bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the canonical energy of weak gravitational fields with a cosmological constant $$\varLambda \in \mathbb {R}$$
Authors: Chruściel P. T. , Hoque Sk J. , Maliborski M. , Smołka T.
Published: August 2021

We analyse the canonical energy of vacuum linearised gravitational fields on light cones on a de Sitter, Minkowski, and Anti de Sitter backgrounds in Bondi gauge. We derive the associated asymptotic symmetries. When $$\varLambda >0$$

Λ
>
0

the energy diverges, but a renormalised formula with well defined flux is obtained. We show that the renormalised energy in the asymptotically off-diagonal gauge coincides with the quadratisation of the generalisation of the Trautman–Bondi mass proposed in Chruściel and Ifsits (Phys Rev D 93:124075, arXiv:1603.07018 [gr-qc], 2016).
Detecting long-lived multi-charged particles in neutrino mass models with MoEDAL
Authors: Hirsch Martin , Masełek Rafał , Sakurai Kazuki
Published: August 2021

A certain class of neutrino mass models predicts long-lived particles whose electric charge is four or three times larger than that of protons. Such particles, if they are light enough, may be produced at the LHC and detected. We investigate the possibility of observing those long-lived multi-charged particles with the MoEDAL detector, which is sensitive to long-lived particles with low velocities ($$\beta $$
β
) and a large electric charge (Z) with $$\Theta \equiv \beta /Z \lesssim 0.15$$

Θ
≡
β
/
Z
≲
0.15

. We demonstrate that multi-charged scalar particles with a large Z give three-fold advantage for MoEDAL; reduction of $$\Theta $$
Θ
due to strong interactions with the detector, and enhancement of the photon-fusion process, which not only increases the production cross-section but also lowers the average production velocity, reducing $$\Theta $$
Θ
further. To demonstrate the performance of MoEDAL on multi-charged long-lived particles, two concrete neutrino mass models are studied. In the first model, the new physics sector is non-coloured and contains long-lived particles with electric charges 2, 3 and 4. A model-independent study finds MoEDAL can expect more than 1 signal event at the HL-LHC ($$L = 300$$

L
=
300

$$\hbox {fb}^{-1}$$

fb

-
1

) if these particles are lighter than 600, 1100 and 1430 GeV, respectively. These compare with the current ATLAS limits 650, 780 and 920 GeV for $$L = 36$$

L
=
36

$$\hbox {fb}^{-1}$$

fb

-
1

. The second model has a coloured new physics sector, which possesses long-lived particles with electric charges 4/3, 7/3 and 10/3. The corresponding MoEDAL’s mass reaches at the HL-LHC are 1400, 1650 and 1800 GeV, respectively, which compare with the current CMS limits 1450, 1480 and 1510 GeV for $$L = 36$$

L
=
36

$$\hbox {fb}^{-1}$$

fb

-
1

. In a model-specific study we explore the parameter space of neutrino mass generation models and identify the regions that can be probed with MoEDAL at the end of Run-3 and the High-Luminosity LHC.
Alternate Lucas Cubes
Authors: Eğecioğlu Ömer , Saygı Elif , Saygı Zülfükar
Published: August 2021

We introduce alternate Lucas cubes, a new family of graphs designed as an alternative for the well known Lucas cubes. These interconnection networks are subgraphs of Fibonacci cubes and have a useful fundamental decomposition similar to the one for Fibonacci cubes. The vertices of alternate Lucas cubes are constructed from binary strings that are encodings of Lucas representation of integers. As well as ordinary hypercubes, Fibonacci cubes and Lucas cubes, alternate Lucas cubes have several interesting structural and enumerative properties. In this paper we study some of these properties. Specifically, we give the fundamental decomposition giving the recursive structure, determine the number of edges, number of vertices by weight, the distribution of the degrees; as well as the properties of induced hypercubes, [Formula: see text]-cube polynomials and maximal hypercube polynomials. We also obtain the irregularity polynomials of this family of graphs, determine the conditions for Hamiltonicity, and calculate metric properties such as the radius, diameter, and the center.
Review of different colliders
Authors: Gao Jie
Published: August 2021

Since the first idea of a collider was patented by Rolf Wideröe (1902–1996) in 1943 and the first [Formula: see text] circular collider, AdA, was successfully principle-proved in LAL, Orsay, France in 1963, different kinds of colliders have been built in the past and planned for the future. In this paper, we will make a rather complete and brief review of the history of different colliders and give a perspective for the future.
Detection of accumulated continuously ethanol concentration by ZnO–SnO2 composite nanorods sensor
Authors: Li Xiang-Bing , Mo Da-Qian , Niu Xiao-Yan , Zhang Qian-Qian , Ma Shu-Yi , Dang Wen-Qiang , Zhang Li-Jun , Zhao Yu-Xiang , Liu Xiao-Bin , Liu Qing , Zhao Li-Min , Wang Yu-Ping
Published: August 2021

ZnO–SnO2 composite nanorods with rough surfaces were synthesized via a coaxially nested needle electrospinning method. The morphology and nanostructure were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscope, EDS mapping, nitrogen physical adsorption, and X-ray diffraction. The synthesis mechanisms of ZnO–SnO2 nanorods were discussed, which combined the gas sensitivity advantages of different materials. ZnO–SnO2 nanorods sensor with good ethanol gas sensitivity achieved accurate measurement of continuous ethanol concentration. The sensor exhibited good selectivity to ethanol in the presence of formaldehyde, methanol, acetone, acetic acid, benzene, and xylene at 290[Formula: see text]C. The response and recovery time to 100 ppm ethanol were about 13 and 35 s, respectively. The energy band, barrier, charge transfer of ZnO–SnO2 composite material was discussed, and its optimization of gas sensitivity was analyzed in detail.
Environmental DNA Metabarcoding: A Novel Method for Biodiversity Monitoring of Marine Fish Communities
Authors: Miya Masaki
Published: August 2021

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is genetic material that has been shed from macroorganisms. It has received increased attention as an indirect marker for biodiversity monitoring. This article reviews the current status of eDNA metabarcoding (simultaneous detection of multiple species) as a noninvasive and cost-effective approach for monitoring marine fish communities and discusses the prospects for this growing field. eDNA metabarcoding coamplifies short fragments of fish eDNA across a wide variety of taxa and, coupled with high-throughput sequencing technologies, allows massively parallel sequencing to be performed simultaneously for dozens to hundreds of samples. It can predict species richness in a given area, detect habitat segregation and biogeographic patterns from small to large spatial scales, and monitor the spatiotemporal dynamics of fish communities. In addition, it can detect an anthropogenic impact on fish communities through evaluation of their functional diversity. Recognizing the strengths and limitations of eDNA metabarcoding will help ensure that continuous biodiversity monitoring at multiple sites will be useful for ecosystem conservation and sustainable use of fishery resources, possibly contributing to achieving the targets of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 14 for 2030.
Expanding Archaeal Diversity and Phylogeny: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Tahon Guillaume , Geesink Patricia , Ettema Thijs J.G.
Published: August 2021

The discovery of the Archaea is a major scientific hallmark of the twentieth century. Since then, important features of their cell biology, physiology, ecology, and diversity have been revealed. Over the course of some 40 years, the diversity of known archaea has expanded from 2 to about 30 phyla comprising over 20,000 species. Most of this archaeal diversity has been revealed by environmental 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing surveys using a broad range of universal and targeted primers. Of the few primers that target a large fraction of known archaeal diversity, all display a bias against recently discovered lineages, which limits studies aiming to survey overall archaeal diversity. Induced by genomic exploration of archaeal diversity, and improved phylogenomics approaches, archaeal taxonomic classification has been frequently revised. Due to computational limitations and continued discovery of new lineages, a stable archaeal phylogeny is not yet within reach. Obtaining phylogenetic and taxonomic consensus of archaea should be a high priority for the archaeal research community.
Virulence and Pathogenicity of Chytrid Fungi Causing Amphibian Extinctions
Authors: Fisher Matthew C. , Pasmans Frank , Martel An
Published: August 2021

Ancient enzootic associations between wildlife and their infections allow evolution to innovate mechanisms of pathogenicity that are counterbalanced by host responses. However, erosion of barriers to pathogen dispersal by globalization leads to the infection of hosts that have not evolved effective resistance and the emergence of highly virulent infections. Global amphibian declines driven by the rise of chytrid fungi and chytridiomycosis are emblematic of emerging infections. Here, we review how modern biological methods have been used to understand the adaptations and counteradaptations that these fungi and their amphibian hosts have evolved. We explore the interplay of biotic and abiotic factors that modify the virulence of these infections and dissect the complexity of this disease system. We highlight progress that has led to insights into how we might in the future lessen the impact of these emerging infections.
Lithium Bis(trimethylsilyl) Phosphate as an Electrolyte Additive to Improve the Low-Temperature Performance for LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2/Graphite Cells
Authors: Kim Jongjung , Adiraju Venkata A. K. , Chae Oh B. , Lucht Brett L.
Published: August 2021

Lithium Bis(trimethylsilyl) Phosphate (LiTMSP) was incorporated as an electrolyte additive in LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2(NCM811)/graphite cells for improving the low-temperature performance. Previously, we reported the bi-functional roles of LiTMSP for LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4/graphite cells, which are hydrogen fluoride (HF) scavenger and film-forming agent. In this work, NCM811/graphite cells with LiTMSP (1 wt%) have better rate performance at −10 °C than cells without LiTMSP. This is due to the reduced resistance of NCM811/graphite cells with the addition of LiTMSP, resulting from LiTMSP induced-surface film generated on graphite electrodes which has improved lithium-ion conduction.
Correction of sensor crosstalk error in Exhalyzer D multiple-breath washout device significantly impacts outcomes in children with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Wyler Florian , Oestreich Marc-Alexander , Frauchiger Bettina S. , Ramsey Kathryn A. , Latzin Philipp
Published: August 2021

We investigated the sensor accuracy of a prominent nitrogen multiple-breath washout (N2MBW) device (Eco Medics AG, Duernten, Switzerland) as a possible cause of lack of comparability between outcomes of different MBW devices and methods. We identified an error in the nitrogen concentration calculation of this device, which results in a 10%–15% overestimation of primary outcomes, functional residual capacity, and lung clearance index. It also leads to a significant overestimation of nitrogen back-diffusion into the lungs.
Acute endurance exercise stimulates circulating levels of mitochondrial-derived peptides in humans
Authors: von Walden Ferdinand , Fernandez-Gonzalo Rodrigo , Norrbom Jessica , Emanuelsson Eric B. , Figueiredo Vandré C. , Gidlund Eva-Karin , Norrbrand Lena , Liu Chang , Sandström Philip , Hansson Björn , Wan Junxiang , Cohen Pinchas , Alkner Björn
Published: August 2021

In this manuscript, we report for the first time, to our knowledge, the response of circulating levels of mitochondrial-derived peptides humanin and MOTS-c to acute resistance and endurance exercise. Our data support that acute endurance exercise stimulates MDP levels in plasma, whereas acute resistance exercise does not.
Data Mining, Network Pharmacology, and Molecular Docking Explore the Effects of Core Traditional Chinese Medicine Prescriptions in Patients with Rectal Cancer and Qi and Blood Deficiency Syndrome
Authors: Ma Shiyu , Zheng Lin , Zheng Lan , Bian Xiaolan
Published: August 2021

Background. “Zheng” (syndrome) is the basic unit and the basis of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treatment. In clinical practice, we have been able to improve the survival time and quality of life for patients with rectal cancer through the treatment of “FuZhengXiaoJi” (strengthening the Qi and reducing accumulation). Purpose. In this study, we elucidated the core prescriptions for patients with rectal cancer and Qi and blood deficiency syndrome, and we explored the potential mechanisms of the prescriptions using an integrated strategy that coupled data mining with network pharmacology. Methods. A Bron–Kerbosch (BK) algorithm was applied to find the core prescriptions. The active ingredients, targets, activated signaling pathways, and biological functions of core prescriptions were analyzed using network pharmacology and directly associated proteins were docked using molecular docking technology to elucidate the multicomponent, multitarget, and inter-related components associated with TCM systematically. Results. Data mining identified 3 core prescriptions, and most of the herbs consisted of “FuZhengXiaoJi” Fang. Network pharmacology identified 15 high-degree active ingredients among the 3 core prescriptions and 16 high-degree hub genes linked with both rectal cancer and the 3 core prescriptions. Additional Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses of these 16 targets showed that the most significant pathways were MAPK, interleukin-17, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathways. From the 16 genes, TGFB1, IL1B, IL10, IL6, PTGS2, and PPARG closely interacted with the tumor microenvironment, and PPARG, MYC, and ERBB2 were closely linked to survival. In molecular docking, quercetin, kaempferol, and lauric acid showed good binding energy to each target. Conclusion. Data mining, network pharmacology, and molecular docking may help identify core prescriptions, high-degree ingredients, and high-degree hub genes to apply to diseases and treatments. Furthermore, these studies may help discover hub genes that affect the tumor microenvironment and survival. The combination of these tools may help elucidate the relationship between herbs acting on “Zheng” (syndrome) and diseases, thus expanding the understanding of TCM mechanisms.
Experimental Estimation of the Elastic Modulus of Concrete Girders from Drive‐By Inspections with Force‐Balance Accelerometers
Authors: Aloisio Angelo , Alaggio Rocco
Published: August 2021

Parametric identification of bridges using instrumented vehicles can be challenging, mainly due to the reduced length of the time series associated with the bridge span under test. This research discusses the practicability of a time‐domain identification method based on the use of an instrumented vehicle. The highest cross‐correlation between the bridge response from an elementary analytical model and the experimental one, acquired by a moving force‐balance accelerometer, yields the unknown model parameter. The effect of vehicle‐bridge interaction is removed by proper filtering of the signals. Specifically, the authors estimate the elastic moduli of seven prestressed concrete bridges and compare a subset of the results to the outcomes of static load tests carried out on the same bridges. There is a good correlation between the elastic moduli from the instrumented vehicle and those from static load tests: the method grasps the approximate value of the elastic modulus of concrete. Still, the data do not return an excellent match due to the bias in the estimation of the deflection shape—the paper remarks on the issues faced during the experimental tests and proposes possible enhancements of these procedures.
A MultiObjective Optimization Approach for Integrated Timetabling and Vehicle Scheduling with Uncertainty
Authors: Shen Yindong , Xie Wenliang , Li Jingpeng
Published: August 2021

The timetabling problem (TTP) and vehicle scheduling problem (VSP) are two indispensable problems in public transit planning process. They used to be solved in sequence; hence, optimality of resulting solutions is compromised. To get better results, some integrated approaches emerge to solve the TTP and VSP as an integrated problem. In the existing integrated approaches, the passenger comfort on bus and the uncertainty in the real world are rarely considered. To provide better service for passengers and enhance the robustness of the schedule to be compiled, we study the integrated optimization of TTP and VSP with uncertainty. In this paper, a novel multiobjective optimization approach with the objectives of minimizing the passenger travel cost, the vehicle scheduling cost, and the incompatible trip-link cost is proposed. Meanwhile, a multiobjective hybrid algorithm, which is a combination of the self-adjust genetic algorithm (SGA), large neighborhood search (LNS) algorithm, and Pareto separation operator (PSO), is applied to solve the integrated optimization problem. The experimental results show that the approach outperforms existing approaches in terms of service level and robustness.
Drug Packaging Management Based on the Effect of Medical Images on the Intracellular Polysaccharide Synthesis and Antivertigo Activity of Phalaenopsis
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Zhang Li , Li Yue , Ye Ming
Published: August 2021

Many clinically important drugs come directly or indirectly from higher plants. People are increasingly aware of the role of the human immune system in maintaining good health. Diseases related to physical dysfunction, such as vertigo, have attracted increasing attention from medical researchers and clinicians. In this paper, some compounds isolated and identified from medicinal fomes showed promising antivertigo properties. Medical images were used to classify and synthesize polysaccharides in the management of drug subpackages of Cladosporium intracellular polysaccharides. The scientific explanation of how these compounds work in animal and human systems is increasing exponentially. Studies have found that all of these compounds can enhance the innate and adaptive immune responses of the host and activate various immune cells that are important for maintaining homeostasis, such as host cells and chemical messengers, triggering complement and acute phase reactions. The antivertigo compounds derived from the intracellular polysaccharides of Phellinus mucronatus had an activity interference of 35% without drug subpackage. Although the antivertigo activity of many intracellular polysaccharides from Fovea xylostella can reach 86%, only a few of them have been proved to have antivertigo activity. In addition, they can be considered as multicytokine inducers that can induce the expression of various immune-regulatory cytokines and cytokine receptor genes. Lymphocytes that control antibody production and cell-mediated cytotoxicity are also stimulated.
Experimental Research on the Adhesion Characteristics of Clay to Structures with Different Materials
Authors: Qiu Tao , Zhang Yonggang
Published: August 2021

When the shield machine passes through the clay layer, the clay debris cut by the cutter head usually adheres to the surface of the cutter head and is easy to form mud cakes after extrusion, which affects the safety and efficiency of construction. For the structure made of different materials, due to the different surface properties, the adhesion characteristics of clay are also different. So, selecting proper materials for the soil contacting parts in the shield machine can effectively reduce the adhesion between the structure and soil, decrease the clay adhering to the surface of the shield cutter, and reduce the possibility of further productions of mud cake. Therefore, studying the adhesion properties of clay to different materials and understanding the adhesion rule of clay to soil contacting structures are of guiding significance when selecting the materials of soil contacting parts. In this paper, the adhesion properties of cohesive soil to commonly used construction materials were studied by a self-made adhesion test device, including steel, iron, copper, aluminum, and engineering plastics (polyamide). According to the findings, the separation process of adhesion between soil and the structure by an external force can be divided into four stages, which are the adhesive elastic development stage, adhesive plastic development stage, failure stage, and detachment stage. The adhesion forces and the amount of soil adhered to the structures made of the selected materials are found to vary from each other. The adhesion forces ranked from high to low are, respectively, found on the iron, plastic, aluminum, steel, and copper surfaces. The material with the most amount of adherent soil is aluminum, followed by iron, steel, copper, and plastic.
Application of Intelligent Nursing Information System in Emergency Nursing Management
Authors: Li Qing , Chen Yujie
Published: August 2021

This paper is combined with the intelligent nursing information system to build the emergency nursing platform architecture, from the system emergency procedures, system functionality, network environment deployment, and database design aspects of the discussion. Based on hospital information security, the nursing monitoring system of the intelligent nursing information system is constructed to realize network communication, which is clear and intuitive. The intelligent information system is applied to safety control, medical order information, condition information, and information inquiry, which can save working time and complete the rapid transmission and accurate execution of medical order, making the network communication of medical care more quick and convenient and maximizing the overall efficiency. Based on the disordered phenomenon of registration triage, the Relief algorithm is used to classify the aetiology and triage, and the combination of medical advice, information query, and IT technology is optimized, so as to eliminate the phenomenon of round diagnosis, insert number, and improve the medical environment of waiting for diagnosis, taking medicine, examination, and testing. Finally, through the testing of system information security, information traceability, and rapid information query, the problems in nursing management have been basically solved.
Economic Feasibility Analysis of PVAC and TAC of Three Typical Application Cases in China
Authors: Zhou Dan , Wang Haoran , Zhang Cheng , Sun Ke , Wang Hanyun , Zhou Lihua , Wu Jian , Hu Yaojie
Published: August 2021

Solar photovoltaic driven air conditioning (PVAC) system with electricity storage is proposed as a good solution to help shifting peak load and consuming solar energy. In this paper, a grid‐connected PVAC system using the TRNSYS simulation model consisting of PV panels, traditional air conditioners (TAC), power conditioning units, inverters, and grid connection equipment is proposed to investigate the economic feasibility compared with the traditional air conditioner. In the PVAC system, the electricity, firstly generated by PV panels and then stored in battery, is consumed by a DC inverter air conditioner to maintain the temperature of the room and the surplus electricity is sold to the grid. A life cycle cost comparison between PVAC system, traditional air conditioning system, and decomposed PV and air conditioning systems of three typical application cases is conducted, in which the operation conditions are based on the present circumstances of China. The results show that, in comparison with conventional air conditioners, better economic benefits can be achieved when the peak load of the air conditioning system is over a certain value. Sensitivity analysis is conducted to evaluate the effects caused by variation of economic assumptions. At last, a new operation model is proposed to achieve more benefits for the system.
Protective Effect of Total Panax Notoginseng Saponins on Retinal Ganglion Cells of an Optic Nerve Crush Injury Rat Model
Authors: Zhong Huimin , Yu Huan , Chen Bo , Guo Lei , Xu Xing , Jiang Min , Zhong Yisheng , Qi Jin , Huang Ping
Published: August 2021

Irreversible loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) is a common pathological feature of various optic nerve degenerative diseases such as glaucoma and ischemic optic neuropathy. Effective protection of RGCs is the key to successful treatment of these diseases. Total Panax notoginseng saponins (TPNS) are the main active component of Panax notoginseng, which has an inhibitory effect on the apoptosis pathway. This study is aimed at assessing the protective effect of TPNS on RGCs of the optic nerve crush (ONC) model of rats and exploring the underlying mechanisms. The intraperitoneal or intravitreal injection of TPNS was used based on the establishment of the rat ONC model. Fifteen days after the injury, the cell membrane fluorescent probe (Fluoro‐Gold) was applied to retrograde RGCs through the superior colliculus and obtain the number of surviving RGCs. TUNEL assay was also used to detect the number and density of RGC apoptosis after the ONC model. The expression and distribution of Bcl‐2/Bax, c‐Jun/P‐c‐Jun, and P‐JNK in the retina were demonstrated by Western blot analysis. After the intervention of TPNS, the rate of cell survival increased in different retinal regions (p < 0.05) and the number of apoptosis cells decreased. Regarding the expression of Bcl‐2/Bax, c‐Jun/P‐c‐Jun, and P‐JNK‐related apoptotic proteins, TPNS can reduce the level of apoptosis and play a role in protecting RGCs (p < 0.05). These findings indicate that topical administration of TPNS can inhibit cell apoptosis and promote RGC survival in the crushed optic nerve.
Age and Gender: Affecting the Positive Rates of Serum PAB and ANCA in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Chen Qingquan , Huang Shirong , Wu Yue , Zhang Shuyu , Liu Qicai , Chen Min
Published: August 2021

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of immune-mediated conditions. Immune activity is varied by age and gender. The present study is aimed at investigating the effect of age and gender on the positive rates of anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibodies (ASCA), anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA), anti-intestinal goblet cell antibodies (GAB), and antibodies to exocrine pancreas (PAB) in IBD patients. A total of 1871 hospitalized patients with confirmed IBD were included in this study. Sera were obtained from each subject for antibody measurement by indirect immunofluorescence assay. The positive rates of ANCA IgG and IgA were higher in female patients than those in male patients (P<0.001) while the positive rate of PAB IgG was just reversed (P<0.001). Moreover, the median ages of patients with positive ANCA IgG and IgA were higher than patients with negative antibodies (P=0.0019andP=0.0110, respectively), while the median ages of patients with positive PAB IgG and IgA were significantly lower than patients with negative PAB (P<0.0001). The serum levels of ANCA IgG and IgA were potentiated in old female patients, while serum PAB IgG was easy to be detected in the young male patients with IBD.
Weighted Central BMO Spaces and Their Applications
Authors: Zhao Huan , Liu Zongguang
Published: August 2021

In this paper, the central BMO spaces with Muckenhoupt

A

p

weight is introduced. As an application, we characterize these spaces by the boundedness of commutators of Hardy operator and its dual operator on weighted Lebesgue spaces. The boundedness of vector-valued commutators on weighted Herz spaces is also considered.
Study on Size Distribution and Flow Characteristics of Condensed Products in Solid Rocket Motor
Authors: Liu Mengying , Liu Zhu , Li Shipeng , Yu Wenhao , Cao Jian , Wang Ningfei
Published: August 2021

The size distribution of condensed products during the combustion of aluminized propellants and flow characteristics of the gas-solid two-phase flow in solid rocket motor were studied in this paper. Firstly, based on the laser scattering technology, an online detection system for condensed products in plume was established, and the size detection of condensed products in the plume of solid rocket motor is carried out. Secondly, a numerical model of two-phase flow in solid rocket motor is established by combining the real size distribution of products in the plume with discrete phase model through the Rosin-Rammler distribution function. Besides, numerical simulation research is carried out under the same experimental conditions, focusing on the influence of condensed products with real size on the characteristics of solid rocket motor. The results show that the innovation measurement system can be used to obtain the size distribution characteristic of condensed products in the plume. At the particle size of stable stage, the mean size,

D

v

50

, is 104 μm, which is the smallest among all stages. It is also suggested that condensed products at the end stage have the most impact on the flow behavior in solid rocket motor, in that the shock structure, Mach number, and temperature distribution in the near field of plume are significantly changed.
Effects of Subacute Exposure of Dibutyl Phthalate on the Homeostatic Model Assessment, Thyroid Function, and Redox Status in Rats
Authors: Majeed Khalid Abdul , Yousaf Muhammad Shahbaz , Tahir Muhammad Sajid , Khan Aamir Riaz , Khan Suliman , Saeed Abdullah Arif , Rehman Habib
Published: August 2021

Dibutyl phthalate is an endocrine disruptor used in a wide range of industrial and agriculture applications. The present study focuses on elucidating the effect of subacute exposure (4‐weeks) of DBP on insulin and its sensitivity indexes, oxidative status, thyroid function, energy metabolites, serum biochemistry, and anthropometry in rats. A total of 64 rats were divided into 4 treatment groups as mg DBP/Kg body weight per day: (a) 0 mg/Kg (control), (b) 10 mg/Kg (DBP‐10), (c) 50 mg/Kg (DBP‐50), and (d) 100 mg/Kg (DBP‐100). The rats in each treatment (n = 16) were further divided into male (n = 8) and female (n = 8) rats for studying treatment and gender interactions. Intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test (IPGTT) was performed on the 21st day. Anthropometry, nutritional determinants, fasting plasma glucose, fasting plasma insulin, homeostatic model assessment (HOMA), thyroid hormones, energy metabolites, and oxidative status were studied during the experimental period. Two‐way ANOVA was used to analyze the data (p < 0.05). Tukey’s posthoc test was used for pair‐wise comparisons. DBP increased body weight gain and feed efficiency in an inverted nonmonotonic U‐shaped fashion. Hyperglycemia and increased blood glucose area under the curve were observed in DBP‐100 at 120 minutes in IPGTT. The HOMA also showed a linear monotonic contrast. Thyroxin decreased significantly in the DBP‐100 rats, whereas malondialdehyde, nonesterified fatty acids, and beta hydroxyl butyrate were increased with the DBP treatments. In conclusion, DBP could be attributed to the development of hyperglycemia and insulin resistance in rats. Further investigations into the lipid peroxidation pathways can improve our understanding of the mechanisms involved in metabolic disruption.
Effect of Acute Aerobic Exercise on Inhibitory Control of College Students with Smartphone Addiction
Authors: Fan Hainan , Qi Shuai , Huang Guoyuang , Xu Zhao
Published: August 2021

Background. Inhibitory control deficits may be one important cause for smartphone addiction. The available studies have shown that acute aerobic exercise may improve the inhibitory control. However, there is still lack of research on how regimens of an acute exercise affect this inhibitory control. The present study was to examine the effects of an acute aerobic exercise at three different exercise intensities on changes in the inhibitory control function including response inhibition and interference control in college students with smartphone addiction. Methods. Participants (n = 30; age 20.03 ± 0.96 years) with smartphone addiction were identified by the Mobile Phone Addiction Tendency Scale for College Students and randomized to study 1 and study 2 with 15 individuals each. Fifteen participants in study 1 were tested by the Go/NoGo task to explore the response inhibition, while other fifteen in study 2 were tested by the Flanker task to examine the interference control. The participants in study 1 and 2 were randomly assigned to three groups (5 in each) with exercising at low, moderate, and high intensity. The individual response inhibition and interference control were measured before and after 30 minutes acute aerobic exercise, respectively. Results. In study 1, the accuracy of NoGo stimulus after 30 minutes of acute aerobic exercise was significantly increased

p
≤
0.001

while the response time (RT) of Go stimulus was significantly decreased

p
≤
0.001

. The largest changes occurred in the moderate-intensity group for the accuracy of NoGo stimulus

p
=
0.012

and for the RT of Go stimulus

p

≤

0.001

. The results in study 2 showed no significant change in all three groups after exercise. Conclusions. 30 minutes of acute aerobic exercise could effectively elicit changes of the response inhibition in college students with smartphone addiction. The largest improvement was observed in the moderate intensity of an acute aerobic exercise in college students with smartphone addiction.
FDEM Modelling of Rock Fracture Process during Three‐Point Bending Test under Quasistatic and Dynamic Loading Conditions
Authors: An Huaming , Song Yushan , Liu Hongyuan
Published: August 2021

A hybrid finite‐discrete element method (FDEM) is proposed to model rock fracture initiation and propagation during a three‐point bending test under quasistatic and dynamic loading conditions. Three fracture models have been implemented in the FDEM to model the transition from continuum to discontinuum through fracture and fragmentation. The loading rate effect on rock behaviour has been taken into account by the implementation of the relationship between the static and dynamic rock strengths derived from dynamic rock fracture experiments. The Brazilian tensile strength test has been modelled to calibrate the FDEM. The FDEM can well model the stress and fracture propagation and well show the stress distribution along the vertical diameter of the disc during the Brazilian tensile strength test. Then, FDEM is implemented to study the rock fracture process during three‐point bending tests under quasistatic and dynamic loading conditions. The FDEM has well modelled the stress and fracture propagation and can obtain reasonable fracture toughness. After that, the effects of the loading rate on the rock strength and rock fracture toughness are discussed, and the mesh size and mesh orientation on the fracture patterns are also discussed. It is concluded that the FDEM can well model the rock fracture process by the implementation of the three fracture models. The FDEM can capture the loading rate effect on rock strength and rock fracture toughness. The FDEM is a valuable tool for studying the rock behaviour on the dynamic loading although the proposed method is sensitive to the mesh size and mesh orientation.
Reading and Calculation Neural Systems and Their Weighted Adaptive Use for Programming Skills
Authors: Castelhano Joao , Duarte Isabel C. , Duraes Joao , Madeira Henrique , Castelo-Branco Miguel
Published: August 2021

Software programming is a modern activity that poses strong challenges to the human brain. The neural mechanisms that support this novel cognitive faculty are still unknown. On the other hand, reading and calculation abilities represent slightly less recent human activities, in which neural correlates are relatively well understood. We hypothesize that calculus and reading brain networks provide joint underpinnings with distinctly weighted contributions which concern programming tasks, in particular concerning error identification. Based on a meta-analysis of the core regions involved in both reading and math and recent experimental evidence on the neural basis of programming tasks, we provide a theoretical account that integrates the role of these networks in program understanding. In this connectivity-based framework, error-monitoring processing regions in the frontal cortex influence the insula, which is a pivotal hub within the salience network, leading into efficient causal modulation of parietal networks involved in reading and mathematical operations. The core role of the anterior insula and anterior midcingulate cortex is illuminated by their relation to performance in error processing and novelty. The larger similarity that we observed between the networks underlying calculus and programming skills does not exclude a more limited but clear overlap with the reading network, albeit with differences in hemispheric lateralization when compared with prose reading. Future work should further elucidate whether other features of computer program understanding also use distinct weights of phylogenetically “older systems” for this recent human activity, based on the adjusting influence of fronto-insular networks. By unraveling the neural correlates of program understanding and bug detection, this work provides a framework to understand error monitoring in this novel complex faculty.
Experimental Research on Discharge Forming Cutting-Electrochemical Machining of Single-Crystal Silicon
Authors: Xin Bin , Liu Wei
Published: August 2021

During the wire electrical discharge machining (WEDM) process, a large number of discharge pits and a recast layer are easily generated on the workpiece surface, resulting in high surface roughness. A discharge forming cutting-electrochemical machining method for fabricating single-crystal silicon is proposed in this study to solve this problem. On the same processing equipment, single-crystal silicon is first cut using the discharge forming cutting method. Second, electrochemical anodic reaction technology is used to dissolve the discharge pits and recast layer on the single-crystal silicon surface. The machining mechanism of this process, the surface elements of the processed single-crystal silicon and a comparison of the kerf width are analyzed through experiments. On this basis, the influence of the movement speed of the copper foil electrode during electrochemical anodic dissolution on the final surface roughness is qualitatively analyzed. The experimental results show that discharge forming cutting-electrochemical machining can effectively eliminate the electrical discharge pits and recast layer, which are caused by electric discharge cutting, on the surface of single-crystal silicon, thereby reducing the surface roughness of the workpiece.
m5C-Related Signatures for Predicting Prognosis in Cutaneous Melanoma with Machine Learning
Authors: Huang Maoxin , Zhang Yi , Ou Xiaohong , Wang Caiyun , Wang Xueqing , Qin Bibo , Zhang Qiong , Yu Jie , Zhang Jianxiang , Yu Jianbin
Published: August 2021

Background. Cutaneous melanoma (CM) is one of the most life-threatening primary skin cancers and is prone to distant metastases. A widespread presence of posttranscriptional modification of RNA, 5-methylcytosine (m5C), has been observed in human cancers. However, the potential mechanism of the tumorigenesis and prognosis in CM by dysregulated m5C-related regulators is obscure. Methods. We use comprehensive bioinformatics analyses to explore the expression of m5C regulators in CM, the prognostic implications of the m5C regulators, the frequency of the copy number variant (CNV), and somatic mutations in m5C regulators. Additionally, the CM patients were divided into three clusters for better predicting clinical features and outcomes via consensus clustering of m5C regulators. Then, the risk score was established via Lasso Cox regression analysis. Next, the prognosis value and clinical characteristics of m5C-related signatures were further explored. Then, machine learning was used to recognize the outstanding m5C regulators to risk score. Finally, the expression level and clinical value of USUN6 were analyzed via the tissue microarray (TMA) cohort. Results. We found that m5C regulators were dysregulated in CM, with a high frequency of somatic mutations and CNV alterations of the m5C regulatory gene in CM. Furthermore, 16 m5C-related proteins interacted with each other frequently, and we divided CM patients into three clusters to better predicting clinical features and outcomes. Then, five m5C regulators were selected as a risk score based on the LASSO model. The XGBoost algorithm recognized that NOP2 and NSUN6 were the most significant risk score contributors. Immunohistochemistry has verified that low expression of USUN6 was closely correlated with CM progression. Conclusion. The m5C-related signatures can be used as new prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for CM, and NSUN6 might play a vital role in tumorigenesis and malignant progression.
Improving SAR Target Recognition Performance Using Multiple Preprocessing Techniques
Authors: Ma Qinmin
Published: August 2021

The synthetic aperture radar (SAR) image preprocessing techniques and their impact on target recognition performance are researched. The performance of SAR target recognition is improved by composing a variety of preprocessing techniques. The preprocessing techniques achieve the effects of suppressing background redundancy and enhancing target characteristics by processing the size and gray distribution of the original SAR image, thereby improving the subsequent target recognition performance. In this study, image cropping, target segmentation, and image enhancement algorithms are used to preprocess the original SAR image, and the target recognition performance is effectively improved by combining the above three preprocessing techniques. On the basis of image enhancement, the monogenic signal is used for feature extraction and then the sparse representation‐based classification (SRC) is used to complete the decision. The experiments are conveyed on the moving and stationary target acquisition and recognition (MSTAR) dataset, and the results prove that the combination of multiple preprocessing techniques can effectively improve the SAR target recognition performance.
Inhibition of NF-κB/IL-33/ST2 Axis Ameliorates Acute Bronchiolitis Induced by Respiratory Syncytial Virus
Authors: Zhang Liwen , Wan Yu , Ma Liang , Xu Kaihong , Cheng Baojin
Published: August 2021

Background/Aim. Bronchiolitis is a common acute lower respiratory tract infectious disease in infants. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection is one of the main causes. Bronchiolitis can lead to a significant increase in the incidence of asthma in young children, but the mechanism of bronchiolitis transforming into asthma is still unclear. The study was aimed at investigating the role of NF-κB/IL-33/ST2 axis on RSV-induced acute bronchiolitis. Methods. A total of 40 infants diagnosed with acute bronchiolitis infected by RSV, and 20 normal infants were included in this study. BALB/c mice (6-8 weeks old,

20
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1.1

 g) were used as study models. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), quantitative real time PCR, western blot analysis, immunohistochemical staining, and flow cytometry analysis were performed to examine relevant indicators. Results. IL-33 level was significantly elevated, and Th1/Th2 ratio is imbalance after in infants with acute bronchiolitis. In vivo study, we found that NF-κB/IL-33/ST2 axis is mediated the Th2 cytokine levels and BAL cell number induced by RSV. Acute bronchiolitis induced by RSV in a mouse model is attenuated after inhibition of NF-κB/IL-33/ST2 pathway. Moreover, we also confirmed that macrophages are important sources of IL-33 and are regulated by NF-κB pathway in RSV-induced mice. Conclusion. We confirmed that inhibition of NF-κB/IL-33/ST2 axis could attenuate acute bronchiolitis by RSV infected. Our findings not only demonstrate the potential role of IL-33 antibody in attenuating RSV-induced lung damage but also provide a new insight into better prevention of RSV-induced asthma by mediating NF-κB/IL-33/ST2 axis.
Monitoring and Analysis of Stress Distribution of the Interaction between Rock and Backfill and the Influence of Geometric Features of the Backfill Boundary
Authors: Lu Rong , Ma Fengshan , Zhao Jie , Wang Jianbo , Li Guilin , Dai Bing
Published: August 2021

Backfill mining methods are widely used in metal mines. The boundary part of the backfill has a direct effect on the local stability in mining engineering. The distribution of stress on the boundary part of the backfill and surrounding rock had their own features. To study the characteristics of stress distribution of backfill and surrounding rock on the boundary part, we conducted a field investigation, field monitoring, and numerical simulation. According to the underground monitoring, the overall characteristics of the boundary part of the backfill were that the accumulated horizontal stress was larger than the accumulated vertical stress on the deep sublevel and the accumulated horizontal stress was smaller on the shallow sublevel. On the contact zone (i.e., the boundary part), the stress of the surrounding rock was larger than the stress of the backfill. Combined with the numerical model analysis, we determined that the geometric features of the backfill boundary had an influence on the stress distribution of stress. The multistep boundary helped the integrity of the contact zone and local stability in deep mining.
A New Flexible Statistical Model: Simulating and Modeling the Survival Times of COVID‐19 Patients in China
Authors: Liu Xiaofeng , Ahmad Zubair , K. Khosa Saima , Yusuf M. , Alamri Osama Abdulaziz , Emam Walid
Published: August 2021

The spread of the COVID‐19 epidemic, since December 2019, has caused much damage around the world, disturbed every aspect of daily life, and has become a serious health threat. The COVID‐19 epidemic impacted nearly 150 countries around the globe between December 2019 and March 2020. Since December 2019, researchers have been trying to develop new suitable statistical models to adequately describe the behavior of this deadly pandemic. In this paper, a flexible statistical model has been proposed that can be used to model the lifetime events associated with this deadly pandemic. The new distribution is derived from the combination of an extended Weibull distribution and a trigonometric strategy referred to as the arcsine‐X approach. Hence, the new model may be referred to as the arcsine new flexible extended Weibull model. The proposed model is capable of capturing five different behaviors of the hazard rate function. The model parameters are estimated via the maximum likelihood approach. Furthermore, a Monte Carlo study is conducted to assess the behavior of the estimators. Finally, the applicability of the new model is demonstrated using the data of fifty‐three patients taken from a hospital in China.