bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of unfolding methods using RooFitUnfold
Authors: Brenner Lydia , Balasubramanian Rahul , Burgard Carsten , Verkerke Wouter , Cowan Glen , Verschuuren Pim , Croft Vincent
Published: September 2020

In this paper we describe RooFitUnfold, an extension of the RooFit statistical software package to treat unfolding problems, and which includes most of the unfolding methods that commonly used in particle physics. The package provides a common interface to these algorithms as well as common uniform methods to evaluate their performance in terms of bias, variance and coverage. In this paper we exploit this common interface of RooFitUnfold to compare the performance of unfolding with the Richardson–Lucy, Iterative Dynamically Stabilized, Tikhonov, Gaussian Process, bin-by-bin and inversion methods on several example problems.
Multicritical points of unitary matrix model with logarithmic potential identified with Argyres–Douglas points
Authors: Itoyama H. , Oota T. , Yano Katsuya
Published: September 2020

In our recent publications, the partition function of the Gross–Witten–Wadia unitary matrix model with the logarithmic term has been identified with the [Formula: see text] function of a certain Painlevé system, and the double scaling limit of the associated discrete Painlevé equation to the critical point provides us with the Painlevé II equation. This limit captures the critical behavior of the [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] supersymmetric gauge theory around its Argyres–Douglas 4D superconformal point. Here, we consider further extension of the model that contains the [Formula: see text]th multicritical point and that is to be identified with [Formula: see text] theory. In the [Formula: see text] case, we derive a system of two ODEs for the scaling functions to the free energy, the time variable being the scaled total mass and make a consistency check on the spectral curve on this matrix model.
A composite aperiodicity elastic vibration isolator containing local resonator
Authors: Lei Xiaofei , Wu Nan , Chen Peng , Hou Heping , Liu Shanhui , Hao Zhengwei , Liu Peng
Published: September 2020

The transmission of vibration waves in specific frequency bands can be suppressed by the local resonance and the multi-layer transmission structure. A composite non-periodic isolator containing a local resonance structure is proposed in this paper. The transmission performance of vibration waves is studied using the modal displacement, and the main vibration control frequency band is picked up for vibration wave transmission. Meanwhile, the total power distribution, frequency quality loss factor and total power loss density are calculated in main frequency band. Further, the energy transmission and loss performance of vibration waves are studied in the composite non-periodic isolator. The transmission ratio of the vibration wave is also discussed, the evolution of the vibration transmission ratio is compared in each metal frame of the composite non-periodic isolator, and the vibration isolation performance is evaluated. Research shows that the vibration isolation energy can be effectively increased and the vibration isolation performance can be effectively improved in the proposed composite non-periodic isolator.
COMPARISON OF FLY ASH, PVA FIBER, MGO AND SHRINKAGE-REDUCING ADMIXTURE ON THE FROST RESISTANCE OF FACE SLAB CONCRETE VIA PORE STRUCTURAL AND FRACTAL ANALYSIS
Authors: WANG LEI , GUO FANXING , YANG HUAMEI , WANG YAN , TANG SHENGWEN
Published: September 2020

Face slab concrete suffers from serious frost damage in the cold regions in China. How to improve the frost resistance of face slab concrete in cold regions is one of the important issues in concrete-faced rockfill dam (CFRD) design and construction. The results in this paper indicate that the frost resistance of concrete can be improved by adding fly ash, fiber, MgO and shrinkage-reducing admixtures (SRAs), and their efficiencies are in the following sequence: (fly ash [Formula: see text] fiber) [Formula: see text] fiber [Formula: see text] fly ash [Formula: see text] MgO [Formula: see text] SRA. The incorporation of 0.8[Formula: see text]kg/m3 polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fiber and 20[Formula: see text]wt.% fly ash together enhances the compressive strength and tensile capacity of concrete by 6–7% at the late age, whereas the addition of 6[Formula: see text]wt.% MgO or 1[Formula: see text]wt.% SRA reduces the compressive strength and tensile capacity by about 4–10% at various ages. The [Formula: see text] of concrete added with fly ash, fiber, MgO and SRA is within the range of 2.619–2.796. The frost resistance of concrete correlates linearly with the air void parameters, pore structures and [Formula: see text]. The utilization of fly ash and/or PVA fiber refines and optimizes the pore structure, thus increasing [Formula: see text] and improving the frost resistance. On the contrary, MgO and SRA in this study are less effective in refining the pores than PVA fiber and fly ash, thereby producing smaller [Formula: see text] and relatively weaker frost resistance.
PORE STRUCTURAL AND FRACTAL ANALYSIS OF THE INFLUENCE OF FLY ASH AND SILICA FUME ON THE MECHANICAL PROPERTY AND ABRASION RESISTANCE OF CONCRETE
Authors: WANG LEI , JIN MINMIN , GUO FANXING , WANG YAN , TANG SHENGWEN
Published: September 2020

Dam concrete suffers from serious abrasion damages in southwestern China, the abrasion resistance of concrete is therefore one of the most important factors determining the reliability even the safety of the dams. In the present work, the effects of fly and/or silica fume on the mechanical properties, drying shrinkage, as well the cracking and abrasion resistance of concrete were investigated, then the pore structures of concrete added with fly ash and silica fume and the pore surface fractal dimensions ([Formula: see text]) were determined by the mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) method and a fractal model, respectively. Finally, the relationships between the abrasion resistance of concrete and the porosity as well as the [Formula: see text] were revealed and discussed. The results indicate that silica fume significantly increases the drying shrinkage especially at early age, while the incorporation of fly ash and silica fume together can decrease the early plastic shrinkage-induced cracking risk and the final shrinkage to some degrees. Besides, the utilization of 5[Formula: see text]wt.% silica fume and 20[Formula: see text]wt.% fly ash together increases the abrasion resistance and mechanical property by about 4–9% at various ages. In addition, the compressive strength and the abrasion resistance of concrete are linearly correlated with the concrete porosity and the [Formula: see text]. Both the fly ash and silica fume could decrease the porosity of concrete and increase the [Formula: see text], therefore the concrete containing fly ash and silica fume have desired mechanical property and abrasion resistance. Moreover, [Formula: see text] has a more profound effect on the abrasion resistance of concrete than the concrete porosity. The addition of 5[Formula: see text]wt.% silica fume and 20[Formula: see text]wt.% fly ash together is suitable for the concretes used for wearing surfaces in terms of mechanical property, cracking and abrasion resistance.
Effect of porphyrin metal center on synthesis, structure, morphology and oxygen reduction properties of porphyrin encapsulated metal organic frameworks
Authors: Fang Yuanyuan , Huang Laihai , Liu Ningchao , Zhu Guoliang , Rong Jian , Xue Zhaoli , Ou Zhongping , Qiu Fengxian
Published: September 2020

A series of different metal centered 5,15-Bis(4-aminophenyl)-10,20-bis(4-bromophenyl)porphyrins (PorM) where M = H2, MnOAc, FeCl, Co or Zn were synthesized, and then encapsulated in zeolite imidazole framework-8 (ZIF-8) by typical template directed strategy to generate PorM@ZIF-8 metal organic frameworks (MOFs). These composites were characterized by UV-vis, FTIR, XRD, FESEM and HRTEM methods. Each prepared PorM@ZIF-8 MOF retained the molecular structure of porphyrin and crystal structure of ZIF-8. It is clearly shown that porphyrin centered metal ions will affect MOFs morphology. Both PorH2@ZIF-8 and PorZn@ZIF-8 gave a rhombic dodecahedron, PorMnOAc@ZIF-8 gave a truncated hexagonal prism-like structure, while no specific structures were obtained for PorFeCl@ZIF-8 and PorCo@ZIF-8 due to aggregation as characterized by FESEM spectrum. Oxygen reduction catalytic ability of ZIF-8, PorM and PorM@ZIF-8 were measured in alkaline condition (0.1 M KOH) with the number of electrons transferred being [Formula: see text] = 2.20–2.60 and generating HO[Formula: see text] as the oxygen reduction product. The catalytic property slightly increased after the porphyrin was encapsulated, due possibly to the capacity limit, inappropriate molecular distance or the direction of encapsulated porphyrin molecular.
The Structure of Ecological Networks Across Levels of Organization
Authors: Guimarães Paulo R.
Published: September 2020

Interactions connect the units of ecological systems, forming networks. Individual-based networks characterize variation in niches among individuals within populations. These individual-based networks merge with each other, forming species-based networks and food webs that describe the architecture of ecological communities. Networks at broader spatiotemporal scales portray the structure of ecological interactions across landscapes and over macroevolutionary time. Here, I review the patterns observed in ecological networks across multiple levels of biological organization. A fundamental challenge is to understand the amount of interdependence as we move from individual-based networks to species-based networks and beyond. Despite the uneven distribution of studies, regularities in network structure emerge across scales due to the fundamental architectural patterns shared by complex networks and the interplay between traits and numerical effects. I illustrate the integration of these organizational scales by exploring the consequences of the emergence of highly connected species for network structures across scales.
Survive a Warming Climate: Insect Responses to Extreme High Temperatures
Authors: Ma Chun-Sen , Ma Gang , Pincebourde Sylvain
Published: September 2020

Global change includes a substantial increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme high temperatures (EHTs), which influence insects at almost all levels. The number of studies showing the ecological importance of EHTs has risen in recent years, but the knowledge is rather dispersed in the contemporary literature. In this article, we review the biological and ecological effects of EHTs actually experienced in the field, i.e., when coupled to fluctuating thermal regimes. First, we characterize EHTs in the field. Then, we summarize the impacts of EHTs on insects at various levels and the processes allowing insects to buffer EHTs. Finally, we argue that the mechanisms leading to positive or negative impacts of EHTs on insects can only be resolved from integrative approaches considering natural thermal regimes. Thermal extremes, perhaps more than the gradual increase in mean temperature, drive insect responses to climate change, with crucial impacts on pest management and biodiversity conservation.
Advances Toward a Net-Zero Global Building Sector
Authors: Ürge-Vorsatz Diana , Khosla Radhika , Bernhardt Rob , Chan Yi Chieh , Vérez David , Hu Shan , Cabeza Luisa F.
Published: September 2020

The building sector is responsible for 39% of process-related greenhouse gas emissions globally, making net- or nearly-zero energy buildings pivotal for reaching climate neutrality. This article reviews recent advances in key options and strategies for converting the building sector to be climate neutral. The evidence from the literature shows it is possible to achieve net- or nearly-zero energy building outcomes across the world in most building types and climates with systems, technologies, and skills that already exist, and at costs that are in the range of conventional buildings. Maximizing energy efficiency for all building energy uses is found as central to net-zero targets. Jurisdictions all over the world, including Brussels, New York, Vancouver, and Tyrol, have innovated visionary policies to catalyze themarket success of such buildings, with more than 7 million square meters of nearly-zero energy buildings erected in China alone in the past few years. Since embodied carbon in building materials can consume up to a half of the remaining 1.5°C carbon budget, this article reviews recent advances to minimize embodied energy and store carbon in building materials.
Conserved Upstream Open Reading Frame Nascent Peptides That Control Translation
Authors: Dever Thomas E. , Ivanov Ivaylo P. , Sachs Matthew S.
Published: September 2020

Cells utilize transcriptional and posttranscriptional mechanisms to alter gene expression in response to environmental cues. Gene-specific controls, including changing the translation of specific messenger RNAs (mRNAs), provide a rapid means to respond precisely to different conditions. Upstream open reading frames (uORFs) are known to control the translation of mRNAs. Recent studies in bacteria and eukaryotes have revealed the functions of evolutionarily conserved uORF-encoded peptides. Some of these uORF-encoded nascent peptides enable responses to specific metabolites to modulate the translation of their mRNAs by stalling ribosomes and through ribosome stalling may also modulate the level of their mRNAs. In this review, we highlight several examples of conserved uORF nascent peptides that stall ribosomes to regulate gene expression in response to specific metabolites in bacteria, fungi, mammals, and plants.
Emerging Solutions to Return Nature to the Urban Ocean
Authors: Airoldi Laura , Beck Michael W. , Firth Louise B. , Bugnot Ana B. , Steinberg Peter D. , Dafforn Katherine A.
Published: September 2020

Urban and periurban ocean developments impact 1.5% of the global exclusive economic zones, and the demand for ocean space and resources is increasing. As we strive for a more sustainable future, it is imperative that we better design, manage, and conserve urban ocean spaces for both humans and nature. We identify three key objectives for more sustainable urban oceans: reduction of urban pressures, protection and restoration of ocean ecosystems, and support of critical ecosystem services. We describe an array of emerging evidence-based approaches, including greening grayinfrastructure, restoring habitats, and developing biotechnologies. We then explore new economic instruments and incentives for supporting these new approaches and evaluate their feasibility in delivering these objectives. Several of these tools have the potential to help bring nature back to the urban ocean while also addressing some of the critical needs of urban societies, such as climate adaptation, seafood production, clean water, and recreation, providing both human and environmental benefits in some of our most impacted ocean spaces.
Novel Targets for Alzheimer's Disease: A View Beyond Amyloid
Authors: Ray William J. , Buggia-Prevot Virginie
Published: September 2020

Genetic studies of autosomal dominant Alzheimer's disease (AD) revealed that β-amyloid is central to disease pathogenesis. However, amyloid-targeted therapies have generally failed to slow progression in patients with symptomatic disease. This result suggests a transition from an early amyloid-dependent phase to a later amyloid-independent one, during which neurodegeneration occurs and symptoms arise. Microglia, the brain's resident myeloid cells, envelop amyloid and express the majority of genes linked to risk for sporadic late-onset AD. Their activation is associated spatially and temporally with the accumulation of pathological tau. Microglial facilitation of tau pathology may involve apolipoprotein E, the most important genetic risk factor for AD. Once formed, pathological tau spreads between connected neurons, eventually accumulating in the somatic compartment where catastrophic nuclear damage ensues. This emerging understanding of the postamyloid processes leading to neurodegeneration affords the opportunity to develop therapeutics that interrupt this pathological cascade and prevent or delay dementia, even after amyloid deposition.
Realization of Optimized Wax Laminated Microfluidic Paper-Based Analytical Devices
Authors: Rewatkar Prakash , Goel Sanket
Published: September 2020

Being an economical, simple, user-friendly on-field screening platform, microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs) have gained significant attention in the scientific community. Hitherto, μPADs were fabricated by patterning hydrophobic regions using photoresist, wax crayons, solid-ink, plotting-machine, cutting paper via laser and conventional table-top solid wax printer. However, most of these methods needed sophisticated and proprietary instruments, with a complicated process required to forms a hydrophobic barrier, and result in low resolution. In the present work, to prepare a μPAD using an inexpensive laminator to generate hydrophobic patterns of paraffin wax on cellulose paper has been demonstrated. Here, a predesigned mold coated with paraffin wax and a hot laminator to form an absolute hydrophobic wax pattern. The predesigned mold was created using a simple printing/copier paper followed by wax dip-ping. These fabricated μPADs have been characterized by selecting a suitable copier paper, with suitable density, as a predefined mold, and choosing optimized speed of roller and temperature of laminator. Finally, the fabricated μPAD has been exploited for viscosity measurement and colorimetric pH study of fluids. This low-cost, ergonomic and versatile wax lamination approach offers an excellent alternative to the current methods, and offers boundless opportunities for researchers from resource-constrained labs.
Glutaraldehyde-Polymerized Hemoglobin: In Search of Improved Performance as Oxygen Carrier in Hemorrhage Models
Authors: Farcas Anca D. , Toma Vlad Al , Roman Ioana , Sevastre Bogdan , Scurtu Florina , Silaghi-Dumitrescu Radu
Published: September 2020

Hemoglobin- (Hb-) based oxygen carriers (HBOC) have for several decades been explored for treatment of hemorrhage. In our previous top-up tests, HBOC with lower in vitro prooxidant reactivity (incorporating a peroxidase or serum albumin to this end) showed a measurable but small improvement of oxidative stress-related parameters. Here, such HBOCs are tested in a hemorrhage set-up; ovine hemoglobin is also tested for the first time in such a setting, based on in vitro data showing its improved performance versus bovine Hb against oxidative and nitrosative stress agents. Indeed, ovine Hb performs better than bovine Hb in terms of survival rates, arterial tension, immunology, and histology. On the other hand, unlike in the top-up models, where the nonheme peroxidase rubrerythrin as well as bovine serum albumin copolymerized with Hb were shown to improve the performance of HBOC, in the present hemorrhage models rubrerythrin fails dramatically as HBOC ingredient (with a distinct immunological reaction), whereas serum albumin appears not feasible if its source is a different species (i.e., bovine serum albumin fares distinctly worse than rat serum albumin, in HBOC transfusions in rats). An effect of the matrix in which the HBOCs are dissolved (PBS versus gelofusine versus plasma) is noted.
A Model for SARS-CoV-2 Infection with Treatment
Authors: Chatterjee Amar Nath , Al Basir Fahad
Published: September 2020

The current emergence of coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) puts the world in threat. The structural research on the receptor recognition by SARS-CoV-2 has identified the key interactions between SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and its host (epithelial cell) receptor, also known as angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). It controls both the cross-species and human-to-human transmissions of SARS-CoV-2. In view of this, we propose and analyze a mathematical model for investigating the effect of CTL responses over the viral mutation to control the viral infection when a postinfection immunostimulant drug (pidotimod) is administered at regular intervals. Dynamics of the system with and without impulses have been analyzed using the basic reproduction number. This study shows that the proper dosing interval and drug dose both are important to eradicate the viral infection.
On One Method of Studying Spectral Properties of Non-selfadjoint Operators
Authors: Kukushkin Maksim V.
Published: September 2020

In this paper, we explore a certain class of Non-selfadjoint operators acting on a complex separable Hilbert space. We consider a perturbation of a nonselfadjoint operator by an operator that is also nonselfadjoint. Our consideration is based on known spectral properties of the real component of a nonselfadjoint compact operator. Using a technique of the sesquilinear forms theory, we establish the compactness property of the resolvent and obtain the asymptotic equivalence between the real component of the resolvent and the resolvent of the real component for some class of nonselfadjoint operators. We obtain a classification of nonselfadjoint operators in accordance with belonging their resolvent to the Schatten-von Neumann class and formulate a sufficient condition of completeness of the root vector system. Finally, we obtain an asymptotic formula for the eigenvalues.
Option Pricing under Two-Factor Stochastic Volatility Jump-Diffusion Model
Authors: Deng Guohe
Published: September 2020

Empirical evidence shows that single-factor stochastic volatility models are not flexible enough to account for the stochastic behavior of the skew, and certain financial assets may exhibit jumps in returns and volatility. This paper introduces a two-factor stochastic volatility jump-diffusion model in which two variance processes with jumps drive the underlying stock price and then considers the valuation on European style option. We derive a semianalytical formula for European vanilla option and develop a fast and accurate numerical algorithm for the computation of the option prices using the fast Fourier transform (FFT) technique. We compare the volatility smile and probability density of the proposed model with those of alternative models, including the normal jump diffusion model and single-factor stochastic volatility model with jumps, respectively. Finally, we provide some sensitivity analysis of the model parameters to the options and several calibration tests using option market data. Numerical examples show that the proposed model has more flexibility to capture the implied volatility term structure and is suitable for empirical work in practice.
The Genetic Perspective of Familial Glucocorticoid Deficiency: In Silico Analysis of Two Novel Variants
Authors: Heshmatzad Katayoun , Mahdieh Nejat , Rabbani Ali , Didban Abdolah , Rabbani Bahareh
Published: September 2020

Familial glucocorticoid deficiency is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder which belongs to a group of primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI) and is mainly caused by mutations in the MC2R and MRAP genes. A comprehensive search was conducted to find the reported variants of MC2R and MRAP genes. In silico pathogenic analysis was performed for the reported variants. PCR amplification and sequencing were performed for three patients. Structural analysis, modeling, and interactome analysis were applied to characterize novel MC2R variants and their proteins. About 80% of MC2R-related cases showed the clinical symptoms which were diagnosed at <2 years old. 107 patients had MC2R mutations (85 homozygotes, 21 compound heterozygotes, and 1 simple heterozygote). 59 variants were found in the MC2R gene. Four mutations were responsible for half of patients. 39 homozygous patients had MRAP mutations; 14 variants were determined in the MRAP gene. Nine proteins were predicted by STRING to associate with the studied proteins. Two novel MC2R variants, c.128T > G (p.Leu43Arg) and c.251T > A (p.Ile84Asn), were found in two patients at the age of above and below 2 years, respectively. Mutations in MC2R and MRAP genes are the main cause of FGD. Genetic studies and in silico analysis will help to confirm the diagnosis.
SIRT5 Contributes to Colorectal Cancer Growth by Regulating T Cell Activity
Authors: Wang Ke , Hu Zuojian , Zhang Cuiping , Yang Lujie , Feng Li , Yang Pengyuan , Yu Hongxiu
Published: September 2020

Over the past several years, SIRT5 has attracted considerable attention in metabolic regulation. However, the function of SIRT5 in tumorigenesis by regulating tumor microenvironment is poorly understood. In this work, we found that Sirt5 knockout mice were resistant to AOM and DSS-induced colitis-associated colorectal tumorigenesis and the level of IFN-γ in their tumor microenvironment was higher. Additionally, proteome and network analysis revealed that SIRT5 was important in the T cell receptor signaling pathway. Furthermore, we determined that a deficiency of Sirt5 induced stronger T cell activation and demonstrated that SIRT5 played a pivotal role in regulating the differentiation of CD4+ regulatory T (Treg) cells and T helper 1 (Th1) cells. An imbalance in the lineages of immunosuppressive Treg cells and the inflammatory Th1 subsets of helper T cells leads to the development of colon cancer. Our results revealed a regulatory role of SIRT5 in T cell activation and colorectal tumorigenesis.
A Prognostic Model Based on Six Metabolism‐Related Genes in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Sun Yuan-Lin , Zhang Yang , Guo Yu-Chen , Yang Zi-Hao , Xu Yue-Chao
Published: September 2020

An increasing number of studies have shown that abnormal metabolism processes are closely correlated with the genesis and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). In this study, we systematically explored the prognostic value of metabolism‐related genes (MRGs) for CRC patients. A total of 289 differentially expressed MRGs were screened based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Molecular Signatures Database (MSigDB), and 72 differentially expressed transcription factors (TFs) were obtained from TCGA and the Cistrome Project database. The clinical samples obtained from TCGA were randomly divided at a ratio of 7 : 3 to obtain the training group (n = 306) and the test group (n = 128). After univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses, we constructed a prognostic model based on 6 MRGs (AOC2, ENPP2, ADA, GPD1L, ACADL, and CPT2). Kaplan–Meier survival analysis of the training group, validation group, and overall samples proved that the model had statistical significance in predicting the outcomes of patients. Independent prognosis analysis suggested that this risk score might serve as an independent prognosis factor for CRC patients. Moreover, we combined the prognostic model and the clinical characteristics in a nomogram to predict the overall survival of CRC patients. Furthermore, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was conducted to identify the enriched Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways in the high‐ and low‐risk groups, which might provide novel therapeutic targets for CRC patients. We discovered through the protein‐protein interaction (PPI) network and TF‐MRG regulatory network that 7 hub genes were retrieved from the PPI network and 4 kinds of differentially expressed TFs (NR3C1, MYH11, MAF, and CBX7) positively regulated 4 prognosis‐associated MRGs (GSTM5, PTGIS, ENPP2, and P4HA3).
An Algorithm for the Noninvasive and Personalized Measurement of Microvascular Blood Viscosity Using Physiological Parameters
Authors: Sun Ge , Yang Lin , Wang Weiwei , Zhang Song , Luo Zhichang , Wu Guanghui , Liu Xiaohong , Hao Dongmei , Yang Yimin , Li Xuwen
Published: September 2020

Blood viscosity is one of the important parameters to characterize hemorheological properties of the human body. Its real‐time and dynamic measurement has important physiological significance for studying the development and prevention of chronic diseases. This study researched noninvasive and personalized measurement of microvascular blood viscosity. In the microcirculation capillary network blood flow model, combined with pulse wave parameters, multiple regression analysis was used to fit the simulated radius of personalized physiological blood vessels to calculate the microvascular blood viscosity. The fitted value related to the simulated radius of the physiological blood vessel had a high correlation with the corresponding theoretically derived value (correlation coefficient: 0.904, P ≤ 0.001). The calculated value of the microvascular blood viscosity had a certain correlation with the clinical whole blood viscosity at a low shear rate (correlation coefficient: 0.443, P < 0.05). This algorithm could provide effective means for noninvasive and long‐term individual monitoring and family health care.
Completion and Factors Associated with Maternity Continuum of Care among Mothers Who Gave Birth in the Last One Year in Enemay District, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Shitie Anguach , Assefa Nega , Dhressa Merga , Dilnessa Tenagework
Published: September 2020

Background. Ethiopia still suffers high levels of neonatal and maternal mortality, so the maternity continuum of care is a continuous framework for the delivery of maternal care from pregnancy to the postnatal period. Skilled care during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period is an important intervention in reducing maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. But in Ethiopia, there are limited studies on the completion of the maternity continuum of care, so this study will help to suggest interventions in order to reduce the dropout of the maternity continuum of care. Objective. To assess the completion of the maternity continuum of care and factors associated with it among mothers who gave birth in the last one year in Enemay District, Northwest Ethiopia. Method and Materials. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February 25 to March 10, 2019, on 651 women who gave birth in the last one year. The data were collected by a face-to-face interview through pretested and structured questionnaires. Binary logistic regression was used to identify predictors of the completion of the maternity continuum of care. Variables with a P value < 0.05 in multivariable analysis were declared as statistically significant associated factors. Results. This study revealed that about 45% (95% CI: 40.9%, 48.8%) of respondents completed the continuum of care. Women with secondary education (AOR=6, 95% CI: 2.26, 16.6), women whose occupation is farming (AOR=0.18, 95%, CI: 0.1, 0.32), women who have autonomy in health care decision (AOR=4, 95% CI: 2.26, 7.2), women who have exposure to media (AOR=1.97, 95% CI: 1.2, 3.27), women with wanted pregnancies (AOR=3.33, 95% CI: 1.87, 5.9), para five and above women (AOR=2.85, 95% CI: 1.28, 6.3), and women whose husbands are employed (AOR=4.97, 95% CI: 1.16, 21.2) were significantly associated with the completion of the maternity continuum of care. Conclusions and Recommendation. This study showed that less than half of the participants had achieved the continuum of care and education level, and both respondents and their husband’s occupation, parity, autonomy in health care decision, exposure to the mass media, and wantedness of pregnancy were associated with the completion of the maternity continuum of care; therefore, working on enhancing the capacity of women’s autonomy in health care and decision-making and preventing unintended pregnancy helps to improve the completion of the maternity continuum of care.
Prevalence of Impacted Teeth in Saudi Patients Attending Dental Clinics in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia: A Radiographic Retrospective Study
Authors: Alamri Abdulaziz , Alshahrani Nasser , Al-Madani Abdullah , Shahin Suliman , Nazir Muhammad
Published: September 2020

Aim. To evaluate the prevalence of impacted teeth in Saudi patients and compare between male and female subjects. Method. This cross-sectional study comprised of Saudi patients who attended dental clinics in major hospitals in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. Patients’ dental records and panoramic radiographs were reviewed retrospectively. Impacted teeth excluding third molars and spaces occupied by primary, permanent, and transmigrated teeth were recorded from panoramic radiographs. The Pearson chi-squared test was performed to determine gender differences regarding impacted teeth and spaces occupied by other teeth. Results. The study included radiographs of 539 patients with a mean age of 23.3 ± 10.8 years. Seventy-one patients (13.2%) had at least one impacted tooth. The total number of impacted teeth was 115 in the sample, out of which 91 (79.1%) were in the upper arch and 24 (20.8%) in the lower arch. Fifty-eight maxillary canines (50.4%) were impacted making them the most commonly impacted teeth, followed by 21 upper second premolars (18.2%) and 14 lower second premolars (12.2%). More females (70.7%) than males (29.3%) had impacted teeth (P=0.82). Of 61 spaces occupied, 35 (57.4%) were occupied by permanent teeth, 24 (39.3%) by primary teeth, and 2 (3.3%) by transmigrated teeth. Greater proportions of spaces were occupied in female than male participants (P>0.05). Conclusion. There was a high prevalence of impacted teeth in Saudi patients. The canines were the most commonly impacted teeth followed by the second premolars. Females demonstrated a higher occurrence of impacted teeth than males. Early detection of impacted teeth can help prevent malocclusion and maintain a healthy dentition.
Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis in Women: Subgroup Analysis of the VENOST Study
Authors: Uluduz Derya , Sahin Sevki , Duman Taskin , Ozturk Serefnur , Yayla Vildan , Afsar Nazire , Uzuner Nevzat , Midi Ipek , Cinar Nilgun , Sungur Mehmet Ali , Domac Fusun Mayda , Ince Birsen , Goksan Baki , Misirli Cemile Handan , Bakar Mustafa , Kozak Hasan Huseyin , Colakoglu Sena , Karahan Ali Yavuz , Goksu Eylem Ozaydin , Ozdag Fatih , Senol Mehmet Guney , Yurekli Vedat Ali , Aluclu Ufuk , Demir Serkan , Kucukoglu Hayriye , Oruc Serdar , Yesilot Nilufer , Kusbeci Ozge Yimaz , Nazliel Bijen , Tokuc Firdevs Ezgi Ucan , Bektas Hesna , Tascilar Fatma Nida , Aytac Emrah , Gokce Mustafa , Caglayan Hale Zeynep Batur , Tufekci Ahmet , Uzuner Gulnur , Orken Dilek Necioglu , Yalin Osman Ozgur , Utku Uygar , Yilmaz Arda , Genc Hamit , Cabalar Murat , Milanlioglu Aysel , Ekmekci Hakan , Zeydan Burcu , Baybas Sevim , Kablan Yuksel , Goksel Basak Karakurum , Acikgoz Mustafa , Kurucu Hatice , Demirci Seden , Gunes Taskin
Published: September 2020

Background. Early diagnosis of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) associated with reproductive health-related risk factors (RHRF) including pregnancy, puerperium, and oral contraceptive (OC) use can prevent severe neurological sequelae; thus, the symptoms must be documented in detail for each group. Methods. Out of 1144 patients with CVST, a total of 777 women were enrolled from a multicenter for the study of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (VENOST). Demographic, biochemical, clinical, and radiological aspects were compared for 324 cases with RHRF and 453 cases without RHRF. Results. The mean age of the RHRF (-) group (43.2 ± 13 years) was significantly higher than of the RHRF (+) group (34±9 years). A previous history of deep venous thrombosis (3%), isolated cavernous sinus involvement (1%), cranial neuropathy (13%), comorbid malignancy (7%), and its disability scores after 12 months (9%) were significantly higher in the RHRF (-) group. The RHRF (+) group consisted of 44% cases of puerperium, 33% cases of OC users and 23% of pregnant women. The mean age was found to be higher in OC users (38±9 years). A previous history of deep venous thrombosis was slightly higher in the pregnancy subgroup (4%). Epileptic seizures were more common in the puerperium group (44%). Conclusion. The results of our study indicate that the risk of CSVT increases parallel to age, OC use, and puerperium period. In addition, when considering the frequency of findings and symptoms, epileptic seizures in the puerperium subgroup of the RHRF (+) group and malignancies in the RHRF (-) group may accompany the CSVT. In daily practice, predicting these risks for the CSVT and early recognition of the symptoms will provide significant benefits to patients.
Apparent Permeability Prediction of Coal Matrix with Generalized Lattice Boltzmann Model considering Non-Darcy Effect
Authors: Peng Zhigao , Liu Shenggui , Li Yingjun , Yao Qi
Published: September 2020

Methane flow in coal is associated with the content of both organic matter (OM) and inorganic matter (IOM). Coal matrix contains nanopores ranging in size from a few to hundreds of nanometers, which leads to a non-Darcy effect where the measured permeability of a gas (apparent permeability) is higher than that of a liquid (intrinsic permeability). In this study, a generalized Lattice Boltzmann model (GLBM) is employed for gas flow through the reconstructed coal matrix consisting of OM, IOM, and fractures. The apparent permeability model is proposed to calculate the total flow flux accounting for multiple transport mechanisms including viscous flow, slip flow, transitional flow, and the Knudsen diffusion. The impact of effective pore radius and gas surface diffusion on permeability in the gas adsorption-desorption process is also considered in the model. What’s more, the weighting factors are adopted to adjust the contribution of the viscous flow and the Knudsen flow. The effect of total organic/inorganic content and the development of fractures on the apparent permeability of the reconstructed coal matrix is also studied. It is found that the apparent permeability is extremely low when a fracture is nonexistent, and varies almost linearly with the total organic/inorganic content. A fracture plays a significant role in determining apparent permeability and the velocity distribution of the coal matrix.
Hair Washing Formulations from Aloe elegans Todaro Gel: The Potential for Making Hair Shampoo
Authors: Sbhatu Desta Berhe , Berhe Goitom Gebreyohannes , Hndeya Abadi Gebreyesus , Abdu Asmael , Mulugeta Afework , Abraha Haftom Baraki , Weldemichael Micheale Yifter , Tekle Hailekiros Tadesse , Gebru Haftay Abadi , Taye Molla Gereme , Kidanemariam Haileselassie Gebremeskel
Published: September 2020

This study aimed to describe the gross phytochemical constituents of Aloe elegans Todaro gel and evaluate the characteristics and quality of lab-made hair washing formulations prepared from the gel to show its potential in formulating hair washing shampoos. A. elegans gel mass was prepared from mature, healthy leaves collected from natural stand. Samples of 100% methanol extract of the gel were subjected to standard phytochemical screening and gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) analysis. Five hair washing formulations (Fs) were, likewise, prepared by mixing 4.0–10.0 mL of gel with one (0.05 mL) to two (0.10 mL) drops of six synthetic and natural ingredients, namely, coconut oil, jojoba oil, olive oil, pure glycerin oil, lemon juice, and vitamin E. The gel to the total ingredient ratios (v/v) of the five formulations were 93 : 7 (F1), 94.5 : 5.5 (F2), 96.4 : 3.6 (F3), and 96.6 : 3.4 (F4 and F5). The formulations were evaluated using sensory inspection and common physicochemical methods. The phytochemical screening and GC-MS analysis revealed that A. elegans gel is the source of important chemical constituents used in the formulation of shampoos and similar products including saponins, capric acid, lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, linoleic acid, stearic acid, and phytol. Lab-made A. elegans hair washing formulations, especially those with 96.4–96.6% gel, were found to have similar characteristics and qualities with a common marketed shampoo. All the formulations were turbid with characteristic odor as the marketed shampoo. The pH values of the hair washing formulations (6.4–4.6) were comparable to those of the marketed shampoo (6.7). Formulations with higher proportion of gel had better foam stability, higher solid content (26–29%), higher surface tension (33–38 dynes/cm), shorter wetting time (150–160 sec), equivalent viscosities (26.45–26.73 poise), and conditioning performance than the marketed shampoo. These findings demonstrate that A. elegans gel mass can be used in the formulation of good-quality hair washing shampoos. We recommend future studies that aim to develop the phytochemical profile of the plant and a refined protocol of hair washing shampoo formulation.
Secure and Intelligent Energy Data Management Scheme for Smart IoT Devices
Authors: Zhou Tianqi , Shen Jian , Ji Sai , Ren Yongjun , Yan Leiming
Published: September 2020

The renewable energy plays an increasingly important role in many fields such as lighting, automobile, and electric power. In order to make full use of the renewable energy, various smart Internet of Thing (IoT) devices are deployed. However, in the field of energy management, the two-way mismatch between the demand and the supply of the renewable energy will greatly affect the efficiency of the renewable energy. In addition, the security threat of the energy data and the privacy leakage of the user may hinder the further development of smart IoT devices. Therefore, how to achieve consistency and balance between the demand and the renewable energy supply and how to guarantee the security and privacy of smart IoT devices become the key problems of the energy-efficient smart environment. In this paper, a secure and intelligent energy data management scheme for smart IoT devices is proposed. It is worth noting that, with the help of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies and secure cryptography primitives, the proposed scheme realizes high-efficient and secure energy utilization in a smart environment. Specifically, the proposed scheme aims at improving the efficiency of the energy utilization in the multidimensions of a smart environment. In order to realize the fine-grain energy management of smart IoT devices, strategies of three different dimensions are considered and realized in the proposed scheme. Moreover, technologies in AI are applied and integrated into the energy management scheme. The analysis shows that the proposed scheme can make full use of the renewable energy in smart IoT devices.
Zircon U–Pb Ages and Geochemistry of Granite Porphyries in the Yangla Cu Deposit, SW China: Constraints on Petrogenesis and Tectonic Evolution of the Jinshajiang Suture Belt
Authors: Li Bo , Wang Xinfu , Du Lijuan , Xiang Zuopeng , Tang Guo , Huang Zhilong
Published: September 2020

Located in the eastern part of the Tethyan tectonic domain, the Jinshajiang Suture Belt (JSB), northwestern Yunnan, China, is notable for its large-scale distribution of Jurassic to Triassic granitoids that are genetically related to the evolution of the Paleo-Tethys Ocean and polymetallic mineralization. In this study, geochronological and geochemical analyses were conducted on three samples of these granite porphyries (GPs) using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and zircon U–Pb aging to reveal ages of 213±15, 198.4±8.6, and 195.3±6.4 Ma, respectively. These ages are younger than the emplacement ages of the granodiorites, at 208–239 Ma, suggesting that magmatic activities in the Yangla mining district likely continued for ~44 Ma. These GPs are rich in large-ion lithophile elements such as Rb, Ba, Th, U, K, and La but are deficient in high field strength elements such as Ta, Nb, Ce, Zr, Hf, and Ti. Significant Pb enrichment and P depletion were noted, as were varying degrees of metallogenic element enrichment in the order of Cu>Pb>Zn. The total content of rare earth elements (ΣREEs) of the GPs is in the range of 50.41–127.27 ppm and the LREE/HREE ratio is in the rage of 4.46–10.54. The GPs are rich in LREEs, with a high degree of differentiation noted between the LREEs and HREEs. The δEu (EuN/Eu∗) and δCe (CeN/Ce∗) values, at 0.53–0.86 and 0.79–0.98, indicate weak and slightly weak negative anomalies, respectively. The geochemical characteristics of the GPs indicate that these bodies are slightly metaluminous to peraluminous S-type granites in a calc–alkaline series that formed in a late-collisional or postcollisional tectonic setting. Three-component mixing of magmas including those of upper crust, lower crust, and mantle materials in addition to subsequent partial melting could have been responsible for the generation of these GPs in an epithermal low-pressure setting at <5 kbar.
Peripheral Circulation and Astrocytes Contribute to the MSC-Mediated Increase in IGF-1 Levels in the Infarct Cortex in a dMCAO Rat Model
Authors: Li Xiaobo , Yu Wenxiu , Guan Yunqian , Zou Haiqiang , Liang Zhaohui , Huang Min , Zhao Renchao , Zhao Chunsong , Ren Zhenhua , Chen Zhiguo
Published: September 2020

Background and Purpose. Previously, we found that insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels in the infarct cortex in the acute phase of distal middle cerebral artery occlusion (dMCAO) rats are increased by intravenous infusion of allogeneic mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs). CD68+ microglia and NeuN+ neurons are part, but not all, of the sources of IGF-1. The present study is aimed at exploring the respective contributions of brain endogenous Iba-1+ microglia, GFAP+ astrocytes, infiltrated neutrophils, lymphocytes and monocytes/macrophages, and peripheral circulation, to the increased IGF-1 level in the infarct cortex after MSC infusion. Materials and Methods. Ischemic brain injury was induced by dMCAO in Sprague-Dawley rats. The transplantation group received MSC infusion 1 h after dMCAO. Expression of IGF-1 in GFAP+ astrocytes, Iba-1+ microglia/macrophages, CD3+ lymphocytes, Ly6C+ monocytes/macrophages, and neutrophil elastase (NE)+ neutrophils was examined to determine the contribution of these cells to the increase of IGF-1. ELISA was performed to examine IGF-1 levels in blood plasma at days 2, 4, and 7 after ischemia onset. Results. In total, only 5-6% of Iba-1+ microglia were colabeled with IGF-1 in the infarct cortex, corpus callosum, and striatum at day 2 post-dMCAO. MSC transplantation did not lead to a higher proportion of Iba-1+ cells that coexpressed IGF-1. In the infarct cortex, all Iba-1+/IGF-1+ double-positive cells were also positive for CD68. In the infarct, corpus callosum, and striatum, the majority (50-80%) of GFAP+ cells were colabeled with ramified IGF-1 signals. The number of GFAP+/IGF-1+ cells was further increased following MSC treatment. In the infarct cortex, approximately 15% of IGF-1+ cells were double-positive for CD3. MSC treatment reduced the number of infiltrated CD3+/IGF-1+ cells by 70%. In the infarct, few Ly6C+ monocytes/macrophages or NE+ neutrophils expressed IGF-1, and MSC treatment did not induce a higher percentage of these cells that coexpressed IGF-1. The IGF-1 level in peripheral blood plasma was significantly higher in the MSC group than in the ischemia control group. Conclusion. The MSC-mediated increase in IGF-1 levels in the infarct cortex mainly derives from two sources, astrocytes in brain and blood plasma in periphery. Manipulating the IGF-1 level in the peripheral circulation may lead to a higher level of IGF-1 in brain, which could be conducive to recovery at the early stage of dMCAO.