bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interaction of Mg with the ionic liquid 1-butyl-1-methylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide—An experimental and computational model study of the electrode–electrolyte interface in post-lithium batteries
Authors: Buchner Florian , Forster-Tonigold Katrin , Bolter Tim , Rampf Alexander , Klein Jens , Groß Axel , Behm R. Jürgen
Published: February 2022

We report results of a combined experimental and computational model study on the interaction of the battery-relevant ionic liquid (IL) 1-butyl-1-methylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (BMP-TFSI) with a Mg thin film model electrode grown on a Ru(0001) substrate, which aims at a fundamental understanding of the solid electrolyte interphase formation at the electrode–electrolyte interface in postlithium batteries. Scanning tunneling microscopy, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy were employed for the characterization of the Mg thin film model electrode, revealing oxygen-free and atomically flat Mg films. Room temperature XPS measurements after vapor deposition of a (sub)monolayer of BMP-TFSI on the Mg film revealed the formation of a “contact layer” on Mg(0001), created by the reactive decomposition of the IL. In agreement with computationally determined core level binding energies of stable reaction products (dispersion corrected density functional theory calculations), we identified mainly inorganic MgF2-, MgO-, and MgS-like surface compounds, but also other more complex (Mg2+-free) F-, O-, and/or S-containing “TFSI-like” and carbon-containing adsorbed species. The deposition of higher IL amounts (up to 6 monolayers) results in the overgrowth of the direct “contact layer” by molecularly adsorbed BMP-TFSI. Heating of the adsorbate covered surface to around 470 K leads to desorption of multilayer BMP-TFSI and the partial desorption and transformation of adsorbed (Mg2+-free) “TFSI-like” decomposition products on the Mg substrate into MgF2-, MgO-, and MgS species or the respective adsorbed Fad, Oad, and Sad species.
Repeated-Sprint Exercise in the Heat Increases Indirect Markers of Gastrointestinal Damage in Well-Trained Team-Sport Athletes
Authors: Wallett Alice , McKune Andrew , Pyne David , Bishop David , Girard Olivier , Saunders Philo , Périard Julien
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Athletes engaged in repeated-sprint training in the heat can be at an increased risk of gastrointestinal ischemia and damage in response to a redistribution of blood to working skeletal muscles and the skin. This study investigated the effects of repeated sprinting in hot and cool conditions on markers of gastrointestinal damage. Methods: Twenty-five, well-trained, nonheat acclimated male team-sport athletes completed a five-session, repeated-sprint training regimen over 7 days in either HOT (40 °C and 40% relative humidity [RH]) or COOL (20 °C and 40% RH) conditions. Participants underwent a 20-min warm-up and four sets of 5 × 6-s maximal cycling sprints, with 24-s rest and 5-min recovery between sets. Venous blood was collected pre-, post-, and 1 hr postexercise and analyzed for intestinal fatty acid binding protein, lipopolysaccharide binding protein, soluble CD14, and heat-shock protein. Results: Intestinal fatty acid binding protein concentrations were significantly increased (p < .004) postexercise (593 and 454 pg/ml) and 1 hr postexercise (466 and 410 pg/ml) on both Days 1 and 5 in HOT. Soluble CD14 increased by 398 and 308 ng/ml postexercise (p = .041), and lipopolysaccharide binding protein increased by 1,694 ng/ml postexercise on Day 1 in HOT (p < .05) and by 1,520 ng/ml on Day 5 in COOL (p = .026). Core and skin temperature, rating of perceived exertion, and thermal sensation were higher (p < .05) in HOT on Days 1 and 5 during sprinting. Conclusions: Repeated sprinting in the heat induced greater thermal strain and mild changes in gastrointestinal damage, likely attributable to the combination of environmental conditions and maximal-intensity exercise.
Sleep Architecture in Response to a Late Evening Competition in Team-Sport Athletes
Authors: Vitale Jacopo Antonino , Galbiati Andrea , De Giacomi Gaia , Tornese Davide , Levendowski Daniel , Ferini-Strambi Luigi , Banfi Giuseppe
Published: February 2022

Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess the effect of a late evening competition on sleep characteristics and perceived recovery in team-sport players using a validated self-applicable and portable polysomnographic device. Methods: Sixteen team-sport players (age: 25.4 [1.4] y; body mass index: 23.6 [0.5] kg/m2) completed the study. Objective and subjective sleep data were collected for 4 consecutive nights: 2 nights before (PRE2 and PRE1) and the 2 nights after an evening match (POST1), performed between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM. Total quality of recovery values were also collected in the morning. Results: A significantly delayed bedtime (P < .0001; , large) was observed in the first night after the competition (2 h 29 min [1 h 15 min]) compared both to PRE2 (+88 min; P < .0001), PRE1 (+98 min; P < .0001), and POST1 (+100 min; P < .0001), and similar results were observed for wake-up time (P = .033; , large): Players woke up significantly later in evening match (9 h 20 min [1 h 55 min]) compared with PRE2 (+85 min; P = .050) and POST1 (+85 min; P = .049). Conversely, total sleep time; sleep efficiency; sleep onset latency; wake after sleep onset; cortical arousals; N1, N2, N3, and REM (rapid eye movement) percentages; total quality of recovery values; and scores of subjective sleep quality did not vary among the 4 study nights. Conclusions: Team-sport players had delayed bedtime and wake-up time following an evening competition; however, sleep quality, duration, and subjective scores of recovery were not affected by the evening match. The delayed wake-up time seems to protect athletes’ sleep efficiency/duration against the evening-match-induced delayed bedtime.
NamZ1 and NamZ2 from the Oral Pathogen Tannerella forsythia Are Peptidoglycan Processing Exo-β-
N
-Acetylmuramidases with Distinct Substrate Specificities
Authors: Borisova Marina , Balbuchta Katja , Lovering Andrew , Titz Alexander , Mayer Christoph
Published: February 2022

Two exo-
N
-acetylmuramidases from
T. forsythia
belonging to glycosidase family GH171 (
www.cazy.org
) were shown to differ in their activities, thus revealing a functional diversity within this family: NamZ1 releases disaccharides (GlcNAc-MurNAc/GlcN-MurNAc) from the nonreducing ends of PGN glycans, whereas NamZ2 releases terminal MurNAc monosaccharides. This work provides a better understanding of how
T. forsythia
may acquire the essential growth factor MurNAc by the salvage of PGN from cohabiting bacteria in the oral microbiome, which may pave avenues for the development of anti-periodontal drugs.
Public health for paediatricians: 15-minute guide to identify and address food insecurity
Authors: Prendergast Mabel , Kanella Ilektra , Milton-Jones Helena , Moula Zoe , Scott Katie , Shah Rakhee
Published: February 2022

Food insecurity is a major problem in the UK. It has been both highlighted and exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, and particularly affects children and young people (CYP). The effects of inadequate nutrition manifest themselves in all stages of child development and adversely affect health and educational outcomes. Healthcare professionals working with CYP can address food insecurity at individual, local community, organisational and national levels. The government plays an important role in monitoring and responding to food insecurity, supporting CYP most in need.

This paper summarises how food insecurity can be identified and approached by healthcare professionals in clinical consultations, including the use of screening tools and awareness of risk factors that signpost family food insecurity. Examples of services and clinician-assisted referrals to support vulnerable patients are provided, alongside suggested methods to implement further education for the multidisciplinary healthcare team.
Extended survival of a premature infant with a postnatal diagnosis of complete triploidy
Authors: Walsh Rachel , Sharma Anand
Published: February 2022

Triploidy is a common chromosomal abnormality that usually results in spontaneous abortion. Liveborn infants usually die within hours or days of birth. We present the case of a female infant born at 30 weeks and 5 days of gestation who received a late postnatal diagnosis of complete triploidy. She had severe intrauterine growth restriction and postnatal findings of multiple facial and limb anomalies. Genetic testing was sent shortly after birth, and the baby had an uneventful neonatal admission, requiring low-level respiratory and feeding support. Following a diagnosis of complete triploidy, she was transferred to a hospice and died on day 36 of life. There are currently 12 other reported cases of survival beyond 30 days. This case adds to the known cohort and highlights the importance of genetic testing in premature neonates with congenital anomalies in order to guide ceiling of care discussions and advocate for quality of life.
Phase III, international, multicentre, double-blind, dose increment, parallel-arm, randomised controlled trial of duloxetine versus pregabalin for opioid-unresponsive neuropathic cancer pain: a JORTC-PAL16 trial protocol
Authors: Matsuoka Hiromichi , Clark Katherine , Fazekas Belinda , Oyamada Shunsuke , Brown Linda , Ishiki Hiroto , Matsuda Yoshinobu , Hasuo Hideaki , Ariyoshi Keisuke , Lee Jessica , Le Brian , Allcroft Peter , Kochovska Slavica , Fujiwara Noriko , Miyaji Tempei , Lovell Melanie , Agar Meera , Yamaguchi Takuhiro , Satomi Eriko , Iwase Satoru , Phillips Jane , Koyama Atsuko , Currow David C
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Management of neuropathic cancer pain (NCP) refractory to regular opioids remains an important challenge. The efficacy of pregabalin for NCP except chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) has already been confirmed in two randomised controlled trials (RCTs) compared with placebo. Duloxetine offers the potential of analgesia in opioid refractory NCP. However, there are no RCT of duloxetine for the management of opioid-refractory NCP as a first line treatment. Both classes of drugs have the potential to reduce NCP, but there has been no head-to-head comparison for the efficacy and safety, especially given differing side effect profiles.

Methods and analysis

An international, multicentre, double-blind, dose increment, parallel-arm, RCT is planned. Inclusion criteria include: adults with cancer experiencing NCP refractory to opioids; Brief Pain Inventory (BPI)-item 3 (worst pain) of ≥4; Neuropathic Pain on the Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs Pain Scale of ≥12 despite of an adequate trial of regular opioid medication (≥60 mg/day oral morphine equivalent dose). Patients with CIPN are excluded.

The study will recruit from palliative care teams (both inpatients and outpatients) in Japan and Australia. Participants will be randomised (1:1 allocation ratio) to duloxetine or pregabalin arm. Dose escalation is until day 14 and from day 14 to 21 is a dose de-escalation period to avoid withdrawal effects. The primary endpoint is defined as the mean difference in BPI item 3 for worst pain intensity over the previous 24 hours at day 14 between groups. A sample size of 160 patients will be enrolled between February 2020 and March 2023.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval was obtained at Osaka City University Hospital Certified Review Board and South Western Sydney Local Health District Human Research Ethics Committee. The results of this study will be submitted for publication in international journals and the key findings presented at international conferences.

Trial registration numbers

jRCTs051190097, ACTRN12620000656932.
Open and minimally invasive surgery for gastrointestinal stromal tumours: a systematic review and network meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Mu Mingchun , Cai Zhaolun , Liu Chunyu , Shen Chaoyong , Yin Yuan , Yin Xiaonan , Jiang Zhiyuan , Zhao Zhou , Zhang Bo
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs) are the most common mesenchymal tumours of the digestive system, and complete resection is the only way to provide a radical cure for resectable GISTs. Open surgery and minimally invasive approaches, including laparoscopy, robotic surgery and endoscopy, consist of the mainstream GIST resection. However, there is still a lack of evidence regarding which surgical outcomes and long-term prognosis would be better. Thus, we are planning to conduct a network meta-analysis and systematic review aiming to determine the comparative effectiveness among laparotomy, laparoscopy, endoscopy, robotic surgery, and laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative surgery in GISTs.

Method and analysis

PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library and Web of Science will be searched for published studies to identify the proper literature comparing open resection, laparoscopy, endoscopy, robotic surgery, and laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative surgery for resecting GISTs from inception to February 2021. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomised studies comparing at least two different interventions for GIST resection will be included. RCTs and non-randomised studies will be synthesised and analysed separately. Bayesian network meta-analysis will be performed to compare the surgical outcomes and long-term prognosis among the resection methods above. The included studies will be divided into several subgroups according to tumour location and size for further analysis. Sensitivity analysis will be performed to identify and explain heterogeneity to make our results robust. Meta-regression will serve as a supplementary method if data are available. The quality of evidence will be evaluated by the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation.

Ethics and dissemination

No ethical approval is required for this network meta-analysis, as it is based on already published data. The findings of the review will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42021237892.
COVID-19 risk perceptions of social interaction and essential activities and inequity in the USA: results from a nationally representative survey
Authors: Erchick Daniel J , Zapf Alexander J , Baral Prativa , Edwards Jeffrey , Mehta Shruti H , Solomon Sunil S , Gibson Dustin G , Agarwal Smisha , Labrique Alain B
Published: February 2022

Introduction

SARS-CoV-2 has disproportionately affected disadvantaged communities across the USA. Risk perceptions for social interactions and essential activities during the COVID-19 pandemic may vary by sociodemographic factors.

Methods

We conducted a nationally representative online survey of 1592 adults in the USA to understand risk perceptions related to transmission of COVID-19 for social (eg, visiting friends) and essential activities (eg, medical visits or returning to work). We assessed relationships for activities using bivariate comparisons and multivariable logistic regression modelling, between responses of safe and unsafe, and participant characteristics. Data were collected and analysed in 2020.

Results

Among 1592 participants, risk perceptions of unsafe for 13 activities ranged from 29.2% to 73.5%. Large gatherings, indoor dining and visits with elderly relatives had the highest proportion of unsafe responses (>58%), while activities outdoor, accessing healthcare and going to the grocery store had the lowest (<36%). Older respondents were more likely to view social gatherings and indoor activities as unsafe but less likely for other activities, such as going to the grocery store and accessing healthcare. Compared with white/Caucasian respondents, black/African-American and Hispanic/Latino respondents were more likely to view activities such as dining and visiting friends outdoor as unsafe. Generally, men versus women, Republicans versus Democrats and independents, and individuals with higher versus lower income were more likely to view activities as safe.

Conclusion

Evidence-based interventions should be tailored to sociodemographic differences in risk perception, access to information and health behaviours when implementing efforts to control the COVID-19 pandemic.
Protocol for integrating mental health services into primary healthcare facilities: a qualitative study of the perspectives of patients, family members and healthcare providers in rural Bangladesh
Authors: Naheed Aliya , Ashraf Mir Nabila , Chakma Nantu , Jennings Hannah Maria , Nahar Papreen
Published: February 2022

Introduction

In Bangladesh, Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for 67% of all deaths. Mental health services are not available in routine healthcare at the primary facilities in Bangladesh. The protocol is for a qualitative study that seeks to understand the perceptions, beliefs and norms regarding common mental disorders (CMDs) among patients with NCD with and without CMDs to identify barriers to accessing mental health services in rural communities in Bangladesh. We also aim to explore the feasibility of integrating mental healthcare into routine NCD services at primary health facilities in rural Bangladesh.

Methods and analysis

This study will be conducted at the outpatient departments in two subdistrict hospitals and one district hospital in Munshiganj district in Bangladesh. We will purposefully select patients with hypertension and diabetes from the patient inventory generated from a recently completed randomised control trial titled ‘Control of Blood Pressure and Risk Attenuation Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka’ in two subdistricts in Munshiganj district in Bangladesh. The selected participants will be screened for CMD using the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale - 21 Items (DASS-21) over the telephone. Sixty in-depth interviews with patients and family members, 8–10 key informant interviews with healthcare providers and 2 focus group discussions with community health workers will be held following consent.

The study is conceptualised under Levesque et al’s framework. Thematic analysis will be applied following the study objectives and key issues, and commonly emerging topics generated by the data. The findings will be presented anonymously to corroborate the interpretation.

Ethics and dissemination

Approval has been obtained from the Institutional Review Board at icddr,b (PR-19108) and the University of York (HSRGC/2020/382/F). Written informed consent or audio recording consent form in Bangla will be obtained. For dissemination, we will invite representatives of the collaborating institutions to share the findings in national or international conferences and peer-reviewed journals.
Estimating maternity ward birth attendant time use in India: a microcosting study
Authors: Lofgren Katherine T , Bobanski Lauren , Tuller Danielle E , Singh Vinay P , Marx Delaney Megan , Jurczak Amanda , Ragavan Meera , Kalita Tapan , Karlage Ami , Resch Stephen Charles , Semrau Katherine E A
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Despite global concern over the quality of maternal care, little is known about the time requirements to complete the essential birth practices. Using three microcosting data collection methods within the BetterBirth trial, we aimed to assess time use and the specific time requirements to incorporate the WHO Safe Childbirth Checklist into clinical practice.

Setting

We collected detailed survey data on birth attendant time use within the BetterBirth trial in Uttar Pradesh, India. The BetterBirth trial tested whether the peer-coaching-based implementation of the WHO Checklist was effective in improving the quality of facility-based childbirth care.

Participants

We collected measurements of time to completion for 18 essential birth practices from July 2016 through October 2016 across 10 facilities in five districts (1559 total timed observations). An anonymous survey asked about the impact of the WHO Checklist on birth attendants at every intervention facility (15 facilities, 83 respondents) in the Lucknow hub. Additionally, data collectors visited facilities to conduct a census of patients and birth attendants across 20 facilities in seven districts between June 2016 and November 2016 (six hundred and ten 2-hour facility observations).

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary outcome measure of this study is the per cent of staff time required to complete the essential birth practices included in the WHO Checklist.

Results

When birth attendants were timed, we found practices were completed rapidly (18 s to 2 min). As the patient load increased, time dedicated to clinical care increased but remained low relative to administrative and downtime. On average, WHO Checklist clinical care accounted for less than 7% of birth attendant time use per hour.

Conclusions

We did not find that a coaching-based implementation of the WHO Checklist was a burden on birth attendant’s time use. However, questions remain regarding the performance quality of practices and how to accurately capture and interpret idle and break time.

Trial registration number

NCT02148952.
HOW INFORMATIVE ARE QUANTIFIED SURVEY DATA? EVIDENCE FROM RBI HOUSEHOLD INFLATION EXPECTATIONS SURVEY
Authors: SINGH GAURAV KUMAR , BANDYOPADHYAY TATHAGATA
Published: February 2022

Quantification 1 of the ordinal survey responses on inflation expectations is an important preliminary step for undertaking further macroeconomic analysis of the data. In this paper, we briefly describe the standard quantification methods along with the underlying assumptions. We also propose two new methods for quantification. We then apply these methods to quantify the IESH 2 data collected by the Reserve Bank of India. An interesting fact that emerges from this exercise is that simpler quantification methods are found to perform better than more complex methods for IESH data. Also, the methods with time-varying weights or time-varying thresholds, as the case may be, work significantly better.
Quantum gravity effects on tunneling of fermions across the event horizon of rotating BTZ black hole
Authors: Devi Sapam Gayatri , Singh T. Ibungochouba , Meitei I. Ablu , Singh K. Yugindro
Published: February 2022

In this paper, the tunneling of fermions across the event horizon of rotating BTZ black hole is investigated by using Dirac equation in the presence of quantum gravity effects, WKB approximation and Feynman prescription. The tunneling probability and the modified Hawking temperature near the event horizon of rotating BTZ black hole are obtained. The quantum gravity effects reduce the rise of Hawking temperature of rotating BTZ black hole. The correction to the Bekenstein–Hawking entropy and the heat capacity near the event horizon of rotating BTZ black hole are also discussed.
Simulation and Experimental Study of Nonlinear Characteristics for Multi-mode Driving of Intelligent Vehicles
Authors: Wu Fugui , Bhatt Mohammed Wasim
Published: February 2022

To study the nonlinear characteristics simulation and experiment of multimode driving of intelligent vehicle, an improved neural network PID controller is proposed to realize the safe and active braking requirements of cruise vehicles, according to the study of vehicle dynamics of different active braking forms and the joint simulation of road condition, driving condition, and braking mechanical structure. On the basis of the current research, the four-layer neural network combined with PID control is proposed in this paper, which can better control the braking compared with the traditional PID controller and BP neural network, safety, efficiency and stability have been improved in the following cars. According to the animation simulation demonstration of CAR SIM software, it can be determined that the improved neural network PID controller in the mechanical system can realize the safety and active braking requirements of cruise vehicle, and it is more accurate and efficient than the traditional BP neural network PID controller. Relevant parameters of the existing millimeter-wave radars are set by the radar sensors, and the long-distance horizontal detection range is plus or minus 10 degrees. The radar is installed on the longitudinal axis of the front bumper and has a height of 442[Formula: see text]mm. According to Car SIM’s preset radar sensor module parameters, the sensors can independently collect and transmit relevant data, it is also possible to cooperate with other sensors for the same variable parameter to increase the accuracy and avoid abnormal errors caused by the failure of a certain sensor. Compared with the traditional PID controller and BP neural network, the combination of four-layer neural network and PID control can carry out better braking control and improve the safety, efficiency, and stability of the following cars.
Reliability Improvement of a Multistage Reciprocating Compressor with Redundancies Using Markov Approach
Authors: Rathi Prashant , Kumar Girish , Asjad Mohammad , Soni Umang
Published: February 2022

In this paper, a multistage reciprocating compressor system is considered to study, analyze and improve its reliability by incorporating the redundancies using Markov approach. In Markov method, the reliability is assessed by creating state space model and deriving probabilistic equations of all the states. The developed equations are further solved with the help of a MATLAB. Constant failure and repair rates are considered for the different components in the system. Standby redundancy has been employed to enhance the system reliability. System reliability value for the basic system model, i.e. Model 1 at 10,000[Formula: see text]h is 0.1252 that has been increased by using standby redundancies in Model 4 with no repair to 0.6428 and with repair to 0.9374. This work will be helpful to the manufacturers, users, researchers and others by the application, and implementation of the proposed methodology.
Mountain Pine Beetle Epidemic: An Interplay of Terpenoids in Host Defense and Insect Pheromones
Authors: Chiu Christine C. , Bohlmann Joerg
Published: February 2022

The mountain pine beetle epidemic has highlighted the complex interactions of bark beetles with conifer host defenses. In these interactions, oleoresin terpenoids and volatiles, produced and released by the host tree, can be both harmful and beneficial to the beetle's success in colonizing a tree and completing its life cycle. The insect spends almost its entire life, from egg to adult, within the bark and phloem of a pine host, exposed to large quantities of complex mixtures of oleoresin terpenoids. Conifer oleoresin comprises mostly monoterpenes and diterpene resin acids as well as many different sesquiterpenes. It functions as a major chemical and physical defense system. However, the insect has evolved host colonization behavior and enzymes for terpenoid metabolism and detoxification that allow it to overcome some of the terpenoid defenses and, importantly, to co-opt pine monoterpenes as cues for host search and as a precursor for its own pheromone system. The insect-associated microbiome also plays a role in the metabolism of conifer terpenoids.
Embryo–Endosperm Interactions
Authors: Doll Nicolas M. , Ingram Gwyneth C.
Published: February 2022

In angiosperms, double fertilization triggers the concomitant development of two closely juxtaposed tissues, the embryo and the endosperm. Successful seed development and germination require constant interactions between these tissues, which occur across their common interface. The embryo–endosperm interface is a complex and poorly understood compound apoplast comprising components derived from both tissues, across which nutrients transit to fuel embryo development. Interface properties, which affect molecular diffusion and thus communication, are themselves dynamically regulated by molecular and physical dialogues between the embryo and endosperm. We review the current understanding of embryo–endosperm interactions, with a focus on the structure, properties, and function of their shared interface. Concentrating on Arabidopsis, but with reference to other species, we aim to situate recent findings within the broader context of seed physiology, developmental biology, and genetic factors such as parental conflicts over resource allocation.
Review—Advances on Oxidase Enzymes Modified Nanoporous Carbon and Gold Surfaces for Bioelectrochemical Applications
Authors: Gutiérrez-Sánchez Cristina , Lorenzo Encarnación
Published: February 2022

Recently, continuous advances in the development of nanoporous surfaces and their modification with biomolecules, such as redox enzymes have made possible important biolectrochemical applications of these surfaces. New nanoporous surfaces have been designed with a very well controlled architecture that improves the properties of their flat counterparts, resulting in surfaces with a large specific surface area, high conductivity and better electrochemical activity, in particular with regard to increase specific surface area, conductivity and electrochemical activity. The challenge is to achieve suitable pore size, spatial arrangement and pore distribution to facilitate substrate transport and enzyme orientation. The objective is to obtain an ideal nanoporous surface that provides a large surface area, rapid mass transport of substrates and efficient immobilization of redox enzymes to obtain direct electron transfer (DET). Although the electron transfer between the redox centers of the enzyme and the electrode is achieved frequently in the presence of redox mediators, which is known as mediated electron transfer (MET). In this review the latest advances in gold and carbon nanoporous surfaces modified with oxidase enzymes in the development of enzymatic fuel cells or enzymatic biosensors are discussed.
From the Editor: History and Carbon
Authors: Rajeshwar Krishnan
Published: February 2022

History affords us an opportunity to connect with the past. It also gives us a perspective of where we are at present and guides us to where we should be heading in the future. As with any journey, it is not a bad idea to pause occasionally and glance back. It is sometimes easy to overlook the fact that scientific and technological advancements are more often incremental than quantum in nature.
Endothelial cells: potential novel regulators of renal inflammation
Authors: Oates Jim C. , Russell Dayvia L. , Van Beusecum Justin P.
Published: February 2022

Substantial evidence has supported the role of endothelial cell (EC) activation and dysfunction in the development of hypertension, chronic kidney disease (CKD), and lupus nephritis (LN). In both humans and experimental models of hypertension, CKD, and LN, ECs become activated and release potent mediators of inflammation including cytokines, chemokines, and reactive oxygen species that cause EC dysfunction, tissue damage, and fibrosis. Factors that activate the endothelium include inflammatory cytokines, mechanical stretch, and pathological shear stress. These signals can activate the endothelium to promote upregulation of adhesion molecules, such as intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, which promote leukocyte adhesion and migration to the activated endothelium. More importantly, it is now recognized that some of these signals may in turn promote endothelial antigen presentation through major histocompatibility complex II. In this review, we will consider in-depth mechanisms of endothelial activation and the novel mechanism of endothelial antigen presentation. Moreover, we will discuss these proinflammatory events in renal pathologies and consider possible new therapeutic approaches to limit the untoward effects of endothelial inflammation in hypertension, CKD, and LN.
Coexistence of Lupus Nephritis, Ulcerative Colitis, and Communicating Hydrocephalus: A Report of a 21-Year-Old Male
Authors: Khan Bushra Ali , Saleem Nida , Hassan Danyal , Kiani Shabaz , Haneef Muhammad
Published: February 2022

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and ulcerative colitis (UC) are multisystem autoimmune disorders that rarely coexist. We report a case history of a 21-year-old male, presenting with bloody diarrhea and, later, diagnosed to have ulcerative colitis on colonic biopsy. There was clinically silent renal impairment leading to end-stage kidney disease requiring hemodialysis possibly secondary to ongoing lupus nephritis as suggested by positive lupus-specific antibodies’ detection. Besides this, the diagnosis of lupus associated with early communicating hydrocephalus was made on CT brain findings which clinically responded well to the initiation of immunosuppressive therapy. It is imperative to keep in mind the remote possibility of ulcerative colitis in an SLE patient with gastrointestinal (GI) manifestations. Communicating hydrocephalus is a rare neurological manifestation of SLE leading to seizures and can respond well to the initiation of steroids and immunosuppressants. Therefore, a trial of immunosuppressant medications must be given even in a patient with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) to halter extra renal rare lupus manifestations.
Multilevel Feature Exploration Network for Image Superresolution
Authors: Liu Xinbo , Wang Ling , Chen Xinyu , Liu Yuqing
Published: February 2022

Image superresolution (SR) is a classical issue in computer vision area. Recently, there are elaborated convolutional neural networks (CNNs) demonstrating remarkable effectiveness on image SR. However, most of the previous works lack effective exploration on the structural information, which plays a critical role for image quality. In this paper, we find that the hierarchical design can effectively restore the structural information and devise a multilevel feature exploration network for image SR (MFSR). Specially, we design an encoder-decoder architecture to concentrate on structural information from different levels and devise a spatial attention mechanism to address the inherent correlation among features for effective restoration. Experimental results show the proposed MFSR can restore more correct edges and lines and achieves both better objective and subjective performances than the state-of-the-art methods with higher PSNR/SSIM results, indicating the effectiveness on structural information restoration.
Investigating Trends and Costs Associated with Designing Concrete Mixes Using Different Methods by Computer Programs
Authors: Abdul Qader Mohammed , Ibrahim Ahmed , Alaidaros Al-Badr , Abdulkareem Abdul Kareem , Alwuayl Abdullah , Alsaluli Abdullah , Alwetaishi Mamdooh , Alsehli Mishal , Alghamdi Saleh
Published: February 2022

Concrete mixes can be designed using many methods such as the British method (DOE) and the American method (ACI). It is beneficial to compare different mixes and examine their performances and the associated costs. However, designing and comparing concrete mixes by hand can be time consuming and is prone to errors. Hence, in this work, algorithms were developed and implemented for six mix design methods, which replaced the time‐consuming hand calculations with error‐free and fast ones, in a user‐friendly fashion. The programs successfully designed concrete mixes ranging from 10 to 160 MPa 28‐day compressive strengths with minimal errors and provided estimates of the cost of each mix. Also, using the developed programs, methods were compared regarding their suggested concrete ingredients’ quantities, associated cost, and general trends. Preliminary comparisons between mix design methods showed that design methods suggest similar mix proportions for a given compressive strength. Further, it was found that designing a mix using ACI method can be costly compared with the other methods. These findings and others would have been difficult to be revealed using traditional methods of mix design. More importantly, the comparisons presented in this work are only a few of the unlimited comparisons that can be easily made between normal and high strength mix design methods, which will unravel other key differences between mix design methods. Such comparisons are vital to engineers to be able to make informed decisions regarding which mix to use from strength, workability, durability, and cost point of views.
Computational Insights in DNA Methylation: Catalytic and Mechanistic Elucidations for Forming 3-Methyl Cytosine
Authors: Almatarneh Mansour H. , Kayed Ghada G. , Altarawneh Mohammednoor , Zhao Yuming , Verma Amita
Published: February 2022

Methylation at C5 position of cytosine (5 mC) is the most abundantly occurring methylation process at CpG island, which has been well known as an epigenetic modification linked to many human diseases. Recently, another methylation approach has been discovered to show that DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) promote the addition of the methyl group at position 3 to yield 3 mC. The existence of 3 mC can cause severe damages to the DNA strand, such as blocking its replication, repair, and transcription, affecting its stability, and initiating a double-strand DNA break. To gain a deeper insight into the formation of 3 mC, we have performed density functional theory (DFT) modeling studies at different levels of theory to clearly map out the mechanistic details for this new methylation approach. Our computed results are in harmony with pertinent experimental observations and shed light on a crucial off-target activity of DNMTs.
Residual Division Graph of Lattice Modules
Authors: Gandal Ganesh , Jothi R. Mary , Phadatare Narayan
Published: February 2022

Let L be a multiplicative lattice and M be a lattice module over L. In this paper, we assign a graph to M called residual division graph RG(M) in which the element N ∈ M is a vertex if there exists 0M ≠ P ∈ M such that NP = 0M and two vertices N1, N2 are adjacent if N1N2 = 0M (where N1N2 = (N1 : IM)(N2 : IM)IM). It is proved that such a graph with the greatest element IM which does not belong to the vertex set is nonempty if and only if M is a prime lattice module. Also, we provide conditions such that RG(M) is isomorphic to a subgraph of Zariski topology graph ĢX(M) with respect to X.
Yunnan Baiyao Ameliorates Rheumatoid Arthritis in Rats by Shifting the Th17/Treg Cell Balance and Preventing Osteoclast Differentiation
Authors: Ren Xiaobin , Zhang Mingzhu , Zhang Wanli , Xie Jing , Luo Hongcan , Zhang Hongming , He Hongbing
Published: February 2022

Yunnan Baiyao (YNB) is a traditional Chinese medicine that possesses anti-inflammatory effects. Previously, we have demonstrated the effects of YNB in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) animal models; however, the underlying mechanisms are unclear. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effects of YNB on the T-helper (Th)17/T-regulatory (Treg) cell balance in a collagen-induced arthritis rat model orally administrated YNB or methotrexate, a widely used therapeutic agent for treating RA. Our results showed that YNB treatment significantly decreased the voix pedis thickness and joint functionality scores and alleviated joint histopathology in these rats. These YNB-induced effects were achieved by decreasing the number of Th17 cells and increasing that of Treg cells in the spleen. Moreover, the interleukin- (IL-) 17 level considerably decreased in the serum of YNB-treated rats, whereas the IL-10 level significantly increased. Furthermore, YNB could inhibit RANKL-induced osteoclast formation by regulating the tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6/NF-κB/nuclear factor of the activated T-cell pathway. In summary, our study shows that YNB exhibits antiarthritic activity by decreasing the ratio of Th17/Treg cells, regulating the cytokine balance, and inhibiting osteoclast activation, providing an experimental basis that supports the use of this traditional Chinese medicine for the clinical treatment of RA.
Dynamics of a Fractional-Order Chikungunya Model with Asymptomatic Infectious Class
Authors: Helikumi Mlyashimbi , Eustace Gideon , Mushayabasa Steady
Published: February 2022

In this paper, a nonlinear fractional-order chikungunya disease model that incorporates asymptomatic infectious individuals is proposed and analyzed. The main interest of this work is to investigate the role of memory effects on the dynamics of chikungunya. Qualitative analysis of the model’s equilibria showed that there exists a threshold quantity which governs persistence and extinction of the disease. Model parameters were estimated based on the 2015 weekly reported cases in Colombia. The Adams-Bashforth-Moulton method was used to numerically solve the proposed model. We investigated the role of asymptomatic infectious patients on short- and long-term dynamics of the diseases. We also determined threshold levels for the efficacy of preventative strategies that results in effective management of the disease. We believe that our model can provide invaluable insights for public health authorities to predict the effect of chikungunya transmission and analyze its underlying factors and to guide new control efforts.
Intelligent Algorithm-Based Coronary Angiography Characteristics of Acute Non-ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients with Different Genders
Authors: Cui Yulong , Wang Hui , Peng Peng , Zhang Feng , Liu Qing , Zhao Guangyang
Published: February 2022

Objective. This study was aimed at comparing the characteristics of coronary angiography based on intelligent algorithm in patients with acute non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) of different genders. Methods. Eighty patients were selected to segment the coronary angiogram using the convolutional neural network (CNN) algorithm, the input layer of the CNN was used to receive the image dataset, and three-dimensional data were input during semantic segmentation to achieve automatic segmentation of the target features. Segmentation results were quantitatively assessed by accuracy (Acc), sensitivity (Se), specificity (Sp), and Dice coefficient (Dice). The characteristics of coronary angiography were compared between the two groups. Results. The CNN algorithm had good segmentation effect, complete vessel extraction, and little noise, and Acc, Se, Sp, and Dice were 90.32%, 93.39%, 91.25%, and 89.75%, respectively. The proportion of diabetes mellitus was higher in female patients with NSTEMI (68.8%) than that in male patients (46.3%); the proportion of the left main coronary artery (LM) and left anterior descending artery (LAD) was lower in the female group (7.5%, 41.3%) than that in the male group (13.8%, 81.3%), and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (

P
<
0.05

). Conclusion. The CNN algorithm achieves accurate extraction of vessels from coronary angiographic images, and women with diabetes and hyperlipidemia are more likely to have NSTEMI than men, especially the elderly.
A Retrospective Trial Exploring Erzhu Yiren Decoction in Gastric Ulcer with Spleen Deficiency and Dampness‐Heat
Authors: Zhang Ting , Shan Zhaowei
Published: February 2022

Objective. To assess the efficacy of Erzhu Yiren Decoction in treating gastric ulcer of spleen deficiency and dampness‐heat and its effect on serum NO, EGF, and PGE2 levels. Methods. A retrospective study was conducted among 64 patients with gastric ulcers of spleen deficiency and dampness heat admitted to our hospital from September 2019 to May 2020, and they were divided at a ratio of 1 : 1 into an observation group (rabeprazole sodium enteric‐coated capsules plus Erzhu Yiren Decoction) and a control group (rabeprazole sodium enteric‐coated capsules) based on different treatment methods. The clinical symptom scores, the effective rate of ulcer healing under gastroscopy, the quality of ulcer healing (QOUH), serum nitric oxide (NO), endothelial growth factor (EGF), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) levels were compared between the two groups. Results. The clinical symptom scores of the observation group after treatment were significantly lower than those of the control group (P < 0.001). The observation group obtained a remarkably higher efficacy of ulcer healing under gastroscopy than the control group (P = 0.039). The observation group outperformed the control group in terms of the number of patients with excellent and good QOUH (P = 0.003, 0.014), but no statistical difference in the number of patients with poor QOUH between the two groups was found (P > 0.05). Serum NO, EGF, and PGE2 levels of the observation group after treatment were significantly better than those of the control group (P < 0.001). Conclusion. Erzhu Yiren Decoction can relieve the clinical symptoms of patients with gastric ulcers of spleen deficiency and dampness heat; improve the serum NO, EGF, and PGE2 levels; optimize the mucosal maturity; and enhance the overall efficacy, which merits clinical promotion.
A Systematic Review on the Advancement in the Study of Fuzzy Variational Problems
Authors: Verma Mansi , Chen Chuei Yee , Kılıçman Adem , Mat Hasim Risman
Published: February 2022

The study of fuzzy variational problems has received significant attention over the past decade due to its successful applications in numerous fields, such as image segmentation and optimal control theory. The fuzzy Euler-Lagrange equations provide the necessary optimality conditions for solving fuzzy variational problems explicitly and have been studied under several differentiability conditions. In this paper, we provide a systematic review to recap the history of variational principle in the calculus of variations and compare it with the existing techniques in the fuzzy setting. We begin with the preliminary concepts and definitions of fuzzy theory and scrutinize the Euler-Lagrange’s strategy via systematically searched studies concerning fuzzy variational problems to highlight the importance of improving the existing methods. Finally, we set up the main open problems regarding the limitations of the current approaches, shedding light on future directions.
On the Dynamics of a Discrete Fractional-Order Cournot–Bertrand Competition Duopoly Game
Authors: Al-Khedhairi Abdulrahman , Elsadany Abdelalim A. , Elsonbaty Amr
Published: February 2022

A discreet fractional-order Cournot–Bertrand competition duopoly game is introduced based on the fractional-order difference calculus of the Caputo operator. The model is designed when players can make long memory decisions. The local stability of equilibrium points is discussed for the proposed model. Some numerical simulations explore the model’s bifurcation and chaos by employing bifurcation diagrams, phase portraits, maximal Lyapunov exponents, and time series. According to our findings, the fractional-order parameter has an effect on the game’s stability and dynamics.
The Dynamic Flow Shop Scheduling Problem with JIT Philosophy and Common Due Date
Authors: Huang Wen-Tso , Chen Ping-Shun , Chen Gary Yu-Hsin , Dang Jr-Fong
Published: February 2022

Most studies on common due date problems discuss the topic in the context of solving the minimum penalty value for the single-machine or parallel machine scheduling environment. This study extends the problem of the common due date to the dynamic flow shop environment and proposes the enhanced heuristic algorithm to solve the minimum penalty value. The enhanced heuristic algorithm is characterized by designating mutant genomes of the child as the genomes located at the central location before mutation. The advantage is to integrate the successful experiences of the conventional common due date algorithm to improve the efficiency of the proposed heuristic algorithm. The performance of both algorithms is analyzed in terms of uniformly distributed job numbers, processing time, early penalty, and late penalty. The resulting outcomes indicate that the enhanced heuristic algorithm outperforms the conventional CDDA and EDD proposed by previous studies in the average penalties.