bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Social Desirability Bias Affects Immigration Attitudes in a Hyperpolarized Political Environment
Authors: Carmines Edward , Nassar Rita
Published: April 2021

Objective

Immigration attitudes have become increasingly polarizing in recent years with Democrats becoming less likely to support restrictionist policies and Republicans more likely to favor such policies. This paper examines the impact of social desirability bias on such attitudes.

Method

Using a list experiment, we examine whether Democrat (and liberal) opposition to the building of a wall at the Mexican border and to the deportation of undocumented immigrants are due to societal pressures to adopt inclusive positions and whether Republicans (and conservatives) hide their negative immigrant attitudes.

Results

We find that Democrats and liberals' views on these two issues do indeed reflect their true preferences. Conversely, we find that Republicans and conservatives do feel the need to conceal their anti‐immigrant stances.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the extent of asymmetric polarization on immigration policy might even be larger because partisans also differ in their social desirability concerns.
Rational use of ultrasonography with triaging of patients to detect dengue plasma leakage in resource limited settings: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Sigera Ponsuge Chathurani , Weeratunga Praveen , Deepika Fernando Sumadhya , Lakshitha De Silva Nipun , Rodrigo Chaturaka , Rajapakse Senaka
Published: April 2021

Objectives

To compare the traditional haematocrit‐based criteria (>20% rise above baseline) with ultrasonography for diagnosing plasma leakage in dengue fever and to identify clinical indicators for triaging patients in resource‐limited settings when the demand for ultrasonography is high.

Methods

The Colombo Dengue Study is a prospective observational cohort study recruiting dengue patients in the first three days of dengue fever, before plasma leakage. Serial haematocrit assessments and ultrasonography were performed in patients recruited from October 2017 to February 2020. Clinical signs/symptoms and laboratory investigation results independently associated with ultrasound detected plasma leakage were identified with a derivation cohort and confirmed in a validation cohort.

Results

129 of 426 patients had ultrasonography‐confirmed plasma leakage while 146 had a haematocrit rise >20%. Those positive on ultrasonography were also likely to fulfil the haematocrit‐based criteria (OR: 4.42, 95% CI: 2.85–6.86), but the two groups did not overlap fully. In the derivation cohort (n = 317), platelet count <97 000/µl, AST/ALT > 51 IU/l and having abdominal pain in the first three days of fever were independent predictors of ultrasound‐detected plasma leakage. In the validation cohort (n = 109), the combination of low platelet count and high aminotransferase level had better predictive capacity in terms of sensitivity and specificity.

Conclusion

Dengue patients should be monitored with both serial haematocrit and ultrasonography whenever possible and plasma leakage should be diagnosed by either one of these criteria. If accessibility to scans is limited, platelet count, serum transaminase levels and presence of abdominal pain are useful to triage patients.
An extended view for acoustofluidic particle manipulation: Scenarios for actuation modes and device resonance phenomenon for bulk-acoustic-wave devices
Authors: Özer M. Bülent , Çetin Barbaros
Published: April 2021

For the manipulation of microparticles, ultrasonic devices, which employ acoustophoretic forces, have become an essential tool. There exists a widely used analytical expression in the literature which does not account for the effect of the geometry and acoustic properties of the chip material to calculate the acoustophoretic force and resonance frequencies. In this study, we propose an analytical relationship that includes the effect of the chip material on the resonance frequencies of an acoustophoretic chip. Similar to the analytical equation in the literature, this approach also assumes plane wave propagation. The relationship is simplified to a form which introduces a correction term to the acoustophoretic force equation for the presence of the chip material. The proposed equations reveal that the effect of the chip material on the resonance frequency is significant—and is called the device resonance—for acoustically soft materials. The relationship between the actuation modes of the piezoelectric actuator(s) and position of the nodal lines inside the channel are discussed. Finite element simulations are performed to verify the proposed equations. Simulations showed that even if some of the assumptions in the derivations are removed, the general conclusions about the motion of the microparticles are still valid.
Transcriptomic and Metabolomic Responses to Carbon and Nitrogen Sources in Methylomicrobium album BG8
Authors: Sugden Scott , Lazic Marina , Sauvageau Dominic , Stein Lisa Y.
Published: April 2021

Methanotrophs are gaining increasing interest for their biotechnological potential to convert single-carbon compounds into value-added products such as industrial chemicals, fuels, and bioplastics. Optimizing these species for biotechnological applications requires a detailed understanding of how cellular activity and metabolism vary across different growth substrates.
Amoeba Predation of Cryptococcus neoformans Results in Pleiotropic Changes to Traits Associated with Virulence
Authors: Fu Man Shun , Liporagi-Lopes Livia C. , dos Santos Samuel R. , Tenor Jennifer L. , Perfect John R. , Cuomo Christina A. , Casadevall Arturo
Published: April 2021

Cryptococcus neoformans
is a ubiquitous environmental fungus that is also a leading cause of fatal fungal infection in humans, especially among immunocompromised patients. A major question in the field is how an environmental yeast such as
C. neoformans
becomes a human pathogen when it has no need for an animal host in its life cycle.
Glycation by glyoxal leads to profound changes in the behavior of dermal fibroblasts
Authors: Guillon Cécile , Ferraro Sandra , Clément Sophie , Bouschbacher Marielle , Sigaudo-Roussel Dominique , Bonod Christelle
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Diabetes is a worldwide health problem that is associated with severe complications. Advanced Glycation End products (AGEs) such as Nε-(carboxymethyl)lysine, which result from chronic hyperglycemia, accumulate in the skin of patients with diabetes. The effect of AGEs on fibroblast functionality and their impact on wound healing are still poorly understood.

Research design and methods

To investigate this, we treated cultured human fibroblasts with 0.6 mM glyoxal to induce acute glycation. The behavior of fibroblasts was analyzed by time-lapse monolayer wounding healing assay, seahorse technology and atomic force microscopy. Production of extracellular matrix was studied by transmission electronic microscopy and western blot. Lipid metabolism was investigated by staining of lipid droplets (LDs) with BODIPY 493/503.

Results

We found that the proliferative and migratory capacities of the cells were greatly reduced by glycation, which could be explained by an increase in fibroblast tensile strength. Measurement of the cellular energy balance did not indicate that there was a change in the rate of oxygen consumption of the fibroblasts. Assessment of collagen I revealed that glyoxal did not influence type I collagen secretion although it did disrupt collagen I maturation and it prevented its deposition in the extracellular matrix. We noted a pronounced increase in the number of LDs after glyoxal treatment. AMPK phosphorylation was reduced by glyoxal treatment but it was not responsible for the accumulation of LDs.

Conclusion

Glyoxal promotes a change in fibroblast behavior in favor of lipogenic activity that could be involved in delaying wound healing.
Determinants of short birth intervals among married women: a cross-sectional study in Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Nausheen Sidrah , Bhura Maria , Hackett Kristy , Hussain Imtiaz , Shaikh Zainab , Rizvi Arjumand , Ansari Uzair , Canning David , Shah Iqbal , Soofi Sajid
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Birth spacing is a critical pathway to improving reproductive health. WHO recommends a minimum of 33-month interval between two consecutive births to reduce maternal, perinatal, infant morbidity and mortality. Our study evaluated factors associated with short birth intervals (SBIs) of less than 33 months between two consecutive births, in Karachi, Pakistan.

Methods

We used data from a cross-sectional study among married women of reproductive age (MWRA) who had at least one live birth in the 6 years preceding the survey (N=2394). Information regarding their sociodemographic characteristics, reproductive history, fertility preferences, family planning history and a 6-year reproductive calendar were collected. To identify factors associated with SBIs, we fitted simple and multiple Cox proportional hazards models and computed HRs with their 95% CIs.

Results

The median birth interval was 25 months (IQR: 14–39 months), with 22.9% (833) of births occurring within 33 months of the index birth. Women’s increasing age (25–30 years (aHR 0.63 (0.53 to 0.75), 30+ years (aHR 0.29, 95% CI 0.22 to 0.39) compared with 20-24 years; secondary education (aHR 0.75, 95% CI 0.63 to 0.88), intermediate education (aHR 0.62, 95% CI 0.48 to 0.80), higher education (aHR 0.69, 95% CI 0.51 to 0.92) compared with no education, and a male child of the index birth (aHR 0.81, 95% CI 0.70 to 0.94) reduced the likelihood of SBIs. Women’s younger age <20 years (aHR 1.24, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.24) compared with 20–24 years, and those who did not use contraception within 9 months of the index birth had a higher likelihood for SBIs for succeeding birth compared with those who used contraception (aHR 2.23, 95% CI 1.93 to 2.58).

Conclusion

Study shows that birth intervals in the study population are lower than the national average. To optimise birth intervals, programmes should target child spacing strategies and counsel MWRA on the benefits of optimal birth spacing, family planning services and contraceptive utilisation.
Ophthalmological findings in children with non-syndromic craniosynostosis: preoperatively and postoperatively up to 12 months after surgery
Authors: Ntoula Evangelia , Nowinski Daniel , Holmstrom Gerd , Larsson Eva
Published: April 2021

Aims

Craniosynostosis is a congenital condition characterised by premature fusion of one or more cranial sutures. The aim of this study was to analyse ophthalmic function before and after cranial surgery, in children with various types of non-syndromic craniosynostosis.

Methods

Children referred to Uppsala University Hospital for surgery of non-syndromic craniosynostosis were examined preoperatively. Visual acuity was measured with Preferential Looking tests or observation of fixation and following. Strabismus and eye motility were noted. Refraction was measured in cycloplegia and funduscopy was performed. Follow-up examinations were performed 6–12 months postoperatively at the children’s local hospitals.

Results

One hundred twenty-two children with mean age 6.2 months were examined preoperatively. Refractive values were similar between the different subtypes of craniosynostosis, except for astigmatism anisometropia which was more common in unicoronal craniosynostosis. Strabismus was found in seven children, of which four had unicoronal craniosynostosis.

Postoperatively, 113 children were examined, at mean age 15.9 months. The refractive values decreased, except for astigmatism and anisometropia in unicoronal craniosynostosis. Strabismus remained in unicoronal craniosynostosis. Two new cases with strabismus developed in unicoronal craniosynostosis and one in metopic, all operated with fronto-orbital techniques. No child had disc oedema or pale discs preoperatively or postoperatively.

Conclusion

Ophthalmic dysfunctions were not frequent in children with sagittal craniosynostosis and preoperative ophthalmological evaluation may not be imperative. Children with unicoronal craniosynostosis had the highest prevalence of strabismus and anisometropia. Fronto-orbital techniques used to address skull deformity may be related to a higher prevalence of strabismus postoperatively.
Palliative Medicine in Myelodysplastic Syndromes: Patients and Caregivers - A Qualitative Study
Authors: Desai Anjali V , Klimek Virginia M , Wan Peter J , Heinberg Aileen , Anderson Kelley L , Bernal Camila , Nelson Judith E
Published: April 2021

Objectives

Evidence-based guidelines call for integration of palliative care within oncology from diagnosis. Misperceptions about palliative care have impeded implementation. Prior research has not examined perceptions about ‘palliative care’ versus ‘supportive care’ among patients and caregivers to whom this care is introduced routinely as part of comprehensive cancer care. We conducted a qualitative study of patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and their informal caregivers to elicit perceptions of ‘palliative care’ and ‘supportive care’ before and after they received integrated primary/specialist palliative care from diagnosis.

Methods

Patients with newly diagnosed MDS and caregivers were interviewed about their understanding of ‘palliative care’ and ‘supportive care’ at diagnosis and follow-up. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analysed by an interdisciplinary team.

Results

Forty-eight interviews were conducted in total, including with 21 patients and 13 caregivers at diagnosis, and 10 patients and 4 caregivers at follow-up. Initially, 28/34 participants (82%) associated ‘palliative care’ with death or fear/alarm. At follow-up, 11/14 participants (79%) recognised that ‘palliative care’ is not only for terminally ill patients, yet 13/14 participants (93%) still felt apprehensive about the term. Initially, 24/34 participants (71%) felt ‘supportive care’ sounded ‘positive’ and 12/14 participants (86%) reported this at follow-up. No participant associated ‘supportive care’ with death or fear/alarm at either time point. Among participants who had a preference, ‘supportive care’ was the preferred term initially and at follow-up.

Conclusions

Patients with MDS and caregivers receiving integrated primary/specialist palliative care from diagnosis responded more favourably to and felt less apprehensive about ‘supportive care’, initially and at follow-up.
Interprofessional model on speaking up behaviour in healthcare professionals: a qualitative study
Authors: Umoren Rachel , Kim Sara , Gray Megan M , Best Jennifer A , Robins Lynne
Published: April 2021

Objectives

Despite training and the recognition that speaking up can mitigate harm to patients and save lives, healthcare professionals do not consistently speak up when they have patient safety concerns. The purpose of this study was to identify barriers to and facilitators of speaking up about patient safety concerns to inform the development of interventions that will increase this behaviour.

Design

From October 2017 to February 2018, the study team conducted focus groups and interviews with nurses, advanced practice providers and physicians at three healthcare facilities. Participants were prompted to share their personal experiences with and perspectives on speaking up about patient safety concerns and to discuss strategies for communicating those concerns.

Setting

Tertiary academic healthcare centre.

Participants

62 healthcare professionals participated in the study. Purposeful sampling was used to include participants of different health professions and experience levels.

Main outcome measures

We planned to answer questions about why more healthcare professionals do not consistently speak up when they have legitimate patient safety concerns and to identify ways to enhance current interventions on speaking up behaviours,

Results

Twelve focus group discussions and two interviews were conducted with 62 participants. We identified two recurring themes: (1) The predominantly hierarchical culture of medicine is a barrier to speaking up and (2) Institutional, interpersonal and individual factors can modulate the impact of medicine’s hierarchical culture on speaking up behaviours and inform the strategies employed.

Conclusions

The data highlighted the importance of moving beyond targeting front-line healthcare professionals for training in the skills of speaking up and engaging institutional leaders and systems to actively promote and reward speaking up behaviours.
Association between coexisting intracranial artery and extracranial carotid artery atherosclerotic diseases and ipsilateral cerebral infarction: a Chinese Atherosclerosis Risk Evaluation (CARE-II) study
Authors: Jiang Chunxiu , Zhang Jing , Zhu Jianbin , Wang Xianlong , Wen Zhibo , Zhao Xihai , Yuan Chun
Published: April 2021

Background

To evaluate the association between coexisting intracranial and extracranial carotid artery atherosclerotic diseases and ipsilateral acute cerebral infarct (ACI) in symptomatic patients by using magnetic resonance (MR) vessel wall imaging.

Methods

Symptomatic patients were recruited from a cross-sectional, multicentre study of Chinese Atherosclerosis Risk Evaluation (CARE-II). All patients underwent MR imaging for extracranial carotid arterial wall, intracranial artery and brain. Coexisting intracranial stenosis ≥50% and extracranial carotid artery mean wall thickness (MWT) ≥1 mm and plaque compositions at the same side were evaluated and the ipsilateral ACI was identified. The association between coexisting atherosclerotic diseases and ACI was evaluated using logistic regression.

Results

351 patients were recruited. Patients with ipsilateral ACI had significantly greater prevalence of coexisting intracranial stenosis ≥50% and carotid MWT ≥1 mm (20.5% vs 4.9%, p<0.001), calcification (15.1% vs 4.4%, p=0.001) and lipid-rich necrotic core (LRNC) (19.2% vs 7.8%, p=0.002) compared with those without. Coexisting intracranial artery stenosis ≥50% and carotid MWT ≥1 mm (OR 5.043, 95% CI 2.378 to 10.694; p<0.001), calcification (OR 3.864, 95% CI 1.723 to 8.664; p=0.001) and LRNC (OR 2.803, 95% CI 1.455 to 5.401; p=0.002) were significantly associated with ipsilateral ACI. After adjusting for confounding factors, the aforementioned associations remained statistically significant (intracranial stenosis ≥50% coexisting with carotid MWT ≥1 mm: OR 4.313, 95% CI 1.937 to 9.601, p<0.001; calcification: OR 3.606, 95% CI 1.513 to 8.593, p=0.004; LRNC: OR 2.358, 95% CI 1.166 to 4.769, p=0.017).

Conclusions

Coexistence of intracranial artery severe stenosis and extracranial carotid artery large burden and intraplaque components of calcification and LRNC are independently associated with ipsilateral ACI.

Trial registration number

https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/. Unique identifier:NCT02017756.
Use of continuous intercostal nerve blockade is associated with improved outcomes in patients with multiple rib fractures
Authors: Uhlich Rindi , Kerby Jeffrey David , Bosarge Patrick , Hu Parker
Published: April 2021

Background

Rib fractures are common among trauma patients and may result in significant morbidity and mortality. There are numerous treatment options, but ideal management is unclear. Delivery of local anesthetic via an analgesia catheter for continuous intercostal nerve blockade offers an attractive potential option for management of patients with rib fractures.

Methods

We performed a single-center, retrospective case–control analysis of trauma patients with multiple rib fractures from 2016 to 2018, comparing patients managed with continuous intercostal nerve blockade with standard care. Matching was performed in a 2:1 ratio by Injury Severity Score, age, and gender. Respiratory morbidity potentially secondary to rib fractures, including unplanned intubation, failure of extubation, need for tracheostomy, pneumonia, or mortality, were all identified and included. Potential complications due to catheter insertion were identified to be recorded. The primary outcome of interest was 30-day hospital-free days.

Results

Nine hundred and thirty-three patients were eligible for analysis, with 48 managed using intercostal blockade compared with 96 matching controls. No complications of intercostal blockade were identified during the study period. Controls demonstrated fewer rib fractures (6.60±4.11 vs. 9.3±3.73, p=0.001) and fewer flail segments (0.8±1.76 vs. 2.0±2.94, p=0.02). Those managed with intercostal blockade demonstrated significantly more 30-day hospital-free days (15.9±6.43 vs. 13.2±9.94, p=0.048), less incidence of pneumonia (4.2% vs. 16.7%, p=0.03), and lower hospital mortality (2.1% vs. 13.5%, p=0.03). When adjusting for number of rib fractures and number of flail segments, use of continuous intercostal nerve blockade was significantly associated with lower hospital mortality (OR 0.10; 95% CI 0.01 to 0.91), pneumonia (OR 0.15; 95% CI 0.03 to 0.76), or need for tracheostomy (OR 0.23; 95% CI 0.06 to 0.83).

Discussion

The addition of continuous intercostal nerve blockade may help to improve outcomes in patients with multiple rib fractures compared with standard care alone.

Level of evidence

Therapeutic/care management; level IV.
The impact of face masks on performance and physiological outcomes during exercise: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Shaw Keely A. , Zello Gordon A. , Butcher Scotty J. , Ko Jong Bum , Bertrand Leandy , Chilibeck Philip D.
Published: April 2021

Face masks are promoted for preventing spread of viruses; however, wearing a mask during exercise might increase CO2 rebreathing, decrease arterial oxygenation, and decrease exercise performance. A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted on the impact of wearing a mask during exercise. Data sources included SPORTDiscus, PubMed, and Medline. Eligibility criteria included all study designs comparing surgical, N95, or cloth masks to a no mask condition during any type of exercise where exercise performance and/or physiological parameters were evaluated. Healthy and clinical participants were included. Mean differences (MD) or standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals were calculated and pooled effects assessed. Twenty-two studies involving 1573 participants (620 females, 953 males) were included. Surgical, or N95 masks did not impact exercise performance (SMD −0.05 [−0.16, 0.07] and −0.16 [−0.54, 0.22], respectively) but increased ratings of perceived exertion (SMD 0.33 [0.09, 0.58] and 0.61 [0.23, 0.99]) and dyspnea (SMD 0.6 [0.3, 0.9] for all masks). End-tidal CO2 (MD 3.3 [1.0, 5.6] and 3.7 [3.0, 4.4] mm Hg), and heart rate (MD 2 [0,4] beats/min with N95 masks) slightly increased. Face masks can be worn during exercise with no influences on performance and minimal impacts on physiological variables. PROSPERO registration: CRD42020224988.

Novelty: Face masks can be worn during exercise with no impacts on performance and minimal impacts on physiological variables.
State-selective charge exchange cross sections in Be$$^{4+} -\hbox {H}(2\textit{lm})$$ collision based on the classical trajectory Monte Carlo method
Authors: Ziaeian Iman , Tőkési Károly
Published: April 2021

A three-body classical trajectory Monte Carlo method is used to calculate the nl state-selective charge exchange cross sections in $$\hbox {Be}^{\mathrm {4+}}+$$

Be

4
+

+

H(2lm) collisions in the energy range between 10 and 200 keV/amu. We present partial cross sections for charge exchange into $$\hbox {Be}^{\mathrm {3+}}$$

Be

3
+

(nl) $$(\textit{nl} = 2s, 2p, 3s, 3p, 3d, 4s, 4p, 4d, 4f)$$

(
nl
=
2
s
,
2
p
,
3
s
,
3
p
,
3
d
,
4
s
,
4
p
,
4
d
,
4
f
)

states as a function of impact energy. Our results are compared with the previous classical and quantum-mechanical results. We show that the classical treatment can able to describe reasonably well the charge exchange cross sections.

Graphic abstract
Implementation of DTM as a numerical study for the Casson fluid flow past an exponentially variable stretching sheet with thermal radiation
Authors: Abualnaja Khadijah M.
Published: April 2021

This paper introduces a theoretical and numerical study for the problem of Casson fluid flow and heat transfer over an exponentially variable stretching sheet. Our contribution in this work can be observed in the presence of thermal radiation and the assumption of dependence of the fluid thermal conductivity on the heat. This physical problem is governed by a system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs), which is solved numerically by using the differential transformation method (DTM). This numerical method enables us to plot figures of the velocity and temperature distribution through the boundary layer region for different physical parameters. Apart from numerical solutions with the DTM, solutions to our proposed problem are also connected with studying the skin-friction coefficient. Estimates for the local Nusselt number are studied as well. The comparison of our numerical method with previously published results on similar special cases shows excellent agreement.
A robust technique based solution of time-fractional seventh-order Sawada–Kotera and Lax’s KdV equations
Authors: Jena Rajarama Mohan , Chakraverty Snehashish , Baleanu Dumitru , Adel Waleed , Rezazadeh Hadi
Published: April 2021

In this paper, the fractional reduced differential transform method (FRDTM) is used to obtain the series solution of time-fractional seventh-order Sawada–Kotera (SSK) and Lax’s KdV (LKdV) equations under initial conditions (ICs). Here, the fractional derivatives are considered in the Caputo sense. The results obtained are contrasted with other previous techniques for a specific case, [Formula: see text] revealing that the presented solutions agree with the existing solutions. Further, convergence analysis of the present results with an increasing number of terms of the solution and absolute error has also been studied. The behavior of the FRDTM solution and the effects on different values [Formula: see text] are illustrated graphically. Also, CPU-time taken to obtain the solutions of the title problems using FRDTM has been demonstrated.
On the fluid behavior and stability of Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy GMAW molten pool: Effect of the longitudinal magnetic field
Authors: Wu Chenglong , Han Shaohua , Xue Dingqi , Zhan Jianbin
Published: April 2021

By establishing a three-dimensional (3D) numerical simulation of the Ti-6Al-4V Gas Metal Argon Welding (GMAW) molten pool, the molten pool’s heat transfer and fluid flow behavior under a longitudinal magnetic field were investigated. The simulation results show that when the droplet enters the molten pool, the liquid metals on the molten pool’s surface symmetrically flow towards both sides of the molten pool from different angles. With the increase of the magnetic field strengthens, the temperature gradually decreases, and the fluid flow velocity increases continuously. Besides, the magnetic field strength is correlated positively with the molten pool’s size with a certain range of 0–0.03 T. However, when the magnetic field strengthens reach 0.04 T, the magnetic field is correlated negatively with the molten pool’s size. Because the Marangoni and buoyancy begin to weaken, the molten pool’s length change occurs before the width change. Simultaneously, a sizeable velocity region appears on the left side of the molten pool. Thus, the liquid metal gathers on the left side, resulting in the weld cross-section’s asymmetry. It can conclude that only when the magnetic strengthen keeps in the range of 0–0.03 T, the longitudinal magnetic field can make the molten pool’s surface profile smooth.
Homological dimensions of special modules over formal triangular matrix rings
Authors: Mao Lixin
Published: April 2021

Let [Formula: see text] be a formal triangular matrix ring, where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are rings and [Formula: see text] is a [Formula: see text]-bimodule. We give some computing formulas of homological dimensions of special [Formula: see text]-modules. As an application, we describe the structures of [Formula: see text]-tilting left [Formula: see text]-modules.
Energy scattering for a class of inhomogeneous nonlinear Schrödinger equation in two dimensions
Authors: Dinh Van Duong
Published: April 2021

We consider a class of [Formula: see text]-supercritical inhomogeneous nonlinear Schrödinger equations in two dimensions [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. Using a new approach of Arora et al. [Scattering below the ground state for the 2D radial nonlinear Schrödinger equation, Proc. Amer. Math. Soc. 148 (2020) 1653–1663], we show the energy scattering for the equation with radially symmetric initial data. In the focusing case, our result extends the one of Farah and Guzmán [Scattering for the radial focusing INLS equation in higher dimensions, Bull. Braz. Math. Soc. (N.S.) 51 (2020) 449–512] to the whole range of [Formula: see text] where the local well-posedness is available. In the defocusing case, our result extends the one in [V. D. Dinh, Energy scattering for a class of the defocusing inhomogeneous nonlinear Schrödinger equation, J. Evol. Equ. 19(2) (2019) 411–434], where the energy scattering for non-radial initial data was established in dimensions [Formula: see text].
Zinc triazole-appended dipyrromethene complex as a new catalyst for the carbonation reaction
Authors: Rago Aurélie , Framery Eric , Andrioletti Bruno
Published: April 2021

Triazole-Appended Dipyrromethenes (TADs) constitute a highly tunable and versatile family of ligands. Thus, well designed 1:1 / Zn:L complexes incorporating a macrocyclic TAD member were proven very efficient in the carbonation of epoxides at low CO2 pressure (1 bar) and 100 [Formula: see text]. Interestingly, the non-macrocyclized analogue was catalytically inactive in the presence of Zn(OAc)2 and dimerized instantly. Hence, engineering a structure preventing the dimerization was proven critical to restore the catalytic activity of the zinc complex.
Geological structures beneath the River Thames in London: findings from the Thames Tideway Tunnel investigations
Authors: Newman T. G. , Hadlow N. W.
Published: April 2021

The Thames Tideway Tunnel is 25 km long and extends west–east through central London, beneath the River Thames for most of its route. A detailed preconstruction ground model has been assembled, using data from borehole and river-borne seismic reflection survey investigations. The two datasets have together delineated several significant geological structures along the route.

The investigations have led to an improved understanding of the morphology of some structures, such as the Greenwich Fault, London Bridge Fault Zone, Millwall Anticline and Greenwich–Plaistow Syncline, which were only generally indicated during preliminary desk studies. Other structures, such as the Putney–Hammersmith Fault Zone, Chelsea Embankment Fault Zone and Lambeth Anticline, are entirely new discoveries.

Most of the structures described here have characteristics compatible with strike-slip displacement and, although this has been previously widely suspected, this paper presents new evidence towards this. When intersected by the tunnel during its construction phase, they have imposed significant changes in geological strata, leading to changes in the performance of tunnelling plant or creating adverse ground conditions. Their early identification by the ground model has assisted engineering design and planning, for the benefit of construction cost efficiency and, importantly, Health and Safety of underground personnel.

Thematic collection:
This article is part of the Geology of London and its implications for ground engineering collection available at:
https://www.lyellcollection.org/cc/london-basin
A satisfying result
Authors: Monroe Don
Published: April 2021

Formulating a decades-old geometric conjecture as a satisfiability problem opened the door to its final resolution.
National Sports AI Health Management Service System Based on Edge Computing
Authors: Yang Huali , Han Xiaowei
Published: April 2021

With the development of the economy, people’s living standards continue to improve, and the management awareness of their own health and safety has gradually increased. The human body usually has a long process of transition from being healthy to the appearance of disease, and people’s lifestyle and daily behavior will affect the health of the body to a large extent. This paper studies the national sports AI health management service system based on edge computing. This paper organically combines edge computing, artificial intelligence, and health management service systems. Through detection devices with smart sensors and smart health systems, a comprehensive health management service platform for the masses is constructed to promote the development of sports health management services. Upgrade and transform to make it more in line with the modern intelligent environment. The advancement of modern technology has gradually transformed my country’s traditional health record management service to an intelligent electronic health record management system. From the experimental data, it can be seen that the filing rate and pass rate of residents’ electronic files have reached 88.275% and 87.435%, but the utilization rate of health files is only 31.685%. The establishment of a supporting health management service system is precisely to effectively increase the utilization rate of health files, so that users can truly enjoy intelligent, professional, and real‐time health services.
Therapeutic Mechanism and Effect of Camptothecin on Dextran Sodium Sulfate-Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Mice
Authors: Wang Yizhuo , Liu Kunjian , Qi Zhiyong , Chen Tong , Yu Wei , Jiang Yang , Li Guofeng , Xiao Huijie
Published: April 2021

Camptothecin (CPT) is a cytotoxic quinoline alkaloid isolated from the bark and branches of the Chinese tree Camptotheca acuminata. CPT inhibits topoisomerase I. It possesses various antitumor activities and is mainly used in the treatment of colon, ovarian, liver, and bone cancers as well as leukemia. CPT inhibits the expressions of inflammatory genes and can prevent death from chronic inflammation. Therefore, we investigated the effect of CPT treatment in ulcerative colitis (UC) using DSS-induced UC mouse model; after that, we explored its potential mechanisms. Here, we found that CPT exerted protection on DSS-induced UC in rats. In addition, the administration prominently reduced the disease activity index as well as colon length of the model rats and remarkably reduced the inflammatory cytokines. Further, CPT significantly reduced several vital proinflammatory proteins in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells. In summary, our findings demonstrate that CPT is hopefully to act as a therapeutic agent for UC.
A New Method to Improve the Fracturing Effect of Coal Seams by Using Preset Slots and Induced Stress Shadows
Authors: Li Li , Zhou Lei , Li Honglian , Xia Binwei , Zhou Junping
Published: April 2021

Efficient extraction of coal bed methane before coal mining is essential to eliminate the risk of coal-gas outbursts. However, stimulation technologies should be implemented to enhance the conductivity of the coal seam. In this study, we propose a novel method to create a complex fracture network in underground coal mines with the integration of multiple hydraulic slotting and hydraulic fracturing. In this method, hydraulic slots are used to direct hydraulic fractures and initialize branch fractures, while hydraulic fracturing is used to extend the fractures. Given the mutually exclusive and attractive propagation of multiple fractures, a relatively evenly distributed fracture network can be generated. The results show that (1) the dynamically induced stress shadows of hydraulic fractures can cause exclusive and attractive propagation of multiple hydraulic fractures; (2) a preset slot that deviates from the principal stress can direct hydraulic fractures to a certain extent and generate branch fractures; and (3) with a staggered distribution of preset slots, a relatively large volume of the coal seam in both the minimum and maximum horizontal stress directions can be stimulated, creating a complex fracture network including many vertical branch fractures and a large area of horizontally layered directional fractures.
A Three‐Section‐Settlement Calculation Method for Composite Foundation Reinforced by Geogrid‐Encased Stone Columns
Authors: Ma Binhui , Hu Zhiyong , Li Zhuo , Cai Kai , Zhao Minghua , He Chengbin , Chen Qiunan , Chen Bingchu , Huang Xiaocheng
Published: April 2021

The analysis of the bearing characteristics and deformation mechanism of composite foundation reinforced with geogrid‐encased stone columns is presented in order to obtain its settlement calculation method. The settlement of composite foundation is divided into three sections which are the reinforced section, unreinforced section, and underlying stratum. Based on Hooke’s law of space problem and the thoughts of the layer‐wise summation method, the relative slip displacement between pile and soil of reinforced section without plastic zone is analyzed. The settlement of reinforced section is calculated by the layered iteration method based on the pile element model. The compatibility of vertical and radial deformations of unreinforced section is analyzed based on the pile‐soil element model. The settlement of underlying stratum is still calculated by the layer‐wise summation method. Finally, two engineering examples are analyzed and the results show that the settlement calculated by the presented method is close to the measured one. The method overcomes the defect that the calculated results by the other existing methods are more dangerous and it is more feasible and can be applied in engineering practice.
A Novel QoS Routing Energy Consumption Optimization Method Based on Clone Adaptive Whale Optimization Algorithm in IWSNs
Authors: Xiao Jing , Liu Yang , Qin Hu , Li Chaoqun , Zhou Jie
Published: April 2021

Routing requests in industrial wireless sensor networks (IWSNs) are always restricted by QoS. Therefore, finding a high‐quality routing path is a key problem. In this paper, a clone adaptive whale optimization algorithm (CAWOA) is designed for reducing the routing energy consumption of IWSNs with QoS constraints, and a novel clone operator is proposed. More importantly, CAWOA innovatively adopts a discrete binary‐based routing coding method, which provides strong support for optimal routing schemes. In addition, a novel routing model of IWSNs combined with QoS constraints has been designed, which involves comprehensive consideration of bandwidth, delay, delay jitter, and packet loss rate. Subsequently, in a series of simulations, the proposed algorithm is compared with other heuristic‐based routing algorithms, namely, whale optimization algorithm (WOA), simulated annealing (SA), particle swarm optimization (PSO), and genetic algorithm (GA). The simulation results suggest that the CAWOA‐based routing algorithm outperforms other methods in terms of routing energy consumption, convergence speed, and optimization ability. Compared with GA, SA, PSO, and WOA under the conditions that the number of nodes is 120, the maximum delay is 120 ms, the maximum delay jitter is 25 ms, the maximum bandwidth is 9 Mbps, and the packet loss rate is 0.02; the energy consumption of CAWOA‐based routing is reduced by 12%, 17%, 19%, and 7%, respectively.
Liver Resection Promotes (Regulates) Proinflammatory Cytokines in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Fathi Farshid , Sanei Behnam , Ganjalikhani Hakemi Mazdak , Saidi Reza F. , Rezaei Abbas
Published: April 2021

Background. Several animal studies have shown the roles of cytokines in regulating liver regeneration following liver resection (LR), which is a type of surgery designed to remove cancerous tumors from the liver. This study investigated how the expressions and serum levels of some pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) were changed during LR. Methods. Liver tissues from 15 patients with HCC were collected and the levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), IL-1α, IL-1 β, IL-10, and transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-β1) were assessed using real-time PCR assay at different times before and after LR. The serum values of TNF-α and IL-6 were also measured by ELISA. Results. After 60 and 90 minutes of LR, IL-6 gene expression was significantly increased

P
<
0.001
−
0.05

. The same trend was also observed in TNF-α expression after 90 minutes of LR

P
<
0.01

. No significant changes were observed in the expressions of IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-10, and TGF-β1 before and after LR. In addition, LR had significant effects on TNF-α and IL-6 serum levels

P
<
0.05
−
0.0001

. Conclusion. Our data provided further evidence to reveal that IL-6 and TNF-α cytokines are critical to improve liver regeneration.
The Health Index Prediction Model and Application of PCP in CBM Wells Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Tan Chaodong , Wang Song , Deng Hanwen , Han Guoqing , Du Guanghao , Song Wenrong , Zhang Xiongying
Published: April 2021

Aiming at the problems of the current production and operation status of the progressive cavity pump (PCP) in coalbed methane (CBM) wells which cannot be timely monitored, quantitatively evaluated, and accurately predicted, a five-step method for evaluating and predicting the health status of PCP wells is proposed: data preprocessing, principal parameter optimization, health index construction, health degree division, and health index prediction. Therein, a health index (HI) formulation was made based on deep learning, and a statistical method was used to define the health status of PCP wells as being healthy, subhealthy, or faulty. This allowed further research on the HI prediction model of PCP wells based on the long short-term memory (LSTM) network. As demonstrated in the study, they can reflect both the change trend and the contextual relevance of the health status of PCP wells with high accuracy to achieve real-time, quantitative, and accurate assessment and prediction. At the same time, the conclusion gives good guidance on the production performance analysis and failure warning of the PCP wells and suggests a new direction for the health status assessment and warning of other artificial lift equipment.
Machine Learning and Intelligent Diagnostics in Dental and Orofacial Pain Management: A Systematic Review
Authors: Farook Taseef Hasan , Jamayet Nafij Bin , Abdullah Johari Yap , Alam Mohammad Khursheed
Published: April 2021

Purpose. The study explored the clinical influence, effectiveness, limitations, and human comparison outcomes of machine learning in diagnosing (1) dental diseases, (2) periodontal diseases, (3) trauma and neuralgias, (4) cysts and tumors, (5) glandular disorders, and (6) bone and temporomandibular joint as possible causes of dental and orofacial pain. Method. Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science (all databases) were searched by 2 reviewers until 29th October 2020. Articles were screened and narratively synthesized according to PRISMA-DTA guidelines based on predefined eligibility criteria. Articles that made direct reference test comparisons to human clinicians were evaluated using the MI-CLAIM checklist. The risk of bias was assessed by JBI-DTA critical appraisal, and certainty of the evidence was evaluated using the GRADE approach. Information regarding the quantification method of dental pain and disease, the conditional characteristics of both training and test data cohort in the machine learning, diagnostic outcomes, and diagnostic test comparisons with clinicians, where applicable, were extracted. Results. 34 eligible articles were found for data synthesis, of which 8 articles made direct reference comparisons to human clinicians. 7 papers scored over 13 (out of the evaluated 15 points) in the MI-CLAIM approach with all papers scoring 5+ (out of 7) in JBI-DTA appraisals. GRADE approach revealed serious risks of bias and inconsistencies with most studies containing more positive cases than their true prevalence in order to facilitate machine learning. Patient-perceived symptoms and clinical history were generally found to be less reliable than radiographs or histology for training accurate machine learning models. A low agreement level between clinicians training the models was suggested to have a negative impact on the prediction accuracy. Reference comparisons found nonspecialized clinicians with less than 3 years of experience to be disadvantaged against trained models. Conclusion. Machine learning in dental and orofacial healthcare has shown respectable results in diagnosing diseases with symptomatic pain and with improved future iterations and can be used as a diagnostic aid in the clinics. The current review did not internally analyze the machine learning models and their respective algorithms, nor consider the confounding variables and factors responsible for shaping the orofacial disorders responsible for eliciting pain.
Experimental Investigation on the Effect of Rubber Powder on Mechanical Properties of PVA Fiber Concrete
Authors: Ma Linling , Wang Bin , Zeng Lei , Xiao Yunfeng , Zhang Heng , Li Zhen
Published: April 2021

To verify the damping improvement by replacing partial sand with rubber powder in the concrete process, this study investigated the effects of the rubber powder (5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%) on the mechanical properties and micromechanism of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fiber‐reinforced concrete. In addition, in order to discuss its damping performance, free vibration test was conducted. Microstructure analyses were conducted by the scanning electron microscope (SEM) test. These results indicated that, as the content of the rubber powder increased, the damping ratio increased, and the compressive strength decreased, but this strength loss can be effectively controlled by adding PVA fiber. The rubber powder with a volume content of 5% and PVA with a mass of 2.4 kg/m3 were the most optimal mixing to balance the strength and damping requirement. According to the SEM test results, the rubber powder was beneficial to improve the damping ratio of PVA concrete, but it aggravated its interface defects.
Metallothioneins in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Importance in Pathogenesis and Potential Therapy Target
Authors: Socha-Banasiak Anna , Sputa-Grzegrzółka Patrycja , Grzegrzółka Jędrzej , Pacześ Krzysztof , Dzięgiel Piotr , Sordyl Beata , Romanowicz Hanna , Czkwianianc Elżbieta
Published: April 2021

Immunological disorders, increased oxidative stress, and damage to the epithelial barrier play an important role in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). In the treatment of patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), it is increasingly common to use biological drugs that selectively affect individual components of the inflammatory cascade. However, administering the medicines currently available does not always result in obtaining and maintaining remission, and it may also lead to the development of resistance to a given agent over time. Metallothioneins (MTs) belong to the group of low molecular weight proteins, which, among others, regulate the inflammation and homeostasis of heavy metals as well as participating in the regulation of the intensity of oxidative stress. The results of the studies conducted so far do not clearly indicate the role of MTs in the process of inflammation in patients with IBD. However, there are reports that suggest the possibility of using MTs as a potential target in the treatment of this group of patients.