bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insight into the Mechanisms Underlying the Tracheorelaxant Properties of the Sideritis raeseri Extract
Authors: Krasniqi Berat , Thaçi Shpëtim , Dërmaku-Sopjani Miribane , Rifati-Nixha Arleta , Abazi Sokol , Sopjani Mentor
Published: August 2020

Sideritis raeseri Boiss. and Heldr. (Lamiaceae), known as “mountain tea,” is a native plant from the Mediterranean region, which is widely used in traditional medicine. This study evaluates the effects of the ethanol extract of Sideritis raeseri (SR) on airway smooth muscle activity and identifies the underlying mechanism. The S. raeseri extract (SRE) was extracted from air‐dried parts of the shoot system of SR. The SRE (0.3–2 mg/mL) was tested in isolated rabbit tracheal rings, suspended in the organ bath, filled with Krebs solution, and bubbled with the carbogen mixture (95% O2/5% CO2) under a resting tension of 1 g in 37°C. In in vitro experiments, the SRE relaxed against acetylcholine‐induced constriction in tracheal rings. Furthermore, SRE inhibited Ca2+‐induced contractions in carbachol (CCh, 1 μM) as well as in the K+‐depolarized trachea (80 mM). Our findings showed the NO/cGMP involvement in tracheorelaxant effects of SR. To this end, the effect of the SRE was potentiated by bradykinin (nitric oxide (NO) synthase activator, 100 nM), whereas it was inhibited by ODQ (inhibitor of NO‐sensitive guanylyl cyclase, 10 μM) and L‐NAME (NO synthase inhibitor, 100 μM), as well as indomethacin (cyclooxygenase inhibitor, 10 μM). These data suggest that the tracheorelaxant effect of the SRE is mediated at least partly by NO/cyclic guanosine monophosphate and cyclooxygenase‐1‐prostaglandin E2‐dependent signaling. These findings indicate that the SRE may be used in various respiratory disorders.
An Exponential Spline Difference Scheme for Solving a Class of Boundary Value Problems of Second-Order Ordinary Differential Equations
Authors: Cao Dunqian
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we mainly study an exponential spline function space, construct a basis with local supports, and present the relationship between the function value and the first and the second derivative at the nodes. Using these relations, we construct an exponential spline-based difference scheme for solving a class of boundary value problems of second-order ordinary differential equations (ODEs) and analyze the error and the convergence of this method. The results show that the algorithm is high accurate and conditionally convergent, and an accuracy of 1/240h6 was achieved with smooth functions.
A Novel SPAST/SPG4 Splice-Site Variant in a Family with Dominant Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia
Authors: Robbins Nathaniel M. , Ozmore Jillian R. , Winder Thomas L. , Gonzalez-Alegre Pedro , Bardakjian Tanya M.
Published: August 2020

Some causes of spastic paraplegia are treatable and many are not. Diagnostic work-up to determine the etiology can be costly and invasive. Here we report the case of a man with slowly progressive spastic paraparesis. Using a multigene next-generation sequencing (NGS) panel, we identified a novel variant in the consensus splice site of the SPAST gene (exon 13, c.1536G>A, heterozygous), affecting codon 512 of the SPAST mRNA. The observed variant segregated with the disease in four tested family members. In this case, genetic confirmation obviated the need for additional testing such as MRI and lumbar puncture and helped the patient and his family understand his condition and prognosis. We conclude with a brief discussion of the SPG4/SPAST gene and the role of multigene panels in the diagnosis and management of hereditary spastic paraplegia.
An Antibacterial Strategy of Mg‐Cu Bone Grafting in Infection‐Mediated Periodontics
Authors: Zhao Xue , Wan Peng , Wang Hongyan , Zhang Shuwei , Liu Jingbo , Chang Chunrong , Yang Ke , Pan Yaping
Published: August 2020

Periodontal diseases are mainly the results of infections and inflammation of the gum and bone that surround and support the teeth. In this study, the alveolar bone destruction in periodontitis is hypothesized to be treated with novel Mg‐Cu alloy grafts due to their antimicrobial and osteopromotive properties. In order to study this new strategy using Mg‐Cu alloy grafts as a periodontal bone substitute, the in vitro degradation and antibacterial performance were examined. The pH variation and Mg2+ and Cu2+ release of Mg‐Cu alloy extracts were measured. Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (A. actinomycetemcomitans), two common bacteria associated with periodontal disease, were cultured in Mg‐Cu alloy extracts, and bacterial survival rate was evaluated. The changes of bacterial biofilm and its structure were revealed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electronic microscopy (TEM), respectively. The results showed that the Mg‐Cu alloy could significantly decrease the survival rates of both P. gingivalis and A. actinomycetemcomitans. Furthermore, the bacterial biofilms were completely destroyed in Mg‐Cu alloy extracts, and the bacterial cell membranes were damaged, finally leading to bacterial apoptosis. These results indicate that the Mg‐Cu alloy can effectively eliminate periodontal pathogens, and the use of Mg‐Cu in periodontal bone grafts has a great potential to prevent infections after periodontal surgery.
Accelerating the Morphogenetic Cycle of the Viral Vector Aedes aegypti Larvae for Faster Larvicidal Bioassays
Authors: Fontana José Domingos , Ferreira Rafael Lopes , Zuccolotto Tatiana , de Borba Dallagassa Cibelle , Wielewski Leonardo Pellizzari , Chalcoski Barbara Maria Santano , da Silva Mario Antonio Navarro , Richardi Vinicius Sobrinho , Golart Jonas , de Melo Rodovalho Cynara
Published: August 2020

Any bioassay to test new chemically synthesized larvicides or phytolarvicides against Culicidae and more harmful mosquito species, such as Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, which specifically transmit dengue, yellow fever, chikungunya viral fevers as well as Zika virus, or Anopheles gambiae, a vector for malaria and philariasis, requires thousands of well‐developed larvae, preferably at the fourth instar stage. The natural morphogenetic cycle of Aedes spp., in the field or in the laboratory, may extend to 19 days at room temperature (e.g., 25°C) from the first permanent contact between viable eggs and water and the last stage of larval growth or metamorphosis into flying adults. Thus, accelerated sequential molting is desirable for swifter bioassays of larvicides. We achieved this goal in Aedes aegypti with very limited strategic and low‐cost additions to food, such as coconut water, milk or its casein, yeast extract, and to a lesser extent, glycerol. The naturally rich coconut water was excellent for quickly attaining the population of instar IV larvae, the most advanced one before pupation, saving about a week, for subsequent larvicidal bioassays. Diluted milk, as another food source, allowed an even faster final ecdysis and adults are useful for mosquito taxonomical purpose.
A Collaborative Dictionary Learning Model for Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Segmentation on Multimodalities MR Sequences
Authors: Wang Haiyan , Han Guoqiang , Li Haojiang , Tao Guihua , Zhuo Enhong , Liu Lizhi , Cai Hongmin , Ou Yangming
Published: August 2020

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is the most common malignant tumor of the nasopharynx. The delicate nature of the nasopharyngeal structures means that noninvasive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the preferred diagnostic technique for NPC. However, NPC is a typically infiltrative tumor, usually with a small volume, and thus, it remains challenging to discriminate it from tightly connected surrounding tissues. To address this issue, this study proposes a voxel-wise discriminate method for locating and segmenting NPC from normal tissues in MRI sequences. The located NPC is refined to obtain its accurate segmentation results by an original multiviewed collaborative dictionary classification (CODL) model. The proposed CODL reconstructs a latent intact space and equips it with discriminative power for the collective multiview analysis task. Experiments on synthetic data demonstrate that CODL is capable of finding a discriminative space for multiview orthogonal data. We then evaluated the method on real NPC. Experimental results show that CODL could accurately discriminate and localize NPCs of different volumes. This method achieved superior performances in segmenting NPC compared with benchmark methods. Robust segmentation results show that CODL can effectively assist clinicians in locating NPC.
Optimization Design of Insert Hot Stamping Die’s Cooling System and Research on the Microstructural Uniformity Control of Martensitic Phase Transitions in Synchronous Quenching Process
Authors: Shang Xin , Pang Lijuan
Published: August 2020

Ultrahigh‐strength steel BR1500HS was chosen as the research object. The parameters of insert hot stamping die’s cooling system in the synchronous quenching process were calculated, and the cooling system was designed based on the temperature distribution of formed part. Then, by combining FEM simulation and thermal‐mechanical coupling theory of synchronous quenching process of hot stamping, the cooling system was optimized. After that, the punch and die were optimally designed based on the simulation of temperature field of formed part as well as dies, and their temperature decreased by 15°C and 12°C, respectively. Next, the microstructural evolution in austenization and synchronous quenching processes was analyzed. By adopting a synchronous cooling system in hot stamping, by optimizing the parameters and control strategies, and by controlling the water velocity in various inserts, the homogeneity of martensitic phase transitions was improved. The results of the application test show that martensitic phase transitions of major parts are uniform under given working conditions, and hardness difference of each part was small.
Influence of Replacement Part of Starch with Inulin on the Rheological Properties of Pastes and Gels Based on Potato Starch
Authors: Witczak Mariusz , Smółka Zofia , Witczak Teresa , Stępień Anna , Bednarz Agata
Published: August 2020

The objective of the present study was to determine the influence of replacement part of starch with inulin on the rheological characteristics of pastes and gels obtained on the basis of potato starch. Replacement of the starch by inulin varied from 0 to 40%. Flow curves for pastes and gels were determined, and the viscoelastic properties were characterized using dynamic tests and creep and recovery tests. It was determined that the replacement of part of potato starch with inulin significantly modifies rheological properties of starch pastes and gels, weakening their structure. With the increasing amount of inulin, an increase of viscous properties was becoming more apparent. Moreover, an irregular influence of inulin addition on the parameters of rheological characteristics was determined. Initially, the differences were minor, and the differences at the lowest addition were typically statistically insignificant, followed by strong increase with local restrictions to structural weakening.
Continuous Dependence on the Forchheimer Coefficient of the Forchheimer Fluid Interfacing with a Darcy Fluid
Authors: Shi Jincheng , Guo Lianhong
Published: August 2020

The continuous dependence of the two fluids which interface with each other in a bounded domain is derived. It is first shown how to establish the a priori results for the solutions for the flow in a bounded domain occupied by a viscous fluid in contact with a porous solid. It is also proved that the solution depends continuously on the Forchheimer coefficient.
Posaconazole-Induced Hypertension Masquerading as Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia in a Child with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Agarwal Neha , Apperley Louise , Taylor Norman F. , Taylor David R. , Ghataore Lea , Rumsby Ellen , Treslove Catherine , Holt Richard , Thursfield Rebecca , Senniappan Senthil
Published: August 2020

Background. Deficiency of 11β-hydroxylase is the second most common cause of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), presenting with hypertension, hypokalaemia, precocious puberty, and adrenal insufficiency. We report the case of a 6-year-old boy with cystic fibrosis (CF) found to have hypertension and cortisol insufficiency, which were initially suspected to be due to CAH, but were subsequently identified as being secondary to posaconazole therapy. Case Presentation. A 6-year-old boy with CF was noted to have developed hypertension after administration of two doses of Orkambi™ (ivacaftor/lumacaftor), which was subsequently discontinued, but the hypertension persisted. Further investigations, including echocardiogram, abdominal Doppler, thyroid function, and urinary catecholamine levels, were normal. A urine steroid profile analysis raised the possibility of CAH due to 11β-hydroxylase deficiency, and a standard short synacthen test (SST) revealed suboptimal cortisol response. Clinically, there were no features of androgen excess. Detailed evaluation of the medical history revealed exposure to posaconazole for more than 2 months, and the hypertension had been noted to develop two weeks after the initiation of posaconazole. Hence, posaconazole was discontinued, following which the blood pressure, cortisol response to the SST, and urine steroid profile were normalized. Conclusion. Posaconazole can induce a clinical and biochemical picture similar to CAH due to 11β-hydroxylase deficiency, which is reversible. It is prudent to monitor patients on posaconazole for cortisol insufficiency, hypertension, and electrolyte abnormalities.
An Extension of Taylor’s φ‐Circle Method and Some Stability Charts for Submerged Slopes
Authors: Li Ping , Dong Luanhua , Gao Xiaowen , Li Tonglu , Hou Xiaokun
Published: August 2020

Taylor’s φ‐circle method is a classical method for slope stability calculation, which has analytical solutions. Taylor derived equations in two cases separately, namely, (i) the outlet of the critical failure surface is at the slope toe and (ii) the outlet of the failure surfaces is not at the slope toe. The method is only appropriate for two conditions (without underground water table in slopes or totally submerged slopes). In this study, a general equation that unifies the equations of the two cases is proposed and partially submerged condition is introduced. The critical failure surfaces corresponding to the minimum factor of safety are determined using the computer program proposed by the authors. The general expression of the safety factor of slopes under the following four conditions is derived, namely, (i) partly submerged, (ii) completely submerged, (iii) water sudden drawdown, and (iv) water slow drawdown. The corresponding charts for practical use are available.
The Association between Dietary Patterns and Depressive Symptoms in Chinese Adults
Authors: Zhang Mingyuan , Li Zhijun , Yang Shuman , Sun Yaoyao , Jin Mengdi , Chen Xin , Yu Qiong
Published: August 2020

Background. Previous studies of the relationship between diet and depression have focused on single nutrients or food. Recent research suggested that dietary patterns may offer more information than an individual nutrient in assessing disease risk. We designed this study to assess the association between dietary patterns and depressive symptoms in the adult population of China. Methods. We identified 372 Chinese residents for this research. Factor analysis was used to extract dietary patterns from 30 predefined food groups. Dietary intake was assessed using an effective self‐administered food frequency questionnaire, and depressive symptoms were assessed using the 9‐item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ‐9) score. Subjects were considered to have depressive symptoms when they had a PHQ‐9 score of >4. Results. We identified four eating patterns: “vegetables‐fruits,” “traditional Chinese,” “pastry‐fruits,” and “animal food” dietary patterns. After adjusting for potential confounders, participants in the highest tertile animal food pattern (considered to be an unhealthy pattern) were more prone to depressive symptoms compared with participants in the lowest tertile (OR = 2.08, 95% CI: 1.02‐4.24). Conclusions. The animal food pattern was associated with an increased risk of depressive symptoms.
The Effect of Hand Reflexology Massage on Pain and Fatigue in Patients after Coronary Angiography: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Rejeh Nahid , Tadrisi Seyed Davood , Yazdani Shahrooz , Saatchi Kiarash , Vaismoradi Mojtaba
Published: August 2020

Introduction. Coronary angiography can cause pain and fatigue in patients. Hand reflexology as complementary and integrative care approach has been suggested to help with the reduction of patient’s pain and fatigue. Aim. This study aimed to investigate the effect of hand reflexology on pain and fatigue in patients after coronary angiography. Design. A randomized controlled clinical trial. Methods. This study was conducted on 90 patients in an angiography department of a referral hospital in an urban area of Iran. The patients were randomly divided into two interventions (n = 45) and control (n = 45) groups. Hand reflexology was performed for 20 minutes in the intervention group. Pain and fatigue in the groups were measured immediately, 4 and 6 hours after the intervention. Results. Statistically significant differences were observed in pain and fatigue scores between the groups after the intervention (P=0.001). The intervention had medium to large effects on the patients’ pain and fatigue. Hand reflexology as a nonpharmacological and safe technique can be used by nurses along with other pharmacologic interventions in order to reduce patients’ suffering related to invasive procedures. The trial is registered with IRCT20110912007529N17.
Morphology Manipulation and Upconversion Luminescence Enhancement of β-NaLuF4: Er3+ Hexagonal Microtubes via Sr2+ Doping
Authors: Lin Han , Wang Zhonggen , Hong Yan
Published: August 2020

A new and facile strategy to enhance the upconversion luminescence (UCL) emission of NaLuF4: Er3+ microcrystals (MCs) using strontium (Sr) as a dopant has been reported. With the introduction of Sr2+, the products change from long NaLuF4: Er3+ hexagonal microtubes to short hexagonal microtubes and finally to hexagonal microprisms. The growth mechanism is profoundly discussed according to the different reaction time-dependent morphologies. More importantly, the total fluorescence intensity is significantly reinforced by doping Sr2+ ions. When 18% Sr2+ is doped into NaLuF4: Er3+ hexagonal microtubes, the maximum green and red luminescence intensities are about 5.8 and 4.4 times higher than those of Sr2+-free samples, respectively. The influences of Sr2+ ion doping content on the phase, the morphology, and the local crystal field symmetry of the as-synthesized NaLuF4 crystals are investigated.
Full‐Field Strain Characterizations and Fracture Process of Rock Blasting Using a Small‐Scale Double‐Hole Bench Model
Authors: Yang Jun , Liu Xin , Xu Zhenyang , Tang Hongliang , Yu Qi
Published: August 2020

A small‐scale double‐hole bench model is designed with granite to study the fracture mechanism of rock blasting. By combining high‐speed camera and digital image correlation, the full‐field strain characterization and fracture process of the specimen bevel surface are investigated. The preliminary test results show that the strain concentration zone corresponds to the crack propagation location, and digital image correlation can well detect the crack propagation. In addition, through observing the crack propagation pattern on the specimen bevel surface, it can be seen that the fracture of the specimen is caused by the dominant horizontal crack and the dominant vertical crack, and the generation of the dominant horizontal crack takes precedence over that of the dominant vertical. Finally, the measurements of two‐dimensional digital image correlation and three‐dimensional digital image correlation are discussed.
A New Steganography Method for Dynamic GIF Images Based on Palette Sort
Authors: Lin Jingzhi , Qian Zhenxing , Wang Zichi , Zhang Xinpeng , Feng Guorui
Published: August 2020

This paper proposes a new steganography method for hiding data into dynamic GIF (Graphics Interchange Format) images. When using the STC framework, we propose a new algorithm of cost assignment according to the characteristics of dynamic GIF images, including the image palette and the correlation of interframes. We also propose a payload allocation algorithm for different frames. First, we reorder the palette of GIF images to reduce the modifications on pixel values when modifying the index values. As the different modifications on index values would result in different impacts on pixel values, we assign the elements with less impact on pixel values with small embedding costs. Meanwhile, small embedding costs are also assigned for the elements in the regions that the interframe changes are large enough. Finally, we calculate an appropriate payload for each frame using the embedding probability obtained from the proposed distortion function. Experimental results show that the proposed method has a better security performance than state-of-the-art works.
Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Suppress Hippocampal Neuron Autophagy Stress Induced by Hypoxic-Ischemic Brain Damage: The Possible Role of Endogenous IL-6 Secretion
Authors: Yang Miao , Sun Wuqing , Xiao Lu , He Mulan , Gu Yan , Yang Ting , Chen Jie , Liang Xiaohua
Published: August 2020

Background. Increasing evidence has revealed that mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) transplantation alleviates hypoxic-ischemic brain damage (HIBD) induced neurological impairments via immunomodulating astrocyte antiapoptosis effects. However, it remains unclear whether MSCs regulate neuron autophagy following HIBD. Results. In the present study, MSC transplantation effectively ameliorated learning-memory function and suppressed stress-induced hippocampal neuron autophagy in HIBD rats. Moreover, the suppressive effects of MSCs on autophagy were significantly weakened following endogenous IL-6 silencing in MSCs. Suppressing IL-6 expression also significantly increased p-AMPK protein expression and decreased p-mTOR protein expression in injured hippocampal neurons. Conclusion. Endogenous IL-6 in MSCs may reduce autophagy in hippocampal neurons partly through the AMPK/mTOR pathway.
A New Model for Locating Plate Recognition Devices to Minimize the Impact of the Uncertain Knowledge of the Routes on Traffic Estimation Results
Authors: Sánchez-Cambronero Santos , Álvarez-Bazo Fernando , Rivas Ana , Gallego Inmaculada
Published: August 2020

A number of research papers have recently shown that the use of techniques based on the installation of vehicle identification devices allows us to address the observability problem of a traffic network in a much more efficient way than if it were done with traditional techniques. The use of such devices can lead to a better data set in terms of flows and therefore to a better definition of traffic flows, which is essential for traffic management in cities and regions. However, the current methodologies aimed at network modeling and data processing which are not fully adapted to the use of these devices in obtaining the necessary data for analyzing traffic and making network forecasts. This is because the essential variable in models which used data from plate scanning (as a particular case of AVI sensors) is composed of the route flows, while traditional methods are based on the observation of link and/or origin-destination flows. In this context, this paper proposes several practical contributions, in particular: (1) a traffic network design method aimed to use the plate scanning data to estimate traffic flows and (2) an algorithm for locating plate reader devices to reduce the effect of the uncertain knowledge of route enumeration. Next, using the well-known Nguyen-Dupuis network, a sensitivity analysis has been carried out to evaluate the influence of different parameters of the model on the final solution. These parameters are the considered routes, the degree of network simplification, and the available budget to install devices. Finally, the method has been applied to a real network.
Rapid Assessment of Exercise State through Athlete’s Urine Using Temperature-Dependent NIRS Technology
Authors: Ding Lihe , Yuan Lei-ming , Sun Yiye , Zhang Xia , Li Jianpeng , Yan Zou
Published: August 2020

Athletes usually take nutritional supplements and perform the specialized training to improve the performance of sport. A quick assessment of their athletic status will help to understand the current physical function of athletes’ status and the effect of nutritional supplementation. Human urine, as one of the most important body indicators, is composed of many metabolites, which can provide effective monitoring information for physical conditions. In this study, temperature-dependent near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) technology was used to collect the spectra of athlete’s urine for evaluating the feasibility of rapidly detecting the exercise state of the basketball player. To obtain the detection results accurately, several chemometrics methods including principal component analysis (PCA), variables selection method of variable importance in projection (VIP), continuous 1D wavelet transform (CWT), and partial least square-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) were employed to develop a classifier to distinguish the physical status of athletes. The optimal classifying results were obtained by wavelet-PLS-DA classifier, whose average precision, sensitivity, and specificity are all above 0.95, and the overall accuracy of all samples is 0.97. These results demonstrate that temperature-dependent NIRS can be used to rapidly assess the physical function of athlete’s status and the effect of nutritional supplementation is feasible. It can be believed that temperature-dependent NIR spectroscopy will obtain applications more widely in the future.
Convolution Neural Network-Based Higher Accurate Intrusion Identification System for the Network Security and Communication
Authors: Gu Zhiwei , Nazir Shah , Hong Cheng , Khan Sulaiman
Published: August 2020

With the development of communication systems, information securities remain one of the main concerns for the last few years. The smart devices are connected to communicate, process, compute, and monitor diverse real-time scenarios. Intruders are trying to attack the network and capture the organization’s important information for its own benefits. Intrusion detection is a way of identifying security violations and examining unwanted occurrences in a computer network. Building an accurate and effective identification system for intrusion detection or malicious activities can secure the existing system for smooth and secure end-to-end communication. In the proposed research work, a deep learning-based approach is followed for the accurate intrusion detection purposes to ensure the high security of the network. A convolution neural network based approach is followed for the feature classification and malicious data identification purposes. In the end, comparative results are generated after evaluating the performance of the proposed algorithm to other rival algorithms in the proposed field. These comparative algorithms were FGSM, JSMA, C&W, and ENM. After evaluating the performance of these algorithms and the proposed algorithm based on different threshold values ranging, Lp norms, and different parametric values for c, it was concluded that the proposed algorithm outperforms with small Lp values and high Kitsune scores. These results reflect that the proposed research is promising toward the identification of attack on data packets, and it also reflects the applicability of the proposed algorithms in the network security field.
Novel Mutations in Pilomatrixoma, CTNNB1 p.s45F, and FGFR2 p.s252L: A Report of Three Cases Diagnosed by Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy, with Review of the Literature
Authors: Silveira Mitteldorf Cristina Aparecida Troques da , Vilela Rafael Sarlo , Fugimori Melissa Lissae , Godoy Carla Daniele de , Coudry Renata de Almeida
Published: August 2020

Pilomatrixoma (calcifying epithelioma of Malherbe) is an uncommon benign skin appendageal tumor that differentiates toward hair matrix cells. It is misdiagnosed in up to 75% of cases by nondermatologists. Although the histopathological findings are well recognized and characteristic, diagnosis by fine-needle aspiration biopsy may be quite challenging. Several reports have emphasized the challenges in cytodiagnosis of pilomatrixoma, leading to a false-positive diagnosis. The lesions may show avidity for fludeoxyglucose on positron emission tomography/computed tomography scan, raising concern of a possible malignant neoplasm. CTNNB1 mutations have been reported in a high percentage of pilomatrixomas. Expression of β-catenin, the protein encoded by CTNNB1, is also frequently observed. To determine if routine cytological specimens can be successfully used to perform additional investigation and support or confirm the diagnosis in three cases of pilomatrixoma, we performed molecular analysis and immunohistochemistry to search for CTNNB1 mutation and β-catenin, respectively. β-Catenin positivity by immunohistochemistry was observed in basaloid cells in all three cases. Exon 3 mutations in CTNNB1 were detected in all cases. In addition, we detected a fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) mutation in one of the cases. We reviewed the literature and present the clinical and morphological characteristics that must be considered along with other findings to accurately achieve the correct diagnosis, in correlation with the results of the ancillary technique. In conclusion, routine cytological specimens can be successfully used to perform additional investigations and support cytodiagnosis in difficult cases.
Mathematical Modelling and Dynamic Analysis of an Offshore Drilling Riser
Authors: Liao Maolin , Wang Gaowei , Gao Zhiying , Zhao Yipeng , Li Ruifeng
Published: August 2020

In this paper, a dynamic model of an offshore drilling riser is developed based on the Hamilton principle. The developed dynamic model is transformed into a finite element model by introducing an approximate solution which chooses the Hermite cubic interpolation function of bending beam element as the shape function. Thereafter, the standard Newmark integration is applied to numerically simulate the dynamic responses of offshore drilling risers with varied system parameters, including the length of riser, top tension ratio, and buoyant factor. Based on the results of numerical simulation, under the influences of sea wind, sea current, and the periodic excitation of sea wave, the offshore drilling riser experiences a fast lateral deflection phase in the beginning, a reciprocating deflection phase in the following long duration, and then, a periodic oscillation when it reaches the dynamic stable condition, respectively. The riser system working in deeper water with a higher top tension ratio and a lower buoyant factor shows more controllable vibration and less lateral deflection.
Whale Optimization Algorithm for Multiconstraint Second-Order Stochastic Dominance Portfolio Optimization
Authors: Zhai Q. H. , Ye T. , Huang M. X. , Feng S. L. , Li H.
Published: August 2020

In the field of asset allocation, how to balance the returns of an investment portfolio and its fluctuations is the core issue. Capital asset pricing model, arbitrage pricing theory, and Fama–French three-factor model were used to quantify the price of individual stocks and portfolios. Based on the second-order stochastic dominance rule, the higher moments of return series, the Shannon entropy, and some other actual investment constraints, we construct a multiconstraint portfolio optimization model, aiming at comprehensively weighting the returns and risk of portfolios rather than blindly maximizing its returns. Furthermore, the whale optimization algorithm based on FTSE100 index data is used to optimize the above multiconstraint portfolio optimization model, which significantly improves the rate of return of the simple diversified buy-and-hold strategy or the FTSE100 index. Furthermore, extensive experiments validate the superiority of the whale optimization algorithm over the other four swarm intelligence optimization algorithms (gray wolf optimizer, fruit fly optimization algorithm, particle swarm optimization, and firefly algorithm) through various indicators of the results, especially under harsh constraints.
Prediction of Repeat Customers on E-Commerce Platform Based on Blockchain
Authors: Zhang Huibing , Dong Junchao
Published: August 2020

In recent years, blockchain has substantially enhanced the credibility of e-commerce platforms for users. The prediction accuracy of the repeat purchase behaviour of e-commerce users directly affects the impact of precision marketing by merchants. The existing ensemble learning models have low prediction accuracy when the purchase behaviour sample is unbalanced and the information dimension of feature engineering is single. To overcome this problem, an ensemble learning prediction model based on multisource information fusion is proposed. Tests on the Tmall dataset showed that the accuracy and AUC values of the model reached 91.28% and 70.53%, respectively.
Real-Time Performance Evaluation of IEEE 802.11p EDCA Mechanism for IoV in a Highway Environment
Authors: Li Hong , Wu Qiong , Fan Jing , Fan Qiang , Chang Bo , Wu Guilu
Published: August 2020

With the development of 5G, the Internet of Vehicles (IoV) evolves to be one important component of the Internet of Things (IoT), where vehicles and public infrastructure communicate with each other through a IEEE 802.11p EDCA mechanism to support four access categories (ACs) to access a channel. Due to the mobility of the vehicles, the network topology is time varying and thus incurs a dynamic network performance. There are many works on the stationary performance of 802.11p EDCA and some on real-time performance, but existing work does not consider real-time performance under extreme highway scenario. In this paper, we consider four ACs defined in the 802.11p EDCA mechanism to evaluate the limit of the real-time network performance in an extreme highway scenario, i.e., all vehicles keep the minimum safety distance between each other. The performance of the model has been demonstrated through simulations. It is found that some ACs can meet real-time requirements while others cannot in the extreme scenario.
Automated Fraudulent Phone Call Recognition through Deep Learning
Authors: Xing Jian , Yu Miao , Wang Shupeng , Zhang Yaru , Ding Yu
Published: August 2020

Several studies have shown that the phone number and call behavior generated by a phone call reveal the type of phone call. By analyzing the phone number rules and call behavior patterns, we can recognize the fraudulent phone call. The success of this recognition heavily depends on the particular set of features that are used to construct the classifier. Since these features are human-labor engineered, any change introduced to the telephone fraud can render these carefully constructed features ineffective. In this paper, we show that we can automate the feature engineering process and, thus, automatically recognize the fraudulent phone call by applying our proposed novel approach based on deep learning. We design and construct a new classifier based on Call Detail Records (CDR) for fraudulent phone call recognition and find that the performance achieved by our deep learning-based approach outperforms competing methods. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach. Specifically, in our accuracy evaluation, the obtained accuracy exceeds 99%, and the most performant deep learning model is 4.7% more accurate than the state-of-the-art recognition model on average. Furthermore, we show that our deep learning approach is very stable in real-world environments, and the implicit features automatically learned by our approach are far more resilient to dynamic changes of a fraudulent phone number and its call behavior over time. We conclude that the ability to automatically construct the most relevant phone number features and call behavior features and perform accurate fraudulent phone call recognition makes our deep learning-based approach a precise, efficient, and robust technique for fraudulent phone call recognition.
Prevalence of Malocclusions and Associated Factors inBrazilian Children and Adolescents with CerebralPalsy: A Multi-Institutional Study
Authors: Medeiros Rodrigues Cardoso Andreia , Duarte Silva Clara Regina , Nóbrega Gomes Lays , Marinho Davino de Medeiros Mariana , Nascimento Padilha Wilton Wilney , Cabral Cavalcanti Alidianne Fábia , Leite Cavalcanti Alessandro
Published: August 2020

Background. To assess the prevalence and factors associated with malocclusions in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP). Methods. The study included 134 subjects with CP aged 2–18 years enrolled in six rehabilitation institutions and their caregivers, which provided demographic, systemic, and behavioral data. A calibrated researcher held oral examinations with record of the following malocclusion indexes, DAI and DMFT. Poisson regression analysis was used (α < 0.05). Results. About 85.8% (n = 115) of patients had malocclusion. In deciduous and mixed dentition (n = 99), increased overjet (75.8%), open bite (51.5%), posterior cross bite (19.2%), and anterior cross bite (3.0%) were identified. Increased overjet was associated with the age group of 2–5 years and mild communication impairment. Anterior open bite was more common in children who underwent tongue interposition, lip interposition, and pacifier sucking. Communication skills, mouth breathing, and tongue interposition were associated with posterior cross bite. Severe malocclusions (DAI > 30) were observed in 88.6% of patients with permanent dentition (n = 35) and were associated with liquid diet consistency and finger sucking. Conclusion. The prevalence of malocclusion in individuals with CP was high and associated with demographic, behavioral, and systemic factors.
The Mediating Effects of Coping Style on the Effects of Breath Count Mindfulness Training on Depressive Symptoms among International Students in China
Authors: Gu Simeng , Li Yawen , Liang Fei , Feng Rou , Zeng Zhi , Wang Fushun
Published: August 2020

Mindfulness training has gained popularity in the scientific field and has been proposed as an efficient way for emotional regulation. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) is designed especially for depressive people in reducing risk of depression relapse and is recommended in national guidelines as a treatment choice for relapse prevention in recurrent depression. The aim of the current study was to investigate the effects of mindfulness training on depressive symptoms of international students and probe into the mediating role of mindfulness in stressful events and depression. In addition, we introduced a new kind of mindfulness training, the breathing exercise-based mindfulness training, which is based on the integration of Buddhism and Daoism. Self-report questionnaires assessing the coping style, abnormal depressive behavior, and stressful live events were completed in 260 international students in China (mean age=21.4 years). The results showed that (1) many international students showed depression symptoms, (2) stressful life events play a completely mediating role in the initiation of depression and anxiety, and (3) mindfulness training for 8 weeks significantly reduced the depressive symptoms, and it was also related to a positive coping style. This study has certain theoretical significance in exploring the mechanism of the occurrence and development of depression among international students and provides useful tools for this special group of international students. In addition, the international students can also learn Chinese culture through the training. These findings indicate that mindfulness training and positive coping style are interrelated with treating depressive symptoms for international students.
Carrageenan Edible Coating Application Prolongs Cavendish Banana Shelf Life
Authors: Dwivany Fenny Martha , Aprilyandi Ayesha Nilam , Suendo Veinardi , Sukriandi Nisrina
Published: August 2020

Banana is very important for both food and economic securities in many tropical and subtropical countries, because of its nutritional values. However, banana fruit is a climacteric fruit which has short shelf life, so an alternative method to delay its ripening is needed. Our group has used carrageenan as an edible coating to delay banana fruit ripening. In this study, the effect of different concentrations of carrageenan and storage temperatures on Cavendish banana shelf life and fruit quality was evaluated. The fruits were treated with 0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5% carrageenan and stored at two different temperatures, 26°C and 20°C. Carrageenan functional groups in banana peel samples as well as changes in surface structure of banana peel, color, weight loss, pulp to peel ratio, total soluble solid, and levels of MaACS1 and MaACO1 gene expression were analyzed. Result showed that the optimum condition to extend shelf life and maintain fruit quality was by treating the banana fruits with 1.5% carrageenan and storing them at a cool temperature (20°C). In addition, the result obtained from this study suggested that carrageenan can be used as edible coating to extend the shelf life of banana fruits (Musa acuminata AAA group).
Dynamic Modeling and Analysis of Rolling Bearing with Compound Fault on Raceway and Rolling Element
Authors: Zhang Xin , Yan Changfeng , Liu Yaofeng , Yan Pengfei , Wang Yubo , Wu Lixiao
Published: August 2020

Rolling element bearing is a very important part of mechanical equipment and widely used in rotating machinery. Rolling element bearings could appear localized defects during the working condition, which would cause the complex vibration response of bearings. Considering the shaft and bearing pedestal, a 4 degree-of-freedom (DOF) dynamic model of rolling bearing with compound localized fault is established based on time-varying displacement, and the vibration characteristics of rolling bearing with localized faults under different conditions are investigated. The established model is verified by the experimental vibration signals in time domain and frequency domain. The results show that the vibration response of compound fault is the result of the coupling action of a single fault of rolling element and outer race. The influences of compound fault on the vibration signals of the bearing were analyzed under three conditions. With the increasing of radial load, defect size, and rotation speed, the vibration amplitude of bearing would increase correspondently, which would accelerate the failure rate of bearing and reduce the service life of bearing. This model is helpful to analyze the vibration response of the rolling element bearing with single or compound fault.
GPER-Deficient Rats Exhibit Lower Serum Corticosterone Level and Increased Anxiety-Like Behavior
Authors: Zheng Yi , Wu Meimei , Gao Ting , Meng Li , Ding Xiaowei , Meng Youqiang , Jiao Yingfu , Luo Ping , He Zhenquan , Sun Tao , Zhang Guohua , Shi Xueyin , Rong Weifang
Published: August 2020

Ample evidence suggests that estrogens have strong influences on the occurrence of stress-related mood disorders, but the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Through multiple approaches, we demonstrate that the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) is widely distributed along the HPA axis and in brain structures critically involved in mood control. Genetic ablation of GPER in the rat resulted in significantly lower basal serum corticosterone level but enhanced ACTH release in response to acute restraint stress, especially in the female. GPER-/- rats of either sex displayed increased anxiety-like behaviors and deficits in learning and memory. Additionally, GPER deficiency led to aggravation of anxiety-like behaviors following single-prolonged stress (SPS). SPS caused significant decreases in serum corticosterone in WT but not in GPER-deficient rats. The results highlight an important role of GPER at multiple sites in regulation of the HPA axis and mood.
Spatial Distributions, Characteristics, and Applications of Craniofacial Stem Cells
Authors: Zhang Geru , Li Qiwen , Yuan Quan , Zhang Shiwen
Published: August 2020

Stem cells play an irreplaceable role in the development, homeostasis, and regeneration of the craniofacial bone. Multiple populations of tissue-resident craniofacial skeletal stem cells have been identified in different stem cell niches, including the cranial periosteum, jawbone marrow, temporomandibular joint, cranial sutures, and periodontium. These cells exhibit self-renewal and multidirectional differentiation abilities. Here, we summarized the properties of craniofacial skeletal stem cells, based on their spatial distribution. Specifically, we focused on the in vivo genetic fate mapping of stem cells, by exploring specific stem cell markers and observing their lineage commitment in both the homeostatic and regenerative states. Finally, we discussed their application in regenerative medicine.
Performance Evaluation of GFRP Rock Bolt Sensor for Rock Slope Monitoring by Double Shear Test
Authors: Yu Jung-Doung , Lee Jong-Sub , Tamang Bibek , Park Sungyong , Chang Sukhyun , Kim Jungmyeon , Kim Yongseong
Published: August 2020

This study aims to evaluate the sensing performance of glass fiber‐reinforced polymer (GFRP) rock bolt sensors instrumented with strain gauges for monitoring rockslides. Experimental studies are conducted with four different types of GFRP rock bolt sensors and concrete blocks having central holes and two shear joints. Two GFRP rock bolt sensors are inserted into holes and then fixed in concrete blocks with cement grout and soil, respectively. The other two are coated with heat‐shrink tubes to protect strain gauges and wires, which are then fixed in concrete blocks with cement grout and soil, respectively. Double shear tests are performed to produce shear deformations of GFRP rock bolt sensors, and then strain change with shear displacement is monitored. The results manifest that the variation in strain with shear displacement is more sensitive in the GFRP rock bolt sensor fixed with soil than with cement grout. Also, strain gauge wires in the GFRP rock bolt sensor fixed with cement grout are broken earlier than with soil. Furthermore, it is confirmed that the heat‐shrink tube effectively protects strain gauges and wires, so that GFRP rock bolt sensors coated with heat‐shrink tubes work for a longer time than the uncoated sensors. The present study shows that the GFRP rock bolt sensor can be useful for monitoring rock slope failure.
Techniques for Management of Portal Vein Thrombosis during Liver Transplantation
Authors: Singh Navdeep , Washburn Kenneth , Black Sylvester , Schenk Austin
Published: August 2020

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) poses a unique challenge in liver transplant. The management of PVT differs according to the extent of thrombosis. Anastomosis of a donor portal vein to a varix is a viable option when an adequate size varix is identified on preoperative imaging or intraoperatively. Here, we describe our experience in two liver transplant cases with cavernous transformation of the portal vein where the donor portal vein was anastomosed to a varix using a donor iliac vein interposition graft.