bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Yttrium and Lithium Keto-β-Diketiminate Complexes [{2,6-Me2C6H3N=C(Me)}2CС(tert-Bu)=O]2Y(μ2-Cl)2Li(THF)2 and {[{2,6-Me2C6H3N=C(Me)}2CС(tert-Bu)=O]Li(THF)}n. Synthesis, Molecular Structures, and Catalytic Activity in ε-Caprolactone Polymerization
Authors: Skvortsov G. G. , Cherkasov A. V. , Vorozhtsov D. L. , Shchegravina E. S. , Trifonov A. A.
Published: February 2021

The reaction of lithium β-diketiminate [{2,6-Me2C6H3N=CMe}2CH]Li with benzophenone in toluene at 25°C affords the coordination complex [{2,6-Me2C6H3N=CMe}2CH]Li(Ph2C=O) (I). New keto-β-diketimine {2,6-Me2C6H3N=C(Me)}2CHC(tert-Bu)=O (II) is synthesized by the reaction of tert-Bu(C=O)Cl with [{2,6-Me2C6H3N=CMe}2CH]Li. The metallation of keto-β-diketimine II with n-butyllithium in THF at 0°C gives lithium keto-β-diketiminate {[{2,6-Me2C6H3N=C(Me)}2CС(tert-Bu)=O]Li(THF)}n (III). The exchange reaction of YCl3 with compound III (molar ratio 1 : 2, THF) affords the yttrium bis(keto-diketiminate) complex [{2,6-Me2C6H3N=C(Me)}2CС(tert-Bu)=O]2Y(μ2-Cl)2L-(THF)2 (IV). The molecular structures of complexes I, III, and IV are determined by X-ray diffraction analysis (CIF files CCDC nos. 2001131 (I), 2001132 (III), and 2001133 (IV)). Complex IV in the crystalline state exists as an ate complex with one LiCl molecule. Complexes I, III, and IV are catalysts of ring-opening polymerization of ε-caprolactone in toluene at 25°С.
Serum calcification propensity is associated with HbA1c in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Mencke Rik , van der Vaart Amarens , Pasch Andreas , Harms Geert , Waanders Femke , Bilo Henk J G , van Goor Harry , Hillebrands Jan-Luuk , van Dijk Peter R
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Serum calcification propensity is emerging as an independent predictor for cardiovascular outcomes in high-risk populations. Calcification propensity can be monitored by the maturation time of calciprotein particles in serum (T50test). A low T50value is an independent determinant of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in various populations. Aim was to investigate the T50and its relationship to type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Research design and methods

Using nephelometry, serum T50was cross-sectionally measured in 932 stable patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (55% male) with a median age of 66 (62–75) years, diabetes duration of 6.5 (3.0–10.2) years and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) of 49 (44–54) mmol/mol.

Results

Serum T50was normally distributed with a mean value of 261±66 min. In linear regression, serum T50was lower in women and current smokers. A lower T50value was found in patients with a higher HbA1c or higher systolic blood pressure, insulin users and patients with a longer history of diabetes. The association with HbA1c was independent of other determinants in multivariable analysis. There was no association between T50and previous macrovascular events or the presence of microvascular disease.

Conclusions

Serum calcification propensity is independently associated with glycemic control, suggesting that a lower HbA1c may be associated with better cardiovascular outcomes. Retrospective analysis could not establish an association between a history of macrovascular events and T50, and prospective studies will have to be performed to address this hypothesis.

Trial registration number

NCT01570140.
Missed opportunities for delivering nutrition interventions in first 1000 days of life in India: insights from the National Family Health Survey, 2006 and 2016
Authors: Nguyen Phuong Hong , Avula Rasmi , Tran Lan Mai , Sethi Vani , Kumar Alok , Baswal Dinesh , Hajeebhoy Nemat , Ranjan Alok , Menon Purnima
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Existing health and community nutrition systems have the potential to deliver many nutrition interventions. However, the coverage of nutrition interventions across the delivery platforms of these systems has not been uniform. We (1) examined the opportunity gaps between delivery platforms and corresponding nutrition interventions through the continuum of care in India between 2006 and 2016 and and (2) assessed inequalities in these opportunity gaps.

Methods

We used two rounds of the National Family Health Survey data from 2005 to 2006 and 2015–2016 (n=36 850 and 190 898 mother–child dyads, respectively). We examine the opportunity gaps over time for seven nutrition interventions and their associated delivery platforms at national and state levels. We assessed equality and changes in equality between 2006 and 2016 for opportunity gaps by education, residence, socioeconomic status (SES), public and private platforms.

Results

Coverage of nutrition interventions was consistently lower than the reach of their associated delivery platforms; opportunity gaps ranging from 9 to 32 percentage points (pp) during the pregnancy, 17 pp during delivery and 9–26 pp during childhood in 2006. Between 2006 and 2016, coverage improved for most indicators, but coverage increases for nutrition interventions was lower than for associated delivery platforms. The opportunity gaps were larger among women with higher education (22–57 pp in 2016), higher SES status and living in urban areas (23–57 pp), despite higher coverage of most interventions and the delivery platforms among these groups. Opportunity gaps vary tremendously by state with the highest gaps observed in Tripura, Andaman and Nicobar islands, and Punjab for different indicators.

Conclusions

India’s progress in coverage of health and nutrition interventions in the last decade is promising, but both opportunity and equality gaps remained. It is critical to close these gaps by addressing policy and programmatic delivery systems bottlenecks to achieve universal coverage for both health and nutrition within the delivery system.
COVID-19: lessons and experiences from South Africa’s first surge
Authors: Moonasar Devanand , Pillay Anban , Leonard Elizabeth , Naidoo Raveen , Mngemane Shadrack , Ramkrishna Wayne , Jamaloodien Khadija , Lebese Lebogang , Chetty Kamy , Bamford Lesley , Tanna Gaurang , Ntuli Nhlanhla , Mlisana Koleka , Madikizela Lindiwe , Modisenyane Moeketsi , Engelbrecht Christie , Maja Popo , Bongweni Funeka , Furumele Tsakani , Mayet Natalie , Goga Ameena , Talisuna Ambrose , Ramadan Otim Patrick Cossy , Pillay Yogan
Published: February 2021

On 5 March 2020, South Africa recorded its first case of imported COVID-19. Since then, cases in South Africa have increased exponentially with significant community transmission. A multisectoral approach to containing and mitigating the spread of SARS-CoV-2 was instituted, led by the South African National Department of Health. A National COVID-19 Command Council was established to take government-wide decisions. An adapted World Health Organiszion (WHO) COVID-19 strategy for containing and mitigating the spread of the virus was implemented by the National Department of Health. The strategy included the creation of national and provincial incident management teams (IMTs), which comprised of a variety of work streams, namely, governance and leadership; medical supplies; port and environmental health; epidemiology and response; facility readiness and case management; emergency medical services; information systems; risk communication and community engagement; occupational health and safety and human resources. The following were the most salient lessons learnt between March and September 2020: strengthened command and control were achieved through both centralised and decentralised IMTs; swift evidenced-based decision-making from the highest political levels for instituting lockdowns to buy time to prepare the health system; the stringent lockdown enabled the health sector to increase its healthcare capacity. Despite these successes, the stringent lockdown measures resulted in economic hardship particularly for the most vulnerable sections of the population.
One hundred thirty-three observed COVID-19 deaths in 10 months: unpacking lower than predicted mortality in Rwanda
Authors: Musanabaganwa Clarisse , Cubaka Vincent , Mpabuka Etienne , Semakula Muhammed , Nahayo Ernest , Hedt-Gauthier Bethany L , Ng Kamela C S , Murray Megan B , Kateera Fredrick , Mutesa Leon , Nsanzimana Sabin
Published: February 2021

The African region was predicted to have worse COVID-19 infection and death rates due to challenging health systems and social determinants of health. However, in the 10 months after its first case, Rwanda recorded 10316 cases and 133 COVID-19-related deaths translating to a case fatality rate (CFR) of 1.3%, which raised the question: why does Rwanda have a low COVID-19 CFR? Here we analysed COVID-19 data and explored possible explanations to better understand the disease burden in the context of Rwanda’s infection control strategies.

We investigated whether the age distribution plays a role in the observed low CFR in Rwanda by comparing the expected number of deaths for 10-year age bands based on the CFR reported in other countries with the observed number of deaths for each age group. We found that the age-specific CFRs in Rwanda are similar to or, in some older age groups, slightly higher than those in other countries, suggesting that the lower population level CFR reflects the younger age structure in Rwanda, rather than a lower risk of death conditional on age. We also accounted for Rwanda’s comprehensive SARS-CoV-2 testing strategies and reliable documentation of COVID-19-related deaths and deduced that these measures may have allowed them to likely identify more asymptomatic or mild cases than other countries and reduced their reported CFR.

Overall, the observed low COVID-19 deaths in Rwanda is likely influenced by the combination of effective infection control strategies, reliable identification of cases and reporting of deaths, and the population’s young age structure.
Awareness of infant safe sleep messages and associated care practices: findings from an Australian cohort of families with young infants
Authors: Cole Roni , Young Jeanine , Kearney Lauren , Thompson John M D
Published: February 2021

Objective

To investigate primary infant caregiver awareness of the current national public health safe sleep messages and the associations of awareness with care practices.

Design and setting

A cross-sectional survey in Queensland, Australia. All families with live babies birthed during April–May 2017 were eligible. Questionnaires were distributed when infants were approximately 3 months old.

Participants

Of the 10 200 eligible families, 3341 (33%) primary caregivers participated.

Main outcome measures

Participants were asked: to recall key safe sleeping messages they were aware of (unprompted); questions about their infant care practices; and to select the current, national six safe sleeping messages (prompted multi-choice).

Results

Overall, the majority of families are aware of sleep-related infant mortality and sudden infant death (3178/3317, 96%); however, approximately one in four caregivers (867/3292, 26%) could not identify the current six messages to promote safer infant sleep in a multi-choice question. Despite being aware of the six key messages, some caregiver practices did not always align with advice (336/2423, 14% were not smoke-free; 349/2423, 14% were not usually supine for sleep; 649/2339, 28% employed practices which may increase risk of head or face covering; 426/2423, 18% were not receiving breastmilk).

Conclusions

There is considerable scope for improvement in parent awareness and ability to recall key safe sleep messages. Awareness of advice does not always translate into safe infant care. Health promotion messaging to encourage safer infant sleep, ultimately aimed at reducing sudden unexpected infant deaths, needs more effective supportive strategies and dissemination if future campaigns are to be successful.
Epithelial–mesenchymal transition and cancer stem cell interactions in breast phyllodes tumours: immunohistochemical evaluation of EZH2, EZR, HMGA2, CD24 and CD44 in correlation with outcome analysis
Authors: Ahmed Syed Salahuddin , Lim Jeffrey Chun Tatt , Thike Aye Aye , Iqbal Jabed , Tan Puay Hoon
Published: February 2021

Aim

Phyllodes tumours (PTs) categorised as benign, borderline and malignant, account for 1% of all breast tumours. Histological assessment does not always predict tumour behaviour, hindering determination of the clinical course and management.

Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an important process during embryogenesis. Dysregulation of EMT causes loss of cell polarity, decreased intercellular adhesion, increased motility and invasiveness, promoting tumour progression. Similarly, cancer stem cells (CSCs) promote tumour growth, resistance and recurrence. The aim of this study is to evaluate expression of CSC markers; enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), CD24 and CD44 and EMT associated proteins; ezrin (EZR) and high-mobility group AT-hook 2 (HMGA2) in PTs.

Method

Uing tissue microarray sections, immunohistochemistry was performed on 360 PTs. Epithelial and stromal expressions of EZH2, EZR, HMGA2, CD24 and CD44 were evaluated to assess their impact on disease progression and behaviour in correlation with clinicopathological parameters.

Results

Stromal expression of EZH2, EZR and HMGA2 was observed in 73 (20.3%), 53 (14.7%) and 28 (7.8%) of tumours, epithelial expression in 121 (35.9%), 3 (0.8%) and 351 (97.5%) tumours, respectively. CD24 and CD44 staining was absent in both components.

Conclusion

Expression of biomarkers correlated significantly with aggressive tumour traits such as stromal hypercellularity, atypia, mitoses and permeative tumour borders.

Stromal expression of EZH2 and EZR shortened disease-free survival and overall survival; HMGA2 expression did not alter patient survival. EZH2 and EZR may thus be useful in predicting PT behaviour.
Patient and provider perceptions of a novel cognitive functioning report for patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: a qualitative study
Authors: Plantinga Laura , Vandenberg Ann , Goldstein Felicia , Jones Brian , Johnson Jeremy , Bowling Christopher Barrett , Dunlop-Thomas Charmayne , Lim Sung Sam , Drenkard Cristina
Published: February 2021

Objective

To determine whether and how cognitive assessment data should be included in a report for patients with SLE and their providers.

Methods

Leveraging experiences from prior studies, we created a cognitive report that included a hypothetical patient’s results on tests of multiple domains based on the NIH Toolbox Fluid Cognition Battery. In focus groups that comprised patients with SLE (two groups) and their providers (two groups), feedback was sought on the presentation of results as well as the potential value of the report in the clinical setting.

Results

Feedback regarding the presentation of the report was generally positive. Both patients with SLE and their providers liked its simple graphics and use of a colour-gradated scale to indicate performance. However, both groups stressed the importance of using non-stigmatising language in describing results. Several potential purposes of the report, including distinguishing cognitive versus other issues, explaining cognitive challenges, improving patient–provider interactions, guiding decision-making, improving functioning or preventing impairment and tracking cognitive function over time, were noted by the participants. Potential barriers, such as inadequate clinical staffing or time and lack of potential treatments for identified issues, were also discussed.

Conclusion

In this exploratory study, we found that both patients with SLE and their providers were receptive to the idea of a patient-friendly report of cognitive test results. This study provides important information to guide future pragmatic research to optimise the delivery of cognitive information to patients with SLE.
Evening chronotype is associated with poor work ability and disability pensions at midlife: a Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966 Study
Authors: Räihä Tapio , Nerg Iiro , Jurvelin Heidi , Conlin Andrew , Korhonen Marko , Ala-Mursula Leena
Published: February 2021

Objectives

This is the first general population study to evaluate whether evening chronotypes (E) have poorer work ability (WA) and higher probability for early disability pensions (DPs) than morning types (M) in middle age.

Methods

Among non-retired individuals (n=5831; 2672 men, 3159 women) of the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966, chronotype was determined at the age of 46 years with shortened Morningness–Eveningness Questionnaires in 2012. The outcomes were poor WA in 2012, indicated by scores 0–7/10 of Work Ability Score, and registered emergence of DPs in 2013–2016. Multivariate logistic and Cox regression analyses were separately adjusted for factors related to sleep, health and behaviours, sociodemographic and economic factors, or working times.

Results

E-types represented 10% (n=264) of men and 12% (n=382) of women. Compared with M-types, the unadjusted ORs with 95% CIs of poor WA for E-type men and women were 2.24 (95% CI 1.62 to 3.08) and 2.33 (95% CI 1.74 to 3.10), respectively. The odds remained statistically significant and approximately twofold in all separate adjustment models tested. During 2013–2016, 8 (3.0%) E-type men and 10 (2.6%) E-type women were granted DP, which, compared with M-types, represented a higher HR that was statistically significant for men (HR 3.12, 95% CI 1.27 to 7.63) and remained significant except when multiple sleep variables or working times were adjusted for.

Conclusions

Eveningness appears a previously unrecognised risk factor for poor WA and early disability. We suggest that individual chronotype be considered in attempts to lengthen work careers.
Size of atrial septal defect after balloon atrial septostomy does not correlate with immediate improvement in oxygenation
Authors: Sehgal Kartik , Sehgal Kunal , Varma Suraj
Published: February 2021

Objective

Transposition of great arteries is a common cyanotic heart defect. Balloon atrial septostomy aims to improve circulatory mixing and oxygenation. Previous studies have combined infants with intact ventricular septum and those with ventricular septal defect. Additionally, the septostomy was performed much later after birth. The objectives were to ascertain any correlation between the atrial septal defect size and oxygenation, before and after septostomy, as well the change in parameters pre-post procedure.

Methods

We performed an audit of the last 10 years of clinical and echocardiographic data (2010–2020) for infants with transposition of great arteries with intact ventricular septum. A pediatric cardiologist, masked to clinical data, reviewed the images.

Results

Our study of 25 infants with transposition of great arteries with intact ventricular septum noted that the procedure was performed at a median [interquartile range (IQR)] of 3 (2, 4) hours after birth. Prostaglandin was administered to the majority of infants [20/25 (80%)]. While significant increases in partial pressure of oxygen (24±5 vs 40±6 mmHg, p<0.001) and preductal oxygen saturations (67%±18% vs 81%±11%, p=0.003) were noted, and while the atrial septal defect increased in size from 1.8±0.6 vs 4.8±0.7 mm (p<0.001), no correlation was noted between atrial septal defect size and oxygen saturations.

Conclusions

In our study of infants with transposition of great arteries and intact ventricular septum managed with balloon atrial septostomy, no correlation was noted between the atrial septal defect size and oxygen saturations. Pulmonary vascular resistance and pulmonary blood flow may be important physiological variables determining oxygenation.
RG flows in non-perturbative gauge-Higgs unification II: effective action for the Higgs phase near the quantum phase transition
Authors: Irges Nikos , Koutroulis Fotis
Published: February 2021

We construct the zero temperature (no compact dimensions) effective action for an SU(2) Yang–Mills theory in five dimensions, with boundary conditions that reduce the symmetry on the four-dimensional boundary located at the origin to a U(1)-complex scalar system. In order to be sensitive to the Higgs phase, we need to include higher dimensional operators in the effective action, which can be naturally achieved by generating it by expanding the corresponding lattice construction in small lattice spacing, taking the naive continuum limit and then renormalizing. In addition, we build in the effective action non-perturbative information, related to a first order quantum phase transition known to exist. As a result, the effective action acquires a finite cut-off that is low and the fine tuning of the scalar mass is rather mild.
Fractional Strong Matching Preclusion for DHcube
Authors: Zhang He , Zou Jinyu , Zhang Shuangshuang , Ye Chengfu
Published: February 2021

Let [Formula: see text] be a set edges and [Formula: see text] be a set of edges and/or vertices of a graph [Formula: see text], then [Formula: see text] (resp. [Formula: see text]) is a fractional matching preclusion set (resp. fractional strong matching preclusion set) if [Formula: see text] (resp. [Formula: see text]) contains no fractional perfect matching. The fractional matching preclusion number (resp. fractional strong matching preclusion number) of [Formula: see text] is the minimum size of fractional matching preclusion set (resp. fractional strong matching preclusion set) of [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we obtain the fractional matching preclusion number and fractional strong matching preclusion number of the DHcube [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text]. In addition, all the optimal fractional matching preclusion sets and fractional strong matching preclusion sets of these graphs are categorized.
Reliability Evaluation of Generalized Exchanged Hypercubes Based on Imprecise Diagnosis Strategies
Authors: Zhuang Hongbin , Zheng Sunjian , Liu Ximeng , Lin Cheng-Kuan , Li Xiaoyan
Published: February 2021

Fault diagnostic analysis is extremely important for interconnection networks. The [Formula: see text]-diagnosis imprecise strategy plays an essential role in the reliability of networks. The [Formula: see text]-diagnosis strategy can detect up to [Formula: see text] faulty vertices which might include at most [Formula: see text] misdiagnosed vertices. The exchanged hypercube is obtained by systematically removing links from a binary hypercube, which has smaller maximum degree and Wiener index than the hypercube. We use [Formula: see text] to denote the generalized exchanged hypercube, and show in this paper that [Formula: see text] is [Formula: see text]-diagnosable with [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] under the PMC model and MM[Formula: see text] model. We also propose a [Formula: see text]-diagnosis algorithm on [Formula: see text]. As a side benefit, the [Formula: see text]-diagnosability of the dual-cube-like network [Formula: see text] can be directly obtained from our results.
The energy meaning of Boltzmann’s constant
Authors: Gogberashvili Merab
Published: February 2021

The atomic scale is the only relevant thermodynamic scale in our universe, since quantum properties restrict classical considerations of subatomic physics and disappear for larger scales. Then the characteristic energy that dictates the value of the unit of temperature can be the classical thermal energy defined for simplest atoms. It is shown that vibrational frequency of a classical model hydrogen atom, of the radius of its Rydberg wavelength, is in far-infrared range and from its quantum of energy one can obtain the value of Boltzmann’s constant that serves as the measure of the absolute temperature in kelvins.
Distinct classes of compact stars based on geometrically deduced equations of state
Authors: Khunt A. C. , Thomas V. O. , Vinodkumar P. C.
Published: February 2021

We have computed the properties of compact objects like neutron stars based on equation of state (EOS) deduced from a core–envelope model of superdense stars. Such superdense stars have been studied by solving Einstein’s equation based on pseudo-spheroidal and spherically symmetric spacetime geometry. The computed star properties are compared with those obtained based on nuclear matter EOSs. From the mass–radius ([Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text]) relationship obtained here, we are able to classify compact stars in three categories: (i) highly compact self-bound stars that represents exotic matter compositions with radius lying below 9[Formula: see text]km; (ii) normal neutron stars with radius between 9 to 12[Formula: see text]km and (iii) soft matter neutron stars having radius lying between 12 to 20[Formula: see text]km. Other properties such as Keplerian frequency, surface gravity and surface gravitational redshift are also computed for all the three types. This work would be useful for the study of highly compact neutron like stars having exotic matter compositions.
Vulnerability Analysis of Macroeconomic Indicators for Early Detection of Currency Crisis: Case Study of Indonesian Economy on 1991–2019
Authors: Sutrisno Hadi , Sari Dyah Wulan , Handoyo Rossanto Dwi
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this study is to detect the currency crisis in Indonesia by exploring the vulnerability of macroeconomic variables. The Exchange Market Pressure Index was used to determine the crisis period by modeling the threshold value. Early indicators were determined using the signal analysis approach; therefore, the vulnerability level of each macroeconomic variable is known and used to determine the leading indicators. The result showed that the Signal Analysis and Herrera–Garcia approaches are the best detection models. Furthermore, it was concluded that the Signal Analysis approach was better in detecting crises compared to the Herrera–Garcia approach.
Perspective—Structure and Stability of the Solid Electrolyte Interphase on Silicon Anodes of Lithium-ion Batteries
Authors: Kim Jongjung , Chae Oh B. , Lucht Brett L.
Published: February 2021

The solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) acts as a protection layer on the surface the anodes of lithium ion batteries to prevent further electrolyte decomposition. Understanding the fundamental properties of the SEI is essential to the development of high capacity silicon anodes. However, the detailed mechanism of the generation of the evolution of the SEI on the silicon anodes is not fully understood. This manuscript reviews our recent investigations of the SEI on silicon anodes. We have studied the fundamental formation mechanism of the SEI on silicon anodes, along with the evolution which occurs to the SEI upon cycling.
Effect of UV Radiation on Oxidation for Ru CMP
Authors: Wang Chenwei , Wang Chao , Li Hongliang , Zhou Jianwei , Zhang Xue , Tian Yuan , Xu Chen
Published: February 2021

As feature size continue to decrease, traditional copper (Cu) interconnections will encounter many problems. Ruthenium (Ru) is selected as a barrier material and even a future interconnection metal material because of its many advantages. However, due to its high hardness and chemical inertness, Ru is difficult to be removed during chemical mechanical polishing (CMP). In this study, the effect of UV-activated potassium persulfate (K2S2O8) on the removal rate of Ru CMP was studied. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) combined with electrochemistry is used to study the removal mechanism and chemical reactions. The results show that ultraviolet rays can enhance the chemical action in the CMP process and change the removal rate. Under the condition of 80 mM, the promotion rate is about 28.01%. When the particle diameter increases to 80 nm, the removal rate is also significantly increased by about 26.36%. Mechanism analysis shows that, on the one hand, it is affected by diffusion-control. On the other hand, the surface RuO3 and K2S2O8 undergo a Fenton-like reaction under UV conditions, which makes the Ru surface loose and porous (Rq = 0.533 nm), so it is easier to remove under mechanical action.
Impact of Ex-Situ Heating on Carrier Kinetics in GaN/InGaN Based Green LEDs
Authors: Nag Dhiman , Sinha Shreekant , Sarkar Ritam , Horng Ray-Hua , Laha Apurba
Published: February 2021

Self-heating has long been recognized as one of the major factors for performance deterioration of III-Nitride light emitting diodes (LEDs) during prolonged operation at high current. We have emulated the impact of self-heating on carrier kinetics in InGaN based green LED (

λ

∼ 516 nm at 1 mA forward current) using temperature dependent current vs voltage (T-I-V) characteristics in forward and reverse bias, where the temperature is varied from room temperature (25 °C) to 200 °C. Measured T-I-V characteristics are analyzed in detail so as to understand the dominant recombination mechanisms at different bias regimes. It is inferred that at high forward bias, Auger recombination plays a significant role during the ex-situ heating of LEDs. An exponential increase in reverse leakage current beyond a certain high temperature is attributed to the carriers attaining adequate thermal energy to escape from the active region.
Perspective—Accelerated Discovery of Organic-Inorganic Hybrid Materials via Machine Learning
Authors: Husain Mir Sajjad
Published: February 2021

Hybrid organic-inorganic nanomaterials have ushered new and multifunctional applications in the fields but not limited to, Internet of Things (IoT), microelectronics, optical materials, housing, environment, transport, health and diagnosis, energy, and energy storage. However, fast discovery of organic-inorganic nanomaterials has an inherent challenge, because the conventional trial-and-error strategies are incompetent when millions of potential materials are processed. Machine learning (ML) aims to expedite screening of the hybrid materials based on the end applications. Therefore, employing machine-learning methods will support future experiments in material discovery in such a way that there are fewer chances of error and misinterpretations.
Hydroxyurea improves nitric oxide bioavailability in humanized sickle cell mice
Authors: Taylor Crystal M. , Kasztan Malgorzata , Sedaka Randee , Molina Patrick A. , Dunaway Luke S. , Pollock Jennifer S. , Pollock David M.
Published: February 2021

Despite advancements in disease management, sickle cell nephropathy, a major contributor to mortality and morbidity in patients, has limited therapeutic options. Previous studies indicate hydroxyurea, a commonly prescribed therapy for sickle cell disease (SCD), can reduce renal injury in SCD but the mechanisms are uncertain. Because SCD is associated with reduced nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability, we hypothesized that hydroxyurea treatment would improve NO bioavailability in the humanized sickle cell mouse. Humanized male 12-wk-old sickle (HbSS) and genetic control (HbAA) mice were treated with hydroxyurea or regular tap water for 2 wk before renal and systemic NO bioavailability as well as renal injury were assessed. Untreated HbSS mice exhibited increased proteinuria, elevated plasma endothelin-1 (ET-1), and reduced urine concentrating ability compared with HbAA mice. Hydroxyurea reduced proteinuria and plasma ET-1 levels in HbSS mice. Untreated HbSS mice had reduced plasma nitrite and elevated plasma arginase concentrations compared with HbAA mice. Hydroxyurea treatment augmented plasma nitrite and attenuated plasma arginase in HbSS mice. Renal vessels isolated from HbSS mice also had elevated nitric oxide synthase 3 (NOS3) and arginase 2 expression compared with untreated HbAA mice. Hydroxyurea treatment did not alter renal vascular NOS3, however, renal vascular arginase 2 expression was significantly reduced. These data support the hypothesis that hydroxyurea treatment augments renal and systemic NO bioavailability by reducing arginase activity as a potential mechanism for the improvement on renal injury seen in SCD mice.
Metformin alleviates cisplatin-induced ototoxicity by autophagy induction possibly via the AMPK/FOXO3a pathway
Authors: Liang Zhengrong , Zhang Tao , Zhan Ting , Cheng Gui , Zhang Weijian , Jia Haiying , Yang Haidi
Published: February 2021

Cisplatin is an antitumor drug that is widely used for the treatment of various solid tumors. Up to now, there have been no clear and effective measures to prevent cisplatin-induced ototoxicity in clinical use. We investigated the protective effect of metformin on cisplatin ototoxicity in vitro and in vivo. Our findings indicate that metformin alleviates cisplatin-induced ototoxicity possibly through AMPK/FOXO3a-mediated autophagy machinery. This study underpins further researches on the prevention and treatment of cisplatin ototoxicity.
Association of Salivary Statherin, Calcium, and Proline-Rich Proteins on Oral Hygiene: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Pateel Deepak Gowda Sadashivappa , Gunjal Shilpa , Fong Liew Fong , Hanapi Nur Sulwana Mohd
Published: February 2021

Background. Saliva, as a complex biofluid, plays a pivotal role in maintaining oral health and tooth integrity. There has been inconsistent data available on the relationship between salivary parameters and oral health. This study aims to investigate the association between salivary statherin, acidic proline-rich proteins (aPRP), and calcium with oral hygiene status. Methods. One hundred and eighty-eight healthy subjects aged between 18 and 50 years with varying oral hygiene status who gave consent to participate were included in this cross-sectional study. The subjects were recruited from primary oral health care of MAHSA University. Oral hygiene of all the participants was measured using Oral Hygiene Index–Simplified (OHI-S). Stimulated saliva collected using paraffin wax was analyzed for salivary statherin, aPRP, and calcium. The relationship between salivary statherin, aPRP, and calcium levels with OHI-S was assessed using Spearman’s Rank correlation coefficient; the strength of relationship was assessed by multiple linear regression analysis. Results. The study found a weak positive correlation (r = 0.179,

p

 = 0.014) between salivary statherin and OHI-S; weak negative correlation (r = −0.187,

p

 = 0.010) between salivary aPRP and OHI-S; and moderate negative correlation between salivary statherin and salivary aPRP levels (r = −0.50,

p

 < 0.001) which were statistically significant. Conclusion. Poor oral hygiene is associated with increased statherin and reduced aPRP levels in saliva. Thus, these salivary components may have a role in predicting oral hygiene status.
Rolling Scheduling Method considering Shiftable Demand Respond Resources
Authors: Lin Zhengchong , Gao Feng , Song Junwen , Lin Changsheng , Xu Boyang , Liu Qiliang , Qiao Weizhuo , Bao Yuqing
Published: February 2021

In order to deal with the fluctuation of the renewable energy, this paper proposes rolling scheduling strategy taking into account the capacity of load-side resources. By considering the energy characteristics of shiftable loads, an improved rolling scheduling model is proposed by adopting a full-cycle scheduling and adding periodic power constraints. By this way, the accuracy of the scheduling can be improved. The testing examples verified that the proposed rolling scheduling method can reflect the long-time benefit and therefore result in better performance.
Meningitis due to Streptococcus suis in Two Patients with Occupational Exposure from Northeastern Brazil
Authors: Ponte de Matos Francisco Breno , Farias Luís Arthur Brasil Gadelha , Negreiro Dias Camila , Pinho Mendes Lorena , Pinheiro de Negreiros Bessa Pedro
Published: February 2021

Streptococcus suis is an emerging zoonotic agent that causes bacterial meningitis. S. suis is an encapsulated Gram-positive, facultative anaerobic bacterium. This infection usually manifests in humans as meningitis, endocarditis, septicemia, and/or arthritis. The primary groups at risk for S. suis infection are individuals occupationally exposed to pigs and/or pork, for example, farmers, butchers, and hunters. Herein, we report two cases of meningitis related to S. suis with occupational exposure from the Ceará state, northeastern Brazil.
ERO1L Promotes Hepatic Metastasis through Activating Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Yang JianYu , Xu Yu , Huo YanMiao , Cai Li , Hua Rong , Zhang JunFeng , Chen Zhong
Published: February 2021

Background. Endoplasmic reticulum oxidoreductase 1 alpha (ERO1L) serves as an effector for tumor growth in human malignancies. However, the mechanism of ERO1L on promoting metastasis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains to be further explored. Methods. Bioinformatics analysis of public databases and large-scale metastatic PDAC sequencing was performed to determine the expression profile and prognostic value of ERO1L in PDAC. The effect of ERO1L on metastasis of PDAC was analyzed in vitro and in vivo, via cell biological, molecular, and biochemical approaches. Results. ERO1L in PDAC hepatic metastatic tissues were highly expressed and related to disease-free survival (DFS). Genetic silencing and pharmacological inhibition of ERO1L with EN460 suppressed cell migration and invasion of PDAC. Furthermore, EN460 also suppressed hepatic metastasis of PDAC in vivo. Using shRNAs and EN460 to inhibit the ERO1L expression in Capan-2 and MiaPaca-2 led to the remarkable change of EMT-related protein Vimentin and E-cadherin, which indicated that EMT acted as a key pathway for ERO1L to promote invasion, dissemination, colonization, and growth of hepatic metastasis in PDAC. Conclusion. Our findings uncover ERO1L contributes to hepatic metastasis in PDAC via epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process and indicate a promising therapeutic strategy for PDAC hepatic metastasis.
Solutions of Fractional Differential Type Equations by Fixed Point Techniques for Multivalued Contractions
Authors: Hammad Hasanen A. , Aydi Hassen , De la Sen Manuel
Published: February 2021

This paper involves extended b−metric versions of a fractional differential equation, a system of fractional differential equations and two‐dimensional (2D) linear Fredholm integral equations. By various given hypotheses, exciting results are established in the setting of an extended b−metric space. Thereafter, by making consequent use of the fixed point technique, short and simple proofs are obtained for solutions of a fractional differential equation, a system of fractional differential equations and a two‐dimensional linear Fredholm integral equation.
Pseudodifferential Equation of Fluctuations of Nonstationary Gravitational Fields
Authors: Litovchenko Vladyslav
Published: February 2021

Developing Holtzmark’s idea, the distribution of nonstationary fluctuations of local interaction of moving objects of the system with gravitational influence, which is characterized by the Riesz potential, is constructed. A pseudodifferential equation with the Riesz fractional differentiation operator is found, which corresponds to this process. The general nature of symmetric stable random Lévy processes is determined.
Qualitative Simulation Algorithm for Resource Scheduling in Enterprise Management Cloud Mode
Authors: Yu Jiaohui
Published: February 2021

Aiming at the problem of resource scheduling optimization in enterprise management cloud mode, a customizable fuzzy clustering cloud resource scheduling algorithm based on trust sensitivity is proposed. Firstly, on the one hand, a fuzzy clustering method is used to divide cloud resource scheduling into two aspects: cloud user resource scheduling and cloud task resource scheduling. On the other hand, a trust‐sensitive mechanism is introduced into cloud task scheduling to prevent malicious node attacks or dishonest recommendation from node providers. At the same time, in the cloud task scheduling, cloud resources are divided according to the comprehensive performance of resources, and the trust sensitivity coefficient of each type of task resources is calculated. Then, according to the trust sensitivity coefficient, the matching cloud tasks are selected for users. Through the comparison of simulation experiments, the customized fuzzy clustering cloud resource scheduling algorithm proposed in this paper reduces the user’s cost of selecting cloud service provider in the cloud resource scheduling. It not only embodies the principle of cloud resource allocation on demand but also can give full play to the advantages of cloud resources and improve the throughput of the whole cloud system and the satisfaction of cloud users.
New Numerical Algorithm to Solve Variable-Order Fractional Integrodifferential Equations in the Sense of Hilfer-Prabhakar Derivative
Authors: Derakhshan MohammadHossein
Published: February 2021

In this article, a numerical technique based on the Chebyshev cardinal functions (CCFs) and the Lagrange multiplier technique for the numerical approximation of the variable-order fractional integrodifferential equations are shown. The variable-order fractional derivative is considered in the sense of regularized Hilfer-Prabhakar and Hilfer-Prabhakar fractional derivatives. To solve the problem, first, we obtain the operational matrix of the regularized Hilfer-Prabhakar and Hilfer-Prabhakar fractional derivatives of CCFs. Then, this matrix and collocation method are used to reduce the solution of the nonlinear coupled variable-order fractional integrodifferential equations to a system of algebraic equations which is technically simpler for handling. Convergence and error analysis are examined. Finally, some examples are given to test the proposed numerical method to illustrate its accuracy and efficiency.
What Is New in the Preventive and Therapeutic Role of Dairy Products as Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods?
Authors: Khalaf Ahmad Taha , Wei Yuanyuan , Alneamah Sadiq Jaafir Aziz , Al-Shawi Sarmad Ghazi , Kadir Samiah Yasmin Abdul , Zainol Jamaludin , Liu Xiaoming
Published: February 2021

Nutraceuticals have taken on considerable significance due to their supposed safety and possible nutritional and medicinal effects. Pharmaceutical and dietary companies are conscious of monetary success, which benefits healthier consumers and the altering trends that result in these heart‐oriented value‐added products being proliferated. Numerous nutraceuticals are claimed to have multiple therapeutic benefits despite advantages, and unwanted effects encompass a lack of substantial evidence. Several common nutraceuticals involve glucosamine, omega‐3, Echinacea, cod liver oil, folic acid, ginseng, orange juice supplemented with calcium, and green tea. This review is dedicated to improving the understanding of nutrients based on specific illness indications. It was reported that functional foods contain physiologically active components that confer various health benefits. Studies have shown that some foods and dietary patterns play a major role in the primary prevention of many ailment conditions that lead to putative functional foods being identified. Research and studies are needed to support the possible health benefits of different functional foods that have not yet been clinically validated for the relationships between diet and health. The term “functional foods” may additionally involve health/functional health foods, foods enriched with vitamins/minerals, nutritional improvements, or even conventional medicines.
Individual- and Community-Level Risk Factors Associated with Childhood Diarrhea in Ethiopia: A Multilevel Analysis of 2016 Ethiopia Demographic and Health Survey
Authors: Fenta Setegn Muche , Nigussie Teshager Zerihun
Published: February 2021

Background. Diarrhea is the second cause of child deaths globally. According to World Health Organization reports, in each year, it kills more than 525,000 children under 5 years. More than half of these deaths occur in five countries including Ethiopia. This study is aimed at identifying both individual- and community-level risk factors of childhood diarrhea in Ethiopia. Methods. Ethiopian demography and health survey of 2016 data were used for the analysis. A total of 10,641 children aged 0–59 months were included in the analysis. A multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression model was used to identify both individual- and community-level risk factors associated with childhood diarrhea. Result. The incidence of childhood diarrhea was 12% (95% CI: 11.39, 12.63). The random-effects model revealed that 67% of the variability of childhood diarrhea was explained by individual- and community-level factors. From the individual-level factors, children aged 36–59 months (AOR=3.166; 95% CI: 2.569, 3.900), twin child (AOR=1.871; 95% CI: 1.390, 2.527), birth order 5 and above (AOR=2.210, 95% CI: 1.721, 2.839), not received any vaccination (AOR=1.197; 95% CI: 1.190, 1.527), smaller size of child at birth (AOR=1.303; 95% CI: 1.130, 1.504), and never breastfed children (AOR=2.91; 95% CI: 2.380, 3.567) associated with the higher incidence of childhood diarrhea. From the community-level factors, living in a rural area (AOR=1.505; 95% CI: 1.233, 1.836)), unprotected source of drinking water (AOR=1.289; 95% CI: 1.060, 1.567), and availability of unimproved latrine facilities (OR: 1.289; 95% CI: 1.239, 1.759) associated with the higher incidence of childhood diarrhea. Besides, children who live in Afar, Amhara, Benishangul-Gumuz, Gambella, SNNPR, and Dire Dawa regions had higher incidence of childhood diarrhea. Conclusion. The incidence of childhood diarrhea was different from cluster to cluster in Ethiopia. Therefore, integrated child health intervention programs including provisions of toilet facility, access to a clean source of drinking water, educate parents about the importance of breastfeeding, and vaccination have to be strongly implemented in order to reduce the high incidence of childhood diarrhea among children in Ethiopia.
ВАРІАЦІЙНА ПУЛЬСОМЕТРІЯ ЯК МЕТОД ВІДОБРАЖЕННЯ СИСТЕМНИХ ІНФОРМАЦІЙНИХ ЕНЕРГЕТИЧНИХ ПРОЦЕСІВ ТА ОЦІНКИ ФУНКЦІОНАЛЬНОГО СТАНУ ЛЮДСЬКОГО ОРГАНІЗМУ ПРИ ЗАГАЛЬНОМУ КЛІНІЧНОМУ ОБСТЕЖЕННІ ПАЦІЄНТІВ
Authors: Nevoit A. V.
Published: February 2021

Резюме. Стаття присвячена клінічному значенню електромагнітних феноменів серцевої діяльності як джерелу додаткової клінічної інформації про функціональний стан хворого.
Мета – оцінити клініко-діагностичні можливості варіаційної пульсометрії як методу комп’ютеризованого аналізу короткого запису варіабельності ритму серця у відображенні системних інформаційних енергетичних процесів людського організму.
Матеріал і методи. Обстежено 247 респондентів у відкритому нерандомізованому контрольованому дослідженні із реєстрацією короткого запису варіабельності серцевого ритму з ортостатичною пробою і аналізом за методом варіаційної пульсометрії, проаналізовано результати у групах функціонально здорових респондентів різного рівня фізичної тренованості і хворих на неінфекційні захворювання.
Результати. Встановлено значний вегетативний дисбаланс у всіх хворих респондентів за показниками варіаційної пульсометрії, що відповідає наявній декомпенсації процесів адаптації. Встановлено вірогідні відмінності показників варіаційної пульсометрії і різну відповідь адаптаційної реакції на ортостаз у функціонально здорових респондентів різного ступеня тренованості.
Висновки. Варіаційна пульсометрія, як метод відображення системних інформаційних енергетичних процесів та оцінки функціонального стану людського організму, може бути рекомендована для застосування при здійсненні об’єктивного клінічного обстеження лікарями терапевтичного профілю. Дослідження вегетативного балансу регуляції серцевого ритму, аналізу варіаційної пульсометрії короткого запису варіабельності серцевого ритму може розглядатись як новий ранній предиктор ризику виявлення неінфекційних захворювань.