bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
mTOR Inhibitor Treatment in Patients with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex Is Associated with Specific Changes in microRNA Serum Profile
Authors: Pawlik Bartłomiej , Smyczyńska Urszula , Grabia Szymon , Fendler Wojciech , Dróżdż Izabela , Bąbol-Pokora Katarzyna , Kotulska Katarzyna , Jóźwiak Sergiusz , Borkowska Julita , Młynarski Wojciech , Trelińska Joanna
Published: June 2022

The aim of this study was to determine the serum profiles of miRNAs in patients with tuberous sclerosis (TSC) upon sirolimus treatment and compare them with those previously treated with everolimus in a similarly designed experiment. Serum microRNA profiling was performed in ten TSC patients before sirolimus therapy and again after 3–6 months using qPCR panels (Exiqon). Of 752 tested miRNAs, 28 showed significant differences in expression between TSC patients before and after sirolimus treatment. Of these, 11 miRNAs were dysregulated in the same directions as in the sirolimus groupcompared with the previously described everolimus group, miR-142-3p, miR-29c-3p, miR-150-5p, miR-425-5p, miR-376a-3p, miR-376a-3p, miR-532-3p, and miR-136-5p were upregulated, while miR-15b-3p, miR-100-5p, and miR-185-5p were downregulated. The most significant changes of expression, with fold changes exceeding 1.25 for both treatments, were noted for miR-136-5p, miR-376a-3p, and miR-150-5p. The results of a pathway analysis of the possible target genes for these miRNAs indicated the involvement of the Ras and MAPK signaling pathway. Upregulation of miR-136, miR-376a-3p, and miR-150-5p was noted in TSC patients treated with mTOR inhibitors, indicating a role in the downregulation of the mTOR pathway. Further studies are needed to determine the relationship between upregulated microRNAs and treatment efficacy.
Actuarial Patency Rates of Hepatico-Jejunal Anastomosis after Repair of Bile Duct Injury at a Reference Center
Authors: Otto Włodzimierz , Sierdziński Janusz , Smaga Justyna , Kornasiewicz Oskar , Dudek Krzysztof , Zieniewicz Krzysztof
Published: June 2022

Background: Bile duct injury complicates patients’ lives, despite the subsequent repair. Repairing the injury must restore continuity of the bile tree and bring the patient into a state of cure referred to as “patency”. Actuarial primary or actuarial secondary patency rates, depending on whether the patient underwent primary or secondary repair of injury, are proposed to be a proper metric in evaluating outcomes. This study was undertaken to assess outcomes of 669 patients with bile duct injuries Strasberg D and E type referred to the department from public surgical wards between 1990 and 2020. In 442 patients, no attempt was made to repair prior to a referral, and in 227 an attempt to repair was made which failed. Methods: Observations were summarized on December 31st, 2020. The retrospective analysis included: primary patency attained (Grade A result), secondary patency attained (Grade C result), patency loss, and actuarial patency rates of the bile tree at 2, 5, and 10 years. Results: Twenty-five (3.7%) patients died after repair surgery. Actuarial patency rates at 2, 5, and 10 years of follow-up were 93%, 88%, and 74% or 86%, 75%, and 55% in patients attaining Grade A and Grade C outcomes, respectively (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Bile duct injury stands out as a surgical challenge, requiring specialized management at a referral center. Improper proceeding after an injury is the factor leading to faster loss of anastomotic patency.
Perioperative Complications of Anterior Decompression with Fusion in Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy—A Comparative Study between Ossification of Posterior Longitudinal Ligament and Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy Using a Nationwide Inpatient Database
Authors: Morishita Shingo , Yoshii Toshitaka , Inose Hiroyuki , Hirai Takashi , Matsukura Yu , Ogawa Takahisa , Fushimi Kiyohide , Katayanagi Junya , Jinno Tetsuya , Okawa Atsushi
Published: June 2022

For ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) and cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), anterior decompression with fusion (ADF) can accurately achieve spinal decompression. However, the difference in perioperative complications in ADF between OPLL and CSM is poorly described. This study aimed to investigate the perioperative complication rates of patients with degenerative cervical myelopathy undergoing ADF, represented by OPLL and CSM, using a large national inpatient database. In the OPLL and CSM groups, postoperative complication (systemic and local) rates, reoperation rates, medical costs during hospitalization, and mortality after propensity score matching were compared. After matching, 1197 matched pairs were made. The incidence of total systemic complications was similar between both groups (OPLL, 12.4%; CSM, 12.2%). In the OPLL group, more perioperative local complications (cerebrospinal fluid leakage: CSFL, [OPLL, 2.7%; CSM, 0.3%] and surgical site infection: SSI [OPLL, 2.1%; CSM, 0.9%]) were detected, and the hospitalization cost was approximately $3200 higher than that in the CSM group. Moreover, medical costs were significantly higher in patients who experienced complications in both OPLL and CSM. The frequency of perioperative complications of OPLL and CSM in ADF was detailed using large real-world data. Compared to CSM, OPLL had more perioperative complications such as CSFL and SSI, and higher medical costs. Regardless of the disease, medical costs were significantly increased when perioperative complications occurred.
Andexanet Alfa for Reversal of Factor Xa Inhibitors in Intracranial Hemorrhage: Observational Cohort Study
Authors: Rauch Sebastian , Müller Hans-Peter , Dreyhaupt Jens , Ludolph Albert C. , Kassubek Jan , Althaus Katharina
Published: June 2022

Background: Intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) is associated with high mortality and morbidity, especially in patients under anticoagulative treatment. Andexanet alfa (AA) is a modified recombinant form of human factor Xa (FXa) developed for reversal of FXa-inhibitors, e.g., in the event of ICH, but experience is still limited. Methods: This monocentric retrospective observational cohort study included 46 patients with acute FXa-inhibitor-associated non-traumatic ICH (FXa-I-ICH) of whom 23 were treated with AA within 12 h after symptom onset, compared to 23 patients with usual care (UC). Volumetrically analyzed hematoma expansion (HE) in brain imaging, clinical outcome and incidence of adverse events were analyzed. Results: All patients (mean age 79.8 ± 7.2 years) were effectively anticoagulated. The cohort included severely ill patients with large hematoma volumes (median 20.4, IQR 7.8–39.0 mL). Efficacy, as assessed by HE in imaging, was very good in the AA-group. There was no (0.0%) relevant HE (>33%) in contrast to UC-group (26.1%). Nevertheless, we observed a high incidence of thromboembolic events (30.4% vs. 4.4%) and non-favorable outcomes (death/palliative condition) in 43.5% vs. 26.1%. Conclusions: There was no HE in the volumetric neuroimaging assessment in the AA-group, but clinical outcomes remained often worse. Large randomized trials for the use of AA in patients with acute FXa-inhibitor-associated ICH are needed to investigate the clinical outcome in consideration of the rates of thromboembolism.
Investigation of Specimen Size Effects on P-Quantile Diagrams and Normal Distributions of Critical Flaw Strengths in Fiber Tows
Authors: Lamon Jacques , R’Mili Mohamed
Published: June 2022

The present paper proposes a model of the specimen size effect on the critical flaw strength distribution in fiber tows for composite reinforcement. The model is based on the basic assumption of brittle fracture that the failure probability at a given strength increases with specimen size in the p-quantile vs. strength relation and on the normal distribution. Empirical results derived from force–strain curves determined on tows made of 1000 and 500 Nicalon SiC filaments and with various gauge lengths show some discrepancy with predictions using the model. The empirical p-quantile diagrams and cumulative distributions of critical flaw strengths exhibited excellent reproducibility at longer gauge lengths, which suggests the absence of a size effect above a critical tow size. The reproducibility of flaw strength distributions at gauge lengths above 60 mm and the higher strengths obtained at lower gauge lengths despite structural effects were related to the features of the critical flaw distribution in tows of parallel fibers.
A Wave-Targeted Essentially Non-Oscillatory 3D Shock-Capturing Scheme for Breaking Wave Simulation
Authors: Cannata Giovanni , Palleschi Federica , Iele Benedetta , Gallerano Francesco
Published: June 2022

A new three-dimensional high-order shock-capturing model for the numerical simulation of breaking waves is proposed. The proposed model is based on an integral contravariant form of the Navier–Stokes equations in a time-dependent generalized curvilinear coordinate system. Such an integral contravariant form of the equations of motion is numerically integrated by a new conservative numerical scheme that is based on three elements of originality: the time evolution of the state of the system is carried out using a predictor–corrector method in which exclusively the conserved variables are used; the point values of the conserved variables on the cell face of the computational grid are obtained using an original high-order reconstruction procedure called a wave-targeted essentially non-oscillatory scheme; the time evolution of the discontinuity on the cell faces is calculated using an exact Riemann solver. The proposed model is validated by numerically reproducing several experimental tests of breaking waves on computational grids that are significantly coarser than those used in the literature to validate the existing 3D shock-capturing models. The results obtained with the proposed model are also compared with those obtained with a previously published model, which is based on second-order total variation diminishing reconstructions and an approximate Riemann solver usually adopted in the existing 3D shock-capturing models. Through the above comparison, the main drawbacks of the existing 3D shock-capturing models and the ability of the proposed model to simulate breaking waves and wave-induced currents are shown. The proposed 3D model is able to correctly simulate the wave height increase in the shoaling zone and to effectively predict the location of the wave breaking point, the maximum wave height, and the wave height decay in the surf zone. The validated model is applied to the simulation of the interaction between breaking waves and an emerged breakwater. The numerical results show that the proposed model is able to simulate both the large-scale circulation patterns downstream of the barrier and the onset of quasi-periodic vortex structures close to the edge of the barrier.
Sexual Compatibility Types in F1 Progenies of Sclerospora graminicola, the Causal Agent of Pearl Millet Downy Mildew
Authors: Raj Chandramani , Sharma Rajan
Published: June 2022

Sclerospora graminicola is primarily heterothallic in nature with two distinct mating types (G1 and G2); however, homothallism does exist in the pathogen populations. In this study, a cross was made between two self-sterile isolates (Sg 019, Mat-2, G2 × Sg 445-1, Mat-1, G1) of S. graminicola and a total of 39 F1 progenies were established. The study on sexual compatibility types in F1 progenies was conducted by crossing each F1 progeny with both the parents (Sg 445-1, Mat-1, G1; and Sg 019, Mat-2, G2). The results revealed the presence of four sexual compatibility types, viz. G1, G2, G1G2 and G0 (neuter) in the progenies. The G1G2 progenies that produced oospores with both the parents were found as self-fertile (homothallic) and self-sterile (heterothallic) types. Similarly, self-fertile parental type G1 and G2 progenies were designated as secondary homothallic, whereas self-sterile parental type G1 and G2 progenies were of heterothallic type. The result of the present study revealed Mendelian segregation of mating type locus in S. graminicola which indicates that sexual reproduction plays an important role in the evolution of new genetic recombinants in the pathogen. The study also helps in understanding the genetic structure of S. graminicola populations and potential for possible evolution of new virulences in the pathogen.
Bambusicolous Fungi in Pleosporales: Introducing Four Novel Taxa and a New Habitat Record for Anastomitrabeculia didymospora
Authors: Phookamsak Rungtiwa , Jiang Hongbo , Suwannarach Nakarin , Lumyong Saisamorn , Xu Jianchu , Xu Sheng , Liao Chun-Fang , Chomnunti Putarak
Published: June 2022

While conducting a survey of bambusicolous fungi in northern Thailand and southwestern China, several saprobic fungi were collected from dead branches, culms and twigs of bamboos, which were preliminarily identified as species belonging to Pleosporales (Dothideomycetes) based on a morphological approach. Multigene phylogenetic analyses based on ITS, LSU, SSU, rpb2, tef1-α and tub2 demonstrated four novel taxa belonging to the families Parabambusicolaceae, Pyrenochaetopsidaceae and Tetraploasphaeriaceae. Hence, Paramultiseptospora bambusae sp. et gen. nov., Pyrenochaetopsis yunnanensis sp. nov. and Tetraploa bambusae sp. nov. are introduced. In addition, Anastomitrabeculia didymospora found on bamboo twigs in terrestrial habitats is reported for the first time. Detailed morphological descriptions and updated phylogenetic trees of each family are provided herein.
Potential Cancer Risk in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Longitudinal Korean Population-Based Analysis
Authors: Choi Hyo Geun , Kang Ho Suk , Lim Hyun , Kim Joo-Hee , Kim Ji Hee , Cho Seong-Jin , Nam Eun Sook , Min Kyueng-Whan , Park Ha Young , Kim Nan Young , Kwon Mi Jung
Published: June 2022

The potential link between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and cancer incidence needs to be validated due to inconsistent results between Asian and Western countries. We explored the long-term association of RA with the overall and organ-specific cancer incidence using nationwide population data. This longitudinal follow-up study (2002–2015) included 3070 patients with RA and 12,280 controls (1:4 propensity score-matched for sex, age, residence, and income) from the Korean National Health Insurance Service-Health Screening Cohort database. A Cox proportional hazard model estimated the hazard ratio for malignancy following adjusting for covariates. Despite the similar overall cancer incidence between RA and control groups, differences in the incidence of organ-specific cancers were noted: the RA group had a 1.63-fold greater likelihood for lung cancer (95% confidence interval 1.11–2.40). In the sex-stratified subgroup analyses, the male RA patients exhibited higher odds of lung and thyroid cancer but a lower probability for colorectal cancer; no such associations were detected in either female patients with RA or age subgroups. In summary, the higher likelihood for lung cancer in Korean RA patients, especially thyroid and lung cancer in male RA patients, seems to be characteristic, which needs to be carefully monitored.
Neurogenic Bladder Physiology, Pathogenesis, and Management after Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Perez Nathalie Elisabeth , Godbole Neha Pradyumna , Amin Katherine , Syan Raveen , Gater David R.
Published: June 2022

Urinary incontinence is common after spinal cord injury (SCI) due to loss of supraspinal coordination and unabated reflexes in both autonomic and somatic nervous systems; if unchecked, these disturbances can become life-threatening. This manuscript will review normal anatomy and physiology of the urinary system and discuss pathophysiology secondary to SCI. This includes a discussion of autonomic dysreflexia, as well as its diagnosis and management. The kidneys and the ureters, representing the upper urinary tract system, can be at risk related to dyssynergy between the urethral sphincters and high pressures that lead to potential vesicoureteral reflux, urinary tract infections, and calculi associated with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD). Recent guidelines for diagnosis, evaluation, treatment and follow up of the neurogenic bladder will be reviewed and options provided for risk stratification and management. Mechanical, pharmacological, neurolysis and surgical management will be discussed.
A Big Data-Based Commuting Carbon Emissions Accounting Method—A Case of Hangzhou
Authors: Li Song , Xue Fei , Xia Chuyu , Zhang Jian , Bian Ao , Lang Yuexi , Zhou Jun
Published: June 2022

Commuting carbon emissions are an essential component of urban carbon emissions, and determining how to reduce them is an area of great debate among researchers. The current research lacks a tool and instrument that can extensively account for residents’ commuting. Traditional methods are mainly based on questionnaire surveys, which have low accuracy at spatial and temporal aspects. High accuracy carbon emission accounting methods can effectively assist urban planning and achieve precise urban emissions reductions. This study applies a taxi commuting carbon emissions accounting method divided into two main steps. Firstly, the carbon emissions of taxi trajectories are calculated using taxi trajectory data and a carbon emission calculation method developed based on VSP. Secondly, the taxi trajectory and POI data are used to filter the commuter trajectory with the help of a two-step moving search method. In this way, the taxi commuting carbon emissions were obtained. Then, the spatial distribution characteristics of residential taxi commuting carbon emissions are analysed by spatial autocorrelation tools, which could facilitate low carbon zoning management. A typical working day in Hangzhou was selected as the research object of this study. The results show that (1) morning peak commuting carbon emissions in the main urban area of Hangzhou reached 2065.14 kg per hour, accounting for 13.73% of all taxi travel carbon emissions; and evening peak commuting carbon emissions reached 732.2 kg per hour, accounting for 4% of all taxi travel carbon emissions; (2) At the grid level, the spatial distribution of commuting carbon emissions in Hangzhou shows a single central peak that decays in all directions; and (3) The results at the resident community scale show that urban public transport facilities influence resident community commuting carbon emissions. In areas such as at the urban-rural border, resident community commuting carbon emissions show high levels of aggregation, and in the main urban area, resident community commuting carbon emissions show low levels of aggregation. This study not only provides a new method of commuting investigation but also offers constructive suggestions for future carbon emission reduction under Hangzhou’s urban planning.
Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation-Based Physical Therapy on the Improvement of Balance and Gait in Patients with Chronic Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Nguyen Phan The , Chou Li-Wei , Hsieh Yueh-Ling
Published: June 2022

The present study aims to determine the potential benefits of PNF on balance and gait function in patients with chronic stroke by using a systematic review and meta-analysis. Systematic review in the following databases: MEDLINE/PubMed, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), Cochrane Library and Google Scholar. Studies up to September 2020 are included. A systematic database search was conducted for randomized control trials (RCTs) that investigated the effects of PNF intervention in patients with chronic stroke using balance and gait parameters as outcome measures. The primary outcomes of interest were Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Functional Reach Test (FRT), Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) and 10-Meter Walking Test (10MWT). Nineteen studies with 532 participants were included, of which twelve studies with 327 participants were included for meta-analysis. When the data were pooled, PNF made statistically significant improvements in balance with BBS, FRT and TUG (p < 0.05) or gait velocity with 10MWT (p < 0.001) when compared to the control. This review indicates that PNF is a potential treatment strategy in chronic stroke rehabilitation on balance and gait speed. Further high-quality research is required for concluding a consensus of intervention and research on PNF.
A Direct Method for the Efficient Synthesis of Hydroxyalkyl-Containing Azoxybenzenes
Authors: Spesivaya Ekaterina S. , Lupanova Ida A. , Konshina Dzhamilya N. , Konshin Valery V.
Published: June 2022

Reaction of nitrobenzyl alcohol with glucose (200 mol%) in the presence of NaOH in water-ethanol medium gave 1,2-bis(4-(hydroxymethyl)phenyl)diazene oxide, 1,2-bis(2-(hydroxymethyl)phenyl)diazene oxide and 1,2-bis(4-(1-hydroxyethyl)phenyl)diazene oxide in 76%, 76% and 72% yields, respectively.
Integrated Smart Warehouse and Manufacturing Management with Demand Forecasting in Small-Scale Cyclical Industries
Authors: Tang Yuk-Ming , Ho George To Sum , Lau Yui-Yip , Tsui Shuk-Ying
Published: June 2022

In the context of the global economic slowdown, demand forecasting, and inventory and production management have long been important topics to the industries. With the support of smart warehouses, big data analytics, and optimization algorithms, enterprises can achieve economies of scale, and balance supply and demand. Smart warehouse and manufacturing management is considered the culmination of recently advanced technologies. It is important to enhance the scalability and extendibility of the industry. Despite many researchers having developed frameworks for smart warehouse and manufacturing management for various fields, most of these models are mainly focused on the logistics of the product and are not generalized to tackle the specific manufacturing problem facing in the cyclical industry. Indeed, the cyclical industry has a key problem: the big risk which high sensitivity poses to the business cycle and economic recession, which is difficult to foresee. Despite many inventory optimization approaches being proposed to optimize the inventory level in the warehouse and facilitate production management, the demand forecasting technique is seldom focused on the cyclic industry. On the other hand, management approaches are usually based on the complex logistics process instead of integrating the inventory level of the stock, which is very crucial to composing smart warehouses and manufacturing. This research study proposed a digital twin framework by integrating the smart warehouse and manufacturing with the roulette genetic algorithm for demand forecasting in the cyclical industry. We also demonstrate how this algorithm is practically implemented for forecasting the demand, sustaining manufacturing optimization, and achieving inventory optimization. We adopted a small-scale textile company case study to demonstrate the proposed digital framework in the warehouse and demonstrate the results of demand forecasting and inventory optimization. Various scenarios were conducted to simulate the results for the digital twin. The proposed digital twin framework and results help manufacturers and logistics companies to improve inventory management. This study has important theoretical and practical significance for the management of the cyclical industry.
Dynamic Characteristic Analysis of the Multi-Stage Centrifugal Pump Rotor System with Uncertain Sliding Bearing Structural Parameters
Authors: Lin Lijun , He Mingge , Ma Wensheng , Wang Qingyuan , Zhai Haiyan , Deng Congying
Published: June 2022

The traditional dynamic characteristic analysis of the multi-stage centrifugal pump rotor system is developed assuming the bearing structural parameters with constant values. However, the manufacturing errors will cause the structural parameters to vary around their nominal values and then affect the dynamic characteristics of the bearing-rotor system. Thus, this paper proposes a method for analyzing the dynamic characteristics of the bearing-rotor system with uncertain bearing structural parameters. First, dynamic characteristic coefficients of the sliding bearing are identified to establish the dynamic model of the rotor system, and its dynamic characteristics are analyzed through finite element simulations. Next, the sliding bearing structural parameters are taken as the variables to establish an optimization model, which is solved by the improved particle swarming optimization algorithm to obtain the extreme critical speed of the rotor system. A case study was carried out on a multi-stage centrifugal pump. The obtained extreme values of the critical speeds were close to those calculated using the multiple samples generated by the Monte Carlo method, indicating that the proposed method can provide accurate variation ranges of critical speeds efficiently and lay a theoretical basis for selecting robust operational speeds and designing the rotor system of the multi-stage centrifugal pump.
Proximate Model of Gear Drive Units Based on Dimensional Analysis for Wear Process Evaluation
Authors: Wang Wenhua , Yuan Wei , Zhu Yuqi , Guo Qianjian , Chi Baotao , Wang Haixiao , Yang Xianhai
Published: June 2022

Excessive wear of gears will not only cause noise and vibration in the transmission system, but also reduce transmission efficiency and accuracy in severe cases, causing irreversible losses to the transmission system. It is desirable to develop a micro-gear unit model for evaluating the wear process and predicting the failure time of large gear units (such as wind turbine gear units), reducing losses due to sudden failures. Based on the Buckingham pi-theorem of dimensional analysis and Hertz formula, the similarity ratio of each parameter of the gear wear process was proposed. The maximum equivalent stress is calculated by establishing the FEM model and comparing it with the theoretical contact stress calculated by the Hertz formula, and the results were relatively consistent. Two pairs of gear friction and wear experiments with similar parameters were carried out to compare the wear evolution performance of two similar gears. The friction performance process of the test gears was observed by particle counter and analytical ferrograph. The results show that the friction and wear processes of the two groups of gears with similar parameters have a certain correlation, which was consistent with the proposed similarity model. The similarity model combined with the observation results of abrasive particles has a certain application value for the evaluation of the wear state of the transmission system.
Modeling Awareness as the Crux in Solar Energy Adoption Intention through Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology
Authors: Aravindan Kalisri Logeswaran , Thurasamy Ramayah , Raman Murali , Ilhavenil Narinasamy , Annamalah Sanmugam , Rathidevi Arul Selvam
Published: June 2022

Non-renewable energy depletion has prompted stakeholders to advocate alternatives, such as solar energy to pursue sustainability. However, the acquisition rate of solar service is unconvincing despite various initiatives; thus, we are seeking for a more focused remedy. This study is therefore motivated to investigate elements influencing the intention to adopt solar energy, underpinned by a unified theory of acceptance and use of technology. A self-administered questionnaire through a purposive sampling method was employed, targeting working adults who own a home or intend to purchase one in the future. Homeowners residing in condominiums, apartments, or any shared building or property were excluded. Partial least squares structural equation modelling was used for data analyses. Findings reveal that awareness positively influences performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and facilitating condition. Additionally, performance expectancy and facilitating conditions foster an intention to adopt solar energy. This research contributes pivotal insights into solar energy purveyors to invoke awareness amongst Malaysia’s society while reiterating performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and facilitating conditions towards solar energy adoption.
Markovian Demands on Two Commodity Inventory System with Queue-Dependent Services and an Optional Retrial Facility
Authors: Jeganathan K. , Reiyas M. Abdul , Selvakumar S. , Anbazhagan N. , Amutha S. , Joshi Gyanendra Prasad , Jeon Duckjoong , Seo Changho
Published: June 2022

The use of a Markovian inventory system is a critical part of inventory management. The purpose of this study is to examine the demand for two commodities in a Markovian inventory system, one of which is designated as a major item (Commodity-I) and the other as a complimentary item (Commodity-II). Demand arrives according to a Poisson process, and service time is exponential at a queue-dependent rate. We investigate a strategy of (s,Q) type control for commodity-I with a random lead time but instantaneous replenishment for commodity-II. If the waiting hall reaches its maximum capacity of N, any arriving primary client may enter an infinite capacity orbit with a specified ratio. For orbiting consumers, the classical retrial policy is used. In a steady-state setting, the joint probability distributions for commodities and the number of demands in the queue and the orbit, are derived. From this, we derive a waiting time analysis and a variety of system performance metrics in the steady-state. Additionally, the physical properties of various performance measures are evaluated using various numerical assumptions associated with diverse stochastic behaviours.
Seven Small Simple Groups Not Previously Known to Be Galois Over Q
Authors: Dieulefait Luis , Florit Enric , Vila Núria
Published: June 2022

In this note we realize seven small simple groups as Galois groups over Q. The technique that we employ is the determination of the images of Galois representations attached to modular and automorphic forms, relying in two cases on recent results of Scholze on the existence of Galois representations attached to non-selfdual automorphic forms.
Asymptotic Hyperstability and Input–Output Energy Positivity of a Single-Input Single-Output System Which Incorporates a Memoryless Non-Linear Device in the Feed-Forward Loop
Authors: De la Sen Manuel
Published: June 2022

This paper visualizes the role of hyperstable controllers in the closed-loop asymptotic stability of a single-input single-output system subject to any nonlinear and eventually time-varying controller within the hyperstable class. The feed-forward controlled loop (or controlled plant) contains a strongly strictly positive real transfer function in parallel with a non-linear and memory-free device. The properties of positivity and boundedness of the input–output energy are examined based on the “ad hoc” use of the Rayleigh energy theorem on the truncated relevant signals for finite time intervals. The cases of minimal and non-minimal state-space realizations of the linear part are characterized from a global asymptotic stability (asymptotic hyperstability) point of view. Some related extended results are obtained for the case when the linear part is both positive real and externally positive and for the case of incorporation of other linear components which are stable but not necessarily positive real.
Continuing Shifts in Epidemiology and Antifungal Susceptibility Highlight the Need for Improved Disease Management of Invasive Candidiasis
Authors: Parslow Ben Y. , Thornton Christopher R.
Published: June 2022

Invasive candidiasis (IC) is a systemic life-threatening infection of immunocompromised humans, but remains a relatively neglected disease among public health authorities. Ongoing assessments of disease epidemiology are needed to identify and map trends of importance that may necessitate improvements in disease management and patient care. Well-established incidence increases, largely due to expanding populations of patients with pre-disposing risk factors, has led to increased clinical use and pressures on antifungal drugs. This has been exacerbated by a lack of fast, accurate diagnostics that have led treatment guidelines to often recommend preventative strategies in the absence of proven infection, resulting in unnecessary antifungal use in many instances. The consequences of this are multifactorial, but a contribution to emerging drug resistance is of primary concern, with high levels of antifungal use heavily implicated in global shifts to more resistant Candida strains. Preserving and expanding the utility and number of antifungals should therefore be of the highest priority. This may be achievable through the development and use of biomarker tests, bringing about a new era in improved antifungal stewardship, as well as novel antifungals that offer favorable profiles by targeting Candida pathogenesis mechanisms over cell viability.
Emerging Management Approach for the Adverse Events of Immunotherapy of Cancer
Authors: Rahman Md. Mominur , Behl Tapan , Islam Md. Rezaul , Alam Md. Noor , Islam Md. Mohaimenul , Albarrati Ali , Albratty Mohammed , Meraya Abdulkarim M. , Bungau Simona Gabriela
Published: June 2022

Immunotherapy, which stimulates the body’s immune system, has received a considerable amount of press in recent years because of its powerful benefits. Cancer immunotherapy has shown long-term results in patients with advanced disease that are not seen with traditional chemotherapy. Immune checkpoint inhibitors, cytokines like interleukin 2 (IL-2) and interferon-alpha (IFN), and the cancer vaccine sipuleucel-T have all been licensed and approved by the FDA for the treatment of various cancers. These immunotherapy treatments boost anticancer responses by stimulating the immune system. As a result, they have the potential to cause serious, even fatal, inflammatory and immune-related side effects in one or more organs. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICPIs) and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy are two immunotherapy treatments that are increasingly being used to treat cancer. Following their widespread usage in the clinic, a wave of immune-related adverse events (irAEs) impacting virtually every system has raised concerns about their unpredictability and randomness. Despite the fact that the majority of adverse effects are minimal and should be addressed with prudence, the risk of life-threatening complications exists. Although most adverse events are small and should be treated with caution, the risk of life-threatening toxicities should not be underestimated, especially given the subtle and unusual indications that make early detection even more difficult. Treatment for these issues is difficult and necessitates a multidisciplinary approach involving not only oncologists but also other internal medicine doctors to guarantee quick diagnosis and treatment. This study’s purpose is to give a fundamental overview of immunotherapy and cancer-related side effect management strategies.
Charge Transfer in Patterned Bilayer Film of Ag/ZnS Composite by Magnetron Control Sputtering
Authors: Zhang Yongjun , Zhou Hailong , Liang Lijun
Published: June 2022

Ordered heterojunction nanocap arrays composed of the bilayer film Ag/ZnS were prepared onto ordered two-dimensional polystyrene bead arrays by magnetron control sputtering, and the surface morphologies were tuned by changing the ZnS thickness. When the ZnS thickness varied from 10 to 30 nm with a Ag thickness of 5 nm, the roughness of the bilayer film Ag/ZnS increased obviously. The UV–VIS spectra showed the shifted LSPR peaks with ZnS thickness, which was attributed to the changes of the electron density as confirmed by Hall effect analysis. SERS observations confirmed the charge transfer process for the varied electromagnetic couplings when the ZnS thickness changed.
TiO2 as an Anode of High-Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries: A Comprehensive Review towards Practical Application
Authors: Paul Sourav , Rahman Md. Arafat , Sharif Sazzad Bin , Kim Jin-Hyuk , Siddiqui Safina-E-Tahura , Hossain Md. Abu Mowazzem
Published: June 2022

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are undeniably the most promising system for storing electric energy for both portable and stationary devices. A wide range of materials for anodes is being investigated to mitigate the issues with conventional graphite anodes. Among them, TiO2 has attracted extensive focus as an anode candidate due to its green technology, low volume fluctuations (<4%), safety, and durability. In this review, the fabrication of different TiO2 nanostructures along with their electrochemical performance are presented. Different nanostructured TiO2 materials including 0D, 1D, 2D, and 3D are thoroughly discussed as well. More precisely, the breakthroughs and recent developments in different anodic oxidation processes have been explored to identify in detail the effects of anodization parameters on nanostructure morphology. Clear guidelines on the interconnected nature of electrochemical behaviors, nanostructure morphology, and tunable anodic constraints are provided in this review.
Sustained Consumption of a Decaffeinated Green Coffee Nutraceutical Has Limited Effects on Phenolic Metabolism and Bioavailability in Overweight/Obese Subjects
Authors: Seguido Miguel Ángel , Tarradas Rosa Maria , González-Rámila Susana , García-Cordero Joaquín , Sarriá Beatriz , Bravo-Clemente Laura , Mateos Raquel
Published: June 2022

Knowledge on the bioavailability of coffee (poly)phenols mostly come from single dose postprandial studies. This study aimed at investigating the effects of regularly consuming a green coffee phenolic extract (GCPE) on the bioavailability and metabolism of (poly)phenols. Volunteers with overweight/obesity consumed a decaffeinated GCPE nutraceutical containing 300 mg hydroxycinnamates twice daily for two months. Plasma and urinary pharmacokinetics, and fecal excretion of phenolic metabolites were characterized by LC-MS-QToF at weeks 0 and 8. Fifty-four metabolites were identified in biological fluids. Regular consumption of the nutraceutical produced certain changes: reduced forms of caffeic, ferulic and coumaric acids in urine or 3-(3′-hydroxypenyl)propanoic, and 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acids in feces significantly increased (p < 0.05) after 8 weeks; in contrast, coumaroylquinic and dihydrocoumaroylquinic acids in urine decreased (p < 0.05) compared to baseline excretion. The sum of intestinal and colonic metabolites increased after sustained consumption of GCPE, without reaching statistical significance, suggesting a small overall effect on (poly)phenols’ bioavailability.
Calcifediol for Use in Treatment of Respiratory Disease
Authors: Entrenas-Castillo Marta , Salinero-González Lourdes , Entrenas-Costa Luis M. , Andújar-Espinosa Rubén
Published: June 2022

Calcifediol is the prohormone of the vitamin D endocrine system (VDES). It requires hydroxylation to move to 1,25(OH)2D3 or calcitriol, the active form that exerts its functions by activating the vitamin D receptor (VDR) that is expressed in many organs, including the lungs. Due to its rapid oral absorption and because it does not require first hepatic hydroxylation, it is a good option to replace the prevalent deficiency of vitamin D (25 hydroxyvitamin D; 25OHD), to which patients with respiratory pathologies are no strangers. Correcting 25OHD deficiency can decrease the risk of upper respiratory infections and thus improve asthma and COPD control. The same happens with other respiratory pathologies and, in particular, COVID-19. Calcifediol may be a good option for raising 25OHD serum levels quickly because the profile of inflammatory cytokines exhibited by patients with inflammatory respiratory diseases, such as asthma, COPD or COVID-19, can increase the degradation of the active metabolites of the VDES. The aim of this narrative revision is to report the current evidence on the role of calcifediol in main respiratory diseases. In conclusion, good 25OHD status may have beneficial effects on the clinical course of respiratory diseases, including COVID-19. This hypothesis should be confirmed in large, randomized trials. Otherwise, a rapid correction of 25(OH)D deficiency can be useful for patients with respiratory disease.
Metabolic Studies in Organoids: Current Applications, Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Richiardone Elena , Van den Bossche Valentin , Corbet Cyril
Published: June 2022

Organoid technologies represent a major breakthrough in biomedical research since they offer increasingly sophisticated models for studying biological mechanisms supporting human development and disease. Organoids are three-dimensional (3D) physiological in vitro systems that recapitulate the genetic, histological and functional features of the in vivo tissues of origin more accurately than classical cell culture methods. In the last decade, organoids have been derived from various healthy and diseased tissues and used for a wide range of applications in basic and translational research, including (cancer) tissue biology, development, regeneration, disease modeling, precision medicine, gene editing, biobanking and drug screening. Here, we report the current applications of organoid models to study (stem) cell metabolism in several pathophysiological contexts such as cancer and metabolic diseases. More precisely, we discuss the relevance and limitations of these 3D cultures to model and study metabolic (dys)functions associated with hepatic, renal or pancreatic disorders, as well as tumor development and progression. We also describe the use of organoids to understand the dynamic interaction between diet, microbiota and the intestinal epithelium. Finally, this review explores recent methodological improvements in organoid culture that may help to better integrate the influence of microenvironmental conditions in the study of tumor cell metabolic phenotypes.
Placing Leishmaniasis in the Limelight through the Communicable Disease Surveillance System: An Experience from Sri Lanka
Authors: Gunasekara Sonali Dinushika , Nuwangi Hasara , Wickramasinghe Nuwan Darshana , Weerakoon Kosala , Price Helen P. , Dikomitis Lisa , Agampodi Suneth Buddhika
Published: June 2022

Having an effective surveillance system is imperative to take timely and appropriate actions for disease control and prevention. In Sri Lanka, leishmaniasis was declared as a notifiable disease in 2008. This paper presents a comprehensive compilation of the up-to-date documents on the communicable disease and leishmaniasis surveillance in Sri Lanka in order to describe the importance of the existing leishmaniasis surveillance system and to identify gaps that need to be addressed. The documents perused included circulars, reports, manuals, guidelines, ordinances, presentations, and published articles. The disease trends reported were linked to important landmarks in leishmaniasis surveillance. The findings suggest that there is a well-established surveillance system in Sri Lanka having a massive impact on increased case detection, resulting in im-proved attention on leishmaniasis. However, the system is not without its short comings and there is room for further improvements.
Rational Design by Structural Biology of Industrializable, Long-Acting Antihyperglycemic GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
Authors: Sun Lei , Zheng Zhi-Ming , Shao Chang-Sheng , Zhang Zhi-Yong , Li Ming-Wei , Wang Li , Wang Han , Zhao Gen-Hai , Wang Peng
Published: June 2022

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is easily degraded by dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) in the human body, limiting its therapeutic effect on type II diabetes. Therefore, improving GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) stability is a major obstacle for drug development. We analyzed human GLP-1, DPP-4, and GLP-1 receptor structures and designed three GLP-1RAs, which were introduced into fusion protein fragments and changed in the overall conformation. This modification effectively prevented GLP-1RAs from entering the DPP-4 active center without affecting GLP-1RAs’ ability to bind to GLP-1R, the new GLP-1RA hypoglycemic effect lasting for >24 h. Through molecular modeling, molecular dynamics calculation, and simulation, possible tertiary structure models of GLP-1RAs were obtained; molecular docking with DPP-4 and GLP-1R showed access to the fusion protein. The overall conformational change of GLP-1RAs prevented DPP-4 binding, without affecting GLP-1RAs’ affinity to GLP-1R. This study provides important drug design ideas for GLP-1RA development and a new example for application of structural biology-based protein design in drug development.
Morpho-Agronomic Evaluation of Lagenaria siceraria Landraces and Their F1 Populations
Authors: Nkosi Lungani Siyabonga , Ntuli Nontuthuko Rosemary , Mavengahama Sydney
Published: June 2022

Lagenaria siceraria is one of the most important cucurbitaceous vegetables due to its prolific bearing habit, its edibility as a cooked vegetable, and its low cost of cultivation. The objective of this study was to evaluate variation in the morpho-agronomic traits among selected landraces and their F1 populations. The landraces were crossed based on the North Carolina II genetic design to develop F1 populations. The twelve F1 populations along with seven parental landraces were grown in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed among quantitative traits suggesting considerable genetic variability. The genotypes displayed significant variation in most qualitative traits of fruits and seeds. The first five principal components of quantitative traits among the evaluated 19 genotypes contributed 74.84% of the variability. The biplot and dendrogram clustered the genotypes into five clusters according to their vegetative, fruit, and seed traits. The highest value for the broad-sense heritability estimate was recorded for days to edible harvest maturity trait. The F1 progenies were more variable than the landraces and can therefore be used for further Lagenaria siceraria genetic improvement.
Impact of Ferrous Sulfate on Thylakoidal Multiprotein Complexes, Metabolism and Defence of Brassica juncea L. under Arsenic Stress
Authors: Ali Arlene Asthana , Ahmad Javed , Baig Mohammad Affan , Ahmad Altaf , A. Al-Huqail Asma , Qureshi Mohammad Irfan
Published: June 2022

Forty-day-old Brassica juncea (var. Pusa Jai Kisan) plants were exposed to arsenic (As, 250 µM Na2HAsO4·7H2O) stress. The ameliorative role of ferrous sulfate (2 mM, FeSO4·7H2O, herein FeSO4) was evaluated at 7 days after treatment (7 DAT) and 14 DAT. Whereas, As induced high magnitude oxidative stress, FeSO4 limited it. In general, As decreased the growth and photosynthetic parameters less when in the presence of FeSO4. Furthermore, components of the antioxidant system operated in better coordination with FeSO4. Contents of non-protein thiols and phytochelatins were higher with the supply of FeSO4. Blue-Native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed an As-induced decrease in almost every multi-protein-pigment complex (MPC), and an increase in PSII subcomplex, LHCII monomers and free proteins. FeSO4 supplication helped in the retention of a better stoichiometry of light-harvesting complexes and stabilized every MPC, including supra-molecular complexes, PSI/PSII core dimer/ATP Synthase, Cytochrome b6/f dimer and LHCII dimer. FeSO4 strengthened the plant defence, perhaps by channelizing iron (Fe) and sulfur (S) to biosynthetic and anabolic pathways. Such metabolism could improve levels of antioxidant enzymes, and the contents of glutathione, and phytochelatins. Important key support might be extended to the chloroplast through better supply of Fe-S clusters. Therefore, our results suggest the importance of both iron and sulfur to combat As-induced stress in the Indian mustard plant at biochemical and molecular levels through enhanced antioxidant potential and proteomic adjustments in the photosynthetic apparatus.