bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solid-State Lithium-Sulfur Battery Based on Composite Electrode and Bi-layer Solid Electrolyte Operable at Room Temperature
Authors: Elizalde-Segovia Rodrigo , Irshad Ahamed , Zayat Billal , Narayanan S. R.
Published: October 2020

We report a unique solid-state lithium-sulfur cell based on a bilayer electrolyte and composite solid-state cathode. The bilayer electrolyte that contains a layer of mixed conduction membrane and a layer of polymer electrolyte eliminates the use of organic flammable liquid electrolytes and separators. The sulfur electrode is also a unique composite of sulfur with ionically-conducting intercalating nano-particulate material. Unlike many other solid-state batteries, this cell can be cycled at room temperature to utilize 85% of the active material at the sulfur electrode. The low internal resistance of the cell is comparable to that of a liquid electrolyte based lithium-sulfur cell. Impedance studies indicate that the low internal resistance results from the high ionic conductivity of the intercalating nano-particulate materials and the thin layer of polymeric electrolyte. While the volume changes at the cathode result in loss of inter-particle contact with repeated cycling, the addition of alumina to the polymer layer improved the capacity retention. This unique solid-state cell configuration opens a new pathway towards a safer high-energy lithium battery.
AMP-activated protein kinase contributes to cisplatin-induced renal epithelial cell apoptosis and acute kidney injury
Authors: Jin Xiaogao , An Changlong , Jiao Baihai , Safirstein Robert L. , Wang Yanlin
Published: October 2020

Cisplatin, a commonly used anticancer drug, has been shown to induce acute kidney injury, which limits its clinical use in cancer treatment. Emerging evidence has suggested that AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which functions as a cellular energy sensor, is activated by various cellular stresses that deplete cellular ATP. However, the potential role of AMPK in cisplatin-induced apoptosis of renal tubular epithelial cells has not been studied. In this study, we demonstrated that cisplatin activates AMPK (Thr172 phosphorylation) in cultured renal tubular epithelial cells in a time-dependent manner, which was associated with p53 phosphorylation. Compound C, a selective AMPK inhibitor, suppressed cisplatin-induced AMPK activation, p53 phosphorylation, Bax induction, and caspase 3 activation. Furthermore, silencing AMPK expression by siRNA attenuated cisplatin-induced p53 phosphorylation, Bax induction, and caspase 3 activation. In a mouse model of cisplatin-induced kidney injury, compound C inhibited p53 phosphorylation, Bax expression, caspase 3 activation, and apoptosis, protecting the kidney from injury and dysfunction. Taken together, these results suggest that the AMPK-p53-Bax signaling pathway plays a crucial role in cisplatin-induced tubular epithelial cell apoptosis.
Electrospun Nanofibers Containing Strontium for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Zhang Qi , Ji Yanjing , Zheng Weiping , Yan Mingzhe , Wang Danyang , Li Min , Chen Junbo , Yan Xiao , Zhang Qiang , Yuan Xiao , Zhou Qihui
Published: October 2020

Electrospun polymer/metal composite nanofibers have received much attention in the field of bone tissue engineering and regenerative medicine (BTERM) owing to their extracellular matrix- (ECM-) like structure, sufficient mechanical strength, favorable biological properties, and bone induction. In particular, electrospun nanofibers containing strontium (Sr) can significantly promote bone repair and regeneration by mediating osteolysis and osteogenesis, which offers a promising bioactive material for BTERM. In this review, we summarized the effects of electrospun nanofibers containing Sr on stem cells, osteoblasts, and osteoclasts in BTERM. Also, current challenges and future perspectives for electrospun nanofibers containing Sr in BTERM are briefly outlined. It is hoped that the systematic overview will inspire the readers to further study Sr-containing nanofibers for BTERM and accelerate their translation from the bench to the clinic.
Posterior Percutaneous Transpedicular Endoscopic Approach for Treating Single‐Segment Cervical Myelopathy
Authors: Yu Ke-Xiao , Lu Wei-Zhong , Xiao Chang-Ming , Chu Lei , Deng Rui , Chen Liang , Deng Zhong-Liang
Published: October 2020

Background. Standard posterior percutaneous endoscopic cervical discectomy (PECD) is considered an effective minimally invasive surgery. Although standard PECD can be used to treat radiculopathy with relatively minimal trauma, it is still a challenge to use this approach for treating myelopathy. Objective. This report is aimed at first describing a posterior transpedicular approach under endoscopy for myelopathy and evaluating the feasibility and short‐term clinical effects of this approach. Methods. In our retrospective analysis between Feb. 2016 to Mar. 2017, 16 patients managed with PECD using the posterior transpedicular approach for symptomatic single‐segment myelopathy. Surgery involved drilling 1/2 to 2/3 of the medial portion of the pedicle under endoscopy to provide sufficient space and an appropriate angle for inserting the endoscope into the spinal canal, followed by ventral decompression of the spinal cord. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging were used to evaluate pedicle healing and spinal cord decompression. The primary outcomes included a visual analog scale (VAS) scores of axial neck pain and Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scores of neurological conditions. Results. All patients completed a 1‐year follow‐up examination. The mean duration of surgery was 95.44 ± 19.44 min (52–130 min). The fluoroscopy duration was 5.88 ± 1.05 (4–7). The VAS scores of axial pain significantly improved from 6.94 ± 0.75 preoperatively to 2.88 ± 1.22 postoperatively (P < 0.05). The mean JOA scores improved from 8.50 ± 1.12 preoperatively to 14.50 ± 1.46 at the final follow‐up (P < 0.05). The effects were excellent in 8 cases, good in 6 cases, and fair in 2 cases. After partial pedicle excision, the width of the remaining pedicle was 1.70 ± 0.22 mm postoperatively and significantly recovered to 3.38 ± 0.49 mm at the 1‐year follow‐up. There were no surgery‐related complications, such as dural tearing, spinal cord injury, nerve root injury, pedicle fracture, and cervical hematocele or infection. Conclusions. The posterior transpedicular approach is an effective method for the treatment of myelopathy in select patients and is a supplement to the described surgical approach for PECD.
Gridless DOA Estimation for Minimum-Redundancy Linear Array in Nonuniform Noise
Authors: Qi Changyun , Zhang Gong , Yuan Jiawen
Published: October 2020

A gridless direction-of-arrival (DOA) estimation method to improve the estimation accuracy and resolution in nonuniform noise is proposed in this paper. This algorithm adopts the structure of minimum-redundancy linear array (MRA) and can be composed of two stages. In the first stage, by minimizing the rank of the covariance matrix of the true signal, the covariance matrix that filters out nonuniform noise is obtained, and then a gridless residual energy constraint scheme is designed to reconstruct the signal covariance matrix of the Hermitian Toeplitz structure. Finally, the unknown DOAs can be determined from the recovered covariance matrix, and the number of sources can be acquired as a byproduct. The proposed algorithm can be regarded as a gridless version method based on sparsity. Simulation results indicate that the proposed method has higher estimation accuracy and resolution compared with existing algorithms.
Role of Oxidative Stress in Hepatic and Extrahepatic Dysfunctions during Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
Authors: Gonzalez Andrea , Huerta-Salgado Camila , Orozco-Aguilar Josué , Aguirre Francisco , Tacchi Franco , Simon Felipe , Cabello-Verrugio Claudio
Published: October 2020

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a pathology that contains a broad liver dysfunctions spectrum. These alterations span from noninflammatory isolated steatosis until nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a more aggressive form of the disease characterized by steatosis, inflammatory status, and varying liver degrees fibrosis. NAFLD is the most prevalent chronic liver disease worldwide. The causes of NAFLD are diverse and include genetic and environmental factors. The presence of NASH is strongly associated with cirrhosis development and hepatocellular carcinoma, two conditions that require liver transplantation. The liver alterations during NAFLD are well described. Interestingly, this pathological condition also affects other critical tissues and organs, such as skeletal muscle and even the cardiovascular, renal, and nervous systems. Oxidative stress (OS) is a harmful state present in several chronic diseases, such as NAFLD. The purpose of this review is to describe hepatic and extrahepatic dysfunctions in NAFLD. We will also review the influence of OS on the physiopathological events that affect the critical function of the liver and peripheral tissues.
A Dynamic Control Method for Signalized Intersections Using the Flow Fluctuation Amplitude
Authors: Hang Jiayu , Zhou Xizhao , Wang Jiawen
Published: October 2020

Intersections are a vital component of the urban road network. Their use is essential for traffic efficiency and operational stability. In this paper, a dynamic control method for two-phase signal control intersection is proposed by using the intercycle flow standard deviation. This technique can dynamically assign weights to different control goals of traffic efficiency and operational stability. For intersections with large flow fluctuation amplitudes, greater weight is given to the control goal of operational stability to reduce the sensitivity of the signal control on flow fluctuation. For intersections with a small flow fluctuation amplitude, greater weight is given to the control goal of traffic efficiency to maximize the intersection throughput. Compared with the plan selection and pretimed control method, the numerical results can validate that this method has better control performance under different flow fluctuations amplitude. The fluctuation range length is significantly optimized, especially in the cases of the low and medium flow saturation conditions.
Warfarin Accelerates Aortic Calcification by Upregulating Senescence-Associated Secretory Phenotype Maker Expression
Authors: Wei Ningle , Lu Liuyi , Zhang Huanji , Gao Ming , Ghosh Sounak , Liu Zhaoyu , Qi Junhua , Wang Jingfeng , Chen Jie , Huang Hui
Published: October 2020

Warfarin, a vitamin K antagonist (VKA), is known to promote arterial calcification (AC). In the present study, we conducted a case-cohort study within the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA); 6655 participants were included. From MESA data, we found that AC was related to both age and vitamin K; furthermore, the score of AC increased with SASP marker including interlukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) rising. Next, a total of 79 warfarin users in our center developed significantly more calcified coronary plaques as compared to non-VKA users. We investigated the role of warfarin in phosphate-induced AC in different ages by in vitro experimental study. Furthermore, dose-time-response of warfarin was positively correlated with AC score distribution and plasma levels of the SASP maker IL-6 among

patients
<
65

years, but not among

patients
≥
65

years. In addition, in vitro research suggested that warfarin treatment tended to deteriorate calcification in young VSMC at the early stage of calcification. Our results suggested that aging and warfarin-treatment were independently related to increased AC. Younger patients were more sensitive to warfarin-related AC than older patients, which was possibly due to accumulated warfarin-induced cellular senescence.
Quantitative Assessment of Blood Lactate in Shock: Measure of Hypoxia or Beneficial Energy Source
Authors: Levitt David G. , Levitt Joseph E. , Levitt Michael D.
Published: October 2020

Blood lactate concentration predicts mortality in critically ill patients and is clinically used in the diagnosis, grading of severity, and monitoring response to therapy of septic shock. This paper summarizes available quantitative data to provide the first comprehensive description and critique of the accepted concepts of the physiology of lactate in health and shock, with particular emphasis on the controversy of whether lactate release is simply a manifestation of tissue hypoxia versus a purposeful transfer (“shuttle”) of lactate between tissues. Basic issues discussed include (1) effect of nonproductive lactate‐pyruvate exchange that artifactually enhances flux measurements obtained with labeled lactate, (2) heterogeneous tissue oxygen partial pressure (Krogh model) and potential for unrecognized hypoxia that exists in all tissues, and (3) pathophysiology that distinguishes septic from other forms of shock. Our analysis suggests that due to exchange artifacts, the turnover rate of lactate and the lactate clearance are only about 60% of the values of 1.05 mmol/min/70 kg and 1.5 L/min/70 kg, respectively, determined from the standard tracer kinetics. Lactate turnover reflects lactate release primarily from muscle, gut, adipose, and erythrocytes and uptake by the liver and kidney, primarily for the purpose of energy production (TCA cycle) while the remainder is used for gluconeogenesis (Cori cycle). The well‐studied physiology of exercise‐induced hyperlactatemia demonstrates massive release from the contracting muscle accompanied by an increased lactate clearance that may occur in recovering nonexercising muscle as well as the liver. The very limited data on lactate kinetics in shock patients suggests that hyperlactatemia reflects both decreased clearance and increased production, possibly primarily in the gut. Our analysis of available data in health and shock suggests that the conventional concept of tissue hypoxia can account for most blood lactate findings and there is no need to implicate a purposeful production of lactate for export to other organs.
The Research Progression and Clinical Significance of Circular RNAs in Head and Neck Cancers
Authors: Wang Danhui , Li Zhi , Wu Yongjun
Published: October 2020

With rapid development of science technique and molecular research, a large number of circular RNAs (circRNAs) were discovered. CircRNAs that are a heterogeneous endogenous group of non‐coding RNA not only are abundantly and diffusely expressed in mammals but also participate in many biological processes, such as in tumor ingenuity and progress. CircRNAs have rarely open reports in the head and neck cancers (HNC), which are an aggressive malignant tumor with unsatisfactory overall survival rates. The diagnostics and treatments continue to improve while the survival rate of HNC patients has no more obvious improvement. Recent studies that are aimed at exploring the molecular mechanisms of occurrence and progression of circRNAs in HNC provide a valuable insight into potential novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. In this review, we summarize the increasing number of published researches on the research progression of circRNAs in HNC, as well as their possible clinical implications on HNC.
Effect of LED Lighting Illuminance and Correlated Color Temperature on Working Memory
Authors: Lee Chung Won , Kim Jin Ho
Published: October 2020

This study was conducted to verify how the illuminance and correlated color temperature of LED lighting affect working memory. For this study, an automatic LED lighting device based on a light sensor was developed and used, and the lighting conditions were treated with a total of six conditions (2 × 3): two illuminance conditions (dim: 400 lx, bright: 1,000 lx) and three correlated color temperature conditions (3,000 K, 5,000 K, and 7,000 K). There were 30 participants in the study, and the average age was 21.6 years (Standard deviation = 1.92). Participants were assigned to all six lighting conditions, and the placement order was randomized. For the measurement of working memory, 3-back task was used and the correct responses for 5 minutes were used as a dependent variable. As a result of repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), both illuminance and correlated color temperature were found to be significant variables affecting working memory, and no interaction effect between illuminance and correlated color temperature was found. As a result of the post hoc verification conducted thereafter, the working memory performance in the bright light condition (1,000 lx) was 48.32 (Standard deviation = 15.63) on average, compared to 44.80 (Standard deviation = 15.29) in the relatively dim condition (400 lx). It was found that the condition of bright light was superior in performing working memory compared to relatively dim condition. The working memory performance in the correlated color temperature condition (5,000 K) was 48.32 (Standard deviation = 16.41) on average and higher than that of other color temperature conditions. As a result, working memory performance was the best in 1,000 lx, 5,000 K condition Mean = 53.43 (Standard deviation = 18.38), and 400 lx, 7,000 K condition Mean = 42.73 (Standard deviation = 17.68) showed the worst performance of working memory.
Lie Symmetry Analysis, Traveling Wave Solutions, and Conservation Laws to the (3 + 1)-Dimensional Generalized B-Type Kadomtsev-Petviashvili Equation
Authors: Yang Huizhang , Liu Wei , Zhao Yunmei
Published: October 2020

In this paper, the (3 + 1)-dimensional generalized B-type Kadomtsev-Petviashvili(BKP) equation is studied applying Lie symmetry analysis. We apply the Lie symmetry method to the (3 + 1)-dimensional generalized BKP equation and derive its symmetry reductions. Based on these symmetry reductions, some exact traveling wave solutions are obtained by using the tanh method and Kudryashov method. Finally, the conservation laws to the (3 + 1)-dimensional generalized BKP equation are presented by invoking the multiplier method.
Combination of D-AHP and Grey Theory for the Assessment of the Information Security Risks of Smart Grids
Authors: Dong Hua , Zhao Jun , Yang Xiaoyu , Yang Kun
Published: October 2020

As a modern power infrastructure, smart grids have great advantages over traditional power grids, but their effective operation is largely restricted by information security. Hence, a smart grid information security risk assessment (ISRA) method is proposed. This method combines D numbers to improve the classical analytic hierarchy process (D-AHP) independent of experts’ subjective qualitative assessment and then integrated with grey theory which does not require complete and unambiguous information. First, we establish a smart grid ISRA system according to the characteristics and development reality of smart grid technology. The proposed system includes 5 first-level indexes as an intelligent terminal, a wireless communication channel, password security, application code and embedded system, and corresponding 13 secondary indexes. Second, a D-AHP method aimed at the uncertainty of human subjective judgment and fuzziness of language assessment is used to obtain the weight of each index. The D-AHP method is then combined with the grey assessment matrix solved by grey theory, to obtain the comprehensive assessment value and corresponding risk grade. With a smart grid demonstration project in Suzhou, China, as an example, an empirical study is carried out using expert scoring. The comprehensive assessment risk value is 3.8199, and the corresponding risk level is moderate. The results of this work could serve as a reference for the information security protection of smart grids.
Multidrug-Resistant Hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae Found Persisting Silently in Infant Gut Microbiota
Authors: Vasilyev I. Y. , Nikolaeva I. V. , Siniagina M. N. , Kharchenko A. M. , Shaikhieva G. S.
Published: October 2020

Since the spread of multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (MDRKP) strains is considered as a challenge for patients with weakened or suppressed immunity, the emergence of isolates carrying determinants of hypervirulent phenotypes in addition may become a serious problem even for healthy individuals. The aim of this study is an investigation of the nonoutbreak K. pneumoniae emergence occurred in early 2017 at a maternity hospital of Kazan, Russia. Ten bacterial isolates demonstrating multiple drug resistance phenotypes were collected from eight healthy full-term breastfed neonates, observed at the maternity hospital of Kazan, Russia. All the infants and their mothers were dismissed without symptoms or complaints, in a satisfactory condition. Whole-genome shotgun (WGS) sequencing was performed with the purpose to track down a possible spread source(s) and obtain detailed information about resistance determinants and pathogenic potential of the collected isolates. Microdilution tests have confirmed production of extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBL) and their resistance to aminoglycoside, β-lactam, fluoroquinolone, sulfonamide, nitrofurantoin, trimethoprim, and fosfomycin antibiotics and Klebsiella phage. The WGS analysis has revealed the genes that are resistant to aminoglycosides, fluoroquinolones, macrolides, sulfonamides, chloramphenicols, tetracyclines, and trimethoprim and ESBL determinants. The pangenome analysis had split the isolates into two phylogenetic clades. The first group, a more heterogeneous clade, was represented by 5 isolates with 4 different in silico multilocus sequence types (MLSTs). The second group contained 5 isolates from infants born vaginally with the single MLST ST23, positive for genes corresponding to hypervirulent phenotypes: yersiniabactin, aerobactin, salmochelin, colibactin, hypermucoid determinants, and specific alleles of K- and O-antigens. The source of the MDRKP spread was not defined. Infected infants have shown no developed disease symptoms.
Intermediate-High Risk Pulmonary Embolism: The Use of Riociguat and Inferior Vena Cava Filter in a Situation of Recurrent Embolism following Insufficient Anticoagulation and Fibrinolytic Therapy
Authors: Vo Anh Khoi , Reikvam Håkon , Midtbø Helga , Wirsching Jan Ludvig , Bruserud Øyvind , Wendelbo Øystein
Published: October 2020

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is associated with serious morbidity and mortality. In this case report, we describe a hemodynamically stable patient with submassive PE and a large thrombus in the inferior vena cava (IVC) protruding into the right atrium (RA), complicated by severe respiratory failure, elevated troponin T (TnT), and right ventricular (RV) dysfunction. The patient was stratified as intermediate-high risk of early death. Important issues regarding the initial choice of anticoagulation, rescue thrombolytic therapy, and benefits of adding riociguat to stimulate the nitric oxide-soluble guanylate cyclase-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (NO-sGC-cGMP) pathway to improve the RV function are discussed. Finally, we address appropriate timing and the use of IVC filter in a situation of recurrent PE following anticoagulation and fibrinolytic therapy.
Ergodicity of a Nonlinear Stochastic SIRS Epidemic Model with Regime-Switching Diffusions
Authors: Liu Hongxia , Li Juan , Chi Mengnan , Liu Jinlei , Zhao Wencai
Published: October 2020

In this paper, taking both white noises and colored noises into consideration, a nonlinear stochastic SIRS epidemic model with regime switching is explored. The threshold parameter

R

s

is found, and we investigate sufficient conditions for the existence of the ergodic stationary distribution of the positive solution. Finally, some numerical simulations are also carried out to demonstrate the analytical results.
Hybrid OFDMA Resource Allocation Scheme for Ensuring Required Level of Proportional Fairness
Authors: Sun Ming , Zhai Kangle , Cao Wei , Wang Ying , Xu Yaoqun
Published: October 2020

The new-generation wireless communication networks are envisioned to offer higher sum data rates along with the required level of fairness. Previous works tend to suffer from a decayed performance as subcarriers become relatively insufficient in allocation to users. To maximize the sum data rates and ensure the required level of proportional fairness, this paper presents a hybrid OFDMA resource allocation scheme which uses Hungarian algorithm combined with a greedy method for subcarrier allocation and uses bee colony optimization for power allocation. The proposed subcarrier allocation scheme can make full use of advantages of both globally optimal Hungarian algorithm in enhancing sum data rates and locally optimal greedy method in maintaining a reasonable fairness level and can make Hungarian algorithm work in a searching mode for further improvement of sum data rates and fairness. The proposed power allocation scheme can converge to the required level of proportional fairness but with higher sum data rates if the subcarrier allocation does not achieve the required fairness. Simulation results show that the proposed scheme can obtain the required level of proportional fairness but with higher sum data rates even if subcarriers are relatively insufficient in allocation to users. Complexity analysis shows the proposed method has moderate complexity.
A Novel Expert Finding System for Community Question Answering
Authors: Zhao Nan , Cheng Jia , Chen Nan , Xiong Fei , Cheng Peng
Published: October 2020

With the popularity of community question answering (CQA) sites, the research on identifying the expert users in online communities attracted increasing attention. We present a novel expert ranking algorithm based on the quality of user posts and the authority of user in community, and the similarity between the knowledge tags of users and questions in CQA sites is adopted in our scheme. Experimental results show that our scheme has better performance and accuracy under the same background with an amount of data samples.
Experimental Investigations on Pullout Behavior of HDPE Geogrid under Static and Dynamic Loading
Authors: Zuo Zheng , Yang Guangqing , Wang He , Wang Zhijie
Published: October 2020

This paper describes a series of laboratory pullout tests that were performed to investigate the pullout behavior of high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) uniaxial geogrid subjected to static and dynamic loading. Pullout tests were conducted on HDPE geogrid reinforced coarse sand under normal static loading (60–300 kPa), dynamic loading with different amplitudes (20, 40, and 60 kPa), and different frequencies (2, 4, and 6 Hz) by using the newly developed pullout apparatus. The results indicated that the pullout resistance of geogrid presented different growth patterns with the increase of normal loads under static loading. The amplitude and frequency both had significant effects on the interaction between reinforcement and soil, and the increment of the pullout resistance was 0.6 kN and 0.3 kN, respectively. The effect of dynamic loading on the soil‐geogrid interface can be gradually equivalent to that of static loading corresponding to the balance position of dynamic loading with the increase of frequency compared with the static loading. The results of this study are helpful for the selection of the strength of the reinforcement in different locations and to simplify the study on the stress of reinforcement in reinforced soil structures under traffic loads.
The Numerical Invariants concerning the Total Domination for Generalized Petersen Graphs
Authors: Zhao Taiyin , Ali Gohar , Hameed Nabila , Inayat Ali Shah Syed , Chu Yu-Ming
Published: October 2020

A subset

S

of

V

G

is called a total dominating set of a graph

G

if every vertex in

V

G

is adjacent to a vertex in

S

. The total domination number of a graph

G

denoted by

γ

t

G

is the minimum cardinality of a total dominating set in

G

. The maximum order of a partition of

V

G

into total dominating sets of

G

is called the total domatic number of

G

and is denoted by

d

t

G

. Domination in graphs has applications to several fields. Domination arises in facility location problems, where the number of facilities (e.g., hospitals and fire stations) is fixed, and one attempts to minimize the distance that a person needs to travel to get to the closest facility. In this paper, the numerical invariants concerning the total domination are studied for generalized Petersen graphs.
Research on Hyperbola Fitting Algorithm for Turbulence Level Measurement Test Data
Authors: Du Yufeng , Wu Long , Wang Xunnian , Lin Jun , Xiong Neng
Published: October 2020

Hyperbola fitting of test data is an extremely important process in turbulence level measurement test in wind tunnels. The solution of the overdetermined equations (SOE) method is often used to solve hyperbola fitting parameters to obtain turbulence level. However, due to unsteady flow characteristics, the SOE method often results in overfitting phenomena, which makes it impossible to solve turbulence level accurately. This paper proposes using the constrained least-squares (CLS) method to convert the problem of hyperbola fitting of test data into the inequality constrained optimization problem and then using the Lagrange programming neural network (LPNN) method to solve turbulence level iteratively. The stability of the LPNN method is analysed, and three sets of typical turbulence level measurement test data are processed using the LPNN method. The results verify the feasibility of applying the LPNN method to iteratively solve the turbulence level of wind tunnels.
Prevalence, Intensity, and Factors Associated with Urogenital Schistosomiasis among Women of Reproductive Age in Mbogwe District Council, Geita Region, Tanzania
Authors: Rite Erasto Eleck , Kapalata Secilia Ng’weshemi , Munisi David Zadock
Published: October 2020

Background. Urogenital schistosomiasis remains a public health problem in Tanzania. Control programs mostly target school‐going children ignoring other vulnerable groups like women of child bearing age. Previous evidence has shown that women of reproductive age suffer greatest morbidities in endemic areas. This study sought to determine the prevalence, intensity, and factors associated with urogenital schistosomiasis among women of reproductive age in the Mbogwe District. Methods. A population‐based analytical cross‐section study was conducted in the Mbogwe District. A semistructured questionnaire was administered. Urine samples of 20‐30 mils collected between 10.00 am to 02.00 pm and examined for Schistosoma eggs and infection intensity microscopically. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 20. Results. A total of 426 women of reproductive age, with median age of 26, and interquartile range of 11years were recruited and assessed. The prevalence of urogenital schistosomiasis was 4.5% and mean egg intensity of 19.5eggs/10mil of urine. After adjusting for confounders, lower level of education was associated with an increased risk of urogenital schistosomiasis infections (AOR 8.355, 95% CI 3.055‐23.001). Conclusion. Urogenital schistosomiasis among women of reproductive age in the Mbogwe District is a problem. Education is the factor associated with the disease; the neglected tropical disease control program should develop strategies that should include provision of health education and should involve women of reproductive age as they act as infection reservoir. More studies are recommended to explore the possibility of reproductive complications among infected women in endemic areas.
A Virtual Reality Platform for Safety Training in Coal Mines with AI and Cloud Computing
Authors: Li Mei , Sun Zhenming , Jiang Zhan , Tan Zheng , Chen Jinchuan
Published: October 2020

Coal mining, regarded as a high-risk industry, has a strong demand for virtual reality (VR) to fulfill safety and emergency rescue training. In the past ten years, VR technology has significantly improved miner training on both the hardware and software side. However, it still has some drawbacks, such as expensive and unsuitable hardware, lack of satisfactory user experience, without direct browser access, and lack of humanized and intelligent design. To solve these problems, a cloud-based VR system is designed for the training of coal miners in this paper. The system, with browser/client architecture, includes eight modules demonstrating the full procedure of an underground coal mine. The online cloud-rendered video streaming is adopted to provide enough computing and rendering power and hence a better browser-based user experience. Furthermore, game artificial intelligence (AI) is also introduced into the system to increase the emotional exchange between the system and users. Unlike traditional VR training software, this system designs two virtual miners to enhance the experience of trainees. The first virtual miner is a task-oriented non-player-character (NPC) which conveys general knowledge about the mine and guides the users in visiting the underground work sites. The second virtual miner is a disaster-oriented character which prepares the users for typical disasters. The system has been successfully implemented in a laboratory environment, and its performance has been validated. Yet, further practices are needed to stimulate more innovative applications of VR-based miner training and disaster drilling.
Nano-Azo Ligand and Its Superhydrophobic Complexes: Synthesis, Characterization, DFT, Contact Angle, Molecular Docking, and Antimicrobial Studies
Authors: Mohamed Gehad G. , Mahmoud Walaa H. , Refaat Ahmed M.
Published: October 2020

Metal complexes of the 2,2'-(1,3-phenylenebis(diazene-2,1-diyl))bis(4-aminobenzoic acid) diazo ligand (H2L) derived from m-phenylenediamine and p-aminobenzoic acid were synthesized and characterized by different spectral, thermal, and analytical tools. The H2L ligand reacted with the metal ions Cr(III), Mn(II), Fe(III), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), and Cd(II) as 1 : 1 stoichiometry. All complexes displayed an octahedral geometry according to the electronic and magnetic moment measurements. The IR spectra revealed the binding of the azo ligand to the metal ions via two azo nitrogen atoms and protonated carboxylate O in a neutral tetradentate manner. Both IR and 1H NMR spectra documented the involvement of the carboxylate group without proton displacement. The thermal studies pointed out that the complexes had higher thermal stability comparable with that of the free ligand. SEM images revealed the presence of the diazo ligand and its Cd(II) complex in a nanostructure form. The contact angle measurements proved that the Cd(II) complex can be considered as a superhydrophobic material. The molecular and electronic structure of H2L and [Cd(H2L)Cl2].H2O were optimized theoretically, and the quantum chemical parameters were calculated. The biological activities of the ligand, as well as its metal complexes, have been tested in vitro against some bacteria and fungi species. The results showed that all the tested compounds have significant biological activities with different sensitivity levels. The binding between H2L and its Cd(II) complex with receptors of the crystal structure of S. aureus (PDB ID: 3Q8U), crystal structure of protein phosphatase (PPZ1) of Candida albicans (PDB ID: 5JPE), receptors of breast cancer mutant oxidoreductase (PDB ID: 3HB5), and crystal structure of Escherichia coli (PDB ID: 3T88) was predicted and given in detail using molecular docking.
FLGC-Fusion GAN: An Enhanced Fusion GAN Model by Importing Fully Learnable Group Convolution
Authors: Yuan C. , Sun C. Q. , Tang X. Y. , Liu R. F.
Published: October 2020

The purpose of image fusion is to combine the source images of the same scene into a single composite image with more useful information and better visual effects. Fusion GAN has made a breakthrough in this field by proposing to use the generative adversarial network to fuse images. In some cases, considering retain infrared radiation information and gradient information at the same time, the existing fusion methods ignore the image contrast and other elements. To this end, we propose a new end-to-end network structure based on generative adversarial networks (GANs), termed as FLGC-Fusion GAN. In the generator, using the learnable grouping convolution can improve the efficiency of the model and save computing resources. Therefore, we can have a better trade-off between the accuracy and speed of the model. Besides, we take the residual dense block as the basic network building unit and use the perception characteristics of the inactive as content loss characteristics of input, achieving the effect of deep network supervision. Experimental results on two public datasets show that the proposed method performs well in subjective visual performance and objective criteria and has obvious advantages over other current typical methods.
Calculating Permutation Entropy without Permutations
Authors: Vidybida Alexander K.
Published: October 2020

A method for analyzing sequential data sets, similar to the permutation entropy one, is discussed. The characteristic features of this method are as follows: it preserves information about equal values, if any, in the embedding vectors; it is exempt from combinatorics; and it delivers the same entropy value as does the permutation method, provided the embedding vectors do not have equal components. In the latter case, this method can be used instead of the permutation one. If embedding vectors have equal components, this method could be more precise in discriminating between similar data sets.
Healthcare Waste Management Practice and Associated Factors among Private and Public Hospitals of Bahir Dar City Administration
Authors: Assemu Dereje Mesfin , Tafere Tadese Ejigu , Gelaw Yared Mulu , Bantie Getasew Mulat
Published: October 2020

Background. Lack of an appropriate management practice of healthcare waste is a potential threat to the healthcare workers, patients, and nearby communities of the health institutions. Objective. The study aimed to assess the healthcare waste management practices (HCWMP) and associated factors among healthcare workers of private and public hospitals of Bahir Dar city administration, Ethiopia. Methods. A facility-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2016 to April 2017. The systematic random sampling technique was employed to recruit 460 healthcare workers. The collected data entered into the EpiData software (version 3.1). The analysis was done by using SPSS software (version 20). Descriptive statistics were computed; logistic regression model was run. The model fitness was checked using Hosmer and Lemeshow goodness of fit

p
>
0.05

. A

p

value of

<
0
.
2

at univariate analysis was included in the multivariable logistic regression analysis. Variables with a

p

value of <0.05 were statistically associated with healthcare waste management practice at 95% CI (AOR). Results. A total of 418 healthcare workers who participated in the study yielded a response of 90.9%. About 65% (95% CI: 61, 70) of the total respondents had good practice of healthcare waste management. More private hospitals, 79.2% (95% CI: 73, 85), had good healthcare waste management practice compared to public hospitals, 53.5% (95% CI: 47, 60). Male healthcare workers (AOR = 6. 43, 95% CI: 1.82, 22.77) and having a functional healthcare waste management committee (AOR = 6. 47, 95%CI: 1.93, 21.76) were significantly associated with HCWMP at private hospitals. For public hospitals, having a healthcare waste management committee (AOR = 1. 80, 95% CI: 1.03, 3.15) and a manual/guideline on HCWMP (AOR = 2. 43, 95% CI: 1.20, 4.91) was significantly associated with HCWMP. Conclusions. This study revealed there is a great discrepancy in HCWMP between private and public hospitals. Male healthcare workers and having a functional healthcare waste management committee and a manual/guideline were the identified factors of HCWMP.
Retention Protocols and Factors Affecting Retainer Choice among Iraqi Orthodontists
Authors: Abid Mushriq F. , Al-Attar Ali M. , Alhuwaizi Akram F.
Published: October 2020

Background. To identify the most common retention protocols practiced by Iraqi orthodontists using a specially designed e-survey. Furthermore, this study aimed to assess the effect of sociodemographic factors on the participant’s choice. Methods. Two hundred and twenty-five questionnaires with 23 multiple choice questions were sent to members of the Iraqi Orthodontic Society. The questionnaire was organized into four sections representing information about sociodemographic status of the orthodontists, factors affecting the selection of the retention system, commonly used retainers in the upper arch and lower arch, and duration of the retention system. The chi-square test was used to test the significant association between different variable and sociodemographic factors. Results. The response rate was 87.5%. The majority of the respondents considered the original malocclusion (80.2%) and clinical experience (49.7%) as the main factors for choosing the retention protocol. In the maxillary arch, a combination of vacuum-formed retainer and fixed retainer (35%) was mostly applied; in the mandibular arch, a fixed retainer was mainly used (46.7%). Most of the respondents recommended initial full-time wearing of a removable appliance (78.2%), especially in the first 3–6 months (47.2%). According to the respondents, bonding a fixed retainer to all anterior teeth was most common (79.7%), fabricated, and adapted directly inside the patient’s mouth (75.1%). More than half used flowable composite (54.8%) and recommend leaving the retainer forever (53.8%). Most of the variables showed a statistically significant association between the sociodemographic factors and type, duration, and fabrication of the retainer used. Conclusions. A combination of removable and fixed retainers was commonly used in orthodontics retention, and sociodemographic factors significantly affected retainer choice.
Expression of 4-Hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) and Heme Oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in the Kidneys of Plasmodium berghei-Infected Mice
Authors: Na-Ek Prasit , Punsawad Chuchard
Published: October 2020

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is one of the most serious complications of severe Plasmodium falciparum malaria, but the exact pathogenic mechanisms of AKI in P. falciparum infection have not been clearly elucidated. We hypothesized that oxidative stress is a potential mediator of acute tubular necrosis in P. falciparum-infected kidneys. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the histopathological changes and markers of oxidative stress in kidney tissues from mice with experimental malaria. DBA/2 mice were divided into two groups: the mice in the malaria-infected group (n = 10) were intraperitoneally injected with 1 × 106P. berghei ANKA-infected red blood cells, and the mice in the control group (n = 10) were intraperitoneally injected with a single dose of 0.85% normal saline. Kidney sections were collected and used for histopathological examination and the investigation of 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression through immunohistochemistry staining. The histopathology study revealed that the P. berghei-infected kidneys exhibited a greater area of tubular necrosis than those of the control group (p<0.05). The positive staining scores for 4-HNE and HO-1 expression in tubular epithelial cells of the P. berghei-infected group were significantly higher than those found for the control group (p<0.05). In addition, significant positive correlations were found between the tubular necrosis score and the positive staining scores for 4-HNE and HO-1 in the kidneys from the P. berghei-infected group. In conclusion, this finding demonstrates that increased expression of 4-HNE and HO-1 might be involved in the pathogenesis of acute tubular damage in the kidneys during malaria infection. Our results provide new insights into the pathogenesis of malaria-associated AKI and might provide guidelines for the future development of a therapeutic intervention for malaria.
Multiphysics Modeling of Gas Turbine Based on CADSS Technology
Authors: Wang Tian , Xi Ping , Hu Bifu
Published: October 2020

Product modeling has been applied in product engineering with success for geometric representation. With the application of multidisciplinary analysis, application-driven models need specific knowledge and time-consuming adjustment work based on the geometric model. This paper proposes a novel modeling technology named computer-aided design-supporting-simulation (CADSS) to generate multiphysics domain models to support multidisciplinary design optimization processes. Multiphysics model representation was analyzed to verify gaps among different domain models’ parameters. Therefore, multiphysics domain model architecture was integrated by optimization model, design model, and simulation model in consideration of domain model’s parameters. Besides, CADSS uses requirement space, domain knowledge, and software technology to describe the multidisciplinary model’s parameters and its transition. Depending on the domain requirements, the CADSS system extracts the required knowledge by decomposing product functions and then embeds the domain knowledge into functional features using software technology. This research aims to effectively complete the design cycle and improve the design quality by providing a consistent and concurrent modeling environment to generate an adaptable model for multiphysics simulation. This system is demonstrated by modeling turbine blade design with multiphysics simulations including computational fluid dynamics (CFD), conjugate heat transfer (CHT), and finite element analysis (FEA). Moreover, the blade multiphysics simulation model is validated by the optimization design of the film hole. The results show that the high-fidelity multiphysics simulation model generated through CADSS can be adapted to subsequent simulations.
Spatiotemporal Changes in the Urban Heat Island Intensity of Distinct Local Climate Zones: Case Study of Zhongshan District, Dalian, China
Authors: Han Jun , Liu Jiatong , Liu Liang , Ye Yuanzhi
Published: October 2020

Intensified due to rapid urbanization and global warming-induced high temperature extremes, the urban heat island effect has become a major environmental concern for urban residents. Scientific methods used to calculate the urban heat island intensity (UHII) and its alleviation have become urgent requirements for urban development. This study is carried out in Zhongshan District, Dalian City, which has a total area of 43.85 km2 and a 27.5 km-long coastline. The mono-window algorithm was used to retrieve the land surface temperatures (LSTs), employing Landsat remote sensing images, meteorological data, and building data from 2003, 2008, 2013, and 2019. In addition, the district was divided into local climate zones (LCZs) based on the estimated intensities and spatiotemporal variations of the heat island effect. The results show that, from 2003 to 2019, LCZs A and D shrank by 3.225 km2 and 0.395 km2, respectively, whereas LCZs B, C, and 1–6 expanded by 0.932 km2, 0.632 km2, and 2.056 km2, respectively. During this period, the maximum and minimum LSTs in Zhongshan increased by 1.365°C and 1.104°C, respectively. The LST and UHII levels of all LCZs peaked in 2019. The average LSTs of LCZs A–C increased by 1.610°C, 0.880°C, and 3.830°C, respectively, and those of LCZs 1–6 increased by 2°C–4°C. The UHIIs of LCZs A, C, and D increased by 0.730, 2.950, and 0.344, respectively, and those of LCZs 1–6 increased from 1.370–2.977 to 3.744–5.379. Overall, the regions with high LSTs are spatiotemporally correlated with high building densities. In this study, the land cover was then classified into four types (LCZs A–D) using visual interpretation and object-oriented classification, including forested land, low vegetation, bare ground, and water. Besides, the buildings were categorized as LCZs 1–6, which, respectively, represented low-density low-rises buildings, low-density high-rises buildings, low-density super high-rises buildings, high-density low-rises buildings, high-density high-rises buildings, and high-density super high-rises buildings.