bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maximum Strength Design of SFF Parts Under Steady Loads
Authors: Bzymek Zbigniew M. , Marks Wojciech , Roychoudhuri Chandrasekhar , Sun Lianchao , Shaw Leon L.
Published: February 2021

Solid Freeform Fabrication (SFF) technologies refer to the fabrication of physical parts directly from computer-based solid models by layers using a row-by-row pattern, though it is possible to build the part using other patterns. The trend is to produce parts of 100% density which would have properties similar to those made by casting molten metal into a mold. Very good results have been obtained recently by treating a rendered part in a high pressure chamber. In this paper, an idea is presented in which the structure of a part can be designed in such a way that there is no need for the entire part to be 100% solid. The stresses are taken only by certain regions of structure and those regions should be rendered with full a density as possible. The rest of the part material is treated as filling and supporting substance which can be made as porous as is needed to conduct the heat out during the rendering process. In such an approach the design process for SFF technology would represent a challenge to designers who, in addition to making decisions concerning optimum shape and functionality of the entire part, have to take under consideration several other manufacturing factors. These factors cover a wide range of technical issues, such as Computer-Aided Design model generation, part description and model slicing files, laser path files, precision of part design, rendering patterns, manufacturing tolerances, thermal expansion, and residual stress phenomena.

On the basis of experience gained in previously developed SFF part manufacturing, the authors describe the concepts and some conclusions from the research in progress that concentrates on two areas that are inseparable; developing the most suitable CAD methods for precise part design, and optimization of the part building structure for maximum part stiffness under a given load.
Comparison of Probabilistic and Possibility Theory-Based Methods for Design Against Catastrophic Failure Under Uncertainty
Authors: Nikolaidis Efstratios , Cudney Harley , Chen Sophie , Haftka Raphael T. , Rosca Raluca
Published: February 2021

This paper compares probabilistic and possibility-based methods for design against catastrophic failure under uncertainty. It studies the effect of the amount of information on the effectiveness of each method. The study is confined to problems where the boundary between survival and failure is sharp.

First, the paper examines the theoretical foundations of probability and possibility. It also compares the two methods when they are used to assess the risk of a system. Finally, it compares the two methods on two design problems.

A major difference between probability and possibility is in the axioms about the union of events. Because of this difference, probability and possibility calculi are fundamentally different and one cannot simulate possibility calculus using probabilistic models. It is shown that possibility-based methods can be less conservative than probability-based methods in systems with many failure modes. On the other hand, possibility-based methods tend to be more conservative than probability-based methods in systems that fail only if many unfavorable events occur simultaneously. Probabilistic methods are better than possibility-based methods if sufficient information is available. However, the latter can be better if little information is available. A principal reason is that it is easier to identify the most conservative possibilistic model than the most conservative probabilistic model that is consistent with the available information.
Palate shape influence depends on the segment: Articulatory and acoustic variability in American English /ɹ/ and /s/
Authors: Bakst Sarah
Published: February 2021

This ultrasound and acoustics study of American English /ɹ/ and /s/ investigates whether variability in production as measured in the midsagittal plane is related to individual differences in the shape of the hard palate in the coronal plane. Both token-to-token variability and variability between different phonetic contexts were investigated. While no direct relationship was found between palate flatness and articulatory variability, a secondary analysis revealed that speakers' articulatory variability for one segment was related to their variability in the other. Speakers with flatter palates tended towards lower articulatory variability scores, but speakers with more domed palates showed both high and low variability scores.
3D cone-beam breast ultrasonic tomography imaging for capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducer cylindrical array
Authors: Pei Yu , Zhang Guojun , Zhang Sai , Zhang Yu , Zhang Tian , Wang Zhihao , Zhang Wendong
Published: February 2021

In this paper, a 3D cone-beam ultrasonic transmission tomography method for capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducer (CMUT) cylindrical phased array was proposed. The performance of the proposed method was evaluated by numerical simulation experiments. After beam focusing of the transmitting array, the deviation of reconstructed sound attenuation distribution and sound speed distribution were respectively reduced by at least 71.4% and 46.4%. The research results in this paper will provide a good theoretical and practical foundation for the realization of ultrasonic imaging based on CMUT cylindrical array in the future.
A GWAS in Latin Americans identifies novel face shape loci, implicating VPS13B and a Denisovan introgressed region in facial variation
Authors: Bonfante Betty , Faux Pierre , Navarro Nicolas , Mendoza-Revilla Javier , Dubied Morgane , Montillot Charlotte , Wentworth Emma , Poloni Lauriane , Varón-González Ceferino , Jones Philip , Xiong Ziyi , Fuentes-Guajardo Macarena , Palmal Sagnik , Chacón-Duque Juan Camilo , Hurtado Malena , Villegas Valeria , Granja Vanessa , Jaramillo Claudia , Arias William , Barquera Rodrigo , Everardo-Martínez Paola , Sánchez-Quinto Mirsha , Gómez-Valdés Jorge , Villamil-Ramírez Hugo , Silva de Cerqueira Caio C. , Hünemeier Tábita , Ramallo Virginia , Liu Fan , Weinberg Seth M. , Shaffer John R. , Stergiakouli Evie , Howe Laurence J. , Hysi Pirro G. , Spector Timothy D. , Gonzalez-José Rolando , Schüler-Faccini Lavinia , Bortolini Maria-Cátira , Acuña-Alonzo Victor , Canizales-Quinteros Samuel , Gallo Carla , Poletti Giovanni , Bedoya Gabriel , Rothhammer Francisco , Thauvin-Robinet Christel , Faivre Laurence , Costedoat Caroline , Balding David , Cox Timothy , Kayser Manfred , Duplomb Laurence , Yalcin Binnaz , Cotney Justin , Adhikari Kaustubh , Ruiz-Linares Andrés
Published: February 2021

We carried out a genome-wide association study in Latin Americans and identified novel face morphology loci..
Therapeutic Potential of Coumestan Pks13 Inhibitors for Tuberculosis
Authors: Lun Shichun , Xiao Shiqi , Zhang Wei , Wang Shuangshuang , Gunosewoyo Hendra , Yu Li-Fang , Bishai William R.
Published: February 2021

Polyketide synthase 13 (Pks13) is an important enzyme found in
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
that condenses two fatty acyl chains to produce α-alkyl β-ketoesters, which in turn serve as the precursors for the synthesis of mycolic acids that are essential building blocks for maintaining the cell wall integrity of
M. tuberculosis
. Coumestan derivatives have recently been identified in our group as a new chemotype that exerts its antitubercular effects via targeting of Pks13.
Wolbachia
and Virus Alter the Host Transcriptome at the Interface of Nucleotide Metabolism Pathways
Authors: Lindsey Amelia R. I. , Bhattacharya Tamanash , Hardy Richard W. , Newton Irene L. G.
Published: February 2021

Recently developed arbovirus control strategies leverage the symbiotic bacterium
Wolbachia
, which spreads in insect populations and blocks viruses from replicating. While this strategy has been successful, details of how this “pathogen blocking” works are limited. Here, we use a combination of virus infections, fly genetics, and transcriptomics to show that
Wolbachia
and virus interact at host nucleotide metabolism pathways.
A High-Throughput Method for Identifying Novel Genes That Influence Metabolic Pathways Reveals New Iron and Heme Regulation in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Glanville David G. , Mullineaux-Sanders Caroline , Corcoran Christopher J. , Burger Brian T. , Imam Saheed , Donohue Timothy J. , Ulijasz Andrew T.
Published: February 2021

The ability to simultaneously and more directly correlate genes with metabolite levels on a global level would provide novel information for many biological platforms yet has thus far been challenging. Here, we describe a method to help address this problem, which we dub “Met-Seq” (
met
abolite-coupled Tn
seq
uencing).
Sulfur Metabolites Play Key System-Level Roles in Modulating Denitrification
Authors: Otwell Anne E. , Carr Alex V. , Majumder Erica L. W. , Ruiz Maryann K. , Wilpiszeski Regina L. , Hoang Linh T. , Webb Bill , Turkarslan Serdar , Gibbons Sean M. , Elias Dwayne A. , Stahl David A. , Siuzdak Gary , Baliga Nitin S.
Published: February 2021

Nitrate-reducing bacteria (NRB) and sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) colonize diverse anoxic environments, including soil subsurface, groundwater, and wastewater. NRB and SRB compete for resources, and their interplay has major implications on the global cycling of nitrogen and sulfur species, with undesirable outcomes in some contexts.
Squamous cell carcinoma at the site of ileo-anal pouch in Crohn’s disease
Authors: Condurache Dorina Gabriela , Segal Jonathan P , Hart Ailsa L , Antoniou Anthony
Published: February 2021

Few cases of pouch-related cancers have been reported in inflammatory bowel disease, and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is very rare. We have reviewed the published literature searching the online databases PubMed and Medline. Since 1979, there have been eight cases of SCC developing after restorative proctocolectomy in ulcerative colitis. To date, there have been no reported cases of SCC of the ileo-anal pouch in Crohn’s disease. We present the case of a 59-year-old woman who underwent colectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis for Crohn’s disease during the 1990s. The patient was noted to be anaemic and was experiencing significant weight loss with poor pouch function in 2019. Endoscopy with histology and radiological investigation revealed the presence of SCC of the pouch. This was subsequently treated with surgical therapy and chemoradiotherapy.
Post-traumatic (and postsurgical) Guillain-Barré Syndrome: a rare, but treatable entity
Authors: Grote Helen , Sim Nicholas Keyi , Rinaldi Simon , Carswell Christopher
Published: February 2021

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is an acute, monophasic, polyradiculoneuropathy usually provoked by a preceding infection. The cardinal features are progressive weakness in the upper and lower limbs accompanied by loss of deep tendon reflexes. The diagnosis is made on the basis of the clinical history and examination findings, supported by typical cerebrospinal fluid and electrophysiology findings. Trauma and surgery are well understood but rare precipitants of GBS, which clinicians should be aware of, in order not to miss an opportunity to use immunomodulatory therapies. Furthermore, the presence of postsurgical or post-traumatic GBS should prompt careful assessment for underlying malignancy or autoimmune disease associated with an acute demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy. Here, we present a case of post-traumatic GBS and discuss the potential mechanisms that might underlie this, as well as the investigations and treatment that should be considered.
Subinvolution of the placental site as the cause of hysterectomy in young woman
Authors: Triantafyllidou Olga , Kastora Stavroula , Messini Irini , Kalampokis Dimitrios
Published: February 2021

Subinvolution of placental sites (SPSs) is a rare but severe cause of secondary postpartum haemorrhage (PPH). SPS is characterised by the abnormal persistence of large, dilated, superficially modified spiral arteries in the absence of retained products of conception. It is an important cause of morbidity and mortality of young women. In this study, we present a case of secondary PPH in a young woman after uncomplicated caesarean delivery who was deemed clinically unstable, and finally, underwent emergent total abdominal hysterectomy. We reviewed the literature with an emphasis on the pathophysiology of this situation. Treatment of patients with SPS includes conservative medical therapy, hysterectomy and fertility-sparing percutaneous embolotherapy.
Can topical epinephrine application to the papilla prevent pancreatitis after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography? Results from a double blind, multicentre, placebo controlled, randomised clinical trial
Authors: Romano-Munive Adriana Fabiola , García-Correa J Jesus , García-Contreras Luis F , Ramírez-García José , Uscanga Luis , Barbero-Becerra Varenka J , Moctezuma-Velázquez Carlos , Ochoa-Rubí Jorge A , Toledo-Cuque Julio , Vázquez-Anaya Gerardo , Keil-Ríos Daniel , Grajales-Figueroa Guido , Ramírez-Luna Miguel Ángel , Valdovinos-Andraca Francisco , Zamora-Nava Luis Eduardo , Tellez-Avila Felix
Published: February 2021

Background and study aims

Post-endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis (PEP) is a complication associated with important morbidity, occasional mortality and high costs. Preventive strategies are suboptimal as PEP continues to affect 4% to 9% of patients. Spraying epinephrine on the papilla may decrease oedema and prevent PEP. This study aimed to compare rectal indomethacin plus epinephrine (EI) versus rectal indomethacin plus sterile water (WI) for the prevention of PEP.

Patients and methods

This multicentre randomised controlled trial included patients aged >18 years with an indication for ERCP and naive major papilla. All patients received 100 mg of rectal indomethacin and 10 mL of sterile water or a 1:10 000 epinephrine dilution. Patients were asked about PEP symptoms via telephone 24 hours and 7 days after the procedure. The trial was stopped half way through after a new publication reported an increased incidence of PEP among patients receiving epinephrine.

Results

Of the 3602 patients deemed eligible, 3054 were excluded after screening. The remaining 548 patients were randomised to EI group (n=275) or WI group (n=273). The EI and WI groups had similar baseline characteristics. Patients in the EI group had a similar incidence of PEP to those in the WI group (3.6% (10/275) vs 5.12% (14/273), p=0.41). Pancreatic duct guidewire insertion was identified as a risk factor for PEP (OR 4.38, 95% CI (1.44 to 13.29), p=0.009).

Conclusion

Spraying epinephrine on the papilla was no more effective than rectal indomethacin alone for the prevention of PEP.

Trial registration number

This study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02959112).
Treating osteoarticular infections in a Role 2 in Chad: a bacterial epidemiological study
Authors: Demoures Thomas , Choufani C , Contargyris C , Caubere A , Mathieu L , Barbier O
Published: February 2021

Introduction

The treatment of osteoarticular infections in Africa is a medical and surgical challenge due to the difficulties in managing antibiotic therapy after the surgical procedure. The objectives of this study were to identify the types of bacteria in osteoarticular lesions in patients treated in Chad and to determine the spectrum of resistance encountered and the efficacy of available antibiotics.

Material and methods

This is a retrospective study of all intraoperative osteoarticular and soft tissue samples taken in a French Role 2 Medical Treatment Facility of N'Djamena during surgery for chronic osteoarticular infections, in Chad, for 1 year.

Results

A total of 160 bacterial strains were identified, with a predominance of Gram-negative bacillus (GNB) and staphylococcus infections. Among staphylococci, 80% were methicillin-sensitive streptococci which were generally multidrug-sensitive. Enterococci were resistant to third-generation cephalosporins, first-generation fluoroquinolones and gentamycin. Among GNB, there was a predominance of enterobacteria compared with non-fermenting GNB, of which 52% were multidrug-resistant and produced extended spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL).

Conclusion

Staphylococcus aureusinfections are most often sensitive to available antibiotics and therefore have better prognoses than infections caused by other bacteria. In contrast, in half of the cases of GNB, infections were caused by bacteria producing ESBL, thus posing the problem of multidrug-resistance, the risks of which are increased in precarious situations. Therefore, the type of bacteria appears to be a major prognostic factor in the treatment of osteoarticular infections in a Role 2 in Chad. This criterion will need to be considered before any treatment decisions are made.
Randomised controlled trial in an experimental online supermarket testing the effects of front-of-pack nutrition labelling on food purchasing intentions in a low-income population
Authors: Egnell Manon , Boutron Isabelle , Péneau Sandrine , Ducrot Pauline , Touvier Mathilde , Galan Pilar , Buscail Camille , Porcher Raphaël , Ravaud Philippe , Hercberg Serge , Kesse-Guyot Emmanuelle , Julia Chantal
Published: February 2021

Background

The Nutri-Score, a front-of-pack nutrition label, has been adopted in 2017 in France but its impact on low-income populations is unknown, and they are more at risk of having unhealthy diets. The present study assessed the effects of the Nutri-Score on the nutritional quality of purchasing intentions among low-income individuals, compared with the current French labelling situation: references intakes (RIs) and no label, using a three-arm parallel-group randomised controlled trial.

Methods

Low-income active adults from the NutriNet-Santé cohort (household income below €1200/month) were asked to perform a shopping task in an experimental online supermarket after being randomised in one of the three conditions (Nutri-Score, RIs or no labelling). The main outcome was the overall nutritional quality of the virtual shopping cart, assessed with the French-modified Food Standards Agency Nutrient Profiling System (FSAm-NPS), and secondary outcomes were the nutrient content of the shopping carts. 524 subjects were randomised, and 336 included in the analyses.

Results

The Nutri-Score resulted in the highest overall nutritional quality of the shopping cart, as reflected by a FSAm-NPS score (1.86 (SD 3.59) points) significantly lower (reflecting higher nutritional quality) than the RIs (3.21 (SD 4.14) points, p≤0.05) but not significantly lower than no label (2.60 (SD 3.09) points, p=0.3). The Nutri-Score also resulted into significantly lower contents in calories and saturated fatty acids in the shopping cart, compared with the RIs only (p≤0.05).

Conclusion

The implementation of the front of pack nutrition label Nutri-Score, adopted in France and in different European countries, appears to have the potential to encourage purchasing intentions of foods from higher nutritional quality among low-income individuals, compared with the RIs label promoted by food manufacturers.

Trial registration number:NCT02769455
Psychosocial impact on frontline health and social care professionals in the UK during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative interview study
Authors: Aughterson Henry , McKinlay Alison R , Fancourt Daisy , Burton Alexandra
Published: February 2021

Objectives

To explore the psychosocial well-being of health and social care professionals working during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design

This was a qualitative study deploying in-depth, individual interviews, which were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was used for coding.

Participants

This study involved 25 participants from a range of frontline professions in health and social care.

Setting

Interviews were conducted over the phone or video call, depending on participant preference.

Results

From the analysis, we identified 5 overarching themes: communication challenges, work-related stressors, support structures, personal growth and individual resilience. The participants expressed difficulties such as communication challenges and changing work conditions, but also positive factors such as increased team unity at work, and a greater reflection on what matters in life.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence on the support needs of health and social care professionals amid continued and future disruptions caused by the pandemic. It also elucidates some of the successful strategies (such as mindfulness, hobbies, restricting news intake, virtual socialising activities) deployed by health and social care professionals that can support their resilience and well-being and be used to guide future interventions.
Modification of ischemia/reperfusion induced infarct size by ischemic preconditioning in hypertrophied hearts
Authors: Nusier Mohamad , Alqudah Mohammad , Elimban Vijayan , Dhalla Naranjan S.
Published: February 2021

This study examined the effects of ischemic preconditioning (IP) on the ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) induced injury in normal and hypertrophied hearts. Cardiac hypertrophy in rabbits was induced by L-thyroxine (0.5 mg/kg/day for 16 days). Hearts with or without IP (3 cycles of 5 min ischemia and 10 min reperfusion) were subjected to I/R (60 min ischemia followed by 60 min reperfusion). IP reduced the I/R-induced infarct size from 68% to 24% and 57% to 33% in the normal and hypertrophied hearts, respectively. Leakage of creatine phosphokinase in the perfusate from the hypertrophied hearts due to I/R was markedly less than that form the normal hearts; IP prevented these changes. Although IP augmented the increase in phosphorylated p38-mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38-MAPK) content due to I/R, this effect was less in the hypertrophied than in the normal heart. These results suggest that reduced cardioprotection by IP of the I/R-induced injury in hypertrophied hearts may be due to reduced activation of p38-MAPK in comparison with normal hearts.
Kaluza–Klein Universe interacting with wet dark fluid in f(R,T) gravity
Authors: Surendra Singh S. , Manihar Singh K. , Kumrah Leishingam
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we study the essence of [Formula: see text] gravitation theory in five-dimensional Universe and see the role of dark energy in the form of wet dark fluid in a Kaluza–Klein Universe. It is found that the dark energy is not exaggerated in contributing to the accelerating expansion of the Universe though the expansion is inherent as a result of the theory itself and due to the geometric contribution of matter. It is interesting to see that in some model it is found that there was some era before the beginning of the present era. Some of the models are seen to go to [Formula: see text]CDM models in late future as in Einstein gravitation theory, starting the evolution with a big bang. Most of the models undergo early inflation as well as late-time accelerating expansion thus defining as good models for real astrophysical situations, with dark energy playing fundamental role in these Universe. Most interesting observation from this investigation is that we can developed new isotropic and anisotropic models of Kaluza–Klein Universe.
Static spherically symmetric wormhole with quadratic shape function and particle trajectories around it
Authors: Ghosh Bikram , Dutta Sourav , Mukerji Sudeshna , Chakraborty Subenoy
Published: February 2021

The paper deals with static traversable wormhole having shape function a polynomial of the radial coordinate of degree 2. Embedding of the wormholes in space–time is examined both analytically and graphically. Also both timelike and null geodesics are studied in this wormhole geometry.
The System Design of an Autonomous Mobile Welding Robot
Authors: Le Jian , Zhang Hua , Chai Ze , He Yinshui , Chen Xiaoqi
Published: February 2021

The welding robot system designed in this paper is helpful to realize welding automation. The closed loop control system and algorithm of arc rotating speed have been designed, so arc rotating speed was stabilized near the set value and the tracking accuracy of fillet weld has been improved by the rotating arc sensor. A data acquisition system and a motion control system have been designed based on multi-sensor technology. The mapping relationship between the features in the welding seam image and the pose of the welding gun was established, so as to realize the identification of the pose of the welding gun based on three-wire laser vision sensing technology. The effect of wire extension, welding currents and welding voltages on the current waveform was investigated based on the rotating arc sensor. By using the designed system and algorithm, the welding deviations recognition experiment, the arc rotating speed control experiment and the tracking experiment of the right-angle welding seam have been carried out. The experimental results showed that the welding deviations were located within [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]mm, and the welding robot can track the complex welding seam accurately and reliably.
Welded extensions and ribbon restrictions of diagrammatical moves
Authors: Colombari Boris
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we consider local moves on classical and welded diagrams of string links, and the notion of welded extension of a classical move. Such extensions being non-unique in general, the idea is to find a topological criterion which could isolate one extension from the others. To that end, we turn to the relation between welded string links and knotted surfaces in [Formula: see text], and the ribbon subclass of these surfaces. This provides a topological interpretation of classical local moves as surgeries on surfaces, and of virtual local moves as surgeries on ribbon surfaces. Comparing these surgeries leads to the notion of ribbon residue of a classical local move, and we show that up to some broad conditions there can be at most one welded extension which is a ribbon residue. We provide three examples of ribbon residues, for the self-crossing change, the Delta and the band-pass moves. However, for the latter, we note that the given residue is actually not an extension of the band-pass move, showing that a classical move may have a ribbon residue and a welded extension, but no ribbon residue which is an extension.
A Dynamic Multi-Objective Duopoly Game with Environmentally Concerned Firms
Authors: Crettez Bertrand , Hayek Naila
Published: February 2021

Social pressures, in addition to the law, incite more and more firms to pursue multiple and separate objectives. This trend raises the following question: will the change in the number of objectives pursued by firms affect their strategic interactions? To address this issue we focus on a dynamic duopoly where each firm has two objectives: one of the firms’ objectives is financial and the other is environmental. Production is a polluting activity and the actual level of pollution depends on current and past emissions. We analyze both open-loop Nash and cooperative equilibria (these equilibria are also trivially feedback as the equilibrium strategies are constant). We show that contrary to the case where firms’ unique objective is the financial one, there are Nash equilibria where production is lower than in the cooperative equilibrium. This stems from the fact that in a Nash equilibrium firms do not coordinate the choice of the relative weight given to the environmental objective. We obtain the same conclusion when firms can mitigate pollution. In this case, we also show that there are Nash equilibria where the sum of the firms’ mitigation efforts is higher than its value in the cooperative equilibrium.
Expansions for distributional solutions of the elliptic equation in two dimensions
Authors: Li Jiayu , Wan Fangshu , Yang Yunyan
Published: February 2021

Assume [Formula: see text] is a planar domain, and [Formula: see text] is a locally bounded distributional solution to the elliptic equation [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] is a constant, [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are real analytic functions defined on [Formula: see text] and the real line [Formula: see text], respectively. We establish asymptotic expansions of [Formula: see text] to arbitrary orders near [Formula: see text], which complements the recent results of Han–Li–Li on the Yamabe equation, Guo–Li–Wanon the weighted Yamabe equation, and partly extends that of Guo–Wan–Yang on the Liouville equation in a punctured disc. Our method is a combination of a priori estimate and mathematical induction.
Irreducible modules over the mirror Heisenberg–Virasoro algebra
Authors: Liu Dong , Pei Yufeng , Xia Limeng , Zhao Kaiming
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we study irreducible modules over the mirror Heisenberg–Virasoro algebra [Formula: see text], which is the semi-direct product of the Virasoro algebra and the twisted Heisenberg algebra. We classify all Harish-Chandra modules over [Formula: see text], i.e. irreducible modules with finite-dimensional weight spaces. Every such module is either an irreducible highest or an irreducible lowest weight module, or an irreducible module of the intermediate series. Furthermore, we use a twisted version of Feigin–Fuchs construction of the Virasoro algebra to establish the simplicity criterion for Verma modules and obtain a classification of unitary irreducible highest weight modules over [Formula: see text]. Finally, we determine all irreducible restricted [Formula: see text]-modules of level zero.
On higher commutators of rings
Authors: Lee Tsiu-Kwen
Published: February 2021

For a subset [Formula: see text] of a ring [Formula: see text] we denote by [Formula: see text] the ideal of [Formula: see text] generated by [Formula: see text]. Given a higher commutator [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text], if [Formula: see text] then [Formula: see text]? The question is motivated by the result that a ring [Formula: see text] is equal to its subring generated by [Formula: see text] if [Formula: see text] is either a noncommutative simple ring (by Herstein) or a unital ring with [Formula: see text] (by Eroǧlu). In this note, we study the question for the rings [Formula: see text] satisfying the property that every proper ideal of [Formula: see text] is contained in a maximal ideal (in particular, if [Formula: see text] is finitely generated as an ideal).
On the generalized norms of finite groups
Authors: Gong Lü , Jiang Tong , Li Baojun
Published: February 2021

The norm [Formula: see text] of a group [Formula: see text] is the intersection of the normalizers of all subgroups in [Formula: see text]. In this paper, the norm is generalized by studying on Sylow subgroups and [Formula: see text]-subgroups in finite groups which is denoted by [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively. It is proved that the generalized norms [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are all equal to the hypercenter of [Formula: see text].
Amalgamation and extensions of summand absorbing modules over a semiring
Authors: Izhakian Zur , Knebusch Manfred
Published: February 2021

A submodule [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] is summand absorbing, if [Formula: see text] implies [Formula: see text] for any [Formula: see text]. Such submodules often appear in modules over (additively) idempotent semirings, particularly in tropical algebra. This paper studies amalgamation and extensions of these submodules, and more generally of upper bound modules.
A Business Model Taxonomy for Start-Ups in the Electric Power Industry — The Electrifying Effect of Artificial Intelligence on Business Model Innovation
Authors: Anton Eduard , Oesterreich Thuy Duong , Schuir Julian , Protz Leslie , Teuteberg Frank
Published: February 2021

Artificial intelligence (AI) serves as a technological driver for business model innovation by guiding decisions and automating services, thereby leveraging efficiency-enhancing and profitable business practices. Especially in the electric power industry, a multitude of start-ups have entered the market offering disruptive AI-based services. However, there has been little research to date on what concrete business models result from the diffusion of AI and how these might be classified. In view of this research gap, this paper contributes to a better understanding of start-ups in the electric power industry that use AI technologies by systematically developing a business model taxonomy. In addition, we conducted 12 semi-structured interviews with domain experts for the evaluation step and validated the robustness of the taxonomy based on cluster analysis to identify common business model archetypes. Finally, we derived and discussed the academic and practical implications of our research and highlighted future research avenues.
Weak Roman subdivision number of graphs
Authors: Roushini Leely Pushpam P. , Srilakshmi N.
Published: February 2021

A Roman dominating function (RDF) on a graph [Formula: see text] is a function [Formula: see text] satisfying the condition that every vertex u for which [Formula: see text] is adjacent to at least one vertex v for which [Formula: see text]. A vertex [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] is undefended if it is not adjacent to a vertex with [Formula: see text]. The function [Formula: see text] is a weak Roman dominating function (WRDF) if each vertex [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] is adjacent to a vertex [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] such that the function [Formula: see text] defined by [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] if [Formula: see text] has no undefended vertex. The Roman domination subdivision number of a graph [Formula: see text] is the minimum number of edges that must be subdivided in order to increase the Roman domination number of [Formula: see text]. We introduce the concept of weak Roman subdivision number of a graph [Formula: see text], denoted by [Formula: see text] as the minimum number of edges that must be subdivided in order to increase the weak Roman domination number of [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we determine the exact values of the weak Roman subdivision number for paths, cycles and complete bipartite graphs. We obtain bounds for the weak Roman subdivision number of a graph and characterize the extremal graphs.
3D Printing Technology and its Significant Applications in the Context of Healthcare Education
Authors: Tasneem Ilma , Ariz Aleena , Bharti Devyani , Haleem Abid , Javaid Mohd , Bahl Shashi
Published: February 2021

3D printing applications help solve challenges in the field of healthcare. These technologies evolved to produce custom-made medical devices and implants for patients and enhance medical education and research. This paper aims to make readers aware of the role of 3D printing in the field of medical education. 3D printing technologies are part of additive manufacturing (AM) technologies. 3D printing shows excellent potential with unconventional materials like different types of plastic, ketones, wood, human cells, metal powder, ceramics, composites, smart material, etc. This manufacturing method is suitable for producing complex and intricate shaped medical objects of the required property with lesser wastage of material. This paper introduces 3D printing technology and the need to carry out this study related to medical education and research. A brief literature review of 3D printing has been carried out. The paper further discusses the capabilities of 3D printing in the field of medicine. Patient-specific 3D models are being designed and then manufactured and implanted. 3D models of defective body parts help surgical planning and better part designing. Finally, the paper discusses significant roles of 3D printing in healthcare education in a tabular form. For the future, this technology has immense potential for medical education, surgical planning and support including for a clear understanding of the disease.
Healthy Genetically Normal Live-Birth After Mosaic Chromosome 5 Embryo Transfer: A Case Report
Authors: Luu Tam M. , Nguyen Nhung C. , Tran Cam T. , Le Anh H. , Huynh Bao G. , Ho Tuong M.
Published: February 2021

Embryonic mosaicism is defined as two or more distinct cell lines within an embryo, which is originally developed from a zygote. Although the potential of mosaic embryos still remain unclear, recent reports have proved that mosaic embryo transfer can achieve healthy live-births. Up to now, there is no report of a live-birth having mosaic trisomy of full chromosome 5 following in-vitro fertilization (IVF). Our case is the first case proving that the transfer of medium-mosaicism embryo can result in a healthy live-birth.

The couple are both carriers of balanced reciprocal translocations (46,XX,t(2;8)(p23;q24.3) and 46,XY,t(12;16)(q13.2;q23)). They had three IVF cycles combined with PGT-SR (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Structural Rearrangement). A total of 18 blastocysts were biopsied and no euploid embryo was found. After the conselling, the patients chose to transfer a 40% mosaic trisomy chromosome 5 embryo. The follow-up pregnancy including prenatal diagnosis, amniocentesis and peripheral blood chromosome analysis of the newborn revealed no trisomy chromosome 5.
Role of nitration in control of phosphorylase and glycogenolysis in mouse skeletal muscle
Authors: Blackwood Sarah J. , Jude Baptiste , Mader Theresa , Lanner Johanna T. , Katz Abram
Published: February 2021

Here we show that exogenous peroxynitrite results in nitration of phosphorylase as well as inhibition of glycogenolysis in isolated intact mouse skeletal muscle during short-term repeated contractions. However, repeated contractions in the absence of exogenous peroxynitrite do not result in nitration of phosphorylase or affect glycogenolysis, nor does the addition of antioxidants alter glycogenolysis during repeated contractions. Thus phosphorylase is not subject to redox control during repeated contractions.
Mesenchymal stem cells protect renal tubular cells via TSG-6 regulating macrophage function and phenotype switching
Authors: Zhao Yu , Zhu Xiang-Yang , Song Turun , Zhang Lei , Eirin Alfonso , Conley Sabena , Tang Hui , Saadiq Ishran , Jordan Kyra , Lerman Amir , Lerman Lilach O.
Published: February 2021

Tumor necrosis factor-α-induced gene/protein (TSG)-6 regulates the immunomodulatory properties of MSCs, but its ability to protect the ischemic kidney is unknown. In pigs with renal artery stenosis, we show that MSC delivery increased renal vein TSG-6, decreased kidney inflammatory macrophages, and improved renal function. In vitro, TSG-6 decreased inflammatory macrophages and tubular cell injury. Therefore, TSG-6 released from MSCs may decrease renal tubular cell injury, which is associated with regulating macrophage function and phenotype.
Role of Ano1 Ca2+-activated Cl− channels in generating urethral tone
Authors: Drumm Bernard T. , Thornbury Keith D. , Hollywood Mark A. , Sergeant Gerard P.
Published: February 2021

Studies from rabbit show that anoctamin-1 (Ano1) channels expressed in urethral interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs) serve as a source of depolarization for smooth muscle cells, increasing excitability and tone. However, the role of urethral Ano1 channels is unclear, owing to differences in the species examined and experimental approaches. We summarize findings from different species on the role of urethral ICC and Ano1 channels in urethral contractility and outline proposals for clarifying this topic using cell-specific optogenetic approaches.
The Effects of Copper Constituent of Coin Currency on Embryonic Zebrafish Development
Authors: Hong Ted Inpyo , Kang Seo-Gu , Lee Yu-Ri , Choi Tae-Ik , Kim Woo-Keun , Kim Cheol-Hee
Published: February 2021

Copper has demonstrated utility in multiple industrial applications for its high conductivity and antibacterial/antiviral properties. However, numerous findings have suggested potential hazards regarding pathogenesis. This study was conducted to demonstrate the application of zebrafish (Danio rerio) as a cost‐effective biological assay to detect environmental pollution, i.e., heavy metal of coins. We demonstrated that zebrafish larvae exposed to copper‐plated coins or copper (II) ion solution elicited a consistent phenotype of early mortality without signs of morphological defects in surviving individuals. Copper ion solution served as a standard to (1) corroborate copper exposure from coins and (2) demonstrate proportional increase in early mortality phenotype according to concentration. We found that 5 μM CuSO4·5H2O was the minimal concentration to elicit the observed phenotypes from copper toxicity. This study aimed to demonstrate how a simple protocol involving wild‐type zebrafish larvae could provide an economical solution to water monitoring in areas of rapid technological advancement and increasing environmental concerns, especially in communities without access to expensive analytical methods.
The Insurgence of Tramadol Abuse among the Most Active Population in Jirapa Municipality: A Study to Assess the Magnitude of the Abuse and Its Contributory Factors
Authors: Saapiire Ferguson , Namillah Godfrey , Tanye Vincent , Abubakari Abdulai
Published: February 2021

Background. Tramadol has gained popularity among the drugs of the most active population especially the respondents in Ghana abuse especially farmers who nicknamed as “farm and buy cow.” It has recently become a public health concern, and stakeholders are worried about tramadol abuse and its implications on health in the Upper West Region. The study sought to measure the prevalence of tramadol/related substance abuse and the associated factors. Methods. A community-based analytic cross-sectional study involving 420 respondents was conducted. The participants were selected using a multistage sampling technique. Semistructured questionnaire was used to generate the data. Results. About 77.6% of the respondents abuse tramadol while 83.9% of the participants take at least one other related substance or drug. Participants with history of any substance abuse were 5 times more likely to abuse tramadol [

AOR
=
5.15

; 95% CI (1.501-17.656);

p
=
0.009

], compared to respondents with no history of any substance abuse. Respondents who take tramadol to enhance sex were 4 times more likely to abuse tramadol [

AOR
=
3.776

; 95% CI (1.352-10.545);

p
=
0.011

]. Formal sector employment was protective against tramadol abuse [

AOR
=
0.100

; 95% CI (0.017-0.595);

p
=
0.011

] compared to self-employment and the unemployed. In addition, use of nonopioid prescription drugs for posttraumatic/pain management reduced the risk of tramadol abuse [

AOR
=
0.237

; 95% CI (0088-0.640);

p
=
0.004

] compared to the posttraumatic/pain management dependence on prescription of only opioid like tramadol. Conclusion. An infantile municipality like Jirapa is challenged with high level of tramadol and related substance which has serious repercussion on the health system in the Jirapa district. It is important that measures are taken by the stakeholders to stop tramadol and related substance and mitigate the impact of drug abuse in the district.
Low‐Frequency Electrical Stimulation Promotes Satellite Cell Activities to Facilitate Muscle Regeneration at an Early Phase in a Rat Model of Muscle Strain
Authors: Wang Da-an , Li Qing-zheng , Jia Dong-ming
Published: February 2021

The capability of regeneration for skeletal muscle after injury depends on the differentiation and proliferation ability of the resident stem cells called satellite cells. It has been reported that electrical stimulation was widely used in clinical conditions to facilitate muscle regeneration after injury, but the characterization of satellite cell responses to the context of low‐frequency electrical stimulation in early‐phase muscle strain conditions has not been fully clarified. In this study, we aim to investigate the effects of low‐frequency electrical stimulation (frequency: 20 Hz; duration: 30 minutes, twice daily) on satellite cell activities in a rat model for the early phase of muscle strain. Firstly, we adopted our previously developed rat model to mimic the early phase of muscle strain in human. After then, we examined the effects of low‐frequency electrical stimulation on histopathological changes of the muscle fiber by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. Finally, we investigated the effects of low‐frequency electrical stimulation on satellite cell proliferation and differentiation by quantification of the expression level of the specific proteins using western blot analyses. The muscle strain in biceps femoris muscles of rats can be induced by high‐speed rotation from knee flexion 50° to full knee extension at 960°·s-1 angular velocity during its tetany by activating the sciatic nerve, as evidenced by a widening of the interstitial space between fibers, and more edema or necrosis fibers were detected in the model rats without treatment than in control rats. After treatment with low‐frequency electrical stimulation (frequency: 20 Hz; duration: 30 minutes, twice daily), the acute strained biceps femoris muscles of rats showed obvious improvement of histomorphology as indicated by more mature muscle fibers with well‐ordered formation with clear boundaries. Consistently, the expression levels of the MyoD and myogenin were marked higher than those in the rats in the animal model group, indicating increased satellite cell proliferating and differentiating activities by low‐frequency electrical stimulation. This study shows that low‐frequency electrical stimulation provides an effective stimulus to upregulate the protein expression of MyoD/myogenin and accelerate the restoration of structure during the early phase of muscle strain. This may have significance for clinical practice. Optimization of low‐frequency electrical stimulation parameters may enhance the therapeutic outcome in patients.
Comparison of the Effects of Essential Oil Obtained from the Crude and Bran-Processed Atractylodes lancea on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammatory Injury of Human Colonic Epithelial Cells by Downregulating the IKK/NF-κB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Yu Yan , Wu Zhenqi , Han Yu , Yuan Yuan , Fan Hui , Wei Xinzhi , Yu Yongduo
Published: February 2021

Background. Atractylodes lancea (AL) has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of various diseases including digestive disorders. Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a common digestive system disease with a low cure rate and easy recurrence. However, it is still not clear whether AL is suitable for UC treatment. Currently, stir-baking with wheat bran is most commonly used to process AL. Here, we aimed to address the effects of the crude and bran-processed AL on UC in vitro and uncover the underlying mechanism based on regulating the IKK/NF-kappa B signaling pathway. Methods. Human colonic epithelial cells (HCoEpiC) were treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to mimic the inflammatory injury of UC in vitro. The essential oil from crude and bran-processed AL was used to treat LPS-induced HcoEpiC cells. The cell viability was detected by an MTT assay. The levels of IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-12, IL-1-β, TNF-α, and NO were determined by ELISA, and the mRNA expressions of IKK-α, NF-κB, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α were determined by RT-PCR. Meanwhile, the expressions of IKK-α, p-IKK-α, p-IKK-β, NF-κB, IL-6, and IL-8 proteins were determined by Western blot. Results. The essential oil of AL, whether it was from crude or bran-processed AL, could significantly increase the viability of LPS-induced HCoEpiC cells. The treatment of AL essential oil also notably inhibited the productions of IL-6, IL-8, IL-12, IL-1-β, TNF-α, NO, p-IKK-α, p-IKK-β, and NF-κB and downregulated the mRNA expressions of NF-κB, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α. Meanwhile, IL-4 protein and mRNA expression were significantly stimulated by AL essential oil. Moreover, the essential oil from bran-processed AL was more effective than that from crude AL. Conclusion. Both kinds of AL essential oil had the anti-inflammatory effect on LPS-induced HCoEpiC, and the essential oil from bran-processed AL was more effective. The mechanism could be through the IKK/NF-κB signaling pathway in vitro.