bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antidepressant use and interpersonal violence perpetration: a protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Keen Claire , Foulds James A , Willoughby Melissa , Newton-Howes Giles , Knight Josh , Fazel Seena , Borschmann Rohan , Kinner Stuart A , Young Jesse T
Published: January 2021

Introduction

There are conflicting perspectives as to whether antidepressant medication increases, decreases or has no effect on violence perpetration, impulsivity and aggressive behaviour. This is an important question given the widespread use of antidepressant medication and the significant medical, social, legal and health consequences of violence. We aim to: (1) systematically identify observational studies and randomised controlled trials that quantify the relationship between antidepressant use and interpersonal violence; (2) assess the quality of studies that quantify the relationship between antidepressant use and interpersonal violence and (3) estimate the pooled prevalence and measure of effect for the relationship between antidepressant use and interpersonal violence.

Methods and analysis

We will search MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, PubMed and the Cochrane Library for relevant peer-reviewed literature. Our primary outcome is the perpetration of violent acts directed at others. Our secondary outcome is physical, interpersonal aggression measured through validated surveys. We will include randomised controlled trials, cohort studies and case–control studies that examine the association between the use of antidepressants and violence perpetration and/or physical aggression. No restrictions will be placed on the population. We will use the Methodological Standard for Epidemiological Research scale to assess the quality of included studies. We will provide an overview of the included studies and assess heterogeneity and publication bias. If there are sufficient studies, we will conduct meta-analyses to examine the possible association between antidepressants and violence, and undertake meta-regression to examine the effect of antidepressant class, length of follow-up, age of participants and population subgroups on the association between antidepressants and violence.

Ethics and dissemination

No ethics approval is required. Our findings will be disseminated through a peer-reviewed journal article and conference presentations.

PROSPERO registration details

CRD42020175474.
Effect of prosocial public health messages for population behaviour change in relation to respiratory infections: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Grimani Aikaterini , Bonell Chris , Michie Susan , Antonopoulou Vivi , Kelly Michael P , Vlaev Ivo
Published: January 2021

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic represents a major societal challenge that requires large-scale behaviour change, widespread collective action and cooperation to reduce viral transmission. Existing literature indicates that several messaging approaches may be effective, including emphasising the benefits to the recipient, aligning with the recipient’s moral values and focusing on protecting others. Current research suggests that prosocial public health messages that highlight behaviours linked to societal benefits (eg, protecting ‘each other’), rather than focusing on behaviours that protect oneself (eg, protecting ‘yourself’), may be a more effective method for communicating strategies related to infectious disease. To investigate this we will conduct a systematic review that will identify what messages and behaviour change techniques have the potential to optimise the effect on population behaviour in relation to reducing transmission of respiratory infections.

Methods and analysis

A systematic literature search of published and unpublished studies (including grey literature) in electronic databases will be conducted to identify those that meet our inclusion criteria. The search will be run in four electronic databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO and Scopus. We will also conduct supplementary searches in databases of ‘grey’ literature such as PsycEXTRA, Social Science Research Network and OSF PREPRINTS, and use the Google Scholar search engine. A systematic approach to searching, screening, reviewing and data extraction will be applied based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Titles, abstracts and full texts for eligibility will be examined independently by researchers. The quality of the included studies will be assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool and the Risk of Bias in Non-randomized Studies-of Interventions tool. Disagreements will be resolved by a consensus procedure.

Ethics and dissemination

This protocol has been registered with PROSPERO. No ethical approval is required, as there will be no collection of primary data. The synthesised findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publication.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020198874.
Sleep apnoea is a risk factor for severe COVID-19
Authors: Strausz Satu , Kiiskinen Tuomo , Broberg Martin , Ruotsalainen Sanni , Koskela Jukka , Bachour Adel ,   FinnGen, Palotie Aarno , Palotie Tuula , Ripatti Samuli , Ollila Hanna M.
Published: January 2021

Background

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is associated with higher body mass index (BMI), diabetes, older age and male gender, which are all risk factors for severe COVID-19.

We aimed to study if OSA is an independent risk factor for COVID-19 infection or for severe COVID-19.

Methods

OSA diagnosis and COVID-19 infection were extracted from the hospital discharge, causes of death and infectious diseases registries in individuals who participated in the FinnGen study (n=260 405). Severe COVID-19 was defined as COVID-19 requiring hospitalisation. Multivariate logistic regression model was used to examine association. Comorbidities for either COVID-19 or OSA were selected as covariates. We performed a meta-analysis with previous studies.

Results

We identified 445 individuals with COVID-19, and 38 (8.5%) of them with OSA of whom 19 out of 91 (20.9%) were hospitalised. OSA associated with COVID-19 hospitalisation independent from age, sex, BMI and comorbidities (p-unadjusted=5.13×10−5, OR-adjusted=2.93 (95% CI 1.02 to 8.39), p-adjusted=0.045). OSA was not associated with the risk of contracting COVID-19 (p=0.25). A meta-analysis of OSA and severe COVID-19 showed association across 15 835 COVID-19 positive controls, and n=1294 patients with OSA with severe COVID-19 (OR=2.37 (95% 1.14 to 4.95), p=0.021).

Conclusion

Risk for contracting COVID-19 was the same for patients with OSA and those without OSA. In contrast, among COVID-19 positive patients, OSA was associated with higher risk for hospitalisation. Our findings are in line with earlier works and suggest OSA as an independent risk factor for severe COVID-19.
‘Injury prevention versus performance’: has the time come to mandate the use of mouthguards in all contact sports?
Authors: Ahmed Irfan , Fine Peter
Published: January 2021

Mouthguard use continues to be a hotly debated issue in the domain of contact sports. Regulations from sports governing bodies on wearing mouthguards and attitudes towards their use from athletes vary significantly across ‘at-risk sports’. We explore how recent advances in sports dentistry have led to the widespread availability of new customisable mouthguards and whether their use may impact athletic performance, reduce orofacial trauma or sport related concussion. We also discuss whether ‘no mouthguard, no play’ policies designed to mandate their use may help to promote a culture of safe participation in contact sport.
Intracranial hematoma and abscess after neuraxial analgesia and anesthesia: a review of the literature describing 297 cases
Authors: Bos Elke ME , van der Lee Koen , Haumann Johan , de Quelerij Marcel , Vandertop W Peter , Kalkman Cor J , Hollmann Markus W , Lirk Philipp
Published: January 2021

Background

Besides spinal complications, intracranial hematoma or abscess may occur after neuraxial block. Risk factors and outcome remain unclear.

Objective

This review evaluates characteristics, treatment and recovery of patients with intracranial complications after neuraxial block.

Evidence review

We systematically searched MEDLINE, Embase and the Cochrane Library from their inception to May 2020 for case reports/series, cohort studies and reviews of intracranial hematoma or abscess associated with neuraxial block. Quality of evidence was assessed using the critical appraisal of a case study checklist by Crombie.

Findings

We analyzed 232 reports, including 291 patients with hematoma and six patients with abscess/empyema. The major part of included studies comprised single case reports with a high risk of bias. Of the patients with hematoma, 48% concerned obstetric patients, the remainder received neuraxial block for various perioperative indications or pain management. Prior dural puncture was reported in 81%, either intended (eg, spinal anesthesia) or unintended (eg, complicated epidural catheter placement). Headache was described in 217 patients; in 101 patients, symptoms resembled postdural puncture headache (PDPH). After treatment, 11% had partial or no recovery and 8% died, indicating the severity of this complication. Intracranial abscess after neuraxial block is seldom reported; six reports were found.

Conclusion

Diagnosis of intracranial hematoma is often missed initially, as headache is assumed to be caused by cerebrospinal hypotension due to cerebrospinal fluid leakage, known as PDPH. Prolonged headache without improvement, worsening symptoms despite treatment or epidural blood patch, change of headache from postural to non-postural or new neurological signs should alert physicians to alternative diagnoses.
Different responses of apoptotic, inflammatory and heat shock protein gene expression to a single bout of high-intensity interval exercise between physically active and inactive men
Authors: Vardar S.A. , Doğanlar Z.B. , Kaya O. , Tayfur P. , Sut N. , Doğanlar O.
Published: January 2021

High mechanical load of muscles may induce muscular apoptosis on the one hand and adaptation to exercise on the other. This study aimed to explore whether changes of circulatory levels of inflammation, apoptosis and heat shock proteins (HSPs) messenger RNA (mRNA) following single bout of high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) differs between physically active (PA) and inactive (PI) men. Nine PA and 9 PI (peak oxygen consumption: 2.6 ± 0.4 vs. 2.0 ± 0.2 L·min−1) healthy men (age: 28.7 ± 6.3 vs. 30.2 ± 4.5 years and body mass index: 2.6 ± 2.1 vs. 23.3 ± 2.8 kg·m−2) performed HIIE, comprising 4 repeats of a Wingate test (load: 0.050 kg·kg−1body weight). Blood samples were collected before exercise, 5 min after HIIE, and 24 h after HIIE for measuring mRNA of inflammation markers interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), apoptosis markers including Bcl-2, Bax, and HSP27, HSP60, HSP70, HSP90 using quantitative real-time PCR analysis. Post-HIIE IL-6, TNFα and HSP60 were higher in the PI than the PA group 5 min after exercise (p = 0.003, effect size (ES) = 1.59; p = 0.007, ES = 1.59 and p = 0.027, ES = 1.10 respectively). HSP70 acutely increased only in the PA group (p = 0.024, ES = 1.20). The increase in Bcl-2 (p = 0.047, ES = 1.08) and Bax (p = 0.024, ES = 1.20) levels were higher in the PI group 5 min after HIIE. The present study indicated that the response of inflammatory, apoptosis and HSP gene expressions to HIIE in blood of healthy male volunteers strongly depends on their level of regular physical activity.

Novelty: Blood IL-6 and HSP60 mRNA levels following high intensity exercise may indicate metabolic stress. Increased blood HSP70 mRNA in physically active men may show an alternative apoptosis suppression pathway.
On perturbation theory and critical exponents for self-similar systems
Authors: Hatefi Ehsan , Kuntz Adrien
Published: January 2021

Gravitational critical collapse in the Einstein-axion-dilaton system is known to lead to continuous self-similar solutions characterized by the Choptuik critical exponent $$\gamma $$
γ
. We complete the existing literature on the subject by computing the linear perturbation equations in the case where the axion-dilaton system assumes a parabolic form. Next, we solve the perturbation equations in a newly discovered self-similar solution in the hyperbolic case, which allows us to extract the Choptuik exponent. Our main result is that this exponent depends not only on the dimensions of spacetime but also the particular ansatz and the critical solutions that one started with.
Probing neutron-hidden neutron transitions with the MURMUR experiment
Authors: Stasser Coraline , Terwagne Guy , Lamblin Jacob , Méplan Olivier , Pignol Guillaume , Coupé Bernard , Kalcheva Silva , Van Dyck Steven , Sarrazin Michaël
Published: January 2021

MURMUR is a new passing-through-walls neutron experiment designed to constrain neutron-hidden neutron transitions allowed in the context of braneworld scenarios or mirror matter models. A nuclear reactor can act as a source of hidden neutrons, such that neutrons travel through a hidden world or sector. Hidden neutrons can propagate out of the nuclear core and far beyond the biological shielding. However, hidden neutrons can weakly interact with usual matter, making possible for their detection in the context of low-noise measurements. In the present work, the novelty rests on a better background discrimination and the use of a mass of a material – here lead – able to enhance regeneration of hidden neutrons into visible ones to improve detection. The input of this new setup is studied using both modelizations and experiments, thanks to tests currently performed with the experiment at the BR2 research nuclear reactor (SCK$$\cdot $$
·
CEN, Mol, Belgium). A new limit on the neutron swapping probability p has been derived thanks to the measurements taken during the BR2 Cycle 02/2019A: $$p<4.0\times 10^{-10} \; \text {at 95}\%\text { CL}$$

p
<
4.0
×

10

-
10

at 95
%

CL

. This constraint is better than the bound from the previous passing-through-wall neutron experiment made at ILL in 2015, despite BR2 is less efficient to generate hidden neutrons by a factor of 7.4, thus raising the interest of such experiment using regenerating materials.
STABILITY RESULT AND WELL-POSEDNESS FOR TIMOSHENKO’S BEAM LAMINATED WITH THERMOELASTIC AND PAST HISTORY
Authors: CHOUCHA ABDELBAKI , BOULAARAS SALAH , OUCHENANE DJAMEL , ALKHALAF SALEM , CHERIF BAHRI
Published: January 2021

Our main concern in this paper, is to prove the stability combined well-posedness results of solutions for a linear Timoshenko’s beam laminated with thermoplastic and past history together with distributed delay terms for the both cases nonequal and equal speeds of wave propagation. By using of some of the usual basic theorems and well-known methods in functional analysis.
Geodynamic evolution of the Tunisian margin during the Albian–Cenomanian: structural evidence of the Austrian orogenic phase and the early tectonic inversion of the Tunisian Atlas
Authors: Chelbi Mohamed Ben
Published: January 2021

The Zebbag and Fahdene formations outcrop onshore Tunisia and provide an excellent opportunity to test models of the tectonosedimentary evolution of this region during the Albian–Cenomanian. A NW–SE compressive stress regime resulted in shortening of the Tunisian margin and this compressional tectonism defines the Austrian phase described in the surrounding margins. This event is not widely documented, but regionally extensive tectonism is suggested by NE–SW thrusting and folding, which produced an angular unconformity, active halokinetic diapirs and transpressional NW–SE pull-apart basins. The observed compressional deformation can be considered as a precursor to the Alpine Orogeny and led to the inversion of palaeoblocks inherited from Tethyan Jurassic and Lower Cretaceous rifting. A late Albian–Cenomanian onset of compressional deformation along the Tunisian margin may be intimately related to the drift of Africa with respect to Europe and to opening of the Atlantic Ocean.
A novel educational tool helps teach intestinal absorption in physiology
Authors: Wang Lin-Lin , Liu Lingyue , Zu Aohan , Lv Xiaoning , Mei Zixuan , Wang Zhouhan , Chen Ying-Ying
Published: January 2021

We designed an educational tool to help sophomores learn intestinal absorption. In the study group, students learned through reading materials and group discussion. Then, using the form of flipped class, they stepped on the podium and simulated and explained the absorption processes with designed paper props. The questionnaire and theoretical tests showed the positive role of the education tool in learning efficacy.
WNKs are potassium-sensitive kinases
Authors: Pleinis John M. , Norrell Logan , Akella Radha , Humphreys John M. , He Haixia , Sun Qifei , Zhang Feng , Sosa-Pagan Jason , Morrison Daryl E. , Schellinger Jeffrey N. , Jackson Laurie K. , Goldsmith Elizabeth J. , Rodan Aylin R.
Published: January 2021

With no lysine (K) (WNK) kinases regulate epithelial ion transport in the kidney to maintain homeostasis of electrolyte concentrations and blood pressure. Chloride ion directly binds WNK kinases to inhibit autophosphorylation and activation. Changes in extracellular potassium are thought to regulate WNKs through changes in intracellular chloride. Prior studies demonstrate that in some distal nephron epithelial cells, intracellular potassium changes with chronic low- or high-potassium diet. We, therefore, investigated whether potassium regulates WNK activity independent of chloride. We found decreased activity of Drosophila WNK and mammalian WNK3 and WNK4 in fly Malpighian (renal) tubules bathed in high extracellular potassium, even when intracellular chloride was kept constant at either ∼13 mM or 26 mM. High extracellular potassium also inhibited chloride-insensitive mutants of WNK3 and WNK4. High extracellular rubidium was also inhibitory and increased tubule rubidium. The Na+/K+-ATPase inhibitor, ouabain, which is expected to lower intracellular potassium, increased tubule Drosophila WNK activity. In vitro, potassium increased the melting temperature of Drosophila WNK, WNK1, and WNK3 kinase domains, indicating ion binding to the kinase. Potassium inhibited in vitro autophosphorylation of Drosophila WNK and WNK3, and also inhibited WNK3 and WNK4 phosphorylation of their substrate, Ste20-related proline/alanine-rich kinase (SPAK). The greatest sensitivity of WNK4 to potassium occurred in the range of 80–180 mM, encompassing physiological intracellular potassium concentrations. Together, these data indicate chloride-independent potassium inhibition of Drosophila and mammalian WNK kinases through direct effects of potassium ion on the kinase.
Global changes to HepG2 cell metabolism in response to galactose treatment
Authors: Skolik R. A. , Solocinski J. , Konkle M. E. , Chakraborty N. , Menze M. A.
Published: January 2021

Tumor cell proliferation requires sufficient metabolic flux through the pentose phosphate pathway to meet the demand for biosynthetic precursors and to increase protection against oxidative stress which in turn requires an upregulation of substrate flow through glycolysis. This metabolic poise is often coupled with a shift in ATP production from mitochondrial OXPHOS to substrate-level phosphorylation. Despite major advances that were facilitated by using tumor-derived cell lines in research areas spanning from membrane to cytoskeletal biology, this distorted metabolic profile limits their impact as a model in physiology and toxicology. Substitution of glucose with galactose in the cell culture medium has been demonstrated to shift ATP production from substrate-level phosphorylation to mitochondrial OXPHOS. This increase in oxygen utilization is coupled to a global metabolic reorganization with potential impacts on macromolecule biosynthesis and cellular redox homeostasis, but a comprehensive analysis on the effects of sugar substitution in tumor-derived cells is still missing. To address this gap in knowledge we performed transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses on human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cells adapted to either glucose or galactose as the aldohexose source. We observed a shift toward oxidative metabolism in all primary metabolic pathways at both transcriptomic and metabolomic levels. We also observed a decrease in nicotinamide dinucleotide (NAD(P)) levels and subcellular NAD+-to-NADH ratios in cells cultured with galactose compared with glucose control cells. Our results suggest that galactose reduces both glycolytic and biosynthetic flux and restores a metabolic poise in HepG2 cells that closely reflects the metabolic state observed in primary hepatocytes.
Gut microbiome-based supervised machine learning for clinical diagnosis of inflammatory bowel diseases
Authors: Manandhar Ishan , Alimadadi Ahmad , Aryal Sachin , Munroe Patricia B. , Joe Bina , Cheng Xi
Published: January 2021

Our study demonstrates the promising potential of artificial intelligence via supervised machine learning modeling for predictive diagnostics of different types of inflammatory bowel diseases using fecal gut microbiome data.
Dynamics of the preterm gut microbiome in health and disease
Authors: Cuna Alain , Morowitz Michael J. , Ahmed Ishfaq , Umar Shahid , Sampath Venkatesh
Published: January 2021

Advances in metagenomics have allowed a detailed study of the gut microbiome, and its role in human health and disease. Infants born prematurely possess a fragile gut microbial ecosystem that is vulnerable to perturbation. Alterations in the developing gut microbiome in preterm infants are linked to life-threatening diseases such as necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and late-onset sepsis; and may impact future risk of asthma, atopy, obesity, and psychosocial disease. In this mini-review, we summarize recent literature on the origins and patterns of development of the preterm gut microbiome in the perinatal period. The host-microbiome-environmental factors that portend development of dysbiotic intestinal microbial patterns associated with NEC and sepsis are reviewed. Strategies to manipulate the microbiome and mitigate dysbiosis, including the use of probiotics and prebiotics will also be discussed. Finally, we explore the challenges and future directions of gut microbiome research in preterm infants.
The role of astrocytes in the nucleus tractus solitarii in maintaining central control of autonomic function
Authors: Martinez Diana , Kline David D.
Published: January 2021

The nucleus tractus solitarii (nTS) is the first central site for the termination and integration of autonomic and respiratory sensory information. Sensory afferents terminating in the nTS as well as the embedded nTS neurocircuitry release and utilize glutamate that is critical for maintenance of baseline cardiorespiratory parameters and initiating cardiorespiratory reflexes, including those activated by bouts of hypoxia. nTS astrocytes contribute to synaptic and neuronal activity through a variety of mechanisms, including gliotransmission and regulation of glutamate in the extracellular space via membrane-bound transporters. Here, we aim to highlight recent evidence for the role of astrocytes within the nTS and their regulation of autonomic and cardiorespiratory processes under normal and hypoxic conditions.
Vascular function in continuous-flow left ventricular assist device recipients: effect of a single pulsatility treatment session
Authors: Hydren Jay R. , Gifford Jayson R. , Jarrett Catherine L. , Park Soung Hun , Shields Katherine L. , Broxterman Ryan M. , Kithas Andrew C. , Bisconti Angela Valentina , Thurston Taylor S. , Ratchford Stephen M. , Wray D. Walter , Stehlik Josef , Selzman Craig H. , Drakos Stavros G. , Richardson Russell S.
Published: January 2021

Vascular function is further attenuated in patients with chronic heart failure implanted with a continuous-flow left ventricular assist device (LVAD), likely due to decreased arterial pulsatility, and this may contribute to LVAD-associated cardiovascular complications. However, the impact of increasing pulsatility on vascular function in this population is unknown. Therefore, 15 LVAD recipients and 15 well-matched controls underwent a 45-min, unilateral, arm pulsatility treatment, evoked by intermittent cuff inflation/deflation (2-s duty cycle), distal to the elbow. Vascular function was assessed by percent brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (%FMD) and reactive hyperemia (RH) (Doppler ultrasound). Pretreatment, %FMD (LVAD: 4.0 ± 1.7; controls: 4.2 ± 1.4%) and RH (LVAD: 340 ± 101; controls: 308 ± 94 mL) were not different between LVAD recipients and controls; however, %FMD/shear rate was attenuated (LVAD: 0.10 ± 0.04; controls: 0.17 ± 0.06%/s−1, P < 0.05). The LVAD recipients exhibited a significantly attenuated pulsatility index (PI) compared with controls prior to treatment (LVAD: 2 ± 2; controls: 15 ± 7 AU, P < 0.05); however, during the treatment, PI was no longer different (LVAD: 37 ± 38; controls: 36 ± 14 AU). Although time to peak dilation and RH were not altered by the pulsatility treatment, %FMD (LVAD: 7.0 ± 1.8; controls: 7.4 ± 2.6%) and %FMD/shear rate (LVAD: 0.19 ± 0.07; controls: 0.33 ± 0.15%/s−1) increased significantly in both groups, with, importantly, %FMD/shear rate in the LVAD recipients being restored to that of the controls pretreatment. This study documents that a localized pulsatility treatment in LVAD recipients and controls can recover local vascular function, an important precursor to the development of approaches to increase systemic pulsatility and reduce systemic vascular complications in LVAD recipients.
Research on the Effect of Metal Electrode Coupling Voltage under Induced Electrostatic Discharge
Authors: Zhang Jianping , Hu Xiaofeng , Xie Xining , Li Siyu
Published: January 2021

In this paper, the mechanism of electrostatic discharge induced by a strong electromagnetic field was studied through software simulation and test verification. By focusing on the effect mechanism of coupling voltage between metal electrodes to induce electrostatic discharge, we obtained the law of electrostatic discharge induced by the strong electromagnetic field. In the process of electrostatic discharge induced by the strong electromagnetic field, due to the antenna receiving effect of metal electrode structure, the strong electromagnetic field would form coupling induction voltage on the metal electrode. The voltage acts on both ends of the discharge electrode structure and generates an electric field in the gap between the electrode structure, which superimposes on the original field; furthermore, it has an impact on the electrostatic discharge process, resulting in the formation of induced discharge with low charging voltage structure.
Effect and Molecular Mechanisms of Jiedu Recipe on Hypoxia-Induced Angiogenesis after Transcatheter Arterial Chemoembolization in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Lin Wanfu , Wang Huan , Zhong Maofeng , Yu Shasha , Zhao Shasha , Liang Shufang , Du Juan , Cheng Binbin , Gu Wei , Ling Changquan
Published: January 2021

Transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) is one of the effective treatment methods for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in middle and late phases. However, TACE-induced hypoxia may promote the angiogenesis and section of some cytokines, such as IL-8, and, thereby, lead to tumor metastasis. Therefore, we investigated the effect of Jiedu Recipe (JR), which has been demonstrated as an effective Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) recipe on HCC, on TACE-induced cytokines upregulation and hypoxia-induced angiogenesis. A total of 88 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients treated with TACE were enrolled and divided into a JR group or control group. TACE induced significant increases of neutrophil lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet lymphocyte ratio (PLR), IL-1β, IL-2R, IL-6, and IL-8. JR treatment significantly inhibited the elevation of IL-8 compared with control. In vitro, JR significantly inhibited the hypoxia-induced overexpression of IL-8, HIF-1α, and VEGF mRNA in Huh 7 cells. ELISA assay demonstrated the effect of JR on IL-8 expression. Both hypoxia and IL-8 may promote angiogenesis which was suppressed by JR. Western blot showed that IL-8 upregulated the expression of phosphorylation of AKT, ERK, NF-κB, and VEGFR, which were inhibited by JR. On the other hand, effects of IL-8 on the increase of p-AKT and p-ERK were also blocked by LY294002 and U0126, respectively. In conclusion, our results indicated that JR may inhibit hypoxia-induced angiogenesis through suppressing IL-8/HIF-1α/PI3K and MAPK/ERK pathways after TACE in HCC patients.
Two‐Stage Pricing Decision for Low‐Carbon Products Based on Consumer Strategic Behaviour
Authors: Che Cheng , Zhang Zhihong , Zhang Xiaoguang , Chen Yi
Published: January 2021

The development of information technology has changed the pricing strategy of retailers, and consumers have also made strategic consumption behaviours accordingly. At the same time, changes in the environment have caused changes in the retailer’s products and raised consumers’ environmental awareness. This paper uses a two‐stage pricing model to study the low‐carbon product pricing decisions of retailers based on strategic consumers with low‐carbon preferences in two situations. Through the analysis of low‐carbon and ordinary products in two situations, the following conclusions can be drawn: (1) In a market where retailers only sell low‐carbon products, product prices and profits increase as consumers’ green preference θ increases. (2) In the low‐carbon product and ordinary product markets, the price and profit of low‐carbon products increase with regard to consumers’ green preference θ. (3) In the second stage, when consumers’ intertemporal discount factor β for ordinary products is larger than that of low‐carbon products, the retailer’s total profit is smaller. The research conclusion comprehensively analyses the impact of customer strategic behaviour on the two‐stage pricing decision of green differentiated products, which provides a very important reference for retailers to make pricing optimization decisions.
Experimental Studies on Physicochemical Parameters of Water Samples before and after Treatment with a Cold Atmospheric Plasma Jet and its Optical Characterization
Authors: Baniya Hom Bahadur , Guragain Rajesh Prakash , Panta Gobinda Prasad , Dhungana Santosh , Chhetri Ganesh Kuwar , Joshi Ujjwal Man , Pandey Bishnu Prasad , Subedi Deepak Prasad
Published: January 2021

Cold plasma-liquid interaction becomes a growing interdisciplinary area of research involving plasma physics, fluid science, and chemistry. Plasma-liquid interaction has gained more interest over the last many years due to its potential applications in different fields. Cold atmospheric plasma jet is an emerging technology for surface drinking water treatment to improve quality and surface modification that is chemical-free and eco-friendly. Cold plasma treatment of water samples results in changes in turbidity, pH, and conductivity and in the formation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS). As a result, plasma-activated water has a different chemical composition than water and can serve as an alternative technique for microbial disinfection. CAPJ has been generated by a high voltage 5 kV and a high frequency 19.56 kHz power supply. The discharge has been characterized by an optical method. To characterize the cold atmospheric pressure argon plasma jet, discharge plume temperature, and electron rotational and vibrational temperature have been determined. Cold atmospheric argon plasma jet produced at atmospheric condition contains high energetic electrons, ions, UV radiation, reactive oxygen, and nitrogen species named as cold plasma which has a wide range of applications in the biomedical industry, as well as in water treatment. Nowadays, researches have been carried out on ozonation through plasma jet interaction with surface drinking water. In this paper, we compare the change in physical and chemical parameters of surface water used for drinking purposes. The significant change in the physical parameters such as pH, turbidity, and electrical conductivity was studied. In addition, the significant changes in the concentration and absorbance of nitrate, ferrous, and chromium ions with respect to treatment time were studied. Our results showed that plasma jet interaction with surface drinking water samples can be useful for the improvement of water quality and an indicator for which reactive species play an important role in plasma sterilization.
Numerical Modeling and Stability Analysis of Surrounding Rock of Yuanjue Cave
Authors: Meng Zhigang , Fan Fangzheng , Cui Xuebin , Tao Shu , Cao Yi
Published: January 2021

Yuanjue Cave, located in Big Buddha Bay, Mount Baoding, Dazu Rock Carvings Area, has extremely high historical, artistic, and religious value and is an important grotto cultural relic in China. Due to the cutting action of the fissures and weak interlayers, the South Cliff of Big Buddha Bay where Yuanjue Cave is located showed signs of instability. In order to fully evaluate the stability of the rock mass around the cliff where Yuanjue Cave is located, a three-dimensional geological model of the surrounding rock of Yuanjue Cave was established by using FLAC3D software, combined with three-dimensional scanning, fissure investigation, and indoor tests. The stability of the surrounding rock mass adjacent to Yuanjue Cave has been studied by precise numerical simulation, and the results of numerical simulation and monitoring have been compared and analysed. The results show the following: (1) The west of J10 fissure, above the mudstone interlayer, is the main deformation area. The cliff displacement increases gradually from the east to the west. The independent block above the corner has the largest free space displacement, and there is a risk of independent collapse. Special attention should be paid to the stability of this block. The displacement of the upper monitoring point of the cliff wall is significantly greater than that of the lower layer. (2) In the surrounding rock block in the adjacent area, the various concentrated stresses of the body are mainly located at the entrance of Yuanjue Cave, the height of the chest of the Zhengjue Buddha statue, and the lower mudstone erosion and reinforcement zone. Among them, the stress concentration in the erosion and reinforcement area under the Zhengjue Buddha statue is the largest. The conclusions obtained can provide a useful reference for the stability assessment of the surrounding rock of Yuanjue Cave.
Mechanism of User Participation in Co‐creation Community: A Network Evolutionary Game Method
Authors: Zhang Fanshun , Li Congdong , Cao Cejun
Published: January 2021

Active participation closely associates with the sustainable operation of co‐creation communities. Different from recent studies on the promotion of sustainable operation by identifying the internal and external motivations of user participation, this paper aims to analyze the mechanism regarding how different motivations affect the decision of user participation from group‐level perspective. To better understand the mechanism, internal and external motivations are, respectively, captured by return‐cost analysis and user interactive network. Afterwards, a network evolutionary game model was formulated to analyze the dynamic strategy selection (e.g., active participation and passive participation) of all users. In addition, the stable equilibrium and evolutionary path of strategies are analyzed through computational experiments. Results indicate the following: (a) Rewards have an influence on the promotion of active participation. However, with the continued growth of rewards, this promotion does not make sense sustainably. (b) The promotional effect of information noise on the selection of active participation can be found when passive participation is the dominant strategy. However, the inhibitory effect can be seen in populations that mainly adopt active participation. (c) The scale‐free feature of user interactive network inhibits the selection of active participation when active participation is the dominant strategy in populations. Results found here is beneficial for managers to implement the specified policies and thus to achieve the sustainability of co‐creation community.
Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Phenolic Compounds from Moroccan Lavandula stoechas L.: Optimization Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Ez zoubi Yassine , Fadil Mouhcine , Bousta Dalila , El Ouali Lalami Abdelhakim , Lachkar Mohammed , Farah Abdellah
Published: January 2021

Secondary plant metabolites, in particular phenolic compounds, are characterized by great diversity in the plant kingdom and are widely used in the medical and industrial fields. The extraction of these compounds represents a critical step, and the differences in extraction conditions strongly affect the yields and the total concentrations of polyphenols in the extracts. In this way, the objective of the present study was to optimize the extraction parameters of the polyphenols from Lavandula stoechas using the extraction technique assisted by ultrasound. Yield and the total concentration of polyphenols have been optimized, taking into account three variables, the extraction time (min), the ethanol concentration (%), and the solvent/extract ratio (ml/g). The optimum extraction yield (31.88%) was obtained by ensuring the following parameters: an ethanol concentration of 40%, a liquid/solid ratio of 30 ml/g, and a time processing of 32.62 min. The maximum concentration of total polyphenols (190.14 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g) was obtained after 21.5 min of extraction, with a liquid/solid ratio of 30 ml/g and a concentration of ethanol at 40%. In order to obtain the maximum yield (24.9%) and the total concentration of polyphenols (190.14 mg GAE/g) simultaneously, the following parameters must be adjusted: an extraction time of 21.5 min, a liquid/solid ratio of 30 ml/g, and a concentration of ethanol at 40%. The experimental values of the yield and the total concentration of the polyphenols were in good agreement with the predicted values, which suggests that the ultrasonic extraction model adopted in this study is validated.
Investigation of Pressure Relief Borehole Effects Using In Situ Testing Based on Distributed Optical Fibre Sensing Technology
Authors: Li Yunpeng , Sun Dequan , Zhao Shankun , Liang Kaihua , Cui Kai , Wang Huaihong
Published: January 2021

Borehole pressure relief method is one of the most effective ways of rock burst prevention in coal mines. The measured results of borehole pressure relief at no. 8939 longwall face in Xinzhouyao coal mine, China, are presented here. The analyses identify the pressure relief magnitudes in coal mass around the boreholes with different diameters, spacing, and drilling time. This research has established that the best pressure relief of the rib coal can be achieved by using φ108 mm borehole with 0.7 m interval after 288 hours. The strain relief is acceptable after 288–360 hours of drilling, while the best result is achieved after 432 hours. It is also the first time to monitor the borehole pressure relief in a coal mine on‐site using Brillouin optical time domain reflectometer (BOTDR) distributed fibre‐optic sensing. The method implemented in this research provides new ways to improve stress relief design and minimize the rock burst occurrence for mine practitioners.
Analysis of the Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Mechanism of Shiyifang Vinum Based on Network Pharmacology
Authors: Tian Hui , Wei Linli , Yao Yunxiu , Zeng Zhaoqing , Liang Xue , Zhu Hua
Published: January 2021

Objective. The possible core active compounds and potential mechanism of action of Shiyifang Vinum were explored through network pharmacology and in vitro enzyme activity verification experiments. Methods. We screened the core active components and the action targets of Shiyifang Vinum through the TCMSP database and literature mining and drew a Venn map of the intersection with anti-inflammatory and analgesic-related gene targets. Go and KEGG analyses were enriched with the David database. The compound target pathway network was constructed using Cytoscape 3.6.1. The binding strength of core active compounds and target proteins was verified through molecular docking, and the direct effects of Shiyifang Vinum and four monomer compounds on COX-2 enzyme activity were detected through an in vitro enzyme activity test. Results. 14 active compounds and 11 targets were screened out from Shiyifang Vinum through TCMSP database and literature mining; 252 GO entries were obtained by GO analysis, and 114 signal pathways were screened by KEGG analysis. The results of the molecular docking showed that the core compounds and target proteins had strong binding activity. In vitro validation experiments showed that both the Shiyifang Vinum and the four monomer compounds could inhibit the activity of COX-2. Conclusion. This study preliminarily explored the potential active compounds and target proteins of the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of Shiyifang Vinum, which could provide a scientific basis for further study on the anti-inflammatory and analgesic mechanism and material basis of this recipe.
Profitability Analysis of Tree Growing in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania
Authors: Lusambo Leopold Pascal , Nyanda Suzana Samson , Mhando David Gongwe
Published: January 2021

This study aimed at determining the extent to which the smallholder tree growers benefit from tree growing activities. It strove to accomplish the following: (i) analyse costs and benefits associated with tree growing activities; (ii) determine profitability indices; and (iii) assess economic status of respondents in the study area. Stratified random sampling technique was used to draw respondents. Mixed research methods for data collection were employed: household survey using semistructured questionnaire, key informants’ interviews, focus group discussions, and researcher’s direct observation. Data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and Microsoft Excel computer programmes. Profitability was analysed by gross profit margin (GPM) and return on investment (ROI). Findings suggested that tree growing activities are profitable with GPM of 21% and ROI of 26%. ANOVA results showed no statistical difference within study districts between tree growers and non-tree growers. The possible explanation of this situation could be that tree growers have not invested much the benefits they get from tree growing into asset endowment. ANOVA results on household income revealed a similar pattern except in Njombe DC where there was a statistical significant difference in household income between tree growers and non-tree growers (F (1, 64) = 5.989,

P
=
0.017

). The effect size of the difference is medium (Eta = 0.08). It is concluded that tree growing activities in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania are economically profitable.
A Wireless Passive Vibration Sensor Based on High‐Temperature Ceramic for Harsh Environment
Authors: Li Chen , Xue Yanan , Jia Pengyu , Jia Mangu , Sun Boshan , Xiong Jijun
Published: January 2021

This paper proposes a wireless passive vibration sensor based on high‐temperature ceramics for vibration measurement in harsh environments such as automotive and advanced engines. The sensor can be equivalent to an acceleration‐sensitive RF LC resonance tank. The structural design of the LC tank and the signal wireless sensing mechanism are introduced in detail. The high‐temperature mechanical properties of the sensitive structure are analyzed using ANSYS at 25–400°C, which proves the usability of the vibration sensor in high‐temperature environment. The three‐dimensional integrated manufacturing of vibration sensors with a beam‐mass structure based on high‐temperature ceramics is completed by a bonding process. Finally, the performance of the sensor is tested on a built experimental platform, and the results show that the vibration sensitivity is approximately 1.303 mv/m·s-2, and the nonlinear error is approximately 4.3%. The vibration sensor can work normally within 250°C, and the sensitivity is 0.989 mv/m·s-2.
Dynamic Characteristic Analysis and Clutch Engagement Test of HMCVT in the High‐Power Tractor
Authors: Chen Yuan , Qian Yu , Lu Zhixiong , Zhou Shuang , Xiao Maohua , Bartos Petr , Xiong Yeping , Jin Guanghu , Zhang Wei
Published: January 2021

Hydromechanical continuously variable transmission (HMCVT) is capable of bearing large torque and has wide transmission range, which is suitable for high‐power tractors. Dynamic characteristics could influence the tractor life, especially in a high‐power tractor. Wet clutch is the crucial component in the HMCVT, which could smooth and soft power transmission. Therefore, it is important to study the dynamic characteristics and implement the wet clutch test of HMCVT. In this paper, AMESim is used to establish virtual models of gearbox, pump‐controlled hydraulic motor system, and shifting hydraulic system. Then, a simulation study of tractor operation under working condition is carried out. The internal and external meshing forces of the planetary row are analyzed. Finally, the wet clutch engagement process of HMCVT  in the high‐power tractor is tested to verify the oil pressure. The simulation results show that the values of internal and external meshing force become larger as the throttle opening increases. At the moment of shifting change, the meshing forces of the planetary gear have great impact. The clutch test shows that the trend of the oil filling curve obtained from the bench test is similar to that obtained from the theoretical curve, which verifies the simulation results.
Killer-Cell Immunoglobulin-Like Receptors (KIR) in HIV-Exposed Infants in Cameroon
Authors: Luc-Aimé Kagoué Simeni , Louis-Marie Yindom , Gabriel Loni Ekali , Yengo Clauvis Kunkeng , Esemu Livo F. , Assob Nguedia Jules Clement
Published: January 2021

The biological reason(s) behind persistent mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV (albeit at reduced rate compared to the preantiretroviral therapy era) in spite of the successful implementation of advanced control measures in many African countries remains a priority concern to many HIV/AIDS control programs. This may be partly due to differences in host immunogenetic factors in highly polymorphic regions of the human genome such as those encoding the killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) molecules which modulate the activities of natural killer cells. The primary aim of this study was to determine the variants of KIR genes that may have a role to play in MTCT in a cohort of infants born to HIV-infected mothers in Yaoundé, Cameroon. We designed a cross-sectional study to molecularly determine the frequencies of 15 KIR genes in 14 HIV-exposed infected (HEI), 39 HIV-exposed/uninfected (HEU), and 27 HIV-unexposed/uninfected (HUU) infants using the sequence specific primer polymerase chain reaction (PCR-SSP) method. We found that all 15 KIR genes were present in our cohort. The frequency of KIR2DL1 was significantly higher in the unexposed (control) group than in the HIV-exposed group (

OR
=
0.22

,

P
=
0.006

). Stratifying analysis by infection status but focusing only on exposed infants revealed that KIR2DL5, KIR2DS1, and KIR2DS5 were significantly overrepresented among the HIV-exposed/uninfected compared to infected infants (

OR
=
0.20

,

P
=
0.006

). Similarly, the frequencies of KIR2DS1, KIR2DS5, and KIR2DL5 were significantly different between infants perinatally infected with HIV (HIV+ by 6 months of age) and HIV-negative infants. Our study demonstrates that KIR genes may have differential effects with regard to MTCT of HIV-1.