bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract dynamical systems: Remarks on symmetries and reduction
Authors: Marmo Giuseppe , Zampini Alessandro
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we review how an algebraic formulation for the dynamics of a physical system allows to describe a reduction procedure for both classical and quantum evolutions.
Pacing of late Pliensbachian and early Toarcian carbon cycle perturbations and environmental change in the westernmost Tethys (La Cerradura Section, Subbetic zone of the Betic Cordillera, Spain)
Authors: Silva Ricardo L. , Ruhl Micha , Barry Cillian , Reolid Matías , Ruebsam Wolfgang
Published: June 2021

Detailed assessment of high-resolution elemental and isotopic geochemical datasets collected from the marl–limestone alternations cropping out at La Cerradura (Subbetic domain of the Betic Cordillera, Spain) and chrono- and chemostratigraphic correlation with the reference Mochras borehole (Cardigan Bay Basin, UK) unveiled valuable new insights into understanding of late Pliensbachian–early Toarcian palaeoenvironmental dynamics in a key geographical area between the northern European seaway and the Tethys Ocean. This study shows that deposition in the study area took place under dominantly oxic water column conditions, indicated, for example, by the generalized lack of enrichment in organic matter and redox metals typically associated with anoxia and euxinia. Carbon isotope stratigraphy (δ
13
C
TOC
) allowed recognition of the
spinatum
(=
emaciatum
in the Submediterranean Province), Pliensbachian–Toarcian, and early Toarcian Oceanic Anoxic Event negative carbon isotopic excursions and the late Pliensbachian positive carbon isotopic excursion. It is here suggested that the observed periodic changes in lithology and sedimentary geochemistry occur at orbital frequencies (i.e. long and short eccentricity and, tentatively, precession), hinting at an astronomical control of the local–regional climate and environment during the Pliensbachian and Toarcian in the mid- to low-latitude South Iberian palaeomargin area.
Pyloric distensibility in health and disease
Authors: Wuestenberghs Fabien , Gourcerol Guillaume
Published: June 2021

Until recently, gastric motility measurements in humans were mostly limited to accommodation (using barostat or 3-dimensional imaging studies of gastric volume) and gastric emptying tests, the latter being the only one performed in routine clinical care. Accurate and easy to use techniques were lacking to assess pyloric function in health and disease. Recently, pyloric distensibility has been developed and validated to assess pyloric opening. Several studies confirmed that pyloric distensibility was decreased in gastroparesis and correlated with gastric emptying as well as gastroparesis symptoms. In addition, pyloric distensibility may predict outcome of endoscopic techniques targeting the pylorus, namely intrapyloric botulinum toxin injection and gastric per-oral pyloromyotomy. Pyloric distensibility appears therefore to be a promising and useful new tool in the workup of gastroparesis patients.
Bile Acids, Their Receptors, and the Gut Microbiota
Authors: Poland James C. , Flynn C. Robb
Published: June 2021

Bile acids (BAs) are a family of hydroxylated steroids secreted by the liver that aid in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fats. BAs also function as nutrient and inflammatory signaling molecules, acting through cognate receptors, to coordinate host metabolism. Commensal bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract are functional modifiers of the BA pool, affecting composition and abundance. Deconjugation of host BAs creates a molecular network that inextricably links gut microtia with their host. In this review we highlight the roles of BAs in mediating this mutualistic relationship with a focus on those events that impact host physiology and metabolism.
Sympathetic Innervation of White Adipose Tissue: to Beige or Not to Beige?
Authors: Münzberg Heike , Floyd Elizabeth , Chang Ji Suk
Published: June 2021

Obesity research progresses in understanding neuronal circuits and adipocyte biology to regulate metabolism. However, the interface of neuro-adipocyte interaction is less studied. We summarize the current knowledge of adipose tissue innervation and interaction with adipocytes and emphasize adipocyte transitions from white to brown adipocytes and vice versa. We further highlight emerging concepts for the differential neuronal regulation of brown/beige versus white adipocyte and the interdependence of both for metabolic regulation.
Multiobjective Programming Strategy of Small- and Medium-Sized Microenterprise Credit Based on Random Factors
Authors: Fan Zhuoran , Xu Jilong , Li Yuchen
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we select eight indicators from the aspects of an enterprise’s bill transaction information, namely, whether the enterprise’s loan is in breach of contract, effective invoice rate, total utilization rate of price and tax, negative invoice rate, strength of enterprise, coefficient of variation, flow efficiency of assets, and influence of upstream and downstream enterprises; then, we construct an evaluation index system. According to different industries, different categories, and the impact of random factors, we divide the types of enterprises into 10 categories. Then, we use three kinds of Poisson random numbers to carry out numerical simulation on the total price and tax of enterprises in different industries under the influence of COVID-19.
Breast Cancer Metastasis in a Renal Carcinoma Pulmonary Metastasis: A Rare Example of Tumor-to-Tumor Metastasis
Authors: Lima Áurea , Peixoto Isa , Sarandão Susana , Melo Daniel , Rodrigues Ângelo , Pereira Helena
Published: June 2021

The tumor-to-tumor metastasis phenomenon remains fairly uncommon, with fewer than 100 cases described to present time. Virtually any tumor can be a donor or a recipient neoplasm. Nevertheless, renal carcinomas have been implicated as the most common malignant tumors to harbor metastasis, while lung and breast tumors are the most frequent donors. This article reports an extremely rare case of a breast cancer metastasis in a lung metastasis of clear cell type renal cell carcinoma that met all Campbell and coworkers’ tumor-to-tumor metastasis criteria. Additionally, we present the literature case reports of breast cancer metastasis in renal cell carcinomas and try to discuss the mechanisms underlying its occurrence. Since this phenomenon identification will impact the therapeutic strategy and it is not easily detected by image, the anatomopathological study of any and all suspicious lesions is of crucial importance. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a metastasis inside a metastasis.
A Modified HOSM Controller Applied to an ABS Laboratory Setup with Adaptive Parameter
Authors: Vaca García Claudia Carolina , Ferré Covantes Luis Adrián , Guzmán Antonio Navarrete , Vera Vaca Claudia Verónica , Lúa Cuauhtémoc Acosta
Published: June 2021

The antilock braking system (ABS) is an electromechanical device whose controller is challenging to design because of its nonlinear dynamics and parameter uncertainties. In this paper, an adaptive controller is considered under the assumption that the friction coefficient is unknown. A modified high-order sliding-mode controller is designed to enhance the controller performance. The controller ensures tracking of the desired reference and identifies the unknown parameter, despite parametric variations acting on the real system. The stability proof is done using the Lyapunov approach. Some numerical and experimental tests evaluate the controller on a mechatronic system that represents a quarter-car model.
Solving Integral Equations by Common Fixed Point Theorems on Complex Partial
b
-Metric Spaces
Authors: Gnanaprakasam Arul Joseph , Boulaaras Salah Mahmoud , Mani Gunaseelan , Abdalla Mohamed , Alharbi Asma
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we prove some common fixed point theorems for rational contraction mapping on complex partial

b

-metric space. The presented results generalize and expand some of the literature’s well-known results. We also explore some of the applications of our key results.
A Fuzzy Logic-Based Approach for Humanized Driver Modelling
Authors: Feng Yuxiang , Iravani Pejman , Brace Chris
Published: June 2021

All human drivers can be characterised by their habitual choice of driving behaviours, which results in a wide range of observed driving patterns and manoeuvres. Developing control strategies for autonomous vehicles that address this feature would increase the public acceptance of such vehicles. Therefore, this paper proposes a novel approach to developing rule-based fuzzy logic driver models that simulate different driving styles in the car-following regimes. These driver models were trained with the collected on-road driving data to capture corresponding human drivers’ characteristics. The proposed approach consists of three main components: collecting on-road driving data, developing a vehicle model, and establishing the car-following driver models. Firstly, an instrumented vehicle was used to collect driving data over the same route for three consecutive months. Car-following scenarios during these journeys were extracted, and related data were processed accordingly. Afterwards, a representative model of the instrumented vehicle was created and evaluated. Finally, a fuzzy logic driver model that uses humanized inputs was developed and calibrated with the recorded data. The developed driver model’s performance was assessed using the collected driving data and a baseline PID driver model. With the performance validated, models representing more aggressive and more defensive driving styles were derived following the same procedure. A cross-driver analysis was then implemented in a normalized car-following scenario with the established vehicle model to investigate the impacts of different driving styles further. The developed driver model can introduce driving styles into drive cycle experiments and replicate on-road real driving emission tests in the laboratory. Moreover, as the proposed method has high robustness to incomplete datasets, it can be a more cost-effective option to facilitate the development of humanized and customized vehicle control strategies for autonomous driving.
Classification of Left Atrial Diseased Tissue Burden Determined by Automated Voltage Analysis Predicts Outcomes after Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Herczeg Szilvia , Keaney John J. , Keelan Edward , Howard Claire , Walsh Katie , Geller Laszlo , Szeplaki Gabor , Galvin Joseph
Published: June 2021

Background. The burden and persistence of atrial fibrillation (AF) have been associated with the presence and extent of left atrial (LA) fibrosis. Recent reports have implicated an association between the extent of LA fibrosis and the outcome of pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). We aimed to analyse the value of an automated scar quantification method in the prediction of success following PVI. Methods. One hundred and nine consecutive patients undergoing PVI for paroxysmal or persistent AF were included in our observational study with a 2-year follow-up. Prior to PVI, patients underwent high-definition LA electroanatomical mapping, and scar burden was quantified by automated software (Voltage Histogram Analysis, CARTO 3, Biosense Webster), then classified into 4 subgroups (Dublin Classes I-IV). Recurrence rates were analysed on and off antiarrhythmic drug therapy (AAD), respectively. Results. The overall success rate was 74% and 67% off AAD at 1- and 2-year follow-up, respectively. Patients with Dublin Class IV had significantly lower success rates (

p
=
0.008

, off AAD). Dublin Class IV (

OR
=
2.27

,

p
=
0.022

, off AAD) and the presence of arrhythmia in the blanking period (

OR
=
3.28

,

p
=
0.001

, off AAD) were the only significant predictors of recurrence. The use of AAD did not affect these results. Conclusions. We propose a classification of low voltage areas based on automated quantification by software during 3D mapping prior to PVI. Patients with high burden of low voltage areas (>31% of <0.5 mV, Dublin Class IV) have a higher risk of recurrence following PVI. Information gathered during electroanatomical mapping may have important prognostic value.
Wogonin Strengthens the Therapeutic Effects of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in DSS‐Induced Colitis via Promoting IL‐10 Production
Authors: Wu Qiongli , Xie Shujuan , Zhu Yinhong , Chen Jingrou , Tian Jiatong , Xiong Shiqiu , Wu Changyou , Ye Yujin , Peng Yanwen
Published: June 2021

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are prevalent and debilitating diseases; their clinical remedy is desperately unmet. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are pluripotent stem cells with multiple immunomodulatory effects, which are attributed to their efficacy in the IBD rodent model. Optimization of MSC regimes in IBD is a crucial step for their further clinical application. Wogonin is a flavonoid‐like compound, which showed extensive immunomodulatory and adjuvant effects. This research is aimed at investigating whether and how Wogonin boosted the therapeutic efficiency of MSCs on DSS‐induced colitis. Our results showed that the MSC treatment with Wogonin significantly alleviated the intestinal inflammation in IBD mice by increased IL‐10 expression. In vitro experiments, Wogonin obviously raised the IL‐10 production and ROS levels of MSCs in a dose‐dependent manner. Meanwhile, western blot data suggested Wogonin improves the IL‐10 production by inducing transcript factor HIF‐1α expression via AKT/GSK3β signal pathway. Finally, the favorable effects of Wogonin on MSCs were confirmed by IL‐10 blockade experiment in vivo. Together, our results suggested that Wogonin significantly increased the IL‐10 production and enhanced the therapeutic effects of MSCs in DSS‐induced colitis. This work suggested Wogonin as a novel optimal strategy for MSC clinical application.
Chromium Laden Soil, Water, and Vegetables nearby Tanning Industries: Speciation and Spatial Distribution
Authors: Gezahegn Adugnaw Maru , Feyessa Fekadu Fufa , Tekeste Esayas Alemayehu , Beyene Embialle Mengistie
Published: June 2021

This study investigates the spatial distribution and speciation of chromium in water, soil, and edible plants in tannery-contaminated areas at Modjo city, Ethiopia. Modjo city is one of the industrial zones in the country, which is dominated by tanneries due to the ease of effluent discharge and water use from the nearby Modjo River crossing the city. The river, which received chromium-containing effluent from the tanneries, is also used for urban gardening of edible plants besides other domestic purposes. 12 water and 12 soil samples from contaminated areas and 6 samples from different edible plants grown nearby tanneries were collected following the standard procedure to predict the level of chromium contamination in the environment and its health risk. The total chromium in Modjo River was 20.6 mg L−1 in the upstream region which later was significantly reduced (r = –0.93,

p
<
0.05

) to 0.126 mg L−1 in the very downstream region. However, the Cr (VI) concentration ranges from 0.23 ± 0.032 to 2.82 ± 0.02 mg L−1 with a statistically insignificant decrease (r = -0.76,

p
>
0.05

) to the downstream sampling points. The lowest Cr (III) and Cr (VI) concentrations in the soil were 2.78 ± 0.37 and 4.57 ± 1.01 mg kg−1, respectively, which are higher (

p
<
0.05

) than the control and the guideline values. Similarly, the chromium concentration in the edible plants was also 7.98 ± 0.63 mg kg−1 for green pepper to 14.45 ± 0.34 mg kg−1 for carrot with a trend of carrot > beetroot > lettuce > cabbage > tomato > green pepper. The chromium in the plants from the contaminated area was significantly higher (

p
<
0.05

) than the control area, which is between 0.14 mg kg−1 for lettuce and 0.31 ± 0.01 mg kg−1 for tomato. It is also confirmed that the root part of plants accumulates more chromium than the leaf and the fruits. It is concluded that water and soil in tannery surroundings and edible plants grown in the area contain chromium concentrations higher than the recommended amount for a healthy environment and human consumption. Therefore, appropriate wastewater treatment, stringent regulations, and public awareness are recommended to reduce chromium contamination and its impact on public health and the environment.
Antioxidant Barrier and Oxidative Damage to Proteins, Lipids, and DNA/RNA in Adrenal Tumor Patients
Authors: Choromańska Barbara , Myśliwiec Piotr , Kozłowski Tomasz , Łuba Magdalena , Wojskowicz Piotr , Dadan Jacek , Myśliwiec Hanna , Choromańska Katarzyna , Gibała Anna , Starzyńska Anna , Żendzian-Piotrowska Małgorzata , Zalewska Anna , Maciejczyk Mateusz
Published: June 2021

This study is the first to assess redox balance, glutathione metabolism, and oxidative damage to RNA/DNA, proteins, and lipids in the plasma/serum and urine of patients with adrenal masses. The study included 70 patients with adrenal tumors divided into three subgroups: incidentaloma (n = 30), pheochromocytoma (n = 20), and Cushing’s/Conn’s adenoma (n = 20), as well as 60 healthy controls. Blood and urine samples were collected before elective endoscopic adrenalectomy. Antioxidant defense capacity was significantly decreased (serum/plasma: superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and reduced glutathione (GSH), uric acid (UA); urine: SOD, GSH, UA) in patients with adrenal masses. The oxidative damage to proteins (advanced glycation end products (AGE), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP)) and lipids (lipid hydroperoxides (LOOH), and malondialdehyde (MDA)) was higher in the plasma and urine of these patients. Plasma MDA and DNA/RNA oxidation products, with high sensitivity and specificity, can help to diagnose pheochromocytoma. This biomarker differentiates patients with pheochromocytoma from Cushing’s/Conn’s adenoma as well as from heathy controls. Plasma RNA/DNA oxidation was also positively correlated with urine metanephrine. Oxidative stress can play a crucial role in adrenal tumors. However, further studies are required to clarify the role of redox signaling in adrenal masses.
Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma in a Patient with Fanconi Anemia
Authors: Huuhka Milla , Turunen Aaro
Published: June 2021

Fanconi anemia (FA) is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder characterized by different types of malformations, skin lesions, bone marrow failure, and increased risk for both hematological malignancies and solid tumors, especially head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC). FA patients may also display a low tolerance to oncologic treatments. The authors present a case of mandibular squamous cell carcinoma in a young FA patient. Because of the aggressive nature of the SCC and complex treatment options, we recommend a strict lifelong follow-up for all FA patients to detect early changes in the oral mucosa.
IoT with BlockChain: A Futuristic Approach in Agriculture and Food Supply Chain
Authors: Awan Sabir , Ahmed Sheeraz , Ullah Fasee , Nawaz Asif , Khan Atif , Uddin M. Irfan , Alharbi Abdullah , Alosaimi Wael , Alyami Hashem
Published: June 2021

Agricultural food production is projected to be 70% higher by 2050 than it is today, with the world population rising to more than 9 billion, 34% higher than it is now. The farmers have been forced to produce more with the same resources. This pressure means that optimizing productivity is one of the main objectives of the producers but also in a sustainable way. Not only does agriculture face a decline in production, but it has also had to face limitations in data collection, storing, securing, and sharing, climate change, increases in input prices, traditional food supply chain systems where there is no direct connection between the farmer and the buyer, and limitations on energy use. Existing IoT‐based agriculture systems have a centralized format and operate in isolation, leaving room for unresolved issues and major concerns, including data security, manipulation, and single failure points. This paper proposes a futuristic IoT with a blockchain model to meet these challenges. Further, this paper also proposes and novel energy‐efficient clustering IoT‐based agriculture protocol for lower energy consumption and network stability and compares its results with its counterpart low‐energy adoptive clustering hierarchy (LEACH) protocol. The simulation results show that the proposed protocol network stability is 23% higher as compared to LEACH as first node of LEACH dies at 168 rounds while IoT‐based agriculture first node dies after 463 rounds. Similarly, IoT‐based agriculture protocol energy consumption is 68% lower than that of LEACH. The proposed protocol also extends the network life to more rounds and demonstrates an increase of 112%.
The Effect of Integrated Intervention Based on Protection Motivation Theory and Implementation Intention to Promote Physical Activity and Physiological Indicators of Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Morowatisharifabad Mohammad Ali , Asadpour Mohammad , Zakeri Mohammad Ali , Abdolkarimi Mahdi
Published: June 2021

Despite benefits of physical activity, the level of physical activity is not desirable in patients with type 2 diabetes. The aim of this study is the using of integration of intervention based on the theory of protection motivation and implementation intention in order to improve the level of activity in patients with diabetes. This field trial study has been performed on 125 patients with type 2 diabetes. Samples have been randomly selected, and they are divided into two intervention and control groups. In the intervention group, training sessions were conducted based on the protection motivation theory and implementation intention. Physical activity levels, VO2 max, and hemoglobin A1C were measured before and three months after the intervention in the two groups. Data were analyzed by using SPSS 18, and independent t‐test, paired t‐test, and equivalent nonparametric tests were used for analyzing abnormal data. The results of this study showed that the level of physical activity was higher in the intervention group (p = 0.02). Also, the amount of hemoglobin A1c in the intervention group has been decreased significantly three months later (p < 0.001). In this study, VO2 max and blood lipids were not significantly different in the two groups. However, there was higher VO2 max compared to before the intervention in the intervention group. The present study showed that combining motivational interventions and implementing intention intervention can be effective in promoting the physical activity of patients with type 2 diabetes.
Pentoxifylline Enhances Antioxidative Capability and Promotes Mitochondrial Biogenesis in D‐Galactose‐Induced Aging Mice by Increasing Nrf2 and PGC‐1α through the cAMP‐CREB Pathway
Authors: Wang Yu , Zhang Tianyun , Zhao Hui , Qi Chunxiao , Ji Xiaoming , Yan Hexin , Cui Rui , Zhang Guoliang , Kang Yunxiao , Shi Geming
Published: June 2021

Aging is a complex phenomenon associated with oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. The objective of this study was to investigate the potential ameliorative effects of the phosphodiesterase inhibitor pentoxifylline (PTX) on the aging process and its underlying mechanisms. We treated D‐galactose‐ (D‐gal‐) induced aging mice with PTX and measured the changes in behavior, degree of oxidative damage, and mitochondrial ultrastructure and content as well as the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2‐ (Nrf2‐) mediated antioxidant genes and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐gamma coactivator 1‐alpha‐ (PGC‐1α‐) dependent mitochondrial biogenesis genes. The results demonstrated that PTX improved cognitive deficits, reduced oxidative damage, ameliorated abnormal mitochondrial ultrastructure, increased mitochondrial content and Nrf2 activation, and upregulated antioxidant and mitochondrial biogenesis gene expression in the hippocampus of wild‐type aging mice. However, the above antiaging effects of PTX were obviously decreased in the brains of Nrf2‐deficient D‐gal‐induced aging mice. Moreover, in hydrogen peroxide‐treated SH‐SY5Y cells, we found that cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) response element‐binding protein (CREB) and Nrf2/PGC‐1α act in a linear way by CREB siRNA transfection. Thus, PTX administration improved the aging‐related decline in brain function by enhancing antioxidative capability and promoting mitochondrial biogenesis, which might depend on increasing Nrf2 and PGC‐1α by activating the cAMP‐CREB pathway.
Research on the Route Pricing Optimization Model of the Car‐Free Carrier Platform Based on the BP Neural Network Algorithm
Authors: Du Yu-Ang
Published: June 2021

The car‐free carrier platform is a product of the rapid development of the modern logistics industry and has a vital strategic value for promoting the construction of a country’s comprehensive transportation. However, due to the unreasonable platform pricing model, the industry is currently in a bottleneck period. In order to solve this problem, we established a gray correlation model to calculate the degree of correlation between each characteristic index and platform pricing based on the massive historical transaction data of a certain platform and performed K‐means clustering on the results to discover the main factors affecting platform pricing. Based on the abovementioned results, we created a pricing optimization model based on the BP neural network, with the structure of 8‐13‐1 to predict the freight pricing of the order and test the prediction results. The test shows that the goodness of fit (R2) of the predicted value is close to 1, and the prediction error range is less than 3.7%, which proves the accuracy and effectiveness of the BP neural network model and provides an effective reference for the optimization of the pricing model of the car‐free carrier platform.
Effectiveness and Safety of Abrocitinib in Patients with Moderate-to-Severe Atopic Dermatitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Fadlalmola Hammad Ali , Albadrani Muayad Saud , Elhusein Amal Mohamed , Mohamedsalih Wahieba E. , Swamy Veerabhadra D. S. , Mamanao Daniel Mon
Published: June 2021

Background. Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a complex, chronic, inflammatory skin disease characterized by pruritic, intense itching, and eczematous lesions affecting about 25% of children and 2% to 3% of adults worldwide. Abrocitinib is a selective inhibitor of Janus kinase-1 (JAK1) enzyme inhibiting the inflammatory process. Therefore, we aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of abrocitinib for moderate-to-severe AD. Methods. We systematically searched PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, Scopus, and EczemATrials till Feb 1, 2021, for reliable trials. The analysis was conducted using an inverse-variance method. The results were pooled as mean difference/event rate and 95% confidence interval. Results. Abrocitinib 100 mg and 200 mg were associated with higher IGA response, EASI-50% responders, EASI-75% responders, EASI-90% responders, number of participants with at least 4-point improvements in NRS, and quality of life measured by DLQI and CDLQI than placebo. Also, 100 mg and 200 mg were associated with lower SCORAD index, %BSA, PSAAD index, and POEM index than placebo. Abrocitinib 100 mg and 200 mg were not associated with adverse events such as upper respiratory tract infection, nasopharyngitis, dermatitis, atopic, any serious adverse events, and death. Conclusion. Abrocitinib in dose 100 mg or 200 mg is an effective, well-tolerated, and promising drug in treating patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. However, the analysis favored the efficacy of abrocitinib 200 mg over 100 mg, but side effects such as nausea and headache are likely to occur more with 200 mg.
Dynamic Analysis of Percussion Drilling System under Harmonic Impact
Authors: Zeng Yijin , Ding Shidong , Xu Jinchao , Hu Qunai , Cui Xiaojie
Published: June 2021

As a new efficient rock‐breaking technology, harmonic impact drilling technology has received great attention, but the research on its rock‐breaking mechanism is insufficient, which limits its development. Based on the theory of vibration, a simplified model of high‐frequency harmonic vibration impact system is established in this paper. The numerical model was solved by Matlab and the motion equations of drill bit and rock at different stages of motion are obtained, respectively. Based on the factor analysis of the mathematical model, the dynamic characteristics of the impact system under harmonic excitation are studied. Finally, numerical simulations are carried out to further analyze the drilling effect of harmonic impact drilling and verify the correctness of the simplified model. The results show that when the excitation frequency equals the resonance frequency of rock, the vibration displacement of rock reaches the peak value. The drilling speed is greatly increased by harmonic impact drilling compared with conventional drilling.
Effects of Soil and Water Conservation Structures on Selected Soil Physicochemical Properties: The Case of Ejersa Lafo District, Central Highlands of Ethiopia
Authors: Tolesa Adugna , Mammo Siraj , Bohnett Eve
Published: June 2021

Land degradation in the form of soil erosion and fertility depletion is the major environmental problem in Ethiopia. However, to curb this problem, soil and water conservation (SWC) structures are commonly practiced in many rural parts of Ethiopia. This study was conducted to assess the effects of SWC structures on selected soil physicochemical properties in Ejersa Lafo district. For this study, two kebeles (peasant associations) were selected purposively from the district based on the severity of soil erosion and information on SWC practices. The research design employed in this study was systematic, randomized, complete block design. A total of 12 composite soil samples were collected from the depth of 0 to 20 cm at two subwatersheds, namely, Jamjam laga batu and Koriso Odo guba with SWC and without SWC structures at three landscape positions. All the soil samples were analyzed following the standard and recommended procedures. The effect of independent variables (SWC practices and landscape positions) on the dependent variables (soil properties) was statistically tested using the SPSS computer program 21. In this study, most of the selected soil physicochemical properties were affected by watershed management intervention (SWC) structures. Soil moisture content (SMC), clay, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total N (TN), available (AP), available K (AK), and organic carbon (OC) were higher in the subwatershed treated with SWC structures (conserved), whereas bulk density, silt, and sand were higher in the subwatershed without SWC structures (nonconserved). Most of the selected soil chemical properties were significantly varied (p<0.05) between conserved and nonconserved farm land except EC. All the selected soil physicochemical properties did not show any significant variation (p<0.05) at landscape positions except sandy soil. The physicochemical soil properties of selected parameters were in good conditions in the conserved areas with higher N and OM and lower BD, indicating fertility of the soil compared with the nonconserved land. The implementation of SWC structures improved some of the physicochemical properties of soil, such as SMC, clay particle, pH, EC, total N, AP, AK, and OC in the study area. Furthermore, efforts are required to enhance community adoption towards soil and water conservation. Additionally, further research has to be carried out on socioeconomic aspects and impacts of the intervention on crop productivity for better understanding of the sustainable use of the land.
The Ultrasonic P‐Wave Velocity‐Stress Relationship and Energy Evolution of Sandstone under Uniaxial Loading‐Unloading Conditions
Authors: Zhang Long , Zhang Zetian , Zhang Ru , Gao Mingzhong , Xie Jing
Published: June 2021

As shallow resources are exhausted, deep resources are gradually being exploited; consequently, mining disasters and accidents have increased significantly over time. During mining, a deep rock mass experiences complex mining‐induced stress evolution, damage accumulation, and deformation failure processes, and the mechanical and acoustic properties of the rock constantly change. To better understand the variation in the mechanical and acoustic properties of rock under loading and unloading conditions, uniaxial loading‐unloading experiments with real‐time ultrasonic P‐wave velocity monitoring were conducted on sandstone specimens drilled from a coal seam roof. The test results show that the axial stress level is directly related to the P‐wave velocity. A logarithmic relationship exists between the ultrasonic P‐wave velocity and stress in the tested sandstones. The wave velocity increase caused by the unit axial pressure increase is significantly lower than that at the initial loading stage after entering the higher stress level. The energy evolution of sandstone during loading and unloading is closely related to the stress loading history and reflects the damage accumulation in the rock. Under elastic loading, the energy accumulation is mainly reflected by an increase in elastic energy, and less energy is dissipated during the elastic loading period. Stress unloading causes high energy dissipation, resulting in irreversible strain and damage accumulation, which provides a good basis for using ultrasonic testing to preliminarily judge the failure of a specific rock and formulate corresponding engineering measures.
External Validation of UDCA Response Score in Slovak and Croatian Patients with Primary Biliary Cholangitis
Authors: Gazda Jakub , Janicko Martin , Drazilova Sylvia , Grgurevic Ivica , Kanizaj Tajana Filipec , Koller Tomas , Bodorovska Beatrica , Mijic Maja , Mikolasevic Ivana , Stromar Ivana Knezevic , Kucinsky Branislav , Gazda Matej , Jarcuska Peter
Published: June 2021

Background. Ursodeoxycholic acid response score (URS) is a prognostic model that estimates the baseline probability of treatment response after 12 months of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) therapy in patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). Aim. To independently evaluate the predictive performance of the URS model. Methods. We used a cohort of Slovak and Croatian treatment-naïve PBC patients to quantify the discrimination ability using the area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) and its 95% confidence interval (CI). Furthermore, we evaluated the calibration using calibration belts. The primary outcome was treatment response after 12 months of UDCA therapy defined as values of alkaline phosphatase ≤1.67 × upper limit of normal. Results. One hundred and ninety-four patients were included. Median pretreatment age was 56 years (interquartile range 49–62). Treatment response was achieved in 79.38% of patients. AUROC of the URS was 0.81 (95% CI 0.73–0.88) and the calibration belt revealed that response rates were correctly estimated by predicted probabilities. Conclusion. Our results confirm that the URS can be used in treatment-naïve PBC patients for estimating the treatment response probability after 12 months of UDCA therapy.
Deep Vein Thrombosis after Lithium Toxicity: A Report of Two Cases and Literature Review
Authors: Sogawa Rintaro , Tobita Shuko , Monji Akira , Murakawa-Hirachi Toru , Mizoguchi Yoshito , Sakamoto Yuichiro , Irie Hiroyuki , Shimanoe Chisato
Published: June 2021

Lithium administration can reportedly cause toxicity, including lithium-associated thrombosis; however, not all reported cases of this adverse effect have been attributable to lithium overdoses. We report here two cases of deep vein thrombosis that occurred in association with lithium toxicity. Lithium overdose was deemed to be the cause in only one of these cases; a patient in whom deep vein thrombosis occurred 11 days after identification of lithium toxicity. In the other patient, the deep vein thrombosis occurred 15 days after diagnosis of lithium toxicity; this patient was not considered to have been overdosed. Both patients had other risk factors in addition to receiving lithium. We recommend monitoring D-dimer concentrations to facilitate early detection of deep vein thrombosis in patients with lithium toxicity.
Antimalarial, Antioxidant, and Toxicological Evaluation of Extracts of Celtis africana, Grosseria vignei, Physalis micrantha, and Stachytarpheta angustifolia
Authors: Laryea Michael Konney , Sheringham Borquaye Lawrence
Published: June 2021

In many parts of the world, malaria undoubtedly poses a serious threat to health care systems. Malaria treatment has increasingly become complicated, primarily due to the emergence of widespread resistance of the malaria parasites to cheap and affordable malaria therapeutics. The use of herbal remedies to treat various ailments, including malaria and malaria-like ailments in Ghana is common. We herein report on the antiplasmodial and antioxidant activities as well as toxicological evaluation of four medicinal plants (Celtis africana, Grosseria vignei, Physalis micrantha, and Stachytarpheta angustifolia) commonly used to treat malaria in Ghana. Following Soxhlet extraction of plant samples in ethanol, extracts were screened against Plasmodium falciparum (3D7 strain) in an in vitro antiplasmodial assay. The phosphomolybdenum and DPPH (1, 1-diphenyl-2 picrylhydrazyl) assays were used to evaluate antioxidant activities while toxicity assessment was carried out in mice using the acute toxicity test and kidney and liver function tests. Extracts from Celtis africana and Physalis micrantha were very active towards the parasites with half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50’s) of 29.1 and 3.5 µg/mL, respectively. Extracts of Grosseria vignei and Stachytarpheta angustifolia were inactive, having IC50 values greater than 50 µg/mL. All extracts exhibited excellent total antioxidant capacities (>800 mg/g AAE) and good DPPH radical scavenging potential (IC50 range of 300–900 µg/mL). The median lethal dose (LD50) of all extracts in the toxicological evaluation was greater than 2000 mg/kg and there was no effect of extracts on the levels and activities of key biomarkers of liver and kidney function. The activities of these plants obtained in this study partly give credence to their folkloric use in herbal medicines and suggest that they could provide promising lead compounds for malaria drug discovery programs.
Kaposi Sarcoma Incidence, Burden, and Prevalence in United States People with HIV, 2000–2015
Authors: Peprah Sally , Engels Eric A. , Horner Marie-Josèphe , Monterosso Analise , Hall H. Irene , Johnson Anna Satcher , Pfeiffer Ruth M. , Shiels Meredith S.
Published: June 2021

Background:

The introduction of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) has led to a significant reduction in Kaposi sarcoma (KS) incidence among people with HIV (PWH). However, it is unclear if incidence has declined similarly across key demographic and HIV transmission groups and the annual number of incident and prevalent KS cases remains unquantified.

Methods:

Using population-based registry linkage data, we evaluated temporal trends in KS incidence using adjusted Poisson regression. Incidence and prevalence estimates were applied to CDC HIV surveillance data, to obtain the number of incident (2008–2015) and prevalent (2015) cases in the United States.

Results:

Among PWH, KS rates were elevated 521-fold [95% confidence intervals (CI), 498–536] compared with the general population and declined from 109 per 100,000 person-years in 2000 to 47 per 100,000 person-years in 2015, at an annual percentage change of −6%. Rates declined substantially (Ptrend < 0.005) across all demographic and HIV transmission groups. Of the 5,306 new cases estimated between 2008 and 2015, 89% occurred among men who have sex with men. At the end of 2015, 1,904 PWH (0.20%) had been diagnosed with KS in the previous 5 years.

Conclusions:

A consistent gradual decline in KS incidence has occurred among PWH in the United States during the current cART era. This decrease is uniform across key demographic and HIV transmission groups, though rates remain elevated relative to the general population.

Impact:

Continued efforts to control HIV through early cART initiation and retention in care need to be maintained and possibly expanded to sustain declines.
Nail Peeling with Glycolic Acid 50%: A Prospective Study of 20 Cases
Authors: Chiheb Soumiya , Benslimane Kamal Ibtissam , Elfiboumi Amal , Hali Fouzia
Published: June 2021

Background: Surface abnormalities of the nail may be due to nail diseases or chemical abuse. So, every nail plate change does not require medical treatment. The aim of our study was to support the benefit of glycolic acid (GA) in both pathological conditions and dry, discolored nails due to cosmetics. Methods: A prospective single open label uncontrolled study is conducted in our department from January until April 2017. We divided our cases into 2 groups: G1 (consequences of cosmetics) and G2 (pathological conditions). In G1, we used 1–2 coat of GA 50% in 1–2 sitting at weekly intervals, but we needed multiple sittings (6–12 weeks) in G2 with 2–4 coats. Results: We have collected 20 cases: 12 in G1 and 8 in G2. In G1, 8 patients had good response. In G2, 6 had good response. Adverse effects were tolerable. Conclusion: Good response in G1 was also noted in the Indian report. The improvement in the chemotherapy side effect led us to widen the sample in order to have more credible results. GA 50% peels can offer aesthetically better looking nails. However, larger studies with a longer follow-up are required to validate the results.
Ontogeny of Inner Ear Saccular Development in the Plainfin Midshipman (Porichthys notatus)
Authors: Lozier Nicholas R. , Sisneros Joseph A.
Published: June 2021

The auditory system of the plainfin midshipman fish (Porichthys notatus) is an important sensory system used to detect and encode biologically relevant acoustic stimuli important for survival and reproduction including social acoustic signals used for intraspecific communication. Previous work showed that hair cell (HC) density in the midshipman saccule increased seasonally with reproductive state and was concurrent with enhanced auditory saccular sensitivity in both females and type I males. Although reproductive state-dependent changes in HC density have been well characterized in the adult midshipman saccule, less is known about how the saccule changes during ontogeny. Here, we examined the ontogenetic development of the saccule in four relative sizes of midshipman (larvae, small juveniles, large juveniles, and nonreproductive adults) to determine whether the density, total number, and orientation patterns of saccular HCs change during ontogeny. In addition, we also examined whether the total number of HCs in the saccule differ from that of the utricle and lagena in nonreproductive adults. We found that HC density varied across developmental stage. The ontogenetic reduction in HC density was concurrent with an ontogenetic increase in macula area. The orientation pattern of saccular HCs was similar to the standard pattern previously described in other teleost fishes, and this pattern of HC orientation was retained during ontogeny. Lastly, the estimated number of saccular HCs increased with developmental stage from the smallest larvae (2,336 HCs) to the largest nonreproductive adult (145,717 HCs), and in nonreproductive adults estimated HC numbers were highest in the saccule (mean ± SD = 28,479 ± 4,809 HCs), intermediate in the utricle (mean ± SD = 11,008 ± 1,619 HCs) and lowest in the lagena (mean ± SD = 4,560 ± 769 HCs).
A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study to Evaluate the Effect of Bio-Enhanced Turmeric Formulation on Radiation-Induced Oral Mucositis
Authors: Soni Tej Prakash , Gupta Anil Kumar , Sharma Lalit Mohan , Singhal Harish , Sharma Shantanu , Gothwal Ravindra Singh
Published: June 2021

Introduction: Oral mucositis is the most common toxicity of chemoradiotherapy treatment of head and neck cancers. The present study was performed to evaluate the effect of a researched turmeric formulation on oral mucositis in patients receiving chemoradiotherapy for oral cancer. Methods: This randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled trial included 60 patients with oral cancer who had undergone radical surgery. Patients were equally randomized into 3 arms. Bio-enhanced turmeric formulation (BTF) capsules (low dose [1 g/day] or high dose [1.5 g/day]) or placebo was administered daily for 6 weeks with concurrent chemoradiotherapy. Study endpoints included the impact of the treatment on chemoradiotherapy-induced oral mucositis along with dysphagia, oral pain, dermatitis, and weight loss. Results: The incidence of grade 3 toxicity of oral mucositis, oral pain, dysphagia, and dermatitis was significantly lower in patients who received BTF than placebo. Twenty-five and 20% patients in BTF 1 g/day (p = 0.011) and 1.5 g/day (p = 0.004) arms, respectively, developed grade 3 oral mucositis compared to 65% patients in the placebo arm. Thirty-five and 30% patients in BTF 1 g/day (p = 0.027) and 1.5 g/day (p = 0.011) arms, respectively, developed grade 3 oral pain compared to 70% patients in the placebo arm. Twenty-five and 20% patients in BTF 1 g/day (p = 0.025) and 1.5 g/day (p = 0.010) arms, respectively, developed grade 3 dysphagia compared to 60% patients in the placebo arm. Ten and 5% patients in BTF 1 g/day (p = 0.114) and 1.5 g/day (p = 0.037) arms. respectively, developed grade 3 dermatitis compared to 30% patients in the placebo arm. Patients under BTF supplementation experienced significantly less weight loss and greater compliance with treatment than placebo. Conclusion: BTF (BCM-95®) can significantly reduce chemoradiotherapy-induced severe oral mucositis, dysphagia, oral pain, and dermatitis in oral cancer patients. Trial Registration: Clinical Trials Registry, India (Registration No. CTRI) (CTRI/2015/12/006413 dated December 4, 2015).
Human Herpesvirus 6 Infection and Risk of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mozhgani Sayed-Hamidreza , Rajabi Farid , Qurbani Mohsen , Erfani Yousef , Yaslianifard Somayeh , Moosavi Azam , Pourrostami Kiomars , Baradaran Bagheri Ali , Soleimani Alireza , Behzadian Farida , Safavi Mahshid , Rezaei Farhad
Published: June 2021

Introduction: Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a neurological disease that is accompanied by excessive fatigue or tiredness. There are several reports confirming the association between human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) infection and CFS illness. This systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to integrate the information of published studies with regard to this association until May 2021. Methods: The literature search was based on keywords including “chronic fatigue syndrome and HHV 6,” “chronic fatigue syndrome and HHV-6,” “chronic fatigue syndrome and HHV6,” “chronic fatigue syndrome and Herpes virus 6,” and “chronic fatigue syndrome and Herpesvirus6” in MEDLINE (PubMed), Web of Science, and EMBASE. Results: The literature search identified 17 studies to be included in the systematic review and 11 studies in meta-analysis. The symmetry funnel plot and Egger’s test (p value = 0.2) identified no publication bias among studies. Moreover, the low level of I2 revealed homogeneity across studies. Discussion: In conclusion, the association between the HHV-6 infection and CFS incidence was substantiated. However, the results of this study also suggest that further comprehensive studies are needed to solidify the association between HHV-6 and CFS. Future studies should consider additional factors that may have affected the significance of such a correlation.