bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machine Learning Based Assembly of Fragments of Ancient Papyrus
Authors: Abitbol Roy , Shimshoni Ilan , Ben-Dov Jonathan
Published: July 2021

The task of assembling fragments in a puzzle-like manner into a composite picture plays a significant role in the field of archaeology as it supports researchers in their attempt to reconstruct historic artifacts. In this article, we propose a method for matching and assembling pairs of ancient papyrus fragments containing mostly unknown scriptures.

Papyrus paper is manufactured from papyrus plants and therefore portrays typical thread patterns resulting from the plant’s stems. The proposed algorithm is founded on the hypothesis that these thread patterns contain unique local attributes such that nearby fragments show similar patterns reflecting the continuations of the threads. We posit that these patterns can be exploited using image processing and machine learning techniques to identify matching fragments. The algorithm and system which we present support the quick and automated classification of matching pairs of papyrus fragments as well as the geometric alignment of the pairs against each other.

The algorithm consists of a series of steps and is based on deep-learning and machine learning methods. The first step is to deconstruct the problem of matching fragments into a smaller problem of finding thread continuation matches in local edge areas (squares) between pairs of fragments. This phase is solved using a convolutional neural network ingesting raw images of the edge areas and producing local matching scores. The result of this stage yields very high recall but low precision. Thus, we utilize these scores in order to conclude about the matching of entire fragments pairs by establishing an elaborate voting mechanism. We enhance this voting with geometric alignment techniques from which we extract additional spatial information. Eventually, we feed all the data collected from these steps into a Random Forest classifier in order to produce a higher order classifier capable of predicting whether a pair of fragments is a match.

Our algorithm was trained on a batch of fragments which was excavated from the Dead Sea caves and is dated circa the 1st century BCE. The algorithm shows excellent results on a validation set which is of a similar origin and conditions. We then tried to run the algorithm against a real-life set of fragments for which we have no prior knowledge or labeling of matches. This test batch is considered extremely challenging due to its poor condition and the small size of its fragments. Evidently, numerous researchers have tried seeking matches within this batch with very little success. Our algorithm performance on this batch was sub-optimal, returning a relatively large ratio of false positives. However, the algorithm was quite useful by eliminating 98% of the possible matches thus reducing the amount of work needed for manual inspection. Indeed, experts that reviewed the results have identified some positive matches as potentially true and referred them for further investigation.
Plasmodium vivax Latent Liver Stage Infection and Relapse: Biological Insights and New Experimental Tools
Authors: Schäfer Carola , Zanghi Gigliola , Vaughan Ashley M. , Kappe Stefan H.I.
Published: July 2021

Plasmodium vivax is the most widespread human malaria parasite, in part because it can form latent liver stages known as hypnozoites after transmission by female anopheline mosquitoes to human hosts. These persistent stages can activate weeks, months, or even years after the primary clinical infection; replicate; and initiate relapses of blood stage infection, which causes disease and recurring transmission. Eliminating hypnozoites is a substantial obstacle for malaria treatment and eradication since the hypnozoite reservoir is undetectable and unaffected by most antimalarial drugs. Importantly, in some parts of the globe where P. vivax malaria is endemic, as many as 90% of P. vivax blood stage infections are thought to be relapses rather than primary infections, rendering the hypnozoite a major driver of P. vivax epidemiology. Here, we review the biology of the hypnozoite and recent discoveries concerning this enigmatic parasite stage. We discuss treatment and prevention challenges, novel animal models to study hypnozoites and relapse, and hypotheses related to hypnozoite formation and activation.
Small-Molecule Inhibition of Viral Fusion Glycoproteins
Authors: Liu Han-Yuan , Yang Priscilla L.
Published: July 2021

Viral fusion glycoproteins catalyze membrane fusion during viral entry. Unlike most enzymes, however, they lack a conventional active site in which formation or scission of a specific covalent bond is catalyzed. Instead, they drive the membrane fusion reaction by cojoining highly regulated changes in conformation to membrane deformation. Despite the challenges in applying inhibitor design approaches to these proteins, recent advances in knowledge of the structures and mechanisms of viral fusogens have enabled the development of small-molecule inhibitors of both class I and class II viral fusion proteins. Here, we review well-validated inhibitors, including their discovery, targets, and mechanism(s) of action, while highlighting mechanistic similarities and differences. Together, these examples make a compelling case for small-molecule inhibitors as tools for probing the mechanisms of viral glycoprotein-mediated fusion and for viral glycoproteins as druggable targets.
Malaria and Helminth Coinfection among Children at the Douala Gyneco-Obstetric and Pediatric Hospital
Authors: Flavio Ashungafack , Cedric Yamssi , Nadia Noumedem Anangmo Christelle , Payne Vincent Khan
Published: July 2021

Background. Malaria and helminth infections are major public health issues in sub-Saharan Africa including Cameroon. This study was aimed at determining the prevalence and risk factors associated with malaria and helminth coinfection among children in the Douala Gyneco-Obstetric and Pediatric Hospital (HGOPED) in Douala, southwestern Cameroon. Material and Methods. The study was a hospital-based cross-sectional study that took place from January to July 2020 where 203 children were involved. Blood samples were collected from the children and thick blood smears were prepared and examined microscopically for malaria parasites. Stool samples were also collected and examined through the Kato-Katz technique for the identification of helminth eggs. Demographic and socioeconomic data and information of participant’s knowledge on the transmission of malaria and helminth infections were collected with the use of a well-structured questionnaire. Results. The overall prevalence of P. falciparum infection was 28.8%, while the overall prevalence of helminth was 9.36%. The only species of helminth identified were Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura with a prevalence of 4.26% and 2.95%, respectively, and mixed infection of both A. lumbricoides and T. trichiura with a prevalence of 1.47%. Coinfection of malaria and helminth was observed with a prevalence of 6.90%. Associations of malaria-helminth coinfection with age groups, parent’s educational level, type of latrine, and source of water factors were not statistically significant (

p
>
0.05

), while the prevalence of the coinfection with respect to parent’s occupation, presence of stagnant water around homes, washing of hands after using the toilet, and washing of fruits before eating was statistically significant (

p
<
0.05

). Conclusion. The findings suggest that helminths and malaria infections tend to occur in children. Not washing hands after using the toilet, not washing fruits before eating, the presence of stagnant water around homes, and parents’ occupation were found to be strongly associated with coinfection. Health education on the importance of better sewage disposal, draining of stagnant water around homes, and other sanitary practices is recommended.
Groundwater Single‐ and Multiobjective Optimization Using Harris Hawks and Multiobjective Billiards‐Inspired Algorithm
Authors: Gerey AbdolGhafour , Sarraf Amirpouya , Ahmadi Hassan
Published: July 2021

This is the first attempt to combine the Multiobjective Billiards‐Inspired Optimization Algorithm (MOBOA) with groundwater modelling to determine pumping rates within a well‐distributed range of Pareto options. In this study, in order to determine an optimum solution for groundwater drawdown, pumping rates were selected accompanied by three minimization objectives: minimizing shortage influenced by inability to supply, adjusted shortage index, and minimizing the degree of drawdown within predefined areas. To optimize hydraulic conductivity and specific yield parameters of a modular three‐dimensional finite‐difference (MODFLOW) groundwater model, the Harris Hawks optimization algorithm was used to minimize the sum of absolute deviation between observed and simulated water‐table levels. MOBOA was then utilized to optimize pumping rate variables for an Iranian arid to semiarid groundwater environment using these parameters. As the study results, when the maximum and minimum aquifer drawdown was specified in the range of −40 to +40 cm/year, the Pareto parameter sets produced satisfactory results. Overall, the “Simulation‐Optimization‐Modelling” protocol was able to generate a series of optimal solutions that were shown on a Pareto front. The study concluded to an optimum approach that provides policy makers in the Iranian water stressed zones with safe groundwater management alternatives.
[Retracted] Application of Fuzzy Decision Tree Algorithm Based on Mobile Computing in Sports Fitness Member Management
Authors: Gu Zhu , He Chaohu
Published: July 2021

After the reform and the opening, the economy of our country has developed rapidly, and the living conditions of the people have become better and better. As a result, they have a lot of time to pay attention to their health, which has promoted the rapid development of the sports and fitness industry in my country. In response to the increasing development of the sports and fitness sector of my country, the current state of the administration of members of the sports fitness industry does not keep pace with the development of the sports and fitness industry of my country. Based on this, this article uses a fuzzy decision tree algorithm to establish a decision tree based on the characteristics of customer data and loses existing customers. Analyzing the situation is of strategic significance for improving the competitiveness of the club. This article selects the 7 most commonly used data sets from the UCI data set as the initial experimental data for model training in three different formats and then uses the data of a specific club member to conduct experiments, using these data files as training samples to construct a vague analysis of the decision tree to overturn the customer to analyze the main factors of customer change. Experiments show that the fuzzy decision tree ID3 algorithm based on mobile computing has the highest accuracy in the Iris data set, reaching 97.8%, and the accuracy rate in the Wine data set is the smallest, only 65.2%. The mobile computing‐based fuzzy decision tree ID3 algorithm proposed in this paper obtained the highest correct rate (86.32%). This shows that, compared to traditional analysis methods, the blurred decision tree obtained for churn client analysis has the advantages of high classification accuracy and is understandable so that ideal classification accuracy can be achieved when the tree is small.
Spironolactone Ameliorates Senescence and Calcification by Modulating Autophagy in Rat Tendon‐Derived Stem Cells via the NF‐κB/MAPK Pathway
Authors: Xu Kai , Lin Changjian , Ma Diana , Chen Mengyao , Zhou Xing , He Yuzhe , Moqbel Safwat Adel Abdo , Ma Chiyuan , Wu Lidong
Published: July 2021

Tendinopathy is a disabling musculoskeletal disease, the pathological process of which is tightly associated with inflammation. Spironolactone (SP) has been widely used as a diuretic in clinical practice. Recently, SP has shown anti‐inflammatory features in several diseases. Tendon‐derived stem cells (TDSCs), a subset cell type from tendon tissue possessing clonogenic capacity, play a vital role in the pathological process of tendinopathy. In the present study, the protective effect of SP on TDSCs was demonstrated under simulated tendinopathy conditions both in vitro and in vivo. SP contributed to the maintenance of TDSC‐specific genes or proteins, while suppressing the interleukin‐ (IL‐) 1β‐induced overexpression of inflammation‐mediated factors. Additionally, IL‐1β‐induced cellular senescence in TDSCs was inhibited, while autophagy was enhanced, as determined via β‐galactosidase activity, western blot (WB), and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction analysis. With the aid of several emerging bioinformatics tools, the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway likely participated in the effect of SP, which was further validated through WB analysis and the use of MAPK agonist. Immunofluorescence analysis and an NF‐κB agonist were used to confirm the inhibitory effect of SP on IL‐1β‐induced activation of the NF‐κB pathway. X‐ray, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, hematoxylin and eosin staining, histological grades, and Masson staining showed that SP ameliorated tendinopathy in an Achilles tenotomy (AT) rat model in vivo. This work elucidates the protective role of SP on the pathological process of tendinopathy both in vitro and in vivo, indicating a potential therapeutic strategy for tendinopathy treatment.
Optimal PSA Threshold for Obtaining MRI-Fusion Biopsy in Biopsy-Naïve Patients
Authors: Wang Luke L. , Henslee Brandon L. , Sam Peter B. , LaGrange Chad A. , Boyle Shawna L.
Published: July 2021

Objective. The study investigates the prostate-specific antigen threshold for adding targeted, software-based, magnetic resonance imaging-ultrasound fusion biopsy during a standard 12-core biopsy in biopsy-naïve patients. It secondarily explores whether the targeted biopsy is necessary in setting of abnormal digital rectal examination. Methods. 260 patients with suspected localized prostate cancer with no prior biopsy underwent prostate magnetic resonance imaging and were found to have Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System score

≥
 

3 lesion(s). All 260 patients underwent standard 12-core biopsy and targeted biopsy during the same session. Clinically significant cancer was Gleason

≥

3 + 4. Results. Percentages of patients with prostate-specific antigen 0–1.99, 2–3.99, 4–4.99, 5–5.99, 6–9.99, and

≥

10 were 3.0%, 4.7%, 20.8%, 16.9%, 37.7%, and 16.9%, respectively. Cumulative frequency of clinically significant prostate cancer increased with the addition of targeted biopsy compared with standard biopsy alone across all prostate-specific antigen ranges. The difference in clinically significant cancer detection between targeted plus standard biopsy compared to standard biopsy alone becomes statistically significant at prostate-specific antigen >4.3 (

p
=
0.031

). At this threshold, combination biopsy detected 20 clinically significant prostate cancers, while standard detected 14 with 88% sensitivity and 20% specificity. Excluding targeted biopsy in setting of a positive digital rectal exam would save 12.3% magnetic resonance imaging and miss 1.8% clinically significant cancers in our cohort. Conclusions. In biopsy-naïve patients, at prostate-specific antigen >4.3, there is a significant increase in clinically significant prostate cancer detection when targeted biopsy is added to standard biopsy. Obtaining standard biopsy alone in patients with abnormal digital rectal examinations would miss 1.8% clinically significant cancers in our cohort.
Human Reliability Evaluation Based on Objective and Subjective Comprehensive Method Used for Ergonomic Interface Design
Authors: Liu Xin , Liu Zheng , Chen Peng-qing , Xie Zi-yu , Lai Bin-jun , Zhan Bo , Lao Jian-rou
Published: July 2021

In the process of machining, the operator’s incorrect operation using the control human-computer interaction interface may lead to a disastrous effect on the whole production chain such as task failure and system failure. The eight types of using errors about human-computer interaction interface system (misperception, memory lapse, carelessness, improper decision-making, improper operation, improper interface layout design, improper icon and text display design, and improper prompt feedback) are proposed based on the cognition from users. According to the eight types of using error, the human reliability and safety evaluation method is proposed. Considering the variability objective and uncertainty subjective factors in the human-machine interaction process, the human reliability evaluation method is proposed based on objective and subjective comprehensive weighting under ergonomic principles. Firstly, based on the investigation of relevant machine tool interface design, the comprehensive evaluation index system for man-machine reliability of complex interface design is established. Secondly, an objective and subjective comprehensive weight assignment method as the composition of Theilʼs entropy weight method combined with TOPSIS (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution) and improved AHP (analytic hierarchy process) method combined with fuzzy mathematics is proposed. It can not only effectively avoid the impact of excessive subjective factors on empowerment but also fully excavate the real information in the survey data and improve the objectivity and accuracy of the weight data of evaluation indicators at all levels. Thirdly, taking the interface design of CNC machine tool equipment for example, the best human-computer interaction interface design schemes are chosen according to the human reliability evaluation method based on objective and subjective comprehensive method calculated by Entropy-TOPSIS-AHP. Finally, based on eye movement experiments, the use efficiency and accuracy of the human-computer interaction interface design scheme chosen by the assessment method are better than the other design schemes or original one to verify the assessment method validity.
Piezoelectric Active Sensor Self‐Diagnosis for Electromechanical Impedance Monitoring Using K‐Means Clustering Analysis and Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Jiang Xie , Zhang Xin , Zhang Yuxiang
Published: July 2021

Piezoelectric sensor is a crucial part of electromechanical impedance technology whose state will directly affect the effectiveness and accuracy of structural health monitoring (SHM). So carrying out sensor self‐diagnosis is important and necessary. However, it is still difficult to distinguish sensor faults from structural damage as well as identify the cases and degrees of sensor faults. In the study, three characteristic indexes of admittance which have different indication intervals for damages of structure and sensors were selected from six indexes after comparison. To improve the discrimination effect, three principal components (PC) were extracted by principal component analysis (PCA). And the damage information represented by PCs was clustered by the K‐means algorithm to identify the cases of damage. Then, the degrees of sensor damages were classified with the artificial neural network (ANN). The results show that the K‐means clustering analysis based on admittance characteristics can accurately distinguish and identify the structural damage and four kinds of sensor damages, namely, pseudosoldering, debonding, wear, and breakage. The trained ANN model has a good recognition effect on the damage degrees and the accuracy of recognition reaches 100%. This study has a certain reference value for piezoelectric sensor self‐fault identification.
A Survey of Farmers’ Perceptions on Maize and Sorghum Storage Duration and Level of Pest Infestations in the Case of Two Selected Districts of Jimma Zone, Ethiopia
Authors: Abamecha Nezif
Published: July 2021

This survey study was conducted in two districts of the Jimma zone from April to July 2020 in the community of farmers who store maize and sorghum. While in Ethiopia, like in other east African countries, Maize and sorghum were an important postharvest chain for food security and income sources for small-scale rural farmers. Yet, there is a high postharvest loss of grains due to poor storage handling, storage practice, and pest infestations. And therefore, this survey study was aimed at assessing grain storage duration and level of pest infestations in selected districts of Jimma zone, Ethiopia. Two districts, Tiro Afeta and Sokoru, were selected based on the production potential of maize and sorghum grain crops. Then, three Kebeles were randomly taken from each district. Finally, two of the district’s 6 Kebeles with a total of 333 households storing maize and sorghum were interviewed, while limited farmers in Tiro Afeta and Sokoru districts store sorghum 4.9% and 60.7%, respectively, for more than one year, and the current finding indicates that as long storage time, there is a prospect to be mold infestation.
FEA of Effects Induced by Diurnal Temperature Variation on Downstream Surface of Xiaowan Arch Dam
Authors: Li Huanhuan , Fu Shaojun , Li Gang , Hu Guofei
Published: July 2021

In order to make clear the cracking reasons in arch dam of Xiaowan Hydropower Station during operation period, the approach to combine ANSYS with finite element program COCE‐3D is adopted. Firstly, the influence by element type and mesh size for the temperature field simulation result is analyzed. Subsequently, the three typical dam segments cut from Xiaowan arch dam are selected and the relevant finite element model is established; the effect of the measured diurnal air temperature on temperature field and temperature stress of arch dam is analyzed thoroughly. The results indicate that the temperature gradient in mass concrete becomes lower, whereas the affecting depth becomes deeper when the mesh size is too large. Therefore, it is advisable to use smaller size mesh to study the influence of the measured diurnal air temperature on the surface temperature distribution in mass concrete. The temperature of downstream zone in arch dam is significantly affected by air temperature; the changing laws of temperature field and temperature stress with the air temperature are basically consistent, which is sensitive to lower temperature. When the temperature sharply decreased, the temperature stress in the downstream zone is mainly in tensile stress state. The calculated results are basically consistent with the measured results, and the temperature stress induced by the day‐night temperature difference is the important reason for the horizontal cracks on the downstream surface. The submodel analysis method is an important alternative approach to study the changing laws of temperature field of arch dam. The research results not only provide an evidence for temperature control and crack prevention of Xiaowan arch dam but also provide a reference for temperature field simulation of similar projects.
Early Identifying and Monitoring Landslides in Guizhou Province with InSAR and Optical Remote Sensing
Authors: Li Genger , Hu Bo , Li Hui , Lu Feng
Published: July 2021

The topography and landforms of Guizhou Province in China are complicated, and the climatic conditions of heavy precipitation make landslide disasters in Guizhou Province occur frequently. To avoid damage to people’s lives and economic property caused by disasters, a reliable early landslide identification method and landslide monitoring method are urgently needed. Traditional landslide identification and monitoring methods have limitations. InSAR technology has unique advantages in large‐scale landslide identification and monitoring, but landslide identification results based on a single deformation value are one‐sided. Therefore, this paper uses Sentinel‐1A radar satellite image data and uses InSAR technology and optical remote sensing technology to carry out large‐scale surface deformation monitoring and identification of dangerous deformation areas in Liupanshui City, Tongren City, Guiyang City and other regions in Guizhou Province. The potential landslide identification methods based on the time series normalized difference vegetation index and landslide development environment elements are combined to investigate hidden landslide hazards in the study area. In this paper, time series InSAR technology is used to monitor three key landslides in Jichang Town, Yujiaying and Fana, to grasp the movement status of the landslide in time. The method of landslide identification and monitoring in this paper is of great significance for disaster prevention and management in Guizhou Province.
Ocimum sanctum Linn. Extract Improves Cognitive Deficits in Olfactory Bulbectomized Mice via the Enhancement of Central Cholinergic Systems and VEGF Expression
Authors: Le Xoan Thi , Nguyen Hien Thu , Nguyen Tai Van , Pham Hang Thi Nguyet , Nguyen Phuong Thi , Nguyen Khoi Minh , Nguyen Ba Van , Matsumoto Kinzo
Published: July 2021

This study aimed to clarify the antidementia effects of ethanolic extract of Ocimum sanctum Linn. (OS) and its underlying mechanisms using olfactory bulbectomized (OBX) mice. OBX mice were treated daily with OS or a reference drug, donepezil (DNP). Spatial and nonspatial working memory performance was measured using a modified Y maze test and a novel object recognition test, respectively. Brain tissues of the animals were subjected to histochemical and neurochemical analysis. OS treatment attenuated OBX-induced impairment of spatial and nonspatial working memories. OBX induced degeneration of septal cholinergic neurons, enlargement of the lateral ventricles, and suppression of hippocampal neurogenesis. OS and DNP treatment also depressed these histological damages. OS administration reduced ex vivo activity of acetylcholinesterase in the brain. OBX diminished the expression levels of genes coding vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and VEGF receptor type 2 (VEGFR2). Treatment with OS and DNP reversed OBX-induced decrease in VEGF gene and protein expression levels without affecting the expression of the VEGFR2 gene. These results demonstrate that the administration of OS can lessen the cognitive deficits and neurohistological damages of OBX and that these actions are, at least in part, mediated by the enhancement of central cholinergic systems and VEGF expression.
Bioremediation of Chromium by Microorganisms and Its Mechanisms Related to Functional Groups
Authors: Ayele Abate , Godeto Yakob Godebo
Published: July 2021

Heavy metals generated mainly through many anthropogenic processes, and some natural processes have been a great environmental challenge and continued to be the concern of many researchers and environmental scientists. This is mainly due to their highest toxicity even at a minimum concentration as they are nonbiodegradable and can persist in the aquatic and terrestrial environments for long periods. Chromium ions, especially hexavalent ions (Cr(VI)) generated through the different industrial process such as tanneries, metallurgical, petroleum, refractory, oil well drilling, electroplating, mining, textile, pulp and paper industries, are among toxic heavy metal ions, which pose toxic effects to human, plants, microorganisms, and aquatic lives. This review work is aimed at biosorption of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) through microbial biomass, mainly bacteria, fungi, and microalgae, factors influencing the biosorption of chromium by microorganisms and the mechanism involved in the remediation process and the functional groups participated in the uptake of toxic Cr(VI) from contaminated environments by biosorbents. The biosorption process is relatively more advantageous over conventional remediation technique as it is rapid, economical, requires minimal preparatory steps, efficient, needs no toxic chemicals, and allows regeneration of biosorbent at the end of the process. Also, the presence of multiple functional groups in microbial cell surfaces and more active binding sites allow easy uptake and binding of a greater number of toxic heavy metal ions from polluted samples. This could be useful in creating new insights into the development and advancement of future technologies for future research on the bioremediation of toxic heavy metals at the industrial scale.
Real-Time On-Orbit Estimation Method for Microthruster Thrust Based on High-Precision Orbit Determination
Authors: Yang Qinglin , Zhou Weijing , Chang Hao
Published: July 2021

In order to enable the micro-nanosatellites equipped with microthrusters to better complete various space applications, it is necessary to estimate the thrust performance of the microthrusters in real-time on orbit. This paper proposes a real-time on-orbit estimation method for microthrust based on high-precision orbit determination. By establishing a high-precision orbit dynamic model, the microthrust generated by a microthruster is modeled as a first-order Markov model, combined with a high-precision GNSS measuring device, and the satellite position is obtained through the cubature Kalman filter algorithm, velocity, and thrust real-time on-orbit estimates. For a thrust of 100 μN, the error accuracy of the on-orbit estimation is 3.98%; for a thrust of 500 μN, the error accuracy is 1.79%; for a thrust of 5 mN, the error accuracy can be reduced to 1.43%; and when the thrust is 500 μN, the accuracy of orbit determination is 16 cm. This method solves the problem that the traditional on-orbit thrust estimation method cannot perform real-time on-orbit estimation of microthrust on the order of hundreds of μN. The real-time on-orbit estimation of microthrust of micro-nanosatellites equipped with microthrusters of the order of hundreds of micronewtons or even several mN to tens of mN has certain reference value.
[Retracted] Analysis on Emissions and Performance of Ceramic Coated Diesel Engine Fueled with Novel Blends Using Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Kotteda Tarun Kumar , Chekuri Rama Bhadri Raju , Naga Raju B. , Kantheti Prasada Raju , Balakumar S.
Published: July 2021

The exhaustive nature of petroleum products triggers the obstacles of scarcity, economic imbalance, and environmental depletion. It is difficult to avoid their usage all of a sudden and switch to clean electric prime movers. Under all these circumstances, the researchers may initiate their investigations on alternative fuels for preeminent solution. The present study covers the performance and emissions of a single cylinder, four‐stroke, diesel engine fueled with Pongamia pinnata and Calophyllum inophyllum biodiesels added with n‐butanol additive at various proportions. In this investigation, the piston has been coated with ceramic material with a thickness of 200 µm topcoat. The blends have been tested at 1500 rpm speed and rated compression ratio of 17.5 : 1 at various operating loads. A comparative result analysis has been made on the engine parameters operated by diesel and showed that mechanical efficiency gradually increases with a percentile increment of n‐butanol in the blend. Moreover, emissions such as CO, CO2, NOx, and opacity were found to be reduced for the samples having high amount of n‐butanol, whereas HC emissions slightly increased. In addition, all the exhaust gases have been predicted by using second‐order polynomial equations generated and artificial Intelligence technique, and the comparative analysis has been made. It has been identified that ANN showed an average accuracy of prediction superior than regression analysis.
Uterine Sarcomas: Are There MRI Signs Predictive of Histopathological Diagnosis? A 50-Patient Case Series with Pathological Correlation
Authors: Hélage Siegfried , Vandeventer Stéphanie , Buy Jean-Noël , Bordonné Corinne , Just Pierre-Alexandre , Jacob Denis , Ghossain Michel , Rousset Pascal , Dion Élisabeth
Published: July 2021

Purpose. To make clear distinction between two radiological types of uterine sarcomas. Methods. 50 preoperative MRI were analyzed retrospectively, blinded to histopathology: 11 endometrial stromal sarcomas (ESS), 19 leiomyosarcomas (LMS), 18 carcinosarcomas/malignant mixed Mullerian tumors (MMMT), and 2 smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP). Results. According to their locations, two radiological types of sarcomas were identified: type 1: intracavitary (ESS, MMMT) and type 2: intramyometrial (LMS, STUMP). In both types, all tumors displayed intermediate T2-weighted signal (

p
<
0.001

) and high diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) b1000 signal (

p
<
0.001

). Dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) MRI showed intratumoral pathologic vessels (98%) and heterogeneity at venous phase (

p
<
0.001

). In the type 1 subgroup, all tumors displayed local spread: invasion of junctional zone on T2-weighted imaging (T2WI), irregular margins on DWI, and disruption of arcuate arteries subendometrial ring on DCE-MRI. In the type 2 subgroup, all tumors displayed irregular margins on T2WI, DWI, and DCE-MRI. Tumor heterogeneity was due to necrosis (

p
<
0.001

). Most commonly the tumor was single (61%). In both types, apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) lesser than or equal to 0.86 × 10−3 mm2/s (sensitivity = 73%, specificity = 92%) was suggestive of malignancy. Conclusion. It may be feasible to get close to histological type of a uterine sarcoma based on our topographic classification into two radiological subgroups, corresponding to two kinds of diagnostic difficulties. Advances in knowledge. MRI signs suggestive of histopathological malignancy are identifiable, considering the triad T2WI/DWI/DCE-MRI, easily for type 1 but less easily for type 2; the threshold value for ADC is 0.86 × 10−3 mm2/s.
Fourier Spectral Method for a Class of Nonlinear Schrödinger Models
Authors: Zhang Lei , Yang Weihua Ou , Liu Xuan , Qu Haidong
Published: July 2021

In this paper, Fourier spectral method combined with modified fourth order exponential time-differencing Runge-Kutta is proposed to solve the nonlinear Schrödinger equation with a source term. The Fourier spectral method is applied to approximate the spatial direction, and fourth order exponential time-differencing Runge-Kutta method is used to discrete temporal direction. The proof of the conservation law of the mass and the energy for the semidiscrete and full-discrete Fourier spectral scheme is given. The error of the semidiscrete Fourier spectral scheme is analyzed in the proper Sobolev space. Finally, several numerical examples are presented to support our analysis.
On Estimation of Three-Component Mixture of Distributions via Bayesian and Classical Approaches
Authors: Tahir Muhammad , Almanjahie Ibrahim M. , Abid Muhammad , Ahmad Ishfaq
Published: July 2021

In this study, we model a heterogeneous population assuming the three-component mixture of the Pareto distributions assuming type I censored data. In particular, we study some statistical properties (such as various entropies, different inequality indices, and order statistics) of the three-component mixture distribution. The ML estimation and the Bayesian estimation of the mixture parameters have been performed in this study. For the ML estimation, we used the Newton Raphson method. To derive the posterior distributions, different noninformative priors are assumed to derive the Bayes estimators. Furthermore, we also discussed the Bayesian predictive intervals. We presented a detailed simulation study to compare the ML estimates and Bayes estimates. Moreover, we evaluated the performance of different estimates assuming various sample sizes, mixing weights and test termination times (a fixed point of time after which all other tests are dismissed). The real-life data application is also a part of this study.
Statistics and Calculation of Entropy of Dominating David Derived Networks
Authors: Zhao Xuemei , Ali Haidar , Ali Bilal , Binyamin Muhammad Ahsan , Liu Jia-Bao , Raza Ali
Published: July 2021

A graph’s entropy is a functional one, based on both the graph itself and the distribution of probability on its vertex set. In the theory of information, graph entropy has its origins. Dominating David derived networks have a variety of important applications in medication store, hardware, and system administration. In this study, we discuss dominating David derived network of type 1, 2, and 3 written as D1(n), D2(n), and D3(n), respectively of order n. We also compute some degree‐based entropies such as Randić, ABC, and GA entropy of D1(n), D2(n), and D3(n).
“Unconventionally Shaped” Antenna Design for UHF RFID Tags
Authors: Wang Silong , Liu Yulong , Ye Terry Tao
Published: July 2021

UHF RFID tags need to be attached or embedded into various objects. Unlike traditional free-standing antennas, UHF antenna shapes and form factors may vary significantly. There have been no systematic methods that facilitate the design practice of antenna with unconventional shapes. In this paper, using the geometries of 26 English letters (in capital) as examples, we explore the general methodology of shape-specific antenna design. More specifically, we show that 26 letter geometries can be categorized into 9 groups, and the antennas in each group can be divided and conquered into standard baseline geometries. Through prototypes and measurements, we demonstrate that each letter-shaped antenna, although exhibiting different gains and radiations, can achieve satisfactory performance, as compared to standard UHF dipole antennas. Specifically, letters “M” and “J” achieve the longest reading range of more than 20 meters with a good radiation pattern, which is comparable or even better than many commercial UHF RFID tags.
Characterizing the Digital Culture of Prospective Primary School Teachers
Authors: Ou-sekou Youssef , kaddari Fatiha , Zaid Abdelkarim
Published: July 2021

This article aims at characterizing the digital culture of prospective Moroccan primary school teachers during their training. The study was conducted as a survey on a sample of prospective primary school teachers from Morocco. A descriptive frequency analysis was performed using SPSS. The results show that this digital culture is rooted more considerably in their personal use of different technological tools or resources. The article analyzes the resources of digital culture through the objectives of digital practices of prospective teachers and the motivations underlying their choice of a specific digital tool and practice. The digital practices of prospective teachers are marked by frequent use of social networks and a low tendency to make use of institutional platforms and their trainers’ blogs. The analysis highlights the nature of the environments, services, and digital resources manipulated by prospective teachers during their training. It also sheds light on the role of this digital culture in the content preparation activities of these potential teachers, as well as the resources produced by them and by their trainers. The preparation of pedagogical content often makes use of social network tools, while educational tools are in average use. Finally, the results show that these exchanges are dominated by WhatsApp, Google Drive, and e-mail; however, the use of the WhatsApp application is more prevalent when interacting with trainers.
Nursing Observation on the Clinical Efficacy and Toxicity of Lobaplatin Compared with Cisplatin in the Treatment of Locally Advanced Hypopharyngeal Carcinoma Based on Intelligent CT Imaging
Authors: Li Yunyan , Yang Guangrun , Li Mengmeng , Tong Xu
Published: July 2021

With the acceleration of people’s life rhythm, the incidence of hypopharyngeal cancer has generally increased. This study mainly explores the clinical efficacy and toxicity of lobaplatin compared with cisplatin in the treatment of locally advanced hypopharyngeal carcinoma based on intelligent CT imaging. Group A received lobaplatin combined with docetaxel induction chemotherapy for 2 cycles after cisplatin combined with intensity-modulated radiotherapy. Lobaplatin was added to the patient, then, 200 ml of 5% glucose was added, and the patient was injected intravenously for 1.8 hours. After 2 cycles of induction chemotherapy, simultaneous lobaplatin chemotherapy was performed every week for 5 weeks (10 mg/week), and the efficacy was evaluated after 4 consecutive courses of treatment. Group B received cisplatin combined with docetaxel induction chemotherapy after 2 cycles of cisplatin combined with intensity-modulated radiotherapy. Group C was the control group and was not treated with cisplatin or docetaxel. Stomach protection treatment was given in time throughout the treatment process. All patients underwent normal CT (NCCT) and enhanced CT (CECT) examinations before treatment. We extracted 5 mm plain scan CTQNCCT and enhanced CT (CECT) digital DICOM images from the PACS system for omics feature selection. Toxic and side effects are rated in different degrees according to the evaluation criteria of the National Cancer Institute (NCD) common adverse events. Blood routine and liver and kidney function tests were checked every week, and the medication was stopped immediately if there is a serious reaction. In addition, in vitro cell culture was set up to test the inhibitory effect of cisplatin and lobaplatin on the proliferation of cancer cells. The incidence of digestive tract reaction was 13.0% in the A plan group and 58.3% in the B plan group. The A group was lower than the B group, and the difference was statistically significant (

P
=
0.001

 < 0.05). Compared with cisplatin, lobaplatin has a milder gastrointestinal reaction, and there is no common hepatic and renal toxicity of cisplatin. This study is helpful to provide guidance for the clinical efficacy of locally advanced hypopharyngeal cancer treatment.
Simultaneous Determination of 25 Ginsenosides by UPLC-HRMS via Quantitative Analysis of Multicomponents by Single Marker
Authors: Jia Xiujuan , Hu Chenxing , Zhu Xuepeng , Yuan Ye , Zhou Yifa
Published: July 2021

A method using UPLC-HRMS has been developed for a rapid, simultaneous qualitative and quantitative analysis of twenty-five ginsenosides. Chromatographic separation was achieved on a C18 analytical column with an elution gradient comprising 0.1% aqueous formate/acetonitrile as the mobile phase. HRMS detection acquired full mass data for quantification and fullms-ddms2 (i.e., data-dependent scan mode) yielded product ion spectra for identification. Furthermore, quantitative analysis of multiginsenosides by single marker (QAMS) was developed and validated using a relative correction factor. Under optimal conditions, we could simultaneously separate eight groups of isomers of the 25 ginsenosides. Good linearity was observed over the validated concentration range for each analyte (r2 > 0.9924), showing excellent sensitivity (LODs, 0.003–0.349 ng/mL) and lower limit quantification (LOQs, 0.015–1.163 ng/mL). The LC-MS external standard method (ESM) and QAMS were compared and successfully applied to analyze the ginsenoside content from Panax ginseng roots. Overall, our UPLC-HRMS/QAMS approach provides high precision, stability, and reproducibility and can be used for high-throughput analysis of complex ginsenosides and quantitative analysis of multiple components and quality control of traditional Chinese medicines (TCM).
AP-2α–Mediated Activation of E2F and EZH2 Drives Melanoma Metastasis
Authors: White Jeffrey R. , Thompson Dakota T. , Koch Kelsey E. , Kiriazov Boris S. , Beck Anna C. , van der Heide Dana M. , Grimm Benjamin G. , Kulak Mikhail V. , Weigel Ronald J.
Published: July 2021

In melanoma metastasis, the role of the AP-2α transcription factor, which is encoded by TFAP2A, is controversial as some findings have suggested tumor suppressor activity while other studies have shown high TFAP2A expression in node-positive melanoma associated with poor prognosis. Here we demonstrate that AP-2α facilitates melanoma metastasis through transcriptional activation of genes within the E2F pathway including EZH2. A BioID screen found that AP-2α interacts with members of the nucleosome remodeling and deacetylase (NuRD) complex. Loss of AP-2α removed activating chromatin marks in the promoters of EZH2 and other E2F target genes through activation of the NuRD repression complex. In melanoma cells, treatment with tazemetostat, an FDA-approved and highly specific EZH2 inhibitor, substantially reduced anchorage-independent colony formation and demonstrated heritable antimetastatic effects, which were dependent on AP-2α. Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis of a metastatic melanoma mouse model revealed hyperexpansion of Tfap2aHigh/E2F-activated cell populations in transformed melanoma relative to progenitor melanocyte stem cells. These findings demonstrate that melanoma metastasis is driven by the AP-2α/EZH2 pathway and suggest that AP-2α expression can be used as a biomarker to predict responsiveness to EZH2 inhibitors for the treatment of advanced melanomas.

Significance:

AP-2α drives melanoma metastasis by upregulating E2F pathway genes including EZH2 through inhibition of the NuRD repression complex, serving as a biomarker to predict responsiveness to EZH2 inhibitors.
Imaging Early Response to Checkpoint Inhibition
Authors: Cullen Quinlan , Keshari Kayvan R.
Published: July 2021

Immune checkpoint blockade therapy has achieved remarkable clinical success, but these promising results have been limited to a minority of patients. Thus far, efforts to establish a predictive biomarker or accurately assess early response to treatment have been fruitless. In this issue of Cancer Research, Saida and colleagues utilized advanced molecular imaging modalities to assess changes in the tumor microenvironment that correlate with tumor response to immune checkpoint blockade therapy in vivo. This study suggests a combination of imaging biomarkers with potential for delineating clinical response to immunotherapy.

See related article by Saida et al., p. 3693
Network Analysis Reveals Synergistic Genetic Dependencies for Rational Combination Therapy in Philadelphia Chromosome–Like Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Ding Yang-Yang , Kim Hannah , Madden Kellyn , Loftus Joseph P. , Chen Gregory M. , Allen David Hottman , Zhang Ruitao , Xu Jason , Chen Chia-Hui , Hu Yuxuan , Tasian Sarah K. , Tan Kai
Published: July 2021

Purpose:

Systems biology approaches can identify critical targets in complex cancer signaling networks to inform new therapy combinations that may overcome conventional treatment resistance.

Experimental Design:

We performed integrated analysis of 1,046 childhood B-ALL cases and developed a data-driven network controllability-based approach to identify synergistic key regulator targets in Philadelphia chromosome–like B-acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph-like B-ALL), a common high-risk leukemia subtype associated with hyperactive signal transduction and chemoresistance.

Results:

We identified 14 dysregulated network nodes in Ph-like ALL involved in aberrant JAK/STAT, Ras/MAPK, and apoptosis pathways and other critical processes. Genetic cotargeting of the synergistic key regulator pair STAT5B and BCL2-associated athanogene 1 (BAG1) significantly reduced leukemia cell viability in vitro. Pharmacologic inhibition with dual small molecule inhibitor therapy targeting this pair of key nodes further demonstrated enhanced antileukemia efficacy of combining the BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax with the tyrosine kinase inhibitors ruxolitinib or dasatinib in vitro in human Ph-like ALL cell lines and in vivo in multiple childhood Ph-like ALL patient-derived xenograft models. Consistent with network controllability theory, co-inhibitor treatment also shifted the transcriptomic state of Ph-like ALL cells to become less like kinase-activated BCR-ABL1–rearranged (Ph+) B-ALL and more similar to prognostically favorable childhood B-ALL subtypes.

Conclusions:

Our study represents a powerful conceptual framework for combinatorial drug discovery based on systematic interrogation of synergistic vulnerability pathways with pharmacologic inhibitor validation in preclinical human leukemia models.