bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Improved PBFT Algorithm For High-Frequency Trading Scenarios of Alliance Blockchain
Authors: Tang Song , Wang Zhiqiang , Jiang Jian , Ge Suli , Tan GaiFang 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
With the continuous development of blockchain technology and the emergence of application scenarios, consensus algorithms are still the bottleneck restricting the number of network nodes and data writing efficiency that blockchain can support. How to improve the performance of alliance blockchains safely and efficiently has become an urgent problem to be solved at present. For the practical Byzantine fault tolerance algorithm (PBFT) commonly used in alliance blockchains, there are some problems, such as large communication overhead, simple selection of master nodes, and inability to expand and exit nodes dynamically in the network. This paper proposes an improved algorithm tPBFT (trust-based practical Byzantine algorithm), which is suitable for the high-frequency transaction scenario of alliance chains and introduces a trust interest scoring mechanism between network nodes to adjust the list of consensus nodes dynamically, simplify the PBFT consensus process and reduce the interaction overhead between network nodes. Theoretical analysis and experiments show that the improved tPBFT algorithm can effectively reduce the amount of information interaction between nodes, improve consensus efficiency and support more network nodes.
A Study of (2+1)-Dimensional Konopelchenko-Dubrovsky (KD) System: Closed-Form Solutions, Solitary Waves, Bifurcation Analysis and Quasi-Periodic Solution
Authors: Kumar Sachin , Mann Nikita , Kharbanda Harsha 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Nonlinear evolution equations (NLEEs) are extensively used to establish the elementary propositions of natural circumstances. In this work, we study the Konopelchenko-Dubrovsky (KD) equation which depicts non-linear waves in mathematical physics with weak dispersion. The considered model is investigated using the combination of generalized exponential rational function (GERF) method and dynamical system method. The GERF method is utilized to generate closedform invariant solutions to the (2+1)-dimensional KD model in terms of trigonometric, hyperbolic, and exponential forms with the assistance of symbolic computations. Moreover, three-dimensional graphics are displayed to depict the behavior of obtained solitary wave solutions. The model is observed to have single and multiple soliton profiles, kink-wave profiles, and periodic oscillating nonlinear waves. These generated solutions have never been published in the literature. All the newly generated soliton solutions are checked by putting them back into the associated system with the soft computation via Wolfram Mathematica. Moreover, the system is converted into a planer dynamical system using a certain transformation and the analysis of bifurcation is examined. Furthermore, the quasi-periodic solution is investigated numerically for the perturbed system by inserting definite periodic forces into the considered model. With regard to the parameter of the perturbed model, two-dimensional and three-dimensional phase portraits are plotted.
Cross Cultural Adaptation and Validation of Hindi Version of WHOQOL-BREF in Patients With Chronic Low Back Pain
Authors: Makkar Jeetinder Kaur , Goyal Ankita , Sharma Rajni , Kumar Vishal , Ghai Babita , Prinja Shankar , Singh Narinder Pal 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Aim of the study was to validate Hindi version of WHOQOL-BREF in chronic low back pain patients (CLBP). In this cross-sectional study, 111 patients with CLBP were recruited. In addition to demographic information, two questionnaires Hi WHOQOL-BREF and SF-36 (Reference scale) were administered at day 0 and day 3. NRS was used for pain evaluation. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was used for scale reliability. Construct validity was analysed using Pearson correlation coefficient. Confirmatory factor analysis was performed to determine the relationships between the eight domains of SF-36 and four domains of the WHOQOL-BREF.Cronbach’s alpha coefficients were acceptable for all domains of both Hi WHOQOL-BREF (0.869 - 0.938) and SF-36 (0.752 - 0.943) questionnaires. Pearson correlation coefficients of both instruments were partly to strongly correlate with most domains (r ≥0.40). Correlations for domains with similar constructs were stronger than those measuring varied constructs. Confirmatory factor analysis recommended approximately good relationships among the SF-36 and WHOQOL-BREF domains. Our study suggests that WHOQOL-BREF Hindi version is a reliable and valid tool for clinical and research use in CLBP.
General and Paediatric Dentists’ Knowledge, Attitude and Practices Regarding the use of Silver Diammine Fluoride for the Management of Dental Caries: A National Survey in the Netherlands
Authors: Schroë Sofie C.H. , Bonifacio Clarissa C. , Bruers Josef J. , Innes Nicola P. T. , Hesse Daniela 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Background: Silver Diammine Fluoride (SDF) is a topical medication used to arrest cavitated carious lesions non-invasively. The primary aim of this research was to investigate, and analyse the relationships between; knowledge, attitudes and practices (including barriers and facilitators) as they relate to SDF use for the management of dental caries by general dental practitioners (GDPs) and paediatric dentists (PDs) in the Netherlands. A secondary aim was to explore any differences between these groups.Methods: A sample of 600 Dutch GDPs (random selection from 9,777 registered) and all 57 registered PDs were invited to participate in this cross-sectional survey, consisting of four sections: 1) participant characteristics, 2) knowledge (through responses to summative questions), 3) attitudes (through agreements using 5-point Likert scale), and 4) practices, use, barriers and facilitators (through multiple choice questions). Results: Response rates were: GDPs 23% (n=140) and PDs 47% (n=27). Knowledge: out of 15 questions testing understanding of SDF, the mean correct answers were GDPs 6.7; SD 2.6 and PDs 7.4, SD 2.2 (no statistically significant differences). Mean overall attitude score showed positivity towards SDF use in both groups. Compared to GDPs, PDs were more likely to use SDF (p<0.001) and expected this to increase (p=0.03). The main barrier for users was parental acceptance (47%) and for non-users it was lack of knowledge (60%). The main facilitator for both users and non-users was gaining knowledge through courses and workshops, followed by written information leaflets about SDF for parents.Conclusions: Less than half knowledge questions about SDF were answered correctly. Despite low knowledge, attitude towards its use was positive. Practitioners believed that its use would be facilitated by professionals having more accessible information and training and by the availability of parent information leaflets. SDF was used more frequently by PDs than GDPs.
Study on Dust Migration Law and Spray Dedusting Technology in Parallel Double Belt Transportation
Authors: Jing Deji , Jiang Zhuo , Ma Mingxing , Zhang Tian , Liu Hongwei , Yu Tao 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
To effectively solve the problem of dust pollution caused by the parallel double-belt transportation of coal in a coal preparation plant, taking the Huangyuchuan coal preparation plant as an example, a numerical model of the air flow-dust distribution was established by means of simulation. The flow lines between the strips of tape and the tail of the tape machine will gather, and there will be backflow on the right side of the 3001 tape and left side of the 3002 tape. Under the action of wind current, most of the dust particles larger than 10 μm are distributed in the range of 0~5 m on both sides of the tape; dust particles smaller than 10 μm spread to the entire preparation workshop. Combined with field test verification, dust pollution is mainly concentrated at the guide trough, the feed inlet, the rear of the machine, and the joint of the belt corridor. Based on this, a targeted spray dust reduction treatment plan is proposed. By measuring the dust concentration before and after the treatment of dust-polluted areas, it is proven that the dust reduction efficiency of this plan can reach more than 90%.
Melatonin, an Endogenous Hormone, Modulates Th17 Cells via the Reactive Oxygen Species/TXNIP/HIF-1α Axis to Alleviate Autoimmune Uveitis
Authors: Liang Dan , Huang Jun , Li Zhuang , Hu Yunwei , Li Zuoyi , Xie Yanyan , Huang Haixiang , Chen Qian , Chen Guanyu , Zhu Wenjie , Chen Yuxi , Su Wenru , Chen Xiaoqing 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Background

Melatonin, an indoleamine produced by the pineal gland, plays a pivotal role in maintaining circadian rhythm homeostasis. Recently, the strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of melatonin have attracted attention of researchers. We evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of melatonin in experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU), which is a representative animal model of human autoimmune uveitis.
Methods

EAU was induced in mice via immunization with the peptide interphotoreceptor retinoid binding protein 1-20 (IRBP1−20). melatonin was then administered via intraperitoneal injection to induce protection against EAU. With EAU induction for 14 days, clinical and histopathological scores were employed to evaluate the disease progression. T lymphocytes accumulation, the expression of inflammatory cytokines in the retinas were assessed via flow cytometry and RT-PCR. In vivo and in vitro experiments, T helper 1 (Th1), T helper 17 (Th17) and regulatory T (Treg) cells were detected via flow cytometry, the level reactive oxygen species(ROS) from CD4+ cells were tested via flow cytometry, and the expression of thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) and hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α)proteins were also quantified via western blot analysis, to elucidate the mechanism of melatonin inhibiting EAU.
Results

Melatonin treatment resulted in notable attenuation of ocular inflammation in EAU mice, evidenced by decreasing optic disc edema, few signs of retinal vasculitis, and minimal retinal and choroidal infiltrates. Mechanistic studies revealed that melatonin restricted the proliferation of peripheral Th1 and Th17 cells and potentiated Treg cells by suppressing their transcription factors. In vitro studies corroborated that melatonin restrains the polarization of retina-specific T cells towards Th17 and Th1 cells in addition to enhancing the proportion of Treg cells. Pretreatment of retina-specific T cells with melatonin failed to induce EAU in naïve recipients. Furthermore, the ROS/ TXNIP/ HIF-1α pathway was shown to mediate the therapeutic effect of melatonin in EAU.
Conclusions

Melatonin regulates autoimmune T cells by restraining effector T cells and facilitating Treg generation, indicating that melatonin could be a hopeful treatment alternative for autoimmune uveitis.
Energy, Conventional and Advanced Exergy Analysis of Low Temperature Geothermal Binary-flashing Cycle Using Zeotropic Mixtures
Authors: Zhao Yuan , Du Bowen , Chen Shunyi , Zhao Jun , Wang Lingbao 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Due to deep utilization of geobrine and high net power output, binary flashing cycle (BFC) is deemed to be the future geothermal energy power generation technology. The BFC using R245/R600a zeotropic mixtures is presented in this paper. The thermodynamic model of the system is built, and energy, conventional and advanced exergy analysis are carried out, to reveal the real optimization potential. It is demonstrated that the optimal composition mass fraction of R245fa and dryness of working fluid at the evaporator outlet ranges are 0.30~0.50 and 0.40~0.60, considering the thermodynamic performance and the flammability of the mixtures, simultaneously. Conventional exergy analysis indicates that the maximum exergy destruction occurs in condenser, followed by expander, evaporator, flashing tank, preheater, high-pressure pump and low-pressure pump. While the advanced exergy analysis reveals that the expander should be given the first priority for optimization, followed by condenser and evaporator. The BFC has a large potential for improvement due to higher avoidable exergy destruction, about 48.6% of the total system exergy destruction can be reduced. And the interconnections among system components are not very strong, owing to small exogenous exergy destructions. It also demonstrates the effectiveness of advanced exergy analysis, and the approach can be extended to other energy conversion systems to maximize the energy and exergy savings for sustainable development.
Risk Factors for Placental Malaria, Sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine Doses, and Birth Outcomes in a Rural to Urban Prospective Cohort Study on the Bandiagara Escarpment and Bamako, Mali
Authors: Vincenz Claudius , Dolo Zachary , Saye Serou , Lovett Jennie , Lieberman Richard W. , Strassmann Beverly I. 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
BackgroundMalaria in Mali remains a primary cause of morbidity and mortality, with women at high risk during pregnancy for placental malaria (PM). We evaluated risk for PM and its association with birth outcomes in a rural to urban longitudinal cohort on the Bandiagara Escarpment and the District of Bamako. MethodsWe collected placental samples (N = 317) from 249 mothers who were participants in our longitudinal cohort study. A placental pathologist and research assistant evaluated the samples by histology in blinded fashion to assess PM infection stage and parasite density. We used generalized estimating equations (GEE) to model the odds of PM infection.ResultsPregnancies in Bamako, beyond secondary education, births in the rainy season (instead of the hot dry season), births in later years of the study, and births to women who had > 3 doses of sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) instead of no doses of SP were associated with reduced odds of experiencing PM (active and past infections combined). We found improved birth outcomes (+ 285 g birth weight, + 2 cm birth length, + 75 g placental weight) for women who had > 3 doses of SP compared to no doses, but did not detect a difference in birth weight or length for women who had 2 instead of > 3 SP doses. However, at 2 instead of > 3 doses placentas were 36 g lighter and the odds of low birth weight (< 2500 g) were 14% higher. Severe parasite densities were significantly associated with decreases in birth weight, birth length, and placental weight, as were chronic PM infections. The women who received no SP during pregnancy (7% of the study total) were younger and lacked primary school education. The women who received ≥ 3 doses of SP came from more affluent families.ConclusionsWomen who received no doses of SP during pregnancy experienced the most disadvantageous birth outcomes in both Bamako and on the Bandiagara Escarpment. Such women tended to be younger and to have had no primary school education. Targeting such women for antenatal care, which is the setting at which SP is most commonly administered in Mali, will have a more positive impact on public health than focusing on the increment from two to three doses of SP.
Optimization of Pre-treatment Using RSM on Wheat Straw and Production of Lactic Acid Using Thermotolerant, Inhibitor Tolerant and Xylose Utilizing Bacillus Sonorenesis Strain DGS15
Authors: Chawla Simarpreet Kaur , Goyal Dinesh 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Thermotolerant lactic acid producing bacteria, isolated from red soil of brick kiln was identified by 16S rRNA sequencing as Bacillus sonorenesis , which showed remarkable capability to ferment sugars of lignocellulosic biomass after pre-treatment, yielding 0.97 g/g lactic acid with overall productivity of 0.38 g L -1/ h. RSM was employed to optimize the sulphuric acid pre-treatment combined with dilute NaOH and hot water pre-treatment. Pretreated wheat straw biomass had 40.4% cellulose, 18.4% hemicellulose, 12.4% lignin and 28.2 g L -1 reducing sugar, while native wheat straw biomass had 36% cellulose, 25% hemicellulose, 20% total lignin, and 0.94 g L -1 reducing sugar. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed that the ordered and compact structure of wheat straw was destroyed upon pre-treatment. X-ray diffractogram (XRD) revealed 9.71% increase in crystallinity index ( CrI ) in pretreated biomass. FTIR spectrogram showed removal of lignin due to reduction of peak at 1640 cm -1 in pretreated biomass. Bacillus sonorenesis DGS15 is inhibitor tolerant (furfural (1.2 g L -1 ) and HMF (2.4 g L -1 )). Furfural was consumed after 72 h of fermentation and HMF got accumulated with 3.75-fold increase in concentration in the fermentation broth. In terms of final concentration, yield, and fermentation duration, this is the best performance of DGS15 for lactic acid production utilizing xylose, glucose as the carbon source. All of these findings showed that the thermotolerant Bacillus sonorenesis strain DGS15 is a novel, attractive candidate for producing lactic acid from lignocellulosic biomass.
Assessing The Inflammatory Severity of The Terminal Ileum In Crohn Disease Using Radiomics Based On MRI
Authors: Ding Honglei , Li Jiaying , Jiang Kefang , Gao Chen , Lu Liangji , Zhang Huani , Zhou Kefeng , Chen Haibo , Gao Xuning , Sun Zhichao 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Background: Evaluating inflammatory severity using imaging is essential for Crohn’s disease (CD), but it is limited by potential interobserver variation and subjectivity. We compared the efficiency of magnetic resonance index of activity (MaRIA) collected by radiologists and a radiomics model in assessing the inflammatory severity of terminal ileum (TI).Methods: 121 patients were collected from two centers. Patients were divided into ulcerative group and mucosal remission group based on the TI Crohn's disease Endoscopic Severity Index (tCDEIS). The consistency of bowel wall thickness (BWT), relative contrast enhancement (RCE), edema, ulcer, MaRIA and features of the region of interest (ROI) between radiologists were described by weighted k coefficient and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and developed receiver operating curve (ROC) of MaRIA. The radiomics model was established using reproducible features of logistic regression based on arterial staging of T1WI sequences. Delong test was used to compare radiomics with MaRIA.Results: The consistency between radiologists were moderate in BWT (ICC=0.638), fair in edema (k=0.541), RCE (ICC=0.461), MaRIA (ICC=0.579) and poor in ulcer (k=0.271). Radiomics model was developed by 6 reproducible features (ICC=0.93-0.96) and equivalent to MaRIA which evaluated by the senior radiologist(0.872 vs 0.883 in training group, 0.824 vs 0.783 in testing group, P=0.847, 0.471), both of which were significant higher than MaRIA evaluated by junior radiologist(AUC: 0.621 in training group, 0.557 in testing group, all, PB0.05).
Of Lemmings and Mussels: Trophic Cascade Drives Population Dynamics of Long-Tailed Ducks Breeding in Siberia
Authors: Rintala Jukka , Hario M. , Laursen K. , Møller A. P. 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Migratory animals experience very different environmental conditions at different times of the year, i.e., at the breeding grounds, during migration, and in winter. The long-tailed duck Clangula hyemalis breeds in the Arctic regions of the northern hemisphere and migrates to temperate climate zones, where it winters in marine environments. The breeding success of the long-tailed duck is affected by the abundances of predators (mainly Arctic fox Alopex lagopus) and their main prey species, lemmings Lemmus sibiricus and Dicrostonyx torquatus, whose population fluctuation is subject to climate change. In the winter quarters, long-tailed ducks mainly eat the blue mussel Mytilus edulis. We examined how North-west Siberian lemming dynamics affect long-tailed duck breeding success via predation pressure and how nutrient availability in the Baltic Sea influences long-tailed duck population size via mussel biomass and quality. The long-tailed duck population dynamics was predator-driven on the breeding grounds and resource-driven on the wintering grounds. Nutrients from fertilizer runoff from farmland stimulate mussel stocks and quality, supporting high long-tailed duck population sizes. The applied hierarchical analysis combining several trophic levels can be used for evaluating large-scale environmental factors that affect the population dynamics and abundance of migrants from one environment to another.
Urethral Discharge as A Novel Manifestation of Urinary Tract Infection in Children ≤24 Months Old
Authors: FANG NAIWEN , Ou Shih-Hsiang , Yu-shan Huang , Chiou Yee-Hsuan 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Background: Children with urinary tract infections (UTIs) are prone to kidney scarring if they are not treated promptly; however, ambiguous symptoms before fever onset makes the early detection of UTIs difficult. Our study aimed to identify urethral discharge as an early manifestation in children with UTI. Methods: This study enrolled 678 children younger than 24 months with paired urinalysis and culture performed between 2015 and 2021; 544 children were diagnosed with UTIs. Clinical symptoms, urinalysis, and paired urine culture results were compared. Results: Urethral discharge was observed in 5.1% of children with UTI and yielded a specificity of 92.5% for diagnosing UTI. Children with urethral discharge had a less severe UTI course, furthermore, nine of them received antibiotics before fever occurred and seven of them were free of fever during UTI course. Urethral discharge was associated with alkalotic urine and Klebsiella pneumonia infection.Conclusions: Urethral discharge is an early symptom in children with UTI; it may present before fever onset and help ensure prompt antibiotic intervention.Trial registration: Not applicable.
Indication of Treatment For Children And Adolescents With Postural Tachycardia Syndrome By Intravenous Saline Infusion
Authors: Yanagimoto Yoshitoki , Ishizaki Yuko , Nakai Yoko , Minami Miki , Tamai Rinako , Inoue Kumiko , Masuda Naoya , Kaneko Kazunari 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Background: Intravenous saline infusion is considered effective for the treatment of postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS) in adults. However, few studies have assessed the efficacy of intravenous saline infusion for POTS in children and adolescents. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of intravenous saline infusion in children and adolescents with POTS.Methods: A total of 107 children with POTS (median age: 13 years, range: 10–15 years) were enrolled. Eighty-eight children were in the intravenous saline infusion group and 19 children were in the comparison group. Blood pressure (BP) and pulse rate (PR) were recorded before and after standing. A standing test was performed early in the morning for 2 consecutive days. A volume of 1.5 L of saline was administered intravenously to each participant in the intervention group for a mean duration of 17 hours between the two standing tests.Results: The mean change in PR was significantly lower in the intervention group than in the comparison group during the second test (36.9 vs. 52.8 beats/minute, p<0.001). Additionally, the mean change in PR was significantly lower in the second test than in the first test (44.7 beats/minute) in the intervention group (p<0.001). However, the mean change in systolic BP was not different before and after intravenous saline infusion between the two groups or between the two tests in each group.Conclusion: Intravenous saline infusion reduces the increased PR on standing in children with POTS. Intravenous saline infusion improves tachycardia in children with POTS when standing.