bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Environmental Regulation, Economic Policy Uncertainty, and Green Technology Innovation
Authors: Li Xiaoqing , Hu Zongyi , Zhang Qing 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Green technology innovation is imperative to sustainable and environmentally sound economic development and is currently facing increasingly serious environmental threats. However, existing research has overlooked the uncertainties in economic policies. Based on the logical relationship between environmental regulation, economic policy uncertainty, and green technology innovation, this study empirically analyzed the quantitative relationship among these three variables using the fixed-effect panel method and provincial panel data from 2000 to 2017 for 30 administrative regions of China. The results show that environmental regulation is positively correlated with green innovation, whereas economic policy uncertainty has a negative influence on green innovation, thereby regulating the relationship between the remaining two factors. Moreover, considerable regional heterogeneity exists in these causal influences, i.e., environmental regulation promotes green innovation in the eastern and middle regions but not significantly in the west. The uncertainty actively moderates the impact of environmental regulation on green innovation in all regions with an adjustment coefficient of approximately 0.8; however, it inhibits green innovation in different degrees, especially in the eastern and middle regions. Based on empirical results, we conclude that strict and appropriate environmental regulations are necessary and effective in China to encourage green technology innovation, especially in regions with uncertain economic policies.
Gradient-based training of Gaussian Mixture Models for High-Dimensional Streaming Data
Authors: Gepperth Alexander , Pfülb Benedikt 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
We present an approach for efficiently training Gaussian Mixture Model (GMM) by Stochastic Gradient Descent (SGD) with non-stationary, high-dimensional streaming data. Our training scheme does not require data-driven parameter initialization (e.g., k-means) and can thus be trained based on a random initialization. Furthermore, the approach allows mini-batch sizes as low as 1, which are typical for streaming-data settings. Major problems in such settings are undesirable local optima during early training phases and numerical instabilities due to high data dimensionalities. We introduce an adaptive annealing procedure to address the first problem, whereas numerical instabilities are eliminated by using an exponential-free approximation to the standard GMM log-likelihood. Experiments on a variety of visual and non-visual benchmarks show that our SGD approach can be trained completely without, for instance, k-means based centroid initialization. It also compares favorably to an online variant of Expectation-Maximization (EM) – stochastic EM (sEM), which it outperforms by a large margin for very high-dimensional data.
Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of Leaves of Sour Jujube Seedlings under Salt Stress
Authors: Lyu Ruiheng , Wang Rui , Wu Cuiyun , Bao Yajing , Guo Peng 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Sour jujube ( Ziziphus jujuba Mill. var. spinosa ) is a native tree species in China. It is often used as the rootstock of jujube, its fruit can also be used as medicine. So it has high scientific and ecological value. Sour jujube is mostly planted in Northwest China and has extremely high salt tolerance. But the molecular mechanism of its salt tolerance is rarely studied. This study was carried out in the laboratory of Environment and Resources College of Dalian Nationalities University, two treatments were performed on the leaves of sour jujuba seedlings, the experimental group (H3): 300 mM Nacl for 3 h, and the control group (CK): sterile water for 3 h. A total of 47.02GB of valid data and 32730 annotated genes were obtained. Based on the analysis of gene expression in the comparison group, a total of 2295 genes with significant differential expression were obtained, of which 807 were up-regulated and 1488 were down-regulated. According to gene function annotation and enrichment analysis, we finally screened 148 genes. These genes were mainly involved in signal transduction of plant hormones (38), homeostasis of cell walls (27), secondary metabolism of organic matter (32), redox reactions (20) in leaves of sour jujuba seedlings under salt stress. It was also accompanied by some stress-related transcription factors (31). In addition, under salt stress, raffinose family oligosaccharides (RFO) metabolism of sour jujube seedlings was accelerated. Studying the molecular response of sour jujuba seedlings under salt stress provides a scientific basis for its cultivation in saline areas and is beneficial to further improve the salt tolerance of grafted jujube trees.
Activation of Embryonic/germ Cell-like Axis Links Poor Outcomes of Gliomas
Authors: Ma Zhan , Zhang Fengyu , Zhang Haishi , Lin Hui-Kuan , liu chunfang 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
It is unclear which core events drive the malignant progression of gliomas. Earlier studies have revealed that the embryonic stem (ES) cell/early PGC state is associated with tumourigenicity. Here, our findings showed that germ cell-like cells were present in human gliomas and cultured glioma cells and that the formation of germ cell-like cells was essential for glioma tumours. Bioinformatic analysis showed that the mRNA levels of genes related to embryonic/germ cell development could be detected in most gliomas. Our findings showed that the activation of genes related to reprogramming or the germ cell-like state alone seemed to be insufficient to lead to a malignant prognosis, whereas increased mRNA levels of genes related to the activation of the embryonic/germ cell-like cycle (somatic PGC-EGC-like cycle and somatic parthenogenetic embryo-like cycle) were positively correlated with malignant prognoses and poor clinical outcomes of gliomas. Genes related to the embryonic/germ cell cycle alone or in combination with the WHO grade or 1p19q codeletion status could be used to subdivide gliomas with distinct clinical behaviours. Together, our findings indicated that a crucial role of germ cell-like cell formation in glioma initiation as well as activation of genes related with the parthenogenetic embryo-like cycle and PGC-EGC-like cycle link to the malignant prognosis and poor outcomes of gliomas, which might provide a novel way to better understand the nature of and develop targeted therapies for gliomas as well as important markers for predicting clinical outcomes in gliomas.
Novel Hollow Octagonal Core Photonic Crystal Fiber (PCF) based Cholesterol Sensor
Authors: Bulbul Abdullah Al-Mamun , Podder Etu , Faragallah Osama S. , Baz Mohammed , Eid Mahmoud M. A. , rashed ahmed nabih zaki 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Cholesterol, also known as the pulpy fat of human body, may cause the body vulnerable to heart malady by filling blood-vessel with fatty substances. This urges a precise, simple, and effective method of cholesterol detection. Considering this, a novel hollow equilateral-octagon core PCF model has been presented as a cholesterol sensor. The sensor is modeled and simulated using finite element method (FEM). Multiple performance metrics suggests the effectiveness of the proposed sensor model. The relative sensitivity attained for the model is 92.34% at optimum frequency (OF), 3.6THz. Besides, the model shows ultra-lower confinement loss of 3.77×10− 18cm−1 at OF along with standard values for other performance metrics. In addition, the feasible implementation of the model by exercising existing fabrication strategies ensures the practicability of the proposed sensor.
Spatiotemporal Change in the Land Use and Ecosystem Service Value in the Aral Sea basin (1993–2018)
Authors: He Jing , Yu Yang , Sun Lingxiao , Zhang Haiyan , Malik Ireneusz , Wistuba Malgorzata , Yu Ruide 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
The Aral Sea started shrinking since the 1960s due to natural factors and human activities; however, the relationship between land cover change and ecosystem services (ES) in the Aral Sea basin has not been fully studied. To analyze and explore the spatiotemporal variation characteristics of ecosystem service values (ESVs) in this region, we used the European Space Agency CCI Global Land Cover product with a spatiotemporal resolution of 300 × 300 m and the annual scale. The land use data of 1993, 1998, 2003, 2008, 2013, and 2018 in the study area were extracted, the study area’s ESV in the corresponding years was calculated, and the temporal and spatial evolution characteristics were analyzed. Additionally, the change rate and sensitivity were analyzed. The results revealed that the area of urban land, bare land, grassland, wetland, and cropland in the Aral Sea basin increased from 1993 to 2018; water body and forestland decreased. The integrated value of water bodies, cropland, and grassland ES accounted for more than 96% of the total ESV; the change rate of land use types differed. Urban land and water changed the fastest; cultivated land, woodland, grassland, and wetland changed the slowest. From 1993 to 2018, the total ESV of the Aral Sea basin decreased from 455.10 to 414.56 billion (Overall decrease = − 8.91%). The ESV study shows that the water area decreased sharply from 1993 to 2018, resulting in a loss of USD 46.84 billion. Biodiversity, food production, and water regulation were the main ES, accounting for 78.5% of the total ESV. The ESV of the Aral Sea basin declined from 1993 to 2018, and significant differences were observed among its regions. Some regions should thus focus on this aspect. A close correlation was observed between the ESV and land use. Hence, effective land use policies can control the expansion of cropland; protect water bodies, ecological environments, grassland, and forestland; and promote a more sustainable ecosystem.
A Cross-Sectional Survey on Attitudes of Men Who Have Sex With Men Towards Anal Self-Examination for Detection of Anal Syphilis
Authors: Aung Ei T , Fairley Christopher K , Ong Jason J , Phillips Tiffany P , Chen Marcus Y , Tran Julien , Maddaford Kate , Rodriguez Elena R , Chow Eric P.F. 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Studies suggest men who have sex with men (MSM) practising receptive anal sex are more likely to present with secondary syphilis, implying primary anorectal lesions are likely to be missed. If men could detect anorectal lesions in the primary stage by regular anal self-examination (ASE), transmission could be reduced by early diagnosis and treatment. We aimed to explore the attitudes of MSM on performing ASE to detect primary anorectal syphilis. An online anonymous cross-sectional survey among MSM over 18 years of age living in Australia, was conducted between July and November 2020 and recruitment was from a sexual health clinic and social media. A total of 574 MSM completed the survey (median age: 34 [IQR 27–45]): 32% (183) had previously performed ASE. Among 56% (374) who had never performed ASE, 68% (250) would consider performing ASE in the future with a preferred median frequency of 2 times per 4 weeks (IQR: 1–4), whilst men who were already performing ASE were performing it at median 1 per 4 weeks (IQR: 0.2-3). Almost two-thirds of MSM who had never performed ASE were willing to adopt ASE practice in the future. Studies are required to determine the effectiveness of ASE for syphilis detection.
A Novel Hybrid Range-free Approach to locate Sensor Nodes in 3D WSN using GWO-FA Algorithm
Authors: Singh Prabhjot , Mittal Nitin , Singh Parulpreet 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
The precise node location of the sensor nodes is an essential requirement in Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) to determine the place or event occurring at a particular instant of time. In WSN, existing localization schemes considers two-dimensional (2D) space, while in actual life, sensor nodes are placed in three-dimensional (3D) space. In 3D localization, there are many research challenges, such as higher computational complexity, poor location prediction, lesser coverage, and depending only on fewer anchor nodes. To address various research issues in 3D environment we propose a range-free technique applied in an anisotropic scenario having Degree of Irregularity (DOI) as 0.01 using the concepts of fuzzy logic system (FLS). Anisotropic properties of nodes are considered to determine the efficiency of Grey wolf with Firefly algorithm. In our proposed scenario, the received signal strength (RSS) information is necessary among the target nodes and their corresponding anchor nodes for determining the location of target nodes using the information based on edge weights. These edge weights are further modelled using Hybrid GWO-FA to estimate the location of target nodes. The proposed algorithms is energy efficient as a single location aware node is used for localization. Further, the concept of virtual anchors is introduced that helps the algorithm to determine 3D positions.
Prediction of Molecular Interactions And Physicochemical Properties Relevant For Vasopressin V2 Receptor Antagonism
Authors: Veulens Ania de la Nuez , Ginarte Yoanna María Álvarez , Fernandez Rolando Eduardo Rodríguez , Leclerc Fabrice , Cabrera Luis Alberto Montero 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
We have developed two ligand and receptor-based computational approaches to study the physicochemical properties relevant to the biological activity of vasopressin V2 receptor (V2R) antagonist and eventually to predict the expected binding mode to V2R. The obtained Quantitative Structure Activity Relationship (QSAR) model showed a correlation of the antagonist activity with the hydration energy (EH2O) , the polarizability (P) and the calculated partial charge on atom N7 (q6) of the common substructure. The first two descriptors showed a positive contribution to antagonist activity, while the third one had a negative contribution. V2R was modeled and further relaxed on a 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocoline (POPC) membrane by molecular dynamics simulations. The receptor antagonist complexes were guessed by molecular docking, and the stability of the most relevant structures were also evaluated by molecular dynamics simulations. As a result, amino acid residues Q96, W99, F105, K116, F178, A194, F307, and M311 were identified with the probably most relevant antagonist-receptor interactions on the studied complexes. The proposed QSAR model could explain the molecular properties relevant to the antagonist activity. The contributions to the antagonist-receptor interaction appeared also in agreement with the binding mode of the complexes obtained by molecular docking and Molecular Dynamics. These models will be used in further studies to look for new V2R potential antagonist molecules.
In Situ Liquid Crystal Gel as a New Ophthalmic Drug Delivery System for Pilocarpine Nitrate: Improving Preocular Retention and Ocular Bioavailability
Authors: Wu Wenqing , Cao Wenxuan , Cai Ye , Zhang Menghe , Chen Tiantian , Zhang Nannan , Wang Mengzhen , Chu Lin , Chu xiaoqin 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
The purpose of this article is to develop an in-situ liquid crystal gel that can be used as a novel ocular delivery system for pilocarpine nitrate (PN). The phytantriol (PT) -based in situ liquid crystal gels were prepared by a vortex method using PT, PEG400, Triglyceride (TAG) and water (in the ratio of 61.15:30:3.85:5, w/w). Firstly, the internal structure of the PN-loaded liquid crystal gel was characterized by polarizing microscope (PLM), small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and rheology. In vitro drug release behavior and ex vivo corneal permeation were investigated. Finally, eye irritation test，preocular residence time evaluation,were studied in vivo and compared with eye drops.Based on various characterization techniques, it is proved that the internal structure of the gel is a hexagonal phase.In vitro release results identified that PN could be released continuously from HII gel over a period of 24 h. The in vitro obvious permeability coefficient of HII gel was 3.19-fold (P < 0.01) higher than that of the eye drops. Compared with eye drops,the HII gel had good bioadhesion and displayed longer residence time on the eyeballs surface using fluorescent labeling technology.In addition, through Corneal hydration level and eye irritation test ., it is conjectured that HII gel will not cause eye irritation. In short, the formulation has the advantages of high efficiency, slow release and non-toxicity, and will become a promising pharmaceutical strategy to improve the efficacy of glaucoma.
Teardrop Fracture of the Axis: An Evaluation of Vertebral Instability and Individualized Treatment
Authors: Xin Xin , Yue Chen , Li Guoqing , Liu Xinxin 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background: Teardrop fractures of the axis (TDFAs) are avulsion fractures of the anterior-inferior part of the axis. Whether conservative or surgical treatment is better for TDFAs is controversial. Previously, image-based evaluations of the fractures have mainly focused on the teardrop fragment, the intervertebral disc and the prevertebral soft tissue. The treatment plan depends on the doctor's evaluation of fracture stability based on personal experience. Methods: From January 2012 to December 2018, a total of 12 patients with TDFA were included in this prospective study. The stability of the TDFA vertebral body was evaluated by lateral X-ray measurements. Based on the evaluation of vertebral body stability, as well as the disease characteristics of the patients, individualized treatment schemes were adopted. Results: Through the classification and treatment process, 6 patients with absolute instability and 6 patients with relative instability were identified. A total of 8 patients underwent surgery, and 4 patients were treated conservatively. A total of 12 patients finally achieved osseous fusion. Conclusion: The treatment for TDFA should be determined by considering both the instability of the axial vertebra and the disease characteristics of the patient. With an appropriate classification and treatment process, both surgery and conservative treatment can yield good clinical outcomes.
High Mortality Rate Among Latin American Immigrants With Covid-19 Hospitalised in Milan, Italy: Data From the Luigi Sacco Hospital Registry
Authors: Giacomelli Andrea , Ridolfo Anna Lisa , Bonazzetti Cecilia , Oreni Letizia , Conti Federico , Pezzati Laura , Siano Matteo , Bassoli Cinzia , Casalini Giacomo , Schiuma Marco , Covizzi Alice , Passerini Matteo , Piscaglia Marco , Borgonovo Fabio , Galbiati Claudia , Colombo Riccardo , Catena Emanuele , Rizzardini Giuliano , Milazzo Laura , Galli Massimo , Brucato Antonio , Antinori Spinello 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background

To assess differences in the probability of COVID-19-related death between native Italians and immigrants hospitalised with COVID-19.
Methods

This was a retrospective study of prospectively collected data conducted at the ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco Hospital in Milan, Italy, between 21 February and 31 November 2020. Uni- and multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were used to assess the impact of the patients' origin on the probability of COVID-19-related death.
Results

The study population consisted of 1,179 COVID-19 patients: 921 Italians (78.1%) and 258 immigrants (21.9%) from Latin America (99, 38.4%), Asia (72, 27.9%), Africa (50, 19.4%) and central/eastern Europe (37, 14.3%). The Italians were older (p < 0.001) and more frequently affected by co-morbidities (p < 0.001). Mortality was significantly greater among the Italians than the immigrants as a whole (26.6% vs 12.8%; p < 0.001), and significantly greater among the immigrants from Latin America than among those from Asia, Africa and central/eastern Europe (21.2% vs 8.3%, 6% and 8.1%, respectively; p = 0.016). Multivariate analyses showed that a Latin American origin was independently associated with an increased risk of death (adjusted hazard ratio 1.95, 95% confidence interval 1.17–3.23).
Conclusions

Our findings support the need to strengthen COVID-19 information and prevention initiatives in the Latin American community living in Milan.
Insights From The Frontline of COVID-19 in Residential Care Settings for Older People in The Republic of Ireland: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Sweeney Mary Rose , Boilson Andrew , White Ciara , Nevin Mary , Casey Briege , Boylan Patrick , Staines Anthony 
Published: July 2021

Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic had a disproportionate effect among residents, family members and staff in residential care settings for older people in Ireland relative to other health care settings, particularly in wave one of the virus. The purpose of this study was to explore the COVID-19 pandemic as it was experienced by people on the front line of the virus - residents, family members and staff in residential care settings for older people in the Republic of Ireland (ROI). Method A 2-phased mixed methods cross-sectional study was conducted. This consisted of a survey administered anonymously online shortly after the 1st wave of the virus (June - August 2020), via our nursing and health care networks, advocacy organisations for older people and on social media targeting - staff, residents and family members. Family members who took part in the survey were invited to take part in phase 2 - qualitative one-to-one interviews which were conducted shortly after wave 2 of the virus (November - December 2020). ResultsSeventy-six staff members completed the survey as well as 28 family members and 2 residents. Eleven family members took part in the qualitative interviews. Good infection control protocols, good governance/management structures, being prepared and agile responses were important factors in determining better outcomes. Isolation, loss of connectedness (to family, staff members and other residents) as well as a reduction in the level/quality of care provision led to significant adverse impacts for both residents and their families. Staff reported high levels of stress, trauma and burnout. A strong theme emerging from the qualitative element was the important role that family members typically have in supplementing care provision which suddenly and completely ceased during the pandemic. This caused huge distress amongst family members and physical decline and mental anguish amongst residents. ConclusionsThis is the first research study to explore the experiences of residents, family members and staff who were at the front line of the pandemic in residential care settings in ROI when the pandemic struck. This study provides valuable insights which could be used by staff in residential care settings, policy makers/implementers in further waves of the pandemic or in future communicable disease outbreaks. The rights and needs of residents must be carefully balanced with infection control and prevention measures. Strategies to ensure that residents and staff are appropriately supported during future waves of the pandemic should now be implemented.