bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Social Life of Viruses
Authors: Sanjuán Rafael
Published: July 2021

Despite their simplicity, viruses exhibit certain types of social interactions. Situations in which a given virus achieves higher fitness in combination with other members of the viral population have been described at the level of transmission, replication, suppression of host immune responses, and host killing, enabling the evolution of viral cooperation. Although cellular coinfection with multiple viral particles is the typical playground for these interactions, cooperation between viruses infecting different cells is also established through cellular and viral-encoded communication systems. In general, the stability of cooperation is compromised by cheater genotypes, as best exemplified by defective interfering particles. As predicted by social evolution theory, cheater invasion can be avoided when cooperators interact preferentially with other cooperators, a situation that is promoted in spatially structured populations. Processes such as transmission bottlenecks, organ compartmentalization, localized spread of infection foci, superinfection exclusion, and even discrete intracellular replication centers promote multilevel spatial structuring in viruses.
Visual Signals in the Mammalian Auditory System
Authors: Schmehl Meredith N. , Groh Jennifer M.
Published: July 2021

Coordination between different sensory systems is a necessary element of sensory processing. Where and how signals from different sense organs converge onto common neural circuitry have become topics of increasing interest in recent years. In this article, we focus specifically on visual–auditory interactions in areas of the mammalian brain that are commonly considered to be auditory in function. The auditory cortex and inferior colliculus are two key points of entry where visual signals reach the auditory pathway, and both contain visual- and/or eye movement–related signals in humans and other animals. The visual signals observed in these auditory structures reflect a mixture of visual modulation of auditory-evoked activity and visually driven responses that are selective for stimulus location or features. These key response attributes also appear in the classic visual pathway but may play a different role in the auditory pathway: to modify auditory rather than visual perception. Finally, while this review focuses on two particular areas of the auditory pathway where this question has been studied, robust descending as well as ascending connections within this pathway suggest that undiscovered visual signals may be present at other stages as well.
Optical Coherence Tomography and Glaucoma
Authors: Geevarghese Alexi , Wollstein Gadi , Ishikawa Hiroshi , Schuman Joel S.
Published: July 2021

Early detection and monitoring are critical to the diagnosis and management of glaucoma, a progressive optic neuropathy that causes irreversible blindness. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has become a commonly utilized imaging modality that aids in the detection and monitoring of structural glaucomatous damage. Since its inception in 1991, OCT has progressed through multiple iterations, from time-domain OCT, to spectral-domain OCT, to swept-source OCT, all of which have progressively improved the resolution and speed of scans. Even newer technological advancements and OCT applications, such as adaptive optics, visible-light OCT, and OCT-angiography, have enriched the use of OCT in the evaluation of glaucoma. This article reviews current commercial and state-of-the-art OCT technologies and analytic techniques in the context of their utility for glaucoma diagnosis and management, as well as promising future directions.
Derivation of Transmission Line Model from the Concentrated Solution Theory (CST) for Porous Electrodes
Authors: Zelič Klemen , Katrašnik Tomaž , Gaberšček Miran
Published: July 2021

It has been shown previously that the governing equations defining continuum level processes in electrochemical cells can be mapped into appropriate extended equivalent circuits, also known as transmission line models (TLMs). Here we present a derivation which results in direct construction of a TLM from the widely used concentrated solution theory (CST) for porous electrodes originally proposed by Newman. The final result of derivation is a set of equations that directly connect the main parameters of CST for porous electrode (electrolyte conductivity, transport number, concentration, thermodynamic factor, chemical diffusion coefficient, porosity) and the main elements of corresponding TLM (resistances of active and inactive ions and chemical capacitance). The constructed TLM is applied to three standard porous electrode cases found in devices such as batteries, fuel cell and supercapacitors: insertion electrodes, faradic reaction at electrode-electrolyte interface and blocking electrodes. For all three cases, the derived TLMs are justified by a direct comparison of their output with the output of the corresponding analytical expression for impedance response of CST for porous electrodes.
Quantifying Uncertainty in Tortuosity Estimates for Porous Electrodes
Authors: Mayilvahanan Karthik S. , Hui Zeyu , Hu Kedi , Kuang Jason , McCarthy Alison H. , Bernard John , Wang Lei , Takeuchi Kenneth J. , Marschilok Amy C. , Takeuchi Esther S. , West Alan C.
Published: July 2021

Measuring tortuosity in porous electrodes is important for understanding rate capability and optimizing design. Here, we describe an approach to determine electrode tortuosities and quantify the associated uncertainties by fitting a P2D model to discharge profiles from a standard rate capability test. A dimensionless current is identified as a design-of-experiment parameter that can be used to identify experiments that return confident estimates of tortuosity, even when other model parameters are not known with certainty. This approach is applied to analysis of

L

i

x

V

3

O

8

(LVO) electrodes and

L

i

x

N

i

0.33

M

n

0.33

C

o

0.33

O

2

(NMC) electrodes. The details of the assumptions made in these measurements and their impact on the reported uncertainties are discussed. We also perform an uncertainty analysis on the standard method for quantifying tortuosity in the literature: electrochemical impedance spectroscopy collected under blocking electrolyte conditions. We find that confident estimates can be obtained using this approach even when uncertainties in equivalent circuit model parameters are considered.
Cathodic Kinetics on Platinum and Stainless Steel in NaOH Environments
Authors: Katona R. M. , Carpenter J. , Schindelholz E. J. , Schaller R. F. , Kelly R. G.
Published: July 2021

During typical atmospheric conditions, cathodic reduction reactions produce hydroxyl ions increasing the pH in the cathodic region. Therefore, cathodic reduction reactions are investigated on platinum and stainless steel 304 L (SS304L) in NaOH solutions ranging in pH from 13.6 to 16.5. It was found that in solution pHs less than 16.5 the cathodic reduction reaction on Pt and SS304L was ORR with an electron transfer number less than two due to superoxide formation as an intermediate. Increasing pH decreased the number of electrons transferred. At a pH of 16.5, the cathodic reduction reaction on SS304L is no longer ORR and the cathodic current on the surface of the alloy is due to oxide reduction occurring on the surface as indicated by the creation of multi-component Pourbaix diagrams. The results of this study have important implications for predicting corrosion in atmospheric environments.
Al2O3 and HfO2 Atomic Layers Deposited in Single and Multilayer Configurations on Titanium and on Stainless Steel for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Spajić Ivan , Rahimi Ehsan , Lekka Maria , Offoiach Ruben , Fedrizzi Lorenzo , Milošev Ingrid
Published: July 2021

Thin films of alumina and hafnia were prepared by atomic layer deposition, with the aim of investigating the use of such films in biomedical applications. Films were deposited on commercially pure titanium and on medical stainless steel. Two configurations were prepared: single alumina films, 20 nm and 60 nm thick, and a multilayer film, 60 nm thick, consisting of alumina/hafnia/alumina layers, each 20 nm thick. The morphology, structure and composition of the coated alloys were characterized using scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. In addition, ellipsometry and atomic force microscopy coupled with scanning Kelvin probe force microscopy, were used to study the thickness and the topography with surface potential properties. An improvised method, involving the Vickers hardness test, was applied to assess the delamination of the deposited films. Coated specimens, as well as bare substrates, were tested at 37 °C in simulated body fluid, using potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy as techniques for assessing corrosion susceptibility. In general, single and multilayer thin films possess excellent barrier properties and are worth investigating further for biomedical applications. The degree of protection is dependent mainly on film thickness and on the type of substrate, and less on configuration.
Achieving High Stability and Rate Performance Using Spherical Nickel-Zinc Layered Double Hydroxide in Alkaline Solution
Authors: Qin Runyue , Pan Yunpeng , Duan Zeang , Su Huanhuan , Ren Kailiang , Wang Wenfeng , Li Yuan , Xi Ning , Wang Yu , Zhang Lu , Han Shumin
Published: July 2021

Nickel layered double hydroxide, Ni(OH)2, has been widely used as the cathode for nickel based battery systems. However, the currently commercialized β-Ni(OH)2 is limited by its low capacity. In contrast, α-Ni(OH)2 can give higher capacity, but it is challenging to stabilize in alkaline solution due to the conversion to β-Ni(OH)2. Herein, we use zinc doped Ni(OH)2 and control its spherical morphology to strengthen the stability of α-Ni(OH)2 in a nickel metal hydride battery system. With an optimal zinc doping content of 3 mol% for the spherical α-Ni(OH)2 (Ni-Zn3), the cathode shows the highest discharge capacity of 351.3 mAh g–1 at a current density of 70 mA g–1 (0.2 C) and superior rate performance, which even delivers 271.5 mAh g–1 at 5 C. More importantly, the durability of the Ni-Zn3 cathode is significantly enhanced, which maintains 81.7% after cycling 360 times, almost twice as long as that of pure α-Ni(OH)2. Studies show that the stabilized Ni–O bond and suitable aperture structure are mainly responsible for the advanced electrochemical properties of the Ni-Zn3. The results show that proper zinc doping spherical α-Ni(OH)2 with low-cost and high performance is an promising cathode material for nickel-based battery systems.
Research on the Impact of Government R&D Funding on Regional Innovation Quality: Analysis of Spatial Durbin Model Based on 283 Cities in China
Authors: Li Jing , Wu Xinlu
Published: July 2021

Based on the perspective of the regional innovation system, this study constructs an analytical framework for the influence of government R&D funding on regional innovation quality and uses 283 Chinese cities as research samples to empirically test the influence of government R&D funding methods such as subsidies and tax preferences on regional innovation quality by the spatial Durbin model. According to the study, China’s regional innovation quality has a positive spatial correlation. Subsidies can improve regional innovation quality, which is mainly realized by increasing the input of innovation resources from local direct innovation subjects, attracting the inflow of innovation resources from neighboring areas, and increasing the innovation support from local indirect innovation subjects. Besides, spatial competition for subsidies makes it beneficial to improve the regional innovation quality in neighboring regions, while the promotion effect of tax preferences is not significant. When considering the heterogeneity of the city location and administrative hierarchy, it shows that the government R&D funding cannot improve the innovation quality of the Eastern cities and higher‐administrative‐hierarchy cities, while it can improve that of the Middle and Western cities and general‐administrative‐hierarchy cities. Furthermore, government R&D funding widens the gap of regional innovation quality, which may be related to the existing “insufficient intervention” and “excessive intervention” of government R&D funding. This study provides insights into the implementation of R&D funding by the government to promote the development of regional innovation quality.
Identifying Clinicopathological Risk Factors of the Regional Lymph Node Metastasis in Patients with T1-2 Mucinous Breast Cancer: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Min Yu , Wei Xiaoyuan , Chen Hang , Xiang Ke , Yin Guobing , Feng Yang
Published: July 2021

Background. Pure mucinous breast cancer (PMBC) has a better prognosis than other types of invasive breast cancer. However, regional lymph node metastasis (LNM) might reverse this outcome. We aim to determine the independent predictive factors for regional LNM and further develop a nomogram model for clinical practice. Method. Data of PMBC patients from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program between Jan 2010 and Dec 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to determine the risk factors for LNM in T1-2 MBC. The nomogram was constructed and further evaluated by an internal validation cohort. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, decision curve analysis (DCA), and calibration curves were performed to evaluate the accuracy of this model. Result. Five variables, including age, race, tumor size, grade, and breast subtype, were identified to be significantly associated with regional LNM in female patients with T1-2 PMBC. A nomogram was successfully established with a favorable concordance index (C-index) of 0.780, supported by an internal validation cohort with a C-index of 0.767. Conclusion. A nomogram for predicting regional LNM in female patients with T1-2 PMBC was successfully established and validated via an internal cohort. This visualized model would assist surgeons to make appropriate clinical decisions in the management of primary PMBC, especially in terms of whether axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) is warranted.
Total Knee Arthroplasty Improved Locomotive Syndrome in Knee Osteoarthritis Patients: A Prospective Cohort Study Focused on Total Clinical Decision Limits Stage 3
Authors: Miyazaki Shigeaki , Yoshinaga Saori , Tsuruta Kurumi , Hombu Amy , Fujii Yoshinori , Arakawa Hideki , Sakamoto Takero , Chosa Etsuo
Published: July 2021

Purpose. The purpose of this study is to investigate the treatment efficacy of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) on locomotive syndrome (LS) focusing on total clinical decision limit (CDL) stage 3 leading to revealing the motor function indicators that can predict LS improvement in knee osteoarthritis patients who had received TKA. Methods. This prospective cohort study was conducted in 47 patients evaluated as total CDL stage 3 before TKA who received primary TKA on the operated side and were diagnosed with Kellgren‐Lawrence grade 2, 3, or 4 knee osteoarthritis on the nonoperated side. LS was evaluated using stand‐up test, two‐step test, and 25‐Question Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale. In addition, the motor function indicators which could predict the LS improvement were examined. All assessments were conducted before TKA and three months after TKA. Results. Of the 47 subjects who were evaluated to be in total CDL stage 3 before TKA, 13 patients (27.7%) were determined to show improvements in total CDL. From the result of the decision tree analysis, when the CDL of the two‐step test before TKA was 1 or less, the improvement rate was 83.3%. Even if the CDL of the two‐step test before TKA was higher than 1 and if the 3 m‐Timed Up and Go test (3m‐TUG) before TKA was 9.6 or less, the improvement rate was 50%. Conclusions. As of three months after surgery, TKA can improve LS in about 30% of knee osteoarthritis patients. A two‐step test before TKA and 3m‐TUG before TKA can be used as motor function indicators to predict LS improvement. This study provides useful information for setting the goal for rehabilitation prior to surgery.
Current Situation of Transfusion-Transmitted Malaria in China
Authors: Lin Hong
Published: July 2021

Although China is moving toward the eradication of malaria and no indigenous malaria has been reported in most Chinese provinces for several years, recent evaluations have revealed that imported cases remain a major challenge to eliminating malaria, with the number of transfusion-transmitted malaria (TTM) cases increasing over time. Here, we review several TTM case reports published after the implementation of the National Malaria Elimination Program in 2010. A total of 12 TTM cases were reported in China between 2013 and 2018. All recipients and donors were diagnosed using rapid diagnosis test and peripheral blood smears. Plasmodium species in donors with low-density parasites were identified using PCR. Nine (75.0%) were identified as Plasmodium falciparum, two (16.7%) were identified as Plasmodium vivax, and one (8.3%) was identified as Plasmodium ovale. All were imported from malaria-endemic areas. New action plans designed to meet the challenges of TTM are necessary to ensure the elimination of malaria in China. Paying more attention to the frequency of TTM could help to enhance blood safety in China.
One Kind Special Gauss Sums and their Mean Square Values
Authors: Zhao Jianhong , Gao Jiejie
Published: July 2021

In this paper, we introduce one kind special Gauss sums; then, using the elementary and analytic methods to study the mean value properties of these kind sums, we obtain several exact calculating formulae for them.
Numerical Simulation of the Effect of Stress on the Seepage of Fractured Rock Mass
Authors: Shiwei Liang , Hongmei Wang , Di Ge , Cunqing Zhao
Published: July 2021

In our country, the Yellow River Basin ecological protection and development are put forward under the background of high quality. Among the 14 large-scale coal bases in our country, 9 coal bases are located in the Yellow River Basin, and the Shenfu-Dongsheng Coalfield, which is currently the largest under development, is located here. The region is in the process of coal mining, and the movement of overlying strata will cause the stress redistribution and coal seam in overlying aquifers also due to the effect of pore water pressure along the seepage of rock fracture and damage of overlying aquifer, so in the same formation, stress and the coupled action of seepage flow will produce mutual influence. This article through the early stage of the theoretical results discussed the application of numerical simulation method for simulating 2301 face, and the effect of stress on seepage is concluded. It is proved that the numerical simulation analysis has an important reference value for the coupling problem of stress and seepage. At the same time, the protective mining of aquifers is the basic condition for the surface ecological protection of the area, and it also provides a theoretical basis for the restoration of the ecological environment in the coal mining areas of the Yellow River Basin.
Comparison of MRI and CT in the Evaluation of Unilateral Maxillary Sinus Opacification
Authors: Chua Elise , Navaratnam Annakan V. , St Leger Dominic , Lam Vincent , Unadkat Samit , Weller Alexander
Published: July 2021

Objectives. To evaluate the diagnostic performance of MRI compared with CT in differentiating neoplastic from infectious/inflammatory causes of complete unilateral maxillary sinus opacification (UMSO). Although MRI is increasingly used, no studies validate its utility compared to CT or nasal endoscopy in this context. Methods. A retrospective analysis of 49 patients presenting with complete UMSO to a tertiary referral centre was performed, investigated with both CT and MRI. Two head and neck radiologists independently reviewed each imaging modality and recorded both a final diagnosis and Likert-scale diagnostic certainty score. A consensus radiological diagnosis was determined, stratified into potentially neoplastic or infectious/inflammatory aetiology, and compared with nasal endoscopy and final diagnosis. Diagnostic performance and interoperator agreement for predicting neoplasia were calculated. Results. Both CT and MRI demonstrated high sensitivity and negative predictive value for neoplasm, although MRI was more specific (79%; 95% CI: 60–92%) than CT (14%; 95% CI: 4–32%), with a higher positive predictive value. MRI was more accurate (88%; 95% CI: 75–95%) than CT (49%; 95% CI: 34–64%) in diagnosing neoplasia. MRI had significantly higher diagnostic certainty Likert scores than CT (

p
<
0.0001

for both observers). Interobserver agreement was fair for CT (kappa coefficient = 0.327) and excellent for MRI (kappa coefficient = 0.918). Conclusions. MRI is more specific than CT in characterising UMSO, with greater diagnostic certainty and reproducibility. The additive diagnostic value of MRI complements CT, potentially reducing diagnostic delays in some cases and the need for diagnostic endoscopic sinus surgery in others. We recommend MRI incorporation into the diagnostic pathway for patients with UMSO.
Denoising Method Based on Spectral Subtraction in Time‐Frequency Domain
Authors: Hao Lei , Cao Shuai , Zhou Pengfei , Chen Lei , Zhang Yi , Li Kai , Xie Dongdong , Geng Yijun
Published: July 2021

In view of the key problem that a large amount of noise in seismic data can easily induce false anomalies and interpretation errors in seismic exploration, the time‐frequency spectrum subtraction (TF‐SS) method is adopted into data processing to reduce random noise in seismic data. On this basis, the main frequency information of seismic data is calculated and used to optimize the filtering coefficients. According to the characteristics of effective signal duration between seismic data and voice data, the time‐frequency spectrum selection method and filtering coefficient are modified. In addition, simulation tests were conducted by using different S/R, which indicates the effectiveness of the TF‐SS in removing the random noise.
Difference in Performance of EPI Pigs Fed Either Lipase‐Predigested or Creon®‐Supplemented Semielemental Diet
Authors: Pierzynowski Stefan G. , Socha-Banasiak Anna , Sobol Monika , Skiba Grzegorz , Raj Stanisława , Dovban Olena , Ushakova Galyna , Woliński Jarosław , Mosiichuk Nadiia , Szczurek-Janicka Paulina , Pieszka Marek , Kamyczek Marian , Święch Ewa , Shmigel Halyna , Sonta Marcin , Czkwianianc Elżbieta , Pierzynowska Kateryna
Published: July 2021

Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) and fat predigestion are key in ensuring the optimal growth of patients with cystic fibrosis. Our study attempted to highlight differences between fat predigestion and conventional PERT on body composition of young pigs with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI). EPI and healthy pigs were fed with high‐fat diet for six weeks. During the last two weeks of the study, all pigs received additional nocturnal alimentation with Peptamen AF (PAF) and were divided into three groups: H—healthy pigs receiving PAF; P—EPI pigs receiving PAF+PERT; and L—EPI pigs receiving PAF predigested with an immobilized microbial lipase. Additional nocturnal alimentation increased the body weight gain of EPI pigs with better efficacy in P pigs. Humerus length and area in pigs in groups L and P were lower than that observed in pigs in group H (p value 0.005‐0.088). However, bone mineral density and strength were significantly higher in P and L as compared to that of H pigs (p value 0.0026‐0.0739). The gut structure was improved in P pigs. The levels of neurospecific proteins measured in the brain were mainly affected in P and less in L pigs as compared to H pigs. The beneficial effects of the nocturnal feeding with the semielemental diet in the prevention of EPI pigs’ growth/development retardation are differently modified by PERT or fat predigestion in terms of growth, bone properties, neurospecific protein distribution, and gut structure.
[Retracted] The Prognostic Value of Leucine‐Rich α2 Glycoprotein 1 in Pediatric Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Ma Hong , Lu Fengshan , Guo Yueming , Shen Zhaoxiong , Chen Yuanzhen
Published: July 2021

Objective. Leucine‐rich α2 glycoprotein 1 (LRG1) is a novel cytokine, which is believed to be involved in the inflammatory process of a series of diseases. However, the relationship between LRG1 and spinal cord injury (SCI) has not been reported. The purpose of our study is to determine the predictive value of LRG1 for the prognosis of pediatric SCI (PSCI). Methods. This study recruited 64 patients with confirmed PSCI and 40 healthy controls at Foshan Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital from January 2016 to December 2020. The clinical information of all participants at the time of admission was recorded. Peripheral blood was collected, and commercial reagents were used to detect the level of serum LRG1. At the same time, the International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury (ISNCSCI) was used to assess the severity of PSCI. Results. All participants were divided into PSCI group (n = 64) and NC group (n = 40). There was no significant difference in clinical information (age, gender, heart rate, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, sampling time from injury, white blood cells, and C‐reactive protein) between the two groups (p > 0.05). According to the interquartile range of serum LRG1, we compared the motor and sensory scores of ISNCSCI and found that serum LRG1 levels were negatively correlated with the prognosis of PSCI patients (p < 0.001). The results of receiver operating curve (ROC) showed that the sensitivity, specificity, and AUC (Area Under the Curve) of serum LRG1 level in predicting the prognosis of PSCI were 68.4%, 69.1%, and 0.705, respectively. The cut‐off value of serum LRG1 level predicting the prognosis of PSCI is 21.1 μg/ml. Conclusions. Serum LRG1 level is significantly increased in PSCI patients, and the elevated LRG1 level is negatively correlated with the prognosis of PSCI patients. Serum LRG1 may be a potentially useful biomarker for predicting PSCI.
A Clonal Selection Optimization System for Multiparty Secure Computing
Authors: Shi Minyu , Zhang Yongting , Wang Huanhuan , Hu Junfeng , Wu Xiang
Published: July 2021

The innovation of the deep learning modeling scheme plays an important role in promoting the research of complex problems handled with artificial intelligence in smart cities and the development of the next generation of information technology. With the widespread use of smart interactive devices and systems, the exponential growth of data volume and the complex modeling requirements increase the difficulty of deep learning modeling, and the classical centralized deep learning modeling scheme has encountered bottlenecks in the improvement of model performance and the diversification of smart application scenarios. The parallel processing system in deep learning links the virtual information space with the physical world, although the distributed deep learning research has become a crucial concern with its unique advantages in training efficiency, and improving the availability of trained models and preventing privacy disclosure are still the main challenges faced by related research. To address these above issues in distributed deep learning, this research developed a clonal selective optimization system based on the federated learning framework for the model training process involving large‐scale data. This system adopts the heuristic clonal selective strategy in local model optimization and optimizes the effect of federated training. First of all, this process enhances the adaptability and robustness of the federated learning scheme and improves the modeling performance and training efficiency. Furthermore, this research attempts to improve the privacy security defense capability of the federated learning scheme for big data through differential privacy preprocessing. The simulation results show that the proposed clonal selection optimization system based on federated learning has significant optimization ability on model basic performance, stability, and privacy.
Optimization of Stope Structure Parameters Based on the Mined Orebody at the Meishan Iron Mine
Authors: Sun Mingzhi , Ren Fengyu , Ding Hangxing
Published: July 2021

Based on the engineering background of the Meishan iron mine with sublevel caving (SLC) method, in this work, we adopted the method for identifying the shape of mined orebody (the original location in blasted slice), which analyzed and determined reasonable stope structure parameters. In the field test, the markers were arranged in the blasted slice, the mined orebody was measured by in situ tests, and reliable data were achieved. The shape of the mined orebody was obtained through this test when the width of drift was 6 m. The mined orebody’s shape was compared with the shape of the isolated extraction zone (IEZ), and the difference increased with increasing height. When the stope structural parameters were determined by the mined orebody, the larger the sublevel height was, the smaller the error was, which was compared with the method using ellipsoid arrangement theory to determine the stope structural parameters. Finally, the reasonable stope structure parameters were optimized. The sublevel height was 22 m, and the drift spacing was 20 m.
Numerical Investigation of Droplet Properties of a Liquid Jet in Supersonic Crossflow
Authors: Wang Yu-Qi , Xiao Feng , Lin Sen , Zhou Yao-Zhi
Published: July 2021

The atomization process of a liquid jet in supersonic crossflow with a Mach number of 1.94 was investigated numerically under the Eulerian-Lagrangian scheme. The droplet stripping process was calculated by the KH (Kelvin-Helmholtz) breakup model, and the secondary breakup due to the acceleration of shed droplets was calculated by the combination of the KH breakup model and the RT (Rayleigh-Taylor) breakup model. In our research, the existing KH-RT model was modified by optimizing the empirical constants incorporated in this model. Moreover, it was also found that the modified KH-RT breakup model is applied better to turbulent inflow of a liquid jet than laminar inflow concluded from the comparisons with experimental results. To validate the modified breakup model, three-dimensional spatial distribution and downstream distribution profiles of droplet properties of the liquid spray in the

Ma
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airflow were successfully predicted in our simulations. Eventually, abundant numerical cases under different operational conditions were launched to investigate the correlations of SMD (Sauter Mean Diameter) with the nozzle diameter as well as the airflow Mach number, and at the same time, modified multivariate power functions were developed to describe the correlations.
Service Quality Evaluation of Terminal Express Delivery Based on an Integrated SERVQUAL-AHP-TOPSIS Approach
Authors: Ma Panpan , Yao Ni , Yang Xuedong
Published: July 2021

With the rapid development of e-commerce and information technology, the express package volume in the Chinese market keeps an explosively increasing tendency. Terminal delivery plays a significant role on the business and reputation promotion of express brand. To identify the service quality of delivery service, an integrated SERVUQAL-AHP-TOPSIS approach is developed to evaluate the quality of service (QoS) of the city express industry. Firstly, the QoS criteria system is established through SERVQUAL-based dimensions. Secondly, the AHP method is employed to derive the relative weights of criteria. Then, the two stages are embedded into the TOPSIS steps to evaluate the service quality of the express alternative. An application case study is conducted following the detailed steps of the proposed integrated decision-making framework, and results demonstrate the effectiveness and validity of the proposed approach on the QoS of terminal delivery evaluation problem.
Preparation of Heat-Sensitivity Proteins from Walnut Meal by Sweep Frequency Ultrasound-Assisted Alkali Extraction
Authors: Qu Wenjuan , Fan Wei , Feng Yiting , Li Yunliang , Ma Haile , Pan Zhongli
Published: July 2021

Sweep frequency ultrasound- (SFU-) assisted alkali extraction was conducted to increase the yield and content of heat-sensitive protein of walnut meal under a relatively mild condition. The physicochemical and structural characteristics of the proteins obtained by SFU-assisted alkali extraction and the conventional alkali extraction were compared. It was found that the optimal parameters for the SFU-assisted extraction were the solid-liquid ratio of 1 : 12, pH value of 9, initial temperature of 25°C, ultrasonic frequency of 28 kHz, sweep frequency amplitude of 1.5 kHz, sweep frequency cycle of 100 ms, duty ratio of 77%, and ultrasonic time of 90 min. Under this condition, a vast improvement in the walnut protein yield (34.9%) and the walnut protein content (9.8%) was observed. Such improvement was due to the structural changes of the sonicated protein; e.g., SFU decreased the intermolecular/intramolecular hydrogen bond force of proteins and, therefore, caused more order secondary structures and more loosen microstructures. This helped to improve the thermoplastic and solubility of the heat-sensitivity protein. Thus, SFU treatment could be an effective auxiliary technology in the alkali extraction of heat-sensitivity walnut protein. It might also be a promising technology for the extraction of heat-sensitivity protein from other agricultural by-products.
LRRK2 Kinase Inhibitor Rejuvenates Oxidative Stress‐Induced Cellular Senescence in Neuronal Cells
Authors: Ho Dong Hwan , Nam Daleum , Seo Mi Kyoung , Park Sung Woo , Seol Wongi , Son Ilhong
Published: July 2021

Background. Leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Aging is the most critical risk factor for the progression of PD. The correlation between aging and cellular senescence has been established. Cellular senescence is correlated with the dysregulation of the proteolytic pathway and mitochondrial dysfunction, which are also associated with the aggregation of α‐synuclein (α‐syn). Methods. Human dopaminergic neuron‐like cells (differentiated SH‐SY5Y cells) were treated with rotenone in the presence or absence of the LRRK2 kinase inhibitor GSK2578215A (GSK‐KI) for 48 h. The markers of cellular senescence, including p53, p21Waf1/Cip1 (p21), β‐galactosidase (β‐gal), Rb phosphorylation, senescence‐associated (SA) β‐gal activity, and lysosomal activity, were examined. The dSH cells and rat primary cortical neurons were treated with α‐syn fibrils 30 min before treatment with rotenone in the presence or absence of GSK‐KI for 48 h. Mice were intraperitoneally injected with rotenone and MLi‐2 (LRRK2 kinase inhibitor) once every two days for two weeks. Results. Rotenone upregulated LRRK2 phosphorylation and β‐gal levels through the activation of the p53‐p21 signaling axis and downregulated Rb phosphorylation. Additionally, rotenone upregulated SA β‐gal activity, reactive oxygen species levels, and LRRK2 phosphorylation and inhibited lysosome activity. Rotenone‐induced LRRK2 upregulation impaired the clearance of α‐syn fibrils. Treatment with LRRK2 inhibitor mitigated rotenone‐induced cellular senescence and α‐syn accumulation. Conclusions. Rotenone‐induced upregulation of LRRK2 kinase activity promoted cellular senescence, which enhanced α‐syn accumulation. However, the administration of an LRRK2 kinase inhibitor rejuvenated rotenone‐induced cellular senescence.
Sutured Scleral Fixation of Posterior Chamber Intraocular Lens in Children under the Age of 9 with Congenital Ectopia Lentis
Authors: Meng Xuyun , Cao Xi , Jia Yiyue , Pan Jianhui , Du Yi , Li Xia
Published: July 2021

Introduction: This study aimed to report the visual acuity outcomes and complications of sutured scleral fixation of posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL) in children under 9 years old with congenital ectopia lentis. Methods: Twenty-six children (47 eyes) with congenital ectopia lentis were included in this study. The mean age at surgery was 61.6 ± 22.3 months (range, 32–94). Patients underwent lens extraction, anterior vitrectomy, and sutured scleral fixation of posterior chamber IOL. The implanted IOL included rigid polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) IOL (CZ70BD, n = 36) and foldable IOL (SA60AT, n = 9, and LI61SE, n = 2). The outcome measures used to assess the benefits were uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), refraction, intraocular pressure, and any associated complications. Median follow-up was 33.0 months (range, 4–129). Results: After surgery, the median UCVA (1.30 vs. 0.35 logMAR) and BCVA (0.82 vs. 0.15 logMAR) improved significantly (p < 0.001). The median absolute spherical values decreased considerably (9.00 vs. 0.75 D; p < 0.001). The median astigmatism was lower in foldable IOL compared to rigid PMMA IOL (1.0 vs. 2.5 D; p = 0.026), but neither the UCVA nor BCVA was significantly different. There was no intraoperative complication. Postoperative complications included pupillary capture in 4 eyes (9%), IOL decentration in 4 eyes (9%), choroid edema in 1 eye (2%), and subretinal hemorrhage in 1 eye (2%). The rate of secondary surgery was 9%, caused by IOL decentration of IOL haptics which was broken in 3 eyes and suture degradation in 1 eye. Conclusion: Sutured scleral fixation of posterior chamber IOL provided good visual outcomes in children under 9 years of age with congenital ectopia lentis. Although there were some risks of secondary surgery, the complications were acceptable.
Effect of an Oral Frailty Measures Program on Community-Dwelling Elderly People: A Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Shirobe Maki , Watanabe Yutaka , Tanaka Tomoki , Hirano Hirohiko , Kikutani Takeshi , Nakajo Kazuko , Sato Tetsuro , Furuya Junichi , Minakuchi Shunsuke , Iijima Katsuya
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Oral frailty describes a trivial decline in the oral function and is considered to be related to frailty. Thus, effective management of oral frailty could prevent or ameliorate physical frailty and the need for care. However, there is a lack of consensus regarding specific interventions for oral frailty. In this cluster-randomized controlled trial, we investigated the effects of a newly developed oral frailty measures program mentored by dentists and dental hygienists for elderly people in a clinical setting. Methods: Of 3,296 participants included in a field survey, 219 who regularly visited dental clinics and met at least 3 of the following 6 criteria for oral frailty were considered eligible: <20 natural teeth, decreased chewing ability, decreased articulatory oral-motor skills, decreased tongue pressure, and substantial subjective difficulties in eating and swallowing. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, we studied 51 patients in the intervention group (14 men and 37 women; mean age, 78.6 years) and 32 patients in the control group (7 men and 25 women; mean age, 78.0 years). We implemented a 12-week oral frailty measures program only for the intervention group. The program included preparatory oral exercises, mouth-opening training, tongue pressure training, prosodic training, and masticatory training. Primary outcome measures were the chewing ability score, articulatory oral motor skill for /ta/, tongue pressure, subjective difficulty in eating tough foods, and subjective difficulty in swallowing. We compared baseline characteristics using the Mann-Whitney U and χ2 tests for continuous and categorical variables, respectively. A repeated-measures two-way ANOVA was used to determine the efficacy of independent intervention variables, following the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The groups (intervention/control) and time (baseline/week 12) were the independent variables. Oral frailty measures were the dependent variables. Results: Baseline characteristics and assessment results were similar between groups. We observed significant improvements in the intervention group in terms of articulatory oral motor skill for /ta/ and tongue pressure (p < 0.001). No improvements were observed in the control group. Discussion/Conclusion: Our results suggest that our oral frailty measures program effectively alleviates oral frailty. Future studies are needed to clarify the impact on preventing physical frailty and improving the nutritional status.
Comparative Microbial Profiles of Caries and Black Extrinsic Tooth Stain in Primary Dentition
Authors: Chen Ying , Dou Guili , Wang Dandan , Yang Jingyi , Zhang Yixin , Garnett James A. , Chen Yihua , Wang Yixiang , Xia Bin
Published: July 2021

Extrinsic black tooth stain (BS) is a common oral disease associated with lower caries experience in preschool children, although the microbiotic features contributing to the low risk of caries in this group remain elusive. In this study, we aimed at identifying the dominant bacteria in dental plaque to indicate the incidence of caries in the primary dentition. Subjects were divided into 3 groups based on the clinical examination: group CF, children without pigment who had no caries lesions or restorations (n = 18); group CS, children who were diagnosed with severe early childhood caries (n = 17); and group BS, children with pigment (black extrinsic stain) without caries or restorations (n = 15). The total microbial genomic DNA was extracted and subjected to bacterial 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing using an Illumina HiSeq platform. The differential dominant bacteria were determined using Wilcoxon rank-sum testing and linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe). Co-occurrence network analysis was performed using sparse correlations for compositional data, calculation and functional features were predicted using PICRUSt. Interestingly, our results showed that the relative abundance of Pseudopropionibacterium, Actinomyces, Rothia, and Cardiobacterium was from high to low and that of Porphyromonas was low to high in the BS, CF, and CS groups, consistent with the clinical incidence of caries in the 3 groups. Moreover, an increased level of Selenomonas_3, Fusobacterium, and Leptotrichia was associated with high caries prevalence. We found that the interactions among genera in the BS and CS plaque communities are less complex than those in the CF communities at the taxon level. Functional features, including cofactor and vitamin metabolism, glycan biosynthesis and metabolism, and translation, significantly increased in caries plaque samples. These bacterial competition- and commensalism-induced changes in microbiota would result in a change of their symbiotic function, finally affecting the balance of oral microflora.
Seroprevalence of IgG Anti-SARS-CoV-2 among Voluntary Blood Donors in Dubai: Demographic and Risk Factors
Authors: Raouf May , Rabeh Mariem , Kaur Suminder , Sharma Ranjita , Thottumkal Nimmy , Mohammed Roukaya
Published: July 2021

Background and Objectives: During the pandemic of CO­VID-19, additional blood donor eligibility criteria have been added to ensure safety of donors and donations. The aim of this study is to estimate the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibody in eligible donors and to study the demography and lifestyle of asymptomatic cases. Materials and Methods: One thousand four hundred eighteen eligible donors were enrolled in this study in the Dubai Blood Donation Center from August to December 2020. Blood samples were tested for SARS-CoV-2 antibody. Donors’ demographic characteristics and lifestyle were studied further. The χ2 test was used to analyze the data association. Results: 88.4% of the studied group were males, 85% were from age 17 to 45 years, and 53% were regular donors. The seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibody was 13.5% and significantly related to gender, frequency of donation, collection site, type of donation, and more frequent when donors shared transport and accommodation. Blood group and age had no significant association. 5.5% were found to have cough/fever or a history of contact with positive COVID-19 patients. Conclusions: The seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibody was 13.5% among eligible blood donors, and hence the current eligibility criteria allow asymptomatic COVID-19 patients to donate blood. The seroprevalence was seen more in first time donors, suggesting that regular blood donors are safer. Additional risk factors related to lifestyle can be identified to ensure safety of transfusion during COVID-19 pandemic.
Donor Characteristics and Recipient Outcomes After Heart Transplantation in Adult Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Huntley Geoffrey D. , Danford David A. , Menachem Jonathan , Kutty Shelby , Cedars Ari M.
Published: July 2021

Background

Patients with adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) experience long waitlist times for heart transplantation (HTx) while a large proportion of donor hearts are refused. The goal of this study was to inform optimal donor selection for patients with ACHD listed for HTx by examining the impact of donor characteristics on post‐HTx outcomes.

Methods and Results

Using the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients, we conducted a retrospective analysis of patients aged ≥18 years listed for HTx in the United States between 2000 and 2016. We compared waitlist times between patients with ACHD and patients with noncongenital heart disease and constructed multivariate hazard models to identify donor characteristics associated with increased waitlist time. We then compared post‐HTx survival between patients with ACHD and patients with noncongenital heart disease and constructed multivariate hazard models to identify donor characteristics associated with mortality. There were very few differences in donor characteristics between HTx recipients with ACHD and those with noncongenital heart disease. Status 1A–listed patients with ACHD experienced longer waitlist times compared with patients with noncongenital heart disease. Increased wait times were associated with some donor characteristics. Post‐HTx outcomes varied over time, with patients with ACHD having inferior early mortality (0 to 30 days), similar intermediate mortality (31 days to 4 years), and superior late mortality (>4 years). We identified no donor characteristics associated with mortality to justify the observed differences in donor selection or waitlist time.

Conclusions

HTx candidates with ACHD wait longer for transplant but do not require unique donor selection criteria. HTx teams should consider liberalizing donor criteria and focusing only on evidence‐based selection to improve waitlist outcomes and reduce the recipient–donor disparity.