bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the Degradation Mechanism of the Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Based on a Constant Voltage Cold Start Mode
Authors: Yang Yanbo , Ma Tiancai , Pei Fenglai , Lin Weikang , Wang Kai , Du Boyu
Published: September 2021

The constant voltage cold start of the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) is usually operated at a low start-voltage in order to ensure high heat generation, which can shorten the process of the PEMFC cold start. However, the effect of constant voltage cold start on the durability of PEMFC is still unclear. Thus, in this work, the PEMFC is tested repeatedly at a low start-voltage to simulate its actual operating state in the vehicle. Then, the effect of the PEMFC durability under constant voltage cold start is investigated by polarization curve, cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, transmission electron microscope, and ion chromatography. After the repeatedly cold start, the output performance of the PEMFC decreases significantly. According to the characterization results, the degradation mechanism of the PEMFC at the constant voltage cold start is demonstrated to be that the PEMFC start-up repeatedly at low start-voltage leads to the decomposition of membrane polymer structure and promotes the crossover of H2. Meanwhile, the PEMFC start-up repeatedly at low start-voltage also leads to the agglomeration of catalysts, which reduces the active area of catalysts and ultimately results in the degradation of fuel cell performance. Above all, this study proves that the durability of PEMFC can be shortened by the constant voltage cold start at 0.1 V, which provides a reference for the development of the PEMFC cold start control strategy.
Identifying the Market Scenarios for Supercritical CO2 Power Cycles
Authors: Noaman Mohamed , Awad Omar , Morosuk Tatiana , Tsatsaronis George , Salomo Søren
Published: September 2021

The technology management methods and the “technology foresight” allow organizations and stakeholders in a particular market/sector to create an advantage out of technological breakthroughs, sustain and expand technological competitiveness, and identify and evaluate new technological options. Several concepts are used depending mainly on the actual status of an evaluated technology. To identify the status of the supercritical carbon dioxide (sCO2) power generation technologies, an extensive “technology exploration” task was performed by creating a technology profile through collecting a database. This allowed for creating technological forecasts “scenario approach” for the sCO2 power cycles. In this article, the sCO2 power technology is explored, evaluated in relation to current commercial competitive power generation technologies, and forecasted to give an insight into future trends of the novel sCO2 power cycle in the future market. The outcome is the analysis of qualitative and quantitative data of the sCO2 technology for short- to long-term forecasts, which could help identify the economic and market value of the sCO2 power cycle. Three possible market scenarios were identified and combined with a survey distributed among experts to assess different market penetration levels of the sCO2 technology.
Experimentation and Performance Analysis of Solar-Assisted Heat Pump Dryer for Intermittent Drying of Food Chips
Authors: Singh Akhilesh , Sarkar Jahar , Sahoo Rashmi Rekha
Published: September 2021

A solar-assisted heat pump (HP) dryer is fabricated for intermittent drying. The experiment is performed for different intermittency ratios for radish drying using future refrigerant, R1234yf. The effect of total drying time (on-period + off-period) on various energetic, exergetic, and economic performances is investigated. Radish chips were dried to extract moisture from 92.4% to 11.9%. Energy efficiency and drying efficiency (DE) are estimated higher for a lower intermittency ratio. The moisture extraction rate (MER) and the specific moisture extraction rate (SMER) are higher for intermittent drying as compared with continuous drying and increase with a decrease in intermittency ratio. The economic analysis concludes that the payback period is lower for a lower intermittency ratio. The payback period for intermittency ratio of 1, 0.66, 0.33, and 0.2 are estimated as 1.617 years, 1.459 years, 1.384 years, and 1.347 years, respectively. Present experimental thermoeconomic analysis reveals that intermittent drying is much better (maximum enhancement of specific moisture extraction rate is 60.6%, that of energy efficiency is 56.4% and maximum reduction of drying cost is 37.9% with studied conditions) than continuous drying.
Reversible reprogramming of cardiomyocytes to a fetal state drives heart regeneration in mice
Authors: Chen Yanpu , Lüttmann Felipe F. , Schoger Eric , Schöler Hans R. , Zelarayán Laura C. , Kim Kee-Pyo , Haigh Jody J. , Kim Johnny , Braun Thomas
Published: September 2021

Pluripotency factor drives cardiogenesis

Research indicates that the adult mammalian heart does not contain cardiac stem cells and the vast majority of cardiomyocytes do not divide. Heart regeneration is thus limited after injury. The postmitotic nature of cardiomyocytes blocks cardiac tumor formation but at the same time minimizes cardiomyocyte renewal. Chen
et al
. report that cell type–specific expression of pluripotency factors dedifferentiates adult cardiomyocytes to a state that resembles fetal cardiomyocytes, enabling adult cardiomyocytes to reenter mitosis (see the Perspective by Wang and Blau). Cardiomyocytes can be reprogrammed to a pluripotent state when expression of pluripotency factors is sustained over an extended period. If cardiomyocytes are only partially reprogrammed, the heart regenerates without tumor formation. —BAP
Comment on “Recent global decline of CO
2
fertilization effects on vegetation photosynthesis”
Authors: Zhu Zaichun , Zeng Hui , Myneni Ranga B. , Chen Chi , Zhao Qian , Zha Junjun , Zhan Simin , MacLachlan Ian
Published: September 2021

Wang
et al
. (Research Articles, 11 December 2020, p. 1295) reported a large decrease in CO
2
fertilization effect (CFE) across the globe during the period 1982–2015 and suggested that ecosystem models underestimate the rate of CFE decline. We find that their claims are artifacts of incorrect processing of satellite data and problematic methods for deriving and comparing CFE between satellite data and model simulations.
Carbon-free high-loading silicon anodes enabled by sulfide solid electrolytes
Authors: Tan Darren H. S. , Chen Yu-Ting , Yang Hedi , Bao Wurigumula , Sreenarayanan Bhagath , Doux Jean-Marie , Li Weikang , Lu Bingyu , Ham So-Yeon , Sayahpour Baharak , Scharf Jonathan , Wu Erik A. , Deysher Grayson , Han Hyea Eun , Hah Hoe Jin , Jeong Hyeri , Lee Jeong Beom , Chen Zheng , Meng Ying Shirley
Published: September 2021

Silicon anode solid-state batteries

Research on solid-state batteries has focused on lithium metal anodes. Alloy-based anodes have received less attention in part due to their lower specific capacity even though they should be safer. Tan
et al
. developed a slurry-based approach to create films from micrometer-scale silicon particles that can be used in anodes with carbon binders. When incorporated into solid-state batteries, they showed good performance across a range of temperatures and excellent cycle life in full cells. —MSL
Cell-free chemoenzymatic starch synthesis from carbon dioxide
Authors: Cai Tao , Sun Hongbing , Qiao Jing , Zhu Leilei , Zhang Fan , Zhang Jie , Tang Zijing , Wei Xinlei , Yang Jiangang , Yuan Qianqian , Wang Wangyin , Yang Xue , Chu Huanyu , Wang Qian , You Chun , Ma Hongwu , Sun Yuanxia , Li Yin , Li Can , Jiang Huifeng , Wang Qinhong , Ma Yanhe
Published: September 2021

From carbon dioxide to starch: no plants required

Many plants turn glucose from photosynthesis into polymers that form insoluble starch granules ideal for long-term energy storage in roots and seeds. Cai
et al
. developed a hybrid system in which carbon dioxide is reduced to methanol by an inorganic catalyst and then converted by enzymes first to three and six carbon sugar units and then to polymeric starch. This artificial starch anabolic pathway relies on engineered recombinant enzymes from many different source organisms and can be tuned to produce amylose or amylopectin at excellent rates and efficiencies relative to other synthetic carbon fixation systems—and, depending on the metric used, even to field crops. —MAF
Insights into human history from the first decade of ancient human genomics
Authors: Liu Yichen , Mao Xiaowei , Krause Johannes , Fu Qiaomei
Published: September 2021

Recent advancements in DNA sequencing technologies and laboratory preparation protocols have rapidly expanded the scope of ancient DNA research over the past decade, both temporally and geographically. Discoveries include interactions between archaic and modern humans as well as modern human population dynamics, including those coinciding with the Last Glacial Maximum and the settlement history of most world regions. This new type of data allows us to examine the deep past of human population dynamics and sharpen the current understanding of our present. The continued development in the ancient DNA field has transformed our understanding of human genetic history and will keep uncovering the further mysteries of our recent evolutionary past.
Draft Genome Sequences of Four Novel Strains of Microbes Isolated from
Lepidocephalichthys guntea
Authors: Basak Chandana , Mondal Nibendu , Sen Subhajit , Sarkar Jagannath , Ghosh Wriddhiman , Chakraborty Ranadhir
Published: September 2021

We report the draft genome sequences of four bacterial strains (all of which are putatively novel species) belonging to four different genera. The Gram-positive
Bacillus
sp. strain GG161 and
Rhodococcus
sp. strain GG48 and the Gram-negative
Achromobacter
sp. strain GG226 and
Shigella
sp. strain GCP5 were all isolated from the gut of the optionally intestine-breathing freshwater fish
Lepidocephalichthys guntea
.
Draft Genome Sequences of Four Different Strains Belonging to Leptospira interrogans Serovar Pomona Isolated from Mammals in the Island of Sardinia, Italy
Authors: Piredda Ivana , Scarpa Fabio , Sanna Daria , Casu Marco , Ponti Maria Nicoletta , Chisu Valentina
Published: September 2021

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease of global importance caused by a pathogenic group of bacteria belonging to the genus
Leptospira
. Here, we report four draft genome sequences of
Leptospira interrogans
serovar Pomona isolated on Sardinia (Italy) from four different species of mammals (i.e., dolphin, wild boar, cow, and fox).
Whole-Genome Sequences of SARS-CoV-2 Isolates from Ethiopian Patients
Authors: Alemayehu Dawit Hailu , Adnew Bethlehem , Alemu Fekadu , Tefera Dessalegn Abeje , Seyoum Tamrayehu , Beyene Getachew Tesfaye , Gelanew Tesfaye , Negash Abel Abera , Abebe Markos , Mihret Adane , Bayih Abebe Genetu , Abdissa Alemseged , Mulu Andargachew
Published: September 2021

Three complete severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) genomes from Ethiopian patients were compared with deposited global genomes. Two genomes belonged to genetic group 20A/B.1/GH, and the other belonged to genetic group 20A/B.1.480/GH. Enhancing genomic capacity is important to investigate the transmission and to monitor the evolution and mutational patterns of SARS-CoV-2 in this country.
Influence of Water Level on the Exit of Climbing Perch Anabas testudineus out of the Water and Specific Features of Its Movements
Authors: Pavlov E. D. , Pavlov D. S. , Ganzha E. V. , Kostin V. V. , Dien Tran Duc
Published: September 2021

Abstract—

The study presents the behavior and movement characteristics of climbing perch Anabas testudineus in the “dry maze” installation. Two types of behavior were identified in climbing perch when the water level in the starting tank decreases to the critical value: waiting (often in a compact group at the bottom of the starting tank) or exit to ashore (land) and moving (migration). Movements usually take place in a group of two to four individuals. The fish chose a tank with the water randomly and remained there until the end of the experiment. If individuals become to an empty tank, they, as a rule, leave it and continue to search for water. Thus, the search for a new waterbody is determining the terrestrial migration of climbing perch.
Finalising the administration of co-SSPedi, a dyad approach to symptom screening for paediatric patients receiving cancer treatments
Authors: Tomlinson Deborah , Schechter Tal , Mairs Mark , Loves Robyn , Herman Daniel , Hopkins Emily , Dupuis L Lee , Sung Lillian
Published: September 2021

Objectives

Symptom Screening in Pediatrics Tool (SSPedi) is a validated self-report symptom screening tool for patients with cancer 8–18 years of age. Co-SSPedi is a novel dyad approach in which both child and parent complete SSPedi together. The objective was to finalise the approach to co-SSPedi administration with instruction that is easy to understand, resulting in dyads completing co-SSPedi correctly.

Method

We enrolled child and parent dyads, who understood English and where children (4–18 years) had cancer or were hematopoietic stem cell transplantation recipients. We provided each dyad with instruction on how to complete co-SSPedi together. Mixed methods were used to determine how easy or hard the instruction was to understand. Two raters adjudicated if co-SSPedi was completed correctly. Dyads were enrolled in cohorts of 12 evenly divided by age (4–7, 8–10, 11–14 and 15–18 years).

Results

We enrolled 5 cohorts of 12 dyads, resulting in 60 dyads. Following verbal instruction provided in the first cohort, we identified the need for written instruction emphasising children should wait for parent response prior to entering scores. The instruction was iteratively refined based on qualitative feedback until the fifth cohort, where all 12 dyads found the instruction easy to understand and completed co-SSPedi correctly.

Conclusions

We developed a standard approach to dyad symptom screening named co-SSPedi with instruction that is easy to understand, resulting in correct co-SSPedi completion. Future efforts should focus on co-SSPedi validation and understanding how co-SSPedi scores compare to self- or proxy-reported symptom reporting.
Description and revised diagnosis of Asia’s first recorded pachycephalosaurid, Sinocephale bexelli gen. nov., from the Upper Cretaceous of Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Evans David C. , Brown Caleb M. , You Hailu , Campione Nicolás E.
Published: September 2021

The first recorded pachycephalosaurid dinosaur from outside of North America, “Troodon” bexelli, was described from the Upper Cretaceous of Nei Mongol (Inner Mongolia) Autonomous Region, China, in 1953 based on a partial parietal dome. The holotype, and only, specimen has not been redescribed or figured since the original description and is currently considered lost. As a result, researchers have generally considered this taxon a nomen dubium. Here, we identify and describe two high-fidelity plaster casts of the holotype and assign them as plastotypes for this taxon. Examining these replicas allows for an updated comparative description and complete systematic revision of this enigmatic taxon and its inclusion within a phylogenetic analysis for the first time. The material is distinct from all other pachycephalosaur material and can be diagnosed by a single autapomorphy (a wide and deeply embayed posterior parietal margin) and a unique combination of characters, including lack of primary nodes on the parietal and a highly arched, fully roofed temporal chamber. A new genus, Sinocephale gen. nov. is established to receive this species as Sinocephale bexelli. Sinocephale bexelli is phylogenetically removed from Stegoceras (formerly “Troodon”), to which it was previously affiliated, and recovered as a pachycephalosaurine pachycephalosaurid.
A maximum caliber approach for continuum path ensembles
Authors: Bolhuis Peter G. , Brotzakis Z. Faidon , Vendruscolo Michele
Published: September 2021

The maximum caliber approach implements the maximum entropy principle for trajectories by maximizing a path entropy under external constraints. The maximum caliber approach can be applied to a diverse set of equilibrium and non-equilibrium problems concerning the properties of trajectories connecting different states of a system. In this review, we recapitulate the basic concepts of the maximum entropy principle and of its maximum caliber implementation for path ensembles, and review recent applications of this approach. In particular, we describe how we recently used this approach to introduce a framework, called here the continuum path ensemble maximum caliber (CoPE-MaxCal) method, to impose kinetic constraints in molecular simulations, for instance to include experimental information about transition rates. Such incorporation of dynamical information can ameliorate inaccuracies of empirical force fields, and lead to improved mechanistic insights. We conclude by offering an outlook for future research.

Graphic Abstract
A C++ expression system for partial differential equations enables generic simulations of biological hydrodynamics
Authors: Singh Abhinav , Incardona Pietro , Sbalzarini Ivo F.
Published: September 2021

We present a user-friendly and intuitive C++ expression system to implement numerical simulations of continuum biological hydrodynamics. The expression system allows writing simulation programs in near-mathematical notation and makes codes more readable, more compact, and less error-prone. It also cleanly separates the implementation of the partial differential equation model from the implementation of the numerical methods used to discretize it. This allows changing either of them with minimal changes to the source code. The presented expression system is implemented in the high-performance computing platform OpenFPM, supporting simulations that transparently parallelize on multi-processor computer systems. We demonstrate that our expression system makes it easier to write scalable codes for simulating biological hydrodynamics in space and time. We showcase the present framework in numerical simulations of active polar fluids, as well as in classic simulations of fluid dynamics from the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations to Stokes flow in a ball. The presented expression system accelerates scalable simulations of spatio-temporal models that encode the physics and material properties of tissues in order to algorithmically study morphogenesis.

Graphicabstract
Multi-Feature Broad Learning System for Image Classification
Authors: Liu Ran , Liu Yaqiong , Zhao Yang , Chen Xi , Cui Shanshan , Wang Feifei , Yi Lin
Published: September 2021

A multi-feature broad learning system (MFBLS) is proposed to improve the image classification performance of broad learning system (BLS) and its variants. The model is characterized by two major characteristics: multi-feature extraction method and parallel structure. Multi-feature extraction method is utilized to improve the feature-learning ability of BLS. The method extracts four features of the input image, namely convolutional feature, K-means feature, HOG feature and color feature. Besides, a parallel architecture that is suitable for multi-feature extraction is proposed for MFBLS. There are four feature blocks and one fusion block in this structure. The extracted features are used directly as the feature nodes in the feature block. In addition, a “stacking with ridge regression” strategy is applied to the fusion block to get the final output of MFBLS. Experimental results show that MFBLS achieves the accuracies of 92.25%, 81.03%, and 54.66% on SVHN, CIFAR-10, and CIFAR-100, respectively, which outperforms BLS and its variants. Besides, it is even superior to the deep network, convolutional deep belief network, in both accuracy and training time on CIFAR-10. Code for the paper is available at https://github.com/threedteam/mfbls .
Multi-objective optimization in wire electric discharge machining of Ti–6AL–4v using grey relational analysis for square and circular profiles
Authors: Bharathi P. , Srinivasarao G. , Gopalakrishnaiah P.
Published: September 2021

In this work, an attempt has been made for optimization of process parameters in Wire Electric Discharge Machining (WEDM) of Ti–6Al–4V while producing square and circular profiles. The input parameters, namely pulse on time, pulse off time, peak current and servo voltage, were considered to study the responses cutting speed (CS) and surface roughness (SR). Each input parameter was set at three levels. Experiments were conducted as per central composite face (CCF) centered design. Based upon the experimental data, Gray relational analysis (GRA), a multi-objective optimization technique has been employed to find the best level of process parameters to optimize the machining profiles. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) has been conducted for investigating the effect of process parameters on overall machining performance. Finally, it was identified that the process parameters such as pulse on time, current and voltage have more impact on the square and circular profiles.
Image denoising algorithm of compressed sensing based on alternating direction method of multipliers
Authors: Fang Changjie , Chen Jingyu , Chen Shenglan
Published: September 2021

In this paper, we propose an image denoising algorithm for compressed sensing based on alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM). We prove that the objective function of the iterates approaches the optimal value. We also prove the [Formula: see text] convergence rate of our algorithm in the ergodic sense. At the same time, simulation results show that our algorithm is more efficient in image denoising compared with existing methods.
Training and Assessing Model for the Ability of Community Health Volunteers in Anthropometric Measurement Using the Rasch Stacking and Racking Analyses
Authors: Sunjaya Deni Kurniadi , Herawati Dewi Marhaeni Diah , Indraswari Noormarina , Megawati Ginna , Sumintono Bambang
Published: September 2021

Background. Inappropriate anthropometric measurements of infants and toddlers lead to a misclassification in nutritional status and loss of important interventions. Considering the practice conducted in this program within a country, its impact on millions of children must be considered. This study assesses the ability of community health volunteers (CHVs) before and after anthropometric training on infants and toddlers.  Methods. This study used a quantitative approach with a quasiexperimental and pretest-posttest design. The pre- and posttraining assessments of CHVs were conducted by standardized trainers using instruments developed according to WHO standards. There were 11 and 13 statement items for infants’ and toddlers’ indicators of assessment in anthropometric measurements, respectively. The result of the assessment was then analyzed using Rasch modeling with stacking and racking data analysis techniques. Results. The CHVs’ skills before training were far from adequate. Although widely varied, all trainees improved their abilities. Stacking analysis showed that the skills of all CHVs in measuring infants and toddlers increased by 2.68 and 3.34 logits (

p
<
0.01

), respectively. Racking analysis showed a decrease in the perceived difficulty of all items by 2.61 and 3.07 logits for infant and toddler measurements, respectively (

p
<
0.01

). The results of the racking analysis showed that the difficulty in measuring the anthropometrics of infants decreased more than that of toddlers. Conclusions. CHVs’ capacity to monitor child growth must be refreshed regularly. Standardized and proper training and assessment were developed to make CHVs reliable in taking anthropometric measurements of infants and toddlers.
Parameter Estimation and Applications of the Weibull Distribution for Strength Data of Glass Fiber
Authors: Wu Yuxuan , Xie Hanyang , Chiang Jyun-You , Peng Gang , Qin Yan
Published: September 2021

Glass fiber is a good substitute for metal materials. However, in the process of manufacturing, it is necessary to carry out sampling inspection on its tensile strength to infer its quality. According to previous literatures, the strength data can be well fitted by the Weibull distribution, while the poor parameter estimation method cannot obtain reliable analysis results. Therefore, a new parameter estimation method is proposed. Based on the simulation results, it is found that the proposed parameter estimation method outperforms the other competitors to obtain reliable estimates of the Weibull parameters. Finally, the proposed parameter estimation method is applied to two real data sets of glass fiber strength for illustration. The results of data analysis show that our proposed parameter estimation method is more suitable for these data sets than other estimation methods.
A Fixed Point Technique for Solving an Integro-Differential Equation Using Mixed-Monotone Mappings
Authors: Hammad Hasanen A. , Rashwan Rashwan A. , De la Sen Manuel
Published: September 2021

The objective of this manuscript is to present new tripled fixed point results for mixed-monotone mappings by a pivotal lemma in the setting of partially ordered complete metric spaces. Our outcomes sum up, enrich, and generalize several results in the current writing. Moreover, some examples have been discussed to strengthen and support our theoretical results. Finally, the theoretical results are applied to study the existence and uniqueness of the solution to an integro-differential equation.
Comparison of Different HPV-based Strategies and Cytology in Routine Cervical Cancer Screening Programme in China: A Population-based Study
Authors: Wang Shi , Li Ling , Yang Jie , Han Na , Bao Heling , Wang Hai-Jun
Published: September 2021

The study aimed to compare the performance of human papillomavirus (HPV)-based strategies to cytology for detecting cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 3 or worse (CIN3+) in routine program in China. The study included 50,434 women ages 30–64 years from January 2015 to December 2019, to assess four strategies: cytology with HPV triage (strategy 1), primary HPV testing with reflex cytology (strategy 2), primary HPV testing with HPV-16/18 genotyping and reflex cytology for non-16–18 high-risk HPV genotypes (strategy 3), and co-testing (strategy 4). The main outcomes were sensitivity for CIN3+ and colposcopy referral rate. Overall, the rates of HPV positivity and cytologic abnormality were 7.0% [95% confidential interval (CI), 6.8–7.2] and 3.5% (95% CI, 3.3–3.6], respectively. The sensitivity for CIN3+ were 88.5% for strategy 4, 83.2% for strategy 3, 64.6% for strategy 1, and 60.1% for strategy 2. The relative sensitivity of strategy 4 and strategy 3 compared with strategy 1 for detecting CIN3+ were 1.38 (95% CI, 1.24–1.54) and 1.29 (95% CI, 1.14–1.46), respectively. The colposcopy referral rates of strategies 4 and 3 were significantly higher than that of strategy 1 (2.4% and 2.2% vs. 1.4%, P < 0.001). In conclusion, co-testing and primary HPV testing with HPV-16/18 genotyping and reflex cytology improved the sensitivity for CIN3+ compared with cytology but increased the colposcopy referral rate. Long-term negative predicted value for HPV-negative women should be studied to determine the screening interval. Our study provides further evidence to the introduction of HPV-based strategies in China.

Prevention Relevance:

Both co-testing and primary HPV testing with HPV-16/18 genotyping and reflex cytology triage provided higher sensitivity for detecting CIN3+; however, the number of colposcopy referrals also increased compared with cytology in a routine program. It has great public health implications for the introduction of HPV-based screening strategies in China.
Cutaneous Leiomyoma: A Clinical Study of 152 Patients
Authors: Marcoval Joaquim , Llobera-Ris Clàudia , Moreno-Vílchez Carlos , Penín Rosa María
Published: September 2021

Background: Cutaneous leiomyoma (CL) is a benign smooth muscle tumour included in painful skin tumours. Multiple CLs are cutaneous markers of hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell cancer (HLRCC). Objectives: To retrospectively review our series of patients with CLs to analyse their clinical features and the association with HLRCC. Methods: Cases coded as CL in the database of the pathology department between 2004 and 2019 were included in the study. Medical records were retrospectively reviewed to obtain the following data: age, sex, location, number of lesions, diameter, evolution time at diagnosis, suspected clinical diagnosis, tenderness, status of resection margins, development of recurrence, follow-up time, and association with HLRCC. Results: 152 patients had CLs, 89 women and 63 men, mean age 56.26, SD 16.030 years. Subtypes were piloleiomyoma in 62 patients, angioleiomyoma in 80, and genital leiomyoma in 10. All of our 11 patients with multiple lesions corresponded to piloleiomyomas, and HLRCC was confirmed in 8 of them (73%). Patients with HLRCC were younger than patients with piloleiomyomas without HLRCC (34.88 vs. 56.17 years, p = 0.009). Vascular and genital leiomyomyomas were solitary and were not associated with HLRCC. Conclusion: In patients with multiple piloleiomyomas HLRCC must be ruled out as it is confirmed in a high proportion of cases. The probability of fumarate hydratase mutation is greater in multiple piloleiomyomas involving both the trunk and upper extremities in the same patient.
Comparative Analyses of the Transport Proteins Encoded within the Genomes of nine Bifidobacterium Species
Authors: Zafar Hassan , Saier Jr. Milton H.
Published: September 2021

The human microbiome influences human health in both negative and positive ways. Studies on the transportomes of these organisms yield information that may be utilized for various purposes, including the identification of novel drug targets and the manufacture of improved probiotic strains. Moreover, these genomic analyses help to improve our understanding of the physiology and metabolic capabilities of these organisms. The present study is a continuation of our studies on the transport proteins of the major gut microbes. Bifidobacterium species are essential members of the human gut microbiome, and they initiate colonization of the gut at birth, providing health benefits that last a lifetime. In this study we analyze the transportomes of nine bifidobacterial species: B. adolescentis, B. animalis, B. bifidum, B. breve, B. catenulatum, B. dentium, B. longum subsp. infantis, B. longum subsp. longum, and B. pseudocatenulatum. All of these species have proven probiotic characteristics and exert beneficial effects on human health. Surprisingly, we found that all nine of these species have similar pore-forming toxins and drug exporters that may play roles in pathogenesis. These species have transporters for amino acids, carbohydrates, and proteins, essential for their organismal lifestyles and adaption to their respective ecological niches. The strictly probiotic species, B. bifidum, however, contains fewer such transporters, thus indicative of limited interactions with host cells and other gut microbial counterparts. The results of this study were compared with those of our previous studies on the transportomes of multiple species of Bacteroides, Escherichia coli/Salmonella, and Lactobacillus. Overall, bifidobacteria have larger transportomes (based on percentages of total proteins) than the previously examined groups of bacterial species, with a preference for primary active transport systems over secondary carriers. Taken together, these results provide useful information about the physiologies and pathogenic potentials of these probiotic organisms as reflected by their transportomes.
Leukocytoclastic Vasculitis as an Extraintestinal Manifestation of Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Rocha Thiara Barcelos , Garate Ana Lorena Sousa de Vasconcelos , Beraldo Rodrigo Fedatto , Lanças Sean Hideo Shirata , Leite Fábio Vicente , Quera Rodrigo , Barros Jaqueline Ribeiro , Baima Julio Pinheiro , Saad-Hossne Rogerio , Sassaki Ligia Yukie
Published: September 2021

Cutaneous involvement is one of the most common extraintestinal manifestations of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). More commonly, pyoderma gangrenosum and erythema nodosum are noted, but psoriasis, aphthous stomatitis, Sweet’s syndrome, and vasculitis may also occur. Leukocytoclastic vasculitis (LCV) is a rare cutaneous manifestation, characterized by the appearance of palpable purpura, urticaria, and ulcer-necrotic lesions predominantly in the lower extremities that improve with immunosuppressive therapy. In this case, we report a patient with CD and LCV. We also searched the literature on the diagnosis and treatment of LCV in patients with CD. Female, 31, presented with diarrhea containing mucus and blood, abdominal pain, arthralgia, and enanthematous plaques and ulcers with a hematinic background in the lower extremities. The results of the colonoscopy were compatible with CD and skin biopsy showed signs of LCV. Systemic autoimmune disease and primary vasculitis were ruled out. The patient received treatment with a systemic corticosteroid and the skin lesions improved. Outpatient treatment with antitumor necrosis factor therapy was initiated to promote skin healing and IBD clinical remission. As LCV is a rare manifestation of IBD, it is necessary to distinguish this dermatopathy from other systemic vasculitis. The engagement of a multidisciplinary team is essential for the correct diagnosis and management.
Long Survival after Gastrointestinal Bleeding in a New-Onset Heyde’s Syndrome Patient Treated with Multiple Endoscopic Hemostatic Procedures and Repeated Transfusions after Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: Notoya Genso , Niikura Ryota , Yamada Atsuo , Ochi Masanori , Kawai Takashi , Koike Kazuhiko
Published: September 2021

Heyde’s syndrome, which is caused by aortic stenosis and subsequent acquired von Willebrand factor deficiency, is a gastrointestinal bleeding disease. Gastrointestinal bleeding develops in patients with Heyde’s syndrome, which may have a different prognosis from general gastrointestinal bleeding; thus, it is important to understand the clinical course. We report a 76-year-old Japanese female who underwent aortic mechanical valve replacement 1 year ago and presented with recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding in angiodysplasia of the sigmoid colon. Endoscopic interventions achieved hemostasis. However, 6 rebleeding events occurred due to a sigmoid colon ulcer and gastric and jejunal angiodysplasia 7 years after first hemostasis. The patient underwent multiple endoscopic hemostatic procedures (upper, lower, and balloon-assisted endoscopy) and repeated transfusions (total of 394 units of red blood cells). The intensive treatment contributed to the survival time of 10 years. In addition, we performed a literature review of the prognosis of patients with Heyde’s syndrome.
Validation of Self-Monitoring Devices Supporting Sodium Intake Reduction: An Experimental Feeding Study Using Standardized Low-Salt and High-Salt Meals among Healthy Japanese Volunteers
Authors: Arakawa Motoki , Watanabe Takayuki , Suzuki Koya , Nishino Junichi , Sekizuka Hiromitsu , Iwahori Toshiyuki , Ono Shin-ichi , Hidaka Shinji
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Although several approaches for approximating daily Na intake and the Na/K ratio using casual urine are available, the most useful method remains unclear during daily practice and at home. Methods: Twenty-seven participants measured their casual urinary Na/K ratio repeatedly using a Na/K ratio monitor and also measured overnight urine once daily using a monitoring device which delivers on-site feedback to estimate their salt intake under unrestricted, low-salt (LS) (6 g/day), and high-salt (HS) (12 g/day) diets. Results: The monitoring method utilizing overnight urine to estimate daily Na remained insensitive, resulting in significant overestimation during the LS diet and underestimation during the HS diet periods; estimated salt intake during the LS and HS diet periods plateaued at 7–8 g/day and 9–10 g/day within 3 day; mean estimated salt intake was 11.3 g/day, 7.9 g/day, and 9.8 g/day on the last day of the unrestricted, LS, and HS diets; the coefficient of variation (CV) of the estimated Na intake was 0.23 and 0.17 in the latter half of the low- and high-salt diet periods, respectively. The mean urinary Na/K molar ratio was 5.6, 2.5, and 5.3 on the last day of the unrestricted, LS, and HS diets; the CV of the daily mean Na/K ratio was 0.41 and 0.36 in the latter half of the LS and HS diet periods, respectively. The urinary Na/K ratio during the LS and HS diet periods plateaued within 2 days. The monitoring method based on the daily mean of the casual urinary Na/K ratio reflected the actual change in Na intake, and the estimated value tracked the actual changes in salt intake with smaller difference than the overnight urine estimates when using the estimation coefficient set at 2; estimated salt intake during the LS and HS diet periods plateaued at 5–6 g/day and 10–12 g/day within 2–3 day; mean estimated salt intake was 11.0 g/day, 5.7 g/day, and 10.7 g/day on the last day of the unrestricted, LS, and HS diets, respectively. Discussion/Conclusion: Estimates of daily Na intake derived from overnight urine may remain insensitive during dietary interventions. The urinary Na/K ratio reflects the actual change in Na intake during dietary modification and may serve as a practical marker, particularly during short-term interventions. Conversion from the urinary Na/K ratio to estimated salt intake may be useful, if the coefficient was set appropriate by further investigations.
Management of Iris Retraction Syndrome with Heterochromia and Retinal Detachment
Authors: Goebel Collin , Crabtree Gordon S. , Altaweel Michael M.
Published: September 2021

Iris retraction syndrome (IRS) is an uncommon condition caused by retinal detachment that is characterized by back bowing of the peripheral iris, leading to a deep anterior chamber. It is commonly associated with ocular hypotony, ciliochoroidal detachment, and anterior proliferative vitreoretinopathy. We describe a case of a 66-year-old man presenting with 2 weeks of right eye pain, redness, and iris heterochromia. The patient was diagnosed with IRS secondary to a chronic retinal detachment. Initial management with topical steroids and mydriasis allowed resolution of the iris retraction and heterochromia, normalization of intraocular pressure, and improvement of choroidal detachment. Subsequent vitrectomy with endolaser and oil tamponade led to successful detachment repair. Initial pharmacologic management allows a more controlled approach to the repair of retinal detachment associated with IRS. The patient’s presentation is consistent with the hydrodynamic hypothesis of IRS.
Distinctive morphological characteristics of Fucus guiryi (Fucales, Phaeophyceae) from Canary Islands, subtropical eastern Atlantic Ocean
Authors: RUIZ-MEDINA MARCOS A. , GONZÁLEZ-RODRÍGUEZ ÁGUEDA M. , SANSÓN MARTA
Published: September 2021

The brown macroalgae in the order Fucales include foundation species on rocky habitats of temperate regions. This work focused on Fucus guiryi, a recently described species segregated from F. spiralis in a molecular basis. It inhabits the upper intertidal zone from the eastern North Atlantic to the subtropical Canary Islands, where is considered its southern limit. We examined morphology and anatomy of vegetative and reproductive structures of F. guiryi from the Canary Islands. Several distinctive characteristics in habit existed between F. guiryi and other species of the genus distributed northwards, such as length and width of stipe and branches, number of branches, and morphology and number of receptacles. Anatomical features reported here for the first time exhibited subtle differences with temperate F. vesiculosus, F. spiralis and F. serratus. The morphology and arrangement of medulla, cortex and meristoderm were also distinctive for F. guiryi. Mucilage in cellular interstitial spaces constitutes good evidence that explains the presence of F. guiryi at its warmest distribution limit in the Canary Islands.
A NEW SPECIES OF DICHAEA (ORCHIDACEAE: ZYGOPETALINAE) FROM THE ANDES OF COLOMBIA
Authors: ALOMÍA YASMIN A. , SAMBIN AURELIEN , OTERO J. TUPAC , STEVENSON PABLO R.
Published: September 2021

A new species of Dichaea sect. Dichaea from the Andean forests in Colombia is described and illustrated based on living material. Dichaea andina is compared with the morphologically similar D. lagotis and D. pendula, from which it can be distinguished by a number of vegetative and floral and features. Dichaea andina differs from D. lagotis in the broadly anchoriform lip, the hypochile transversely subrounded and the epichile transversely narrowly elliptic, briefly apiculate. Similarly, it differs from D. pendula in the caespitose habit, the leaves without cross-venation, and the inflorescence straight produced below the foliage, among other features. Ecological information for the new species is also provided.
On the taxonomic validity of Indian ground spiders: V. Genera Megamyrmaekion Reuss, 1834, Sosticus Chamberlin, 1922 and Gaviphosa gen. nov. (Araneae: Gnaphosidae)
Authors: SANKARAN PRADEEP M. , CALEB JOHN T.D.
Published: September 2021

Indian Megamyrmaekion and Sosticus species are revised, mostly based on the type material available in the National Zoological Collection, Zoological Survey of India, Kolkata. The following new synonymies are recognised: Megamyrmaekion ashae syn. nov. is synonymised with Megamyrmaekion caudatum Reuss, 1834, Megamyrmaekion kajalae syn. nov. with Drassodes luridus (O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1874), Sosticus jabalpurensis syn. nov. and Sosticus sundargarhensis syn. nov., both with the liocranid species Sphingius barkudensis Gravely, 1931 and Sosticus poonaensis syn. nov. with the liocranid species Sphingius caniceps Simon, 1906. The following new combinations are recognised: Poecilochroa jodhpurense (Gajbe, 1993) comb. nov., ex. Megamyrmaekion, Urozelotes pawani (Gajbe, 1993) comb. nov., Sphingius dherikanalensis (Gajbe, 1979) comb. nov., Sphingius nainitalensis (Gajbe, 1979) comb. nov. and Sphingius solanensis (Gajbe, 1979) comb. nov., all ex. Sosticus. All the examined type material are imaged and supplementary descriptions for P. jodhpurense comb. nov. and U. pawani comb. nov. are provided. A new monotypic genus, Gaviphosa Sankaran, 2021 gen. nov. for Gaviphosa kera Sankaran, 2021 gen. et sp. nov., featured by dorsal tibial apophysis is described and illustrated in detail from the southern Western Ghats of India.
Investigating the influence of the Catholic Church on social work in the Philippines: An exploration of policy, practice and education
Authors: Otarra Carmela , Flynn Catherine
Published: September 2021

Despite historical and current connections between the Catholic Church and social work in the Philippines, studies investigating these connections have been limited. Using an exploratory research design, this study examined this relationship by drawing on existing documents: legislation; curricula and minimum standards for social work programmes; course syllabi; the Code of Ethics; and textbooks. Three themes emerged in the analysis, offering tentative explanations for the Church’s widespread influence: religion as embedded in Filipino life; the Catholic Church and Catholic-based organisations as key partners in the delivery of social services; and the intersection of Catholic teachings, social work principles and Filipino values.
Effects of hybridization and ply thickness on the strength and toughness of composite laminates
Authors: Danzi F , Tavares RP , Xavier J , Fanteria D , Camanho PP
Published: September 2021

This work presents the results of an experimental study performed in carbon/epoxy composite materials manufactured using a ply-level hybridization technique. The aim of the study is to investigate the potential of such hybridization technique to promote pseudo-ductile failure, and to enhance fracture toughness. Two thin-ply carbon-epoxy systems and three different carbon-carbon hybrid lay-ups are considered. Both strength and fracture tests are performed on the manufactured laminates and the properties of the hybrid materials are compared to those of the baseline non-hybrid composites. Digital Image Correlation and post-mortem X-ray imaging are used to analyze the fracture process of the different materials. The comparison of the mechanical response of the different materials demonstrates that, by means of thin ply hybridization, a pseudo-ductile failure in tension can be obtained, associated with fibre fragmentation. However, the hybridization seems not to be responsible for the increased fracture toughness that is ascribable to the ply-thickness effect.
A new strategy to improve ramie degumming based on removal of the xylan branched structure
Authors: Wang Huihui , Shu Tong , Li Pandeng , Bai Yun , Xiang Mengxiong , Yu Tianyi , Wu Ya , Yu Longjiang
Published: September 2021

Ramie fiber is known as the “king of natural fibers,” and the key to its wide application is efficient and green manufacturing. Microbial degumming has gradually become a hot area of research due to its environmental protection and mild operating conditions. However, some gummy materials remain after microbial degumming. Xylan is the main component of residual gums; its acetylated branched chains create the space barrier that makes the removal of hemicellulose difficult during ramie degumming. An acetyl xylan esterase (AXE) was obtained from Bacillus pumilus and characterized to solve this problem. Its optimum temperature and pH were 35°C and 8.0, respectively, and it had good temperature and pH stability. These properties were consistent with the conditions of ramie degumming and they laid a foundation for the application of AXE in ramie degumming. Besides, an engineered strain with a high activity of AXE was constructed successfully on the basis of the wild-type degumming strain Pectobacterium carotovorum HG-49 and used for ramie degumming. The removal rate of hemicellulose and total gums by the engineered strain increased by 4.89% and 2.53%, respectively, compared with that of the wild-type strain. Moreover, the role of this AXE in ramie degumming was further proven by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. This study showed that AXE played an important role in the removal of hemicellulose in the degumming process of ramie fibers, thus providing a promising degumming strategy for ramie and other bast fiber plants.
Swimming Against the Tide: Young Informal Traders’ Survival Strategies in a Competitive Business Environment in Zimbabwe
Authors: Kabonga Itai , Zvokuomba Kwashirai , Nyagadza Brighton , Dube Ernest
Published: September 2021

Informal trading in the town of Bindura, Zimbabwe is a competitive venture just like in other parts of the world. The competitiveness is characterized by young traders aged 18 to 24 years being elbowed out by those established in the business, hence, the study sought to interrogate the experiences of young informal traders. Employing a qualitative research framework with an interpretive philosophical dimension, the study established that young informal traders deploy their agency to survive in such a harsh environment. Their survival is depended on developing multiple streams of income, professionalizing their trade, setting up some associations, and establishing close-knit social networks that enables them to remain in business and eke a living. The study recommends that there is a need for forging up cooperative mechanisms of working in harmony amongst all informal traders since the Bindura market is ever-growing and may accommodate them all.