bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Al Electrodeposition in Molten CaCl2 with Various Calcium Aluminates
Authors: Iwai Yuta , Morishige Taiki , Takenaka Toshihide
Published: September 2020

In this study, direct production of liquid Al metal was attempted in molten CaCl2 with various calcium aluminates, based on our previous studies on Ti and Si electrolysis. Al and Al-Mo alloys were detected on the electrode surface after electrolysis at -1.8V (Mo vs. dissolution) at 1573K, and the molar ratio of CaO to Al2O3 did not affect Al deposited strongly. By using the electrode with a BN receiver, the electrodeposited Al was kept around the cathode and Al was obtained from the cathode surface. It was shown that calcium aluminate was dissolved in molten CaCl2 above 1573 K and liquid Al metal could be obtained electrochemically with little dependence on the molar ratio of CaO to Al2O3.
Kinetic and Thermodynamic Properties of Samarium Chlorides Dissolved in Alkali Chloride Melts Obtained by Electrochemical Transient Techniques
Authors: Kuznetsov Sergey , Stulov Yuri , Gaune-Escard Marcelle
Published: September 2020

The electrochemical behavior of samarium in NaCl-KCl, KCl, and CsCl melts was studied in the temperature range 973-1173 K by different electrochemical methods. The diffusion coefficients (D) of Sm(III) and Sm(II) were determined by linear sweep voltammetry, chronopotentiometry, and chronoamperometry methods. The standard rate constants of charge transfer (k
s) for the Sm(III)/Sm(II) redox couple were calculated on the basis of cyclic voltammetry data using Nicholson’s equation. The nature of working electrode on the standard rate constants of charge transfer for the Sm(III)/Sm(II) redox couple was studied. The formal redox potentials E*

Sm(III)/Sm(II) were obtained in alkali chlorides melts from the cyclic voltammetry data.
Solubility of Rare Earth Oxides in Fused Alkali and Alkaline Earth Halides
Authors: Volkovich Vladimir A. , Ivanov Alexander B. , Shchetinskiy Andrey V. , Mukhamadeev Andrey S. , Ryzhov Alexander A. , Afonin Yurii D. , Polovov Ilya B. , Petrov Anton I.
Published: September 2020

Solubility of rare earth oxides in mixtures of alkali or alkaline earth halides was determined by the method of isothermal saturation at the temperatures up to 1400oC. The melts studied included CaCl2–CaF2 (20 or 75 mol. % CaF2), BaCl2–BaF2 (15 or 73 mol. % BaF2), equimolar CaF2–BaF2 and eutectic NaCl–NaF mixtures. Melting points of the salt mixtures were determined by differential thermal analysis and effect of added rare earth oxide on the melting point was considered. Solubility of yttrium, lanthanum, cerium, praseodymium, neodymium, and samarium oxides was determined. The effect of temperature, melt composition, and presence of a mixture of rare earth oxides on solubility was assessed.
Uranium Electrorefining in 3LiCl-2KCl Based Melts
Authors: Nikitin Dmitry I. , Zolotarev Daniil A. , Mukhametdyanov Artur D. , Volkovich Vladimir A. , Polovov Ilya B.
Published: September 2020

The process of uranium electrorefining in 3LiCl–2KCl based melts was investigated. Dense and compact uranium deposits were obtained at low current densities, while application of relatively high current densities led to the formation of uranium dendrites. Cathodic current efficiency in the majority of experiments confirmed the three-electron scheme of uranium reduction. Cathodic current efficiency under certain conditions exceeded 95%. The amount of salt retained in the cathodic deposit varied from 7 to 26%, these values typical for dendrite electrolytic metals.
Corrosion of Metallic Materials in the Molten FLiNaK
Authors: Polovov Ilya B. , Abramov Aleksandr V. , Alimgulov Ruslan R. , Zolotarev Daniil A. , Trubcheninova Anastasiya I. , Gibadullina Alfiya F. , Volkovich Vladimir A. , Zhilyakov Arkadiy Yu. , Khotinov Vladislav A. , Belikov Sergey V.
Published: September 2020

Corrosion resistance of molybdenum, tantalum, and nickel-based alloys was studied in molten salt systems based on LiF–NaF–KF mixture in the temperature range 550–750°C. The rates of corrosion of these materials were determined, the nature of the degradation of the surface of materials established, and the effect of the salt medium and temperature on the corrosive properties of metals and nickel-based alloys considered.
IoT-Based Sensor Systems for Intelligence in Transportation, Healthcare and Natural Gas Detection
Authors: Agi Kamil , Ian Robert , Tsui Lok-kun , Garzon Fernando H , Jordan Ramiro
Published: September 2020

In the last decade, significant advances have facilitated the deployment of sensors. This paper defines the utility of a sensor as the ability of the system to provide intelligence. This comes from collecting data, extracting information (e.g. from data analytics) and interpreting that information into actionable intelligence. Many analytics tools are available, even off-the-shelf, which include machine learning, artificial intelligence, and even sets of toolboxes in MatLab that have changed the way information and intelligence can be extracted and realized. Therefore, care must be taken to obtain correct information. This paper discusses the system strategy for data analytics and examples of intelligence extracted specifically from an application perspective. To illustrate, we introduce SensorComm’s emission monitoring solution, Wi-NOx™. The system was developed to monitor emissions from vehicles, and more recently modified to monitor individuals remotely for healthcare applications, and now to monitor natural gas for oil & gas applications.
Sensitive Detection of Glyphosate by a Water-Gated Organic Transistor
Authors: Asano Koichiro , Sasaki Yui , Minamiki Tsukuru , Minami Tsuyoshi
Published: September 2020

In this study, we developed a glyphosate (GlyP) sensor based on a water-gated organic field-effect transistor (WG-OFET). The WG-OFET has a side-gated structure, which is easier to fabricate compared to the conventional multi-stacked OFET structure. A carboxylate-functionalized polythiophene (PT) was employed as the organic semiconductor and receptor, which enabled a competitive assay among PT, Cu2+, and GlyP in water. The WG-OFET sensor achieved highly sensitive and selective detection (i.e. limit of detection = 0.26 ppm), which was lower than the maximum approved GlyP level (0.7 ppm) in drinking water in the United States. This study demonstrates the promising potential of WG-OFET as an electronic sensor device for the detection of analytes in aqueous media.
Development of Miniaturized Interdigitated Electrode Sensors and Their Application in Taste Sensing
Authors: Dudala Sohan , Srikanth Sangam , Dubey Satish Kumar , Javed Arshad , Goel Sanket
Published: September 2020

Interdigitated Electrodes (IDEs) or Interdigitated Arrays (IDAs) are frequently used in a variety of sensing mechanisms. In this context, this work reports the fabrication and comparison of miniaturized IDEs fabricated using two inexpensive and cleanroom free approaches: inkjet-printing and direct laser writing (DLW) based photolithography. Previously established, validated and reported models were employed for the design of IDEs. The application of the developed IDE sensors was demonstrated for its taste sensing capability with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). EIS was performed on a benchtop electrochemical workstation with two electrode configurations and the data was analyzed in a frequency range of 1 Hz to 1 MHz. DLW photolithography-based approach produces IDEs with excellent geometric dimensional repeatability. The IDEs produced on glass slides using carbon ink-based printing were fabricated in under 2 minutes and cost less than US $0.3. Both approaches demonstrate the applications of IDEs with fairly reasonable and benchmarked taste sensing capabilities.
Solid-State ISFET-Based Sensors Capable of Measuring Acidity of Lubricants
Authors: Hyodo Takeo , Yuto Masahiro , Tanigawa Hiroaki , Tsuruoka Mioko , Sakamoto Hiroki , Ueda Taro , Kamada Kai , Shimizu Yasuhiro
Published: September 2020

New sensors capable of monitoring the acidity of lubricants were fabricated by coating the surface of a general pH electrode based on ion-sensitive field-effect transistor (ISFET) technology with a cation-conducting polymer film, and the sensing properties of the sensors to fresh and deteriorated (oxidatively treated) lubricants were investigated in this study. The pH values, which were measured by the sensors, increased with an increase in the derived pH values, which were calculated from the total acid numbers (TANs, useful index of the acidity) of lubricants, and the sensor performance was dependent on the thickness of the cation-conducting polymer film. In addition, the derived TANs, which were estimated from the pH values measured by the sensors, was linearly related to the TANs of a certain kind of lubricant, which indicates that the sensor can monitor TANs which deteriorate with the oxidation.
Study of Effectiveness of CO and Smoke Alarm in Smoldering Fire
Authors: Hadano Hironori , Nagawa Yoshiharu , Doi Toshiyuki , Mizuno Masayuki
Published: September 2020

One of the main causes of home fires in Japan is smoking in bed, and carbon monoxide poisoning and suffocation account for a high proportion of cause of death in futon smoldering fires. In this study, using a full-scale experiment room model, a smoldering fire initiated by a lighted cigarette placed still on cotton bedclothes was reproduced. The carboxyhemoglobin “COHb” concentration in the blood was compared by monitoring the change in the carbon monoxide “CO” concentrations inhaled into the lung during smoldering fire in a full-scale experiment room model. Early detection of fires and effects on a human body were discussed based on the data and the effectiveness of a CO and smoke alarm placed on an interior wall was examined. As a result, it has been confirmed that the CO detection function of a CO and smoke alarm placed on a wall enables early detection of fire effectively.
(Invited) Skin-Mimic Hydrogel Materials with Water-Perspiration Control for Soft Robots Developed by 3D Printing
Authors: Kanai Shuma , Watanabe Yosuke , Shiblee MD Nahin Islam , Khosla Ajit , Ogawa Jun , Kawakami Masaru , Furukawa Hidemitsu
Published: September 2020

Hydrogels are soft and wet materials with high biocompatibility, and are expected as a material for soft robots that have a touch similar to that of human skin. However, hydrogels have some technical drawbacks such as high-water evaporation rate, different touch and temperature from that of human skin. The purpose of this research is to reproduce a touch of hydrogels similar to the human skin. We designed a flow channel inside the hydrogel for supplying and circulating warm water to mitigate drying of the gel. With this mechanism mass loss due to drying was decreased by 43%. In addition, we found that coating hydrogels with solvent and polymer changes its surface friction coefficient.
(Invited) Soft-Matter Robot That Communicates Humans By Contacting
Authors: Kameyama Takaaki , Ogawa Jun , Watanabe Yosuke , Shiblee MD Nahin Islam , Khosla Ajit , Kawakami Masaru , Furukawa Hidemitsu
Published: September 2020

In the field of soft robotics, research on soft matter robotics, in which the materials used to construct the robot are soft, has been progressing. In recent years, research on soft matter robotics has been carried out in order to make use of the flexibility of the materials used to construct the robot, or in other words, the body information of a soft body (1). In addition, there are attempts to apply the various functions of materials to the functions of robots(2), such as a robot made of hydrogel with shape memory (3)(4)(5). In this study, we focused on the communication between a soft robot and a human, and focused on a robot that communicates with a human by physical contact. In this study, we evaluated three patterns of human contact with soft and hard materials. We have also developed a simple robot that responds differently to the human touch to communicate with a soft material body, and it tries to communicate by being touched by humans.
Process Evaluation of Maternal, Child Health and Nutrition Improvement Project (MCHNP) in the Eastern Region of Ghana: A Case Study of Selected Districts
Authors: Amponsah Solomon Boamah , Osei Eric , Aikins Moses
Published: September 2020

Background. Maternal, Child Health and Nutrition improvement Project is a World Bank‐funded project implemented in all then ten regions of Ghana, which aims at improving access and utilization of community‐based maternal, child health, and nutrition services in order to accelerate progress. This study is aimed at determining the implementation status of the project in the Eastern region by evaluating the processes involved and identifying implementation barriers from the perspective of implementors. Methods. The study was a cross‐sectional in design and employed a quantitative data collection approach in ten Community‐based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) centres in five districts in the region. The project coordinators and Community Health Officers were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. The project implementation reports at the facility level were reviewed using a checklist. Tertile statistic was used to describe the status of the project implementation. Result. The finding from this study indicated “complete implementation status” for maternal, child health, and nutrition activities of the project. However, none of the facilities evaluated had satisfactorily implemented all the governance processes and were therefore rated as “partially complete.” The main implementation barriers emerged from the study were related to restrictions placed on the use of project funds and delays in the fund disbursement to CHPS facilities. Conclusion. The evidence gathered from the study showed very good implementation status for community‐led maternal and child health service delivery, indicative of a positive response to the guidelines by service providers at the periphery and can have positive impact on the project’s objectives and goals. Governance component of the project, however, revealed inadequate alignment with guidelines which might have been influenced by the lack of knowledge as a result of lack of training for implementers. This therefore calls for in‐service training and improved supportive supervision at both administrative and service delivery levels.
Bilateral Popliteal Artery Entrapment Syndrome: An Approach to Diagnosis and Salvage
Authors: Williams Aman Berry
Published: September 2020

Popliteal artery entrapment syndrome (PAES) is a rare cause of limb-threatening vascular disease. Usually, it arises from aberrant embryological development or acquired dysfunctionality of the popliteal artery and its surrounding musculotendinous structures in the popliteal fossa. Here, we present a case report of a young woman with relatively sudden-onset short-distance claudication and paraesthesia affecting her right leg primarily. She had no recent traumatic history and no atherosclerotic risk factors and was otherwise previously very active. She had a feeble right popliteal artery pulse and no foot pulses. Nerve conduction studies demonstrated no electrophysiological abnormalities. Following computed tomography angiography and magnetic resonance imaging, it was determined she had type 2 PAES. Subsequently, the patient underwent surgical division of a lateralised head of her medial gastrocnemius, resection of her fibrosed popliteal artery, and repair with a reversed long saphenous vein interposition graft. Following surgery, her symptoms resolved, and she remains on aspirin and ultrasound surveillance.
Effect of Qing’e Decoction on Leptin/Leptin Receptor and Bone Metabolism in Naturally Aging Rats
Authors: Sun Pan , Zhang Yuanyuan , Wei Zhenpu , Wang Zhiqiang , Guo Shiming , Lin Yanping
Published: September 2020

Senile osteoporosis (SOP) is a common disease that has decreased bone strength as its main symptom. There is currently no medication that can treat SOP, and traditional Chinese medicine has advantages in slowing down bone aging. The present study aimed to observe the effects of Qing’e decoction on leptin, leptin receptor, sex hormone, and biochemical markers of bone metabolism in naturally aging rats and to explore its mechanism in regulating bone metabolism. The results revealed that, with the increase in age, the bone mineral density (BMD), bone strength, bone trabecula sparse, serum levels of leptin receptor (LEP‐R), estradiol (E2), testosterone (T), core binding‐factor α‐1 (Cbfα‐1), collagen‐I (COL‐I) and osteocalcin (OC), and the mRNA levels of leptin (LEP) and LEP‐R in bone tissue decreased, while serum LEP levels increased in the female and male NS groups. The serum levels of LEP, LEP‐R, E2, T, osteoprotegerin, Cbfα‐1, COL‐I, OC and bone alkaline phosphatase, and the mRNA levels of LEP and LEP‐R in bone tissue in the female and male QED groups were higher than those in the same age and sex NS group, while the BMD, bone trabecular area percentage, maximum load, and maximum stress in the female and male QED groups were significantly higher than those in the same age and sex NS group. In conclusion, with the increase in age, the bone quality of naturally aging rats decreased gradually. Qing’e decoction can regulate the bone metabolism and increase the bone quality and delay bone aging, which may be achieved by increasing sex hormone, LEP, and LEP‐R levels.
Inflammation and Inflammasomes: Pros and Cons in Tumorigenesis
Authors: Balahura Liliana R. , Selaru Aida , Dinescu Sorina , Costache Marieta
Published: September 2020

Over the past decade, it has been well established that tumorigenesis is affected by chronic inflammation. During this event, proinflammatory cytokines are produced by numerous types of cells, such as fibroblasts, endothelial cells, macrophages, and tumor cells, and are able to promote the initiation, progression, and metastasis of different types of cancer. When persistent inflammation occurs, activation of inflammasome complexes is initiated, leading to its assembly and further activation of caspase, production of proinflammatory cytokines, and pyroptosis induction. The function of this multiprotein complex is not only to reassure inflammation and to promote cell death, through caspase activity, but also has been identified to have significant contributions during tumorigenesis and cancer development. So far, many efforts have been made in order to extend the knowledge of inflammasome implications and how its components could be targeted as therapeutic agents. Additionally, microRNAs (miRNAs), evolutionary conserved noncoding molecules, have emerged as pivotal players during numerous biological events by regulating gene and protein expression. Therefore, dysregulations of miRNA expressions have been correlated with inflammation during tumor development. In this review, we aim to highlight the dual role of inflammasomes and proinflammatory cytokines during carcinogenesis paired with the distinguished effects of miRNAs upon inflammation cascades during tumor growth and progression.
Efficacy and Safety of Cinobufacin Combined with Chemotherapy for Advanced Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Xu Jing , Li Dongyun , Du Kexin , Wang Jing
Published: September 2020

Background. Cinobufacin is a Chinese patent medicine widely used for breast cancer in China. However, no systematic review and meta‐analysis have been published to validate its effects in breast cancer treatment. We, therefore, summarize the efficacy and safety of Cinobufacin combined with chemotherapy in order to provide rigid evidence for its clinical application. Methods. By searching multiple databases incepted to December 2019, the RCTs of breast cancer patients treated with Cinobufacin were screened according to the inclusion criteria, and the meta‐analysis and sensitivity analysis were conducted using RevMan5.3. Results. A total of 1163 articles were retrieved, and 16 studies were included. The total sample size was 1331 cases, including 666 cases in the treatment group receiving Cinobufacin combined with chemotherapy and 665 cases in the control group receiving chemotherapy alone. Our study found that the ORR (overall response rate) (RR = 1.35, 95% CI: [1.23, 1.49], P < 0.00001), CBR (clinical benefit rate) (RR = 1.14, 95% CI: [1.08, 1.21], P < 0.00001), KPS scores (RR = 1.98, 95% CI: [1.45, 2.68], P < 0.0001), and pain relief rate (RR = 1.34, 95% CI: [1.01, 1.78] P = 0.04 of the Cinobufacin combined with chemotherapy group were better than those of the chemotherapy group, and the difference was statistically significant. Our study also discovered that the tumor markers (CA125, CA153, and CEA) in the Cinobufacin combined with chemotherapy group were lower than those in the chemotherapy group, which heterogeneity was derived from the low‐quality literature included in the study, but the results were robust. In addition, in terms of safety, we found that the incidences of gastrointestinal reactions (RR = 0.58, 95% CI: [0.48, 0.70], P < 0.00001), liver and kidney damage (RR = 0.57, 95% CI: [0.38, 0.84], P = 0.004), and hair loss (RR = 0.61, 95% CI: [0.40, 0.92], P = 0.02) in the Cinobufacin combined chemotherapy group were lower than those in the chemotherapy group, and the difference was statistically significant, but the incidences of peripheral neurotoxicity (RR = 0.69, 95% CI: [0.26, 1.85], P = 0.46) and myelosuppression (RR = 0.78, 95% CI: [0.46, 1.34], P = 0.37) in the combined group were similar to those of the chemotherapy group, and the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusions. Cinobufacin combined with chemotherapy can improve the clinical efficacy of breast cancer patients, enhance the quality of life of the patients, reduce the value of tumor markers such as CA125, CA153, and CEA, and lower the occurrence of adverse reactions such as gastrointestinal reactions, liver and kidney damage, and hair loss.
Prevalence of Anemia and Associated Factors among Secondary School Adolescent Girls in Jimma Town, Oromia Regional State, Southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Fentie Kelemu , Wakayo Tolassa , Gizaw Getu
Published: September 2020

Background. Anemia defined as a low blood hemoglobin concentration is public health importance. The adolescence age group is the most neglected in public health and nutrition research as priorities are usually given to pregnant women, lactating mothers, and their children less than 2 years. Current Ethiopian Food and Nutrition policy included adolescent girls in the most at-risk group for nutritional demands; however, only a few published studies have assessed a deficiency of anemia and associated factors to tackle the intergenerational cycle of malnutrition.Objective. To assess the prevalence of anemia and associated factors among high school adolescent girls in Jimma town.Methods. Data were collected from 528 secondary school adolescent girls by a school-based cross-sectional study design in Jimma town from 1/1/2019 to 1/2/2019, southwest Ethiopia. A multistage sampling technique was used to select the study participants. A portable battery-operated HemoCue Hb 301+ analyzer was used to measure the hemoglobin level, and then reading was classified as normal Hb ≥ 12 g\dl and anemic if the hemoglobin value <12 g/dl based on the WHO 2011 recommended cutoff points after adjustments to altitude was made. Bivariate analysis atpvalue ≤0.25 was considered as a candidate for multivariable logistic regression. Multivariable logistic regression was done to control for confounders and to identify factors independently associated with anemia. Level of statistical significance was declared atp<0.05.Results. A total of 528 adolescent girls were included in the study yielding a response rate of 95.8%. The prevalence of anemia was found to be 26.7%, 95% CI (22.7, 30.50). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, those living separately from their family (AOR = 4.430, 95% CI (2.20, 8.90)), low dietary diversity score (AOR = 3.57, 95% CI (1.88, 6.75)), menstrual bleeding more than 5 days (AOR = 2.25, 95% CI (1.17, 4.33)), and low economic status (AOR = 2.16, 95% CI (1.17, 4.33)) were positively associated factors with anemia and only having at least a secondary school in mother’s educational status AOR = 0.43, 95% CI (0.18, 0.97) was negatively associated with anemia in the study area.Conclusion. Prevalence of anemia among school adolescent girls was moderate public health importance according to the World Health Organization prevalence estimation of anemia. The living condition of the adolescent girls, dietary diversity score, duration of menses, and low economic status were positive predictor variables, whereas mothers who are being secondary school and above was a protective factor for anemia. Therefore, iron-rich and diversified food consumption should be given attention.
A New Prognostic Risk Model Based on PPAR Pathway-Related Genes in Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Xu Yingkun , Li Xiunan , Han Yuqing , Wang Zilong , Han Chenglin , Ruan Ningke , Li Jianyi , Yu Xiao , Xia Qinghua , Wu Guangzhen
Published: September 2020

Objective. This study is aimed at using genes related to the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) pathway to establish a prognostic risk model in kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC). Methods. For this study, we first found the PPAR pathway-related genes on the gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) website and found the KIRC mRNA expression data and clinical data through TCGA database. Subsequently, we used R language and multiple R language expansion packages to analyze the expression, hazard ratio analysis, and coexpression analysis of PPAR pathway-related genes in KIRC. Afterward, using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins (STRING) website, we established the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of genes related to the PPAR pathway. After that, we used LASSO regression curve analysis to establish a prognostic survival model in KIRC. Finally, based on the model, we conducted correlation analysis of the clinicopathological characteristics, univariate analysis, and multivariate analysis. Results. We found that most of the genes related to the PPAR pathway had different degrees of expression differences in KIRC. Among them, the high expression of 27 genes is related to low survival rate of KIRC patients, and the high expression of 13 other genes is related to their high survival rate. Most importantly, we used 13 of these genes successfully to establish a risk model that could accurately predict patients’ prognosis. There is a clear correlation between this model and metastasis, tumor, stage, grade, and fustat. Conclusions. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to analyze the entire PPAR pathway in KIRC in detail and successfully establish a risk model for patient prognosis. We believe that our research can provide valuable data for future researchers and clinicians.
Comparison of Performance on the Clock Drawing Test Using Three Different Scales in Dialysis Patients
Authors: Muayqil Taim Abdullah , Tarakji Ahmad Raed , Khattab Abdullah Mohammad , Balbaid Nasser Talal , Al-Dawalibi Ahmad Mohedeen , Alqarni Sami Ahmed , Hazazi Reema Ali , Alanazy Mohammed H.
Published: September 2020

Background. The clock drawing test (CDT) is frequently used to detect changes in cognition. Multiple scales of varying length have been published to assess performance. The aim of this study is to compare the CDT performance measured by three scales among a sample of nondemented patients on renal dialysis and identify the variables that affect performance. Methodology. This is a cross-sectional study performed at the dialysis unit at King Saud University Medical City. Eighty-nine dialysis patients performed the CDT. The CDT was scored by the methods of Rouleau et al. (RCS 10-point), Babins et al. (BCS 18-point), and the MoCA (MCS 3-point). Regression models were used to determine influencing demographic and dialysis variables. Scores were then correlated, and a combined factor analysis of scale components was done. Results. Females represented 44.6%, the mean (SD) age was 49.99 (15.49) years, and education duration was 10.29 (5.5) years. Dialysis vintage was 55.81 (62.91) months. The scores for the MCS, RCS, and BCS were 2.18 (1.08), 6.67 (3.07), and 11.8 (5.5), respectively, with significant correlation (P<0.0001). In all scales, increasing age was associated with a lower score (each P<0.0001). The scores increased with increasing education (each P<0.0001). Diabetics had a lower score on both the BCS and MCS by 2.56 (SE 1.2) (P=0.035) and 0.71 (P=0.003) points, respectively. However, only age and years of education were significant in the multivariable analysis. In factor analysis, two shared factors appeared between the three scales: hand and number placement and the clock face. Conclusion. Age and education influence the performance on the CDT, and factors diverged into executive and visuospatial components. The MCS is likely to yield useful information but should be interpreted as part of the MoCA.
Stress Reactivity Influences the Relationship between Emotional Labor Strategies and Job Burnouts among Chinese Hospital Nurses
Authors: Deng Huihua , Wu Hanyao , Qi Xingliang , Jin Caixiang , Li Jianmei
Published: September 2020

Extant studies mostly focused on the buffering role of social and external organizational resources and personal mental resources. However, there is no research exploring the moderating role of personal physiological resources (e.g., stress reactivity). The present study is aimed at examining the interactive effect of emotional labor and stress reactivity on job burnout. The present study utilized cortisol content in a 1 cm hair segment as the biomarker of total stress reactivity in one month. The participants were 229 female hospital nurses randomly recruited from city hospitals, China. They self-reported their emotional labor strategies and job burnout syndromes and provided 1 cm hair segments closest to the scalp two weeks later after the survey. Hair cortisol content was determined with high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The results revealed that hair cortisol can moderate the associations of surface acting with emotional exhaustion and personal burnout; of deep acting with emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and personal burnout; and of expression of naturally felt emotions with professional inefficacy. In particular, nurses with high cortisol levels not only showed higher emotional exhaustion than those with low cortisol levels under high surface acting but also showed lower emotional exhaustion under low surface acting. A similar situation was true for nurses’ emotional exhaustion and depersonalization in the context of deep acting. Nurses with low hair cortisol levels not only showed higher professional inefficacy than those with high hair cortisol levels under low expression of naturally felt emotions but also showed lower professional inefficacy under high expression of naturally felt emotions. Additionally, nurses with high hair cortisol levels showed lower personal burnout than those with low hair cortisol levels under low surface acting or high deep acting. In summary, the interaction pattern between stress reactivity and emotional labor was varied with the nature of emotional labor strategy and job burnout.
Effect of Chemical and Physical Parameters on the Electrical Outputs of Cu2Zn1−yFeySnS4-Based Solar Cells by wxAMPS
Authors: Tchognia Nkuissi Hervé Joël , Mambou Ngueyep Luc Leroy , Dadjé Abdouramani , Tchapga Gnamsi Guy Molay , Chéagé André Chamgoué , Hartiti Bouchaib , Ndjaka Jean-Marie
Published: September 2020

Cu2Zn1−yFeySnS4-based solar cells with different mole fractions of iron have been analyzed using numerical simulations in this study. The analysis deals with the effect of the iron content on the overall electrical performance of solar cells. Results revealed that the Voc is affected by the increase of the iron content even if it improves the other parameters. We found that the CZFTS solar cell with a mole fraction of iron equal to 1 (CFTS) showed the best results in terms of power conversion efficiency (PCE). Moreover, variations of several structural and physical parameters of the buffer CdS and the best absorber CFTS on the overall electrical characteristics of the cell were investigated. Simulations showed promising results with PCE of 20.35%, Jsc of 26.09 mA/cm2, Voc of 0.93 V, and FF of 83.93%. The results obtained can serve as a basis for the design and manufacture of high-efficiency CZFTS solar cells.
Isolated Femoral Shaft Fracture in Wakeboarding and Review of the Literature
Authors: Bäcker Henrik Constantin , Shoap Seth , Vasarhelyi Gabor , Pánics Gergely
Published: September 2020

Introduction. Wakeboarding is an extreme sport that has shown increasing popularity in recent years, with an estimated 2.9 million participants in 2017. Due to this trend, injuries related to this sport are likely to become more common. Isolated femoral shaft are rare; however, they occur much more frequently in youth as a result of high velocity events, such as dashboard-related injuries. Few studies have addressed injuries related to wakeboarding, and of those that have, most have reported on muscle injuries, ligament ruptures, and sprains. Due to the dearth in literature, we want to present two cases of isolated noncontact femoral shaft fractures that resulted from wakeboarding. Case Presentation. Two 28-year-old, otherwise healthy, wakeboarders—patient A, male, and patient B, female—presented to our Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine with isolated femoral shaft fractures. Both were admitted due to wakeboard-related noncontact injuries, where patient A fell while performing a sit-down start during cable wakeboarding and patient B after attempting a wake-jump. Both patients were being pulled by motorboats at roughly 40 km/h. After clinical examination and radiography, left spiral (AO classification: 32-A1.2) (patient A) and right-sided bending, wedge (AO classification 32-B2.2) (patient B) isolated femoral shaft fractures were diagnosed. No concomitant injuries were reported. For treatment, long reamed locked nails were applied, while the patients were under spinal anaesthesia. Physiotherapy was prescribed postoperatively. Patient A returned to wakeboarding 155 days after the surgery, and patient B returned after approximately half a year. Conclusion. This case series shows that even in noncontact sports such as wakeboarding, high-energy forces applied to the femur can cause isolated femoral shaft fractures. Despite multiple reports in various sports of stress fractures of the femur, there are few publications of direct trauma.
Research on Semiactive Control of Civil Engineering Structure Based on Neural Network
Authors: Jian Longji , Song Feifei , Huang Yuansong
Published: September 2020

In order to improve the strength of civil engineering structure, a semiactive control model of civil engineering structure based on neural network is proposed, and the control constraint parameter model of semiactive regulation of civil engineering structure is constructed. Combined with the controlled object model, the semiactive control model of civil engineering structure is designed, the mechanical analysis model of civil engineering structure is established, and the semiactive regulation of civil engineering structure is carried out by the small disturbance suppression method. The semiactive adjustment of civil engineering structure is carried out by using the structural strength fusion tracking method. Taking the internal strength and shock yield response of civil engineering structure as constraint parameters, the semiactive control of civil engineering structure is carried out and PID neural network is used to optimize the control system. The simulation results show that the semiactive control of civil engineering structure with this method has good stability, and the strength and yield response strength of civil engineering structure are improved, and it has good control efficiency.
Frontal Alpha Complexity of Different Severity Depression Patients
Authors: Zhao Lulu , Yang Licai , Li Baimin , Su Zhonghua , Liu Chengyu
Published: September 2020

Depression is a leading cause of disability worldwide, and objective biomarkers are required for future computer-aided diagnosis. This study aims to assess the variation of frontal alpha complexity among different severity depression patients and healthy subjects, therefore to explore the depressed neuronal activity and to suggest valid biomarkers. 69 depression patients (divided into three groups according to the disease severity) and 14 healthy subjects were employed to collect 3-channel resting Electroencephalogram signals. Sample entropy and Lempel–Ziv complexity methods were employed to evaluate the Electroencephalogram complexity among different severity depression groups and healthy group. Kruskal–Wallis rank test and group t-test were performed to test the difference significance among four groups and between each two groups separately. All indexes values show that depression patients have significantly increased complexity compared to healthy subjects, and furthermore, the complexity keeps increasing as the depression deepens. Sample entropy measures exhibit superiority in distinguishing mild depression from healthy group with significant difference even between nondepressive state group and healthy group. The results confirm the altered neuronal activity influenced by depression severity and suggest sample entropy and Lempel–Ziv complexity as promising biomarkers in future depression evaluation and diagnosis.
Analysis on the Construction of Personalized Physical Education Teaching System Based on a Cloud Computing Platform
Authors: Zhang Zhifei , Min Hyunjoo
Published: September 2020

The emergence of cloud computing, the change of education methods, and the requirements of lifelong education make the traditional teaching platform face great challenges. With the rapid development of network technology and computer technology, the speed of updating knowledge is accelerating day by day, and the way of education is gradually changing. Facing the informationization of education, our physical education teaching methods and means are still stuck in the traditional words and deeds, which obviously cannot meet the needs of the development of physical education and health curriculum. In terms of the overall development of sports, school sports is the cornerstone of the country’s sports development. This research is based on cloud computing technology, breaks the framework of the traditional sports model, establishes a personalized sports teaching system according to the basic theory of physical education, and designs and discusses the future college sports model. The construction and application of digital teaching resources of physical education courses in colleges and universities can help solve the problems such as shortage of teachers and contradiction between learning and training. The construction of digital teaching resources of physical education courses in colleges and universities based on cloud computing can save costs and improve resource utilization efficiency.
Integrating Image and Network-Based Topological Data through Spatial Data Fusion for Indoor Location-Based Services
Authors: Ahn Dasol , Claridades Alexis Richard C. , Lee Jiyeong
Published: September 2020

Nowadays, the importance and utilization of spatial information are recognized. Particularly in urban areas, the demand for indoor spatial information draws attention and most commonly requires high-precision 3D data. However accurate, most methodologies present problems in construction cost and ease of updating. Images are accessible and are useful to express indoor space, but pixel data cannot be applied directly to provide indoor services. A network-based topological data gives information about the spatial relationships of the spaces depicted by the image, as well as enables recognition of these spaces and the objects contained within. In this paper, we present a data fusion methodology between image data and a network-based topological data, without the need for data conversion, use of a reference data, or a separate data model. Using the concept of a Spatial Extended Point (SEP), we implement this methodology to establish a correspondence between omnidirectional images and IndoorGML data to provide an indoor spatial service. The proposed algorithm used position information identified by a user in the image to define a 3D region to be used to distinguish correspondence with the IndoorGML and indoor POI data. We experiment with a corridor-type indoor space and construct an indoor navigation platform.
Effect of Particle Size on the Hydraulic Characteristics of Mechanically and Biologically Treated Waste
Authors: Zhang Zhenying , Pan Xiufeng , Zhang Jiahe , Xu Hui
Published: September 2020

Mechanical biological treatment (MBT) is a waste processing technology that helps conserve resources and reduce emissions harmful to the environment. The treatment of municipal solid waste (MSW) using MBT is a hot topic in environmental geotechnical engineering. Permeability tests were carried out on MBT waste using a compression and permeability combined apparatus and a large‐scale vertical permeability apparatus taking the influence of particle size into consideration. The permeability of samples with smaller particle sizes was found to be lower for the same pressure and dry mass (%) of component. The best‐fit line between the logarithmic permeability and variables such as the dry density was linear. As the dry density increased or the void ratio decreased, the permeability of samples with smaller particles decreased more. The logarithmic permeability increased with the increase in the average particle size and void ratio. The permeabilities of MBT waste corresponding to particle size ranges of 0–10, 0–20, and 0–40 mm were 10−10–10−5, 10−8–10−4, and 10−5–10−3 m/s, respectively. The difference between MBT waste and MSW was analyzed in terms of their permeability. The results of MBT waste were compared with those reported in previous studies to provide reference for the permeability analysis of MBT landfills.
A Novel Conformable Fractional Nonlinear Grey Bernoulli Model and Its Application
Authors: Xie Wanli , Yu Guixian
Published: September 2020

The fractional nonlinear grey Bernoulli model, abbreviated as FANGBM(1,1), is a successful extension of NGBM(1,1). Although FANGBM(1,1) has numerous excellent characteristics, it has a more complex form of fractional accumulation (FA) operator than raw NGBM(1,1). In this study, we propose a novel fractional nonlinear grey Bernoulli model, named CFNGBM(1,1), which uses conformable fractional accumulation (CFA), which has a simpler form than FANGBM. Using two practical cases, the effectiveness of the proposed CFNGBM(1,1) in practical applications was illustrated. Results show that the CFNGBM(1,1) exhibited higher accuracy than other grey models, thus facilitating its promotion in engineering practices.
CD47-SIRPαAxis as a Biomarker and Therapeutic Target in Cancer: Current Perspectives and Future Challenges in Nonsmall Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Catalán Rodrigo , Orozco-Morales Mario , Hernández-Pedro Norma Y. , Guijosa Alberto , Colín-González Ana L. , Ávila-Moreno Federico , Arrieta Oscar
Published: September 2020

CD47 is a cell surface protein in the immunoglobulin superfamily which is normally expressed at low levels in every healthy cell. It´s main physiologic function is to act as an inhibitor of phagocytosis; this occurs throughout interaction with SIRPa expressed on macrophages. Interaction between CD47 and SIRPa leads to activation of tyrosine phosphatases that inhibit myosin accumulation at the submembrane assembly site of the phagocytic synapse, resulting in phagocytosis blockade. In this way CD47 acts as a “don´t eat me signal” for healthy self-cells; accordingly, loss of CD47 leads to phagocytosis of aged or damaged cells. Taking advantage of this anti-phagocytic signal provided by CD47, many types of tumors overexpress this protein, thereby avoiding phagocytosis by macrophages and aiding in the survival of cancer cells. The aim of this review is to describe the physiologic the pathophysiologic role of CD47; summarize the available high-quality information about this molecule as a potential biomarker and/or therapeutic target in cancer; finally, we present an in-depth analysis of the available information about CD47 in association with nonsmall cell lung cancer, EGFR mutations, and tumor microenvironment.
Boundary Value Problem of Nonlinear Hybrid Differential Equations with Linear and Nonlinear Perturbations
Authors: Melliani Said , El Allaoui Abdelati , Chadli Lalla Saadia
Published: September 2020

The aim of this paper is to study a boundary value problem of the hybrid differential equation with linear and nonlinear perturbations. It generalizes the existing problem of second type. The existence result is constructed using the Leray–Schauder alternative, and the uniqueness is guaranteed by Banach’s fixed-point theorem. Towards the end of this paper, an example is provided to illustrate the obtained results.
H3.3 G34W Promotes Growth and Impedes Differentiation of Osteoblast-Like Mesenchymal Progenitors in Giant Cell Tumor of Bone
Authors: Khazaei Sima , De Jay Nicolas , Deshmukh Shriya , Hendrikse Liam D. , Jawhar Wajih , Chen Carol C.L. , Mikael Leonie G. , Faury Damien , Marchione Dylan M. , Lanoix Joel , Bonneil Éric , Ishii Takeaki , Jain Siddhant U. , Rossokhata Kateryna , Sihota Tianna S. , Eveleigh Robert , Lisi Véronique , Harutyunyan Ashot S. , Jung Sungmi , Karamchandani Jason , Dickson Brendan C. , Turcotte Robert , Wunder Jay S. , Thibault Pierre , Lewis Peter W. , Garcia Benjamin A. , Mack Stephen C. , Taylor Michael D. , Garzia Livia , Kleinman Claudia L. , Jabado Nada
Published: September 2020

Glycine 34-to-tryptophan (G34W) substitutions in H3.3 arise in approximately 90% of giant cell tumor of bone (GCT). Here, we show H3.3 G34W is necessary for tumor formation. By profiling the epigenome, transcriptome, and secreted proteome of patient samples and tumor-derived cells CRISPR–Cas9-edited for H3.3 G34W, we show that H3.3K36me3 loss on mutant H3.3 alters the deposition of the repressive H3K27me3 mark from intergenic to genic regions, beyond areas of H3.3 deposition. This promotes redistribution of other chromatin marks and aberrant transcription, altering cell fate in mesenchymal progenitors and hindering differentiation. Single-cell transcriptomics reveals that H3.3 G34W stromal cells recapitulate a neoplastic trajectory from a SPP1+ osteoblast-like progenitor population toward an ACTA2+ myofibroblast-like population, which secretes extracellular matrix ligands predicted to recruit and activate osteoclasts. Our findings suggest that H3.3 G34W leads to GCT by sustaining a transformed state in osteoblast-like progenitors, which promotes neoplastic growth, pathologic recruitment of giant osteoclasts, and bone destruction.

Significance:

This study shows that H3.3 G34W drives GCT tumorigenesis through aberrant epigenetic remodeling, altering differentiation trajectories in mesenchymal progenitors. H3.3 G34W promotes in neoplastic stromal cells an osteoblast-like progenitor state that enables undue interactions with the tumor microenvironment, driving GCT pathogenesis. These epigenetic changes may be amenable to therapeutic targeting in GCT.

See related commentary by Licht, p. 1794.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1775