bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Critical behavior in active lattice models of motility-induced phase separation
Authors: Dittrich Florian , Speck Thomas , Virnau Peter
Published: April 2021

Lattice models allow for a computationally efficient investigation of motility-induced phase separation (MIPS) compared to off-lattice systems. Simulations are less demanding, and thus, bigger systems can be accessed with higher accuracy and better statistics. In equilibrium, lattice and off-lattice models with comparable interactions belong to the same universality class. Whether concepts of universality also hold for active particles is still a controversial and open question. Here, we examine two recently proposed active lattice systems that undergo MIPS and investigate numerically their critical behavior. In particular, we examine the claim that these systems and MIPS in general belong to the Ising universality class. We also take a more detailed look on the influence and role of rotational diffusion and active velocity in these systems.

Graphic Abstract
Formation mechanism of Cu/Cu3Sn–Cu/Cu interconnections based on solder-filled microporous copper as interlayer via a current-assisted thermal compression bonding
Authors: Li Xiang , Sun Fenglian , Pan Zhen
Published: April 2021

In this study, a Cu/Cu3Sn–Cu/Cu interconnection can be achieved based on solder-filled microporous copper (MPC) as interlayer via a current-assisted thermal compression bonding. The high-temperature soldering connection materials can be used in the third-generation semiconductor packaging, so as to meet the promising application in high-temperature power device packaging. The influence of auxiliary current on the microstructure evolution of Cu–Sn IMCs and its formation mechanism were studied. Experiments show that the action of Joule heat coupled with the electron wind significantly enhanced the interfacial reaction at the Cu/Sn metallization interface. The microstructure of Cu6Sn5 changed from scallop-like into columnar due to constitutional supercooling, and the dispersion distribution of Cu6Sn5 also changed. The growth constitutive equations of Cu3Sn in bondlines were established under current-assisted thermal compression bonding process.
Affinity Derivation for Accurate Instance Segmentation
Authors: Liu Yiding , Yang Siyu , Li Bin , Zhou Wengang , Xu Jizheng , Li Houqiang , Lu Yan
Published: April 2021

Affinity, which represents whether two pixels belong to a same instance, is an equivalent representation to the instance segmentation labels. Conventional works do not make an explicit exploration on the affinity. In this article, we present two instance segmentation schemes based on pixel affinity information and show the effectiveness of affinity in both aspects. For proposal-free method, we predict pixel affinity for each image and then propose a simple yet effective graph merge algorithm to cluster pixels into instances. It shows that the affinity is powerful as an instance-relevant information to guide the clustering procedure in proposal-free instance segmentation. For proposal-based methods, we extend conventional framework with affinity head and introduce affinity as attached supervision in training phase. Without any additional inference cost, we can improve the performance of existing proposal-based instance segmentation methods, which shows that the affinity can also be applied as an auxiliary loss and training with such extra loss is beneficial to the training progress. Experimental results show that our schemes achieve comparable performance to other state-of-the-art instance segmentation methods. With Cityscapes training data, the proposed proposal-free method achieves 28.8 AP and the proposal-based method gets 27.2 AP both on test sets.
Improved Jitter Buffer Management for WebRTC
Authors: Cinar Yusuf , Pocta Peter , Chambers Desmond , Melvin Hugh
Published: April 2021

This work studies the jitter buffer management algorithm for Voice over IP in WebRTC. In particular, it details the core concepts of WebRTC’s jitter buffer management. Furthermore, it investigates how jitter buffer management algorithm behaves under network conditions with packet bursts. It also proposes an approach, different from the default WebRTC algorithm, to avoid distortions that occur under such network conditions. Under packet bursts, when the packet buffer becomes full, the WebRTC jitter buffer algorithm may discard all the packets in the buffer to make room for incoming packets. The proposed approach offers a novel strategy to minimize the number of packets discarded in the presence of packet bursts. Therefore, voice quality as perceived by the user is improved. ITU-T Rec. P.863, which also confirms the improvement, is employed to objectively evaluate the listening quality.
ART-UP: A Novel Method for Generating Scanning-Robust Aesthetic QR Codes
Authors: Xu Mingliang , Li Qingfeng , Niu Jianwei , Su Hao , Liu Xiting , Xu Weiwei , Lv Pei , Zhou Bing , Yang Yi
Published: April 2021

Quick response (QR) codes are usually scanned in different environments, so they must be robust to variations in illumination, scale, coverage, and camera angles. Aesthetic QR codes improve the visual quality, but subtle changes in their appearance may cause scanning failure. In this article, a new method to generate scanning-robust aesthetic QR codes is proposed, which is based on a module-based scanning probability estimation model that can effectively balance the tradeoff between visual quality and scanning robustness. Our method locally adjusts the luminance of each module by estimating the probability of successful sampling. The approach adopts the hierarchical, coarse-to-fine strategy to enhance the visual quality of aesthetic QR codes, which sequentially generate the following three codes: a binary aesthetic QR code, a grayscale aesthetic QR code, and the final color aesthetic QR code. Our approach also can be used to create QR codes with different visual styles by adjusting some initialization parameters. User surveys and decoding experiments were adopted for evaluating our method compared with state-of-the-art algorithms, which indicates that the proposed approach has excellent performance in terms of both visual quality and scanning robustness.
Robust Secret Image Sharing Resistant to Noise in Shares
Authors: Yan Xuehu , Liu Lintao , Li Longlong , Lu Yuliang
Published: April 2021

A secret image is split into 

 shares in the generation phase of secret image sharing (SIS) for a 

threshold. In the recovery phase, the secret image is recovered when any 

 or more shares are collected, and each collected share is generally assumed to be lossless in conventional SIS during storage and transmission. However, noise will arise during real-world storage and transmission; thus, shares will experience data loss, which will also lead to data loss in the secret image being recovered. Secret image recovery in the case of lossy shares is an important issue that must be addressed in practice, which is the overall subject of this article. An SIS scheme that can recover the secret image from lossy shares is proposed in this article. First, robust SIS and its definition are introduced. Next, a robust SIS scheme for a 

threshold without pixel expansion is proposed based on the Chinese remainder theorem (CRT) and error-correcting codes (ECC). By screening the random numbers, the share generation phase of the proposed robust SIS is designed to implement the error correction capability without increasing the share size. Particularly in the case of collecting noisy shares, our recovery method is to some degree robust to some noise types, such as least significant bit (LSB) noise, JPEG compression, and salt-and-pepper noise. A theoretical proof is presented, and experimental results are examined to evaluate the effectiveness of our proposed method.
Redox Mechanism Contributions to the Behaviour of Electrochemical Capacitor Materials
Authors: Forghani Marveh , Cameron Amanda P. , Donne Scott W.
Published: April 2021

The mechanisms of charge storage in four typical electrochemical capacitor systems are compared and contrasted. These systems are based on activated carbon, ruthenium dioxide, manganese dioxide and nickel hydroxide. Charge storage is discussed in terms of charge delocalization either on the surface or throughout the electrode material. Electrical double layer formation, such as on activated carbon, is considered an example of charge delocalization, with charge distributed over the electrolyte accessible surface irrespective of the applied potential. Ruthenium dioxide also stores delocalized charge, in this case through the reversible Ru(IV)/Ru(III) redox couple. Manganese dioxide is unique in that in alkaline (battery) electrolytes charge is localized in specific structural domains, while in neutral (capacitor) electrolytes charge is delocalized over the material structure. Nickel hydroxide in an alkaline electrolyte is an example of charge localization when redox cycling due to its two-phase redox mechanism. The impact of these differing charge storage mechanisms on electrochemical performance is discussed.
Insulin stimulation reduces aortic wave reflection in adults with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Dotson Brielle L. , Heiston Emily M. , Miller Stephanie L. , Malin Steven K.
Published: April 2021

This study is one of the first to investigate the effects of insulin on central and peripheral hemodynamics in adults with metabolic syndrome. We provide evidence that insulin infusion reduces aortic wave reflection, potentially through a reduction in inflammation and/or via a potassium-mediated vascular response.
Applications of a New
q
-Difference Operator in Janowski-Type Meromorphic Convex Functions
Authors: Ahmad Bakhtiar , Khan Muhammad Ghaffar , Aouf Mohamed Kamal , Mashwani Wali Khan , Salleh Zabidin , Tang Huo
Published: April 2021

The main aim of the present article is the introduction of a new differential operator in

q

-analogue for meromorphic multivalent functions which are analytic in punctured open unit disc. A subclass of meromorphic multivalent convex functions is defined using this new differential operator in

q

-analogue. Furthermore, we discuss a number of useful geometric properties for the functions belonging to this class such as sufficiency criteria, coefficient estimates, distortion theorem, growth theorem, radius of starlikeness, and radius of convexity. Also, algebraic property of closure is discussed of functions belonging to this class. Integral representation problem is also proved for these functions.
Stability, Viscosity, and Tribology Properties of Polyol Ester Oil-Based Biolubricant Filled with TEMPO-Oxidized Bacterial Cellulose Nanofiber
Authors: Rahmadiawan Dieter , Abral Hairul , Nasruddin N. , Fuadi Zahrul
Published: April 2021

This research is aimed at studying the stability and tribology properties of the polyol ester oil- (POE-) based biolubricant mixed with various filler loadings from microparticle of TEMPO-oxidized bacterial cellulose (NDCt) as an additive and sorbitan monostearate (Span 60) as a surfactant. Morphology, rheology, and tribology tests were conducted. The addition of NDCt and Span 60 to pure POE as a base fluid showed elevated viscosity, lower value of coefficient friction (COF), and a remarkable decrease in the wear rate (WR). The presence of 0.6 wt% NDCt and 1.8 wt% Span 60 in POE (N2S4) decreased the COF value by 79% in comparison to POE. At room temperature, this N2S4 biolubricant sample showed a higher thermal conductivity by 4% and lower WR value by 49% compared to POE. This study introduced the preparation of the ecofriendly biolubricant filled with NDCt improving the tribology properties remarkably.
A Provably Secure Three‐Factor Authentication Protocol for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Wu Tsu-Yang , Yang Lei , Lee Zhiyuan , Chu Shu-Chuan , Kumari Saru , Kumar Sachin
Published: April 2021

The wireless sensor network is a network composed of sensor nodes self‐organizing through the application of wireless communication technology. The application of wireless sensor networks (WSNs) requires high security, but the transmission of sensitive data may be exposed to the adversary. Therefore, to guarantee the security of information transmission, researchers propose numerous security authentication protocols. Recently, Wu et al. proposed a new three‐factor authentication protocol for WSNs. However, we find that their protocol cannot resist key compromise impersonation attacks and known session‐specific temporary information attacks. Meanwhile, it also violates perfect forward secrecy and anonymity. To overcome the proposed attacks, this paper proposes an enhanced protocol in which the security is verified by the formal analysis and informal analysis, Burross‐Abadii‐Needham (BAN) logic, and ProVerif tools. The comparison of security and performance proves that our protocol has higher security and lower computational overhead.
The Prevalence and Associated Factors of Hypertension among HIV Patients
Authors: Mbuthia Grace Wambura , Magutah Karani , McGarvey Stephen T.
Published: April 2021

Background. The dual burden of cardiovascular diseases and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in sub-Saharan Africa is of public health concern. Persons living with HIV are 1.5–2 times more likely to develop CVD risk factors compared to the noninfected individuals. Hypertension is a major risk factor leading to the rising CVD epidemic in SSA. However, the burden of hypertension among HIV patients in Kenya is not well documented. Objective. This study determined the prevalence and the associated factors of hypertension among HIV patients receiving regular care at Thika Level 5 Hospital Comprehensive Care Clinic (CCC), within metropolitan Nairobi, Kenya. Methods. The current cross-sectional study involved review of patients’ records/charts. Charts for adult patients seen in the last 6 months at Thika Level 5 Hospital CCC were included in the study. Hypertension was defined as systolic blood pressure ≥140 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mmHg on two different readings one month apart, while overweight/obesity was defined as body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25 kg/m2. Results. In a sample of 939 HIV patients, the majority, 68.8% (646), were female. The patients’ ages ranged from 18 to 84 years with a median age of 44 (IQR 37–51) years. The mean BMI was higher for females (25.8 kg/m2) compared to that of males (23.1 kg/m2). However, the prevalence of hypertension was higher among males (25.3%) compared to females (16.9%). Age >40 years (AOR = 2.80,

p
≤
0.001

), male sex (AOR = 2.10;

p
=
0.04

), history of alcohol consumption (AOR = 2.56,

p
≤
0.001

), and being overweight/obese (AOR = 2.77

p
≤
0.001

) were significantly associated with hypertension. The antiretroviral (ARV) regimen and, additionally, the duration of antiretroviral therapy had no association with being hypertensive. Conclusion. The prevalence of hypertension is high among HIV patients. Traditional cardiovascular risk factors were associated with hypertension, but no association was observed with ART regime or duration of ARV use. There is a need to integrate hypertension management into regular HIV care.
Optimization Model of Carbon Footprint of Fresh Products in Cold Chain from the Energy Conservation and Emission Reduction Perspective
Authors: Hu Bin , Huang Bangtong , Liu Zheng , Guo Hangxin , Chen Zihong , Shi Lihua
Published: April 2021

The carbon footprint of the cold chain logistics system refers to the greenhouse gas emissions directly or indirectly caused in each link of the cold chain logistics activities. Because cold chain logistics is the main carbon emitter in the field of logistics, research on how to reduce carbon emissions in the field of cold chain logistics plays an important role in energy conservation and emission reduction. Based on the in-depth analysis of the carbon footprint of cold chain logistics, this paper introduces the distance coefficient and freshness parameters into the optimization model innovatively and uses the life cycle assessment method and input-output method to determine the calculation range of the carbon footprint of fresh products of each link in the cold chain logistics. The system calculates the carbon emissions generated by the production and operation activities of each place of origin, distribution center, retailer, and waste disposal during the circulation of fresh products. This paper establishes a carbon footprint optimization model to discuss how to balance carbon constraints and minimized costs. Through the analysis of the simulation results, from the perspective of the government and enterprises, corresponding countermeasures are put forward to more effectively achieve the goal of energy conservation and emission reduction and guide the cold chain logistics industry to sustainable development.
Microshear Bond Strength of Nanoparticle-Incorporated Conventional and Resin-Modified Glass Ionomer to Caries-Affected Dentin
Authors: Fattah Zahra , Jowkar Zahra , Rezaeian Safoora
Published: April 2021

The purpose of this study was to assess the influence of three different types of nanoparticles (silver (SNPs), titanium dioxide (TNPs), and zinc oxide (ZNPs)) on the microshear bond strength of conventional glass ionomer cement (CGIC) and resin-modified glass ionomer cement based on whether CGIC or RMGIC is used with four subgroups (based on the incorporation of SNPs, ZNPs, and TNPs in addition to a control subgroup) (n = 12) as follows: CGIC, CGIC + TNP, CGIC + ZNP, CGIC + SNP, RMGIC, RMGIC + TNP, RMGIC + ZNP, and RMGIC + SNP. After 24 hours, the μSBS of specimens was tested and the obtained data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s HSD test. The obtained results showed that the incorporation of TNPs in two glass ionomers was not statistically significant compared with the control subgroups (

p

 > 0.05). In the first group, the highest and lowest mean μSBS were, respectively, observed in the CGIC + SNP subgroup and CGIC + ZNP subgroup. In the second group, RMGIC + ZNP and RMGIC + SNP, respectively, showed the highest and lowest mean μSBS compared to the other subgroups. According to the results, it can be concluded that TNPs can be incorporated into both CGIC and RMGIC without compromising the bond strength of glass ionomers. SNPs and ZNPs can be, respectively, added to CGICs and RMGICs to improve the bond strength of the restoration.
Characteristics of Stable Isotopes in Precipitation and Their Moisture Sources in the Guanling Region, Guizhou Province
Authors: Wang Jialu , Li Weijie , Wang Yong , Zhang Jiaojiao , Xiao Shizhen
Published: April 2021

Environmental prediction is one of the crucial means for social sustainable development. Based on the continuous sampling of atmospheric precipitation in Guanling County, Guizhou Province, China, from March 2016 to February 2017, and combining the reanalyzed data of the National Centre for Environmental Prediction/National Centre for Atmospheric Research with the Hybrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory model, this paper analyzed the variations of δ2H and δ18O in precipitation at the synoptic scale in the Guanling region. The results showed that the variations of δ2H, δ18O, and d-excess values in precipitation exhibited remarkable seasonal variability. The stable isotopic values in precipitation in the winter half-year were higher than those in the summer half-year. The meteoric water line of the winter half-year was close to the annual meteoric water line. The results showed that there was more than one fundamental source of moisture. It was affected by the winter monsoon period, which is longer than the summer monsoon period, so the local evaporation of water vapor participating in the water circulation had a greater impact. With the increase of precipitation, the intercept and slope of the meteoric water line gradually decreased, which indicated that the secondary evaporation was weak under the effect of stable isotope subcloud cluster. The correlations of precipitation δ18O with temperature T and precipitation P vary with time scales. As the time scale decreased, the correlation between δ18O and the temperature and precipitation improved. When

P

 ≤ 5 mm and 10°C < T ≤ 30°C, the most sensitive changes in stable isotopes were observed. In the study area, the backward trajectory model showed that the moisture in the winter half of the year was mainly from the transportation of the westerlies wind, replenishment, and local reevaporation of near-source ocean water, while the water in the summer half of the year mainly came from the transportation of water from the ocean at low latitudes.
Influence of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic on Patients with ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction in Taiwan
Authors: Su Yuan-Heng , Wu Kuan-Han , Su Chih-Min , Cheng Chi-Yung , Cheng Cheng-I , Kung Chia-Te , Chen Fu-Cheng
Published: April 2021

The outbreak of the new coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has notably affected the medical system worldwide and influenced the health-seeking behavior of people while depleting medical resources, causing a delay in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) management. In this single-center, retrospective cohort study, we compared the clinical pictures of nontransfer patients who presented to the emergency department directly and received primary percutaneous cardiovascular intervention (PPCI) from February 1 to April 30, 2020 (group 2, N = 28), with patients who received PPCI from February 1 to April 30, 2016–2019 (group 1, N = 130). A total of 158 patients with STEMI who received PPCI were included in the study. A decrease in the percentage of patients with door-to-balloon time <90 minutes was found in group 2 (64.3% vs. 81.5%,p = 0.044). The adjusted odds ratio was calculated using logistic regression, according to potential confounding factors such as age, sex, off-hours, and Killip class. An adjusted odds ratio of 2.45 (95% confidence interval, 1.1–6.0,p = 0.048) was reported for group 2. A decrease in the percentage of patients meeting the criteria of door-to-balloon time <90 minutes was demonstrated, and differences were revealed in the clinical pictures of patients with STEMI after the pandemic. While systemic factors contributed the most, improvements and adjustments in the protocols for managing patients with STEMI for better outcomes in the COVID-19 era have yet to be studied.
Hydrogeochemical Features and Genesis of Confined Groundwater and Health Perspectives for Sustainable Development in Urban Hengshui, North China Plain
Authors: Xiao Yong , Liu Kui , Hao Qichen , Li Jianfeng , Zhang Yunhui , Cui Weizhe , Limao qin  , Pei Qiuming
Published: April 2021

Groundwater in confined aquifers is the preferred water resource worldwide, and its hydrochemical quality is the premise for sustainable development. A systematic hydrogeochemical research was conducted to get insight into the hydrochemical characteristics, genesis, and potential health threats of confined groundwater, based on analytical data of 45 groundwater samples collected from the urban area of Hengshui, Central North China Plain (NCP). The results showed most groundwater had desirable hydrochemical quality with a nearly neutral to slightly alkaline nature and dominantly soft-fresh Cl-Na face. Solute chemistry was governed by rock-water interaction including minerals dissolution and ion exchange, but out of the anthropogenic influences. All nitrogen pollutants and Zn were within the desirable limit, while F−, Mn, and Fe were beyond the desirable limit recommended by WHO in 28.9%, 15.6%, and 68.9% of samples. Overall chronic health risk from these toxic elements was identified in terms of various populations and mainly contributed by F−. Infants were more prone to the health risks of aqueous pollutants. Differential water supplies based on hydrochemical quality are recommended, and water improvement measures are suggested to be conducted aiming at the harmful fluoride in confined groundwater. The present research could provide valuable references for the health sustainability of confined groundwater utilization in sedimentary plains like NCP worldwide.
Iron Overload in Transfusion-Dependent Indonesian Thalassemic Patients
Authors: Fianza Pandji Irani , Rahmawati Anita , Widihastha Sri Hudaya , Afifah Shofura , Ghozali Mohammad , Indrajaya Andre , Pratama Dilli Marayuzan Akbar , Prasetya Dimmy , Sihite Teddy Arnold , Syamsunarno Mas Rizky A. A. , Setiabudi Djatnika , Fucharoen Suthat , Panigoro Ramdan
Published: April 2021

Thalassemia is a genetic disease caused by disruption of globin chain synthesis leading to severe anemia and thus regular blood transfusion is necessary. However, there have been known transfusions-related consequences, including iron overload and multi-organ damage. The aims of this study were to evaluate liver and cardiac function in youth and adult transfusion-dependent Indonesian thalassemic patients and to assess its correlation with serum ferritin levels, as well as T2

∗

magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Transfusion-dependent thalassemic (TDT) outpatients (n = 66; mean age, 21.5 ± 7.2 years) were carried out for the complete assessment consisting of blood test including liver enzyme and serum ferritin, followed by electrocardiography (ECG) and echocardiography. Subjects were also divided by serum ferritin levels into three groups: < 2500 ng/mL, 2500–5000 ng/mL, and >5000 ng/mL. Additionally, subgroup analysis in patients with T2∗ MRI assessment was conducted. In terms of age of first blood transfusion, subjects with ferritin >5000 ng/mL were the youngest among others. The alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels in group with serum ferritin >5000 ng/mL were significantly higher than those of the group with serum ferritin <2500 ng/mL. Additionally, youth and adult TDT patients whose serum ferritin >5000 ng/mL had significantly lower tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) when compared with those who had serum ferritin <2500 ng/mL. Similarly, TAPSE in patients with moderate cardiac siderosis based on cardiac T2∗ MRI was significantly lower than those without cardiac siderosis. There was significant, but only moderate correlation between serum ferritin and cardiac T2∗ MRI. Based on these findings, it is important to routinely monitor iron accumulation-related complications, including liver and cardiac damage in youth and adult TDT patients.
[Retracted] Construction and Application of MALDI‐TOF Mass Spectrometry for the Detection of Haemophilus parasuis
Authors: Wang Xiaoxu , Xu Feng , Ning Kun , Shen Liping , Qi Xinyong , Wang Jian
Published: April 2021

To construct a protein fingerprint database of Haemophilus parasuis (H. parasuis), thus improving its clinical diagnosis efficiency. A total of 15 H. parasuis standard strains were collected to establish a protein fingerprint database of H. parasuis using matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS), and the effects of different culture media and culture time on the quality and identification results of the protein fingerprint were investigated. The results showed that tryptone soy agar (TSA) and tryptone soy broth (TSB) media and different incubation times had no significant effect on the characteristic peaks of the protein profiles. In addition, 18 clinical isolates were used to compare the identification results of the self‐built protein fingerprint database, PCR detection, and basic database. Only one strain was identified in the original VITEK‐MS system database, while the self‐made protein fingerprint database of H. parasuis was 100% accurate for the detection of 18 clinical isolate strains. The protein fingerprint database of H. parasuis built by our laboratory is suitable for rapid clinical diagnosis of H. parasuis, due to its high accuracy, efficiency, and strong specificity.
Intravitreal Dexamethasone Implant for Postoperative Macular Oedema Secondary to Vitrectomy for Epiretinal Membrane and Retinal Detachment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Parisi Guglielmo , Fallico Matteo , Avitabile Teresio , Longo Antonio , Ortisi Elina , Russo Andrea , Petrillo Francesco , Maugeri Andrea , Barchitta Martina , Bonfiglio Vincenza , Furino Claudio , Cennamo Gilda , Caselgrandi Paolo , Marolo Paola , Ventre Luca , Reibaldi Michele
Published: April 2021

Purpose. To evaluate the efficacy of intravitreal dexamethasone implant (DEX) for the treatment of macular oedema secondary to vitrectomy for epiretinal membrane (ERM) and retinal detachment (RD) by conducting a systematic review with meta-analysis of published studies. Methods. Studies reporting clinical outcomes of DEX use for the treatment of macular oedema secondary to ERM and RD vitrectomy were searched on PubMed and Embase databases. The primary outcome was best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) change between baseline and post-DEX treatment, reported as mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence interval (CI). Mean central macular thickness (CMT) change was assessed as a secondary outcome. Postimplant adverse events, including intraocular pressure rise and cataract development, were reported as well. Results. Five uncontrolled studies, 1 nonrandomized controlled study, and 1 randomized controlled study were included, with a total of 5 cohorts and 3 cohorts in the ERM group and RD group, respectively. Considering the last available follow-up, a significant improvement in postimplant BCVA was found in the overall population, irrespective of the indication for vitrectomy (MD = −0.28, 95% CI = −0.37, −0.20;

p
<
0.001

), but with significant heterogeneity. In either group, mean BCVA significantly improved following the implant (in the ERM group, MD = −0.31, 95% CI = −0.40, −0.22; in the RD group, MD = −0.22, 95% CI = −0.41, −0.03), with no difference between the two groups (

p
=
0.41

). However, there was significant heterogeneity in both groups. Considering the last available follow-up, a significant CMT reduction was found in the overall population, irrespective of the indication for vitrectomy (MD = −129.75, 95% CI = −157.49, −102.01;

p
<
0.001

). In the ERM group, a significant CMT reduction was shown following DEX (MD = −133.41, 95% CI = −155.37, −111.45;

p
<
0.001

), with no heterogeneity. In the RD group, mean CMT reduction was borderline significant (MD = −128.37, 95% CI = −253.57, −3.18;

p
=
0.040

), with significant heterogeneity. No difference in CMT improvement was found between the two groups (

p
=
0.94

). Conclusion. This meta-analysis showed that DEX yielded a significant improvement in visual and anatomical outcomes, even if limited by significant heterogeneity. Dexamethasone implant represents an effective treatment for postoperative macular oedema secondary to ERM and RD vitrectomy.
Different Metabolites in the Roots, Seeds, and Leaves of Acanthopanax senticosus and Their Role in Alleviating Oxidative Stress
Authors: Su Jie , Wang Qi , Li Zhifeng , Feng Yan , Li Yan , Yang Shinlin , Feng Yulin
Published: April 2021

In this study, we examined the metabolites from different parts of Acanthopanax senticosus and their role in alleviating damage caused by oxidative stress. We used UHPLC-QTOF-MS to analyze the chemical components in the root, seed, and leaf extracts of A. senticosus. Two multivariate statistical analysis methods—namely, principal component analysis and partial least square discriminant analysis—were used to distinguish the samples obtained from different parts of the plant. Using univariate statistics, 130 different metabolites were screened out. Among these, the relative content of flavonoids and terpenoids was found to be highest in the leaves, the lignin and phenolic acid content was highest in the roots, and the amino acid and phenolic acid levels were highest in seeds. An MTT assay was used to test the anti-H2O2 oxidative damage to PC12 cells in different parts of the sample. Lastly, using Pearson’s correlation analysis, various metabolites from different parts of A. senticosus were correlated with their antioxidant effects from the corresponding parts. Fifty-two related different metabolites were found, of which 20 metabolites that were positively correlated to oxidative stress were present at a relatively higher level in the roots, whereas 32 metabolites that were negatively correlated were present at relatively higher levels in the seeds and leaves. The results of this study reveal the distribution characteristics and the antioxidant activity of different metabolites of A. senticosus and provide a reference for the rational development of its medicinal parts.
Preparation and Thermogravimetric and Antimicrobial Investigation of Cd (II) and Sn (II) Adducts of Mercaptopyridine, Amino Triazole Derivatives, and Mercaptothiazoline Organic Ligand Moieties
Authors: Gaber Ahmed , Alsanie Walaa F. , de Farias Robson F. , Refat Moamen S.
Published: April 2021

The solid adducts of SnCl2.(3amt).H2O, SnCl2.2(3amt).H2O, CdCl2.(3amt), CdCl2.2(3amt), SnCl2.(2mct).0.5H2O, SnCl2.2(2mct), CdCl2.(2mct), CdCl2.2(2mct).H2O, SnCl2.(2mcp).1.5H2O, >2.2(2mcp).4H2O, CdCl2.(2mcp), CdCl2.2(2mcp), SnCl2.(4amt).4H2O, SnCl2.2(4amt).1.5H2O, CdCl2.(4amt).H2O, and CdCl2.2(4amt) (where the 3amt, 4amt, 2mct, and 2mcp represent 3-amino-1,2,4-triazole, 4-amino-1,2,4-triazole, 2-mercaptothiazoline, and 2-mercaptopyridine simple organic chelates, respectively) were prepared using a solid-state route and investigated by CHN elemental analysis and infrared spectroscopy. Additionally, we investigated the thermogravimetric characterization and antimicrobial proprieties. It is verified that for 3amt and 4amt adducts, the coordination occurs through nitrogen atom. For 2mct compounds, the coordination occurs through nitrogen (Sn) or sulfur (Cd). For 2mcp adducts, both coordination sites nitrogen and sulfur are involved. By examination of TG curves, it is confirmed that for each hydrated compounds, the first mass loss step is linked with the release of water molecules followed by the release of ligand molecules and sublimation of the metal chloride. Furthermore, it is verified that, considering only the release of ligand molecules (3amp, 4amp, 2mct, or 2mcp), the cadmium adducts are always more stable than the correspondent tin adducts probably due to the formation of cross-linking bonds in these compounds. Finally, of these 16 adducts, 14 showed antimicrobial activities against different bacterial and fungal strains.
Comparison of Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Fine-Needle Aspiration and Biopsy Device for Lymphadenopathy
Authors: Tanisaka Yuki , Mizuide Masafumi , Fujita Akashi , Ogawa Tomoya , Araki Ryuichiro , Suzuki Masahiro , Katsuda Hiromune , Saito Youichi , Miyaguchi Kazuya , Tashima Tomoaki , Mashimo Yumi , Yasuda Masami , Ryozawa Shomei
Published: April 2021

Background. Accurate diagnosis of benign and malignant lymphadenopathy is important for determining the appropriate treatment and prognosis. This study evaluated the diagnostic accuracy and usefulness of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) with a conventional needle compared to endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle biopsy (EUS-FNB) with a Franseen needle for diagnosing lymphadenopathy. Methods. Patients who underwent EUS-FNA or EUS-FNB for mediastinal or abdominal lymphadenopathy between July 2013 and August 2020 were enrolled in the study. The outcomes between EUS-FNA patients (July 2013 to January 2017; 22-gauge conventional needle; Group A) and EUS-FNB patients (February 2017 to August 2020; 22-gauge Franseen needle; Group B) were compared. Results. A total of 154 patients (Group A: 83; Group B: 71) were analyzed. The diagnostic accuracy (differentiating between malignant and benign lesions) was 88.0% (95% confidence interval [CI], 79.2–93.3%) in Group A and 95.8% (95% CI, 88.3–98.8%) in Group B. Group B had high diagnostic accuracy, but there was no difference between the groups (

p
=
0.14

). Group B had significantly fewer passes (median 2, interquartile range (IQR): 2-4) than Group A (median 3, IQR: 3-4) (

p
<
0.001

). No procedural adverse events occurred in either group. Conclusions. Although the diagnostic accuracy between the groups was not statistically significant, EUS-FNB with a Franseen needle provided high diagnostic accuracy and required fewer passes to establish a diagnosis. Thus, EUS-FNB is useful for diagnosing lymphadenopathy.
The Treatment of Complementary and Alternative Medicine on Premature Ovarian Failure
Authors: Lin Jing , Wu Denghui , Jia Liyan , Liang Mengmeng , Liu Siyu , Qin Zhen , Zhang Jiao , Han Yanhua , Liu Songjiang , Zhang Yuehui
Published: April 2021

It has been confirmed by growing evidence that common hormone replacement therapy is associated with an increasing risk of causing cardiovascular disease and cancer, while complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is gaining popularity and application in more and more patients with premature ovarian failure (POF). Although there is little data concerning the clinical safety and efficacy of CAM, the literature includes application studies on the phytoestrogen-rich herbal, acupuncture treatment and intervention therapy. This article reviews recent literature on CAM therapy for POF, aiming to provide theoretical support for clinical application.
Hydrochemical Characteristics and Controlling Factors of Typical Dolomite Karst Basin in Humid Subtropical Zone
Authors: Xiao Shizhen , Zeng Cheng , Lan Jiacheng , Di Yongning , He Jianghu , Xiao Hua , Wang Jialu
Published: April 2021

The hydrochemical characteristics and variation rules of water in karst areas are important for the basic research of karst field. Because only a few researches focused on the hydrochemical characteristics of humid subtropical dolomite karst basins in the past, the Shanmuhe Basin and its subbasin Huangzhouhe Basin in Shibing Dolomite Karst World Natural Heritage Site in China were selected as the study area. A total of 215 water samples were collected and analyzed. It was found that the hydrochemical type of subtropical dolomite karst basin is HCO3-Ca·Mg type, which is different from that in limestone areas and shale districts, which is HCO3-Ca type for both; EC, Ca2+, Mg2+, HCO3-, Mg2+/Ca2+, and Mg2+/HCO3- have similar spatial variations, which are lower in allogenic water in the upstream in the northwest of the basin and become higher when the water enters the dolomite karst area in the mid and downstream of the basin, and SIC and SID of the allogenic water in the upstream are below zero, while those become saturated after entering the dolomite area in the mid and downstream; the monthly variation of hydrochemistry shows that the seasonal variation of ion concentration is not obvious, and there is a dilution effect in rainy seasons, but the variation of ion concentration is small and relatively stable; higher HCO3- concentration and Mg2+/Ca2+ in the pure dolomite basin are higher than those in the impure dolomite basin; the main influencing factors of the hydrochemical features are geological background especially the lithology, and the water chemistry is mainly controlled by rock weathering and water-rock interaction; rainfall import is low and the low concentrations of K+, Na+, NO3-, Cl-, and SO42- in water indicate that human activities have little effect on the hydrochemistry in the study area.
Fisherfolk’s Perception of and Attitude to Solid Waste Disposal: Implications for Health, Aquatic Resources, and Sustainable Development
Authors: Mensah Justice
Published: April 2021

The study explored fisherfolk’s perception and attitude in regard to solid waste disposal and the implications of these for public health, aquatic resources, and sustainable development (SD) in a Ghanaian fishing community. Qualitative data were obtained from 37 purposively targeted participants comprising 34 fisherfolk, an environmental health expert, a water and sanitation expert, and a fisheries and aquatic sciences expert through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Data were analysed thematically guided by the most significant stories. While the fisherfolk perceived waste as useless and a nuisance, the experts saw it as a nuisance and/or resource. The fisherfolk did not sort their waste in line with best practices, nor were they willing to pay for waste collection services, citing poverty as the main reason. While most fisherfolk disposed of their waste into bins as approved, others did so onto the street, into the drains, lagoon, and sea. While the fisherfolk were aware that indiscriminate waste disposal led to diseases such as malaria and cholera, their perceptions of the effect of the same on aquatic resources were mixed. The fisherfolk’s conception and perception of waste led to attitudes, behaviours, and practices that polluted the environment (air, land, and water resources), resulting in public health challenges, a threat to navigation, fish population, and other biodiversity, which were inimical to livelihoods and sustainable development. The government and municipal authority should collaborate with the experts in environmental health, water and sanitation, fisheries and aquatic sciences, and traditional authorities to sensitise the fisherfolk on the sustainability implications of unapproved solid waste disposal practices to change their attitude for the better. They should also provide more waste disposal infrastructure and enforce the laws to ensure compliance with best practice for sustainable development. The study supports the compatibility and mutuality between Sustainable Development (SDG) 6 on water, sanitation, and hygiene and SDG 14 regarding sustainable use of the oceans, seas, and marine resources.
Prediction of Hydraulic Automatic Transmission Reliability Using Failure Data Based on Exponential Decay Oscillation Distribution Model
Authors: Liu Yongming , Ye Guowen , Zhao Zhuanzhe
Published: April 2021

Aiming at the problem that the traditional reliability models of mechanical products are used to predict the reliability of hydraulic automatic transmission and the expected result is relatively large, firstly, the empirical distribution model line is used to statistically analyze the failure distribution law of the hydraulic automatic transmission; then, the Fourier transform is used to perform frequency domain analysis on experience distribution; on this basis, comprehensively consider the characteristics of experience distribution and frequency domain characteristics of experience distribution, constructs the reliability model of exponential decay oscillation distribution and the corresponding reliability, failure efficiency and average life calculation model; meanwhile, studies the influence of attenuation coefficient, oscillation amplitude, oscillation angle frequency, and other parameters on the probability distribution characteristics. On this basis, the established probability distribution models are adopted to fit the failure time data of hydraulic automatic gearbox carried by a forklift, and the fitting results are compared with exponential distribution models, three‐parameter Weibull models, and “bathtub curve” models. The comparing results show that the established exponential decayed oscillation distribution model can better describe the probability distribution characteristics of the fault‐free working time of automatic transmission, and the use of this model can obtain a smaller root mean square error. Simultaneously, the research conclusions of this paper can provide meaningful guidance and reference for the analysis of the life distribution model of mechanical products with exponentially attenuated oscillation probability density change law.
A Network Pharmacology Approach to Predict the Proangiogenesis Mechanism of Huangqi-Honghua Herb Pair after Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Cao Jinyi , Lei Lu , Wang Kai , Sun Jing , Qiao Yi , Duan Jialin , Zhao Chao , Cui Jia , Feng Zhijun , Wang Jing-wen , Wen Aidong , Yang Zhifu
Published: April 2021

Objective. Huangqi-Honghua herb pair is known for its medicinal value to treat Qi deficiency and blood stasis syndrome with a long history in clinical practice. To understand its possible mechanism in a systematic study, a network pharmacological method was addressed. Methods. Detailed information on the HH compounds was obtained from two public databases, and oral bioavailability (OB) and drug-like (DL) of the compounds were evaluated. A correlation between HH compounds, its potential targets, and known targets was extrapolated, and the herb-compound-target-disease (H-C-T-D) network was established. Next, the pathway enrichment and essential genes were analyzed. Then, three key genes (VEGFA, VEGFR2, and eNOS), highly associated with angiogenesis, were screened and verified through western blot assay. Results. Out of 276 compounds, 21 HH compounds and 78 target genes regulating the major pathways associated with CI in the network are analyzed. The bioactive compounds in HH were active in various signal transduction pathways such as the toll-like receptor signaling pathway, VEGF signaling pathway, TNF signaling pathway, and HIF-1 signaling pathway are important pathways that may regulate anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, immune correlation, and antioxidative effects. The core genes are PTGS2, TNF, NOS2, IL6, BCL2, IL1B, SOD2, NOS3, SOD1, MMP9, and VEGFA. The in vitro results suggested that HH treatment could significantly elevate the expression of proangiogenic genes such as VEGFA, VEGFR2, and eNOS compared with OGD groups. Conclusions. Our results predict that HH may regulate the expression of VEGFA, VEGFR2, and eNOS via the VEGF and HIF-1 signaling pathway to promote angiogenesis and alleviate cerebral ischemia injury.
Safety, Antitumor Activity, and Biomarker Analysis in a Phase I Trial of the Once-daily Wee1 Inhibitor Adavosertib (AZD1775) in Patients with Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Takebe Naoko , Naqash Abdul Rafeh , O'Sullivan Coyne Geraldine , Kummar Shivaani , Do Khanh , Bruns Ashley , Juwara Lamin , Zlott Jennifer , Rubinstein Larry , Piekarz Richard , Sharon Elad , Streicher Howard , Mittra Arjun , Miller Sarah B. , Ji Jiuping , Wilsker Deborah , Kinders Robert J. , Parchment Ralph E. , Chen Li , Chang Ting-Chia , Das Biswajit , Mugundu Ganesh , Doroshow James H. , Chen Alice P.
Published: April 2021

Purpose:

The Wee1 kinase inhibitor adavosertib abrogates cell-cycle arrest, leading to cell death. Prior testing of twice-daily adavosertib in patients with advanced solid tumors determined the recommended phase II dose (RPh2D). Here, we report results for once-daily adavosertib.

Patients and Methods:

A 3 + 3 dose-escalation design was used, with adavosertib given once daily on days 1 to 5 and 8 to 12 in 21-day cycles. Molecular biomarkers of Wee1 activity, including tyrosine 15–phosphorylated Cdk1/2 (pY15-Cdk), were assessed in paired tumor biopsies. Whole-exome sequencing and RNA sequencing of remaining tumor tissue identified potential predictive biomarkers.

Results:

Among the 42 patients enrolled, the most common toxicities were gastrointestinal and hematologic; dose-limiting toxicities were grade 4 hematologic toxicity and grade 3 fatigue. The once-daily RPh2D was 300 mg. Six patients (14%) had confirmed partial responses: four ovarian, two endometrial. Adavosertib plasma exposures were similar to those from twice-daily dosing. On cycle 1 day 8 (pre-dose), tumor pY15-Cdk levels were higher than baseline in four of eight patients, suggesting target rebound during the day 5 to 8 dosing break. One patient who progressed rapidly had a tumor WEE1 mutation and potentially compensatory PKMYT1 overexpression. Baseline CCNE1 overexpression occurred in both of two responding patients, only one of whom had CCNE1 amplification, and in zero of three nonresponding patients.

Conclusions:

We determined the once-daily adavosertib RPh2D and observed activity in patients with ovarian or endometrial carcinoma, including two with baseline CCNE1 mRNA overexpression. Future studies will determine whether CCNE1 overexpression is a predictive biomarker for adavosertib.