bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An efficient inverse method for structural identification considering modeling and response uncertainties
Authors: Cao Lixiong , Liu Jie , Lu Cheng , Wang Wei
Published: August 2021

The inverse problem analysis method provides an effective way for the structural parameter identification. Due to the coupling of multi-source uncertainties in the measured responses and the modeling parameters, the inverse of unknown structural parameter will face the challenges in the solving mechanism and the computational cost. In this paper, an uncertain inverse method based on convex model and dimension reduction decomposition is proposed to realize the interval identification of unknown structural parameter according to the uncertain measured responses and modeling parameters. Firstly, the polygonal convex set model is established to quantify the uncertainties of modeling parameters. Afterwards, a space collocation method based on dimension reduction decomposition is proposed to transform the inverse problem considering multi-source uncertainties into a few interval inverse problems considering response uncertainty. The transformed interval inverse problem involves the two-layer solving process including interval propagation and optimization updating. In order to solve the interval inverse problems considering response uncertainty, an efficient interval inverse method based on the high dimensional model representation and affine algorithm is further developed. Through the coupling of the above two methods, the proposed uncertain inverse method avoids the time-consuming multi-layer nested calculation procedure, and then effectively realize the inverse uncertainty quantification of unknown structural parameters. Finally, two engineering examples are provided to verify the effectiveness of the proposed uncertain inverse method.
Risk Factors for Postoperative Ileus after Diverting Loop Ileostomy Closure following Rectal Cancer Surgery: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Nakao Toshihiro , Shimada Mitsuo , Yoshikawa Kozo , Tokunaga Takuya , Nishi Masaaki , Kashihara Hideya , Takasu Chie , Wada Yuma , Yoshimoto Toshiaki , Yamashita Syoko , Iwakawa Yosuke
Published: August 2021

Background: Postoperative ileus is one of the most common complications after diverting loop ileostomy closure. Some reports have investigated the risk factors for postoperative complications or ileus after ileostomy closure; however, these studies did not evaluate the index surgery sufficiently. In this study, we evaluated the risk factors, including the details of the index surgery, for ileus after diverting ileostomy closure.Methods: This was a retrospective study of patients who underwent ileostomy closure following index surgery for rectal cancer. Patients who developed postoperative ileus (POI (+)) and patients who did not (POI (−)) after ileostomy closure were compared.Results: Fifty-nine patients were evaluated and were divided into two groups: POI (+) (n=9) and POI (−) (n=50), and the groups were compared. There were no significant differences in the details of the index surgery, operative procedure, transanal total mesorectal excision, lateral lymph node dissection, operating time, or blood loss. The incidence of Clavien–Dindo grade ≥ III complications after the index surgery was significantly higher in the POI (+) group. Conclusions: The incidence of Clavien–Dindo grade ≥ III complications after the index surgery may increase the risk of postoperative ileus after ileostomy closure.
Clinical Benefits of Early Concurrent use of Cryoprecipitate and Plasma Compared with Plasma only in Bleeding Trauma Patients: Analysis of the Trauma Quality Improvement Program Database
Authors: Endo Akira , Senda Atsushi , Otomo Yasuhiro , Coimbra Raul
Published: August 2021

Background:The effectiveness of cryoprecipitate in trauma has not been well-established. In addition, the benefits of cryoprecipitate might have been overestimated in previous studies since the difference in the total amount of administered clotting factors was not considered. This study aimed to evaluate the benefits of the concurrent use of cryoprecipitate in combination with fresh frozen plasma (FFP) during the resuscitation of bleeding trauma patients.Methods: A retrospective cohort study using the American College of Surgeons Trauma Quality Improvement Program database was conducted. Patients who received ≥4 units of packed red blood cells within the first 4 hours after arrival to the emergency department (ED) were dichotomized according to whether cryoprecipitate was used. The outcomes (primary: in-hospital mortality; secondary: 24-h mortality and incidence of complications) were compared using propensity score-matching analysis, in which the amount of total administered clotting factors was balanced.Results: A total of 19,008 patients (Cryo+FFP group: 3825; FFP only group: 15,183) were eligible for analysis, of whom 3103 propensity score-matched pairs were generated. Significantly lower in-hospital mortality (1217 [39.2%] patients in the Cryo+FFP group vs. 1295 [41.7%] in the FFP only group; odds ratio [OR], 0.90; 95% CI, 0.81-1.00) and 24-h mortality (735 [23.7%] vs. 886 [28.6%]; OR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.69-0.87) were observed in the Cryo+FFP group than in the FFP only group; no significant difference was observed in the incidence of complications. Conclusions: Cryoprecipitate use combined with FFP was significantly associated with reduced mortality in bleeding trauma patients after adjustments were made for the dose of administered clotting factors. Future randomized controlled trials are warranted to confirm our results.
Efficacy and Safety of Radiofrequency Ablation Versus Video-assisted Thoracoscopic Sympathectomy in Palmar Hyperhidrosis: A Multicenter Cohort Study
Authors: Zhong Yiyue , Zhu Yanwen , Li Jiayan , Yang Xiaowei , Feng Zhiying , Liu Haipeng , Liang Zhu , Lin Baoquan , Liu Zhifeng , Wang Xin , Luo Weibin , Zhu Jian , Li Bin , Lai Shangdao , Jiang Weize , Wu Jiayuan , Li Daheng , Zhang Liangqing , Huang Bing , Tang Jing
Published: August 2021

Background: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) was adopted as an alternative to surgical options for sympathectomy in patients with palmar hyperhidrosis (PHH), but the RFA comparative efficacy of treatments by video-assisted thoracoscopic sympathectomy (VATS) on long-term remains uncertain.Methods: We recruited patients aged ≥14 years with diagnosed PHH from 14 centers in China. The treatment options of RFA or VATS were recruited in patient with informed consent. The primary outcome was the clinical efficacy in 1-year. Propensity scoring and multivariable models respectively were used to evaluate the clinical efficacy and inefficacy risk of treatment options.Results: A total of 807 patients were enrolled, 351 patients underwent RFA, and 456 were VATS. After propensity score matching, the rate of complete remission was lower in RFA than in VATS (79.2% [247/312] versus 91.3% [285/312], 95% confidence intervals [CI] 0.21 to 0.57, p<0.001). However, the rate of palmar dryness (95% CI 0.38 to 0.92, p=0.020), of postoperative pain (95% CI 0.13 to 0.33, p<0.001), and of surgical-related complication (95% CI 0.19 to 0.85, p=0.020) is lower in RFA group than in VATS group, and radiofrequency ablation group of skin temperature rise is more common (95% CI 1.84 to 3.58, p<0.001).Conclusion: Performing RFA had a lower success rate than VATS for the complete remission of palmar hyperhidrosis. However, RFA may be better reasonable treatment option for palmar hyperhidrosis before surgical sympathectomy, because it more possibly accepted and generalized due to lower symptomatic burden and costs than surgical sympathectomy in patients.Trial RegistrationChiCTR2000039576, URL: http://www.chictr.org.cn/index.aspx
The Correlation Between Nutrition and Frailty and the Predictive Value of Different Nutritional Indexes for Frailty
Authors: Liang Hong , Li Xiaoping , Lin Xiaoye , Ju Yanmin , Leng Jiyan
Published: August 2021

Background: Frailty is a kind of geriatric syndrome, which is very common in the elderly. Patients with malnutrition are at higher risk of frailty. This study analyzes the risk factors of frailty and the predictive value of different indicators for the occurrence of frailty through a cross-sectional study.Results: The study included 179 hospitalized patients aged 65 years and over. Patients were divided into non-frailty group and frailty group according to Fried Frailty Phenotype. Compared with the non-frailty group, the upper arm circumference, calf circumference, hemoglobin, albumin, prealbumin, cholesterol and low density lipoprotein in the frailty group were lower (P < 0.05). Comprehensive nutritional assessment, whether as a categorical variable or a continuous variable, was significantly correlated with frailty (P < 0.05). Model1 showed that the risk of frailty in malnourished patients was 3.381 times higher than that in well nourished patients (P = 0.036). Model2 showed that the risk of frailty decreased by 13.8% for every 1 point increase in MNA score (P = 0.009). The area under the curves of albumin, prealbumin and hemoglobin was larger (AUC > 0.65), AUC was 0.718, 0.693 and 0.743, respectively.Conclusions: Malnutrition is closely related to frailty. Albumin, prealbumin and hemoglobin have predictive value for frailty. Further cohort studies are needed to verify their ability to screen for frailty.
Proof of Space Transactions: A Novel Blockchain Protocol for Secure Authentication of Satellite Transactions
Authors: Hassanien Aboul Ella , Torky Mohamed , Goda Essam , Snasel Vaclav , Gaber Tarek
Published: August 2021

Blockchain technology can play a vital role in the space industry and satellite communication. This disruptive technology can build decentralized and secure protocols for processing and manipulating space transactions in the form of space digital tokens (SDTs). Tokenizing space transactions in the form of SDTs will enable various blockchain-based applications in the space industry. Moreover, blockchain protocols based on smart contracts can be utilized to authenticate many space transactions and P2P communications in a transparent, verifiable, and secure manner. This paper proposes a new blockchain-based solution for managing and securing satellite transactions using a novel concept called SDT. SDT is then used to develop a new blockchain protocol called proof of space transactions (PoST), which is then used in proposing a new blockchain-based protocol for authenticating satellite transactions. The proposed PoST protocol is implemented and simulated using the Ethereum blockchain. Five metrics are used to evaluate the protocol's performance: Ethereum GAZ, read latency, transaction latency, read throughput, and transaction throughput. The performance evaluation results proved the efficiency and reliability of PoST in managing and securing satellite transactions.
Fibular osteotomy is helpful for talar reduction in the treatment of varus ankle osteoarthritis with supramalleolar osteotomy
Authors: Liang Jing-Qi , Wang Jun-Hu , Zhang Yan , Wen Xiao-Dong , Liu Pei-Long , Liang Xiao-Jun , Lu Jun , Li Yi , Zhao Hong-Mou
Published: August 2021

Background

There have been debates on the necessity of fibular osteotomy (FO) in supramalleolar osteotomy (SMOT) for the treatment of varus ankle osteoarthritis. The purpose of the current study was to compare the clinical and radiological outcomes between SMOT with and without FO in the treatment of varus ankle osteoarthritis.
Methods

The SMOT group included 39 patients, and the SMOT with FO group included 24 patients. The basic information reached no significant difference between groups. The American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score, Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale (AOS), modified Takakura stage and range of motion (ROM) were used for the functional evaluation. The radiologic parameters were assessed at the last follow-up to compare the degree of talar reduction between the two groups.
Results

Both groups achieved significant improvements in AOFAS scores, modified Takakura stage as well as AOS pain and functional scores (P༜0.001). The ROM of the ankle joint in the SMOT group was significantly decreased (P = 0.022). In both groups, all of the radiological parameters were significantly improved (P༜0.01). The tibiofibular clear space (TFCS) was significantly widened in the SMOT group (P༜0.001). No significant difference was found between the two groups according to the functional outcomes. However, the talar tilt angle (TT) and hindfoot alignment angle (HFA) in the SMOT with FO group were significantly smaller than those in the SMOT group (P༜0.05). The TFCS was significantly widened in the SMOT group (P = 0.001). The medial displacement of the talus (MDT) was better reduced in the SMOT with FO group (P = 0.006).
Conclusion

SMOT is a promising procedure for functional improvement and malalignment correction in varus ankle osteoarthritis but reduces ankle range of motion. If SMOT is combined with FO, talar tilt and medial displacement will be better reduced.
Discovering Biomarkers in Gastric Cancer by Urine Metabolomics
Authors: Kong Yuan , Zhang Hongya , Li Shuang , Suo Jian , Zhang Shaopeng , Li Jian , Yang Shaokang , Liu Zhifeng , Yang Peng , Li Qian , Wang Daguang
Published: August 2021

IntroductionGastric cancer is one of the most common gastrointestinal tumors, ranking forth in incidence and second in mortality worldwide. Discovering molecular biomarkers for early gastric cancer diagnosis is of great importance. MethodsUrine and related clinical data of 40 patients with gastric cancer (20 in advanced stage and 20 in early stage) and 20 healthy volunteers from Jilin University First Hospital were collected. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) was used to detect urine samples and the metabolic differences between the three groups of urine samples were analyzed. The principal component analysis was performed after data processing, and different metabolites were found using analysis of variance. Partial least square discriminant analysis was performed to further narrow the range of different metabolites. The precise mass to charge ratios of different metabolites were imported into the Human Metabolomics Database (HMDB). Finally, the identified different metabolites were further screened by cluster analysis and ROC curve. ResultsUrine samples of the healthy group (NOR), the early gastric cancer group (EGC), and the advanced gastric cancer group (AGC) were different metabolites. 324 statistically significant metabolites are screened out. The cluster analysis showed 7-Methylguanine, vinylacetylglycine, butyric acid, 4-Vinylphenol sulf, 5`-biotinyl-AMP, and 3-Amino-2-piperido in EGC, AGC and NGO were similar. 7-Methylguanine, vinylacetylglycine and 4-Vinylphenolsulfate had good diagnostic ability in EGC and NOR (p<0.05), and gastric cancer and NOR (p<0.05). ConclusionDifferences in the metabolites in urine between the early gastric cancer group and the healthy group were found. 7-Methylguanine, Vinylacetylglycine, and 4-Vinylphenolsulfate have good diagnostic ability and may be potential biomarkers of early gastric cancer.
Study on Forming Characteristics of Natural Bulging Area of Metal Thin-walled Tube Under Liquid Impact Forming
Authors: Fan Xiangwen , Liu Jianwei , Xiao Zhu , Liang Huiping , Sun Changying , Tian Fengshou
Published: August 2021

Liquid Impact Forming (LIF) is a new composite forming technology based on Tube Hydroforming (THF) technology, which changes the volume of mould cavity through impact load and rapidly generates internal pressure to realize tube forming. It does not need external pressure supply source, and it is low cost and high efficiency. In order to study the forming characteristics of the natural bulging area of thin-walled metal tubes under different model side lengths and different model closing velocities, the change of the cavity volume of thin-walled metal tubes under impact hydraulic bulging was firstly analyzed theoretically, and a mathematical model of internal pressure was established. Then the effects of different loading parameters on the internal pressure, bulging height and wall thickness distribution in the natural bulging area of thin-walled metal tube were studied. Finally, through the comparison of finite element simulation analysis and experiment, it was found that the deviation between the experimental results and the numerical simulation was within 5%, which verified the accuracy and reliability of LIF. It also provides a certain theoretical research and application basis for the development of LIF of metal thin-walled tube.
An Atlas to Support the Progressive Control of Tsetse-transmitted Animal Trypanosomosis in Burkina Faso
Authors: Lassané Percoma , Rayaissé Jean Baptiste , Gimonneau Geoffrey , Bengaly Zakaria , Pooda Sié Hermann , Pagabeleguem Soumaila , Ganaba Rasmané , Sow Adama , Argilés Rafael , Bouyer Jérémy , Ouedraogo Moussa , Zhao Weining , Paone Massimo , Sidibé Issa , Gisele O/Sanon , Cecchi Giuliano
Published: August 2021

Background African animal trypanosomosis (AAT), transmitted by tsetse flies, is arguably the main disease constraint to integrated crop-livestock agriculture in sub-Saharan Africa, and African Heads of State and Government have adopted a resolution to rid the continent of this scourge. In order to sustainably reduce or eliminate the burden of AAT, a progressive and evidence-based approach is need, which must hinge on harmonized, spatially-explicit information on the occurrence of AAT and its vectors.MethodsA digital repository containing tsetse and AAT data collected in Burkina Faso between 1990 and 2019 was assembled. Data were collected either in the framework of control activities or for research purposes. Data were systematically verified, harmonized, georeferenced and integrated into a database (PostgreSQL). Entomological data on tsetse were mapped at the level of individual monitoring trap. When this was not possible, mapping done was at the level of site or location. Epidemiological data on AAT were mapped at the level of location/village.ResultsEntomological data showed that presence of four tsetse species in Burkina Faso. Glossina tachinoides was the most widespread and abundant species (56.35% of the catches), present from the eastern to the western part of the country. Glossina palpalis gambiensis was the second most abundant species (35.56%), and it was mainly found in the West. Glossina morsitans submorsitans was found at lower densities (6.11%), with a patchy distribution in the southern parts of the country. One only cluster of G. medicorum was detected (less than 0.1%), located in the Southwest. For the AAT component, data for 54,948 animal blood samples were assembled from 218 geographic locations. The samples were tested with a variety of diagnostic methods. AAT was found in all surveyed departments, including the tsetse-free areas in the North. Trypanosoma vivax and T. congolense infections were the dominant species 6.11±21.56% and 5.19±18.97% respectively), and to a lesser extend T. brucei infections (0.00±0.10%).Conclusions The atlas provides a synoptic view of the available information on tsetse and AAT distribution in Burkina Faso. Data are very scanty for most of the tsetse-free areas in the northern part of the country. Despite this limitation, this study generated a robust tool to aid the targeting of future surveillance and control activities. The development of the atlas also strengthened the collaboration between the different institutions involved in tsetse and AAT research and control in Burkina Faso, which will be crucial for future updates and the sustainability of the initiative.
Comparison of the Pregnancy and Neonatal Outcomes of ICSI Performed With Frozen Versus Fresh TESA Sperm in Patients With Obstructive Azoospermia: a Retrospective Study
Authors: Wu Shenghao , Xia Weiting , Xu Xin-Xin , Wu Yanhong , Hu Yangyang , Fang Lizi , Zhao Junzhao
Published: August 2021

BackgroundIt is commonly believed that using frozen sperms after TESA was effective for OA patients. Nevertheless, scholars are worried about the prognosis of ICSI with frozen testicular sperm. In this study, we aim to compare the pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of ICSI using cryopreserved versus fresh spermatozoa collected by TESA.MethodsA total of 317 cases of OA patients treated with ICSI in a university affiliated hospital from January 2016 to December 2020 were included in this retrospective study, and they were divided into two groups according to the sperm used for ICSI: Frozen sperm group (N=154) and Fresh sperm group(N=163). The outcomes were measured by the following indicators: Two pronucleus (2PN) fertilization rate, 2PN cleavage rate, high-quality blastocyst rate, average number of embryos transferred, implantation rate, clinical pregnancy rate, multiple pregnancy rate, miscarriage rate, preterm birth rate, live birth rate (LBR) , sex ratio at birth (male) and average newborn birth weight.ResultsThe present data showed no statistically significant difference in 2PN fertilization rates, 2PN cleavage rates, high-quality blastocyst rates and the average number of embryos transferred in the two groups. Similarly, no difference was found in implantation rate, clinical pregnancy rate, multiple pregnancy rate, miscarriage rate, premature delivery rate, LBR and sex ratio at birth (P>0.05). The average newborn birth weight was similar in the two groups (2932.61±728.40 vs 3100.32±515.64) (P>0.05), but there was a higher incidence of Low-Birth-Weight newborn in the frozen group (20.91% vs 8.49%)(P<0.05). ConclusionsAs for men with obstructive azoospermia, the use of frozen testicular sperm by TESA was efficient. There was a similar pregnancy outcome of ICSI using frozen or fresh spermatozoa collected by TESA. However, it may lead to higher incidence of newborns of low birth weight, which needs further research based on larger samples.
Oxidative stress impairs the Nur77-SIRT1 axis resulting in a decline in organism homeostasis during aging
Authors: Yu Yang , Song Xiaoyu , Ma Guojing , Zheng Lixia , Wang Xiaoxun , Chen Feng , Liu Tingting , Tian Huanlian , Xu Yingxi , Li Danni , Yang Fan , Cao Liu , Wang Difei
Published: August 2021

Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) is an NAD+-dependent deacetylase that protects against premature aging and cellular senescence. Aging that is accompanied by oxidative stress leads to a decrease in SIRT1 level and activity, but the regulatory mechanism that connects these events has remained unclear. Here we report that Nur77, an orphan nuclear receptor that shares similar biological pathways with SIRT1, also decreases with age in multiple organs. Our in vivo and in vitro studies revealed that Nur77 and SIRT1 decrease during aging and oxidative stress-induced cellular senescence. Deletion of Nur77 shortens lifespan and accelerates the aging process in multiple mouse tissues. Overexpression of Nur77 protects SIRT1 protein from proteasome degradation through negative transcriptional regulation of the E3 ligase murine double minute 2 (MDM2). Our results show that Nur77 deficiency remarkably aggravates aging related nephropathy, and elucidate a key role for Nur77 in the stabilization of SIRT1 homeostasis during renal aging. We propose a model wherein reduction of Nur77 upon oxidative stress promotes SIRT1 protein degradation through MDM2, which triggers cellular senescence. This creates additional oxidative stress and provides positive feedback for premature aging by further decreasing Nur77 expression. Our findings reveal the mechanism of oxidative stress-reduced SIRT1 during aging and offer an attractive therapeutic strategy for targeting aging organism homeostasis.
Hormetic response and transcriptome profiling reveal the mechanism underlying metabolic and cuticular resistance to host-specific terpenoid defences in an emerging insect pest, Pagiophloeus tsushimanus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
Authors: Li Shouyin , Li Hui , Wang Jingting , Chen Cong , Hao Dejun
Published: August 2021

The resistance mechanisms evolved by insects to overcome host-plant allelochemicals are a key consideration in pest management. Camphor oil (EO) and its main component (i.e., D-camphor) form a specific terpenoid-defensive system in camphor trees, Cinnamomum camphora. However, an emerging insect pest, Pagiophloeus tsushimanus, has recently caused serious damage to this intractable plant species and is largely elusive. Here, we used feeding bioassays and RNA-seq to investigate the mechanism underlying the resistance of the beetle to host-specific terpenoid defences. First, a hormetic response in both larval weight and developmental time, which is a highly generalized dose-response phenomenon in toxicology but occurs infrequently in the context of insect-plant interactions, was observed in terpenoid-feeding individuals. Then, comparative transcriptome analysis between terpenoid-feeding and control groups indicated that both CYP450-mediated metabolic resistance and CP-mediated cuticular resistance were jointly employed to cope with terpenoid-induced stress. In addition, a small portion of genes involved in the glucose transport pathway were upregulated at the low D-camphor dose, suggesting that an extra intake of glucose used for larval growth may contribute to a hormetic response. These findings suggested that the dual terpenoid resistance mechanisms in this specialist are an essential precondition for the hormetic response in larval growth, ultimately contributing to the widespread successful colonization of host camphor trees. Overall, our study will open new avenues for understanding insect-plant coevolutionary adaptation and developing durable pest control strategies.
“Now we’ve all turned to Eating Processed Foods”: A Photovoice Study of the Food and Nutrition Security Implications of ‘Galamsey’ in Ghana
Authors: Nyantakyi-Frimpong Hanson , Christian Aaron Kobina , Ganle John , Aryeetey Richmond
Published: August 2021

Small-scale mining, referred to as galamsey in Ghana, is an important source of income for many rural populations. Although concerns have been raised in the media about the significant threats galamsey poses to the environment, health, and livelihoods, there is a representational paucity of evidence regarding its links with local food systems, particularly from the perspective of affected mining communities. The current study explored community perceptions and experiences of galamsey and its perceived effects on food security and livelihoods in the East Akyem Municipality in the Eastern region of Ghana. Primary data was collected using photovoice, photo exhibition, and interviews. Results show that galamsey has Resulted in degradation of, otherwise, fertile agricultural land, and contamination of freshwater sources. This has resulted in reduced cultivable land, reduced crop production, shortage of essential staple foods, increases in food prices, and increased consumption of ultra-processed foods. There is also perception of increased exposure to heavy metals like mercury in locally produced food. Given the adverse health consequences of both food/nutrition insecurity, and increased consumption of processed foods, it is important that public and policy discussions to minimize the effects of galamsey in Ghana should include considerations about food and nutrition insecurity in mining communities.
All-day uninterrupted power generator: Harvesting energy from the sun and cold space
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Wu Zhenhua , Liu Zekun , Mu Erzhen , Liu Yang , Lv Yongbo , Thundat Thomas , Hu Zhiyu
Published: August 2021

Harvesting energy from the environment to generate electricity is attracting tremendous interest to enrich the forms of energy utilization, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and alleviate the global energy crisis1,2. However, achieving an unlimited and uninterrupted all-day power generation from the ambient energy is still challenging3. Herein, we demonstrate a passive power device to harvest energy from the sun and cold space based on micro-fabricated thermoelectric generator (TEG) integrated with solar absorber (SA) and radiative cooling emitter (RCE) to realize continuous power generation form the ambient. The ultrathin TEG, that with a sensitivity of 10− 4 K achieved output power density of 960 W/m3 while heated to 80°C at room temperature. The solar absorber (SA) performs photothermal conversion to heat the TEG in the daytime4, while the radiative cooling emitter (RCE) radiates the heat to the cold space through the atmospheric window to cool the TEG all the clear day5,6. Our strategy provides a renewable and sustainable thermodynamic resource to build a temperature difference over TEG for all-day uninterrupted power generation for wide application scenarios. This is the first proof-of-principle uninterrupted power generation system independent of time on a small scale, and opportunities exist for environmental energy harvesting and electricity generation beyond traditional technologies.
Self-adaptively Commensal Learning-based Jaya Algorithm with Multi-populations and its Application
Authors: Xie Zuanjia , Zhang Chunliang , Ouyang Haibin , Li Steven , Gao Liqun
Published: August 2021

Jaya algorithm is an advanced optimization algorithm, which has been applied to many real-world optimization problems. Jaya algorithm has better performance in some optimization field. However, Jaya algorithm exploration capability is not better. In order to enhance exploration capability of the Jaya algorithm, a self-adaptively commensal learning-based Jaya algorithm with multi-populations (Jaya-SCLMP) is presented in this paper. In Jaya-SCLMP, a commensal learning strategy is used to increase the probability of finding the global optimum, in which the person history best and worst information is used to explore new solution area. Moreover, a multi-populations strategy based on Gaussian distribution scheme and learning dictionary is utilized to enhance the exploration capability, meanwhile every sub-population employed three Gaussian distributions at each generation, roulette wheel selection is employed to choose a scheme based on learning dictionary. The performance of Jaya-SCLMP is evaluated based on 28 CEC 2013 unconstrained benchmark problems. In addition, three reliability problems, i.e. complex (bridge) system, series system and series-parallel system are selected. Compared with several Jaya variants and several state-of-the-art other algorithms, the experimental results reveal that Jaya-SCLMP is effective.
Vitamin D insufficiency is high in Malaysia: A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies on vitamin D status in Malaysia
Authors: Saffian Shamin Mohd , Jamil Nor Aini , Tahir Nor Asyikin Mohd , Hatah Ernieda
Published: August 2021

Vitamin D plays an important role in the immune system and many non-communicable diseases. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency for the overall population of Malaysia is unknown. This study systematically reviewed and pooled studies that report vitamin D status from participants residing in Malaysia. PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and MyJurnal were searched up to June 2021 without language restrictions. We include studies that reported the 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations and defined their cut-off for deficiency or insufficiency from healthy participants residing in Malaysia. Random effects model was used to pool vitamin D status using established cut-offs of < 30nmol/L, < 50nmol/L, and < 75nmol/L according to age group. We identified 203 studies, of which we included 31 studies in the meta-analysis. The pooled proportion for < 30nmol/L was 21% (95% CI 9–36, n = 2,438 from 10 studies), while the pooled proportion < 50nmol/L was 64% (95% CI 55–72, n = 13,927 from 29 studies), and < 75nmol/L was 85% (95% CI 61–100, n = 1,376 from 5 studies). Heterogeneity was high (I² ranged from 98–99%). Higher proportions of vitamin D insufficiency (defined as < 50nmol/L) were found in participants living in the urban areas (compared to rural areas), in females (compared to males), and in Malays and Malaysian Indians (compared to Malaysian Chinese) ethnicities. In conclusion, vitamin D insufficiency is highly prevalent in Malaysia, despite being a country that is close to the equator. We strongly urge prompt public health measures to improve the vitamin D status in Malaysia.
Optical and electrical properties of Ti-doped In2O3 film deposited on flexible transparent substrates by ion beam assisted deposition under different oxygen flow rate
Authors: Chansri Pakpoom , Pooyodying Pattarapon , Sung Youl Moon
Published: August 2021

A flexible transparent is an important technology to improve flexible electronic and flexible display devices. Actually, the deposition process of films coated on a flexible substrate will no more than 200 °C or room temperature. In order to achieve high transmission and lower resistivity, this paper reported the thin films of ITiO deposited by ion beam-assisted electron beam under the condition of different oxygen flow rates at room temperature. The electrical, optical, and morphological properties of ITiO films were investigated under the condition of different oxygen flow rates. At the 30 sccm oxygen flow rate, the surface roughness was 5.4 nm, high transmittance and optical bandgap of ITiO films were 89.2% at 470 nm wavelengths and 3.28 eV, respectively. The lowest resistivity of film was 2.1 × 10-4 Ω-cm at 30 sccm oxygen flow rate. Furthermore, the carrier concentration and hall mobility were experimentally investigated, which presented by 42.8 cm2/Vsec and 9.23 × 1020 cm-3. The use ITiO film coated on a flexible substrate with ion beam-assisted electron beam evaporation at room temperature can improve the lower resistivity and high transmission of the flexible device. It was also demonstrated that ITiO film with ion beam-assisted deposition technique is suitable for flexible electronic and flexible display devices.
Role of temperature, seedling-age and soil moisture on collar rot disease in lentil caused by Sclerotium rolfsii and identification of resistance sources
Authors: Roy Anirban , Das Camellia , Sagolsem Diana , Ghose Dhriti , Murmu Sumit K , Sarkar Moutushi , Panja Birendra Nath , Nath Rajib , Tripathi Kuldeep , Bhattacharyya Prabir K , Bhattacharyya Somnath
Published: August 2021

Collar rot disease caused by Sclerotium rolfsii attacks lentils at the seedling stage and reduces plant population considerably in the field. Although soil moisture and temperature influence disease development much, no concrete attempts to find the optimum level of moisture, temperature, and seedling age have been made in lentils. Here, we identified optimum soil moisture, temperature, and seedling age that allow successful infection by S. rolfsii and maximum seedling mortality in a controlled environment inside a plant growth chamber. Screening of one hundred and ninety genotypes for two consecutive years in the field identified some resistant genotypes. Ten genotypes were selected from earlier screening and further evaluated in sick plots at two different locations with different pH for three consecutive years. About 80% variation in disease resistance was due to genotypes, and minor infection of collar rot disease was observed in acidic lateritic soil than in neutral alluvial soil. Furthermore, low mycelial load in a selected resistant genotype was confirmed by quantitative real-time PCR using an S. rolfsii specific primer pair. The identified resistant genotypes will be helpful to breeding collar rot resistant cultivars and mapping disease resistance. In addition, the study improves the understanding of the development of collar rot disease, which is critical for expanding the area under cultivation in Asia, especially in rice fallows.
Jacobi-Lie T-plurality
Authors: Fernandez-Melgarejo Jose J. , Sakatani Yuho
Published: August 2021

We propose a Leibniz algebra, to be called
DD^++,
which is a generalization of the Drinfel’d double. We find that there is
a one-to-one correspondence between a DD^++
and a Jacobi–Lie bialgebra, extending the known correspondence between a
Lie bialgebra and a Drinfel’d double. We then construct generalized
frame fields E_A{}^M\in\text{O}(D,D)\times\mathbb{R}^+EAM∈O(D,D)×ℝ+
satisfying the algebra \hat{\pounds}_{E_A}E_B = - X_{AB}{}^C\,E_C£̂EAEB=−XABCEC,
where X_{AB}{}^CXABC
are the structure constants of the DD^++
and \hat{\pounds}£̂
is the generalized Lie derivative in double field theory. Using the
generalized frame fields, we propose the Jacobi–Lie
TT-plurality
and show that it is a symmetry of double field theory. We present
several examples of the Jacobi–Lie TT-plurality
with or without Ramond–Ramond fields and the spectator fields.
Propuesta para la aplicación de los Métodos Alternativos de Solución de Conflictos (MASC) en instituciones etnoeducativas Wayúu en La Guajira
Authors: Pitta-Osses Natalia , Acosta-González Sandra
Published: August 2021

La inclusión de la comunidad indígena wayúu en las políticas públicas del nivel nacional plantea la necesidad de aplicar estrategias que faciliten la comprensión de los sistemas de participación interculturales, sin que ello implique un detrimento a las tradiciones propias de la comunidad indígena. Uno de estos escenarios es la educación de niños y niñas wayúu en instituciones etnoeducativas oficiales en el departamento de La Guajira. El presente trabajo de investigación tiene como objetivo desarrollar una propuesta para la aplicación de los Métodos Alternativos de Solución de Conflictos (MASC) en las instituciones etnoeducativas de La Guajira, en conjunto con la utilización del sistema jurídico wayúu. Lo anterior se llevó a cabo por medio de una metodología exploratoria-descriptiva y propositiva. Los resultados encontrados evidencian una problemática relacionada con el choque cultural entre los mecanismos de aprendizaje y enseñanza en las instituciones oficiales, y la metodología aplicada dentro de las comunidades indígenas. Se desarrolló una propuesta para aplicación de los MASC en las instituciones etnoeducativas, siguiendo los postulados que guían la forma de vida de los integrantes de la Nación Wayúu. Se recomienda un posterior análisis de su aplicación en un conjunto de instituciones etnoeducativas en La Guajira.
Recent Developments in the Practical Application of Novel Carboxylic Acid Bioisosteres
Authors: Horgan Conor , O’Sullivan Timothy P.
Published: August 2021

Background:

The carboxylic acid moiety is an important functional group which features in the pharmacophore of some 450 drugs. Unfortunately, some carboxylic acid-containing drugs have been withdrawn from market due to unforeseen toxicity issues. Other issues associated with the carboxylate moiety include reduced metabolic stability or limited passive diffusion across biological membranes. Medicinal chemists often turn to bioisosteres to circumvent such obstacles.

Objective:

The aim of this review is to provide a summary of the various applications of novel carboxylic acid bioisosteres which have appeared in the literature since 2013.

Results:

We have summarised the most recent developments in carboxylic acid bioisosterism. In particular, we focus on the changes in bioactivity, selectivity or physicochemical properties brought about by these substitutions, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each isostere.

Conclusion:

The topics discussed herein highlight the continued interest in carboxylate bioisosteres. The development of novel carboxylic acid substitutes which display improved pharmacological profiles is a testament to the innovation and creativity required to overcome the challenges faced in modern drug design.
Cordycepin as a Promising Inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2 RNA Dependent
RNA Polymerase (RdRp)
Authors: Bibi Shabana , Hasan Mohammad Mehedi , Wang Yuan-Bing , Papadakos Stavros P. , Yu Hong
Published: August 2021

Background:

SARS-CoV-2, which emerged in Wuhan, China, is a new global
threat that has killed millions of people and continues to do so. This pandemic has not only
threatened human life but has also triggered economic downturns across the world. Researchers
have made significant strides in discovering molecular insights into SARSCoV-
2 pathogenesis and developing vaccines, but there is still no successful cure for
SARS-CoV-2 infected patients.

Objective:

The present study has proposed a drug-repositioning pipeline for the design
and discovery of an effective fungal-derived bioactive metabolite as a drug candidate
against SARS-CoV-2.

Methods:

Fungal derivative “Cordycepin” was selected for this study to investigate the
inhibitory properties against RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) (PDB ID: 6M71)
of SARS-CoV-2. The pharmacological profile, intermolecular interactions, binding energy,
and stability of the compound were determined utilizing cheminformatic approaches.
Subsequently, molecular dynamic simulation was performed to better understand the
binding mechanism of cordycepin to RdRp.

Results:

The pharmacological data and retrieved molecular dynamics simulations trajectories
suggest excellent drug-likeliness and greater structural stability of cordycepin,
while the catalytic residues (Asp760, Asp761), as well as other active site residues
(Trp617, Asp618, Tyr619, Trp800, Glu811) of RdRp, showed better stability during the
overall simulation span.

Conclusion:

Promising results of pharmacological investigation along with molecular
simulations revealed that cordycepin exhibited strong inhibitory potential against SARSCoV-
2 polymerase enzyme (RdRp). Hence, cordycepin should be highly recommended to
test in a laboratory to confirm its inhibitory potential against the SARS-CoV-2 polymerase
enzyme (RdRp).
Withdrawal Notice: Therapeutically Important Natural Products and their Derivatives as a Target for Treatment of COVID-19 (SARSCoV2)
Authors: Subhash  , Chaudhary Ashu
Published: August 2021

The article has been withdrawn at the request of the Editor of the journal Coronaviruses.

Bentham Science apologizes to the readers of the journal for any inconvenience this may have caused.

The Bentham Editorial Policy on Article Withdrawal can be found https://benthamscience.com/editorial-policies-main.php

BENTHAM SCIENCE DISCLAIMER:

It is a condition of publication that manuscripts submitted to this journal have not been published and will not be simultaneously submitted or published elsewhere. Furthermore, any data, illustration, structure or table that has been published elsewhere
must be reported, and copyright permission for reproduction must be obtained. Plagiarism is strictly forbidden, and by submit-
ting the article for publication the authors agree that the publishers have the legal right to take appropriate action against the authors, if plagiarism or fabricated information is discovered. By submitting a manuscript, the authors agree that the copyright of their article is transferred to the publishers if and when the article is accepted for publication.
Caracterización de enfermedades neurológicas en caninos: Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala, año 2017
Authors: Gómez-Flores Astrid Ivette , Chávez-López Juan José , Villatoro-Chacón Daniela Mariel
Published: August 2021

Objetivo. Determinar la casuística de enfermedades neurológicas, así como la edad, raza y los sitios neuroanatómicos afectados. Materiales y métodos. Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo de los expedientes clínicos de los pacientes caninos atendidos en el Hospital Veterinario de la Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia de la Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala en el año 2017. Los datos fueron clasificados según la regla nemotécnica VITAMIN D. Se incluyeron las variables sexo, raza, edad y localización neuroanatómica de lesiones. Los datos fueron resumidos utilizando estadística descriptiva por medio de tablas de distribución de frecuencias. Resultados. De los 1,127 registros de casos la prevalencia de enfermedades neurológicas fue de 8.43%. La frecuencia fue mayor en machos que en hembras (53.68% vs 46.32%). El grupo etario más afectado oscila entre los cero y los siete años. Respecto a razas, se observó una mayor frecuencia en caninos sin raza definida (25.53%) seguido de los perros French Poodle (20.21%). Las patologías encontradas fueron: vascular (1.05%), inflamatoria/ infecciosa (25.26%), traumática (13.68%), metabólica (8.42%), idiopática (6.32%), neoplásica (1.05%) y degenerativa (44.21%). La neurolocalización más frecuente fue a nivel de SNC (86.32%). Conclusiones. Según los hallazgos de este estudio se determinó que las enfermedades de carácter degenerativo representaron la mayor parte de la casuística neurológica. La mayor frecuencia de casos se presentó en pacientes caninos jóvenes, machos de razas mixtas. El sitio neuroanatómico más frecuente de localización de lesiones fue en medula espinal a nivel toracolumbar.
Efecto citotóxico de Deoxinivalenol sobre la proliferación de la línea celular HepG2
Authors: Garzón-González ﻿Harold Duván , Jaimes-Mendez Nancy , Rojas-Contreras Liliana , Salmen-Halabi Siham , Gil-Durán Manuel Alejandro
Published: August 2021

Objetivo. Determinar el efecto citotóxico e inducción de la apoptosis de Deoxinivalenol (DON) sobre la línea celular de hepatocarcinoma humano (HepG2). Materiales y métodos. La línea celular HepG2 se expuso a concentraciones de 10, 25, 50 y 75 µM de DON liofilizado durante 48 y 72 horas. Posteriormente, la actividad citotóxica de DON se evaluó empleando el ensayo MTT (bromuro de 3-(4,5-dimetil-2-tiazolil) -2, 5-difeniltetrazolio). Finalmente, se analizaron los cambios morfológicos propios de la apoptosis en las células HepG2 por microscopía electrónica de transmisión, después del tratamiento con 50 μM de DON durante 48 horas. Resultados. DON, afecta la actividad metabólica y proliferación de las células HepG2 por encima de los 10 µM, en comparación con el control. La concentración inhibitoria media (CI50) de DON sobre las células HepG2, fue de 42.8 µM DE±1.2 y de 29.6 µM DE±3.1 a las 48 horas y 72 horas de tratamiento, respectivamente. Se observaron características morfológicas de la apoptosis en las células HepG2, como la fragmentación nuclear y celular, invaginación de la membrana plasmática y formación de los cuerpos apoptóticos. Conclusiones. DON, es un agente citotóxico sobre las células HepG2 que altera la actividad metabólica celular, con un efecto antiproliferativo significativo de manera dependiente a la concentración y al tiempo de exposición, e induce la muerte celular apoptótica.
Omalizumab Treatment in Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria During Pregnancy: Report of A Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Salman Andac , Aktaş Meryem
Published: August 2021

ABSTRACT Omalizumab is a safe and effective treatment option for chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU). Although cohort studies in patients with asthma show no increased risk of congenital abnormalities, very little data exist in the literature regarding the use of omalizumab for CSU during pregnancy. Herein, the safe and successful use of omalizumab updosing in a pregnant woman with CSU along with a review of the published literature is presented. Keywords: Chronic spontaneous urticaria, omalizumab, pregnancy, updosing