bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calculation of the Higgs Mass for Quark and Lepton Electric Charges Swap Lie-Groupoid
Authors: Koorambas Elias
Published: May 2022

Starting from the SU(2) group of weak interactions in the presence of Electric Charge Swap (ECS) symmetry, we show that ordinary and non-regular (ECS) leptons are related by the ECS rotational group SO(3). We find that many Standard Model (SM) algebras depend on the sin of the angle θs of the ECS rotational group SO (3). We call these ECSM algebras. Furthermore, the break of the gauge symmetry of the SM groupoid gives the massive ECS particle. We find that the ECS particle masses are related with the SM particle masses by sinθs . We also investigate the finite subgroups of the ECS Möbius transformations. We find that sinθs could be derived from the ECS dihedral group DF, which refers to the symmetry of the fermionic polygon (F-gon). The average value of the anchor of the SM algebroid depends on the fermionic Catalan numbers (CF). Finally, we find that the ECS physics at loop level differs the SM physics. The ECSM mass is suppressed by the CF numbers. For 24 fermions, the calculated one-loop radiative correction to the bare Higgs mass µ is 125GeV—a value very close to the experimental one.
High Atmospheric CO2 Concentration Causes Increased Respiration by the Oxidative Pentose Phosphate Pathway in Chloroplasts
Authors: Wieloch Thomas
Published: May 2022

Despite significant research efforts, the question of whether rising atmospheric CO2 concentrations (Ca) affect leaf respiration remains unanswered. Here, I reanalyse published hydrogen isotope abundances in starch glucose of sunflower leaves. I report that, as Ca increases from 450 to 1500 ppm, respiration by the oxidative pentose phosphate pathway in chloroplasts increases from 0 to ≈ 5% relative to net carbon assimilation. This is consistent with known regulatory properties of the pathway. Summarising recent reports of metabolic fluxes in plant leaves, a picture emerges in which mitochondrial processes are distinctly less important for overall respiration than the oxidative pentose phosphate pathways in chloroplasts and the cytosol. Regulatory properties of these pathways are consistent with observations of lower-than-expected stimulations of photosynthesis in response to increasing Ca. Reported advances in understanding leaf respiratory mechanisms may enable modelling and prediction of respiration effects (inter alia) on biosphere-atmosphere CO2 exchange and plant performance under climate change.
Biological Constraint as a Cause of Aging
Authors: Gems David , Kern Carina
Published: May 2022

Aging rate differs greatly between species, indicating that the process of senescence is largely genetically determined. Senescence evolves in part due to antagonistic pleiotropy (AP), where selection favors gene variants that increase fitness earlier in life but promote pathology later. Identifying the biological mechanisms by which AP causes senescence is key to understanding the endogenous causes of aging and its attendant diseases. Here we argue that the frequent occurrence of AP as a property of genes reflects the presence of constraint in the biological systems that they specify. This arises particularly because the functionally interconnected nature of biological systems constrains the simultaneous optimization of coupled traits (interconnection constraints), or because individual traits cannot evolve (impossibility constraints). We present an account of aging that integrates AP and biological constraint with recent programmatic aging concepts, including costly programs, quasi-programs, hyperfunction and hypofunction. We argue that AP mechanisms of costly programs and triggered quasi-programs are consequences of constraint, in which costs resulting from hyperfunction or hypofunction cause senescent pathology. Impossibility constraint can also cause hypofunction independently of AP. We also describe how AP corresponds to Stephen Jay Gould’s constraint-based concept of evolutionary spandrels, and argue that pathologies arising from AP are bad spandrels. Biological constraint is a missing link between ultimate and proximate causes of senescence, including diseases of aging. That this was not realized previously may reflect a combination of hyperadaptationism among evolutionary biologists, and the erroneous assumption by biogerontologists that molecular damage accumulation is the principal primary cause of aging.
THE MINERAL RESOURCES OF UKRAINE
Authors: Liventseva Hanna
Published: May 2022

Ukraine is one of the leading countries of the world in a wide range of minerals. Although it covers only 0.4% of the Earth’s surface, contains about 5% of the world’s mineral resources. It ranks top-10 of the world for several raw materials (metallic and non-metallic) such as titanium, ball clays, Fe-Mn & Fe-Si-Mn alloys and gallium. Lithium, graphite or magnesium, among others, are also present in Ukraine. The abundance and diversity of minerals and metals is due to the complexity and variety of the Ukrainian geology. This article presents the main metallic and non-metallic mineral resources of Ukraine and its geological context.
Avaliação de custos associados a fraturas por fragilidade no Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) e no Sistema de Saúde Suplementar (SSS) no Brasil
Authors: Mensor Luciana , Rosim Mariana , Marasco Gabriel , Rigo Deborah , Marchesan Thiago , Arinelli Roberta
Published: May 2022

Objetivo: Estimar a utilização de recursos e os custos médicos diretos associados às fraturas por fragilidade, sob as perspectivas do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) e do Sistema de Saúde Suplementar (SSS) no Brasil, por meio de abordagem de microcusteio. Métodos: Para a determinação do padrão de utilização de recursos, foi conduzida uma revisão da literatura sobre o manejo das fraturas por fragilidade (fêmur proximal, terço distal do rádio e vértebra). As condutas foram validadas por dois especialistas. Foram considerados apenas custos diretos, sob as perspectivas do SUS e do SSS como fontes pagadoras, a partir de listas oficiais de preços adequadas a cada categoria de custos e a cada perspectiva. Resultados: Os custos finais médios atribuídos ao tratamento cirúrgico da fratura de fêmur proximal, sob as perspectivas do SUS e do SSS, foram de R$ 5.612,13 e R$ 52.384,06, respectivamente. Para as fraturas do terço distal do rádio, os custos médios por paciente para o tratamento conservador e cirúrgico foram de R$ 661,53 e R$ 1.405,21, respectivamente, sob a perspectiva do SUS, e de R$ 8.917,75 e R$ 21.689,92, para a perspectiva privada. Quanto às fraturas vertebrais, os custos por paciente para o tratamento conservador e cirúrgico foram de R$ 1.165,93 e R$ 9.775,56, respectivamente, no cenário do SUS, e de R$ 15.053,32 e R$ 54.596,78, respectivamente, sob a perspectiva do SSS. Conclusões: No Brasil, custos diretos das fraturas por fragilidade são relevantes, justificando a preocupação não apenas clínica, mas também econômica para fontes pagadoras e sociedade.
EVALUATION OF THE SIDE EFFECTS OF OXAMYL AND HYMEXAZOL ON FIVE SPECIES OF SOIL-DWELLING PREDATORY MITES
Authors: Alhewairini Saleh S.
Published: May 2022

Side effects of oxamyl and hymexazol on five species of soil-dwelling predatory mites, Lasioseius dentatus (Fox) (Acari: Ascidae), Androlaelaps casalis (Berlese) (Acari: Laelapidae), Rhodacarus roseus (Oudemans) (Acari: Rhodacaridae), Macrocheles muscaedomesticae (Scopoli) (Acari: Macrochelidae) and Cunaxa setirostris (Hermann) (Acari: Cunaxidae) were tested under stringent laboratory conditions. Both oxamyl and hymexazol were found to drastically kill all five predatory soil mites listed above at three different concentrations (half of the recommended dose (HRD), recommended dose (RD) and double the recommended dose (DRD). Oxamyl was found to be more toxic than hymexazol to all five predatory soil mites as it could reduce their population by > 40% at the HRD, except R. roseus, as its population was reduced to 27.80%. In addition, the application of oxamyl can decrease the population of five predatory soil mites by >83% at RD while at DRD a total mortality rate could be seen. In conclusion, this research study has provided evidence which highlights the reduction of population of five predatory soil mites even after the exposure to half of the recommended dose of oxamyl and hymexazol. Therefore, precautionary measures should be taken to maintain the sustainability and to avoid disturbing the natural balance of the ecosystem
The mite Acarus farris inducing defensive behaviors and reducing fitness of termite Coptotermes formosanus provides a case for phoresy as a precursor to parasitism
Authors: Chen Yong , Zhang Lijun , Zhang Shijun , Liu Bingrong , Zeng Wenhui , Li Zhi-Qiang
Published: May 2022

Background: The ecology and evolution of phoretic mites and termites have not been well studied. In particular, it is unknown whether the specific relationship between mites and termites is commensal or parasitic. High phoretic mite densities have often been found to occur in weak termite colonies, suggesting that the relationship is closer to that of parasitism than commensalism. Results: To examine this, Coptotermes formosanus was used as a carrier, and Acarus farris as the phoretic mite. We used video recordings to observe termite social immunity behaviors and bioassay to examine termite fitness. Our results showed that the attachment of the mite on the termite can enhance termite social immunity behaviors like alarm vibration and grooming frequency while decreasing the duration of individual grooming episodes in phoretic mites. Further, A. farris phoresy led to a 22.91% reduction in termite abdomen volume and a 3.31-fold increase in termite mortality. Conclusions: Phoretic behavior hastened termites’ death, and helped propagate the population of mites feeding on dead termites. Frequent social behaviors may cost termites energy, and thus provides a case for phoresy being a precursor to parasitism. The specific relationship between A. farris and C. formosanus is closer to parasitism than to commensalism.
Prevalence and Incidence of carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae colonization: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tesfa Tewodros , Mitiku Habtamu , Edae Mekuria , Assefa Nega
Published: May 2022

Background: Klebsiella pneumoniae is a gram-negative rod belonging to the order Enterobacterales and having a wide distribution in the environment, including the human colon. Recently the bacterium is one of the known problems in the healthcare setting as it has become resistant to last-resort drugs like carbapenems. The colonized person can serve as a reservoir for his/herself and others, especially in the healthcare setting leading to nosocomial and opportunistic infections. Therefore, we aimed to quantitatively estimate the rate of prevalence and incidence of colonization with carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae.Methods: A literature search was conducted on PubMed/MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Cochrane Library, WHO Index Medicus, and others. All studies (published and unpublished) addressing the prevalence/ incidence of K. pneumoniae colonization were included in the study. Data were extracted onto format in Microsoft Excel and pooled estimates with 95% confidence interval calculated using Der-Simonian-Laird random-effects model. The degree of heterogeneity was presented with I2 statistics and prediction intervals. Publication bias was presented with funnel plots of standard error supplemented by Egger's tests. Results: A total of 35 studies were included in the review and 32 records with 37,661 patients for assessment of prevalence while ten studies with 3643 patients were used for incidence of colonization. The prevalence of colonization with carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae ranges from 0.13% to 22% with variation in different localities with a pooled prevalence of 5.43% (3.73-7.42). Whereas the incidence of colonization ranges from 2% to 73% with a pooled incidence of 22.3% (CI: 12.74-31.87), both prevalence and incidence reports are majorly from developed countries. There was a variation in the distribution of carbapenem resistance genes among colonizing isolates with KPC as a major gene reported from many studies and NDM being reported mainly by studies from Asian countries. A univariate meta-regression analysis indicated continent, patient type, study design, and admission ward do not affect the heterogeneity (p-value>0.05).Conclusion: The review revealed that colonization with K. pneumoniae is higher in a healthcare setting with variable distribution in different localities, and resistance genes for carbapenem drugs also have variable distribution in different geographic areas.
Estimation and Optimization of Relative Dielectric Constant of Medium and Low Loss Dielectric Objects at Ka and mm-Wave Band Frequencies
Authors: Pradhan Ayan Kanti , Maiti Shubhendu , Biswas Salil Kumar , Mondal Sanjay , Maiti Manabendra , Bhattacharyya Kausik
Published: May 2022

A novel technique based on cavity perturbation for the characterization of dielectric properties of medium and low loss homogeneous cylindrically shaped materials using a single iris coupled rectangular resonator in Ka and millimeter-wave band frequencies is presented in this paper. The relative real permittivity and the dielectric loss have been calculated from the formulated analytical equations using the simulation measurements of unperturbed and loaded cavity resonators. Simulated results demonstrate degradation in accuracy of the derived relative dielectric constant at higher-order sample radius. Finally, a first-order correction factor has been applied to stabilize the derived dielectric permittivity of selective dielectric samples measured at two respective frequencies, 36.624 GHz and 52.263 GHz. Using this modification stable and optimized dielectric constant of any dielectric types with extended operating radius can be obtained with a high degree of absolute accuracy. And thus the restrictions imposed by different cavity based measurement techniques on the selection of precise sample dimensions can be resolved.
Mechanical Hyperinflation Maneuver and intracranial pressure of critical neurological patients: protocol for a randomized clinical trial.
Authors: SOUZA DANIELA , Branco Marina Wolff , Junior Hipólito Carraro , Zocolotti Ana Márcia Delattre , Takeda Sibele Yoko Mattozo , Valderramas Silvia
Published: May 2022

Background: Mechanical Hyperinflation Maneuver (MHM) is a technique known for optimizing bronchial hygiene and respiratory mechanics, however its effects on intracranial pressure are not known. Methods: 48 patients aged ≥ 18 years, with clinical diagnosis of acute stroke, confirmed by neuroimaging examination, with onset of symptoms within 72 hours, under mechanical ventilation through tracheal tube, will participate in this study. Participants will be randomly allocated into 2 groups: Experimental Group (n=24): MHM plus tracheal aspiration, and Control Group (n=24): tracheal aspiration only. Intracranial pressure will be measured by a non-invasive technique using Brain4care BcMM-R-2000 sensor. This will be the primary outcome. Results will be recorded at 5 times: T0 (start of monitoring), T1 (moment before MHM), T2 (moment after the MHM and before tracheal aspiration), T3 (moment after tracheal aspiration), T4 and T5 (monitoring 10 and 20 minutes after T3). Secondary outcomes are respiratory mechanics and hemodynamic parameters. Discussion: This study will be the first clinical trial to examine the effects and safety of MHM on intracranial pressure measured by non-invasive monitoring. Limitation includes the impossibility of blinding the physical therapist who will supervise the interventions. It is expected with this study to demonstrate that MHM can improve respiratory mechanics and hemodynamic parameters, and provide a safe intervention with no changes in intracranial pressure in stroke patients.Trial registration: Brazilian Clinical Trial Registry (RBR – 5qs9k2n). Registered on 27 July 2021. https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-5qs9k2nProtocol version 1.0, protocol date March, 2019.
Multiresolution Spectrally Encoded Terahertz Reflection Imaging Through a Highly Diffusive Cloak
Authors: Ebrahimkhani Mahmoud , Harris Zachery , Liu Mengkun , Arbab M. Hassan
Published: May 2022

Turbid media are usually made of wavelength-scale inhomogeneous granular particles, which give rise to many significant imaging challenges. The random variation of the refractive index within such media distorts the spherical beam wavefronts, resulting in smeared and speckly images. The light scattering also limits the depth of focus to only few multiples of the scattering mean free path. Additionally, the scattering-induced spectral artifacts obscure the fingerprints of the chemicals in a sample, preventing accurate imaging and identification of the materials cloaked under a highly diffusive medium. We present the implementation of a multiresolution spectral analysis technique by decomposing the reflection spectrum using a wavelet transform approach for creating spatially- and spectrally-resolved chemical maps through such scattering media. We define a new spectroscopic concept, dubbed the "bimodality coefficient spectrum" of a sample, and show that the broadband wavelet-based reconstruction of the bimodality coefficient spectrum can resolve the signature resonant frequencies through scattering layers. We show that our new approach can achieve spectral images with diffraction-limited resolution. This technique can be used for stand-off detection of materials and spectral imaging in nondestructive testing and biological applications.
Downregulation of circBIRC6 and circCORO1C during differentiation of human cord blood-derived CD34 cells
Authors: Karimi Roqaye , Atashi Amir , Zomorrod Mina Soufi , Agami Monireh , Ajami Mansoureh
Published: May 2022

Umbilical cord blood hematopoietic stem cells (UCB HSCs) transplantation has attracted the attention of many researchers due to the low probability of GVHD and HLA mismatching; however, the use of this resource for adults has been limited due to the inadequate number of CD34+ HSC from any individual donor. Recent reports indicate that circular RNAs (circRNAs) are involved in stem cell properties. In this study, the functional role of several candidate circRNAs, including circCORO1C and circBIRC6 in CD34+ HSCs was investigated. The results showed that the expression levels of circBIRC6 and circCORO1C and simultaneously, the expression of transcription factors such as NANOG and SOX2 were significantly downregulated during differentiation. Taken together, these findings suggested that circBIRC6 and circCORO1C were involved in the process of self-renewal of CD34+ HSCs, and their expression is downregulated by differentiating these cells.
Genetic and transcriptomic dissection of an artificially induced paired spikelet mutant of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Zhang Juanyu , Tang Yanyan , Pu Xi , Qiu Xuebing , Wang Jinhui , Li Tao , Zhou Yao , Chang Yuxiao , Liang Junjun , Zhang Haili , Deng Guangbing , Long Hai
Published: May 2022

Grain yield of wheat is significantly associated with inflorescence or spike architecture. However, few genes related to wheat spike development have been identified and their underlying mechanisms are largely unknown. In this study, we characterized an ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS)-induced wheat mutant, wheat paired spikelets 1 (wps1). Unlike a single spikelet that usually develops at each node of rachis, a secondary spikelet appeared below the primary spikelet at most of the rachis nodes of wps1. The microscope observation showed that the secondary spikelet initiated later than the primary spikelet. Genetic analysis suggested that the PS of wps1 is controlled by a single dominant nuclear gene, designated WHEAT PAIRED SPIKELETS 1 (WPS1). Further RNA-seq based bulked segregant analysis and molecular marker mapping localized WPS1 in a interval of 208.18Mb-220.92Mb on the chromosome arm 1DL, which is different to known genes related to spike development in wheat. By using wheat omics data, TraesCS1D02G155200 encoding a HD-ZIP III transcription factor was considered as a strong candidate gene for WPS1. Transcriptomic analysis indicated that PS formation in wps1 is associated with auxin-related pathways and may be regulated by networks involving TB1, Ppd1, FT1, and VRN1, etc. This study laid the solid foundation for further validation of the causal gene of WPS1 and explore its regulatory mechanism in PS formation and inflorescence development, which may benefit to kernel yield improvement of wheat based on optimization or design of spike architecture in the future.
A memristor crossbar based on a novel ternary memristor model
Authors: Wang Xiaoyuan , Zhou Jiawei , Dong Chuantao , Jin Chenxi , Eshraghian Jason K. , Iu Herbert Ho-Ching , Kang Sung Mo
Published: May 2022

In this paper, a high-density programmable logic array based on a ternary memristor crossbar array is designed. Based on the three-valued state characteristics of the ternary memristor, we implement the ternary-OR logic gate and a standard ternary inverter to demonstrate the application of this proposed crossbar by using reconfigurable and programmable connections of the memristor cells in the array. Subsequently, on the basis of these logic gates, ternary NAND gates, NOR gates, XOR gates and XNOR gates are further realized. The above-mentioned logic gates all use memristance as the logic state variable. SPICE simulations are conducted to verify the functionality of the programmable gate array based on the proposed ternary memristor crossbar.
A New Formal Approach for Performance Evaluation of Green MAC Protocol in Energy Harvesting WSNs
Authors: Siham Zroug , Kahloul Laid , Tigane Samir , Hamani Nadia , Banharzallah Saber
Published: May 2022

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) are intrinsically energy-constrained networks. Researchers have proposed the integration of energy harvesting technologies into sensor nodes to overcome that constraint and provide a sustainable WSN. This paper presents a formal approach to model and evaluate the Green Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Avoidance (GCSMA/CA) MAC protocol in Energy Harvesting WSNs. This approach exploits the Hierarchical Timed Coloured Petri Nets (HTCPNs) formal method to design the GCSMA/CA protocol with the CPN-Tools for evaluating the proposed models. In addition, both qualitative and quantitative verification of the proposed models is tackled in this research. Linear Temporal Logic is used to formalise qualitative properties, and quantitative properties are evaluated by exploiting the monitor technique in CPN-Tools. The presented approach focuses on particular properties (performance delay, waiting time, waiting time for an acknowledgement, energy consumption and throughput) that have been overlooked in most prior studies. Time and hierarchy are two crucial features of the modelling process that HTCPNs offer. The time aspect allows time constraints for the GCSMA/CA protocol to be specified. On the other hand, the hierarchy aspect simplifies the modelling process and creates a modular and manageable model.
Effectiveness of ultrasound-guided fascia hydrorelease on the coracohumeral ligament in patients with global limitation of the shoulder range of motion
Authors: Suda Masei , Kimura Hiroaki , Kobayashi Tadashi , Suzuki Shigeki , Fukui Sho , Obata Hideaki
Published: May 2022

We conducted a prospective single-arm interventional study of the treatment efficacy of ultrasound-guided fascia hydrorelease (US-FHR) on the coracohumeral ligament (CHL) of patients with global limitation of shoulder range of motion (ROM) without local inflammation. The primary outcome was the change in passive ROM (pROM) of external rotation (ER) after first US-FHR. Secondary outcomes included the change in pROM of other directions from baseline, the pain visual analogue scale (pVAS) at the timepoints after each procedure (first, second US-FHR and rehabilitation) as well as the change in the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) from the first to the second visit. Eleven patients underwent US-FHR. The pROM of ER after the 1st US-FHR changed by a median of 7.1° (p < 0.01). There was a statistically significant improvement in the pROM of flexion, extension, abduction, external rotation, and internal rotation from baseline to each timepoints. The pVAS at rest showed no significant improvement, although the pVAS at maximal ER showed a trend towards improvement. The SPADI score decreased by a median of 13.4° (p < 0.01). No adverse events were observed. US-FHR on the CHL with or without rehabilitation might be an effective, less invasive treatment for patients with global limitation of shoulder ROM.
Microalgae- and biochar-mediated wastewater treatment: augmentation of bioelectrochemical nitrogen removal and biogas production
Authors: Chen Deqiang , Ibrahim Muhammad , Tian Ran , Wang Chenhui , Yang Ying
Published: May 2022

Bioelectrochemical systems can recover energy while treating wastewater as an attractive form of bioengineering technology. This research devised a novel upgraded system that can remove a high proportion of nitrogen (N) from wastewater and produce biogas. We investigated the scale-up effect of mixing ammonia-nitrogen (NH3-N) and nitrate-nitrogen (NO3-N) under anoxic conditions, and we also assessed the mediation-impact of Chlorella vulgaris (C. vulgaris) and carbon-based biocatalyst (biochar). The experiment was carried out using three independent batches, and each lasted for 35 d. The results showed that the unique enhanced system could simultaneously remove more than 90% of NH3 and NO3 from wastewater and generate a significant amount of N2O, CH4, and CO2. In addition, dominant bacteria genera such as Sporosarcina, Tissieralla, and Pseudomonas have played a robust role in N removal and biogas generation. Compared to past studies, the unique enhanced system significantly improved the N removal efficiency of the bioelectrochemical systems.
Design and Production of Camel Phenotyping Assistance System
Authors: Asadzadeh Nader , Sani Morteza Bitaraf , Banabazi Mohammad Hossein , Esmaeilkhanian Saeid , Harofte Javad Zare , Naderi Ali Shafei , Davodly Ehsan Shams , Burger Pamela Anna , Mirjalili Alibeman
Published: May 2022

Background: One of the significant challenges in camel husbandry is the lack of records and characterization of economically and health-relevant phenotypes. There are many fundamental problems due to their dispersion and the nature of the camel grassland farming specially phenotyping of camels. People's participation in the design and implementation of livestock and agriculture development programs is a straightforward matter, and an inevitable necessity and they should be involved in all cases and aspects of the programs.Methods: This research aims to design and set up a system in order to establish communication and networking among herds, phenotyping, and tracking of camels. The capabilities of camel phenotyping assistance system include: registration of the herd characteristics, camel tracker, estimation of body weight, and training, developed in cell phone platform. Results: This system, named SAREBANYAR, will improve data collection and can undoubtedly pave the way for the development of applied research to improve camel production traits. It also provides the skills training for the camel owners and will also increase the herd’s performance.
Landuse Characteristics of Flood Prone Areas in Birnin-kebbi Local Government Area, Nigeria
Authors: Olanrewaju Samson Olaitan
Published: May 2022

This study assessed the landuse characteristics of flood-prone areas (FPAs) in BirninKebbi Local Government Area. There are twelve FPAs in the study area, out of which three (Ambursa, Gwadagwanji, and Dagere) were randomly selected. In each of the FPA, flood plains were identified while a radius of 300 meters was delineated around the widest plain. Thereafter, landuse characterization was done. Also, 240 questionnaires were administered to elicit information on the impact of flooding. The major landuses in the study area are residential (56.73%), and agricultural (33.97%). Intensive farming, mostly rice plantation, is carried out in the study area – a practice that loosens the soil and makes it vulnerable to flooding. Unfortunately, there is no landuse regulation concerning agricultural practice and development in hazard zones in the area, and none of the developments in these areas is approved by the Kebbi State Urban Development Authority. All the sampled respondents have experienced flooding. With the Flood Impact Index (FII) of 0.22 and 0.08, the impacts of flooding in the area are displacement and loss of agricultural products. The paper, therefore, recommends the declaration of FPAs as hazard zones with landuse plans developed – both for agricultural landuses and built-up developments.
A simple model to fit and interpret creep curves-behaviour of modified micro-cellulose particulate composites
Authors: Ornaghi Heitor Luiz , Neves Roberta Motta , Kerche Eduardo Fischer , Monticeli Francisco Maciel , Zattera Ademir José
Published: May 2022

Micro crystalline cellulose is largely used to improve thermos-mechanical properties of composites. This study aims to evaluate the creep behaviour of micro-cellulose epoxy-based composites, and the effect of reinforcements’ silanization treatment. A new viscoelastic model, based on the generalized logistic function was successfully tested. The results were directly associated with the material’s structure-property relationships. Rigid particles restricted the molecular chain’s motion, mainly on the amorphous segments. This difference achieved the needing of more energy, to achieve creep deformation. Then, MCC improved the structural integrity, when incorporated into an epoxy matrix. On one hand, the incorporation of silanized-MCC increased the mechanical behavior of the composite, due to the stiffer structure. Furthermore, the chemical modification provided an increment in the glassy plateau, associated with higher thermal energy required to initiate strain of the amorphous polymeric chains. This behaviour conducted in an abrupt decrease of load-bearing capability for the composites. Finally, the proposed model is suitable to be employed in creep curves, aiming to easily interpret the structure-property relationships of this test.
Tension Subdural Hygroma following Resection of Posterior Fossa Tumor in a Child – A new Clinical Pathological Radiological entity
Authors: Pillai Mahesh Krishna , Kariyattil Rajeev , Chhabra Rajesh , Govindaraju Venkatesh , Kochummen Koshy
Published: May 2022

Subdural hygroma following posterior fossa tumor resection is very rare, with only three cases reported in the literature. Authors describe a case of subdural hygroma following posterior fossa tumor resection with distinct clinical, pathological and radiological features, through an illustrative case of a child, who underwent gross total resection of a fourth ventricular tumor. The clinical, radiological and pathological sequelae following development of post-operative bilaterally symmetrical subdural cerebrospinal fluid collection, under high pressure, explained. The term “tension sudural hygroma” introduced to describe this unique condition, not described elsewhere, to date. Features that differentiate this condition from previously reported cases of subdural hygroma following posterior fossa tumor resection, explained. Subduro-peritoneal shunt as the choice of treatment, rather than ventriculo-peritoneal shunt, burr hole drainage of the subdural hygroma or aspiration of the pseudomeningocele, suggested.
Analysis and enhancement of risk management for ethnic differences in antineoplastic drugs in Japan
Authors: Uzu Shinobu , Sato Jun , Wakao Rika , Nonaka Takahiro
Published: May 2022

Background Risk management in the post-marketing phase is crucial to minimize health problems caused by drugs. Because ethnic factors may affect drug safety, the objective of this study was to explore concrete approaches to reflecting ethnic factors in risk management under multi-regional drug development.Methods We assessed Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) review reports on antineoplastic drugs approved as new molecular entities in the last 10 years to identify any differences in the incidence of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) related to myelosuppression, hepatic impairment, renal impairment, and interstitial lung disease between Japanese and non-Japanese populations. In addition, we investigated how those ADRs were handled in the labeling of each drug.Results In total, 44 drugs were available for comparing the incidence of ADRs between Japanese and non-Japanese populations. Of these, 32 drugs had a higher incidence of ADRs in the Japanese population. However, the incidence of ADRs in the Japanese population was described in the labeling for 7 drugs, and only the incidence in the overall population in multi-regional phase III trials was described in the labeling for the remaining 25 drugs. Of these 25 drugs, two drugs were immediately placed under emergency safety control measures after approval because of the high incidence of ADRs in Japanese patients.Conclusions For drugs that might cause serious ADRs and with a higher incidence in the Japanese population, information should be provided on the incidence in the Japanese population as well as in the overall population.
Do patients want clinicians to ask about social needs and include this information in their medical record?
Authors: Albert Steven , McCracken Polly , Bui Thuy , Hanmer Janel , Fischer Gary S , Hariharan Jaishree , James Everette A
Published: May 2022

BackgroundSocial needs screening in primary care may be valuable for addressing non-medical health-related factors, such as housing insecurity, that interfere with optimal medical care. Yet it is unclear if patients welcome such screening and how comfortable they are having this information included in electronic health records (EHR).ObjectiveTo assess patient attitudes toward inclusion of social needs information in the EHR and key correlates, such as sociodemographic status, self-rated health, and trust in health care.Design, participants, and main measuresIn a cross-sectional survey of patients attending a primary care clinic for annual or employment exams, 218/560 (38%) consented and completed a web survey or personal interview between 8/20/20 − 8/23/21. Patients provided social needs information using the Accountable Care Communities Screening Tool. For the primary outcome, patients were asked, “Would you be comfortable having these kinds of needs included in your health record (also known as your medical record or chart)?”AnalysesRegression models were estimated to assess correlates of patient comfort with including social needs information in medical records.Key resultsThe median age was 45, 68.8% were female, and 78% were white. Median income was $75,000 and 84% reported education beyond high school. Social need ranged from 5.5% (utilities) to 26.6% (housing), and nonwhite and gender-nonconforming patients reported greater need. 20% reported “some” or “complete” discomfort with social needs information included in the EHR. Adjusting for age, gender, race, education, trust, and self-rated health, each additional reported social need significantly increased discomfort with the EHR for documenting social needs.ConclusionsPeople with greater social needs were more wary of having this information placed in the EHR. This is a concerning finding, since one rationale for collecting social need data is to use this information (presumably in the EHR) for addressing needs.
Delineation of groundwater potential in Southeastern Peshawar using lithostratigraphic properties and geophysical techniques
Authors: Shahzad Asim , Janjuhah Hammad Tariq , Shahzad Syed Muzyan , Kontakiotis George , Fanidi Meryam , Makri Panayota
Published: May 2022

The Peshawar basin is a part of the lower Himalayas that contains an enormous amount of groundwater storage. The evaluation of groundwater potential in the southern Peshawar district was done using a hydrogeological and geophysical technique. A total of 13 Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) profiles were utilized to assess potential groundwater zones for surface resistivity studies. The aquifer system was delineated by comparing the data from five boreholes with the VES findings. It was also possible to find areas of super-saturated groundwater potential by linking metrics such as transmissivity (T), hydraulic conductivity (K), storativity (S), and the Dar Zarrouk. The examined aquifer is composed of clay, sand, gravels, boulders, and loose layers of lacustrine mud that are interlayered to form unconsolidated groundwater aquifer system. As a result, it is possible to use the aquifer for groundwater development because of its low-medium discharge.
Anti-Control of Hopf Bifurcation for High-Deimensional Chaotic Systems with Coexisting Attractors
Authors: Zhu Erxi , Xu Min , Pi Dechang
Published: May 2022

Anti-control of Hopf bifurcation for the chaotic system is a common means of chaos application. It realizes the system’s bifurcation advance or delay, thereby meeting the practical needs of engineering. Herein, the nonlinear dynamic properties of the equilibrium point of a hyperchaotic system with coexisting attractors in a high dimensional band are examined to meet the research gap in the anti-control of Hopf bifurcation for the low-dimensional chaotic system. Specifically, anti-control of Hopf bifurcation is implemented by the dynamic state feedback control method. After the adjustment of the introduced system parameters, Hopf bifurcation is generated at a predetermined position, thus realizing the desired negative control. The simulation results demonstrate the simplified calculation process and remarkable control effect of this anti-control method.
Derivation of Digital-to-Analog Converter Architectures Based on Number Theory.
Authors: Bai Xueyan , Yao Dan , Du Yuanyang , Tran Minh Tri , Katayama Shogo , Wei Jianglin , Zhao Yujie , Kuwana Anna , Kobayashi Haruo , Kubo Kazuyoshi
Published: May 2022

This paper investigates possibilities of deriving new digital-to-analog converter (DAC) architectures based on polygonal and prime number theories. As the result, configurations of polygonal number DACs and prime number DACs are obtained; each consists of a few current sources, a resistor network, switch arrays and a decoder circuit. Whole circuits are designed and their operations are confirmed with simulation; they work as DAC in principle. In many cases, analog/mixed-signal circuit architecture design relies on intuitions and experiences of the designer, but here we demonstrate that it is feasible to derive different DAC architectures from conventional ones based on mathematical theory.
Lactoferrin binding to Sars-CoV-2 Spike glycoprotein protects host from infection, inflammation and iron dysregulation.
Authors: Cutone Antimo , Rosa Luigi , Patti Maria Carmela Bonaccorsi di , Iacovelli Federico , Conte Maria Pia , Ianiro Giusi , Romeo Alice , Campione Elena , Bianchi Luca , Valenti Piera , Falconi Mattia , Musci Giovanni
Published: May 2022

The anti-SARS-Cov-2 activity of the iron-binding protein Lactoferrrin has been investigated in epithelial and macrophagic cell models using a Pseudovirus decorated with the SARS-CoV-2 Spike glycoprotein. The human and, even more, the nutraceutically available bovine Lactoferrin inhibit pseudoviral infection in all cellular models tested. The bovine protein efficiently counteracts the deleterious effects of purified Spike on iron and inflammatory homeostasis, as shown by restored levels of the main proteins of the iron-handling system and, in the case of macrophagic THP-1 cells, of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-6. A direct interaction between Lactoferrin and Spike is likely at the basis of the observed effects, as demonstrated by an in vitro pull-down assay. Finally, in silico approaches have been applied to analyze the interactions of human and bovine Lactoferrins with Transferrin Receptor 1, a potential gate for SARS-CoV-2 entry into cells, as well as the binding of the bovine protein to different variants of concern of the SARS-Cov-2 Spike glycoprotein. Our results give hope for the employment of bovine Lactoferrin as an adjuvant of the standard of care therapies in COVID-19 treatment.
A Self-adaptive Extragradient Method for Fixed Point and Pseudomonotone Equilibrium Problems in Hadamard Spaces
Authors: AREMU KAZEEM OLALEKAN , JOLAOSO LATEEF OLAKUNLE , OYEWOLE OLAWALE KAZEEM
Published: May 2022

In this work, we study a self-adaptive extragradient algorithm for approximating a common solution of a pseudomonotone equilibrium problem and fixed point problem for multivalued nonexpansive mapping in Hadamard spaces. Our proposed algorithm is designed in a such way that its step-size does not require the knowledge of the Lipschitz-like constants of the bifunction. Under some nice conditions, we establish the strong convergence of the algorithm without prior knowledge of the Lipschitz constants. Furthermore, we provide a numerical experiment to demonstrate the efficiency of our algorithm. This result extends and compliments recent results in the literature.
An Unsupervised Method Based on Unpaired Multimodality Data for Heterogeneous Face Recognition
Authors: Mingxin Tang , wei chen
Published: May 2022

Current deep learning methods for heterogeneous face recognition (HFR) rely on pairwise multimodal image data for training, but such data are difficult to collect. In this paper, we propose an unsupervised deep learning method based on unpaired multimodal image data. This method employs a variational autoencoder (VAE) and a discriminator from a generative adversarial network (GAN) to disentangle the given heterogeneous image data into domain-independent semantic features and domain-dependent style features. Specifically, the VAE utilizes its latent space to disentangle features and encode explicitly domain-independent semantic features that are used to match face images from different modalities. The discriminator is used to discriminate the domains of images generated by the VAE, which can improve the domain recognition ability of the VAE. Moreover, multiple-scale feature aggregation is incorporated into the encoder part of the VAE to make the domain-independent semantic features contain multiple-scale construction information. Experimental results obtained on three widely used face datasets are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Our code will be available on GitHub.
Ultrafast biodegradation pathway of polyimides using aromatic diamine with two spiro moieties derived from camphor
Authors: Sim Su Ji , Kang Ju Hui , Lee Joon Hyuk , Suh Dong Hack
Published: May 2022

As a key structural element, polyimides (PIs) are garnering attention as high-functional polymers in the microelectronics and optical fields. Recently, their structural behaviour renders PIs as promising candidates for the formation of charge-transfer complex (CTC). However, unfortunate drawbacks of PI-based CTCs are in their insolubility and low degradability. The endeavour to overcome the aforementioned issue is aimed at designing biodegradable PIs with high solubility. A novel organic diamine monomer bridges this gap. Based on these fundamental phenomena, we demonstrate an environmentally-friendly camphor aromatic diamine (CAD diamine). The efforts described herein shows excellent solubility and thermal stability by introducing two spiro moieties. Ultrafast degradable PIs were further prepared from CAD diamine, which not only prevented the polymer deterioration but also reported ultrafast degradability in a sufficient manner.
Maxillary sinus morphometric changes after using three types of RME (conventional, hybrid and MSE)CBCT study
Authors: Shendy Mohamed , Abouelnour Ahmed , Shehata Ahmed
Published: May 2022

Aim of the study: To evaluate morphometric changes in maxillary air sinus (MS) of three different Rapid maxillary expander (RME) {conventional, hybrid and maxillary skeletal expander (MSE)} using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) Material and Methods: A total sample of sixty CBCT of patients presented with constricted maxilla with an age ranged from 11–18 was distributed in to three groups. Group 1 conventional hyrax, group 2 hybrid hyrax and group 3 maxillary skeletal expander (MSE). The mean age was 14.20Y, 15.13Y, 15.40Y in group 1,2 and 3 respectively CBCT records were taken before and after six month of maxillary expansion; the maxillary sinus was segmented and quantified using Romexis software (version 5.3.4.39USA). Results: Comparison between pre and post values and between left and right was performed by paired t test. the post treatment value was significantly higher than the pre value in the right side, left side and in both sides together. The significance level was set at P ≤ 0.05. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test, followed by Bonferroni post hoc test. Conclusions: RME may have a good effect on maxillary sinus by increasing it is volume (MSV).
Realization of Unpinned Two-Dimensional Dirac States in Antimony Single Layers
Authors: Lu Qiangsheng , Cook Jacob , Zhang Xiaoqian , Chen Kyle , Snyder Matthew , Nguyen Duy Tung , Reddy Sreenivasa , Qin Bingchao , Zhan Shaoping , Zhao Li-Dong , Kowalczyk Pawel , Brown Simon , Chiang Tai-Chang , Yang Shengyuan , Chang Tay-rong , Bian Guang
Published: May 2022

Two-dimensional (2D) Dirac states with linear dispersion have been observed in graphene and on the surface of topological insulators. 2D Dirac states discovered so far are exclusively pinned at high-symmetry points of the Brillouin zone, for example, surface Dirac states at Γ in topological insulators Bi2Se(Te)3 and Dirac cones at K and K' points in graphene. The low-energy dispersion of those Dirac states is isotropic due to the constraints of crystal symmetries. In this work, we report the observation of novel 2D Dirac states in antimony atomic layers with phosphorene structure. The Dirac states in the antimony films are located at generic momentum points. This unpinned nature enables versatile ways such as lattice strains to control the locations of the Dirac points in momentum space. In addition, dispersions around the unpinned Dirac points are highly anisotropic due to the reduced symmetry of generic momentum points. The exotic properties of unpinned Dirac states make antimony atomic layers a new type of 2D Dirac semimetals that are distinct from graphene.
Effectiveness of a Comic Book Intervention in Preventing Second-hand Smoke Exposure for Pregnant Indonesian Women: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Inaoka Kimiko , Octawijaya Ishak Halim , Mamahit Citra Gabriella , Karundeng Jeand’arc Florentia , Wariki Windy Mariane Virenia , Ota Erika
Published: May 2022

This randomised controlled trial evaluated the effectiveness of a comic book intervention to promote second-hand smoke (SHS) avoidance among pregnant women and appropriate smoking behaviours among their male partners. We allocated 140 couples to the experimental group (EG) and 146 couples to the control group (CG), who received usual care. The primary outcome was women’s self-reported SHS exposure and their male partners’ smoking behaviours. Secondary outcomes included knowledge and awareness of SHS. Independent t-tests revealed that three months post-intervention, more male partners in the EG intended to quit smoking (t-test (df = 205) = 2.12, MD = .24, p-value = .035). Significantly more pregnant women in the EG recognised their partners’ intentions to quit smoking (t-test (df = 205) = 2.72, MD = .30, p-value = .007), reported that they distanced themselves from smoking (t-test (df = 210) = 2.09, MD = 0.19, p-value = .038), and avoided exposure to SHS (t-test (df = 184) = 2.30, MD = .02, p-value = .023). These findings suggest that a comic book intervention might be effective against SHS exposure by providing several cues to action through knowledge and awareness of SHS.