bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reductive Stress-Induced Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Ma Wei-Xing , Li Chun-Yan , Tao Ran , Wang Xin-Ping , Yan Liang-Jun
Published: May 2020

The goal of this review was to summarize reported studies focusing on cellular reductive stress-induced mitochondrial dysfunction, cardiomyopathy, dithiothreitol- (DTT-) induced reductive stress, and reductive stress-related free radical reactions published in the past five years. Reductive stress is considered to be a double-edged sword in terms of antioxidation and disease induction. As many underlying mechanisms are still unclear, further investigations are obviously warranted. Nonetheless, reductive stress is thought to be caused by elevated levels of cellular reducing power such as NADH, glutathione, and NADPH; and this area of research has attracted increasing attention lately. Albeit, we think there is a need to conduct further studies in identifying more indicators of the risk assessment and prevention of developing heart damage as well as exploring more targets for cardiomyopathy treatment. Hence, it is expected that further investigation of underlying mechanisms of reductive stress-induced mitochondrial dysfunction will provide novel insights into therapeutic approaches for ameliorating reductive stress-induced cardiomyopathy.
A Lead Field Two-Domain Model for Longitudinal Neural Tracts—Analytical Framework and Implications for Signal Bandwidth
Authors: Fischer G. , Kofler M. , Handler M. , Baumgarten D.
Published: May 2020

Somatosensory evoked potentials are a well-established tool for assessing volley conduction in afferent neural pathways. However, from a clinical perspective, recording of spinal signals is still a demanding task due to the low amplitudes compared to relevant noise sources. Computer modeling is a powerful tool for gaining insight into signal genesis and, thus, for promoting future innovations in signal extraction. However, due to the complex structure of neural pathways, modeling is computationally demanding. We present a theoretical framework which allows computing the electric potential generated by a single axon in a body surface lead by the convolution of the neural lead field function with a propagating action potential term. The signal generated by a large cohort of axons was obtained by convoluting a single axonal signal with the statistical distribution of temporal dispersion of individual axonal signals. For establishing the framework, analysis was based on an analytical model. Our approach was further adopted for a numerical computation of body surface neuropotentials employing the lead field theory. Double convolution allowed straightforward analysis in the frequency domain. The highest frequency components occurred at the cellular membrane. A bandpass type spectral shape and a peak frequency of 1800 Hz was observed. The volume conductor transmitting the signal to the recording lead acted as an additional bandpass reducing the axonal peak frequency from 200 Hz to 500 Hz. The superposition of temporally dispersed axonal signals acted as an additional low-pass filter further reducing the compound action potential peak frequency from 90 Hz to 170 Hz. Our results suggest that the bandwidth of spinal evoked potentials might be narrower than the bandwidth requested by current clinical guidelines. The present findings will allow the optimization of noise suppression. Furthermore, our theoretical framework allows the adaptation in numerical methods and application in anatomically realistic geometries in future studies.
Outcomes of Discectomy by Using Full‐Endoscopic Visualization Technique via the Transcorporeal and Transdiscal Approaches in the Treatment of Cervical Intervertebral Disc Herniation: A Comparative Study
Authors: Ren Youliang , Yang Junsong , Chen Chien-Min , Liu Kaixuan , Wang Xiang-Fu , Wei Jian-Min , Shi Lei , Liu Wen , Jiang Haitao , Zhou Hang , Li Shen , Xu Zhou , Zhang Wanqian , Deng Zhongliang , Chu Lei
Published: May 2020

Objective. To compare the difference in clinical and radiographic outcomes between anterior transcorporeal and transdiscal percutaneous endoscopic cervical discectomy (ATc‐PECD/ATd‐PECD) approaches for treating patients with cervical intervertebral disc herniation (CIVDH). Method. We selected 77 patients with single‐segment CIVDH and received ATc‐PECD or ATd‐PECD in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University between March 1, 2010, and July 1, 2015. 35 patients suffered from ATc‐PECD, and there were 42 patients in the ATd‐PECD group. Obtaining the data of 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively, the VAS for neck and arm pain and the modified MacNab criteria were used to evaluate the clinical outcomes, comparing radiographic outcomes and complications of these two groups. Results. We found that the mean operative time was significantly longer in the ATc‐PECD group (P < 0.05). At the 2‐year follow‐up, the mean VAS score for neck and arm pain was significantly decreased in both two groups. There was no significant difference in the VAS score for arm pain and neck pain between the two groups at the 2‐year follow‐up (P = 0.783 and P = 0.785, respectively). For the ATc‐PECD group, the difference in the height of IVS or vertebral body was significant between the preoperative and postoperative groups (P < 0.05, respectively). For the ATd‐PECD group, there was only a significant decrease in the height of the IVS (P < 0.05); the decrease in the surgical vertebral body was not significant between the preoperative and postoperative groups (P > 0.05). Conclusion. In the 2‐year follow‐up, there is no significant difference in the clinical outcomes between the 2 approaches. While the longer time was consumed in the ATc‐PECD group, the lower rate of disc collapse and recurrence is notable. Additionally, when the center diameter of tunnel was limited to 6 mm, the bony defect can be healed without the occurrence of the collapse of the superior endplate, and ATc‐PECD may be preferable in the endoscopic treatment of CIVDH.
Modeling the Spread of COVID-19 Infection Using a Multilayer Perceptron
Authors: Car Zlatan , Baressi Šegota Sandi , Anđelić Nikola , Lorencin Ivan , Mrzljak Vedran
Published: May 2020

Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a highly infectious disease that has captured the attention of the worldwide public. Modeling of such diseases can be extremely important in the prediction of their impact. While classic, statistical, modeling can provide satisfactory models, it can also fail to comprehend the intricacies contained within the data. In this paper, authors use a publicly available dataset, containing information on infected, recovered, and deceased patients in 406 locations over 51 days (22nd January 2020 to 12th March 2020). This dataset, intended to be a time-series dataset, is transformed into a regression dataset and used in training a multilayer perceptron (MLP) artificial neural network (ANN). The aim of training is to achieve a worldwide model of the maximal number of patients across all locations in each time unit. Hyperparameters of the MLP are varied using a grid search algorithm, with a total of 5376 hyperparameter combinations. Using those combinations, a total of 48384 ANNs are trained (16128 for each patient group—deceased, recovered, and infected), and each model is evaluated using the coefficient of determination (R2). Cross-validation is performed using K-fold algorithm with 5-folds. Best models achieved consists of 4 hidden layers with 4 neurons in each of those layers, and use a ReLU activation function, with R2 scores of 0.98599 for confirmed, 0.99429 for deceased, and 0.97941 for recovered patient models. When cross-validation is performed, these scores drop to 0.94 for confirmed, 0.781 for recovered, and 0.986 for deceased patient models, showing high robustness of the deceased patient model, good robustness for confirmed, and low robustness for recovered patient model.
A Hybrid Pathfinder Optimizer for Unconstrained and Constrained Optimization Problems
Authors: Qi Xiangbo , Yuan Zhonghu , Song Yan
Published: May 2020

Hybridization of metaheuristic algorithms with local search has been investigated in many studies. This paper proposes a hybrid pathfinder algorithm (HPFA), which incorporates the mutation operator in differential evolution (DE) into the pathfinder algorithm (PFA). The proposed algorithm combines the searching ability of both PFA and DE. With a test on a set of twenty-four unconstrained benchmark functions including both unimodal continuous functions, multimodal continuous functions, and composition functions, HPFA is proved to have significant improvement over the pathfinder algorithm and the other comparison algorithms. Then HPFA is used for data clustering, constrained problems, and engineering design problems. The experimental results show that the proposed HPFA got better results than the other comparison algorithms and is a competitive approach for solving partitioning clustering, constrained problems, and engineering design problems.
Nonsingular Fast Terminal Adaptive Neuro-sliding Mode Control for Spacecraft Formation Flying Systems
Authors: Lin Xiaohan , Shi Xiaoping , Li Shilun , Nguang Sing Kiong , Zhang Liruo
Published: May 2020

In this paper, a nonsingular fast terminal adaptive neurosliding mode control for spacecraft formation flying systems is investigated. First, a supertwisting disturbance observer is employed to estimate external disturbances in the system. Second, a fast nonsingular terminal sliding mode control law is proposed to guarantee the tracking errors of the spacecraft formation converge to zero in finite time. Third, for the unknown parts in the spacecraft formation flying dynamics, we proposed an adaptive neurosliding mode control law to compensate them. The proposed sliding mode control laws not only achieve the formation but also alleviate the effect of the chattering. Finally, simulations are used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control laws.
Haematological Features and Urologic Pathologies of Diabetic Subjects at Bafoussam Regional Hospital: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Signing Arsene T. , Marbou Wiliane J. T. , Beng Veronique P. , Kuete Victor
Published: May 2020

Background. Diabetes mellitus is at the origin of long-term complications. Objective. This study is aimed at assessing the haematological features and urologic pathologies of diabetic individuals at Bafoussam Regional Hospital. Methods. This was a cross-sectional study conducted from August 2018 to May 2019 in Bafoussam Regional Hospital, West Cameroon. A structured questionnaire was used to gather sociodemographic data. A trained nurse measured the physical and clinical features. Fasting plasma glucose was determined using the glucose meter Accu-Chek Active system. The full blood count (FBC) was carried out using Automatic full Blood Counter, and the CD4, CD3, and CD8 T-cell counts were determined using the flow cytometry method. Results. There were 455 diabetic patients, and 50 nondiabetic patients were included. The mean age of diabetic patients (56.94±14.33 years) was higher compared to that of nondiabetic individuals (34.76±14.35 years) (p<0.001). There was a significant relationship between married individuals (χ2=79.19, p<0.001, and df=4), housewife and retired (χ2=1117.38, p<0.001, and df=37), old age (40 years and above) (χ2=79.11, p<0.001, and df=3), and diabetes status. Diabetic patients had an odds of 5.52 to experience a urinary urge as compared to the controls (p<0.001, 95% CI=2.15-14.22). The majority of haematological parameters were negatively but not significantly correlated with diabetes. Binary logistic regression shows that MCV (r=−0.251, OR=0.778, and 95% CI=0.617–0.983; p=0.035) and RDW-CV (r=−0.477, OR=0.620, and 95% CI=0.454–0.848; p=0.003) negatively influence the probability of having diabetes. RDW-SD (r=0.135, OR=1.144, and 95% CI=1.014–1.291; p=0.029) positively influences the probability of having diabetes. Conclusion. This study revealed a significant haematological and urological profile difference according to diabetes status. Research and interventions targeted at diabetic population could help close gaps in diabetes complications.
Nutritional Effects of Three Mulberry Varieties on Silkworms in Torbat Heydarieh
Authors: Alipanah Masoud , Abedian Zabihollah , Nasiri Abdolazim , Sarjamei Farid
Published: May 2020

This research was conducted to evaluate and compare the performance of the silkworm hybrid p31×p32  reared with three varieties of mulberry leaves. In this study, the silkworms were fed with leaves from Kenmochi (Morus bombycis), native mulberry (Morus alba L.), and black mulberry (Morus nigra L.) trees and their influence on the leaf ingested, leaf digested, cocoon weight, efficiency of feed consumption to cocoon shell, efficiency of digested feed to cocoon shell weight, efficiency of digested feed to cocoon weight, and efficiency of feed consumption to cocoon weight was studied in the Torbat Heydarieh region. The results showed that silkworms that consumed leaves of Kenmochi had better performance. Also, they had better performance for traits of cocoon shell weight, feed efficiency to cocoon shell weight, and feed efficiency to cocoon weight. Therefore, Kenmochi tree is suggested for development of sericulture in the region.
Stein Type Lemmas for Location-Scale Mixture of Generalized Skew-Elliptical Random Vectors
Authors: Zuo Baishuai , Yin Chuancun
Published: May 2020

Inspired by the work of Adcock, Landsman, and Shushi (2019) which established the Stein’s lemma for generalized skew-elliptical random vectors, we derive Stein type lemmas for location-scale mixture of generalized skew-elliptical random vectors. Some special cases such as the location-scale mixture of elliptical random vectors, the location-scale mixture of generalized skew-normal random vectors, and the location-scale mixture of normal random vectors are also considered. As an application in risk theory, we give a result for optimal portfolio selection.
Integrated Transformer Health Estimation Methodology Based on Markov Chains and Evidential Reasoning
Authors: Milosavljevic Srdjan , Janjic Aleksandar
Published: May 2020

Due to the large number of power transformers (ETs) in the distribution system, there is a need for a relatively simple representation of the status of each unit in order to more easily determine where and how to allocate the budget for preventive and corrective maintenance. In recent years, the concept of the transformer health index (HI) as an integral part of resource management was adopted for the condition assessment and ranking of ETs. HI algorithms take different forms and can be determined based on a large number of specific parameters. However, the main problem in HI methodology or any modern diagnostic technique is the existence of regular measurements and inspections and accurate test results. The paper proposes a solution in the form of the upgraded HI and the novel methodology for ET ranking including the value of available information to describe ET current state. The confidence to the measurement results is calculated using evidential reasoning (ER) algorithm based on Dempster–Shafer theory. The contribution to the ER methodology is the calculation of the initial degrees of belief using Markov chains. The aging process of an ET and transition probabilities from state to state are modelled using the statistical data for the population of 300 ETs and 20 years monitoring data. The proposed methodology is tested on the real data for 110/35 kV transformer, and in the second case, compared to the sample of 30 110/x kV transformers with traditional HI calculation.
Oridonin Attenuates Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury via Downregulating Oxidative Stress and NLRP3 Inflammasome Pathway in Mice
Authors: Lu Chuanghong , Chen Chuanbin , Chen Ang , Wu Yunjiao , Wen Jianlin , Huang Feng , Zeng Zhiyu
Published: May 2020

Oridonin (ORI), the major pharmacological component extracted from a traditional Chinese medicine, possesses a beneficial effect on myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. However, the underlying molecular mechanism by which ORI effects take place is not completely known. Thus, whether ORI works via downregulating oxidative stress and nod‐like receptor protein‐3 (NLRP3) inflammasome pathway was investigated in this study. Mice underwent surgery to induce myocardial I/R injury, and some were administered ORI (10 mg/kg/day) pretreatment, while others were not. The myocardial enzymes’ levels, infarct area, and inflammatory injury were measured. The activation situation of oxidative stress and NLRP3 inflammasome was also detected. We found that ORI pretreatment significantly alleviated CK‐MB and cTnI levels and infarct size induced by I/R. ORI mitigated the inflammatory injury by decreasing the pathological damage and lowering TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐18 levels. Moreover, the SOD1 and eNOS levels were significantly increased by ORI, while MDA and iNOS levels were relatively decreased. The oxidative stress was reversed using ORI pretreatment. Importantly, NLRP3 inflammasome pathway was also inhibited by ORI, as reflected by the lower protein levels of NLRP3, caspase‐1, and IL‐1β. In conclusion, ORI alleviates myocardial injury induced by I/R via inhibiting the oxidative stress and NLRP3 inflammasome pathway.
A Model of High-Dimensional Feature Reduction Based on Variable Precision Rough Set and Genetic Algorithm in Medical Image
Authors: Tao Zhou , Huiling Lu , Hu Fuyuan , Qiu Shi , Cuiying Wu
Published: May 2020

Aiming at the shortcomings of high feature reduction using traditional rough sets, such as insensitivity with noise data and easy loss of potentially useful information, combining with genetic algorithm, in this paper, a VPRS-GA (Variable Precision Rough Set--Genetic Algorithm) model for high-dimensional feature reduction of medical image is proposed. Firstly, rigid inclusion of the lower approximation is extended to partial inclusion by classification error rate β in the traditional rough set model, and the ability dealing with noise data is improved. Secondly, some factors of feature reduction are considered, such as attribute dependency, attributes reduction length, and gene coding weight. A general framework of fitness function is put forward, and different fitness functions are constructed by using different factors such as weight and classification error rate β. Finally, 98 dimensional features of PET/CT lung tumor ROI are extracted to build decision information table of lung tumor patients. Three kinds of experiments in high-dimensional feature reduction are carried out, using support vector machine to verify the influence of recognition accuracy in different fitness function parameters and classification error rate. Experimental results show that classification accuracy is affected deeply by different weight values under the invariable classification error rate condition and by increasing classification error rate under the invariable weigh value condition. Hence, in order to achieve better recognition accuracy, different problems use suitable parameter combination.
Immunotherapy with IgY Antibodies toward Outer Membrane Protein F Protects Burned Mice against Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infection
Authors: Norouzi Fatemeh , Behrouz Bahador , Ranjbar Mahya , Mousavi Gargari Seyed Latif
Published: May 2020

Burn patients with multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections commonly suffer from high morbidity and mortality, which present a major challenge to healthcare systems throughout the world. Outer membrane protein F (OprF), as a main outer membrane porin, is required for full virulence expression of P. aeruginosa. The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective efficacy of egg yolk-specific antibody (IgY) raised against recombinant OprF (r-OprF) protein in a murine burn model of infection. The hens were immunized with r-OprF, and anti-r-OprF IgY was purified using salt precipitation. Groups of mice were injected with different regimens of anti-OprF IgY or control IgY (C-IgY). Infections were caused by subcutaneous injection of P. aeruginosa strain PAO1 at the burn site. Mice were monitored for mortality for 5 days. The functional activity of anti-OprF IgY was determined by in vitro invasion assays. Immunotherapy with anti-OprF IgY resulted in a significant improvement in the survival of mice infected by P. aeruginosa from 25% to 87.5% compared with the C-IgY and PBS. The anti-OprF IgY decreased the invasion of P. aeruginosa PAO1 into the A549. Passive immunization with anti-OprF IgY led to an efficacious protection against P. aeruginosa burn infection in the burn model.
Fatigue Stress Estimation of an Offshore Jacket Structure Based on Operational Modal Analysis
Authors: Nabuco Bruna , Tarpø Marius , Tygesen Ulf T. , Brincker Rune
Published: May 2020

Fatigue life assessment currently recommended by offshore standards is associated with a large number of uncertainties mainly related to the environmental loads and the numerical model. Recently, for economic reasons, the need for extending the lifetime of existing offshore structures led to the necessity of developing more accurate and realistic predicting models so that damage detection and maintenance can be optimized. This paper proposes the implementation of Structural Health Monitoring Systems in order to extract modal properties—such as mode shapes, natural frequencies, and damping ratios—throughout Operational Modal Analysis (OMA), which is the engineering field that studies the modal properties of systems under ambient vibrations or normal operating conditions. The identified modal properties of the structural system are the fundamental information to update a finite element model by means of an expansion technique. Then, the virtual sensing technique—modal expansion—is used to estimate the stress in the entire structure. Though existing models depend on the load estimation, the model based on OMA-assisted virtual sensing depends on the measured responses and assumes that the loads act as random vibrations. A case study using data from a real offshore structure is presented based on measurements recorded during normal operation conditions of an offshore tripod jacket. From strains estimated using OMA and virtual sensing, fatigue stresses are predicted and verified by applying the concept of equivalent stress range. Both estimated and measured strains are given as input data to evaluate the equivalent stress range and compared with each other. Based on this study, structural health monitoring estimates the fatigue stresses with high precision. As conclusion, this study describes how the fatigue can be assessed based on a more accurate value of stress and less uncertainties, which may allow extending the fatigue life of offshore platforms.
Linear Feedback of Mean-Field Stochastic Linear Quadratic Optimal Control Problems on Time Scales
Authors: Zhu Yingjun , Jia Guangyan
Published: May 2020

This paper addresses a version of the linear quadratic control problem for mean-field stochastic differential equations with deterministic coefficients on time scales, which includes the discrete time and continuous time as special cases. Two coupled Riccati equations on time scales are given and the optimal control can be expressed as a linear state feedback. Furthermore, we give a numerical example.
Rituximab in Antimelanoma Differentiation-Associated Protein-5 Dermatomyositis with Interstitial Lung Disease
Authors: Scirocco Chiara , Gubbiotti Andreina , Sebastiani Alfredo , Sebastiani Gian Domenico
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we report a challenging case of a middle-age woman who developed antimelanoma differentiation-associated protein-5 dermatomyositis (anti-MDA5 DM) with interstitial lung disease (ILD) and was successfully treated with rituximab (RTX), after failure of a first-line therapy.
Dim-Small Target Detection Based on Adaptive Pipeline Filtering
Authors: Li Biao , Zhiyong Xu , Zhang Jianlin , Wang Xiangru , Fan Xiangsuo
Published: May 2020

In order to improve the robustness of the pipeline target detection algorithm against strong noises and occlusion, this paper presents an adaptive pipeline filtering algorithm (APFA). In APFA, the velocity and the center of the target are firstly predicted based on the smooth motion trajectory after background suppression. Then, time-domain energy enhancement of targets is adopted to improve the obscure target detection, and adaptively updating the center and radius of the pipeline filter are carried out for targets’ motion variation. Experiments on five different typical scenes show that APFA can improve the robustness of the pipeline filter against strong noises and even when targets are temporarily obscured partially or completely. Simultaneously, APFA can significantly improve the energy and signal-to-noise ratio of targets, and as a result, the target detection rate is significantly promoted on all experiments.
A Modified Reverse Remplissage Procedure for Management of a Locked Posterior Shoulder Dislocation
Authors: Zwiebel Xavier , Pelet Stéphane , Leclerc Alexandre
Published: May 2020

Posterior shoulder dislocation is rare and often represents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. An impaction fracture of the anteroinferior aspect of the humeral head (called a reverse Hill-Sachs (RHS) fracture) is always present in case of chronic locked posterior dislocation. Surgical management is required and decided on the delay between the trauma and the diagnosis and the importance of the RHS (in percentage). The authors present a chronic locked posterior shoulder dislocation in a 32-year-old active male with a reverse Hill-Sachs lesion of more than 40%. An open reduction was required, and stabilization was achieved with a modified remplissage technique with detachment of the upper quarter of the subscapularis tendon. Three years after the surgery, the patient recovered an excellent functional level with a stable shoulder.
Numerical Research on Cutting Force and Fracture Morphology of Rock Plate with Two Sides Fixed and Two Sides Free
Authors: Lu Zhenguo , Zeng Qingliang , Meng Zhaosheng , Wang Zhiwen , Gao Guanshun
Published: May 2020

Conical pick is a diffusely applied cutting tool in rock excavation in the coal-mining industry. In order to enhance the capability of conical pick, a new rock cutting method based on increased free surface is proposed. To research the peak cutting force and fracture morphology, ANSYS/LS-DYNA is used to establish the conical pick and rock interaction model. To obtain the fracture morphology of rock plate, eroding contact, erosion element failure, and damage constitutive are considered in the numerical model. Mechanical properties test and rock plate cutting experiment are carried out to guarantee and verify the correctness of the numerical model. The width and height of rock plate influencing peak cutting force and fracture morphology are studied, and the stable peak cutting force is defined. Lower width and height contribute to more fragments in smaller dimension produced during the rock plate cutting process. Besides, higher skew angle leads to more fragments. The peak cutting force decreases with the increasing width and height of rock plate while reaching stable peak cutting force, and it reduces and then remains stable with the increasing cutting position and symmetrical with skew angle of zero degree.
The Equilibrium, Kinetics, and Thermodynamics Studies of the Sorption of Methylene Blue from Aqueous Solution Using Pulverized Raw Macadamia Nut Shells
Authors: Edokpayi Joshua N. , Alayande Samson O. , Adetoro Ahmed , Odiyo John O.
Published: May 2020

In this study, the potential for pulverized raw macadamia nut shell (MNS) for the sequestration of methylene blue from aqueous media was assessed. The sorbent was characterized using scanning electron microscopy for surface morphology, functional group analysis was performed with a Fourier-transform infrared spectrometer (FT-IR), and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) isotherm was used for surface area elucidation. The effects of contact time, sorbent dosage, particle size, pH, and change in a solution matrix were studied. Equilibrium data were fitted using Temkin, Langmuir, and Freundlich adsorption isotherm models. The sorption kinetics was studied using the Lagergren pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, Elovich, and intraparticle diffusion models. The feasibility of the study was established from the thermodynamic studies. A surface area of 2.763 m2/g was obtained. The equilibrium and kinetics of sorption was best described by the Langmuir and the pseudo-second-order models, respectively. The sorption process was spontaneous (−ΔG0=28.72−31.77 kJ/mol) and endothermic in nature (ΔH0=17.45 kJ/mol). The positive value ofΔS0(0.15kJ/molK) implies increased randomness of the sorbate molecules at the surface of the sorbent. This study presents sustainable management of wastewater using MNS as a potential low-cost sorbent for dye decontamination from aqueous solution.
Spectrophotometric and Multivariate Calibration Techniques for Simultaneous Determination of Different Drugs in Pharmaceutical Formulations and Human Urine: Evaluation of Greenness Profile
Authors: Mostafa Ahmed
Published: May 2020

Eco-friendly, rapid, and cost-effective two spectrophotometric methods were developed and validated for the determination of atenolol, paracetamol, hydrochlorothiazide, and levofloxacin. The first method is the newly developed extended derivative ratio (EDR) and the second method is multivariate curve resolution—alternating least squares (MCR-ALS). In the EDR method, the extended derivative ratio amplitudes at 281.6, 237.6, 279.2, and 282.8 nm were used for quantification of atenolol, paracetamol, hydrochlorothiazide, and levofloxacin, respectively. In the MCR-ALS method, calibration model was developed and correlation constraint was employed. External validation data set composed of seven mixtures was used, and different figures of merits such as root mean square error of prediction, standard error of prediction, bias, and relative error of prediction were calculated, and satisfactory results were obtained. Both methods provided comparable results. The methods were validated and applied for the determination of the target analytes in dosage forms, spiked and real human urine. Thereafter, the obtained results were statistically compared to the published methods and revealed no significant difference regarding accuracy and precision. Furthermore, the greenness profile of the methods was evaluated using the National Environmental Methods Index “NEMI” and Analytical Eco-Scale. The developed methods can be used as a valid eco-friendly and simple cost-effective alternative to the commonly used chromatographic methods for the routine analysis of the studied drugs in dosage forms and human urine.
Influence of Antistripping Additives and Rejuvenators on Healing Performance of Moisture‐Damaged HMA
Authors: Park Dae-Wook , Phan Tam Minh , Kim Yeong-Min
Published: May 2020

This study aims to evaluate the effect of different rejuvenators and antistripping agents on the healing performance of hot mix asphalt (HMA). Two damage HMA series (e.g., moisture damage and aged damage) were subjected to either induction or microwave heating. A PG64‐22 virgin and aged binder were used and modified with several additives. Three long‐term aged binders (e.g., PAV5, PAV15, and PAV20) were conducted by pressure aging vessel (PAV) test. The moisture damage series fabricating with a new binder was further categorized into four different freeze‐thaw (FT) cycles (e.g., 0FT, 1FT, 3FT, and 5FT). Also, the aged series was fabricated with three different aged binders. A total of eight damage‐healing cycles were applied to all asphalt mixtures, examined by the three‐point bending test. The moisture resistance of modified asphalt mixture was examined by indirect tensile strength test. Overall, asphalt mixtures modified with either antistripping additives or rejuvenators not only obtained higher moisture resistance but also gained better healing performance under moisture damage. In addition, the study showed a probable correlation between moisture damage and long‐term aging in terms of healing performance, such as PAV15 and 3FT cycles and PAV20 and 5FT cycles.
Intestinal Obstruction by Meckel’s Diverticulum in a 92 Years Old Woman
Authors: Sarkardeh Maryam , Sani Seyed Javad Davari
Published: May 2020

Background. Meckel’s diverticulum is a vestigial remnant of the omphalomesenteric duct that in most cases (53%) is diagnosed in the first two years of life. Case report. A variety of complications are related to Meckel’s diverticulum including bleeding, intestinal obstruction, but in adults, the most important complication is intestinal obstruction. We reported Meckel’s diverticulum in a 92-year-old woman with symptoms of intestinal obstruction including abdominal pain, vomitus, and abdominal distention who referred to the hospital emergency. Imaging findings showed intestinal obstruction and laparotomy showed that the cause of intestinal obstruction was Meckel’s diverticulum. Finally, Meckel’s diverticulum was resected and the patient recovered. Conclusion. Intestinal obstruction because of a large Meckel’s diverticulum in an elderly woman is rare and requires a high attention for diagnosis, and it is almost discovered by surgery.
The Experimental Investigation of the Development Potential of Low-Permeability Reservoirs in the Daqing Oilfield
Authors: Zhou Yazhou , Yin Daiyin
Published: May 2020

It is very risky and difficult to develop low-permeability reservoirs, but reservoir development can be guided by the development potential of different low-permeability reservoirs. In this study, natural cores of the Daqing Oilfield were used as the research objects. The throat radius distributions of the different low-permeability cores were determined by the constant velocity mercury injection method, the movable fluid distribution characteristics were determined by nuclear magnetic resonance, and the nonlinear fluid flow characteristics were analyzed via fluid flow experimentation. From these data, the development potential for low-permeability reservoirs was determined. The results show that when the permeability is 1×10−3 μm2, the average throat radius is only approximately 0.9 μm and throats with radii less than 0.1 μm account for approximately 30% of the throats. The throats with an average radius less than 1 μm, especially throats with radii less than 0.1 μm, are the main factor restricting the fluid flow in these cores. The movable fluid is only approximately 20% of the fluid in a core, and the threshold pressure gradient reaches 0.15 MPa/m when the permeability is 1×10−3 μm2, indicating that it is more difficult to develop reservoirs with permeabilities less than 1×10−3 μm2.
Resolvent, Natural, and Sumudu Transformations: Solution of Logarithmic Kernel Integral Equations with Natural Transform
Authors: Köklü Kevser
Published: May 2020

In this paper, the resolvent of an integral equation was found with natural transform which is a new transformation which converged to Laplace and Sumudu transformations, and the result was confirmed by the Sumudu transform. At the same time, a solution to the first type of logarithmic kernel Volterra integral equations has been produced by the natural transform.
Effects of Compound Centella on Oxidative Stress and Keap1‐Nrf2‐ARE Pathway Expression in Diabetic Kidney Disease Rats
Authors: Zhu Qin , Zeng Jiali , Li Jian , Chen Xueming , Miao Jianxia , Jin Qinyang , Chen Hongyu
Published: May 2020

The formula of Compound Centella mainly contains 3 traditional Chinese herbs: Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. (JiXueCao), Astragalus Membranaceus Fish. (HuangQi), and Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. f. (LeiGongTeng). Though this formula is effective for treating diabetic kidney disease (DKD) in clinic, the exact mechanism is still unclear. This study aims to investigate the effect and antioxidant mechanism of Compound Centella on DKD rats. High‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was applied to analyse 3 herbs in Compound Centella. Sprague‐Dawley rats were divided into the normal group (NG), DKD group (DKDG), Compound Centella group (CCG), and losartan group (LG), with 8 rats in each group. On the first day of the experiment, rats in the NG were fed with ordinary –feed, while the other groups were fed with high‐fat and high‐sugar feed. On the 29th day, except the NG, the other 3 groups received a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozocin (STZ, 35 mg/kg). Fasting blood glucose (FBG) was measured on the 1st day, 32nd day, 46th day, 56th day, 84th day, and 112th day. Total protein/creatinine ratio of urine was determined by the phenol red assay on the 1st day and 112th day. Serum creatinine (Scr) was determined by an automatic biochemical analyser on the 112th day. Kidneys were collected on the 112th day for analysis and evaluation. Periodic acid‐Schiff (PAS) staining, hematoxylin‐eosin (HE) staining, and transmission electron microscopy were used to observe kidney pathological changes. The mRNA and protein expressions of Kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein 1 (Keap1) and nuclear factor‐erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) in renal tissues were detected by RT‐qPCR, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry. Oxidative stress was evaluated by detecting the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and heme oxidase‐1 (HO‐1). The results showed that the content of asiaticoside, astragaloside, and triptolide in the herb was 5960, 809, and 2.42 μg/g and in the Compound Centella was 340, 64, and 0.1403 μg/mL by HPLC. Compound Centella reduced the urine protein/creatinine ratio and improved renal pathology in the kidneys of DKD rats. In addition, the mRNA and protein expressions of Keap1 and Nrf2 in kidneys were upregulated by Compound Centella. The expressions of MDA were downregulated but HO‐1 were upregulated by Compound Centella. Therefore, the protective effect of Compound Centella in the kidney of DKD rats may be related to regulating the Keap1‐Nrf2‐ARE pathway under oxidative stress, suggesting Compound Centella as a promising treatment against DKD.
Two bio-inspired algorithms for solving optimal reactive power problem
Authors: Kanagasabai Lenin
Published: May 2020

In this work two ground-breaking algorithms called; Sperm Motility (SM) algorithm & Wolf Optimization (WO) algorithm is used for solving reactive power problem. In sperm motility approach spontaneous movement of the sperm is imitated & species chemo attractant, sperms are enthralled in the direction of the ovum. In wolf optimization algorithm the deeds of wolf is imitated in the formulation & it has a flag vector also length is equivalent to the whole sum of numbers in the dataset the optimization. Both the projected algorithms have been tested in standard IEEE 57,118, 300 bus test systems. Simulated outcomes reveal about the reduction of real power loss & with variables are in the standard limits. Almost both algorithms solved the problem efficiently, yet wolf optimization has slight edge over the sperm motility algorithm in reducing the real power loss.
Effect of heating temperature on quality of bio-briquette empty fruit bunch fiber
Authors: Handra Nofriady , Kasim Anwar , Gunawarman Gunawarman , Santosa Santosa
Published: May 2020

Empty Fruit Bunches (EFB) are one of the palm oil industry wastes, which are quite plentiful and currently unused optimally. Biomass is one of the renewable energy resources which has important roles in the world. The bio-briquettes are manufactured through densification of waste biomass by implementing certain processes. This research aimed to obtain variations in the mold temperature at 150 ºC, 200 ºC, and 250 ºC to the calorific value and toughness of the briquette material. The toughness was tested using ASTM D 440-86 R02 standard. Arduino program was used for setting the heating resistance time of the mold, which was 20 minutes and the thermal controller was used to adjust the temperature variation. The average mold pressure was 58 Psi. The highest heating value was obtained at a mold temperature of 250 ºC with a value of 5256 cal/g, and the lowest was resulted at a temperature of 150 ºC (4117 cal/g). Meanwhile, the briquette toughness test at 200 ºC mold temperature indicated good data results in which the average loss of fiber particles was only 4.17 %, this was because the adhesion between particles by lignin and cellulose in the fiber functions optimally at this temperature so that the resistance of briquettes went through minor damage.
Spectroscopic properties of lithium borate glass containing Sm3+ and Nd3+ ions
Authors: Kashif I. , Ratep A. , Ahmed S.
Published: May 2020

Lithium borate glass samples mixed with a different concentration of Sm3+ and Nd3+ ions organized by quenching technique. Structural, vibration groups and spectral properties of glass samples investigated using X-ray diffraction, FTIR, UV/Vis/NIR and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The X-ray confirmed the lithium borate glass samples containing Sm3+ and Nd3+ ions in the amorphous state. Luminescence spectra of glass samples excited at 400 nm recorded, here three luminescence bands observed in Visible region, which due to spectra materials (Sm3+, Nd3+). These indicate that these glass samples responsible orange emission and used in the improvement of materials for LED, and optical devices. The functional vibration groups of the glass matrix studied using FTIR spectroscopy.
La République mondiale des lettres in the World Republic of Scholarship
Authors: Damrosch David
Published: May 2020

Pascale Casanova’s seminal book has had an enormous and continuing impact around the world in a dozen languages, and as a result La République mondiale des lettres has itself become subject to the processes described within the book itself, as it enters world scholarly space. Casanova herself reflected directly on the somewhat unsettling results of this process, and her subsequent work was shaped in various ways by the international response to her pathbreaking book. This essay examines Casanova’s responses to the varied responses to her book, and suggests that her subsequent books should be understood as embodying a resulting mixture of resistance and rethinking of her earlier positions.
For a Theory of Relay Translations
Authors: Samoyault Tiphaine
Published: May 2020

The hierarchical system described by Pascale Casanova in The World Republic of Letters and La Langue mondiale is confirmed by the global phenomenon of relay translations, which attests that international exchanges are rarely bilateral. The study of relay or indirect translations completes what she says about the crucial role of mediators in the mechanisms of literary circulation. Yet the concrete processes of the intervention of the third party are only occasionally studied (in case studies) and are rarely synthesized. They bring into play mere configurations of the international in a non-systemic, but historical and not always deterministic way. This article attempts to theorize a practice that modifies the frames of thought of translation itself.
Prizing Francophonie into Existence
Authors: Bedecarré Madeline
Published: May 2020

This paper explores the relationship between literary prizes and the framing of contemporary francophone literature as world literature. Using a literary and sociological lens, I analyze how the Prix des Cinq Continents marketed itself as a kind of French-speaking Nobel, promoting the idea of a world literature in French. This article examines the prize’s different criteria for selection through close readings of promotional materials as well as interviews conducted between 2012 and 2016 with members of the jury, prize administrators, prize-winners, and representatives from the Senegalese reading committee. My research shows how the prize administrators’ rhetoric of diversity, hides the inequalities and exclusionary practices that “francophone” writers must face. This article argues that the idea of world literature has been recuperated by the OIF to protect the category of “francophone” and consolidate the domination of French cultural power in its former colonies.
Opening the Fifth Seal Catholic Martyrs and Forces of Religious Competition
Authors: McCleary Rachel M. , Barro Robert J.
Published: May 2020

Since Pope John Paul II’s stock-taking of twentieth century martyrs, the Catholic Church has significantly increased the beatification and canonization of martyrs. Not only have the numbers of martyrs increased but the definition of martyrdom has expanded. Using a comprehensive new data set on Catholic martyrs (1588 to 2020), we argue that the Vatican’s recent emphasis on martyrs is a strategic response to competition with Protestants, specifically Evangelicals. Martyrs, unlike regular saints (confessors), tend to be predominantly male and died in parts of the world where the Catholic Church was actively involved in evangelization or had a significant presence. Martyrdom often associates with violent events, such as the Spanish Civil War, World War II, and the French Revolution, and with mass persecutions, such as in the English Reformation or in cases of repression of missionaries, as in Japan, Korea, Vietnam, and China.
Religious Diversity and Women’s Attitudes Toward Using Assisted Reproductive Technologies—Insights from a Pilot Study in Germany
Authors: Milewski Nadja , Haug Sonja
Published: May 2020

This study examines women’s attitudes toward the own use of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) by their religious affiliation in Germany. The social relevance of ART is increasing in Western countries due to overall low birth rates, a high rate of childlessness, and a gap between the desired and the actual numbers of children. Previous literature has been scarce, however, on attitudes toward ART, and religious diversity has not been included in studies on ART. Our analysis is based on data collected in a pilot study in 2014 and 2015. The sample includes 944 women aged 18 to 50 living in Germany. The results show that Muslim women were significantly more likely than Christian women to say they would consider using ART; having no religious affiliation was associated with the least open attitude toward ART usage.