bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intervening to eliminate the centre-effect variation in home dialysis use: protocol for Inter-CEPt—a sequential mixed-methods study designing an intervention bundle
Authors: Tshimologo Maatla , Allen Kerry , Coyle David , Damery Sarah , Dikomitis Lisa , Fotheringham James , Hill Harry , Lambie Mark , Phillips-Darby Louise , Solis-Trapala Ivonne , Williams Iestyn , Davies Simon J
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Use of home dialysis by centres in the UK varies considerably and is decreasing despite attempts to encourage greater use. Knowing what drives this unwarranted variation requires in-depth understanding of centre cultural and organisational factors and how these relate to quantifiable centre performance, accounting for competing treatment options. This knowledge will be used to identify components of a practical and feasible intervention bundle ensuring this is realistic and cost-effective.

Methods and analysis

Underpinned by the non-adoption, abandonment, scale-up, spread and sustainability framework, our research will use an exploratory sequential mixed-methods approach. Insights from multisited focused team ethnographic and qualitative research at four case study sites will inform development of a national survey of 52 centres. Survey results, linked to patient-level data from the UK Renal Registry, will populate a causal graph describing patient and centre-level factors, leading to uptake of home dialysis and multistate models incorporating patient-level treatment modality history and mortality. This will inform a contemporary economic evaluation of modality cost-effectiveness that will quantify how modification of factors facilitating home dialysis, identified from the ethnography and survey, might yield the greatest improvements in costs, quality of life and numbers on home therapies. Selected from these factors, using the capability, opportunity and motivation for behaviour change framework (COM-B) for intervention design, the optimal intervention bundle will be developed through workshops with patients and healthcare professionals to ensure acceptability and feasibility. Patient and public engagement and involvement is embedded throughout the project.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval has been granted by the Health Research Authority reference 20-WA-0249. The intervention bundle will comprise components for all stake holder groups: commissioners, provider units, recipients of dialysis, their caregivers and families. To reache all these groups, a variety of knowledge exchange methods will be used: short guides, infographics, case studies, National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines, patient conferences, ‘Getting it Right First Time’ initiative, Clinical Reference Group (dialysis).
Artificial intelligence-derived gut microbiome as a predictive biomarker for therapeutic response to immunotherapy in lung cancer: protocol for a multicentre, prospective, observational study
Authors: Shoji Fumihiro , Yamashita Takanori , Kinoshita Fumihiko , Takamori Shinkichi , Fujishita Takatoshi , Toyozawa Ryo , Ito Kensaku , Yamazaki Koji , Nakashima Naoki , Okamoto Tatsuro
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Immunotherapy is the fourth leading therapy for lung cancer following surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Recently, several studies have reported about the potential association between the gut microbiome and therapeutic response to immunotherapy. Nevertheless, the specific composition of the gut microbiome or combination of gut microbes that truly predict the efficacy of immunotherapy is not definitive.

Methods and analysis

The present multicentre, prospective, observational study aims to discover the specific composition of the gut microbiome or combination of gut microbes predicting the therapeutic response to immunotherapy in lung cancer using artificial intelligence. The main inclusion criteria are as follows: (1) pathologically or cytologically confirmed metastatic or postoperative recurrent lung cancer including non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer; (2) age≥20 years at the time of informed consent; (3) planned treatment with immunotherapy including combination therapy and monotherapy, as the first-line immunotherapy; and (4) ability to provide faecal samples. In total, 400 patients will be enrolled prospectively. Enrolment will begin in 2021, and the final analyses will be completed by 2024.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol was approved by the institutional review board of each participating centre in 2021 (Kyushu Cancer Center, IRB approved No. 2021-13, 8 June 2021 and Kyushu Medical Center, IRB approved No. 21-076, 31 August 2021). Study results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and national and international conferences.

Trial registration number

UMIN000046428.
Oral glucose tolerance testing as a complement to fasting plasma glucose in screening for type 2 diabetes: population-based cross-sectional analyses of 146 000 health examinations in Västerbotten, Sweden
Authors: Rosén Anna , Otten Julia , Stomby Andreas , Vallin Simon , Wennberg Patrik , Brunström Mattias
Published: June 2022

Objective

To assess the effect of adding an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) to fasting plasma glucose (FPG) in terms of detection of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and impaired glucose tolerance (IGT).

Design

Retrospective analysis of serial cross-sectional screening study.

Setting

Population-based health examinations within primary care in Västerbotten County, Sweden.

Participants

Individuals aged 40- 50 and 60 years with participation from 1985 to 2017. Those with previously diagnosed diabetes and FPG≥7 mmol/L were excluded.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Prevalence of hyperglycaemia on the OGTT (IGT and T2D defined as 2-hour postload capillary plasma glucose of 8.9–12.1 mmol/L and ≥12.2 mmol/L, respectively). Analyses were further stratified by age, sex and risk factor burden to identify groups at high or low risk of IGT and T2D on testing. The numbers needed to screen (NNS) to prevent one case of T2D through detection and treatment of IGT was estimated, combining prevalence numbers with average progression rates and intervention effects from previous meta-analyses.

Results

The prevalence of IGT ranged from 0.9% (95% CI 0.7% to 1.1%) to 29.6% (95% CI 27.4% to 31.7%), and the prevalence of T2D ranged from 0.06% (95% CI 0.02% to 0.11%) to 7.0% (95% CI 5.9% to 8.3%), depending strongly on age, sex and risk factor burden. The estimated NNS to prevent one case of T2D through detection and lifestyle treatment of IGT ranged from 1332 among 40-year-old men without risk factors, to 39 among 60-year-old women with all risk factors combined.

Conclusions

The prevalence of hyperglycaemia on OGTT is highly dependent on age, sex and risk factor burden; OGTT should be applied selectively to high-risk groups to avoid unnecessary testing in the general population.
Keeping it simple: the value of mortality prediction after trauma with basic indices like the Reverse Shock Index multiplied by Glasgow Coma Scale
Authors: Frieler Sven , Lefering Rolf , Gerstmeyer Julius , Drotleff Niklas , Schildhauer Thomas A , Waydhas Christian , Hamsen Uwe
Published: June 2022

Background

Identification of trauma patients at significant risk of death in the prehospital setting is challenging. The prediction probability of basic indices like vital signs, Shock Index (SI), SI multiplied by age (SIA) or the GCS is limited and more complex scores are not feasible on-scene. The Reverse SI multiplied by GCS score (rSIG) has been proposed as a triage tool to identify trauma patients with an increased risk of dying at EDs. Age adjustment (rSIG/A) displayed no advantage.

We aim to (1) validate the accuracy of the rSIG in predicting death or early transfusion in a large trauma registry population, and (2) determine if the rSIG is valid for evaluation of trauma patients in the prehospital setting.

Methods

70 829 trauma patients were retrieved from the TraumaRegister DGU database (time period between 2008 and 2017). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) was calculated to measure the ability of SI, SIA, rSIG and rSIG divided by age (rSIG/A) to predict in-hospital mortality from data at the time of hospital arrival and solely from prehospital data.

Results

The rSIG at time of hospital admission was not sufficiently predictive for clinical decision-making. However, rSIG calculated solely from prehospital data accurately predicted risk of death. Using prehospital data, the AUROC for mortality of rSIG/A was the highest (0.85; CI: 0.85 to 0.86), followed by rSIG (0.76; CI: 0.75 to 0.77), SIA (0.71; CI: 0.70 to 0.71) and SI (0.48; CI: 0.47 to 0.49).

Conclusion

The prehospital rSIG/A can be a useful adjunct for the prehospital evaluation of trauma patients and their allocation to trauma centres or trauma team activation. However, we could not confirm that the rSIG at hospital admission is a reliable tool for risk stratification.
Income inequality and population health: a political-economic research agenda
Authors: Dunn James R , Park Gum-Ryeong , Brydon Robbie , Wolfson Michael , Veall Michael , Rolheiser Lyndsey , Siddiqi Arjumand , Ross Nancy A
Published: June 2022

There is more than 30 years of research on relationships between income inequality and population health. In this article, we propose a research agenda with five recommendations for future research to refine existing knowledge and examine new questions. First, we recommend that future research prioritise analyses with broader time horizons, exploring multiple temporal aspects of the relationship. Second, we recommend expanding research on the effect of public expenditures on the inequality–health relationship. Third, we introduce a new area of inquiry focused on interactions between social mobility, income inequality and population health. Fourth, we argue the need to examine new perspectives on 21st century capitalism, specifically the population health impacts of inequality in income from capital (especially housing), in contrast to inequality in income from labour. Finally, we propose that this research broaden beyond all-cause mortality, to cause-specific mortality, avoidable mortality and subcategories thereof. We believe that such a research agenda is important for policy to respond to the changes following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Prognostic impact of follow-up pulmonary vascular resistance in pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Suzuki Sho , Asano Ryotaro , Aoki Tatsuo , Nakayama Sayuri , Ueda Jin , Tsuji Akihiro , Noguchi Teruo , Ogo Takeshi
Published: June 2022

Objective

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), caused by pulmonary artery remodelling and increased pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) due to an unknown mechanism, is an intractable disease with a poor prognosis. The recent development of PAH-specific treatment medications may allow for higher PVR reduction than previously achieved. This study aimed to identify the prognostic significance of follow-up PVR levels achieved shortly after the initiation of targeted treatment in patients with idiopathic/heritable pulmonary arterial hypertension (I/H-PAH).

Methods

We analysed the data of all patients with I/H-PAH admitted to our hospital between 1998 and 2019. We collected data at baseline and during the first invasive haemodynamic evaluation. The primary outcome was death or lung transplantation.

Results

Of the 133 treatment-naïve patients enrolled in this study, 47 experienced adverse events during a median follow-up period of 6.4 (IQR 3.5–11.5) years. The median time interval to first follow-up from diagnosis was 162 (IQR 117–253) days. Incidence of the primary outcome was significantly lower in patients who achieved low PVR at follow-up. Of risk factors evaluated at follow-up, the multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed PVR as an independent predictor of the primary outcome (HR 1.103, 95% CI 1.029 to 1.183; p=0.006). The results were consistent across risk profiles according to the simplified risk stratification recommended by the European Society of Cardiology and European Respiratory Society guidelines.

Conclusion

Follow-up PVR was an independent predictor of transplant-free survival in patients with I/H-PAH. Evaluation of haemodynamic status shortly after initiating treatment may help predict long-term prognosis.
The compact mitogenome of Ceratocystiopsis pallidobrunnea
Authors: Wai Alvan , Hausner Georg
Published: June 2022

Ceratocystiopsis is a fungal genus that has been assigned to the Ophiostomatales, fungi known for their association with various bark beetles and other arthropods. The mitochondrial genome of Ceratocystiopsis pallidobrunnea has been characterized and compared with other members of the genus Ceratocystiopsis and Ophiostomatales. At 29 022 bp, the mitogenome of C. pallidobrunnea is the smallest reported so far for this genus. Gene arrangement was observed to be conserved for this group of fungi, and mitogenome variation appears to be mostly due to the absence and presence of introns. The long-term goal is to apply mitogenomes to resolve taxonomic issues within the Ophiostomatales and within the various genera that comprise the Ophiostomataceae.
On the Tuning of the Computation Capability of Spiking Neural Membrane Systems with Communication on Request
Authors: Wu Tingfang , Neri Ferrante , Pan Linqiang
Published: June 2022

Spiking neural P systems (abbreviated as SNP systems) are models of computation that mimic the behavior of biological neurons. The spiking neural P systems with communication on request (abbreviated as SNQP systems) are a recently developed class of SNP system, where a neuron actively requests spikes from the neighboring neurons instead of passively receiving spikes. It is already known that small SNQP systems, with four unbounded neurons, can achieve Turing universality. In this context, ‘unbounded’ means that the number of spikes in a neuron is not capped. This work investigates the dependency of the number of unbounded neurons on the computation capability of SNQP systems. Specifically, we prove that (1) SNQP systems composed entirely of bounded neurons can characterize the family of finite sets of numbers; (2) SNQP systems containing two unbounded neurons are capable of generating the family of semilinear sets of numbers; (3) SNQP systems containing three unbounded neurons are capable of generating nonsemilinear sets of numbers. Moreover, it is obtained in a constructive way that SNQP systems with two unbounded neurons compute the operations of Boolean logic gates, i.e., OR, AND, NOT, and XOR gates. These theoretical findings demonstrate that the number of unbounded neurons is a key parameter that influences the computation capability of SNQP systems.
Photoemission from GaAs-based photocathodes with multilayer complex structures
Authors: Feng Cheng , Liu Jian , Zhang Yijun , Qian Yunsheng , Zhao Jing
Published: June 2022

To enhance the near-infrared response of photocathodes in the application of image detection, two kinds of multilayer complex structures of GaAs-based photocathodes are developed by changing the structure of the buffer layer underneath the emission layer, wherein one is the graded bandgap structure, and the other is the distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) structure. The theoretical quantum efficiency suitable for the reflection-mode (r-mode) GaAs-based photocathode with these two kinds of buffer structures are deduced based on one-dimensional continuity equations, among which the reflectivity changing with the wavelength of incident light is considered in particular. By comparison of spectral characteristics of photocathodes with the two different structures, and analysis of cathode structure parameters, it is found that the photoelectric performance of the photocathodes with the two structures are quite different, and the structure parameters especially the thickness of GaAs emission layer have a great impact on the spectral characteristic. The quantum efficiency of photocathode with graded bandgap structure is improved due to the introduction of the built-in electric field and the decrement of interface recombination, while for cathode with DBR structure, the quantum efficiency is improved by the multiple reflection of light between two parallel mirrors in the stack of alternating quarter-wave layers of high and low refractive. The theoretical quantum efficiency calculation and analysis would provide theoretical guidance for the better design of GaAs-based photocathodes.
SCL-WTNS: A new link prediction algorithm based on strength of community link and weighted two-level neighborhood similarity
Authors: Xu Guiqiong , Zhou Xiaoyu , Peng Jing , Dong Chen
Published: June 2022

Link prediction is a significant and fundamental research issue in the field of network science. Numerous similarity-based algorithms have been widely applied due to low computational cost and high prediction accuracy. The topological features of networks like community structure are beneficial to link prediction. In this paper, we first introduce a Weighted Two-level Neighborhood Similarity (WTNS) index that integrates the resource allocation index and local path index. Then we define the Strength of Community Link (SCL) as a quantitative index to evaluate the close relationship among communities. Based on this, the connection likelihood between two nodes can be calculated and a new link prediction algorithm called SCL-WTNS is presented. The proposed algorithm has been compared with nine popular similarity methods on 12 real-world networks to verify the performance. SCL-WTNS is also compared with two groups of community-based link prediction methods. Experiments indicate that the proposed algorithm is better than comparison algorithms both in prediction accuracy and stability.
Variational Graph Autoencoder with Mutual Information Maximization for Graph Representations Learning
Authors: Li Dongjie , Li Dong , Lian Guang
Published: June 2022

Graph neural network (GNN) is a powerful representation learning framework for graph-structured data. Some GNN-based graph embedding methods, including variational graph autoencoder (VGAE), have been presented recently. However, existing VGAE-based methods typically focus on reconstructing the adjacent matrix, i.e. topological structure, instead of the node features matrix, this strategy makes graphical features difficult to be fully learned, which weakens and restricts the capacity of a generative network to learn higher-quality representations. To address the issue, we use a contrastive estimator on the representation mechanism, i.e. on the encoding process under the framework of VGAE. In particular, we maximize the mutual information (MI) between encoded latent representation and node attributes which acts as a regularizer forcing the encoder to select the most informative with respect to the node attributes. Additionally, we also solve another key question how to effectively estimate the mutual information by drawing samples from the joint and marginal, and explain why the maximization of MI can contribute to the encoder obtaining more node feature information. Ultimately, extensive experiments on three citation networks and four web-age networks show that our method outperforms contemporary popular algorithms (such as DGI) on node classifications and clustering tasks, and the best result is an [Formula: see text] increase on node clustering task.
Anisotropic compact star with a linear pressure–density relationship
Authors: Das Shyam , Parida Bikram Keshari , Chakraborty Koushik , Ray Saibal
Published: June 2022

We present a model of compact astrophysical object under General Theory of Relativity using the anisotropic extension of Tolman IV solution. The anisotropy function, derived from the model, remains well behaved throughout the interior of the star. The model satisfies several necessary conditions for a physically realistic compact star. Physical viability of the model is verified specifically by plugging in the estimated parameter values of the Low Mass X-ray Binary (LMXB) candidate 4U 1608–52. Our stability analysis of this star, by using various criteria for stability, provides satisfactory results. In connection to anisotropy, we compute the Tidal Love Number (TLN) for the compact stellar model and compare the calculated values with existing literature.
Enhancing Energy and Environmental Efficiency in the Power Sectors: A Case Study of Singapore and China
Authors: Mohsin Muhammad , Phoumin Han , Youn Ik Joong , Taghizadeh-Hesary Farhad
Published: June 2022

This study investigates the determinants of efficiency in the energy sectors of China and Singapore. It examines three possible futures for the electricity industry in China and Singapore: business as usual, energy efficiency improvement, and regulation and incentive improvement. A panel dataset was subjected to cross-sectional analysis using data envelopment analysis and Tobit regression. In the last 10 years, the electric power sector has reduced carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and mercury emission rates by 90%, 88%, and 95%, respectively, as a result of imperatives for the closing of small coal-fired power stations, air emissions regulations and the utilisation of renewable energy initiatives. Finally, it is suggested that the maximum capabilities of such expenditures can only be achieved if they are considered and involved in the project discovery process, rather than just as an add-on to initiatives initially planned as demand initiatives.
The Placebo Effect of Artificial Intelligence in Human–Computer Interaction
Authors: Kosch Thomas , Welsch Robin , Chuang Lewis , Schmidt Albrecht
Published: June 2022

In medicine, patients can obtain real benefits from a sham treatment. These benefits are known as the placebo effect. We report two experiments (Experiment I: N = 369; Experiment II: N = 100) demonstrating a placebo effect in adaptive interfaces. Participants were asked to solve word puzzles while being supported by no system or an adaptive AI interface. All participants experienced the same word puzzle difficulty and had no support from an AI throughout the experiments. Our results showed that the belief of receiving adaptive AI support increases expectations regarding the participant’s own task performance, sustained after interaction. These expectations were positively correlated to performance, as indicated by the number of solved word puzzles. We integrate our findings into technological acceptance theories and discuss implications for the future assessment of AI-based user interfaces and novel technologies. We argue that system descriptions can elicit placebo effects through user expectations biasing the results of user-centered studies.
Augmenting Scientific Creativity with an Analogical Search Engine
Authors: Kang Hyeonsu B. , Qian Xin , Hope Tom , Shahaf Dafna , Chan Joel , Kittur Aniket
Published: June 2022

Analogies have been central to creative problem-solving throughout the history of science and technology. As the number of scientific articles continues to increase exponentially, there is a growing opportunity for finding diverse solutions to existing problems. However, realizing this potential requires the development of a means for searching through a large corpus that goes beyond surface matches and simple keywords. Here we contribute the first end-to-end system for analogical search on scientific articles and evaluate its effectiveness with scientists’ own problems. Using a human-in-the-loop AI system as a probe we find that our system facilitates creative ideation, and that ideation success is mediated by an intermediate level of matching on the problem abstraction (i.e., high versus low). We also demonstrate a fully automated AI search engine that achieves a similar accuracy with the human-in-the-loop system. We conclude with design implications for enabling automated analogical inspiration engines to accelerate scientific innovation.
Creative and Progressive Interior Color Design with Eye-tracked User Preference
Authors: Guo Shihui , Shi Yubin , Xiao Pintong , Fu Yinan , Lin Juncong , Zeng Wei , Lee Tong-Yee
Published: June 2022

Interior scene colorization is vastly demanded in areas such as personalized architecture design. Existing works either require manual efforts to colorize individual objects or conform to fixed color patterns automatically learned from prior knowledge, whilst neglecting user preference. Quantitatively identifying user preferences is challenging, particularly at the early stage of the design process. The 3D setup also presents new challenges as the inhabitant can observe from any possible viewpoint. We propose a representative view selection method based on visual attention and a progressive preference inference model. We particularly focus on the progressive integration of eye-tracked user preference, which enables the assistance in creativity support and allows the possibility of convergent thinking. A series of user studies have been conducted to validate the effectiveness of the proposed view selection method, preference inference model and the creativity support mechanism.
Melt Synthesis of Lithium Manganese Iron Phosphate: Part I. Composition, Physical Properties, Structural Analysis, and Charge/Discharge Cycling
Authors: Lyle Erin , Vaeli Ron , Dutta Animesh , Metzger Michael
Published: June 2022

Melt synthesis is a fast and simple process to make dense LiMnyFe1-yPO4 (LMFP with 0 ≤ y ≤ 1) from all-dry, low-cost precursors with zero waste. This study characterizes melt LMFP materials with 0%–100% Mn after particle size reduction by planetary milling and carbon coating with glucose. The melt LMFP samples show higher electrical conductivity at similar pellet density than LFP (0% Mn) and LMFP (79% Mn) reference samples made by traditional methods. The melt LMFP samples exhibit higher crystallinity than the reference samples and show no crystalline impurities. Their unit cell volume and crystallographic density scale with Mn content; the percentage of Fe and/or Mn in Li positions is below 1.5%, which is comparable to reference samples. Crystallite sizes of at least 100 to 175 nm are observed for melt LMFP, which is larger than the fine ∼50 nm crystallites of reference LMFP. Melt LFP shows specific discharge capacity and cycling stability comparable to reference LFP, but the melt LMFP samples with 25%–100% Mn shows worse performance than reference LMFP (79% Mn). Part two of this study will quantify the solid-state lithium diffusion coefficient in melt LMFP materials and correlate it to their electrochemical performance.
Platelets and osteoblasts: secretome connections
Authors: Tiedemann Kerstin , Tsao Serena , Komarova Svetlana V.
Published: June 2022

Megakaryocyte hyperplasia associated with myeloproliferative neoplasms commonly leads to abnormal bone tissue deposition in the bone marrow, known as osteosclerosis. In this study, we aimed to synthesize the known proteomics literature describing factors released by megakaryocytes and platelets and to examine if any of the secreted factors have a known ability to stimulate the bone-forming cells, osteoblasts. Using a systematic search of Medline, we identified 77 articles reporting on factors secreted by platelets and megakaryocytes. After a full-text screening and analysis of the studies, we selected seven papers that reported proteomics data for factors secreted by platelets from healthy individuals. From 60 proteins reported in at least two studies, we focused on 23 that contained a putative signal peptide, which we searched for a potential osteoblast-stimulatory function. From nine proteins with a positive effect on osteoblast formation and function, two extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP1), and three cellular proteins with known extracellular function, the 70-kDa heat shock protein (HSP70), thymosin-β4 (TB4), and super dismutase (SOD), were identified as hypothetical candidate molecules to be examined as potential mediators in mouse models of osteomyelofibrosis. Thus, careful analysis of prior literature can be beneficial in assisting the planning of future experimental studies.
Carbonic anhydrase IX proteoglycan-like and intracellular domains mediate pulmonary microvascular endothelial cell repair and angiogenesis
Authors: Stevens Reece P. , Alexeyev Mikhail F. , Kozhukhar Natalia , Pastukh Viktoria , Paudel Sunita S. , Bell Jessica , Tambe Dhananjay T. , Stevens Troy , Lee Ji Young
Published: June 2022

The lungs of patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) have hyperpermeable capillaries that must undergo repair in an acidic microenvironment. Pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (PMVECs) have an acid-resistant phenotype, in part due to carbonic anhydrase IX (CA IX). CA IX also facilitates PMVEC repair by promoting aerobic glycolysis, migration, and network formation. Molecular mechanisms of how CA IX performs such a wide range of functions are unknown. CA IX is composed of four domains known as the proteoglycan-like (PG), catalytic (CA), transmembrane (TM), and intracellular (IC) domains. We hypothesized that the PG and CA domains mediate PMVEC pH homeostasis and repair, and the IC domain regulates aerobic glycolysis and PI3k/Akt signaling. The functions of each CA IX domain were investigated using PMVEC cell lines that express either a full-length CA IX protein or a CA IX protein harboring a domain deletion. We found that the PG domain promotes intracellular pH homeostasis, migration, and network formation. The CA and IC domains mediate Akt activation but negatively regulate aerobic glycolysis. The IC domain also supports migration while inhibiting network formation. Finally, we show that exposure to acidosis suppresses aerobic glycolysis and migration, even though intracellular pH is maintained in PMVECs. Thus, we report that 1) the PG and IC domains mediate PMVEC migration and network formation, 2) the CA and IC domains support PI3K/Akt signaling, and 3) acidosis impairs PMVEC metabolism and migration independent of intracellular pH homeostasis.
Utilization of Polymer Composite for Development of Sustainable Construction Material
Authors: Rupal Ashmita , Meda Sivansankara Rao , Gupta Abhishek , Tank Ishan , Kapoor Ashish , Sharma Sanjay Kumar , Sathish T. , Murugan P.
Published: June 2022

Polymers have gained an extensive application due to their versatility of properties and benefits. Hence, the polymer blends and composites reinforced with different infusions at different scales, macro to nanofillers, can be fabricated, leading to specific tailormade applications. The main objective of this investigation is to overview the various studies carried out to reuse the waste materials like electroplating sludge, fly ash, etc. For the development of construction materials. This paper summarizes the use of polymers in composite material formulations for the development of building materials such as lightweight concrete, protective coatings, paver blocks, bricks, and structural components. Different tests, namely viscosity, density, flash point, amine value, and epoxy equivalent weight, were performed on polymers to find their suitability as binder materials. Various laboratory tests such as compressive strength, water absorption, tear resistance, flexural strength, and split tensile tests were carried out to determine the mechanical properties of the developed materials. By using polymers with the addition of sustainable filler and waste materials, the replacement of costly raw material can be achieved by more than 50% in the case of paver blocks, up to 60% in bitumen-polymer composite, 80% in case of lightweight concrete and polymer-based panels. This insight gives the framework for the selection of different materials, optimization of combining ratio of materials, and their testing for the development of polymer-based materials.
Effects of Occupational Therapy Program Based on Active Meditation on Hair Cortisol Levels in Undergraduate Healthcare Students
Authors: Espinosa Alejandra , Morrison Rodolfo , Gonzalez Diego , Jamardo Juan , Fortuna Federico , Díaz Carmen-Paz , Gutiérrez Pamela , Frías Carla , Soto Paula , González Alejandra , Mella Sandra , Fabre Bibiana
Published: June 2022

Context. Meditation incorporation helps to fight against disorders such as depression, stress, and anxiety. Specifically, few studies have studied Osho’s Active Meditation on young people, but observed evidence using passive meditation shows that it could improve stress well-management, emotional control, and other mental unhealthy conditions. Goal. The present study pointed to evaluate the results of an occupational therapy program centered on active meditation on hair cortisol concentration in a sample of undergraduate healthcare students. Methods. Undergraduate students from the University of Chile’s health careers were divided at random into control (

n
=
7

) and treated groups (

n
=
15

). The treated group participated in an active meditation program once a week for three months. This treatment included different techniques such as Chakra Sounds, Nataraj, Mandala, Kundalini, Devavani, Gourishankar, and Nadabrahma. Hair samples were taken before and after the treatment period to measure cortisol. Results. The control group increased cortisol level

168.9
±
76.8

 pg/mg compared with initial levels. The treated group shows a decrease of initial cortisol values in

28.5
±
12.8

 pg/mg after meditation protocol application. Conclusions. Blending active meditation in students’ daily routine through occupational therapy intervention might prevent undergraduate students’ stress in healthcare careers.
Stochastic Stability Analysis for Stochastic Coupled Oscillator Networks with Bidirectional Cross-Dispersal
Authors: Liu Xiaoqi , Gao Shang
Published: June 2022

It is well known that stochastic coupled oscillator network (SCON) has been widely applied; however, there are few studies on SCON with bidirectional cross-dispersal (SCONBC). This paper intends to study stochastic stability for SCONBC. A new and suitable Lyapunov function for SCONBC is constructed on the basis of Kirchhoff's matrix tree theorem in graph theory. Combining stochastic analysis skills and Lyapunov method, a sufficient criterion guaranteeing stochastic stability for the trivial solution of SCONBC is provided, which is associated with topological structure and coupling strength of SCONBC. Furthermore, some numerical simulation examples are given in order to illustrate the validity and practicability of our results.
Note on Capillary Rise in Elliptic and Semielliptic Tubes
Authors: Alassar Rajai S.
Published: June 2022

In this note, the dimensions of elliptic and semielliptic tubes in which the capillary rise starts oscillating about its Jurin’s height are determined. Comparisons with the capillary rise in the classical circular and in semicircular tubes are made.
Praxis and Effectiveness of Pedagogy during Pandemic: An Investigation of Learners’ Perspective
Authors: Al-hawamdeh Basem O. S. , Alam Sohaib
Published: June 2022

Changes in the style of education, from traditional to e-learning to online education, will have enormous implications in all parts of human existence, particularly in a student’s life, according to the current scenario. The underlying debate now is whether the curriculum design, the pedagogy, and the entire transformative process of online education should be progressive or regressive. The fundamental goal is to use technological platforms to make learning easier. The primary goal is to see if students have acclimated to the e-learning environment during the COVID-19 outbreak. How are students mentally dealing with it, with or without gratification? Are they dealing with computer phobia or simply enrolling in a course? The goal is to concentrate on the three E’s: encourage, explore, and evaluate the process of online teaching and learning efficacy, based on input from millions of students worldwide. The study has comprehensively examined the principles, difficulties, and praxis of online educational pedagogy to map efficacy and efficiency. The critical contribution of the research is the result claiming the potentiality of technology and the obstacles students face while learning due to such digital mechanisms.
Network Pharmacology and In Vivo Experimental Validation to Uncover the Renoprotective Mechanisms of Fangji Huangqi Decoction on Nephrotic Syndrome
Authors: Yin Jiazhen , Yu Dongrong , Mao Lichan , Zhu Caifeng , Yu Jin
Published: June 2022

Background. Fangji Huangqi decoction (FHD) is a traditional Chinese medicine formula that has the potential efficacy for nephrotic syndrome (NS) treatment. This study aims to explore the effects and underlying mechanisms of FHD against NS via network pharmacology and in vivo experiments. Methods. The bioactive compounds and targets of FHD were retrieved from the TCMSP database. NS-related targets were collected from GeneCards and DisGeNET databases. The compound-target and protein-protein interaction networks were constructed by Cytoscape 3.8 and BisoGenet, respectively. GO and KEGG analyses were performed by the DAVID online tool. The interactions between active compounds and hub genes were revealed by molecular docking. An NS rat model was established to validate the renoprotective effects and molecular mechanisms of FHD against NS in vivo. Results. A total of 32 hub genes were predicted to play essential roles in FHD treating NS. Eight main bioactive compounds of FHD had the good affinity with 9 hub targets (CCL2, IL-10, PTGS2, TNF, MAPK1, IL-6, CXCL8, TP53, and VEGFA). The therapeutic effect of FHD on NS was closely involved in the regulation of inflammation and PI3K-Akt pathway. In vivo experiments confirmed the renoprotective effect of FHD on NS, evidenced by reducing the levels of proteinuria, serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, and inflammatory factors in NS rats. The PI3K activator 740Y-P weakened the effects of FHD against NS. Furthermore, FHD downregulated the levels of PTGS2, MAPK1, IL-6, and p-Akt in NS rats. Conclusions. FHD alleviates kidney injury and inflammation in NS by targeting PTGS2, MAPK1, IL-6, and PI3K-Akt pathway.
The Activated AMPK/mTORC2 Signaling Pathway Associated with Oxidative Stress in Seminal Plasma Contributes to Idiopathic Asthenozoospermia
Authors: Cao Nannan , Hu Chunhui , Xia Bintong , He Yan , Huang Jiaolong , Yuan Zhicheng , Deng Jie , Duan Peng
Published: June 2022

Asthenozoospermia is a common form of abnormal sperm quality in idiopathic male infertility. While most sperm-mediated causes have been investigated in detail, the significance of seminal plasma has been neglected. Herein, we aimed to investigate the possible pathogenic factors leading to decreased sperm motility based on seminal plasma. Semen was collected from normo- (NOR,

n
=
70

), idiopathic oligo- (OLI,

n
=
57

), and idiopathic asthenozoospermic (AST,

n
=
53

) patients. Using attenuated total reflection-Fourier transform infrared coupled with chemometrics, distinct differences in the biochemical compositions of nucleic acids, protein structure (amides I, II, and III), lipids, and carbohydrates in seminal plasma of AST were observed when compared to NOR and OLI. Compared with NOR and OLI, the levels of peptide aggregation, protein phosphorylation, unsaturated fatty acid, and lipid to protein ratio were significantly increased in AST; however, the level of lipid saturation was significantly decreased in seminal plasma of AST. Compared with NOR, the levels of ROS, MDA, 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α (8-isoPGF2α), and the ratio of phospho-AMPKα/AMPKα1 were significantly increased in AST; however, the levels of SOD, glutathione S-transferase (GSTs), protein carbonyl derivative (PC), and the ratio of phospho-Rictor/Rictor were significantly decreased in seminal plasma of AST. Changes of the AMPK/mTORC2 signaling in the seminal microenvironment possibly induce abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism, which impairs energy production. Oxidative stress potentially damages seminal plasma lipids and proteins, which in turn leads to impaired sperm structure and function. These findings provide evidence that the changes in seminal plasma compositions, oxidative stress, and activation of the AMPK/mTORC2 signaling contribute to the development of asthenozoospermia.
Acute Effects of Partial Range of Motion Resistance Training and Increases in Blood Lactate Impact Accuracy of Penalty Kicks in Soccer Players
Authors: Ozimek Mariusz , Ambroży Tadeusz , Krasavina Tatiana , Lazareva Irina , Popova Christina , Rydzik Łukasz , Rybakov Vitaly , Gurevich Konstantin , Dias Stefane , Binkley Brian , Mikhailenko Rokaya , Tsymbal Alexander , Zadarko Emilian , Zaborova Victoria
Published: June 2022

The purpose of this investigation was to assess the acute effects of partial range of motion (pROM) exercises, on the accuracy of soccer penalty kicks on goal. This method limits the joint from moving through the complete length of a motion, creates an occlusion effect, and thus causes the type 1 muscle fibers to work anaerobically. Thirty‐six soccer players, with 5‐8 years of soccer playing experience, were pretested for accuracy then retested (rtt = 0.92) and divided into random groups from the Associação Banco do Brasil Futebol Clube—Group A, Paraná Futebol Clube—Group P, and Coritiba Futebol Clube—Group C. Groups were composed of 12 people performing full range of motion (fROM) exercises or pROM exercises. Both groups performed 5 sets of back squats at 50% of body weight in sets of 40 seconds with metronome tempo of 56 bpm for an average of 10‐12 repetitions per 40‐second set. Blood samples were collected post‐warm‐up, after the 3rd set, and following the 5th set for both groups, within 3–5 minutes of cessation of exercise. Athletes performing fROM exercises showed increased blood lactate from 2.69 ± 0.2 to 4.0 ± 1.2 mmol/L (p < 0.05), and in pROM, blood lactate increased from 2.48 ± 0.42 to 10.29 ± 1.3 mmol/L (p < 0.001). In fROM, accuracy decreased from 42.96 ± 13.39% to 41.37 ± 17.25% (p > 0.1), a slight decrease, while in the pROM groups, accuracy decreased from 45.42 ± 14.93% to 24.53 ± 10.2% (p < 0.001). The calculations demonstrating average percentages of accuracy are presented in the tables. These findings support that pROM exercises significantly increase blood lactate resulting in a reduction in soccer kick accuracy. This decrease in accuracy directly correlates to the accumulation of lactic acid and hydrogen ions (H+) and demonstrates that pROM strength training should not be utilized prior to a sport‐specific session in order to avoid interference with the development of special skills.
Study on the Combined Effect of Inclined Natural Fracture and Water Jet Slot on the Blast-Induced Crack Propagation Law
Authors: Su Dengfeng , Jia Zizheng , Zhu Qiang , Li Zhengguo , Chen Banghong , Zheng Dandan , Tian Renjun
Published: June 2022

For the purpose of uncovering the influence law on the explosion stress wave transmission and blast-induced crack propagation by inclined natural fracture and water jet slot, the influential mechanism for the transmission law of explosion stress wave due to inclined natural fracture was analyzed based on stress wave theory in this article. Next, the evolution law of explosion stress wave and blast-induced crack propagation affected by inclined natural fracture and water jet slot were simulated by ANSYS/LS-DYNA, and an experiment was conducted to understand the crack propagation law under explosion shock wave loading. The results indicate that the existence of inclined natural fracture will affect the “guiding effect” of water jet slot on blast-induced crack propagation by changing the propagation path and mechanical properties of the explosion stress wave. When the distance between inclined natural fracture and blast hole is too small, the water jet slot cannot play a guiding role in propagation process of blast-induced main crack. With the increase of the distance, the propagation direction of blast-induced crack is affected by both inclined natural fracture and water jet slot. When the distance increases further and exceeds a certain value, inclined natural fracture cannot affect the guiding effect of water jet slot in propagation process of blast-induced main crack.
Privacy Leaks Protection in Music Streaming Services Using an Intelligent Permissions Management System
Authors: Wang Qian
Published: June 2022

A security violation is referred to as a personal data breach when it leads to unintentional and unlawful destruction, loss, alteration, unauthorized disclosure, or access to personal data that has been communicated, stored, or otherwise processed in some other manner. Based on the principles of information security, we can define a breach of confidentiality as the unauthorized or accidental disclosure or access to personal data, a breach of integrity as the unauthorized or accidental alteration of personal data, and a breach of availability as the unauthorized or accidental loss of access to or destruction of personal data. This paper suggests designing an intelligent consensus policy management system based on the Markov chain approach. It is a novel system that would analyze the present status of the consensus elements for future development and anticipates the possibility of possible breaches of sensitive personal data. The evaluation of the proposed strategy is based on a policy scenario that involves a hypothetical consensus and a data breach of sensitive information to music streaming services.
Upper Bound Finite Element Limit Analysis of Pullout Characteristics of Normal-Stressed Circular Anchor Plate
Authors: Luo Yibo , Wei Bin , Huang Dongliang , Lv Guoshun , Hu Shihong
Published: June 2022

In this paper, the pullout factor and failure mode of circular anchor plate at an inclined angle with the horizontal ground under the normal stress are studied with the method of the upper bound finite element limit analysis. The effects of soil cohesion, internal friction angle, anchor plate inclination angle, and embedded ratio on the pullout factor are investigated to reveal the evolution of fracture surface of the soil around anchor plate under limit state. It is noted that the analysis of variance is adopted to process a series of data related to pullout capacity for obtaining the expression of the anchor plate’s pullout factor. The results show that the internal friction angle is the key factor determining the pullout characteristics of the anchor plate. Particularly, the effect of the inclination angle on pullout capacity is highly correlated to the internal friction angle. For

φ
=

0

°

, failure zone around anchor plate is presented as localization plastic zone and pullout capacity is linearly related to soil cohesion. The effect of inclination angle on pullout resistance is less significant. For

φ
≠

0

°

, the failure mode around the anchor plate is developing into full failure zone extending from both sides of anchor plate to ground. It is clearly noted that angle between the failure surface and horizontal line is greatly affected by the inclination of the anchor plate. Moreover, the effect of the inclination angle on pullout factor increases with increasing internal friction angle, which should be considered in the evaluation of the pullout bearing characteristics of the inclined circular anchor plate.