bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do illiterate mothers learn from their literate kids? Evidence from maternal nutritional knowledge
Authors: Seid Yared
Published: December 2020

This study provides empirical evidence on whether literate kids augment the nutritional knowledge of their illiterate mothers. A mother's ability to correctly diagnose her child's height and weight for age is used to measure maternal nutritional knowledge. To mitigate the potential endogeneity of living with literate kids, we use an instrumental variable (IV) approach and estimate unobserved effect probit IV models using longitudinal data from the 2002 and 2006 Young Lives Ethiopian household survey. The results from our preferred specification suggest that an illiterate mother who lives with a literate kid is 6.2 and 4.4 percentage points more likely to correctly diagnose her child's height and weight for age, respectively, relative to an illiterate mother who lives with no literate household member. Falsification tests suggest that our results are not confounded by other factors.
A review of the immune response stimulated by xenogenic tissue heart valves
Authors: Bozso Sabin J. , EL‐Andari Ryaan , Al‐Adra David , Moon Michael C. , Freed Darren H. , Nagendran Jayan , Nagendran Jeevan
Published: December 2020

Valvular heart disease continues to afflict millions of people around the world. In many cases, the only corrective treatment for valvular heart disease is valve replacement. Valve replacement options are currently limited, and the most common construct utilized are xenogenic tissue heart valves. The main limitation with the use of this valve type is the development of valvular deterioration. Valve deterioration results in intrinsic permanent changes in the valve structure, often leading to hemodynamic compromise and clinical symptoms of valve re‐stenosis. A significant amount of research has been performed regarding the incidence of valve deterioration and determination of significant risk factors for its development. As a result, many believe that the underlying driver of valve deterioration is a chronic immune‐mediated rejection process of the foreign xenogenic‐derived tissue. The underlying mechanisms of how this occurs are an area of ongoing research and active debate. In this review, we provide an overview of the important components of the immune system and how they respond to xenografts. A review of the proposed mechanisms of xenogenic heart valve deterioration is provided including the immune response to xenografts. Finally, we discuss the role of strategies to combat valve degeneration such as preservation protocols, epitope modification and decellularization.
Self‐perceived cognitive lapses and psychological well‐being in schizotypy: Generalized and domain‐specific associations
Authors: Giakoumaki Stella G. , Karamaouna Penny , Karagiannopoulou Leda , Zouraraki Chrysoula
Published: December 2020

A critical link between schizotypy and schizophrenia is impoverished cognitive functioning. In the majority of studies, though: (1) cognition is examined with standard neuropsychological tasks; and (2) high‐schizotypal individuals are defined according to criteria applied in the respective study sample. Taking these considerations into account, the aims of the present study were to examine: (1) differences between four pre‐defined, according to normative criteria, schizotypal (paranoid, negative, disorganized and cognitive‐perceptual) and one control groups in self‐perceived cognitive lapses; and (2) associations between schizotypal dimensions, self‐perceived cognitive lapses and psychological well‐being. Two hundred and sixty‐one participants were administered the Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire, the Cognitive Failures Questionnaire (CFQ) and the Flourishing Scale, which assesses psychological well‐being. Negative schizotypals reported higher scores in almost all CFQ measures compared with the control group (all p values < 0.01) along with poorer psychological well‐being compared with the control and the cognitive‐perceptual groups (both p values < 0.001). The disorganized group had higher scores in distractibility, blunders and total CFQ scores compared with the control group (all p values < 0.001). High psychological well‐being was significantly associated with low negative schizotypy and CFQ blunders along with high cognitive‐perceptual schizotypy (all p values < 0.05). To summarize, negative schizotypy is associated with a profile of “generalized” self‐perceived cognitive lapses while disorganized schizotypy is characterized by self‐perceived cognitive slips that have previously been shown to be mediated by a fronto‐parietal network. Although psychological well‐being is negatively associated with social‐context specific cognitive failures and negative schizotypy, it is positively associated with cognitive‐perceptual schizotypy.
Feline and canine Merkel cell carcinoma: A case series and discussion on cellular origin
Authors: van der Steen Francine E. M. M. , Grinwis Guy C. M. , Weerts Erik A. W. S. , Teske Erik
Published: December 2020

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is in humans and cats a malignant cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma, whereas in dogs it possibly has a more benign behaviour. It may be cytologically confused with round cell tumours such as lymphoma because of its striking cytomorphologic similarity. Although MCC is considered to arise from Merkel cells, recent findings indicated that primitive (epi‐)dermal stem cells, early B‐cells or dermal fibroblasts were the origin of human MCC. The aim of our study was to evaluate a possible lymphoid origin in feline and canine MCCs. Specific analysis of CD3, PAX‐5, KIT and PARR assay were performed in 3 feline and 3 canine MCCs. All MCCs (6/6) were negative for CD3 and PAX‐5. KIT was expressed in all MCCs (6/6). Assessment of clonality by PARR assay exhibited a polyclonal B‐ and T‐cell receptor rearrangement in all five cases tested. In conclusion, a lymphoid origin of feline and canine MCCs could not be demonstrated. This is in contrast with human MCCs, that often express early B‐cell lineage markers.
A Simple Model of Interbank Trading with Tiered Remuneration
Authors: Nakamura Toshifumi
Published: December 2020

A negative interest rate policy is often accompanied by tiered remuneration, which allows exemption from negative rates. This study proposes a basic model of interest rates in an interbank market with a tiering system. The results largely mirror actual market developments in late 2019, when the European Central Bank introduced the tiering system and the Switzerland National Bank modified it.
Theoretical and Experimental Investigation of a 34 Watt Radial-Inflow Steam Turbine With Partial Admission
Authors: Wagner Patrick H. , Van herle Jan , Schiffmann Jürg
Published: December 2020

A microsteam turbine with a tip diameter of 15 mm was designed and experimentally characterized. At the nominal mass flow rate and total-to-total pressure ratio of 2.3 kg h−1 and 2, respectively, the turbine yields a power of 34 W and a total-to-static isentropic efficiency of 37%. The steam turbine is conceived as a radial-inflow, low-reaction (15%), and partial admission (21%) machine. Since the steam is limited in the system (solid oxide fuel cell), a low-reaction and high-power-density design is preferred. The partial-admission design allows for reduced losses: The turbine rotor and stator blades are prismatic, have a radial chord length of 1 mm and a height of 0.59 mm. Since the relative rotor blade tip clearance (0.24) is high, the blade tip leakage losses are significant. Considering a fixed steam supply, this design allows to increase the blade height, and thus reducing the losses. The steam turbine drives a fan, which operates at low Mach numbers. The rotor is supported on dynamic steam-lubricated bearings; the nominal rotational speed is 175 krpm. A numerical simulation of the steam turbine is in good agreement with the experimental results. Furthermore, a novel test rig setup, featuring extremely thin thermocouples (ø0.15 mm) is investigated for an operation with ambient and hot air at 220 °C. Conventional zero- and one-dimensional predesign models correlate well with the experimental results, despite the small size of the turbine blades.
Universal scaling relationship for atomic layer etching
Authors: Kanarik Keren J. , Tan Samantha , Yang Wenbing , Berry Ivan L. , Pan Yang , Gottscho Richard A.
Published: December 2020

Atomic layer etching (ALE) is a multistep process used for removing ultrathin layers of the material. The removal step can be driven by ion bombardment, typically with energies of <100 eV and step times of >1 s. Previously, we reported a new ALE operating regime where exposures to ion energies were >500 eV and step times were <1 s. This paper provides a simple theoretical basis for unifying the low energy/long exposure and high energy/short exposure ALE regimes. This insight is captured in a scaling relationship that expands the concept of an ALE processing window and the corresponding application space.
Immediate Effect of Ankle Mobilization on Range of Motion, Dynamic Knee Valgus, and Knee Pain in Women With Patellofemoral Pain and Ankle Dorsiflexion Restriction: A Randomized Controlled Trial With 48-Hour Follow-Up
Authors: Coelho Bruno Augusto Lima , Rodrigues Helena Larissa das Neves , Almeida Gabriel Peixoto Leão , João Sílvia Maria Amado
Published: December 2020

Context: Restriction in ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (ROM) has been previously associated with excessive dynamic knee valgus. This, in turn, has been correlated with knee pain in women with patellofemoral pain. Objectives: To investigate the immediate effect of 3 ankle mobilization techniques on dorsiflexion ROM, dynamic knee valgus, knee pain, and patient perceptions of improvement in women with patellofemoral pain and ankle dorsiflexion restriction. Design: Randomized controlled trial with 3 arms. Setting: Biomechanics laboratory. Participants: A total of 117 women with patellofemoral pain who display ankle dorsiflexion restriction were divided into 3 groups: ankle mobilization with anterior tibia glide (n = 39), ankle mobilization with posterior tibia glide (n = 39), and ankle mobilization with anterior and posterior tibia glide (n = 39). Intervention(s): The participants received a single session of ankle mobilization with movement technique. Main Outcome Measures: Dorsiflexion ROM (weight-bearing lunge test), dynamic knee valgus (frontal plane projection angle), knee pain (numeric pain rating scale), and patient perceptions of improvement (global perceived effect scale). The outcome measures were collected at the baseline, immediate postintervention (immediate reassessment), and 48 hours postintervention (48 h reassessment). Results: There were no significant differences between the 3 treatment groups regarding dorsiflexion ROM and patient perceptions of improvement. Compared with mobilization with anterior and posterior tibia glide, mobilization with anterior tibia glide promoted greater increase in dynamic knee valgus (P = .02) and greater knee pain reduction (P = .02) at immediate reassessment. Also compared with mobilization with anterior and posterior tibia glide, mobilization with posterior tibia glide promoted greater knee pain reduction (P < .01) at immediate reassessment. Conclusion: In our sample, the direction of the tibia glide in ankle mobilization accounted for significant changes only in dynamic knee valgus and knee pain in the immediate reassessment.
Reducing redundant creatine kinase testing in cardiac injury
Authors: Raza Sheharyar , Amaral Andre C , Pang Jeffrey , Moussa Fuad , Shelton Dominick , Notario Lowyl , Harrington Heather , Callum Jeannie L , Yip Paul M
Published: December 2020

Background

Creatine kinase (CK) testing in the setting of suspected cardiac injury is commonly performed yet rarely provides clinical value beyond troponin testing. We sought to evaluate and reduce CK testing coupled with troponin testing by 50% or greater.

Methods

We performed root cause analysis to study prevailing processes and patterns of CK testing. We developed new institutional guidelines, removed CK from high-volume paper and electronic order bundles and conducted academic detailing for departments with highest ordering frequency. We evaluated consecutive patients at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre between 1 January 2018 and 31 March 2020 who had either a CK or troponin level measured. We prespecified successful implementation as a reduction of 50% in total CK orders and a decrease in the ratio of CK-to-troponin tests to one-third or less. We retained additional data beyond our study period to assess for sustained reductions in testing.

Results

Total CK tests decreased over the study period from 3963 to 2111 per month, amounting to a 46.7% reduction (95% CI 33.2 to 60.2; p<0.001) equalling 61 fewer tests per hospital day. Troponin testing did not significantly change during the intervention. Ratio of CK-to-troponin tests decreased from 0.91 to 0.49 (p<0.001). The reduction coincided with changes to order-sets, was observed across all clinical units and was sustained during additional months beyond the study period. These reductions in testing resulted in a projected annual cost savings of C$28 446.

Conclusions

We demonstrate that a low-cost and feasible quality improvement initiative may lead to significant reduction in unnecessary CK testing and substantial savings in healthcare costs for patients with suspected cardiac injury.
Catheter-related complications and mortality of atrial fibrillation ablation following introduction of contact force-sensing technology
Authors: Akar Joseph G , Hummel James P , Yao Xiaoxi , Sangaralingham Lindsey , Dhruva Sanket , Dong Jun , Ward Rebecca , Shah Nilay D , Ross Joseph , Noseworthy Peter A
Published: December 2020

Objectives

Contact force-sensing catheters allow real-time catheter-tissue contact force monitoring during atrial fibrillation. These catheters were rapidly adopted into clinical practice following market introduction in 2014, but concerns have been raised regarding collateral damage such as esophageal injury. We sought to examine whether the introduction of force-sensing catheters was associated with a change in short-term and intermediate-term acute care use, complications and mortality following atrial fibrillation ablation.

Design

Retrospective cohort analysis. We used inverse probability treatment weight matching to account for the differences in baseline characteristics between groups.

Setting

We examined patients included in the OptumLabs Data Warehouse who underwent ablation for atrial fibrillation before (2011–2013) and after (2015–2017) the market introduction of contact force-sensing catheters.

Main outcome measures

We examined 30-day and 90-day rates of all-cause acute care use, including hospitalizations and emergency department visits, as well as death and hospitalization for catheter-related complications, including atrioesophageal fistula, pericarditis, cardiac tamponade/perforation and stroke/transient ischemic attack.

Results

Our sample included 3470 and 5772 patients who underwent atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation before and after market introduction of contact force-sensing catheters, respectively. Complication rates were low and did not differ between the two periods (p>0.10 for each outcome). The 30-day and 90-day mortality was 0.1% and 0.3%, respectively after market introduction and unchanged from prior to 2014. The 90-day rates of all-cause acute care use decreased, from 27.0% in 2011–2013 to 23.9% in 2015–2017 (p<0.001).

Conclusions

AF ablation-related catheter complications and mortality are low and there has been no significant change following the introduction of force-sensing catheters.
CLIPPERS
Authors: Iovino Aniello , Del Vecchio Walter , Aruta Francesco , Iodice Rosa
Published: December 2020

We present the clinical case of a woman suffering from CLIPPERS syndrome (chronic lymphocytic inflammation with pontine perivascular enhancement responsive to steroids). The images obtained from the brain magnetic resonance show the lesions typical of the disease.
The growth factor parametrization versus numerical solutions in flat and non-flat dark energy models
Authors: Velasquez-Toribio A. M. , Fabris Júlio C.
Published: December 2020

In the present investigation we use observational data of $$ f \sigma _ {8} $$

f

σ
8

to determine observational constraints in the plane $$(\Omega _{m0},\sigma _{8})$$

(

Ω

m
0

,

σ
8

)

using two different methods: the growth factor parametrization and the numerical solutions method for density contrast, $$\delta _{m}$$

δ
m

. We verified the correspondence between both methods for three models of accelerated expansion: the $$\Lambda CDM$$

Λ
C
D
M

model, the $$ w_{0}w_{a} CDM$$

w
0

w
a

C
D
M

model and the running cosmological constant RCC model. In all case we consider also the curvature as free parameter. The study of this correspondence is important because the growth factor parametrization method is frequently used to discriminate between competitive models. Our results we allow us to determine that there is a good correspondence between the observational constrains using both methods. We also test the power of the $$ f\sigma _ {8} $$

f

σ
8

data to constraints the curvature parameter within the $$ \Lambda CDM $$

Λ
C
D
M

model. For this we use a non-parametric reconstruction using Gaussian processes. Our results show that the $$ f\sigma _ {8}$$

f

σ
8

data with the current precision level does not allow to distinguish between a flat and non-flat universe.
Epigallocatechin Gallate Reduces Homocysteine-Caused Oxidative Damages through Modulation SIRT1/AMPK Pathway in Endothelial Cells
Authors: Pai Pei-Ying , Chou Wan-Ching , Chan Shih-Hung , Wu Shu-Yih , Chen Hsiu-I , Li Chi-Wen , Hsieh Pei-Ling , Chu Pei-Ming , Chen Yu-An , Ou Hsiu-Chung , Tsai Kun-Ling
Published: December 2020

Elevated plasma concentration of total homocysteine is a pathological condition that causes vascular endothelial injury and subsequently leads to the progression of endothelial apoptosis in atherosclerosis. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a well-known anti-oxidant in green tea, has been reported with benefits on metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. This study aimed to explore that EGCG ameliorates homocysteine-induced endothelial cell apoptosis through enhancing the sirtuin 1 (SIRT1)/AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) survival signaling pathway. Human umbilical endothelial cells were treated with homocysteine in the presence or absence of EGCG. We found that EGCG significantly increased the activities of SIRT1 and AMPK. EGCG diminished homocysteine-mediated nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase activation by inhibiting protein kinase C activation as well as reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and recovered the activity of the endogenous antioxidant enzyme, superoxidase dismutase (SOD). Besides, EGCG also restores homocysteine-mediated dephosphorylation of Akt and decreases endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) expression. Furthermore, EGCG ameliorates homocysteine-activated pro-apoptotic events. The present study shows that EGCG prevents homocysteine-induced endothelial cell apoptosis via enhancing SIRT1/AMPK as well as Akt/eNOS signaling pathways. Results from this study indicated that EGCG might have some benefits for hyperhomocysteinemia.
Fermentation of Sprouted Ginseng (Panax ginseng) Increases Flavonoid and Phenolic Contents to Attenuate Alcoholic Hangover and Acute Liver Injury in Mice
Authors: Je Jihyun , Kim Hwajin , Park Eun Jung , Kim So Ra , Dusabimana Theodomir , Jeong Kyuho , Yun Seung Phil , Kim Hye Jung , Cho Kye Man , Park Sang Won
Published: December 2020

Alcoholic liver damage is caused by ethanol and its oxidized intermediates, and endotoxin-induced acute liver failure is mediated by apoptosis and inflammation. We investigated whether extracts of sprouts of Panax ginseng (SG) attenuate alcohol or endotoxin-induced acute liver injury in mice. Whole SG contains eight times more ginsenosides than the root and, because it grows quickly ([Formula: see text]30 days) without using pesticides, the whole-plant can be harvested. The extracts were enriched in phenolics and flavonoids and showed high radical scavenging activities. Mice received oral administration of SG or fermented SG (FSG) extracts 1 h before an injection of either ethanol or lipopolysaccharide and D-galactosamine (LPS/GalN). The latency of righting reflex was monitored to examine the effect of extracts on relieving hangover symptoms. The results indicate that FSG significantly reduced the latency of righting reflex, SG and FSG increased the activity and expression of ethanol-metabolizing enzymes, and FSG decreased hepatic necrosis and plasma levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). During the ethanol metabolism, cytochrome P450 2E1 expression was increased, but 4-hydroxynonenal levels were decreased by the extracts due to their anti-oxidant activity. LPS/GalN-induced liver injury was reduced by SG and FSG; plasma ALT and AST levels, hepatic necrosis, and apoptotic and inflammatory markers were all decreased. In conclusion, SG extracts attenuated ethanol-induced hangover and endotoxin-induced acute liver injury, and fermentation enhanced the efficacy with regard to relieving hangover.
The NF-κB Signaling and Wnt/β-catenin Signaling in MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cells in Response to Bioactive Components from MushroomAntrodia Camphorata
Authors: Lin Ting-Chun , Germagian Alison , Liu Zhenhua
Published: December 2020

Breast cancer is the leading cancer, accounting for approximately 15% cancer deaths in women worldwide. This study investigated the anti-inflammation and anticancer properties of two bioactive components from Antrodia camphorata(AC), a rare medicinal mushroom natively grown in Taiwan and commonly used in Chinese traditional medicine. The anti-inflammatory and antitumorigenic functions of Antroquinonol (AQ) and 4-Acetylantroquinonol B (4-AAQB) from AC were examined on breast cancer cell line MCF-7 with/without TNF-[Formula: see text] stimulation. Among nine inflammatory mediators (IL6, IL10, IL1[Formula: see text], IFN[Formula: see text], PTGS2, TGF[Formula: see text]1, TNF-[Formula: see text], CCL2 andCSF1) examined, AQ inhibited two of them (IL-10 and PTGS2), while 4-AAQB inhibited three of them (IL-10, PTGS2 andTNF-[Formula: see text] ([Formula: see text]¡ 0.05). TNF-[Formula: see text] stimulated expressions of five mediators (IL6, IL10, IFN[Formula: see text], PTGS2, and CCL2), and AQ and 4-AAQB inhibited IL6 elevation ([Formula: see text]¡ 0.05). Both components inhibited aromatase expression with/without TNF-[Formula: see text] stimulation, with 4-AAQB to be more effective ([Formula: see text]¡ 0.05). For immune checkpoint CD47, both components inhibited CD47 expression ([Formula: see text]¡ 0.05), but it did not respond to TNF-[Formula: see text] stimulation. For Wnt/[Formula: see text]- catenin signaling downstream genes (CCND1, C-MYC and AXIN2), both components have significant or marginal inhibitory effect on C-MYC in the condition with/without TNF-[Formula: see text] stimulation. The luciferase assay demonstrated that both components exhibited inhibitory effect on NF-[Formula: see text]B signaling and Wnt/[Formula: see text]-catenin signaling in the condition without TNF-[Formula: see text] stimulation. In conclusion, our results displayed an overall pattern that AQ and 4-AAQB possess potential anti-inflammatory and antitumorigenic functions in MCF-7 breast cancer cells and warranted further in vivo pre-clinical and clinical studies to explore their anticancer properties.
Demise of Unruh radiation
Authors: O’Connell R. F.
Published: December 2020

Unruh radiation has attracted much interest, particularly because of its relationship to Hawking radiation. But its existence has been challenged by a variety of authors, including ourselves [Phys. Lett. A 158, 31 (1991)]. The absence of a consensus may be traced to the complex challenge of dealing with the infinite number of particles of the associated heat bath. Here, we show how this problem may be obviated by using the quantum Langevin equation [Ford et al., Phys. Rev. A 37, 4419 (1988); J. Math. Phys. 6, 504 (1965)], which enables us to present a simple argument to show that, despite the existence of an Unruh temperature, there is no Unruh radiation. A key point is that the Unruh system is an equilibrium system, in contrast to the Hawking system which is a non-equilibrium system.
Implementation of the CMS-SUS-19-006 analysis in the MadAnalysis 5 framework (supersymmetry with large hadronic activity and missing transverse energy; 137 fb−1)
Authors: Mrowietz Malte , Bein Sam , Sonneveld Jory
Published: December 2020

We present the MadAnalysis 5 implementation and validation of the analysis Search for supersymmetry in proton-proton collisions at 13 TeV in final states with jets and missing transverse momentum (CMS-SUS-19-006). The search targets signatures with at least two jets and large missing transverse momentum in the all-hadronic final state. The analyzed luminosity is 137 fb[Formula: see text], corresponding to the Run 2 proton-proton data set recorded by the CMS detector at 13 TeV. This implementation has been validated in a variety of simplified models, by comparing derived cut flow tables and histograms with information provided by the CMS collaboration, using event samples that we simulated for the purpose of this re-implementation study. The validation is found to reproduce the signal acceptance in most cases.
Implementation of the ATLAS-SUSY-2018-31 analysis in the MadAnalysis 5 framework (sbottoms with multi-bottoms and missing transverse energy; 139 fb−1)
Authors: Araz Jack Y. , Fuks Benjamin
Published: December 2020

We present the implementation, in the MadAnalysis 5 framework, of the ATLAS-SUSY-2018-31 search for new physics, and document the validation of this implementation. This analysis targets, with 139 fb[Formula: see text] of proton–proton collisions at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV recorded by the ATLAS detector between 2015 and 2018, the production of a pair of supersymmetric bottom squarks when they further decay through a cascade decay involving the second lightest neutralino and a Standard Model Higgs boson. The validation of our work is based on three benchmark scenarios targeting different kinematic configurations. The first of them considers a new physics spectrum leading to the presence of high-[Formula: see text] [Formula: see text]-jets originating from sbottom decays, whereas the last two, that differ by the neutralino mass spectrum, are dedicated to the compressed regime and thus yield the presence of soft [Formula: see text]-jets in the final state. We obtain an agreement between the MadAnalysis 5 predictions and the official ATLAS results at the level of 20–30%, the largest discrepancies being related to cases exhibiting a poor Monte Carlo numerical precision at the level of the official ATLAS results.
Information transmission and noise correlation in continuous and bursty signaling systems
Authors: Yang Xiyan , Wu Yahao , Zhang Jiajun
Published: December 2020

Biological cells sense external concentrations via stochastic receptor signals and respond by regulating the expression of target proteins. Two main signaling mechanisms have been found to encode signal molecular concentrations: continuous modulation (CM), where the receptor signals continuously whenever a ligand is bound, and bursty modulation (BM), where the receptor signals shortly and with fixed size only upon the binding of a ligand. The two mechanisms are often subject to noise which influences the reliability of information transmission. However, how the relationship between noise and information transmission works in the two mechanisms is still unanswered. Here, we analyze a two-component signaling system with multiple receptors which can produce continuous or bursty signals, and decompose the total noise into three terms: intrinsic noise, extrinsic noise and correlated noise. Based on the obtained formulas, we study the information transmission and noise correlations in two signaling mechanisms. We find that (1) the intrinsic noise of BM is always not less than that of CM, whereas the correlation noise of the former is negative and that of the latter is zero; (2) the extrinsic noise of BM can be higher or lower than that of CM, or the former equals the latter, which depends on the mean duration ratio of the receptors at active and inactive states; and (1) the relationship between output noise and mutual information is inversely proportional in the two signaling mechanisms. Our results reveal the correlation between information transmission and noise which can be used to analyze the dynamics of two-component systems.
Dynamic expression of a HR neuron model under an electric field
Authors: Qiao Shuai , An Xin-Lei
Published: December 2020

The movement of large amounts of ions (e.g., potassium, sodium and calcium) in the nervous system triggers time-varying electromagnetic fields that further regulate the firing activity of neurons. Accordingly, the discharge states of a modified Hindmarsh–Rose (HR) neuron model under an electric field are studied by numerical simulation. By using the Matcont software package and its programming, the global basins of attraction for the model are analyzed, and it is found that the model has a coexistence oscillation pattern and hidden discharge behavior caused by subcritical Hopf bifurcation. Furthermore, the model’s unstable branches are effectively controlled based on the Washout controller and eliminating the hidden discharge states. Interestingly, by analyzing the two-parametric bifurcation analysis, we also find that the model generally has a comb-shaped chaotic structure and a periodic-adding bifurcation pattern. Additionally, considering that the electric field is inevitably disturbed periodically, the discharge states of this model are more complex and have abundant coexisting oscillation modes. The research results will provide a useful reference for understanding the complex dynamic characteristics of neurons under an electric field.
Optical-field induced SU(2) pair potential in caesium lead halide perovskites
Authors: Li Zhi , Wang Yue , Zhang Shengli , Iitaka Toshiaki , Tohyama Takami , Zeng Haibo , Su Haibin
Published: December 2020

Motivated by the controversial bright exciton splittings in inorganic cesium lead halide perovskite nanocrystals, we studied excitation state of perovskite CsPbBr3 by four-band model Hamiltonian. With spin–orbit coupling, the calculated band structure shows that the double degeneracy of each band around [Formula: see text] point is removed because of broken spatial inversion symmetry (SIS). With broken SIS, ring-shaped valence band maximum is formed in the band structure of ground state, and SU(2) vector potential in momentum is created with the excitation of one electron from valence band to conduction band by photon absorption. In the case of low density carrier, our theory also predicts that the energy splitting between the four binding electron-hole states by the vector potential is proportional to the power of laser light which certainly stimulates further experimental work in this intriguing topic.
Effect of grain boundary and defect on mechanical properties of bicrystalline graphene
Authors: Xiao Meixia , Song Haiyang , An Minrong
Published: December 2020

The effects of grain boundary (GB) and defect on the deformation behaviors of graphene under tension or compression in directions perpendicular ([Formula: see text]-axis) or parallel ([Formula: see text]-axis) to GB are investigated by molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. The results show that the bicrystalline graphene can sustain more load under tension along [Formula: see text]-axis than along [Formula: see text]-axis, and that regardless of tensile directions, the yield strength of bicrystalline graphene with high misorientation angle is higher than that with low angle. Furthermore, we found that the effect of GB on the deformation behavior of graphene under compression strain along [Formula: see text]-axis is more obvious than that along [Formula: see text]-axis.
AN EXPERIMENTAL STUDY ON FRACTAL PORE SIZE DISTRIBUTION AND HYDRO-MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF GRANITES AFTER HIGH TEMPERATURE TREATMENT
Authors: LIU RICHENG , JING HONGWEN , LI XIAOZHAO , YIN QIAN , XU ZENGGUANG , HE MING
Published: December 2020

This study experimentally estimated the fractal pore size distribution of granites, which is then linked to the hydro-mechanical properties of rocks treated by temperatures that range from 25[Formula: see text]C to 900[Formula: see text]C. The mercury intrusion experiment was carried out to characterize the pore size distributions and the MTS815.02 triaxial testing system was used to investigate hydro-mechanical properties of rocks. Finally, the micro-CT scanning system and scanning electron microscope system were employed to exhibit the evolutions of microstructures of cracks that were then linked to the macroscopic hydro-mechanical properties. The results show that the pore size distribution of granites follows the fractal scaling law and the fractal dimension ranges from 2.45 to 2.94. The fractal dimension decreases significantly when the temperature increases from 25[Formula: see text]C to 100[Formula: see text]C and then holds a constant with continuously increasing the temperature to 400[Formula: see text]C. The fractal dimension slightly increases as the temperature increases from 400[Formula: see text]C to 500[Formula: see text]C and decreases following a linear relationship until the temperature of 900[Formula: see text]C. The porosity obtained by the mercury intrusion experiment shows an exponential relationship with the fractal dimension. Both the axial stain and peak total stain, as well as the initial permeability and the permeability at the peak axial stress, have quadratic functions with the fractal dimension. The mean aperture of fractures increases from 56.75[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m to 76.10[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m with increasing the temperature from 100[Formula: see text]C to 900[Formula: see text]C through micro-CT scanning. The scanning electron microscope test clearly shows that the fractures are generated when the temperature exceeds 300[Formula: see text]C, which agrees well with the micro-CT scanning results. With increasing the temperature from 400[Formula: see text]C to 900[Formula: see text]C, both the number and aperture of fractures increase, which well interprets that both the strain and permeability increase as indicated by the triaxial stress-flow tests.
SPATIAL PATTERNS DYNAMICS OF A DIFFUSIVE PREDATOR–PREY SYSTEM WITH COOPERATIVE BEHAVIOR IN PREDATORS
Authors: SINGH TEEKAM , DUBEY RAMU
Published: December 2020

Cooperative behavior is an extensive mechanism in nature, and seen in several organisms, from bacterial cells to primates. In this paper, we have investigated a spatial predator–prey model with hunting cooperation in predators. Using linear stability analysis, we obtain the condition for diffusive instability and identify the corresponding domain in the space of control parameters. Using extensive numerical simulations, we obtain complex patterns, namely, spotted pattern, stripe pattern and mixed pattern in the Turing domain, by varying the hunting cooperation rate in predators and ratio of diffusion coefficient. The results focus on the effect of hunting cooperation rate in pattern dynamics of a diffusive predator–prey model and help us in better understanding of the dynamics of the predator–prey interaction in real environment.
INFINITE NUMBER OF PARAMETER REGIONS WITH FRACTAL NONCHAOTIC ATTRACTORS IN A PIECEWISE MAP
Authors: CHENG TAO , ZHANG YONGXIANG , SHEN YUNZHU
Published: December 2020

We identify a countable infinity of parameter regimes with strange nonchaotic attractors (SNAs). At the edge of each arc parameter area, there is an uncountable infinity of SNAs with torus intermittency. The mechanism for the creation of SNAs in different regime is induced by an [Formula: see text]-frequency quasiperiodic orbit through a quasiperiodic analog of saddle-node bifurcation (Type-[Formula: see text] intermittent route). We describe the transition between tori and SNAs by the largest Lyapunov exponent and phase diagram. These SNAs are characterized by the phase sensitivity exponents, rational approximations, singular-continuous spectra, and distribution of finite-time Lyapunov exponents.
AVERAGE DISTANCE OF SIERPINSKI-LIKE CARPET
Authors: MA YING , WANG QIN , ZHANG KAI
Published: December 2020

The geodesic structures on self-similar fractals are interesting. One feature of geodesic structures is average distance on fractal. We investigate the Sierpinski-like carpet and obtain the average distance in terms of self-similar measure.
Adic semidualizing complexes
Authors: Sather-Wagstaff Sean K. , Wicklein Richard
Published: December 2020

We introduce and study a class of objects that encompasses Christensen and Foxby’s semidualizing modules and complexes and Kubik’s quasi-dualizing modules: the class of [Formula: see text]-adic semidualizing modules and complexes. We give examples and equivalent characterizations of these objects, including a characterization in terms of the more familiar semidualizing property. As an application, we give a proof of the existence of dualizing complexes over complete local rings that does not use the Cohen Structure Theorem.
Maximal non-ϕ-pseudo-valuation rings
Authors: Kumar Rahul , Gaur Atul
Published: December 2020

The notion of maximal non-[Formula: see text]-pseudo-valuation ring is introduced which generalizes the concept of maximal non-pseudo-valuation domain. The equivalence of maximal non-[Formula: see text]-PVR and maximal non-local ring is established under some conditions. The concept of maximal non-PVR is also introduced and it is shown that a maximal non-PVR is either a [Formula: see text]-PVR or a maximal non-[Formula: see text]-PVR. Examples are also given to show that all the introduced concepts are independent of each other, in general.
One Identification Method of Distributed Dynamic Load Based on Modal Coordinate Transformation for Thin Plate Structure
Authors: Jiang Jinhui , Kong Huangfei , Yang Hongji , Chen Jianding
Published: December 2020

Load identification has long been a difficult issue for distributed load acting on structures. In this paper, the dynamic load identification technology based on the modal coordinate transformation theory is developed for dealing with identification problem of the two-dimensional thin plate structure. For the distributed dynamic load acting on a plate, we decompose it with the mode functions in the modal coordinate space and establish the liner relationship between the time function coefficients of the distributed load and the modal excitations which are solved out based on the known response data of the measuring points. Then the distributed dynamic load is rebuilt based on orthogonal decomposition and inverse Fourier Transform method. The simulation examples and elastic thin plate structure tests show that the proposed method has a good accuracy with the allowable error range and is reliable and practical. The proposed method can be also used for load identification of complicated structures in a wide range of engineering applications.
Oscillations in weighted arithmetic sums
Authors: Mossinghoff Michael J. , Trudgian Timothy S.
Published: December 2020

We examine oscillations in a number of sums of arithmetic functions involving [Formula: see text], the total number of prime factors of [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text], the number of distinct prime factors of [Formula: see text]. In particular, we examine oscillations in [Formula: see text] and in [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text], and in [Formula: see text]. We show for example that each of the inequalities [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] is true infinitely often, disproving some hypotheses of Sun.
On the parity of the number of partitions with odd multiplicities
Authors: Sellers James A. , Zanello Fabrizio
Published: December 2020

Recently, Hirschhorn and the first author considered the parity of the function [Formula: see text] which counts the number of integer partitions of [Formula: see text] wherein each part appears with odd multiplicity. They derived an effective characterization of the parity of [Formula: see text] based solely on properties of [Formula: see text] In this paper, we quickly reprove their result, and then extend it to an explicit characterization of the parity of [Formula: see text] for all [Formula: see text] We also exhibit some infinite families of congruences modulo 2 which follow from these characterizations.

We conclude by discussing the case [Formula: see text], where, interestingly, the behavior of [Formula: see text] modulo 2 appears to be entirely different. In particular, we conjecture that, asymptotically, [Formula: see text] is odd precisely [Formula: see text] of the time. This conjecture, whose broad generalization to the context of eta-quotients will be the topic of a subsequent paper, remains wide open.
Diet alters age-related remodeling of aortic collagen in mice susceptible to atherosclerosis
Authors: Watson Shana R. , Cooper Kara M. , Liu Piaomu , Gharraee Nazli , Du Liya , Han Savannah M. , Peña Edsel A. , Sutton Michael A. , Eberth John F. , Lessner Susan M.
Published: December 2020

The following major observations were made in this study: 1) aortic adventitial collagen fibers become more longitudinally oriented with aging in apolipoprotein E knockout mice fed a chow diet; 2) conversely, adventitial collagen fibers become more circumferentially oriented with aging in apoE knockout mice fed a high-fat diet; 3) adventitial collagen content increases significantly with age in mice on a high-fat diet; 4) these alterations in collagen organization occur largely in the absence of hemodynamic changes; and 5) circumferential reorientation of collagen is associated with decreased active force generation (contractility) in aged mice on a high-fat diet.
Rural Masonry Isolating Structure and LRB Experiment: Seismic Resistance Properties and Statistical Data Curve Analyses
Authors: Zheng Jiayao
Published: December 2020

The low masonry structure is the most commonly applied building type in rural China. It is possible to install small‐diameter, low cost, and easily constructed laminated rubber bearing (LRB) components. Isolation technology has broad application prospects in rural buildings. We developed a small‐diameter LRB in this study wherein the isolation layer is set above the floor for easy installation and replacement. We built and tested 4 walls to observe the effects of different LRB thicknesses; we assessed test respective phenomena and seismic parameters accordingly. We ran another test on five small‐diameter LRB components with varying horizontal stiffness, different forms of shear strain‐equivalent horizontal stiffness, and postyield stiffness while changing the fitting formula for the second shape coefficient to give small‐diameter LRB design providing gist.
miRNA-451a and miRNA-125a Expression Levels in Ankylosing Spondylitis: Impact on Disease Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Outcomes
Authors: Fotoh Dina Salem , Noreldin Rasha Ibrahim , Rizk Mohamed Soliman , Elsabaawy Maha Mohamed , Esaily Heba Ahmed
Published: December 2020

Background. Early diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is yet not elucidated, with a potential diagnostic glance of microRNAs (miRNAs). Aim. Study the expression profile of miRNA-451a and miRNA-125a in AS patients and their impact on disease activity and prognosis. Methods. A cross-sectional study included 55 AS patients diagnosed according to modified New York criteria in 1984 with 55 matched healthy controls. History, clinical examination, and disease activity assessment with Bath ankylosing spondylitis disease activity index (BASDAI) were done. Full laboratory and radiological assessment along with expression profile of m iRNA-451a and miRNA-125a were tabulated and analyzed. Results. Higher expression levels of miRNA-125a and lower of miRNA-451a in AS patients compared to controls. Furthermore, miRNA-125a expression was high in active AS patients compared to inactive patients and controls (

7.0
±
3.4

vs.

4.1
±
2.1

vs.

2.6
±
0.6

,

p
<
0.001

, respectively). miRNA-451a was significantly lower in active AS patients compared to inactive patients and controls (

2.2
±
1.1

vs.

4.1
±
2.3

vs.

7.1
±
4.5

, respectively). Both miRNAs (miRNA-125a and miRNA-451a) had evident accuracy for AS diagnosis with areas under the curve (AUC) of 0.788 and 0.802, respectively. miRNA-125a had potential impact on AS activity with AUC of 0.777. Plasma levels of both miRNAs were able to distinguish AS patients with structural damage with AUCs 0.775 and 0.692, respectively. Conclusions. Both miRNA-451a and miRNA-125a were found to be of great value as sensitive noninvasive diagnostic, prognostic, and disease burden biomarker of AS patients in Egypt with suggested further studies for future therapeutic implications.
Curcumin and Glu‐GNPs Induce Radiosensitivity against Breast Cancer Stem‐Like Cells
Authors: Yang Ke , Liao Zhiwei , Wu Yujian , Li Mengjie , Guo Tingting , Lin Jiayi , Li Yanwu , Hu Chenxia
Published: December 2020

Breast cancer stem cells are an important cause of radiotherapy resistance in the clinical treatment of breast cancer patients. How to target breast cancer stem cells is the key to improving the efficacy of breast cancer radiotherapy. We proposed for the first time that curcumin combined with glucose nanogold particles (Glu‐GNPs) targeted breast cancer stem cells to reduce radiotherapy resistance, which can significantly enhance the apoptosis level of MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer stem‐like cells (BCSCs) after radiotherapy and antiproliferation and colony‐forming. Under simulated hypoxic conditions, curcumin combined with Glu‐GNPs can significantly improve the ROS level of MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 mammospheres; reduce the expression of HIF‐1α and HSP90, thereby inhibiting the tumor cells’ own stress ability; promote the apoptosis of tumor stem cells; and enhance the sensitivity of radiotherapy. The current results indicate that the combination of curcumin and Glu‐GNPs has great potential to relieve tumor hypoxia and increase radiosensitivity on BCSCs, providing scientific research data for developing a novel radiosensitizer with high efficiency and low toxicity.
Comprehensive Knowledge towards Cervical Cancer and Associated Factors among Women in Durame Town, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Woldu Biruktawit F. , Lemu Lidiya G. , Mandaro Debiso E.
Published: December 2020

Low awareness about cervical cancer and poor screening practice are some of the contributing factors for the high burden of cervical cancer in sub-Saharan Africa. The aim of this study was to assess comprehensive knowledge towards cervical cancer and associated factors among reproductive age women visiting Durame General Hospital. Institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted in April 2019. Systematic random sampling technique was employed to select study participants. Pretested interviewer administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Binary and multiple logistic regression analysis was done. Adjusted odds ratio with a 95% CI was used to determine the presence and strength of associations between independent and outcome variable. Variables with

p

value less than 0.05 were considered as statistically significant. Among the 237 women enrolled, more than half (55.7%) have ever heard about cervical cancer. Health professionals were major source of information. Half of respondents (51.5%) had good knowledge towards cervical cancer. Urban residence (

AOR
=
2.28

, 95% CI (1.19-4.35)), having formal employment (

AOR
=
2.92

, 95% CI (1.53-5.59)), and knowing someone with cervical cancer (

AOR
=
5.21

, 95% CI (2.32-11.71)) were found to have significant association with good knowledge towards cervical cancer. The comprehensive knowledge of women towards cervical cancer was found to be insufficient. Provision of community-based health education with health professionals needs to be emphasized.