bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biologic: H-Bot Kinematics Based Multi-Micro-Extrusion Bioprinter
Authors: Aydin Levent , Karatoprak Ayfer Peker , Kucuk Serdar
Published: December 2022

Three-dimensional bioprinting offers a novel strategy to create large-scale complex tissue models. Nowadays, layer by layer fabrication is used to create patient specific tissue substitutes. However, commercially available bioprinters cannot be widely used especially in small research facilities due to their high cost, and may not be suitable for bioprinting of complex tissue models. Besides, most of the systems are not capable of providing the required working conditions. The aim of this study is to design and assemble of a low-cost H-Bot based bioprinter that allows multimicro-extrusion to form complex tissue models in a closed cabin and sterile conditions. In this study, a micro-extrusion based bioprinter, Bio-Logic, with three different print heads, namely, Universal Micro-Extrusion Module (UMM), Multi-Micro-Extrusion Module (MMM), and Ergonomic Multi-Extrusion Module (EMM) were developed. The print heads were tested and scaffold models were bioprinted and analyzed. Bio-Logic was compared in price with the commercially available bioprinters. Scaffold fabrication was successfully performed with Bio-Logic. The average pore size of the scaffold was determined as 0.37±0.04 mm (n = 20). Total cost of Bio-Logic was considerably less than any other commercially available bioprinters. A new system is developed for bioprinting of complex tissue models. The cost of the system is appropriate for research and features of the device may be upgraded according to the needs. Bio-Logic is the first H-Bot kinematics based bioprinter and has ability to measure atmospheric conditions in a closed cabin.
A Comprehensive Review on the Novel Principles, Development and Applications of Triboelectric Nanogenerators
Authors: Hurdoganoglu Dogus , Safaei Babak , Cheng Jia , Qin Zhaoye , Sahmani Saeid
Published: December 2022

The major aim of this study is to provide a broad review of the fundamental ideas, progress, and utilization of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs). The modes and operations of numerous triboelectric nanogenerator configurations along with applications and materials are also discussed. Triboelectric nanogenerators, a ground-breaking power production technology, were unveiled in 2012 and classified as one of the most effective generators to convert unused mechanical energy into electrical energy to run a wide range of devices. Triboelectric nanogenerators have made significant progress since the creation of this novel power-generation technology. The operating principles of various modes, such as freestanding triboelectric-layer, single-electrode, lateral sliding, and vertical contact-separation have also been carefully investigated in order to give readers a deeper understanding of the technology. The key applications of TENGs, such as high voltage power supply, blue energy, self-power sensors, and micro/nano-energy, are also described in this work along with concepts for further research. As a result, triboelectric nanogenerators are very important and attractive technology with advantages of low cost, straightforward construction, simple fabrication, high efficiency, and relatively high output performance. Wide range of material choice allows researchers to use the technology in many configurations with multiple applications. Numerous scientific modeling and analysis are also reviewed for a more solid understanding of this revolutionary and unique technology.
Verifiable Improvements of Finite Element Stresses at Three-Dimensional Stress Concentrations
Authors: Beisheim J. R. , Sinclair G. B.
Published: December 2022

While current computational capability has led to finite element analysis becoming the predominant means of assessing three-dimensional stress concentrations, there are nonetheless some three-dimensional configurations where the desired level of accuracy of stresses is not realized on the finest mesh used. Here, we offer some simple means of improving the accuracy of finite element stresses for such configurations, and doing so with modest increases in computational effort. These improved stresses are obtained by using an adaptation of Richardson extrapolation on original mesh results, and also on mesh results with a reduced mesh refinement factor. Verification of the improvements is undertaken using the convergence checks and error estimates reported earlier. The approach is applied to nine three-dimensional test problems. Finite element analysis of these test problems leads to eleven stresses on the finest meshes used that could benefit from being improved. The extrapolation procedure in conjunction with the reduced refinement factor improved all eleven stresses. Error estimates confirmed these improvements for all eleven.
Analysis of the Experimental Data of Slamming Loads on a Liquefied Natural Gas Carrier in Abnormal Waves
Authors: Wang Shan , Guedes Soares C.
Published: December 2022

The objective of the paper is to identify slamming characteristics of ships in abnormal waves by analyzing the experimental slamming loads for a liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier from the model tests of the ship, which were conducted at the Ocean Engineering Division of the Technical University Berlin at a model scale of 1:70. To validate the experiments, the numerical results from a time domain nonlinear strip theory code are compared with the measurement of the ship motions and vertical bending moment amidships of the LNG carrier in the New Year wave. The time series of the slamming pressures on different locations (on the bow and stern) obtained in the experiments are analyzed and discussed by studying the peaks using the analytical distribution models, namely, Weibull distribution, generalized extreme value distribution, and the Gumbel distribution. The extreme values of the pressure peaks obtained using the three distribution models are compared. Discussion is also provided for the results with two different Froude numbers in order to check the effects of the ship speed on the phenomenon.
Contact Stress-Induced Wear Mechanism Transitions of PcBN/Al2O3 Under Vacuum and Air Conditions
Authors: Li Yi , Meng Dezhong , Wu Zhe , She Dingshun , Kang Jiajie , Yue Wen
Published: December 2022

Since the millennium, incremental breakthroughs in aerospace have attracted widespread attention from countries around the world on deep space exploration. Technological innovations in ceramic and superhard materials have also played a key role in deep space exploration. Inspired by this, a tribological ball-disk experiment of polycrystalline cubic boron nitride (PcBN) sliding against aluminum oxide (Al2O3) was implemented in air and vacuum conditions, in order to evaluate the friction and wear properties of PcBN based on drilling in the deep space environment. The results prove that the coefficient of friction (CoF) is interrelated with load and wear conditions, where CoFs gradually decrease with load growth in both air and vacuum. When the loads keep increasing, however, the wear mechanisms finally change under the high Hertz contact stress and lead to the CoF lift. Detailed characterizations were made to verify the tribological behaviors of the microscopic surface and chemical composition. Finally, by analyzing the surface topographies and chemical residues, it is certain that the wear mechanisms change due to the high Hertz contact stress. As a result, abrasive wear and adhesive wear turn to furrow wear in air and three-body wear in vacuum. These results can influence actual work in deep space by reducing large stress loads to avoid the impact of severe vibrations on precision instruments during work and improving cutting removal efficiency by selecting the appropriate loading.
A Complete Whole-Genome Sequence of Ignavigranum ruoffiae Strain CPL 242382-20, an Opportunistic Human Pathogen Recovered from a Breast Cyst
Authors: Suchan Danae M. , Loos Kara D. , MacKenzie Keith D. , Workman Sean D. , Johnson Lori , Cameron Andrew D. S. , Alexander David C.
Published: December 2022

Ignavigranum ruoffiae
is a rare human pathogen. Strain CPL 242382-20 was isolated in Manitoba, Canada, from a breast cyst. Whole-genome sequencing was performed with the Oxford Nanopore Technologies MinION and Illumina MiSeq platforms. The circular chromosome is 1,949,382 bp with 39.68% G+C content and 1,765 protein-coding genes.
Complete Genome Sequence of Antibiotic-Producing Bacillus velezensis H208, Isolated from Ginger Rhizosphere in Laifeng County, China
Authors: Wang Qi , Gong Yan , Yang Yazhen , Hu Hongtao , Zhou Ronghua
Published: December 2022

The genome of an antibiotic-producing bacterium,
Bacillus velezensis
H208, was sequenced. Strain H208 was isolated from ginger rhizosphere in Laifeng County, China. The genome consisted of 3,929,792 bp, with a GC content of 46.5%, and contained 3,773 protein-coding genes and 118 noncoding RNA genes.
High-Quality Draft Genome Sequence and Characterization of ProBC Plus
Weizmannia
(
Bacillus
)
coagulans
LMG S-31876
Authors: Kallur Ranjith Kumar , Madapati Sreenadh , Mathur Ankita
Published: December 2022

The whole-genome sequence of a
Weizmannia
(
Bacillus
)
coagulans
(ProBC Plus) strain isolated from fermented rice is reported here. The complete genome analysis of the strain will be helpful in the future to combat multitudinous problems and will be helpful in providing insights regarding potential probiotic properties.
Supplemental Material: A possible sea-level fall trigger for the youngest rejuvenated volcanism in Hawaiʻi
Authors: Jicha Brian R. , et al.
Published: December 2022

Table S1: Complete 40Ar/39Ar data. Table S2: Fo (=Mg/[Mg+Fe]) and Ni EPMA data for olivine profiles from the Koko Rift (Koko Crater bomb and flow, Kaupo lava flow and Kāohikaipu Island) from core to rim.
Nondestructive Method for Testing Elasticity of Walls of Human Veins and Arteries
Authors: Davydov V. V. , Porfir’eva E. V. , Davydov R. V.
Published: December 2022

Methods of testing the elasticity of walls of human veins and arteries are considered. The problems that arise when using them are noted. The necessity of developing nondestructive methods for testing the elasticity of the walls of human veins and arteries is substantiated. A technique for monitoring changes in their elasticity using noninvasive methods of pulse wave recording is proposed. The results of comparing data on changes in the elasticity of the walls of veins and arteries obtained using various methods of pulse wave recording and invasive methods are presented. The advantages and disadvantages of the proposed technique using various pulse waves are noted.
Estimation of Structural Degradation of the Heat Affected Zone of the Welded Joint Under Fatigue
Authors: Gonchar A. V. , Anosov M. S. , Ryabov D. A.
Published: December 2022

We consider the features of using modern nondestructive methods for assessing structural degradation in the process of elastic-plastic cyclic loading of normalizing (average grain size 10 μm) and overheating (average grain size 45 μm) zones of the heat affected zone of St3 steel. In this case, the approaches of digital image processing of microstructures, fractal analysis, and ultrasonic and magnetic testing were used. The features of the stages of degradation of the structure under fatigue and the corresponding behavior of the numerical microstructure parameters such as fractal dimension and the concentration and fraction of defects and slip bands are analyzed, as well as changes in the elastic properties of the material under study (determining an acoustic parameter that takes into account the complex change in the velocities of longitudinal and transverse waves) and the coercive force. It has been established that cyclic loading of samples from the sections of the heat affected zone leads to the formation of a large number of structural defects in the form of deformation bands, discontinuities, and microcracks, the occurrence of which is accompanied by a considerable change in the numerical microstructure characteristics (a decrease in the value of fractal dimension) as well as elastic (a decrease in the values of acoustic parameters) and magnetic (an increase in coercive force) properties. It is also shown that cyclic loading of the material under study leads to an increase in microhardness. However, the nature of such an increase for overheating and normalizing zones is different. The results of the research can be applied to the problems of diagnosing premature destruction and monitoring the most loaded zones of St3 steel structures to determine the residual resource.
Relationship among genetic variants, obesity traits and asthma in the Taiwan Biobank
Authors: Huang Ying-Jhen , Chu Yi-Chi , Chen Chia-Wei , Yang Hsin-Chou , Huang Hung-Ling , Hwang Jing-Shiang , Chen Chun-Houh , Chan Ta-Chien
Published: December 2022

Background and objective

Obesity and asthma impose a heavy health and economic burden on millions of people around the world. The complex interaction between genetic traits and phenotypes caused the mechanism between obesity and asthma is still vague. This study investigates the relationship among obesity-related polygenic risk score (PRS), obesity phenotypes and the risk of having asthma.

Methods

This is a matched case–control study, with 4 controls (8288 non-asthmatic) for each case (2072 asthmatic). Data were obtained from the 2008–2015 Taiwan Biobank Database and linked to the 2000–2016 National Health Insurance Research Database. All participants were ≥30 years old with no history of cancer and had a complete questionnaire, as well as physical examination, genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphisms and clinical diagnosis data. Environmental exposure, PM2.5, was also considered. Multivariate adjusted ORs and 95% CIs were calculated using conditional logistic regression stratified by age and sex. Mediation analysis was also assessed, using a generalised linear model.

Results

We found that the obese phenotype was associated with significantly increased odds of asthma by approximately 26%. Four obesity-related PRS, including body mass index (OR=1.07 (1.01–1.13)), waist circumference (OR=1.10 (1.04–1.17)), central obesity as defined by waist-to-height ratio (OR=1.09 (1.03–1.15)) and general–central obesity (OR=1.06 (1.00–1.12)), were associated with increased odds of asthma. Additional independent risk factors for asthma included lower educational level, family history of asthma, certain chronic diseases and increased PM2.5exposure. Obesity-related PRS is an indirect risk factor for asthma, the link being fully mediated by the trait of obesity.

Conclusions

Obese phenotypes and obesity-related PRS are independent risk factors for having asthma in adults in the Taiwan Biobank. Overall, genetic risk for obesity increases the risk of asthma by affecting the obese phenotype.
Prediction of response to anti-TNF treatment using laboratory biomarkers in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review
Authors: Wientjes Maike H M , den Broeder Alfons A , Welsing Paco M J , Verhoef Lise M , van den Bemt Bart J F
Published: December 2022

Objectives

In this systematic review, we aim to identify laboratory biomarkers that predict response to tumour necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

EMBASE, PubMed and Cochrane Library (CENTRAL) were searched for studies that presented predictive accuracy measures of laboratory biomarkers, or in which these were calculable. Likelihood ratios were calculated in order to determine whether a test result relevantly changed the probability of response. Likelihood ratios between 2–10 and 0.5–0.1 were considered weak predictors, respectively, and ratios above 10 or below 0.1 were considered strong predictors of response. Primary focus was on biomarkers studied ≥3 times.

Results

From 41 included studies, data on 99 different biomarkers were extracted. Five biomarkers were studied ≥3 times, being (1) anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP), (2) rheumatoid factor, (3) –308 polymorphism in the TNF-α gene, (4) SE copies in the HLA-DRB1 gene and (5) FcGR2A polymorphism. No studies showed a strong predictive association and only one study on anti-CCP showed a weak positive association.

Conclusions

No biomarkers were found that consistently showed a (strong) predictive effect for response to TNFi in patients with RA. Given the disappointing yield of previous predictive biomarker research, future studies should focus on exploring, combining and validating the most promising laboratory biomarkers identified in this review, and searching for new predictors. Besides this, they should focus on contexts where prediction-aided decision-making can have a large impact (even with limited predictive value of markers/models).

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42021278987.
Type of vaccine and immunosuppressive therapy but not diagnosis critically influence antibody response after COVID-19 vaccination in patients with rheumatic disease
Authors: Frommert Leonie Maria , Arumahandi de Silva Amanthi Nadira , Zernicke Jan , Scholz Veronika , Braun Tanja , Jeworowski Lara Maria , Schwarz Tatjana , Tober-Lau Pinkus , ten Hagen Alexander , Habermann Elisa , Kurth Florian , Sander Leif Erik , Corman Victor Max , Burmester Gerd-Rüdiger , Biesen Robert , Albach Fredrik N. , Klotsche Jens
Published: December 2022

Objective

The development of sufficient COVID-19 vaccines has been a big breakthrough in fighting the global SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. However, vaccination effectiveness can be reduced in patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases (AIRD). The aim of this study was to identify factors that lead to a diminished humoral vaccination response in patients with AIRD.

Methods

Vaccination response was measured with a surrogate virus neutralisation test and by testing for antibodies directed against the receptor-binding-domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 in 308 fully vaccinated patients with AIRD. In addition, 296 immunocompetent participants were investigated as a control group. Statistical adjusted analysis included covariates with a possible influence on antibody response.

Results

Patients with AIRD showed lower antibody responses compared with immunocompetent individuals (median neutralising capacity 90.8% vs 96.5%, p<0.001; median anti-RBD-IgG 5.6 S/CO vs 6.7 S/CO, p<0.001). Lower antibody response was significantly influenced by type of immunosuppressive therapy, but not by rheumatic diagnosis, with patients under rituximab therapy developing the lowest antibody levels. Patients receiving mycophenolate, methotrexate or janus kinase inhibitors also showed reduced vaccination responses. Additional negative influencing factors were vaccination with AZD1222, old age and shorter intervals between the first two vaccinations.

Conclusion

Certain immunosuppressive therapies are associated with lower antibody responses after vaccination. Additional factors such as vaccine type, age and vaccination interval should be taken into account. We recommend antibody testing in at-risk patients with AIRD and emphasise the importance of booster vaccinations in these patients.
Curdione Relieved Isoproterenol-Induced Myocardial Damage through Inhibiting Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis
Authors: Ma Yulei , Wang Penghe , Wu Zimei , Li Mengru , Gu Yuting , Wu Hong , Liu Hongrui
Published: December 2022

Isoproterenol (ISO) is widely used to treat bronchial asthma, cardiogenic or septic shock, complete atrioventricular block, and cardiac arrest. However, it can also cause myocardial damage owing to infarct-like necrosis. Curdione, an extract of the Chinese herb Rhizoma Curcumae, has a variety of pharmacological activities, including cardioprotective effects. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of curdione and its underlying mechanisms in an ISO-induced myocardial injury model. Our results showed that curdione attenuated ISO-induced H9c2 cell proliferation inhibition and lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) release. Curdione ameliorated morphological damage and reduced the ISO-induced elevation of serum creatine kinase-MB isoenzyme (CK-MB) and LDH. Furthermore, curdione inhibited ISO-induced cell apoptosis, modulated the expression of Bcl-2 and Bax proteins, repealed the accumulation of ISO-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS), prevented mitochondrial dysfunction, and activated the Nrf2/SOD1/HO-1 signaling pathway. The above results show that curdione exerts a protective effect against ISO-induced myocardial damage by inhibiting apoptosis and oxidative stress, suggesting that curdione is a potential therapeutic strategy to prevent ISO-induced myocardial damage.
EMISSIONS TAX AND EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION: A PUBLIC–PRIVATE JOINT MECHANISM TO PROMOTE ENVIRONMENTAL AND ENERGY MANAGEMENT
Authors: YONG SOO KEONG , CHANG YOUNGHO
Published: December 2022

It is widely accepted that a market-based instrument such as a tax on greenhouse gas emissions is effective in motivating firms to improve energy efficiency, environmental management and invest in environmentally-related research and development (R&D). However, modern corporations tend to separate ownership and management, and decision-making executives who are myopic may not share the firm owners’ concern about their firm’s exposure to long-run costs and risks associated with climate change. Hence, executive wage contracts should include rewards for environmental performance, particularly in energy efficiency and developing R&D to reduce emissions. This paper examines the effect of implementing executive compensation that is partially indexed to abatement in a monopolist firm, in which decision-making is delegated to a manager under an emissions tax policy. In equilibrium, it is shown that the new wage compensation leads to more abatement, greater production of output, and higher wages for the manager compared with a conventional wage scheme where wages are solely indexed to profits. Hence, the government imposes a lower emissions tax on the firm. More importantly, this public–private joint mechanism results in net social welfare improvement in equilibrium. However, whether the monopolist’s profit is higher in the new wage scheme depends non-monotonically on the abatement efficiency technology and the extent of wage indexation to profitability.
Mitigating Bias in Algorithmic Systems—A Fish-eye View
Authors: Orphanou Kalia , Otterbacher Jahna , Kleanthous Styliani , Batsuren Khuyagbaatar , Giunchiglia Fausto , Bogina Veronika , Tal Avital Shulner , Hartman Alan , Kuflik Tsvi
Published: December 2022

Mitigating bias in algorithmic systems is a critical issue drawing attention across communities within the information and computer sciences. Given the complexity of the problem and the involvement of multiple stakeholders—including developers, end users, and third-parties—there is a need to understand the landscape of the sources of bias, and the solutions being proposed to address them, from a broad, cross-domain perspective. This survey provides a “fish-eye view,” examining approaches across four areas of research. The literature describes three steps toward a comprehensive treatment—bias detection, fairness management, and explainability management—and underscores the need to work from within the system as well as from the perspective of stakeholders in the broader context.
Generative Adversarial Networks for Face Generation: A Survey
Authors: Kammoun Amina , Slama Rim , Tabia Hedi , Ouni Tarek , Abid Mohmed
Published: December 2022

Recently, generative adversarial networks (GANs) have progressed enormously, which makes them able to learn complex data distributions in particular faces. More and more efficient GAN architectures have been designed and proposed to learn the different variations of faces, such as cross pose, age, expression, and style. These GAN-based approaches need to be reviewed, discussed, and categorized in terms of architectures, applications, and metrics. Several reviews that focus on the use and advances of GAN in general have been proposed. However, to the best of our knowledge, the GAN models applied to the face, which we call
facial GANs
, have never been addressed. In this article, we review facial GANs and their different applications. We mainly focus on architectures, problems, and performance evaluation with respect to each application and used datasets. More precisely, we review the progress of architectures and discuss the contributions and limits of each. Then, we expose the encountered problems of facial GANs and propose solutions to handle them. Additionally, as GAN evaluation has become a notable current defiance, we investigate the state-of-the-art quantitative and qualitative evaluation metrics and their applications. We conclude this work with a discussion on the face generation challenges and propose open research issues.
A Closed-loop Hybrid Supervision Framework of Cryptocurrency Transactions for Data Trading in IoT
Authors: Zhao Liushun , Guo Deke , Xie Junjie , Luo Lailong , Shen Yulong
Published: December 2022

The Device-as-a-service (DaaS) Internet of Things (IoT) business model enables distributed IoT devices to sell collected data to other devices, paving the way for machine-to-machine (M2M) economy applications. Cryptocurrencies are widely used by various IoT devices to undertake the main settlement and payment task in the M2M economy. However, the cryptocurrency market, which lacks effective supervision, has fluctuated wildly in the past few years. These fluctuations are breeding grounds for arbitrage in IoT data trading. Therefore, a practical cryptocurrency market supervision framework is very imperative in the process of IoT data trading to ensure that the trading is completed safely and fairly. The difficulty stems from how to combine these unlabeled daily trading data with supervision strategies to punish abnormal users, who disrupt the data trading market in IoT. In this article, we propose a closed-loop hybrid supervision framework based on the unsupervised anomaly detection to solve this problem. The core is to design the multi-modal unsupervised anomaly detection methods on trading prices to identify malicious users. We then design a dedicated control strategy with three levels to defend against various abnormal behaviors, according to the detection results. Furthermore, to guarantee the reliability of this framework, we evaluate the detection rate, accuracy, precision, and time consumption of single-modal and multi-modal detection methods and the contrast algorithm Adaptive KDE [
19
]. Finally, an effective prototype framework for supervising is established. The extensive evaluations prove that our supervision framework greatly reduces IoT data trading risks and losses.
VioLinn: Proximity-aware Edge Placementwith Dynamic and Elastic Resource Provisioning
Authors: Toczé Klervie , Fahs Ali J. , Pierre Guillaume , Nadjm-Tehrani Simin
Published: December 2022

Deciding where to handle services and tasks, as well as provisioning an adequate amount of computing resources for this handling, is a main challenge of edge computing systems. Moreover, latency-sensitive services constrain the type and location of edge devices that can provide the needed resources. When available resources are scarce there is a possibility that some resource allocation requests are denied.

In this work, we propose the VioLinn system to tackle the joint problems of task placement, service placement, and edge device provisioning. Dealing with latency-sensitive services is achieved through proximity-aware algorithms that ensure the tasks are handled close to the end-user. Moreover, the concept of
spare
edge device is introduced to handle sudden load variations in time and space without having to continuously overprovision. Several spare device selection algorithms are proposed with different cost/performance tradeoffs.

Evaluations are performed both in a Kubernetes-based testbed and using simulations and show the benefit of using spare devices for handling localized load spikes with higher quality of service (QoS) and lower computing resource usage. The study of the different algorithms shows that it is possible to achieve this increase in QoS with different tradeoffs against cost and performance.
Group Feature Screening Based on Information Gain Ratio for Ultrahigh‐Dimensional Data
Authors: Wang Zhongzheng , Deng Guangming , Yu Jianqi
Published: December 2022

Most model‐free feature screening approaches focus on the ‐individual predictor; therefore, they are not able to incorporate structured predictors like grouped variables. In this article, we propose a group screening procedure via the information gain ratio for a classification model, which is a direct extension of the original sure independence screening procedure and also model‐free. The proposed method yields a better screening performance and classification accuracy. It is demonstrated that the proposed group screening method possesses the sure screening property and ranking consistency properties under certain regularity conditions. Through simulation studies and real‐world data analysis, we demonstrate the proposed method with the finite sample performance.
Research Progress on Polymeric Inorganic Nanocomposites Insulating Materials
Authors: Yu Guang , Cheng Yujia , Duan Zhuohua
Published: December 2022

With the rapid development of power energy, electronic information, rail transit, and aerospace industries, nanocomposite dielectric materials have been widely used as new materials. Polymer/inorganic nanocomposite dielectric materials possess excellent physical and mechanical properties. In addition, numerous unique properties such as electricity, thermal, sound, light, and magnetic properties are exhibited by these materials. First, the macroscopic quantum tunneling effect, small‐size effect, surface effect, and quantum‐size effect of nanoparticles are introduced. There are a few anomalous changes in the physical and chemical properties of the matrix, which are caused by these effects. Second, the interaction mechanism between the nanoparticles and polymer matrix is introduced. These include infiltration adsorption theory, chemical bonding, diffusion theory, electrostatic theory, mechanical connection theory, deformation layer theory, and physical adsorption theory. The mechanism of action of the interface on the dielectric properties of the composites is summarized. These are the interface trap effect, interface barrier effect, and homogenization field strength effect. In addition, different interfacial structure models were used to analyze the specific properties of nanocomposite dielectric materials. Finally, the research status of the dielectric properties of nanocomposite dielectric materials is introduced.
Impact of Off-Time on Quality of Life in Parkinson’s Patients and Their Caregivers: Insights from Social Media
Authors: Damier Philippe , Henderson Emily J. , Romero-Imbroda Jesús , Galimam Laura , Kronfeld Nick , Warnecke Tobias
Published: December 2022

Introduction. In Parkinson’s disease (PD), the quality of life of both patients and caregivers is affected. While key issues relating to quality of life may not emerge in conversations with healthcare professionals (HCPs), unguarded social media conversations can provide insight into how people with Parkinson’s disease (PwPD) and their caregivers are affected. We conducted a qualitative and quantitative netnographic study of PD conversations posted on social media sites over a 12-month period. Objective. To identify key themes and issues for PwPD. Methods. Using predefined and piloted search terms, we identified 392,962 social media posts (between March 31, 2020, and March 31, 2021, for the UK and France, and between September 30, 2019, and March 31, 2021, for Italy, Spain, and Germany). A random sample of these posts was then analyzed using natural language processing (NLP), and quantitative, qualitative,in-depth contextual analysis was also performed. Results. Key themes that emerged in the PD conversation related to the changing experience of symptoms over time are the physical, emotional, and cognitive impact of symptoms, the management and treatment of PD, disease awareness among the general public, and the caregiver burden. The emotional impact of motor symptoms on PwPD is significant, particularly when symptoms increase and PwPD lose their independence, which may exacerbate existing anxiety and depression. Nonmotor symptoms can also compound the difficulties with managing the physical impact of motor symptoms. The burden of nonmotor symptoms is felt by both PwPD and their caregivers, with the impact of nonmotor symptoms on cognitive processes particularly frustrating for caregivers. The experience of off-time was also featured in the online conversation. Some PwPD believe there is a lack of adequate management from healthcare professionals, who may not appreciate their concerns or take sufficient time to discuss their needs. Conclusion. This study identified key themes that PwPD and their caregivers discuss online. These findings help signpost issues of importance to PwPD and areas in which their care may be improved.
Statistical Inference of Stress-Strength Reliability of Gompertz Distribution under Type II Censoring
Authors: Karimi Ezmareh Z. , Yari G.
Published: December 2022

This paper develops the problem of estimating stress-strength reliability for Gompertz lifetime distribution. First, the maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) and exact and asymptotic confidence intervals for stress-strength reliability are obtained. Then, Bayes estimators under informative and noninformative prior distributions are obtained by using Lindley approximation, Monte Carlo integration, and MCMC. Bayesian credible intervals are constructed under these prior distributions. Also, simulation studies are used to illustrate these inference methods. Finally, a real dataset is analyzed to show the implementation of the proposed methodologies.
Molecular Epidemiology of Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae in a Tertiary Hospital in Northern China
Authors: Wang Shuqing , Dong Huanhuan , Wang Meiqi , Ma Wenbo , Cheng Yue , Zhou Junliang , Cheng Yongming , Xu Hui , Yu Xiaochen
Published: December 2022

Background. In recent years, carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) has emerged rapidly in China with the abuse and overuse of antibiotics, and infections caused by CRKP pose a serious threat to global public health safety. The present study aimed to explore the epidemiological characteristics of CRKP isolates in Northern China and to elucidate their drug resistance mechanisms. Methods. 45 CRKP strains were consecutively collected at a teaching hospital from March 1st, 2018 to June 30th, 2018. Antimicrobial susceptibility was determined by the VITEK2 compact system and microbroth dilution method. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing were used to analyze multilocus sequence typing (MLST), drug resistance determinants, and plasmid types. The transfer of resistance genes was determined by conjugation. All statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 22.0 software. Results. All 45 isolates showed multidrug resistance (MDR). MLST analysis showed ST11 (48.9%, 22/45) was the most frequent type. All of the 45 CRKP isolates contained carbapenemase genes, extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) genes, and plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance (PMQR) genes. For carbapenemase genes, KPC-2 (93.3%, 42/45) was the main genotype, and followed by GES (37.8%, 17/45) and NDM-1 (11.1%, 5/45). Plasmid typing analysis showed that IncFII and IncFIB were the most prevalent plasmids. The carbapenem resistance rate of K.pneumoniae was 11.4% and ICU was the main CRKP infection source. Conclusions. ST11 is the most frequent sequence type and KPC-2 is the predominant carbapenemase of CRKP strains in Northern China. KPC-2-ST11 are representative clonal lineages.
Breathing Pattern Disorders Distinguished from Healthy Breathing Patterns Using Optoelectronic Plethysmography
Authors: Smyth Carol M. E. , Winter Samantha L. , Dickinson John W.
Published: December 2022

There is no gold standard diagnostic method for breathing pattern disorders (BPD) which is commonly diagnosed through the exclusion of other pathologies. Optoelectronic plethysmography (OEP) is a 3D motion capture technique that provides a comprehensive noninvasive assessment of chest wall during rest and exercise. The purpose of this study was to determine if OEP can distinguish between active individuals classified with and without BPD at rest and during exercise. Forty-seven individuals with a healthy breathing pattern (HBP) and twenty-six individuals with a BPD performed a submaximal exercise challenge. OEP measured the movement of the chest wall through the calculation of timing, percentage contribution, and phase angle breathing pattern variables. A mixed model repeated measures ANOVA analysed the OEP variables between the groups classified as HBP and BPD at rest, during exercise, and after recovery. At rest, regional contribution variables including ribcage percentage contribution (HBP: 71% and BPD: 69%), abdominal ribcage contribution (HBP: 13% and BPD: 11%), abdomen percentage contribution (HBP: 29% and BPD: 31%), and ribcage and abdomen volume index (HPB: 2.5 and BPD: 2.2) were significantly

p
<
0.05

different between groups. During exercise, BPD displayed significantly

p
<
0.05

more asynchrony between various thoracic compartments including the ribcage and abdomen phase angle (HBP: −1.9 and BPD: −2.7), pulmonary ribcage and abdomen phase angle (HBP: −0.5 and BPD, 0.5), abdominal ribcage and shoulders phase angle (HBP: −0.3 and BPD: 0.6), and pulmonary ribcage and shoulders phase angle (HBP: 0.2 and BPD: 0.6). Additionally, the novel variables inhale deviation (HBP: 8.8% and BPD: 19.7%) and exhale deviation (HBP: −10.9% and BPD: −17.6%) were also significantly

p
<
0.05

different between the groups during high intensity exercise. Regional contribution and phase angles measured via OEP can distinguish BPD from HBP at rest and during exercise. Characteristics of BPD include asynchronous and thoracic dominant breathing patterns that could form part of future objective criteria for the diagnosis of BPD.
Chemical and Sensory Effects of Cofermentation and Blending of Malbec and Merlot Wines from the Central Coast of California
Authors: Casassa L. Federico , Vega-Osorno Armando , Catania Anibal A. , Harbertson James F.
Published: December 2022

Background and Aims. Cofermentation and blending are traditional winemaking practices. This study reports their comparative chemical and sensory outcomes. Methods and Results. Malbec and Merlot were made into monovarietal wines, cofermented (COF), blended postalcoholic (PAF), and postmalolactic fermentation (PMLF), at a 50/50 proportion. Wines were followed up to 3 years of bottle aging. Tannins were 50% higher in monovarietal Merlot wines, which improved production of large polymeric pigments in Merlot-based cofermented and blended wines. Addition of Malbec favored production of small polymeric pigments. After 3 years of bottle aging, polymeric pigments were higher in cofermented and blended wines. PMLF blended wines showed 15% improved copigmentation and 25% increase in wine colour. The perception of wine length was positively correlated with red fruit aroma (R2 = 0.94 andp=0.006) and negatively correlated with earthy aroma (R2 = 0.91 andp=0.012). Conclusions. Blending postalcoholic fermentation highlighted more of the individual character of each monovarietal wine in the final blend. Cofermentation and postmalolactic fermentation blending tended to equalize the sensory profile of the resulting wines but also showed higher complexity of aromas than monovarietal wines. Significance of the Study. Cofermentation and blending are both suitable winemaking practices for increasing the polymeric pigment content and the sensory complexity of the resulting wines.
Numerical Modeling of Controlling a Floor Heave of Coal Mine Roadways with a Method of Reinforcing in Wet Soft Rock
Authors: Sakhno Ivan , Sakhno Svitlana , Skyrda Alla , Popova Oksana
Published: December 2022

A floor heave is usually a serious failure phenomenon in mine roadways, especially in the conditions of a wet soft rock. There are bright prospects for using a method of reinforcing for controlling a floor heave in mine roadways under a dramatic heave. In the current research, a floor heave mechanism in the wet soft rock of mine roadways was investigated while the moisture content of the rocks was increasing. That was done by performing numerical simulations in a finite element analysis software system Ansys and by reinforcing the floor in the shape of inverted arch. It was found that a decrease in the modulus of elasticity of rocks caused by saturation leads to a nonlinear increase in a floor heave. This can be explained by the fact that rocks of the floor become plastic strains. A stable correlation was established between water content and a floor heave of a wet rock. It was found that when the floor is reinforced, the proportion of plastic strains in the soil is significantly reduced. The growth of the modulus of elasticity of rocks in the reinforced zone, caused by reinforcing of the floor in the form of inverted arch, leads to a nonlinear decrease of a floor heave. The effective range of floor reinforcing was established. A reliable relation was established between the ratio of the modulus of elasticity of rocks of the reinforced zone to the modulus of elasticity of the surrounding rock and heaving of reinforced rocks. The obtained results can be used to predict the magnitude of heaving of rocks at their saturation, as well as after they are reinforced.
An Efficient Heart Rate Measurement System Using Medical Radar and LSTM Neural Network
Authors: Han-Trong Thanh , Nguyen Viet Hoang
Published: December 2022

This research proposes a noncontact heart rate measurement method using medical radar and artificial intelligence techniques. This technique has a significant role in the design and development of a wireless system that monitors the body’s vital signs. Firstly, based on a signal model describing chest surface movement, we propose a method to create a dataset for the training process using the long-short-term memory model. Secondly, a novel method to extract chest motion from the received radar signal is proposed. Finally, the heart rate will be estimated by using the obtained model and the received motion signal. The performance of the proposed method is evaluated through the root mean square error parameter as well as compared with other methods. Experimental results evaluated according to Bland–Altman achieved an accuracy of 96.67%.
Efficacy and Safety of TACE Combined with Regorafenib versus TACE in the Third-Line Treatment of Colorectal Liver Metastases
Authors: Lu Haohao , Zheng Chuansheng , Fan Li , Xiong Bin
Published: December 2022

Background. The liver is the most common site of metastasis in colorectal cancer. In patients with unresectable colorectal liver metastases, the 5-year survival rate is less than 5%. Many patients with colorectal liver metastases require effective subsequent therapy after the failure of standard first-line/second-line therapy. The purpose of this study is to investigate the efficacy and safety of TACE combined with Regorafenib versus TACE in the third-line treatment of patients with colorectal liver metastases. Method. The clinical data of 132 patients with colorectal liver metastases were collected. There were two groups: TACE + Regorafenib group (N = 63); TACE group (N = 69). TACE uses CalliSpheres® drug-loaded microspheres (loaded with irinotecan). Regorafenib is administered at a dose of 120 mg once daily. If the patient is severely intolerable, the regorafenib dose is adjusted to 80 mg once daily. Primary study endpoints were (1) to evaluate the tumor response, ORR, and DCR and (2) to evaluate OS and PFS in the two groups. Secondary study endpoints were (1) to compare the performance status, CEA, CA19-9 after treatment between the two groups and (2) to compare the incidence of adverse events between the two groups. Results. There were significant differences in tumor response, ORR, DCR, OS, and PFS after treatment between the two groups. TACE combined with the Regorafenib group versus the TACE group: ORR (57.1% vs 33.3%), DCR (82.5% vs 68.1%), mOS (18.2 months vs 11.3 months), and mPFS (8.9 months vs 5.3 months). The performance status after treatment was better in the TACE + Regorafenib group than in the TACE group (

P

 < 0.05). The CEA and CA19-9 negative rates after treatment were higher in the TACE + Regorafenib group than in the TACE group (

P

 < 0.05). Conclusion. For the third-line treatment of colorectal liver metastases, the combination of TACE + Regorafenib had better tumor response, OS, and PFS than TACE TACE + Regorafenib combination could be considered as salvage therapy for colorectal liver metastases who failed the first- and second-line standard therapy.
Existence of a Unique Solution and the Hyers–Ulam‐H‐Fox Stability of the Conformable Fractional Differential Equation by Matrix‐Valued Fuzzy Controllers
Authors: Eidinejad Zahra , Saadati Reza , Allahviranloo Tofigh , Kiani Farzad , Noeiaghdam Samad , Fernandez-Gamiz Unai
Published: December 2022

In this paper, we consider a conformable fractional differential equation with a constant coefficient and obtain an approximation for this equation using the Radu–Mihet method, which is derived from the alternative fixed‐ point theorem. Considering the matrix‐valued fuzzy k‐normed spaces and matrix‐valued fuzzy H‐Fox function as a control function, we investigate the existence of a unique solution and Hyers–Ulam‐H‐Fox stability for this equation. Finally, by providing numerical examples, we show the application of the obtained results.
Iron Metabolism and Ferroptosis in Peripheral Nerve Injury
Authors: Huang Lei , Bian Mengxuan , Zhang Jian , Jiang Libo
Published: December 2022

Peripheral nerve injury (PNI) is a major clinical problem that may lead to different levels of sensory and motor dysfunction including paralysis. Due to the high disability rate and unsatisfactory prognosis, the exploration and revealment of the mechanisms involved in the PNI are urgently required. Ferroptosis, a recently identified novel form of cell death, is an iron-dependent process. It is a unique modality of cell death, closely associated with iron concentrations, generation of reactive oxygen species, and accumulation of the lipid reactive oxygen species. These processes are regulated by multiple cellular metabolic pathways, including iron overloading, lipid peroxidation, and the glutathione/glutathione peroxidase 4 pathway. Furthermore, ferroptosis is accompanied by morphological changes in the mitochondria, such as increased membrane density and shrunken mitochondria; this association between ferroptosis and mitochondrial damage has been detected in various diseases, including spinal cord injury and PNI. The inhibition of ferroptosis can promote the repair of damaged peripheral nerves, reduce mitochondrial damage, and promote the recovery of neurological function. In this review, we intend to discuss the detailed mechanisms of ferroptosis and summarize the current researches on ferroptosis with respect to nerve injury. This review also aims at providing new insights on targeting ferroptosis for PNI treatment.