bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial patterns and inequalities in skilled birth attendance and caesarean delivery in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Bobo Firew Tekle , Asante Augustine , Woldie Mirkuzie , Dawson Angela , Hayen Andrew
Published: October 2021

Background

Improved access to and quality obstetric care in health facilities reduces maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. We examined spatial patterns, within-country wealth-related inequalities and predictors of inequality in skilled birth attendance and caesarean deliveries in sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods

We analysed the most recent Demographic and Health Survey data from 25 sub-Saharan African countries. We used the concentration index to measure within-country wealth-related inequality in skilled birth attendance and caesarean section. We fitted a multilevel Poisson regression model to identify predictors of inequality in having skilled attendant at birth and caesarean section.

Results

The rate of skilled birth attendance ranged from 24.3% in Chad to 96.7% in South Africa. The overall coverage of caesarean delivery was 5.4% (95% CI 5.2% to 5.6%), ranging from 1.4% in Chad to 24.2% in South Africa. The overall wealth-related absolute inequality in having a skilled attendant at birth was extremely high, with a difference of 46.2 percentage points between the poorest quintile (44.4%) and the richest quintile (90.6%). In 10 out of 25 countries, the caesarean section rate was less than 1% among the poorest quintile, but the rate was more than 15% among the richest quintile in nine countries. Four or more antenatal care contacts, improved maternal education, higher household wealth status and frequently listening to the radio increased the rates of having skilled attendant at birth and caesarean section. Women who reside in rural areas and those who have to travel long distances to access health facilities were less likely to have skilled attendant at birth or caesarean section.

Conclusions

There were significant within-country wealth-related inequalities in having skilled attendant at birth and caesarean delivery. Efforts to improve access to birth at the facility should begin in areas with low coverage and directly consider the needs and experiences of vulnerable populations.
Barriers and facilitators of diabetes management by continuous glucose monitoring systems among adults with type 2 diabetes: a protocol of qualitative systematic review
Authors: Zheng Mingyue , Patel Anamica , Khoja Adeel , Luo Yunting , Lin Wei , He Qian , Zhao Xuan , Wang Juan , Yang Shenqiao , Hu Peng
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Studies suggest that continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) play an important role in the management of diabetes. Although general acceptance has been reported by patients with type 2 diabetes towards the use of CGMs, potential barriers exist like pain due to sensor insertion, accidental removal of the device or adhesive strip, impacts of daily activities, skin reactions to sensor adhesive, etc. This systematic review of qualitative studies aims to explore the perspectives, experiences and narratives of patients and caregivers about CGM use, and its barriers and facilitators.

Methods and analysis

This review will include qualitative studies and cross-sectional and longitudinal cohort studies using open-ended questions, published in English by 30 October 2021. The following electronic databases will be searched: Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Scopus. A search of grey literature will be conducted via an online search of Google Scholar, WorldCat, ClinicalTrials.gov and OpenGrey A combined search strategy using medical subject headings (MeSH), controlled vocabulary and ‘free-text’ terms will be appropriately revised to suit each database. Primary outcomes will include patient and caregiver perspectives on diabetes management regarding glucose control; living with CGM (quality of life, experience of wearing a CGM); psychological aspects (anxiety, depression, emotional burden); barriers (technical issues, financial issues) to use of CGM and thoughts (interpretation, understanding) on the CGM report. A qualitative meta-synthesis will be conducted employing a systematic literature search of existing literature, quality assessment using study-specific tools and an aggregative thematic synthesis by a multidisciplinary team.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required since this is a systematic review. The results will help improve clinical implementation of CGMs on part of both patients and caregivers.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020152211.
‘Making the most of our situation’: a qualitative study reporting health providers’ perspectives on the challenges of implementing the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV services in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Kram Nidal A-Z , Yesufu Victoria , Lott Breanne , Palmer Kelly N B , Balogun Mobolanle , Ehiri John
Published: October 2021

Objectives

To investigate the challenges of, and opportunities for, effective delivery of prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) services from the perspectives of primary healthcare providers in Lagos, Nigeria.

Design

This qualitative study consisted of nine focus groups with 59 health providers, analysed thematically.

Setting

Thirty-eight primary health facilities in central and western districts of Lagos, Nigeria.

Participants

Participants included nurses, nursing assistants, community health workers, laboratory workers, pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, monitoring and evaluation staff and medical records personnel.

Results

Health providers’ challenges included frustration with the healthcare system where unmet training needs, lack of basic amenities for effective and safe treatment practices, low wages and inefficient workflow were discussed. Providers discussed patient-level challenges, which included the practice of giving fake contact information for fear of HIV-related stigmatisation, and refusal to accept HIV-positive results and to enrol in care. Providers’ suggestions for addressing PMTCT service delivery challenges included the provision of adequate supplies and training of healthcare workers. To mitigate stigmatisation, participants suggested home-based care, working with traditional birth attendants and religious institutions and designating a HIV health educator for each neighbourhood.

Conclusions

Findings illustrate the complex nature of PMTCT service delivery and illuminate issues at the patient and health system levels. These results may be used to inform strategies for addressing identified barriers and to improve the provision of PMTCT services, thus ensuring better outcomes for women and families.
Effectiveness of modified downregulation for women with moderate and severe adenomyosis of the uterus prior to frozen thawed embryo transfer (MODA) study protocol: a pragmatic randomised-controlled trial
Authors: Latif Sania , Wattar Bassel H Al , Balachandren Neerujah , Lukaszewski Tomasz , Saridogan Ertan , Yasmin Ephia , Serhal Paul , Mavrelos Dimitrios
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Adenomyosis can adversely reduce chances of pregnancy in couples undergoing assisted conception. We aim to evaluate the effect of two different downregulation protocols on the reproductive outcomes in women with moderate and severe adenomyosis undergoing frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FTET).

Methods and analysis

We will conduct a two-armed pragmatic randomised clinical trial comparing modified downregulation with gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogue for 6 weeks to standard downregulation with GnRH analogue for 1 week prior to FTET. Our primary outcome is clinical pregnancy, defined as a viable intrauterine pregnancy confirmed by ultrasound at greater than 6 weeks gestation, with other secondary reproductive, neonatal and safety outcomes. We aim to randomise 162 patients over 3 years to achieve 80% power for detecting a 20% difference in the primary outcome at 5% significance.

Ethics and dissemination

To date there is no consensus on the optimal protocol for management of subfertile women with adenomyosis. Modified downregulation could improve the clinical pregnancy rate by reducing the endometrial inflammatory reaction and/or myometrial contractility and their impact on uterine receptivity in women with moderate and severe adenomyosis of the uterus undergoing FTET. The MODA trial is designed to offer pragmatic, real-life evaluation of the optimal protocol for downregulation for this population during assisted conception treatments. Our findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at national and international scientific meetings and congresses. Ethical approval was granted by the NHS Research Ethics Committees (19/LO/1567).

Trial registration number

NCT03946722.
Digital technology and disease surveillance in the COVID-19 pandemic: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Donelle Lorie , Hall Jodi , Hiebert Brad , Shelley Jacob J , Smith Maxwell J , Gilliland Jason , Stranges Saverio , Kothari Anita , Burkell Jacquelyn , Cooke Tommy , Long Jed , Shelley James M , Befus Deanna , Comer Leigha , Ngole Marionette , Stanley Meagan
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Infectious diseases pose a risk to public health, requiring efficient strategies for disease prevention. Digital health surveillance technologies provide new opportunities to enhance disease prevention, detection, tracking, reporting and analysis. However, in addition to concerns regarding the effectiveness of these technologies in meeting public health goals, there are also concerns regarding the ethics, legality, safety and sustainability of digital surveillance technologies. This scoping review examines the literature on digital surveillance for public health purposes during the COVID-19 pandemic to identify health-related applications of digital surveillance technologies, and to highlight discussions of the implications of these technologies.

Methods and analysis

The scoping review will be guided by the framework proposed by Arksey and O’Malley and the guidelines outlined by Colquhounet aland Levacet al. We will search Medline (Ovid), PsycInfo, PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL (EBSCOhost), ACM Digital Library, Google Scholar and IEEE Explore for relevant studies published between December 2019 and December 2020. The review will also include grey literature. Data will be managed and analysed through an extraction table and thematic analysis.

Ethics and dissemination

Findings will be disseminated through traditional academic channels, as well as social media channels and research briefs and infographics. We will target our dissemination to provincial and federal public health organisations, as well as technology companies and community-based organisations managing the public response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Labour after caesarean counselling documentation: a quality improvement intervention on labour and delivery
Authors: Hill Elena , Chinkam Somphit , Cardenas Lilia , Iverson Ronald Edward
Published: October 2021

Background

Most women who have had previous caesareans are eligible to have labour after caesarean (LAC), but only 11.9% do so. Studies show the majority of women have already decided about future mode of birth (FMOB) before a subsequent pregnancy. Hence, providing women with LAC counselling soon after birth may help women plan for future pregnancies. Prior to our intervention, our hospital had no method of ensuring that women received LAC counselling after caesarean section. The purpose of this QI initiative was to assess whether formal LAC documentation on labour and delivery (L&D) improves rates of LAC counselling post partum.

Methods

Our three-part intervention included: (1) surgeon’s assessment of LAC feasibility in the operative note, (2) written LAC education for women in discharge paperwork and (3) documentation of LAC counselling in the discharge summary. We implemented these changes on L&D in January 2019. We conducted phone surveys of 40 women after caesarean preintervention and postintervention. Surveys included questions regarding three primary outcomes: whether or not they had received LAC counselling either in the hospital or at a postpartum visit, and whether or not they would pursue LAC as FMOB. Surveys also assessed two secondary outcomes: (1) women’s understanding of the indications for surgery and (2) their involvement in the decision process. We used a χ2analysis to assess primary outcomes and a Fisher’s exact test to assess secondary outcomes. We also surveyed providers about the culture of LAC counselling at our hospital.

Results

After our intervention, there was a significant difference between the number of women reporting LAC postpartum counselling (30.77% vs 53.8%, p=0.04). There was also a significant difference in the number of women feeling involved in the decision-making process (68% vs 95%, p=0.03). Providers reported improved knowledge/confidence around LAC counselling (58%–100%). Providers universally stated that LAC counselling has become more ingrained in the culture on L&D.

Conclusions

Documentation of LAC counselling improved the consistency with which providers incorporated LAC counselling into postpartum care. Addressing FMOB at the time of pLTCS and documenting that counselling may be an effective first step in empowering women to pursue LAC in future pregnancies.
Machine learning-derived electrocardiographic algorithm for the detection of cardiac amyloidosis
Authors: Schrutka Lore , Anner Philip , Agibetov Asan , Seirer Benjamin , Dusik Fabian , Rettl René , Duca Franz , Dalos Daniel , Dachs Theresa-Marie , Binder Christina , Badr-Eslam Roza , Kastner Johannes , Beitzke Dietrich , Loewe Christian , Hengstenberg Christian , Laufer Günther , Stix Guenter , Dorffner Georg , Bonderman Diana
Published: October 2021

Background

Diagnosis of cardiac amyloidosis (CA) requires advanced imaging techniques. Typical surface ECG patterns have been described, but their diagnostic abilities are limited.

Objective

The aim was to perform a thorough electrophysiological characterisation of patients with CA and derive an easy-to-use tool for diagnosis.

Methods

We applied electrocardiographic imaging (ECGI) to acquire electroanatomical maps in patients with CA and controls. A machine learning approach was then used to decipher the complex data sets obtained and generate a surface ECG-based diagnostic tool.

Findings

Areas of low voltage were localised in the basal inferior regions of both ventricles and the remaining right ventricular segments in CA. The earliest epicardial breakthrough of myocardial activation was visualised on the right ventricle. Potential maps revealed an accelerated and diffuse propagation pattern. We correlated the results from ECGI with 12-lead ECG recordings. Ventricular activation correlated best with R-peak timing in leads V1–V3. Epicardial voltage showed a strong positive correlation with R-peak amplitude in the inferior leads II, III and aVF. Respective surface ECG leads showed two characteristic patterns. Ten blinded cardiologists were asked to identify patients with CA by analysing 12-lead ECGs before and after training on the defined ECG patterns. Training led to significant improvements in the detection rate of CA, with an area under the curve of 0.69 before and 0.97 after training.

Interpretation

Using a machine learning approach, an ECG-based tool was developed from detailed electroanatomical mapping of patients with CA. The ECG algorithm is simple and has proven helpful to suspect CA without the aid of advanced imaging modalities.
Quantifying heterogeneity in sexual behaviour and distribution of STIs before and after pre-exposure prophylaxis among men who have sex with men
Authors: van Wees Daphne Amanda , Diexer Sophie , Rozhnova Ganna , Matser Amy , den Daas Chantal , Heijne Janneke , Kretzschmar Mirjam
Published: October 2021

Objectives: Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use may influence sexual behaviour and transmission of STIs among men who have sex with men (MSM). We aimed to quantify the distribution of STI diagnoses among MSM in the Netherlands based on their sexual behaviour before and after the introduction of PrEP.

Methods: HIV-negative MSM participating in a prospective cohort study (Amsterdam Cohort Studies) completed questionnaires about sexual behaviour and were tested for STI/HIV during biannual visits (2009–2019). We developed a sexual behaviour risk score predictive of STI diagnosis and used it to calculate Gini coefficients for gonorrhoea, chlamydia and syphilis diagnoses in the period before (2009 to mid-2015) and after PrEP (mid-2015 to 2019). Gini coefficients close to zero indicate that STI diagnoses are homogeneously distributed over the population, and close to one indicate that STI diagnoses are concentrated in individuals with a higher risk score.

Results: The sexual behaviour risk score (n=630, n visits=10 677) ranged between 0.00 (low risk) and 3.61 (high risk), and the mean risk score increased from 0.70 (SD=0.66) before to 0.93 (SD=0.80) after PrEP. Positivity rates for chlamydia (4%) and syphilis (1%) remained relatively stable, but the positivity rate for gonorrhoea increased from 4% before to 6% after PrEP. Gini coefficients increased from 0.37 (95% CI 0.30 to 0.43) to 0.43 (95% CI 0.36 to 0.49) for chlamydia, and from 0.37 (95% CI 0.19 to 0.52) to 0.50 (95% CI 0.32 to 0.66) for syphilis comparing before to after PrEP. The Gini coefficient for gonorrhoea remained stable at 0.46 (95% CI 0.40 to 0.52) before and after PrEP.

Conclusions: MSM engaged in more high-risk sexual behaviour and gonorrhoea diagnoses increased after PrEP was introduced. Chlamydia and syphilis diagnoses have become more concentrated in a high-risk subgroup. Monitoring the impact of increasing PrEP coverage on sexual behaviour and STI incidence is important. Improved STI prevention is needed, especially for high-risk MSM.
Shear strength and stiffness behavior of fine-grained soils at different surface hydration conditions
Authors: Lee Jeongki , Fratta Dante , Akin Idil
Published: October 2021

We developed an experimental program to monitor how interparticle forces control the mechanical behavior of fine-grained soils when saturation changes from the tightly adsorbed regime to saturation. The testing program uses stiffness (i.e., S-wave velocity) and strength (i.e., Brazilian tensile strength) tests on kaolinite, silica flour, and diatomaceous earth soil samples at very low confining stresses (<5 kPa). Three fine-grained soils yield a range of different properties, including particle size, specific surface area, negative charge density, and internal or external particle porosity. Results show that shear stiffness and tensile strength follow similar trends, emphasizing that the same interparticle forces control the mechanical responses. In particular, the interpretation of S-wave velocity measurements shows three different behavior ranges: a van der Waals attraction range, a capillary-dominated interparticle forces range, and the continuous decrease in the capillary forces from the saturation at the air-entry pressure until full saturation. We show that the interparticle forces respond to a complex function of water content, particle size, particle separations, surface charge density, and the presence of internal particle porosity.
Sensitivity of future linear $$\hbox {e}^+\hbox {e}^-$$ colliders to processes of dark matter production with light mediator exchange
Authors: Kalinowski Jan , Kotlarski Wojciech , Mȩkała Krzysztof , Sopicki Paweł , Żarnecki Aleksander Filip
Published: October 2021

As any $$e^+e^-$$

e
+

e
-

scattering process can be accompanied by a hard photon emission from the initial state radiation, the analysis of the energy spectrum and angular distributions of those photons can be used to search for hard processes with an invisible final state. Thus high energy $$e^+e^-$$

e
+

e
-

colliders offer a unique possibility for the most general search of dark matter (DM) based on the mono-photon signature. We consider production of DM particles at the International Linear Collider (ILC) and Compact Linear Collider (CLIC) experiments via a light mediator exchange. Detector effects are taken into account within the Delphes fast simulation framework. Limits on the light DM production in a simplified model are set as a function of the mediator mass and width based on the expected two-dimensional distributions of the reconstructed mono-photon events. The experimental sensitivity is extracted in terms of the DM production cross section. Limits on the mediator couplings are then presented for a wide range of mediator masses and widths. For light mediators, for masses up to the centre-of-mass energy of the collider, coupling limits derived from the mono-photon analysis are more stringent than those expected from direct resonance searches in decay channels to SM particles.
Self-Adaptive Particle Swarm Optimization-Based Echo State Network for Time Series Prediction
Authors: Xue Yu , Zhang Qi , Neri Ferrante
Published: October 2021

Echo state networks (ESNs), belonging to the family of recurrent neural networks (RNNs), are suitable for addressing complex nonlinear tasks due to their rich dynamic characteristics and easy implementation. The reservoir of the ESN is composed of a large number of sparsely connected neurons with randomly generated weight matrices. How to set the structural parameters of the ESN becomes a difficult problem in practical applications. Traditionally, the design of the parameters of the ESN structure is performed manually. The manual adjustment of the ESN parameters is not convenient since it is an extremely challenging and time-consuming task. This paper proposes an ensemble of five particle swarm optimization (PSO) strategies to design the structure of ESN and then reduce the manual intervention in the design process. An adaptive selection mechanism is used for each particle in the evolution to select a strategy from the strategy candidate pool for evolution. In addition, leaky integration neurons are used as reservoir internal neurons, which are added within the adaptive mechanism for optimization. The root mean squared error (RMSE) is adopted as the evaluation criterion. The experimental results on Mackey–Glass time series benchmark dataset show that the proposed method outperforms other traditional evolutionary methods. Furthermore, experimental results on electrocardiogram dataset show that the proposed method on the ensemble of PSO displays an excellent performance on real-world problems.
Neuro-Scientific Analysis of Weights in Neural Networks
Authors: Hasan Md. Saqib , Alam Rukshar , Adnan Muhammad Abdullah
Published: October 2021

Deep learning is a popular topic among machine learning researchers nowadays, with great strides being made in recent years to develop robust artificial neural networks for faster convergence to a reasonable accuracy. Network architecture and hyperparameters of the model are fundamental aspects of model convergence. One such important parameter is the initial values of weights, also known as weight initialization. In this paper, we perform two research tasks concerned with the weights of neural networks. First, we develop three novel weight initialization algorithms inspired by the neuroscientific construction of the mammalian brains and then test them on benchmark datasets against other algorithms to compare and assess their performance. We call these algorithms the lognormal weight initialization, modified lognormal weight initialization, and skewed weight initialization. We observe from our results that these initialization algorithms provide state-of-the-art results on all of the benchmark datasets. Second, we analyze the influence of training an artificial neural network on its weight distribution by measuring the correlation between the quantitative metrics of skewness and kurtosis against the model accuracy using linear regression for different weight initializations. Results indicate a positive correlation between network accuracy and skewness of the weight distribution but no affirmative relation between accuracy and kurtosis. This analysis provides further insight into understanding the inner mechanism of neural network training using the shape of weight distribution. Overall, the works in this paper are the first of their kind in incorporating neuroscientific knowledge into the domain of artificial neural network weights.
THEORETICAL AND COMPUTATIONAL RESULTS FOR MIXED TYPE VOLTERRA–FREDHOLM FRACTIONAL INTEGRAL EQUATIONS
Authors: AMIN ROHUL , ALRABAIAH HUSSAM , MAHARIQ IBRAHIM , ZEB ANWAR
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we develop a numerical method for the solutions of mixed type Volterra–Fredholm fractional integral equations (FIEs). The proposed algorithm is based on Haar wavelet collocation technique (HWCT). Under certain conditions, we prove the existence and uniqueness of the solution. Also, some stability results are given of Hyers–Ulam (H–U) type. With the help of the HWCT, the considered problem is transformed into a system of algebraic equations which is then solved for the required results by using Gauss elimination algorithm. Some numerical examples for convergence of the proposed technique are taken from the literature. Maximum absolute and root mean square errors are calculated for different collocation points (CPs). The results show that the HWCT is an effective method for solving FIEs. The convergence rate for different CPS is also calculated, which is nearly equal to [Formula: see text].
Additive properties for the pseudo core inverse of morphisms in an additive category
Authors: Chen Jianlong , Chen Xiaofeng , Wang Dingguo
Published: October 2021

In this paper, given a morhism [Formula: see text] with its pseudo core inverse [Formula: see text] and a morphism [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] is invertible, a necessary and sufficient condition and two sufficient conditions are presented under which the additive property, namely [Formula: see text] holds. Several interesting results about additive properties of core inverses of bounded linear operators presented in Huang et al. are generalized to the case of pseudo core inverse of morphism. Also, many results regarding additive properties of core-EP inverses of complex matrices studied by Ma and Stanimirović are extended to the cases of morphism.
A diophantine equation inspired by Brahmagupta’s identity
Authors: Choudhry Ajai , Bluskov Iliya , James Alexander
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we obtain several parametric solutions of the diophantine equation [Formula: see text]. We also show how infinitely many parametric solutions of this equation may be obtained by using elliptic curves.
Adaptive Shewhart Control Charts Under Fuzzy Parameters with Tuned Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Amiri Amirhossein , Salmasnia Ali , Zarifi Meraj , Maleki Mohammad Reza
Published: October 2021

In recent years, adaptive control charts in which the design parameters depend on the observed samples have been successfully used as efficient alternatives for traditional control charts with constant parameters. In crisp run control rules, the process state may change very sharply from in-control to out-of-control conditions which increase the rate of false alarms. To overcome this drawback, this paper presents an adaptive Shewhart-type control chart, where the design parameters (sample size ([Formula: see text]), sampling interval ([Formula: see text]), and control limit coefficients ([Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text])) are defined with linguistic variables. To accomplish that, the chart parameters are determined based on the location of eight previous chart statistics using a set of fuzzy rules in a continuous environment. In order to improve the sensitivity of the proposed control chart in detecting small shifts in both location and scale parameters, the adaptive procedure is designed by integration of fuzzy Western Electric rules and fuzzy adaptive sampling rules. After designing the control charts using a fuzzy inference system (FIS), in order to provide an economic design of the proposed control chart, a tuned Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm is employed to determine the optimal values corresponding to membership functions of the control chart parameters. Finally, using simulation studies, the capability of the proposed control chart is analyzed and compared with common charts in the literature. The results confirm that under different shifts in location and scale parameters, the proposed control chart outperforms other charts in terms of both economic and statistical criteria.
Machine Learning and Soil Humidity Sensing: Signal Strength Approach
Authors: Rodić Lea Dujić , Županović Tomislav , Perković Toni , Šolić Petar , Rodrigues Joel J. P. C.
Published: October 2021

The Internet-of-Things vision of ubiquitous and pervasive computing gives rise to future smart irrigation systems comprising the physical and digital worlds. A smart irrigation ecosystem combined with Machine Learning can provide solutions that successfully solve the soil humidity sensing task in order to ensure optimal water usage. Existing solutions are based on data received from the power hungry/expensive sensors that are transmitting the sensed data over the wireless channel. Over time, the systems become difficult to maintain, especially in remote areas due to the battery replacement issues with a large number of devices. Therefore, a novel solution must provide an alternative, cost- and energy-effective device that has unique advantage over the existing solutions. This work explores the concept of a novel, low-power, LoRa-based, cost-effective system that achieves humidity sensing using Deep Learning techniques that can be employed to sense soil humidity with high accuracy simply by measuring the signal strength of the given underground beacon device.
Spontaneous Formation of Porous Zinc in Rechargeable Zinc Batteries
Authors: Zhu Guoyin , Xiao Diwen , Chen Qing
Published: October 2021

The stability of Zn anodes in Ni-Zn and Zn-air batteries is dictated by the electrochemical transition between Zn and ZnO, the complexity of which has long obscured the micro-structural roots of anode failures such as shape changes, passivation, and dendrite formation. Here we reveal that in this phase transition evolves porous Zn, a structure that underpins the rechargeability of the anode. At sequential stages of charging and discharging cycles, we retrieved over one hundred anodes initially made of ZnO particles. At their cross-sections, we observe the progressive, spontaneous evolution of connected curvy Zn ligaments, explained by the continuum percolation theory and structural self-organization. The growth and consumption of ZnO spikes on the porous structure become a steady state until being upended by the growth of large Zn granules via the long-range transport of zincate. More conductive additive promotes the formation of porous Zn, which improves the cycle life to 230 cycles at 30% utilization of the zinc mass, among the best reported for an alkaline Zn anode. The work underlines the importance of micro-structural evolution for the fulfillment of cheap, safe energy storage by Zn.
Age and sex dependency of thoracic aortopathy in a mouse model of Marfan syndrome
Authors: Gharraee Nazli , Sun Yujian , Swisher Joseph A. , Lessner Susan M.
Published: October 2021

Male Fbn-1C1041G/+ mice show more severe thoracic aortic changes compared with females, especially at 12 mo of age. Up to 6 mo of age, Sca-1+ smooth muscle progenitor cells are more abundant in the adventitia of both male and female Fbn-1 Het mice compared with wild types (WTs). Male and female Het mice show similar patterns of expression of Sca-1+ cells at early ages.
Analysis of the Influence Characteristics of the Support Stability of a Fully Mechanized Coal Mining Face under the Hard Roof Mining Pressure
Authors: Dang Jiaxin , Tu Min , Zhang Xiangyang , Bu Qingwei
Published: October 2021

The conditions of the hard roof in my country vary greatly, ranging from a few meters to tens of meters or even hundreds of meters in thickness. The coal reserves under the hard roof account for about one‐third of the total reserves. At present, nearly 40% of fully mechanized mining faces that belong to the hard roof working face has the problem of mining in the hard roof working face. This has a serious impact on the load‐bearing stability of the fully mechanized support, and it is urgent to solve the problem of strong underground pressure dynamic disaster under the condition of the hard roof. Based on the research background of 11129 working face in Zhangji Coal Mine in Huainan, this paper constructs a mechanical model of the interaction between the cantilever beam of the hard roof of the stope and the support and then the force distribution equation of the bearing capacity of the supports at different positions of the roof during the periodical rotation of the working face is obtained, which is combined with numerical simulation and engineering site to verify. The research results show that the bearing stability of the support is significantly affected by factors such as the buried depth H, the roof elastic modulus E, the roof thickness h, and the roof cantilever length l0, but most of the influencing factors belong to the geological occurrence conditions of the coal seam itself. Presplit blasting of the roof in advance can effectively destroy the integrity of the roof itself and reduce the periodic breaking distance, thereby improving the apparent environment of roof rock pressure and reducing the force on the working face support. According to the specific geological environment of the 11129 working face, the cutting plan of the cut hole is given out, along the groove 0∼200 and 200∼700 m of the concrete presplitting blasting. The stent force of the top‐cutting section fluctuates in the range of 3360.8–4347.9 kN in the range of control top distance (5275∼6175 mm). The load‐bearing pressure of the stent before top‐cutting is about 1.8 times of that after top‐cutting. The pressure distribution of the hydraulic support in the numerical simulation stope is approximately “Λ” in the middle and the low on the two sides. The simulated value is slightly smaller than the theoretical calculation value. The reason is that the goaf is backfilled during the simulation process, and the roof has a certain ability to bear the load. Real‐time understanding of the “roof‐support” mechanical relationship can effectively ensure the safe and efficient mining of the 11129 working face and also provide experience for the subsequent mining of group B coal in the later period.
Multiobjective Optimal Dispatching Method of Generalized Power Active Distribution Network Based on Game Theory
Authors: Fan Xiaoxiang
Published: October 2021

To improve the operating dependability of a generalized power active distribution network, a multiobjective optimal scheduling approach based on game theory is proposed. The active distribution network's multistakeholder coordinated and optimal dispatching mode is then established, and the game interaction between various stakeholders in the generalized power active distribution network is evaluated. Using the multistakeholder game coordinated and optimal dispatching strategy, manage and regulate the distribution firms, distributed generation operators, and users engaging in demand response in the active distribution network, to guarantee that the distribution system runs smoothly and fairly. The rate of renewable energy usage, network loss, and user satisfaction are all factored into the multiobjective optimum scheduling objective function of a generalized power active distribution network. Using the multistakeholder game coordinated and optimal dispatching strategy, manage and regulate the distribution firms, distributed generation operators, and demand response participants in the active distribution network, to make sure the distribution system runs smoothly and equitably. Taking into account the rate of renewable energy usage, network loss, and user satisfaction, a multiobjective optimum scheduling objective function for a generalized power active distribution network is thus created.
The Roles of Liver Inflammation and the Insulin Signaling Pathway in PM2.5 Instillation-Induced Insulin Resistance in Wistar Rats
Authors: Zhang Zhihua , Hu Shujun , Fan Ping , Li Ling , Feng Shanshan , Xiao Huabing , Zhu Lingyan
Published: October 2021

To elucidate the mechanism of how the liver participates in PM2.5-caused insulin resistance. A novel Wistar rat model was developed in this study by instilling a suspension of lyophilized PM2.5 sample (2.5 mg/kg, 5 mg/kg, or 10 mg/kg) collected from the atmosphere. Systemic insulin resistance indicators, including serum fasting blood glucose (FBG), fasting insulin (FINS), Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR), and hemoglobin A1 (HbA1), were upregulated by the PM2.5 instillation. The area under the curve (AUCglu) calculated by intraperitoneal glucose tolerance testing (IPGTT) was also significantly greater in the PM2.5 instillation groups. Additionally, PM2.5 instillation was found to cause liver damage and inflammation. The serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), total bilirubin (TBIL), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were significantly elevated by PM2.5 instillation. PM2.5 also triggered IL-6 and TNF-α transcription but inhibited mRNA synthesis and suppressed signaling activation of the insulin-phosphoinositide 3-kinase- (PI3K-) Akt-glucose transporter 2 (GLUT2) pathway in the rat liver by reducing the ratio of phosphorylated Akt to phosphorylated insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1). Thus, PM2.5-induced inflammation activation and insulin signaling inhibition in the rat liver contribute to the development of systemic insulin resistance.
Spinal Biomechanical Modelling in the Process of Lumbar Intervertebral Disc Herniation in Middle-Aged and Elderly
Authors: Zhang Xinyu , Zhao Zhe , Niu Chunlei , Ma Zengbiao , Hou Jianlei , Wang Guanjun , Tang Miao
Published: October 2021

Lumbar disc herniation is one of the common clinical diseases of the lower lumbar spine in orthopedics. The purpose is to remove the herniated disc nucleus pulposus tissue, remove the compressed part of the disease, and relieve symptoms, such as nerve pain. In the past, biomechanics research mostly relied on in vitro measurements, but the complicated internal environment of the human body prevented us from further measurement and research. However, with the development of computer technology, the use of computer CT scanning, software three-dimensional reconstruction, and displacement study three-dimensional spine biomechanics method makes the research of biomechanics into in vitro simulation stage and has gradually become the focus of current research. The postoperative biomechanics was simulated and the comparison model was established at the same time. At the same time, we combined the clinical follow-up data and studied the clinical data for the treatment of postoperative recurrence of lumbar disc herniation. We compared and analyzed the initial operation method and the experimental results and obtained the prevention of recurrence. The results showed that when one inferior articular process was removed, the lumbar spine appeared unstable to rotate to the opposite side; when one inferior articular process was completely removed, the movement of the lumbar spine in all directions was unstable. Better research on the biomechanical properties of the spine will help the diagnosis and treatment of clinical lumbar disc herniation. Therefore, when performing posterior lumbar spine surgery, not only should the exposure of the surgical field and thorough decompression be considered, but also the biomechanical properties of the lumbar spine should be comprehensively evaluated.
Identification of Novel CircRNA-miRNA-mRNA Regulatory Network and Its Prognostic Prediction in Breast Cancer
Authors: Huang Rui , Yu Hao , Zhong Xiao
Published: October 2021

Aim. This study aimed to investigate the expression profiles of circRNAs and candidate circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network in BC. Methods. Differentially expressed circRNAs, miRNAs, and mRNAs (DEcircRNAs, DEmiRNAs, and DEmRNAs) between BC and normal breast tissue samples were screened by analyzing raw data of the RNA sequencing profile. The expression levels of hub genes in 48 pairs of cancerous and tumor-free breast tissues surgically resected from BC patients were determined by RT-qPCR analysis. Results. A total of 145 DEcircRNAs, 140 DEmiRNAs, and 2451 DEmRNAs between BC and normal breast tissue samples were screened out. There were 5 pairs of upcircRNA-downmiRNA-upmRNA network and 20 pairs of downcircRNA-upmiRNA-downmRNA network. EIF4EBP1, DUSP1, EGR2, EZH1, and CBX7 were found to be correlated with overall survival of the patients with BC. The expression level of EIF4EBP1 was increased and the expression levels of DUSP1, EGR2, EZH1, and CBX7 were decreased in cancerous breast tissues compared to tumor-free breast tissues

p
<
0.0001

. The RT-qPCR results from 48 BC patients were consistent with the bioinformatics results. Conclusion. This study provides a novel perspective to study circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network in BC and assists in the identification of new potential biomarkers to be used for diagnostic and prognostic purposes.
Preparation of Curcumin Solid Lipid Nanoparticles Loaded with Flower-Shaped Lactose for Lung Inhalation and Preliminary Evaluation of Cytotoxicity In Vitro
Authors: Li Nan , Li Xu , Cheng Peng , Yang Ping , Shi Pengcheng , Kong Lingyu , Liu Hongbin
Published: October 2021

The purpose of this study is to design a flower-shaped lactose loaded curcumin solid lipid nanoparticles dry powder inhaler and characterize it to improve the solubility and dissolution rate of curcumin in lung. Curcumin solid lipid nanoparticles (Cur-SLNs) were prepared by solvent evaporation method, and then they were micronized by freeze-drying technology. Finally, Cur-SLN micropowder obtained by freeze-drying was mixed with flower-shaped lactose (FL) at a ratio of 2 : 1 and then passed through a 200-mesh sieve to obtain Cur-SLN-FL powder. Tween-80 was selected as the surfactant to inhibit the aggregation of drug solid lipid nanoparticles. Under the optimum conditions, the solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) were relatively spherical, with an average particle size of 14.7 nm, narrow distribution, Zeta potential of −22.5 mV, encapsulation efficiency of 90.21%, and drug loading of 8.56%. According to the particle size, PI, Zeta potential, drug loading (LC%), encapsulation efficiency (EE%), morphology, and in vitro release characteristics, the prescription of solid lipid nanoparticles was screened. Dry powder inhaler (DPI) was characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, scanning electron microscopy, particle size, density, and in vitro release performance. Its cytotoxicity to mouse fibroblasts (L929) and human normal lung epithelial cells (BEAS-2B) in vitro was investigated, and its safety for pulmonary inhalation was preliminarily determined. FTIR analysis shows that the micronized Cur-SLN-FL has the same chemical structure as FL. FTIR and DSC analysis confirmed that the characteristic absorption peak of curcumin was not found in Cur-SLN-FL, showing similar structure to SLN and FL. In addition, curcumin was coated in solid lipid nanoparticles to make powder mist, which increased its drug loading, kept its aerodynamic particle size (4.03 ± 0.40) μm, and significantly improved its drug release performance in artificial lung fluid. In vitro cytotoxicity test results confirmed that Cur-SLN-FL was less toxic to BEAS-2B cells than L929 cells. Therefore, curcumin was prepared into solid lipid nanoparticles by emulsion evaporation-low temperature solidification method and then micronized and mixed with FL to prepare curcumin solid lipid nanoparticle powder mist loaded with flower-shaped lactose. The process is simple and feasible, and it has better safety performance for lung cells, which is expected to become a safe and effective delivery system for pulmonary inhalation drugs.
Biological Functions of Diallyl Disulfide, a Garlic-Derived Natural Organic Sulfur Compound
Authors: Song Xiuxiu , Yue Ziqi , Nie Lulingxiao , Zhao Pengfei , Zhu Kangjian , Wang Qi
Published: October 2021

Garlic is widely accepted as a functional food and an excellent source of pharmacologically active ingredients. Diallyl disulfide (DADS), a major bioactive component of garlic, has several beneficial biological functions, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, cardiovascular protective, neuroprotective, and anticancer activities. This review systematically evaluated the biological functions of DADS and discussed the underlying molecular mechanisms of these functions. We hope that this review provides guidance and insight into the current literature and enables future research and the development of DADS for intervention and treatment of multiple diseases.
Unveiling the Mechanism of Principal Drugs of Lianpu Drink on Chronic Gastritis by Network Pharmacology
Authors: Zhou Shuhan , Xu Xiaohui , Zeng Jiangqin , Liu Zhiyi , Wang Miao , Lv Wenliang
Published: October 2021

Lianpu drink (LPD) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula for the treatment of chronic gastritis (CG), and its clinical effects have been effectively verified. However, due to the complexity of the chemical composition of TCM formulas, its mechanism of action has not yet been clearly explained. Many studies have shown that the principal drugs in the TCM formula play a major therapeutic role. Therefore, in this study, the principal drugs Coptidis Rhizoma (CR) and Magnolia officinalis Rehd. et Wils. (MOR) in LPD were used as the main research objects to predict the mechanism of LPD on CG. We contrasted a “compounds-targets-diseases” network and screened the putative targets of CR and MOR in LPD related to CG, respectively. Furthermore, common targets of CR and MOR related to CG were selected as candidate targets. In this study, the specific target proteins of CR, MOR, and CG were combined by protein-protein interaction (PPI) to construct a pharmacological network of “components-targets-diseases.” In addition, we investigated the effects of CR and MOR on the TNF signaling pathway, which mediated the remission of CG. This study preliminarily revealed that CR and MOR play a key role in the treatment of CG. Animal experiments also showed that CR and MOR could significantly improve CG by inhibiting MKK6/p38 and RIP/p38 pathway.
Catatonia and Mutism: Neurotic, Psychotic, or Organic Disorder?
Authors: de Jaime Ruiz Pilar , García-Fogeda Romero Jose Luis , Gutiérrez-Rojas Luis
Published: October 2021

Background. Catatonia is caused by a variety of psychiatric and organic conditions. The onset, clinical profile, and response to treatment may vary depending on the underlying cause. Catatonia is more likely to be associated with neurotic and psychotic disorders, but some psychiatric symptoms are key components in the clinical presentation of other medical conditions. Case Report. We report the case of a woman who started showing paroxysmal recurrent episodes since the age of 57 years, characterized by surrounding disconnection, disorientation, and muscle spasm (myoclonus), followed by a postictal state. In the following months, the symptoms evolved to akinetic mutism, catatonia, and rapidly progressive vision and audition loss. She underwent a battery of tests, most of them inconclusive, until a neoplastic meningoencephalitis was diagnosed after more than two years of symptoms. Numerous medical conditions can mimic psychiatric disorders. This uncommon presentation may lead to a late diagnosis and treatment initiation, increasing significantly morbidity and mortality. A differential diagnosis with infectious, autoimmune, and neoplastic etiologies should always be carried out.