bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trends in compound extremes of air temperature and precipitation in Eastern Europe
Authors: Vyshkvarkova Elena , Sukhonos Olga
Published: November 2021

The spatial distribution of compound extremes of air temperature and precipitation was studied over the territory of Eastern Europe for the period 1950–2018 during winter and spring. Using daily data on air temperature and precipitation, we calculated the frequency and trends of the four indices – cold/dry, cold/wet, warm/dry and warm/wet. Also, we studying the connection between these indices and large-scale processes in the ocean-atmosphere system such as North Atlantic Oscillation, East Atlantic Oscillation and Scandinavian Oscillation. The results have shown that positive trends in the region are typical of the combinations with the temperatures above the 75th percentile, i.e., the warm extremes in winter and spring. Negative trends were obtained for the cold extremes. Statistically significant increase in the number of days with warm extremes was observed in the northern parts of the region in winter and spring. The analysis of the impacts of the large-scale processes in oceans-atmosphere system showed that the North Atlantic Oscillation index has a strong positive and statistically significant correlation with the warm indices of compound extremes in the northern part of Eastern Europe in winter, while the Scandinavian Oscillation shows the opposite picture.
Effect of Gastrodin on Cognitive Dysfunction in Diabetes by Inhibiting PAK2 Phosphorylation
Authors: Mu Zhi-Hao , Zhao Zhi-Min , Yang Su-Su , Zhou Lei , Qian Zhong-Yi , Liu Yi-Dan , Liu Xin-Jie , Zhao Peng-Chao , Tang Ren-Bo , Li Jia-Yin , Zeng Jing-Yao , Ruan Yong-Hua , Yang Zhi-Hong , Zeng Yue-Qin , Zou Ying-Ying
Published: November 2021

Diabetes and cognitive dysfunction are highly prevalent disorders, while the underlying mechanism is still elusive. The effects of Gastrodin on central nervous system have been emphasized recently. In this study, we aim to explore the potential mechanism leading to cognitive dysfunction in diabetes and the therapeutic effect of Gastrodin. Diabetes was induced by a single injection of streptozotocin. RNA sequencing technique was used to identify the potential factors involved. Western blot and immunofluorescence were applied to detect the protein expression. Our results have shown that spatial learning was impaired and hippocampal pyramidal neurons were damaged in diabetic rats, which could be ameliorated by Gastrodin intervention. Transcriptional analysis identified differential expression genes, which were confirmed by qPCR and western blot. Furthermore, p21 activated kinase 2 (PAK2) was selected and its inhibitor could promote the survival of primary hippocampal neurons. It suggested that PAK2 pathway may be involved in cognitive dysfunction in diabetes and a therapeutic target for Gastrodin intervention.
A Spectrogram Based Novel Approach for Arrhythmia Detection with Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Rao Sneha , Singh Vishwa Mohan , Kulkarni Siddhivinayak , Saran Vibhor
Published: November 2021

ECG is one of the most important medical scans which is used for diagnosis of various heart related conditions and diseases. One of the most common of these is arrhythmia, which is caused by the irregularity of the heart beats. Artificial Intelligence has had a major impact in the field of vital monitoring and autonomous medical diagnosis. Therefore, a lot of work has demonstrated its effectiveness in arrhythmia detection. In this paper, we propose a method that tries to improve upon the accuracy of such models with the help of a light weight deep learning architecture that utilized 2D Separable CNN with a group of graphical representations of the ECG signals like the STFT, CWT and MFCC. Our model has achieved an accuracy of 97.41 and an F1 score of 88.20 on a processed version of the MIT-BIH dataset and takes on an average 7.93 times less calculations compared to a simple 2D Convolution model.
Effects of auriculotherapy for postoperative nausea and vomiting: A systematic review protocol
Authors: Santos Isabella Boechat Faria , Silva Amanda Suzane Alves da , Melo Giovana Salomão , Soares Cleuma Oliveira , de Andrade Edila Monteiro , Rodrigues Lúcio Flávio Garcia , Mendonça Thalia Saraiva , Dantas Diego Bessa , de Melo-Neto João Simão
Published: November 2021

Background
Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a distressing complication of anesthesia and can lead to aspiration, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalance. Antiemetic agents are conventionally prescribed to manage PONV; however, they have associated side effects. Therefore, unconventional methods, such as auricular acupuncture (AA), are also utilized to prevent and control emesis after surgery. AA originated in traditional Chinese medicine and is based on a diagnostic and treatment system that aims to normalize dysfunction through stimulation of reflex points on the ear. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of AA in controlling PONV.
Methods
We will perform a systematic review according to the Cochrane methodology. An overall search strategy will be developed and adapted for PubMed, PEDro, the Virtual Health Library, SciELO, EMBASE, the Web of Science, SciVerse Scopus, and the Cochrane Library to search for the following descriptors: “Acupressure”; “Antiemetics”; “Postoperative nausea and vomiting”; “Surgery”; “Auriculotherapy”; “Nausea”; “Vomiting”; and “Postoperative period.” Articles with a mean score of 6 ± 1.5 on the PEDro scale will be evaluated. The size of the intervention effect (Z) will be calculated for each outcome included in this review. The primary outcome will be the incidence of PONV. The secondary outcome will be the severity of PONV. Quality assessment will be performed with the Cochrane instrument. If possible, a meta-analysis will be performed using Review Manager 5.3 software.
Discussion
Several studies have reported positive outcomes of AA for patients with PONV. This study could provide robust and conclusive evidence of the usefulness of AA as an effective treatment alternative for emesis without the side effects of conventional medication.
Trial registration
Systematic review registration number: CRD42020149772 (S1 File)
Prevalence and Correlates of Current Tobacco use and Non-user Susceptibility to using Tobacco Product Among School-going Adolescents in 22 African Countries, 2013-2018
Authors: James Peter Bai , Bah Abdulai Jawo , Kabba John Alimamy , Kassim Said Abasse , Dalinjong Philip Ayizem
Published: November 2021

Background Our study examined the prevalence and associated factors of tobacco product use and non-users’ susceptibility to using tobacco products among school-going adolescents in 22 African countries.MethodsWe analysed the cross-sectional 2013-2018 GYTS data from 22 African countries. We conducted complex sampling descriptive and logistic regression analyses. We reported our results using frequencies and proportions for descriptive statistics and adjusted odd ratios and 95% confidence intervals for logistic model.ResultsThe overall prevalence of current use of any tobacco product among adolescents was 19.1%, with more males (23.7%) than females (13.7%) being current users. Zimbabwe and Morocco were the highest (47.1%) and least (12.6%) reported prevalence respectively. Being male (AOR=1.930;95%CI:1.614-2.307), exposure to secondhand smoke within (AOR=2.069;95%CI:1.763-2.429) and outside (AOR=1.364;95%CI:1.138-1.635) the home, not knowledgeable about the harmful effect of secondhand smoke (AOR=1.413;95%CI:1.178-1.693), exposure to tobacco industry promotion (AOR=3.027;95%CI:2.653-3.453) and not in favour of banning smoking in enclosed places (AOR=1.222;95%CI:1.014-1.472) were associated with current use of any tobacco product. The prevalence of the susceptibility to using tobacco products among never users of tobacco products was 12.2%, with no significant gender difference. Mozambique (24.6%) and Algeria (4.5%) had the highest and least prevalence of the susceptibility to using tobacco products among never users, respectively. Exposure to tobacco industry promotion (AOR=1.730;95%CI:1.485-2.015) and those not in favour of banning smoking in enclosed places (AOR= 1.323;95%CI:1.142-1.532) were associated with susceptibility to using any tobacco product among never users of tobacco products.ConclusionOur study reports that tobacco use and non-user susceptibility to using tobacco product among school-going adolescents in the 22 African countries is high. As part of public health efforts, governments and other stakeholders need to fully implement anti-tobacco use campaigns, enforce a complete ban on tobacco promotion and advertising, institute educational programs for families, and anti-tobacco use education for the general public and in schools in line with WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control guidelines.
“It’s a sign of weakness:” Masculinity, Help-Seeking Behaviors, and Gender-Specific Experiences Accessing VA PTSD Care
Authors: Silvestrini Molly , Chen Jessica A.
Published: November 2021

Background: Male veterans delay post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) treatment and are less likely to engage in help-seeking behaviors or receive adequate mental health treatment. Male veterans face additional stigma seeking mental health care due to traditional masculine ideologies perpetuated by military culture. This study presents the gender-specific perspectives of veterans accessing VA PTSD care, focusing particularly on the help-seeking behaviors and barriers to care experienced by male veterans. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 U.S. veterans seeking treatment in VA primary care. Qualitative data analysis was coded using Atlas.ti, and thematic analysis was used to develop and refine themes. This study is part of a larger study examining veterans’ initiation of PTSD treatment. Results: Findings indicate that male veterans may be reluctant to initiate PTSD care due to stigma, distrust of the military or mental health care, and a desire to avoid reliving their trauma. Social support may encourage help-seeking behaviors among this population. Both male and female veterans reported a need for non-combat PTSD care and resources for military sexual trauma (MST). Conclusions: Findings indicate that male veterans face unique challenges accessing mental health services and PTSD treatment, while both male and female veterans may benefit from increased VA services focused on MST and non-combat specific PTSD.
Pyroptosis-related Prognosis Model, Immunocyte Infiltration Characterization, and Competing Endogenous RNA Network of Glioblastoma
Authors: Ding Min-Rui , Qu Yan-Jie , Peng Xiao , Chen Jin-Fang , Zhang Meng-Xue , Zhang Tong , HU BING , An Hong-Mei
Published: November 2021

Background: Glioblastoma (GBM) has a high incidence rate, invasive growth, and easy recurrence, and the current therapeutic effect is less than satisfying. Pyroptosis plays an important role in morbidity and progress of GBM. Meanwhile, the tumor microenvironment (TME) is involved in the progress and treatment tolerance of GBM. In the present study, we analyzed prognosis model, immunocyte infiltration characterization, and competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network of GBM on the basis of pyroptosis-related genes (PRGs).Methods: The transcriptome and clinical data of 155 patients with GBM and 120 normal subjects were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx). Lasso (Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator) Cox expression analysis was used in predicting prognostic markers, and its predictive ability was tested using a nomogram. A prognostic risk score formula was constructed, and CIBERSORT, ssGSEA algorithm, Tumor IMmune Estimation Resource (TIMER), and TISIDB database were used in evaluating the immunocyte infiltration characterization and tumor immune response of differential risk samples. A ceRNA network was constructed with Starbase, mirtarbase, and lncbase, and the mechanism of this regulatory axis was explored using Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). Results: Five PRGs (CASP3, NLRP2, TP63, GZMB, and CASP9) were identified as the independent prognostic biomarkers of GBM. Prognostic risk score formula analysis showed that the low-risk group had obvious survival advantage compared with the high-risk group, and significant differences in immunocyte infiltration and immune related function score were found. In addition, a ceRNA network of messenger RNA (CASP3, TP63)–microRNA (hsa-miR-519c-5p)–long noncoding RNA (GABPB1-AS1) was established. GSEA analysis showed that the regulatory axis played a considerable role in the extracellular matrix (ECM) and immune inflammatory response.Conclusions: Pyroptosis and TME-related independent prognostic markers were screened in this study, and a prognosis risk score formula was established for the first time according to the prognosis PRGs. TME immunocyte infiltration characterization and immune response were assessed using ssGSEA, CIBERSORT algorithm, TIMER, and TISIDB database. Besides a ceRNA network was built up. This study not only laid foundations for further exploring pyroptosis and TME in improving prognosis of GBM, but also provided a new idea for more effective guidance on clinical immunotherapy to patients and developing new immunotherapeutic drugs.
Comparing Two Different Automatic Methods to Measure Femoral Neck-Shaft Angle Based on PointNet++ Network
Authors: Li Zhe , Yang Jiayu , Li Xinghua , Wang Kunzheng , Han Jungang , Yang Pei
Published: November 2021

Bacnground:
Accurate measurement of the femoral neck-shaft angle (NSA) is of great significance for diagnosing hip joint diseases and preoperative planning of total hip arthroplasty. However, the fitting lines of the femoral neck and femoral shaft did not always intersect in 3D space. Thus, it is unclear whether there is a difference between 2D and 3D methods for measuring NSA.
Methods:
The femoral point cloud datasets from 310 subjects were segmented into three regions, including the femoral head, femoral neck, and femoral shaft using PointNet++. We created a projection plane to simulate the hip anteroposterior radiograph and fitted the femoral neck axis and femoral shaft axis to complete the 2D measurement, while we directly fitted the two axes in space to complete the 3D measurement. Also, we conducted the manual measurement of the NSA. We verified the accuracy of the segmentation and compared the results of the two automatic and manual methods.
Results:
The Dice coefficient of femoral segmentation reached 0.9746, and MIoU of that was 0.9165. No significant difference was found between any two of the three methods. While comparing the 2D and 3D methods, the average accuracy was 98.00%, and the average error was 2.58°.
Conclusion:
This paper proposed two accurate and automatic methods to measure the NSA based on a 2D plane and a 3D model respectively. Although the femoral neck and femoral shaft axes did not intersect in 3D space, the NSAs obtained by 2D and 3D methods were basically consistent.
Bicycle Industry As a Post-pandemic Green Recovery Driver in an Emerging Economy: A SWOT Analysis
Authors: Xames Doulotuzzaman , Shefa Jannatul , Sarwar Ferdous
Published: November 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed socioeconomic vulnerabilities around the world. After fighting the coronavirus for more than one and a half years now, the countries are recovering from the epidemic with the help of cutting-edge medical research. The policymakers are implementing stimulus packages for post-pandemic economic recovery. However, sustainable ‘green recovery’ plans are yet to get adequate attention. Sustainable investment in green industries can create green jobs, promote a low-carbon economy, and foster long-lasting economic growth in the post-pandemic world. The COVID-19 affected countries with emerging economies call for even more focus on such investments. In Bangladesh, the bicycle industry - a growing low-carbon industry – has been showing promising potential for growth since the beginning of the pandemic. Both the local and global markets of Bangladeshi bicycles have seen substantial growth during the epidemic. In this paper, we analyze the potential of the Bangladeshi bicycle industry as an effective green recovery driver. We conduct semi-structured interviews with relevant experts and professionals, analyze their opinions, and perform a ‘strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT)’ analysis. The analysis reveals valuable insights regarding post-pandemic sustainable economic and environmental recovery which will be beneficial to the policymakers of Bangladesh and similar developing countries.
Hydrothermally synthesized Nickel cobalt oxide for bifunctional electrochemical supercapacitor and nonenzymatic glucose biosensor
Authors: Pore O. C. , Fulari A. V. , Fulari V. J. , Lohar G. M.
Published: November 2021

Herein, various nickel cobalt oxide nanostructures with different Ni concentrations are prepared via hydrothermal route and then calcination process for electrochemical supercapacitor as well as nonenzymatic glucose biosensor. The electrode synthesized on carbon cloth using Ni0.9Co2.1O4 nanosheet-like morphology showed a maximum 516.51 F g−1 specific capacitance at 10 mV s−1 scan rate and the cyclic stability of 87.7% over 2000 GCD cycles. The electrode prepared with Ni0.3Co2.7O4 on CC offered a linear response from 0 to 0.3 mM glucose concentration and exhibited a maximum of 759.5 µA mM−1 cm−2 glucose sensitivity.
Personality traits in post-COVID syndrome
Authors: Delgado-Alonso Cristina , Valles-Salgado María , Delgado-Álvarez Alfonso , Gómez-Ruiz Natividad , Yus Miguel , Polidura Carmen , Pérez-Izquierdo Carlos , Marcos Alberto , Gil María José , Matías-Guiu Jorge , Matias-Guiu Jordi A
Published: November 2021

Background. We aimed to evaluate personality traits in patients with postCOVID syndrome, as well as the association with neuropsychiatric symptoms present in this disorder. Methods. The Big Five Structure Inventory was administered to 93 consecutive patients with a diagnosis of post-COVID syndrome and to matched controls. We also performed a comprehensive evaluation of depression, anxiety, fatigue, sleep quality, cognitive function, and olfactory function. Results. Patients with post-COVID syndrome scored lower for emotional stability, equanimity, positive mood, and self-control. Extraversion, emotional stability, and openness correlated negatively with anxiety and depression levels. Conscientiousness correlated negatively with anxiety. No statistically significant correlations were observed between personality traits and cognitive function, sleep quality, olfactory function, or fatigue. Personality scores explained 36.3% and 41% of the variance in scores on the anxiety and depression scales, respectively. Two personality profiles with lower levels of emotional stability were associated with depression and anxiety. Conclusions. Our study shows higher levels of neuroticism in patients with post-COVID syndrome. Personality traits were predictive of the presence of depression and anxiety, but not cognitive function, sleep quality, or fatigue, in the context of post-COVID syndrome. These findings may have implications for the detection of patients at risk of depression and anxiety in post-COVID syndrome, and for the development of preventive and therapeutic interventions.
Exploring alternative insecticide delivery options in a “Lethal House Lure” for malaria vector control
Authors: Oumbouke Welbeck A. , Barreaux Antoine M.G. , Zran Innocent T. , Koffi Alphonsine A. , N’Guessan Yao , Alou Ludovic P. Ahoua , Wolie Rosine Z. , Cook Jackie , Sternberg Eleanore D. , Thomas Matthew B. , N’Guessan Raphael
Published: November 2021

The In2Care® EaveTube is a house modification designed to block and kill malaria mosquitoes using an electrostatic netting treated with insecticide powder. A previous study demonstrated prolonged duration of effective action of insecticide-treated electrostatic netting in a semi-field setting. As part of a cluster randomized controlled trial (CRT) of the EaveTube intervention in Cote d’Ivoire, we investigated the residual efficacy of a pyrethroid insecticide deployed in Eave Tubes under village condition of use. We also explored the scope of using existing malaria control technologies including LLINs and IRS as alternative methods to deliver insecticides in the lethal house lure. The efficacy of beta-cyfluthrin was evaluated using the “eave tube bioassay” and was found to be relatively short-lived in the field during the CRT, with mortality of pyrethroid resistant Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes declining below 80% after 4 months. The impact (mosquito mortality) of PVC tubes coated with pirimiphos methyl was similar to that of beta-cyfluthrin treated insert (66.8 vs 62.8%) in release-recapture experiments in experimental huts. Efficacy was significantly lower with all the LLINs tested; however, the roof of PermaNet 3.0 induced significantly higher mosquito mortality (50.4%) compared to Olyset Plus (25.9%) and Interceptor G2 (21.6%) LLINs. The new delivery methods showed a rapid decline in efficacy over time with mortality decreasing below 50% within 2 months in residual activity bioassays. None of the current products appeared superior to the powder treatments but as with the powders, further research and development on formulations and doses are required.
Resection or Preservation? A Tough Surgical Decision for Chinese Breast Cancer Patients Who are in Line with Breast Conserving
Authors: Zhu Pingting , Ji Qiaoying , Liu Xinyi , Xu Ting , Wu Qiwei , Wang Yuejuan
Published: November 2021

Purpose

Breast cancer patients who are in line with breast conserving are faced more challenges in making surgery decision, because breast conservation and mastectomy have equivalent oncologic outcomes. The purpose of this study is to analyze the surgical decision-making process for breast cancer patients and further explore the reasons why do Chinese women who are in line with breast conserving are more likely to choose mastectomy.
Methods

A qualitative study was conducted. With the sample saturation principle, data collected by semi-structured interviews with 24 breast cancer patients who are in line with breast conserving. Colaizzi’s method of phenomenology was used for data analysis.
Results

Three major themes emerged from the data. The themes were the following: (1) lack of significant decision-making support (stereotyping of breast cancer surgery, inferior quality of interaction with health professions, and without the help of decision aids); (2) can’t mull under the strike (immediacy of the decision, breasts are out of deliberating, and escape); and (3) edified by the Chinese culture (deep family values, hiding concerns about femininity, and conservative character).
Conclusions

Our findings explore the reasons why more Chinese breast cancer patients with breast conserving conditions choose mastectomy, and help patients to choose knowledge-based treatment options which are concordant with their needs, values, and preferences.
Synbiotic Supplementation Modulates Gut Microbiota, Regulates Beta-Catenin Expression And Prevents Weight Gain in ob/ob Mice
Authors: Duarte Sebastião Mauro Bezerra , Stefano José Tadeu , Franco Lucas A. M. , Martins Roberta C. , Moraes Bruna D. G. C. , Barbeiro Denise Frediani , Oliveira Nathalia , Neri Junia Marielle Teixeira Rodrigues , Vanni Denise Siqueira , Sabino Ester C. , Carrilho Flair José , Oliveira Claudia P.
Published: November 2021

Background: The aim of this study was to examine the impact of synbiotic supplementation in obesity and microbiota in ob/ob mice. 20 animals were divided into four groups: Obese Treated (OT), Control (OC), Lean Treated (LT) and Control (LC). All animals received standard diet for 8 weeks. Treated groups received a synbiotic in water while nontreated groups received water. After 8 weeks, all animals were sacrificed and gut tissue mRNA isolation and stool samples by microbiota analysis were collected. Beta-catenin, occludin, cadherin and zonulin were analyzed in gut tissue by RT-qPCR. Results: The synbiotic supplementation reduced body weight gain in OT comparing with OC (p=0.0398), increase of Enterobacteriaceae (p=0.005) and decrease of Cyanobacteria (p=0.047), Clostridiaceae (p=0.026), Turicibacterales (p=0.005) and Coprococcus (p=0.047). A significant reduction of Sutterella bacteria (p=0.009) and Turicibacter (p=0.005) was observed in LT compared to LC. Alpha and beta diversities were differ between all treated groups. Beta-catenin gene expression was significantly decreased in the gut tissue of OT (p≤0.0001) when compared to other groups. No changes were observed in occludin, cadherin and zonulin gene expression in the gut tissue. Conclusion: The synbiotics supplementation prevents excessive weight gain, modulates the gut microbiota, and reduces beta-catenin expression in ob/ob mice.
Tandem repeats ubiquitously flank and select translation initiation sites
Authors: Maddi Ali M.A. , Kavousi Kaveh , Arabfard Masoud , Ohadi Hamid , Ohadi Mina
Published: November 2021

Evolutionary divergence in cis-regulatory sequences impacts translation initiation sites (TISs). The implication of tandem repeats (TRs) in TIS selection remains elusive for the most part. Here we employed the TIS homology concept to study a possible link between all categories of TRs and TIS selection. Human and 83 other species were selected, and data was extracted on the entire protein-coding genes (n=1,611,368) and transcripts (n=2,730,515) annotated for those species from Ensembl 102. Two different weighing vectors were employed to assign TIS homology, and the results were assessed in 10-fold validation. On average, every TIS was flanked by 1.19 TRs of various categories within the 120 bp upstream sequence. We detected statistically significant excess of non-homologous TISs co-occurring with human-specific TRs, vice versa. We conclude that TRs are abundant cis elements in the upstream sequences of TISs across species, and there is a link between all categories of TRs and TIS selection.
Sn-doped CdS: A New Intermediate Band Material for Solar Cells
Authors: Yin Jianbo , Yan Xiaobin , Zhu Min
Published: November 2021

In this paper, the electronic structure and optical properties of CdS doped by Sn with different concentrations were investigated by first principles. The calculation results of electronic structure show that the doping of Sn can produce a deep impurity level band in the band structure of CdS. The calculation results of optical property show that Sn doping can increase the light absorption coefficient and conductivity of CdS. The overall calculation results show that Sn doping can produce stable intermediate band structure and significantly improve the optical property of CdS.
A Stratification System of Ferroptosis and Iron-Metabolism Related Lncrnas Guides the Prediction of The Survival of Patients with Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Zhao Fangchao , Niu Ren , Li Yishuai , Dong Zefang , Qin Xuebo , Li Zhirong , Li Shujun
Published: November 2021

Background: As the major type of esophageal cancer (ESCA), esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is also related to the highest malignant level and low survival rates across the world. Increasing people recognize long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as significant mediators in regulating ferroptosis and iron-metabolism. Determining the prognostic value of ferroptosis and iron-metabolism related lncRNAs (FIRLs) in ESCC is thus critical. Methods: Pearson’s correlation analysis was carried out between ferroptosis and iron-metabolism-related genes (FIRGs) and all lncRNAs to derive the FIRLs. Based on weighted gene co-expression network exploration (WCGNA), least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression and Cox regression analysis, a risk stratification system was established. According to Kaplan-Meier analysis, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, and univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses, the predictive ability and clinical relevance of the risk stratification system were evaluated. The validity of the established prognostic signature was further examined in TCGA (training set) and GEO (validation set) cohorts. A nomogram with enhanced precision for forecasting OS was set up on basis of the independent prognostic elements. Gene Ontology (GO) term enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis were applied for the identification of pathways in which FIRLs significantly enriched. we used cell culture, transfection, CCK-8, and qRT-PCR as in vitro assays. Results: An 3-FIRLs risk stratification system was developed by multivariate Cox regression analysis to divide patients into two risk groups. Patients in the high-risk group had worse prognosis than patients in the low-risk group. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed the risk stratification system was an independent prognostic indicator. Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis proved the predictive accuracy of the signature. The area under time-dependent ROC curve (AUC) reached 0.853 at 1 year, 0.802 at 2 years, 0.740 at 5 years in the training cohort and 0.712 at 1 year, 0.822 at 2 years, 0.883 at 5 years in the validation cohort. Functional enrichment analysis predicted potential associations of 49 possible upstream regulated FIRGs with ferroptosis and iron-metabolism processes and oncological signatures. Analysis of the immune cell infiltration landscape showed that ESCC in the high-risk group tended be immunologically “cold”. In vitro experiments suggested that LINC01068 promoted ESCC cell proliferation. Conclusion: The risk stratification system based on FIRLs could serve as a reliable tool for forecasting the survival of patients with ESCC.
Simultaneous Wireless Information and Power Transfer using Green Communication Based on 5G Wireless Communication
Authors: Ibrahim Ahmed Zohair , Prabu P , Senthilnathan T , Renukadevi Thangavel
Published: November 2021

Simultaneous wireless information and power transfer (SWIPT) has given new opportunities for dealing with the energe shortage problem in wireless networks.Green transmission for 5G cellular networks of mobile cloud access networks based on SWIPT is being examined. Considering SWIPT as a future potential solution for increasing the battery life, this technique improves energy efficiency (EE). One of the technologies is wireless communication to transfter the power used to give sufficient resources to energy-constrained networks that have consequences for 5G and the internet of things (IoT), energy efficiency, co-operative communication and suitable are supported by the SWIPT. To enhance the capacity, data rate improvement, and better performance of quality of services of further networks. In addition to these criteria, it is also our moral responsibility to protect the environment of wireless networks by lowering power usage. As a result, green communication is a critical requirement. We looked at a variety of strategies for power optimization in the impending 5G network in this article. The utilization of relays and microcells to enhance the network’s energy efficiency is the main focus. The many relaying scenarios for next-generation networks have been discussed.
Pearson’s Redundancy Multi-Filtering with BAT Algorithm for Selecting High Dimensional Imbalanced Features
Authors: Alluhaidan Ala Saleh , P Prabu , R Sivakumar
Published: November 2021

Feature selection plays a vital role for every data analysis application. Feature selection aims to choose prominent set of features after removing redundant and irrelevant features from original set of features. High Dimensional dataset poses a challenging task for Machine Learning algorithms. Many state-of-art solutions were developed to handle this issue. High dimensionality in addition to imbalance ratio in the dataset becomes a tedious task. To overcome the issue, this paper introduces a novel method namely Pearson’s Redundancy Based Multi Filter algorithm with improved BAT algorithm (PRBMF-iBAT) to obtain multiple feature subsets. PRBMF is implemented using multiple filters to obtain highly relevant features. iBAT algorithm uses these features to find best subset of features for classification. The results prove that PRBMF-iBAT perform better for the classifier in terms of Accuracy, Precision, Recall and F- Measure for three micro array datasets with SVM classifier. The proposed system achieves 97.99% of accuracy as highest compared to the existing rCBR-BGOA algorithm.
What matters most in acute care: an interview study with older people living with frailty
Authors: Oppen James David van , Coats Timothy John , Conroy Simon Paul , Lalseta Jagruti , Phelps Kay , Regen Emma , Riley Peter , Valderas Jose M , Mackintosh Nicola J
Published: November 2021

Background
Healthcare outcome goals are central to person-centred acute care, however evidence among older people is scarce. Older people who are living with frailty have distinct requirements for healthcare delivery and have distinct risk for adverse outcomes from healthcare. There is insufficient evidence for whether those living with frailty also have distinct healthcare outcome goals. This study explored the nature of acute care outcome goals in people living with frailty.
Methods
Healthcare outcome goals were explored using semi-structured patient interviews. Participants aged over 65 with Clinical Frailty Score 5-8 (mild to very severe frailty) were recruited during their first 72 hours in a UK hospital. Purposive, maximum variation sampling was guided by lay partners from a Patient and Public Involvement Forum specialising in ageing-related research. Qualitative analysis used a blended approach based on framework and constant comparative methodologies for the identification of themes. Findings were validated through triangulation with participant, lay partner, and technical expert review.
Results
The 22 participants were aged 71 to 98 and had mild to very severe frailty. One quarter were living with dementia. Most participants had reflected on their situation and considered their outcome goals. Theme categories (and corresponding sub-categories) were ‘Autonomy’ (information, control, and security) and ‘Functioning’ (physical, psychosocial, and relief). A novel ‘security’ theme was identified, whereby participants sought to feel safe in their usual living place and with their health problems. Those living with milder frailty were concerned to maintain ability to support loved ones, while those living with most severe frailty were concerned about burdening others.
Conclusions
Outcome goals for acute care among older participants living with frailty were influenced by the insecurity of their situation and fear of deterioration. Patients may be supported to feel safe and in control through appropriate information provision and functional support.
Effects of electronegativities and charge delocalization on Q2 Raman shifts of alkaline- and alkaline earth-bearing glasses and metasilicate crystals
Authors: Nesbitt H. Wayne , Dean Phil A.W. , Bancroft Michael , Henderson Grant S.
Published: November 2021

Raman shifts of the symmetric stretch of silicate Q2 species vary over a range of ~90 cm−1 in crystals and glasses containing alkali and alkaline earth oxides. The shifts display a striking, sympathetic relationship with the electronegativity of the alkali and alkaline earth metals (M), with the highest frequency observed for Mg-silicate glasses and crystals and the lowest frequency for Cs-bearing glasses. Frequencies are determined primarily by the electron density on constituent Si and O atoms of the Q2 tetrahedra, as measured by Si 2p and O 1s X-ray photoelectron spectra (XPS). The electron density is, in turn, determined by the extent to which electronic charge is transferred from the modifier metal “M” to the NBO of the Q2 tetrahedron. The charge transferred to NBO is redistributed (delocalized) over all atoms of the tetrahedron by the four equivalent Si sp3 orbitals. Although negative charge accumulates on all atoms of the tetrahedron, it accumulates preferentially on Si. Coulombic interactions among Si and all O atoms are thus weakened, resulting in decreased force constants and lowered symmetric stretch frequencies of Q2 species.

Density functional theoretical (DFT) calculations on six staggered and eclipsed M6Si2O7 (M = Li, Na, K) molecules corroborate the findings. Charge is transferred from the metal atoms to NBO and delocalized over tetrahedra in accordance with Li, Na, and K electronegativities. Calculated Si-O force constants and Raman shifts decrease with decreasing electronegativity of the cation but surprisingly, calculated Si-NBO bond lengths are largely unaffected, with all being similar at 1.665 ± 0.003 Å.
Resveratrol alone and its Combination with Pterostilbene amends Valproic Acid-Induced Autism in Swiss Albino Mice: Postnatal Model
Authors: Sunand Katta , Mohan G. Krishna , Bakshi Vasudha
Published: November 2021

Objective: The present study was aimed to determine the therapeutic role of resveratrol and pterostilbene alone and combination in reversing the behavioral, biochemical, and histopathological alterations in valproic acid (VPA) induced oxidative stress and neuron damage in a postnatal model of autism. Method: 13 days old Swiss albino mice pups were randomly divided into five groups of six each, vehicle-treated group (1 mg/mL CMC), autistic group (VPA 400 mg/kg, sc), resveratrol (20 mg/kg, po), pterostilbene (10 mg/kg, po), and combination of resveratrol (10 mg/kg, po) + pterostilbene (5 mg/kg, po) group. On postnatal day (PND) 14, valproic acid (VPA) 400 mg/kg, sc, was administered to all except vehicle treated group. Resveratrol and/or pterostilbene was administered daily from PND 14 to 40. During the treatment, period various behavioural parameters were analysed. At the end of study, animals were sacrificed for biochemical estimations and histopathological study. Results: Single time administration of VPA at 400 mg/kg, sc, effectively induced autism. Treatment with resveratrol, pterostilbene, and the combination gave significant recovery in behavioral activity, biochemical, and histopathological alterations in mice when compared with the autistic group. Conclusion: Resveratrol and pterostilbene are good nutraceuticals in reversing the valproic acid-induced autistic deficits, in this study combination of resveratrol and pterostilbene provide superior results on recovery over individual therapy, it is suggested that this combination therapy potentiates the benefits and is more suitable for autism therapy.
Medicinal Applications of Antisense Oligonucleotides:
A Review
Authors: Pandiri Kavya , Samad Mohammed Abdul , Gulamus Nadeem Abbas , Khanam Hajera
Published: November 2021

Antisense technology has emerged as a fast and conceivably high-throughput method for repressing genes due
to advancement in knowledge about DNA and RNA physiology. The limitations of antisense oligonucleotide
therapy in delivery strategies have been overcome in recent years. Antisense oligonucleotide treatment was
effectively applied towards targeting a wide range of therapeutic areas. With ongoing approvals of antisense
oligonucleotides, there is an expanding enthusiasm for increasing the utilization of these compounds for curing
various infections. This short survey gives a far-reaching comprehension of applications of antisense technology,
how they can be utilized therapeutically, and current endeavors to grow new antisense oligonucleotide
treatments that will add a forthcoming therapeutic approach for the treatment of various diseases.
Drug Repurposing: A Paradigm Shift in Drug Discovery
Authors: Jayaram Saravanan , Rymbai Emdormi , Sugumar Deepa , Selvaraj Divakar
Published: November 2021

The traditional methods of drug discovery and drug development are a tedious, complex, and costly process.
Target identification, target validation; lead identification; and lead optimization are a lengthy and unreliable
process that further complicates the discovery of new drugs. A study of more than 15 years reports that the
success rate in the discovery of new drugs in the fields of ophthalmology, cardiovascular, infectious disease,
and oncology to be 32.6%, 25.5%, 25.2% and 3.4%, respectively. A tedious and costly process coupled with a
very low success rate makes the traditional drug discovery a less attractive option. Therefore, an alternative to
traditional drug discovery is drug repurposing, a process in which already existing drugs are repurposed for
conditions other than which were originally intended. Typical examples of repurposed drugs are thalidomide,
sildenafil, memantine, mirtazapine, mifepristone, etc. In recent times, several databases have been developed
to hasten drug repurposing based on the side effect profile, the similarity of chemical structure, and target site.
This work reviews the pivotal role of drug repurposing in drug discovery and the databases currently available
for drug repurposing.
Cistatina C como biomarcador Gold estándar para el diagnóstico de problemas renales agudos en caninos
Authors: Moscoso Gama Johanna Marcela , Cuadros Losada Astrid Lorena , Rico Ruiz Dayana Katherine , Rodriguez Rodriguez Braian Julian
Published: November 2021

Los caninos con lesiones renales tienen afectados distintos procesos tales como filtración, reabsorción y excreción que alteran la homeostasis. La medición de biomarcadores alternativos ha servido para el diagnóstico y pronóstico de daño renal, lo que ha servido para el médico veterinario, no solo por la oportunidad en el diagnóstico temprano sino por ejercicio preventivo. Uno de los marcadores que permite evaluar la tasa de filtración glomerular (TFG) es la concentración sérica de creatinina, ya que esta varía en proporciones inversas, por otro lado, se encuentra la creatinina (Ccr), siendo una buena herramienta para indicar el compromiso de la función glomerular, aunque esta no suele ser tan confiable, por sus altas interferencias al momento de medir. Por esto se ha postulado otros biomarcadores que dan un pronóstico más temprano y que permiten dar un tratamiento oportuno, entre ellos está la cistatina C, que presenta una baja variabilidad interindividual, ya que no genera uniones proteicas, no tiene secreción tubular y no se genera reabsorción tubular si no existe catabolismo de la proteína. El objetivo de esta revisión es presentar a la Cistatina C (CisC) como un biomarcador Gold estándar para el diagnóstico de problemas renales agudos en caninos, puesto que en medicina humana ya se ha establecido que la CisC tiene un mejor valor diagnóstico renal y de determinación de la TFG que la creatinina sérica, además de que tiene una constante producción y visibilidad en la concentración plasmática en situaciones de ausencia de variaciones de la TFG. Para la recolección de la información utilizada en esta revisión, se emplearon diversas fuentes como: PubMed, Scielo, Journal of Small Animal Practice, National Center for Biotechnology Information, en donde fueron seleccionados 50 artículos para realizar esta investigación.
Performance evaluation of CFSR, MERRA-2 and TRMM3B42 data sets in simulating river discharge of data-scarce tropical catchments: a case study of Manafwa, Uganda
Authors: Nakkazi Maria Theresa , Sempewo Jotham Ivan , Tumutungire Martin Dahlin , Byakatonda Jimmy
Published: November 2021

Data scarcity has been a huge problem in modelling catchments especially in the tropical region. Satellite data and different statistical methods are being used to improve the quality of conventional meteorological data. However, their potential needs to be further investigated. This paper evaluates the performance of three datasets in simulating discharge of River Manafwa, Uganda. Two reanalysis datasets were selected for studying both rainfall and temperature, whereas a satellite algorithm was selected for studying rainfall alone. MERRA-2 data and CFSR were chosen as the reanalysis datasets whereas TRMM3B42 data were used as the satellite product in this study. The SWAT model was used to evaluate the performance of these datasets. The model performance indicators indicated that, at daily time steps, all the three datasets produced values of Nash -Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE<0.4), coefficient of determination (R2<0.4) and Percent Bias +25%. Despite a general underperformance compared to MERRA-2, CFSR performed better than TRMM. On applying generated bias corrections for precipitation and temperature climate data, overall results showed that the bias-corrected data outperformed the original data. We conclude that, in the absence of gauged hydro-meteorological data, bias-corrected MERRA-2, CFSR and TRMM data could be used for simulating river discharge in data-scarce areas.
RELAÇÃO DOS DIVIDENDOS, DÍVIDA E CONSELHO DE ADMINISTRAÇÃO COM O DESEMPENHO: UM COMPARATIVO ENTRE EMPRESAS FAMILIARES E NÃO FAMILIARES
Authors: Kreuzberg Fernanda , Cunha Paulo Roberto da , Popik Fabiane
Published: November 2021

O objetivo deste trabalho consiste em identificar a relação do pagamento de dividendos, do nível da dívida e do conselho de administração com o desempenho financeiro das empresas familiares e não familiares. Conclui-se que as empresas familiares não possuem níveis mais elevados de pagamento de dividendos para manter a eficácia no controle dos problemas de agência II. Para a mitigação dos problemas de agência I as empresas não familiares veem a presença de um elevado número de conselheiros independentes no conselho de administração, como um mecanismo essencial para os problemas de agência.Palavras-chave: Teoria da agência. Dividendos. Dívida. Desempenho. Empresas familiares e não familiares.
IMPACTO DO FECHAMENTO DA BOLSA DE VALORES DE NOVA YORK (NYSE) SOBRE O RISCO DE MERCADO DAS EMPRESAS NEGOCIADAS NA BM&FBOVESPA: UM ESTUDO SOBRE A ÓTICA DA INTERDEPENDENCIA ENTRE MERCADOS
Authors: Barbosa Josilene da Silva , Ribeiro Flávio , Consoni Silvia , Soares Rodrigo Oliveira , Frega José Roberto
Published: November 2021

Na última semana de outubro de 2012, devido ao fenômeno climático Sandy, a Bolsa de Valores de Nova York (NYSE) suspendeu suas operações por dois dias consecutivos (29 e 30 de outubro). Concomitantemente, a Bolsa de Valores de São Paulo (BM&FBovespa) teve seu volume de negociações reduzido, o que pode estar relacionado à integração entre mercados. O objetivo desta pesquisa consiste em verificar se o fechamento da NYSE, nos dias 29 e 30 de outubro de 2012, alterou o risco de mercado das empresas brasileiras de capital aberto. Para a consecução da pesquisa, procedeu-se a uma análise de quebra estrutural utilizando o teste de Chow (1960) em uma amostra de 198 empresas. Os resultados indicaram que, dentre as empresas componentes da amostra, 60% apresentaram quebra estrutural nos dias analisados.  Para essas empresas a significância do teste manteve-se entre 0,0000 a 0,0469 (dia 29) e 0,0000 a 0,0411 (dia 30). A análise segmentada por setor indica que os setores de Tecnologia da Informação (87,50%, 7 empresas) e de Petróleo, Gás e Biocombustíveis (83,33%, 5 empresas) apresentaram os maiores escores de quebra estrutural, seguidos pelos setores de Telecomunicações (80,00%), Bens Industriais (64,71). Ainda, das 20 empresas da amostra que negociam ADR’s na NYSE, 75% apresentaram quebra estrutural.Palavras-chave: Interdependência. Mercado de Capitais. Quebra Estrutural.