bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Side-mode suppression in ultraviolet quasi-semicircle microlaser cavity
Authors: Zhang Canran , Zhu Gangyi , He Siqing , Dai Jun
Published: July 2020

We report a quasi-semicircle GaN ultraviolet microcavity laser. Poincaré map of the quasi-semicircle cavity shows periodic, quasi-periodic and chaotic optical trajectories. Finite-element-method optical near-field distribution patterns of the periodic optical modes agree with the optical loops in the quasi-semicircle cavity. Based on the numerical results, optically pumped lasing experiment shows that ultraviolet multimode lasing action from different optical resonance modes can be effectively stimulated at low pumping intensity in the quasi-semicircle GaN cavity, and the side-mode suppression phenomenon can be obtained at high pumping intensity. Because the possible period optical loops are quasi-periodic and unstable, the quasi-whispering-gallery mode lasing with higher quality factor prefer to dominate the lasing action under high pumping. The experimental and simulated lasing modes suggest that side-mode suppression phenomenon can be caused by the mode competition between quasi-whispering-gallery modes and other quasi-periodic modes.
Forward neutron energy spectra at s = 7TeV
Authors: Khan Rashid
Published: July 2020

Different event generators are used to simulate proton–proton collisions at the center-of-mass energy [Formula: see text] TeV to predict the forward neutron energy spectra. The predictions from different models — DPMJETIII, Sibyll2.3c, QGSJETII-04 and EPOS-LHC — are compared with experimental data from the LHCf detector in three different regions of pseudorapidity — [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. Although, the models follow tracks of the experimental data, there is a clear mismatch between the models and experimental data, and among the models as well.
RESEARCH STATUS OF DRY FRICTION BEHAVIOR OF METALLIC MATERIALS: A BRIEF REVIEW
Authors: YUAN SHUO , LIN NAIMING , ZENG QUNFENG , ZHANG HONGXIA , WANG ZHENXIA , TIAN LINHAI , QIN LIN , WANG ZHIHUA , TANG BIN , WU YUCHENG
Published: July 2020

Metallic materials are a class of well-developed engineering materials and have been extensively used in various engineering fields. Material removal that resulted from wear, mostly dry friction conditions, must be taken into consideration in the practical engineering application. Therefore, the tribological behavior of metallic materials and the process to improve their wear resistance under dry friction conditions are worth studying. This work begins with the research progress of the friction behavior of metallic materials in the sight of at room temperature and high temperature, as well as under the effect of magnetic field. Some surface modification technologies for improving the wear resistance of metallic materials under dry friction are also summarized.
Edge rings of bipartite graphs with linear resolutions
Authors: Tsuchiya Akiyoshi
Published: July 2020

On the one hand, Ohsugi and Hibi characterized the edge ring of a finite connected simple graph with a [Formula: see text]-linear resolution. On the other hand, Hibi, Matsuda and the author conjectured that the edge ring of a finite connected simple graph with a [Formula: see text]-linear resolution, where [Formula: see text], is a hypersurface and proved the case [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we solve this conjecture for the case of finite connected simple bipartite graphs.
In vitro Acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity of polyphenolic compounds identified from Matricaria recutita
Authors: Qader Suhailah Wasman , Abdallah Hassan H. , Zahid Mstaffa , Chua Lee Suan
Published: July 2020

Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is a key enzyme enhancing the cognitive disorder, leading to Alzheimer’s disease, and AChE inhibition is a crucial therapeutic mechanism against it. Matricaria recutita (MR) is widely used as a herbal medicine due to its phytotherapeutic properties. For this reason, MR flower was evaluated to identify polyphenolic compounds (PC), and then each PC is examined for AChE inhibitory activity. The ultra-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray tandem mass spectrometry UPLC-ESI-MS/MS was used to detect PC, and molecular docking was performed to insight potential inhibitory activity of PC against AChE. A series of 13 PC compounds were identified in the fractions of MR plant. Docking studies revealed that the inhibitory free energy and the position of the docked compounds in the active site are favored for the active compounds complex formed between AChE and the identified PC compounds. The accurate analysis of the docking result demonstrates that Kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside (KR) and Luteolin-8-C-glucoside (orientin) (LG) are the most significant inhibitory compounds against AChE. It can be concluded that MR is a significant source of PC compounds, and KR and LG are the most promising compounds that have high-affinity binding to AChE, based on docking outcome. Further experiments are recommended to explore in vivo enzyme compound interaction and toxicity models to establish the maximum suggested dose.
q-deformed fuzzy Ginsparg–Wilson algebra and its q-deformed Dirac and chirality operators on quantum fuzzy two-sphere
Authors: Lotfizadeh M. , Asl Ebrahim Nouri
Published: July 2020

We construct the [Formula: see text]-deformed fuzzy Dirac and chirality operators on quantum fuzzy Podles sphere [Formula: see text]. We will show that there are a class of these operators on [Formula: see text] in which all of them in the limit case [Formula: see text] has the correct fuzzy sphere limit as well as they have correct commutative limit in the limit case when [Formula: see text] and noncommutative parameter [Formula: see text] tends to infinity.
Global dynamics for a TB transmission model with age-structure and delay
Authors: Yan Dongxue , Cao Hui , Zhang Suxia
Published: July 2020

This paper deals with the global dynamics of a tuberculosis (TB) model with age-structure and delay. We perform some rigorous analyses for the model, including presenting an explicit formula for the basic reproduction number of the model, addressing the persistence of the solution semi-flow and the existence of the global attractor. Based on these analyses, we establish some results on stability and instability of equilibrium of the system. Finally, some numerical examples are provided to illustrate our obtained results.
The Guarani Aquifer System – from regional reserves to local use
Authors: Hirata Ricardo , Foster Stephen
Published: July 2020

The Guarani Aquifer System is a massive groundwater body underlying large areas of Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay and Argentina, with a thickness of 50–600 m (averaging about 250 m). It is one of the world's largest sandstone aquifers. The mainly weakly-cemented sandstones were formed by aeolian, fluvial and lacustrine continental deposition during the Triassic–Jurassic period and are overlain by extensive Cretaceous basalt lava-flows. The system is totally storage-dominated, with recharge amounting to only about 0.2% of the estimated 30 000 km
3
of water stored. Using
14
C and
81
Kr techniques, it was possible to confirm extremely slow flow rates, with groundwater older than 730 000 years BP in some parts of São Paulo State, Brazil. The vast regional freshwater storage contrasts sharply with localized active flow systems of recharge areas, which are strongly impacted by land-use change. The aquifer is the best known and most exploited in São Paulo State (80% of total extraction) and the experience of groundwater use for the supply of Ribeirão Preto and São José do Rio Preto (both with populations of over 0.5 million), together with one transboundary urban area, will be summarized.

Thematic collection:
This article is part of the Hydrogeology of Sandstone collection available at:
https://www.lyellcollection.org/cc/hydrogeology-of-sandstone
Neutrophil heterogeneity and fate in inflamed tissues: implications for the resolution of inflammation
Authors: Filep János G. , Ariel Amiram
Published: July 2020

Neutrophils are polymorphonuclear leukocytes that play a central role in host defense against infection and tissue injury. They are rapidly recruited to the inflamed site and execute a variety of functions to clear invading pathogens and damaged cells. However, many of their defense mechanisms are capable of inflicting collateral tissue damage. Neutrophil-driven inflammation is a unifying mechanism underlying many common diseases. Efficient removal of neutrophils from inflammatory loci is critical for timely resolution of inflammation and return to homeostasis. Accumulating evidence challenges the classical view that neutrophils represent a homogeneous population and that halting neutrophil influx is sufficient to explain their rapid decline within inflamed loci during the resolution of protective inflammation. Hence, understanding the mechanisms that govern neutrophil functions and their removal from the inflammatory locus is critical for minimizing damage to the surrounding tissue and for return to homeostasis. In this review, we briefly address recent advances in characterizing neutrophil phenotypic and functional heterogeneity and the molecular mechanisms that determine the fate of neutrophils within inflammatory loci and the outcome of the inflammatory response. We also discuss how these mechanisms may be harnessed as potential therapeutic targets to facilitate resolution of inflammation.
Resolution of inflammation in immune and nonimmune cells by interleukin-19
Authors: Leigh Tani , Scalia Rosario G. , Autieri Michael V.
Published: July 2020

The inflammatory response is a complex, tightly regulated process activated by tissue wounding, foreign body invasion, and sterile inflammation. Over the decades, great progress has been made to advance our understanding of this process. One often overlooked aspect of inflammation is its sequel: resolution. We know that dysregulated resolution often results in numerous chronic degenerative diseases such as arthritis, cancer, and asthma. However, identification of components and mechanisms of resolving pathways lags behind those of proinflammatory processes, yet represents overlooked therapeutic opportunities. One approach is identification of endogenous, negative compensatory mechanisms, which are activated in response to inflammation for the purpose of resolution of that inflammatory stimuli. This review will focus on literature that describes expression and function of interleukin-19, a proposed anti-inflammatory cytokine, in numerous inflammatory diseases. The literature concerning IL-19 is complex, context-dependent, and often contradictory. The expression and function of IL-19 in the inflammatory response are in no way settled. We will attempt to clarify the role that this interesting and understudied cytokine plays in resolution of inflammation and discuss its mechanisms of action in different cell types. We will present a hypothesis that endogenous IL-19 expression in response to inflammatory stimuli is a cellular compensatory mechanism to dampen inflammation. We further present studies suggesting that while endogenously expressed IL-19 may be a response to inflammation, pharmacological levels may be necessary to effectively resolve the inflammatory cascade.
Let-7d-5p suppresses inflammatory response in neonatal rats with necrotizing enterocolitis via LGALS3-mediated TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway
Authors: Sun Liqun , Sun Meihua , Ma Ke , Liu Jiangtao
Published: July 2020

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is an acute intestinal condition accounting for severe mortality and morbidity in preterm infants. This study aimed to identify the possible roles of let-7d-5p in neonatal rats with NEC. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to NEC were initially screened in silico. After establishment of NEC rat models, measurement of the expression of let-7d-5p, galectin-3 (LGALS3), Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) as well as proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) was conducted. The interaction between let-7d-5p and LGALS3 or argonaute-2 (AGO2) was identified. Gain- and loss-of-function approaches were then performed in an attempt to investigate the regulatory roles of let-7d-5p and LGALS3 in inflammation and cell apoptosis in NEC neonatal rats. Let-7d-5p was poorly expressed, whereas LGALS3, TLR4, and NF-κB were highly expressed, in the intestinal tissues of NEC rats. Overexpression of let-7d-5p resulted in decreased levels of proinflammatory factors in the intestinal tissues of NEC rats. Through sequential experimentation, let-7d-5p was identified to target LGALS3 and bind to AGO2. In addition, LGALS3 silencing or LPS treatment blocked the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway, thereby suppressing intestinal epithelial cell apoptosis and inflammation in NEC. Collectively, let-7d-5p might exercise its inhibitory properties in the inflammatory response and intestinal epithelial cell apoptosis in NEC neonatal rats via inactivation of the LGALS3-dependent TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway.
SUMO: From Bench to Bedside
Authors: Chang Hui-Ming , Yeh Edward T. H.
Published: July 2020

Sentrin/small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) is protein modification pathway that regulates multiple biological processes, including cell division, DNA replication/repair, signal transduction, and cellular metabolism. In this review, we will focus on recent advances in the mechanisms of disease pathogenesis, such as cancer, diabetes, seizure, and heart failure, which have been linked to the SUMO pathway. SUMO is conjugated to lysine residues in target proteins through an isopeptide linkage catalyzed by SUMO-specific activating (E1), conjugating (E2), and ligating (E3) enzymes. In steady state, the quantity of SUMO-modified substrates is usually a small fraction of unmodified substrates due to the deconjugation activity of the family Sentrin/SUMO-specific proteases (SENPs). In contrast to the complexity of the ubiquitination/deubiquitination machinery, the biochemistry of SUMOylation and de-SUMOylation is relatively modest. Specificity of the SUMO pathway is achieved through redox regulation, acetylation, phosphorylation, or other posttranslational protein modification of the SUMOylation and de-SUMOylation enzymes. There are three major SUMOs. SUMO-1 usually modifies a substrate as a monomer; however, SUMO-2/3 can form poly-SUMO chains. The monomeric SUMO-1 or poly-SUMO chains can interact with other proteins through SUMO-interactive motif (SIM). Thus SUMO modification provides a platform to enhance protein-protein interaction. The consequence of SUMOylation includes changes in cellular localization, protein activity, or protein stability. Furthermore, SUMO may join force with ubiquitin to degrade proteins through SUMO-targeted ubiquitin ligases (STUbL). After 20 yr of research, SUMO has been shown to play critical roles in most, if not all, biological pathways. Thus the SUMO enzymes could be targets for drug development to treat human diseases.
A Complex Evaluation and Optimization Approach for Oxygen-Enriched Combustion Characteristics of Blended Fuels Based on Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Liu Y. C. , Zhang H. , Luo Z. M. , Qing S. , Zhang A. M. , Yang S. P.
Published: July 2020

With the energy consumption increasing, the coal supply in China has been becoming tight, which has made it difficult for thermal power generation in Yunnan Province. Making full use of local inferior coal and biomass resources in Yunnan can remedy the lack of fuel in power plants. In this paper, an oxygen-rich atmosphere thermogravimetric experiment was performed for a blended sample of Xiaolongtan lignite, Yiliang tobacco rod, and Fuyuan bituminous coal. The combustion characteristics of the mixed fuel under several key operating parameters (i.e., mass ratios, oxygen concentration, and heating rates) were studied. The response surface methodology was used to determine the optimal blending ratio of the three fuels. The results show that the ignition and burnout temperature of coal decrease and the combustion time diminishes with the enrichment of oxygen. The optimal oxygen concentration in the practical application is around 30%. The activation energy and preexponential factor increase with the enlargement of oxygen concentration. Such complex evaluation and optimization approach ensure the stable operation of thermal power plant production.
Multiresponse Parameter Optimization for the Composite Tape Winding Process Based on GRA and RSM
Authors: Hong Qi , Shi Yaoyao
Published: July 2020

Composite tape winding is an important forming process of composite materials, which can ensure good performance of composite products. Selection and control of key process parameters in the winding process have a great influence on the properties of products, such as void content and residual stress of products. Through experimental analysis, the residual stress and void content of the composite products are not the minimum when the prepreg winding process is carried out by using the empirical process parameters. To solve this multiobjective optimization problem, experiments were conducted using the Box–Behnken design. The multiobjective optimization problem is converted to a single-objective problem using grey relational analysis (GRA). Principal component analysis (PCA) is used to quantify the relative contributions of residual stress and void content. Regression analysis of grey relational grade (GRG) based on the experimental data was used to develop a second-order GRG prediction model. The winding process parameters were optimized with response surface methodology (RSM), and the winding experiments were carried out with these parameters. The experimental results show that the best combination of process parameters yields the best GRG results with better void content and residual stress.
Research on Mathematical Model of Cost Budget in the Early Stage of Assembly Construction Project Based on Improved Neural Network Algorithm
Authors: Lin Xin , Lu Yinan
Published: July 2020

In view of the poor performance of the original mathematical model of assembly construction project precost budget, a mathematical model of assembly construction project precost budget based on improved neural network algorithm is proposed. This paper investigates the cost content of assembly construction project and analyzes its early cost. It finds that the early cost of assembly construction project includes component production cost, transportation component cost, and installation component cost. Based on the improved neural network algorithm to build an improved neural network model, the improved neural network model to mine the cost data in the early stage of assembly construction project is used. In this paper, the earned value variable is introduced to transform the project duration and project cost in the early stage of the prefabricated construction project into quantifiable cost data, and the earned value analysis method is used to estimate the implementation cost of the prefabricated construction project. According to the result of cost estimation, the mathematical model of precost budget of prefabricated construction project is built based on the project parameters. In order to prove that the cost budget performance of the mathematical model based on the improved neural network algorithm in the early stage of assembly construction project is better, the original mathematical model is compared with the mathematical model, the experimental results show that the cost budget performance of the model is better than the original model, and the cost budget performance is improved.
Global Dynamical Properties of Rational Higher-Order System of Difference Equations
Authors: Khan A. Q. , Qureshi S. M.
Published: July 2020

In this paper, global dynamical properties of rational higher-order system are explored in the interior of ℝ+3. It is explored that under certain parametric conditions, the discrete-time system has at most eight equilibria. By the method of linearization, local dynamics has been explored. It is explored that positive solution of the system is bounded, and moreover fixed point P000 is globally stable if α1/α2<1, α4/α5<1, α7/α8<1. It is also investigated that the positive solution of the system under consideration converges to P000. Lastly, theoretical results are confirmed by numerical simulation. The presented work is significantly extended and improves current results in the literature.
Modeling and Simulation of an Intelligent Photovoltaic Controller Based on Variable Step Algorithm of Versoria
Authors: Sun Bo , You Yongquan , Zhang Zhiyong , Li Chao
Published: July 2020

As a green and renewable energy source, photovoltaic power is of great significance for the sustainable development of energy and has been increasingly exploited. The photovoltaic controller is the key component of a photovoltaic power generation system, and its central technology is the maximum power point tracking technology. In this paper, a mathematical model of photovoltaic cells is firstly established, the output characteristics of photovoltaic cells are analyzed, the main factors that affect the output efficiency of photovoltaic cells are obtained, and it is proved that the most important factor that affects the output power is the light intensity. Therefore, in the design, the maximum power point of the photovoltaic cell is tracked by the control algorithm and can maximize the use of photovoltaic output power fast charging. The key to the design of a photovoltaic controller is the design of control algorithm. So, an improved fuzzy control algorithm is proposed to overcome the shortcomings of the traditional maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm. The algorithm can consider tracking both speed and convergence, but the algorithm requires high input and output fuzzy domain parameters, and although the tracking speed is fast, the stability of convergence is poor. For the limitation of fuzzy control algorithm, considering the property of the Versoria function, an MPPT design method for an intelligent controller based on the Versoria variable step algorithm is further proposed. According to the output characteristics of photovoltaic cells, three parameters, α, β, and γ, are set to solve the tracking speed and tracking stability. In order to reduce the static error, a genetic factor is proposed to sum up the historical error to effectively improve the tracking stability. The simulation results show that the algorithm can track the maximum power point quickly and has good tracking speed and stability. This algorithm can be used in engineering practice effectively.
Intravascular Leiomyomatosis as a Rare Cause of Nonthrombotic Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Van Maercke Julie , Van Rompuy Anne-Sophie , Poppe Willy , Verbelen Tom , Delcroix Marion , Belge Catharina
Published: July 2020

Intravascular leiomyomatosis (IVL) is a very rare condition. It is characterized by the proliferation of benign smooth muscle cells within vascular structures without invasion of these tissues. Symptoms depend on the site of origin and the extent of invasion. Rarely, this neoplasm is located in the inferior vena cava or in the pulmonary vasculature potentially causing symptoms of dyspnea, chest pain, or syncope. We report the case of a 53-year-old woman who was referred to our hospital with extensive pulmonary embolism comprising of a subtotal occlusion of the right pulmonary artery with extension into the left pulmonary artery. Due to persistent dyspnea (New York Heart Association class II) despite anticoagulation, after a six-week period, imaging was repeated and showed stable findings. As she was not responding to adequate anticoagulant therapy, intima sarcoma of the pulmonary artery was suspected, and a pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA) was performed. A smooth, white, intravascular mass was easily and completely removed. Analysis demonstrated a lesion consisting of cells without atypia, showing expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin (alpha SMA) and desmin with partial expression of estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR), leading to the diagnosis of intravascular leiomyomatosis. The patient fully recovered. Complete surgical removal of the intravascular tumor is recommended to relieve symptoms and prevent possible complications. Clinicians have to be aware that in unresolved pulmonary embolism, nonthrombotic and rare causes, like an intima sarcoma or intravascular leiomyomatosis, should be considered.
Cascaded Hierarchical CNN for RGB-Based 3D Hand Pose Estimation
Authors: Dai Shiming , Liu Wei , Yang Wenji , Fan Lili , Zhang Jihao
Published: July 2020

3D hand pose estimation can provide basic information about gestures, which has an important significance in the fields of Human-Machine Interaction (HMI) and Virtual Reality (VR). In recent years, 3D hand pose estimation from a single depth image has made great research achievements due to the development of depth cameras. However, 3D hand pose estimation from a single RGB image is still a highly challenging problem. In this work, we propose a novel four-stage cascaded hierarchical CNN (4CHNet), which leverages hierarchical network to decompose hand pose estimation into finger pose estimation and palm pose estimation, extracts separately finger features and palm features, and finally fuses them to estimate 3D hand pose. Compared with direct estimation methods, the hand feature information extracted by the hierarchical network is more representative. Furthermore, concatenating various stages of the network for end-to-end training can make each stage mutually beneficial and progress. The experimental results on two public datasets demonstrate that our 4CHNet can significantly improve the accuracy of 3D hand pose estimation from a single RGB image.
Evaluator: A Multilevel Decision Approach for Web-Based Landmark Evaluation
Authors: Yin Meijuan , Yang Wen , Liu Xiaonan , Luo Xiangyang
Published: July 2020

Street-level landmarks are an important basis for street-level IP geolocation, and the web-based landmark is one of the main sources of street-level landmarks. Considering the existing street-level landmark evaluation methods having low accuracy and strict constraints, this paper analyses the causes and evaluation idea of invalid web-based candidate landmarks and proposes Evaluator, a web-based landmark evaluation approach. Evaluator adopts the idea of the decision tree to filter invalid landmarks layer by layer and comprehensively estimates the quantitative reliability of candidate landmarks with public data and services to obtain reliable landmarks. This paper proposes the domain name system (DNS) distributed query algorithm to effectively resolve all IP addresses of a domain name, which provides data support for Evaluator to filter candidate landmarks. Meanwhile, this paper also proposes a reverse verification algorithm to obtain all domain names of an IP address, which provides an important reference to calculate the reliability of a reliable landmark. In addition, gradient descent is used to assess the parameters of the reliability estimating model, which effectively improves the robustness of Evaluator. Experiments show that reliable landmarks from Evaluator reduce the geolocation error of 100 targets in Hong Kong from 7.30 km to 3.91 km, compared with the landmark verifying method (LVM), one of the latest web-based landmark evaluation methods. Moreover, Evaluator significantly improves the evaluation coverage based on the same geolocation accuracy with street-level landmark evaluation (SLE), one of the latest landmark evaluation methods.
The Small-Signal Stability of Offshore Wind Power Transmission Inspired by Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: Li Jiening , Huang Hanqi , Chen Xiaoning , Peng Lingxi , Wang Liang , Luo Ping
Published: July 2020

Voltage source converter-high-voltage direct current (VSC-HVDC) is the mainstream technology of the offshore wind power transmission, which has been rapidly developed in recent years. The small-signal stability problem is closely related to offshore wind power grid-connected safety, but the present study is relatively small. This paper established a mathematical model of the doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) integrated into the IEEE9 system via VSC-HVDC in detail, and small-signal stability analysis of offshore wind farm (OWF) grid connection is specially studied under different positions and capacities. By selecting two load nodes and two generator nodes in the system for experiments, the optimal location and capacity of offshore wind power connection are obtained by comparing the four schemes. In order to improve the weak damping of the power system, this paper presents a method to determine the parameters of the power system stabilizer (PSS) based on the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm combined with different inertia weight functions. The optimal position of the controller connected to the grid is obtained from the analysis of modal control theory. The results show that, after joining the PSS control, the system damping ratio significantly increases. Finally, the proposed measures are verified by MATLAB/Simulink simulation. The results show that the system oscillation can be significantly reduced by adding PSS, and the small-signal stability of offshore wind power grid connection can be improved.
A Mutual Selection Mechanism of Ride-Hailing Based on Hidden Points
Authors: Jiang Yi , Xia Yu , Cheng Xinyue , Xu Yuntao
Published: July 2020

As a new way to travel, ride-hailing has brought great convenience to the public. However, the demand expression ability of passengers in the existing ride-hailing platforms is weak, and the accuracy of the matching results is low, resulting in a large number of transaction losses and the loss of platform revenue. In this paper, we propose a kind of mutual selection mechanism of ride-hailing based on hidden points, which is composed of platform benefit calculation algorithm and driver assignment algorithm. The platform benefit calculation algorithm mainly calculates the benefits obtained by the platform after the order is completed, while the driver allocation algorithm meets the mutual selection needs of passengers and drivers. Through experiments and theoretical analysis, the mutual selection mechanism proposed in this paper has improved user satisfaction by 5%-21% compared to the traditional methods of order-snatching mechanism and order-sending mechanism, which has significantly improved passenger satisfaction and solved the problem that the existing platform cannot meet the passengers’ individual travel needs and the problem that the passengers’ choice is not fair. The issue of platform revenue was discussed in the context of improved passenger satisfaction.
Cardiac Tamponade Caused by Cutibacterium acnes: An Updated and Comprehensive Review of the Literature
Authors: Fakhri Ghina , Tayeh Christelle , Dbaibo Ghassan , El Sedawy Omar , Abdul Halim Nour , Bitar Fadi , Arabi Mariam
Published: July 2020

Bacterial pericarditis is a critical diagnosis caused by a wide range of organisms including Streptococcus pneumoniae and other anaerobic organisms like Cutibacterium acnes which has been gaining more importance as a causative organism. Cutibacterium species are Gram-positive microaerophilic rods that constitute part of the normal flora of skin and mucosal membranes. The incidence of pericarditis caused by this organism is underreported as it is often dismissed as a skin flora contaminant. However, if left untreated, Cutibacterium acnes can cause pericarditis with serious complications. In this paper, we present a comprehensive review of the literature regarding pericarditis caused by Cutibacterium acnes along with a case presentation from our institution. In our institution, a 20-year-old man with history of atrial septal defect presented with chest pain radiating to the back along with symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection including headaches and myalgia. Electrocardiogram was remarkable for diffuse low-voltage waves. Echocardiography revealed a large pericardial effusion with tamponade features. Pericardiocentesis drained 1.2 L of milky fluid. Pericardial fluid analysis grew Cutibacterium acnes after being cultured for 8 days. The patient received 3 weeks of IV penicillin followed by 3 weeks of oral amoxicillin along with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents and colchicine with no recurrence. Pericarditis caused by Cutibacterium acnes requires a high clinical suspicion since isolation of this organism can be dismissed as a skin flora contaminant. Literature review reveals that this infection may be underdiagnosed and underreported. Prompt diagnosis may lead to timely initiation of antibiotics which can help prevent devastating complications like constrictive pericarditis. Prospective studies are needed to evaluate the true incidence and prevalence of this disease.
Solar energy as a potential contributor to help bridge the gap between electricity supply and growing demand in Iraq: A review
Authors: Al-Hamadani Sulala
Published: July 2020

The pivotal role of electricity is as an enabler for every other sector in any economy. Adequate electricity supply is a vital input for the economic growth and in a range of key industries. Unfortunately, the electricity sector in Iraq has been an unsustainable fiscal burden on successive Iraqi governments yet it has not been able to meet the growing demand. Iraq’s electricity sector and government’s decision makers should look for a long-term solutions and strategies to meet the current and future demand, by taking important steps towards fostering a reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity system in the years and decades to come. Also, Iraqi government and ministry of electricity in particular should understand that electricity is basic service and right of Iraqis, and many nations have overcome this kind of problem decades ago. Overcoming this problem will help refueling Iraqi economy and enable it to stand on its feet again. Renewable energy resources, and solar in particular could be part of the solution. This paper aims to highlight the importance of solar energy in Iraq as a potential contributor to help bridge the gap between electricity supply and growing demand. Also, it discusses the solar energy opportunities with challenges facing other renewable energy sources in Iraq.
A PAIXÃO ENTRE OGROS E BUDAS: A BUSCA PELA “NIPONICIDADE” NA COLETÂNEA FOTOGRÁFICA “KOJI JUNREI” (1939-1975), DE DOMON KEN
Authors: André Richard Gonçalves
Published: July 2020

Domon Ken dedicou quase três décadas de sua vida à produção da coletânea imagética “Koji junrei”, publicada entre 1963 e 1975, embora o trabalho tenha sido iniciado em 1939. Na obra, o fotógrafo japonês lançou-se a exaustivo registro da cultura material budista (envolvendo, sobretudo, a arquitetura de templos e a estatuária), independente da escola, em diferentes cidades do Japão. Busca-se, neste artigo, analisar textos e imagens que compõem a coletânea, aqui concebidos como fontes, atinando para os motivos que levaram Domon a realizar esse trabalho. Teórica e metodologicamente, a fotografia é entendida como representação articulada por meio de elementos da linguagem fotográfica. Como resultados, sugere-se que o fotógrafo construiu uma representação das entidades budistas de forma sensualizada, concebendo o Budismo como a essência da niponicidade na conjuntura do pós-guerra.
Examining the Relationship and Prognostic Implication of Diabetic Status and Extracellular Matrix Expansion by Cardiac Magnetic Resonance
Authors: Khan Mohammad A. , Yang Eric Y. , Nguyen Duc T. , Nabi Faisal , Hinojosa Jeremy , Jabel Maria , Nagueh Sherif F. , Graviss Edward A. , Shah Dipan J.
Published: July 2020

Background:

Although not fully understood, diabetes mellitus is thought to be associated with cardiac fibrosis and stiffness due to alteration of myocardial extracellular matrix. Newer cardiac magnetic resonance techniques may be able to identify extracellular matrix expansion by measuring extracellular volume fraction (ECV). We used cardiac magnetic resonance to evaluate the association of alteration in the extracellular matrix with diabetic status and its implications on incident heart failure events and all-cause mortality.

Methods:

We studied 442 patients who underwent comprehensive contrast cardiac magnetic resonance to assess cardiac morphology and function, left ventricular replacement fibrosis, and pre-post contrast T1 mapping to quantify ECV. The cohort did not have coexisting pathologies associated with ECV alteration. We categorized our final cohort based on diabetic status using criteria from the American Diabetic Association. Subsequent heart failure hospitalization and all-cause death were ascertained.

Results:

Our patients were predominantly white with a median age of 57 with 48% being men. Compared with nondiabetes mellitus, diabetes mellitus was significantly associated with elevated ECV after adjusting for clinical and imaging covariates: β coefficient 1.33 (95% CI, 0.22–2.44);
P
=0.02. Over a median follow-up of 24.5 (interquartile range, 14.8–33.4) months, 52 deaths and 24 heart failure events occurred. Patients with diabetes mellitus and elevated ECV had the worst outcomes compared with patients with diabetes mellitus and normal ECV or nondiabetics. Elevated ECV remained an independent predictor of outcomes (hazard ratio, 3.31 [95% CI, 1.93–5.67];
P
<0.001) after adjusting for covariates.

Conclusions:

Elevated ECV is an independent predictor of mortality among patients with diabetes mellitus and may have an additive effect with diabetes mellitus on outcomes. ECV may represent a novel noninvasive biomarker to evaluate severity of diabetic heart disease.
JAM-A Acts via C/EBP-α to Promote Claudin-5 Expression and Enhance Endothelial Barrier Function
Authors: Kakogiannos Nikolaos , Ferrari Laura , Giampietro Costanza , Scalise Anna Agata , Maderna Claudio , Ravà Micol , Taddei Andrea , Lampugnani Maria Grazia , Pisati Federica , Malinverno Matteo , Martini Emanuele , Costa Ilaria , Lupia Michela , Cavallaro Ugo , Beznoussenko Galina V. , Mironov Alexander A. , Fernandes Bethania , Rudini Noemi , Dejana Elisabetta , Giannotta Monica
Published: July 2020

Rationale:

Intercellular tight junctions are crucial for correct regulation of the endothelial barrier. Their composition and integrity are affected in pathological contexts, such as inflammation and tumor growth. JAM-A (junctional adhesion molecule A) is a transmembrane component of tight junctions with a role in maintenance of endothelial barrier function, although how this is accomplished remains elusive.

Objective:

We aimed to understand the molecular mechanisms through which JAM-A expression regulates tight junction organization to control endothelial permeability, with potential implications under pathological conditions.

Methods and Results:

Genetic deletion of JAM-A in mice significantly increased vascular permeability. This was associated with significantly decreased expression of claudin-5 in the vasculature of various tissues, including brain and lung. We observed that C/EBP-α (CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein-α) can act as a transcription factor to trigger the expression of claudin-5 downstream of JAM-A, to thus enhance vascular barrier function. Accordingly, gain-of-function for C/EBP-α increased claudin-5 expression and decreased endothelial permeability, as measured by the passage of fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-dextran through endothelial monolayers. Conversely, C/EBP-α loss-of-function showed the opposite effects of decreased claudin-5 levels and increased endothelial permeability. Mechanistically, JAM-A promoted C/EBP-α expression through suppression of β-catenin transcriptional activity, and also through activation of EPAC (exchange protein directly activated by cAMP). C/EBP-α then directly binds the promoter of claudin-5 to thereby promote its transcription. Finally, JAM-A–C/EBP-α–mediated regulation of claudin-5 was lost in blood vessels from tissue biopsies from patients with glioblastoma and ovarian cancer.

Conclusions:

We describe here a novel role for the transcription factor C/EBP-α that is positively modulated by JAM-A, a component of tight junctions that acts through EPAC to up-regulate the expression of claudin-5, to thus decrease endothelial permeability. Overall, these data unravel a regulatory molecular pathway through which tight junctions limit vascular permeability. This will help in the identification of further therapeutic targets for diseases associated with endothelial barrier dysfunction.

Graphic Abstract:

An
graphic abstract
is available for this article.
Prevalence of Cardiovascular Comorbidities in Coronavirus Disease 2019, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome: Pooled Analysis of Published Data
Authors: Liu Yang , Wu Shaohui , Qin Mu , Jiang Weifeng , Liu Xu
Published: July 2020

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is spreading widely around the world. We conducted this meta‐analysis to explore the prevalence of cardiovascular comorbidities in COVID‐19, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) cases.

Methods and Results

Relevant reports updated to April 17, 2020, were searched from PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library with no restriction on language. A random‐effects model was used in this meta‐analysis to obtain pooled proportions of cardiovascular comorbidities in COVID‐19, SARS, and MERS. A total of 22 studies (12 for COVID‐19, 4 for SARS, and 6 for MERS) were included in this analysis, and the average age of patients with COVID‐19, SARS, and MERS was 46.41±1.79, 39.16±2.25, and 52.51±4.64 years, respectively. Proportions of cardiovascular comorbidities in coronavirus diseases were as follows: COVID‐19: proportion of hypertension was 17.1% (95% CI, 13.2%–20.9%), proportion of cardiac disease was 4.5% (95% CI, 3.6%–5.5%) and proportion of diabetes mellitus was 8.5% (95% CI, 5.5%–11.4%); SARS: proportion of hypertension was 4.5% (95% CI, 2.0%–7.0%), proportion of cardiac disease was 2.1% (95% CI, 0.6%–3.7%) and proportion of diabetes mellitus was 3.7% (95% CI, 1.0%–6.4%); MERS: proportion of hypertension was 30.3% (95% CI, 18.3%–42.2%), proportion of cardiac disease was 20.9% (95% CI, 10.7%–31.1%), and proportion of diabetes mellitus was 45.4% (95% CI, 27.3%–63.5%).

Conclusions

The prevalence of cardiovascular comorbidities varies among different coronavirus‐associated diseases. With the development of time, proportions of cardiovascular comorbidities in COVID‐19 need further attention.
Promoting the study of plant taxonomy: a new species of Anthurium (Araceae) named by students from the University of Panama

Authors: ORTIZ ORLANDO O. , CROAT THOMAS B. , ESPINOSA HILARIO , BALDINI RICCARDO M.
Published: July 2020

Currently in Panama, as in other parts of the world, there is little interest in taxonomy, both at the educational and research levels. In order to increase awareness and research interest in plant taxonomy amongst botany majors, we involved a cohort of college-level students of the University of Panama’s Biology School in the process of naming a yet-to-be described species of Anthurium (Araceae), engaging them in all aspects of taxonomy including the process of proposing a new species to the scientific community. With their help, we hereby describe a new species we named Anthurium oistophyllum, with descriptions and illustrations based upon photographs of the vegetative and reproductive structures taken from live material.
Corrigenda and addendum to “Olivier, R.S. et al. 2019. Review of Temnomastax Rehn & Rehn, 1942 (Orthoptera, Caelifera, Eumastacidae, Temnomastacinae). Zootaxa 4593 (1): 001–078”
Authors: OLIVIER RENAN S.
Published: July 2020

Corrigenda
Contribution to the genus Plutomurus Yosii (Collembola, Tomoceridae): notes on the morphology of Plutomurus carpaticus Rusek & Weiner and P. unidentatus (Börner)
Authors: BARJADZE SHALVA , KOVÁČ ĽUBOMÍR , PARIMUCHOVÁ ANDREA
Published: July 2020

In two European species of the genus Plutomurus Yosii, P. carpaticus Rusek & Weiner and P. unidentatus (Börner), several diagnostic morphological characters are specified and illustrated: body chaetotaxy, number of internal spine-like chaetae on tibiotarsi and number of teeth on claw. The contribution is based on the study of type specimens of both species and specimens of other populations of their distribution ranges. The numerous specimens of the genus Plutomurus collected recently in the Western Carpathian caves are the most similar to P. carpaticus, but differ in macrochaetotaxy and may represent a new species. Three types of macrochaetae on thorax and abdomen of Plutomurus congeners from the Europe and Caucasus are defined. Identification key to European Plutomurus species is provided.
Comparison of Floods Driven by Tropical Cyclones and Monsoons in the Southeastern Coastal Region of China
Authors: Lu Weiwei , Lei Huimin , Yang Wencong , Yang Jingjing , Yang Dawen
Published: July 2020

Increasing evidence indicates that changes have occurred in heavy precipitation associated with tropical cyclone (TC) and local monsoon (non-TC) systems in the southeastern coastal region of China over recent decades. This leads to the following questions: what are the differences between TC and non-TC flooding, and how do TC and non-TC flooding events change over time? We applied an identification procedure for TC and non-TC floods by linking flooding to rainfall. This method identified TC and non-TC rainfall–flood events by the TC rainfall ratio (percentage of TC rainfall to total rainfall for rainfall–flood events). Our results indicated that 1) the TC rainfall–flood events presented a faster runoff generation process associated with larger flood peaks and rainfall intensities but smaller rainfall volumes, compared to that of non-TC rainfall–flood events, and 2) the magnitude of TC floods exhibited a decreasing trend, similar to the trend in the amount and frequency of TC extreme precipitation. However, the frequency of TC floods did not present obvious changes. In addition, non-TC floods decreased in magnitude and frequency while non-TC extreme precipitation showed an increase. Our results identified significantly different characteristics between TC and non-TC flood events, thus emphasizing the importance of considering different mechanisms of floods to explore the physical drivers of runoff response. Also, our results indicated that significant decreases occurred in the magnitude, but not the frequency, of floods induced by TC from the western North Pacific, which is the most active ocean basin for TC activity, and thus can provide useful information for future studies on the global pattern of TC-induced flooding.
Understanding Health Care Utilization and Mortality After Emergency General Surgery in Patients With Underlying Liver Disease
Authors: Tennakoon Lakshika , Baiu Ioana , Concepcion Waldo , Melcher Marc L. , Spain David A. , Knowlton Lisa M.
Published: July 2020

Background

Mortality and complications are not well defined nationally for emergency general surgery (EGS) patients presenting with underlying all-cause liver disease (LD).

Study design

We analyzed the 2012-2014 National Inpatient Sample for adults (aged ≥ 18 years) with a primary EGS diagnosis. Underlying LD included International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification codes for alcoholic and viral hepatitis, malignancy, congenital etiologies, and cirrhosis. The primary outcome was mortality; secondary outcomes included complications, operative intervention, and costs.

Results

Of the 6.8 million EGS patients, 358 766 (5.3%) had underlying LD. 59.1% had cirrhosis, 6.7% had portal hypertension, and 13.7% had ascites. Compared with other EGS patients, EGS-LD patients had higher mean costs ($12 847 vs $10 234, P < .001). EGS-LD patients were less likely to have surgery (26.1% vs 37.0%, P < .001) but for those who did, mortality was higher (4.8% vs 1.8%, P < .001). Risk factors for mortality included ascites (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.68, P < .001), dialysis (aOR = 3.44, P < .001), sepsis (aOR = 8.97, P < .001), and respiratory failure requiring intubation (aOR = 10.40, P < .001). Odds of death increased in both surgical (aOR = 4.93, P < .001) and non-surgical EGS-LD patients (aOR = 2.56, P < .001).

Conclusions

Underlying all-cause LD among EGS patients is associated with increased in-hospital mortality, even in the absence of surgical intervention.