bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early Pennsylvanian sediment routing to the Ouachita Basin (southeastern United States) and barriers to transcontinental sediment transport sourced from the Appalachian orogen based on detrital zircon U-Pb and Hf analysis
Authors: Allred Isaac J. , Blum Michael D.
Published: November 2021

Carboniferous sediment dispersal from the Appalachian orogenic system (eastern United States) has become a topic of widespread interest. However, the actual pathways for continental-scale, east-to-west sediment transfer have not been documented. This study presents detrital zircon (DZ) U-Pb ages and Hf isotopic values from the Lower Pennsylvanian (Morrowan) Jackfork Group and Johns Valley Shale of the synorogenic Ouachita deepwater basin of Arkansas to document provenance and delineate the likely sediment-routing systems within the broader context of sediment dispersal across Laurentia.

Twelve (12) DZ U-Pb age distributions are interpreted to indicate that sediments were derived from the Appalachians to the east and northeast, as well as the midcontinent region to the north. All samples display prominent ca. 500–400 Ma, 1250–950 Ma, 1550–1300 Ma, and 1800–1600 Ma grains, consistent with ultimate derivation from the Appalachian, Grenville, Midcontinent, and Yavapai-Mazatzal provinces. DZ Hf values obtained from the Ouachita Basin are similar to published Hf values from Pennsylvanian samples in the Appalachian and Illinois Basins. Age distributions are generally consistent for seven samples collected from the Jackfork Group and Johns Valley Shale in the southern Ouachita Mountains through ~2400 m of stratigraphic section and are interpreted to indicate little change in provenance during the Morrowan in this part of the system. However, samples from the most northern and most source-proximal site in Little Rock, Arkansas, exhibit modest percentages of Appalachian ages and elevated contributions of Yavapai-Mazatzal ages when compared with samples collected farther to the south and west. We interpret differences between DZ signatures to indicate distinct sediment-routing pathways to the Ouachita Basin. We infer the strong Appalachian and Grenville signals to represent an axial system flowing through the Appalachian foredeep, whereas the more diverse signals represent a confluence of rivers from the northeast through the backbulge of southern Illinois and western Kentucky and from the north across the Arkoma shelf. Collectively, the Ouachita Basin represents a terminal sink for sediments derived from much of the eastern and central United States.
Preincubation of donor tissue with a VEGF cytokine trap promotes subsequent high-risk corneal transplant survival
Authors: Zhang Wei , Schönberg Alfrun , Hamdorf Matthias , Georgiev Tihomir , Cursiefen Claus , Bock Felix
Published: November 2021

Aims

Pathological neovascularisation of the host bed and the transplant itself is the main risk factor for graft rejection after corneal transplantation. This study aims to prevent this process by preincubation of the corneal donor tissue ex vivo with an antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) cytokine trap blocking additional postsurgical hemangiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis to promote high-risk graft survival.

Methods

The donor tissue was preincubated with a VEGFR1R2 cytokine trap for 24 hours prior to murine high-risk corneal transplantation (human IgG Fc was used as the control). The distribution of VEGFR1R2 Trap in the cornea was investigated by immunohistochemistry. Corneas were excised to quantify the blood vessels (BVs) and lymphatic vessels (LVs) and draining lymph nodes (dLNs) were harvested to analyse the phenotype of dendritic cells (DCs) and T cells at week 1, 2 and 8 post-transplantation. Graft survival was compared between preincubation with VEGFR1R2 Trap and human IgG Fc in high-risk recipients.

Results

VEGFR1R2 Trap was present in the graft for at least 2 weeks after surgery and additionally diffused into the corneal recipient. BVs, LVs and macrophages in the whole cornea were significantly decreased 1-week and 2-week post-transplantation (p<0.05). In dLNs the frequency of CD11c+DCs was significantly reduced, whereas CD200R+ regulatory DCs were significantly increased after keratoplasty (p<0.05). Furthermore, long-term high-risk graft survival was significantly improved (p<0.01).

Conclusions

Preincubation of corneal donor tissue with a VEGFR1R2 cytokine trap can significantly promote subsequent high-risk corneal transplant survival and thereby opens new treatment avenues for high-risk corneal transplantation.
Trajectory research in children on the autism spectrum: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Gentles Stephen , Duku Eric , Kerns Connor , McVey Alana J , Hunsche Michelle C , Ng Cordell Elise C , Bednar E Dmitra , Banfield Laura , Szatmari Peter , Georgiades Stelios
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Longitudinal trajectory methods, featuring outcome assessments at three or more time points, are increasingly being used as appropriate approaches to understand developmental pathways of people on the autism spectrum across the lifespan. Understanding the scope of this rapidly expanding body of research can help inform future trajectory studies and identify areas for potential meta-analysis as well as key evidence gaps. We present the protocol for a scoping review whose objective is to identify and summarise the scope of research that uses a longitudinal trajectory study design to examine development in children diagnosed with autism. Specifically, we will identify outcome domains and age intervals that have been well characterised, areas where further research is needed and the historical use of various longitudinal trajectory analytical approaches.

Methods and analysis

We outline the methods for the proposed scoping review according to the framework outlined by Arksey and O’Malley, with subsequent clarifications and enhancements by other authors. Using a search strategy developed by a medical librarian, we will search six databases for relevant publications. Titles and abstracts will be screened in duplicate, followed by full-text screening. Data extraction fields developed predominantly a priori from a set of guiding subquestions will be used to chart relevant data. The findings will include quantitative aggregate summaries, narrative summaries, and appraisal of trajectory studies according to our methodological subquestions. We will consult autistic self-advocate and parent–caregiver stakeholders to facilitate interpretation of the findings.

Ethics and dissemination

Research ethics approval is not required for this scoping review. The results will be presented to researcher, care professional, policy-maker and stakeholder audiences at local and international conferences, other dissemination activities and published in a peer-reviewed journal.
How much of the effect of disability acquisition on mental health is mediated through employment and income? A causal mediation analysis quantifying interventional indirect effects using data from four waves of an Australian cohort study
Authors: Aitken Zoe , Simpson Julie Anne , Bentley Rebecca , Kavanagh Anne Marie
Published: November 2021

Objectives

There is evidence that disability acquisition causes a decline in mental health, but few studies have examined the causal mechanisms through which the effect operates. This study used a novel approach to mediation analysis to quantify interventional indirect effects (IIEs) through employment and income.

Design and setting

We used four waves of longitudinal data (2011–2014) from the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia Survey, a nationally representative survey of Australian households.

Participants

Working aged individuals who acquired a disability (n=233) were compared with those who remained disability-free in all four waves (n=5419).

Primary outcome measure

Self-reported mental health was measured using the Mental Health Inventory subscale of the Short Form 36 general health questionnaire, which measures symptoms of depression, anxiety and psychological well-being.

Statistical analysis

We conducted a causal mediation analysis quantifying IIEs of disability acquisition on mental health operating through two distinct mediators: employment status and income. We used multiple imputation with 50 imputed datasets to account for missing data.

Results

The total causal effect of disability acquisition on mental health was estimated to be a 4.8-point decline in mental health score (estimated mean difference: −4.8, 95% CI −7.0 to –2.7). The IIE through employment was estimated to be a 0.5-point difference (−0.5, 95% CI −1.0 to 0.0), accounting for 10.6% of the total effect, whereas there was no evidence that income explained any of the effects.

Conclusions

This study estimated that disability-related mental health inequalities could be reduced by 10.6% if employment rates were the same for people with disability as those without disability. The results suggest that employment is implicated in the relationship between disability acquisition and mental health and that more research is needed to understand the influence of other aspects of employment and other socioeconomic characteristics.
Influence of timing of maternal antibiotic administration during caesarean section on infant microbial colonisation: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Dierikx Thomas , Berkhout Daniel , Eck Anat , Tims Sebastian , van Limbergen Johan , Visser Douwe , de Boer Marjon , de Boer Nanne , Touw Daan , Benninga Marc , Schierbeek Nine , Visser Laura , Knol Jan , Roeselers Guus , de Vries Johanna , de Meij Tim
Published: November 2021

Objective

Revised guidelines for caesarean section (CS) advise maternal antibiotic administration prior to skin incision instead of after umbilical cord clamping, unintentionally exposing the infant to antibiotics antenatally. We aimed to investigate if timing of intrapartum antibiotics contributes to the impairment of microbiota colonisation in CS born infants.

Design

In this randomised controlled trial, women delivering via CS received antibiotics prior to skin incision (n=20) or after umbilical cord clamping (n=20). A third control group of vaginally delivering women (n=23) was included. Faecal microbiota was determined from all infants at 1, 7 and 28 days after birth and at 3 years by 16S rRNA gene sequencing and whole-metagenome shotgun sequencing.

Results

Compared with vaginally born infants, profound differences were found in microbial diversity and composition in both CS groups in the first month of life. A decreased abundance in species belonging to the genera Bacteroides and Bifidobacterium was found with a concurrent increase in members belonging to the phylum Proteobacteria. These differences could not be observed at 3 years of age. No statistically significant differences were observed in taxonomic and functional composition of the microbiome between both CS groups at any of the time points.

Conclusion

We confirmed that microbiome colonisation is strongly affected by CS delivery. Our findings suggest that maternal antibiotic administration prior to CS does not result in a second hit on the compromised microbiome. Future, larger studies should confirm that antenatal antibiotic exposure in CS born infants does not aggravate colonisation impairment and impact long-term health.
Irregular erythrocyte antibodies among antenatal women and their neonatal outcome at a tertiary care hospital in Northern India
Authors: Mandal Saikat , Kaur Daljit , Negi Gita , Basu Sriparna , Chaturvedi Jaya , Maji Manideepa , Malhotra Sheetal
Published: November 2021

Background

Red blood cell alloimmunisation during the pregnancy is a significant cause for neonatal mortality and morbidity. This study was planned to determine the prevalence and specificity of irregular erythrocyte antibodies in antenatal mothers and their neonatal outcome.

Methods

In this observational study, blood grouping and red cell antibody screening of mothers were performed at first visit and after 28 weeks of gestation and positive cases were identified and followed up monthly till delivery by repeating antibody titre and middle cerebral artery—peak systolic velocity. After delivery of alloimmunised mothers, cord blood haemoglobin, bilirubin and direct antiglobulin tests (DAT) were analysed and further outcome of neonate was recorded.

Results

Among 652 registered antenatal cases, 18 multigravida women were found to be alloimmunised, accounting to prevalence of 2.8%. Most common alloantibody identified was anti D (>70%) followed by anti-Lea, anti-C, anti-Leb, anti-E and anti-Jka. Only 47.7% Rh D negative women received anti-D prophylaxis during previous pregnancies or whenever indicated. DAT was positive in 56.2% of neonates. Among nine DAT positive neonates, two early neonatal deaths due to severe anaemia were observed following birth resuscitation. Four antenatal mothers required intrauterine transfusion in view of fetal anaemia while three neonates received double volume exchange transfusion and top up transfusions after birth.

Conclusions

This study emphasises importance of red cell antibody screening for all multigravida antenatal women at registration of pregnancy and additionally at 28 weeks or later in high-risk cases irrespective of RhD status.
Enhancing cultural food security among the Syilx Okanagan adults with the reintroduction of Okanagan sockeye salmon
Authors: Blanchet Rosanne , Willows Noreen , Johnson Suzanne ,   Okanagan Nation Salmon Reintroduction Initiatives, Batal Malek
Published: November 2021

For the Syilx Okanagan Nation, food sovereignty is foundational to ensuring their cultural food security and health. Salmon being a central Syilx food, the Nation has worked relentlessly since the 1990s to reintroduce Okanagan sockeye salmon into their traditional territory. This study describes the reach of this initiative and assesses its impact on Syilx households’ income-related and cultural food security status. In total, 265 households participated in the study. Overall, 48.6% of participants ate Okanagan sockeye salmon during the year prior to the survey. Most participants (89.1%) reported that during the prior year their household accessed salmon from a community member or through trade (53.7%), community program (49.8%), a feast or ceremony (35.8%), or household harvest (27.2%). The number of ways that households accessed salmon was associated with a greater frequency of salmon consumption (p < 0.0001). Income-related (46.5%) and cultural (63.1%) food insecurity were prevalent. Households’ access to salmon was significantly associated with cultural food security and the perceived importance of cultural food security. This study suggests Indigenous food sovereignty initiatives can increase traditional food access and consumption, thereby enhancing cultural food security. They should be supported by governments, organizations and corporations.

Novelty: Indigenous food sovereignty initiatives can increase traditional food access and consumption, thereby enhancing cultural food security. Indigenous-led wild habitat restoration interventions can help reconcile past social and environmental injustices. This study was conducted on the unceded territory of the Syilx Okanagan People.
de Sitter braneworld and gravitational waves
Authors: Li Dong-Yu , Wu Zhao-Xiang , Hu Hao , Gu Bao-Min
Published: November 2021

We study the braneworld theory constructed by multi-scalar fields. The model contains a smooth and infinitely large extra dimension, allowing background fields to propagate in it. We give a de Sitter solution for the four-dimensional cosmology as a good approximation to the early universe inflation. We show that the graviton has a localizable massless mode, and a series of continuous massive modes, separated by a mass gap. There could be a normalizable massive mode, depending on the background solution. The gravitational waves of the massless mode evolve as in the four-dimensional theory, while those of the massive modes evolve very differently from the massless mode.
Symmetry Finder applied to the 1–3 mass eigenstate exchange symmetry
Authors: Minakata Hisakazu
Published: November 2021

In a previous paper, Symmetry Finder (SF) method is proposed to find the reparametrization symmetry of the state-exchange type in neutrino oscillation in matter. It has been applied successfully to the 1–2 state exchange symmetry in the DMP perturbation theory, yielding the eight symmetries. In this paper, we apply the SF method to the atmospheric-resonance perturbation theory to uncover the 1–3 state relabeling symmetries. The pure 1–3 state symmetry takes the unique position that it is practically impossible to formulate in vacuum under the conventional choice of the flavor mixing matrix. In contrast, our SF method produces the sixteen 1–3 state exchange symmetries in matter. The relationship between the symmetries in the original (vacuum plus matter) Hamiltonian and the ones in the diagonalized system is discussed.
A Novel Two-Stage Game Model for Pricing Cloud/ Fog Computing Resource in Blockchain Systems
Authors: Chen Jinmian , Cheng Yukun , Xu Zhiqi
Published: November 2021

Cloud/ fog computing resource pricing is a new paradigm in the blockchain mining scheme, as the participants would like to purchase the cloud/ fog computing resource to speed up their mining processes. In this paper, we propose a novel two-stage game to study the optimal price-based cloud/ fog computing resource management, in which the cloud/fog computing resource provider (CFP) is the leader, setting the resource price in Stage I, and the mining pools act as the followers to decide their demands of the resource in Stage II. Since mining pools are bounded rational in practice, we model the dynamic interactions among them by an evolutionary game in Stage II, in which each pool pursues its evolutionary stable demand based on the observed price, through continuous learning and adjustments. Backward induction method is applied to analyze the sub-game equilibrium in each stage. Specifically in Stage II, we first build a general study framework for the evolutionary game model, and then provide a detailed theoretical analysis for a two-pool case to characterize the conditions for the existence of different evolutionary stable solutions. Referring to the real world, we conduct a series of numerical experiments, whose results validate our theoretical findings for the case of two mining pools. Additionally, the impacts from the size of mining block, the unit transaction fee and the price of token on the decision makings of participants are also discussed.
Dynamics of exact closed-form solutions to the Schamel Burgers and Schamel equations with constant coefficients using a novel analytical approach
Authors: Mohanty Sanjaya K. , Kumar Sachin , Deka Manoj K. , Dev Apul N.
Published: November 2021

In this paper, we investigate two different constant-coefficient nonlinear evolution equations, namely the Schamel Burgers equation and the Schamel equation. These models also have a great deal of potential for studying ion-acoustic waves in plasma physics and fluid dynamics. The primary goal of this paper is to establish closed-form solutions and dynamics of analytical solutions to the Schamel Burgers and the Schamel equations, which are special examples of the well-known Schamel–Korteweg-de Vries (S-KdV) equation. We derive completely novel solutions to the considered models using a variety of computation programmes and a newly proposed extended generalized [Formula: see text] expansion approach. The newly formed solutions, which include hyperbolic and trigonometric functions as well as rational function solutions, have been produced. The annihilation of three-dimensional shock waves, periodic waves, single soliton, singular soliton, and combo soliton, multisoliton as well as their three-dimensional and contour plots are used to show the dynamical representations of the acquired solutions. These results demonstrate that the proposed extended technique is efficient, reliable and simple.
Explicit kink solutions in several one-parameter families of higher-order field theory models
Authors: Khare Avinash , Duzgun Ayhan , Saxena Avadh
Published: November 2021

We present several one-parameter families of higher-order field theory models some of which admit explicit kink solutions with an exponential tail while others admit explicit kink solutions with a power-law tail. Various properties of these families of kink solutions are examined in detail. Further, by applying the recent Manton formalism, we provide estimates for the kink–kink (KK) and antikink–kink (AK-K) acceleration and hence the ratio of the corresponding AK-K and KK forces.
Application of Automobile Modelling Optimization Design Based on Virtual Reality Technology
Authors: Wu Wei , Sivaparthipan C. B. , Sanz-Prieto Ivan
Published: November 2021

Automobile architecture is a crucial phase in the process of design. The model assessment process in the hybrid vehicle modeling assessment becomes more in-depth, and designers exchange ideas. The critical aspect of automotive modeling is that various models have varying views on vehicle styling. The evaluation process is long, complicated, and efficient in automotive simulation. The evaluation process takes time. Therefore, in the paper, an Automobile Modelling Optimization Design Based on Virtual Reality Technology (AMOD-VRT) is proposed to improve automobile modeling and design research to be more interactive. Computational Design Method is used to create and design the entire vehicle as well as its surrounding environment. An Integrated Virtual Analysis can enclose the models mentioned above and create a virtual environment in which the user can interact to design a model virtually by themselves. The paper provides complete virtual design modeling of an automobile, allowing the user to work more efficiently based on the results. By applying virtual reality technology in the automobile design phase, interactive and network-based remote research on automobile modeling can make the automobile design progression more appropriate, easier to communicate with designers and decrease automobile design’s development cost and cycle. The simulation analysis is performed based on safety, performance, and efficiency, proving the reliability of the proposed framework. Various parameters obtain the simulation results on automobile design as the automobile vehicle design performance ratio is 87.16%, increasing the visual effects in AMOD ratio is 88.77%, improving visual effects with optimized design ratio is 84.5%, interaction and collaboration of automobile modeling ratio are 82.26% and reduce vehicles accident using virtual reality ratio is 93.80%. The computer-based virtual reality technology in the automotive industry can effectively accelerate new product development in the future.
Integration of Wireless Sensor Network and IoT for Smart Environment Monitoring System
Authors: Yu Qi , Xiong Feng , Wang Yiran
Published: November 2021

Air contamination, water waste, and radioactive contamination are significant environmental issues. Adequate supervision is needed to ensure economic sustainability through the preservation of a good society. Environmental tracking has become a Smart environment monitoring (SEM) system in recent times, with developments in the Internet of Things and the creation of advanced detectors. This situation evaluates substantial achievements and scientific studies on SEM, including air quality control, water management, radiation emissions, and agricultural practices. A Wireless sensor network and IoT integrated system for Smart environment monitoring (WSN-IoT-SEC) framework are proposed in this research. The analysis will be divided employing SEM techniques applications, and each aim will then be further studied in terms of the detectors, machine learning models, and classifiers operated. A systematic study was carried out based on the study’s evaluated results and patterns, indicating important suggestions and the SEM analysis’s influence. The researchers have discussed objectively how the advancements in mobile technologies, IoT, and wireless sensor networks allow the control of the atmosphere an intelligent monitoring device. Eventually, the concept of rigorous machine learning techniques has been proposed, denouncing techniques and developing appropriate WSN specifications.
Fusion-Based Semantic Segmentation Using Deep Learning Architecture in Case of Very Small Training Dataset
Authors: Padalkar Ganesh R. , Khambete Madhuri B.
Published: November 2021

Semantic segmentation is a pre-processing step in computer vision-based applications. It is the task of assigning a predefined class label to every pixel of an image. Several supervised and unsupervised algorithms are available to classify pixels of an image into predefined object classes. The algorithms, such as random forest and SVM are used to obtain the semantic segmentation. Recently, convolutional neural network (CNN)-based architectures have become popular for the tasks of object detection, object recognition, and segmentation. These deep architectures perform semantic segmentation with far better accuracy than the algorithms that were used earlier. CNN-based deep learning architectures require a large dataset for training. In real life, some of the applications may not have sufficient good quality samples for training of deep learning architectures e.g. medical applications. Such a requirement initiated a need to have a technique of effective training of deep learning architecture in case of a very small dataset. Class imbalance is another challenge in the process of training deep learning architecture. Due to class imbalance, the classifier overclassifies classes with large samples. In this paper, the challenge of training a deep learning architecture with a small dataset and class imbalance is addressed by novel fusion-based semantic segmentation technique which improves segmentation of minor and major classes.
EEG Signal Processing for Survey of Dynamic Auditory Verbal Learning and Memory Formation in Brain by Fractal Analysis
Authors: Arab Mohammad Reza , Setoudeh Farbod , Khosroabadi Reza , Najafi Mohsen , Tavakoli Mohammad Bagher
Published: November 2021

Learning and memory involve a complex cognitive process to acquire, retain, and retrieve information in the central nervous system. However, the brain mechanism still needs to be well understood. This study aimed to examine the dynamic auditory verbal learning model of the brain mechanism involved in cognitive learning using the scale-free approach by the fractal analysis of electroencephalogram (EEG) data. This illustrates how the complexity of information processing in the brain changes while auditory and verbal learning occurs. Therefore, a standard verbal-auditory cognitive assessment test was used to create a learning paradigm. Eighteen healthy male volunteers (19–23[Formula: see text]years old) were recruited and their verbal memories were assessed using the Rey auditory verbal learning test. Fifteen unrelated words were sequentially presented to the subjects and they were asked to recall the presented words as many as possible. The experiment was repeated five times with no stop in between. EEG recording was performed before, during and after each stage. Subsequently, the Hurst exponents of EEG were calculated and their associations with the recalled words and the learning rate were estimated. The approximate entropy was intended to confirm the Hurst exponent variations of signals. The statistical analysis of the data showed that the increase in the number of the recalled words was positively correlated with an increase in the Hurst exponents of EEG signals (more significant at the temporal channels) and a decrease in the approximate entropy of EEG signals during the learning of trials. These results denoted a reduced complexity pattern in EEG signals while rehearsing auditory and verbal memories.
CONTRIBUTIONS OF NONPROFESSIONAL LOCAL PHYSICAL THERAPIST IN THE PROMOTION OF COMMUNITY HEALTH ACTIVITIES IN THE ARSI ZONE, SOUTHEAST ETHIOPIA
Authors: BULCHA GUTA , MELAKU LETA
Published: November 2021

Background: Physical activity is a first-line therapy and secures against persistent illnesses. Essential medical care professionals are obviously situated to advance actual action. Active recuperation mediations are focused on advancement and upkeep of well-being, personal satisfaction and wellness. There is, notwithstanding, a deficiency of such examination proof in Ethiopia. Objective: We planned to assess the degree of KAP of nonprofessional local physical therapists toward well-being advancement in the Arsi Zone of Oromia, Southeast Ethiopia. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in April 2018 among 45 physical therapists. Data were collected using pre-tested, structured and self-administrative questionnaires. Participants were selected by the quota sampling technique. The questionnaire was drafted specifically to test the KAP. Data were double entered and analyzed by SPSS, Version 20.0, program. Descriptive statistics were used. The KAP was estimated using proportion. Result: The present response rate is 90.0%. The ages of respondents ranged between 24 and 87 years. Then, 57.8% of participants got initial physical therapy knowledge from either of their parents. Again, 53.3% of the respondents hear about health promotion from families and friends. Then, 57.8% of them provided health promotion at their workplace. The overall percentage of all the respondents’ KAP in health promotion was 60.1%. Conclusion: The respondents have good KAP toward health promotion. However, there is still room for improvement. Also, there is a lack of proper guidelines in determining the impact of physical therapy.
A Metadata Framework for Asset Management Decision Support: A Water Infrastructure Case Study
Authors: Jin Harry , Stringer Glynn , Do Phuong , Gorjian Jolfaei Neda , Chow Christopher W.K. , Gorjian Nima , Healey Angelica , Rameezdeen Raufdeen , Saint Christopher P.
Published: November 2021

A water utility requires myriads of data for effective decision-making. As the sources and ranges of data are becoming increasingly complex, the use of a metadata framework can play a significant role in effective data management. Using case study method, this research analyzed data needs of a water supply system in a small town in South Australia and designed a demo portal of a metadata framework. As part of the case study, the project team undertook a broad investigative approach using focus group (interviews), observation, exploration of potential data sources, identification of knowledge leaders and information technology systems. The metadata framework comprised two separate but interconnected metadata groups, (1) metadata elements to describe the metadata source and (2) metadata elements to describe the datasets held in each data source. The metadata framework was populated to describe data sources and data held in each of the sources. The data catalogue created by this process showed that it was accomplishable and appropriate to describe data sources and datasets via a metadata framework.
Fractional-order COVID-19 pandemic outbreak: Modeling and stability analysis
Authors: Batiha Iqbal M. , Momani Shaher , Ouannas Adel , Momani Zaid , Hadid Samir B.
Published: November 2021

Today, the entire world is witnessing an enormous upsurge in coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19 pandemic). Confronting such acute infectious disease, which has taken multiple victims around the world, requires all specialists in all fields to devote their efforts to seek effective treatment or even control its disseminate. In the light of this aspect, this work proposes two new fractional-order versions for one of the recently extended forms of the SEIR model. These two versions, which are established in view of two fractional-order differential operators, namely, the Caputo and the Caputo–Fabrizio operators, are numerically solved based on the Generalized Euler Method (GEM) that considers Caputo sense, and the Adams–Bashforth Method (ABM) that considers Caputo–Fabrizio sense. Several numerical results reveal the impact of the fractional-order values on the two established disease models, and the continuation of the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak to this moment. In the meantime, some novel results related to the stability analysis and the basic reproductive number are addressed for the proposed fractional-order Caputo COVID-19 model. For declining the total of individuals infected by such pandemic, a new compartment is added to the proposed model, namely the disease prevention compartment that includes the use of face masks, gloves and sterilizers. In view of such modification, it is turned out that the performed addition to the fractional-order Caputo COVID-19 model yields a significant improvement in reducing the risk of COVID-19 spreading.
The annihilators comaximal graph
Authors: Rajaee Saeed
Published: November 2021

In this paper, we introduce and study a new kind of graph related to a unitary module [Formula: see text] on a commutative ring [Formula: see text] with identity, namely the annihilators comaximal graph of submodules of [Formula: see text], denoted by [Formula: see text]. The (undirected) graph [Formula: see text] is with vertices of all non-trivial submodules of [Formula: see text] and two vertices [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] are adjacent if and only if their annihilators are comaximal ideals of [Formula: see text], i.e. [Formula: see text]. The main purpose of this paper is to investigate the interplay between the graph-theoretic properties of [Formula: see text] and the module-theoretic properties of [Formula: see text]. We study the annihilators comaximal graph [Formula: see text] in terms of the powers of the decomposition of [Formula: see text] to product distinct prime numbers in some special cases.
Piecewise Linear Valued CSPs Solvable by Linear Programming Relaxation
Authors: Bodirsky Manuel , Mamino Marcello , Viola Caterina
Published: November 2021

Valued constraint satisfaction problems (VCSPs) are a large class of combinatorial optimisation problems. The computational complexity of VCSPs depends on the set of allowed cost functions in the input. Recently, the computational complexity of all VCSPs for finite sets of cost functions over finite domains has been classified. Many natural optimisation problems, however, cannot be formulated as VCSPs over a finite domain. We initiate the systematic investigation of the complexity of infinite-domain VCSPs with piecewise linear homogeneous cost functions. Such VCSPs can be solved in polynomial time if the cost functions are improved by fully symmetric fractional operations of all arities. We show this by reducing the problem to a finite-domain VCSP which can be solved using the basic linear program relaxation. It follows that VCSPs for submodular PLH cost functions can be solved in polynomial time; in fact, we show that submodular PLH functions form a maximally tractable class of PLH cost functions.
Novel effects of the gastrointestinal hormone secretin on cardiac metabolism and renal function
Authors: Laurila Sanna , Rebelos Eleni , Lahesmaa Minna , Sun Lihua , Schnabl Katharina , Peltomaa Tia-Mari , Klén Riku , U-Din Mueez , Honka Miikka-Juhani , Eskola Olli , Kirjavainen Anna K. , Nummenmaa Lauri , Klingenspor Martin , Virtanen Kirsi A. , Nuutila Pirjo
Published: November 2021

Secretin increases myocardial glucose uptake compared with placebo, supporting a previously proposed inotropic effect. Secretin also increased renal filtration rate.
The Optimization of Classroom Teaching in Colleges and Universities Based on Network Topology
Authors: Wang Yongqiang , Zhang Na
Published: November 2021

In order to improve the teaching effect of programming courses, this article applies network topology to the construction of programming course teaching platform system and constructs a teaching framework combined with intelligent teaching mode. In addition, this article takes the opportunistic social network composed of mobile smart terminal devices as the application background and briefly introduces the concept, characteristics, and application scenarios of the opportunistic social network. In addition, the typical message forwarding algorithm currently studied in this paper is analyzed. Taking into account the social attributes and forwarding willingness of nodes, in order to increase the message transmission rate and reduce message transmission delay and network overhead, two message transmission strategies are proposed to improve the operating effect of the programming course teaching platform. Finally, this paper verifies the effectiveness of the network topology in the teaching of the algorithm and programming of the intelligent teaching mode through experimental research.
Diagnostic Value of Cytokeratin 17 during Oral Carcinogenesis: An Immunohistochemical Study
Authors: Sanguansin Sirima , Kosanwat Theerachai , Juengsomjit Rachai , Poomsawat Sopee
Published: November 2021

Background. Little is known about the role of cytokeratin 17 (CK17) during oral carcinogenesis. CK17 expression in oral leukoplakia (OL), the most encountered oral potentially malignant disorders and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), remains very limited. To determine the role of CK17 during oral carcinogenesis and its potential diagnostic marker in oral premalignant and malignant lesions, this study evaluated CK17 expression in OL without dysplasia, OL with dysplasia, and OSCC. CK17 expression in these tissues was compared with those of normal oral mucosa (NOM). Additionally, the relationship between CK17 expression and clinicopathologic factors of OSCC was investigated. Methods. CK17 expression was evaluated in 186 samples consisting of 12 NOM, 33 OL without dysplasia, 58 OL with dysplasia, and 83 OSCC using immunohistochemistry. The proportion of positively immunostained cells was evaluated and scored. Results. CK17 was expressed in 8.3%, 54.5%, 74.1%, and 90.4% of NOM, OL without dysplasia, OL with dysplasia, and OSCC, respectively. NOM had a significantly lower CK17 score than OL with dysplasia (

p
=
0.0003

) and OSCC (

p
<
0.0001

). A significant association between CK17 expression and histopathologic differentiation of OSCC was found. Tumors with well differentiation had high CK17 expression compared with those of moderate and poor differentiation. Conclusion. CK17 was overexpressed in OL with dysplasia and OSCC, suggesting that CK17 plays a pivotal role in the development of premalignant lesions and OSCC. Of clinical significance, CK17 may be a good diagnostic marker for oral premalignant lesions and OSCC. Additionally, CK17 could be used as an objective tool to classify histopathologic grade in OSCC. The findings that CK17 expression is high in OSCC but low in NOM imply that CK17 may serve as a potential therapeutic target for OSCC.
Hypoxia‐Induced miR‐210 Overexpression Promotes the Differentiation of Human‐Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells to Hepatocyte‐Like Cells on Random Nanofiber Poly‐L‐Lactic Acid/Poly (ε‐Caprolactone) Scaffolds
Authors: Mobarra Naser , Raji Sara , Najafi Sara , Kafi Farzaneh Kamelan , Ferns Gordon A. , Pakzad Reza
Published: November 2021

An alternative treatment to liver transplantation includes the use of differentiated stem cells. Hypoxia has been shown to endow human‐induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) with enhanced hepatic differentiation. We have investigated a new strategy for hepatocyte differentiation from hiPSCs using a three‐step differentiation protocol with lentiviral overexpression of hypoxia‐microRNA‐210 of cells grown on a hybrid scaffold. We analyzed the transduction of the miR‐210 lentiviral and definitive endoderm and pluripotency gene markers, including SRY‐box 17 (SOX17), forkhead box A2 (FOXA2), and octamer‐binding transcription factor 4 (OCT‐4) by Real‐Time PCR and fluorescent microscope. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) examined the 3D cell morphological changes. Immunocytochemistry staining was used together with assays for aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and urea secretion to analyze hepatocyte biomarkers and functional markers consisting of α‐fetoprotein (AFP), low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) uptake, fat accumulation, and glycogen. The flow cytometry analyzed the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Compared to cells transfected with the blank lentiviral vectors as a control, overexpressing miR‐210 was at higher levels in hiPSCs. The expression of endodermal genes and glycogen synthesis significantly increased in the differentiated lentiviral miR‐210 cells without any differences regarding lipid storage level. Additionally, cells containing miR‐210 showed a greater expression of ALB, LDL, AST, ALT, urea, and insignificant lower AFP and ROS levels after 18 days. However, SEM showed no significant differences between cells under the differentiation process and controls. In conclusion, the differentiation of hiPSCs to hepatocyte‐like cells under hypoxia miR‐210 may be a suitable method for cell therapy and regenerative medicine.
First-Principles Calculation of Conductivity of Ce-C Codoped SnO2 Contacts
Authors: Ding Can , Gao Zhenjiang , Hu Xing , Yuan Zhao
Published: November 2021

The contact is the core element of the vacuum interrupter of the mechanical DC circuit breaker. The electrical conductivity and welding resistance of the material directly affect its stability and reliability. AgSnO2 contact material has low resistivity, welding resistance, and so on. This material occupies an important position of the circuit breaker contact material. This research is based on the first-principles analysis method of density functional theory. The article calculated the lattice constant, enthalpy change, energy band, electronic density of state, charge density distribution, population, and conductivity of Ce, C single-doped, and Ce-C codoped SnO2 systems. The results show that Ce, C single doping, and Ce-C codoping all increase the cell volume and lattice constant. When the elements are codoped, the enthalpy change is the largest, and the thermal stability is the best. It has the smallest bandgap, the most impurity energy levels, and the least energy required for electronic transitions. The 4f orbital electrons of the Ce atom and the 2p orbital electrons of C are the sources of impurity energy near the Fermi level. When the elements are codoped, more impurity energy levels are generated at the bottom of the conduction band and the top of the valence band. Its bandgap is reduced so conductivity is improved. From the charge density and population analysis, the number of free electrons of Ce atoms and C atoms is redistributed after codoping. It forms a Ce-C covalent bond to further increase the degree of commonality of electrons and enhance the metallicity. The conductivity analysis shows that both single-doped and codoped conductivity have been improved. When the elements are codoped, the conductivity is the largest, and the conductivity is the best.
Jinwujiangu Capsule Treats Fibroblast-Like Synoviocytes of Rheumatoid Arthritis by Inhibiting Pyroptosis via the NLRP3/CAPSES/GSDMD Pathway
Authors: Ling Yi , Xiao Mao , Huang Zhao-Wei , Xu Hui , Huang Fang-Qin , Ren Ni-Na , Chen Chang-Ming , Lu Dao Min , Yao Xue-Ming , Xiao Li-Na , Ma Wu-Kai
Published: November 2021

Jinwujiangu capsule (JWJGC) is a traditional Chinese medicine formula used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, whether its mechanism is associated with pyroptosis remains unclear. In this study, the ability of JWJGC to inhibit the growth of fibroblast-like synoviocytes of RA (RA-FLS) through pyroptosis was evaluated. The cells isolated from patients with RA were identified by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, immunohistochemistry, and flow cytometry. After RA-FLS were treated with different concentrations of JWJGC-containing serum, the cell proliferation inhibition rate, expression of caspase-1/3/4/5, NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3), gasdermin-D (GSDMD), and apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD (ASC), concentrations of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-18 (IL-18), the activity of lactic dehydrogenase (LDH), and pyroptosis were evaluated. The results showed that JWJGC increased the proliferative inhibition rate, decreased the expression of caspase-1/3/4/5, GSDMD, NLRP3, and ASC, suppressed the expression of IL-1β and IL-18, induced the activity of LDH, and downregulated the number of double-positive FITC anti-caspase-1 and PI. Generally, our findings suggest that JWJGC can regulate NLRP3/CAPSES/GSDMD in treating RA-FLS through pyroptosis.
Big Data Security and International Settlement System of Electronic Economy Based on Blockchain
Authors: Liu Ying , Jin Yan , Liu Qi
Published: November 2021

In recent years, the rapid development of e-commerce and mobile communications has ushered in a new era in the era of big data and has also given birth to emerging industries such as big data. People are paying more and more attention to data, and all walks of life are trying to analyze data and make use of the potential value of data. Business organizations use big data analysis to reduce business costs, plan real-time traffic routes for thousands of express vehicles to avoid congestion, and use click stream analysis and data mining to avoid fraud. This article combines big data with e-commerce security, deeply studies the composition of e-commerce security system and key security strategies and technologies, and discusses some problems in the combined application of blockchain and electronic settlement. The birth of big data technology can solve the contradictions in today’s e-commerce security, introduce the popular and widely distributed Apache Hadoop platform, deeply study the structure of Hadoop, and focus on the data analysis and processing method products of the second generation of Hadoop YARN. It is recommended to start with data, manage, and monitor e-commerce behaviors and improve the e-commerce security system. Finally, many important aspects that need to be considered in the big data e-commerce security system will be discussed. The analysis results show that the credential management and control system based on blockchain technology proposed in this paper can resist most frauds and realize the safe storage of transaction data and cannot be tampered with. Experiments have proved that the types of vulnerabilities and defects show that improper input is the main reason; the system error rate is mainly concentrated at 0.50%, and all the data indicate that the application of big data blockchain in electronic settlement provides great value, and the security of the electronic economy has increased by at least 60%.
A Comparison of Dynamic and Static Hip-Knee-Ankle Angle during Gait in Knee Osteoarthritis Patients and Healthy Individuals
Authors: Zhang Li , Liu Geng , Han Bing , Yan Yuzhou , Fei Junhua , Ma Jianbing , Zhang Yunfei
Published: November 2021

Malalignment of the lower limbs is the main biomechanical factor for knee osteoarthritis (KOA). The static hip-knee-ankle angle (S-HKAA) measured from radiograph is regarded as the “gold standard” of the malalignment. However, many evidences showed that the S-HKAA has no significant correlation with the knee dynamic-load distribution, unlike the dynamic HKAA (D-HKAA). The purpose of this study was to quantitatively analyze the D-HKAA and investigate the relationship between D-HKAA and S-HKAA for both KOA and healthy participants. In this paper, twenty-five healthy subjects and twenty-five medial compartment KOA (M-KOA) patients were recruited. Three-dimensional motion analysis and standing lower-limbs-full-length radiograph were utilized to obtain the D-HKAA and S-HKAA, respectively. The results showed that the mean D-HKAA was more varus than the S-HKAA (

p
<
0.05

). For the mean D-HKAA, larger varus angle was observed in swing phase than stance phase (

p
<
0.05

). Compared with healthy subjects, the M-KOA patients had remarkably smaller S-HKAA and D-HKAA during gait cycle (

p
<
0.01

). For the relationship between the S-HKAA and mean D-HKAA, no significant correlation was found for both healthy subjects and M-KOA patients (

r
<
0.357

,

n
=
25

,

p
>
0.05

, Spearman correlation analysis). In conclusion, the S-HKAA was limited to predict the D-HKAA for both M-KOA patients and healthy subjects. The D-HKAA should be given more attention to the orthopedist and the designer of knee brace and orthotics.