bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Transcriptomics Analysis of Formic Acid Stress Response in Saccharomyces Cerevisiae
Authors: Zeng Lingjie , Huang Jinxiang , Feng Pixue , Zhao Xuemei , Si Zaiyong , Long Xiufeng , Cheng Qianwei , Yi Yi 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Formic acid is a representative small molecule acid cell inhibitor in lignocellulosic hydrolysate, which can inhibit the growth of yeast cells in the process of alcohol fermentation. However, the mechanism of formic acid cytotoxicity remains largely unknown. This study aimed to study the cytotoxicity of formic acid stress to Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We evaluated the effects of formic acid on growth metabolism and cell morphology of yeast cells, and comprehensively and systematically analyzed the molecular mechanism of formic acid stress tolerance through transcriptome technology. The results showed that when the concentration of formic acid was 1.8 g/L, the growth of yeast cells was significantly inhibited, the cell surface was wrinkled, and the adhesion between cells was observed, and the cell wall and cell membrane of yeast were destroyed by changing the structure of proteins and carbohydrates, resulting in cell damage. Transcriptome sequencing results showed that formic acid stress inhibited protein biosynthesis, induced oxidative stress, resulted in autophagy, impaired intracellular ATP production and increased consumption, and then impaired normal physiological and metabolic functions of cells. Yeast cells provide sufficient ATP by accelerating glucose metabolism, enhancing electron transport and ATP synthesis more energy to resist formic acid stress, and reduce the expression of genes related to energy metabolism such as intracellular amino acids to achieve an energy-saving strategy, In addition, it can also induce sexual reproduction and spore formation to improve cell tolerance to formic acid. This study initially revealed the molecular response mechanism of S. cerevisiae under formic acid stress, and provided a scientific basis for further research on methods to improve the tolerance of cell inhibitors in lignocellulose hydrolysate.
Universe: the dynamics of the minimum and maximum expansion states
Authors: Petrakis Sócrates 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Two hypotheses stand out in describing the evolution of the Universe. The predominant one predicts that the current expansion began at a certain instant and will not preserve any variation of energy that performs work; apparent flat Universe (Ω = 1) is advocated by relativistic calculations and observational data, with an end or thermal death at its maximum expansion (3D Space). The other hypothesis considers that the Universe is cyclical (always alternating phases of expansion and contraction). This proposal aims to demonstrate that both hypotheses can be correct by not being distinct, but complementary. Supported by the immutability of physical laws, analyses of concepts such as space, mass, energy, gravity, spin, and entropy define an exclusive presence of 1D Space in the minimum and maximum expansion states of the Universe. With our 3D Space Universe created and existing between these extreme states, a complete universal evolution is outlined. More objectively, all the exposed dynamics complements the usual relativity. The concept of complete rest energy (1D Space) was able to be applied, demonstrating that the evolution of the entire Universe is spatially dynamic in a perpetual time dimension, always recreating our Universe.
The Unmet Demand for Point-of-Care Ultrasound Among General Pediatricians: A Needs Assessment
Authors: McGinness Anelah , Lin-Martore Margaret , Addo Newton , Shaahinar Ashkon 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background: Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is a noninvasive bedside tool with many pediatric applications but is not currently a formal part of pediatric training and practice. Formal needs assessments of general pediatricians regarding POCUS training are lacking. We aimed to quantify the baseline ultrasound experience and training needs of general pediatricians and pediatric residents across different practice settings.Methods: In 2020, we sent an online survey to 485 current faculty, residents, and graduates from an urban pediatric academic medical center in Northern California. Pediatric subspecialists were excluded. Survey questions about baseline experience, comfort, and perceived usefulness of 20 common POCUS applications were developed by two POCUS experts using existing literature. Chi-squared analysis was used to compare residents versus attendings and to compare attendings practicing in inpatient versus outpatient versus mixed settings. Results: Response rate was 20% (98/485). Compared to attendings (n=73), residents (n=25) endorsed more exposure to POCUS in medical school (32% vs 5%, p=0.003) and residency (12% vs 5%, p=0.003). Respondents endorsed low comfort with POCUS (mean 1.3 out of 5 on Likert scale). Of 20 procedural and diagnostic applications, respondents identified abscess drainage, bladder catheterization, soft tissue, neck, advanced abdominal, and constipation as most useful. Overall, 50% of pediatricians (and 70% of pediatric residents) responded that there were opportunities to use POCUS multiple times a week or more in their clinical practice. Conclusions: There is an unmet demand for POCUS training among general pediatricians and trainees in our study. Our results could guide design of ultrasound curricula for general pediatricians.
Predicting Wetland Occurrence in the Arid to Semi—Arid 1 Interior of the Western Cape, South Africa, for Improved 2 Mapping and Management
Authors: Kotze Donovan Charles , Rivers-Moore Nick , Grenfell Michael , Job Nancy 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
As for drylands globally, there has been limited effort to map and characterize such wetlands in the Western Cape interior of South Africa. Thus, the study assessed how wetland occurrence and type in the arid to semi-arid interior of the Western Cape relate to key biophysical drivers, and, through predictive modelling, to contribute towards improved accuracy of the wetland map layer. Field-verified test areas were selected to represent the aridity gradient, rainfall seasonality, hydrogeomorphic (HGM) types and physiographic zones encompassed in the study area. The arid areas of the Karoo physiographic zones had: (1) a low (<1%) proportional area of wetland; (2) an almost complete absence of seepage slope wetlands; (3) ephemeral depressions, all non-vegetated; and (4) much of the wetland associated with valley bottoms confined within a channel. The less arid mountain zones had: (1) a much higher (>3%) proportional area of wetland; and (2) wetlands being predominantly hillslope seepages, but also including valley bottom wetlands. A spatial probability surface of wetland occurrence was generated based on the statistical relationship of verified wetland presence and absence data points with a range of catchment-scale predictor variables, including topographic metrics and hydrological/climatic variables. This layer was combined with raster images of most likely HGM type within the landscape to provide a final product of wetland occurrence, attributed by HGM type. Vulnerabilities of the wetlands were identified based on key attributes of the different wetland types, and recommendations were provided for refining the wetland map for the Western Cape.
Suppression of PNPase Alleviates Gestational Diabetes Mellitus-cardiovascular Injury through Up-regulating MicroRNA-26a and Down-regulating PTEN
Authors: Liu Li , Wu# Haiying , Cheng Xianghong 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Objective: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is often accompanied by cardiovascular injury (CI), while the specific pathology remains largely unknown. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of Polynucleotide Phosphorylase (PNPase) in GDM-CI.Methods: GDM-CI rats were modeled by giving high-glucose and high-saturated fat compound feed, and PNPase and miR-26a expression in rats was determined. Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) were isolated, and cells were transfected with si-PNPase, miR-26a mimic, or si-PNPase + miR-26a inhibitor. Cell proliferation, apoptosis and migration of VSMCs were measured by CCK-8 assay, flow cytometry, and scratch test. Dual-luciferase reporter gene assay was performed to verify the targeting relationship between miR-26a and PTEN. RT-qPCR was implemented to detect the expression levels of miR-26a and PTEN among cells in each group.Results: GDM-CI increased PNPase expression and decreased miR-26a expression in cardiovascular tissues of GDM-CI rats. Silencing PNPase and miR-26a upregulation reduced VSMC apoptosis, and enhanced proliferation and migration abilities in GDM-CI. Treatment with miR-26a inhibitor reversed the alleviating effect of inhibiting PNPase expression on GDM-CI. There was a targeting relationship between miR-26a and PTEN, and miR-26a mimic inhibited the expression of PTEN. Suppressed PTEN was found to relieve the GDM-CI.Conclusion: This study suggests that suppression of PNPase alleviates GDM-CI through up-regulating miR-26a and down-regulating PTEN.
The Priorities of People with Mesothelioma: A Qualitative Study of Trial Participation and Treatment Decisions
Authors: Bibby Anna , Morley Anna J , Keenan Emma , Maskell Nick A , Gooberman-Hill Rachael 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
BackgroundTreatment options for mesothelioma are increasing, as are the number of clinical trials available to patients. However, little is known about patients’ and relatives’ priorities when making decisions about treatment and trial participation. MethodsFace to face, semi-structured interviews were undertaken with mesothelioma patients who were participating in the TILT trial (a randomised trial of intra-pleural immunotherapy) and their relatives. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed thematically. ResultsTwelve people were interviewed, comprising five mesothelioma patients and seven relatives. Four themes were identified relating to the experience of mesothelioma: physicality, quality of life, uncertainty and risk, and anxiety and the future. A further theme related to attitudes to research participation.Participants valued physical strength and were careful not to jeopardise this with potential side effects of medication. Quality of life was important and was often prioritised over survival. Participants found ambiguity challenging and sought certainty, potentially in response to the uncertainty surrounding their future. The desire for certainty impacted on risk perception; an important factor in decision-making. Relatives often advocated on behalf of patients and were more reluctant about research participation due to concern about potential risks.ConclusionThe study confirmed previous qualitative findings around physicality, uncertainty and relatives as advocates, building on these themes to highlight their influence on decision-making. Important findings for practice include the challenges associated with risk communication and the differing care needs of relatives.
Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals In Suspended Particulate Matter In A Typical Urban River of Northern China
Authors: Li Wenye , Wenqiang ZHANG , Baoqing SHAN , Baoping SUN , Xiaoping GUO , Zhenhan LI 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Suspended particulate matter (SPM) is a major contamination source in urban rivers. In this work, the Beiyun River, northern China, was used as a case study to determine the characteristics of heavy metal spatial distribution in SPM, and to evaluate the potential ecological risks and identify heavy metal sources. The concentration of seven heavy metals and associated indicators (TC, TN, TP, and OM) were measured at 12 sites and analyzed by Pearson correlation (PC) and principal component analyses (PCA). The average concentrations of Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, and Pb were 70.72, 27.88, 31.35, 115.70, 27.77, 0.23, and 29.62 mg/kg, respectively, and significant spatial differences occurred between some elements. Igeo values indicated the ranking of heavy metal pollution in SPM as As > Cd > Zn > Cu > Pb > Cr > Ni. The Eir analysis demonstrated that the order of potential ecological risk of the seven metals was Cd > As > Cu > Pb > Ni > Cr > Zn. RI (potential ecological risk index) results confirmed high potential ecological risk in objective area. Of the measured heavy metals, Cd represented the highest pollution risk. Significant positive correlations were found between TC, TN, TP, and Cu. Three element pairs, Zn-Cd, Cr-Cu, and Cr-Ni, had strong correlations. Zn, Cu, and Ni were mainly introduced by human activities, and Cr was mainly from natural processes. This information on the concentration, risk, and sources of SPM in Beiyun River provides an important reference for reducing heavy metal pollution in SPM of a typical river in the Haihe River Basin.
Assessment of Municipal Solid Waste Landfilling Practices on the Ground Water Quality and Associated Health Risks: A Case Study of Mardan-Pakistan
Authors: Israr Muhammad , Nazneen Shahla , Raza Ali , Ali Neelum , Khan Hizbullah , Khan Sardar , Ali Jawad 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
This study was conducted to investigate the effects of municipal solid waste (MSW) used as landfilling on the ground water quality and health effects on the community. The study was carried out in Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province- Pakistan. To assess the impacts, 13 ground water samples were collected from Solid Waste Dumping Sites (SWDS) and 13 from Safe Sites (SS). Ground water was analyzed for pH, Turbidity, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Total Hardness (TH), Cl−, Ca+ 2, K+ 1, NO− 2, NO− 3, SO4 − 2; heavy metals such as Pb, Cr, Mn, Cu, Ni, Zn, Cd, Fe; biological parameter such as Total Coliform. Waste sample collected from SWDS showed that food and garden waste were present highest percentage by weight (30.5%) followed by fines (17.3%). The two groups (SWDS and SS) differ significantly for the parameters like EC, TH, COD, Na, Ca, NO3− and SO4 − 2 Ni and TC. Samples collected from SWDS (84%) were found contaminated with TC ranged 2–22. It was analyzed that pH, EC, TDS, COD, TH, NO3−, SO4 − 2, NO2−, Ca+ 2, Na+, TC, Cr, Ni, Zn, Cd and TC were more in the sample collected from 70–130 feet than 140–200 feet. TC found in 70–80 feet depth was significantly different from rest of the groups. Similarly, significant difference regarding different parameters for various depths was found for K+ 1, Ca+ 2, NO2−, Pb, Cu and Fe. The results of the questionnaire survey revealed negative correlation between the diseases and distance from the landfilling sites and significant correlation was observed for typhoid, cholera skin allergies and gastro enteritis. The study confirmed that using MSW as a fill material has contaminated the ground water quality and leveling of land through MSW is not safe. Deep drilling is recommended for extraction of ground water in the contaminated area to minimize the associated health risks.
Indonesia Land Surface Temperature Variation during 2001 – 2020
Authors: Munawar Munawar , Prasetya Tofan Agung Eka , McNeil Rhysa , Jani Rohana , Buya Suhaimee 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Indonesia, as the largest archipelago in the world, still depends on agriculture and fisheries activities. Climate change will affect agricultural yields and fish catches, so research on climate change is essential for Indonesia and neighboring countries. Land Surface Temperature (LST) is a critical indicator in climate science to measure the temperature of an area. This study examines the LST variation and seasonal pattern with 189 sub-regions covering 5 main islands of the Indonesia archipelago with 105 pixels (95 km) distance apart. The data was downloaded from NASA MODIS and covered a 20-year from 2001 to 2020. Overall, Indonesia has had a stable LST with a total average increase of 0.009oC (95% confidence interval: -0.041,0.059 oC).
Enhancing Monthly Lake Levels Forecasting Using Heuristic Regression Techniques with Periodicity Data Component: Application of Lake Michigan
Authors: DEMIR Vahdettin 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
This paper investigates the accuracy of three different techniques with periodicity component for estimation of monthly lake levels. The compared methods are Least Square Support Vector Regression (LSSVR) Multivariate Adaptive Regression Splines (MARS) and M5 Model Tree (M5-Tree). Data from Lake Michigan, located in the USA, is used in the analysis. In the first stage of the study, three different techniques were applied to forecast monthly lake-levels variations up to 8- mount ahead of time intervals. In the second stage, the influence of the periodicity component was applied (month number of the year, e.g., 1, 2, 3, …12) as an external sub-set in modeling monthly lake levels. The Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), Mean Absolute Error (MAE), and coefficient of determination (R2) were utilized are used for evaluating the accuracy of models. In both stages, the comparison results indicate that the MARS model generally performs superior to the LSSVR, and M5-Tree models. Furthermore, it has been discovered that including periodicity as an input to the models improves their accuracy in projecting monthly lake levels.
Monitoring of Amoxicillin and Cephalexin Antibiotics in Municipal WWTPs during Covid-19 Outbreak- A Case Study in Isfahan, Iran
Authors: Samandari Mehri , Attar Hossein Movahedian , Ebrahimpour Karim , Mohammadi Farzaneh 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Antibiotics are non-biodegradable drugs that used to inhibit the expansion and growth of microorganisms. The presence of antibiotics and their residues in the environments has resulted in an increased universal concern due to their contrary impacts on human healthiness and also the environment. Specially with the prevalence of Covid-19, the consumption of antibiotics to treat or prevent secondary infections have increased. Therefore, the presence of most prescribed antibiotics from ß-lactam class including amoxicillin and cephalexin were studied at two municipal WWTPs in Isfahan. Analytical method was extracted and then detected via HPLC/UV. Samples were collected from 2 wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) on 13 sampling periods over 2 months on February and March 2020 during the outbreak of Covid-19. In WWTP A, the average concentration of amoxicillin in influent, effluent, and its removal efficiency was equal to 509.64 ± 161.97µg/l, 354.37 ± 201.41µg/l, 33.69 ± 30.22%, and the average concentration of cephalexin in influent, effluent, and its removal efficiency was 189.42 ± 176.06µg/l, 44.35 ± 43.72µg/l, 64.61 ± 26.52%, respectively. In WWTP B, the average concentration of amoxicillin in influent, effluent, and its removal efficiency was equal to 2134.82 ± 3031.53µg/l, 401.09 ± 205.86µg/l, 54.82 ± 33.29%, and the average concentration of cephalexin in influent, effluent, and its removal efficiency was183.69 ± 123.48µg/l, 40.64 ± 33.02µg/l, 72.89 ± 19.45, respectively. According to statistical points of view, the concentration of antibiotics in both WWTPs had significant differences and no critical correlation between removal efficiency of antibiotics with other principle wastewater parameters was observed.
Risk Factors for Lymph Node Metastasis and Surgical Scope in Patients With Early-Stage Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Single-Center Study in China
Authors: Bu Jianlong , Zhang Pinyi , Wu Xiaohong , Zhao Su , Pang Sainan , Ning Jinfeng , Xu Shidong 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background

It is difficult to determine the lymph node metastasis of patients with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) before surgery. The purpose of this study is to investigate risk factors of lymph node metastasis in early-stage NSCLC, thereby to identify the surgical indications for lymph node dissection in early-stage NSCLC.
Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of patients with tumor size ≤ 30mm who underwent radical resection of NSCLC. Binary logistic regression analysis was applied to predict risk factors for lymph node metastasis, and subject operating characteristics (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the independent risk factors.
Results

Overall, 44 patients (6.8%) with early-stage NSCLC had lymph node metastasis. Factors of tumor consolidation diameter (p < 0.001) and preoperative serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level (p = 0.017) are independent risk factors lymph node metastasis in early-stage NSCLC. The ROC curve showed that the cut-off value of consolidation diameter was 16.5mm, and the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.825 (p < 0.001, 95% CI: 0.780–0.870); the cut-off value of serum CEA level was 1.765µg/L, AUC = 0.661( p < 0.001, 95% CI: 0.568–0.754). Moreover, 8 of 461 patients with tumor parenchyma ≤ 16.5mm had lymph node metastasis, and 36 of 189 patients with tumor parenchyma > 16.5mm had lymph node metastasis.
Conclusion

Tumor consolidation diameter and preoperative serum CEA are independent factors to predict early stage NSCLC. For patients with tumor parenchyma > 16.5mm, the probability of lymph node metastasis is higher and lobectomy plus lymph node dissection is recommended. For patients with tumor parenchyma ≤ 16.5mm, the probability of lymph node metastasis is lower and sublobectomy plus lymph node sampling is feasible.
Mental Health, Learning Behaviour and Perceived Fatigue Among University Students During the COVID-19 Outbreak: a Cross-sectional Multicentric Study in the UAE
Authors: Mosleh Sultan , Shudifat Raed , Dalky Heyam , Almalik Mona , Alnajar Malek 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
BackgroundThe rapid shift to online education due to COVID-19 quarantine challenged students’ ability to accept pure online learning without negative consequences for their physical, emotional and mental health. Some educational institutions introduced new strategies to reduce the psychosocial burden associated with online learning during home confinement. Thus, The primary aims were to determine the consequences of COVID-19 for the psychological well-being and fatigue levels of higher education students and to explore the effects of a new academic assessment approach in reducing home confinement stress.Method A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among students of 7 disciplines in all 16 higher colleges of technology in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The Mental Well-being and Learning Behaviours Scale and the modified Copenhagen Burnout Inventory were used to evaluate students’ psychological well-being and fatigue levels. A t-test and ANOVA were performed to determine the differences in perceived psychological well-being and fatigue associated with students’ characteristics. Second, multiple linear regression models performed to identify the independent predictors of fatigue level. ResultsOne thousand four hundred students participated. The majority were female (78.5%) and aged from 21-25 years (58.1%). Around 14% of respondents were married with children. Nearly 40% were satisfied with the new assessment approach introduced during the COVID pandemic and 45.5% perceived it as having reduced their home confinement stress. The mean psychological distress score of 3.00 (SD ± 0.71) indicates a moderate impact of COVID-19 on psychological well-being. Students’ psychological distress was positively correlated with fatigue level (0.256, p<0.001) and negatively correlated with the perceived impact of the new assessment approach on student lifestyle (-0.133), physical health (-0.149) and coping with stress (-0.125). Male students experienced significantly lower fatigue and better psychological well-being than female students.ConclusionThe study reveals that new assessment approaches which emerged during home confinement reduced students’ perception of stress and of impaired lifestyle. However, students still had a considerable burden of psychological distress, requiring further preventive measures to maintain their psychological well-being during future outbreak events. Educational institutions should consider additional strategies to improve students’ preparedness for online teaching, which could help maintain their psychological well-being.