bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Load-Frequency Control in an Islanded Microgrid PV/WT/FC/ESS using an Optimal Self-Tuning Fractional-Order Fuzzy Controller
Authors: Naderipour Amirreza , Abdul-Malek Zulkurnain , Davoodkhani Iraj Faraji , Kamyab Hesam , Ali Roshafima Rasit 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
The variations in the consumption load and generation power in microgrid systems such as photovoltaic, wind-turbine fuel cell and energy storage systems (PV/WT/FC/ESSs) has challenged the load-frequency control due to the increased complexity and nonlinear nature of these systems. This paper employs a self-tuning controller based on the fuzzy logic to overcome parameter uncertainties of classic controllers, such as operation conditions, the change in the operating point of the microgrid and the uncertainty of microgrid modeling. Further, a combined fuzzy logic and fractional-order controller is used for load-frequency control of the off-grid microgrid with the influence of renewable resources because the latter controller benefits robust performance and enjoys a flexible structure. To reach a better operation for the proposed controller, a novel meta-heuristic whale algorithm has been used to optimally determine the input and output scale coefficients of the fuzzy controller and fractional orders of the fractional-order controller. The suggested approach is applied to a microgrid with a diesel generator, wind turbine, photovoltaic systems, and energy storage devices. The comparison made between the results of the proposed controller and those of the classic PID controller proves the superiority of the optimized fractional-order self-tuning fuzzy controller in terms of operation characteristics, response speed, and the reduction in frequency deviations against load variations.
Ligand Docking Methods to Recognize Allosteric Inhibitors for G-protein Coupled Receptors
Authors: K Harini , S Jayashree , Tiwari Vikas , Vishwanath Sneha , Sowdhamini Ramanathan 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
BackgroundG-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) are large protein families known to be important in many cellular processes. They are well known for their allosteric activation mechanisms. They are drug targets for several FDA-approved drugs. We have investigated the diversity of the ligand binding site for these class of proteins against their cognate ligands using computational docking, even if their structures are known in the ligand-complexed form. ResultsThe cognate ligand of some of these receptors dock at allosteric binding site, with better score than the binding at the conservative site. Further, ligands obtained from GLASS database, which consists of experimentally verified GPCR ligands, also show allosteric binding to GPCRs. The allosteric binders show strong affinity to the binding site, though the residues at the binding site are not conserved across GPCR subfamilies.ConclusionsBased on our computational approach it was found that the residues at the allosteric site are not as conserved as in the cognate binding site, which might explain the specificity of a particular GPCR. Further, for certain GPCRs, some of their known cognate ligands were predicted to have better binding preference towards the allosteric site than orthosteric site and therefore this computational approach can assist in the prediction of allosteric binders for GPCRs.
Monocyte Distribution Width (MDW) as Novel Inflammatory Marker with Prognostic Significance in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Riva Giovanni , Castellano Sara , Nasillo Vincenzo , Ottomano Anna Maria , Bergonzini Giuliano , Paolini Ambra , Lusenti Beatrice , Milić Jovana , Biasi Sara De , Gibellini Lara , Cossarizza Andrea , Busani Stefano , Girardis Massimo , Guaraldi Giovanni , Mussini Cristina , Manfredini Rossella , Luppi Mario , Tagliafico Enrico , Trenti Tommaso 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Monocyte Distribution Width (MDW), a new cytometric parameter correlating with cytomorphologic changes occurring upon massive monocyte activation, has recently emerged as promising early biomarker of sepsis. Similar to sepsis, monocyte/macrophage subsets are considered key mediators of the life-threatening hyper-inflammatory disorder characterizing severe COVID-19. In this study, we longitudinally analyzed MDW values in a cohort of 87 COVID-19 patients consecutively admitted to our hospital, showing significant correlations between MDW and common inflammatory markers, namely CRP (p<0.001), fibrinogen (p<0.001) and ferritin (p<0.01). Moreover, high MDW values resulted to be prognostically associated with fatal outcome in COVID-19 patients (AUC=0.76, 95% CI: 0.66-0.87, sensitivity 0.75, specificity 0.70, MDW threshold 26.4; RR=4.91, 95% CI: 1.73-13.96; OR=7.14, 95% CI: 2.06-24.71). This pilot study shows that MDW can be useful in the monitoring of COVID-19 patients, as this innovative hematologic biomarker is: (i) easy to obtain, (ii) directly related to the activation state of a fundamental inflammatory cell subset (i.e. monocytes, pivotal in both cytokine storm and sepsis immunopathogenesis), (iii) well correlated with clinical severity of COVID-19-associated inflammatory disorder, and, in turn, (iv) endowed with relevant prognostic significance. Additional studies are needed to define further the clinical impact of MDW testing in the management of COVID-19 patients.
A Liquid Chromatographic Method for Determination of Acetamiprid and Buprofezin Residues and Their Dissipation Kinetics in Paddy Matrices and Soil
Authors: Majumder Sujan , Mandal Somnath , Majumder Biswajit , Paul Anindita , Paul Tarun , Sahana Nandita , MONDAL PRITHUSAYAK 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
The present study was conducted to investigate the residue status of two insecticides (acetamiprid and buprofezin) and their dissipation kinetics in three matrices viz. paddy grain, straw and soil. The extraction protocol for residues of these two insecticides was executed using acetonitrile solvent. The analytical method was validated, which showed good linearity with the limit of quantification (LOQ) value of 0.01 and 0.02 mg kg-1 for acetamiprid and buprofezin respectively. The recovery range was 79.67-98.33 % concerning all the matrices in both the insecticides. Acetamiprid (20% SP) and Buprofezin (25% SC) were applied separately in the paddy field in two doses: single dose (recommended dose) and double dose along with untreated control throughout the experiment. Residue analysis of these two insecticides in paddy (grain and straw) and soil was accomplished employing high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) with a UV detector. The dissipation data showed that acetamiprid exhibited higher dissipation in comparison with buprofezin. However, their persistence was found slightly higher in soil. The dissipation dynamics in the rice and soil were discussed with biological half-lives of both the insecticides. Consumer risk assessment study was also made considering its fate to the consumers.
Color Image Encryption Based on Cross 2d Hyperchaotic Map Using Combined Cycle Shift Scrambling and Selecting Diffusion
Authors: Teng Lin , Wang Xingyuan , Yang Feifei , Xian Yongjin 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
A novel color image encryption algorithm based on a cross 2D hyperchaotic map is proposed in this paper. The cross 2D hyperchaotic map is constructed using one nonlinear function and two chaotic maps with cross structure. Chaotic behaviors are illustrated using bifurcation diagrams, Lyapunov exponent spectra and phase portraits, etc. In the color image encryption algorithm, the keys are generated using hash function SHA-512 and the information of plain color image. First, the color plain image is converted to a combined bit-level matrix and permuted by the chaos based row and column combined cycle shift scrambling method. Then the scrambled integer matrix is diffused according to the selecting sequence which depends on the chaotic sequence. Last, the cipher color image is obtained by decomposed the diffused matrix. Simulation results show that the algorithm can encrypt the color image effectively and has good security.
Wave-equation Traveltime Tomography Unravels a Scenario of Horizontal Mantle Flow Beneath the North China Craton
Authors: Dong Xingpeng , Yang Dinghui , Niu Fenglin , Liu Shaolin , Tong Ping 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
The North China craton (NCC) was dominated by tectonic extension from late Cretaceous to Cenozoic, yet seismic studies on the relationship between crust extension and lithospheric mantle deformation are scarce. Here we present a three dimensional radially anisotropic model of NCC derived from wave-equation traveltime tomography to address this issue. We find a prominent low S-wave velocity anomaly at lithospheric mantle depths beneath the Taihang Mountains, which extends eastward with a gradually decreasing amplitude. The horizontally elongated low-velocity anomaly is also featured by a distinctive positive radial anisotropy (VSH>VSV). Combining geodetic and other seismic measurements, we speculate the presence of a horizontal mantle flow beneath central and eastern NCC, which led to the extension of the overlying crust. We suggest that the rollback of Western Pacific slab likely played a pivotal role in generating the horizontal mantle flow at lithospheric depth beneath the central and eastern NCC.
Cloning, Subcellular Location and Expression Analysis of Grape MYB Gene
Authors: Li Guirong , Quan Ran , Jing Pengwei , Wang Meng , Xu Wenwen , Hu Huiling 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
MYB gene plays an important role in plant growth, development and response to abiotic stress. In this study, the Eurasian grape (Vitis vinifera L.) cultivar ‘Yatomi Rosa’ was used as the test material. Two MYB genes, VvMYBB1 gene and VvMYBA3 gene, were obtained by homologous cloning, and their subcellular location, different organs, and expression patterns under stress treatment and hormone induction were obtained. It was found that VvMYBB1 gene and VvMYBA3 gene proteins were located in the nucleus and belonged to nuclear proteins. VvMYBB1 gene and VvMYBA3 gene were highly expressed in roots and flowers. VvMYBB1 gene and VvMYBA3 gene might have a negative effect on the formation of peel color. VvMYB1 gene and VvMYBA3 gene might play an important role in drought resistance and salt stress resistance in grapes. Under the induction of exogenous hormones, the expression of VvMYBB1 gene was higher than that of VvMYBA3 gene under the treatment of IAA, ETH, SA and MeJA. Expression of VvMYBB1 gene was lower than that of VvMYBA3 gene under the treatment of 6-BA, GA3 and ABA. It showed that MYB gene played an important role in the development of different organs of grapes, fruit coloring and response to abiotic stress. This would provide reference for the utilization of grape MYB gene resources.
Machine learning spots the time to treat Huntington disease
Authors: Koval Igor , Dighiero-Brecht Thomas , Tobin Allan , Tabrizi Sarah , Scahill Rachael , Durrleman Stanley , Durr Alexandra 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
We propose a new approach, based on machine learning, to evaluating new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases. Using data from two longitudinal studies of 299 participants with early Huntington Disease, we learned the range of likely trajectories of 15 imaging and clinical biomarkers from the premanifest to manifest disease stages. We positioned independent 11,510 patients on these maps using their baseline data and hence forecast the values of their biomarkers at any timepoint. Applied to trial design, we showed that sample size can be decreased by up to 50% by selecting individuals for whom we predict a significant change for their outcome measures during trial. Reduction occurs whatever the selected outcome measures and the targeted disease stage. This approach does not only select the right patient at the right time for the right trial, but also guides decisions about when to start preventive treatments.
One or two dose regimen of the SARS-CoV-2 synthetic DNA vaccine INO-4800 protects against respiratory tract disease burden in nonhuman primate challenge model
Authors: Gooch Karen , Smith Trevor , Salguero Francisco , Fotheringham Susan , Watson Robert , Dennis Mike , Handley Alastair , Humphries Holly , Longet Stephanie , Tipton Tom , Sarfas Charlotte , Sibley Laura , Slack Gillian , Rayner Emma , Ryan Kathryn , Schultheis Katherine , Ramos Stephanie , White Andrew , Charlton Sue , Sharpe Sally , Gleeson Fergus , Humeau Laurent , Hall yper , Broderick Kate , Carroll Miles 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Safe and effective vaccines will provide essential medical countermeasures to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic. Here, we evaluate the safety, immunogenicity and efficacy of the intradermal delivery of INO-4800, a synthetic DNA vaccine candidate encoding the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in the rhesus macaque model. Single and 2 dose vaccination regimens were evaluated. Vaccination induces both binding and neutralizing antibodies, along with IFN-γ-producing T cells against SARS-CoV-2. Upon administration of a high viral dose (5 x 106 pfu) via the intranasal and intratracheal routes we observe significantly reduced virus load in the lung and throat, in the vaccinated animals compared to controls. 2 doses of INO-4800 is associated with more robust vaccine-induced immune responses and improved viral protection. Importantly, histopathological examination of lung tissue provides no indication of vaccine-enhanced disease following SARS-CoV-2 challenge in INO-4800 immunized animals. This vaccine candidate is currently under clinical evaluation as a 2 dose regimen.
Improving Information Adequacy of Clinical Morning Reports: Development of a Structured Model in the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department&nbsp;
Authors: Samimi Tahereh , MohammadEbrahimi Shahab , Tara Fatemeh , Mostafavi Sayyed Mostafa , Miandehi Elaheh Ebrahimi , Tara Mahmood 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: This study was aimed to improve the information adequacy of clinical Morning Reports by developing a structured reporting model. Methods: This study was a qualitative research conducted in three phases at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of three educational hospitals in northeastern Iran. After investigating the current status of MR sessions, the content of 120 reports were included extracted. The items were assigned subject groups for primary structuring while their validation getting confirmation using a two-round Delphi technique involving 10 specialists. Then, the structured model of clinical MRs was developed in two formats: structured paper-based form (SPF) and structured electronic format (SEF). The final evaluation was conducted comparing three practices of SPF, SEF, and conventional formats.Results: All studied MR samples were found unstructured in content. From 120 collected samples, 58 items were extracted and categorized into four categories. During the first Delphi round, all existing information were preserved with varying weights. but the participating experts also suggested six additional items to be included. In the second round, 11 items with the lowest scores were removed. Results of the comparative evaluation showed that the SPF format scored highest on the preference of use, ease of archiving and retrieval, application in future research, and ease of reporting. The SEF format scored highest on the clear understanding of patient status and readability.Conclusion: Using a standardized structured morning report based on the preference of local experts improves the quality of morning reports in various matters including efficiency, adequacy, and ease.
Ferritin L-subunit Gene Mutation and Hereditary Hyperferritinaemia Cataract Syndrome: A Case Report and Literature Review&nbsp;
Authors: Yang Yunfan , Lin Ting , Chen Xincuan 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: Hereditary hyperferritinaemia cataract syndrome (HHCS) is an autosomal dominant disease characterized by high serum ferritin levels and juvenile bilateral cataracts. It is often caused by mutations in the Iron Response Element (IRE) of the ferritin L-subunit (FTL) gene. Most of the mutations are point mutations located in the upper stem and the conserved hexanucleotide of the hairpin structure of IRE, only a few mutations are deletions. Case presentation: Here we report a 73-year-old woman who presented to clinic with persistently elevated serum ferritin and family history of juvenile bilateral cataracts in four generations. DNA sequencing analyses identified a heterozygous c.-167C>T mutation in the 5’ untranslated region (UTR) of the FTL gene. Her daughter and granddaughter were also confirmed to have the same genetic mutation.Conclusion: HHCS should be considered in the differential diagnosis of hyperferritinemia, especially in the presence of normal serum iron concentration and transferrin saturation. For patients with unexplained hyperferritinemia and bilateral cataracts who have experienced early vision loss, the establishment of genetic counseling is essential to diagnose other family members who are at risk in time, so as to avoid unnecessary liver biopsy and venesection.
Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia With KMT2A-ELL&nbsp;Fusion Mutation in a Patient With Untreated Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Zhang Shilin , Qiao Sennan , Han Wei , Hu Ruiping , Du Zhonghua , Bai Jing , Zhang Fuming , Gao Sujun 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: The concurrent of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in a patient is a rare situation, and has caused obstacles in clinical management. Case presentation: In the current study, we described a 64-year old female who was characterized by intermittent fatigue, edema of both lower limbs, dyspnea, and occasionally fever up to 39°C. The admission blood routine detections and the flow cytometry showed the patient was impaired by both CLL and AML. In RT-qPCR molecular detection, KMT2A-ELL fusion gene t (11:10) (q23:p13.1) was detected, which was verified by FISH detections. The next-generation sequencing (NGS) revealed a missense mutation of p.V157F in the coding sequence of TP53 gene, and frameshift mutations of p.V220fs and p.A382fs in the coding sequence of WT1. Conclusions: Collectively, the patient reported in this case was simultaneously impaired by CLL and AML. Our findings also inferred that the concurrent of CLL and AML might be attributed to the fusion mutation in KMT2A-ELL gene.
Preparation of hybrid coal gangue-polyacrylamide adsorbent and analysis of its performance for removal of Cu2+ and Pb2+ from wastewater
Authors: Sun Shanshan , ZHU Zhu , Wang Shujie , ZHANG Yongdong , WANG Huiyun , Quan Xiangao 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
This study describes the preparation of a low-cost adsorbent (hybrid coal gangue–polyacrylamide (HCGPAM)) based on activated coal gangue and acrylamide, and explores the effects of using it to remove Cu2+ and Pb2+ from wastewater. It investigated factors such as the impact of the initial concentrations of Pb2+ and Cu2+, adsorption time and temperature, and solution pH. The HCGPAM was fully characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS), and the Pb2+ and Cu2+ concentrations were measured using graphite furnace AAS. The adsorption performance experiment was conducted at 25 ℃ with initial Pb2+ and Cu2+ concentrations of 100 ug⋅ml− 1, an adsorbent dosage of 0.350 g, and an adsorption time of 30 min. The pH values of the Pb2+ and Cu2+ solutions were 5 and 4, respectively. When the adsorption effect was at an optimum, the Pb2+ and Cu2+ attained adsorption rates of 59.05% and 80.6%, respectively. The HCGPAM can be used to treat polluted sewage and therefore has favorable prospects for commercial application.
Retrospective study of Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma in the Belgian population: a 25 year experience
Authors: Ruttens Dries , Messiaen Julie , Ferster Alina , Piette Caroline , Schifflers Stefan , Damme An Van , Bosch Jutte van der Werff ten , Verlooy Joris , Willems Leen , Jacobs Sandra 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Introduction

Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma is a rare disease with a high mortality. Our primary aim was to determine the incidence of this disease in Belgium. Secondly, we wanted to compare the treatment approach of Belgian pediatric oncology centres, to investigate possibilities for improvement.
Methods

We retrospectively collected and analysed data on DIPG-patients diagnosed between 1994 and 2018 and recorded in the Belgian Cancer Registry.
We included patients ≤ 18 years who
were followed in one of the eight Belgian pediatric oncology
centres.
Results

We included 100 patients over a period of 25 years with a median age at diagnosis of 7 years. We observed an increase in diagnoses with an incidence of 3.1 per 1,000,000 persons (aged 0-≤18) per year over the last 5 years compared to an overall incidence of 1.8. Forty-five patients (51.7%) were biopsied at diagnosis. In ten (22%), this was study-related. H3 K27M-mutation was present in 75% of biopsied patients. Fifty-one patients (59.3%) received chemotherapy, without a significant survival benefit. Eleven patients (21.2%) were included in a clinical trial. Biopsy rate and the use of chemotherapy differed widely between centres. Mean OS and PFS were 10.49 and 4.87 months respectively. We observed an improved survival over time.
Conclusions

Over the past 25 years, we observed an increase of new DIPG-diagnoses. Outcome in our cohort is comparable with literature findings. We demonstrate an important heterogeneity in treatment approach between different centres and limited inclusion in clinical trials. Therefore, collaboration between centres and inclusion of patients in clinical trials is much needed.
Heavy metal concentration in Neotropical Aquatic Snakes (Helicops pastazae) and its potential as a bioindicator of water pollution
Authors: Hurtado-Morales María Jose , Rodríguez Manuel , Amezquita Adolfo 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
The present study aimed at testing the potential role of the aquatic snake Helicops pastazae as indicators of water pollution by heavy metals. In particular, we tested whether the total heavy metal concentration is related to (1) the distance and position (upstream vs downstream) of the sampling point with the discharge of wastewater; (2) the taxonomic group studied and its place in the trophic chain: piscivorous snakes vs characid fish that co-occur with them; and (3) the organ or tissue examined: snake liver versus muscle. We quantified cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr) and lead (Pb) by using atomic absorption spectrophotometry with electrothermal atomization. Significant differences were found between some of the sampling points, particularly high metal concentrations were detected upstream on point 1, but no clear spatial pattern was found. There were no significant differences in the concentration of any metal between fish and snake muscle, suggesting potential mechanisms of metal excretion in snakes. With regard to interactions, the snake liver had the highest concentrations of cadmium and the muscle of lead and chromium, which may indicate tissue affinity differences for certain metals. Altogether, our results indicate that H. pastazae differentially accumulates contaminants, depending on the tissue and location, which render them useful bioindicators of water contamination.