bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coronavirus Disease 2019–COVID-19
Authors: Dhama Kuldeep , Khan Sharun , Tiwari Ruchi , Sircar Shubhankar , Bhat Sudipta , Malik Yashpal Singh , Singh Karam Pal , Chaicumpa Wanpen , Bonilla-Aldana D. Katterine , Rodriguez-Morales Alfonso J.
Published: June 2020

In recent decades, several new diseases have emerged in different geographical areas, with pathogens including Ebola virus, Zika virus, Nipah virus, and coronaviruses (CoVs). Recently, a new type of viral infection emerged in Wuhan City, China, and initial genomic sequencing data of this virus do not match with previously sequenced CoVs, suggesting a novel CoV strain (2019-nCoV), which has now been termed severe acute respiratory syndrome CoV-2 (SARS-CoV-2). Although coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is suspected to originate from an animal host (zoonotic origin) followed by human-to-human transmission, the possibility of other routes should not be ruled out.
Identification of Common Deletions in the Spike Protein of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2
Authors: Liu Zhe , Zheng Huanying , Lin Huifang , Li Mingyue , Yuan Runyu , Peng Jinju , Xiong Qianling , Sun Jiufeng , Li Baisheng , Wu Jie , Yi Lina , Peng Xiaofang , Zhang Huan , Zhang Wei , Hulswit Ruben J. G. , Loman Nick , Rambaut Andrew , Ke Changwen , Bowden Thomas A. , Pybus Oliver G. , Lu Jing
Published: June 2020

The spike protein determines the infectivity and host range of coronaviruses. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has two unique features in its spike protein, the receptor binding domain and an insertion of 12 nucleotides at the S1/S2 boundary resulting in a furin-like cleavage site. Here, we identified two deletion variants of SARS-CoV-2 that either directly affect the furin-like cleavage site itself (NSPRRAR) or a flanking sequence (QTQTN), and we investigated these deletions in cell isolates and clinical samples. The absence of the polybasic cleavage site in SARS-CoV-2 did not affect virus replication in Vero or Vero-E6 cells. Our data indicate the PRRAR sequence and the flanking QTQTN sequence are not fixed
in vitro;
thus, there appears to be distinct selection pressures on SARS-CoV-2 sequences
in vitro
and
in vivo
. Further investigation of the mechanism of generating these deletion variants and their infectivity in different animal models would improve our understanding of the origin and evolution of this virus.
The Measles Virus V Protein Binding Site to STAT2 Overlaps That of IRF9
Authors: Nagano Yuma , Sugiyama Aoi , Kimoto Madoka , Wakahara Takuya , Noguchi Yasuyo , Jiang Xinxin , Saijo Shinya , Shimizu Nobutaka , Yabuno Nana , Yao Min , Gooley Paul R. , Moseley Gregory W. , Tadokoro Takashi , Maenaka Katsumi , Ose Toyoyuki
Published: June 2020

To evade host immunity, many pathogenic viruses inactivate host Janus kinase signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) signaling pathways using diverse strategies. Measles virus utilizes P and V proteins to counteract this signaling pathway. Data derived largely from cell-based assays have indicated several amino acid residues of P and V proteins as important. However, biophysical properties of V protein or its direct interaction with STAT molecules using purified proteins have not been studied. We have developed novel molecular tools enabling us to identify a novel molecular mechanism for immune evasion whereby V protein disrupts critical immune complexes, providing a clear strategy by which measles virus can suppress interferon-mediated antiviral gene expression.
Mitochondrial Import of Dengue Virus NS3 Protease and Cleavage of GrpEL1, a Cochaperone of Mitochondrial Hsp70
Authors: Gandikota Chaitanya , Mohammed Fareed , Gandhi Lekha , Maisnam Deepti , Mattam Ushodaya , Rathore Deepika , Chatterjee Arpan , Mallick Katyayani , Billoria Arcy , Prasad V. S. V. , Sepuri Naresh Babu Venkata , Venkataramana Musturi
Published: June 2020

Approximately 40% of the world’s population is at risk of dengue virus infection. There is currently no specific drug or potential vaccine for these infections. Lack of complete understanding of the pathogenesis of the virus is one of the hurdles that must be overcome in developing antivirals for this virus infection. In the present study, we observed that the dengue virus-coded protease imports to the mitochondrial matrix, and our report is the first ever of a virus-coded protein, either animal or human, importing to the mitochondrial matrix. Our analysis indicates that the observed mitochondrial import is due to an inherited mitochondrial transport signal. We also show that matrix-localized GrpE protein homolog 1 (GrpEL1), a cochaperone of mitochondrial Hsp70 (mtHsp70), is also the substrate of dengue virus protease, as observed
in vitro
and
ex vivo
in virus-infected cells and dengue virus-infected clinical samples. Hence, our studies reveal an essential aspect of the pathogenesis of dengue virus infections, which may aid in developing antidengue therapeutics.
Characterization of a Type II-A CRISPR-Cas System in
Streptococcus mutans
Authors: Mosterd Cas , Moineau Sylvain
Published: June 2020

CRISPR-Cas is one of the mechanisms used by bacteria to defend against viral predation. Increasing our knowledge of the biology and diversity of CRISPR-Cas systems will also improve our understanding of virus-bacterium interactions. As CRISPR-Cas systems acquiring novel immunities under laboratory conditions are rare,
Streptococcus mutans
strain P42S provides an alternative model to study the adaptation step, which is still the least understood step in CRISPR-Cas biology. Furthermore, the availability of a natural Cas9 protein recognizing an AT-rich PAM opens up new avenues for genome editing purposes.
HERQ-9 Is a New Multiplex PCR for Differentiation and Quantification of All Nine Human Herpesviruses
Authors: Pyöriä Lari , Jokinen Maija , Toppinen Mari , Salminen Henri , Vuorinen Tytti , Hukkanen Veijo , Schmotz Constanze , Elbasani Endrit , Ojala Päivi M. , Hedman Klaus , Välimaa Hannamari , Perdomo Maria F.
Published: June 2020

By adulthood, almost all humans become infected by at least one herpesvirus (HHV). The maladies inflicted by these microbes extend beyond the initial infection, as they remain inside our cells for life and can reactivate, causing severe diseases. The diagnosis of active infection by these ubiquitous pathogens includes the detection of DNA with sensitive and specific assays. We developed the first quantitative PCR assay (HERQ-9) designed to identify and quantify each of the nine human herpesviruses. The simultaneous detection of HHVs in the same sample is important since they may act together to induce life-threatening conditions. Moreover, the high sensitivity of our method is of extreme value for assessment of the effects of these viruses persisting in our body and their long-term consequences on our health.
COVID-19 Hyperinflammation: What about Neutrophils?
Authors: Didangelos Athanasios
Published: June 2020

COVID-19 is often related to hyperinflammation that drives lung or multiorgan injury. The immunopathological mechanisms that cause excessive inflammation are under investigation and constantly updated. Here, a gene network approach was used on recently published data sets to identify possible COVID-19 inflammatory mechanisms and bioactive genes. First, network analysis of putative SARS-CoV-2 cellular receptors led to the mining of a neutrophil-response signature and relevant inflammatory genes. Second, analysis of RNA-seq data sets of lung cells infected with SARS-CoV-2 revealed that infected cells expressed neutrophil-attracting chemokines.
Candida auris Phenotypic Heterogeneity Determines Pathogenicity
In Vitro
Authors: Brown Jason L. , Delaney Chris , Short Bryn , Butcher Mark C. , McKloud Emily , Williams Craig , Kean Ryan , Ramage Gordon
Published: June 2020

Candida auris
has recently emerged as an important cause of concern within health care environments due to its ability to persist and tolerate commonly used antiseptics and disinfectants, particularly when attached to a surface (biofilms). This yeast is able to colonize and subsequently infect patients, particularly those that are critically ill or immunosuppressed, which may result in death. We have undertaken analysis on two different phenotypic types of this yeast, using molecular and immunological tools to determine whether either of these has a greater ability to cause serious infections. We describe that both isolates exhibit largely different transcriptional profiles during biofilm development. Finally, we show that the inability to form small aggregates (or clusters) of cells has an adverse effect on the organism’s immunostimulatory properties, suggesting that the nonaggregative phenotype may exhibit a certain level of immune evasion.
Candida albicans
Genetic Background Influences Mean and Heterogeneity of Drug Responses and Genome Stability during Evolution in Fluconazole
Authors: Gerstein Aleeza C. , Berman Judith
Published: June 2020

Antimicrobial resistance is an evolutionary phenomenon with clinical implications. We tested how replicates from diverse strains of
Candida albicans
, a prevalent human fungal pathogen, evolve in the commonly prescribed antifungal drug fluconazole. Replicates on average increased in fitness in the level of drug they were evolved to, with the least fit parental strains improving the most. Very few replicates increased resistance above the drug level they were evolved in. Notably, many replicates increased in genome size and changed in drug tolerance (a drug response where a subpopulation of cells grow slowly in high levels of drug), and variability among replicates in fitness, tolerance, and genome size was higher in strains that initially were more sensitive to the drug. Genetic background influenced the average degree of adaptation and the evolved variability of many phenotypes, highlighting that different strains from the same species may respond and adapt very differently during adaptation.
Antenatal care booking within the first trimester of pregnancy and its associated factors among pregnant women residing in an urban area: a cross-sectional study in Debre Berhan town, Ethiopia
Authors: Kolola Tufa , Morka Wogene , Abdissa Bayisa
Published: June 2020

Objective

This study aimed to assess antenatal care (ANC) booking within the first trimester of pregnancy and its associated factors among urban dwellers of pregnant women in Debre Berhan town, Ethiopia.

Design

Cross-sectional.

Setting

Public and private health facilities that provide ANC services in Debre Berhan town.

Outcome measure

First ANC booking within the first trimester of pregnancy.

Participants

Urban dwellers of pregnant women in Debre Berhan town (n=384).

Results

A total of 387 pregnant women in Debre Berhan town were selected for this study, of which 384 responded giving a response rate of 99.2%. The proportion of pregnant women who had ANC booking within the first trimester of pregnancy was 156 (40.6%; 95% CI: 35.8% to 45.6%). In the multivariable analysis, the odds of first ANC booking within the first trimester was higher among pregnant women who had secondary school (adjusted OR (AOR): 1.84; 95% CI: 1.10 to 3.19) and more than secondary level of education (AOR: 2.26; 95% CI: 1.27 to 4.03) compared with those who had less than a secondary school level of education. Pregnant women who have any ill health with their current pregnancy (AOR: 1.99; 95% CI: 1.21 to 3.27) were more likely to start booking within the first trimester than their counterparts. The odds of ANC booking within the first trimester was threefold higher among women with knowledge of ANC (AOR: 3.05; 95% CI: 1.52 to 6.11) compared with their counterparts.

Conclusion

First ANC booking within the first trimester was found to be low among urban dwellers of Debre Berhan town. Secondary school and more educational level, having ill health during early pregnancy and women’s knowledge about ANC services were statistically associated with ANC booking within the first trimester of pregnancy. Therefore, improving ANC booking according to the WHO recommendation requires due attention. Further qualitative research exploring why early ANC booking remains low among urban dwellers is important to design intervention modalities.
Safety of tranexamic acid in thrombotic adverse events and seizure in patients with haemorrhage: a protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Murao Shuhei , Nakata Hidekazu , Yamakawa Kazuma
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a synthetic derivative of the amino acid lysine that inhibits fibrinolysis by blocking lysine-binding sites on plasminogen, which contribute to reduced bleeding, the need for transfusion and mortality. Although there is reliable evidence of the efficacy of TXA, its effects on other important outcomes, adverse events, including thrombotic events and seizure, remain uncertain.

Methods and analysis

We will conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials with the objective of evaluating the incidence of thrombotic adverse events and seizure and how the effect of TXA varies by dose and underlying disease. We will include patients with bleeding in any underlying disease. We will search MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for randomised controlled trials. The planned date of our systematic search is 1 June 2020. We will follow the recommendations of the Cochrane Collaboration and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis statement. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses will be performed to explore residual heterogeneity and inconsistency. Meta-regression analysis will be carried out to investigate the association between the incidence of adverse events and the TXA dose. The risk of systematic errors (bias) and random errors will be assessed and the overall quality of evidence will be evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach.

Ethics and dissemination

This study will not involve primary data collection, and formal ethics approval will therefore not be required. We aim to publish this systematic review in a peer-review journal.

Trial registration number

UMIN000039611.
Psychometric properties of the German version of the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 (CAPS-5) in clinical routine settings: study design and protocol of a multitrait–multimethod study
Authors: Spies Jan-Peter , Woud Marcella Lydia , Kessler Henrik , Rau Heinrich , Willmund Gerd Dieter , Köhler Kai , Herpertz Stephan , Blackwell Simon E , Bovin Michelle , Marx Brian P , Cwik Jan Christopher
Published: June 2020

Introduction

The aim of this study is to investigate the diagnostic accuracy, psychometric properties and clinical utility of the German version of the Clinician-Administered Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Scale for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-5 (DSM-5) (CAPS-5) in routine clinical settings.

Methods and analysis

This study is a non-interventional, multitrait–multimethod design, multicentre study that will be carried out at German civil and military inpatient and outpatient clinics. A total sample size of n=219 participants who have experienced at least one traumatic event according to criteria as defined in the DSM-5 will be recruited. For the investigation of the diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility of the CAPS-5, participants will be categorised into one of three groups, depending on their traumatic experiences and post-traumatic symptomatology: (1) monotraumatisation with PTSD; (2) multiple traumatisation with PTSD and (3) traumatisation without PTSD. Interviews will be conducted face to face by interviewers in routine clinical settings. All participants will also be asked to complete a comprehensive set of questionnaires in order to investigate different facets of construct validity and clinical utility. First, differences between all three groups in CAPS-5 sum and subscale scores will be investigated. Test–retest reliability and inter-rater reliability will be determined. Internal consistency will be calculated using structural equation modeling (SEM) based internal consistency coefficients. Construct validity will be measured with Spearman’s rank correlation analyses and multivariate analyses of variance with Holm-Bonferroni corrected post hoc analysis of variances. In order to test diagnostic accuracy, receiver operating characteristics and sensitivity and specificity analyses will be conducted. The model structure of the German CAPS-5 will be analysed using confirmatory factor analyses.

Ethics and dissemination

The study received ethical approval by the Ethics Committees of the Faculty of Psychology at the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (reference numbers: 331 and 358). The results of the study will be presented nationally and internationally at scientific conferences and will be published in scientific journals.

Trial registration number

DRKS00015325
Should mitochondrial replacement therapy be funded by the National Health Service?
Authors: Rhys-Evans Sophie
Published: June 2020

A clinical trial on mitochondrial replacement therapy (MRT) is currently being conducted and if this technique proves effective, National Health Service (NHS) England will fund MRT through the highly specialised services (HSS) funding stream. This paper considers whether MRT should be publicly funded by the NHS. Given the current financial pressure the NHS is experiencing, a comprehensive discussion is essential. There is yet to be a thorough discussion on MRT funding, perhaps because this is a small-scale issue and presumed to be covered by the HSS budget. However, the source of funding has not been confirmed due to the trial’s incompletion. Upon its completion, reasoned decisions need to be made over the allocation of scarce NHS resources. It is therefore important to consider the following arguments in advance. Three arguments given against NHS funding of MRT will be evaluated. The first argument against NHS funding examines the HSS overspending its budget in an underfunded NHS, suggesting funding must be carefully reprioritised. Second, the ethical issue of allowing public access to a technique with insufficient evidence behind it will be explored. The final point considers the option of privately funding MRT and how this would affect the treatment’s development. After illustrating the weaknesses of such arguments, it will be concluded that MRT should be funded by the NHS.
Ballast and NeuronMax in stroke thrombectomy
Authors: Gross Bradley A , Dolia Jaydevsinh , Tonetti Daniel A , Stone Jeremy , Brown Merritt , Shah Kavit , Desai Shashvat M , Lang Michael , Jadhav Ashutosh P
Published: June 2020

Background

Comparative evaluation of long sheath performance in stroke thrombectomy has not been performed.

Objective

To review an initial experience with the new Ballast 6F long sheath compared with the NeuronMax, to evaluate comparative benchmarks in trackability, navigability, and procedural outcomes.

Methods

A prospectively maintained thrombectomy database was evaluated over a 6-month period to compare procedural and angiographic results between a cohort of patients treated with the historical institutional standard long sheath (NeuronMax) and another with the new Ballast long sheath via a transfemoral approach.

Results

Of 156 stroke thrombectomy cases, 69 were performed using NeuronMax and 40 using Ballast via a transfemoral approach; the remainder of cases employed alternative long sheaths or were performed via initial radial access. There was no significant difference in patient age, medical history, baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score, Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score, arch type, tissue plasminogen activator use, and clot location between the two groups. Single-pass case frequency (41% for NeuronMax vs 44% for Ballast, p=0.84), and final successful revascularization (TICI 2b or greater) were similar between the two cohorts (91% vs 98%, p=0.42). Good 90-day outcome (modified Rankin Scale score 0–2) was also similar (33% for NeuronMax, 43% for Ballast, p=0.41). Excluding tandem occlusions, mean procedural time was 31 min for NeuronMax and 25 min for Ballast (p=0.09). Puncture to long sheath access and angiography in the base target vessel was faster for Ballast than NeuronMax (6.5 min vs 9.2 min, p=0.04).

Conclusion

Among a cohort of practitioners with historical, preferential experience with NeuronMax for stroke thrombectomy, faster procedural times were achieved with Ballast with similar final angiographic results.
Long work hours and decreased glomerular filtration rate in the Korean working population
Authors: Lee Dong-wook , Lee Jongin , Kim Hyoung-Ryoul , Jun Kyo Yeon , Kang Mo-Yeol
Published: June 2020

Objectives

We studied the association between long working hours and decreased kidney function, which was determined using estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), among the working population in South Korea.

Methods

We analysed nationally representative cross-sectional data for 20 851 Korean workers ≥20 years of age. A negative binomial regression model was used to test differences in the prevalence of chronic kidney disease (eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2) among workers divided into groups according to weekly working hours (<30, 30–40, 41–51 and ≥52 hours/week). Multivariate linear regression analysis was performed to investigate the association between weekly working hours and eGFR, with adjustments made for age, sex/gender, income, education, shift work, occupation, smoking, alcohol use, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, fasting blood glucose and total serum cholesterol.

Results

A 1-hour increase in weekly working hours was associated with 0.057 mL/min/1.73 m2(95% CI 0.005 to 0.109) decrease in eGFR among participants who worked ≥52 hours/week. Among participants without hypertension or diabetes, a 1-hour increase in weekly working hours was significantly associated with 0.248 and 0.209 mL/min/1.73 m2decrease in eGFR among participants who worked 30–40 hours/week and 41–51 hours/week, respectively.

Conclusion

Long working hours are associated with decreased kidney function. We expect that our findings could call for more research regarding this association and provide policy-oriented perspectives.
Questioning the regressivity of tobacco taxes: a distributional accounting impact model of increased tobacco taxation
Authors: Verguet Stéphane , Kearns Patrick K A , Rees Vaughan W
Published: June 2020

Background

Tobacco taxes, as with other ‘sin taxes’, are generally regarded as a highly cost-effective mechanism to reduce consumption but are often considered by policymakers to be regressive, undermining efforts to fully implement them at levels recommended by the WHO due to concerns of fairness. We aim to demonstrate whether there are circumstances in which the impacts of additional tobacco taxes are not regressive, using a standard income-share accounting definition of tax burden.

Methods and findings

We apply mathematical modelling and explore the hypothetical distributions in the net change in tobacco taxes and cigarette expenditures by income group, following an increase in tobacco taxation. The hypothetical distribution per income group of additional taxes and cigarette expenditures borne by individuals following tobacco tax hikes was calculated with respect to a selection of parameters including: the change in the retail price of cigarettes, the price elasticity of demand for tobacco, smoking prevalence, cigarette consumption and individual income. We determine the range of hypothetical parameter values for which increased tobacco taxation should not be considered to penalise the poorest income groups when examining marginal cigarette consumption expenditures and using an accounting definition of tax burden.

Conclusions

Our findings question the doctrine that tobacco taxes are uniformly regressive from a standard income-share accounting view and point to the importance of the specific features of tax policy to shape a progressive approach to tobacco taxation: tobacco tax increases are less likely to be regressive when accompanied by a broad framework of demand-side measures that enhance the capacity of low-income smokers to quit tobacco use.
Genetic differences and variation in polysaccharide antioxidant activity found in germplasm resources for Job’s tears (Coix lacryma-jobi L.)
Authors: Xuan Lingyan , Xi Xiujie , Xu Zixian , Xie Huijun , Zhu Yunguo , Cheng Zhou , Li Shan
Published: June 2020

Job’s tears (Coix lacryma-jobi L.) is an ancient plant with high nutritional and medicinal value. In this study, using 11 Chinese germplasm resources for Job’s tears, we examined genetic differences among the germplasms and differences in the in vitro antioxidant activities of coixan, and sought to identify inter-relationships between these two variables. We found that the intraspecific conservation of DNA sequences was high, with ITS regions and cpDNA trnL-F and trnH-psbA non-coding sequences showing no sequence variation, whereas the GBSSI gene showed a certain degree of variation among the different germplasms. EST-SSR analysis also revealed a relatively low level of genetic diversity among the germplasms. Coixan was shown to be an efficient antioxidant, and among the germplasms examined, the LNYX, FJPC, and AHBZ had the highest antioxidant activities. However, none of the four in vitro antioxidant activity indices we assessed were significantly correlated with the geographical origin of the germplasm (latitude and longitude); however, one of them was significantly associated with genetic diversity. Although the factors affecting the antioxidant activity of coixan are complex, the role of heredity should not be ignored. Our findings have implications for the scientific evaluation, identification, and sustainable utilization of the germplasm resources for Job’s tears.
The slope conjecture for Montesinos knots
Authors: Garoufalidis Stavros , Lee Christine Ruey Shan , van der Veen Roland
Published: June 2020

The slope conjecture relates the degree of the colored Jones polynomial of a knot to boundary slopes of essential surfaces. We develop a general approach that matches a state-sum formula for the colored Jones polynomial with the parameters that describe surfaces in the complement. We apply this to Montesinos knots proving the slope conjecture for Montesinos knots, with some restrictions.
Drinfel’d construction for Hom–Hopf T-coalgebras
Authors: Yan Dongdong , Wang Shuanhong
Published: June 2020

Let [Formula: see text] be a Hom–Hopf T-coalgebra over a group [Formula: see text] (i.e. a crossed Hom–Hopf [Formula: see text]-coalgebra). First, we introduce and study the left–right [Formula: see text]-Yetter–Drinfel’d category [Formula: see text] over [Formula: see text], with [Formula: see text], and construct a class of new braided T-categories. Then, we prove that a Yetter–Drinfel’d module category [Formula: see text] is a full subcategory of the center [Formula: see text] of the category of representations of [Formula: see text]. Next, we define the quasi-triangular structure of [Formula: see text] and show that the representation crossed category [Formula: see text] is quasi-braided. Finally, the Drinfel’d construction [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] is constructed, and an equivalent relation between [Formula: see text] and the representation of [Formula: see text] is given.
Fuzzy conifold YF6 and Dirac operator of principal fibration XF5 → SF2 × SF2
Authors: Lotfizadeh M.
Published: June 2020

It has been constructed the fuzzy Dirac and chirality operators on fuzzy [Formula: see text] which is the base manifold of the principal fibration [Formula: see text]. Using the fuzzy Ginsparg–Wilson algebra, it has been studied the gauged fuzzy Dirac and chirality operators in instanton sector. It has been shown that they have correct commutative limit in the limit case when noncommutative parameter [Formula: see text] tends to infinity.
Electrodynamics in Fock–Lorentz linear fractional relativity
Authors: Berrabah A. , Foughali T. , Bouda A.
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we have explored the effect of Fock–Lorentz linear fractional relativity on the electrodynamics laws, where the radius of universe [Formula: see text] emerges as a consequence in the new formulation of Fock’s transformation. By employing the Dirac Hamiltonian analysis scheme, we have studied the case of the free particle, as well as the charged particle in presence of an external electromagnetic field in the new deformed phase space “[Formula: see text]-Minkowski.” The Lorentz force is obtained up to the first-order [Formula: see text]. Furthermore, we have discussed the modified form of Leinard–Wiechart potentials.
Analysis of positive pions obtained in d + C collisions at 4.2AGeV/c
Authors: Khan Imran , Feroz Nabeela , Zaman Ali , Ullah Naseeb
Published: June 2020

Temperature is an important and commonly used parameter among others to study properties of matter created during high energy collisions of nuclei. Experimental data from JINR and UrQMD (version 3.3p2) model simulations have been used to estimate temperature and other properties of positive pions in collisions of deuteron with carbon nuclei at incident momentum of 4.2[Formula: see text]GeV/[Formula: see text] in this paper. Transverse mass and transverse momentum spectra have been used to get inverse slope parameter/temperature of said particles, with the help of some fitting equations. These equations are referred as Hagedorn Thermodynamic and Boltzmann Distribution functions. Such functions or equations are used to describe particles spectra. Temperature of positive pions has been found to be equal to [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]MeV in experimental and model, respectively, using Hagedorn function. Results from both experimental and model calculations have also been compared with each other and thus most reliable fitting function has been suggested. It is found that Hagedorn Thermodynamic function is the most reliable function to get pions’ temperature in said collision system at given momentum. Similarly, results obtained in this paper have been compared with results from other experiments in the world and worthy conclusions have been reached and reported.
Comparative analysis of the characteristics of charged pions in p12C and n12C collisions at 4.2GeV/c
Authors: Olimov Kosim , Gulamov Kadyr G. , Olimov Alisher K. , Lutpullaev Sagdulla L. , Khudaiberdyev Gulmurod U. , Bekmirzaev Rakhmatulla N. , Israilov Mamarakhim , Saidkhanov Nasir Sh. , Olimov Khusniddin K.
Published: June 2020

The new experimental data on various characteristics of the secondary charged pions produced in [Formula: see text]C collisions at 4.2[Formula: see text]GeV/c are presented. A comparative analysis of the average multiplicities and various kinematic characteristics of the charged pions produced in [Formula: see text]C and [Formula: see text]C collisions at 4.2[Formula: see text]GeV/c is made. The experimental data are compared systematically with the predictions of the modified FRITIOF model.
EFFECTS OF B4C AND CR3C2 ON MICROSTRUCTURE AND PROPERTIES OF LASER CLADDING CO-BASED ALLOY COATINGS
Authors: SUN YUFAN , FU HANGUANG , CHEN SHUANGYE , PING XUELONG , SUN SHUTING , GUO XINGYE , LIN JIAN
Published: June 2020

Based on the background of automotive mold surface strengthening, the effects of three different enhancements on the microstructure evolution, micro-hardness and wear resistance of laser cladding cobalt-based coatings were studied. The three reinforcing materials were Co45 alloy powder, Co45/8% B4C mixed powder and Co45/8% B4C/5% Cr3C2 mixed powder. They were respectively used to conduct laser cladding on the surface of die steel with preset powder method, with laser power of 2000[Formula: see text]W and scanning speed of 4[Formula: see text]mm/s. According to the test results, the hardness and wear resistance of the cladding coating were the best when Co45/8% B4C powder was added. In addition, the study also found that B4C reacted with Cr3C2 during laser cladding to eventually generate Cr2B. The CrB2 generated for the first time during the reaction was transformed into the most stable Cr2B with an orthorhombic Fddd symmetry due to its poor stability. Therefore, the sample with Co45/8% B4C/5% Cr3C2 mixed powder was affected with a slight decrease in microhardness and wear resistance.
Extrapolation in quantum chemistry: Insights on energetics and reaction dynamics
Authors: Varandas A. J. C.
Published: June 2020

Since there is no exact solution for problems in physics and chemistry, extrapolation methods may assume a key role in quantitative quantum chemistry. Two topics where it bears considerable impact are addressed, both at the heart of computational quantum chemistry: electronic structure and reaction dynamics. In the first, the problem of extrapolating the energy obtained by solving the electronic Schrödinger equation to the limit of the complete one-electron basis set is addressed. With the uniform-singlet-and-triplet-extrapolation (USTE) scheme at the focal point, the emphasis is on recent updates covering from the energy itself to other molecular properties. The second topic refers to extrapolation of quantum mechanical reactive scattering probabilities from zero total angular momentum to any of the values that it may assume when running quasiclassical trajectories, QCT/QM-[Formula: see text]J. With the extrapolation guided in both cases by physically motivated asymptotic theories, realism is seeked by avoiding unsecure jumps into the unknown. Although, mostly review oriented, a few issues are addressed for the first time here and there. Prospects for future work conclude the overview.
Discrete African Buffalo Optimization Algorithm for the Low-carbon Flexible Job Shop Scheduling Problem
Authors: Zhu Huiqi , Jiang Tianhua , Wang Yufang
Published: June 2020

In the area of production scheduling, some traditional indicators are always treated as the optimization objectives such as makespan, earliness/tardiness and workload, and so on. However, with the increasing amount of energy consumption, the low-carbon scheduling problem has gained more and more attention from scholars and engineers. In this paper, a low-carbon flexible job shop scheduling problem (LFJSP) is studied to minimize the earliness/tardiness cost and the energy consumption cost. In this paper, a low-carbon flexible job shop scheduling. Due to the NP-hard nature of the problem, a swarm-based intelligence algorithm, named discrete African buffalo optimization (DABO), is developed to deal with the problem under study effectively. The original ABO was proposed for continuous problems, but the problem is a discrete scheduling problem. Therefore, some individual updating methods are proposed to ensure the algorithm works in a discrete search domain. Then, some neighborhood structures are designed in terms of the characteristics of the problem. A local search procedure is presented based on some neighborhood structures and embedded into the algorithm to enhance its searchability. In addition, an aging-based population re-initialization method is proposed to enhance the population diversity and avoid trapping into the local optima. Finally, several experimental simulations have been carried out to test the effectiveness of the DABO. The comparison results demonstrate the promising advantages of the DABO for the considered LFJSP.
Classification of Douglas (α,β)-metrics on five-dimensional nilpotent Lie groups
Authors: Hosseini Masoumeh , Salimi Moghaddam Hamid Reza
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we classify all simply connected five-dimensional nilpotent Lie groups which admit [Formula: see text]-metrics of Berwald and Douglas type defined by a left invariant Riemannian metric and a left invariant vector field. During this classification, we give the geodesic vectors, Levi-Civita connection, curvature tensor, sectional curvature and [Formula: see text]-curvature.
Existence of conformal vector fields of Bianchi type I space-times in f(R) gravity
Authors: Shabbir Ghulam , Hussain Fiaz , Jamal S. , Ramzan Muhammad
Published: June 2020

In this paper, Bianchi type I space-times in the [Formula: see text] theory of gravity are classified via conformal vector fields using algebraic and direct integration techniques. In this classification, we show that the conformal vector fields are of dimension four, five, six or fifteen. Additionally, we found that non-conformally flat Bianchi type I space-times admit conformal vector fields of dimension four, five or six. In the case of conformally flat or flat space-times, the dimension of the conformal vector fields is fifteen.
Klein–Gordon oscillator subject to a Cornell-type potential in the rotating cosmic string space-time and Aharonov–Bohm effect
Authors: Ahmed Faizuddin
Published: June 2020

Klein–Gordon oscillator in the background space-time generated by a rotating cosmic string subject to a Cornell-type scalar and Coulomb-type vector potentials including an internal magnetic flux is studied. We obtain the relativistic energy eigenvalues and the corresponding eigenfunctions and analyze a relativistic analogue of the Aharonov–Bohm effect for bound states.
A new potential for scalar field dark energy
Authors: Al Mamon Abdulla
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we have investigated some cosmological consequences of a quintessence dark energy model. In particular, we have obtained the forms of the equation of state parameter, the deceleration parameter and the field potential by considering a simple relation between the scale factor and the time derivative of the scalar field, instead of assuming any functional form for the scalar field potential or the scale factor or the equation of state parameter. We have found that the model provides the desired early deceleration followed by present acceleration of the universe. The potential derived numerically in this work in the form [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are real constant parameters. It has also been found that our model mimics as the standard [Formula: see text]CDM model in future. Finally, we have also shown the evolution of the normalized Hubble parameter for our model and the [Formula: see text]CDM model and compared that with the latest Hubble parameter data.
Moser–Trudinger–Adams inequalities and related developments
Authors: Sandeep Kunnath
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we review some of the developments on the Moser–Trudinger and Adams inequalities in both Euclidean space and on Riemannian manifolds. We will also describe some of the closely related problems.
A comparative study of Li10.35Ge1.35P1.65S12 and Li10.5Ge1.5P1.5S12 superionic conductors
Authors: Jiang Yue , Hu Zhiwei , Ling Ming’en , Zhu Xiaohong
Published: June 2020

Since the lithium-ion conductor Li[Formula: see text]GeP2S[Formula: see text] (LGPS) with a super high room-temperature conductivity of 12[Formula: see text]mS/cm was first reported in 2011, sulfide-type solid electrolytes have been paid much attention. It was suggested by Kwon et al. [J. Mater. Chem. A 3, 438 (2015)] that some excess lithium ions in LGPS, namely, Li[Formula: see text]Ge[Formula: see text] P[Formula: see text]S[Formula: see text], could further improve their ionic conductivities, and the highest conductivity of 14.2[Formula: see text]mS/cm was obtained at [Formula: see text] though a larger lattice parameter that occurred at [Formula: see text]. In this study, we focus on these two different chemical compositions of LGPS with [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively. Both samples were prepared using the same experimental process. Their lattice parameter, microstructure and room-temperature ionic conductivity were compared in detail. The results show that the main phase is the tetragonal LGPS phase but with a nearly identical amount of orthorhombic LGPS phase coexisting in both samples. Bigger lattice parameters, larger grain sizes and higher ionic conductivities are simultaneously achieved in Li[Formula: see text]Ge[Formula: see text]P[Formula: see text]S[Formula: see text] ([Formula: see text]), exhibiting an ultrahigh room-temperature ionic conductivity of 18.8[Formula: see text]mS/cm.
Optimizing OpenCL-Based CNN Design on FPGA with Comprehensive Design Space Exploration and Collaborative Performance Modeling
Authors: Mu Jiandong , Zhang Wei , Liang Hao , Sinha Sharad
Published: June 2020

Recent success in applying convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to object detection and classification has sparked great interest in accelerating CNNs using hardware-like field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). However, finding an efficient FPGA design for a given CNN model and FPGA board is not trivial since a strong background in hardware design and detailed knowledge of the target board are required. In this work, we try to solve this problem by design space exploration with a collaborative framework. Our framework consists of three main parts: FPGA design generation, coarse-grained modeling, and fine-grained modeling. In the FPGA design generation, we propose a novel data structure, LoopTree, to capture the details of the FPGA design for CNN applications without writing down the source code. Different LoopTrees, which indicate different FPGA designs, are automatically generated in this process. A coarse-grained model will evaluate LoopTrees at the operation level, e.g., add, mult, and so on, so that the most efficient LoopTrees can be selected. A fine-grained model, which is based on the source code, will then refine the selected design in a cycle-accurate manner. A set of comprehensive OpenCL-based designs have been implemented on board to verify our framework. An average estimation error of 8.87% and 4.8% has been observed for our coarse-grained model and fine-grained model, respectively. This is much lower than the prevalent operation-statistics-based estimation, which is obtained according to a predefined formula for specific loop schedules.
Structural Basis of SARS-CoV-2– and SARS-CoV–Receptor Binding and Small-Molecule Blockers as Potential Therapeutics
Authors: Sivaraman Hariharan , Er Shi Yin , Choong Yeu Khai , Gavor Edem , Sivaraman J.
Published: June 2020

Over the past two decades, deadly coronaviruses, with the most recent being the severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) 2019 pandemic, have majorly challenged public health. The path for virus invasion into humans and other hosts is mediated by host–pathogen interactions, specifically virus–receptor binding. An in-depth understanding of the virus–receptor binding mechanism is a prerequisite for the discovery of vaccines, antibodies, and small-molecule inhibitors that can interrupt this interaction and prevent or cure infection. In this review, we discuss the viral entry mechanism, the known structural aspects of virus–receptor interactions (SARS-CoV-2 S/humanACE2, SARS-CoV S/humanACE2, and MERS-CoV S/humanDPP4), the key protein domains and amino acid residues involved in binding, and the small-molecule inhibitors and other drugs that have (as of June 2020) exhibited therapeutic potential. Specifically, we review the potential clinical utility of two transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2)-targeting protease inhibitors, nafamostat mesylate and camostat mesylate, as well as two novel potent fusion inhibitors and the repurposed Ebola drug, remdesivir, which is specific to RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, against human coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2.
NUPR1 preserves insulin secretion of pancreatic β-cells during inflammatory stress by multiple low-dose streptozotocin and high-fat diet
Authors: Päth Günter , Mehana Amir E. , Pilz Ingo H. , Alt Marcus , Baumann Johannes , Sommerer Ines , Hoffmeister Albrecht , Seufert Jochen
Published: June 2020

Obesity is associated with dyslipidemia and subclinical inflammation that promotes metabolic disturbances including insulin resistance and pancreatic β-cell dysfunction. The nuclear protein, transcriptional regulator 1 (NUPR1) responds to cellular stresses and features tissue protective properties. To characterize the role of NUPR1 in endocrine pancreatic islets during inflammatory stress, we generated transgenic mice with β-cell-specific Nupr1 overexpression (βNUPR1). Under normal conditions, βNUPR1 mice did not differ from wild type (WT) littermates and display normal glucose homeostasis and β-cell mass. For induction of inflammatory conditions, mice were treated with multiple low-dose streptozotocin (mld-STZ) and/or fed a high-fat diet (HFD). All treatments significantly worsened glycaemia in WT mice, while βNUPR1 mice substantially preserved insulin secretion and glucose tolerance. HFD increased β-cell mass in all animals, with βNUPR1 mice tending to show higher values. The improved outcome of βNUPR1 mice was accompanied by decreased NF-κB activation and lymphocyte infiltration in response to mld-STZ. In vitro, isolated βNUPR1 islets preserved insulin secretion and content with insignificantly low apoptosis during culture stress and IL-1β exposure. These findings suggest that NUPR1 plays a vital role in the protection of β-cells from apoptosis, related degradation of insulin storages and subsequent secretion during inflammatory and obesity-related tissue stress.
Maternal and neonatal response to COVID-19
Authors: Golden Thea N. , Simmons Rebecca A.
Published: June 2020

The risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) to maternal and newborn health has yet to be determined. Several reports suggest pregnancy does not typically increase the severity of maternal disease; however, cases of preeclampsia and preterm birth have been infrequently reported. Reports of placental infection and vertical transmission are rare. Interestingly, despite lack of SARS-CoV-2 placenta infection, there are several reports of significant abnormalities in placenta morphology. Continued research on pregnant women infected with SARS-CoV-2 and their offspring is vitally important.
Sugar causes obesity and metabolic syndrome in mice independently of sweet taste
Authors: Andres-Hernando Ana , Kuwabara Masanari , Orlicky David J. , Vandenbeuch Aurelie , Cicerchi Christina , Kinnamon Sue C. , Finger Thomas E. , Johnson Richard J. , Lanaspa Miguel A.
Published: June 2020

Intake of sugars, especially the fructose component, is strongly associated with the development of obesity and metabolic syndrome, but the relative role of taste versus metabolism in driving preference, intake, and metabolic outcome is not fully understood. We aimed to evaluate the preference for sweet substances and the tendency to develop metabolic syndrome in response to these sugars in mice lacking functional taste signaling [P2X2 (P2X purinoreceptor 2)/P2X3 (P2X purinoreceptor 3) double knockout mice (DKO)] and mice unable to metabolize fructose (fructokinase knockout mice). Of interest, our data indicate that despite their inability to taste sweetness, P2X2/3 DKO mice still prefer caloric sugars (including fructose and glucose) to water in long-term testing, although with diminished preference compared with control mice. Despite reduced intake of caloric sugars by P2X2/3 DKO animals, the DKO mice still show increased levels of the sugar-dependent hormone FGF21 (fibroblast growth factor 21) in plasma and liver. Despite lower sugar intake, taste-blind mice develop severe features of metabolic syndrome due to reduced sensitivity to leptin, reduced ability to mobilize and oxidize fats, and increased hepatic de novo lipogenesis. In contrast to P2X2/3 DKO and wild-type mice, fructokinase knockout mice, which cannot metabolize fructose and are protected against fructose-induced metabolic syndrome, demonstrate reduced preference and intake for all fructose-containing sugars tested but not for glucose or artificial sweeteners. Based on these observations, we conclude that sugar can induce metabolic syndrome in mice independently of its sweet properties. Furthermore, our data demonstrate that the metabolism of fructose is necessary for sugar to drive intake and preference in mice.