bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
One health zoonotic disease prioritization and systems mapping: An integration of two One Health tools
Authors: Varela Kate , Goryoka Grace , Suwandono Agus , Mahero Michael , Valeri Linda , Pelican Katharine , Salyer Stephanie J.
Published: December 2022

One Health is a collaborative approach that requires synergies between human, animal and environmental health sectors, other key sectors, and partners supporting these capacity‐building efforts. Multiple One Health capacity‐building tools are available that can be used independently or together. Two tools that have been used in sequence to inform each other include the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's One Health Zoonotic Disease Prioritization (OHZDP) Process and University of Minnesota/US Department of Agriculture's One Health Systems Mapping and Analysis Resource Toolkit™ (OH‐SMART). In August 2017, a workshop was held in Islamabad, Pakistan, that integrated these two tools for the first time. In this integrated workshop, we used the OHZDP to develop a list of priority zoonotic diseases for Pakistan and OH‐SMART™ to conduct a partner assessment and disease‐specific gap analysis. Both tools were used to identify areas for One Health collaboration for the priority zoonotic diseases. Additionally, we trained 11 in‐country facilitators representing the human and animal health sectors on both tools. This manuscript describes the integration of these two tools—using the Pakistan workshop as a process case study—to inform future efforts to implement One Health tools synergistically. Implementation of the technical and logistical aspects of the integrated workshop was detailed: (1) workshop preparation, (2) facilitator training, (3) workshop implementation and (4) workshop outcomes. Sixteen months after the workshop, we conducted an in‐country facilitator survey to follow‐up on the utility of both tools and the training for facilitators. We evaluated facilitator survey results using a qualitative analysis software Atlas.ti. Using the OHZDP Process and OH‐SMART™ together achieved continuity between the two processes and provided a professional development opportunity for in‐country facilitators. Based on the success of this integrated workshop, partners developing and implementing One Health tools should recognize the importance of collaboration to maximize outcomes.
Effect of bias voltage and nitrogen content on the morphological, structural, mechanical, and corrosion resistance properties of micro-alloyed Ti1−xAl0.8xP0.2XNy films deposited by high power impulse magnetron sputtering
Authors: Abegunde Olayinka O. , Makha Mohammed , Larhlimi Hicham , Lahouij Mohamed , Samih Youssef , Busch Heinz , Alami Jones
Published: December 2022

The applications of multicomponent coatings (such as doped ternary or quaternary coatings) with superior functional properties have been shown to efficiently and sustainably improve the life span of engineering materials. This study reports the synergistic effect of negative substrate bias voltages Us and reactive gas QN2 ratio on the properties of phosphorous (P) microalloyed Ti1−xAl0.8xP0.2xN multicomponent coatings deposited using high power impulse magnetron sputtering. It is found that an increase of Us enhances the densification of the deposited coatings, with mixed cubic (c)-TiN and cubic (c)-AlN phases, as identified from the XRD pattern analysis. Furthermore, Raman spectroscopy showed that the incorporation of Al and P into the TiN structure increases the gap region between the acoustic and optic bands. An optimized mechanical property of the coatings, with a maximum hardness of 28.6 GPa was measured at Us = − 40 V and QN2 = 7 SCCM, and improved adhesion of coatings with H/E > 0.081, was possible. Improved corrosion resistance was also measured for microalloyed TiAlPN coatings. The microalloying of P with TiAlN has, thus, been shown to affect both the anodic and cathodic reactions and inhibit the corrosion of AISI 5206 steel.
Single-virus tracking reveals variant SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins induce ACE2-independent membrane interactions
Authors: Christie Shaun M. , Tada Takuya , Yin Yandong , Bhardwaj Amit , Landau Nathaniel R. , Rothenberg Eli
Published: December 2022

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) became a global health crisis after its emergence in 2019. Replication of the virus is initiated by binding of the viral spike (S) protein to human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) on the target cell surface. Mutations acquired by SARS-CoV-2 S variants likely influence virus-target cell interaction. Here, using single-virus tracking to capture these initial steps, we observe how viruses carrying variant S interact with target cells. Specificity for ACE2 occurs for viruses with the reference sequence or D614G mutation. Analysis of the Alpha, Beta, and Delta SARS-CoV-2 variant S proteins revealed a progressive altered cell interaction with a reduced dependence on ACE2. Notably, the Delta variant S affinity was independent of ACE2. These enhanced interactions may account for the increased transmissibility of variants. Knowledge of how mutations influence cell interaction is essential for vaccine development against emerging variants of SARS-CoV-2.
Patterning the consecutive Pd
3
to Pd
1
on Pd
2
Ga surface via temperature-promoted reactive metal-support interaction
Authors: Niu Yiming , Wang Yongzhao , Chen Junnan , Li Shiyan , Huang Xing , Willinger Marc-Georg , Zhang Wei , Liu Yuefeng , Zhang Bingsen
Published: December 2022

Atom-by-atom control of a catalyst surface is a central yet challenging topic in heterogeneous catalysis, which enables precisely confined adsorption and oriented approach of reactant molecules. Here, exposed surfaces with either consecutive Pd trimers (Pd
3
) or isolated Pd atoms (Pd
1
) are architected for Pd
2
Ga intermetallic nanoparticles (NPs) using reactive metal-support interaction (RMSI). At elevated temperatures under hydrogen, in situ atomic-scale transmission electron microscopy directly visualizes the refacetting of Pd
2
Ga NPs from energetically favorable (013)/(020) facets to (011)/(002). Infrared spectroscopy and acetylene hydrogenation reaction complementarily confirm the evolution from consecutive Pd
3
to Pd
1
sites of Pd
2
Ga catalysts with the concurrent fingerprinting CO adsorption and featured reactivities. Through theoretical calculations and modeling, we reveal that the restructured Pd
2
Ga surface results from the preferential arrangement of additionally reduced Ga atoms on the surface. Our work provides previously unidentified mechanistic insight into temperature-promoted RMSI and possible solutions to control and rearrange the surface atoms of supported intermetallic catalyst.
WiChR, a highly potassium-selective channelrhodopsin for low-light one- and two-photon inhibition of excitable cells
Authors: Vierock Johannes , Peter Enrico , Grimm Christiane , Rozenberg Andrey , Chen I-Wen , Tillert Linda , Castro Scalise Alejandro G. , Casini Marilù , Augustin Sandra , Tanese Dimitrii , Forget Benoît C. , Peyronnet Rémi , Schneider-Warme Franziska , Emiliani Valentina , Béjà Oded , Hegemann Peter
Published: December 2022

The electric excitability of muscle, heart, and brain tissue relies on the precise interplay of Na
+
- and K
+
-selective ion channels. The involved ion fluxes are controlled in optogenetic studies using light-gated channelrhodopsins (ChRs). While non-selective cation-conducting ChRs are well established for excitation, K
+
-selective ChRs (KCRs) for efficient inhibition have only recently come into reach. Here, we report the molecular analysis of recently discovered KCRs from the stramenopile
Hyphochytrium catenoides
and identification of a novel type of hydrophobic K
+
selectivity filter. Next, we demonstrate that the KCR signature motif is conserved in related stramenopile ChRs. Among them, WiChR from
Wobblia lunata
features a so far unmatched preference for K
+
over Na
+
, stable photocurrents under continuous illumination, and a prolonged open-state lifetime. Showing high expression levels in cardiac myocytes and neurons, WiChR allows single- and two-photon inhibition at low irradiance and reduced tissue heating. Therefore, we recommend WiChR as the long-awaited efficient and versatile optogenetic inhibitor.
Incidence, aetiology and neurodisability associated with severe microcephaly: a national surveillance study
Authors: Knowles Rachel L , Solebo Ameenat Lola , Sampaio Mariana Autran , Brown Charlotte Rebecca , Sargent Jenefer , Oluonye Ngozi , Rahi Jugnoo
Published: December 2022

Objective

To determine the incidence, causes and neurodevelopmental impact of severe microcephaly (head circumference <–3SD) up to age 2 years.

Design

Binational active paediatric surveillance study undertaken in 2017–2018 to identify and characterise new diagnoses of severe microcephaly.

Setting

UK and Ireland.

Participants

Infants aged under 12 months at diagnosis.

Interventions

Observational study.

Main outcome measures

Incidence, aetiology and neurodevelopmental outcomes at age 2 years.

Results

Fifty-nine infants met the case definition, of whom 30 (51%) were girls; 24 (41%) were born preterm (<37 weeks’ gestation); and 34 (58%) were of ‘white’ ethnicity. Eight (14%) children died before 12 months of age. Incidence of severe microcephaly was 5.5 per 100 000 infants (95% CI 4.0 to 7.3). Higher relative risk (RR) was associated with preterm birth (RR 7.7, 95% CI 3.8 to 15.1) and British Asian ethnicity (RR 3.6, 95% CI 1.6 to 7.8). Microcephaly was mainly due to genetic causes (59%), brain ischaemia/hypoxia (10%) and congenital infection (8%), and 19% remained undetermined. Each child was referred on average to eight specialists, and 75% had abnormal brain imaging. By 2 years of age, 55 children experienced neurodevelopmental abnormalities, including feeding problems (68%), motor delay (66%), visual impairment (37%), hearing loss (24%) and epilepsy (41%).

Conclusions

Although severe microcephaly is uncommon, it is associated with high mortality, complex multimorbidity and neurodisability, thus representing a significant ongoing burden for families and healthcare services. Potentially preventable causes include preterm birth, hypoxic/ischaemic brain injury and congenital infections. Clinical guidelines are essential to standardise aetiological investigation and optimise multidisciplinary management.
Utilisation, effectiveness, and safety of immediate postpartum intrauterine device insertion: a systematic literature review
Authors: Rosa Bolling Kristina , Wahdan Yesmean , Warnock Neal , Lott Jason , Schoendorf Juliane , Pisa Federica , Gomez-Espinosa Evelyn , Kistler Kristin , Maiese Brett
Published: December 2022

Background

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are highly effective contraception. IUDs inserted directly following delivery provide immediate birth control and may decrease unintended pregnancies, including short-interval pregnancies, thereby mitigating health risks and associated economic burden.

Methods

This systematic literature review included published global data on the utilisation, effectiveness, and safety of postpartum intrauterine devices (PPIUDs) of any type. English language articles indexed in MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane from January 2010–October 2021 were included.

Results

133 articles met the inclusion criteria (46% interventional studies; 54% observational; n=87 from lower-income countries; n=46 from higher-income countries). PPIUD use was low in higher-income countries (6/10 000 US deliveries in 2013–2016) and varied widely in lower-income countries (2%-46%). Across both higher- and lower-income countries, in most studies (79%), >80% of women with PPIUDs had an IUD in place by 3 months; at 6 and 12 months, 76% and 54% of included studies reported that >80% of women had an IUD in place; reason for discontinuation was infrequently reported. Pregnancies were rare (96 pregnancies across 12 191 women from 37 studies reporting data) and were generally unrelated to device failure, but rather occurred in women no longer using a PPIUD. Expulsions occurred mainly in the early outpatient period and ranged widely (within 3 months: 0–41%). Abnormal bleeding, infections, or perforations were rare.

Conclusions

PPIUDs are safe and effective. Long-term follow-up data are limited. Future research elucidating reasons underlying lack of PPIUD use is warranted.
Fibrolamellar carcinoma transcriptomic-based treatment prediction: complete response after nivolumab and ipilimumab
Authors: Berger Raanan , Dinstag Gal , Tirosh Omer , Schiff Eyal , Kleiner David , Aldape Kenneth D , Ruppin Eytan , Beker Tuvik , Kurzrock Razelle
Published: December 2022

Fibrolamellar carcinoma (FLC) is a rare cancer of the liver that most commonly affects children and young adults. There is no clear standard of care for the disease, whose response to treatment seems to be very different from that of hepatocellular carcinoma. We present a case of FLC in a patient in her mid 30s that recurred and persisted despite resection and multiple lines of treatment. Following transcriptomic analysis, a combination of ipilimumab (anti-CTLA4) and nivolumab (anti-PD-1) led to complete remission, although common biomarkers for immune checkpoint blockade were all negative in this case. The patient is still in remission. Here, combined checkpoint blockade guided by novel transcriptomic analysis led to complete remission after failure of several lines of treatment.
Patient-reported outcomes in adoptive cell-therapy trials: mind the gap
Authors: Ghisoni Eleonora , Morotti Matteo , Colomer-Lahiguera Sara , Eicher Manuela , Coukos George , Trueb Lionel , Di Maio Massimo
Published: December 2022

Adoptive cell therapies (ACT) have demonstrated promise in the treatment of patients with cancer, leading to long-lasting responses and, in some cases, even cure. Technological advances have brought these individualized therapies closer to reality, establishing them as credible therapeutic option. However, to date, few efforts have been made to understand patients' experience during ACT trials. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), which are instruments used to report PROs, are increasingly being used in oncology to capture patients’ perspective, provide real-world data on treatment safety, and support decision-making processes, such as health economic decisions. Due to the inherent complexity of ACT, the inclusion of PROMs in this field remains limited. In this commentary, we discuss the benefit of capturing PROs in ACT trials, the challenges of PROM administration and collection, and we propose simple and actionable recommendations to promote their adoption in ACT trials.
Pandemic justice: fairness, social inequality and COVID-19 healthcare priority-setting
Authors: Nielsen Lasse , Albertsen Andreas
Published: December 2022

A comprehensive understanding of the ethics of the COVID-19 pandemic priorities must be sensitive to the influence of social inequality. We distinguish between ex-ante and ex-post relevance of social inequality for COVID-19 disadvantage. Ex-ante relevance refers to the distribution of risks of exposure. Ex-post relevance refers to the effect of inequality on how patients respond to infection. In the case of COVID-19, both ex-ante and ex-post effects suggest a distribution which is sensitive to the prevalence social inequality. On this basis, we provide a generic fairness argument for the claim that welfare states ought to favour a healthcare priority scheme that gives particular weight to protecting the socially disadvantaged.
Coronary endothelial dysfunction: from pathogenesis to clinical implications
Authors: Bockus Lee , Kim Francis
Published: December 2022

Endothelial dysfunction (ED) has a substantial role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and other vascular diseases. Multiple risk factors, including smoking, hyperlipiadaemia and diabetes, can have associated ED, which is correlated with cardiac events. Measurement of coronary artery endothelial function requires the use of invasive techniques to assess both epicardial coronary artery and microvascular beds. Peripheral vascular techniques and endothelial biomarkers can be used to indirectly assess coronary ED. In this review of coronary artery ED, we discuss the current state of the field, the techniques used to measure ED and its clinical implications.
Association between HLA-B27 and peripheral spondyloarthritis phenotype: results from the ASAS perSpA study
Authors: Arevalo Salaet Marta , López-Medina Clementina , Moreno Mireia , Navarro-Compan Victoria , Calvet Fontova Joan , Llop Maria , Dougados Maxime , Gratacós Jordi
Published: December 2022

Objective

To analyse the influence of HLA-B27 in the phenotypical expression of peripheral spondyloarthritis (pSpA).

Method

This is an observational cross-sectional study using data from the Assessment of SpondyloArthritis international Society perSpA registry, including all patients with an available HLA-B27 test result and with a diagnosis of pSpA or psoriatic arthritis (PsA) as per rheumatologist’s judgement. Demographic and clinical data, presence of extra musculoskeletal manifestations (EMM) and fibromyalgia were the variables included in a simple and multiple logistic regression model to assess their association to HLA-B27 positivity.

Results

From the 4465 patients included in the registry, 790 were classified as having either pSpA or PsA and had the HLA-B27 typing available. HLA-B27-positive patients presented a male predominance, had an earlier disease onset and a shorter diagnostic delay compared with the negatives. HLA-B27-positive patients presented a higher frequency of axial involvement, radiographic sacroiliitis, enthesitis and uveitis. Also, root joint involvement, poliarticular joint patern and tarsitis were significantly higher within HLA-B27-positive patients. Furthermore, we did not observe any association between the presence of HLA-B27 and peripheral joint damage, dactylitis, other EMM (psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease) or fibromyalgia.

The multivariable analysis confirmed the independent association of HLA-B27 positivity with male sex, an earlier onset of the disease, the presence of axial involvement, tarsitis and uveitis.

In summary, the presence of HLA-B27 in pSpA patients was associated with earlier disease onset and higher axial involvement, tarsitis and uveitis, but not with other EMM, fibromyalgia or peripheral structural damage.
Racial and ethnic variation in emergent surgical care and outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic: post hoc analysis of an EAST MCT
Authors: Winicki Nolan M , Dahan Alden , Maheshwari Somiya , Crowley Brandon , Gelbard Rondi , Burruss Sigrid
Published: December 2022

Objectives

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted concerns regarding the equity of medical care. We evaluated associations between race/ethnicity, timing of hospital presentation and outcomes of acute appendicitis (AP) and acute cholecystitis (AC) during the initial pandemic peak.

Methods

Analysis was performed on a prospective, observational, multicenter study of adults with AP or AC. Patients were categorized as pre-pandemic (pre-CoV: October 2019–January 2020) or during the first pandemic peak (CoV: April 2020 through 4 months following the end of local pandemic restrictions). Patient demographics, American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST) imaging/pathology grade, duration of symptoms before triage, time from triage to intervention and hospital length of stay were collected.

Results

A total of 2165 patients (1496 pre-CoV, 669 CoV) were included from 19 centers. Asian and Hispanic patients with AC had a longer duration of symptoms prior to presentation during CoV than pre-CoV (100.6 hours vs 37.5 hours, p<0.01 and 85.7 hours vs 52.5 hours, p<0.05, respectively) and presented later during CoV than Black or White patients (34.3 and 37.9 hours, p<0.01). During CoV, Asian patients presented with higher AAST pathology grade for AP compared with pre-CoV (1.90 vs 1.26, p<0.01). Asian and Hispanic patients presented with higher AAST pathology grade for AC during CoV versus pre-CoV (2.57 vs 1.45, p<0.01, and 1.57 vs 1.20, p<0.05, respectively). Patients with AC and an AAST pathology grade of ≥3 were at higher odds of postoperative complications (OR 4.4, 95% CI 1.0 to 18.4) and AP (OR 2.8, 95% CI 1.3 to 6.0). Asian and Hispanic patients with AC had a higher risk of postoperative complications compared to White patients (Asian: OR 3.9, 95% CI 1.2 to 12.7; Hispanic: OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.2 to 8.9).

Conclusion

Asian and Hispanic patients had a longer duration of symptoms before hospital presentation during the initial COVID-19 peak, had higher odds of postoperative complications and more advanced pathologic disease.

Level of evidence

III, Prognostic/epidemiological.
Type III seesaw under $$A_4$$ modular symmetry with leptogenesis
Authors: Mishra Priya , Behera Mitesh Kumar , Panda Papia , Mohanta Rukmani
Published: December 2022

We make an attempt to study neutrino phenomenology in the framework of type-III seesaw by considering $$A_4$$

A
4

modular symmetry in the super-symmetric context. In addition, we have included a local $$U(1)_{B-L}$$

U

(
1
)

B
-
L

symmetry which eventually helps us to avoid certain unwanted terms in the superpotential. Hitherto, the seesaw being type-III, it involves three fermion triplet superfields $$\Sigma _R$$

Σ
R

, along with which, we have included a singlet weighton field $$(\rho )$$

(
ρ
)

. In here, modular symmetry plays a crucial role by avoiding the usage of excess flavon (weighton) fields. Also, the Yukawa couplings acquire modular forms which are expressed in terms of Dedekind eta function $$\eta (\tau )$$

η
(
τ
)

. However, for numerical analysis we use q expansion expressions of these couplings. Therefore, the model discussed here is triumphant enough to accommodate the observed neutrino oscillation data and also successfully explains observed baryon asymmetry of the universe through leptogenesis.
Casimir wormholes in modified symmetric teleparallel gravity
Authors: Hassan Zinnat , Ghosh Sayantan , Sahoo P. K. , Bamba Kazuharu
Published: December 2022

In recent years there has been a growing interest in the field of Casimir wormhole. In classical general relativity (GR), it is known that the null energy condition (NEC) has to be violated to have a wormhole to be stable. The Casimir effect is an experimentally verified effect that is caused due to the vacuum field fluctuations in quantum field theory. Since the Casimir effect provides the negative energy density, thus this act as an ideal candidate for the exotic matter needed for the stability of the wormhole. In this paper, we study the Casimir effect on the wormhole geometry in modified symmetric teleparallel gravity or f(Q) gravity, where the non-metricity scalar Q drives the gravitation interaction. We consider three systems of the Casimir effect such as (i) two parallel plates, (ii) two parallel cylindrical plates, and (iii) two-sphere separated by a large distance to make it more experimentally feasible. Further, we studied the obtained wormhole solutions for each case with energy conditions at the wormhole throat with radius $$r_0$$

r
0

and found that some arbitrary quantity violates the classical energy conditions at the wormhole throat. Furthermore, the behavior of the equation of state (EoS) is also analyzed for each case. Finally, we investigate the stability of the obtained Casimir effect wormhole solutions with the generalized Tolman–Oppenheimer–Volkoff (TOV) equation.
Dynamic Response Analysis of Train–Vehicle–Bridge System Under Train-Induced Winds
Authors: Xiang Huoyue , Ren Wenyuan , Shang Congjie , Zhu Jin , Li Yongle
Published: December 2022

For rail-cum-road bridges with single-level arrangement, there are not only dynamic interference, but also aerodynamic interference between trains and vehicles, which means that the train-induced winds generated by high-speed trains are non-negligible for vehicles. In this work, the test method of moving vehicle model is used to test the aerodynamic characteristics of vehicles under train-induced winds. Then, the model of coupled vibration of train–vehicle–bridge system considering train-induced winds is established. Finally, taking a rail-cum-road bridge with single-level arrangement as an example, the coupled vibration of train–vehicle–bridge system considering train-induced winds is analyzed, and the influence of train-induced winds, lateral spacing between trains and vehicles on train–vehicle–bridge system is discussed. The results show that train-induced winds decrease with the increase of the lateral spacing between trains and vehicles. Without considering train-induced winds, the moving train has a greater impact on the vertical response of the vehicle, and a smaller impact on the lateral response of the vehicle. When considering train-induced winds, the lateral response of the vehicle increases significantly, but decreases with the increase of the lateral spacing. In addition, road conditions and the setting of anti-dazzle plates can change traffic safety under train-induced winds.
Performance Evaluation of Decision-Making Units Through Boosting Methods in the Context of Free Disposal Hull: Some Exact and Heuristic Algorithms
Authors: Guillen Maria D. , Aparicio Juan , Esteve Miriam
Published: December 2022

This paper aims to show how to calculate different efficiency measures using a technology estimator defined through the adaptation of the Gradient Tree Boosting algorithm. This adaptation shares some features with the standard nonparametric Free Disposal Hull (FDH) approach, but it overcomes data overfitting problems. Nevertheless, from a computational point of view, the new approach presents thousands of decision variables, making it difficult to solve. To tackle this problem, we also propose and check a heuristic approximation to the exact measures. To demonstrate the applicability of the proposed method, the exact and the heuristic approaches are compared through two empirical applications. The main contributions of this paper are as follows: we build a new bridge between machine learning techniques and technical efficiency measurement. In this framework, we show how to determine the output-oriented and input-oriented radial models, the Russell measure of output efficiency and the Russell measure of input efficiency, as well as the directional distance function and the Enhanced Russell Graph measure. We also prove that the new technique is better, in terms of bias and squared mean error, than the standard FDH technique. Furthermore, we show that the new approach may be seen as a possible remedy for solving the curse of dimensionality problem.
Preparation of Rare Earth Metal Electrode Material by In-situ Polymerization for Supercapacitor Application
Authors: Suresh S. , Sindhu V.
Published: December 2022

This is a comparative study of supercapacitor performance of CeO2/PANI composite electrode prepared by two different synthesis methods, namely, in situ polymerization and solution mixing. The chemical composition of materials was confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The electrochemical studies such as cyclic voltammetry (CV), charge–discharge, electrochemical impedance and cyclic test of the composite were studied in two symmetrical electrode systems in an aqueous electrolyte medium. The CeO2/PANI (CP10) composite prepared by in situ polymerization has resulted in better specific capacitance than solution mixing in an aqueous electrolyte (0.5[Formula: see text]M H2SO4) with the capacitance value of 240[Formula: see text]F/g at 0.5[Formula: see text]A/g. The in-situ polymerization method evenly spreads polyaniline (PANI) all over the cerium oxide (CeO2) material and reduces charge transfer resistance ([Formula: see text]) which is lacking in the solution mixing method. After 4000 cycles at 5[Formula: see text]A/g, the CP10 composite retained 72.8% of capacitance retention and energy density of 33.33[Formula: see text]Wh/Kg at power density of 249.87[Formula: see text]W/Kg.
Solving the Shortest Path Problem with QAOA
Authors: Fan Zhiqiang , Xu Jinchen , Shu Guoqiang , Ding Xiaodong , Lian Hang , Shan Zheng
Published: December 2022

Graph computation is a core technique for solving realistic problems of graph representations. In solving the shortest path problem (SPP), the current classical methods are encountering a huge performance bottleneck. Attempting to solve this dilemma, we try to solve the SPP with a Quantum Approximate Optimal Algorithm (QAOA)-based quantum method. In this paper, we propose a QAOA-based shortest path algorithm (SPA) by constructing a suitable Hamiltonian quantity and using the idea of variational quantum computing, and verify the algorithm using a quantum simulator and an International Business Machines cloud quantum computer. The proposed algorithm is able to achieve a near-optimal solution with a correct rate that significantly exceeds the invalid solutions, reaching a good preliminary result. Furthermore, the proposed algorithm is expected to achieve a huge advantage over the classical algorithm and the SPA based on Grover’s algorithm with a suitable selection of parameters and number of steps. In addition, the proposed algorithm requires fewer quantum bits than other quantum algorithms, thus promising quantum computing superiority on current noisy intermediate-scale quantum (NISQ) quantum computing devices.
Why Blockchain: A Socio-technical Perspective on the Motives of Business Consortia Members to Engage with Blockchain Technology
Authors: Bauer Ingrid , Ziolkowski Rafael , Hacker Janine , Schwabe Gerhard
Published: December 2022

Despite the large number of resources that blockchain has, and continues to mobilize, what makes the technology unique and why people engage with it is not yet fully understood. Hence, “Why blockchain?” is a question that many scientists and managers still ask themselves or must to answer when facing the technology's critics. While the question is undoubtedly justified, it cannot always be answered from a purely technical perspective. Thus, in this study, we apply a socio-technical information systems artifact perspective and analyze the reasons managers involved in the blockchain consortia have for using blockchain technology. Based on a multiple-case study of 19 blockchain consortia, including interviews with 53 stakeholders, we explicate 19 different motives that justify engagement with the technology in practice. Further, we identify the systemic character of
tokenization
and the importance of the socio-technical interplay of aspects like power decentralization that justify the necessity of blockchain.
Coordination Structure of Titanium Ions in Molten LiF-KF Mixture with the Addition of TiO2 and Bulk Titanium
Authors: Okada Kaai , Suzuki Yuta , Fukunaka Yasuhiro , Goto Takuya
Published: December 2022

The difference between Ti(III) and Ti(IV) significantly influences the electrodeposition process of Ti in fluoride melt. In this study, we investigated the melt structure of LiF-KF with the addition of TiO2 for Ti(IV) and with the addition of both TiO2 and bulk titanium (Ti0) for Ti(III) by combining high-temperature Raman spectroscopic technique and density functional theory calculations. The Raman spectra were characterized by three kinds of coordination structures: polyatomic ion-like structures such as TiO2F2
2−, polyatomic cation-coordinated ion-like structures such as [TiF6−K]−, and molecule-like structures such as TiOF3−K. The results showed that the K+ ions are more likely to form structures with the titanium oxyfluorides. We also found that the melt with and without Ti0 showed almost completely different Raman bands. The information gained in this study for the coordination structure around titanium ions in the fluoride melts is significant towards the electrodeposition process of titanium-based materials in fluoride melt and marks an important step towards further understanding of the dissolution process of titanium oxyhalide structure in the melt.
Online Parameter Identification and State of Charge Estimation of Lithium-Ion Batteries Based on Improved Artificial Fish Swarms Forgetting Factor Least Squares and Differential Evolution Extended Kalman Filter
Authors: Xiao Weijia , Wang Shunli , Yu Chunmei , Yang Xiao , Qiu Jingsong , Fernandez Carlos
Published: December 2022

State of Charge (SOC) estimation is the focus of battery management systems, and it is critical to accurately estimate battery SOC in complex operating environments. To weaken the impact of unreasonable forgetting factor values on parameter estimation accuracy, an artificial fish swarm (AFS) strategy is introduced to optimize the forgetting factor of forgetting factor least squares (FFRLS) and to model the lithium-ion battery using a first-order RC model. A new method AFS-FFRLS is proposed for online parameter identification of the first-order RC model. In SOC estimation, it is not reasonable to fix the process noise covariance, and the differential evolution (DE) algorithm is combined with the extended Kalman filter (EKF) algorithm to achieve dynamic adjustment of the process noise covariance. A joint algorithm named AFS-FFRLS-DEEKF is proposed to estimate the SOC. to verify the reasonableness of the proposed algorithm, experiments are conducted under HPPC, BBDST and DST conditions, and the average errors of the joint algorithm under the three conditions are 1.9%, 2.7% and 2.4%, respectively. The validation results show that the joint algorithm improves the accuracy of SOC estimation.
Effect of Three-in-One Surface Modification of Spherical, Co-Free Li-Rich Cathode Material for Li-Ion Batteries (Li1.2Mn0.6Ni0.2O2) with Citric Acid
Authors: Klein Florian , Pfeifer Claudia , Bansmann Joachim , Jusys Zenonas , Behm R. Jürgen , Wohlfahrt-Mehrens Margret , Lindén Mika , Axmann Peter
Published: December 2022

The electrochemical activation of Li2MnO3 domains in Li- and Mn-rich layered oxides (LRLO) is highly important, and can be tuned by surface modification of the active materials to improve their cycling performance. In this study, citric acid was employed as a combined organic acid, reducing agent, and carbon precursor in order to remove surface residues from the calcination process, implement an oxygen deficient layer on the surface of the primary LRLO particles, and cover their surface with a carbon-containing coating after a final annealing step. A broad selection of bulk and surface sensitive characterization methods was used to characterize the post-treated spherical particles, providing the evidence for successful creation of an oxygen deficient near-surface region, covered by carbon-containing deposits. Post-treated materials show enhanced electrochemical discharge capacities after progressive Li2MnO3 activation, reaching maximum capacities of 247 mAh g−1. Gassing measurements reveal the suppression of oxygen release during the first cycle, concomitant with an increased CO2 formation for the carbon-coated materials. The voltage profile analysis in combination with post-mortem characterization after 300 cycles provide insights into the aging of the treated materials, which underlines the importance of the relationship between structural changes during scalable post-treatment and the electrochemical performance of the powders.
Modeling Voltage Decay During Calendar-Life Aging
Authors: Lu Dongliang , Trimboli M. Scott , Wang Yujun , Plett Gregory L.
Published: December 2022

Degradation in lithium-ion cells results from internal mechanisms whose effects can be partially observed through input/output data. In particular, we notice that when a cell experiences calendar aging, its voltage decays over time along with its capacity/power. This work aims to establish a mathematical model to describe these observations. Since calendar-life aging involves both reversible and irreversible aspects, we combine a simple solid-electrolyte-interface (SEI) growth model to describe irreversible lithium loss and a redox-shuttle model to describe reversible loss. We also propose a reduced-order model framework for fast computations. The models are parameterized using six-month self-discharge data gathered at different ambient temperatures from a commercial cell. We find that while SEI growth leads to permanent capacity loss and some voltage decrease, the redox-shuttle can dominate voltage decay during self-discharge. Therefore, it is important to include a redox-shuttle component in a model of voltage decay during calendar-life aging.
The Efficiency of Direct Maturation: the Comparison of Two hiPSC Differentiation Approaches into Motor Neurons
Authors: Schaefers Catherine , Rothmiller Simone , Thiermann Horst , Rein Theo , Schmidt Annette
Published: December 2022

Motor neurons (MNs) derived from human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) hold great potential for the treatment of various motor neurodegenerative diseases as transplantations with a low-risk of rejection are made possible. There are many hiPSC differentiation protocols that pursue to imitate the multistep process of motor neurogenesis in vivo. However, these often apply viral vectors, feeder cells, or antibiotics to generate hiPSC and MNs, limiting their translational potential. In this study, a virus-, feeder-, and antibiotic-free method was used for reprogramming hiPSC, which were maintained in culture medium produced under clinical good manufacturing practice. Differentiation into MNs was performed with standardized, chemically defined, and antibiotic-free culture media. The identity of hiPSC, neuronal progenitors, and mature MNs was continuously verified by the detection of specific markers at the genetic and protein level via qRT-PCR, flow cytometry, Western Blot, and immunofluorescence. MNX1- and ChAT-positive motoneuronal progenitor cells were formed after neural induction via dual-SMAD inhibition and expansion. For maturation, an approach aiming to directly mature these progenitors was compared to an approach that included an additional differentiation step for further specification. Although both approaches generated mature MNs expressing characteristic postmitotic markers, the direct maturation approach appeared to be more efficient. These results provide new insights into the suitability of two standardized differentiation approaches for generating mature MNs, which might pave the way for future clinical applications.
An Explainable Statistical Method for Seizure Prediction Using Brain Functional Connectivity from EEG
Authors: Chen Hao , Ji Taoyun , Zhan Xiang , Liu Xiaoxin , Yu Guojing , Wang Wen , Jiang Yuwu , Zhou Xiao-Hua
Published: December 2022

Background. Epilepsy is a group of chronic neurological disorders characterized by recurrent and abrupt seizures. The accurate prediction of seizures can reduce the burdens of this disorder. Now, existing studies use brain network features to classify patients’ preictal or interictal states, enabling seizure prediction. However, most predicting methods are based on deep learning techniques, which have weak interpretability and high computational complexity. To address these issues, in this study, we proposed a novel two-stage statistical method that is interpretable and easy to compute. Methods. We used two datasets to evaluate the performance of the proposed method, including the well-known public dataset CHB-MIT. In the first stage, we estimated the dynamic brain functional connectivity network for each epoch. Then, in the second stage, we used the derived network predictor for seizure prediction. Results. We illustrated the results of our method in seizure prediction in two datasets separately. For the FH-PKU dataset, our approach achieved an AUC value of 0.963, a prediction sensitivity of 93.1%, and a false discovery rate of 7.7%. For the CHB-MIT dataset, our approach achieved an AUC value of 0.940, a prediction sensitivity of 93.0%, and a false discovery rate of 11.1%, outperforming existing state-of-the-art methods. Significance. This study proposed an explainable statistical method, which can estimate the brain network using the scalp EEG method and use the net-work predictor to predict epileptic seizures. Availability and Implementation. R Source code is available at https://github.com/HaoChen1994/Seizure-Prediction.
Association of Diabetes with Meningitis Infection Risks: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Asori Moses , Musah Ali , Gyasi Razak M.
Published: December 2022

Background. The Global Burden of Disease Study in 2016 estimated that the global incident cases of meningitis have increased by 320,000 between 1990 and 2016. Current evidence suggests that diabetes may be a prime risk factor for meningitis among individuals, including older adults. However, findings of prior studies on this topic remain inconsistent, making a general conclusion relatively difficult. This study aimed to quantitatively synthesize the literature on the risk of meningitis associated with diabetes and compare the risk across different global regions. Method. Literature search and study design protocol followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, African Journal Online, and Google Scholar using relevant MESH terms. A random effect model was used to pull effect sizes. Results. Initial search yielded 772 papers but 756 studies were excluded due to duplicity and not meeting inclusion criteria. In all, 16 papers involving 16847 cases were used. The pulled effect size (ES) of the association between diabetes and meningitis was 2.240 (OR = 2.240, 95% CI = 1.716–2.924). Regional-base analysis showed that diabetes increased the risk of developing meningitis in Europe (OR = 1.737, 95% CI = 1.299–2.323), Asia (OR = 2.192, 95% CI = 1.233–3.898), and North America (OR = 2.819, 95% CI = 1.159–6.855). These associations remained significant in the study design and etiological classe-based subgroup analyses. However, we surprisingly found no studies in Africa or South America. Conclusion. Diabetes is a risk factor for developing meningitis. Given that no research on this topic came from Africa and South America, our findings should be contextually interpreted. We, however, encourage studies on diabetes-meningitis linkages from all parts of the world, particularly in Africa and South America, to confirm the findings of the present study.
Phytochemical Constituents and Biological Activities of Jasonia glutinosa L.: The First Report for the Plant Growing in North Africa
Authors: Mohammed Hamdoon A. , Abdulkarim Abdulnaser Kh. , Alamami Abdullah D. , Elshibani Fatma A.
Published: December 2022

Jasonia glutinosa (rock tea), also known as Chiliadenus glutinosa Cass., is a medicinal plant growing in the Mediterranean Basin. It is used for the treatment of depression, gastrointestinal complaints, inflammations, appendicitis, colds, and respiratory disorders. The current study is the first report for the plant species growing in Libya and aims to investigate the phytochemical constituents, antioxidant, cytotoxic, and antimicrobial activities of the plant’s aqueous ethanolic extract. The phytochemical investigation was conducted by the spectrophotometric quantitative assay and the LC-MS analysis. The analysis revealed the presence of 14.67 and 46.72 mg/g of the total phenolics and flavonoids equivalent to gallic acid and rutin, respectively. A total of thirty compounds of phenolic acids and flavonoids were identified by the LC-MS analysis, with a total relative percentage of 18.69%. The analysis revealed the dominance of methoxylated flavonoids and cinnamic acid derivatives, including caffeoylquinic acids. The in vitro antioxidant assays showed 265.55, 513.32, and 27.10 μM Trolox eq/mg of extract in the ABTS, ORAC, and FRAP assays, respectively. Cancer cell growth inhibitions of 9.23, 11.42, and 34.01% at a concentration of 100 μg/mL against MCF-7, HepG2, and PANC-1 cell lines were obtained, which is considered a weak cytotoxic effect when compared to the standard anticancer agent, doxorubicin (DOX). No antimicrobial activity was noticed for the plant extract against all tested microorganisms, i.e., Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhimurium, Candida albicans, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The weak antimicrobial effect of the plant did not support the claim of traditional use of the plant as an antimicrobial agent.
Prevalence and Clinical Characteristics including Patterns of Antihypertensive Drug Administration of the Different Home Blood Pressure Phenotypes in Treated Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Chotruangnapa Chavalit , Thammarux Tossaporn , Thongdang Piyawan
Published: December 2022

Quality and quantity of home blood pressure (BP) control are important for optimizing hypertensive treatment. The prevalence and associated clinical characteristics of the different home blood pressure phenotypes in treated hypertensive patients were not elucidated. This study was conducted in Siriraj Hospital, Thailand from 2019 to 2020. We included treated hypertensive patients with ≥1 antihypertensive drug and had self-home BP measurement data. Both traditional (office BP < 140/90 mmHg and home BP < 130/80 mmHg) and new BP targets (office and home BP < 130/80 mmHg) were used for the classification of BP phenotypes. Home BP phenotypes consisted of controlled hypertension (all home BPs achieved home BP targets), isolated uncontrolled morning hypertension (MoHT) (only morning BP was above home BP targets), isolated uncontrolled evening hypertension (EHT) (only evening BP was above home BP targets), and combined morning-evening uncontrolled hypertension (MoEHT) (all home BPs were above home BP targets). Our study included 1,406 patients. The total mean age was 62.94 ± 13.97 years. There were 39.40% men. The prevalence of each home BP phenotype (by traditional BP target) was 55.76%, 12.66%, 7.40%, and 24.18% in controlled (home) hypertension, MoHT, EHT, and MoEHT, respectively. Classical BP control status was 35.21% well-controlled hypertension, 30.01% white-coat uncontrolled hypertension, 9.74% masked uncontrolled hypertension, and 25.04% sustained uncontrolled hypertension. The multivariable analysis showed the significantly associated factor of MoHT was the presence of previous cardiovascular disease (adjusted OR 5.54, 95% CI (2.02–15.22);

p

value = 0.001). Taking once-daily long-acting antihypertensive drugs in the morning were significantly associated with both EHT (adjusted OR 0.20, 95% CI (0.05–0.82);

p

value = 0.025) and MoEHT (adjusted OR 0.20, 95% CI (0.04–1.00);

p

value = 0.049). These results were consistent in groups classified by new home BP target <130/80 mmHg.
Federated Learning Framework Based on Data Value Evaluation in Industrial IoT
Authors: Ma Chao , Yu Haiyang , Li Zheng , Yang Zhen
Published: December 2022

With the continuous maturity and development of the big data technology system, deep learning has been widely used in the field of the Industrial Internet of Things. However, the traditional training model with centralized data is prone to the leakage of private information in the industry, such as facial information. In recent years, federated learning solves the problem of privacy leakage caused by data sharing by not sharing data and only contributing to local models. Federated learning does not share data, which also makes it impossible to evaluate the contribution of each client to the federated task. We propose a federated learning framework based on data value evaluation. In this method, under the premise of effectively completing the training task of federated learning and ensuring the privacy of client data, a data value evaluator is designed in the central server, and the model uploaded by the client is evaluated to obtain the corresponding selection probability as the model aggregation weight. Experimental results show that the proposed method improves the accuracy of the global model obtained by existing federated aggregation.