bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cell-Penetrating Antimicrobial Peptides Derived from an Atypical Staphylococcal δ-Toxin
Authors: Deeyagahage Kathyana , Ruzzini Antonio
Published: December 2021

The continued emergence and global distribution of infections caused by antimicrobial-resistant pathogens fuel our perpetual need for new or alternative therapies. Here, we present the discovery and initial characterization of bacterial cell-penetrating AMPs that were based on a family of virulence factors.
Dipole–Dipole Broadening in the Selective Reflection of an Intense Laser Beam from the Interface between a Transparent Dielectric and a Dense Resonance Gas
Authors: Bobrov A. A. , Saakyan S. A. , Sautenkov V. A. , Zelener B. B.
Published: December 2021

The dipole–dipole broadening of the spectrum of the selective reflection of intense resonance light from the interface between a transparent dielectric and a gas of the natural mixture of Rb isotopes has been studied experimentally. The case of a high gas density where the Doppler broadening can be neglected has been investigated. It has been shown that dipole–dipole broadening is reduced with increasing the number density of excited atoms. When the laser beam intensity is much higher than the saturation intensity of a resonance transition, a significant broadening due to the very high laser beam intensity has not been observed in the reflection spectrum from the transparent dielectric/gas interface. The observed intensity dependence of the spectral width has been explained by the quenching collisions of the excited atoms with the interface.
The vertical gracilis myocutaneous flap for breast reconstruction in a massive weight loss patient
Authors: Söderman Martin , Thomsen Jørn Bo , Sørensen Jens Ahm
Published: December 2021

The number of patients undergoing bariatric surgery is increasing worldwide. Different types of free flaps are often used for breast reconstruction following mastectomy. We present a not previously described case using a vertical myocutaneous gracilis flap for breast reconstruction in a massive weight loss patient. The patient was a 61 year-old woman who previously had a lumpectomy for an in situ ductile carcinoma of her left breast. Subsequently the patient underwent a full mastectomy in 2020 due to a recurrence. The massive weight loss population poses a challenge in reconstructive surgery, due to their higher risk of complications. However, we still believe free flaps should be considered as a valid option for breast reconstruction in these patients. Due to the often increased size of perforator vessels in these patients, other flaps may prove more suitable than the usually preferred ones.
Patient-specific factors associated with use of diabetes self-management education and support programs in Louisiana
Authors: Yoshida Yilin , Hong Dongzhe , Nauman Elizabeth , Price-Haywood Eboni G , Bazzano Alessandra N , Stoecker Charles , Hu Gang , Shen Yun , Katzmarzyk Peter T , Fonseca Vivian A , Shi Lizheng
Published: December 2021

Introduction

The prevalence of diabetes self-management education and support (DSME/S) use among patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and patients with insulin prescription has not been evaluated. It is also unclear what demographic, behavioral, and clinical factors associated with use of DSME/S.

Research design and methods

This retrospective analysis was based on electronic health records from the Research Action for Health Network (2013–2019). Patients with newly diagnosed T2DM were identified as 35–94 year-olds diagnosed with T2DM≥1 year after the first recorded office visit. Patients with insulin were identified by the first insulin prescription records. DSME/S (Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System G0108 and G0109) codes that occurred from 2 months before the ‘new diagnosis date’ or first insulin prescription date through 1 year after were defined as use of DSME/S. Age-matched controls (non-users) were identified from the Electronic Health Records (EHR). The date of first DSME/S record was selected as the index date. Logistic regression was used to estimate the associations between patient factors and use of DSME/S.

Results

The prevalence of DSME/S use was 6.5% (8909/137 629) among patients with newly diagnosed T2DM and 32.7% (13,152/40,212) among patients with diabetes taking insulin. Multivariable analysis found that among patients with newly diagnosed T2DM, black and male patients were less likely to use DSME/S, while in patients with insulin, they were more likely to use the service compared with white and female counterparts, respectively. Among patients taking insulin, those with private insurance or self-pay status were significantly less likely, while those with Medicaid were more likely to use the service compared with their Medicare counterparts. A strong positive association was found between HbA1c, obesity, and DSME/S use in both cohorts, while hypertension was negatively associated with DSME/S in both cohorts.

Conclusion

We showed a low rate of DSME/S use in Louisiana, especially in patients with newly diagnosed T2DM. Our findings demonstrated heterogeneity in factors influencing DSME/S use between patients with newly diagnosed T2D and patients with insulin.
Lactobacillus gallinarummodulates the gut microbiota and produces anti-cancer metabolites to protect against colorectal tumourigenesis
Authors: Sugimura Naoki , Li Qing , Chu Eagle Siu Hong , Lau Harry Cheuk Hay , Fong Winnie , Liu Weixin , Liang Cong , Nakatsu Geicho , Su Anthony Chin Yang , Coker Olabisi Oluwabukola , Wu William Ka Kei , Chan Francis Ka Leung , Yu Jun
Published: December 2021

Objective

Using faecal shotgun metagenomic sequencing, we identified the depletion ofLactobacillus gallinarumin patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). We aimed to determine the potential antitumourigenic role ofL. gallinarumin colorectal tumourigenesis.

Design

The tumor-suppressive effect ofL. gallinarumwas assessed in murine models of CRC. CRC cell lines and organoids derived from patients with CRC were cultured withL. gallinarumorEscherichia coliMG1655 culture-supernatant to evaluate cell proliferation, apoptosis and cell cycle distribution. Gut microbiota was assessed by 16S ribosomal DNA sequencing. Antitumour molecule produced fromL. gallinarumwas identified by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and targeted mass spectrometry.

Results

L. gallinarumsignificantly reduced intestinal tumour number and size compared withE. coliMG1655 and phosphate-buffered saline in both male and female murine intestinal tumourigenesis models. Faecal microbial profiling revealed enrichment of probiotics and depletion of pathogenic bacteria inL. gallinarum-treated mice. Culturing CRC cells withL. gallinarumculture-supernatant (5%, 10% and 20%) concentration-dependently suppressed cell proliferation and colony formation.L. gallinarumculture-supernatant significantly promoted apoptosis in CRC cells and patient-derived CRC organoids, but not in normal colon epithelial cells. OnlyL. gallinarumculture-supernatant with fraction size <3 kDa suppressed proliferation in CRC cells. Using LC-MS/MS, enrichments of indole-3-lactic acid (ILA) was identified in bothL. gallinarumculture-supernatant and the gut ofL. gallinarum-treated mice. ILA displayed anti-CRC growthin vitroand inhibited intestinal tumourigenesisin vivo.

Conclusion

L. gallinarumprotects against intestinal tumourigenesis by producing protective metabolites that can promote apoptosis of CRC cells.
Adding complex fermions to the Grassmannian-like coset model
Authors: Ahn Changhyun
Published: December 2021

In the $${{\mathcal {N}}}=2$$

N
=
2

supersymmetric coset model, $$\frac{SU(N+M)_k \times SO(2 N M)_1}{ SU(N)_{k+M} \times U(1)_{ N M (N+M)(k+N+M)}}$$

S
U

(
N
+
M
)

k

×
S
O

(
2
N
M
)

1

S
U

(
N
)

k
+
M

×
U

(
1
)

N
M
(
N
+
M
)
(
k
+
N
+
M
)

, we construct the SU(M) nonsinglet $${{\mathcal {N}}}=2$$

N
=
2

multiplet of spins $$(1, \frac{3}{2}, \frac{3}{2}, 2)$$

(
1
,

3
2

,

3
2

,
2
)

in terms of coset fields. The next SU(M) singlet and nonsinglet $${{\mathcal {N}}}=2$$

N
=
2

multiplets of spins $$(2, \frac{5}{2}, \frac{5}{2}, 3)$$

(
2
,

5
2

,

5
2

,
3
)

are determined by applying the $${{\mathcal {N}}}=2$$

N
=
2

supersymmetry currents of spin $$\frac{3}{2}$$

3
2

to the bosonic singlet and nonsinglet currents of spin 3 in the bosonic coset model. We also obtain the operator product expansions (OPEs) between the currents of the $${{\mathcal {N}}}=2$$

N
=
2

superconformal algebra and above three kinds of $${{\mathcal {N}}}=2$$

N
=
2

multiplets. These currents in two dimensions play the role of the asymptotic symmetry, as the generators of $${{\mathcal {N}}}=2$$

N
=
2

“rectangular W-algebra”, of the $$M \times M$$

M
×
M

matrix generalization of $$\mathcal{N}=2$$

N
=
2

$$AdS_3$$

A
d

S
3

higher spin theory in the bulk. The structure constants in the right hand sides of these OPEs are dependent on the three parameters k, N and M explicitly. Moreover, the OPEs between SU(M) nonsinglet $${{\mathcal {N}}}=2$$

N
=
2

multiplet of spins $$(1, \frac{3}{2}, \frac{3}{2}, 2)$$

(
1
,

3
2

,

3
2

,
2
)

and itself are analyzed in detail. The complete OPE between the lowest component of the SU(M) singlet $${{\mathcal {N}}}=2$$

N
=
2

multiplet of spins $$(2, \frac{5}{2}, \frac{5}{2}, 3)$$

(
2
,

5
2

,

5
2

,
3
)

and itself is described. In particular, when $$M=2$$

M
=
2

, it is known that the above $${{\mathcal {N}}}=2$$

N
=
2

supersymmetric coset model provides the realization of the extension of the large $${{\mathcal {N}}}=4$$

N
=
4

nonlinear superconformal algebra. We determine the currents of the large $${{\mathcal {N}}}=4$$

N
=
4

nonlinear superconformal algebra and the higher spin-$$\frac{3}{2}, 2$$

3
2

,
2

currents of the lowest $${{\mathcal {N}}}=4$$

N
=
4

multiplet for generic k and N in terms of the coset fields. For the remaining higher spin-$$\frac{5}{2},3$$

5
2

,
3

currents of the lowest $$\mathcal{N}=4$$

N
=
4

multiplet, some of the results are given.
Generating Predictable and Adaptive Dialog Policies in Single- and Multi-domain Goal-oriented Dialog Systems
Authors: Le Nhat , Siddique A. B. , Jamour Fuad , Oymak Samet , Hristidis Vagelis
Published: December 2021

Most existing commercial goal-oriented chatbots are diagram-based; i.e. they follow a rigid dialog flow to fill the slot values needed to achieve a user’s goal. Diagram-based chatbots are predictable, thus their adoption in commercial settings; however, their lack of flexibility may cause many users to leave the conversation before achieving their goal. On the other hand, state-of-the-art research chatbots use Reinforcement Learning (RL) to generate flexible dialog policies. However, such chatbots can be unpredictable, may violate the intended business constraints, and require large training datasets to produce a mature policy. We propose a framework that achieves a middle ground between the diagram-based and RL-based chatbots: we constrain the space of possible chatbot responses using a novel structure, the chatbot dependency graph, and use RL to dynamically select the best valid responses. Dependency graphs are directed graphs that conveniently express a chatbot’s logic by defining the dependencies among slots: all valid dialog flows are encapsulated in one dependency graph. Our experiments in both single-domain and multi-domain settings show that our framework quickly adapts to user characteristics and achieves up to 23.77% improved success rate compared to a state-of-the-art RL model.
Identifying and Translating Subjective Content Descriptions Among Texts
Authors: Bender Magnus , Braun Tanya , Gehrke Marcel , Kuhr Felix , Möller Ralf , Schiff Simon
Published: December 2021

An agent pursuing a task may work with a corpus of documents as a reference library. Subjective content descriptions (SCDs) provide additional data that add value in the context of the agent’s task. In the pursuit of documents to add to the corpus, an agent may come across new documents where content text and SCDs from another agent are interleaved and no distinction can be made unless the agent knows the content from somewhere else. Therefore, this paper presents a hidden Markov model-based approach to identify SCDs in a new document where SCDs occur inline among content text. Additionally, we present a dictionary selection approach to identify suitable translations for content text and SCDs based on [Formula: see text]-grams. We end with a case study evaluating both approaches based on simulated and real-world data.
US2RO: Union of Superpoints to Recognize Objects
Authors: Tiator Marcel , Kerkmann Anna Maria , Geiger Christian , Grimm Paul
Published: December 2021

The creation of interactive virtual reality (VR) applications from 3D scanned content usually includes a lot of manual and repetitive work. Our research aim is to develop agents that recognize objects to enhance the creation of interactive VR applications. We trained partition agents in our superpoint growing environment that we extended with an expert function. This expert function solves the sparse reward signal problem of the previous approaches and enables to use a variant of imitation learning and deep reinforcement learning with dense feedback. Additionally, the function allows to calculate a performance metric for the degree of imitation for different partitions. Furthermore, we introduce an environment to optimize the superpoint generation. We trained our agents with 1182 scenes of the ScanNet data set. More specifically, we trained different neural network architectures with 1170 scenes and tested their performance with 12 scenes. Our intermediate results are promising such that our partition system might be able to assist the VR application development from 3D scanned content in near future.
2021 F. M. Becket Fellowship – Summary Report Measuring Transient Electrochemistry of Lithium Metal Anodes under Varying External Stack Pressures
Authors: Chang Wesley
Published: December 2021

Lithium metal anodes are challenged by the inherent chemical and electrochemical reactivity of lithium metal, which is further exacerbated by non-uniform high surface area deposition. Recently, lithium difluoro(oxalato)borate (LiDFOB) salt coupled with a fluorinated solvent has been demonstrated to result in densely deposited lithium morphology along with high Coulombic efficiencies due to a stable solidelectrolyte-interphase. Along with other newly discovered electrolyte compositions for stable lithium deposition, these studies typically utilize high stack pressures and elevated temperatures. These developments are promising, and would further benefit from a study that maps out the effects of varying stack pressure and temperature on lithium anode mechanics, chemistry, and electrochemistry.
Blockade of 5-HT2receptors suppresses rate of torque development and motor unit discharge rate during rapid contractions
Authors: Goodlich Benjamin I. , Horan Sean A. , Kavanagh Justin J.
Published: December 2021

We have shown that serotonin activity in the central nervous system plays a role in regulating human motor unit discharge rate during rapid contractions. Our findings support the viewpoint that serotonergic effects in the central nervous system are fast and are most prominent during contractions that are characterized by high motor unit discharge rates and large amounts of torque development.
Comparison of the Early Results of Lateral Direct Anterior Approach (L-DAA) and Traditional Posterolateral Approach (PLA) in Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Wang Lin , Xu Zhujun
Published: December 2021

Objective. To evaluate the early results of lateral direct anterior approach (L-DAA) and traditional posterolateral approach (PLA) in hip arthroplasty. Methods. A total of 24 patients who underwent hip replacement from 2018 to 2021 were divided into PLA group (

N
=
12

) and L-DAA group (

N
=
12

) according to the method of random table number. Outcomes were evaluated between the two groups. Results. The length of incision was shorter; the amount of bleeding was less in the L-DAA group than that in the PLA group. The visual analogue scale (Vas) pain scores for the L-DAA group were significantly lower than that for the PLA group at 24 h, 72 h, and 1 month after operation, and Harris hip scores in the L-DAA group were significantly high in the PLA group at 1 month after operation. In addition, there are no statistically significant differences in acetabular anteversion, abduction, and angle between the two groups. Conclusion. L-DAA was superior to PLA for early recovery after hip arthroplasty.
Attribution Analysis of Runoff Variation in the Yue River Watershed of the Qinling Mountains
Authors: Hu Yiyi , He Yi
Published: December 2021

In recent decades, global climate change, especially human activities, has led to profound changes in the hydrological cycle and hydrological processes in watersheds. Taking the Yue River watershed in the Qinling Mountains in China as the study area, the Mann–Kendall test and Pettitt mutation test method were used to analyze the various characteristics of hydrological and climatic elements from 1960 to 2018. Then, the elastic coefficient method based on the Budyko framework was used to estimate the elastic coefficient of runoff change on each influencing factor. The results showed that the annual runoff decreased at a rate of 0.038 × 108 m3/a (

P
>
0.05

), and a significant abrupt change occurred in 1990. The annual precipitation and potential evapotranspiration (ET0) increased and decreased, with change rates of 0.614 mm/a and −0.811 mm/a (

P
>
0.05

), respectively. The elasticity coefficients of precipitation, ET0, and the underlying surface were 1.95, −0.95, and −0.85, respectively, indicating that annual runoff was most sensitive to the change in precipitation, followed by the change in ET0, and had the lowest sensitivity to the change in the underlying surface. Underlying surface change is the main factor of runoff decrease; the contribution is 89.07%. The total contribution of climate change to runoff change is 10.93%, in which the contributions of precipitation and ET0 are 17.59% and −6.66%, respectively. The NDVI reflecting underlying surface change has been increasing since 1990, which is an important reason for the runoff decrease.
UAV and Its Approach in Oil and Gas Pipeline Leakage Detection
Authors: Akande Saheed , Adetunla Adedotun , Olanrewaju Tosin , Adeoye Adeyinka
Published: December 2021

The synergy of vibration and gas sensors with unmanned aerial vehicles for a low-response-time Leakage Detection System (LDS) is explored in this work. Several pipeline accidents have occurred, most of which were triggered by untimely detection of pipe leakages in systems conveying oil and gas in many developing countries. The consequences of this include human casualties, environmental degradation, economic loss, and loss of resources. To limit the damages caused by inevitable leakages, a low-time-response system for leakage detection is required. Response time derived from the LDS is compared to the typical response time obtained from an existing system to determine the efficiency of the developed system. A comparative analysis of the response time of the designed LDS and existing systems reveals that the designed LDS response time is 1146.7% faster and having a pictorial view of the localized area of interest would go a long way to preventing unnecessary mobilization for site visits and eradicating the costly effect of false alarms.
The Physical Health Evaluation of Adolescent Students Based on Big Data
Authors: Fan Chunyan
Published: December 2021

Globally, it is widely accepted that the physical health of the young generation is continuously declining which remained unnoticed in many countries including China. Therefore, it is very important to scientifically investigate the evaluation index system and effectively interrogate the current health position of the young generation especially students. The results regarding health issues will be further investigated in terms of finding the optimal solutions for improving the status quo. Considering adolescent physical health evaluation indicators of Chinese students, this paper introduces the new era of adolescent physical health evaluation which should focus on “health quality indicators” for analyzing the objectivity and applicability of the indicators through testing and research methods. The method of simulation experiment research is used to demonstrate the scientificity and validity of the index. The optimization of the physical health evaluation indicators of adolescent students helps in assessing the health quality of adolescents, scientifically and accurately. In addition, it can effectively improve the physical health problems faced by adolescents. The proposed model achieves the evaluation indicators of adolescent health quality, collects physical health information and exercise data of adolescent students in a certain area of the northwest through big data, and conducts research as the research object. Furthermore, through the collation and analysis of the correlation data of the aerobic capacity evaluation indicators, the results show that the mid-run test value currently used in China is negatively correlated with the relative value of the measured maximum oxygen uptake on the treadmill.
UAV Swarm Confrontation Using Hierarchical Multiagent Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Wang Baolai , Li Shengang , Gao Xianzhong , Xie Tao
Published: December 2021

With the development of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology, UAV swarm confrontation has attracted many researchers’ attention. However, the situation faced by the UAV swarm has substantial uncertainty and dynamic variability. The state space and action space increase exponentially with the number of UAVs, so that autonomous decision-making becomes a difficult problem in the confrontation environment. In this paper, a multiagent reinforcement learning method with macro action and human expertise is proposed for autonomous decision-making of UAVs. In the proposed approach, UAV swarm is modeled as a large multiagent system (MAS) with an individual UAV as an agent, and the sequential decision-making problem in swarm confrontation is modeled as a Markov decision process. Agents in the proposed method are trained based on the macro actions, where sparse and delayed rewards, large state space, and action space are effectively overcome. The key to the success of this method is the generation of the macro actions that allow the high-level policy to find a near-optimal solution. In this paper, we further leverage human expertise to design a set of good macro actions. Extensive empirical experiments in our constructed swarm confrontation environment show that our method performs better than the other algorithms.
Preparing Advanced Clinicians and Practitioners: A Model for Mentorship in Occupational Therapy Practice
Authors: Schoen Sarah A. , Gee Bryan M. , Ochsenbein Mim
Published: December 2021

Mentoring is essential at all stages of a professional career. However, little has been written about the effectiveness of programs for practicing clinicians. This study was designed to address the need for evidence about the effectiveness of formal mentorship programs by describing the impact of the STAR mentorship program on a group of clinicians specializing in sensory integration and processing challenges. This study utilized an exploratory, retrospective, survey research design. Course evaluations were examined from 240 subjects following participation in a one-week, small group mentorship training program. Qualitative methods were adapted for use in this study. Sixteen codes, with operational definitions, were developed to analyze the surveys. Ninety-six percent indicated that the program met or exceeded their expectations; only 12.5% had a negative comment. Impact on psychosocial function was reflected by 22% of the participants. Comments related to impact on career function were indicated by 45% of the participants. Ninety-four percent provided positive comments about the program structure, and 74% responded with positive comments regarding content of the program. Positive outcomes were associated with this one mentorship program, suggesting a need for more in-person, structured mentored learning experiences. Mentorship is recommended as a method to address the growing need within the profession to support career development, build knowledge, skill and attitudes, and aspirations/commitment as well as enhance professionalism/professional development.
Comparative Study of the Mechanical and Water Absorption Behaviour of Basalt Fiber Reinforced Polymer Matrix Composites with Different Epoxies as Matrix for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Raghavendra Rao R. , Pradeep S. , Hasan Nasim , Shivashankara B. S. , Elkotb Mohamed Abdelghany , Ahamed Saleel C. , Afzal Asif , Saleh B.
Published: December 2021

In comparison to conventional materials, polymer matrix composite materials have witnessed a surge in applicability due to their higher specific strength‐to‐weight ratio, abundant availability, and ease of shaping. Due to technological, economic, environmental, and societal challenges, bio‐based fibers began to emerge quickly for use in industrial components. Due to its unique chemistry‐related characteristics, basalt fiber holds a prominent position among the many bio‐based fibers. So, it could be thought of used as a replacement for some components used in the biomedical equipments. In the present investigation, plain‐woven basalt fiber at a constant percentage of 55% is added as reinforcement to three different epoxy resin‐hardener combinations such as Lapox L12‐Lapox K6, Araldite LY1564‐Aradur 22962, and Araldite LY556‐Aradur HY951 as matrix, and comparative studies are carried out. Fabrication is carried out by hand lay‐up technique. Test specimens are prepared as per the respective ASTM standards by subjecting the laminate to water jet machining. Mechanical characterization such as tensile, flexural, and density tests is conducted for the test specimen using BISS‐50 kN Universal Testing Machine (UTM). Water absorption tests are also conducted for 24 and 48 hours duration. From the results obtained, it is concluded that the highest tensile, flexural strengths are obtained for laminate L3 which used LY556 epoxy and HY951 hardener combination as matrix. Also, less rate of water absorption is seen for L3 laminate for both 24 and 48 hrs which makes it suitable for biomedical applications.
Identification of a Ten-Gene Signature of DNA Damage Response Pathways with Prognostic Value in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Zhuang Weitao , Ben Xiaosong , Zhou Zihao , Ding Yu , Tang Yong , Huang Shujie , Deng Cheng , Liao Yuchen , Zhou Qiaoxia , Zhao Jing , Wang Guoqiang , Xu Yu , Wen Xiaofang , Zhang Yuzi , Cai Shangli , Chen Rixin , Qiao Guibin
Published: December 2021

Molecular prognostic signatures are critical for treatment decision-making in esophageal squamous cell cancer (ESCC), but the robustness of these signatures is limited. The aberrant DNA damage response (DDR) pathway may lead to the accumulation of mutations and thus accelerate tumor progression in ESCC. Given this, we applied the LASSO Cox regression to the transcriptomic data of DDR genes, and a prognostic DDR-related gene expression signature (DRGS) consisting of ten genes was constructed, including PARP3, POLB, XRCC5, MLH1, DMC1, GTF2H3, PER1, SMC5, TCEA1, and HERC2. The DRGS was independently associated with overall survival in both training and validation cohorts. The DRGS achieved higher accuracy than six previously reported multigene signatures for the prediction of prognosis in comparable cohorts. Furtherly, a nomogram incorporating DRGS and clinicopathological features showed improved predicting performance. Taken together, the DRGS was identified as a novel, robust, and effective prognostic indicator, which may refine the scheme of risk stratification and management in ESCC patients.
Community-Acquired Pneumonia Requiring Hospitalization among French Guianese Children
Authors: Cannesson Alexandre , Elenga Narcisse
Published: December 2021

Community-acquired pneumonia remains a leading cause of hospitalizations among children worldwide. The diagnosis is based on the history, the physical examination results in children with fever plus respiratory signs and symptoms, and chest radiography. The microbiological etiology is confirmed by viral testing and hemocultures. The most likely etiology depends on the age of the child. The features of childhood pneumonia vary between countries and territories. The purpose of this study was to describe the epidemiological characteristics and current microbial ecology of community-acquired pneumonia in children in French Guiana. We performed a retrospective, descriptive, and monocentric study between January 1, 2015, and December 31, 2017, in the pediatric ward of the Cayenne Hospital in French Guiana. The studied population was aged from 0 to 15 years and 3 months and hospitalized for acute community-acquired pneumonia. A total of 415 patients (mean age 3.62 years) were included. A pathogen was identifiable in 22.4% of cases, including bacteria in 61.3%, viruses in 43%, and coinfections in 14%. The main pathogens were respiratory syncytial virus (31.2%), Streptococcus pneumoniae (20.4%), Haemophilus influenzae (11.8%), and Mycoplasma pneumoniae (10.8%). The burden of hospitalization for children with community-acquired pneumonia was highest among less than 2 years, in whom respiratory viruses were the most commonly detected causes of pneumonia. The share of vaccine-preventable diseases (S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae, and influenza) remains high. With the vaccination requirement imposed since 1 January 2018 against pneumococcus, Haemophilus influenzae, and whooping cough and the possibility of practicing multiplex PCR in our hospital, it will be interesting to study the impact of this law enforcement on new child generations and compare these new data to our study.
Study on the Optimal Prestress Level of RC Beams Reinforced with SMA Bars
Authors: Yang Zeying , Cheng Zhengquan , Wang Tianmin , Sun Yinglin , Wang Chenghe , Qu Jianbo , Zhang Da , Li Qiang
Published: December 2021

In order to study the optimal prestress level of RC (reinforced concrete) beams strengthened by SMA bars, the finite element software ABAQUS was used to numerically simulate the shear performance of RC beams strengthened by SMA bars with different prestress levels. By using the finite element software ABAQUS, the model of RC beams strengthened by SMA bars with different prestressing levels was established. The influence of SMA bars with different prestressing levels on the shear capacity of RC beams was analyzed from the aspects of stress, strain, load, deflection, and maximum bearing capacity, and the failure types and failure processes of RC beams strengthened with different prestressing levels were obtained. Comparing the numerical simulation results with the experimental results, it is found that the error between the finite element simulation results and the experimental results is less than 10%.
Long-Term Assessment of Rehabilitation Treatment of Sports through Artificial Intelligence Research
Authors: Zeng Chaofan , Huang Ying , Yu Longer , Zeng Qingmei , Wang Bijun , Xu Yi
Published: December 2021

Background. Artificial intelligence (AI) technology has been incorporated into all walks of life, especially the integration of machine learning and health management has achieved very significant progress and results. It is very necessary to analyze personalized sports health management services and long-term assessment of health issues in the era of AI. Methods. This paper explores AI + personalized sports management service system design ideas, system operation process, management stage design, taking common chronic diseases, and diabetes as examples. 150 patients were divided into an observation group and a control group, and the blood glucose, blood pressure, blood lipid, and knowledge awareness rate were compared. Results. The blood glucose, blood pressure, and blood lipid levels of the observation group all reduced, and the awareness rate of diabetes knowledge increased, which proved that the AI research has great value in sports rehabilitation research coupled with long term health assessment and is worth further research. Conclusion. The AI research proposed in this paper is of far-reaching practical significance in helping the transformation and upgrading of the sports health management service industry, promoting the innovative development of sports health management service supply, and promoting national fitness and national health.
Numerical Modeling on Dynamic Characteristics of Jointed Rock Masses Subjected to Repetitive Impact Loading
Authors: Liu Jie , Song Yan-Bin , Zhao Yue-Mao
Published: December 2021

A discrete element method code was used to investigate the damage characteristics of jointed rock masses under repetitive impact loading. The Flat‐Joint Contact Model (FJCM) in the two‐dimensional particle flow code (PFC2D) was used to calibrate the microparameters that control the macroscopic behavior of the rock. The relationship between macro‐ and microparameters by a series of uniaxial direct tension and compression numerical tests based on an orthogonal experimental design method was obtained to calibrate the microparameters accurately. Then, the Synthetic Rock Mass (SRM) method that incorporates joints into the calibrated particle model was used to construct large‐scale jointed rock mass specimens, and the repetitive drop hammer impact numerical tests on SRM specimens with different numbers of horizontal joints and dip angle joints were carried out to study the damage evolution, stress wave propagation, and energy dissipation characteristics. The results show that the greater the number of joints, the greater the number of cracks generated, the greater the degree of damage, and the more energy dissipated for rock masses with horizontal joints. The greater the dip angle of joints, the less the number of cracks generated, the less the degree of damage, and the less energy dissipated for rock masses with different dip angles of joints. The impact‐induced stress waves will be reflected when they encounter preexisting joints in the process of propagation. When the reflected stress waves meet with subsequent stress waves, the stress waves will change from compressional waves to tensile waves, producing tensile damage inside rock masses.
Comparison of the Efficiency of Lepidium sativum, Ficus carica, and Punica granatum Methanolic Extracts in Relieving Hyperglycemia and Hyperlipidemia of Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Ramadan Shimaa , Hegab Amany Mohamed , Al-Awthan Yahya S. , Al-Duais Mohammed Ali , Tayel Ahmed A. , Al-Saman Mahmoud A.
Published: December 2021

Background. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder characterized by high blood glucose levels that occurs either due to insufficient insulin production or mounting resistance to its action. The purpose of this study was to investigate if methanolic extracts of Lepidium sativum seeds, Ficus carica, and Punica granatum leaves had any effect on blood sugar levels in normal and streptozotocin (STZ) diabetic rats, as well as to explore the most effective extract. Method. Healthy male albino rats weighing 185-266 g were divided into nine groups of eight rats each: normal control, diabetic control, diabetic rats with dietary supplements of L. sativum, F. carica, and P. granatum methanolic extracts, and diabetics treated with insulin. All of the rats were fed on ordinary diet with nutritional pellets and were given water ad libitum. To induce diabetes, all animals were administered with STZ intraperitoneal injection at a dose of 60 mg/kg body weight. For five weeks, the crude plant extracts were given orally to various groups of rats at doses of one hundred and two hundred mg/kg body weight. After that, animal groups were sacrificed and blood samples were taken. Results. Phytochemical analysis revealed that the highest amounts of polyphenolic compounds were present in L. sativum seeds and P. granatum leaves, while leaves of F. carica showed the highest amounts of alkaloid and flavonoid content compared to other extracts. Oral administration of F. carica and L. sativum extracts at the dosage of 100 and 200 mg/kg significantly reduced glucose, lipid profile, kidney, and liver enzyme levels. A significant increase in HbAlc levels was also observed with L. sativum extract at a dose of 200 mg/kg compared to diabetic controls. Mellitus rats supplemented with 100 and 200 mg/kg methanolic extracts of P. granatum had higher serum triglycerides and lower serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) than normal control rats. F. carica extract is more effective than L. sativum and P. granatum extracts in the prevention and control of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its consequences.
Optimization of Networked Governance Models Using Complex System Governance Concepts in Sports Services
Authors: Gao Yuhua , Zhen Xinxi , Xiong Yan
Published: December 2021

In order to increase the participation rate of community residents in sports services, on the governance concept of a complex system, the networked governance model under sports services has been studied. Firstly, by introducing the background of networked governance, the supply of sports services is selected as the research object. The selected sports service providers are the government, universities, enterprises, associations, and residents. Secondly, the structural model of sports service supply has been constructed. Combining the direct effects model and the intermediary relationship model, the questionnaire is designed. The current situation of sports service supply in the study area is analyzed. Finally, on this basis, the networked governance model strategy has been optimized. The results show that because the age distribution of the subjects is relatively young, the residents in the study area have a higher degree of understanding of sports services. In the direct relationship model and the mediating effect model, the 6 fitting indicators are consistent with the standard values, and no abnormal data appeared. The government, universities, and associations have a significant influence on the supply of sports services. The impact of enterprises and residents on the supply of sports services is not significant. The community environment plays an intermediary role in the supply of residents and sports services, and the supply of enterprises and sports services. Network governance should pay more attention to the participation of multiple subjects, change the leading role of the government, break down the communication barriers between supply subjects, establish an information security mechanism, and build an information sharing system. The research results provide a reference direction for the development of network management in sports services.
Analytical Solutions for the Equal Width Equations Containing Generalized Fractional Derivative Using the Efficient Combined Method
Authors: Derakhshan Mohammadhossein
Published: December 2021

In this paper, the efficient combined method based on the homotopy perturbation Sadik transform method  (HPSTM) is applied to solve the physical and functional equations containing the Caputo–Prabhakar fractional derivative. The mathematical model of this equation of order

μ
∈

0,1

with

λ
∈

ℤ

+

,
θ
,
σ
∈

ℝ

+

is presented as follows:

D

t
μ

C

u

x
,
t

+
θ

u

λ

x
,
t

u

x

x
,
t

−
σ

u

x
x
t

x
,
t

=
0
,

where for

λ
=
1
,
θ
=
1
,
σ
=
1
s

and

λ
=
2
,
θ
=
3
,
σ
=
1

, equations are changed into the equal width and modified equal width equations, respectively. The analytical method which we have used for solving this equation is based on a combination of the homotopy perturbation method and Sadik transform. The convergence and error analysis are discussed in this article. Plots of the analytical results with three examples are presented to show the applicability of this numerical method. Comparison between the obtained absolute errors by the suggested method and other methods is demonstrated.
Impact Angle Control Guidance to Intercept Moving Targets by Virtual Target Technique
Authors: Hou Libing , Zhu Jihong , Kuang Minchi , Shi Heng
Published: December 2021

To solve the problem regarding the impact angle of the missile, this paper proposes a novel guidance law, which can control the missile to hit the target at the desired angle. The key of the guidance law is selecting a moving point on the collision line as the virtual target, and the tactical requirements can be fulfilled by the missile directly pursuing the virtual target. The Lyapunov stable theory is used to prove the convergence of the proposed guidance law. The guidance command is generated by a PID controller to make the missile towards the virtual target. The proposed guidance law makes the lateral acceleration of the missile converge to zero, which leads the angle of attack to zero, and it theoretically guarantees the flight path angle equals the attitude angle. Numerical simulations demonstrate this impact angle control guidance law is very accurate and robust. Regardless of whether the initial heading error is large or small, the missile which employs the proposed guidance law can always hit the target from the preset direction and the guidance process is smooth.
Characterization of TiZrN and TaZrN Nanocomposite Multilayer Coating Deposited via RF/DC Magnetron Sputtering on AISI4140 Steel
Authors: Hariharan R. , Raja R. , Golden Renjith Nimal R. J. , Refaai Mohamad Reda A. , Ravi S , Allasi Haiter Lenin
Published: December 2021

In this present research work, TiZrN and TaZrN multilayer coating was deposited on 4140 steel by RF/DC magnetron sputtering for comparative work also prepared in single layer. The flow rate ratio of Ar/N2 was set to 15 : 3 sccm and the thin film was prepared by the PVD (physical vapor deposition) method by RF/DC magnetron using a Ti‐Zr and Ta‐Zr target with a purity of 99.99%. The crystal structure, surface morphology microstructure, and component arrangements were explored by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). It has been found that the crystal structure, surface morphology, microstructure, and elemental composition of the membrane are strongly dependent on deposition parameters. It is mechanically characterized by corrosion and Vickers hardness. In AFM measurements, coarse cluster particles with increasing Ti and Ta values not only increase the average roughness (Ra) by 2.341 nm (200°C) and 2.951 nm (400°C) but also have a continuous average thickness which was shown to increase by 1.504 nm and 781.75 nm. With the increase of hardness, the roughness decreases correspondingly. The TiZrN multilayer microhardness augmented to 314 GPa at 200°C and 371 GPa for TaZrN (400°C).
Orthodontically Induced External Apical Root Resorption in Class II Malocclusion
Authors: Karnati Praveen Kumar Reddy , Seth Priyank , Zamzuri Ahmad Termizi Bin , Tharwani Payal
Published: December 2021

Orthodontic-induced external apical root resorption is one of the idiopathic phenomena as an effect, with force generated through mechanotherapy as the cause and the biological tissues with their diversified variations as witness. It is also classified as iatrogenic as a result of indeterminate application of orthodontic forces with subconscious appreciation of the existing underlying conditions. Numerous factors were identified to relate to this irreversible pathologic condition, but none were proven scientifically. Genetics and salivary markers have proved the reliability with time, but the application became insignificant limiting mostly to the research field. Different assessment methods were also identified to clinically diagnose it both subjectively and objectively. Mostly, it is identified through routine radiographic stage records like orthopantomogram or certain prediction radiographs for root resorption probability assessment like in this case. This case report discusses one such encounter which was experienced after stage 1 and 2 mechanics involving quite a few teeth. Considering the biotype of the individual and tooth morphology, the ongoing treatment was terminated and recovery measures were briefed to uplift the self-esteem of the individual. Furthermore, the prognosis is compromised to be very poor with unpredictability to any other treatment modalities.
[Retracted] Interpolation Method for Visual Simulation of Engine Exhaust Flame
Authors: Cheng Bo , Hu Xiaomei , Liu Zhiqiang , Gong Xiuliang
Published: December 2021

Propulsive force and exhaust fluid temperature are important indicators in the performance of an engine. An investigation of the effects of propellant composition, plane flight conditions, and engine operating environment on rocket thrust and the range of smoke plume temperature can provide references in the design of engine mechanics at the optimization of propellant composition, in monitoring of target identification and in the evolving of stealth of stealth technology. In order to understand the characteristics of the engine tail flame, a visual simulation of the engine tail flame was carried out by combining the engine operating conditions with the tail flame conditions. Based on the advantages of the bicubic spline interpolation algorithm and the Kriging interpolation algorithm, this paper proposes a hybrid interpolation algorithm, which performs color mapping and three‐dimensional space separation in the engine plume data set and model, and visualizes the engine and engine plume. The simulation realizes real‐time monitoring of the functions of various engine components through characteristic colors. The research results show that the hybrid interpolation method can effectively visualize the engine exhaust flame. The simulated plume has a relatively obvious temperature peak at 0.7 m, and the temperature of the plume flow field is significantly higher than that of the frozen plume flow field by about 200 ~1000 K. This shows that the algorithm in this paper helps to visualize the expression of engine tail flame information.
Public Auditing Scheme for Integrity Verification in Distributed Cloud Storage System
Authors: Mahalakshmi K. , Kousalya K. , Shekhar Himanshu , Thomas Aby K. , Bhagyalakshmi L. , Suman Sanjay Kumar , Chandragandhi S. , Bachanna Prashant , Srihari K. , Sundramurthy Venkatesa Prabhu
Published: December 2021

Cloud storage provides a potential solution replacing physical disk drives in terms of prominent outsourcing services. A threaten from an untrusted server affects the security and integrity of the data. However, the major problem between the data integrity and cost of communication and computation is directly proportional to each other. It is hence necessary to develop a model that provides the trade-off between the data integrity and cost metrics in cloud environment. In this paper, we develop an integrity verification mechanism that enables the utilisation of cryptographic solution with algebraic signature. The model utilises elliptic curve digital signature algorithm (ECDSA) to verify the data outsources. The study further resists the malicious attacks including forgery attacks, replacing attacks and replay attacks. The symmetric encryption guarantees the privacy of the data. The simulation is conducted to test the efficacy of the algorithm in maintaining the data integrity with reduced cost. The performance of the entire model is tested against the existing methods in terms of their communication cost, computation cost, and overhead cost. The results of simulation show that the proposed method obtains reduced computational of 0.25% and communication cost of 0.21% than other public auditing schemes.