bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incorporating antenna detections into abundance estimates of fish
Authors: Dzul Maria Christina , Yackulic Charles Brandon , Kendall William Louis , Winkelman Dana L. , Conner Mary M. , Yard Michael
Published: August 2021

Autonomous passive integrated transponder (PIT) tag antennas are commonly used to detect fish marked with PIT tags but cannot detect unmarked fish, creating challenges for abundance estimation. Here we describe an approach to estimate abundance from paired physical capture and antenna detection data in closed and open mark–recapture models. Additionally, for open models, we develop an approach that incorporates uncertainty in fish size, because fish size changes through time (as fish grow bigger) but is unknown if fish are not physically captured (e.g., only detected on antennas). Incorporation of size uncertainty allows for estimation of size-specific abundances and demonstrates a generally useful method for obtaining state-specific abundances estimates under state uncertainty. Simulation studies comparing models with and without antenna detections illustrate that the benefit of our approach increases as a larger proportion of the population is marked. When applied to two field data sets, our approach to incorporating antenna detections reduced uncertainty in abundance substantially. We conclude that PIT antennas hold great potential for improving abundance estimation, despite the challenges they present.
Soft photon radiation and entanglement
Authors: Irakleous Anastasios , Tomaras Theodore N. , Toumbas Nicolaos
Published: August 2021

We study the entanglement between soft and hard particles produced in generic scattering processes in QED. The reduced density matrix for the hard particles, obtained via tracing over the entire spectrum of soft photons, is shown to have a large eigenvalue, which governs the behavior of the Renyi entropies and of the non-analytic part of the entanglement entropy at low orders in perturbation theory. The leading perturbative entanglement entropy is logarithmically IR divergent. The coefficient of the IR divergence exhibits certain universality properties, irrespectively of the dressing of the asymptotic charged particles and the detailed properties of the initial state. In a certain kinematical limit, the coefficient is proportional to the cusp anomalous dimension in QED. For Fock basis computations associated with two-electron scattering, we derive an exact expression for the large eigenvalue of the density matrix in terms of hard scattering amplitudes, which is valid at any finite order in perturbation theory. As a result, the IR logarithmic divergences appearing in the expressions for the Renyi and entanglement entropies persist at any finite order of the perturbative expansion. To all orders, however, the IR logarithmic divergences exponentiate, rendering the large eigenvalue of the density matrix IR finite. The all-orders Renyi entropies (per unit time, per particle flux), which are shown to be proportional to the total inclusive cross-section in the initial state, are also free of IR divergences. The entanglement entropy, on the other hand, retains non-analytic, logarithmic behavior with respect to the size of the box (which provides the IR cutoff) even to all orders in perturbation theory.
Dynamical analysis of arbitrary dark energy and coincidence problem
Authors: Mandal Jyotirmay Das , Biswas Mahasweta , Debnath Ujjal
Published: August 2021

This paper reviews a systematic dynamical analysis on a general form of scalar field as Dark Energy (DE) with dark matter (DM) to sort out the “cosmic coincidence” problem. Here the autonomous system of differential equations is two-dimensional (2D) as well as nonlinear. So we have utilized nonlinear dynamical theory to explain various cosmological implications of this model. Nowadays, we have noted that some works are undertaking this nonlinear systems theory. Although we have seen that most of the works are simplifying the underlying nonlinear dynamical systems similar to a linear one, that can lead to flawed conclusions about the evolution of the universe. Since an important theorem, Poincare–Bendixson theorem asserts linearization of the nonlinear system and does not give “global” stability, unlike the linear one if the dimension is more than two. Anyway, our work is different from others in this regard. Here the dimension of the system is two, and we have obtained some interesting stuffs also. We have applied the above theorem of nonlinear dynamical systems and others to find the “global” stability. This theorem offers completely different stable solutions, contrary to the prediction of linear analysis. As a result, we have obtained two fixed points; one of them is a stable “attractor” (it is attracting “node” actually), and thereafter, we have analyzed the stability. To investigate the dynamical system behavior, we have drawn different figures. These figures include vector field and a new plotting strategy (explained later). These investigations suggest a way out of the coincidence problem (or, precisely speaking, what should be the mathematical form of the term “[Formula: see text]”, which indicates interaction between DE and DM to reduce coincidence). In this scenario, if the equation of state (EoS) of DE and DM obeys [Formula: see text], then coincidence problem may be avoided.
Rational solutions and their interactions with kink and periodic waves for a nonlinear dynamical phenomenon
Authors: Seadawy Aly R. , Rizvi Syed T. R. , Ashraf M. Aamir , Younis Muhammad , Hanif Maria
Published: August 2021

Lump (rational) waves and their interactions with kink and periodic waves, periodic cross-lump solutions will be discussed for (2+1)-dimensional Maccari-system in this paper. With the combination of rational, exponential, and trigonometric functions, we will study various lump soliton solutions. We will find out analytical solutions with interaction phenomenon and also describe them in graphical ways.
Null geodesics and QNMs in the field of regular black holes
Authors: Mondal Monimala , Yadav Anil Kumar , Pradhan Parthapratim , Islam Sayeedul , Rahaman Farook
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we analyze the null geodesics of regular black holes (BHs). A detailed analysis of geodesic structure, both null geodesics and timelike geodesics, has been investigated for the said BH. As an application of null geodesics, we calculate the radius of photon sphere and gravitational bending of light. We also study the shadow of the BH spacetime. Moreover, we determine the relation between radius of photon sphere [Formula: see text] and the shadow observed by a distance observer. Furthermore, we discuss the effect of various parameters on the radius of shadow [Formula: see text]. Also, we compute the angle of deflection for the photons as a physical application of null-circular geodesics. We find the relation between null geodesics and quasinormal mode (QNM) frequency in the eikonal approximation by computing the Lyapunov exponent. It is also shown that (in the eikonal limit) the QNMs of BHs are governed by the parameter of null-circular geodesics. The real part of QNMs frequency determines the angular frequency, whereas the imaginary part determines the instability timescale of the circular orbit. Next, we study the massless scalar perturbations and analyze the effective potential graphically. Massive scalar perturbations are also discussed. As an application of timelike geodesics, we compute the innermost stable circular orbit (ISCO) and marginally bound circular orbit (MBCO) of the regular BHs which are closely related to the BH accretion disk theory. In the appendix, we calculate the relation between angular frequency and Lyapunov exponent for null-circular geodesics.
Optical properties of SrxBa1−xNb2O6 nanoscale films (x = 0.5 and 0.61) grown by RF-cathode sputtering in an oxygen atmosphere
Authors: Kara-Murza S. V. , Zhidel K. M. , Korchikova N. V. , Tekhtelev Yu. V. , Pavlenko A. V. , Kiseleva L. I.
Published: August 2021

The research findings of the phase composition, nanostructure and optical properties of strontium–barium niobate thin films are discussed. [Formula: see text]Ba[Formula: see text]Nb2O6 nanosized films ([Formula: see text] = 0.5 and 0.61) were characterized by XRD, SEM and AFM studies. Reflective multi-angle ellipsometry and spectrophotometry were used to determine the optical parameters (refractive index, its dispersion, and thickness of the damaged surface layer) of thin films. It was shown that SBN-50 and SBN-61 thin films were grown [Formula: see text]-oriented on Al2O3 (0001) and heteroepitaxial on MgO (001) substrates. The increase of refractive index, approaching its maximum value in the bulk material for a given composition as the film thickness increases, is observed.
Improved blattoid insect and conchostracan zonation for the Late Carboniferous, Pennsylvanian, of Euramerica
Authors: Schneider Joerg W. , Scholze Frank , Ross Andrew J. , Blake Bascombe M. , Lucas Spencer G.
Published: August 2021

For the biostratigraphy of mixed continental-marine and purely continental sections in the palaeotropical belt of Euramerica, 9 insect and 8 conchostracan zones are newly defined or improved. These zones encompass the time interval from the Early Pennsylvanian (middle Bashkirian) up into the early Permian (early Asselian) of the Euramercian biotic province. They are linked as much as possible to the marine Standard Global Chronostrigraphic Scale by common occurrences of insects and/or conchostracans with conodonts in mixed marine-continental sections as well as by the thus far available and reliable radioisotopic ages of associated volcanic rocks. This insect and conchostracan zonation is an alternative tool to the well-established macro-plant biostratigraphy of the Pennsylvanian. In contrast to the latter, only single specimens of insects or conchostracans, even if more rare than plant remains, allow biostratigraphic dating with a similar high temporal resolution.
Controls on sediment distribution in a volcanically-affected basin: insights from the Ethiopian Flood Basalt Province
Authors: Passey Simon R. , McLean Charlotte Elizabeth , Ayalew Dereje
Published: August 2021

This study provides a comprehensive examination of the Oligocene–Miocene Ethiopian Flood Basalt Province (EFBP) within the Blue Nile (Abay) Basin (BNB), Ethiopia. Extensive logging through 29 new sections has enabled an updated stratigraphic account of the BNB to be elucidated and reveals the significance of intravolcanic sedimentary systems within the EFBP. Five sub- and intra-volcanic surfaces were modelled using spot heights to generate isopach maps that were used to constrain the thickness variations within the stratigraphy. Additionally, lineaments, Strahler stream segments and volcanic cones were mapped out from digital elevation models (SRTM DEM) and satellite data (ASTER and LANDSAT 8 imagery). These data were used in conjunction with the isopach maps to better understand the basinal controls on the distribution of intravolcanic sedimentary systems within the BNB. The study reveals how NNE and ESE/SE structural trends have influenced the distribution of volcanoes within the basin, which has in turn disrupted the distribution and lithofacies architecture of the volcanic sequences. The presence of intrabasinal ridges parallel to the major structural trends are also revealed, which formed relatively short-lived drainage divides. The implications of these intrabasinal highs on the composition and the reservoir potential of intravolcanic sedimentary successions are discussed.
Low I/O Intensity-aware Partial GC Scheduling to Reduce Long-tail Latency in SSDs
Authors: Sha Zhibing , Li Jun , Song Lihao , Tang Jiewen , Huang Min , Cai Zhigang , Qian Lianju , Liao Jianwei , Liu Zhiming
Published: August 2021

This article proposes a low I/O intensity-aware scheduling scheme on garbage collection (GC) in SSDs for minimizing the I/O long-tail latency to ensure I/O responsiveness. The basic idea is to assemble partial GC operations by referring to several determinable factors (e.g., I/O characteristics) and dispatch them to be processed together in idle time slots of I/O processing. To this end, it first makes use of
Fourier
transform to explore the time slots having relative sparse I/O requests for conducting time-consuming GC operations, as the number of affected I/O requests can be limited. After that, it constructs a mathematical model to further figure out the types and quantities of partial GC operations, which are supposed to be dealt with in the explored idle time slots, by taking the factors of I/O intensity, read/write ratio, and the SSD use state into consideration. Through a series of simulation experiments based on several realistic disk traces, we illustrate that the proposed GC scheduling mechanism can noticeably reduce the long-tail latency by between 5.5% and 232.3% at the 99.99th percentile, in contrast to state-of-the-art methods.
Effect of the IrOx Conductivity on the Anode Electrode/Porous Transport Layer Interfacial Resistance in PEM Water Electrolyzers
Authors: Bernt M. , Schramm C. , Schröter J. , Gebauer C. , Byrknes J. , Eickes C. , Gasteiger H. A.
Published: August 2021

In this study, a commercial IrO2/TiO2 catalyst (75 wt% Ir, named “Benchmark”) for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is compared to a newly developed IrO(OH)x/TiO2 catalyst (45 wt% Ir, named “P2X”). Due to its lower Ir packing density and higher OER activity vs the Benchmark catalyst (440 vs 12 A gIr
−1 at 1.43 ViR-free), the P2X catalyst shows an improved PEM (proton exchange membrane) water electrolyzer performance at ≈9 times reduced Ir loading, however, only if a platinum-coated porous transport layer (PTL) at the anode is used. While the performance of membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) with the Benchmark catalyst is unaffected when using an untreated titanium PTL, MEAs with the P2X catalyst perform poorly, which can be attributed to a contact resistance at the anode/PTL interface due to the low electrical conductivity of the P2X catalyst (0.7 S cm−1) vs the Benchmark catalyst (416 S cm−1) and the passivation of the Ti-PTL. A heat treatment procedure is used to transform the amorphous IrO(OH)x of the P2X catalyst into crystalline IrOx and, hence, increases its electrical conductivity. The optimum temperature for heat treatment to maximize electrical conductivity, OER activity and MEA performance will be evaluated.
Electrophysiological analysis of healthy and dystrophic 3-D bioengineered skeletal muscle tissues
Authors: Nguyen Christine T. , Ebrahimi Majid , Gilbert Penney M. , Stewart Bryan A.
Published: August 2021

Recently, methods for creating three-dimensional (3-D) human skeletal muscle tissues from myogenic cell lines have been reported. Bioengineered muscle tissues are contractile and respond to electrical and chemical stimulation. In this study, we provide an electrophysiological analysis of healthy and dystrophic 3-D bioengineered skeletal muscle tissues, focusing on Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). We enlist the 3-D in vitro model of DMD muscle tissue to evaluate muscle cell electrical properties uncoupled from presynaptic neural inputs, an understudied aspect of DMD. Our data show that previously reported electrophysiological aspects of DMD, including effects on membrane potential and membrane resistance, are replicated in the 3-D muscle tissue model. Furthermore, we test a potential therapeutic compound, poloxamer 188, and demonstrate capacity for improving the membrane potential in DMD muscle. Therefore, this study serves as a baseline for a new in vitro method to examine potential therapies for muscular disorders.
Gut microbiota and renin-angiotensin system: a complex interplay at local and systemic levels
Authors: Jaworska Kinga , Koper Mateusz , Ufnal Marcin
Published: August 2021

Gut microbiota is a potent biological modulator of many physiological and pathological states. The renin-angiotensin system (RAS), including the local gastrointestinal RAS (GI RAS), emerges as a potential mediator of microbiota-related effects. The RAS is involved in cardiovascular system homeostasis, water-electrolyte balance, intestinal absorption, glycemic control, inflammation, carcinogenesis, and aging-related processes. Ample evidence suggests a bidirectional interaction between the microbiome and RAS. On the one hand, gut bacteria and their metabolites may modulate GI and systemic RAS. On the other hand, changes in the intestinal habitat caused by alterations in RAS may shape microbiota metabolic activity and composition. Notably, the pharmacodynamic effects of the RAS-targeted therapies may be in part mediated by the intestinal RAS and changes in the microbiome. This review summarizes studies on gut microbiota and RAS physiology. Expanding the research on this topic may lay the foundation for new therapeutic paradigms in gastrointestinal diseases and multiple systemic disorders.
Nrf2 expression in pancreatic stellate cells promotes progression of cancer
Authors: Tanaka Yu , Hamada Shin , Matsumoto Ryotaro , Taguchi Keiko , Yamamoto Masayuki , Masamune Atsushi
Published: August 2021

This study identified that Nrf2 contributes to PSC activation. Nrf2 deletion in PSCs resulted in attenuation of cancer-promoting role. Nrf2 in PSCs could be an attractive therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer.
Renal negative pressure treatment as a novel therapy for heart failure-induced renal dysfunction
Authors: Rao Veena S. , Maulion Christopher , Asher Jennifer L. , Ivey-Miranda Juan B. , Cox Zachary L. , Moreno-Villagomez Julieta , Mahoney Devin , Turner Jeffrey M. , Wilson F. Perry , Wilcox Christopher S. , Testani Jeffrey M.
Published: August 2021

Congestion is the primary pathophysiological lesion in most heart failure (HF) hospitalizations. Renal congestion increases renal tubular pressure, reducing glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and diuresis. Because each nephron is a fluid-filled column, renal negative pressure therapy (rNPT) applied to the urinary collecting system should reduce tubular pressure, potentially improving kidney function. We evaluated the renal response to rNPT in congestive HF. Ten anesthetized ∼80-kg pigs underwent instrumentation with bilateral renal pelvic JuxtaFlow catheters. GFR was determined by iothalamate clearance (mGFR) and renal plasma flow (RPF) by para-aminohippurate clearance. Each animal served as its own control with randomization of left versus right kidney to −30 mmHg rNPT or no rNPT. mGFR and RPF were measured simultaneously from the rNPT and no rNPT kidney. Congestive HF was induced via cardiac tamponade maintaining central venous pressure at 20–22.5 mmHg throughout the experiment. Before HF induction, rNPT increased natriuresis, diuresis, and mGFR compared with the control kidney ( P < 0.001 for all). Natriuresis, diuresis, and mGFR decreased following HF ( P < 0.001 for all) but were higher in rNPT kidney versus control ( P < 0.001 for all). RPF decreased during HF ( P < 0.001) without significant differences between rNPT treatments. During HF, the rNPT kidney had similar diuresis and natriuresis ( P > 0.5 for both) and higher fractional excretion of sodium ( P = 0.001) compared with the non-rNPT kidney in the no HF period. In conclusion, rNPT resulted in significantly increased diuresis, natriuresis, and mGFR, with or without experimental HF. rNPT improved key renal parameters of the congested cardiorenal phenotype.
Within-cycle instantaneous frequency profiles report oscillatory waveform dynamics
Authors: Quinn Andrew J. , Lopes-dos-Santos Vítor , Huang Norden , Liang Wei-Kuang , Juan Chi-Hung , Yeh Jia-Rong , Nobre Anna C. , Dupret David , Woolrich Mark W.
Published: August 2021

We propose a novel analysis approach quantifying nonsinusoidal waveform shape. The approach isolates oscillations with empirical mode decomposition before waveform shape is quantified using phase-aligned instantaneous frequency. This characterizes the full shape profile of individual cycles while accounting for between-cycle differences in duration, amplitude, and timing. We validated in simulations before applying to identify a range of data-driven nonsinusoidal shape motifs in hippocampal theta oscillations.
BDNF shifts excitatory-inhibitory balance in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus to elevate blood pressure
Authors: Thorsdottir Daniella , Einwag Zachary , Erdos Benedek
Published: August 2021

We have shown that BDNF, acting in the PVN, elevates blood pressure in part by augmenting NMDA receptor-mediated excitatory input and by diminishing GABAA receptor-mediated inhibitory input to PVN neurons. In addition, we demonstrate that elevated BDNF expression in the PVN upregulates NMDA receptor immunoreactivity and downregulates GABAA receptor as well as KCC2 transporter immunoreactivity.
Hippocampal β2-GABAA receptors mediate LTP suppression by etomidate and contribute to long-lasting feedback but not feedforward inhibition of pyramidal neurons
Authors: Figueroa Alexander G. , Benkwitz Claudia , Surges Gabe , Kunz Nicholas , Homanics Gregg E. , Pearce Robert A.
Published: August 2021

Etomidate exerts its anesthetic actions through GABAA receptors. However, the mechanism remains unknown. Here, using a hippocampal brain slice model, we show that β2-GABAARs are essential to this effect. We also show that these receptors contribute to long-lasting dendritic inhibition in feedback but not feedforward inhibition of pyramidal neurons. These findings hold implications for understanding how anesthetics block memory formation and, more generally, how inhibitory circuits control learning and memory.
Formation of a novel supraspinal-spinal connectome that relearns the same motor task after complete paralysis
Authors: Urban Luke Stuart , Thornton Michael A. , Ingraham Dixie Katie L. , Dale Erica A. , Zhong Hui , Phelps Patricia E. , Burdick Joel W. , Edgerton V. Reggie
Published: August 2021

Electrical spinal cord stimulation has enabled patients with paraplegia to regain voluntary leg movement, and so the underlying mechanisms involved in this recovery are of great interest. Here, we demonstrate in rodents the recovery of trained motor behavior after a spinal lesion. Rodents were trained to kick their right hindlimb in response to an auditory cue. This behavior recovered 2 mo after the paralyzing spinal cord injury but only with the assistance of electrical spinal cord stimulation.
Disentangling acceleration-, velocity-, and duration-dependency of the short- and medium-latency stretch reflexes in the ankle plantarflexors
Authors: van ’t Veld Ronald C. , van Asseldonk Edwin H. F. , van der Kooij Herman , Schouten Alfred C.
Published: August 2021

Previous research and definitions of the stretch reflex and spasticity have focused on velocity dependence. We showed that perturbation acceleration, velocity, and duration all shape the M1 and M2 response, often via nonlinear or interacting dependencies. Consequently, systematic execution and reporting of stretch reflex and spasticity studies, avoiding uncontrolled parameter interdependence, is essential for proper understanding of the reflex neurophysiology.
Short-Term Effects of a Novel Eye Mask Producing Heat and Vibration for the Treatment of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction: A Pilot Study
Authors: Vigo Luca , Pellegrini Marco , Carones Francesco , Scorcia Vincenzo , Giannaccare Giuseppe
Published: August 2021

Purpose. To investigate the short-term effects on tear film parameters and ocular symptoms of a novel eye mask producing heat and vibration developed for the treatment of dry eye disease owing to meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). Methods. This is a pilot study including the first 20 consecutive patients (6 males, 14 females; mean age 52.4 ± 16.8 years) who were treated with a novel eye mask producing heat (42°) and vibration (up to 20 Hz) (Activa, SBS Sistemi, Turin, Italy) for 15 minutes. The treatment incorporates 2 phases in the following chronological order: 5 minutes of heating (phase I); 10 minutes of combination of heating and vibration (phase II). Noninvasive ocular surface examination was carried out before (T0) and 30 minutes after the mask session (T1) by means of Idra (SBS Sistemi, Turin, Italy) for the measurement of noninvasive break-up time (NIBUT) and lipid layer thickness (LLT). Patients’ satisfaction after treatment was ascertained by asking the patients whether they perceived improvement from their baseline symptoms according to a 5-grade scale: none = 0; trace = 1; mild = 2; moderate = 3; high = 4. Results. All patients completed regularly the mask session and no device-related adverse events were noted. NIBUT improved significantly from T0 to T1 (from 7.2 ± 1.8 s to 8.1 ± 2.1;

P

 = 0.014). In parallel, also LLT improved from from T0 to T1 (72.5 ± 13.9 nm to 83.1 ± 16.1;

P

 = 0.016). Seven patients (35% of the total) had a moderate satisfaction (grade 3) while 13 patients (65%) had a high satisfaction (grade 4) with treatment. Conclusions. This eye mask represents a novel well tolerated tool in the armamentarium of MGD treatments. Thirty minutes after the session, NIBUT and LLT increased significantly; furthermore, all patients reported an improvement of discomfort symptoms with a moderate to high satisfaction with treatment.
Research on Damage Assessment of Buried Standard and Carbon‐Fibre‐Reinforced Polymer Petroleum Pipeline Subjected to Shallow Buried Blast Loading in Soil
Authors: Cui Ying , Fang Jun , Qu Zhan , Song Meimei , Zhao Junhai
Published: August 2021

Buried petroleum pipelines may encounter threats from blast loading due to terrorist attacks, accidental explosions, and artificial blasting during in‐progress construction. Carbon‐fibre‐reinforced polymer (CFRP) is often used for the repair and reinforcement of buried petroleum pipelines. It is meaningful and necessary to distinguish the different responses and establish an effective damage assessment method for standard petroleum pipelines and CFRP‐supported petroleum pipelines buried in soil under blast loading. In this study, under fixed end constraints, experimental analysis and numerical simulations were combined to assess the damage of a standard petroleum pipeline and a CFRP petroleum pipeline buried in soil under blast loading. The results showed that, for a scaled distance of 0.19 m/kg1/3, plastic deformation occurred on the surfaces of the two pipelines facing the explosive. The antiexplosion performance of the CFRP pipeline was better than that of the standard pipeline, and the CFRP sheets had a positive effect on the protection of the buried petroleum pipeline during the buried blast loading. Furthermore, based on pressure‐impulse damage theory and with consideration of the feasibility under real circumstances, two pressure‐impulse damage evaluation curves for standard and CFRP pipelines facing explosive loads were established separately based on a new critical ratio of the dent depth and length. Finally, based on the two pressure‐impulse damage evaluation curves and the new critical ratio, two pressure‐impulse damage criteria for these two buried petroleum pipelines were defined. Moreover, with the two pressure‐impulse damage evaluation curves, mathematical formulae for the two different buried petroleum pipelines were established to generate pressure‐impulse diagrams. With the established formulae, the damage to the standard buried pipeline and the CFRP pipeline could be evaluated effectively. Damage to other similar standard pipelines or CFRP pipelines buried in soil with different design parameters due to shallow buried blast loading could also be evaluated using this method.
Design Optimization of an Integrated E‐Type Multilink Suspension Wheel‐Side Drive System and Improvement of Vehicle Ride Comfort
Authors: Lu Wen , Li Wenbo , Chen Xinbo
Published: August 2021

Distributed‐drive electric vehicles constitute an important research direction for the future development of electric vehicles. In this regard, the integrated suspension wheel‐side drive system has considerable development potential because it can address the lack of driving smoothness and the grounding deterioration caused by the excessive unsprung mass of the distributed‐drive system. However, a complete and systematic description of the design of such a system is not available in the literature. Therefore, this paper proposes a design process for an integrated E‐type multilink suspension wheel‐side drive system and a method to improve the vehicle ride comfort. Based on a configuration analysis of the E‐type multilink suspension using the orientation feature set method, the ADAMS platform was used to optimize the hard point coordinates of the suspension with the integrated E‐type multilink suspension wheel‐side drive system as the object, and the spring stiffness and damper were designed considering the driving smoothness and the grounding of the vehicle. The bushing stiffnesses were determined through tests, and the feasibility of each bushing installation was determined via elastic kinematic simulation of the integrated E‐type multilink wheel‐side drive system; then, optimization design of bushing stiffness was carried out for ride smoothness. Then, a lightweight design of the gears’ reducer was performed. Finally, the specific structural design and strength verification of the key components of the designed system were conducted. The results indicated that the strength of each component of the wheel‐side drive system met the requirements. Thus, the overall design process of the integrated suspension wheel‐side drive system was improved. This study can therefore serve as a reference for the integrated design and vehicle ride comfort improvement of wheel‐side drive systems and suspensions.
First Principle Study of Salinity Measurement by 2D Material
Authors: Jiang Fan , Hu Bo , Jia Weiguang , Zhou Yi
Published: August 2021

By using first principle calculations, a simple model of salinity sensor based on graphene electrode is constructed and its electron transport property is systematically investigated. It is found that all saltwater clusters at different salinity exhibit an obvious increase of the current while the saltwater to be detected is passing through the device. Moreover, only changing one Na atom acted as the conductive medium, and the electron transport behaviors could be clearly distinguished among the saltwater by negative differential resistance phenomenon, which demonstrates that the graphene-based salinity sensor could be capable of distinguishing saltwater at different salinity efficiently and accurately. This study provides a new path for the creation of the novel salinity sensor by graphene and other 2D material electrode.
Applications of TVF‐EMD in Vital Signal Detection for UWB Radar
Authors: Yang Zhen , Ma Chi , Qi Qingjie , Li Xin , Li Yan
Published: August 2021

When using pulsed ultra‐wideband radar (UWB) noncontact detection technology to detect vital signs, weak vital signs echo signals are often covered by various noises, making human targets unable to identify and locate. To solve this problem, a new method for vital sign detection is proposed which is based on impulse ultra‐wideband (UWB) radar. The range is determined based on the continuous wavelet transform (CWT) of the variance of the received signals. In addition, the TVF‐EMD method is used to obtain the information of respiration and heartbeat frequency. Fifteen sets of experiments were carried out, and the echo radar signals of 5 volunteers at 3 different distances were collected. The analysis results of the measured data showed that the proposed algorithm can accurately and effectively extract the distance to the target human and its vital signs information, which shows vast prospects in research and application.
ADNEX Model-Based Diagnosis of Ovarian Cancer Using MRI Images
Authors: Liu Bin , Liao Jianmei , Gu Wenli , Wang Junyan , Li Guozhang , Wang Liang
Published: August 2021

This exploration aims to investigate the important role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the diagnosis of ovarian cancer under the ADNEX. From March 2017 to December 2019, 84 patients with ovarian cancer confirmed by pathological operation were selected as the research objects. The consistency of ADNEX, MRI, and ADNEX

∗

MRI in the diagnosis and staging of ovarian cancer was calculated separately. SPSS 26.0 statistical software was used to compare the accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic value of the two diagnostic methods. The results show that the accuracy and sensitivity of ADNEX are 78.6% and 93.2%, respectively. The accuracy and sensitivity of MRI are 81.2% and 89.4%, respectively. There is no significant difference between the two methods (

p
<
0.05

). The overall consistency rates of ADNEX

∗

MRI, MRI diagnosis, and ADNEX for ovarian cancer staging are 94.2%, 74%, and 65.4%, respectively. There was a significant difference (

p
<
0.05

). ADNEX

∗

MRI and MRI diagnosis were compared with each stage of ADNEX. There is a significant difference between the second and fourth stages (

p
<
0.05

), and there is also a significant difference in the fourth stage (

p
<
0.017

). It is concluded that MRI diagnosis of ovarian cancer based on ADNEX is superior to ADNEX and MRI examination alone, which provides a certain reference value for clinical staging of ovarian cancer.
Redox Imbalance and Methylation Disturbances in Early Childhood Obesity
Authors: Barbosa Pedro , Melnyk Stepan , Bennuri Sirish C. , Delhey Leanna , Reis Andreia , Moura Gabriela R. , Børsheim Elisabet , Rose Shannon , Carvalho Eugenia
Published: August 2021

Obesity is increasing worldwide in prepubertal children, reducing the age of onset of associated comorbidities, including type 2 diabetes. Sulfur‐containing amino acids, methionine, cysteine, and their derivatives play important roles in the transmethylation and transsulfuration pathways. Dysregulation of these pathways leads to alterations in the cellular methylation patterns and an imbalanced redox state. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that one‐carbon metabolism is already dysregulated in prepubertal children with obesity. Peripheral blood was collected from 64 children, and the plasma metabolites from transmethylation and transsulfuration pathways were quantified by HPLC. The cohort was stratified by BMI z‐scores and HOMA‐IR indices into healthy lean (HL), healthy obese (HO), and unhealthy obese (UHO). Fasting insulin levels were higher in the HO group compared to the HL, while the UHO had the highest. All groups presented normal fasting glycemia. Furthermore, high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) was lower while triglycerides and lactate levels were higher in the UHO compared to HO subjects. S‐adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) and total homocysteine levels were increased in the HO group compared to HL. Additionally, glutathione metabolism was also altered. Free cystine and oxidized glutathione (GSSG) were increased in the HO as compared to HL subjects. Importantly, the adipocyte secretory function was already compromised at this young age. Elevated circulating leptin and decreased adiponectin levels were observed in the UHO as compared to the HO subjects. Some of these alterations were concomitant with alterations in the DNA methylation patterns in the obese group, independent of the impaired insulin levels. In conclusion, our study informs on novel and important metabolic alterations in the transmethylation and the transsulfuration pathways in the early stages of obesity. Moreover, the altered secretory function of the adipocyte very early in life may be relevant in identifying early metabolic markers of disease that may inform on the increased risk for specific future comorbidities in this population.
Lattice‐Based 3‐Dimensional Wireless Sensor Deployment
Authors: Wang Zhigang , Tian Liqin , Lin Lianhai , Tong Yinghua
Published: August 2021

With the wide application of wireless sensor networks (WSNs) in real space, there are numerous studies on 3D sensor deployments. In this paper, the k‐connectivity theoretical model of fixed and random nodes in regular lattice‐based deployment was proposed to study the coverage and connectivity of sensor networks with regular lattice in 3D space. The full connectivity range and cost of the deployment with sensor nodes fixed in the centers of four regular lattices were quantitatively analyzed. The optimal single lattice coverage model and the ratio of the communication range to the sensing range (rc/rs) were investigated when the deployment of random nodes satisfied the k‐connectivity requirements for full coverage. In addition, based on the actual sensing model, the coverage, communication link quality, and reliability of different lattice‐based deployment models were determined in this study.
Lateral Seismic Fragility Assessment of Cable‐Stayed Bridge with Diamond‐Shaped Concrete Pylons
Authors: Zhang Chao , Lu Jianbin , Zhou Zhengan , Yan Xueyuan , Xu Li , Lin Jinjun
Published: August 2021

The cable‐stayed bridge with diamond‐shaped pylons is one of the most popular bridges because of its obvious advantages such as aesthetical appearance and smaller foundation. However, the diamond‐shaped pylons have both inward and outward inclinations, which may result in complicated seismic behavior when subjected to lateral earthquake excitations. To end this, the finite element model of a cable‐stayed bridge with diamond concrete pylon is developed firstly. Four limit states and corresponding damage index are defined for each critical section. Finally, the lateral seismic fragility of the components and system of CSB was carried out. Based on the result of probabilistic estimation of lateral seismic responses, the order of the damage probability in all four damage states for each component of bridge is given. The fragility curves of bridge system on the lower bound and upper bound are studied. Moreover, the system fragility of the entire bridge is compared with that of each component.
Hollow Gold Nanoparticles Loaded with L-Buthionine-Sulfoximine as a Novel Nanomedicine for In Vitro Cancer Cell Therapy
Authors: Liu Min , Li Wushan , Xu Ri , Jiang Xiaoyan , Liu Anchang
Published: August 2021

A novel nanomedicine, constructed by simultaneously binding L-buthionine-sulfoximine (BSO) and thiolated polyethylene glycol (PEG) to the surface of 100 nm hollow gold nanoparticles (HAuNS), was expected to be used in effective therapeutics of cancer. The current study is aimed at evaluating in vitro the antitumor efficacy of newly synthesized BSO-loaded PEG-SH-HAuNS (BSO@HAuNS) with strong resonances in near-infrared (NIR) as a chemotherapy agents against a line of human lung cancer cells (A549). Here, we conducted cytotoxicity assays and found BSO@HAuNS to efficiently kill human lung cancer cells by ROS generation, indicating that BSO facilitated an increased susceptibility of cancer cells to PEG-SH-HAuNS. Based on flow cytometry analysis, BSO@HAuNS can induce apoptosis and necrosis in mitochondrial-dependent pathway in A549 cells. Our results revealed a novel class of nanomedicine with high potential to be implemented as effective chemotherapy agents for patients diagnosed with unresectable lung cancer.
“Coffee Ring” Effect of Ag Colloidal Nanoparticles Dried on Glass: Impact to Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS)
Authors: Šimáková Petra , Kočišová Eva , Procházka Marek
Published: August 2021

It is well known that spontaneous drying of some fluid droplets on certain solid surfaces forms a “coffee ring” pattern. In this paper, we studied “coffee ring” formation for two kinds of Ag colloidal nanoparticles (borohydride-reduced (b.-r.) and hydroxylamine-reduced (h.-r.)) and its impact on surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). Optical and scanning electron microscopies were used to observe the morphology of the dried rings as well. We used 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(1-methyl-4-pyridyl)porphyrin (TMPyP) as a testing SERS molecular probe. The results showed that the structure of the edge rings of dried drops of Ag colloid/TMPyP systems was different for b.-r. and h.-r. nanoparticles. The inherent limitation of our approach is inhomogeneity in particle and “hot spots” distribution, SERS signal fluctuation, and consequently low spectral reproducibility. However, in the case of h.-r. nanoparticles, it formed a structure with highly enhancing sites (“hot spots”) providing enormous SERS signal of TMPyP. Higher sensitivity and the possibility of spectral mapping over the dried pattern are advantages in comparison with the measurements from colloidal suspension. Although our approach is not reliable for quantitative analytical SERS applications, it can serve as a simple, cheap, and fast prescan method, which can be easily implemented for preliminary SERS analysis.
“Vitamin D Deficiency Is More Common in Women with Autoimmune Thyroiditis: A Retrospective Study”
Authors: Turashvili Nino , Javashvili Lali , Giorgadze Elene
Published: August 2021

Background. Vitamin D is a hormone that is mainly produced in the skin upon ultraviolet B radiation exposure and has important influence on various organs. In recent years, data have been collected that vitamin D deficiency plays an important role in the development of various nonskeletal diseases, including autoimmune diseases. Chronic autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto’s thyroiditis) is one of the most common organ-specific autoimmune endocrine diseases. It is characterized by increased level of antithyroid peroxidase and/or antithyroglobulin antibodies in blood, which often leads to thyroid dysfunction and structural changes of the gland. There is an opinion that vitamin D deficiency may be considered as an important risk factor for development of chronic autoimmune thyroiditis, but data of various small studies are controversial. Despite the fact that Georgia is a sunny country, vitamin D deficiency is a widespread problem here. Thyroid diseases, including the chronic autoimmune thyroiditis, are also very common in Georgia. The aim of our research was to compare the level of vitamin D between the patients with chronic autoimmune thyroiditis and the healthy subjects. Methods. This retrospective study enrolled subjects, who were 18–70 years old and visited the clinics “Cortex” and “National Institute of Endocrinology” in 2018 or in 2019 from mid-spring to mid-summer. Data of thyroid-stimulating hormone, free thyroxine, antithyroid peroxidase antibodies, antithyroglobulin antibodies, thyroid ultrasonography, and 25(OH) vitamin D were retrospectively analysed based on medical history. In total, data of 1295 patients were collected. The statistical processing of data was performed through the SPSS 20 program. Results. The negative association between thyroid-stimulating hormone, antithyroid peroxidase antibodies, antithyroglobulin antibodies, heterogeneous parenchyma of thyroid gland, and vitamin D was found in women. Statistically significant association was not detected in men. Conclusions. Serum vitamin D is lower in women with autoimmune thyroiditis and primary hypothyroidism. Further studies are needed to evaluate the influence of vitamin D supplementation on thyroid autoantibody positivity or primary hypothyroidism.
Update on Pharmacological Activities, Security, and Pharmacokinetics of Rhein
Authors: Li Gang-Min , Chen Jun-Ren , Zhang Hui-Qiong , Cao Xiao-Yu , Sun Chen , Peng Fu , Yin Yan-Peng , Lin Ziwei , Yu Lei , Chen Yan , Tang Yun-Li , Xie Xiao-Fang , Peng Cheng
Published: August 2021

Rhein, belonging to anthraquinone compounds, is one of the main active components of rhubarb and Polygonum multiflorum. Rhein has a variety of pharmacological effects, such as cardiocerebral protective effect, hepatoprotective effect, nephroprotective effect, anti-inflammation effect, antitumor effect, antidiabetic effect, and others. The mechanism is interrelated and complex, referring to NF-κB, PI3K/Akt/MAPK, p53, mitochondrial-mediated signaling pathway, oxidative stress signaling pathway, and so on. However, to some extent, its clinical application is limited by its poor water solubility and low bioavailability. Even more, rhein has potential liver and kidney toxicity. Therefore, in this paper, the pharmacological effects of rhein and its mechanism, pharmacokinetics, and safety studies were reviewed, in order to provide reference for the development and application of rhein.
Distal Acupoints Outperform Proximal Acupoints in Treating Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Yu Wan-Zhen , Huang Chin-Ming , Ng Hui-Ping , Lee Yu-Chen
Published: August 2021

Objectives. To determine the difference in efficacy between distal and proximal acupoints in treating knee osteoarthritis. Design. Ninety-two eligible participants were randomly assigned into three groups: distal acupoint treatment group (DG), proximal acupoint treatment group (PG), and sham acupuncture control group (SG). Primary and secondary outcomes were compared before and after the intervention. Interventions. A single acupuncture treatment was applied at Quchi (LI11), Shaohai (HT3), and Tianjing (TE10) in DG participants; Yanglingquan (GB34), Yinlingquan (SP9), and Heding (EX-LE2) in PG participants; and Zhongwan (CV12) and Liangmen (ST21) in SG participants. Main outcome measures. The visual analog scale (VAS) and active and passive knee range of motion (ROM) were used primarily to evaluate the treatment efficacy. The radial pulse diagnosis was used as a secondary outcome measure to determine the changes in the spectral energy of the radial pulses. Results. The three groups had significant pain reduction after acupuncture (

p
<
0.05

). DG had the greatest difference in pre- and post-VAS scores. Compared with the control group, significant improvement was observed in DG active and passive ROM and in PG passive ROM (

p
<
0.05

). The high-frequency spectral energy of the left chi pulse in PG was significantly decreased, while the low-frequency spectral energy of the left cun pulse in PG and the left guan pulse in DG were significantly increased after acupuncture. Conclusions. Distal acupoints provide better pain relief and improve ROM than proximal acupoints in treating knee osteoarthritis. Significant changes in spectral energy were observed in the left cun, guan, and chi pulses, indicating pain relief and blood flow improvement after acupuncture.
Radiation Pattern Reconfigurable Antenna for IoT Devices
Authors: Mahlaoui Zakaria , Antonino-Daviu Eva , Ferrando-Bataller Miguel
Published: August 2021

Based on the characteristic mode theory, a versatile radiation pattern reconfigurable antenna is proposed. The analysis starts from two parallel metallic plates with the same and different dimensions. By means of two PIN diodes, the size of one of the parallel metallic plates can be modified and consequently the behavior of the radiation pattern can be switched between bidirectional and unidirectional radiation patterns. Moreover, a SPDT switch is used to adjust the frequency and match the input impedance. The reconfigurable antenna prototype has been assembled and tested, and a good agreement between simulated and measured results is obtained at 2.5 GHz band which fits the IoT applications.
Singularity Analysis of Composite Laminated Piezoelectric Rectangular Plate Structure with 1 : 2 Internal Resonance
Authors: Guo Yuhong , Guo Yuhua , Zhang Wei , Wen Ruiping
Published: August 2021

This study investigates the dynamical behavior of the composite laminated piezoelectric rectangular plate with 1 : 2 internal resonance near the singularity using the extended singularity theory method. Based on the previous four-dimensional averaged equations of polar coordinates where the partial derivative terms are not equal to zero, the universal unfolding with codimension 3 of the proposed system is given. The main material parameters that affect the dynamic behavior of the laminated piezoelectric rectangular composite plate near the singularity under transverse excitation are revealed by the transition set of universal unfolding with codimension 3. In addition, the plots of the transition set in three bifurcation parameters space are discussed. These numerical results can show that the stability near the singularity of the proposed system is better when period ratio is less than zero.