bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Specific Anteversion of Cup and Combined Anteversion for Total Hip Arthroplasty Using Lateral Approach
Authors: Li Li , Zhang Yu , Lin Yuan‐yuan , Li Zhen‐xing , Chen Liang , Chen Dao‐sen , Fan Pei
Published: December 2020

Objective

To determine the implant orientation, especially the combined anteversion measurements in total hip arthroplasty (THA) using lateral approach, and to compare with implant orientation using posterior‐lateral (P‐L) approach. The secondary goal was to identify the factors associated with implant orientation.

Methods

Five hundred and one patients (545 hips) who underwent primary THA with the modified Hardinge approach between January 2016 and November 2019 by one senior surgeon in our department in a retrospective study were followed up. A survey to inquire about the history of dislocation of the hip after THA was designed and responses were gathered by telephone, WeChat software, and outpatient follow‐up. The mean age of the patients was 61.97 ± 11.72 years, and there were 254 males and 247 females. The average follow‐up time was 25.2 ± 13.7 months (range, 3.2–49.7 months). Among the patients who were followed up, 97 patients (104 hips) underwent computed tomography (CT) scans from L4 to the tuberosity of the tibia. The implant orientation, including the anteversion and inclination of the cup, anteversion of the stem, combined anteversion, and pelvic tilt were measured based on CT scans of these patients. The results were compared with the implant orientation reported in previous reports measured by CT. Factors that may be associated with implant orientation were investigated, including the patient's age, sex, body mass index (BMI), and diagnosis; size of the cup; diameter of the femoral head component; and pelvic tilt. Data and statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 20.0.

Results

No cases of dislocation were found in the 501 patients (545 hips) who underwent primary THA during this period. The mean inclination and anteversion of the cups were 38.83° ± 5.04° (24.5°–53.1°) and 9.26° ± 11.19° (−15°–48°), respectively. The mean anteversion of the stem was 13.83° ± 10.7° (−10.2°–42.3°). The combined anteversion was 23.1° ± 13.4° (−7.4°–54.6°). Compared with the reported combined anteversion and anteversion of the cup, the mean anteversion of the cup and combined anteversion using the lateral approach were much lower than the reported values in the literature using the P‐L approach. Pelvic tilt was found to be the only independent factor for cup anteversion. Factors including age, sex, BMI, diagnosis, cup size, and diameter of the femoral head component were not associated with implant orientation.

Conclusion

THA using the lateral approach yields smaller cup anteversion and combined anteversion values than using the P‐L approach. Pelvic tilt is the only predictor for cup anteversion.
Anesthesia for pediatric patients with anti‐NMDA receptor encephalitis: A retrospective case series
Authors: Bell Marisa , Friedman Megan , Matar Marla , Sakmar Shinny , Wee Choo Phei , Ross Patrick , Nagoshi Makoto
Published: December 2020

Introduction

Anti‐N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor encephalitis is caused by auto‐antibodies that target the N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor. Autonomic instability is a hallmark of the disease. The objective of this case series is to examine how anesthesia affects pediatric patients with this disease.

Methods

We performed a retrospective chart review of 28 records in 17 patients who underwent anesthesia. Our primary outcomes were hemodynamic changes during the perioperative period. Heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressures, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation comprise our endpoints. A subgroup of patients, who underwent imaging with anesthesia, was then compared to controls.

Results

In anti‐N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor encephalitis cases, there were significant percent changes from baseline in heart rate; median = −14.3%, 95% CI (−19.3, −9.0), p < .01 at 30 min and −15.7%, (−21.1, −9.8), p < .01 at 60 min; in systolic blood pressure, −19.4%, (−23.7, −14.8) at 30 min, p < .01, and −14.8%, (−19.7, −9.5) at 60 min, p < .01; in diastolic blood pressure, −41.9%, (−46.9, −36.3), p < .01 at 30 min, and −37.5%, (−43.4, −30.9), p < .01 at 60 min. When compared to controls, there were no significant differences between the two groups across time of anesthesia (baseline to 60 min) in heart rate (p = .24), systolic blood pressure (p = .30), and diastolic blood pressure (p = .11). No patients experienced hemodynamic lability under anesthesia. One patient, with severe symptoms, died within 24 h of anesthesia.

Conclusion

Although pediatric patients with anti‐N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor encephalitis experienced vital sign changes with anesthesia, they were not clinically significant and they behaved similarly to controls. Disease severity may be a risk factor for perioperative complications.
Prevalence and factors associated with substance use among Chinese immigrants in Spain: A mixed‐design study
Authors: Badanta Bárbara , Lucchetti Giancarlo , Fernández‐García Elena , Barrientos‐Trigo Sergio
Published: December 2020

Objective

To explore the use of tobacco, alcohol, and illicit drugs and its associated factors among Chinese immigrants living in Spain.

Design and Measures

A mixed‐method design, using surveys and semi‐structured interviews.

Sample

A total of 133 Chinese immigrants and stakeholders were assessed in the quantitative study and 7 stakeholders were interviewed in the qualitative study.

Results

The use of tobacco and alcohol was higher than the use of illicit drugs in Chinese immigrants. The prevalence of daily smokers was greater in men than in women (37.3% vs. 2.5%, p < .001). Men consumed more alcohol (76% vs. 50.6%, p = .004) and more frequently (21.6% daily vs. 2.4%, p = .024) than women. The use of illicit drugs was low and Cannabis was the most illicit drug consumed (4%). Qualitative data revealed that due to a great workload, the workers tended to avoid behaviors of illicit drug consumption, but not of alcohol and tobacco, in which the consumption is associated with business meetings and leisure.

Conclusion

This study found that Chinese immigrants in Spain consume more alcohol and tobacco than illicit drugs and that men have a high consumption compared to women. These findings reveal important cultural differences that should be addressed by public health managers in order to develop strategies that consider the characteristics of this population.
Continuing professional development among social‐ and health‐care educators
Authors: Koskimäki Minna , Lähteenmäki Marja‐Leena , Mikkonen Kristina , Kääriäinen Maria , Koskinen Camilla , Mäki‐Hakola Hanne , Sjögren Tuulikki , Koivula Meeri
Published: December 2020

Future social‐ and health‐care educators will be required to have versatile competence in educating professionals that reflects both the constantly changing health‐care environment and delivery of high‐quality patient care. Continuing professional development can be defined as a process that aims to increase educators' competence and well‐being, along with the effectiveness of an organisation. This study aimed to describe educators' continuing professional development and clarify the contribution of continuing education. The research applied a qualitative approach as only limited information about social‐ and health‐care educators' professional development currently exists.’ Data were collected by group interviews of 35 experienced social‐ and health‐care educators from six institutions of higher education and two vocational schools across Finland. An inductive content analysis yielded 39 subcategories, 11 categories and three main categories, namely, educators' approaches for developing professional competence, barriers to continuing education, and educators' continuing education needs. The educators reported that they maintain and develop their competence in versatile ways; for example, continuing professional development takes place through both formal continuing education and informal collaboration at daily work. Regarding barriers to continuing education, the educators most often cited the lack of planning and a lack of resources, for example, scheduling and financial factors. The continuing education needs of social‐ and health‐care educators are highly individual and should not only reflect organisational goals. The fact that this study only included experienced educators can be considered a limitation, as a sample that also included novice educators may have yielded different perceptions of continuing education and professional development. The results of the research can be utilised when designing the continuing professional development of educators at the individual, group or organisational level.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐A*11:376 allele by sequencing‐based typing
Authors: Elsermans Vincent , Visentin Jonathan , Top Isabelle , Varlet Pauline , Labalette Myriam
Published: December 2020

HLA‐A*11:376 differs from HLA‐A*11:01:01:01 by one nucleotide substitution in codon 168 in exon 3.
The influence of increased venous return on right ventricular dyssynchrony during acute and sustained hypoxaemia
Authors: Ewalts Michiel , Dawkins Tony , Boulet Lindsey M , Thijssen Dick , Stembridge Mike
Published: December 2020

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Right ventricular dyssynchrony is a marker of function that is elevated in healthy individuals exposed to acute hypoxia, but does it remain elevated during sustained exposure to high altitude hypoxia, and can it be normalised by augmenting venous return?

What is the main finding and its importance?

For the first time it is demonstrated that (i) increasing venous return in acute hypoxia restores the synchrony of right ventricular contraction and (ii) dyssynchrony is evident after acclimatisation to high altitude, and remains sensitive to changes in venous return. Therefore, the interpretation of right ventricular dyssynchrony requires consideration the prevailing haemodynamic state.

Regional heterogeneity in timing of right ventricular (RV) contraction (RV dyssynchrony; RVD) occurs when pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) is increased during acute hypoxia. Interestingly, RVD is not observed during exercise, a stimulus that increases both PASP and venous return. Therefore, we hypothesised that RVD in healthy humans is sensitive to changes in venous return, and examined whether (i) increasing venous return in acute hypoxia lowers RVD and (ii) if RVD is further exaggerated in sustained hypoxia, given increased PASP is accompanied by decreased ventricular filling at high altitude. RVD, PASP and right ventricular end‐diastolic area (RVEDA) were assessed using transthoracic two‐dimensional and speckle‐tracking echocardiography during acute normobaric hypoxia ( = 0.12) and sustained exposure (5–10 days) to hypobaric hypoxia (3800 m). Venous return was augmented with lower body positive pressure at sea level (LBPP; +10 mmHg) and saline infusion at high altitude. PASP was increased in acute hypoxia (20 ± 6 vs. 28 ± 7, P < 0.001) concomitant to an increase in RVD (18 ± 7 vs. 38 ± 10, P < 0.001); however, the addition of LBPP during hypoxia decreased RVD (38 ± 0 vs. 26 ± 10, P < 0.001). Sustained hypoxia increased PASP (20 ± 4 vs. 26 ± 5, P = 0.008) and decreased RVEDA (24 ± 4 vs. 21 ± 2, P = 0.042), with RVD augmented (14 ± 5 vs. 31 ± 12, P = 0.001). Saline infusion increased RVEDA (21 ± 2 vs. 23 ± 3, P = 0.008) and reduced RVD (31 ± 12 vs. 20 ± 9, P = 0.001). In summary, an increase in PASP secondary to acute and sustained exposure to hypoxia augments RVD, which can be at least partly reduced via increased venous return.
The acute effect of high‐ and moderate‐intensity interval exercise on vascular function before and after a glucose challenge in adolescents
Authors: Kranen Sascha H. , Oliveira Ricardo S. , Bond Bert , Williams Craig A. , Barker Alan R.
Published: December 2020

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

What is the effect of high‐intensity and moderate‐intensity interval running on macro‐ and microvascular function in a fasted state and following a glucose challenge in adolescents?

What is the main finding and its importance?

Both macro‐ and microvascular function were improved after interval running independent of intensity. This finding shows that the intermittent exercise pattern and its associated effect on shear are important for vascular benefits. In adolescents, macrovascular function was enhanced after an acute glucose load. However, the effect of chronic glucose consumption on vascular function remains to be elucidated.

Interventions targeting vascular function in youth are an important strategy for the primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases. This study examined, in adolescents, the effect of high‐intensity interval running (HIIR) and moderate‐intensity interval running (MIIR) on vascular function in a fasted state and postprandially after a glucose challenge. Fifteen adolescents (13 male, 13.9 ± 0.6 years) completed the following conditions on separate days in a counterbalanced order: (1) 8 × 1 min HIIR interspersed with 75 s recovery; (2) distance‐matched amount of 1 min MIIR interspersed with 75 s recovery; and (3) rest (CON). Macro‐ (flow‐mediated dilatation, FMD) and microvascular (peak reactive hyperaemia, PRH) function were assessed immediately before and 90 min after exercise/rest. Participants underwent an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) 2 h after exercise/rest before another assessment of vascular function 90 min after the OGTT. Following exercise, both HIIR and MIIR increased FMD (P = 0.02 and P = 0.03, respectively) and PRH (P = 0.04, and P = 0.01, respectively) with no change in CON (FMD: P = 0.51; PRH: P = 0.16) and no significant differences between exercise conditions. Following the OGTT, FMD increased in CON (P < 0.01) with no changes in HIIR and MIIR (both P > 0.59). There was no change in PRH after the OGTT (all P > 0.40). In conclusion, vascular function is improved after interval running independent of intensity in adolescents. Acute hyperglycaemia increased FMD, but prior exercise did not change vascular function after the OGTT in youth.
The influence of aerobic exercise on mitochondrial quality control in skeletal muscle
Authors: Philp Ashleigh M. , Saner Nicholas J. , Lazarou Michael , Ganley Ian G. , Philp Andrew
Published: December 2020

Mitochondria are dynamic organelles, intricately designed to meet cellular energy requirements. To accommodate alterations in energy demand, mitochondria have a high degree of plasticity, changing in response to transient activation of numerous stress‐related pathways. This adaptive response is particularly relevant in highly metabolic tissues such as skeletal muscle, where mitochondria support numerous biological processes related to metabolism, growth and regeneration. Aerobic exercise is a potent stimulus for skeletal muscle remodelling, leading to alterations in substrate utilisation, fibre‐type composition and performance. Underlying these physiological responses is a change in mitochondrial quality control (MQC), a term encompassing the co‐ordination of mitochondrial synthesis (biogenesis), remodelling (dynamics) and degradation (mitophagy) pathways. Understanding of MQC in skeletal muscle and the regulatory role of aerobic exercise of this process are rapidly advancing, as are the molecular techniques allowing the study of MQC in vivo. Given the emerging link between MQC and the onset of numerous non‐communicable diseases, understanding the molecular regulation of MQC, and the role of aerobic exercise in this process, will have substantial future impact on therapeutic approaches to manipulate MQC and maintain mitochondrial function across health span.

image
A Machine Learning Approach to Predicting the Heat Convection and Thermodynamics of an External Flow of Hybrid Nanofluid
Authors: Alizadeh Rasool , Abad Javad Mohebbi Najm , Fattahi Abolfazl , Mohebbi Mohamad Reza , Doranehgard Mohammad Hossein , Li Larry K. B. , Alhajri Ebrahim , Karimi Nader
Published: December 2020

This study numerically investigates heat convection and entropy generation in a hybrid nanofluid (Al2O3–Cu–water) flowing around a cylinder embedded in porous media. An artificial neural network is used for predictive analysis, in which numerical data are generated to train an intelligence algorithm and to optimize the prediction errors. Results show that the heat transfer of the system increases when the Reynolds number, permeability parameter, or volume fraction of nanoparticles increases. However, the functional forms of these dependencies are complex. In particular, increasing the nanoparticle concentration is found to have a nonmonotonic effect on entropy generation. The simulated and predicted data are subjected to particle swarm optimization to produce correlations for the shear stress and Nusselt number. This study demonstrates the capability of artificial intelligence algorithms in predicting the thermohydraulics and thermodynamics of thermal and solutal systems.
On the Performance Enhancement of the Three-Blade Savonius Wind Turbine Implementing Opening Valve
Authors: Borzuei Daryoosh , Moosavian Seyed Farhan , Farajollahi Meisam
Published: December 2020

Unacceptable environmental pollution from the fossil fuel energy sources is increasing the demands on green energy concept and developing alternative solutions and has encouraged the international community to employ clean and renewable energy sources such as wind energy. Among different types of wind turbines, Savonius vertical axis in spite of its fascinating advantages including low rotational speed and noise, self-start capability, and independency relative to wind direction has gained less attention in industry due to low energy conversion efficiency. This paper investigates the insertion of a one-way opening valve on the three-blade Savonius wind turbine to reduce generated negative torque on convex side of the blade. Position, size, opening direction, and the opening angle limitation are defined as design parameters and 17 different scenarios in five main categories based on these parameters are modeled, simulated, and analyzed. Concluding, unlimited counter-clockwise large valve in position III exhibits 14% improvement in performance, which is promising.
Physics-Based Rate of the Penetration Prediction Model for Fixed Cutter Drill Bits
Authors: de Moura Jeronimo , Yang Jianming , Butt Stephen D.
Published: December 2020

The drilling process is one of the most important and expensive aspects of the oil and gas industry. Its economic feasibility is a direct relation to good planning that has high dependence on an accurate prediction of the rate of penetration (ROP). Knowledge of drilling performance through ROP prediction models is a vital tool in the development of a consistent drilling plan and allows industry players to anticipate issues that may occur during a drilling operation. Additionally, as some drilling parameters (such as rotary speed, weight on bit (WOB), and drilling fluid flowrate), an accurate prediction of the ROP is crucial to the optimization of drilling performance and contributes to reducing drilling costs. Several approaches to predict the drilling performance have been tried with varying degrees of success, complexity, and accuracy. In this paper, a review of the history of drilling performance prediction is conducted with emphasis on rotary drilling with fixed cutter drill bits. The approaches are grouped into two categories: physics-based and data-driven models. The paper’s main objective is to present an accurate model to predict the drilling performance of fixed cutter drill bits including the founder point location. This model was based on a physics-based approach due to its low complexity and good accuracy. This development is based on a quantitative analysis of drilling performance data produced by laboratory experiments. Additionally, the validation and applicability tests for the proposed model are discussed based on drill-off tests (DOTs) and field trials in several different drilling scenarios. The proposed model presented high accuracy to predict the fixed cutter drill bit drilling performance in the 27 different drilling scenarios which were analyzed in this paper.
Establishing a Correlation Between Friction Performance and Tribolayer Formation Using Engineered Mineral Fibers
Authors: Zaquen Neomy , Tegels Desiré , Kerssemakers Arno , Persoon Fernao
Published: December 2020

This article relates the friction performance to the tribolayer formation when using engineered mineral fibers in the friction formulation. A nonasbestos organic (NAO) nonsteel copper-free passenger car disc pad (PC-DP) nonsteel Cu-free formulation is used to investigate the impact of the fibers on the third body formation and its influence on performance and wear. Full-scale dynamometer performance (AK-Master) test results show the pronounced effect of the fiber length on the friction performance. While a similar overall coefficient of friction (CoF) of around 0.33 is observed in all three cases, more stable friction behavior is observed for the longer fibers, with less variation. This behavior is even more observed in the fade and high-temperature sections. Especially the use of fiber spheres shows quite some unique features over the other tested mineral fibers, especially with respect to pad/disc wear. To understand these differences in performance, the transfer layer and tribolayer on the disc and brake pad are investigated, respectively, by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Formulations showing excellent performance results so far show the formation of a smooth transfer film on the disc. No grooves are visible, and a continuous iron oxide layer is formed at the surface. The tribolayer of the corresponding brake pads nicely shows the formation of a compacted thin layer at the surface. In addition, the importance of mineral fibers in the formulation is highlighted as they are at the core of the tribolayer formation. This study is a step forward toward understanding the role of mineral fibers in a friction formulation and shows its importance toward reducing nonexhaust emissions.
BET 1: Best Evidence Topic Report: is the hook test sensitive enough to be used to exclude distal biceps tendon rupture?
Authors: Annison David , McVie James
Published: December 2020

A shortcut review was carried out to see whether the hook test is sensitive enough for a negative result to exclude complete distal biceps tendon rupture (DBTR) in adults. 3 papers presented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. The author, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes, results and study weaknesses of these papers are tabulated. It is concluded that the hook test is moderately sensitive at detecting complete DBTR when carried out by skilled clinicians in specialist upper limb clinics. As a single test, it is not sensitive enough to be used to exclude complete DBTR.
ON THE LARGEST PARTIAL QUOTIENTS IN CONTINUED FRACTION EXPANSIONS
Authors: FANG LULU , LIU JIAN
Published: December 2020

Let [Formula: see text] be the continued fraction expansion of an irrational [Formula: see text]. For any [Formula: see text], write [Formula: see text]. This paper is concerned with the Hausdorff dimension of the set [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] is a function such that [Formula: see text] as [Formula: see text]. We calculate the Hausdorff dimension of [Formula: see text] for a very large class of functions with certain growth rates, which improves the existing results of Wu and Xu (2009), Liao and Rams (2016) and Chang and Chen (2018).
An Efficient Dimension-Adaptive Numerical Integration Method for Stochastic Dynamic Analysis of Structures with Uncertain Parameters
Authors: Yu Helu , Wang Bin , Gao Zongyu , Li Yongle
Published: December 2020

This paper presents a novel dimension-adaptive numerical integration method for dynamic analysis of structures with stochastic parameters subjected to deterministic excitations. First, an efficient dimension-adaptive algorithm is proposed to detect the importance of each random parameter involved in the structural model, based on which the quadrature nodes used for numerical integration can be collocated more reasonably. Then, the Gaussian quadrature formulas are used to evaluate the structural response statistics. To further improve the robustness and efficiency of the proposed method, the dimension-adaptive integration is only used to calculate the structural displacement response statistics. The velocity and acceleration response statistics are further evaluated using the finite difference formulas based on the concept of stochastic difference. Such a strategy is especially attractive when evaluating the response statistics of the derivative processes requires more quadrature nodes than that of the original process. Finally, two numerical examples encountered in civil engineering, including a shear frame with stochastic parameters subjected to a seismic ground motion and an Euler beam with unidimensional stochastic field of material properties (discretized via the Karhunen–Loève expansion) subjected to a moving load are studied to illustrate the performance of the proposed method. Via the numerical results, the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method are verified.
Transition Maps between Hilbert Subspaces and Quantum Energy Transport
Authors: Bolaños-Servín Jorge R. , Quezada Roberto , Rios-Cangas Josué I.
Published: December 2020

We use a natural generalization of the discrete Fourier transform to define transition maps between Hilbert subspaces and the global transport operator Z. By using these transition maps as Kraus (or noise) operators, an extension of the quantum energy transport model of describing the dynamics of an open quantum system of N-levels is presented. We deduce the structure of the invariant states which can be recovered by transporting states supported on the first level.
Information Geometry on Groupoids: The Case of Singular Metrics
Authors: Grabowska Katarzyna , Grabowski Janusz , Kuś Marek , Marmo Giuseppe
Published: December 2020

We use the general setting for contrast (potential) functions in statistical and information geometry provided by Lie groupoids and Lie algebroids. The contrast functions are defined on Lie groupoids and give rise to two-forms and three-forms on the corresponding Lie algebroid. We study the case when the two-form is degenerate and show how in sufficiently regular cases one reduces it to a pseudometric structures. Transversal Levi-Civita connections for Riemannian foliations are generalized to the Lie groupoid/Lie algebroid case.
Early sST2 Liberation after Implantation of a Left Ventricular Assist Device in Patients with Advanced Heart Failure
Authors: Opfermann Philipp , Simader Elisabeth , Felli Alessia , Bevilacqua Michele , Holaubek Caroline , Dworschak Martin , Mouhieddine Mohamed , Zimpfer Daniel , Ankersmit Jan Hendrik , Steinlechner Barbara
Published: December 2020

Background. The use of left ventricular assist device (LVAD) has increased considerably over the past decade; however, there is limited literature to assist in patient selection and monitoring. The frequency of adverse events remains high. We examined the early expression of circulating soluble ST2 (sST2), a biomarker with immunosuppressive and profibrotic activity, and assessed the risk of death at 1 year in patients receiving LVAD implant. Methods. We prospectively enrolled 20 heart failure patients and measured sST2, IL-33, and IL-6 serum concentrations over three weeks after LVAD implantation. We compared the kinetics of IL-6, sST2, and IL-33 release in survivors with those of nonsurvivors using mixed model two-way analysis of variance for repeated measures. We also collected data on hemodynamic parameters (i.e., cardiac output) and frequency of infections during the hospital stay. Results. LVAD therapy led to an immediate and significant improvement of the hemodynamic parameters in 1-year survivors and nonsurvivors alike. The 1-year survival rate was 65%. IL-6 concentrations showed a significant (

p
=
0.03

) peak at admission to the intensive care unit following LVAD implantation, whereas sST2 levels were massively increased (

p
<
0.0003

) on day 1. While 1-year survivors had persistently lower sST2 values compared to nonsurvivors during the first 3 weeks after LVAD implantation (

p
=
0.012

), no differences were observed in the temporal pattern of IL-6 or IL-33. The odds of detecting Candida species in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were 14 times higher in nonsurvivors than in survivors (OR 13.7, CI 1.4-127,

p
=
0.02

). Conclusion. In patients implanted with LVAD, circulating sST2 levels and frequency of Candida colonisation were associated with higher mortality. Awareness of this early immune response can guide physicians in risk-benefit analysis.
Fabrication and Thermal Degradation Kinetics of PBT/BEO/Nano-Sb2O3 Composites
Authors: Ma Meng , Niu Lei , Ma Jinming , Ma Jiqiang , Jiao Tifeng
Published: December 2020

Developing polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) with high thermal stability and flame-retardant properties is crucial for automotive, biomedical devices, electronics, and other fields. Herein, we focus on a PBT/brominated epoxy resin (BEO)/nano-Sb2O3 composites by a melt-blending method. The effects of heating rate and nano-Sb2O3 content on the thermal stability and thermal degradation kinetics of PBT composites were studied by TG-DSC. With the increasing of heating rate, the thermal hysteresis effect of temperature gradient is produced, which is eliminated when the temperature exceeds 400°C. With the increase of nano-Sb2O3 content, the

E

a

of PBT/BEO/nano-Sb2O3 composites increases at first and then decreases. When the content of nano-Sb2O3 is 3 wt%, the

E

a

of PBT/BEO/nano-Sb2O3 is the highest, which is 66.18 kJ/mol (31.43%) higher than that of neat PBT. Also, the exploration of the thermal degradation kinetics of PBT/BEO/nano-Sb2O3 composites is expected to provide research ideas for new high flame-retardant materials.
Impact of Financial R&D Resource Allocation Efficiency Based on VR Technology and Machine Learning in Complex Systems on Total Factor Productivity
Authors: Sun Hui , Zhong Xiong
Published: December 2020

With the development of the globalization of science and technology, innovation has become an important driving force for regional economic development. As a core element of regional innovation, financial R&D resources have also become a key element to enhance national innovation capabilities and national economic competitiveness. National and regional innovation capabilities have a direct impact. There are also many deep-seated problems behind the world-renowned achievements, such as irrational industrial structure, insufficient independent innovation capabilities, low resource utilization efficiency, and the service quality and efficiency of financial institutions for the transformation of total factor productivity. These problems extremely restrict the efficiency upgrade and further development of our country’s total factor productivity. This study uses the DEA-Malmquist index model to measure the efficiency of fiscal R&D resource allocation in 28 provinces and regions in China in the past 10 years and uses Mapinfo12.0 software to analyze regional differences in the efficiency of fiscal R&D resource allocation in China from a spatial perspective. During the year, the overall R&D resource allocation efficiency of 28 provinces and autonomous regions in China has shown an upward trend. The efficiency of fiscal R&D resource allocation and the concentration of financial factors have had a positive impact on total factor productivity, transform and upgrade factors, increase total factor productivity, and provide empirical evidence for building a strong country.
On the Geodesic Identification of Vertices in Convex Plane Graphs
Authors: Alsaadi Fawaz E. , Salman Muhammad , Rehman Masood Ur , Khan Abdul Rauf , Cao Jinde , Alassafi Madini Obad
Published: December 2020

A shortest path between two vertices

u

and

v

in a connected graph

G

is a

u
−
v

geodesic. A vertex

w

of

G

performs the geodesic identification for the vertices in a pair

u
,
v

if either

v

belongs to a

u
−
w

geodesic or

u

belongs to a

v
−
w

geodesic. The minimum number of vertices performing the geodesic identification for each pair of vertices in

G

is called the strong metric dimension of

G

. In this paper, we solve the strong metric dimension problem for three convex plane graphs by performing the geodesic identification of their vertices.
A Simple Cardiovascular Model for the Study of Hemorrhagic Shock
Authors: Curcio Luciano , D’Orsi Laura , Cibella Fabio , Wagnert-Avraham Linn , Nachman Dean , De Gaetano Andrea
Published: December 2020

Hemorrhagic shock is the number one cause of death on the battlefield and in civilian trauma as well. Mathematical modeling has been applied in this context for decades; however, the formulation of a satisfactory model that is both practical and effective has yet to be achieved. This paper introduces an upgraded version of the 2007 Zenker model for hemorrhagic shock termed the ZenCur model that allows for a better description of the time course of relevant observations. Our study provides a simple but realistic mathematical description of cardiovascular dynamics that may be useful in the assessment and prognosis of hemorrhagic shock. This model is capable of replicating the changes in mean arterial pressure, heart rate, and cardiac output after the onset of bleeding (as observed in four experimental laboratory animals) and achieves a reasonable compromise between an overly detailed depiction of relevant mechanisms, on the one hand, and model simplicity, on the other. The former would require considerable simulations and entail burdensome interpretations. From a clinical standpoint, the goals of the new model are to predict survival and optimize the timing of therapy, in both civilian and military scenarios.
Nutritional Recovery and Its Predictors among Adult HIV Patients on Therapeutic Feeding Program at Finote-Selam General Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Diress Gedefaw , Moges Nurilign Abebe
Published: December 2020

Background. Undernutrition is a major public health problem in HIV patients in sub-Saharan Africa. To address the problem of malnutrition, the Ethiopian Ministry of Health implemented a therapeutic feeding program, which is the provision of nutritional treatment, care, and support for undernourished individuals. However, little is known about the outcome of a therapeutic feeding program. Therefore, this study aimed to assess nutritional recovery and its predictors among undernourished HIV patients enrolled in a therapeutic feeding program in Northwest Ethiopia. Methods. An institutional-based retrospective cohort study was conducted among 376 randomly selected adult undernourished HIV patients enrolled in the therapeutic feeding program from July 2010 to January 2017 at Finote-Selam General Hospital. Data were collected by reviewing patients’ charts, follow-up cards, and undernutrition treatment registration books using a pretested structured checklist. The main outcome variable was nutritional recovery, defined based on body mass index. Bivariable and multivariable log-binomial regression models were used to identify the predictors of nutritional recovery. Result. From total undernourished HIV patients enrolled in the therapeutic feeding program, 61.2% were recovered with a median recovery time of 12 weeks (IQR 9–17 weeks) for moderate acute malnutrition and 25 weeks (IQR 22–31 weeks) for severe acute malnutrition. Rural residence (adjusted risk ratio (ARR) = 0.53, 95% CI: 0.27–0.85), no formal education (ARR = 0.24, 95% CI: 0.13–0.54), poor ART adherence level (ARR = 0.14, 95% CI; 0.08–0.32), and WHO clinical stage III or IV (ARR = 0.38, 95% CI; 0.17–0.59) decrease the probability of nutritional recovery. Conclusion. Nutritional supplementation plays a critical role in the nutritional care and treatment of malnourished patients. Healthcare providers should give more attention to persons with poor adherence levels, advanced WHO clinical stage, rural residence, and low educational status. Future prospective follow-up studies should be performed to assess important variables such as family income, food sharing at the household level, and distance to health institutions.
Numerical Investigation and Analysis of Intermediate Principal Stress Effects on Rock Failure Behaviors
Authors: Deng Shuxin , Zheng Yonglai , Yue Cuizhou , Van Tuan Le
Published: December 2020

A series of numerical experiments have been conducted to investigate the intermediate principal stress effects on rock failure behaviors. The numerical results show that the strength and deformation of the rock samples are significantly affected by the intermediate principal stress. The effects are inconsistent in different intervals. As intermediate principal stress ratio b increases, the rock strength increases initially and finally decreases. When b is approximately equal to 0.5, the strength of the rock sample reaches the maximum. In the microlevel, the intermediate principal stress affects the number and distribution of microcracks. The increase of the intermediate principal stress makes the projection of the microcracks on the loading plane change from uniform to uneven. On the one hand, the intermediate principal stress restricts the propagation of microcracks in the normal direction along the intermediate principal stress (or with a component in this direction), which will lead to an increase in the strength of the rock samples. On the other hand, the propagation of microcracks along the normal direction with small principal stress (or with a component in this direction) is promoted, which leads to a decrease in the strength of the rock sample. End friction can make the intermediate principal stress effect more significant because the friction of the loading end to the rock sample can result in stress deviation between the actual value and experimental value. Inhomogeneity of stress field induced by the change of stress states or end friction forces is the external factor of the intermediate principal stress effect. Also, the inhomogeneity of rock material itself is the internal factor. Intermediate principal stress will promote or restrict the failure of certain directions, thus affecting the overall strength of the rock samples. The numerical results can be very meaningful for stability analysis of rock masses in practical engineering.
Simulation Study on Fire Visibility of Typical Floor Planes of Modern Super High-Rise Office Buildings in China
Authors: Zhang Tongtong
Published: December 2020

With the development of office forms, the space form of super high-rise office buildings changed from the unitary efficient office space to a complex space that integrated office, communication, and experience, which also diversified the design of typical floors in the office zone. However, from the perspective of fire prevention, the placement of shared space changed the form of the plane in typical floors in the office zone, affecting the smoke spreading of fire and paths of personnel evacuation. Hence, the subject on the planar relationship among high-rise office buildings based on fire prevention analysis, which optimizes space design, is worthy of discussion. After collecting many cases of super high-rise office buildings in China, this study categorized them into six typical planes and adopted the software PyroSim for comparative simulation of the smoke spreading of fire. By comparing the visibility of different zones in fires, this study analyzed the effects of the area of the office zone, the location of the atrium, and the form of the plane on the fire visibility on the typical floor and put forth the key factors that influence fire visibility, thus optimizing the plane design of the typical floor of super high-rise buildings. The findings show that in the six fire scenes, the area of the office zone is between 1136m2 and 1736m2. The peak of duration for visibility decline at 1.5 m appeared in Scene 3. Its office zone is 1536m2, and the duration of visibility decline is greater than 1000 s. In other fire scenes, the duration of visibility decline is less than 300 s. By comparing the plane arrangement features of the fire scenes, the paper concludes that in a given fire scene, establishing an atrium in the office zone, expanding the length of the adjacent edge between the atrium and the office zone, and building an evacuation corridor between the atrium and the core tube can greatly extend the effective evacuation time. This can serve as reference for the plane design of super high-rise office buildings.
Comprehensive Analysis of Retracted Publications in Dentistry: A 23-Year Review
Authors: Samuel Shannon , Cherian Joe Mathew , Thomas Abi M.
Published: December 2020

Background. In the modern tech-savvy era, scientific literature publication remains the optimal way to disperse knowledge, even if it has transformed from print to mostly electronic. With the new and improved publication methods, also come more scrutiny and analytic criticism of the scientific work. It becomes even more important in this context to rectify flawed scientific work responsibly. This present study was undertaken to help clarify the process and causes of retractions occurring in the dental community and analyse its reasons. Methodology. A total of 8092 PubMed indexed articles were scanned from the online libraries, and individually scanning for author details, place of study, subspecialty of research, funding, dates of original publication, and retraction notices issued along with journal specifics such as type and impact factors, country of publishing was compiled and analysed by two authors. The dataset was then collaboratively analysed using Panda’s Library in Python software as an analysis tool for data preparation and for frequency analysis. The estimates were presented as mean differences (MD) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Results. The present study had a compiled dataset of 198 articles after screening and revealed that maximum retractions of dentistry-related research originated from India (25.3%) and, on average, took 2.6 years to be issued a retraction notice. We also deciphered that the USA retracted maximum dental articles (34.8%), and plagiarism was cited as the most common (38.02%) reason for doing so. The present study also brought to light that there was a trend for lower impact factor-dental journals in retracting maximum articles, most of which were nonfunded (62.16%). The results signify that 63.78% of all retracted papers continued to be cited postretractions. Conclusions. The retractions happening in the field of dental literature are currently too time-consuming and often unclear to the readers. The authors would like to conclude that the retracted papers were mostly from India and Spain mostly related to endodontics or prosthodontic research. All of this warrants the need for better scrutiny and reforms in the area.
ILT3 (LILRB4) Promotes the Immunosuppressive Function of Tumor-Educated Human Monocytic Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells
Authors: Singh Latika , Muise Eric S. , Bhattacharya Anannya , Grein Jeff , Javaid Sarah , Stivers Peter , Zhang Jun , Qu Yujie , Joyce-Shaikh Barbara , Loboda Andrey , Zhang Chunsheng , Meehl Michael , Chiang Derek Y. , Ranganath Sheila H. , Rosenzweig Michael , Brandish Philip E.
Published: December 2020

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) are immature myeloid cells that accumulate in the tumor microenvironment (TME). MDSCs have been shown to dampen antitumor immune responses and promote tumor growth; however, the mechanisms of MDSC induction and their role in promoting immune suppression in cancer remain poorly understood. Here, we characterized the phenotype and function of monocytic MDSCs (M-MDSC) generated by coculture of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells with SK-MEL-5 cancer cells in vitro. We selected the SK-MEL-5 human melanoma cell line to generate M-MDSCs because these cells form subcutaneous tumors rich in myeloid cells in humanized mice. M-MDSCs generated via SK-MEL-5 coculture expressed low levels of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-DR, high levels of CD33 and CD11b, and suppressed both CD8+ T-cell proliferation and IFNγ secretion. M-MDSCs also expressed higher levels of immunoglobulin-like transcript 3 (ILT3, also known as LILRB4) and immunoglobulin-like transcript 4 (ILT4, also known as LILRB2) on the cell surface compared with monocytes. Therefore, we investigated how ILT3 targeting could modulate M-MDSC cell function. Treatment with an anti-ILT3 antibody impaired the acquisition of the M-MDSC suppressor phenotype and reduced the capacity of M-MDSCs to cause T-cell suppression. Finally, in combination with anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (PD1), ILT3 blockade enhanced T-cell activation as assessed by IFNγ secretion.

Implications:

These results suggest that ILT3 expressed on M-MDSCs has a role in inducing immunosuppression in cancer and that antagonism of ILT3 may be useful to reverse the immunosuppressive function of M-MDSCs and enhance the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors.
Larvae of the blow fly Caiusa testacea (Diptera: Calliphoridae) as egg predators of Polypedates cruciger Blyth, 1852 (Amphibia: Anura: Rhacophoridae)
Authors: Chathuranga W.G.D. , Kariyawasam K. , De Silva Anslem , De Silva W.A.Priyanka P.
Published: December 2020

We investigated the impact of dipteran predators on eggs in foam nests of the Common Hour-glass Tree Frog Polypedates cruciger Blyth, 1852 (Anura: Rhacophoridae) in central Sri Lanka.  Foam nests (n=24) of P. cruciger were examined at their natural breeding habitats and infected (n=8) and uninfected spawns (n=16) were identified.  Emerging tadpoles were collected in a water container hung under each spawn and the average number of tadpoles (N) hatched from infected spawns (N=0) was compared with that of uninfected spawns (N=354 ± 67).  Three severely infected spawns were brought to the laboratory and the fly larvae were reared until they metamorphosed to adults.  Morphological and molecular identification of the flies confirmed them as belonging to Caiusa testacea Senior-White, 1923 of the family Calliphoridae.  The infected spawns were completely destroyed and an estimated average of 400 P. cruciger eggs per spawn were lost.  The results revealed a high impact of Caiusa testacea on egg and embryo mortality of P. cruciger.
First photographic record of the Asiatic Brush-tailed Porcupine Atherurus macrourus (Linnaeus, 1758) (Mammalia: Rodentia: Hystricidae) from the Barak Valley region of Assam, India
Authors: Gassah Rejoice , Ismavel Vijay Anand
Published: December 2020

Reports the first photographic record of the Asiatic Brush-tailed Porcupine, Atherurus macrourus, from the Barak Valley of Assam, India. The rarest of India's three porcupine species, there is evidence of its presence only in other parts of northeastern India and neighboring countries.
A study on diversity of mammalian species using camera traps and associated vegetation in Mizoram University Campus, Aizawl, Mizoram
Authors: Zothanpuii J.H. , Gouda Sushanto , Parida Abinash , Solanki G.S.
Published: December 2020

Fragmented forests often have conservation value, serving as a refuge or corridors for small mammalian species.  In the study, the diversity of mammals was studied within Mizoram University (MZU) campus.  Forty-eight plant species from 25 families were recorded on different sites.  Thirty quadrates were nested at the locations of occurrence of mammalian species for vegetation type analysis.  Schima wallichi was the most dominant plant species with the highest IVI values of (31.7%), followed by Aporosa octandra (22.93%) and Castanopsis tribuloide (21.17%).  Camera trap method was used to collect information about the mammalian diversity in the campus.  The mammalian species recorded in this study makes 15% of mammalian fauna of the state of Mizoram.  Twelve mammal species and six bird species were recorded by the camera traps.  With proper awareness among residents of the campus and a planned approach for developmental activities, the findings of our study can make an important extension for the coexistence of mammalian species and long term survivability within MZU campus.