhibit multiple resonance (MR) type thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) are highly efficient electroluminescent materials with narrow emission spectra. Despite their importance in various applications, the emission mechanism is still controversial. Here, a comprehensive understanding of the mechanism for a representative MR-TADF molecule (5,9-diphenyl-5,9-diaza-13b-boranaphtho[3,2,1-de]anthracene, DABNA-1) is presented. Using the equation-of-motion coupled-cluster singles and doubles method and Fermi’s golden rule, we quantitatively reproduced all rate constants relevant to the emission mechanism; prompt and delayed fluorescence, internal conversion (IC), intersystem crossing, and reverse intersystem crossing (RISC). In addition, the photoluminescence quantum yield and its prompt and delayed contributions were quantified by calculating the population kinetics of excited states and the transient photoluminescence decay curve. The calculations also revealed that TADF occurred via a stepwise process of thermally activated IC from electronically excited T1 to the second-lowest triplet state, T2, RISC from T2 to S1, and fluorescence from S1.
Evidence for ABL amplification in multiple myeloma and therapeutic implications
Authors: Huang He , Zhou Shuping , Lin Hongdou , Guo Wenjian , Lin Ying , Yao Ronxin , He Licai , Yu Kang , Li Qian
Published: February 2022

Background: Cytogenetic abnormalities are considered initiating events in the pathogenesis of multiple myeloma (MM) and are assumed to be of clinical significance. Methods: Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) was used to analyze chromosomal architecture in 101 patients with MM. We evaluated overall patient survival and assessed cytotoxicity of imatinib against MM cells using a CCK8 assay.Results: ABL gene amplification was detected in 67 patients (66.3%). However, ABL gene amplification was not associated with clinical features, cytogenetic abnormalities (c-Myc amplification, IGH rearrangement, RB1 deletion, p53 deletion, or 1q21 amplification), or overall survival. ABL amplification in MM cell lines (LP-1 and U266) was revealed by FISH. Furthermore, the ABL protein was easily detectable in MM cell lines and some tumor cells by western blotting. A CCK8 assay indicated limited cytotoxicity of imatinib against MM cells.Conclusions: Our study firstly discussed ABL gene amplification was prevalent in MM cells, and we believe ABL gene would potentially be a useful target in the treatment of combination strategy for MM with ABL amplification in future.
Diversity and geographic distribution of dog tick species in Sri Lanka and the life cycle of brown dog tick, Rhipicephalus sanguineus under laboratory conditions
Authors: Bandaranayaka Kalpani Omantha , Dissanayake Upekha Indunil , Rajakaruna Rupika Subashini
Published: February 2022

Background: Tick infestations and tick-borne diseases have become a major emerging health concern of dogs in Sri Lanka. Information about tick species infesting dogs and their geographic distribution in Sri Lanka is largely unknown. Here we determined the tick species infesting the dogs and their distribution, and described the life cycle parameters of the dominant dog tick species under laboratory conditions.Methods: An island-wide, cross-sectional survey of tick species infesting the domestic dog was carried out, and the life cycle of the major dog tick, Rhipicephalus sanguineus was studied under laboratory conditions. Results: A total of 3,026 ticks were collected from 1,219 dogs of different breeds in all 25 districts in the three climatic zones: Wet, Dry, and Intermediate zones. Eight species in five genera were identified: Rh. sanguineus (63.4%), Rhipicephalus haemaphysaloides (22.0%), Haemaphysalis bispinosa (12.5%), Haemaphysalis intermedia (0.9%), Haemaphysalis turturis (0.6%), Amblyomma integrum (0.4%), Dermacentor auratus (0.2%) and Hyalomma sp (0.06%). The brown dog tick, Rh. sanguineus was the dominant species in the Dry and Wet zones, while Rh. haemaphysaloides was the dominant species in the Intermediate zone. Species diversity (presented as Shannon diversity index H) in the three was 1.135, 1.021and 0.849 in Intermediate, Dry and Wet zones, respectively. Adults formed 94.7% with a significantly higher number of females, and the rest were nymphs. Rhipicephalus sanguineus preferred the anterior side of the host body, specifically the inner and outer side of the ear. In contrast, Rh. haemaphysaloides preferred the posterior side, mainly the fore and hind limbs. The three-host life cycle of Rh. sanguineus was completed within 70-126 days, all three stages successfully fed on the New Zealand white rabbits under laboratory conditions. The mean Reproductive Efficiency Index (REI) and Reproductive Fitness Index (RFI) were 50.8±9.69 and 9.1±5.01, respectively. Larger females had higher reproductive success. Conclusion: The dominant dog tick species and the species diversity varied in different climatic regions of Sri Lanka. The three-host life cycle of Rh. sanguineus was successfully completed on the New Zealand white rabbits under laboratory conditions. Information on diversity, distribution and life cycle parameters is fundamental for studies of canine tick-borne infections, zoonoses, and their epidemiology.
Anti-inflammatory Mechanism of Astragaloside IV in the Recurrence of Asthma: Critical Role of Memory T Cells and OX40/OX40L Signaling Pathway
Authors: Yang Qingqing , Zhang Hongying , Sun Jing , Yan Chen , Dong Jingcheng , KONG Lingwen
Published: February 2022

Background: Astragaloside IV (AST) has been confirmed to have antiasthmatic effects by our research. However, the underline mechanism is unclear. Memory CD4(+) T cells play an important role in the recurrence of asthma, the study try to explore the immunoregulatory effect from memory T cells.Methods and Results: Flow cytometry was used to determine the counts of memory T cells in blood and spleen; Pulmonary tests, inflammatory cytokines in blood and inflammatory cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were measured to evaluate the inflammatory response. The central memory CD4(+) T cells (TCM) were isolated and adoptive transferred into nude mice via tail intravenous, after OVA challenge 3 days, the lung inflammation was measured. Results shown the TCM phenotype was increased in spleen but the TEM was decreased. On the contrary, the number of actived TEM was increased, but the number of inactived TCM was decreased in asthmatic mice circulation; AST treatment significantly decreased TCM in the spleen and T effector phenotypes in blood. OX40/OX40L pathway expression were significantly increased in asthma spleen, AST pretreatment inhibited the OX40 signal pathway expression. Additionally, the adoptive transferred TCMs from AST treatment mice had relieved inflammation compared with asthma group.Conclusions: This study indicates that AST can ameliorate asthma inflammation by decreaseing the ration of TEM/TCM in blood. The anti-inflammatory mechanism maybe involved in the OX40/OX40L pathway.
Mathematical Formulation For Computation Of Optimal Number Of Sensor Nodes For Effective Coverage In Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Manoharan J. Samuel
Published: February 2022

Wireless sensor networks have been the major stake holders in almost all types of wireless communication standards and applications in the recent decade. Their ability to be deployed almost anywhere on the globe make them indispensable. However, in the research of the Wireless sensor networks (WSN), trouble in coverage is one of the fundamental problems. Coverage computation in a way finds a major role to find out the energetic amount of sensor nodes required for sensing the monitoring region. Initially the investigator deals the resolving process of maximum flawless ratio of coverage for three-sensor nodes. Then by the resultant of work, grants the solution method of the estimated value of quality of coverage and also provides the method in elaborate manner for finding the least amount of sensor nodes for effective coverage of monitoring area. Finally, the technique to find out the redundancy for W communicative nodes has been provided. All the above issues have been mathematically worked out to justify the coverage research issue.
Improved Wireless Sensor Network Localization Algorithm based on Selective Opposition Class Topper Optimization (SOCTO)
Authors: MOHANTA TAPAN KUMAR , DAS DUSHMANTA KR
Published: February 2022

One of the most important challenges in wireless sensor networks is the issue of localisation. Furthermore, it is critical to monitor and evaluate the data gathered. With the aid of a collection of constructed nodes known as beacons, the localization technique can measure node location. For a variety of factors, such as upkeep, lifespan, and breakdown, the fixed density of these beacons may be increased or decreased. Because of its robustness, flexibility, and economic viability, a well-known technique for locating wireless sensor network nodes is the Distance Vector-Hop (DV-Hop) algorithm. As a result, researchers continue to look for ways to develop it. Based on Selective Opposition Class Topper optimization (SOCTO), we propose an enhanced DV-Hop localization algorithm, it also focuses through an optimized formulation to compute the average hop-size with weight of beacon nodes in order to reduce the localization error within estimated distance between the beacon and the dumb node, due to improved localization accuracy. The range-free localization algorithm in uniform multi-hop wireless sensor networks is the subject of recent study. In various implementation scenarios, the results of simulations show that our proposed algorithm performs admirably the DV-Hop technique and DV-Hop related techniques.
Expert examination of electoral legislation in the conclusions of the Venice Commission
Authors:   The Institute of Legislation and Comparative Law under the Government of the Russian Federation,, Kashirkina Anna A. , Morozov Andrey N. ,   The Institute of Legislation and Comparative Law under the Government of the Russian Federation,
Published: February 2022

The article is devoted to the theoretical and practical approaches of the European Commission for Democracy through Law (the Venice Commission) to the assessment of electoral processes and elections in states. Since the Venice Commission is a subsidiary body of the Council of Europe, special attention is paid to the observance of Council of Europe standards in the field of human and civil rights in regard to elections. Through an empirical analysis of various documents of the Venice Commission (conclusions, recommendations, codes of practice, etc.), a conclusion is drawn about the existential approach of this body to assessing the electoral legislation of states. This approach is based on a wide array of sources perceived by experts of the Venice Commission, which, in addition to state legislation and official comments, may also include reports from the media, the Internet, the personal worldview of the expert and comments from other persons familiar with the situation. Based on this broad range of sources, the Venice Commission also objectifies its assessments into different acts, which may have a variety of names, but have the force of recommendations for states. Thus, the conclusions of the Venice Commission are acts of soft law and can be perceived by national legal systems using various channels of implementation. The analysis of the documents of the Venice Commission on elections and electoral processes shows that in the orbit of expertise of this body are such issues as: prevention of abuse of power and administrative resources of power in the organization and holding of elections; prevention of discrimination against opposition and various minorities, etc. The issues of gender equality in state authorities, protection of the rights of stateless persons, and voting using digital technologies are also considered.
Legal means of effective rehabilitation of a debtor or its enterprise in restricting procedures in Russia and Germany
Authors:   The Kutafin Moscow State Law University (Moscow State Law Academy), Shishmareva Tatyana P.
Published: February 2022

The article analyzes the legal means of rehabilitation during the extrajudicial procedure for restructuring an enterprise in German law, as well as the provisions of the Russian law draft that introduces a similar judicial procedure. The purpose of this study is to formulate the main provisions of the rehabilitation procedures of insolvency (bankruptcy) in the national Russian legislation on the basis of the normative regulation and doctrinal concepts prevailing in Germany, where both debtor and his enterprise can be rehabilitated. The main research methods used were comparative legal and historical legal methods in combination with the systematic method. The methods of synthesis, interpretation, and the teleological method were also used to assist in selecting the appropriate legal means to achieve the goal of rehabilitating the debtor or his enterprise. The legal nature of the law of the restructuring plan is analyzed as well as its main elements and the procedure for adoption and approval that takes into account creditors’ interests of. It is concluded that rehabilitation can be carried out in the form of extrajudicial rehabilitation both within the framework of a special procedure and in a free form on the basis of an agreement between the debtor and his creditors in regard to debt restructuring. The legal means of reorganization of the debtor and his enterprise are highlighted. It is substantiated that the Russian legislation needs to change its concept of rehabilitation procedures. First of all, it is necessary to complement the goal of rehabilitation procedures by translatable rehabilitation if the debtor cannot be rehabilitated and to use appropriate legal means of stabilizing and preserving the debtor’s business or part of it to minimize the negative consequences of insolvency.
Low-cost poly(vinyl formal) for heavy metal removal from water of a polluted river
Authors: Villanueva-Flores Francisca , Palomares Laura A.
Published: February 2022

Heavy metal pollution in drinking water is a serious health risk, particularly in developing countries. Membranes of poly(vinyl formal) (PFA) were synthesized to explore their use for heavy metal removal from water samples from the polluted Mexican river ‘Atoyac.’ A single incubation step with PFA membranes for 24 h was sufficient to reduce lead, iron, manganese, arsenic, and thallium concentrations to acceptable levels for drinking water, according to the Mexican standards. PFA showed high adsorption capacities (Qe), even in the presence of multiple metals and low cation concentration. Mass transport phenomena were characterized as a function of the crosslinking degree and pH. To simulate real-life operation conditions, water fluxes across PFA membranes were characterized as a function of their crosslinking degrees and controlled external pressures. PFA membranes allowed fluxes at pressures of up to 2 kg/cm2 with no deformation or breaking. Tensile strength, strain stress, elastic deformation, and Young's modulus were assessed. In contrast with previous reports, no further PFA modifications were required to obtain an excellent adsorption performance, which results in lower production costs. The ease of PFA synthesis and handling, and low production cost make it an ideal material to be applied for remediating the polluted urban water.
Enhanced arsenic removal using lateritic bauxite modified by heating and blending
Authors: Anang Emmanuella , Tei Meshack , Aduboffour Victor Kwabena
Published: February 2022

The use of bauxite to remove arsenic from wastewater has been confirmed to be effective, but its removal efficiency in literature is not up to 90%, hence the need to devise a more effective method to remove arsenic from wastewater. In this study, a novel material was prepared by thermally modifying and blending yellow and red lateritic bauxite to form thermally modified and blended yellow and red lateritic bauxite (TYB + TRB). The adsorption isotherm, morphology and chemical composition of the novel material were determined by the Langmuir and Freundlich models, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray Fluorescence (XRF), respectively. Application of the novel material in arsenic removal resulted in >97% removal efficiency within 60 min. The arsenic adsorption by TYB + TRB conformed to the Freundlich model. The SEM image depicted a compacted earth material after use of the TYB + TRB to remove arsenic from the wastewater. The XRF results also showed a drastic reduction in the chemical composition of the novel bauxite except Ti, thus suggesting the occurrence of multiple mechanisms during the arsenic removal. This study demonstrated the potential of TYB + TRB to be developed and used as the most suitable material for wastewater treatment.