The dynamical formation of ephemeral groups on networks and their effects on epidemics spreading

In network models of propagation processes, the individual, microscopic level perspective is the norm, with aggregations studied as possible outcomes. On the contrary, we adopted a mesoscale perspective with groups as the core element and in this sense we present a novel agent-group dynamic model of propagation in networks. In particular, we focus on ephemeral groups that dynamically form, create new links, and dissolve. The experiments simulated 160 model configurations and produced results describing cases of consecutive and non-consecutive dynamic grouping, bounded or unbounded in the number of repetitions. Results revealed the existence of complex dynamics and multiple behaviors. An efficiency metric is introduced to compare the different cases. A Null Model analysis disclosed a pattern in the difference between the group and random models, varying with the size of groups. Our findings indicate that a mesoscopic construct like the ephemeral group, based on assumptions about social behavior and absent any microscopic level change, could produce and describe complex propagation dynamics. A conclusion is that agent-group dynamic models may represent a powerful approach for modelers and a promising new direction for future research in models of coevolution between propagation and behavior in society.

AGR4BS: A Generic Multi-Agent Organizational Model for Blockchain Systems

Blockchain is a very attractive technology since it maintains a public, append-only, immutable and ordered log of transactions which guarantees an auditable ledger accessible by anyone. Blockchain systems are inherently interdisciplinary since they combine various fields such as cryptography, multi-agent systems, distributed systems, social systems, economy, and finance. Furthermore, they have a very active and dynamic ecosystem where new blockchain platforms and algorithms are developed continuously due to the interest of the public and the industries to the technology. Consequently, we anticipate a challenging and interdisciplinary research agenda in blockchain systems, built upon a methodology that strives to capture the rich process resulting from the interplay between the behavior of agents and the dynamic interactions among them. To be effective, however, modeling studies providing insights into blockchain systems, and appropriate description of agents paired with a generic understanding of their components are needed. Such studies will create a more unified field of blockchain systems that advances our understanding and leads to further insight. According to this perspective, in this study, we propose using a generic multi-agent organizational modeling for studying blockchain systems, namely AGR4BS. Concretely, we use the Agent/Group/Role (AGR) organizational modeling approach to identify and represent the generic entities which are common to blockchain systems. We show through four real case studies how this generic model can be used to model different blockchain systems. We also show briefly how it can be used for modeling three well-known attacks on blockchain systems.

Comparison of Ameliorative Effects between Probiotic and Biodegradable Bacillus subtilis on Zearalenone Toxicosis in Gilts

This study was conducted to compare the potential ameliorative effects between probiotic Bacillus subtilis and biodegradable Bacillus subtilis on zearalenone (ZEN) toxicosis in gilts. Thirty-six Landrace×Yorkshire gilts (average BW = 64 kg) were randomly divided into four groups: (1) Normal control diet group (NC) fed the basal diet containing few ZEN (17.5 μg/kg); (2) ZEN contaminated group (ZC) fed the contaminated diet containing an exceeded limit dose of ZEN (about 300 μg/kg); (3) Probiotic agent group (PB) fed the ZC diet with added 5 × 109 CFU/kg of probiotic Bacillus subtilis ANSB010; (4) Biodegradable agent group (DA) fed the ZC diet with added 5 × 109 CFU/kg of biodegradable Bacillus subtilis ANSB01G. Results showed that Bacillus subtilis ANSB010 and ANSB01G isolated from broiler intestinal chyme had similar inhibitory activities against common pathogenic bacteria. In addition, the feed conversion ratio and the vulva size in DA group were significantly lower than ZC group (p < 0.05). The levels of IgG, IgM, IL-2 and TNFα in the ZC group were significantly higher than PB and DA groups (p < 0.05). The levels of estradiol and prolactin in the ZC group was significantly higher than those of the NC and DA groups (p < 0.05). Additionally, the residual ZEN in the feces of the ZC and PB groups were higher than those of the NC and DA groups (p < 0.05). In summary, the ZEN-contaminated diet had a damaging impact on growth performance, plasma immune function and hormone secretion of gilts. Although probiotic and biodegradable Bacillus subtilis have similar antimicrobial capacities, only biodegradable Bacillus subtilis could eliminate these negative effects through its biodegradable property to ZEN.

The Frequency of Emergence Delirium in Children Undergoing Outpatient Anaesthesia for Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect on the occurrence of emergence delirium of propofol and ketofol with intranasal dexmedetomidine and midazolam applied as premedication to paediatric patients during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Methods: The study included children aged 2-10 years who received sedation for MRI, separated into four groups. Group MP received intranasal midazolam (0.2 mg/kg) for premedication and IV propofol (1 mg/kg) as the anaesthetic agent. Group MK received intranasal midazolam (0.2 mg/kg) for premedication and IV ketofol (1 mg/kg) as the anaesthetic agent. Group DP received intranasal dexmedetomidine (1 mcg/kg) for premedication and IV propofol (1 mg/kg) as the anaesthetic agent. Group DK received intranasal dexmedetomidine (1 mcg/kg) for premedication and IV ketofol (1 mg/kg) as the anaesthetic agent. The Paediatric Anaesthesia Emergence Delirium (PAED) scale was used to evaluate delirium. A PAED score ≥ 10 was accepted as delirium. Results: The need for additional anaesthetic was highest in Group DP at 94.3% and lowest in Group DK at 14.3%. The mean Aldrete and PAED scores were lower and the length of stay in the recovery room was shorter in Group DP than in the other groups. Delirium only developed in two patients in Group MP (5.7%) at 5 mins after anaesthesia. Conclusion: In our study, delirium was seen at a very low rate only in the Group MP and it is difficult to say the best combination in terms of delirium frequency with this result.

Experimental study on alleviating atherosclerosis through intervention of mitochondrial calcium transport and calcium-induced membrane permeability transition

To investigate the effort of mitochondrial calcium transport and calcium-induced membrane permeability transition in alleviating atherosclerosis. The experimental mice were divided into three groups: the control group (C57BL/6 mice with normal diet), the atherosclerosis group (apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE−/−) mice with high-fat diet) and the mitochondrial targeting agent group (ApoE−/− mouse with high-fat diet). The mean fluorescence intensity of Ca2+ in the atherosclerosis group is significantly higher than control group and mitochondrial targeting agent group. But the mean fluorescence intensity of Ca2+-ATPase is lower than other groups. The macrophage recruitment (F4/80 positive area) and the expression of tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-6, pyrin domain containing protein 3, intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and Jun kinase 1/2 phosphorylation in the atherosclerosis group are higher that other groups. Treatment with mitochondrial targeting agents reduced the levels of elevated cyt C and cleaved caspase-3 in atherosclerotic mice (p<0.05). Mitochondrial targeting agents interfere with mitochondrial calcium transport and calcium-induced membrane permeability transition, inhibit MAPK/JNK pathway activation, inhibit foam cell formation and alleviate the process of atherosclerosis.

Safety and efficacy of bone-modifying agents among multiple myeloma patients: A retrospective cohort study

Objective To determine the incidence of skeletal-related events among multiple myeloma patients who received chemotherapy without a bone-modifying agent (zoledronic acid and denosumab) versus those who received chemotherapy with a bone-modifying agent. The secondary objective was to determine the incidence of skeletal-related events in patients without any prior history of skeletal-related events and who were treated with zoledronic acid every four weeks versus those who received zoledronic acid at an extended interval of every twelve weeks. Additional secondary objectives included the incidence of nephrotoxicity, hypocalcemia and osteonecrosis of the jaw in all patients. Methods This institutional review board-approved, retrospective cohort study included patients 18 to 89 years old with a diagnosis of multiple myeloma, who were being treated with chemotherapy between July 1, 2016 and October 31, 2019. Safety and efficacy were assessed through analysis of pertinent data collected: patient demographics, baseline skeletal-related events, development of new skeletal-related events, number and type of bone-modifying agent doses administered, and drug-related toxicities such as nephrotoxicity, hypocalcemia, and osteonecrosis of the jaw. Results A total of 73 patients were included. New skeletal-related events occurred in 12 patients (27%) in the chemotherapy without a bone-modifying agent group and in 5 patients (17%) in the chemotherapy with a bone-modifying agent group (OR = 0.56, 95% CI [0.172–1.8]; P = 0.32). The incidence of skeletal-related events was similar among patients receiving zoledronic acid every four weeks versus every twelve weeks in patients without a prior skeletal-related event (N = 0 vs. N = 2 respectively; P = 0.47). There were no statistically significant differences observed in each of the three secondary safety endpoints: incidence of hypocalcemia, nephrotoxicity and osteonecrosis of the jaw. Conclusion Multiple myeloma patients receiving chemotherapy without a bone-modifying agent had higher rates of skeletal-related events compared to those being treated with chemotherapy and a bonemodifying agent. Our results highlight the benefit of utilizing bonemodifying agents for the prevention of skeletal-related events in all multiple myeloma patients being treated with chemotherapy.

Comparative study of oestrus responses in unsynchronized jennies and jennies ® synchronized with single treatment of PGF2á (lutalyse ) in Zaria, Nigeria

This study was carried out to compare oestrus responses in unsynchronized jennies and jennies synchronized using single treatment of PGF2& (Lutalyse®). Eight (8) cycling Jennies aged 3.0±2.0 years were used for this study. The jennies were randomly assigned to 2 groups of 4 jennies each; Group 1 (n=4): Jennies in this group were not treated with any agent; Group 2 (n=4): jennies treated with a single injection of 10mg of Lutalyse® . The synchronized and unsynchronized jennies were observed for behavioural oestrus three times daily (8-10 am, 12-2 pm and 4-8 pm) for two oestrous cycles. The fertility parameters determined in this study were: Oestrus response rate (ORR), Time to onset of oestrus (TOO), Duration of oestrus (DOO) and Intensity of synchronization (IS) within 48 hours. The ORR and IS were expressed in percentages while TOO and DOO were expressed as mean ± SEM. Comparisons between the groups were carried out using T- test. Onset of oestrus in group 1 (2.34±0.32 hours) was lower (P<0.01) than 10.07±4.91 hours in group 2. The duration of oestrus in group 1 (48±24.0 hours) was longer (P<0.05). than 24.0±0.0 hours in group 2. Oestrus response rate were 50 and 25% in both groups 1 and 2 while intensity of synchronization within 48 hours for groups 1 and 2 were both 50% (P>0.05). In conclusion, single treatment of PGF2á injection did not improve oestrus response rate and intensity of synchronization. However, more than a single treatment of PGF2& injection is recommended for effective oestrus synchronization in jennies.