bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study on the Convolutional Neural Algorithm of Image Style Transfer
Authors: Yang Fu Wen , Lin Hwei Jen , Yen Shwu-Huey , Wang Chun-Hui
Published: September 2018

Recently, deep convolutional neural networks have resulted in noticeable improvements in image classification and have been used to transfer artistic style of images. Gatys et al. proposed the use of a learned Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) architecture VGG to transfer image style, but problems occur during the back propagation process because there is a heavy computational load. This paper solves these problems, including the simplification of the computation of chains of derivatives, accelerating the computation of adjustments, and efficiently choosing weights for different energy functions. The experimental results show that the proposed solutions improve the computational efficiency and render the adjustment of weights for energy functions easier.
Balancing Urban Green Space and Residential Infill Development: A Spatial Multi-Criteria Approach Based on Practitioner Engagement
Authors: Tiitu Maija , Viinikka Arto , Kopperoinen Leena , Geneletti Davide
Published: September 2018

The objectives in consolidating the urban form and preserving green spaces are often in conflict in growing cities. The usability of spatial multi-criteria decision analysis (SMCDA) was tested as a tool for integrating residential infill development and urban green spaces in the City of Järvenpää, Finland. In collaboration with local practitioners, this study focused on the benefits and challenges of SMCDA. The results were based on two workshops with the practitioners along with comprehensive GIS analyses based on a wide range of available data. The practitioners saw SMCDA as a useful method to bring together a variety of factors related to infill development. They highlighted the importance of the method’s transparency, emphasising the comprehensive explanation of each step of the method. Better understanding of the impact of individual criteria weightings on the results was mentioned as one of the key future developments of the method.
Coronary arterial disease correlates with constitutions of Traditional Chinese Medicine: A cross-sectional study in a Chinese cohort
Authors: Xu Fei , Wu Genlong , Miao Jianlong , Liu Ruijuan , Tang Zihui , Dong Jingcheng
Published: September 2018

Introduction: This study aimed to explore the associations between constitutions of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and coronary artery disease (CAD).

Methods: A large-scale, community-based, cross-sectional study was performed to investigate the associations. A total of 3,748 participants were available for analysis in this study. The assessment of the constitution of TCM was based on recommendations by the Association for Chinese Medicine in China. In this study, a diagnosis of CAD was based on self-reported medical history. The associations were analyzed using univariate and multivariable logistic regression (MLR).

Results: Univariate analysis showed Phlegm–dampness, Qi-deficiency, Yang-deficiency and Yin-deficiency constitutions were significantly associated with CAD, respectively ([Formula: see text] for Phlegm–dampness, [Formula: see text] for Qi-deficiency, [Formula: see text] for Yang-deficiency and [Formula: see text] for Yin-deficiency). Furthermore, MLR demonstrated significant associations among the four constitutions and CAD, after controlling for potential confounding factors (Phlegm–dampness: [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]; Qi-deficient: [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], Yang-Deficient: [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]; Yin-deficient: [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]). As compared with Neutral participants, participants with the four constitutions of TCM had higher prevalence of CAD.

Conclusion: Our findings provided evidence that the four constitutions of TCM including Phlegm-dampness, Qi-deficiency, Yan-deficiency and Yin-deficiency were significantly associated with CAD, respectively. (This study was registered in clinicaltrials.gov with the ID: NCT02998944.)
Computing within limits
Authors: Nardi Bonnie , Tomlinson Bill , Patterson Donald J. , Chen Jay , Pargman Daniel , Raghavan Barath , Penzenstadler Birgit
Published: September 2018

The future of computing research relies on addressing an array of limitations on a planetary scale.
Fundamental concepts of reactive control for autonomous drones
Authors: Mottola Luca , Whitehouse Kamin
Published: September 2018

Autonomous drones represent a new breed of mobile computing system. Compared to smartphones and connected cars that only opportunistically sense or communicate, drones allow motion control to become part of the application logic. The efficiency of their movements is largely dictated by the low-level control enabling their autonomous operation based on high-level inputs. Existing implementations of such low-level control operate in a time-triggered fashion. In contrast, we conceive a notion of reactive control that allows drones to execute the low-level control logic only upon recognizing
the need to
, based on the influence of the environment onto the drone operation. As a result, reactive control can
dynamically adapt
the control rate. This brings fundamental benefits, including more accurate motion control, extended lifetime, and better quality of service in end-user applications. Based on 260+ hours of real-world experiments using three aerial drones, three different control logic, and three hardware platforms, we demonstrate, for example, up to 41% improvements in motion accuracy and up to 22% improvements in flight time.
Can we use AI for global good?
Authors: Banifatemi Amir
Published: September 2018

The
Communications
Web site, http://cacm.acm.org, features more than a dozen bloggers in the BLOG@CACM community. In each issue of
Communications
, we'll publish selected posts or excerpts.

twitter

Follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/blogCACM

http://cacm.acm.org/blogs/blog-cacm

Amir Banifatemi observes how the AI for Good Summit "allowed us to start a dialogue, find a common frame of reference, and decide how our steps would be smart and structured."
Locust and Grasshopper Management
Authors: Zhang Long , Lecoq Michel , Latchininsky Alexandre , Hunter David
Published: September 2018

Locusts and grasshoppers (Orthoptera: Acridoidea) are among the most dangerous agricultural pests. Their control is critical to food security worldwide and often requires governmental or international involvement. Although locust and grasshopper outbreaks are now better controlled and often shorter in duration and reduced in extent, large outbreaks, often promoted by climate change, continue to occur in many parts of the world. While some locust and grasshopper control systems are still curative, the recognition of the damage these pests can cause and the socioeconomic consequences of locust and grasshopper outbreaks have led to an increasing paradigm shift from crop protection to preventive management. Effective preventive management strategy relies on an improved knowledge of the pest biology and ecology and more efficient monitoring and control techniques.
Western Austronesian Voice
Authors: Chen Victoria , McDonnell Bradley
Published: September 2018

Over the past four decades, the nature of western Austronesian voice—typically subcategorized as Philippine-type and Indonesian-type—has triggered considerable debate in the typological and syntactic literature. Central questions in these debates have been concerned with how voice alternations in western Austronesian languages interact with grammatical relations, transitivity, and syntactic alignment. In this review, we reassess the syntactic properties of voice alternations in western Austronesian languages, in some cases focusing on more controversial alternations, including the putative antipassive and applicative constructions in Philippine-type languages and the passive constructions in Indonesian-type languages. We discuss reasons that favor a valency-neutral approach to western Austronesian voice and evidence against a valency-changing and/or ergative approach to the analysis of these languages.
MicroRNA-21 mediates high phosphate-induced endothelial cell apoptosis
Authors: Li Zhaoyu , Wiernek Szymon , Patterson Cam , Wang Huanchen , Qi Guoxian , Dai Xuming
Published: September 2018

Hyperphosphatemia, the elevated level of inorganic phosphate (Pi) in serum, is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidities and mortality. The effects of high Pi on endothelial cells are not well studied. This study investigated high Pi-induced endothelial cell apoptosis and the role of microRNA-21. Mouse myocardial endothelial cells (MEC) were cultured in normal (1 mM) and high (5 mM) Pi conditions. Apoptosis was detected by TUNEL staining and flow cytometry. MicroRNA profiles of MEC response to changes in Pi concentration were obtained using gene expression arrays. Expression levels of the microRNA-21 target genes, programmed cell death gene 4 ( PDCD4), poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase ( PARP), and phosphatase and tensin homolog ( PTEN), as well as NF-κB were measured by Western blotting and RT-PCR. MicroRNA-21-specific inhibitors and mimics were used to study effects of microRNA-21 on MEC apoptosis and gene expression regulations. High Pi induced MEC apoptosis and upregulated microRNA-21 expression. MicroRNA-21-specific mimics reproduced high Pi-induced apoptosis in normal Pi medium, and microRNA-21 inhibitors ameliorated the high Pi induction of apoptosis, suggesting that microRNA-21 mediated high Pi-induced MEC apoptosis. The microRNA-21 targets PDCD4, PTEN, PARP, and NF-κB were significantly downregulated in high Pi conditions. High Pi-induced downregulation of PDCD4 was abolished by microRNA-21 inhibitors and selective ERK inhibitor (selumetinib) and was reproduced by microRNA-21 mimics. Inhibitors and mimics of microRNA-21 did not have effects on high Pi-induced NF-κB downregulation. Selumetinib blocked high Pi-induced NF-κB downregulation. MicroRNA-21 mediates high Pi-induced endothelial cell apoptosis, which involves an ERK1/2/microRNA-21/PDCD4 pathway. High Pi-induced downregulation of NF-κB expression is mediated by an ERK1/2 signaling-dependent but microRNA-21-independent mechanism.
A model of oxygen transport in the rat renal medulla
Authors: Lee Chang-Joon , Gardiner Bruce S. , Evans Roger G. , Smith David W.
Published: September 2018

The renal medulla is prone to hypoxia. Medullary hypoxia is postulated to be a leading cause of acute kidney injury, so there is considerable interest in predicting the oxygen tension in the medulla. Therefore we have developed a computational model for blood and oxygen transport within a physiologically normal rat renal medulla, using a multilevel modeling approach. For the top-level model we use the theory of porous media and advection-dispersion transport through a realistic three-dimensional representation of the medulla’s gross anatomy to describe blood flow and oxygen transport throughout the renal medulla. For the lower-level models, we employ two-dimensional reaction-diffusion models describing the distribution of oxygen through tissue surrounding the vasculature. Steady-state model predictions at the two levels are satisfied simultaneously, through iteration between the levels. The computational model was validated by simulating eight sets of experimental data regarding renal oxygenation in rats (using 4 sets of control groups and 4 sets of treatment groups, described in 4 independent publications). Predicted medullary tissue oxygen tension or microvascular oxygen tension for control groups and for treatment groups that underwent moderate perturbation in hemodynamic and renal functions is within ±2 SE values observed experimentally. Diffusive shunting between descending and ascending vasa recta is predicted to be only 3% of the oxygen delivered. The validation tests confirm that the computational model is robust and capable of capturing the behavior of renal medullary oxygenation in both normal and early-stage pathological states in the rat.
Melanosomes: Biogenesis, Properties, and Evolution of an Ancient Organelle
Authors: D’Alba Liliana , Shawkey Matthew D.
Published: September 2018

Melanosomes are organelles that produce and store melanin, a widespread biological pigment with a unique suite of properties including high refractive index, semiconducting capabilities, material stiffness, and high fossilization potential. They are involved in numerous critical biological functions in organisms across the tree of life. Individual components such as melanin chemistry and melanosome development have recently been addressed, but a broad synthesis is needed. Here, we review the hierarchical structure, development, functions, and evolution of melanosomes. We highlight variation in melanin chemistry and melanosome morphology and how these may relate to function. For example, we review what is known of the chemical differences between different melanin types (eumelanin, pheomelanin, allomelanin) and whether/how melanosome morphology relates to chemistry and color. We integrate the distribution of melanin across living organisms with what is known from the fossil record and produce hypotheses on its evolution. We suggest that melanin was present in life forms early in evolutionary history and that melanosomes evolved at the origin of organelles. Throughout, we discuss the (sometimes gaping) holes in our knowledge and suggest areas that need particular attention as we move forward in our understanding of these still-mysterious organelles and the materials that they contain.
Discriminant Function Analysis of Foramen Magnum Variables in South Indian Population: A Study of Computerised Tomographic Images
Authors: Vinutha S. P. , Suresh V. , Shubha R.
Published: September 2018

Background and Objectives. The foramen magnum as a transition area between skull and spine plays an important role as a landmark, because of its close relationship to vital structures such as the brain and spinal cord. Configuration and size of the foramen magnum play an important role for assessing craniovertebral relations. The objectives of the present study are to find out shape and dimensions of foramen magnum in cranial CT scans. All the variables were evaluated by using discriminant function analysis. Materials and Methods. The study sample comprised 200 CT scans (110 males and 90 females) of south Indian origin. The shapes of the foramen magnum were classified into 8 types: oval, egg, round, tetragonal, pentagonal, hexagonal, irregular (A), and irregular (B). The parameters were noted meticulously and the statistical analysis for sex comparison was made by Student’s t-test and was considered significant whenever P≤0.05. To determine the relationships between the studied parameters, Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated. Results. The foramen magnum was classified into 8 types based on shape. Commonest was oval and pentagonal was the least common type. The anteroposterior diameter, transverse diameter, circumference, and area were significantly greater in males than in females (P<0.001). The mean FM index of male CT scans was 85.01 ± 8.67, whereas in case of female CT scans, it was 83.17 ± 7.78. With all the variables in consideration, overall 65% of cranial CT scans were sexed correctly by using multivariate analysis. Conclusion. Several anatomic parameters such as shape and dimensions of FM should be taken into consideration during surgery involving the craniovertebral junction. Also these can be used during forensic and anthropological investigation of unknown individuals for determining gender, ethnicity, and so on. The multivariate analysis is by far the best method for determination of sex of cranium with available resources.
Gastrointestinal and Urinary Tract Endometriosis: A Review on the Commonest Locations of Extrapelvic Endometriosis
Authors: Charatsi Dimitra , Koukoura Ourania , Ntavela Irontianta Gkorezi , Chintziou Foteini , Gkorila Georgia , Tsagkoulis Manthos , Mikos Themistoklis , Pistofidis George , Hajiioannou Jiannis , Daponte Alexandros
Published: September 2018

Extrapelvic endometriosis is a rare entity that presents serious challenges to researchers and clinicians. Endometriotic lesions have been reported in every part of the female human body and in some instances in males. Organs that are close to the uterus are more often affected than distant locations. Extrapelvic endometriosis affects a slightly older population of women than pelvic endometriosis. This might lead to the assumption that it takes several years for pelvic endometriosis to “metastasize” outside the pelvis. All current theories of the pathophysiology of endometriosis apply to some extent to the different types of extrapelvic endometriosis. The gastrointestinal tract is the most common location of extrapelvic endometriosis with the urinary system being the second one. However, since sigmoid colon, rectum, and bladder are pelvic organs, extragenital pelvic endometriosis may be a more suitable definition for endometriotic implants related to these organs than extrapelvic endometriosis. The sigmoid colon is the most commonly involved, followed by the rectum, ileum, appendix, and caecum. Most lesions are confined in the serosal layer; however, deeper lesion can alter bowel function and cause symptoms. Bladder and ureteral involvement are the most common sites concerning the urinary system. Unfortunately, ureteral endometriosis is often asymptomatic leading to silent obstructive uropathy and renal failure. Surgical excision of the endometriotic tissue is the ideal treatment for all types of extrapelvic endometriosis. Adjunctive treatment might be useful in selected cases.
Comparison and Noise Suppression of the Transmitted and Reflected Photoplethysmography Signals
Authors: Li Suyi , Liu Lijia , Wu Jiang , Tang Bingyi , Li Dongsheng
Published: September 2018

The photoplethysmography (PPG) is inevitably corrupted by many kinds of noise no matter whether its acquisition mode is transmittance or reflectance. To enhance the quality of PPG signals, many studies have made great progress in PPG denoising by adding extra sensors and developing complex algorithms. Considering the reasonable cost, compact size, and real-time and easy implementation, this study proposed a simple real-time denoising method based on double median filters which can be integrated in microcontroller of commercial or portable pulse oximeters without adding extra hardware. First, we used the boundary extension to preserve the signal boundary distortion and designed a first median filter with the time window at approximately 78 ms to eliminate the high-frequency components of the signal. Then, through the second median filter with a time window which was about 780 ms, we estimated the low-frequency components. Finally, we removed the estimated low-frequency components from the signal to obtain the denoised signal. Through comparing the multiple sets of signals under calmly sitting and slightly moving postures, the PPG signals contained noises no matter whether collected by the transmittance-mode or the reflectance-mode. To evaluate the proposed method, we conducted measured, simulated experiments and a strong noisy environment experiment. Through comparing the morphology distortions, frequency spectra, and the signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs), the results showed that the proposed method can suppress noise effectively and preserve the essential morphological features from PPG signals. As a result, the proposed method can enhance the quality of PPG signals and, thus, can contribute to the improvement of the calculation accuracy of the subsequent physiological parameters. In addition, the proposed method could be a good choice to address the real-time noise reduction of portable PPG measuring instruments.
Autonomous Orbit Determination for a Hybrid Constellation
Authors: Li Muzi , Xu Bo , Sun Jun
Published: September 2018

A new orbit determination scheme targeting communication and remote sensing satellites in a hybrid constellation is investigated in this paper. We first design one such hybrid constellation with a two-layer configuration (LEO/MEO) by optimizing coverage and revisit cycle. The main idea of the scheme is to use a combination of imagery, altimeter data, and inter-satellite range data as measurements and determine orbits of the satellites in the hybrid constellation with the help of the extended Kalman filter (EKF). The performance of the new scheme is analyzed with Monte Carlo simulations. We first focus on an individual remote sensing satellite and compared the performance of orbit determination using only imagery with its counterpart using both imagery and altimeter measurements. Results show that the performance improves when imagery is used with altimeter data pointing to geometer calibration sites but declines when used with ocean altimeter data. We then expand the investigation to the whole constellation. When inter-satellite range data is added, orbits of all the satellites in the hybrid constellation can be autonomously determined. We find that the combination of inter-satellite range data with remote sensing observations lead to a further improvement in orbit determination precision for LEO satellites. Our results also show that the performance of the scheme would be affected when remote sensing observations on certain satellites are absent.
Confirming the Effects of Qinghuayin against Chronic Atrophic Gastritis and a Preliminary Observation of the Involved Inflammatory Signaling Pathways: An In Vivo Study
Authors: Li Sihan , Huang Minghan , Chen Qin , Li Shunan , Wang Xin , Lin Jianlong , Zhong Guodong , Lin Ping , Asakawa Tetsuya
Published: September 2018

Background. Qinghuayin (QHY) is a Chinese formula that is widely used in the treatment of chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG). This study was planned with the following objectives: (1) confirming the efficacy of QHY in a rat model of CAG and (2) performing a preliminary observation of the changes in several inflammatory signaling pathways potentially involved in the QHY mechanisms. Methods. A total of 33 rats were used in this study; they were divided into the control (n = 12) and model (n = 21) groups. QHY was administrated to both the groups. We assessed the pathological manifestations and the serum tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) level as markers of efficacy. We also performed a preliminary observation of the changes in the protein and messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) expression of toll‐like receptors 4 (TLR4), MyD88, NF‐κB, and COX‐2. Results. The pathological changes induced in the rats by the establishment of the CAG models were recovered by low and high doses of QHY. Their serum TNF‐α level also reduced following low‐ and high‐dose QHY treatment. Protein and mRNA expressions of TLR4, MyD88, NF‐κB, and COX‐2 were upregulated by the establishment of CAG models and downregulated by the administration of low‐ and high‐dose QHY. Conclusions. Our data confirm the efficacy of QHY as an adjuvant therapy, based on the theories in traditional Chinese medicine. The preliminary observations indicate that the downregulation of the enhanced inflammatory signaling pathways might be crucial QHY mechanisms that need further verification.
Potential Antinociceptive Effects of Chinese Propolis and Identification on Its Active Compounds
Authors: Sun Liping , Liao Lei , Wang Bei
Published: September 2018

Propolis is an important bee product which has been applied to the treatment of several diseases. The aim of this study was to understand the material basis of Chinese propolis on pain relief; different Chinese propolis fractions (40W, 40E, 70E, and 95E raw propolis extracted followed by 40%, 70%, or 95% ethanol) were prepared, and their antinociceptive effects were evaluated. By analyzing using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS, we showed that 40W was rich in phenolic acids, like caffeic acid, while 40E, 70E, and 95E have relatively high levels in flavonoids, like galangin, pinocembrin, and chrysin. Notably, chrysin amounts in 70E and 95E are much higher than those in 40E fraction. Antinociceptive effects by these propolis fractions were evaluated in mice using acetic acid-induced writhing test, hot plate test, and tail immersion test, respectively. We noticed that only 40E fraction showed a significant reduction on acetic acid-induced writhing test. Importantly, in the hot plate test, all groups showed their effectiveness, except for the 70E group. We also noticed that 40W, 40E, and 95E administration caused an increase in the tail withdrawal latency of the mice. These data suggested that the different antinociceptive effects of different fractions from Chinese propolis extracts are directly link to their flavonoid composition.
Treatment of Hyperoxia-Induced Lung Injury with Lung Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Mice
Authors: Mei Yabo , Chen Chong , Dong Hui , Zhang Wanqiao , Wang Yan , Chi Ming , Feng Zhichun
Published: September 2018

Objective. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a common chronic lung disease in preterm neonates and has no effective treatment. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of neonatal mouse lung resident mesenchymal stem cells (L-MSCs) on the hyperoxia-induced lung injury. Methods. L-MSCs were separated and identified according to the MSC criterions. Hyperoxia-Induced Lung Injury (HILI) of neonatal KM mice was induced with hyperoxia (FiO2 = 60%) and investigated with pathological methods. Neonatal KM mice were divided into 3 groups (hyperoxia + L-MSC group, hyperoxia + PBS group, and air control group). Mice in the hyperoxia + L-MSC group were treated with L-MSCs at 3, 7, and 14 days after birth. After hyperoxia exposure for 21 days, the lung pathology, Radial Alveolar Count (RAC), CD31 expression, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression were investigated. Results. After hyperoxia exposure, the body weight, RAC, CD31 expression, and VEGF expression in the hyperoxia + L-MSC group were significantly better than those in the hyperoxia + PBS group but inferior to those in the air control group significantly. These indicate L-MSCs are partially protective on the lung injury of mice with hyperoxia-induced BPD. Conclusion. L-MSCs are helpful for the prevention and treatment of BPD, and endogenous L-MSCs may play a role in the postinjury repair of the lung.
Plant Growth Response ofPinus patulaandP. maximinoiSeedlings at Nursery to Three Types of Ectomycorrhizal Inocula
Authors: Restrepo-Llano Manuel F. , Osorio-Vega Nelson W. , León-Peláez Juan D.
Published: September 2018

The objective of this study was to assess the response in seedling growth, root colonization, and P content of seedlings ofPinus maximinoiandP. patulato the inoculation with three types of ectomycorrhizal inocula with three doses (17.5, 35, and 70 kg·m−3) in nursery. The first inoculum was soil from aPinusplantations that contained three ectomycorrhizal fungi (Amanita muscaria, Amanitasp.,andSuillus luteus); the second was a crude inoculum composed by root fragments ofPinusseedlings colonized byS. luteussuspended in a sterile matrix soil-sand; the third inoculum was a mixture of two ectomycorrhizal fungiA. muscariaandS. luteusproduced underin vitroconditions in the potato-dextrose-agar medium. The results showed that the inoculum producedin vitrowas most effective to promote plant growth and ectomycorrhizal colonization of roots in both plant species. Also, the effects on seedlings were significantly higher with the increase of the doses. InP. patulathere were not significant effects on foliar P content with type and dose of inocula, whereas inP. maximinoithere were interactive effects of both factors. In this case, better results were obtained with the inoculum produced underin vitroconditions and with the highest dose.
Graphene Oxide as a Nanocarrier for Controlled Loading and Targeted Delivery of Typhonium giganteum Drugs
Authors: Gu Xiaohua , Cao Rui , Li Fu , Li Yan , Jia Hongge , Yu Hui
Published: September 2018

In this study, Typhonium giganteum containing dual-function nanofibers composed of poly(butylene carbonate), polylactic acid, and graphene oxide (PBC/PLA/GO) were successfully fabricated by electrospinning. The results from thermogravimetric analysis (TG), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) indicate that no interactions occurred between PBC and PLA. The nanofiber microstructure upon which graphene oxide was evenly distributed was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and showed good silk properties. The nanofibers can be used as a drug carrier since loaded Typhonium giganteum fibers possess excellent biocompatibility. Such nanofibers are effective in inhibiting the proliferation of A549 lung cancer cells, and thus they have potential for replacing chemotherapy-based treatments of lung cancer. In addition, the PBC/PLA/GO nanofibers degrade in physiological and natural environments, which is an important feature when engineering tissues and environment-friendly materials.
A Robust License Plate Detection and Character Recognition Algorithm Based on a Combined Feature Extraction Model and BPNN
Authors: Xie Fei , Zhang Ming , Zhao Jing , Yang Jiquan , Liu Yijian , Yuan Xinyue
Published: September 2018

The rapid development of the license plate recognition technology has made great progress for its widespread uses in intelligent transportation system (ITS). This paper has proposed a novel license plate detection and character recognition algorithm based on a combined feature extraction model and BPNN (Backpropagation Neural Network) which is adaptable in weak illumination and complicated backgrounds. Firstly, a preprocessing is first used to strengthen the contrast ratio of original car image. Secondly, the candidate regions of license plate are checked to verify the true plate, and the license plate image is located accurately by the integral projection method. Finally, a new feature extraction model is designed using three sets of features combination, training the feature vectors through BPNN to complete accurate recognition of the license plate characters. The experimental results with different license plate demonstrate effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed algorithm under various complex backgrounds. Compared with three traditional methods, the recognition accuracy of proposed algorithm has increased to 97.7% and the consuming time has decreased to 46.1ms.
The Maize Corngrass1 miRNA-Regulated Developmental Alterations Are Restored by a Bacterial ADP-Glucose Pyrophosphorylase in Transgenic Tobacco
Authors: Ligaba-Osena Ayalew , DiMarco Kay , Richard Tom L. , Hankoua Bertrand
Published: September 2018

Crop-based bioethanol has raised concerns about competition with food and feed supplies, and technologies for second- and third-generation biofuels are still under development. Alternative feedstocks could fill this gap if they can be converted to biofuels using current sugar- or starch-to-ethanol technologies. The aim of this study was to enhance carbohydrate accumulation in transgenic Nicotiana benthamiana by simultaneously expressing the maize Corngrass1 miRNA (Cg1) and E. coli ADP-glucose pyrophosphorylase (glgC), both of which have been reported to enhance carbohydrate accumulation in planta. Our findings revealed that expression of Cg1 alone increased shoot branching, delayed flowering, reduced flower organ size, and induced loss of fertility. These changes were fully restored by coexpressing Escherichia coli glgC. The transcript level of miRNA156 target SQUAMOSA promoter binding-like (SPL) transcription factors was suppressed severely in Cg1-expressing lines as compared to the wild type. Expression of glgC alone or in combination with Cg1 enhanced biomass yield and total sugar content per plant, suggesting the potential of these genes in improving economically important biofuel feedstocks. A possible mechanism of the Cg1 phenotype is discussed. However, a more detailed study including genome-wide transcriptome and metabolic analysis is needed to determine the underlying genetic elements and pathways regulating the observed developmental and metabolic changes.
Effect of TiO2 Nanoparticles on Physical and Mechanical Properties of Cement at Low Temperatures
Authors: Wang Li , Zhang Hongliang , Gao Yang
Published: September 2018

Low temperature negatively affects the engineering performance of cementitious materials and hinders the construction productivity. Previous studies have already demonstrated that TiO2 nanoparticles can accelerate cement hydration and enhance the strength development of cementitious materials at room temperature. However, the performance of cementitious materials containing TiO2 nanoparticles at low temperatures is still unknown. In this study, specimens were prepared through the replacement of cement with 1 wt.%, 2 wt.%, 3 wt.%, 4 wt.%, and 5 wt.% TiO2 nanoparticles and cured under temperatures of 0°C, 5°C, 10°C, and 20°C for specific ages. Physical and mechanical properties of the specimens were evaluated through the setting time test, compressive strength test, flexural strength test, hydration degree test, mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in order to examine the performance of cementitious materials with and without TiO2 nanoparticles at various curing temperatures. It was found that low temperature delayed the process of cement hydration while TiO2 nanoparticles had a positive effect on accelerating the cement hydration and reducing the setting time in terms of the results of the setting time test, hydration degree test, and strength test, and the specimen with the addition of 2 wt.% TiO2 nanoparticles showed the superior performance. Refined pore structure in the MIP tests, more mass loss of CH in TGA, intense peak appearance associated with the hydration products in XRD analysis, and denser microstructure in SEM demonstrated that the specimen with 2 wt.% TiO2 nanoparticles exhibited preferable physical and mechanical properties compared with that without TiO2 nanoparticles under various curing temperatures.
Optimizing Osteogenic Differentiation of Ovine Adipose-Derived Stem Cells by Osteogenic Induction Medium and FGFb, BMP2, or NELL1 In Vitro
Authors: Nielsen Emil Østergaard , Chen Li , Hansen Jonas Overgaard , Degn Matilda , Overgaard Søren , Ding Ming
Published: September 2018

Although adipose-derived stromal cells (ADSCs) have been a major focus as an alternative to autologous bone graft in orthopedic surgery, bone formation potential of ADSCs is not well known and cytokines as osteogenic inducers on ADSCs are being investigated. This study aimed at isolating ADSCs from ovine adipose tissue (AT) and optimizing osteogenic differentiation of ovine ADSCs (oADSC) by culture medium and growth factors. Four AT samples were harvested from two female ovine (Texel/Gotland breed), and oADSCs were isolated and analyzed by flow cytometry for surface markers CD29, CD44, CD31, and CD45. Osteogenic differentiation was made in vitro by seeding oADSCs in osteogenic induction medium (OIM) containing fibroblast growth factor basic (FGFb), bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2), or NEL-like molecule 1 (NELL1) in 4 different dosages (1, 10, 50, and 100 ng/ml, respectively). Basic medium (DMEM) was used as control. Analysis was made after 14 days by Alizarin red staining (ARS) and quantification. This study successfully harvested AT from ovine and verified isolated cells for minimal criteria for adipose stromal cells which suggests a feasible method for isolation of oADSCs. OIM showed significantly higher ARS to basic medium, and FGFb 10 ng/ml revealed significantly higher ARS to OIM alone after 14 days.
Predicting Lung Function Following Lobectomy: A New Method to Adjust for Inherent Selection Bias
Authors: Ontiveros Narda , Eapen-John David , Osorio Natasha , Song Juhee , Li Liang , Sheshadri Ajay , Tiang Xin , Ghosh Natasha , Vaporciyan Ara , Correa Arlene , Walsh Garrett , Grosu Horiana B. , Ost David E.
Published: September 2018

Background: Predictions that overestimate post-lobectomy lung function are more likely than underestimates to lead to lobectomy. Studies of post-lobectomy lung function have included only surgical patients, so overestimates are overrepresented. This selection bias has led to incorrect estimates of prediction bias, which has led to inaccurate threshold values for determining lobectomy eligibility. Objective: The objective of this study was to demonstrate and adjust for this selection bias in order to arrive at correct estimates of prediction bias, the 95% limits of agreement, and adjusted threshold values for determining when exercise testing is warranted. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of patients evaluated for lobectomy. We used multiple imputations to determine postoperative results for patients who did not have surgery because their predicted postoperative values were low. We combined these results with surgical patients to adjust for selection bias. We used the Bland-Altman method and the bivariate normal distribution to determine threshold values for surgical eligibility. Results: Lobectomy evaluation was performed in 114 patients; 79 had lobectomy while 35 were ineligible based on predicted values. Prediction bias using the Bland-Altman method changed significantly after controlling for selection bias. To achieve a postoperative FEV1 > 30% and DLCO ≥30%, a predicted FEV1 > 46% and DLCO ≥53% were required. Compared to current guidelines, using these thresholds would change management in 17% of cases. Conclusion: The impact of selection bias on estimates of prediction accuracy was significant but can be corrected. Threshold values for determining surgical eligibility should be reassessed.
Pharmacogenetics of Antipsychotic Drug Treatment: Update and Clinical Implications
Authors: Yoshida Kazunari , Müller Daniel J.
Published: September 2018

Numerous genetic variants have been shown to be associated with antipsychotic response and adverse effects of schizophrenia treatment. However, the clinical application of these findings is limited. The aim of this narrative review is to summarize the most recent publications and recommendations related to the genetics of antipsychotic treatment and shed light on the clinical utility of pharmacogenetics/pharmacogenomics (PGx). We reviewed the literature on PGx studies with antipsychotic drugs (i.e., antipsychotic response and adverse effects) and commonly used commercial PGx tools for clinical practice. Publications and reviews were included with emphasis on articles published between January 2015 and April 2018. We found 44 studies focusing on antipsychotic response and 45 studies on adverse effects (e.g., antipsychotic-induced weight gain, movement disorders, hormonal abnormality, and clozapine-induced agranulocytosis/granulocytopenia), albeit with mixed results. Overall, several gene variants related to antipsychotic response and adverse effects in the treatment of patients with schizophrenia have been reported, and several commercial pharmacogenomic tests have become available. However, further well-designed investigations and replication studies in large and well-characterized samples are needed to facilitate the application of PGx findings to clinical practice.
Ropivacaine Protects against Memory Impairment and Hippocampal Damage in a Rat Neurodegeneration Model
Authors: Chiu Kuan-Ming , Lin Tzu-Yu , Lee Ming-Yi , Lu Cheng-Wei , Wang Ming-Jiuh , Wang Su-Jane
Published: September 2018

Background: Ropivacaine, a long-acting amide local anesthetic agent, has been demonstrated to inhibit glutamatergic transmission. Glutamate neurotoxicity plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of brain disorders. The purpose of this study is to investigate the neuroprotective effect of ropivacaine against brain damage induced by kainic acid (KA), an analogue of glutamate. Methods: Rats were injected with ropivacaine (0.4 or 2 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) 30 min before KA treatment (15 mg/kg, intraperitoneal). KA-induced memory impairment was evaluated using the Morris water maze test. Extracellular hippocampal glutamate levels were assessed using high-performance liquid chromatography. Neuronal death was verified using Fluoro-Jade B and neutral red staining, and apoptosis was determined through terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL). Western blotting was conducted to assay the levels of activated (cleaved) caspase-3 and the phosphorylation of different mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). ­Results: Ropivacaine pretreatment effectively prevented KA-induced memory impairment. KA-induced elevations of ­glutamate release in rat hippocampi were inhibited by pretreatment with ropivacaine. Histopathological and TUNEL staining analyzes showed that ropivacaine inhibited KA-induced neuronal death and apoptosis in the hippocampal CA3 region. KA-induced caspase-3 activation and MAPKs phosphorylation in the hippocampus were also reduced by ropivacaine pretreatment. Conclusions: This study ­demonstrates that ropivacaine executes a protective action against KA-induced neuronal damage and apoptosis in vivo. Protective effects may be caused by glutamate level reduction, caspase-3 activation suppression, and MAPKs phosphorylation reduction. Our findings indicate that ropivacaine can benefit prevention or treatment of glutamate excitotoxicity-related neurodegenerative diseases.
Pim1 Overexpression Prevents Apoptosis in Cardiomyocytes After Exposure to Hypoxia and Oxidative Stress via Upregulating Cell Autophagy
Authors: Zhu Han-hua , Wang Xian-tao , Sun Yu-han , He Wen-kai , Liang Jia-bao , Mo Bing-hai , Li Lang
Published: September 2018

Background/Aims: Microvascular obstruction (MVO), an undesirable complication of percutaneous coronary intervention, is independently associated with adverse left ventricle remodeling and poor prognosis after acute myocardial infarction. Hypoxia and oxidative stress major roles in the pathophysiology of MVO. Pim1 serves an important protective role in the ischemic myocardium, but the underlying mechanisms remain poorly defined. Autophagy in early hypoxia or during moderate oxidative stress has been demonstrated to protect the myocardium. In this study, we investigated the association between the protective effect of Pim1 and autophagy after hypoxia and oxidative stress. Methods: Ventricular myocytes from neonatal rat heart (NRVMs) were isolated. NRVMs were exposed to hypoxia and H2O2. Rapamycin and 3-methyladenine (3-MA) were used as an activator and inhibitor of autophagy, respectively. pHBAd-Pim1 was transfected into NRVMs. We assessed cardiomyocyte apoptosis by Annexin V-FITC/PI flow cytometry. Autophagy was evaluated by mRFP-GFP-LC3 adenovirus infection by confocal microscopy. Western blotting was used to quantify apoptosis or autophagy protein (caspase-3, LC3, P62, AMPK, mTOR, ATG5) concentrations. Results: Autophagy and apoptosis in NRVMs significantly increased and peaked at 3 h and 6 h, respectively, after exposure to hypoxia and H2O2. The mTOR inhibitor rapamycin induced autophagy and decreased cardiomyocyte apoptosis, but the autophagy inhibitor 3-MA decreased autophagy and increased apoptosis at 3 h after exposure to hypoxia and H2O2. Pim1 levels in NRVMs increased at 3 h and decreased gradually after exposure to hypoxia and H2O2. Pim1 overexpression enhanced autophagy and decreased apoptosis. Pim1-induced promotion of autophagy is partly the result of activation of the AMPK/mTOR/ATG5 pathway after exposure to hypoxia and H2O2. Conclusion: Our results revealed that Pim1 overexpression prevented NRVMs from apoptosis via upregulating autophagy after exposure to hypoxia and oxidative stress, partly through activation of the AMPK/mTOR/ATG5 autophagy pathway.
Long Non-Coding RNA CYP4B1-PS1-001 Inhibits Proliferation and Fibrosis in Diabetic Nephropathy by Interacting with Nucleolin
Authors: Wang Suyu , Chen Xin , Wang Min , Yao Di , Chen Tianyu , Yan Qin , Lu Weiping
Published: September 2018

Background/Aims: Our previous studies demonstrated that a novel long non-coding RNA, CYP4B1-PS1-001, was significantly downregulated in early diabetic nephropathy in vivo and in vitro, and CYP4B1-PS1-001 overexpression could inhibit the proliferation and fibrosis of mouse mesangial cells (MMCs). However, the underlying mechanism of the CYP4B1-PS1-001-mediated regulation of proliferation and fibrosis in diabetic nephropathy remains undetermined. Methods: RNA-protein pull-down assay, RNA-binding protein immunoprecipitation, and mass spectrometry were used to investigate CYP4B1-PS1-001 interacted with the upregulated protein nucleolin (NCL). siRNA method was applied to knockdown NCL in MMCs, the interaction between CYP4B1-PS1-001 and NCL were determined by Western blot analysis and RT-qPCR. The effect of CYP4B1-PS1-001 in the regulation of NCL was detected by cycloheximide (CHX) and ubiquitination assays. Results: We found that CYP4B1-PS1-001 interacts with NCL, and CYP4B1-PS1-001 inhibits the proliferation and fibrosis of MMCs depending on interaction with NCL. Furthermore, degradation of CYP4B1-PS1-001-associated NCL was mediated by a ubiquitin proteasome-dependent pathway. Conclusion: Our study provides evidence that CYP4B1-PS1-001 regulates the ubiquitination and degradation of NCL and thereby plays a critical role in the proliferation and fibrosis of MMCs, indicating that CYP4B1-PS1-001 and NCL may be promising prognostic biomarkers and molecular targets for the treatment of diabetic nephropathy.
Exogenous H2S Inhibits Autophagy in Unilateral Ureteral Obstruction Mouse Renal Tubule Cells by Regulating the ROS-AMPK Signaling Pathway
Authors: Chen Qinghai , Yu Shiliang , Zhang Kuo , Zhang Zuobiao , Li Chao , Gao Bingpeng , Zhang Weihua , Wang Yan
Published: September 2018

Background/Aims: The induction of excessive autophagy by increased levels of oxidative stress is one of the main mechanisms underlying unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO)-induced vascular endothelial cell dysfunction. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has been shown to have an anti-oxidative effect, but its mode of action on excessive autophagy in vascular endothelial cells is unclear. Methods: Surgery was used to induce UUO in male C57BL/6 mice as an in vivo model. Human renal epithelial cells (HK-2) were treated with H2O2 as an in vitro model. NaHS was used as an exogenous H2S donor. Transmission electron microscopy was applied to observe the structure of renal autophagosomes. The expression of proteins related to autophagy and apoptosis was detected by western blot analysis in vivo and in vitro. Flow cytometry (DCFH-DA) was used to examine the levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). The terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay was used to detect cell apoptosis. Compound C was used to analyze the association of AMPK with autophagy. Results: Compared with the sham group, in which the ureter was exposed but not ligated, the cell apoptosis index, number of autophagosomes, protein expression of microtubule-associated protein 1 light-chain 3 (LC3)-II/I, beclin-1, and p-AMPK/AMPK were significantly increased in the UUO group. On the other hand, p62, cystathionine β-synthase, and cystathionine γ-lyase protein expression levels and H2S concentration were significantly decreased (p < 0.05). These alterations were ameliorated by the addition of NaHS (p < 0.05). Similar results were observed in vitro. By using the AMPK inhibitor compound C, it was indicated that AMPK was involved in ROS-induced autophagy. In addition, using tissue from patients with obstructive nephropathy, excessive autophagy was observed by an increased LC3-II/LC3-I ratio. Conclusion: NaHS-treatment may exert a protective effect on mouse kidney against UUO by suppressing the ROS-AMPK pathway. ROS-AMPK-mediated autophagy may represent a promising therapeutic target for obstructive nephropathy.