bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiovascular toxicity of angiogenesis inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors: synergistic anti-tumour effects at the cost of increased cardiovascular risk?
Authors: Dorst Daan C.H. van , Doorn Leni van , Mirabito Colafella Katrina M. , Manintveld Olivier C. , Hassing H. Carlijne , Danser A.H. Jan , Mathijssen Ron H.J. , Versmissen Jorie
Published: July 2021

In the past two decades, treatment outcomes for a wide range of malignancies have improved remarkably due to the development of novel anti-cancer therapies, including vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors (VEGFIs) and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Despite their unprecedented anti-tumour effects, it is becoming increasingly clear that both types of agents are associated with specific cardiovascular toxicity, including hypertension, congestive heart failure, myocarditis and acceleration of atherosclerosis. Currently, VEGFI and ICI combination therapy is recommended for the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and has shown promising treatment efficacy in other tumour types as well. Consequently, VEGFI and ICI combination therapy will most likely become an important therapeutic strategy for various malignancies. However, this combinatory approach is expected to be accompanied by a substantial increase in cardiovascular risk, as both types of agents could act synergistically to induce cardiovascular sequelae. Therefore, a comprehensive baseline assessment and adequate monitoring by specialised cardio-oncology teams is essential in case these agents are used in combination, particularly in high-risk patients. This review summarises the mechanisms of action and treatment indications for currently registered VEGFIs and ICIs, and discusses their main vascular and cardiac toxicity. Subsequently, we provide the biological rationales for the observed promising synergistic anti-tumour effects of combined VEGFI/ICI administration. Lastly, we speculate on the increased risk for cardiovascular toxicity in case these agents are used in combination and its implications and future directions for the clinical situation.
Sex differences in angiotensin II-induced hypertension and kidney injury: role of AT1a receptors in the proximal tubule of the kidney
Authors: Leite Ana Paula Oliveira , Li Xiao C. , Hassan Rumana , Zheng Xiaowen , Alexander Barbara , Casarini Dulce Elena , Zhuo Jia L.
Published: July 2021

In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that there are significant sex differences in angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced hypertension and kidney injury using male and female wildtype (WT) and proximal tubule-specific AT1a receptor knockout mice (PT-Agtr1a−/−). Twelve groups (n=8–12 per group) of adult male and female WT and PT-Agtr1a−/− mice were infused with a pressor dose of Ang II via osmotic minipump for 2 weeks (1.5 mg/kg/day, i.p.) and simultaneously treated with or without losartan (20 mg/kg/day, p.o.) to determine the respective roles of AT1a receptors in the proximal tubules versus systemic tissues. Basal systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial pressure were approximately 13 ± 3 mmHg lower (P<0.01), while basal 24-h urinary Na+, K+, and Cl− excretion were significantly higher in both male and female PT-Agtr1a−/− mice than WT controls (P<0.01) without significant sex differences between different strains. Both male and female WT and PT-Agtr1a−/− mice developed hypertension (P<0.01), and the magnitudes of the pressor responses to Ang II were similar between male and female WT and PT-Agtr1a−/− mice (n.s.). Likewise, Ang II-induced hypertension was significantly attenuated in both male and female PT-Agtr1a−/− mice (P<0.01). Furthermore, losartan attenuated the hypertensive responses to Ang II to similar extents in both male and female WT and PT-Agtr1a−/− mice. Finally, Ang II-induced kidney injury was attenuated in PT-Agtr1a−/− mice (P<0.01). In conclusion, the present study demonstrates that deletion of AT1a receptors in the proximal tubules of the kidney attenuates Ang II-induced hypertension and kidney injury without revealing significant sex differences.
Transthyretin-mediated protein and peptide oligomerization for enhanced target clustering
Authors: Yoo Daniel , Walker Kenneth W.
Published: July 2021

Advances in cancer research have led to the development of new therapeutics with significant and durable responses such as immune checkpoint inhibitors. More recent therapies aim to stimulate anti-tumor immune responses by targeting the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptors, however this approach has been shown to require clustering of receptors in order to achieve a significant response. Here we present a perspective on using transthyretin, a naturally occurring serum protein, as a drug delivery platform to enable cross-linking independent clustering of targets. TTR forms a stable homo-tetramer with exposed termini that make TTR a highly versatile platform for generating multimeric antibody fusions to enable enhanced target clustering. Fusions with antibodies or Fabs targeting TRAILR2 were shown to have robust cytotoxic activity in vitro and in vivo in colorectal xenograft models demonstrating that TTR is a highly versatile, stable, therapeutic fusion platform that can be used with antibodies, Fabs and other bioactive fusion partners and has broad applications in oncology and infectious disease research.
Direction modulation based on non‐linear frequency diverse array
Authors: Guo Rujiang , Liu Huijie , Zhao Lingfeng , Ni Yinghong
Published: July 2021

A design method of non‐linear frequency diverse array is presented to generate the desired direction modulation for the array. The proposed method firstly sets the desired direction modulation, and then forms the desired transmit beampattern by adjusting the frequency of each array element in a non‐linear manner. Theoretical analysis and numerical experiments have verified the effectiveness of the proposed method.
New boundary conditions for the approximate flux-limited diffusion radiative transfer in circumstellar environments
Authors: Perdigon J. , Niccolini G. , Faurobert M.
Published: July 2021

Context. In order to constrain the models describing circumstellar environments, it is necessary to solve the radiative transfer equation in the presence of absorption and scattering, coupled with the equation for radiative equilibrium. However, solving this problem requires much CPU time, which makes the use of automatic minimisation procedures to characterise these environments challenging.

Aims. In this context, the use of approximate methods is of primary interest. One promising candidate method is the flux-limited diffusion (FLD), which recasts the radiative transfer problem into a non-linear diffusion equation. One important aspect for the accuracy of the method lies in the implementation of appropriate boundary conditions (BCs). We present new BCs for the FLD approximation in circumstellar environments that we apply here to spherically symmetric envelopes.

Methods. At the inner boundary, the entering flux (coming from the star and from the envelope itself) may be written in the FLD formalism and provides us with an adequate BC. At the free outer boundary, we used the FLD formalism to constrain the ratio of the mean radiation intensity over the emerging flux. In both cases we derived non-linear mixed BCs relating the surface values of the mean specific intensity and its gradient. We implemented these conditions and compared the results with previous benchmarks and the results of a Monte Carlo radiative transfer code. A comparison with results derived from BCs that were previously proposed in other contexts is presented as well.

Results. For all the tested cases, the average relative difference with the benchmark results is below 2% for the temperature profile and below 6% for the corresponding spectral energy distribution or the emerging flux. We point out that the FLD method together with the new outer BC also allows us to derive an approximation for the emerging flux. This feature avoids additional formal solutions for the radiative transfer equation in a set of rays (ray-tracing computations).

Conclusions. The FLD approximation together with the proposed new BCs performs well and captures the main physical properties of the radiative equilibrium in spherical circumstellar envelopes.
Research on designing and making of a mobile training facility for intervention and rescue personnel in toxic / flammable / explosive environments
Authors: Gaman George Artur , Pupazan Daniel , Nicolescu Cristian , Ilie Cosmin , Kovacs Izabella
Published: July 2021

The decisive factor in ensuring success for an intervention and rescue operation in toxic or chemical aggressive environments lies in optimal and efficient design of the training process for rescue personnel, including intervention in confined spaces. The current paper shows the designing and making of a modern infrastructure - mobile training facility with different high difficulty degree training routes, allowing the simulation of intervention activities in confined areas, horizontally and vertically, spaces with low visibility, above normal limits temperature and humidity, etc. as well as the measurement of several physiological parameters (pulse, blood oxygen level, calories consumed, etc.) that allow permanent monitoring of rescuers’ health condition during the training process. The mobile training facility consists of a space for physical training (endless ladder, impact device, treadmill, elliptical bike, stepper), an indoor training circuit and a control room that allows the coordination of all activities carried out within an exercise. The platform on which the training facility is placed can be moved to the business quarters where intervention and rescue activities take place, so that personnel engaged in this activity go through a complex training program, as close as possible to real-life interventions.
Aspects regarding numerical models for safe evacuation of people, in the current pandemic context
Authors: Şuvar Marius Cornel , Păsculescu Vlad Mihai , Irimia Alin , Păsculescu Dragoş
Published: July 2021

In everyday life, several situations can be mentioned in which a building or a complex of buildings may require emergency evacuation: fires, chemical leaks, release of toxic or explosive gases, explosions, violent behavior, or threats with weapons/bombs.

To calculate the time needed for building evacuation, numerical models are used to simulate this process of movement of groups of people, in a closed physical space. Algorithms for access path and exit selection use both properties of the crowds model and the individual interaction between event and people.

The pandemic context has raised several questions about the safe use of buildings, given the presence of the risk of disease transmission. The policies adopted in the last year regarding the use of buildings, establishing access flows, and social distance, vary within great limits, being specific to each state and based on the analysis of the virus transmission rate rather than on risk assessments at the building level.

The paper aims to present the main challenges to which the models of emergency evacuation, must respond, especially those considering social distancing and interaction between individuals, within a given distance, all to minimize the risk of disease transmission during the evacuation process of the building.
Computational simulation of heat conduction on different surfaces
Authors: Florea Gheorghe Daniel , Vlasin Nicolae Ioan , Şimon-Marinică Adrian Bogdan , Manea Florin , Vass Zoltan
Published: July 2021

The heat conduction from the initiation source to the adjacent surfaces, is a physical phenomenon worth considering in the process of analysing the fire. This complex phenomenon describes how the transport, the exchange, and the redistribution of the thermal energy are carried out. It is based on the theoretical knowledge that describes the initiation and fire evolution in time. The flames transfer heat from nearby surfaces through two distinct physical processes, namely convection and radiation. Another way of heat transfer is conduction, in which case the transfer of heat implies the existence of an environment that can be of a gaseous, liquid or solid nature. This paper illustrates a brief presentation of how the heat transfer is carried out, the influence of the three phenomena on the mechanism of initiation and development of the fire, and can be seen as well as a case study aimed at the computerized simulation of a fire, having as a source of initiation the radiative transfer of heat to the surrounding combustible surfaces. The ignition of the different materials in a room, due to radiation exposure emitted by an incandescent source at a certain distance from them, even without having a direct contact to the flames, is a common reality in the case of fires that occur in both residential and industrial environments. This fact justifies the importance of thermal radiation study.
Education in times of covid-19: are students learning in ergonomic conditions?
Authors: Boatca Maria-Elena , Robescu Diana , Corlan Romulus , Mirea Nicoleta
Published: July 2021

For more than a year, the way people work and learn witnessed dramatic changes on the back of the Covid-19 pandemic. While workers were supported and provided with trainings and a variety of sources of information, students did not benefit from the same ‘privilege’. In Romania, students had to adapt to online learning system since March 2020. To properly assess the impact of online learning on students’ health (both physical and mental), the authors conducted a study on students at Politehnica University of Timisoara. As part of this study, subjects were assessed using ‘Rapid Office Strain Assessment’ (ROSA). While some of them learn in ergonomic conditions, there are others exposed to high postural risk (primarily generated by use of inappropriate furniture). This assessment is part of a larger ergonomic intervention focused on educating students on the importance of creating ergonomic conditions at home with the aim to improve quality of life.
Risk factors that may occur in the process of closing and greening the Lupeni Mining Exploitation
Authors: Savulescu Manuel Cristian , Tataru Andreea Cristina , Stanci Aurora , Tataru Dorin
Published: July 2021

The process of closing and greening the Lupeni Mining Exploitation is a very complex one. The closure of the mining operation is done in stages for the underground and the surface based on a closure project. When implementing the closure and greening project, all occupational safety and health regulations must be observed. As part of the process of closing and greening a mining operation, it is necessary to redo the risk factor assessment sheets with additional measures for the closure and greening of the mining operation. In this paper we aim to establish what are the main risk factors that can be encountered in the process of closure and greening of the Lupeni Mining operation.
Numerical simulation of rock cutting using YADE
Authors: Kalogeropoulos Antonios , Michalakopoulos Theodoros
Published: July 2021

Laboratory rock cutting tests are commonly used for the study of the cutting process and the evaluation of the expected performance of excavation machines. The cutting process is dominated by a great number of parameters, most of them relating with the intrinsic mechanical characteristics of the rock. In this study the open software Yade is used for simulating laboratory cutting tests on sandstone samples using a drag pick as the cutting tool. The process is simulated based on a conventional formulation, combined with an enhancement of the sample microstructure through the manipulation of the interaction range coefficient, which provides for the sample a very realistic initial strength ratio UCS/UTS. On cylindrical samples, four different cuts in four different paths were carried out. The mean cutting force for each cut was calculated and was chosen to represent the macroscopic response of the numerical model. The optimum set of microparameters is obtained through an experimental design with the Placket-Burman and Central Composite Design methods, and then optimized, in regard to the microparameters’ values, so that the rock cutting simulation is in close accordance with the observations from the actual laboratory cutting tests.
Processing of measures measured in underground polygonations
Authors: Filip Larisa-Ofelia , Cucaila Simona
Published: July 2021

The information, which is the concrete basis for solving geodetic and topographic problems, comes from measurement observations made on quantities that are mainly angles and distances. The quality of the observations has an important role in achieving the objectives for which they are executed, in conditions of efficiency and safety. As topographically, underground works are conducted using polygonal paths, the methods used for processing measurements are of great interest.
The use of polyurethane foam waste resulting from the technological process of insulation of refrigeration enclosures in obtaining constructions panels with sound-absorbing and thermally insulating properties
Authors: Marin Laurentiu
Published: July 2021

Refrigerated enclosures - refrigerators, refrigerated units, vans for transporting perishable goods are thermally insulated with polyurethane foam. The insulation process involves the pressure injection of the component reactants into the spaces to be insulated. Following the polyaddition reaction, the foaming-expansion process takes place with an increase in volume. Finally, a spongy polymeric mass is obtained, which filled the spaces where insulation had to be carried out and which also generated an excess of material which is subsequently removed by mechanical means. Excess material results from the initial dosage of the insulation material and must exist to ensure that the spaces to be insulated are completely filled. Polyurethane foam waste is a real problem for several reasons. With a large volume, it takes up a lot of storage space with unpleasant consequences, polyurethane foam is a slightly non-degradable reactive material that persists in the environment. The combustion of polyurethane foam waste is not an option to be adopted because the combustion, in addition to CO2, also results a series of particularly toxic substances: isocyanates, phosgene, cyan.
Ideas for storing CO2 from the Turceni Power Plant, in closed mining areas from the Jiu Valley, Romania
Authors: Vladuca Iulian , Stanciuc Ramona-Manuela , Obreja Ana-Maria , Cioclea Doru
Published: July 2021

Considering the Getica project, and the feasibility study prepared in 2011 in order to capture and storage CO2 from the Turceni Power Plant and in view of the temporary cessation of this project, we propose a study on the storage of CO2 in disused and closed mining areas, from the Jiu Valley, with impact on the environment and on exploitation and monitoring for long-term more than 1000 years and also alignment with similar projects in other countries, Europeans or not. Mainly, the majority of long-term capture and storage projects are carried out in deepwater aquifers, such as aquifers under the North Sea and the Barents Sea, or specially storage projects created in dissolutted salt mines, such as those in the Santos Basin in the Atlantic Ocean in Brazil, as well as others, like the pilot projects in India, with storage in volcanic rocks, etc. Storage projects in large-capacity coal mines such as those in Romania, Serbia or Bulgaria, to discuss common issues with neighboring countries, can create an exchange of knowledge with those countries on long and very long-term storage of CO2 in coal mines, with an obvious gain in greening the atmosphere and in the health of the environment.
Environmental modelling - a modern tool towards sustainability
Authors: Madear Gelu , Madear Camelia
Published: July 2021

One way to solve environmental problems is through modelling. Humankind developed a series of models, from mental models, physical models to computer simulation models. Building a model assumes abstraction, simplifying the natural system by considering only the essential details and discarding irrelevant ones. Mapping the real worlds to the world of models is done by choosing an abstraction level and the corresponding modelling tool. The right abstraction level is paramount for any modelling project, depending on the real problem being analysed. In modern simulation modelling, there are three methods, each having a particular range of abstraction levels: system dynamics, discrete event (process-centric modelling) and agent-based models. Ecosystems and generally any environmental problems (real world) are complex dynamics that challenge our comprehension. Understanding the significant environmental challenges is vital to adopt adequate policies for a sustainable environment through modelling and simulation. Since our cognitive abilities are limited, we need a simulation of the environmental systems to see the dynamic patterns and how humans interact with the environment. Environmental modelling helps us understand complex systems by building mathematical models and running simulations using a high abstraction level. The system dynamics method of modelling and simulation is used to clarify the representation of the stocks and flows and the feedback process that control the flows and describe the dynamic behaviour (growth, decay, or oscillations) of complex systems over time. Modelling for prediction, understanding across time and spatial scales, and environmental systems disciplines is key for a sustainable future.
Study of propagation of harmful factors of fire in short road tunnels with different inclinations
Authors: Ilias Nicolae , Lanchava Omar , Nozadze Giorgi , Tsanava David
Published: July 2021

The paper considers the spread of combustion products caused by fires with different heat release rates: 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, 50 MW in up to 400 m long tunnels. The slope of the tunnels on numerical models is - 0, 1, 3, 5, 7, 9%. The cross-sectional area of the tunnel is 42.5m2. The paper describes the dynamic variability of damaging factors caused by the “chimney effect” such as carbon monoxide and temperature. Modeling was done with FDS software by using the finite volume method. The time of process modeling is 180 s. The minimum cell size of the finite volume is 0.25x 0.25 x 0.25m. The hearth of fire is in the central part of the tunnel. The obtained results are given in the plane of the central longitudinal section of the tunnel. The boundary condition is given as an increment of the dynamic pressure caused by the height difference between the portals in normal conditions. The dependence of fire-induced backlayering distance on the fire heat release rate and the increment of the dynamic pressure caused by tunnel inclination are studied. The theoretical results and those obtained by modeling of the backlayering distance and velocity are analyzed and compared. The locations of high-risk factors for each damaging factor along the tunnel are identified. Their quasi-stationary nature is described and the intervals of transient processes typical to each factor are determined in the course of modeling. It is advisable to use the obtained results to respond to emergencies caused by fire in relevant tunnels.
Analysis of the purge time values for pressurized enclosure using a parameterized CFD model
Authors: Grecea Danut , Pupazan Gabriela , Vass Zoltan , Colda Cosmin , Andris Adriana
Published: July 2021

The use of computerized simulations offers definite advantages in understanding phenomena and analysing parameters that have influence during a complex process, more can provide on the basis of scenarios valuable information on the effects for physical processes analysed. Thus, in this paper, using mathematical models and numerical solutions based on physical principles and functions with assumed accuracy are analyse, using CFD (Computational fluids dynamics), the values of purge time for pressurized enclosure, resulting in the action of post-processing of construction for graphs and colour icons, in order to render images as representative possible both for the design phase of the equipment with protection type pressurization “p” and for their evaluation for certification. Determining the values of purging time by using computer simulations is particularly important for avoiding catastrophic events caused by explosions that can lead to human casualties, significant material losses or have significant environmental consequences.
Electric vehicles in smart grid and smart city for Petroşani case
Authors: Rus Cosmin , Leba Monica , Negru Nicoleta , Marcuş Răzvan , Rîsteiu Marius
Published: July 2021

The success of the development of electric vehicles and the increase in demand for their purchase amid greater autonomy of power systems and the development of charging infrastructure also highlights the possibility of using these vehicles as an integral part of a Smart Grid system in the context of sustainable urban development around the extended ideas of the Smart City concept in which other innovative concepts can be integrated. This paper aims to present new research developed around the idea of Smart City in Petroşani, starting from electric vehicles that can serve both as a means of transport and monitoring system of environmental parameters but can also be integrated into the electricity network so that in periods of high consumption it can supply electricity when needed and in periods of over-production to charge their batteries. Although at present at the level of Petroşani there are not many electric vehicles that can become part of the electricity network, this idea is applicable especially in a public or private facility with the possibility of scaling in the future.
Influence of alloying elements on the thermal behavior of NiTi shape memory alloys
Authors: Lohan Nicoleta-Monica , Toma Çtefan-Lucian , Popa Mihai , Cazac Alin Marian , Pricop Bogdan
Published: July 2021

NiTi based shape memory alloys are one of the most intensely studied alloys from its class. Therefore, diverse commercial applications have been developed due to certain properties such as: shape memory effect, superelasticity and corrosion resistance. Currently, the main applications of NiTi alloys are automotive manufacturing and aerospace actuators, biomedical devices or pipe couplings. In recent years, NiTi shape memory alloys have been alloyed with a third element in order to improve the above-mentioned properties. In order to investigate the influence of the alloying elements on the thermal behavior of NiTi alloys, the addition of the third alloying element (Ta and Nb) is under investigation in the present study. The thermal behavior of the three alloys (NiTi, NiTiNb and NiTiTa) was studied by differential scanning calorimetry. Following the experiments, it was observed that the addition of the third alloying element influences the critical transformation temperatures.
Approaches regarding to the entrepreneurial practices of student in Romania
Authors: Ciurea Maria
Published: July 2021

Entrepreneurship is a skill that can be learned, so you do not have to be born with this skill to be a successful entrepreneur, but you can become a successful entrepreneur by learning and training certain skills. Entrepreneurial education contributes to the development of skills, knowledge and aptitudes necessary to achieve the objectives that stakeholders have set for themselves to become responsible and enterprising. These are relevant aspects for people with entrepreneurial education who are a real help in accessing a job more easily or more chances in setting up their own companies. The development of entrepreneurship among students generates a number of benefits both personally and in the community in which they live, such as: individual well-being, job creation, reduction of poverty and social inequities, economic growth. Therefore, this study aims to debate the topic of entrepreneurship and especially the identification of the main entrepreneurial practices that will be of real use in the development of entrepreneurial skills among students who want to opt for this field. The mentioned aspects will result in the increase of confidence, of the multiple perspectives and opportunities in the establishment and development of successful businesses of the graduates of higher education in Romania.
The role of social media platforms in increasing the efficiency of online communication activity
Authors: Guţă Anca Jarmila
Published: July 2021

Given the terms of the socia-media revolution that we pass, the goal of the paper is to identify the main types of social media platforms that contribute to increasing the efficiency in the online environment, where we work now. Starting from their characteristics we identified the degree of knowledge and use of main social media platforms in the current activity of a number of 39 teachers of the University of Petrosani who participated in a training course on e-learning platforms and online communication, a study that provided a realistic perspective on these issues.
Academic Libraries as user-centered organizations. Case study: Quality of services provided by LBUS Library
Authors: Mărginean Elena , Kifor Claudiu Vasile
Published: July 2021

Ever-growing digital services determine libraries to update almost all of their activities. Traditional library services must be transformed into electronic libraries, and library specialists must always be prepared for advanced digital services to come. Thus, libraries in the digital era must offer digital deposit services, digitisation services, research data management, metadata creation, digital cataloguing and conserving, and counselling in what regards digital copyrights, informational alphabetising. In this article, the emphasis falls on the necessity of developing and transforming libraries, bringing awareness to their role and their importance for society and at an individual level.
Molecular detection and genotyping of Enterocytozoon bieneusi in pet dogs in Xinjiang, Northwestern China
Authors: Cao Yangwenna , Tong Qinglin , Zhao Chenhao , Maimaiti Aikebaierjiang , Chuai Liwen , Wang Junjie , Ma Dingyun , Qi Meng
Published: July 2021

Enterocytozoon bieneusi is an obligate intracellular parasitic fungi that infects a wide range of mammalian hosts. However, the literature is lacking information regarding the presence and diversity of E. bieneusi genotypes in domesticated dogs in Northwestern China. Fecal samples from 604 pet dogs were obtained in 5 cities (Urumqi, Korla, Hotan, Aksu, and Shihezi) in Xinjiang. Screening for E. bieneusi was performed, and isolates were genotyped via nested-PCR amplification of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) of nuclear ribosomal DNA. The infection rate of E. bieneusi was 6.3% (38/604). The prevalence of E. bieneusi infections in adult animals (>1 year, 10.3%, 15/145) was higher than that in younger (≤1 year) dogs (5.0%, 23/459), which was statistically significant (p = 0.021). No significant difference was observed between the different collection sites or between sexes. Eight distinct genotypes were identified, including 5 known genotypes (PtEb IX, EbpC, D, CD9, and Type IV) and 3 novel genotypes (CD11, CD12, CD13). The most prevalent was genotype PtEb IX, being observed in 50.0% (19/38) of the samples, followed by EbpC (31.6%, 12/38), D (5.3%, 2/38), and the remaining genotypes (CD9, Type IV, CD11, CD12, and CD13) were observed in 1 sample (2.6%, 1/38) each. These findings suggest that genotypes PtEb IX and CD9 are canine host-adapted, and likely pose little risk of zoonotic transmission. Moreover, known zoonotic genotypes EbpC, D, and Type IV represent a public health concern and should undergo further molecular epidemiological investigation.
Out-of-Hospital Management of Diabetic Emergencies in Germany: Structural and Process Quality
Authors: Holstein David J.F. , Holstein Judith D. , Fischer Daniel , Mende Meinhard , Frier Brian M. , Holstein Andreas
Published: July 2021

Aims To collect and analyse representative data of structural and process quality in the management of diabetic emergencies in Germany in 2020.

Methods A standardised questionnaire comprising detailed items concerning clinically relevant parameters on the structural and process quality of out-of-hospital management of diabetic emergencies was sent nationwide to medical directors of emergency medical service districts (EMSDs). Results were compared with those from a similar study conducted in 2001.

Results The return rate of the questionnaires represented 126 EMSDs, serving a total population of > 40.1 million. Only 4% of ambulances carried glucagon (6% in 2001). In 2020, blood glucose determination increased significantly to 71% of all emergency interventions and to 29% of suspected cardiac emergencies (24% and 15%, respectively, in 2001). In 100% of EMSDs severe hypoglycaemia (SH) was treated by paramedics by administering intravenous dextrose before the arrival of a doctor compared to 63% in 2001. The potential value of nasal glucagon was acknowledged by 43% of responders. In selected patients, treatment of SH was conducted without hospital admission in 78% of EMDs (60% in 2001). Fifty-three percent of medical directors acknowledged the need for further training in diabetic emergencies (47% in 2001). Cooperation for medical education between emergency teams and a diabetes centre was reported by 14% (41% in 2001).

Conclusion Structural and process quality of the management of diabetic emergencies in Germany has improved considerably since 2001. Persisting deficiencies could be improved by providing better medical equipment in ambulances and ongoing education to the entire emergency teams.
The Versatility of the Aryne–Imine–Aryne Coupling for the ­Synthesis of Acridinium Photocatalysts
Authors: Sparr Christof , Hutskalova Valeriia
Published: July 2021

The increasing use of acridinium photocatalysts as sustainable alternative to precious metal-based counterparts encourages the design and efficient synthesis of distinct catalyst structures. Herein, we report our exploration of the scope of the aryne–imine–aryne coupling reaction combined with a subsequent acridane oxidation for a short two-step approach towards various acridinium salts. The photophysical properties of the novel photocatalysts were investigated and the practical value was demonstrated by a cation-radical accelerated nucleophilic aromatic substitution reaction.
Small Bowel Obstruction
Authors: Aka Allison A. , Wright Jesse P. , DeBeche-Adams Teresa
Published: July 2021

Small bowel obstruction (SBO) remains a common problem for surgeons and nonsurgeons alike. Management of SBO has shifted from primarily being surgical to a nonoperative approach, which can be attributed to a multitude of reasons, including better understanding of the pathophysiology of SBO, the advent of laparoscopy, and improvement in diagnostic imaging. But given the nature of SBO, the need for surgical consultation continues to remain a necessity. This article will review the etiology, diagnosis, and management of SBO.
The Colostomy Complications in Anorectal Malformation: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Hamdi Mohammed Ali , Mohamed Wamedh Mustafa , Al-Ani Usama Faris Taha
Published: July 2021

Background A colostomy is a surgical approach that creates an opening for the colon, or/and large intestine through the abdomen. Anorectal malformations are a group of abnormalities of the rectum and anus that are present at birth.

Objective To analyze the common complications of colostomy in anorectal formations.

Methods This was a retrospective study conducted on 50 temporary colostomies performed in children at the Surgical Department of the Abu Ghraib General Hospital in the period from January 2018 to January 2020. Information was collected regarding the patients' age, sex, body weight, associated anomalies, colostomy types and sites, and the indications and complications of colostomies.

Results A total of 44 (88%) cases were reported in the children's 1st month of life. The ratio of male to female was 1:1. Pelvic colostomy was performed in 48 (96%) patients, as 40 (80%) children underwent a loop-type, and 8 (16%) patients underwent double-barrel colostomy. Transverse colostomy was performed on two patients. Prolapse occurred in 50% of the patients, and skin excoriations occurred in 22% .

A total of 10% of the children developed sepsis. Bleeding was seen in 4% of the children after colostomy performance. Stenosis presented in 6% of the children, and this was corrected by repeated dilatation and re-fashioning. Obstruction of intestines was observed in one patient. The retraction developed in 6% of patients.

Conclusions Imperforate anus was the most common indication for stoma formation in the pediatric age group. Loop colostomy was the most common type used, and it had the highest rate of complications. Prolapses and skin excoriation were the most common complications found.
A Case Report of Primary Resistance to EGFR TKI in Lung Adenocarcinoma Due to Coexisting MET Exon 14 Skipping Mutation with Excellent Response to Combination of Gefitinib and Capmatinib
Authors: Raut Nirmal Vivek , Srivastava Siddharth , Gangwani Guarav Dilip , Ali Heena Sajid
Published: July 2021

Treatment of nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) carrying an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation depends on EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). However, all patients treated with EGFR TKI eventually develop progressive disease. Approximately, 20% of patients do not respond to EGFR TKIs, which is defined as primary resistance. The prognosis of these patients is similar to NSCLC with nondriver mutations. We report a case of a patient with EGFR exon 21 mutation who rapidly progressed in 15 days on Gefitinib. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) showed a MET exon 14 skip mutation coexisting with EGFR exon 21 mutation, causing primary resistance to EGFR TKI. Based on NGS reports, a treatment combining Gefitinib and Capmatinib, a MET inhibitor, induced a rapid response in the patient, which was sustained at the end of 8 months. This clearly emphasizes the need for comprehensive genomic profiling using NGS over single gene testing.
Risk of Cesarean Delivery for Women with Obesity Using a Standardized Labor Induction Protocol
Authors: Hamm Rebecca F. , Teefey Christina P. , Dolin Cara D. , Durnwald Celeste P. , Srinivas Sindhu K. , Levine Lisa D.
Published: July 2021

Objective We aimed to determine the risk of cesarean among women with obesity undergoing labor induction within a prospective trial that utilized a standardized labor protocol.

Study Design This was a secondary analysis of a randomized trial of induction methods. Term (≥37 weeks) women with intact membranes undergoing induction with an unfavorable cervix (Bishop's score ≤6 and dilation ≤2 cm) were included. The trial utilized a labor protocol that standardized induction and active labor management, with recommendations for interventions at particular time points. Only women with a recorded body mass index (BMI) at prenatal care start were included in this analysis. The primary outcome was cesarean delivery compared between obese (≥30 kg/m2) and nonobese (<30 kg/m2) women. Indication for cesarean was also evaluated.

Results A total of 465 women were included: 207 (44.5%) obese and 258 (55.5%) nonobese. Women with obesity had a higher risk of cesarean compared with women without obesity (33.3 vs. 23.3%, p = 0.02), even when adjusting for parity, weight change over pregnancy, and indication for induction (adjusted relative risk [aRR] = 1.79, 95% confidence interval [CI]: [1.34–2.39]). Compared with women without obesity, women with obesity had a higher risk of failed induction (47.8 vs. 26.7%, p = 0.01) without a difference in arrest of active phase (p = 0.39), arrest of descent (p = 0.95) or fetal indication (p = 0.32), despite adherence to a standardized labor protocol.

Conclusion Compared with women without obesity, women with obesity undergoing an induction are at increased risk of cesarean, in particular a failed induction, even within the context of standardized induction management. As standardized practices limit provider variation in labor management, this study may support physiologic differences in labor processes secondary to obesity.

Key Points
System dynamics-based effectiveness and sustainability analysis of renewable energy generation policy in China
Authors: Wang Li , Zhuo Yumei , Deng Yanfei
Published: July 2021

As the Chinese government has promulgated many renewable energy generation policies to reduce carbon emissions and stimulate the renewable energy industry, it is vital to assess the policy effectiveness and extent to which they encourage sustainable renewable energy generation. This paper focused on the most prominent and the best-performing policy mechanisms feed-in tariffs (FIT) and renewable portfolio standards (RPS), and developed a system dynamics model to comprehensively evaluate the effectiveness and sustainability of the renewable energy generation policies. The model clearly shows the complex causal relationships between the related economic and environmental factors, and the policy scenarios were simulated to indicate the future trends and illustrate the coordination processes between polices and compare the development effects. The results show that current FIT has no obvious impact on the sustainable development of renewable energy industry, while under the integrated scenario, the RPS quota growth rate and fines have a significant positive effect after the construction period. The findings also suggest that a FIT-RPS integrated renewable energy generation policy and a perfect RPS trading system should be prioritized, and the RPS quota ratios and fines should be appropriately increased. As various policies cannot be simultaneously implemented because of financial and resource limitations, the proposed system of dynamics-based analysis approach is useful to analyze policy effectiveness and long-term industry sustainability to ensure the provision of optimized policies. It can also provide guidance for similar problems in different areas as well as decision support for further renewable energy generation policy development.
Tailoring insulation surface conductivity for surface partial discharge mitigation
Authors: Li Chuanyang , Shahsavarian Tohid , Baferani Mohamadreza Arab , Cao Yang
Published: July 2021

It is an urgent requirement to suppress surface partial discharge (PD) activities of dielectrics for modern electrical and electronic devices. Here, we introduce a method to mitigate the surface PD in a manner of tailoring insulation surface conductivity. A surface coating with a conductivity ranging from 10−13 to 10−10 S is developed to regulate the surface charge migration in the vicinity of the triple junction and to suppress effectively the surface PD activity. The excellent performance of this coating provides an approach for surface PD suppression at DC voltage, which has great application potential in the insulation design of DC electric power equipment, DC generators, power electronic devices, printed circuit board (PCB) layout, and various integrated electrostatic sensors and actuators.
Active control of transport through nanopores
Authors: Lian Cheng , Zhong Wei
Published: July 2021

The passive particle transport through narrow channels is well studied, while for an active particle system, it is not well understood. Here, we demonstrate the active control of the transport through a nanopore via mean-field analysis and molecular dynamics simulations. We prove that the active force enhances the transport efficiency with an effective diffusion coefficient Deff=Dt(1+Pe2/6), where Dt is the translational diffusion coefficient and Pe is the Péclet number that determines the strength of the active force. For the number of particles inside the channel, it experiences subdiffusion at short times and then turns to normal at longer times. Finally, we extend our research for several sinusoidal shapes of the channel surface. More particles are trapped in the channel if the roughness of the channel surface is increased, resulting in fewer particles are transported from one side of the channel to the other.
Numerical study of a high-temperature thermal energy storage system with metal and inorganic salts as phase change materials
Authors: Wang Gang , Fan Jianhua , Liao Zhirong , Xu Chao , Wei Gaosheng , Kong Weiqiang , Furbo Simon
Published: July 2021

This study proposes a novel thermal energy storage (TES) concept using two phase change materials (PCMs) (inorganic salt and metal alloy) as the storage media. The metal alloy PCM is encapsulated in a tube which is inserted in the inorganic salt PCM. Thus, the metal alloy PCM serves as the heat storage material as well as the heat transfer enhanced fin for the inorganic salt PCM. After validation, a numerical model is developed to simulate the charging and discharging processes of the presented TES unit. Furthermore, the influence of the storage material selection, the phase change temperature difference between those two PCMs, and the location of heat transfer surface on the thermal behavior of the charging and discharging process are discussed. The results show that, compared with the unit filled with only salt PCM, the proposed unit can significantly reduce the charging and discharging time by 33.2% and at least 50.3%, respectively. When selecting metal PCM, it is not recommended to use the metal PCM with higher melting temperature than the selected salt PCM. With 75 K melting temperature difference, the melting and solidification time of the unit was prolonged by 47.1% and 6.1%. In addition, if the unit has bottom heat transfer surface, the melting and solidification time of the unit are 356 and 1989 min, corresponding to 4.5 charging power and 0.8 kW discharging power.
The stochastic bifurcation of the vibro-impact system on the impact surface via a new path integration method
Authors: Peng Jiahui , Wang Liang , Wang Bochen , Jing Kangkang , Xu Wei
Published: July 2021

In this paper, a new path integration algorithm is proposed for the non-autonomous vibro-impact system. It can be used to obtain the stochastic response of the system at the impact instant. The innovation of this algorithm is that the fixed excitation phase at the impact instant is introduced. The fixed excitation phase and the impact surface are combined as the special impact surface, and the algorithm sets up the different evolution methods of the probability density function and the impact completion condition. It can directly capture the stochastic response of the system at the impact instant without any non-smooth approximations. The non-smooth characteristics of the impact can be well preserved. This new path integration algorithm has good applicability. It has no limitation on the restitution coefficient. The design idea of this algorithm may provide a framework for the non-smooth system subject to the periodic excitation. In the end, a linear vibro-impact system and a nonlinear vibro-impact system excited by the external periodic force are used as examples to show how our method could be implemented. The stochastic P-bifurcation phenomena induced by parameters also are considered. The Monte Carlo simulations verify the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed path integration algorithm.