bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aggregate mass and carbon stocks in a paddy soil after long‐term application of chemical or organic fertilizers
Authors: Qiu Shaojun , Nie Jun , Long Shiping , Lu Yanhong , Zhao Shicheng , Xu Xinpeng , He Ping , Liao Yulin , Zhou Wei
Published: April 2022

The soil organic carbon stock that accumulates in soil aggregates as a result of the practice of fertilizer application is important for sustainable agriculture and for mitigating the effects of climate change. In this study, we investigated how the practice of fertilizer application affects the mass of soil aggregates and carbon stocks in surface and subsoil layers in rice paddy soil. We determined the mass and carbon concentration in different size classes of aggregates in soil in the top 40‐cm layer after the long‐term application of different fertilizers. We found that the amount of organic carbon in bulk soil and aggregates decreased with increasing soil depth, except free microaggregates (free‐m, 250–53 µm), which showed the opposite trend. Macroaggregates (>250 µm) were the main type of soil particles in both surface soil and subsoil. Compared with the unfertilized control or chemical fertilizer treatments, manure or straw combined with chemical fertilizers significantly (p < 0.05) increased the mass and carbon concentration in small macroaggregates (2000–250 µm) and small macroaggregate fractions in the surface soil (0–20 cm), whilst the opposite effect was detected for large macroaggregates (>2000 µm) and large macroaggregate fractions. In the top 40‐cm soil layer, the carbon content in small macroaggregates and most small macroaggregate fractions increased linearly with increasing carbon input rate, but that in large macroaggregates and most large macroaggregate fractions decreased. Overall, small macroaggregates were the dominant particle size class harbouring carbon stocks, and the subsoil in this paddy soil has a high potential for carbon sequestration.
Effect of LDPE microplastics on chemical properties and microbial communities in soil
Authors: Palansooriya Kumuduni Niroshika , Shi Liang , Sarkar Binoy , Parikh Sanjai J. , Sang Mee Kyung , Lee Sang‐Ryong , Ok Yong Sik
Published: April 2022

The accumulation of plastics in the soil ecosystem poses an increasing environmental concern worldwide. However, little is known about the effect of plastic concentrations on soil properties and soil biota. In this study, we investigated the effect of low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) microplastics (MPs) on the chemical and microbial properties of agricultural soil using a set of microcosm experiments. The soil was incubated for 100 days with LDPE at concentrations of 0%, 0.1%, 1%, 3%, 5%, and 7% at 25°C with 70% water‐holding capacity. Along with soil chemical analysis, we conducted an analysis of soil microbial properties on the first day and again after 100 days of incubation. LDPE concentrations of ≥1% significantly (p < .05) decreased the pH but increased the electrical conductivity of the soil in comparison with the control (0% LDPE at 100 days). Increasing the LDPE concentration did not affect the soil exchangeable cation content or the available Pb concentration. Firmicutes were the most abundant phyla in the soil on the first day, whereas Proteobacteria, Firmicutes and Actinobacteria became dominant in all treatments after 100 days. An increasing LDPE concentration increased the abundance of Actinobacteria and decreased Proteobacteria. Principal component analysis demonstrated that only 7% LDPE was positively correlated with Actinobacteria, indicating that higher concentrations of LDPE contributed to the growth of this phylum. The findings of this study imply that MP contamination could affect soil chemical properties and microbial activity and that these effects primarily depend on MP concentrations in soil.
Nonlinear dynamics in auditory cortical activity reveal the neural basis of perceptual warping in speech categorization
Authors: Carter Jared A. , Buder Eugene H. , Bidelman Gavin M.
Published: April 2022

Surrounding context influences speech listening, resulting in dynamic shifts to category percepts. To examine its neural basis, event-related potentials (ERPs) were recorded during vowel identification with continua presented in random, forward, and backward orders to induce perceptual warping. Behaviorally, sequential order shifted individual listeners’ categorical boundary, versus random delivery, revealing perceptual warping (biasing) of the heard phonetic category dependent on recent stimulus history. ERPs revealed later (∼300 ms) activity localized to superior temporal and middle/inferior frontal gyri that predicted listeners’ hysteresis/enhanced contrast magnitudes. Findings demonstrate that interactions between frontotemporal brain regions govern top-down, stimulus history effects on speech categorization.
Customized Virtual Simulations Provide an Interactive Lab Experience
Authors: Sweeney Meredith O. , Farkas Johanna E. , Homan Erica P. , Raytcheva Desislava (Dessy) A.
Published: April 2022

Although various resources exist for facilitating online laboratory courses, stitching together disparate elements from multiple sources may not be sufficient to meet the learning goals of a given course. For example, our Biology Project Lab course introduces students to an array of fundamental laboratory techniques, and the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated the development of virtual laboratory options for remote learners.
Complete Genome Sequence of Bacillus toyonensis Strain HA0190, Isolated from a Commercial Hydroxyapatite Product Extensively Used as a Synthetic Bone Graft Substitute
Authors: Kim Sung Guk , Park Miseon , Summage-West Christine V. , Min Seonggi , Foley Steven L.
Published: April 2022

Bacillus toyonensis
is a member of the
Bacillus cereus
group and is used as a probiotic in animal feeds and biological applications. We report the 5.8-Mbp genome sequence of strain HA0190, an isolate from a commercial hydroxyapatite nanoparticle product. The genome contains a circular chromosome and two plasmids, pBT001 and pBT002.
Analysis of Clinical Course and Vaccination Influence on Serological Response in COVID-19 Convalescents
Authors: Adamczuk Justyna , Czupryna Piotr , Dunaj-Małyszko Justyna , Kruszewska Ewelina , Pancewicz Sławomir , Kamiński Karol , Borawski Karol , Grygorczuk Sambor , Moniuszko-Malinowska Anna
Published: April 2022

The results of our study confirm the knowledge on immune response in the Polish population and add new information regarding correlations with the severity of the disease. The data in the literature concerning the correlation between antibodies response and sex are ambiguous, and we did not observe differences between antibodies production and gender, which also adds new information.
Lump on the scalp of a child arising over a previous parietal fracture: growing skull fracture or post-traumatic lipoma?
Authors: Tewfik Karim , Covelli Claudia , Rossini Manuela , Burlini Dante
Published: April 2022

A young girl was referred to our Institution for the appearance of a painless soft swelling in the right parietal region of the scalp. In the same site, the patient had a parietal bone fracture 1 year ago. In the suspicion of a growing skull fracture, the patient underwent radiological investigations. Ultrasound showed a soft, poorly vascularised swelling with parenchymatous content. The skull X-ray showed an apparent healing of the previous fracture. CT scan and MRI confirmed the correct healing of the fracture and described the presence of a lipomatous mass. The mass was surgically removed and histology confirmed the diagnosis of encapsulated lipoma. The postoperative period was uneventful, with no evidence of infections or recurrence in the 6-month follow-up.
Diabetic ketoacidosis, cerebral venous sinus thrombosis and fulminant cerebral oedema in COVID-19 infection complicated byKlebsiella pneumoniaeinfection
Authors: Wallace Lindsey A , Hocker Sara E , Dubrock Hilary , Bauer Philippe
Published: April 2022

We present an unusual case of a woman in her 30s who was admitted for diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in the setting of newly diagnosed but late COVID-19 infection with associatedKlebsiella pneumoniaeinfection. Her altered mental status, out of proportion with her metabolic decompensation, revealed a superimposed cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) with fulminant cerebral oedema and ultimately brain death. This unusual and fulminant case of cerebral oedema in the setting of COVID-19 infection with bacterial infection, DKA and CVST was the perfect storm with multiple interwoven factors. It offered diagnostic and treatment challenges with an unfortunate outcome. This unique case is a reminder that it is important to consider a broad neurological differential in patients with COVID-19 with unexplained neurological manifestations, which may require specific neurointensive care management.
Abnormal foveal morphology in carriers of oculocutaneous albinism
Authors: Kuht Helen J , Thomas Mervyn G , McLean Rebecca J , Sheth Viral , Proudlock Frank A , Gottlob Irene
Published: April 2022

Background/aims

To investigate the foveal morphology in carriers of oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). A cross-sectional, observational study.

Methods

Handheld SD-OCT (Envisu C2300) was used to acquire horizontal scans through the centre of the fovea in biological parents of patients with OCA (n=28; mean age±SD=40.43±8.07 years) and age-matched and ethnicity-matched controls (n=28; mean age±SD=38.04±10.27 years). Sequence analysis was performed for variants in known genes associated with OCA. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), presence of foveal hypoplasia and grade, foveal, parafoveal and perifoveal thickness measurements of total retinal layers (TRL), inner retinal layers (IRL) and outer retinal layers (ORL) thickness were measured.

Results

Foveal hypoplasia was identified in 32.14% of OCA carriers; grade 1 in all cases. OCA carriers demonstrated significant thicker TRL thickness (median difference: 13.46 µm, p=0.009) and IRL thickness (mean difference: 8.98 µm, p<0.001) at the central fovea compared with controls. BCVA of carriers was between −0.16 and 0.18 logMAR (mean: 0.0 logMAR). No significant differences in BCVA was noted between OCA carriers or controls (p=0.83). In the OCA carriers, we identified previously reported pathogenic variants inTYR,OCA2andSLC45A2, novelOCA2variants (n=3) and heterozygosity of the pathogenicTYRhaplotype.

Conclusion

We have, for the first time, identified foveal abnormalities in OCA carriers. This provides clinical value, particularly in cases where limited phenotype data are available. Our findings raise the possibility that previously reported mild cases of foveal hypoplasia or isolated foveal hypoplasia could correspond to OCA carrier status.
Utilisation of composite endpoint outcome to assess efficacy of tocilizumab for non-infectious uveitis in the STOP-Uveitis Study
Authors: Hassan Muhammad , Sadiq Mohammad Ali , Ormaechea Maria Soledad , Uludağ Günay , Halim Muhammad Sohail , Afridi Rubbia , Do Diana V , Sepah Yasir Jamal , Nguyen Quan Dong
Published: April 2022

Background/aims

To use a composite endpoint scoring system in assessing efficacy of two doses of intravenous tocilizumab (TCZ), in eyes with non-infectious uveitis.

Methods

Data from STOP-Uveitis Study (a phase 2 multicentre, randomised, interventional clinical trial), where monthly intravenous infusions of 4 mg/kg (Group 1) or 8 mg/kg (Group 2) TCZ until month 6 (M6) were administered, were used. Efficacy was ascertained by a composite endpoint scoring system consisting of: (1) visual acuity; (2) intraocular inflammation; (3) central retinal thickness; (4) posterior segment inflammation on fluorescein angiographic and (5) steroid taper. Each component of grading system was graded as ((+1) improvement, (−1) worsening or (0) no change) based on specific criteria. The clinical response was classified as positive (improvement in at least one parameter and worsening in none), negative (worsening of any parameter) or stable (neither improvement nor worsening of any parameter). The percentage achieving various clinical responses was compared between groups.

Results

Thirty-seven patients were analysed. At M6, 31 (83.8%) subjects demonstrated a positive clinical response (Group 1=14 (77.8%) and Group 2=17 (89.5%)). Three (8.1%) subjects (all Group 1) met the criteria for treatment failure, whereas three (8.1%) subjects showed a stable clinical response (Group 1=1 and Group 2=2). The difference in clinical responses between study groups was not significant (p>0.05).

Conclusions

Both doses of intravenous TCZ were effective in either improving or maintaining stability in patients using the composite endpoint scoring system. A composite scoring system as used in this study may be a better measure to assess efficacy outcomes as compared with only vitreous haze or other single outcome measures.
Study to investigate the prevalence of human papillomavirus in Barrett’s oesophagus using a novel screening methodology
Authors: White Jonathan Richard , Ragunath Krish , Whitton Aimee , Marsh Elizabeth , Kaye Philip , Knight Gillian
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is strongly associated with Barrett’s dysplasia and oesophageal cancer suggesting a role in carcinogenesis. HPV persistence predicts treatment failure after endotherapy for Barrett’s dysplasia. This pilot study applies a novel HPV screening tool (previously only used in the oropharynx) to detect HPV DNA directly and determine the prevalence rates in Barrett’s oesophagus (BO).

Method

DNA was extracted from 20 formalin-fixed BO samples. HPV DNA was detected using real-time PCR and gel electrophoresis.

Results

5 out of 20 patients were identified as positive for HPV. Prevalence was 25% in patients with BO.

Conclusion

This method can be used in BO’s tissue to determine HPV infection. Adoption of this as a screening test could potentially revolutionise future research in this area. If a clear link between HPV and Barrett’s dysplasia can be confirmed, this qPCR method has the potential to aid in monitoring and/or dysplasia detection by stratifying those most at risk and aid in the development of new therapies.
Identification of circulating microRNAs as potential biomarkers for hepatic necroinflammation in patients with autoimmune hepatitis
Authors: Saeki Chisato , Matsuzaki Juntaro , Kuroda Masahiko , Fujita Koji , Ichikawa Makiko , Takizawa Satoko , Takano Keiko , Oikawa Tsunekazu , Nakanuma Yasuni , Saruta Masayuki , Ochiya Takahiro , Tsubota Akihito
Published: April 2022

Objective

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are implicated in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases and could be biomarkers of disease activity. This study aimed to identify highly expressed circulating miRNAs in patients with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and to evaluate their association with clinical characteristics.

Methods

Microarray analyses were performed, and miRNA expression profiling for AIH, primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and overlap syndrome (OS) using the serum of patients and healthy individuals was done. Samples were divided into discovery and test sets to identify candidate miRNAs that could discriminate AIH from PBC; the former included 21 AIH and 23 PBC samples, while the latter included five AIH and eight PBC samples.

Results

Among 11 candidate miRNAs extracted in the discovery set, 4 (miR-3196, miR-6125, miR-4725–3 p and miR-4634) were specifically and highly expressed in patients with AIH in the test set. These four miRNAs discriminated AIH from PBC with high sensitivity (0.80–1.00) and specificity (0.88–1.00). In situ hybridisation analysis revealed that these miRNAs were expressed in the cytoplasm of hepatocytes in patients with AIH. Their expression levels were highest in untreated patients with AIH, followed by those in untreated patients with OS. They drastically or moderately decreased after prednisolone treatment. Histological analysis demonstrated that the expression levels of miR-3196, miR-6125 and miR-4634 in patients with AIH and OS were correlated with severe hepatic necroinflammatory activity.

Conclusion

These circulating miRNAs are suggested to reflect hepatic necroinflammatory activity and serve as AIH-related and treatment-responsive biomarkers. These miRNAs could be beneficial in developing new therapeutic strategies for AIH.
Point-of-care testing for tetanus immunity: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Low Rachel , Young Kieron , Verani Lorenzo , Cotton Daniele T , Welman Ted , Moore Luke S P , Horwitz Maxim D
Published: April 2022

Background

The current standard of care for tetanus prophylaxis management in patients with open wounds likely results in overtreatment and unnecessary costs. Point-of-care immunochromatographic tests, known as Tetanus Quick Sticks (TQS), have been developed to qualitatively measure tetanus immunoglobulin levels. Multiple studies advocate their use in EDs. We aim to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy and cost-effectiveness of TQS to assess their relevance in frontline emergency care.

Methods

A systematic review was undertaken following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A literature search was conducted in MEDLINE, Embase, Global Health, The Health Management Information Consortium and The Cochrane Library. Studies were eligible if sensitivity, specificity or cost-efficacy of TQS was reported. At least two authors independently assessed and extracted data from each study. A meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate summary sensitivity and specificity estimates for TQS.

Results

12 studies were suitable for inclusion (n=1 662 865 participants): 1 modelling and 11 prospective observational cohort studies. Eight studies assessed diagnostic accuracy; the summary estimate for sensitivity was 90% (95% CI, 89% to 90%) with specificity 97% (95% CI, 95% to 100%). Six studies investigated cost-efficacy, reporting lower healthcare costs when using TQS instead of the current method of vaccination history, due to a decrease in unnecessary tetanus vaccine and immunoglobulin administration. Based on the current NHS supply chain data, TQS use could save £173.05 per tetanus-prone patient.

Conclusion

TQS could confer the greatest cost savings if used in combination with vaccination history in patients with tetanus-prone wounds. A quality assurance process is recommended prior to implementation of TQS in EDs.
To go or not to go? Biological logic gating engineered T cells
Authors: Abbott Rebecca C , Hughes-Parry Hannah E , Jenkins Misty R
Published: April 2022

Genetically engineered T cells have been successfully used in the treatment of hematological malignancies, greatly increasing both progression-free and overall survival in patients. However, the outcomes of patients treated with Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T cells targeting solid tumors have been disappointing. There is an unmet clinical need for therapies which are specifically designed to overcome the challenges associated with solid tumors such as tumor heterogeneity and antigen escape. Genetic engineering employing the use of biological logic gating in T cells is an emerging and cutting-edge field that may address these issues. The advantages of logic gating include localized secretion of anti-tumor proteins into the tumor microenvironment, multi antigen targeting of tumors and a potential increase in safety when targeting tumor antigens which may not be exclusively tumor specific. In this review, we introduce the concept of biological logic gating and how this technology addresses some of the challenges of current CAR T treatment. We outline the types of logic gating circuits and finally discuss the application of this new technology to engineered T cells, in the treatment of cancer.
Understanding current and projected emergency department presentations and associated healthcare costs in a changing thermal climate in Adelaide, South Australia
Authors: Wondmagegn Berhanu Yazew , Xiang Jianjun , Dear Keith , Williams Susan , Hansen Alana , Pisaniello Dino , Nitschke Monika , Nairn John , Scalley Ben , Xiao Alex , Jian Le , Tong Michael , Bambrick Hilary , Karnon Jonathan , Bi Peng
Published: April 2022

Background

Exposure to extreme temperatures is associated with increased emergency department (ED) presentations. The resulting burden on health service costs and the potential impact of climate change is largely unknown. This study examines the temperature-EDs/cost relationships in Adelaide, South Australia and how this may be impacted by increasing temperatures.

Methods

A time series analysis using a distributed lag nonlinear model was used to explore the exposure–response relationships. The net-attributable, cold-attributable and heat-attributable ED presentations for temperature-related diseases and costs were calculated for the baseline (2014–2017) and future periods (2034–2037 and 2054–2057) under three climate representative concentration pathways (RCPs).

Results

The baseline heat-attributable ED presentations were estimated to be 3600 (95% empirical CI (eCI) 700 to 6500) with associated cost of $A4.7 million (95% eCI 1.8 to 7.5). Heat-attributable ED presentations and costs were projected to increase during 2030s and 2050s with no change in the cold-attributable burden. Under RCP8.5 and population growth, the increase in heat-attributable burden would be 1.9% (95% eCI 0.8% to 3.0%) for ED presentations and 2.5% (95% eCI 1.3% to 3.7%) for ED costs during 2030s. Under the same conditions, the heat effect is expected to increase by 3.7% (95% eCI 1.7% to 5.6%) for ED presentations and 5.0% (95% eCI 2.6% to 7.1%) for ED costs during 2050s.

Conclusions

Projected climate change is likely to increase heat-attributable emergency presentations and the associated costs in Adelaide. Planning health service resources to meet these changes will be necessary as part of broader risk mitigation strategies and public health adaptation actions.
Cost-effectiveness in diagnosis of stable angina patients: a decision-analytical modelling approach
Authors: Nazir Muhummad Sohaib , Rodriguez-Guadarrama Yael , Rua Tiago , Bui Khan Ha , Buylova Gola Anna , Chiribiri Amedeo , McCrone Paul , Plein Sven , Pennington Mark
Published: April 2022

Objective

Given recent data on published diagnostic accuracies, this study sought to determine the most cost-effective diagnostic strategy for detection of significant coronary artery disease (CAD) in stable angina patients using invasive coronary angiography (ICA) and fractional flow reserve (FFR) as the reference standard.

Methods

A probabilistic decision-analytical model was developed which modelled a cohort of patients with stable angina. We investigated 17 diagnostic strategies between standalone and combination of different imaging tests to establish a correct diagnosis of CAD, using no testing as the baseline reference. These tests included CT coronary angiography (CTCA), stress echocardiography, CT-based FFR, single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR), positron emission tomography, ICA, and ICA with FFR. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios were calculated as the additional cost per correct diagnosis.

Results

SPECT followed by CTCA and ICA-FFR is the most cost-effective strategy between a cost-effectiveness threshold (CET) value of £1000–£3000 per correct diagnosis. CMR followed by CTCA and ICA-FFR is cost-effective within a CET range of £3000–£17 000 per correct diagnosis. CMR and ICA-FFR is cost-effective within a CET range of £17 000–£24 000. ICA-FFR as first line is the most-cost effective if the CET value exceeds the £24 000 per correct diagnosis. Sensitivity analysis showed that direct ICA-FFR may be cost-effective in patients with a high pre-test probability of CAD.

Conclusion

First-line testing with functional imaging is cost-effective at low to intermediate value of correct diagnosis in patients with low to intermediate risk of CAD. ICA is not cost effective although ICA-FFR may be at higher CET.
Analysis of the Impact of Gold Credit Product Prohibition on the Society Interest in Using Islamic Banking Products
Authors: Hidayat Muhammad Rizal , Utomo Rizky Tri , Nisa Khoirun
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this research is to analyze the prohibition of gold credit products as the current issue in the world of Islamic Economics and finance and its implications for the interest of the society in using Islamic banking products in Indonesia (a case study in Bank Syariah Mandiri in Semarang City). This research uses the Logistic Regression method to analyze the impact of prohibition of gold credit products on society interest in using Islamic banking products. The results indicate that even though there was a prohibition ruling of buying gold credit products after being previously allowed, the interest of the society in using Islamic banking products did not decrease at all. What underlines the society’s consideration of not reducing their interests in using Islamic banking products is the abundance of alternative Islamic banking products that can be chosen by them according to their preferences. The result of this research can potentially contribute to the revision or renewal of Islamic economics and finance legal policies made by Dewan Syariah N asional Majelis Ulama Indonesia (DSN MUI) namely the Fatwa DSN MUI Number 77/DSN-MUI/VI/2010 about Sale and Purchase of Non Cash Gold.
The Time-Variant Sources of Inflation and Inflation Volatility and Their Interrelations and Effects on Macroeconomic Fluctuations: Evidence from Indonesia and Thailand
Authors: Hossain Akhand Akhtar , Raghavan Mala
Published: April 2022

Indonesia and Thailand, two major open economies in Southeast Asia which operate under ‘managed-float’ exchange rate systems, have remained susceptible to both the external and domestic shocks since the East-Asian financial crisis of the late 1990s. Unlike the standard monetary-policy literature, these countries have introduced ‘flexible inflation targeting’ as the monetary policy strategy under managed- float exchange rate systems. Although these countries have managed to keep inflation low on average in a low-inflation environment, inflation has however remained highly volatile. This paper attempts to answer how significant are external shocks, relative to domestic shocks, as the drivers of inflation and inflation volatility for these countries? The paper uses a Structural Vector Autoregression (SVAR) modelling framework and monthly macroeconomic data over the period 2000M1-2015M12. The empirical results suggest that in both countries, (i) inflation is more sensitive to external shocks relative to domestic shocks, which is consistent with the inflation globalization hypothesis; (ii) Inflation volatility however remains sensitive to both the external and domestic shocks; (iii) As expected, inflation and inflation volatility exhibit a feedback relation between them, which is consistent with the Friedman-Ball and Cukierman-Meltzer propositions. The paper also highlights that inflation and inflation volatility affect the real interest and exchange rates, which affect real output and asset prices. The paper concludes that Indonesia and Thailand can make monetary policy more effective for maintaining price stability if they make the exchange rates more flexible to ameliorate the effects of external shocks on these economies.
Exploring black hole mechanics in cotangent bundle geometries
Authors: Relancio José Javier , Liberati Stefano
Published: April 2022

The classical and continuum limit of a quantum gravitational setting could lead, at mesoscopic regimes, to a very different notion of geometry with respect to the pseudo-Riemannian one of special and general relativity. A possible way to characterize this modified spacetime notion is by a momentum-dependent metric, in such a way that particles with different energies could probe different spacetimes. Indeed, doubly special relativity theories, deforming the special relativistic kinematics while maintaining a relativity principle, have been understood within a geometrical context, by considering a curved momentum space. The extension of these momentum spaces to curved spacetimes and its possible phenomenological implications have been recently investigated. Following this line of research, we address here the first two laws of black holes thermodynamics in the context of a cotangent bundle metric, depending on both momentum and spacetime coordinates, compatible with the relativistic deformed kinematics of doubly special relativity.
Moving to the Cloud
Authors: Almunawar Mohammad Nabil , Anshari Muhammad
Published: April 2022

The growth of cloud computing has been increasing fast since a few years ago, although it is still a small part of overall Information Technology (IT) spending of organizations. Both private and public sectors are embracing cloud computing as it offers an innovative computing model, simplifying IT resource management, offering cost savings and flexible scaling. The question is no longer whether to adopt cloud computing or not, but what should be adopted and how? The transaction cost economy theory offers a rationale for the adoption and the decision-making theory helps construct stages for the adoption and operate cloud computing to provide effective and optimal IT solutions for organizations. This paper offers decision makers to overview cloud computing, especially in utilizing values offered and selecting resources or operations that can be migrated to the cloud.
U.S. Monetary Policy and its Role in the Global Financial Crisis: An Assessment after Ten Years
Authors: Hossain Akhand Akhtar
Published: April 2022

This paper reviews three interrelated propositions advanced in the literature to explain the U.S. financial crisis of 2007 to 2009, and draws cogent implications for the roles of monetary and fiscal policies in improving macroeconomic management across countries to sustain global financial stability. The three propositions advanced to explain the U.S. financial crisis are: (1) the monetary-excess hypothesis (2) lax regulation and supervision of banks and financial institutions, and (3) large-scale foreign capital inflows. Of these interrelated explanations, the first appears to be the primary cause of the boom-bust cycle in the U.S. residential housing industry. It led to the financial crisis in an environment of lax regulation and supervision of banks and financial institutions, which intermediated large-scale inflows of foreign capital to finance large, sustained budget deficits. The U.S. financial crisis engulfed the global economy from 2007 to 2009. Its consequences continue to be felt internationally, especially in the context of the debate on the role of monetary policy in reviving an economy in recession in a low-inflationary environment. The body of literature that has emerged since the peak of the financial crisis suggests that the monetary and fiscal stimuli, aimed at rescuing the U.S. and other major economies from the recession, had limited effect. The key lesson that can be drawn from the U.S. financial crisis in a global setup is that rules-based monetary and fiscal policies can be more effective at not creating a boom-bust level of volatility in one or more economies. In addition, this paper concurs with the view that rules-based monetary and fiscal policies should be associated with improved financial regulation and supervision, in order to maintain global financial stability under the current regime of deregulated global capital markets.
Geochemical characteristics and indication of graphite deposits in Xinrong Region, Shanxi, China
Authors: Liang Yuqi , Xia Qinglin , Zhang Yue , Zhao Yong
Published: April 2022

The NE–SW-trending graphite belt found in the Xinrong Region, Datong City is one the richest graphite reserves in China, extending for more than 22 km. The ore-bearing layer of the Huangtuyao Formation is a graphite-bearing gneiss. Based on major and trace element analysis data, we determined from three diagrams that the graphite-bearing gneiss is a parametamorphic rock, and this gneiss was formed by the regional metamorphism of carbonaceous argillite. The detritus of this ore deposit originated from an arc region as seen from the K
2
O/Na
2
O–SiO
2
diagram. According to the Ta/Yb, Sr/Yb and K
2
O/Na
2
O ratios as well as the composition of Gehuyao gneiss, we concluded that this gneiss has typical low-potassium adakitic rock characteristics. Combined with the MgO/SiO
2
diagram and the characteristics of low K
2
O and high Al
2
O
3
, the genetic model of Gehuyao gneiss is melted subducted oceanic crust. Based on regional geological data and comparison of samples, we found an inherent relationship in the main composition content between the graphite-bearing gneiss and the Gehuyao gneiss. This indicates that the ore deposit accumulated the weathering products of Gehuyao gneiss during the sedimentary period. This research provides evidence for ore body evolution and makes it possible to establish the sedimentary–metamorphic model of the graphite ore in this region. In light of the range of the ore body, we predict that the potential area for graphite mineralization in the North China Craton was 2 ± 1.5 km away from the boundary.

Thematic collection:
This article is part of the Applications of Innovations in Geochemical Data Analysis collection available at:
https://www.lyellcollection.org/cc/applications-of-innovations-in-geochemical-data-analysis
Predicting tunnel-boring machine penetration rate utilizing geomechanical properties
Authors: Karrari Seyed Sajjad , Heidari Mojtaba , Hamidi Jafar Khademi , Khaleghi-Esfahani Mohammad , Teshnizi Ebrahim Sharifi
Published: April 2022

Predicting the penetration rate plays a key role in tunnel projects using a tunnel-boring machine (TBM). Developing accurate prediction models can improve project management, and save budget and time in tunnel projects. In this research, the Gelas water-tunnel project data were used to obtain new statistical models for predicting the TBM penetration rate per revolution (PRev) utilizing the toughness index (
T
i
), modulus ratio (
E
/UCS) and joint parameters (
J
P
). The relationships between various geomechanical properties and rock classification systems, including uniaxial compressive strength, Brazilian tensile strength, Young's modulus, joint parameter, toughness index, rock quality designation, rock mass rating, geological strength index, rock mass quality and rock mass index, were analysed and considered on the TBM performance in sedimentary, igneous and metamorphic rocks. The statistical analysis clearly showed that
T
i
revealed a significant correlation with the actual PRev (
R
2
 = 0.75). In addition, the PRev was computed using
T
i
, and
J
P
showed good agreement with the coefficient of determination (
R
2
): i.e. 0.79. The results indicated that the
T
i
decreased by increasing the modulus ratio, so the PRev increased. This model can be used easily as it provides a straightforward predictive model using a multi-parameter model.
Mulan: A Multiple Residual Article-Wise Attention Network for Legal Judgment Prediction
Authors: Chen Junyi , Du Lan , Liu Ming , Zhou Xiabing
Published: April 2022

Legal judgment prediction (LJP) is used to predict judgment results based on the description of individual legal cases. In order to be more suitable for actual application scenarios in which the case has cited multiple articles and has multiple charges, we formulate legal judgment prediction as a multiple label learning problem and present a deep learning model that can effectively encode the content of each legal case via a multi-residual convolution neural network and the semantics of law articles via an article encoder. An article-wise attention mechanism is proposed to fuse the two types of encoded information. Experimental results derived on the CAIL2018 datasets show that our model provides a significant performance improvement over the existing neural models in predicting relevant law articles and charges.
A Survey of Algorithmic Recourse: Contrastive Explanations and Consequential Recommendations
Authors: Karimi Amir-Hossein , Barthe Gilles , Schölkopf Bernhard , Valera Isabel
Published: April 2022

Machine learning is increasingly used to inform decision making in sensitive situations where decisions have consequential effects on individuals’ lives. In these settings, in addition to requiring models to be accurate and robust, socially relevant values such as fairness, privacy, accountability, and explainability play an important role in the adoption and impact of said technologies. In this work, we focus on
algorithmic recourse
, which is concerned with providing explanations and recommendations to individuals who are unfavorably treated by automated decision-making systems. We first perform an extensive literature review, and align the efforts of many authors by presenting unified definitions, formulations, and solutions to recourse. Then, we provide an overview of the prospective research directions toward which the community may engage, challenging existing assumptions and making explicit connections to other ethical challenges such as security, privacy, and fairness.
Square Wave Anodic Stripping Voltammetry for Localized Detection of Mn2+ in Li-Ion Battery Environments
Authors: Hatami Mojgan , Polcari David , Hossain Md Sazzad , Ghavidel Mohammadreza Z. , Mauzeroll Janine , Schougaard Steen B.
Published: April 2022

Li-ion batteries that incorporate manganese present several advantages, including low cost and low toxicity. However, these batteries often suffer from dissolution of manganese into the electrolyte solution, severely impeding battery performance. This work describes the quantitative detection of Mn2+ ions in battery relevant environment i.e. non-aqueous electrolyte within an inert atmosphere. To this end, an electrochemical probe was fabricated using electrochemical deposition of a Hg cap onto a 25 μm Pt disk microelectrode. The Pt/Hg microelectrode was fully characterized by optical microscopy, cyclic voltammetry, scanning electrochemical microscopy. Using square wave anodic stripping voltammetry to overcome reproducibility issues with classical linear sweep anodic stripping voltammetry, Mn2+ was quantified in non-aqueous solution with a limit of detection of 14 μM. Finally, using this detection scheme, the trapping ability of aza-15-crown-5 ether and dilithium iminodiacetate was investigated.
Investigating the Influence of Ni, ZrO2, and Y2O3 from SOFC Anodes on Siloxane Deposition
Authors: Tian Jiashen , Milcarek Ryan J.
Published: April 2022

Siloxanes, as a type of impurity in biogas, can poison the Ni-YSZ anode of SOFCs. However, the influence of individual components of the anode, such as Ni, ZrO2, and Y2O3, on the siloxane deposition process has not been investigated extensively. In this study, Ni, ZrO2, and Y2O3 pellets were exposed to H2 + N2 + H2O + D4 (octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane, 2.5 ppmv) and H2 + N2 + D4 (2.5 ppmv siloxane) gas mixtures at 750 °C to investigate their affinity and tolerance for siloxane degradation. Surface morphology analysis and electrochemical analysis including electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), related distribution of relaxation times (DRT) analysis and equivalent circuit modeling with complex nonlinear least square (CNLS) fitting were conducted. A microstructure parameter—tortuosity factor to porosity ratio

τ
/
ε

calculated by diffusion polarization resistance was utilized for siloxane deposition evaluation. After comparing pellets surface morphology changes before and after experiments and

τ
/
ε

change following the contamination, Ni is considered as a major factor in siloxane deposition reactions in Ni-YSZ anode.
Risk Factors for Worsening of Bone Loss in Patients Newly Diagnosed with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Yin Yi , Lu Xiaofeng , Li Zhun , Liu Song , Shao Lihua , Cao Lei , Liu Rui-Qing , Huang Liang-Yu , Zhu Zhen-Xing , Guo Zhen , Li Yi , Zhu Wei-Ming
Published: April 2022

Background. Bone loss is common in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of metabolic bone disease in patients newly diagnosed with IBD and to identify the risk factors for bone loss over time. Methods. We performed a retrospective, both cross-sectional and longitudinal, study to extract the risk factors of bone loss (including osteopenia and osteoporosis) in patients newly diagnosed with IBD, using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Results. A total of 639 patients newly diagnosed with IBD that had at least one DXA were included in the cross-sectional study. Osteopenia and osteoporosis were diagnosed in 24.6% and 5.4% of patients, respectively. Age at diagnosis, body mass index, and serum phosphorus were identified as independent factors associated with bone loss at baseline. A total of 380 of the 639 IBD patients (including 212 CD patients and 168 UC patients) with at least a second DXA scan were included in the longitudinal study. 42.6% of the patients presented a worsening of bone loss in the follow-up study. Menopause, albumin, and use of corticosteroids were identified as independent factors associated with worsening of bone loss. Conclusions. Metabolic bone disease is common in IBD patients, and there is a significant increase in prevalence of bone loss over time. Postmenopausal female, malnourished patients, and those requiring corticosteroid treatment are at risk for persistent bone loss. Therefore, BMD measurements and early intervention with supplementation of calcium and vitamin D are recommended in IBD patients with high-risk factors.
Computational and Mathematical Methods in Medicine Prediction of COVID-19 in BRICS Countries: An Integrated Deep Learning Model of CEEMDAN-R-ILSTM-Elman
Authors: Zhao Qi , Zheng Zhongtuan
Published: April 2022

Since the outbreak of COVID-19, BRICS countries have experienced different epidemic spread due to different health conditions, social isolation measures, vaccination rates, and other factors. A descriptive analysis is conducted for the spread of the epidemic in the BRICS countries. Considering the nonlinear and nonstationary characteristics of COVID-19 data, a principle of decomposition-reconstruction(R)-prediction-integration is proposed. Correspondingly, this paper constructs an integrated deep learning prediction model of CEEMDAN-R-ILSTM-Elman. Specifically, the prediction model is integrated by complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition (CEEMDAN), improved long-term and short-term memory network (ILSTM), and Elman neural network. First, the data is decomposed by adopting CEEMDAN. Then, by calculating the permutation entropy and average period, the decomposed eigenmode component IMFs are reconstructed into four sequences of high, medium, low level, and trend term. Thus, ILSTM and Elman algorithms are used for component sequence prediction, whose results are integrated as the final results. The ILSTM is established based on the LSTM model and the improved beetle antennae search algorithm (IBAS). The ILSTM mainly considers that the prediction accuracy of LSTM model is vulnerable to the influence of parameter selection. The IBAS with adaptive step size is used to automatically optimize the super parameters of LSTM model and to improve the modeling efficiency and prediction accuracy. Experimental results indicate that compared with other benchmark models, CEEMDAN-R-ILSTM-Elman integrated model predicts the number of newly confirmed cases of COVID-19 in BRICS countries with higher accuracy and lower error. Strict social policies have a greater impact on the infection rate and mortality rate of the epidemic. During July-August 2021, epidemic spread in BRICS countries will slow down, and the overall situation is still quite severe.
Adsorption of Phenol onto Aluminum Oxide Nanoparticles: Performance Evaluation, Mechanism Exploration, and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) of Thermodynamics
Authors: Safwat Safwat M. , Mohamed Nouran Y. , Meshref Mohamed N. A. , Elawwad Abdelsalam
Published: April 2022

The removal of phenolic compounds from aqueous solutions using novel adsorption techniques becomes a key research item. Of those, nanoparticles in particular, the low-cost and the high-strength aluminum oxide nanoparticles showed promising results in pollutant uptake and increase in the adsorption efficiency. This study examined various physicochemical process parameters such as temperature, pH, initial phenol concentration, and adsorbent doses, in addition to the impact of those parameters on the adsorption removal mechanism of phenol. The results highlighted that aluminum oxide nanoparticles successfully exhibited superior phenol removal from an aqueous solution in addition to a high potential regeneration of the consumed nanoparticles by HCl. For the adsorbent mass of 0.5 g, phenol adsorption uptake reached 92%. Kinetic studies performed using several models demonstrated the data best fitting with a pseudo-second-order kinetic model. Examining equilibrium studies of various isotherms, the adsorption data of phenol into aluminum oxide nanoparticles was confirmed to be controlled by film diffusion and best represented by the Langmuir isotherm. The maximum capacity of adsorption was 16.97 mg/g. For thermodynamics studies, the results indicated that the adsorption process can vary between endothermic and exothermic reactions. Such relative differences in heat generation and spontaneity in adsorption processes were demonstrated and confirmed by principal component analysis (PCA). This evidence is key for future investigations for the efficiency of adsorption conditions concerning the contaminant type and adsorbate compounds.
Molecular Descriptors on Line Graphs of Cactus Chains and Rooted Products Graphs
Authors: Ahmad Iftikhar , Chaudhry Maqbool Ahmad , Öner Tarkan , Mahmood Tariq , Hussain Muhammad
Published: April 2022

The application of graph theory in the study of molecular physical and chemical properties involves theoretical mathematical chemistry. Atoms, represented by vertices, and edges, represented by bonds between them, are detailed in simple graphs called chemical graphs. The mathematical derivation of the numerical value of a graph is called the molecular descriptor of the graph. Any connected graph wherein no edge is contained in exclusive of a single cycle is called a cactus graph. In the research in this article, expressions for various molecular descriptors of line graph of the graph obtained by the rooted product of the cycle and path graphs are constructed. This article obtained the calculation of molecular descriptors for line graphs of chain ortho cactus and chain para cactus graphs. To predict the biological activity of a compound, the generalized Zagreb index, the first Zagreb index

M

1

G

, the second Zagreb index

M

2

G

, the F-index, the general Randic index, the symmetric division, the atom bond connectivity (ABC), and the geometric arithmetic (GA) descriptors are created.
Factors of E-Business Adoption in Small and Medium Enterprises: Evidence from Saudi Arabia
Authors: Satar Mir Shahid , Alarifi Ghadah
Published: April 2022

The research was aimed at identifying and empirically investigating the factors influencing the adoption of e-business in SMEs of Saudi Arabia. The Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework was complemented with the individual context elements to develop the conceptual model for the present study. The framework was developed based on the two-pronged strategy: an extant literature review and a focus group interview with panel of experts. Subsequently, a questionnaire-based survey was conducted, and data from 111 SMEs were collected. The researchers tested the model and related hypotheses, employing multiple regression analysis. The results indicate that the firm size, competitive pressure, entrepreneur’s innovativeness, and IT savviness significantly influence the e-business adoption in SMEs. The findings and conclusions of the study, as well the future research prospects, are discussed.