bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Simulation of RPAS/UAV Data Traffic Using Space-Air-Ground Networks
Authors: Ilnytska Svitlana , Li Fengping , Grekhov Andrii , Kondratiuk Vasyl 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
The latest applications of Remotely Piloted Air Systems (RPAS) for telecommunication data transmission require reliable two-way communications. In this regard, it is necessary to answer two questions: how can existing space, air and ground networks be combined for effective interaction with RPASs during heavy traffic and under what data transmission modes can the required Quality of Service (QoS) be ensured. To answer such questions, this study was undertaken. Models of space, air and ground networks were created to simulate remote data transmission. Models including the Base Station (BS), the Public Terrestrial Network (PTN), the Low-Orbit Satellite, and different number of RPASs were designed using NetCracker Professional 4.1 software. For the first time, quantitative characteristics of traffic in Space-Air-Ground Integrated Network (SAGIN) communication channels were obtained. The Average Utilization (AU) dependencies of BS links on the Transaction Size (TS) were obtained and analyzed. BS links with different bandwidths were studied. Effect of the Bit Error Rate (BER) on the AU parameters was considered. The dependences of the dropped packets on the TS parameters were studied. SAGIN traffic characteristics for terrestrial and satellite communication channels were compared.
Improving the Reporting Quality of Instrument Cross-Cultural Adaptation: the IRICA Statement
Authors: HOU Zheng-kun , LIU Feng-bin , TAN Yuan-kun , CHEN Xin-lin , CHEN Zhuo-qun 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background: To achieve a consensus on the reporting checklists for instrument Cross-Cultural Adaptation (CCA) research.Methods: Firstly, we clarified the research rationality with literature review and established the preliminary checklist pool based on information extracting. Then, using the focus group and expert interview, we optimized the checklists. Finally, the international Delphi surveys were conducted to evaluate the agreement degree, importance and familiarity of the checklists. In data analysis, 21 indicators were included for quantitative assessments, accompanied with group discussions.Results: A total of 61 articles was included for rational analysis and 70 items were extracted to establish the checklist pool. After focus group and experts interview research, a checklist draft contains 25 items was put forward. In the three-rounds of international Delphi surveys, 14(70.00%), 11(68.75%) and 11(68.75%) questionnaires were completed. Basing on the quantitative analysis and group discussions, 1, 1 and 9 items were deleted, added and modified. Finally, we formed the checklist for Improving the Reporting quality of Instrument cross-cultural adaptation (IRICA) which contains 24 items subhead under 6 sections: Title and structured summary, Rationale and Objective, Authorization, Participants Criteria, Forward Translations, Forward Synthesis, Backward Translations, Backward Synthesis, Experts Qualitative Review, Pilot Testing, Field Testing, Statistical methods, Participants, Series Instruments, Main results, Other analyses, Summary of evidence, Comparison of instruments, Limitations, Copyright owner interaction, Application attentions, Conclusions, Appendix, Funding. Conclusions: The IRICA statement can be used to guide users to report instrument CCA research in a standard manner, and assist to evaluate the reporting quality and study design.
Effect of Steam on the Homogeneous Conversion of Tar Contained from the Co-Pyrolysis of Biomass and Plastics
Authors: Tang Feng , Jin Yuqi , Chi Yong , Zhu Zhongxu , Cai Jie , Li Zhirui , Li Minjie 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
The co-pyrolysis tar formed from microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and polyethylene (PE) was used to study their further conversion path under the effect of steam. This paper addressed the yield and transformation of tar with different steam/feedstock mass ratios (S/F= 0.8, 1.6) in a two-stage fixed-bed when the two stages furnace temperature was set at 600℃ and 800℃, separately. Compared with pyrolysis, steam promoted tar cracking effectively, the tar yield decreased at least 1/3. However, with the addition of steam, the cracking effect of tar is not further improved. The tar yield depended more on the PE content in the mixture, which was enhanced with PE increment. Besides, the H/C atom ratio was related to the conversion path of tar. Steam was beneficial to the cracking of compounds, but the generated hydrogen radicals affected the direction of the subsequent reaction. The steam mainly promotes the cracking of long-chain hydrocarbons, accompanied by cyclization and aromatization when the steam was limited. Nevertheless, these reactions were hindered when the steam was excessive due to the apparent effect of hydrogenation. In this process, the short-chain hydrocarbons come to recombine instead of cyclization and aromatization.
Facilitators &amp; Barriers to Implementing Provider-Initiated HIV Counselling and Testing at the Clinic-Level in Ekurhuleni District, South Africa
Authors: Mshweshwe-Pakela Nolundi T. , Mabuto Tonderai , Ntombela Nasiphi , Hlongwane Mpho , Kubeka Griffiths , Kerrigan Deanna , Hoffmann Christopher J. 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
BackgroundHIV testing is the entry point into the HIV care continuum, and critical for HIV epidemic control. Facility-based HIV testing services (HTS) reach individuals who are already seeking clinical care and engaging with the medical care system. For this reason, individuals diagnosed with HIV during facility-based HIV testing are more likely to continue into HIV care. Efforts have been increasingly made to increase facility-based HIV testing services (HTS), including introducing provider-initiated counselling & testing (PICT), but this strategy remains under-utilized. We aimed to identify key constraints to normalization of PICT implementation in 10 Ekurhuleni District healthcare facilities in South Africa. MethodsIn-depth interviews were conducted with 40 healthcare workers (28 clinicians and 12 lay counsellors). Health care workers were purposefully selected to participate in the interviews, stratified by health facility and work category. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and translated for analysis. Thematic analysis was guided by the normalisation process theory (NPT). NPT theory explains how practices are routinely embedded within organisational contexts. We used NVivo 10 software for qualitative data management. ResultsBoth clinicians and lay counsellors exhibited clear understanding of the PICT policy – acknowledging its purpose and value. Key barriers to normalisation of PICT among clinicians understanding that HIV testing needs to be offered to all clients yet reporting actual practices of offering HIV testing based on suspicion of HIV. Additionally, clinicians perceived PICT as incongruent with their clinical roles and perceived it to be lay counsellors’ responsibility. The main facilitator was participation of all healthcare workers, specifically the presence of lay counsellors, although they also faced barriers such as a lack of workspace and under-appreciation. ConclusionsUse of NPT helped identify barriers which prevent normalization of PICT and its integration into the routine patient care. These barriers can be modified by low-cost interventions that promotes congruence of PICT to the roles of clinicians and integrate the role of lay counsellors within the patient flow in the facility.
Hydrogen Peroxide/Zero Valent Iron/Persulfate Approach for Dye Degradation: Key Operating Parameter and Synergistic Effect
Authors: Ahmadi Mehdi , feizi rozhan 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Azo dyes due to the presence of benzene ring, toxicity, mutagenicity, carcinogenicity and low biodegradability have become a major problem in the aqueous environment. In this study, Zero Valent Iron (ZVI) was employed as a catalyst to activate persulfate (PS) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) for removal of Sunset Yellow (SY) from aqueous solutions using integrated H2O2/ZVI/PS process. The effects of operational parameters (solution pH, H2O2 concentration, PS concentration, and ZVI dose) were studied on SY removal. According to the results, about 100% efficiency was obtained by the H2O2/ZVI/PS for dye removal at: pH = 3, ZVI 50 mg/L, 1 mM H2O2 concentration, 1 mM PS concentration, and 30 min reaction time. The kinetic study implied that the H2O2/ZVI/PS process followed the first-order kinetic model. The total organic carbon (TOC) test showed that about 65% of mineralization was achieved after 30 min. Moreover, the ZVI particles showed a suitable efficiency after five cycles, and hence, it can be used as an eco-friendly, cost effective and reusable catalyst for the treatment of wastewaters contaminated with such dyes.
Effect On Cardiac Function Among Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Following High-Dose Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonist Using Echocardiography; Data From The MIRAD Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Brandt-Jacobsen Niels H. , Johansen Marie Louise , Rasmussen Jon , Dalsgaard Morten , Kumler Thomas , Faber Jens , Rossignol Patrick , Schou Morten , Kistorp Caroline 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Background: Early heart failure (HF)-prevention is central in patients with type 2 diabetes, and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) have shown to improve prognosis. We investigated the effect of high-dose MRA, eplerenone, on cardiac function and structure in patients with type 2 diabetes and established or increased risk of cardiovascular disease but without HF. Methods: In the current randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial, 140 patients with high-risk type 2 diabetes were randomized to high-dose eplerenone (100-200 mg daily) or placebo as add-on to standard care for 26 weeks. Left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic function, indexed LV mass (LVMi), and global longitudinal strain (GLS) were assessed using echocardiography at baseline and after 26 weeks of treatment. Results: Of the included patients, 138 (99%) had an echocardiography performed at least once. Baseline early diastolic in-flow velocity (E-wave) indexed by mitral annulus velocity (e’) was mean (SD) 11.1 (0.5), with 31% of patients reaching above 12. No effect of treatment on diastolic function was observed measured by E/e’ (0.0, 95%CI [-1.2 to 1.2], P=0.992) or E/A (-0.1, 95%CI [-0.2 to 0.0], P=0.191). Mean LV ejection fraction (LVEF) at baseline was 59.0% (8.0). No improvement in systolic function was observed when comparing groups after 26 weeks (LVEF: 0.9, 95%CI [-1.1 to 2.8], P=0.382; GLS: -0.4%, 95%CI [-1.5 to 0.6], P=0.422), nor in LVMi (-3.8 g/m2 95%CI [-10.2 to 2.7], P=0.246). Conclusion: In the present echo sub-study, no change in cardiac function was observed following high-dose MRA therapy in patients with high-risk type 2 diabetes.Trial registration: Date of registration 25/08/2015 (EudraCT number: 2015-002519-14)
Sex Differences In COVID-19 Mortality In The Netherlands
Authors: Niessen Annabel , Teirlinck Anne , McDonald Scott , Hoek Wim van der , Gageldonk-Lafeber Rianne van , Knol Mirjam 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Introduction: Since the first reports of COVID-19 cases, sex-discrepancies have been reported in COVID-19 mortality. We provide a detailed description of these sex differences in relation to age and comorbidities among notified cases as well as in relation to age and sex specific mortality in the general Dutch population. Methods: Data on COVID-19 cases and mortality until May 31st was extracted from the national surveillance database with exclusion of healthcare workers. Association between sex and case fatality was analyzed with multivariable logistic regression. Subsequently, male-female ratio in standardized mortality ratios and population mortality rates relative to all-cause and infectious diseases-specific mortality were computed stratified by age.Results: Male-female odds ratio for case fatality was 1.33 [95% CI 1.26-1.41] and among hospitalized cases 1.27 [95% CI 1.16-1.40]. This remained significant after adjustment for age and comorbidities. The male-female ratio of the standardized mortality ratio was 1.70 [95%CI 1.62-1.78]. The population mortality rate was 35.1 per 100.000, with a male-female rate ratio of 1.25 (95% CI 1.18-1.31) which was higher than in all-cause and infectious disease mortality.Conclusion: Our study confirms male sex is a predisposing factor for severe outcomes of COVID-19, independent of age and comorbidities. The underlying mechanisms are likely to be COVID-19 specific.
A Comparative Study on the Model of PM2.5 Direct or Indirect Interaction with Bronchial Epithelial Cells.
Authors: Wang Yan , Zuo Xin , Jiang Fuyang , Hou Lin , Jiang Qiyue , Zhu Zhonghui , TIAN LIN 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
The impact of PM2.5 on epithelial cells is a pivotal process leading to many lung pathological changes and pulmonary diseases. In addition to PM2.5 direct interaction with epithelia, macrophages that engulf PM2.5 may also influence the function of epithelial cells. However, among the toxic researches of PM2.5, there is a lack of evaluation of direct or indirect exposure model on human bronchial epithelial cell against PM2.5. In this present research, PM2.5-exposed human bronchial epithelial cell line (BEAS-2B) serves as the direct interaction model, while the contrast is to indirect stimulation model, which takes advantage of transwell co-culture system to carry out that PM2.5 is promptly contacted with macrophages rather than BEAS-2B. By comparing these two modes of interaction, we determined the viability of BEAS-2B and mRNA and/or protein expression profile of transcription factors Nrf2,NF-kB and according inflammatory indicators, with a view to evaluating the effects of different interaction modes of PM2.5 on epithelial cell damage in vitro. We have found that macrophage involvement may protect epithelia from PM2.5 cytotoxic effect, while strengthen the inflammation response.
Correlation Assessment of NDVI and Land use Dynamics with Water Resources for the Southern Margin of Mu Us Sandy Land, China
Authors: Zhao Menglong , Wang Yu , Liu Siyuan , Zhong Ping-an , Liu Hongzhen , Li Rongrong 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
To prevent desertification, countries all over the world have made diversified efforts and vegetation restoration has been proved to be an effective approach. However, for sandy land that has limited water resources, measures such as artificial vegetation, may lead to the increase risk of drought. While affirming the achievements of sand utilization, there are many controversies exist regarding the advantages of turning deserts green, especially considering the water scarcity. Therefore, the long-run and causal relationships between sandy land, water consumption and vegetation coverage are necessary for explorations. Taken the southern margin of the Mu Us Sandy Land as the study area, this study explored the interactions between sandy land, water consumption and NDVI over a period of 2000–2018 with a VAR model approach. In the study area, various revegetation projects have made great achievements, resulting in a significant reduction of the sandy land area. In addition, the NDVI has ascend from 0.196 in 2000 to 0.371 in 2018 with a ratio of 89.3%. Results showed that there exist long-term stable equilibrium and causal relationships between water consumption with sandy land and NDVI. The increase of NDVI is relatively the direct factor causes the increase of water consumption. It could be inferred that those artificial vegetation measures may be based on large amount of water consumption, which may aggravate further water shortage and ecological damage. More scientific and stronger water resources management measures need to be implemented locally to achieve a balance between water resources and revegetation.
A New Approach to Sepsis Treatment by Rasagiline: A Molecular, Biochemical and Histopathological Study
Authors: Ün Harun , Ugan Rustem Anil , Köse Duygu , Yayla Muhammed , Tastan Tugba Bal , Bayir Yasin , Halici Zekai 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Aim:We aimed to investigate the effects of rasagiline, which has a strong antioxidant, anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory effect, on acute lung injury that develops in the sepsis model induced with the CLP in rats. Main Methods:The rats were separated into the following six groups, Group 1: Sham, Group 2: Sham + Rasegiline 4 mg/kg, Group 3: Sepsis, Group 4: Sepsis + Rasegiline 1 mg/kg, Group 5: Sepsis + Rasegiline 2 mg/kg, Group 6: Sepsis + Rasegiline 4 mg/kg. A total of 4 holes were opened with a 16-gauge needle through the cecum distal to the point of ligation. Key Findings:GSH levels appear to improve due to increased doses of rasagiline, while SOD activity appears to improve only at the high dose of rasagiline. There was a statistically significant improvement in the doses of R2 and R4. This improvement in Tnf-α, IL1β, IL6, NF-κβand HMGB1 expression increased dose-dependent at R2 and R4 doses. In increased doses, rasagiline appears to prevent the development of edema, the formation of inflammation, and hemorrhagic areas are almost similar to healthy tissue. Significance: Rasagiline exerts both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects on CLP induced acute lung injury in rats.
Investigation of Adsorption Characteristics and Influencing Factors for Diesel Engine Exhaust Particles
Authors: Wang Zhong , Zhang Qixia , Liu Shuai , LI Ruina , Hua Yan , Dong Zheng 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
The adsorption process of diesel exhaust particles has a great influence on the particles. A single-cylinder diesel exhaust particle collection system was established to collect particle samples with different adsorption environment conditions, and the adsorption capacity of the samples was analyzed and characterized by an isothermal adsorption test; the change patterns of particle characteristics were investigated by the scanning electron microscope and thermogravimetric analyzer, correlation analysis of the factors influencing the adsorption process was performed. The results show that the particles have adsorption capacity and belong to the type of multilayer adsorption on porous media; the pore diameter is continuously distributed in the range of 8–80 nm with multiple peaks, which is the category of mesoporous and macroporous; the adsorption capacity of the sample particles increase with the increase of engine speed. Compared with the particles at the inlet of the exhaust pipe, the box-counting dimension (DB) of particles at the outlet increased, the content of water and soluble organic fraction (SOF) increased, the activation energy (E) decreased. Among the parameters affecting the adsorption process, the increase of hydrocarbons concentration contribute to the increase of particle adsorption and E reduction; the increase of the average temperature of the exhaust pipe inhibit the increase of the DB, and the increase of the temperature difference between the inlet and outlet facilitate the adsorption of water and SOF by the particles; the decrease of the adsorption time is one of the main reasons for the slowdown of the increase in DB; the average pore diameter had the greatest positive correlation with the amount of variation in the DB; the increase in specific surface area and pore volume of the sample particles was the dominant cause of the increase in adsorption capacity as well as the decrease in E.
Evaluation of Protective Effects of Gallic Acid on Cisplatin-Induced Testicular and Epididymal Damage
Authors: ALTINDAĞ Fikret , Meydan İsmet 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
The current study explored the beneficial effects of GA against testis and epididymis toxicity induced by CP treatment. Male rats were into 4 groups (n=7). Control (saline, intraperitoneal), Cisplatin (a single dose of 8 mg/kg/day cisplatin, intraperitoneal), Gallic acid (50 mg/kg Gallic acid orally for 10 days) and Cisplatin+Gallic acid groups. Total number of spermatogonia, Sertoli, Leydig cell and the total volume of testis, seminiferous tubule, interstitial area, and germinal epithelial thickness and numerical densities of caspase-3, Bax, Bcl-2, 8-OHdG immunopositive cells were calculated. Histopathological examination of the testis and epididymis was performed. MDA and CAT levels are measured in the testis. Also, the testosterone level was measured in the serum of the rats. As a result, a significant decrease was observed in all stereological data, Bcl-2 immunopositive cell number, CAT, and serum testosterone levels in the testis compared to the CP group control group, while a significant increase was observed in the number of caspase-3, Bax, and 8-OHdG immunopositive cells and the level of MDA. However, GA significantly improved these parameters. Our study reveals that GA may improve CP-induced male reproductive toxicity by reducing oxidative stress, suppressing apoptosis and DNA damage, and restoring structural and functional deterioration.
Based on Transcriptome Sequencing: Clinicians Need to Pay Attention to Fever Caused by Common Respiratory Pathogens During the Global Outbreak of COVID-19
Authors: Yin Sheng , Wang Zeyou , Wang Min , Wang Wenlong 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Objectives:During the COVID-19 pandemic, clinicians and public health decision-makers especially focus on fever patients. Other common pathogens that may cause fever are easily overlooked. We aimed to describe the pathogen infection and epidemic trend of non-SARS-CoV-2 occurring in hospitalized patients.Methods:An observational cohort study of 733 consecutive patients admitted to Hospital Clinic of the Second Xiangya Hospital for COVID-19. All samples of a pharyngeal swab from patients with fever have been tested for nucleic acid and immune antigens of SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza A/B virus. 649 fever patients have been tested for nucleic acid in ten respiratory pathogens. Macrotranscriptome sequencing was performed on 26 samples.Results:Of a total of 733 patients with fever, 2.05% patients had confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infections. Fever patients with common respiratory pathogens in fever patients was 8.78%. There is no integration phenomenon between SARS-Cov-2 and the human genome. SARS-CoV-2 positive samples will also be infected with other viruses, especially adenovirus. Macrotranscript analysis showed that there was no significant difference in the species and genus levels of pathogens between Covid-19 patients and other fever patients. The main pathways that affect human metabolism after SARS-Cov-2 infection are the Calvin-Benson-Bassham cycle, pyrimidine deoxyribonucleotides de novo biosynthesis I and D-galactose degradation V.Conclusions:Most patients have a fever caused by common respiratory pathogens. Clinicians still need to pay more attention to infections of common respiratory pathogens in addition to SARS-CoV-2. China's public health measures to stop the spread of the epidemic have proven effective.
A New Image Encryption Scheme based on Fractional-order Hyperchaotic System and Multiple Image Fusion
Authors: Gao Xinyu , Yu Jiawu , Yan Huizhen , Mou Jun 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
A multi-image encryption scheme based on the fractional-order hyperchaotic system is designed in this paper. The chaotic characteristics of this system are analyzed by the phase diagram, Lyapunov exponent and bifurcation diagram. According to the analyses results, an interesting image encryption algorithm is proposed. Multiple grayscale images are fused into a color image using different channels. Then, the color image is scrambled and diffused in order to obtain a more secure cipher image. The pixel confusion operation and diffusion operation are assisted by fractional hyperchaotic system. Experimental simulation and test results indicate that the devised multi-image encryption scheme can effectively encrypt multiple images, which increase the efficiency of image encryption and transmission, and have good security performance.