bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cattle manure loadings and legacy effects on copper and zinc availability under rainfed and irrigated conditions
Authors: Indraratne Srimathie P. , Spengler Matthew , Hao Xiying
Published: February 2021

Long-term cattle manure applications build up nutrient pools and can lead to trace element enrichments in soils. The objectives of this study were to evaluate copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) loadings in the soil during continuous annual cattle manure applications and determine the time required for soil to return to its pre-manure available Cu and Zn levels after manure is discontinued. The manure application rates were 0, 30, 60, and 90 Mg·ha−1 for rainfed and 0, 60, 120, and 180 Mg·ha−1 (wet weight) for irrigated plots. Although manure was applied for 45 yr in some plots, applications were terminated in one subset of treatments after 14 yr and in another subset after 30 yr to study legacy effects after 31 and 15 yr, respectively. Soil samples were collected in the fall of 2003, 2008, 2013, and 2018 and analyzed for available Cu and Zn. Crops were grown in all years continuously with Cu and Zn concentrations measured in both silage and grains harvested. The regression model developed using data collected suggests long legacy effects with recovery time to pre-manure levels ranging from 10 to 20 yr for Cu and 23 to 41 yr for Zn at irrigated and 10–24 for Cu and 21–32 yr for Zn under rainfed, respectively. Long-term applications of cattle manure could lead to accumulation of Cu and Zn, creating long-lasting legacy effects in soils with the increased environmental risk of leaching to groundwater.
Importance of confinement in instanton induced potential for bottomonium spectroscopy
Authors: Pandya Bhoomika , Shah Manan , Vinodkumar P. C.
Published: February 2021

Mass spectra of bottomonium states are computed using the Instanton Induced potential obtained from Instanton Liquid Model for QCD vacuum and incorporating a stronger confinement term. Spin dependent interactions through confined one gluon exchange potential are incorporated to remove the mass degeneracy. The mass spectra of the$$b\bar{b}$$bb¯states up to 4Sstates are found to be in good agreement with the values reported by PDG(2020). Mixing of nearby isoparity states are also studied. We found the state$$\varUpsilon (10{,}860)$$Υ(10,860)as an admixture of$$5^3S_1$$53S1and$$6^3D_1$$63D1Upsilon states with mixing angle$$\theta = 39.98^{\circ }$$θ=39.98∘and the mixed state di-leptonic decay width is found to be 0.25 keV as against the width of$$0.31 \pm 0.07$$0.31±0.07 keV reported by PDG. Further the state$$\varUpsilon (11{,}020)$$Υ(11,020)is also found to be the admixture of$$6^3S_1$$63S1and$$5^3D_1$$53D1Upsilon states with the mixing angle$$\theta = 51.69^{\circ }$$θ=51.69∘and the di-leptonic decay width of the mixed state is obtained as 0.14 keV which is very close to the width of$$0.13 \pm 0.03$$0.13±0.03 keV reported by PDG. Present results indicates that addition of confinement to the instanton potential is crucial for the determination of the mass spectroscopy of heavy hadrons.
Analytical solutions of fractional Schrödinger equation and thermal properties of Morse potential for some diatomic molecules
Authors: Okorie U. S. , Ikot A. N. , Rampho G. J. , Amadi P. O. , Abdullah Hewa Y.
Published: February 2021

By employing the concept of conformable fractional Nikiforov–Uvarov (NU) method, we solved the fractional Schrödinger equation with the Morse potential in one dimension. The analytical expressions of the bound state energy eigenvalues and eigenfunctions for the Morse potential were obtained. Numerical results for the energies of Morse potential for the selected diatomic molecules were computed for different fractional parameters chosen arbitrarily. Also, the graphical variation of the bound state energy eigenvalues of the Morse potential for hydrogen dimer with vibrational quantum number and the range of the potential were discussed, with regards to the selected fractional parameters. The vibrational partition function and other thermodynamic properties such as vibrational internal energy, vibrational free energy, vibrational entropy and vibrational specific heat capacity were evaluated in terms of temperature. Our results are new and have not been reported in any literature before.
Axially symmetric Petrov type II general space–time and closed timelike curves
Authors: Hazarika Bidyut Bikash
Published: February 2021

We present a Petrov type II general space–time which violates causality in the sense that it allows for the formation of closed timelike curves that appear after a definite instant of time. The metric, which is axially symmetric, admits an expansion-free, twist-free and shear-free null geodesic congruence. From the general metric, we obtain two particular type II metrics. One is a vacuum solution while the other represents a Ricci flat solution with a negative cosmological constant.
Soliton molecules, asymmetric soliton and some novel hybrid solutions for the isospectral BKP equation
Authors: Ma Hongcai , Cheng Qiaoxin , Deng Aiping
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we investigate the soliton molecules, asymmetric soliton and some novel hybrid solutions for the isospectral B-type Kadomtsev–Petviashvili (BKP) equation based on a new resonance condition. The soliton molecules and asymmetric soliton of the isospectral BKP equation can be obtained by selecting the appropriate parameters. Based on velocity resonance, module resonance and long-wave limit method, we can obtain the interactions of soliton molecules, breather waves and lump waves. Finally, we give the graphic of soliton molecules, asymmetric soliton and some novel hybrid solutions, and give the dynamic behavior analysis.
A STUDY OF FEMTOSECOND LASER POLISHING OF CVD NANOPOLYCRYSTALLINE DIAMOND FILMS
Authors: CUI YU-XIAO , GUO PING , ZHU XUEMING , TIAN YAN-LING , ZHANG DA-WEI , QI HOU-JUN
Published: January 2021

Femtosecond (fs) laser ablation has been recognized as an effective and promising technique for high-precision processing of natural and synthesized diamond. In this work, a study of femtosecond laser polishing for nanopolycrystalline diamond (NCD) films by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) is reported. The laser irradiation is induced by 200-fs laser pulses with a repetition frequency of 50[Formula: see text]MHz, and various laser fluences are employed to investigate their polishing effectiveness. The results show that the optimal laser fluence is 0.7[Formula: see text]J/cm2, at which the nanodiamond grains on top of the cauliflower-like clusters of NCD films can be ablated. With such laser fluence, the mean surface roughness of NCD films reduces from 73.84[Formula: see text]nm to 31.88[Formula: see text]nm, which presents a 57% reduction. Nevertheless, when the laser fluence rises beyond 0.7[Formula: see text]J/cm2, large amount of amorphous carbon (a-C) balls and porous lava-like morphology would come into being, resulting in severe degradation of the NCD surface.
Existence and uniqueness results for a class of nonlocal conservation laws by means of a Lax–Hopf-type solution formula
Authors: Keimer Alexander , Singh Manish , Veeravalli Tanya
Published: February 2021

We study the initial value problem and the initial boundary value problem for nonlocal conservation laws. The nonlocal term is realized via a spatial integration of the solution between specified boundaries and affects the flux function of a given “local” conservation law in a multiplicative way. For a strictly convex flux function and strictly positive nonlocal impact we prove existence and uniqueness of weak entropy solutions relying on a fixed-point argument for the nonlocal term and an explicit Lax–Hopf-type solution formula for the corresponding Hamilton–Jacobi (HJ) equation. Using the developed theory for HJ equations, we obtain a semi-explicit Lax–Hopf-type formula for the solution of the corresponding nonlocal HJ equation and a semi-explicit Lax–Oleinik-type formula for the nonlocal conservation law.
NiCo2S4/S Composites Used as Cathode Materials in Lithium-Sulfur Batteries with High Performance
Authors: Zhang Qian , Zhu Renxia , Zhao Chenyu , Fan Runze , Zhang Yong , Cai Yurong
Published: February 2021

Application of lithium-sulfur battery has been limited due to polysulfide dissolution, the insulating nature of sulfur and the volumetric strain produced during charge and discharge process. To improve the performance of Li-S batteries, two kinds of bimetallic sulfides of NiCo2S4 with flaky (F-NiCo2S4) and sea urchin-like (S-NiCo2S4) structures were synthesized by using simple hydrothermal method, which were used as sulfur carriers in lithium-sulfur batteries and showed excellent electrochemical properties. At 0.2[Formula: see text]C, both electrodes of F-NiCo2S4/S and S-NiCo2S4/S have high pristine discharge specific capacities of 986[Formula: see text]mAh[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text] and 959[Formula: see text]mAh[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text]. At high current density of 4[Formula: see text]C, the F-NiCo2S4/S electrode still has a high pristine discharge specific capacity of 673[Formula: see text]mAh[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text] and a coulombic efficiency of 97.00%. The specific capacity can remain at 526[Formula: see text]mAh[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text] with a low average attenuation of 0.17% even after 130 cycles. The excellent electrochemical performances of the cathode material can be ascribed to the synergistic effect of tubular morphology, good electrical conductivity and strong adsorption ability of NiCo2S4 matrix for polysulfide. The job provides a new scheme and material for application of lithium-sulfur batteries with high performance.
In-situ controlled synthesis of NiFe MOF materials with excellent electrocatalytic performances for water splitting
Authors: Jia Jingwen , Wei Longfu , Guo Ziting , Li Fang , Yu Changlin , Liang Tongxiang
Published: February 2021

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are the electrocatalytic materials with large specific surface area, high porosity, controllable structure and monodisperse active center, which is a promising candidate for the application of electrochemical energy conversion. However, the electrocatalytic performance of pure MOFs is seriously limited its poor conductivity and stability. In this work, high-performance electrocatalyst was fabricated through combining NiFe/MOF on nickel foam (NF) via in-situ growth strategy. Through rational control of the time and ratio in reaction precursors, we realized the effective manipulation of the growth behavior, and further investigated the electrocatalytic performance in water splitting. The catalyst presented excellent electrocatalytic performance for water splitting, with low overpotential of 260 mV in alkaline condition at a current density of 50 mA[Formula: see text], which is benefited from the large specific surface area and active sites. This study demonstrates that the rational design of NiFe MOF/NF plays a significant role in high-performance electrocatalyst.
Bayesian Inference: The Comprehensive Approach to Analyzing Single-Molecule Experiments
Authors: Kinz-Thompson Colin D. , Ray Korak Kumar , Gonzalez Ruben L.
Published: February 2021

Biophysics experiments performed at single-molecule resolution provide exceptional insight into the structural details and dynamic behavior of biological systems. However, extracting this information from the corresponding experimental data unequivocally requires applying a biophysical model. In this review, we discuss how to use probability theory to apply these models to single-molecule data. Many current single-molecule data analysis methods apply parts of probability theory, sometimes unknowingly, and thus miss out on the full set of benefits provided by this self-consistent framework. The full application of probability theory involves a process called Bayesian inference that fully accounts for the uncertainties inherent to single-molecule experiments. Additionally, using Bayesian inference provides a scientifically rigorous method of incorporating information from multiple experiments into a single analysis and finding the best biophysical model for an experiment without the risk of overfitting the data. These benefits make the Bayesian approach ideal for analyzing any type of single-molecule experiment.
Biophysics of Notch Signaling
Authors: Sprinzak David , Blacklow Stephen C.
Published: February 2021

Notch signaling is a conserved system of communication between adjacent cells, influencing numerous cell fate decisions in the development of multicellular organisms. Aberrant signaling is also implicated in many human pathologies. At its core, Notch has a mechanotransduction module that decodes receptor–ligand engagement at the cell surface under force to permit proteolytic cleavage of the receptor, leading to the release of the Notch intracellular domain (NICD). NICD enters the nucleus and acts as a transcriptional effector to regulate expression of Notch-responsive genes. In this article, we review and integrate current understanding of the detailed molecular basis for Notch signal transduction, highlighting quantitative, structural, and dynamic features of this developmentally central signaling mechanism. We discuss the implications of this mechanistic understanding for the functionality of the signaling pathway in different molecular and cellular contexts.
Exercise decreases aberrant corticostriatal plasticity in an animal model of l-DOPA-induced dyskinesia
Authors: Speck Ana E. , Aguiar Aderbal S. , Ferreira Samira G. , Silva Henrique B. , Tomé Ângelo R. , Agostinho Paula , Cunha Rodrigo A. , Prediger Rui D.
Published: February 2021

Physical exercise attenuates the development of l-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (l-DOPA)-induced dyskinesia (LID) in 6-hydroxydopamine-induced hemiparkinsonian mice through unknown mechanisms. We now tested if exercise normalizes the aberrant corticostriatal neuroplasticity associated with experimental murine models of LID. C57BL/6 mice received two unilateral intrastriatal injections of 6-hydroxydopamine (12 μg) and were treated after 3 wk with l-DOPA/benserazide (25/12.5 mg/kg) for 4 wk, with individualized moderate-intensity running (60%–70% V̇o2peak) or not (untrained). l-DOPA converted the pattern of plasticity in corticostriatal synapses from a long-term depression (LTD) into a long-term potentiation (LTP). Exercise reduced LID severity and decreased aberrant LTP. These results suggest that exercise attenuates abnormal corticostriatal plasticity to decrease LID.
Integration of vestibular and hindlimb inputs by vestibular nucleus neurons: multisensory influences on postural control
Authors: McCall Andrew A. , Miller Derek M. , Balaban Carey D.
Published: February 2021

Vestibular nucleus neurons receive convergent information from hindlimb somatosensory inputs and vestibular inputs. In this study, extracellular single-unit recordings of vestibular nucleus neurons during conditions of passively applied limb movement, passive whole body rotations, and combined stimulation were well fit by an additive model. The integration of hindlimb somatosensory inputs with vestibular inputs at the first stage of vestibular processing suggests that vestibular nucleus neurons account for limb position in determining vestibulospinal responses to postural perturbations.
The Effect of Acute Aerobic Exercise on Redox Homeostasis and Mitochondrial Function of Rat White Adipose Tissue
Authors: Matta Leonardo , Fonseca Túlio S. , Faria Caroline C. , Lima-Junior Niedson Correia , De Oliveira Dahienne F. , Maciel Leonardo , Boa Luiz F. , Pierucci Ana Paola T. R. , Ferreira Andrea C. F. , Nascimento José H. M. , Carvalho Denise P. , Fortunato Rodrigo S.
Published: January 2021

Physical exercise is characterized by an increase in physical and metabolic demand in face of physical stress. It is reported that a single exercise session induces physiological responses through redox signaling to increase cellular function and energy support in diverse organs. However, little is known about the effect of a single bout of exercise on the redox homeostasis and cytoprotective gene expression of white adipose tissue (WAT). Thus, we aimed at evaluating the effects of acute aerobic exercise on WAT redox homeostasis, mitochondrial metabolism, and cytoprotective genic response. Male Wistar rats were submitted to a single moderate‐high running session (treadmill) and were divided into five groups: control (CTRL, without exercise), and euthanized immediately (0 h), 30 min, 1 hour, or 2 hours after the end of the exercise session. NADPH oxidase activity was higher in 0 h and 30 min groups when compared to CTRL group. Extramitochondrial ROS production was higher in 0 h group in comparison to CTRL and 2 h groups. Mitochondrial respiration in phosphorylative state increased in 0 h group when compared to CTRL, 30 min, 1, and 2 h groups. On the other hand, mitochondrial ATP production was lower in 0 h in comparison to 30 min group, increasing in 1 and 2 h groups when compared to CTRL and 0 h groups. CAT activity was lower in all exercised groups when compared to CTRL. Regarding oxidative stress biomarkers, we observed a decrease in reduced thiol content in 0 h group compared to CTRL and 2 h groups, and higher levels of protein carbonylation in 0 and 30 min groups in comparison to the other groups. The levels returned to basal condition in 2 h group. Furthermore, aerobic exercise increased NRF2, GPX2, HMOX1, SOD1, and CAT mRNA levels. Taken together, our results suggest that one session of aerobic exercise can induce a transient prooxidative state in WAT, followed by an increase in antioxidant and cytoprotective gene expression.
Immunization with CENP-C Causes Aberrant Chromosome Segregation during Oocyte Meiosis in Mice
Authors: Fan Jiao , Liu Yang , Zhong Yiping
Published: January 2021

Anticentromere antibodies (ACA) were associated with lower oocyte maturation rates and cleavage rates, while the mechanism was not clear. Aims of this study were to examine whether active immunization with centromere protein C could elicit the CENP-C autoantibody in mice and the impacts of the CENP-C autoantibody on oocyte meiosis. Mice were divided into two groups, one was the experimental group immunized with human centromere protein C and Freund’s adjuvant (CFA), and the other was the control group injected with CFA only. Serum and oocytes of BALB/c mice immunized with human centromere protein C (CENP-C) in complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) or injected with only CFA were studied for the development of the CENP-C antibody. Rates of germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD), first polar body (Pb1) extrusion, abnormal spindle morphology, and chromosome misalignment were compared between the experimental group and the control group. The CENP-C antibody was only observed in serum and oocytes of mice immunized with the centromere protein C antigen. The first polar body (Pb1) extrusion rate was lower in the experimental group (

P
<
0.01

). A higher percentage of spindle defects and chromosome congression failure were also detected in the experimental group (spindle defects:

64.67
±
1.16
%

vs.

9.27
±
2.28
%

control; chromosome misalignment:

50.80
±
2.40
%

vs.

8.30
±
1.16
%

control;

P
<
0.01

for both). Oocyte meiosis was severely impaired by the CENP-C antibody, which may be the main mechanism of adverse reproductive outcomes for ACA-positive women who have no clinical symptoms of any autoimmune diseases.
Awareness of Secondary School Students regarding Basic Life Support in Abha City, Southern Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Almojarthe Bandar , Alqahtani Saad , AlGouzi Belgith , Alluhayb Wael , Asiri Nouf
Published: January 2021

Background. Basic life support (BLS) is a level of medical care that is used for individuals with life-threatening illnesses or injuries until they can be given full medical care at a hospital. It can be provided by trained medical personnel, including emergency medical technicians and paramedics, and by qualified bystanders. Vital areas of adult BLS include immediate identification of sudden cardiac arrest and activation of the emergency response system, early performance of high-quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and rapid defibrillation, when appropriate. Aim. To assess the awareness of secondary school students regarding BLS in Abha City, Saudi Arabia. Methodology. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted targeting all accessible secondary school students in Abha City during the academic years 2018-2019. After explaining the objectives and importance of the research topic, all students in the three grades were invited to complete the study questionnaire. The questionnaire was developed by the researchers after reviewing the literature for related topics and consulting an expert for any additions or modifications. Results. The study included 761 students with ages ranging from 15 to 20 years and a mean age of 17 ± 1 years old. Male students accounted for 53.6% of the participants, and 96.7% of the participants were Saudi. Exactly 31% of the students had had a BLS training course, among which 79.2% had had training that lasted for only one day. Regarding awareness, 65% of the students had heard about BLS, and 44% knew about CPR. Exactly 52% of the students indicated that they should call the ER if there was a case with fainting. A total of 45.3% of the students reported that airway checking was the first step in CPR, and 16.7% reported that the chest compression to oral breathing ratio should be 30 to 2. Conclusions and Recommendations. In conclusion, the study revealed that poor awareness regarding BLS was present among the students. The researchers concluded that less than one-third of the students had BLS training. BLS should be taught, theoretically and practically (with simulations), to middle and high school students as BLS involves relatively simple concepts and methods.
Perception and Attitude of Surgical Trainees in Nigeria to Trauma Care
Authors: Okoye Onyedika , Ameh Emmanuel , Ojo Emmanuel
Published: January 2021

Background. Trauma is still the leading cause of death in individuals between the ages of 1 and 44 years. Establishment of good trauma centres and systems has been shown to have a significant positive impact on outcomes. Surgical specialties, particularly trauma, are becoming less attractive in different parts of the world for a variety of reasons. Aim.  The aim of this study is to ascertain the perception and attitude of future surgeons towards trauma care in Nigeria. Materials and methods. This is a cross-sectional study using a pretested, structured, paper-based questionnaire which was administered to consecutive surgical trainees at the annual revision course of West African College of Surgeons. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 12, and results are presented in tables and figures. Results. One hundred and fifty-seven questionnaires were adequately completed with a male-to-female ratio of 18 : 1 and median age of 30 years. There is a general agreement among the respondents that trauma incidence in Nigeria is high or very high. While about 70% of the respondents believe that the Nigerian trauma system is poorly planned, about 19% think it is nonexistent. 81 (53.7%) agree or strongly agree that managing trauma patients is too stressful. A good number, 116 (74.4%), strongly agree that having a separate dedicated trauma unit will improve care and outcome. While 82% of the surgical trainees support post fellowship training in trauma, only 62.2% will like to have the training. There is no significant difference between the proportion of males and females who would like to have the training. Conclusion. Surgical trainees in Nigeria have good perception and positive attitude towards trauma care. Primary prevention measures must be emphasized during surgical trainees’ training in trauma.
Alleviation of Anxiety/Depressive-Like Behaviors and Improvement of Cognitive Functions by Lactobacillus plantarum WLPL04 in Chronically Stressed Mice
Authors: Sun Xuan , Zhang Hong-Fei , Ma Chao-Lin , Wei Hua , Li Bao-Ming , Luo Jie
Published: January 2021

Background. Intestinal microorganisms play an important role in regulating the neurodevelopment and the brain functions of the host through the gut-brain axis. Lactobacillus, one of the most representative intestinal probiotics, produces important effects on human physiological functions. Our previous studies reveal that the Lactobacillus plantarum WLPL04 has a series of beneficial actions, such as antiadhesion of pathogens, protection from the harmful effect of sodium dodecyl sulfate, and anti-inflammatory stress on Caco2 cells. However, its effects on brain functions remain unknown. The present study aims to evaluate the potential effect of L. plantarum WLPL04 on anxiety/depressive-like behaviors in chronically restrained mice. Methods. Newly weaned mice were exposed to chronic restraint stress for four weeks and raised daily with or without L. plantarum WLPL04 water supplement. Animals were behaviorally assessed for anxiety/depression and cognitive functions. The 16S rRNA sequencing was performed to analyze the intestinal microbiota structure. The levels of the medial prefrontal cortical (mPFC) brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)/tropomyosin-related kinase B (TrkB) and serum 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) were examined using Western blot and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results. The chronic stress-induced anxiety/depressive-like behaviors and cognitive deficits were significantly alleviated by the L. plantarum WLPL04 treatment. The 16S rRNA sequencing analysis showed that the chronic stress reduced the diversity and the richness of intestinal microbiota, which were rescued by the L. plantarum WLPL04 treatment. The levels of BDNF and TrkB in the mPFC and the concentration of 5-HT in the serum remained unchanged in chronically restrained mice treated with the L. plantarum WLPL04. Conclusions. The L. plantarum WLPL04 can rescue anxiety/depressive-like behaviors and cognitive dysfunctions, reverse the abnormal change in intestinal microbiota, and alleviate the reduced levels of 5-HT, BDNF, and TrkB induced by chronic stress in mice, providing an experimental basis for the therapeutic application of L. plantarum on anxiety/depression.
Development and Validation of a Radiomics Nomogram for Prognosis Prediction of Patients with Acute Paraquat Poisoning: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Lu Shan , Gao Duo , Wang Yanling , Feng Xuran , Zhang Yongzhi , Li Ling , Geng Zuojun
Published: February 2021

Objective. To evaluate the efficiency of a radiomics model in predicting the prognosis of patients with acute paraquat poisoning (APP). Materials and Methods. Chest computed tomography images and clinical data of 80 patients with APP were obtained from November 2014 to October 2017, which were randomly assigned to a primary group and a validation group by a ratio of 7 : 3, and then the radiomics features were extracted from the whole lung. Principal component analysis (PCA) and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression were used to select the features and establish the radiomics signature (Rad‐score). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to establish a radiomics prediction model incorporating the Rad‐score and clinical risk factors; the model was represented by nomogram. The performance of the nomogram was confirmed by its discrimination and calibration. Result. The area under the ROC curve of operation was 0.942 and 0.865, respectively, in the primary and validation datasets. The sensitivity and specificity were 0.864 and 0.914 and 0.778 and 0.929, and the prediction accuracy rates were 89.5% and 87%, respectively. Predictors included in the individualized predictive nomograms include the Rad‐score, blood paraquat concentration, creatine kinase, and serum creatinine. The AUC of the nomogram was 0.973 and 0.944 in the primary and validation datasets, and the sensitivity and specificity were 0.943 and 0.955, respectively, in the primary dataset and 0.889 and 0.929 in the validation dataset, and the prediction accuracy was 94.7% and 91.3%, respectively. Conclusion. The radiomics nomogram incorporates the radiomics signature and hematological laboratory data, which can be conveniently used to facilitate the individualized prediction of the prognosis of APP patients.
Combined Effects in Singular Elliptic Problems in Punctured Domain
Authors: Bachar Imed , Mâagli Habib , Eltayeb Hassan
Published: January 2021

The paper deals with nonlinear elliptic differential equations subject to some boundary value conditions in a regular bounded punctured domain. By means of properties of slowly regularly varying functions at zero and the Schauder fixed-point theorem, we establish the existence of a positive continuous solution for the suggested problem. Global estimates on such solution, which could blow up at the origin, are also obtained.
Clinical Analysis of Cervical Lymph Node Metastasis Risk Factors and the Feasibility of Prophylactic Central Lymph Node Dissection in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Chen Yifan , Chen Shuo , Lin Xiaoying , Huang Xiangqing , Yu Xiaofang , Chen Juying
Published: January 2021

Objective. To identify the risk factors for cervical lymph node metastasis (CLNM) and the feasibility of prophylactic central lymph node dissection. Methods. The characteristics of 1107 patients were extracted and analyzed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify risk factors associated with lymph node metastasis. The relationship between the central lymph node dissection (CLND) and lateral lymph node metastasis (LLNM) was analyzed using the correlation analysis. Results. The probability of CLNM was closely related to the male gender, age <55, and the increase of tumor size. Those patients with an increase in tumor size and CLNM were extremely prone to LLNM. Also, LLNM was more likely to happen in those with the more positive central lymph nodes. Routine prophylactic central lymph node dissection (P-CLND) did not increase the risk of complications. Conclusion. P-CLND should be considered as a reasonable surgical treatment for PTC.
On Constructing t‐Spanner in IoT under SINR
Authors: Zhang Xiujuan , Wang Yongcai , Chen Wenping , Zhu Yuqing , Li Deying , Li Guangshun
Published: February 2021

Following the recent advances in the Internet of Things (IoT), it is drawing lots of attention to design distributed algorithms for various network optimization problems under the SINR (Signal‐to‐Interference‐and‐Noise‐Ratio) interference model, such as spanner construction. Since a spanner can maintain a linear number of links while still preserving efficient routes for any pair of nodes in wireless networks, it is important to design distributed algorithms for spanners. Given a constant t > 1 as the required stretch factor, the problem of our concern is to design an efficient distributed algorithm to construct a t‐spanner of the communication graph under SINR such that the delay for the task completion is minimized, where the delay is the time interval between the time slot that the first node commences its operation to the time slot that all the nodes finish their task of constructing the t‐spanner. Our main contributions include four aspects. First, we propose a proximity range and proximity independent set (PISet) to increase the number of nodes transmitting successfully at the same time in order to reduce the delay. Second, we develop a distributed randomized algorithm SINR‐Spanner to construct a required t‐spanner with high probability. Third, the approximation ratio of SINR‐Spanner is proven to be a constant. Finally, extensive simulations are carried out to verify the effectiveness and efficiency of our proposed algorithm.
Sliding Impact Mechanism of Square Roadway Based on Complex Function Theory
Authors: Ge Decheng , Jiang Fuxing , Wang Cunwen , Chen Yang , Dong Chunyu , Zhu Sitao , Wang Zhaoyi , Han Fei
Published: January 2021

To clarify the process of stress change and plastic zone evolution of square roadways under high‐stress conditions, the rotational square expansion plastic zone evolution model of square roadway was established by theoretical analysis, numerical simulation, and engineering verification. The shear slip impact stress criterion of square roadway based on complex variable function theory was studied, and the law of surrounding rock stress distribution, plastic zone expansion, elastic energy density, local energy release rate (LERR), and total energy release of square roadway were analyzed. The results show that the compressive stress is concentrated in the four corners of the roadway after the roadway excavated and transfers with the change of plastic zone. Main shear failures start from the four corners and develop in a rotating square shape, forming square failure zones I and II. The square failure zone I is connected with the roadway contour and rotated 45°. The square failure zone II is connected with the square failure zone I and rotated 45°. When the original rock stress is low, the surrounding rock tends to be stable after the square shear slip line field formed. When the original rock stress is high, the shear failure of the surrounding rock continues to occur after the square failure zone II formed, showing a spiral slip line. Corners of the square roadway and square failure zones I and II are the main energy accumulation and release areas. The maximum elastic energy density and LERR increase exponentially with the ratio of vertical stress to uniaxial compressive strength (Ic). When square corners of the roof are changed to round corners, the plastic zone of the roof expands to form an arch structure. The maximum elastic energy density decreases by 22%, which reduces the energy level and possibility of rock burst. This study enriches the failure mechanism of roadway sliding impact. It can provide a basic theoretical reference for the design of the new roadway section and support form based on the prevention of rock burst.
The Evolution and Determinants of Interorganizational Coinvention Networks in New Energy Vehicles: Evidence from Shenzhen, China
Authors: Liu Jia , Chong Zhaohui , Lu Shijian
Published: January 2021

With the increasing attention to climate change, air pollution, and related public health issues, China’s new energy vehicles (NEVs) industry has developed rapidly. However, few studies investigated the evolution of interorganizational collaborative innovation networks in the sector domain of NEVs and the influence of different drivers on the establishment of innovation relationships. In this context, this paper uses the joint invention patent of Shenzhen, a low‐carbon pilot city of China, to investigate the dynamics of network influencing factors. The social network analysis shows that the scale of coinvention network of NEVs is constantly increasing, which is featured with diversified cooperative entities, and collaboration depth (i.e., the intensity of the interactions with these partners) is also expanding. The empirical results from the Exponential Random Graph Model (ERGM) demonstrate that, with the deepening of collaborative innovation, technological upgrading caused by knowledge exchange makes organizations in the network more inclined to cognitive proximity and less dependent on geographical proximity. In addition, organizational proximity and triadic closure contribute positively to the collaborative network, with their relevance remaining nearly the same, while the impeding effect of cultural/language difference is slightly decreasing with time.
A Secure Storage and Sharing Scheme of Stroke Electronic Medical Records Based on Consortium Blockchain
Authors: Qin Qiuli , Jin Biyuan , Liu Yanqing
Published: February 2021

The maintenance and sharing of electronic medical records are one of the essential tasks in the medical treatment combination. Traditional cloud‐based electronic medical record storage system is difficult to realize data security sharing. The tamper resistance and traceability of blockchain technology provide the possibility for the sharing of highly sensitive medical data. This paper proposes a safe sharing scheme of stroke electronic medical records based on the consortium blockchain. The scheme adopts the storage method of ciphertext of medical records stored in the cloud and index of medical records stored on the blockchain. The privacy protection mechanism proposed in this paper innovatively combines proxy reencryption and searchable encryption which supports patient pseudoidentity search. The mechanism could achieve controllable sharing of medical records and precise search. According to the organizational characteristics of the stroke medical treatment combination, this paper proposes an improved Practical Byzantine Fault Tolerance mechanism to reach a consensus between consensus nodes. Then, the proposed scheme is analyzed and evaluated from three aspects of medical record integrity, user privacy, and data security. The results show that the scheme can not only ensure the privacy of patient identity information and private key data but also resist the tampering and deletion attacks of internal and external malicious nodes on the medical record data. Therefore, the proposed scheme is conducive to the improvement of the timeliness of stroke treatment and the safe sharing of electronic medical records in stroke medical treatment combination.
TNRC6C Functions as a Tumor Suppressor and Is Frequently Downregulated in Papillary Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Cai Zhenqin , Zhai Tianyu , Muhanhali Dilidaer , Ling Yan
Published: January 2021

Our previous study found that trinucleotide repeat containing adaptor 6C (TNRC6C) may act as a tumor suppressor in papillary thyroid cancer (PTC). In this study, we aimed to confirm the effect of TNRC6C on PTC and investigate the underlying molecular mechanism. The difference of mRNA level of TNRC6C between PTC tissue and noncancerous thyroid tissue and the association of expression level of TNRC6C with clinicopathological features of PTC were analyzed using TCGA data. Immunohistochemical assay was performed to detect the protein expression of TNRC6C in PTC and its adjacent noncancerous tissue. Cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis were analyzed after knockdown or overexpression of TNRC6C in BCPAP cells. RNA-sequencing was performed to find the target genes of TNRC6C, and potential targets were validated in BCPAP and TPC1 cells. Our results showed that TNRC6C was downregulated in PTC, and lower expression level of TNRC6C was associated with worse clinicopathological features. Overexpression of TNRC6C significantly inhibited proliferation, migration, and invasion of BCPAP cells and promoted its apoptosis, while knockdown of TNRC6C acted the opposite role. By analyzing RNA-sequencing data and TCGA data, 12 genes (SCD, CRLF1, APCDD1L, CTHRC1, PTPRU, ALDH1A3, VCAN, TNC, ECE1, COL1A1, CAMK2N2, and MMP14) were considered as potential target genes of TNRC6C, and most of them were associated with clinicopathological features of PTC in TCGA. All of them except CAMK2N2 were significantly downregulated after overexpressing TNRC6C. Our study demonstrated that TNRC6C functions as a tumor suppressor in PTC and may serve as a useful therapeutic target and prognostic marker for PTC patients.
Indigenous Microbiota to Leverage Traditional Dry Sausage Production
Authors: Palavecino Prpich Noelia Zulema , Camprubí Germán Edgardo , Cayré María Elisa , Castro Marcela Paola
Published: January 2021

The main issue addressed in this review is the need for innovation in the artisanal production of dry fermented sausages—leveraging rather than discarding tradition, together with some practical strategies available to achieve it. Throughout the text, emphasis is placed on the autochthonous microbiota responsible for the identity and unique sensory characteristics of these products. The available strategies to introduce innovation in this manufacturing process rely on metabolic flexibility of microbial strains. In this sense, this review evaluates the application of several tools aimed at improving the quality and safety of artisanal dry fermented sausages focusing on the microbial community role. The most studied alternatives to enhance dry sausage production comprise the use of autochthonous starter cultures—including functional and/or probiotic strains, the production of bacteriocins, and the generation of bioactive peptides, which have been thoroughly covered herein. The purpose of this work is to review recent research about novel different strategies available for food technologists to improve safety and quality in the manufacture of dry fermented sausages. Additional support strategies—quality product registers and innovation through tradition—have been suggested as complementary actions towards a successful introduction of indigenous microbial communities into traditional dry sausage production.
S2NOW: Secure Social Network Ontology Using WhatsApp
Authors: Johari Rahul , Kalra Sawan , Dahiya Sonika , Gupta Kalpana
Published: January 2021

Communicating and sharing the ideas and feelings between human beings form the basis of social network. With the advent of different social network tools and applications, the task of networking between people has reached to next level, crossing bridges and boundaries. However, is there a connection or linkage between the frequent and sometime just random exchange of text messages between people using social network-based tools and applications and also are these messages secure? Or are they vulnerable to threat and attacks? Literature survey shows that very little work has been done in this direction. With this intention, in the current research work, a real-time case study has been taken identifying the creation of the social network between a group of persons who frequently chat using the WhatsApp Messenger application based on their common hobbies, choices, and areas of interest and applying cryptographic techniques to ensure the security of data (chats). The proposed study uses the Caesar Cipher Cryptographic Technique and newly proposed Block Quadra Crypto Technique for encrypting the chats and showcases a comparison between the two techniques. The results are encouraging and exceed the expectation.
Detecting Small Chinese Traffic Signs via Improved YOLOv3 Method
Authors: Zhang Baojun , Wang Guili , Wang Huilan , Xu Chenchen , Li Yu , Xu Lin
Published: February 2021

Long-distance detection of traffic signs provides drivers with more reaction time, which is an effective technique to reduce the probability of sudden accidents. It is recognized that the imaging size of far traffic signs is decreasing with distance. Such a fact imposes much challenge on long-distance detection. Aiming to enhance the recognition rate of long-distance small targets, we design a four-scale detection structure based on the three-scale detection structure of YOLOv3 network. In order to reduce the occlusion effects of similar objects, NMS is replaced by soft-NMS. In addition, the datasets are trained and the K-Means method is used to generate the appropriate anchor boxes, so as to speed up the network computing. By using these methods, better experimental results for the recognition of long-distance traffic signs have been obtained. The recognition rate is 43.8 frames per second (FPS), and the recognition accuracy is improved to 98.8%, which is much better than the original YOLOv3.
[Retracted] Antioxidative Capacity of Liver‐ and Adipose‐Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cell‐Conditioned Media and Their Applicability in Treatment of Type 2 Diabetic Rats
Authors: Elshemy Mohamed M. , Asem Medhat , Allemailem Khaled S. , Uto Koichiro , Ebara Mitsuhiro , Nabil Ahmed
Published: February 2021

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is mainly characterized by insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion, which cannot be reversed with existing therapeutic strategies. Using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), cell‐based therapy has been demonstrated in displaying therapeutic effects in T2DM for their self‐renewable, differentiation potential, and immunosuppressive properties and higher levels of angiogenic factors. Stem cell therapies are complicated and have a serious adverse effect including tumor formation and immunogenicity, while using mesenchymal stem cell‐conditioned media (MSC‐CM) significantly reduces stem cell risk, maintaining efficacy and showing significantly higher levels of growth factors, cytokines, and angiogenic factors that stimulate angiogenesis and promote fracture healing in diabetes. In the present study, we investigated the therapeutic potential of the liver and adipose MSC‐CM in diabetic endothelial dysfunction compared with standard insulin therapy. Fifty adult male Sprague Dawley rats were divided equally into 5 groups as follows: control, diabetic, diabetic+insulin, diabetic+liver MSC‐CM, and diabetic+adipose MSC‐CM; all treatments continued for 4 weeks. Finally, we observed that liver MSC‐CM therapy had the most apparent improvement in levels of blood glucose; HbA1c; AGEs; lipid panel (cholesterol, TG, LDL, HDL, and total lipids); renal function (urea, uric acid, creatinine, and total protein); liver function (AST, ALT, ALP, bilirubin, and albumin); CPK; C‐peptide; HO‐1; inflammatory markers including IL‐6, TNF‐α, and CRP; growth factors (liver and serum IGF‐1); amylase; histopathological changes; pancreatic cell oxidative stress; and antioxidant markers (MDA, GSH, ROS, CAT, SOD, HO‐1, and XO) toward the normal levels compared with insulin and adipose MSCs‐CM. Moreover, both the liver and adipose MSC‐CM relieved the hyperglycemic status by improving pancreatic islet β cell regeneration, promoting the conversion of alpha cells to beta cells, reducing insulin resistance, and protecting pancreatic tissues against oxidative stress‐induced injury as well as possessing the ability to modulate immunity and angiogenesis. These results indicated that MSC‐CM infusion has therapeutic effects in T2DM rats and may be a promising novel therapeutic target.
Is Dry Needling Effective When Combined with Other Therapies for Myofascial Trigger Points Associated with Neck Pain Symptoms? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Fernández-De-Las-Peñas César , Plaza-Manzano Gustavo , Sanchez-Infante Jorge , Gómez-Chiguano Guido F , Cleland Joshua A , Arias-Buría José L. , López-de-Uralde-Villanueva Ibai , Navarro-Santana Marcos J.
Published: February 2021

Objective. To evaluate the effects of combining dry needling with other physical therapy interventions versus the application of the other interventions or dry needling alone applied over trigger points (TrPs) associated to neck pain. Databases and Data Treatment. Electronic databases were searched for randomized controlled trials where at least one group received dry needling combined with other interventions for TrPs associated with neck pain. Outcomes included pain intensity, pain-related disability, pressure pain thresholds, and cervical range of motion. The risk of bias (RoB) was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool, methodological quality was assessed with PEDro score, and the quality of evidence was assessed by using the GRADE approach. Between-groups mean differences (MD) and standardized mean difference (SMD) were calculated. Results. Eight trials were included. Dry needling combined with other interventions reduced pain intensity at short-term (SMD −1.46, 95% CI −2.25 to −0.67) and midterm (SMD −0.38, 95% CI −0.74 to −0.03) but not immediately after or at long-term compared with the other interventions alone. A small effect on pain-related disability was observed at short-term (SMD −0.45, 95% CI −0.87 to −0.03) but not at midterm or long-term. The inclusion of dry needling was also effective for improving pressure pain thresholds only at short-term (MD 112.02 kPa, 95% CI 27.99 to 196.06). No significant effects on cervical range of motion or pain catastrophism were observed. Conclusion. Low-to-moderate evidence suggests a positive effect to the combination of dry needling with other interventions for improving pain intensity, pain-related disability, pressure pain thresholds, and cervical range of motion in people with neck pain associated with TrPs at short-term. No midterm or long-term effects were observed.