bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of the temporal window in dolphin auditory brainstem response onset
Authors: Finneran James J. , Mulsow Jason , Strahan Madelyn G. , Houser Dorian S. , Burkard Robert F.
Published: November 2020

Auditory brainstem responses (ABRs) to linear-enveloped, broadband noisebursts were measured in six bottlenose dolphins to examine relationships between sound onset envelope properties and the ABR peak amplitude. Two stimulus manipulations were utilized: (1) stimulus onset envelope pressure rate-of-change was held constant while plateau pressure and risetime were varied and (2) plateau duration was varied while plateau pressure and risetime were held constant. When the stimulus onset envelope pressure rate-of-change was held constant, ABR amplitudes increased with risetime and were fit well with an exponential growth model. The model best-fit time constants for ABR peaks P1 and N5 were 55 and 64 μs, respectively, meaning ABRs reached 99% of their maximal amplitudes for risetimes of 275–320 μs. When plateau pressure and risetime were constant, ABR amplitudes increased linearly with stimulus sound exposure level up to durations of ∼250 μs. The results highlight the relationship between ABR amplitude and the integral of some quantity related to the stimulus pressure envelope over the first ∼250 μs following stimulus onset—a time interval consistent with prior estimates of the dolphin auditory temporal window, also known as the “critical interval” in hearing.
Emerging Roles of Functional Bacterial Amyloids in Gene Regulation, Toxicity, and Immunomodulation
Authors: Salinas Nir , Povolotsky Tatyana L. , Landau Meytal , Kolodkin-Gal Ilana
Published: November 2020

Bacteria often reside in multicellular communities, called biofilms, held together by an extracellular matrix. In many bacteria, the major proteinaceous component of the biofilm are amyloid fibers. Amyloids are highly stable and structured protein aggregates which were known mostly to be associated with neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s diseases. In recent years, microbial amyloids were identified also in other species and shown to play major roles in microbial physiology and virulence.
Surgical treatment with dental implants in a patient with secondary loss of teeth and osteoporosis caused by an imbalance of vitamin D
Authors: Diachkova Ekaterina , Abramova Elizaveta V , Blagushina Natalia A , Tarasenko Svetlana
Published: November 2020

In recent years, the success of long-term dental implants has remained problematic, especially because of the increasing rate of mineral balance changes in patients with partial loss of teeth, regardless of their age, race and sex. This article describes the experience of 6 years of treatment with dental implants in a patient with secondary loss of tooth and mineral imbalance (osteopenia) due to vitamin D deficiency, in collaboration with endocrinologist. Along with basic dental care, special medicine was prescribed for this pathology. The bone system was monitored through regular blood tests, skeletal bone densitometry and X-ray of the maxillofacial region. This management plan allowed dental implants to be maintained in good condition for 7 years.
Acute subdural haemorrhage complicating cerebral venous thrombosis in a patient with protein C deficiency
Authors: Lim Elvin Yuan Ting , Pai Vivek , Sitoh Yih Yian , Purohit Bela
Published: November 2020

Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) directly causing subdural haemorrhage (SDH) is a rare entity. We present a case of an 18-year-old female patient who presented with severe occipital headache. Neuroimaging showed acute SDH and CVT. She was eventually discovered to have underlying protein C deficiency. She was treated with anticoagulation and made an uneventful recovery. We aim to highlight the epidemiology, risk factors and aetiopathogenesis of CVT. We have included a literature review of previously described 13 case studies/reports describing SDH associated with CVT and a brief discussion of the dilemmas associated with management.
Gastric antral vascular ectasia in children, rare presentation
Authors: Pizzuto Matthew , Ellul Sarah , Shoukry Mohamed
Published: November 2020

A 14-year-old boy, a known case of perinatal hypoxic cerebral palsy, presented to paediatric emergency with acute melaena and blood staining around feeding gastrostomy site. Physical examination revealed pallor, but no signs of distress with an unremarkable abdominal examination. Routine blood tests revealed normochromic. Abdominal ultrasound scan and Meckel’s scan were unremarkable. The patient underwent examination under anaesthesia of the perianal area and joint upper and lower gastrointestinal endoscopy. Streak-like gastritis with no signs of active bleeding lesions were noted and patchy areas of colitis involving the descending and sigmoid colon and the rectum. All clinical findings and evidence-based diagnosis matched gastric antral vascular ectasia. He was successfully managed conservatively with elemental hydrolysed feeding formula.
Congenital Horner and Scimitar syndrome in a newborn: a previously unreported combination
Authors: Carvalho Joana , Maia Mariana , Mota Ágata , Martins Teresa
Published: November 2020

Here we report a case of a term newborn presenting with left palpebral ptosis, anisocoria and heterochromia as well as cleft palate and heart murmur. Congenital Horner syndrome was suspected and a thoracoabdominal CT scan was performed to rule out neuroblastoma. This revealed an anomalous drainage of right pulmonary veins to a collector that drains to the inferior vena cava, leading to the diagnosis of Scimitar syndrome. Echocardiogram showed an ostium secundum atrial septal defect, enlarged right chambers and a dilated coronary sinus due to a persistent left superior vena cava. The combination of Horner and Scimitar syndrome has never been described before. This case should encourage clinicians to use a multidisciplinary approach in order to guarantee an adequate diagnosis and management.
Status epilepticus from GABABR antibody positive encephalitis due to de novo mixed small cell and adenocarcinoma of the prostate
Authors: Kwan Christopher , Sia Aaron , O'Gorman Cullen
Published: November 2020

We present a case study of a 67-year-old man who presented with a new onset of recurrent tonic-clonic seizures. He had tested positive to gamma-aminobutyric acid B receptor antibodies in his blood and cerebrospinal fluid, and subsequent CT imaging and transrectal biopsy confirmed the presence of a locally advanced mixed small cell and Gleason 9 adenocarcinoma of the prostate. His seizures remained resistant to treatment with multiple antiepileptic drugs, including sodium valproate, clobazam, topiramate, carbamazepine, phenytoin and lacosamide. He progressed to status epilepticus, which required intravenous immunoglobulin and steroids, followed by plasma exchange 1 week later. The status epilepticus was refractory and required multiple admissions to the intensive care unit.
Comparison of glycated haemoglobin and fasting blood glucose in the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus and pre-diabetes in a cohort of obese patients
Authors: Chan D M L , Murphy M
Published: November 2020

Background

Diabetes mellitus (DM) has historically been diagnosed by measurement of blood glucose concentrations. More recently, the use of glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) has been advocated in the diagnosis of diabetes, complementing its existing role in the monitoring of glycaemic control.

A recent study has shown that obesity is an important problem in the UK Armed Forces. Obese patients are at increased risk of diabetes and intermediate hyperglycaemia (pre-diabetes). It is unclear whether the application of diagnostic criteria based on HbA1c would produce different categorisation of obese patients compared with standard glucose-based criteria. In the current study, we compared HbA1c with fasting plasma glucose in the diagnosis of type 2 diabetes and intermediate hyperglycaemia in a cohort of obese patients.

Methods

Patients were recruited from the NHS Tayside Specialist Weight Management Service. They were classified into three categories (normoglycaemia, pre-diabetes, and diabetes) according to their fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and HbA1c. The diagnostic criteria of three organisations were applied: the World Health Organisation (WHO); the American Diabetes Association (ADA); and the International Expert Committee (IEC). Glucose, insulin, cholesterol, triglycerides, uric acid, liver function tests and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) were measured.

Results

By WHO (fasting glucose) criteria, 102 subjects were classified as normal, 13 as having impaired fasting glycaemia (IFG) and 5 as having diabetes mellitus (DM). By IEC (HbA1c) criteria, 89 subjects were classified as normal, 21 as pre-diabetes and 7 as DM. By ADA (HbA1c) criteria, 69 subjects were classified as normal, 41 as pre-diabetes and 7 as DM. Alkaline phosphatase was significantly higher in hyperglycaemic states compared with normal subjects, with ANOVA F statistics of 9.45 for WHO (p < 0.001), 9.24 for IEC (p < 0.001), and 6.87 for ADA (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Although the numbers were small, more obese patients were categorised as hyperglycaemic (pre-diabetes and diabetes) when HbA1c-based criteria were applied, compared with WHO (glucose-based) criteria. Further studies are required to confirm this preliminary observation.
The Compensatory Reserve Index – potential uses in a military context
Authors: Pynn H J , Smith J E
Published: November 2020

Patients often compensate for physiological insults before demonstrating abnormalities in traditionally measured vital signs such as pulse and blood pressure. The Compensatory Reserve Index analyses arterial waveform and may detect early circulatory shock. This article reviews the current evidence exploring this technology and its potential applicability in the military environment.
Effects of simulated acid rain on the photosynthetic physiology of Acer ginnala seedlings
Authors: Gao Yu-Fu , Rong Li-Ping , Zhao Dong-Hui , Zhang Jia-Qi , Chen Jia-Shuo
Published: November 2020

Extensive areas in China have been receiving high levels of acid rain. Acid rain affects plant growth by reducing the chlorophyll content, destroying leaf structure, and hindering photosynthesis. Acer ginnala Maxim. has a high economic, ornamental, and medicinal value. To clarify the acid rain resistance mechanism of maple trees, the chlorophyll content, gas exchange parameters, and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters were measured in the leaves of 2-year-old Acer ginnala seedlings 0, 15, and 30 days after simulated acid rain at pH 5.6, 5.0, 4.5, 4.0, 3.5, and 2.5. The results showed that the relative content of chlorophyll gradually decreased with the increasing acidity. The net photosynthetic rate (Pn) decreased with the increasing acidity, and the difference among the treatments was significant except for between pH 5.0 and the control. The stomatal conductance at pH < 5.0 was significantly lower than that of the control, and the intercellular carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration of the leaves with the pH < 4.5 treatments was significantly lower than that of the control. As the acidity increased, both Fv/Fm and Fv/F0 (Fv, variable fluorescence; Fm, maximum fluorescence; F0, initial fluorescence) decreased. The difference in the photosynthetic performance index based on the absorbed light energy (PIabs) between the pH 5.0 treatment and the control was not significant during the three periods after the simulated acid rain stress, whereas in the other treatments, this index was significantly lower than that of the control. Our results indicated that under mild acid rain (pH > 4.0) stress, the chlorophyll content, gas exchange parameters, and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters of Acer ginnala changed little, whereas in the other treatments, especially the severe acid rain (pH < 3.0) treatment, these indices showed significant changes that had a severe impact on plant growth and development.
A FORECASTING APPROACH TO REAL EFFECTIVE EXCHANGE RATE-OIL PRICE NEXUS IN CHINA
Authors: BAGHESTANI HAMID , FATIMA SEHAR
Published: November 2020

Motivated by the theoretical link between real exchange rates and oil prices, we utilize a univariate moving average (MA) and an augmented MA (A-MA) model to generate multi-period forecasts of China’s real effective exchange rate for 2008–2018. The MA model utilizes past information in real exchange rates, and the A-MA model utilizes past information in both real exchange rates and oil prices. We show that the A-MA forecasts are unbiased and embody useful predictive information beyond that contained in the MA forecasts. In addition, the A-MA forecasts are directionally accurate under asymmetric loss. Such accurate forecasts are useful as inputs for policymakers to design an optimal real exchange rate policy to promote trade and attract foreign investment, and for foreign entities that regard China as an attractive environment for investing in various sectors.
An Initialization-free Distributed Algorithm for Power Dispatch Problem with Multiple Resources of Future Distribution Network
Authors: Sang Zixia , Huang Jiaqi , Yang Dongjun , Yan Jiong , Du Zhi , Fang Rengcun
Published: November 2020

With the gradual development of bidirectional interacted future distribution network, it is necessary to enter distributed clean power sources with various characteristics, including wind turbine and solar panel. Traditional centralized control has difficulties to fulfill the demands of future distribution networks for safe, stable, and efficient operation. Aiming at the constrained power allocation problem widely studied in smart grid, with the cooperative control algorithm of continuous multi-agent system, this paper proposed a distributed optimization allocation strategy, which is free by the initial state. The proposed distributed algorithm implements parameterization by adding auxiliary variables. In the iterative process, the algorithm only needs to know the state of the distributed power supply of the neighbor, and finally solve the global optimal solution of the system. The simulations prove that the proposed scheme can effectively improve the economic dispatch performance. Furthermore, comparing to the existing algorithm, the proposed algorithm achieves faster optimal solution.
Improved Multi-domain Convolutional Neural Networks Method for Vehicle Tracking
Authors: Wang Jianwen , Li Aimin , Pang Y.
Published: November 2020

In the field of intelligent transportation, background complexity, lighting changes, occlusion, and scale transformation affect the tracking results of moving vehicles in the video. We propose an improved vehicle object tracking algorithm based on Multi-Domain Convolutional Neural Networks (MDNet), combining the instance segmentation method with the MDNet algorithm, adding two attention mechanisms to the algorithm. The module extracts better features, ensures that the vehicle object adapts to changes in appearance, and greatly improves tracking performance. Our improved algorithm has a tracking precision rate of 91.8% and a success rate of 67.8%. The Vehicle Tracking algorithm is evaluated on the Object Tracking Benchmark (OTB) data set. The tracking results are compared with eight mainstream object tracking algorithms, and the results show that our improved algorithm has excellent performance. The object tracking precision rate and tracking success rate of this algorithm have achieved excellent results in many cases.
A New Mail System for Secure Data Transmission in Cyber Physical Systems
Authors: Piedrahita Castillo Diego , Regidor Francisco Machío , Higuera Javier Bermejo , Higuera Juan Ramón Bermejo , Montalvo Juan Antonio Sicilia
Published: November 2020

This paper provides a complete study on email requirements, with special emphasis on its security aspects and architecture. It explores how current protocols have evolved, the environment in which they have been developed and the evolution of security requirements. This paper also analyzes email vulnerabilities and the reasons that have motivated the exploitation of them. The threats and solutions of the most used email protocols today are detailed, such as Simple Mail Transfer Protocol, Post office Protocol, Internet Message Access Protocol protocols, among others. An analysis of the main security solutions proposed in recent years is carried out and how these threats are solved, as well as a comparison of each of them. The result of this work leads us to conclude that it is necessary to make an integral change in the protocols used in the electronic mail in order to have a secure message exchange system that meets all the security requirements demanded today. We are working on a proposal based on blockchain that solves the security problems identified in this work.
Market(ing) Wisdom Differences between Family and Non-Family Firms: An Empirical Study on Small and Medium Enterprises
Authors: Ghouri Arsalan Mujahid , Khan Naveed R. , Khan Mustafa R. , Venkatesh V. G. , Srivastava Hari
Published: November 2020

In today’s competitive business environment, family and non-family small and medium enterprises (SMEs) strive to survive despite many challenges. Market knowledge and marketing efforts are crucial for them to sustain and enhance business with limited resources. In this paper, we examined three constructs (i) market orientation, (ii) marketing capabilities and (iii) marketing practices impact on the SMEs’ service sector performance. The interaction effect of ownership type (family and non-family firms) was also observed in the model. Data was collected from 240 SMEs in three major metropolitan cities. This study found positive relationships of each construct (market orientation, (ii) marketing capabilities and (iii) marketing practices) on firm performance as hypothesised. The interaction effect of ownership type i.e. family and non-family, evident on marketing capabilities and SMEs’ performance. Non-family businesses are open for adopting new ideas and personnel into decision making. Family firms should be more adaptable to compete with non-family firms. The managerial and theoretical implications discussed in family and non-family firms’ perspective.
On the dimensional weak-type (1,1) bound for Riesz transforms
Authors: Spector Daniel , Stockdale Cody B.
Published: November 2020

Let [Formula: see text] denote the [Formula: see text] Riesz transform on [Formula: see text]. We prove that there exists an absolute constant [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] for any [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], where the above supremum is taken over measures of the form [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text]. This shows that to establish dimensional estimates for the weak-type [Formula: see text] inequality for the Riesz transforms it suffices to study the corresponding weak-type inequality for Riesz transforms applied to a finite linear combination of Dirac masses. We use this fact to give a new proof of the best known dimensional upper bound, while our reduction result also applies to a more general class of Calderón–Zygmund operators.
Stochastic Extended Finite Element Implementation for Natural Frequency of Cracked Functionally Gradient and Bi-Material Structures
Authors: Raza Ahmed , Pathak Himanshu , Talha Mohammad
Published: November 2020

In this work, stochastic perturbation-based vibration characteristics of cracked bi-material and functionally graded material (FGM) domain with uncertain material properties are investigated using the extended finite element method. The level set function is implemented to track the geometrical discontinuities. The partition of unity-based extrinsic enrichment technique is employed to model the crack and material interface. The exponential law is used to model the graded material properties of FGM. The First-order perturbation technique (FOPT) is implemented to predict the standard deviation of natural frequency for the given uncertainties in the material properties. The numerical results are presented to show the effect of geometrical discontinuities and material randomness on vibration characteristics.
Special affine wavelet transform and the corresponding Poisson summation formula
Authors: Shah Firdous A. , Teali Aajaz A. , Tantary Azhar Y.
Published: November 2020

In the article, “Windowed special affine Fourier transform” in J. Pseudo-Differ. Oper. Appl. (2020), we introduced the notion of windowed special affine Fourier transform (WSAFT) as a ramification of the special affine Fourier transform. Keeping in view the fact that the WSAFT is not befitting for in the context of non-stationary signals, we continue our endeavor and introduce the notion of the special affine wavelet transform (SAWT) by combining the merits of the special affine Fourier and wavelet transforms. Besides studying the fundamental properties of the SAWT including orthogonality relation, inversion formula and range theorem, we also demonstrate that the SAWT admits the constant [Formula: see text]-property in the time–frequency domain. Moreover, we formulate an analog of the well-known Poisson summation formula for the proposed SAWT.
Generation of Plastic Collapse Load Boundaries of a Pressurized Cylindrical Vessel/Radial Nozzle Structure Subjected to Nozzle Bending Loadings Utilizing Various Plastic Collapse Load Techniques
Authors: Abdalla Hany Fayek
Published: November 2020

This research focuses on generating the plastic collapse load boundaries of a cylindrical vessel with a radial nozzle via employing three different plastic collapse load techniques. The three plastic collapse load techniques employed are the plastic work curvature (PWC) criterion, the plastic work (PW) criterion, and the twice-elastic-slope (TES) method. Mathematical based determination of plastic collapse loads is presented and employed concerning both the PWC and the PW criteria. A validation study is initially conducted on a pressurized 90-degree pipe bend structure subjected to in-plane closing bending via finite element analyses along with an elaborate explanation of the mathematical approaches for determining the plastic collapse loads via the PWC and the PW criteria. Outcomes of the validation study revealed very good outcomes for the three techniques. Accordingly, the aforementioned three techniques are utilized to determine the plastic collapse load boundaries of a pressurized cylindrical vessel/nozzle structure subjected to in-plane (IP) and out-of-plane (OP) bending loadings applied on the nozzle one at a time. The TES method revealed considerate limitations when applied within the medium to the high internal pressure spectra. It is shown that both the PWC and the PW criteria outperform the TES method in computing the plastic collapse loads. The vessel/nozzle structure revealed relatively higher plastic collapse moment boundaries under IP bending as compared to OP bending. Conclusively, methodical steps are devised for determining the plastic collapse loads via the PWC and the PW criteria for the ease of systematic application on pressurized structures in general.
Independent domination in signed graphs
Authors: Jeyalakshmi P. , Karuppasamy K. , Arockiaraj S.
Published: November 2020

Let [Formula: see text] be a signed graph. A dominating set [Formula: see text] is said to be an independent dominating set of [Formula: see text] if [Formula: see text] is a fully negative. In this paper, we initiate a study of this parameter. We also establish the bounds and characterization on the independent domination number of a signed graph.
Optimization algorithms and intelligent techniques on electrical discharge machining process
Authors: Shyn C. S. , Rajesh R.
Published: November 2020

Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) is considered as the much traditional, adaptable and unconventional machining process that is proficient in generating complicated structures. Further, it is self-sufficient over the mechanical properties of workpiece materials only if it is conductive. The viability of the EDM process regarding the application types might get considerably improved with the constant enhancement in the personification of numerical control and the metal removal efficacy. This survey intends to make a review of 65 papers related to the optimization and modeling of EDM process machining. The analysis is thus made with regards to the following factors like Al alloy composite in Die Shrinking EDM, Optimization and Al metal matrix composites. Particularly, the hybrid optimization models in various papers are analyzed concerning their logic. Further, the algorithmic and parametric analysis is also made with the contributed papers. Finally, the research gaps and challenges in this EDM processing are discussed, which would pave the way for efficient research works in this area.
Analytical calculation method and simulation of deformation and stress of Z-type guide arm for interconnected air suspensions
Authors: Zhang Zhongliang , Zhao Leilei
Published: November 2020

To design and check the strength of the Z-type guide arm of interconnected air suspensions for semi-trailers rapidly and effectively, this paper proposes the analytical calculation methods of its deformation and stress. First, based on the guide arm structure, it is marked as two parts by its mountpoint on the axle as the boundary. The part containing the eye was marked as Arm-1. The other part was marked as Arm-2. Then the analytical formulas of their stiffness and stress were derived, respectively. With a case study, the deformation and the stress were computed and simulated. The results show that the values computed are close to those simulated. The relative deviations are not more than 5.0%. The results show that the analytical formulas are acceptable. Moreover, it can be seen that for the superimposed Arm-1, when the other structural parameters are fixed, the position of the maximum stress is affected by the thickness ratio of the end thickness to the root thickness for each piece. Finally, a stiffness test was performed on the Z-type guide arm. The results show that the computed stiffness values are closed to those tested and the relative deviations are not more than 3.5%. This further verified the validity of the established model and methods.
Validating Knowledge Contents with Blockchain-Assisted Gamified Crowdsourcing
Authors: Bu Helun , Kuwabara Kazuhiro
Published: November 2020

This paper presents the use of gamified crowdsourcing for knowledge content validation. Constructing a high-quality knowledge base is crucial for building an intelligent system. We develop a refinement process for the knowledge base of our word retrieval assistant system, where each piece of knowledge is represented as a triple. To validate triples acquired from various sources, we introduce yes/no quizzes and present them to many casual users for their inputs. Only the triples voted “yes” by a sufficient number of users are incorporated into the main knowledge base. Users are incentivized by rewards based on their contribution to the validation process. To ensure transparency of the reward-giving process, blockchain is utilized to store logs of the users’ inputs from which the rewards are calculated. Different strategies are also proposed for selecting the next quiz. The simulation results indicate that the proposed approach has the potential to validate knowledge contents. This paper is a revised version of our conference paper presented at the 12th Asian Conference on Intelligent Information and Database Systems (ACIIDS 2020).
Features Reweighting and Selection in ligand-based Virtual Screening for Molecular Similarity Searching Based on Deep Belief Networks
Authors: Nasser Maged , Salim Naomie , Hamza Hentabli , Saeed Faisal , Rabiu Idris
Published: November 2020

Virtual screening (VS) is defined as the use of a compilation of computational procedures to grade, score and/or sort several chemical formations. The purpose of VS is to identify the molecules holding the greatest prior probabilities of activity. Many of the conventional similarity methods assume that molecular features that do not relate to the biological activity carry the same weight as the important ones. For this reason, the researchers on this paper investigated that some features are being more important than others through the chemist structure diagrams and the weight for each fragment should be taken into consideration by giving more weight to those fragments that are more important. In this paper, a deep learning method specifically known as Deep Belief Networks (DBN) has been used to reweight the molecule features and based on this new weigh, the reconstruction feature error has been calculated for all the features. Based on the reconstruction feature error values, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) has been used for the dimension’s reduction and only few hundreds of features have been selected based on the less error rate. The main aim of this research is to show an improvement of the similarity searching performance based on the selected features those have less error rate. The results derived through the DBN were compared with those derived through other similarity methods, such as the Tanimoto coefficient and the quantum-based methods. This comparison revealed the performance of the DBN with the structurally heterogeneous data sets (DS1 and DS3) to be superior to the performances of all the other techniques.
From Poliomyelitis to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Reflections by a Virologist
Authors: Norrby Erling
Published: November 2020

Never before have the media focused on a single infectious disease as they have in the case of the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic that started to spread globally from China at the end of 2019. The consequences of the pandemic on health, economics, and the societal conditions of isolated individuals have been discussed from a range of different perspectives. Virologists are expected to be capable of providing immediate answers to many different kinds of questions—how and under what conditions is an individual infectious, what are the relative roles of the different arms of the immune system, do reinfections occur, when will a vaccine preventing infection with the virus become available, what are the possibilities of developing antiviral drugs capable of interfering with the disease, and so on. In many cases there are no immediate answers, since virologists globally are still in the middle of researching the particular problem in the focus of interest. The only proper answer to demanding questions of this kind should be “Welcome to the workshop of virologists.” However, what needs to be emphasized is that the tools available to understand the details of the interaction of a particular virus and the various organs in an infected human host have changed dramatically during the somewhat more than a hundred years of studies of viruses.
Getting the basic ground model right in engineering practice
Authors: Hearn G.J.
Published: November 2020

The approach to ground modelling should be devised to suit the geological and geomorphological challenges that pertain and the context and manner in which the model is to be used. Several case studies are examined where problems experienced during works construction and operation are associated with complex ground conditions and geomorphological outcomes not fully anticipated from the site investigation and ground modelling. Other cases reflect situations where either important existing information was ignored or no apparent consideration was given to the potential for ground engineering problems. Insufficient attention to geomorphology, and especially geomorphological processes, has been the cause of several construction difficulties and continues to pose a significant source of risk in many terrains. The observational and analytical skills of a carefully chosen geo-team will be paramount if these challenges are to be overcome. However, such considerations become largely academic if institutional shortcomings serve to limit or exclude engineering geological assessment in the first place.

Thematic collection:
This article is part of the Ground models in engineering geology and hydrogeology collection available at:
https://www.lyellcollection.org/cc/Ground-models-in-engineering-geology-and-hydrogeology
Effective Upcycling of Graphite Anode: Healing and Doping Enabled Direct Regeneration
Authors: Markey Brandon , Zhang Minghao , Robb Iva , Xu Panpan , Gao Hongpeng , Zhang Dawei , Holoubek John , Xia David , Zhao Yifan , Guo Juchen , Cai Mei , Meng Ying Shirley , Chen Zheng
Published: November 2020

As lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) become vital energy source for daily life and industry applications, a large volume of spent LIBs will be produced after their lifespan. Recycling of LIBs has been considered as an effective closed-loop solution to mitigate both environmental and economic issues associated with spent LIBs. While reclaiming of transition metal elements from LIB cathodes has been well established, recycling of graphite anodes has been overlooked. Here, we show an effect upcycling method involving both healing and doping to directly regenerate spent graphite anodes. Specifically, using boric acid pretreatment and short annealing, our regeneration process not only heals the composition/structure defects of degraded graphite but also creates functional boron-doping on the surface of graphite particles, providing high electrochemical activity and excellent cycling stability. The efficient direct regeneration of spent graphite by using low cost, non-volatile and non-caustic boric acid with low annealing temperature provides a more promising direction for green and sustainable recycling of spent LIB anodes.
Degradation Mechanism of LiNi0.5Co0.2Mn0.3O2/Graphite Cells at Elevated State of Charge and High Temperature
Authors: Guo Manyi , Luo Ying , Yan Liqin , Lv Taolin , Gao Yuliang , Shen Chao , Xie Keyu , Xie Jingying
Published: November 2020

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) with LiNixCoyMn1−x−yO2 (NCM) cathode are among the state-of-the-art batteries with high energy and power densities. NCM has been reported with issues of phase transition, volume change upon cycling and reacting with electrolyte. However, the possible degradation behaviors of NCM are still unclear when working at high state of charge (SOC) and elevated temperatures. In this work, life tests for commercial LiNi0.5Co0.2Mn0.3O2 (NCM523)/graphite cells are performed at high SOC (4.0–4.1 V or 4.1–4.2 V) and elevated temperature (45 °C) for the first time. The post-tested cells are characterized with multiple techniques to present a clear and comprehensive image of the cell degradations. The revealed degradation mechanisms of NCM cell at high SOC and high temperature include nikel (Ni) dissolution of NCM523, the formation of the oxidation layer of LixPOyFz on cathode particles and gas release from the oxidation of solvents in the electrolyte.
Meta‐Analysis Based on Clinical RCTs: The Effect of Molecular Epimerism on the Safety of Glycyrrhizic Acid
Authors: Chen Hongdou , Zheng Fangfang , Wang Menglei , Wang Xu , Yang Qingqing , Ye Lu , Lu Yao , Yu Shule , Li Wei
Published: November 2020

Objective. To carry out the meta‐analysis on the clinical safety of glycyrrhizic acid and the influencing factors between 18α‐glycyrrhizinate (18α‐GL) and 18β‐glycyrrhizinate (18β‐GL). Methods. Magnesium isoglycyrrhizinate injection was used as the representative preparation of 18α‐GL, and compound glycyrrhizin injection was used as the representative preparation of 18β‐GL. The clinical control trial of magnesium isoglycyrrhizinate injection and compound glycyrrhizin injection was searched in a computer, which was published from January 2006 to December 2019 on the databases such as PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), China Science and Technology Journal Database (CSTJ), and Wanfang Medical Network (Wanfang Data). The data associated with adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were extracted. RevMan5.3 was used for statistical analysis. Results. Finally, 24 studies were included, and 2757 patients were involved, of which the experimental group was mainly treated with magnesium isoglycyrrhizinate, while the control group was mainly treated with compound glycyrrhizin. The results showed that the occurrence of ADRs was significantly lower in the experimental group than that in the control group, and the difference between two groups was statistically significant (RR = 0.26, 95% CI = (0.18, 0.38), P < 0.00001). There was no heterogeneity among the studies (I2 = 0%, P = 1.00). Conclusion. Compared with 18β‐GL, 18α‐GL had a lower incidence of adverse reactions and better clinical safety.
Safety and Efficacy of Bleb Needling with Antimetabolite after Trabeculectomy Failure in Glaucoma Patients: A Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chen Xuhao , Suo Lingge , Hong Ying , Zhang Chun
Published: November 2020

Background. Bleb needling with subconjunctival injection of antimetabolites had become a widely accepted approach for trabeculectomy failure. However, IOP reduction effects, success rates, and complications occurrence for this procedure showed great inconsistency among the different studies. Methods. We conducted a literature search on PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov. A random-effects model was performed on the extracted data based on the included studies. The intraocular pressure (IOP) and number of antiglaucomatous medications before and after the surgery were pooled for meta-analysis. The success and complication rates were estimated based on the results. Subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis, and metaregression were applied to explore the origination of heterogeneity. Results. Thirty-seven studies with a total of 2182 patients were finally included in our review. For the present meta-analysis, the overall effects of bleb needling at the last visit revealed a reduction in IOP of 9.74 mmHg (95% confidence interval (CI) [8.85, 10.63]), 45.9% (95% CI [39.0%, 53.0%]) for complete success rate, and 70.4% (95% CI [63.5%, 77.0%]) for qualified success rate. Application of mitomycin C (MMC) and 5-fluorouracil (5-Fu) during the procedure were efficacious for IOP control during the follow-up. Metaregression revealed that possible origination of heterogeneity was baseline IOP before bleb needling, revealing a trend that higher baseline IOP correlated with a greater IOP reduction results

p
<
0.001

. For safety profile, conjunctival haemorrhage (5.7%, 95% CI [2.5%, 10.1%]), hyphema (5.5%, 95% CI [3.0%, 8.7%]), and bleb leakage (5.0%, 95% CI [3.2%, 7.3%]) had the highest estimate of incidence. An increasing number of needling was the main risk factor for needling failure. Conclusion. Bleb needling with antimetabolites could be considered an effective and safe procedure after trabeculectomy failure. After the process, patients will gain IOP control and reduce antiglaucomatous medications for at least six months with 5-Fu or MMC. Meanwhile, the overall estimates for complications were relatively low in the whole process.
Effects of SMILE Surgery on Intraocular Pressure, Central Corneal Thickness, Axial Length, Peripapillary Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer, and Macular Ganglion Cell Complex Thickness
Authors: Zhao Zhanlin , Michée Sylvain , Faure Jean-François , Baudouin Christophe , Labbé Antoine
Published: November 2020

Purpose. To evaluate the change in intraocular pressure (IOP), central corneal thickness (CCT), axial length, peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness, and macular ganglion cell complex (GCC) thickness after small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) surgery. Methods. This prospective observational study was conducted in Espace Nouvelle Vision, Ophthalmological Clinic, Paris, France. Fifty eyes of 25 patients were enrolled in this study and underwent SMILE surgeries. IOP, central corneal thickness (CCT), axial length (AL), peripapillary RNFL thickness, and macular GCC thickness were measured before and at 3 months after SMILE. Results. The mean preoperative spherical equivalent was −3.15 ± 1.50 diopters (D), and the mean postoperative value was 0.15 ± 0.28 D. After SMILE surgery, IOP decreased from 15.03 ± 2.79 mmHg to 11.02 ± 2.73 mmHg and 10.02 ± 2.21 mmHg at 1 and 3 months, respectively (

P
<
0.01

for both comparisons). The mean decrease in measured IOP as a function of ablation depth was 0.065 ± 0.031 mmHg/μm. CCT decreased from 545.98 ± 26.61 μm to 478.40 ± 30.26 μm after SMILE surgery (

P
<
0.01

). AL decreased from 24.80 ± 0.84 mm to 24.70 ± 0.83 mm (

P
<
0.01

). There was no statistically significant change in mean peripapillary RNFL or mean GCC thickness after SMILE surgery. Conclusions. SMILE surgery modified IOP measurement, CCT, and AL but did not change peripapillary RNFL and macular GCC thicknesses. The postoperative drop in measured IOP might be explained by the decreased CCT. An accurate re-evaluation of AL should be performed before cataract surgery among post-SMILE patients.
p53: A Key Protein That Regulates Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Wu Qi , Zhang Ke-jia , Jiang Shi-min , Fu Lu , Shi Yue , Tan Ru-bin , Cui Jie , Zhou Yao
Published: November 2020

Pulmonary fibrosis is a progressively aggravating lethal disease that is a serious public health concern. Although the incidence of this disease is increasing, there is a lack of effective therapies. In recent years, the pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis has become a research hotspot. p53 is a tumor suppressor gene with crucial roles in cell cycle, apoptosis, tumorigenesis, and malignant transformation. Previous studies on p53 have predominantly focused on its role in neoplastic disease. Following in-depth investigation, several studies have linked it to pulmonary fibrosis. This review covers the association between p53 and pulmonary fibrosis, with the aim of providing novel ideas to improve the clinical diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of pulmonary fibrosis.
The Association between Socioeconomic Factors and Visual Function among Patients with Age-Related Cataracts
Authors: Wan Yu , Wang Yinhao , Zhao Liming , Wang Zhenyu , Sun Min , Chen Dongmei , Yang Yang , Xu Yanhui , Lv Shuxuan , Yu Yanan , Li Xuemin , Jiang Aimin , Chen Zhimin
Published: November 2020

Background. With the development of the economy, socioeconomic factors, such as inequalities in the status of regional economies and the subsequent effects on health systems, have influenced the status of health. We explored the association between age-related cataracts and socioeconomic indicators, including the regional economy, health systems, and energy industries. Methods. This was a prospective, multicenter, Chinese population-based, cross-sectional study. A total of 830 participants from seven centers were enrolled. Data on the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), Lens Opacities Classification System III (LOCS III) score, Visual Function Index-14 (VF-14) score, total and subscale scores of the 25-item National Eye Institute Visual Functioning Questionnaire (NEI-VFQ-25), per capita disposable income (PCDI), medical resource-related indicators, and investments in the energy industry were obtained. Associations among these parameters were analyzed. Results. The PCDI ranking was correlated with the VF-14 score (R = −0.426,

P
<
0.01

), total score of NEI-VFQ-25 (r = −0.500,

P
<
0.01

), and BCVA (r = 0.278,

P
<
0.01

). The number of health agencies (r1 = 0.267, r2 = −0.303, r3 = −0.291,), practicing or assistant practicing doctors (r1 = -0.283, r2 = 0.427, r3 = 0.502,), registered nurses (r1 = −0.289, r2 = 0.409, r3 = 0.469,

P
<
0.01

), and health technicians (r1 = −0.278, r2 = 0.426, r3 = 0.500,

P
<
0.01

) per 10,000 of the population was each correlated with the BCVA, VF-14 score, and total score of NEI-VFQ-25, respectively. Health expenditure per capita was correlated with the VF-14 score (r = 0.287,

P
<
0.01

) and total score of NEI-VFQ-25 (r = 0.459,

P
<
0.01

). The LOCS III P score was correlated with investments in the energy industry (r = 0.485,

P
<
0.001

). Conclusions. Patients in higher economic regions with greater medical resources show a greater demand to undergo cataract surgery at a better subjective and objective visual function. The energy industry has a significant effect on cataracts, especially the posterior subcapsular cataract, and thus more attention should be paid to people in regions with abundant energy industries.
Acute Coronary Syndromes and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: “Un Affaire de Coeur”
Authors: Ismaiel Abdulrahman , Popa Stefan-Lucian , Dumitrascu Dan L.
Published: November 2020

Background and Aims. Both nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and ischemic heart disease have common pathogenic links. Evidence for the association of NAFLD with acute coronary syndromes (ACS), complex multivessel coronary artery disease (CAD), and increased mortality risk in ACS patients is still under investigation. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review aiming to clarify these gaps in evidence. Methods. We conducted a systematic search on PubMed and EMBASE with predefined keywords searching for observational studies published till August 2020. NAFLD diagnosis was accepted if confirmed through biopsy, imaging techniques, surrogate markers, or codes. Full articles that satisfied our inclusion and exclusion criteria were included in the systematic review. We used the NHLBI quality assessment tool to evaluate included studies. Results. Seventeen observational studies with a total study population of approximately 21 million subjects were included. Eleven studies evaluated whether NAFLD is an independent risk factor for developing ACS with conflicting results, of which eight studies demonstrated a significant association between NAFLD and ACS, mainly in Asian populations, while three reported a lack of an independent association. Conflicting results were reported in studies conducted in Europe and North America. Moreover, a total of five studies evaluated whether NAFLD and fatty liver severity in ACS patients are associated with a complex multivessel CAD disease, where all studies confirmed a significant association. Furthermore, seven out of eight studies evaluating NAFLD and hepatic steatosis severity as a predictor of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality and in-hospital major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in ACS patients demonstrated a significant independent association. Conclusions. NAFLD patients are associated with an independently increased risk of developing ACS, mainly in Asian populations, with inconsistent results in North American and European individuals. Moreover, NAFLD and hepatic steatosis severity were both independently correlated with complex multivessel CAD, mortality, and in-hospital MACE in ACS patients.
Image Processing‐Based Spall Object Detection Using Gabor Filter, Texture Analysis, and Adaptive Moment Estimation (Adam) Optimized Logistic Regression Models
Authors: Hoang Nhat-Duc
Published: November 2020

This study aims at proposing a computer vision model for automatic recognition of localized spall objects appearing on surfaces of reinforced concrete elements. The new model is an integration of image processing techniques and machine learning approaches. The Gabor filter supported by principal component analysis and k‐means clustering is used for identifying the region of interest within an image sample. The binary gradient contour, gray level co‐occurrence matrix, and color channels’ statistical measurements are employed to compute the texture of the extracted region of interest. Based on the computed texture‐based features, the logistic regression model trained by the state‐of‐the‐art adaptive moment estimation (Adam) is utilized to establish a decision boundary that delivers predictions on the status of “nonlocalized spall” and “localized spall.” Experimental results demonstrate that the newly developed model is able to achieve good detection accuracy with classification accuracy rate = 85.32%, precision = 0.86, recall = 0.79, negative predictive value = 0.85, and F1 score = 0.82. Thus, the proposed computer vision model can be helpful to assist decision makers in the task of the periodic survey of structure heath condition.