It is desirable to obtain high levels of viable Lacticaseibacillus paracasei, a widely used food probiotic whose antibacterial activity and potential application in milk remain largely ...uninvestigated. Here, we isolated and purified the L. paracasei strain XLK 401 from food-grade blueberry ferments and found that it exhibited strong antibacterial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative foodborne pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella paratyphi B, Escherichia coli O157, and Shigella flexneri. Then, we applied alternating tangential flow (ATF) technology to produce viable L. paracasei XLK 401 cells and its cell-free supernatant (CFS). Compared with the conventional fed-batch method, 22 h of ATF-based processing markedly increased the number of viable cells of L. paracasei XLK 401 to 12.14 ± 0.13 log cfu/mL. Additionally, the CFS exhibited good thermal stability and pH tolerance, inhibiting biofilm formation in the abovementioned foodborne pathogens. According to liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis, organic acids were the main antibacterial components of XLK 401 CFS, accounting for its inhibition activity. Moreover, the CFS of L. paracasei XLK 401 effectively inhibited the growth of multidrug-resistant gram-positive Staph. aureus and gram-negative E. coli O157 pathogens in milk, and caused a reduction in the pathogenic cell counts by 6 to 7 log cfu/mL compared with untreated control, thus considerably maintaining the safety of milk samples. For the first time to our knowledge, ATF-based technology was employed to obtain viable L. paracasei on a large scale, and its CFS could serve as a broad-spectrum biopreservative for potential application against foodborne pathogens in milk products.
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GEOZS, IJS, IMTLJ, KILJ, KISLJ, NLZOH, NUK, OILJ, PNG, SAZU, SBCE, SBJE, UILJ, UL, UM, UPCLJ, UPUK, ZAGLJ, ZRSKP
This brief considers distributed Kalman filtering problem for systems with sensor faults. A trust-based classification fusion strategy is proposed to resist against sensor faults. First, the local ...sensors collect measurements and then update their state estimations and estimation error covariance matrices. Then, sensors exchange the information (state estimations and estimation error covariance matrices) with their neighboring sensors. After obtaining the estimation information from neighboring sensors, an iterative classification/clustering algorithm, which contains three steps ( Initialization Step , Assignment Step , and Update Step ), is proposed to classify the collected estimations into two clusters (trusted and untrusted clusters). Third, the fused states and error covariance matrices are computed by Wasserstein average algorithm. Finally, the time update is performed on the basis of fusion information. Stability and convergence of the proposed filter are analyzed. A target tracking simulation example is provided to verify the effectiveness of the proposed distributed filter in a wireless sensor network.
In this work, a surface image‐based 3D grain‐based model (GBM) reconstruction method based on the digital image processing (DIP) technique, periodic random packing and the simulated annealing ...algorithm is proposed. Taking a surface digital image of Beishan granite as an example, a K‐means clustering algorithm is employed to extract the mineral compositions, the distribution of which is quantified by the two‐point probability function (TPPF). Given the 3D volume fraction of each mineral composition, their corresponding 3D two‐point probability functions can be evaluated from their 2D forms by the linear interpolation method. The 3D GBM reconstruction is generated by a simulated annealing algorithm, with the Monte Carlo algorithm extending the calculation of the two‐point probability function as the target function to the random particle model. To improve the computational efficiency, the periodic boundary condition is applied to both the random particle generator and the evaluation of the two‐point probability function, allowing large‐scale GBM to be generated for the Distinct Lattice Spring Model (DLSM). The elastic response and advantages of the random particle model for the DLSM are investigated. Finally, the DLSM is further enriched with a tension‐cutoff Mohr‐Coulomb failure criterion, and the GBM reconstruction method is successfully tested for reproducing the mechanical behaviours of granite and interpreting the failure mechanism at the mesoscale under different loading conditions.
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BFBNIB, FZAB, GIS, IJS, KILJ, NLZOH, NUK, OILJ, SBCE, SBMB, UL, UM, UPUK
Delirium is a common and serious postoperative complication, especially in the elderly. Epidural anesthesia may reduce delirium by improving analgesia, reducing opioid consumption, and blunting ...stress response to surgery. This trial therefore tested the hypothesis that combined epidural-general anesthesia reduces the incidence of postoperative delirium in elderly patients recovering from major noncardiac surgery.
Patients aged 60 to 90 yr scheduled for major noncardiac thoracic or abdominal surgeries expected to last 2 h or more were enrolled. Participants were randomized 1:1 to either combined epidural-general anesthesia with postoperative epidural analgesia or general anesthesia with postoperative intravenous analgesia. The primary outcome was the incidence of delirium, which was assessed with the Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit twice daily during the initial 7 postoperative days.
Between November 2011 and May 2015, 1,802 patients were randomized to combined epidural-general anesthesia (n = 901) or general anesthesia alone (n = 901). Among these, 1,720 patients (mean age, 70 yr; 35% women) completed the study and were included in the intention-to-treat analysis. Delirium was significantly less common in the combined epidural-general anesthesia group (15 1.8% of 857 patients) than in the general anesthesia group (43 5.0% of 863 patients; relative risk, 0.351; 95% CI, 0.197 to 0.627; P < 0.001; number needed to treat 31). Intraoperative hypotension (systolic blood pressure less than 80 mmHg) was more common in patients assigned to epidural anesthesia (421 49% vs. 288 33%; relative risk, 1.47, 95% CI, 1.31 to 1.65; P < 0.001), and more epidural patients were given vasopressors (495 58% vs. 387 45%; relative risk, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.17 to 1.41; P < 0.001).
Older patients randomized to combined epidural-general anesthesia for major thoracic and abdominal surgeries had one third as much delirium but 50% more hypotension. Clinicians should consider combining epidural and general anesthesia in patients at risk of postoperative delirium, and avoiding the combination in patients at risk of hypotension.
Space charge characteristics of cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) at elevated temperatures have been evidently improved by the graft modifications with ultraviolet (UV) initiation technique, which can ...be efficiently utilized in industrial cable manufactures. Maleic anhydride (MAH) of representative cyclic anhydride has been successfully grafted onto polyethylene molecules through UV irradiation process. Thermal stimulation currents and space charge characteristics at the elevated temperatures are coordinately analyzed to elucidate the trapping behavior of blocking charge injection and impeding carrier transport which is caused by grafting MAH. It is also verified from the first-principles calculations that the bound states as charge carrier traps can be introduced by grafting MAH onto polyethylene molecules. Compared with pure XLPE, the remarkably suppressed space charge accumulations at high temperatures have been achieved in XLPE-g-MAH. The polar groups on the grafted MAH can provide deep traps in XLPE-g-MAH, which will increase charge injection barrier by forming a charged layer of Coulomb-potential screening near electrodes and simultaneously reduce the electrical mobility of charge carriers by trap-carrier scattering, resulting in an appreciable suppression of space charge accumulations inside material. The exact consistence of experimental results with the quantum mechanics calculations demonstrates a promising routine for the modification strategy of grafting polar molecules with UV initiation technique in the development of high-voltage DC cable materials.
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IZUM, KILJ, NUK, PILJ, PNG, SAZU, UL, UM, UPUK
OBJECTIVES:The aim was to compare the long-term outcomes of low-dose dexmedetomidine versus placebo in a randomized controlled trial (ChiCTR-TRC-10000802).
BACKGROUND:Low-dose dexmedetomidine ...infusion decreased delirium occurrence within 1 week after surgery in elderly admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) after noncardiac surgery, but the long-term outcome of this intervention is unknown.
METHODS:Patients or their family members were telephone-interviewed for a 3-year follow-up data collection of survival, cognitive function assessed with the modified Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status, and quality of life evaluated with the World Health Organization Quality of Life.
RESULTS:Of the 700 patients, 23 (3.3%) were lost at 3-year follow-up. The 3-year overall survival was not statistically different between the dexmedetomidine and placebo groups 114 deaths vs 122/350; hazard ratio (HR) 0.87, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.68–1.13, P = 0.303. The survival rates at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years were significantly higher in the dexmedetomidine than in the placebo group (rate difference of 5.2%, 5.3%, and 6.7% respectively; all P < 0.05). The remaining 98.4% (434/441) 3-year survivors, the dexmedetomidine group, had significantly better cognitive function (mean difference 4.7, 95% CI 3.8–5.6, P < 0.0001) and quality of life (physical domain13.6 10.6–16.6; psychological domain15.2 12.5–18.0; social relationship domain8.1 5.5–10.7; environment domain13.3 10.9–15.7; all P < 0.0001) than in the placebo group.
CONCLUSIONS:For elderly admitted to ICU after noncardiac surgery, low-dose dexmedetomidine infusion did not significantly change 3-year overall survival, but increased survival up to 2 years, and improved cognitive function and quality of life in 3-year survivors.
This brief considers Kalman filter for linear systems with unknown structural parameters. We design a Bayesian parameter identification algorithm based on maximum likelihood (ML) criterion and ...expectation maximization (EM). Under the identification of structural parameter, we perform the Kalman filter to estimate the states. The Kalman filter and the parameter identification algorithm are interactive to estimate the states and the structural parameters. More specifically, first, we use EM algorithm together with Kalman smoother to estimate the structural parameters. Then, on the basis of results provided by the first step, we employ the classical Kalman filter to predict and update the states, which formulates the final proposed Kalman filter. Performance analysis and simulation results verify the presented filter.
There is an increasingly urgent need of lightweight components in aerospace industry, among which aluminum (Al) alloys have been the optimal materials of choice for aircraft structural parts since ...being used in the Junkers F.13 aircraft in the 1920s. Compared to other metal materials, Al alloys have a lower density, and the use of Al alloys reduces the total weight of the aircraft and improves fuel efficiency and load capacity. Meanwhile, the strength and hardness of Al alloys with alloying and heat treatment can be significantly enhanced for uses in high loads and vibration environments. Furthermore, in the harsh aerospace environment, aircraft may receive various climatic conditions and chemical corrosion. Due to good corrosion and fatigue resistance, Al alloys demonstrate excellent performance under these conditions, ensuring the long–term service life of aircraft. In addition, Al alloys have good recyclability, and they can be recycled to reduce resource consumption and environmental load, in line with the principle of sustainable development. In recent years, although composites have been widely used in aerospace, high–strength Al alloys are still in an indispensable position. Therefore, this article reviews the progress and applications of Al alloys commonly used in aerospace. The common strengthening methods and advanced manufacturing and processing technologies of Al alloy are also discussed, which can provide references for the development of advanced high–performance aviation Al alloys in the future.
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GEOZS, IJS, IMTLJ, KILJ, KISLJ, NLZOH, NUK, OILJ, PNG, SAZU, SBCE, SBJE, UILJ, UL, UM, UPCLJ, UPUK, ZAGLJ, ZRSKP
AbstractObjectiveTo determine whether a single low dose of esketamine administered after childbirth reduces postpartum depression in mothers with prenatal depression.DesignRandomised, double blind, ...placebo controlled trial with two parallel arms.SettingFive tertiary care hospitals in China, 19 June 2020 to 3 August 2022.Participants364 mothers aged ≥18 years who had at least mild prenatal depression as indicated by Edinburgh postnatal depression scale scores of ≥10 (range 0-30, with higher scores indicating worse depression) and who were admitted to hospital for delivery.InterventionsParticipants were randomly assigned 1:1 to receive either 0.2 mg/kg esketamine or placebo infused intravenously over 40 minutes after childbirth once the umbilical cord had been clamped.Main outcome measuresThe primary outcome was prevalence of a major depressive episode at 42 days post partum, diagnosed using the mini-international neuropsychiatric interview. Secondary outcomes included the Edinburgh postnatal depression scale score at seven and 42 days post partum and the 17 item Hamilton depression rating scale score at 42 days post partum (range 0-52, with higher scores indicating worse depression). Adverse events were monitored until 24 hours after childbirth.ResultsA total of 364 mothers (mean age 31.8 (standard deviation 4.1) years) were enrolled and randomised. At 42 days post partum, a major depressive episode was observed in 6.7% (12/180) of participants in the esketamine group compared with 25.4% (46/181) in the placebo group (relative risk 0.26, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.14 to 0.48; P<0.001). Edinburgh postnatal depression scale scores were lower in the esketamine group at seven days (median difference −3, 95% CI −4 to −2; P<0.001) and 42 days (−3, −4 to −2; P<0.001). Hamilton depression rating scale scores at 42 days post partum were also lower in the esketamine group (−4, −6 to −3; P<0.001). The overall incidence of neuropsychiatric adverse events was higher in the esketamine group (45.1% (82/182) v 22.0% (40/182); P<0.001); however, symptoms lasted less than a day and none required drug treatment.ConclusionsFor mothers with prenatal depression, a single low dose of esketamine after childbirth decreases major depressive episodes at 42 days post partum by about three quarters. Neuropsychiatric symptoms were more frequent but transient and did not require drug intervention.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT04414943.
Modified crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) with appreciably enhanced DC electrical insulation properties has been developed by chemical modification of grafting chloroacetic acid allyl ester (CAAE), ...exploring the trapping mechanism of charge transport inhibition. The bound state traps deriving from grafted molecule are analyzed by first-principles calculations, in combination with the electrical DC conductivity and dielectric breakdown strength experiments to study the underlying mechanism of improving the electrical insulation properties. In contrast to pure XLPE, the XLPE-
-CAAE represents significantly suppressed space charge accumulation, increased breakdown strength, and reduced conductivity. The substantial deep traps are generated in XLPE-graft-CAAE molecules by polar group of grafted CAAE and accordingly decrease charge mobility and raise charge injection barrier, consequently suppressing space charge accumulation and charge carrier transport. The well agreement of experiments and quantum mechanics calculations suggests a prospective material modification strategy for achieving high-voltage polymer dielectric materials without nanotechnology difficulties as for nanodielectrics.
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IZUM, KILJ, NUK, PILJ, PNG, SAZU, UL, UM, UPUK
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