bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mathematical analysis of a measles transmission dynamics model in Bangladesh with double dose vaccination
Authors: Kuddus Md Abdul , Mohiuddin M. , Rahman Azizur
Published: August 2021

Although the availability of the measles vaccine, it is still epidemic in many countries globally, including Bangladesh. Eradication of measles needs to keep the basic reproduction number less than one $$(\mathrm{i}.\mathrm{e}. \, \, {\mathrm{R}}_{0}<1)$$

(
i
.
e
.

R
0

<
1
)

. This paper investigates a modified (SVEIR) measles compartmental model with double dose vaccination in Bangladesh to simulate the measles prevalence. We perform a dynamical analysis of the resulting system and find that the model contains two equilibrium points: a disease-free equilibrium and an endemic equilibrium. The disease will be died out if the basic reproduction number is less than one $$(\mathrm{i}.\mathrm{e}. \, \, {\mathrm{ R}}_{0}<1)$$

(
i
.
e
.

R
0

<
1
)

, and if greater than one $$(\mathrm{i}.\mathrm{e}. \, \, {\mathrm{R}}_{0}>1)$$

(
i
.
e
.

R
0

>
1
)

epidemic occurs. While using the Routh-Hurwitz criteria, the equilibria are found to be locally asymptotically stable under the former condition on $${\mathrm{R}}_{0}$$

R
0

. The partial rank correlation coefficients (PRCCs), a global sensitivity analysis method is used to compute $${\mathrm{R}}_{0}$$

R
0

and measles prevalence $$\left({\mathrm{I}}^{*}\right)$$

I

∗

with respect to the estimated and fitted model parameters. We found that the transmission rate $$(\upbeta )$$

(
β
)

had the most significant influence on measles prevalence. Numerical simulations were carried out to commissions our analytical outcomes. These findings show that how progression rate, transmission rate and double dose vaccination rate affect the dynamics of measles prevalence. The information that we generate from this study may help government and public health professionals in making strategies to deal with the omissions of a measles outbreak and thus control and prevent an epidemic in Bangladesh.
Cardioprotective effects of early intervention with sacubitril/valsartan on pressure overloaded rat hearts
Authors: Li Xiaofei , Braza Julie , Mende Ulrike , Choudhary Gaurav , Zhang Peng
Published: August 2021

Left ventricular remodeling due to pressure overload is associated with poor prognosis. Sacubitril/valsartan is the first-in-class Angiotensin Receptor Neprilysin Inhibitor and has been demonstrated to have superior beneficial effects in the settings of heart failure. The aim of this study was to determine whether sacubitril/valsartan has cardioprotective effect in the early intervention of pressure overloaded hearts and whether it is superior to valsartan alone. We induced persistent left ventricular pressure overload in rats by ascending aortic constriction surgery and orally administrated sacubitril/valsartan, valsartan, or vehicle one week post operation for 10 weeks. We also determined the effects of sacubitril/valsartan over valsartan on adult ventricular myocytes and fibroblasts that were isolated from healthy rats and treated in culture. We found that early intervention with sacubitril/valsartan is superior to valsartan in reducing pressure overload-induced ventricular fibrosis and in reducing angiotensin II-induced adult ventricular fibroblast activation. While neither sacubitril/valsartan nor valsartan changes cardiac hypertrophy development, early intervention with sacubitril/valsartan protects ventricular myocytes from mitochondrial dysfunction and is superior to valsartan in reducing mitochondrial oxidative stress in response to persistent left ventricular pressure overload. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that sacubitril/valsartan has a superior cardioprotective effect over valsartan in the early intervention of pressure overloaded hearts, which is independent of the reduction of left ventricular afterload. Our study provides evidence in support of potential benefits of the use of sacubitril/valsartan in patients with resistant hypertension or in patients with severe aortic stenosis.
Eight-year longitudinal study of whole blood gene expression profiles in individuals undergoing long-term medical follow-up
Authors: Sakai Yoshio , Nasti Alessandro , Takeshita Yumie , Okumura Miki , Kitajima Shinji , Honda Masao , Wada Takashi , Nakamura Seiji , Takamura Toshinari , Tamura Takuro , Matsubara Kenichi , Kaneko Shuichi
Published: August 2021

Blood circulates throughout the body via the peripheral tissues, contributes to host homeostasis and maintains normal physiological functions, in addition to responding to lesions. Previously, we revealed that gene expression analysis of peripheral blood cells is a useful approach for assessing diseases such as diabetes mellitus and cancer because the altered gene expression profiles of peripheral blood cells can reflect the presence and state of diseases. However, no chronological assessment of whole gene expression profiles has been conducted. In the present study, we collected whole blood RNA from 61 individuals (average age at registration, 50 years) every 4 years for 8 years and analyzed gene expression profiles using a complementary DNA microarray to examine whether these profiles were stable or changed over time. We found that the genes with very stable expression were related mostly to immune system pathways, including antigen cell presentation and interferon-related signaling. Genes whose expression was altered over the 8-year study period were principally involved in cellular machinery pathways, including development, signal transduction, cell cycle, apoptosis, and survival. Thus, this chronological examination study showed that the gene expression profiles of whole blood can reveal unmanifested physiological changes.
Molecular epidemiology and HIV-1 variant evolution in Poland between 2015 and 2019
Authors: Serwin Karol , Urbańska Anna , Scheibe Kaja , Witak-Jędra Magdalena , Jankowska Maria , Hlebowicz Maria , Bociąga-Jasik Monika , Kalinowska-Nowak Anna , Biała Martyna , Ciepłucha Hubert , Łojewski Władysław , Olczak Anita , Jabłonowska Elżbieta , Kowalczuk-Kot Aldona , Rozpłochowski Błażej , Witor Adam , Parczewski Miłosz
Published: August 2021

The occurrence of HIV-1 subtypes differs worldwide and within Europe, with non-B variants mainly found across different exposure groups. In this study, we investigated the distribution and temporal trends in HIV-1 subtype variability across Poland between 2015 and 2019. Sequences of the pol gene fragment from 2518 individuals were used for the analysis of subtype prevalence. Subtype B was dominant (n = 2163, 85.90%). The proportion of subtype B-infected individuals decreased significantly, from 89.3% in 2015 to 80.3% in 2019. This was related to the increasing number of subtype A infections. In 355 (14.10%) sequences, non-B variants were identified. In 65 (2.58%) samples, recombinant forms (RFs) were noted. Unique recombinant forms (URFs) were found in 30 (1.19%) sequences. Three A/B recombinant clusters were identified of which two were A6/B mosaic viruses not previously described. Non-B clades were significantly more common among females (n = 81, 22.8%, p = 0.001) and heterosexually infected individuals (n = 45, 32.4%, p = 0.0031). The predominance of subtype B is evident, but the variability of HIV-1 in Poland is notable. Almost half of RFs (n = 65, 2.58%) was comprised of URFs (n = 30, 1.19%); thus those forms were common in the analyzed population. Hence, molecular surveillance of identified variants ensures recognition of HIV-1 evolution in Poland.
Comparative genome analysis of Bacillus thuringiensis strain HD521 and HS18-1
Authors: Sun Hongwei , Xiang Xing , Li Qiao , Lin Hui , Wang Xiaolin , Sun Jie , Luo Long , Zheng Aiping
Published: August 2021

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is an important biological insecticide used to management of different agricultural pests by producing toxic parasporal crystals proteins. Strain HD521 has an antagonistic effect against Rhizoctonia solani AG1IA, the causal agent of rice sheath blight. This strain with three cry7 genes can the formation of bipyramidal parasporal crystals (BPCs). BPCs are used for insecticidal activities against Henosepilachna vigintioctomaculata larva (Coleoptera). Strain HS18-1 contains different types of BPCs encoding genes and has effective toxicity for Lepidoptera and Diptera insects. Here we report the whole genome sequencing and assembly of HD521 and HS18-1 strains and analyzed the genome constitution covering virulence factors, types of plasmid, insertion sequences, and prophage sequences. The results showed that the genome of strain HD521 contains a circular chromosome and six circular plasmids, encoding eight types of virulence protein factors [Immune Inhibitor A, Hemolytic Enterotoxin, S-layer protein, Phospholipase C, Zwittermicin A-resistance protein, Metalloprotease, Chitinase, and N-acyl homoserine lactonase (AiiA)], four families of insertion sequence, and comprises six pro-phage sequences. The genome of strain HS18-1 contains one circular chromosome and nine circular plasmids, encoding five types of virulence protein factors [Hemolytic Enterotoxin, S-layer protein, Phospholipase C, Chitinase, and N-acyl homoserine lactonase (AiiA)] and four families of insertion sequence, and comprises of three pro-phage sequences. The obtained results will contribute to deeply understand the B. thuringiensis strain HD521 and HS18-1 at the genomic level.
Evaluation of the association between periodontitis and risk of Parkinson’s disease: a nationwide retrospective cohort study
Authors: Jeong Eunkyung , Park Jun-Beom , Park Yong-Gyu
Published: August 2021

The objective of this study was to examine the association between periodontitis and risk of incident Parkinson’s disease using large-scale cohort data on the entire population of South Korea. Health checkup data from 6,856,180 participants aged 40 and older were provided by the National Health Insurance Service of South Korea between January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2009, and the data were followed until December 31, 2017. The hazard ratio (HR) of Parkinson’s disease and 95% confidence interval (CI) were estimated using a Cox proportional hazards model adjusted for potential confounders. The incidence probability of Parkinson’s disease was positively correlated with the presence of periodontitis. The HR of Parkinson’s disease for the participants without the need of further dentist visits was 0.96 (95% CI 0.921–1.002); the HR of Parkinson’s disease increased to 1.142 (95% CI 1.094–1.193) for the individuals who needed further dentist visits. Compared to individuals without periodontitis and without metabolic syndrome, the HR of incident Parkinson’s disease gradually increased for individuals with periodontitis, with metabolic syndrome, and with both periodontitis and metabolic syndrome. People with periodontitis and metabolic syndrome had the highest HR of incident Parkinson’s disease, at 1.167 (95% CI 1.118–1.219). In conclusion, a weak association between periodontitis and Parkinson’s disease was suggested after adjusting for confounding factors from the population-based large-scale cohort of the entire South Korean population.
Optimization of solid waste collection using RSM approach, and strategies delivering sustainable development goals (SDG’s) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Radwan Neyara , Khan Nadeem A. , Elmanfaloty Rania Abdou Gaber
Published: August 2021

The rapid industrial development, high population growth, and rapid urbanization of Saudi Arabia have led to increased pollution and waste levels. Every day, solid waste disposal for governments and local authorities becomes a significant challenge. Saudi Arabia produces over 15 million tonnes of solid waste annually, with a population of around 29 million. The waste production per person is estimated at between 1.5 and 1.8 kg per day per person. About 75% of the population in urban areas is concentrated, making it imperative that government steps are taken to boost the country's waste recycling and management scenario. The production of solid waste in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, three of the largest cities, exceeds seven million tonnes annually, which shows the enormity of the civic body problem. During this study, the design Expert software was involved in the optimization of process parameters during the collection of municipal solid waste (MSW) from Jeddah city. The use of design experiments and numerical optimization is quite effective in optimizing the different process parameters on the overall cost. Saudi Arabia has a critical need for a resilient waste system and agile waste management system to control its municipal solid waste quickly and environmentally friendly for achieve Saudi Vision 2030. For this study design of experiment, software was employed to optimize the cost per trip, thereby considering process parameters. It is therefore essential to examine the existing practices and future opportunities for solid waste collection, storage, and disposal. This study considered that MSW generated in Saudi Arabia which is having great potential to be converted into wealth. Hence, considering the current environment situation, energy prospective and future management strategies for MSW have also been reviewed.
The functional brain favours segregated modular connectivity at old age unless affected by neurodegeneration
Authors: Chen Xue , Necus Joe , Peraza Luis R. , Mehraram Ramtin , Wang Yanjiang , O’Brien John T. , Blamire Andrew , Kaiser Marcus , Taylor John-Paul
Published: August 2021

Brain’s modular connectivity gives this organ resilience and adaptability. The ageing process alters the organised modularity of the brain and these changes are further accentuated by neurodegeneration, leading to disorganisation. To understand this further, we analysed modular variability—heterogeneity of modules—and modular dissociation—detachment from segregated connectivity—in two ageing cohorts and a mixed cohort of neurodegenerative diseases. Our results revealed that the brain follows a universal pattern of high modular variability in metacognitive brain regions: the association cortices. The brain in ageing moves towards a segregated modular structure despite presenting with increased modular heterogeneity—modules in older adults are not only segregated, but their shape and size are more variable than in young adults. In the presence of neurodegeneration, the brain maintains its segregated connectivity globally but not locally, and this is particularly visible in dementia with Lewy bodies and Parkinson’s disease dementia; overall, the modular brain shows patterns of differentiated pathology.
Macrocycles, Catenanes and Rotaxanes
Authors: Evans N. H.
Published: August 2021

Inspired by the myriad enzymes found in living organisms, supramolecular chemists have investigated the cavities of both macrocycles and the related interlocked molecules catenanes and rotaxanes as catalytic and non-catalytic sites of chemical reactions. While macrocycles are typically easier to access synthetically, the interlocked structures of catenanes and rotaxanes offer exciting opportunities, including their innate three-dimensionality, large-amplitude motion of their interlocked components and chirality arising from the mechanical bond.
Stabilising Reactive Intermediates in Cages
Authors: Robson J. A. , Riddell I. A.
Published: August 2021

Discrete, three-dimensional metal–organic cages with well defined internal void spaces have been shown to promote the formation and increase the lifetime of reactive intermediates. The size and shape match between a host molecule and its guest, in addition to complementary electrostatic interactions between the host and guest, have been identified as the key factors governing stability of the encapsulated high-energy species. Herein we review examples of cage molecules that effectively shield encapsulated guests, altering their behaviour from that observed in bulk solution, and also explore the role of host molecules in stabilising high-energy intermediates that can be used productively in chemical transformations.
Topochemistry Meets Supramolecular Chemistry: Opportunities for Targeted Organic Synthesis in Molecular Crystals
Authors: Campillo-Alvarado Gonzalo , Li Changan , MacGillivray Leonard R.
Published: August 2021

A milestone of crystal engineering has been the topochemical control of reactivity in the crystalline solid-state through the judicious usage of noncovalent interactions. Specifically, since the pioneering studies by Schmidt and co-workers who postulated the geometrical conditions of single crystals to act as a confined media for alkenes to undergo [2 + 2]-photocycloadditions, many recent supramolecular strategies have expanded and facilitated the topochemical control of reactivity. Supramolecular control of reactivity in confined crystalline media is exemplified using supramolecular templates or “shepherds”, that facilitate the positioning of alkenes into a suitable geometry for [2 + 2]-photocycloadditions. In this monograph, we explore selected examples of supramolecular templating of [2 + 2]-photocycloadditions within the last decade that rely on diverse supramolecular interactions. The advances in topochemical control of reactivity through supramolecular chemistry are expressed in the synthesis of unique yet varied cyclobutane-based organic architectures, which are important building blocks for pharmaceutics and high-dimensional complexes.
Stabilising and Characterising Homogeneous Catalysts in MOFs
Authors: Griffin Sarah L. , Orton Georgia R. F. , Young Rosemary J. , Sumby Christopher J. , Doonan Christian J. , Champness Neil R.
Published: August 2021

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) provide a crystalline scaffold that can act as a host for guest species. In this chapter, recent advances using MOFs as hosts for catalytic metal complexes are discussed. Particular emphasis is given to MOFs that can tether metal complexes to the framework such that the guests adopt a crystalline arrangement. The structures of the tethered complexes and their reactivity can be studied by a variety of techniques, including X-ray diffraction. We discuss examples of reactive species which are kinetically trapped and structurally characterised within an MOF and reports where tethering catalysts to MOFs can lead to enhanced catalytic performance. Finally, we describe guidelines for developing such approaches and for the use of MOFs to study catalytic processes.
Diverse axial chiral assemblies of J-aggregates in plexcitonic nanoparticles
Authors: Guo Jiaqi , Wu Fan , Song Gang , Huang Yuming , Jiao Rongzhen , Yu Li
Published: August 2021

We obtained CD spectra of plexcitonic hybrids, and researched the diverse chirality of J-aggregates assembled on the surface of achiral Au NRs. The J-aggregates assembled on each end and side of the Au NRs had opposite chirality.
Enhanced drug retention by anthracene crosslinked nanocomposites for bimodal imaging-guided phototherapy
Authors: Fan Xiaoshan , Ke Lingjie , Cheng Hongwei , Chen Hu , Li Zhiguo , Ye Enyi , Loh Xian-Jun , Wu Yun-Long , Liu Gang , Li Zibiao
Published: August 2021

Core–shell structures of anthracene crosslinked nanocomposites containing upconverting nanoparticles and IR780 are manufactured to achieve better phototherapeutic tumor treatment with MRI/PA bimodal imaging guidance.
Nucleophile–nucleofuge duality of azide and arylthiolate groups in the synthesis of quinazoline and tetrazoloquinazoline derivatives
Authors: Jeminejs Andris , Novosjolova Irina , Bizdēna Ērika , Turks Māris
Published: August 2021

5-Arylthio-tetrazolo[1,5-c]quinazolines (tautomers of 2-arylthio-4-azido-quinazolines) undergo facile nucleophilic aromatic substitution reactions with amines, alcohols and alkylthiols.
Trifluoromethyl substitution enhances photoinduced activity against breast cancer cells but reduces ligand exchange in Ru(ii) complex
Authors: Lanquist Austin P. , Gupta Sayak , Al-Afyouni Kathlyn F. , Al-Afyouni Malik , Kodanko Jeremy J. , Turro Claudia
Published: August 2021

Ru(ii) complexes exhibit photoinduced exchange of coordinated CH3CN and photocytotoxicity against breast cancer cells highly dependent on the substituents of the ancillary triphenylphospine ligand.
Unravelling the last milliseconds of an individual graphene nanoplatelet before impact with a Pt surface by bipolar electrochemistry
Authors: Deng Zejun , Renault Christophe
Published: August 2021

The velocity of single GNP is monitored by contactless bipolar electrochemical feedback over the last hundreds of nm before collision on an electrode, and the variations shed light on the balance of forces acting on these objects near an interface.
Synergetic effect-triggered performance promotion of Sr3−xBaxP5N10Cl:Eu2+phosphors
Authors: Hsueh Hsi-Ping , Fang Mu-Huai , Vasudevan Thangaraji , Huang Wen-Tse , Majewska Natalia , Lazarowska Agata , Mahlik Sebastian , Sheu Hwo-Shuenn , Lee Jyh-Fu , Liu Ru-Shi
Published: August 2021

A series of zeolitic nitridophosphate phosphors Sr2.91−xBaxP5N10Cl:0.09Eu2+ was synthesized using a hot isostatic press.
The reproductive tract microbiota in pregnancy
Authors: Grewal Karen , MacIntyre David A. , Bennett Phillip R.
Published: August 2021

The reproductive tract microbiota plays a crucial role in maintenance of normal pregnancy and influences reproductive outcomes. Microbe–host interactions in pregnancy remain poorly understood and their role in shaping immune modulation is still being uncovered. In this review, we describe the composition of vaginal microbial communities in the reproductive tract and their association with reproductive outcomes. We also consider strategies for manipulating microbiota composition by using live biotherapeutics, selective eradication of pathogenic bacteria with antibiotics and vaginal microbiota transplantation. Finally, future developments in this field and the need for mechanistic studies to explore the functional significance of reproductive tract microbial communities are highlighted.
High glucose represses the proliferation of tendon fibroblasts by inhibiting autophagy activation in tendon injury
Authors: Song Fu-Chen , Yuan Jia-Qin , Zhu Mei-Dong , Li Qi , Liu Sheng-Hua , Zhang Lei , Zhao Cheng
Published: August 2021

Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a kind of common and disabling complication of Diabetes Mellitus (DM). Emerging studies have demonstrated that tendon fibroblasts play a crucial role in remodeling phase of wound healing. However, little is known about the mechanism underlying high glucose (HG)-induced decrease in tendon fibroblasts viability. In the present study, the rat models of DFU were established, and collagen deposition, autophagy activation and cell apoptosis in tendon tissues were assessed using Hematoxylin–Eosin (HE) staining, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and TdT-mediated dUTP Nick-End Labeling (TUNEL) assay, respectively. Tendon fibroblasts were isolated from Achilles tendon of the both limbs, and the effect of HG on autophagy activation in tendon fibroblasts was assessed using Western blot analysis, Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, and flow cytometry. We found that cell apoptosis was increased significantly and autophagy activation was decreased in foot tendon tissues of DFU rats compared with normal tissues. The role of HG in regulating tendon fibroblasts viability was then investigated in vitro, and data showed that HG repressed cell viability and increased cell apoptosis. Furthermore, HG treatment reduced LC3-II expression and increased p62 expression, indicating that HG repressed autophagy activation of tendon fibroblasts. The autophagy activator rapamycin reversed the effect. More importantly, rapamycin alleviated the suppressive role of HG in tendon fibroblasts viability. Taken together, our data demonstrate that HG represses tendon fibroblasts proliferation by inhibiting autophagy activation in tendon injury.
Almost sure convergence of randomised‐difference descent algorithm for stochastic convex optimisation
Authors: Geng Xiaoxue , Huang Gao , Zhao Wenxiao
Published: August 2021

Stochastic gradient descent algorithm is a classical and useful method for stochastic optimisation. While stochastic gradient descent has been theoretically investigated for decades and successfully applied in machine learning such as training of deep neural networks, it essentially relies on obtaining the unbiased estimates of gradients/subgradients of the objective functions. In this paper, by constructing the randomised differences of the objective function, a gradient‐free algorithm, named the stochastic randomised‐difference descent algorithm, is proposed for stochastic convex optimisation. Under the strongly convex assumption of the objective function, it is proved that the estimates generated from stochastic randomised‐difference descent converge to the optimal value with probability one, and the convergence rates of both the mean square error of estimates and the regret functions are established. Finally, some numerical examples are prsented.
Design and analysis of Lorentz magnetic bearing for magnetic suspended control and sensing gyroscope
Authors: Cao Shinan , Niu Pingjuan , Liu Qiang
Published: August 2021

To improve the control accuracy and output torque of magnetic suspend and control gyroscope, a Lorentz magnetic bearing with double second auxiliary air gap is proposed, and its mechanical structure is introduced. Frist, the structure and working principle of the Lorentz magnetic bearing with second air gap is introduced and the magnetic circuit model of the magnetic bearing is established by the equivalent magnetic circuit method. Second, on the basis of the circuit model, the maximum magnetic flux density of the winding area is analysed by finite element method. The fluctuation rate of magnetic flux density in winding area with double air gap scheme is 5.9%, and the maximum magnetic flux intensity at the winding coil can reach 0.462T. Finally, a bearing prototype is made, the theoretical calculation and finite element simulation results are verified by experiments.
New correlation features for dissolved gas analysis based transformer fault diagnosis based on the maximal information coefficient
Authors: Liang Yongliang , Zhang Zhongyi , Li Ke‐Jun , Li Yu‐Chuan
Published: August 2021

Online monitoring of gases dissolved in transformer oil is widely applied. Improving the performance of dissolved gas analysis (DGA)‐based fault diagnosis methods by exploring new features of time‐series data has become an appealing topic. In this study, a new type of correlation features between characteristic gases was extracted from time‐series data based on the maximal information coefficient (MIC), and a fuzzy inference system was established. After the introduction of the principle of the MIC and a method for calculating the MIC‐based correlation features, the dominant symptom features that can be used to classify fault types were extracted through the receiver operating characteristic curve. Then, fuzzy rules were learnt, and a fuzzy inference system was designed. In addition, to improve the feasibility of the method, the Newton interpolation method was used for adaptation to the existing sampling cycle. The diagnostic results of the test data show that the proposed method has excellent performance and outperforms some prevailing traditional rule‐based methods as well as some artificial intelligent methods. The results also show that by exploring new correlation features from time‐series data based on the MIC, the performance of DGA‐based methods can be improved.
A type of piecewise and modular energy storage topology achieved by dual carrier cross phase shift SPWM control
Authors: Wang Qingsong , Hong Zhouliang , Deng Fujin , Cheng Ming , Wu Zhi , Buja Giuseppe
Published: August 2021

This paper proposes a novel type of piecewise and modular energy storage topology. Compared to the modular multilevel converter (MMC), the proposed topology is not only different in structure but also in concept. Firstly, the capacitors within the submodules of MMC are all replaced by lithium batteries, which can avoid the voltage imbalance among capacitors and provide a deep connection between MMC and energy storage. What's more, the micro‐unit concept is adopted to break the whole batteries within MMC into parts for each submodule by increasing the number of submodules to an extremely high level, which turns it into a novel microelement‐based energy storage device. Due to the characteristics of the proposed topology, dual carrier cross‐phase shift sinusoidal pulse width modulation (DCCPS‐SPWM) is also proposed. With the help of DCCPS‐SPWM, the proposed topology has the advantages of simple structure, easy to control, fewer total modules with the same output level, high fault tolerance, easy to detect and locate faults. The operating modes with four energy storage units per bridge arm are well analysed and extended to the case of N units. The double‐Fourier analysis is performed on the output voltage waveform, so that the harmonics of the output voltage with DCCPS‐SPWM can be clearly understood. Finally, the feasibility of the proposed topology and its control are verified by both simulation and experimental results.
An efficient corner detector based on ratio of parallelogram diagonal
Authors: Zhang Shizheng , Liu Shan , Wang Qiang , Rong Lu , Li Baohuan , Zheng Qian
Published: August 2021

Corner is an important local feature of image which has been widely applied on various computer vision and image processing tasks. Here, a contour‐based corner detector is developed by using the ratio of parallelogram diagonals (RPD) to estimate the curve curvature. The main advantage of RPD detector is that only once square root operation is required to calculate the curvature value at each point on a contour while maintaining good noise robustness. The contributions of this paper include the following three aspects: First, the motivation of the proposed RPD curvature is illustrated by means of parallelogram theory; second, a complete corner detector is proposed based on RPD curvature; third, comprehensive experiments are carried out and the experimental results show superior performances of the proposed method against another five strong baselines. In these experiments, RPD runs 100% faster than the prior works. Moreover, a mean accuracy of 83.87% is reported on GCM dataset which is an improvement of about 0.9% and a mean accuracy of 74.21% is reported on CPDA dataset which is an improvement of about 0.2%.
On the removal of the open earcanal high-pass filter effect due to its occlusion: A bone-conduction occlusion effect theory
Authors: Carillo Kévin , Doutres Olivier , Sgard Franck
Published: August 2021

The occlusion effect is commonly experienced by in-ear device wearers as an increased loudness sensation of bone-conducted low frequency sounds. A widespread theory proposed by Tonndorf and based on a simplified electro-acoustic model describes the phenomenon as the removal of the open earcanal high-pass filter effect due to a perfect or partial occlusion. However, this filter has not been clearly defined and several ambiguities remain. Revisiting the model, a second order high-pass filter effect for the volume velocity transferred between the earcanal wall and the eardrum is highlighted. This filter remains for partial occlusion but vanishes for perfect occlusion. In the latter case, the volume velocity transferred from the earcanal cavity to the middle ear through the eardrum drastically increases, which explains the predominance of the occluded outer ear pathway on the hearing by bone-conduction at low frequencies.
Akupunkturbehandlung bei Zervikalgien und Nuchalgien
Authors: Peuker Elmar T.
Published: August 2021

Nuchalgien und Zervikalgien gehören zu den häufigsten
Behandlungsanlässen in der Praxis. Vor der Behandlung sollte eine
systematische Untersuchung der Sensibilität und Motorik erfolgen, um
mögliche abwendbar gefährlichen Verläufe zu erkennen. Die
Akupunktur bietet einen mehrdimensionalen Zugang bei schmerzhaften Störungen
der Kopf-, Nacken- und Schulterregion. Dabei kommen leitbahnorientierte
Ansätze, die Behandlung von Lokal- und Triggerpunkten sowie
syndromorientierte Vorgehensweisen nach den Vorstellungen der TCM zum Einsatz.
Darüber hinaus bietet sich die Einbindung von Mikrosystemen an. In diesem
Artikel liegt der Schwerpunkt auf einer leitbahn- und triggerpunktorientierten
Herangehensweise sowie dem Einsatz von Mikrosystemen.
Directions for Exercise Treatment Response Heterogeneity and
Individual Response Research
Authors: Hrubeniuk Travis J. , Bonafiglia Jacob T. , Bouchard Danielle R. , Gurd Brendon J. , Sénéchal Martin
Published: August 2021

Treatment response heterogeneity and individual responses following exercise
training are topics of interest for personalized medicine. Proposed methods to
determine the contribution of exercise to the magnitude of treatment response
heterogeneity and categorizing participants have expanded and evolved. Setting
clear research objectives and having a comprehensive understanding of the
strengths and weaknesses of the available methods are vital to ensure the
correct study design and analytical approach are used. Doing so will ensure
contributions to the field are conducted as rigorously as possible. Nonetheless,
concerns have emerged regarding the ability to truly isolate the impact of
exercise training, and the nature of individual responses in relation to mean
group changes. The purpose of this review is threefold. First, the strengths and
limitations associated with current methods for quantifying the contribution of
exercise to observed treatment response heterogeneity will be discussed. Second,
current methods used to categorize participants based on their response to
exercise will be outlined, as well as proposed mechanisms for factors that
contribute to response variation. Finally, this review will provide an overview
of some current issues at the forefront of individual response research.
Redo Aortic and Mitral Valve Replacement using St. Jude Medical Mechanical Prosthesis in a Patient with Degenerated Mitral Bioprosthesis and Severe Aortic Regurgitation: A Video Presentation
Authors: Chowdhury Ujjwal K. , Sankhyan Lakshmi Kumari , Singh Sukhjeet , George Niwin , Sharan Sandeep , Kapoor Poonam Malhotra , Gharde Parag , Sengupta Sanjoy , B. Sushamagayatri
Published: August 2021

The American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association practice guidelines suggest bioprosthetic aortic and mitral valve replacement is a reasonable option for patients older than 65 years and for selected patients younger than 65 years according to patients’ preference. However, routine use of bioprosthetic valves in younger patients remains controversial. Patients prevalence to avoid anticoagulation, decreasing operative risks for valve reoperations, and the availability of catheter valve-in-valve techniques have created a need to reexamine bioprosthetic valve durability, particularly in young patients undergoing valve replacements
Diffusion of excessively adsorbed hydrogen atoms on hydrogen terminated Si(100)(2×1) surface
Authors: Inagaki Kouji , Morikawa Yoshitada , Ohmi Hiromasa , Yasutake Kiyoshi , Kakiuchi Hiroaki
Published: August 2021

The diffusion properties of an excess H atom adsorbed on a fully H-terminated Si(100)(2 × 1)-H surface have been analyzed by means of density functional theory-generalized gradient approximation calculations. Our diffusion pathway models consist of sequences of hops between metastable Si surface atomic structures with an excess H atom. We analyzed the reaction path and corresponding barrier height in each hop using the climbing image nudged elastic band method. The activation energies for diffusion along intra-dimer, intra-row, and inter-row pathways are found to be 0.11, 0.54, and 0.74 eV, respectively, which are quite small compared to the common H diffusion running with a vacant site of hydrogen termination. The weak adsorption energy of the excess H atom is responsible for the small activation energy of diffusion. The present diffusion mechanism suggests that the physical substance of the “hot atom mechanism” proposed in the previous investigations on H exposure onto the Si surface is related to the metastable structures of excessively adsorbed hydrogen atoms.
On the roles of antisymmetric vorticity and particles changing over in two-dimensional vortex merging problems
Authors: M Sreejith , Lal S Anil
Published: August 2021

The two-dimensional vortex merging problem has been solved for a wide range of ReΓ values and for inviscid media. Accurate numerical solutions from a spectral method on 1024 × 1024 grids are utilized to report new findings on the mechanisms involved in different stages of merging. We have identified the role of the antisymmetric part of vorticity in causing the alternating nature of radial movement of the vortices, thus explaining the mechanism for oscillations in the variation of the separation distance in stage-3. Alternations of radial velocity place a limit on the rate of reduction of the separation distance by convection during the final phase of merging. As another major contribution of the present work, we have reported the role of viscosity in smooth and fast merging of the vortices through a process called “particles changing over.” This is true for the investigated inviscid case also, wherein the hyper-viscosity included for stabilization of the numerical solution performs the process of particles changing over. The vortex merging in stage-3 of two-dimensional vortex interactions is an “alternating convection and particles changing over phase.”
Comparison of microbial diversity in rumen and small intestine of Xinong Saanen dairy goats using 16S rRNA gene high-throughput sequencing
Authors: Li Cong , Geng Yanan , Wang Ping , Shi Huaiping , Luo Jun
Published: August 2021

Context Gastrointestinal microorganisms play an important role in ruminant digestion and metabolism, immune regulation and disease prevention and control. Different parts of the digestive tract have different functions and microbial community structures. Aims This study aims to explore the microbial diversity in the rumen and the small intestine of Xinong Saanen dairy goats. Methods Rumen fluid and jejunum fluid from three Xinong Saanen dairy bucks with the average slaughter weight of 33.93 ± 0.68 kg were collected and analysed for microbial diversity, by using 16S rRNA gene high-throughput sequencing. Key results In total, 1118 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were identified, with 1020 OTUs and 649 OTUs being clustered to rumen and jejunum samples respectively. Alpha-diversity indices were significantly (P < 0.05) different between rumen and jejunum, as indicated by the fact that the rumen microbial community diversity, richness and uniformity/evenness were higher than those of jejunum. At the phylum level, the dominant phyla in the rumen were Bacteroidetes (66.7%) and Firmicutes (25.1%), accounting for 91.8% of the rumen microorganisms. The dominant phylum in the jejunum was Firmicutes, accounting for 73.0% of the jejunum microorganisms. At the genus level, the dominant bacteria in the rumen were Prevotella_1, norank_f_Bacteroidales_BS11_gut_group, Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group, Christensenellaceae_R-7_group and Family_XIII_AD3011_group, whereas the dominant bacteria in the jejunum were Omboutsia, Aeriscardovia, Intestinibacter, unclassified_f_Peptostreptococcaceae and unclassified_f_Bifidobacteriaceae. Clusters of Orthologous Groups (COG) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) results showed that the major functions of microorganisms in the rumen and jejunum were carbohydrate metabolism, amino acid metabolism, nucleotide metabolism, membrane transport and translation. Interestingly, fructose and mannose metabolism and peptidoglycan biosynthesis were abundant in the rumen, while homologous recombination and nucleotide excision repair were abundant in the jejunum. Conclusions Our study clarified the differences in microbial diversity and community structure between the rumen and the jejunum in Xinong Saanen dairy goats. Prevotella was the most predominant genus in the rumen, compared with Romboutsia, Bifidobacterium as well as Peptostreptococcaceae genera, which were the predominant genera in the jejunum. Implications In combination with the functional prediction of microorganisms and the metabolic characteristics of different parts of the digestive tract in ruminants, our findings provided information for further exploring the relationship among genes, species and functions of microorganisms and their hosts’ nutritional and physiological functions.
A molecular perspective on the systematics of the spider crab genus
Authors: Tamburus Ana Francisca , Mantelatto Fernando Luis
Published: August 2021

Libinia, a genus of spider crabs, encompasses 10 valid species, three from the eastern Pacific and seven from the western Atlantic. Previous phylogenetic hypotheses based on molecular and larval morphological data suggested an uncertain position of the genus Libinia within the family Epialtidae. Therefore, we investigated the evolutionary relationships among the species of Libinia, and also suggested a position for this genus within the family. Phylogenetic trees were obtained from concatenated mtDNA sequences of 16S and COI fragments. Molecular dating methods were used to estimate the relative timing of origin and diversification within Libinia. Eighteen new primers were designed, and PCR conditions were standardised to amplify the COI fragments of older or poorly preserved pinned specimens, generating ~550 base pair sequences. Phylogenetic hypotheses supported the monophyly of the genus. Species that occur in the eastern Pacific and the ones found in the western Atlantic do not form monophyletic clades related to this geographical separation. In the eastern Pacific, there is low phylogenetic proximity between Libinia mexicana and L. setosa; and since we did not sample L. peruana, we inferred that it should cluster with L. setosa or L. mexicana due to morphological similarity. Libinia spinosa is separate from the other species, L. mexicana was a sister group of L. cavirostris, and L. ferreirae was closely related to L. dubia and L. rhomboidea, which occur in the Gulf of Mexico and in the Caribbean, respectively. In the Gulf of Mexico, L. dubia and L. emarginata are closely related. Although L. erinacea was not sampled, we suggest, from previous studies, that it should group with L. dubia due to morphological similarities. The phylogenetic hypothesis suggests the monophyly of Libinia, with its origins at the late Eocene. Finally, the recovered clades based on two molecular markers agreed with a parallel, linked morphological study that is still in progress.
Economic impacts of tipping points in the climate system
Authors: Dietz Simon , Rising James , Stoerk Thomas , Wagner Gernot
Published: August 2021

Significance

Tipping points in the climate system are one of the principal reasons for concern about climate change. Climate economists have only recently begun incorporating them in economic models. We synthesize this emerging literature and provide unified, geophysically realistic estimates of the economic impacts of eight climate tipping points with an emphasis on the social cost of carbon, a key policy input.
Generation and verification of 27-qubit Greenberger-Horne-Zeilinger states in a superconducting quantum computer
Authors: Mooney Gary J , White Gregory A L , Hill Charles D , Hollenberg Lloyd C L
Published: August 2021

Generating and detecting genuine multipartite entanglement (GME) of sizeable quantum states prepared on physical devices is an important benchmark for highlighting the progress of near-term quantum computers. A common approach to certify GME is to prepare a Greenberger-Horne-Zeilinger (GHZ) state and measure a GHZ fidelity of at least 0.5. We measure the fidelities using multiple quantum coherences of GHZ states on 11 to 27 qubits prepared on the IBM Quantum ibmq_montreal device. Combinations of quantum readout error mitigation (QREM) and parity verification error detection are applied to the states. A fidelity of 0.546 ± 0.017 was recorded for a 27-qubit GHZ state when QREM was used, demonstrating GME across the full device with a confidence level of 98.6%. We benchmarked the effect of parity verification on GHZ fidelity for two GHZ state preparation embeddings on the heavy-hexagon architecture. The results show that the effect of parity verification, while relatively modest, led to a detectable improvement of GHZ fidelity.
Shared medical appointments for weight loss: a systematic review
Authors: Walker Ruth , Ramasamy Vijayanand , Sturgiss Elizabeth , Dunbar James , Boyle Jacqueline
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Shared medical appointments (SMAs) may help mitigate some of the barriers for managing obesity in primary care. The primary aim of this systematic review was to measure the effect of weight loss SMAs.

Methods

Systematic searches using keywords and Medical Subject Headings for overweight, obesity, and SMAs were conducted in the CENTRAL, Medline Complete, PsycINFO, Scopus, CINAHL, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases with no date limits. Risk of bias was assessed using the Effective Health Practice Project Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies.

Results

Fifteen studies involving weight loss SMAs in adults and children were identified. Six studies had controls. Inconsistency in reporting weight loss or weight change in controlled studies meant that data could not be pooled for meta-analysis. Results from individual studies indicated that SMAs can support adult patients to achieve significant weight loss. Women and older adults were more likely to take up SMA invitations. Results from the 5 studies involving children were less conclusive. Studies involving participants of a higher socioeconomic status tended to report lower attrition than studies involving participants who experienced disadvantage. These findings should be interpreted with caution as all but 1 included study was assessed as being weak in quality.

Conclusions

Overall, SMAs may be of benefit to address obesity in primary care, particularly for women and older adults. Appropriately designed prospective and controlled studies are required to engage their target audience and to assess whether SMAs are superior to other weight loss options in primary care.
Understanding consumer and clinician perceptions of a potential Lyme disease vaccine
Authors: Devchand Roshni , Koehler Laura , Hook Sarah , Marx Grace E , Hooks Holley , Schwartz Amy , Hinckley Alison
Published: August 2021

Each year, over 450 000 Lyme disease diagnoses are estimated to occur in the United States, and current preventive measures have been insufficient to stem the rising incidence. An effective human Lyme disease vaccine could be a powerful intervention for population-level impact. In advance of new Lyme disease vaccines coming to market, this study explored barriers to acceptability and motivations for the uptake of a new Lyme disease vaccine. Researchers conducted 9 online focus groups among consumers who may potentially benefit from the vaccine and 30 in-depth interviews among clinician groups who may provide the vaccine. All participants were recruited from three US regions of high Lyme disease incidence. Researchers found that participants shared common motivators to either recommend (clinicians) or accept (consumers) a Lyme disease vaccine, largely driven by perceived benefits of the vaccine, the lack of current effective preventive measures and a greater peace of mind. The concern about the challenges associated with diagnosing and treating Lyme disease is a primary motivator for clinicians to recommend the vaccine, while the concern about getting Lyme disease is a primary motivator for consumers to desire the vaccine.
Insight: Cybersecurity
Authors: Ratnayake Deepthi
Published: August 2021

Deepthi Ratnayake MBCS, Senior Lecturer in Computer Science, explains the Colonial Pipeline attack that revolutionised ransomware landscape.