bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Defects at the Posttranscriptional Level Account for the Low TCRζ Chain Expression Detected in Gastric Cancer Independently of Caspase-3 Activity
Authors: Aguinaga-Barrilero Ana , Castro-Sánchez Patricia , Juárez Ignacio , Gutiérrez-Calvo Alberto , Rodríguez-Pérez Noelia , Lopez Adela , Gómez Remedios , Martin-Villa José M.
Published: November 2020

Background. Reduced TCRζ chain surface has been reported in T cells from patients with different inflammatory conditions and cancer. However, the causes of this diminished expression in cancer remain elusive. Methods. T cell-enriched populations of blood or tissue (tumoral and nontumoral) origin from 44 patients with gastric adenocarcinoma and 33 healthy subjects were obtained. Samples were subjected to cytofluorimetry, Western blot analysis, TCRζ cDNA sequencing experiments, measurement of TCRζ mRNA levels, and caspase-3 activity assays. Results. Cytofluorimetry revealed a decreased TCRζ expression in T cells of patients, assessed either as percentage of cells expressing this chain (blood: control subjects

99.8
±
0.1
%

, patients

98.8
±
1.1
%

P
<
0.001

; tissue: control subjects

96.7
±
0.9
%

, patients tumoral tissue

67.9
±
27.0
%

, patients nontumoral tissue

82.8
±
12.6
%

,

P
=
0.019

) or mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) value (blood: control subjects

102.2
±
26.0

; patients

58.0
±
12.3

,

P
=
0.001

; tissue: control subjects

99.4
±
21.4

; patients tumoral tissue

41.6
±
21.4

; patients nontumoral tissue

62.3
±
16.6

,

P
=
0.001

). Other chains pertaining to the TCR-CD3 complex (CD3ε) showed no significant differences (MFI values). Subsequent TCRζ cDNA sequencing experiments or measurements of TCRζ mRNA levels disclosed no differences between patients and control subjects. Evaluation of caspase-3 activity showed higher levels in T cell extracts of patients, and this activity could be decreased by 70% with the use of the inhibitor Ac-DEVD-FMK, although CD3ζ expression levels did not recover. Conclusions. These results further place the defect responsible for the low TCRζ expression in cancer at the posttranscriptional level and suggests contrary to what has been proposed in other pathologies that elevated caspase-3 activity is not the causative agent.
OCT-Precoding Combined with LDPC-Coding Scheme for 128 QAM MB-OFDM UWBoF System
Authors: Xiang Changqing , Yang Xi , Zhu Xiaojun , He Qiong , Zhang Renmin , Xiang Zhiyang
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we proposed a coding scheme based on orthogonal cyclic transpose (OCT) precoding combined with low-density parity check (LDPC) code to improve the transmission performance of 128-quadrature amplitude modulation multiband orthogonal-frequency-division-multiplexing ultrawide band over fiber (128 QAM MB-OFDM UWBoF) system. The proposed scheme could not only improve the performance of the system but also average the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of subcarriers and reduce the difference among subchannels in practical application. The simulation results showed that compared with the traditional scheme, the receiver performance of this scheme was improved by 2.7 dB when the LDPC-coding rate was 87.5% through 70 km standard single mode fiber (SSMF) transmission and the bit error rate (BER) was 3.8 × 10−3. Besides, the constellation distribution was more convergent and uniform.
Research on Dynamic Storage Location Assignment of Picker-to-Parts Picking Systems under Traversing Routing Method
Authors: Xu Xiangbin , Ren Chenhao
Published: November 2020

Considering time-varying demand of online retail industry, the traditional static storage location assignment is converted into a multistage storage location assignment process based on the idea of gradual and small-step-forward optimization, which can respond to rapid changes in demand by adjusting the storage location of SKUs in the warehouse in real time and dynamically. First, the study formulates the framework dynamic storage location assignment. Then, the adjustment gain model of dynamic storage location assignment is built, and a genetic algorithm is designed to find the final adjustment solution. Finally, the computer program is developed to simulate the whole process. Simulation and data analysis results show that dynamic storage location assignment can effectively improve picking efficiency when the average order size is small and large demand correlation strength. Dynamic storage location assignment simplifies the warehouse operation process by combining the picking operation and storage location assignment into one without changing the picker’s current walking route, which can offer some theoretical guidance for online retail enterprises implementing dynamic storage location assignment.
Cord Blood Levels of Angiopoietin‐Like 7 (ANGPTL7) in Preterm Infants
Authors: Xia Xin , Ren Zhuxiao , Yan Longli , Zheng Xuaner , Yang Haoming , Kang Memnmeng , Yan Huiheng , Zhong Zhicheng , Xu Fang , Miao Jiayu , Wang Jianlan , Li Yongsheng , Wei Wei , Yang Jie
Published: November 2020

Objective. ANGPTL7 is a member of the angiogenin‐like protein family. Compared to other members, ANGPTL7 is the least known. Recent studies have explored the relationship between ANGPTL7 and multiple pathological processes and diseases. However, there is no research about ANGPTL7 in neonates. This study was designed to investigate the concentration of ANGPTL7 in cord blood of preterm infants. Method. Singleton infants born in November 2017 to June 2019 in the study hospital were enrolled in the study. Maternal and neonatal clinical data were collected. ANGPTL7 levels in cord blood and serum on the third day after birth were measured by an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Result. A total of 182 infants were enrolled in this study. Patients were categorized into two groups by gestational age (102 preterm, 80 full‐term). ANGPTL7 levels in preterm infants were significantly higher than that in full‐term babies (t = 15.4, P < 0.001). In multiple line regression analysis, ANGPTL7 levels independently correlated with gestational age (β = −0.556, P < 0.001). There is also no correlation between preterm outcomes and ANGPTL7 levels. Cord blood levels of ANGPTL7 were significantly higher than those in serum on the third day after birth (t = 13.88, P < 0.001). Conclusion. Cord blood ANGPTL7 levels are higher in preterm infants than full‐term babies. The levels are independently influenced by gestational ages and attenuated significantly after birth. The underlying mechanism needs to be further studied.
The Prebiotic‐Like Effects of Coprinus comatus Polysaccharides on Gut Microbiota in Normal Mice and Those with Acute Alcoholic Liver Injury: A Comparative Study
Authors: Li Weidong , Wang Yongxia , Sun Min , Liang Yuting , Cai Xiaoqing , Qi Dongmei , Zhang Yongqing , Han Chunchao
Published: November 2020

This study aims to investigate the prebiotic‐like effects of Coprinus comatus polysaccharides (CCP) on gut microbiota. Mice were divided into four groups: normal group (NG), alcohol group (AG), polysaccharides group (PG), and alcohol + polysaccharides group (APG). The gut microbiota structure of feces was analyzed by determining the V3‐V4 region sequence in 16S rDNA. The results showed CCP could increase the diversity of gut microbiota. Compared with NG, PG had a significantly higher relative abundance of Firmicutes and Lactobacillaceae and a lower abundance of Rikenellaceae. These changes in gut microbiota result in positive effects on gut due to a series of prebiotic‐like effects of CCP. At the same time, CCP could improve some adverse changes in gut microbiota caused by acute alcohol intake, such as the increased proportion of Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Muribaculaceae, and Lachnospiraceae and the decreased proportion of Rikenellaceae. In conclusion, the CCP has certain prebiotic effects not only on normal mice but also on mice with acute alcoholic liver injury.
Do Teachers Treat Their Students Differently? An Observational Study on Teacher-Student Interactions as a Function of Teacher Expectations and Student Achievement
Authors: Denessen Eddie , Keller Annelies , van den Bergh Linda , van den Broek Paul
Published: November 2020

Through classroom interactions, teachers provide their students with different opportunities to learn. Some kinds of interactions elicit more learning activities than others. With differential treatment of students, teachers may exacerbate or reduce achievement differences in their classroom. In addition, differential interactions may contribute to teacher expectation effects, with teachers treating their high-expectation students more favourably. This study investigated how differential teacher-student interactions are related to students’ mathematics achievement and teachers’ expectations. In eight fourth-grade classrooms in the Netherlands, interactions between teachers and students (N = 152) were observed in maths lessons. Data regarding teachers’ expectations about their students and mathematics achievement tests scores were collected. Analyses indicated that there were relations between teacher expectations and teachers’ classroom interactions. Teachers gave more direct turns and more directive feedback to their low-expectation students, who were also the students who performed low in maths. After controlling for actual achievement, it appeared that students for whom the expectations were lower than could be expected based on their performance received more direct turns and directive task-related feedback. These results point to the existence of teacher expectation effects.
Berberine Inhibits the Expression of SCT through miR‐214‐3p Stimulation in Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Zhu Congyuan , Li Jianping , Hua Yuming , Wang Jingli , Wang Ke , Sun Jingqiu
Published: November 2020

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the suppressive abilities of berberine (BBR) on MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 cells and confirm its underlying mechanisms on miR‐214‐3p. We first built a panel of 18 miRNAs and 9 lncRNAs that were reported to participate in the mechanism of breast cancer. The RT‐qPCR results suggested that BBR illustrated a dosage‐dependent pattern in the stimulation to miR‐214‐3p in both MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 cells. Then, we performed gain‐and‐lose function tests to validate the role of miR‐214‐3p contributing to the anticancer effects of BBR. Both BBR and miR‐214‐3p mimic reduced the cell viability, repressed migration and invasion capacities, increased rates of total apoptotic cells and ratio of Bax/Bcl‐2, and increased the percentage of G2/M cells of MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 cells by colony formation and CKK8 assay, scratch wound healing and gelatin‐based 3D conformation assay, transwell invasion assay, and cell cycle analysis, respectively. However, miR‐214‐3p inhibitor counteracted all these effects of BBR. Based on the bioinformatics analysis and dual‐luciferase reporter test, we identified binding sites between SCT and miR‐214‐3p. We further confirmed that BBR massively and dose‐dependently reduced the mRNA expression and protein levels of SCT in both MCF‐7 and MDA‐231 cells. We testified that both miR‐214‐3p mimic and BBR could decrease the mRNA expression and protein levels of SCT, while miR‐214‐3p inhibitor weakened these reductions. In conclusion, BBR suppressed MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cells by upregulating miR‐214‐3p and increasing its inhibition to SCT.
An Improved Genetic-Shuffled Frog-Leaping Algorithm for Permutation Flowshop Scheduling
Authors: Wu Peiliang , Yang Qingyu , Chen Wenbai , Mao Bingyi , Yu Hongnian
Published: November 2020

Due to the NP-hard nature, the permutation flowshop scheduling problem (PFSSP) is a fundamental issue for Industry 4.0, especially under higher productivity, efficiency, and self-managing systems. This paper proposes an improved genetic-shuffled frog-leaping algorithm (IGSFLA) to solve the permutation flowshop scheduling problem. In the proposed IGSFLA, the optimal initial frog (individual) in the initialized group is generated according to the heuristic optimal-insert method with fitness constrain. The crossover mechanism is applied to both the subgroup and the global group to avoid the local optimal solutions and accelerate the evolution. To evolve the frogs with the same optimal fitness more outstanding, the disturbance mechanism is applied to obtain the optimal frog of the whole group at the initialization step and the optimal frog of the subgroup at the searching step. The mathematical model of PFSSP is established with the minimum production cycle (makespan) as the objective function, the fitness of frog is given, and the IGSFLA-based PFSSP is proposed. Experimental results have been given and analyzed, showing that IGSFLA not only provides the optimal scheduling performance but also converges effectively.
Predicting Factors for Rapid Progressive Chronic Kidney Disease in Primary Glomerular Disease Patients with Moderate‐to‐Severe Stage
Authors: Tan Jun , Zhang Hao , Zheng Wei , Yang Shikun , Yang Minghui , Liu Yan
Published: November 2020

Objective. To investigate the predictive factors associated with rapid progressive chronic kidney disease (CKD) in patients with primary glomerular disease (PGD). Methods. Baseline data, clinical biochemistry, laboratory data, and imaging data were collected from 112 PGD patients in CKD stages 3 and 4 who were hospitalized at the Third Xiangya Hospital. Patients were divided into rapid progression group (Group R) and no rapid progression group (NR) according to the definition of rapid progression of CKD. Results. The age, systolic blood pressure (SBP), serum β2‐microglobulin (sβ2‐MG), urinary α1‐microglobulin (uα1‐MG), and cardiothoracic ratio (CTR) of the R group were significantly higher than the NR group. However, the size of the kidney, high‐dense lipoprotein (HDL), hemoglobin (Hb), and hematocrit of the R group were significantly lower than the NR group (P < 0.05). Binary logistic regression analysis showed that baseline CTR, SBP, size of the kidney, and HDL were independent risk factors for rapid progression of PGD. At the end of follow‐up, CTR and SBP of group R were higher than the NR group, and the size of the kidney and HDL of group R were lower than the NR group. Conclusion. Increased baseline CTR and SBP and decreased baseline HDL and renal volume could be the predictors of rapid progression in patients of PGD at the CKD stages 3 and 4.
Pathway Maps of Orphan and Complex Diseases Using an Integrative Computational Approach
Authors: Ghedira Kais , Kouidhi Soumaya , Hamdi Yosr , Othman Houcemeddine , Kechaou Sonia , Znaidi Sadri , Haïtham Sghaier , Rabhi Imen
Published: November 2020

Orphan diseases (ODs) are progressive genetic disorders, which affect a small number of people. The principal fundamental aspects related to these diseases include insufficient knowledge of mechanisms involved in the physiopathology necessary to access correct diagnosis and to develop appropriate healthcare. Unlike ODs, complex diseases (CDs) have been widely studied due to their high incidence and prevalence allowing to understand the underlying mechanisms controlling their physiopathology. Few studies have focused on the relationship between ODs and CDs to identify potential shared pathways and related molecular mechanisms which would allow improving disease diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. We have performed a computational approach to studying CDs and ODs relationships through (1) connecting diseases to genes based on genes‐diseases associations from public databases, (2) connecting ODs and CDs through binary associations based on common associated genes, and (3) linking ODs and CDs to common enriched pathways. Among the most shared significant pathways between ODs and CDs, we found pathways in cancer, p53 signaling, mismatch repair, mTOR signaling, B cell receptor signaling, and apoptosis pathways. Our findings represent a reliable resource that will contribute to identify the relationships between drugs and disease‐pathway networks, enabling to optimise patient diagnosis and disease treatment.
Growing Evidence of Exosomal MicroRNA‐Related Metastasis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Sun Wenbing , Fu Shuqi , Wu Size , Tu Rong
Published: November 2020

Metastasis is the prominent cause of death in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC); however, the mechanisms behind HCC metastasis are not well understood. MicroRNAs (miRs) can regulate gene expression and affect HCC metastasis. Exosomes can transport miRs and other cargoes to and from different cells, thus being associated with tumour‐distant metastasis. Exosomal miRs involve different processes of HCC metastasis through their functional effects, such as their induction of epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, and distant niche. In this review, data from the literature were analysed and summarised, with a focus on the evidence extraction of exosomal miRs in HCC metastasis with the purpose of increasing the understanding of the mechanisms behind HCC metastasis and acquiring implications for application.
Antibacterial Activity of Sodium Hypochlorite Gel versus Different Types of Root Canal Medicaments Using Agar Diffusion Test: An In Vitro Comparative Study
Authors: El Sayed Mohamed , Ghanerad Nikta , Rahimi Fatemeh , Shabanpoor Mahin , Shabanpour Zeinab
Published: November 2020

Aim. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial effect of sodium hypochlorite gel and four types of intracanal medicaments. Materials and Methods. The agar diffusion method was used to evaluate the antibacterial effect of five medicaments (sodium hypochlorite gel (NaOCl), chlorhexidine gel (CHX), calcium hydroxide paste (CH), Ledermix, and Diapex plus) against Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis), Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), and Escherichia coli (E. coli). The zone of inhibition around each medicament was measured in millimeters, after 48 hours of incubation at 37°C. The antibacterial effects of medicaments against each microbial strain and the sensitivity of microorganisms towards each medicament were compared using the one-way ANOVA and Games–Howell post hoc tests. The level of significance was set to

p
<
0.05

. Results. All medicaments showed variable inhibition zones for all bacterial strains except Diapex Plus which showed no antibacterial activity. NaOCl gel exhibited the most significant inhibition zones for all bacterial strains followed by CHX gel, Ledermix, and CH. However, the effect of CHX and CH paste against S. aureus was statistically similar, while the effect of CH against E. faecalis was significantly higher than the Ledermix. Conclusion. Sodium hypochlorite gel displayed the highest antibacterial activity among tested medicaments and can be recommended as a potent intracanal medicament. Chlorhexidine gel showed a significantly higher antibacterial effect when compared with Ledermix and calcium hydroxide. Calcium hydroxide demonstrated stronger antibacterial activity against E. faecalis than Ledermix. Diapex Plus exhibited no antibacterial effect.
Porosity and Permeability Evolution with Deviatoric Stress of Reservoir Sandstone: Insights from Triaxial Compression Tests and In Situ Compression CT
Authors: Hu Cong , Agostini Franck , Jia Yonggang
Published: November 2020

Porosity and permeability are the two most important characteristics of underground gas storage in sandstone reservoirs. Injection of gas into reservoir rocks will cause rock deformation. The deformation will influence the porosity and permeability properties of the rocks. We investigate the evolution of these two properties of storage sandstone by triaxial compression tests and a uniaxial in situ compression CT test. As the deviatoric stress increases, the sandstone is compressed firstly (porosity reduction) and then dilates (porosity enhancement). With the increase in confining stress, the occurrence of volumetric dilation will be delayed. Trapped porosity of this sandstone at different deviatoric stresses is very small (0.122%-0.115%) which indicates that nearly all pores are connected. During the compression stage, the decrease in permeability is related to compression of pores and microcracks. During the volumetric dilation stage, it is related to increase in tortuosity. This interpretation can be confirmed by observations of in situ compression CT. The permeability evolution estimated by pore network modeling is consistent with macroscopic testing results.
Impact Dynamic Properties and Energy Evolution of Damaged Sandstone Based on Cyclic Loading Threshold
Authors: Zheng Qiangqiang , Hu Hao , Yuan Anying , Li Mengyao , Wang Haibo , Wang Mengxiang , Zong Qi , Zhang Shouyang
Published: November 2020

Rocks in deep coal mines are usually in varying degrees of damage state before they are destabilized by impact loads such as rock bursts. For the problem of the mechanical properties and energy evolution of damaged rocks under impact loads, the authors use static loads with different cyclic load thresholds to act on sandstone specimens to make them in distinct degrees of damage. Then, the rock mechanics system (MTS-816) and the Split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) are employed to perform uniaxial compression and impact dynamics tests on sandstones with different degrees of damage. The results show that, from the perspective of mechanical properties, the uniaxial compressive strength and dynamic compressive strength of the damaged sandstone gradually decrease with the increase of the upper limit of the cycle threshold and both obey the growth law of the quadratic function, and the dynamic strength increase factor (DIF) also decreases with the increase of the cyclic load threshold. In terms of energy, with the increment of the cyclic load threshold, the number of cracks in the damaged sandstone is large and the scale is enormous. Due to the effect of cracks, when the incident energy is a fixed value, the transmission energy decreases with the increase of the damage degree and the change law of the reflection energy is the opposite. The systematic study of the dynamic mechanical properties and energy evolution law of the damaged sandstone provides some reference for the prevention and mechanism research of rock bursts.
Improved Newton Iterative Algorithm for Fractal Art Graphic Design
Authors: Chen Huijuan , Zheng Xintao
Published: November 2020

Fractal art graphics are the product of the fusion of mathematics and art, relying on the computing power of a computer to iteratively calculate mathematical formulas and present the results in a graphical rendering. The selection of the initial value of the first iteration has a greater impact on the final calculation result. If the initial value of the iteration is not selected properly, the iteration will not converge or will converge to the wrong result, which will affect the accuracy of the fractal art graphic design. Aiming at this problem, this paper proposes an improved optimization method for selecting the initial value of the Gauss-Newton iteration method. Through the area division method of the system composed of the sensor array, the effective initial value of iterative calculation is selected in the corresponding area for subsequent iterative calculation. Using the special skeleton structure of Newton’s iterative graphics, such as infinitely finely inlaid chain-like, scattered-point-like composition, combined with the use of graphic secondary design methods, we conduct fractal art graphics design research with special texture effects. On this basis, the Newton iterative graphics are processed by dithering and MATLAB-based mathematical morphology to obtain graphics and then processed with the help of weaving CAD to directly form fractal art graphics with special texture effects. Design experiments with the help of electronic Jacquard machines proved that it is feasible to transform special texture effects based on Newton's iterative graphic design into Jacquard fractal art graphics.
On a System of k-Difference Equations of Order Three
Authors: Yalçınkaya Ibrahim , Ahmad Hijaz , Tollu Durhasan Turgut , Li Yong-Min
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we deal with the global behavior of the positive solutions of the system of

k

-difference equations

u

n
+
1

1

=

α

1

u

n
−
1

1

/

β

1

+

α

1

u

n
−
2

2

r

1

,
 

u

n
+
1

2

=

α

2

u

n
−
1

2

/

β

2

+

α

2

u

n
−
2

3

r

2

,
…
,
 

u

n
+
1

k

=

α

k

u

n
−
1

k

/

β

k

+

α

k

u

n
−
2

1

r

k

,
n
∈

ℕ

0

,

where the initial conditions

u

−
l

i

l
=
0,1,2

are nonnegative real numbers and the parameters

α

i

,

β

i

,

γ

i

, and

r

i

are positive real numbers for

i
=
1,2
,
…
,
k

, by extending some results in the literature. By the end of the paper, we give three numerical examples to support our theoretical results related to the system with some restrictions on the parameters.
Future Location Prediction for Emergency Vehicles Using Big Data: A Case Study of Healthcare Engineering
Authors: Kamal Muhammad Daud , Tahir Ali , Kamal Muhammad Babar , Naeem M. Asif
Published: November 2020

The number of devices equipped with GPS sensors has increased enormously, which generates a massive amount of data. To analyse this huge data for various applications is still challenging. One such application is to predict the future location of an ambulance in the healthcare system based on its previous locations. For example, many smart city applications rely on user movement and location prediction like SnapTrends and Geofeedia. There are many models and algorithms which help predict the future location with high probabilities. However, in terms of efficiency and accuracy, the existing algorithms are still improving. In this study, a novel algorithm, NextSTMove, is proposed according to the available dataset which results in lower latency and higher probability. Apache Spark, a big data platform, was used for reducing the processing time and efficiently managing computing resources. The algorithm achieved 75% to 85% accuracy and in some cases 100% accuracy, where the users do not change their daily routine frequently. After comparing the prediction results of our algorithm, it was experimentally found that it predicts processes up to 300% faster than traditional algorithms. NextSTMove is therefore compared with and without Apache Spark and can help in finding useful knowledge for healthcare medical information systems and other data analytics related solutions especially healthcare engineering.
Visualization of Information Retrieval in Smart Library Based on Virtual Reality Technology
Authors: Fang Shulin
Published: November 2020

Starting from the virtual reality technology, the characteristics of its most suitable combination with the library are explored, so as to lay a foundation in theory and practice to promote the development of virtual reality in the library. In the concentration camp of the latest advanced technology, the relevant technologies used in the various levels of models in the smart library are extracted, and their functional principles and applications are systematically introduced; Chapter 4 builds the level of the smart library information retrieval technology model. The structure diagram, various levels of functions, and related smart service models are discussed. Research is on context construction of extended resources of knowledge service in smart libraries. The elements and content of the resource context are introduced, and the strategy of constructing the resource context for the extension of the knowledge service of the smart library is proposed. Research is on the construction of the context of the extension and interconnection of knowledge services in smart libraries. The relevant elements and contents of the technical context and the spatial context are introduced, and a strategy for constructing a connected context for the extension of the knowledge service of a smart library is proposed. Research is on the context construction of knowledge service extension of smart library. The elements and contents of the service context are introduced, and the strategy of constructing the service context of the knowledge service extension of the smart library is proposed. A visual model of information retrieval is constructed. The model integrates the core steps of the information visualization process and introduces the information space and functional system (navigation, organization, indexing, and retrieval) in the information construction theory into it and through five mapping layers (functional space mapping, visualization space mapping, visualization mapping, view mapping, and interactive mapping) and six spatial layers (role space, information space, functional space, visualized information space, visualized object space, and visualized view space), which describe visualization applications that target the user experience model in information construction build process.
Effects of Alumina Films on N-Doped Carbon Nanotubes/Graphene Composites as Anode Materials of Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Lin Chuen-Chang , Hsu Shu-Pei , Chen Guang-Jhong
Published: November 2020

A carbon nanotubes/graphene composite is grown on nickel foil without additional catalysts by one-step ambient pressure chemical vapor deposition (CVD). Next, the carbon nanotubes/graphene composite is modified by radio frequency (RF) nitrogen plasma. Finally, to improve its initial coulombic efficiency/electrochemical stability, lower potential during the charge process (coin cell), and boost potential during the discharge process (lithium-ion battery), alumina is deposited onto the N-doped carbon nanotubes/graphene composite by RF magnetron sputtering at different power levels and periods of time. The charge specific capacity (597 mAh/g) and initial coulombic efficiency (81.44% > 75.02% for N-doped carbon nanotubes/graphene) of Al2O3/N-doped CNTs/graphene for the coin cell reached a maximum at the best sputtering condition (

power
=
65
 
W

and

time
=
30
 
min

). Al2O3/N-doped CNTs/graphene (the best sputtering condition) exhibits higher initial coulombic efficiency (79.8%) compared with N-doped CNTs/graphene (initial coulombic efficiency: 74.3%) for the lithium-ion battery. Furthermore, the achievement fraction (about 70%) of full charge capacity (coin cell) for Al2O3/N-doped carbon nanotubes/graphene (the best sputtering condition) is higher than that (about 30%) for N-doped carbon nanotubes/graphene at a voltage lower than about 0.25 V. Moreover, it also shows a little higher electrochemical stability (coin cell) of charge capacity for Al2O3/N-doped carbon nanotubes/graphene (the best sputtering condition) in comparison with N-doped carbon nanotubes/graphene and Al2O3/N-doped CNTs/graphene (the best sputtering condition) exhibits better cyclic stability (lithium-ion battery) of discharge capacity compared with N-doped CNTs/graphene.
Chronic Urticaria and Its Impact on the Quality of Life of Nepalese Patients
Authors: Paudel Sushil , Parajuli Niraj , Sharma Rabindra Prasad , Dahal Sudip , Paudel Sudarshan
Published: November 2020

Chronic urticaria (CU) is a skin condition characterized by sudden and recurrent episodes of wheals, angioedema, or both and commonly associated with itching for a duration of more than six weeks. The available data indicate that urticaria markedly affects both objective functioning and subjective well-being of patients. A review of patients’ records with chronic urticaria attending Civil Service Hospital from January 2018 to December 2019 was done. A detailed demographic data of all patients with chronic urticaria was also retrieved. Dermatology Life Quality Index questionnaire (DLQI) Nepalese version was used for the assessment of the impact of disease on life quality. Mann–Whitney U-test was applied to compare means, and principle component analysis for factor analysis was used. A total of 149 patients were included, with a male-to-female ratio of 1 : 1.9. The mean age of the study population was 32.86 

±

 12.837 years. The mean DLQI score was 8.30 

±

 6.73 with men having a significantly greater score than women (

p
<
0.02

). DLQI scores negatively correlated with age (

p
<
0.01

). There was a high internal consistency among items (Cronbach’s alpha 0.89), and all items had satisfactory correlation with each other as well. Principle component extraction revealed that there were two underlying factors in the DLQI questionnaire on measuring quality of life in chronic urticaria. Males had a greater impairment in quality of life than females due to chronic urticaria. Most severe impairment was seen in symptoms/feelings subdomain. It also revealed that there were two different underlying factors in DLQI questionnaire.
Thermogravimetric Analysis of Modified Montmorillonite Clay for Mycotoxin Decontamination in Cereal Grains
Authors: Olopade Bunmi K. , Nwinyi Obinna C. , Adekoya Joseph A. , Lawal Isiaka A. , Abiodun Olushola A. , Oranusi Solomon U. , Njobeh Patrick B.
Published: November 2020

Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) was carried out to study the stability of nanoformulations used for the decontamination of mycotoxins. The TGA patterns of the nanoformulations from montmorillonite clay and Cymbopogon citratus (lemongrass) extracts were assessed with temperature ranging from ambient (20°C) to 1000°C. The various nanoformulations studied included unmodified montmorillonite clay (Mont), montmorillonite washed with sodium chloride (Mont-Na), montmorillonite mixed with lemongrass essential oil (Mont-LGEO), and montmorillonite mixed with an equal quantity of lemongrass powder (Mont-LGP). There was no significant difference in the median of the various nanoformulations within 4 weeks at

p
<
0.05

using the Kruskal–Wallis nonparametric test. For the TGA, the first degradation for montmorillonite clay and the nanoformulations occurred at a temperature between 80 and 101°C and was attributed to the loss of lattice water outside the coordination sphere with a range of 3.5–6.5% weight loss. The second degradation occurred within the temperature of 338 to 344°C, and the third, at a temperature between 640 and 668°C for Mont and the formulations of Mont-Na, Mont-LGEO, and Mont-LGP. There were strong similarities in the degradation patterns of Mont and Mont-Na with the minimum difference being the relatively higher weight loss of the sodium-exchanged cation for Mont-Na at the third degradation step. Hence, the order of stability from the most resistant to the least resistant to degradation is as follows: Mont-LGEO ≥ Mont-Na ≥ Mont ≥ Mont-LGP.
Air Combat Maneuver Trajectory Prediction Model of Target Based on Chaotic Theory and IGA-VNN
Authors: Xi Zhi-fei , Xu An , Kou Ying-xin , Li Zhan-wu , Yang Ai-wu
Published: November 2020

Target maneuver trajectory prediction is an important prerequisite for air combat situation awareness and threat assessment. Aiming at the problem of low prediction accuracy in traditional trajectory prediction methods, combined with the chaotic characteristics of the target maneuver trajectory time series, a target maneuver trajectory prediction model based on chaotic theory and improved genetic algorithm-Volterra neural network (IGA-VNN) model is proposed, mathematically deducing and analyzing the consistency between Volterra functional model and back propagation (BP) neural network in structure. Firstly, the C-C method is used to reconstruct the phase space of the target trajectory time series, and the maximum Lyapunov exponent of the time series of the target maneuver trajectory is calculated. It is proved that the time series of the target maneuver trajectory has chaotic characteristics, so the chaotic method can be used to predict the target trajectory time series. Then, the practicable Volterra functional model and BP neural network are combined together, learning the advantages of both and overcoming the difficulty in obtaining the high-order kernel function of the Volterra functional model. At the same time, an adaptive crossover mutation operator and a combination mutation operator based on the difference degree of gene segments are proposed to improve the traditional genetic algorithm; the improved genetic algorithm is used to optimize BP neural network, and the optimal initial weights and thresholds are obtained. Finally, the IGA-VNN model of chaotic time series is applied to the prediction of target maneuver trajectory time series, and the experimental results show that its estimated performance is obviously superior to other prediction algorithms.
Ameliorative Effect of Sinapic Acid on Dextran Sodium Sulfate- (DSS-) Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Kunming (KM) Mice
Authors: Qian Bo , Wang Chengqiang , Zeng Zhen , Ren Yuan , Li Dayu , Song Jia-Le
Published: November 2020

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic gastrointestinal disease characterized by intestinal inflammation and serious mucosal damage. As a naturally hydroxycinnamic acid, sinapic acid (SA) has antioxidant, anticancer, and neuroprotective activities. We investigated the anticolitic effect and potential mechanisms of SA in DSS-induced colitis in Kunming (KM) mice. SA treatment significantly reduced body weight loss, colon shortening, and intestinal wall thickening in colitis mice. SA treatment also significantly reduced the histological infiltration of inflammatory cells and decreased myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity in the colons of colitis mice. The administration of SA attenuated oxidative damage by enhancing the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and catalase and reduced the serum and colonic mRNA levels of proinflammatory cytokines in colitis mice. We used qRT-PCR and Western blotting assays and demonstrated that SA reduced the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and attenuated intestinal permeability by enhancing the expression of ZO-1, occludin, and claudin-1 in colitis mice. Here, we conclude that SA exhibits great anticolitic activity against DSS-induced colitis by enhancing the activity of antioxidant enzymes, reducing intestinal inflammation, and maintaining the intestinal barrier. Finally, we suggest that SA may be a safe adjuvant for the prevention of clinical colitis.
Effect of Pomegranate Juice on the Manufacturing Process and Characterization of Feta-Type Cheese during Storage
Authors: Lashkari Hannan , Varidi Mohammad Javad , Eskandari Mohammad Hadi , Varidi Mehdi
Published: November 2020

The present research aimed to produce Fruit Feta-type cheese and investigate the effects of pomegranate juice on the manufacturing process and characterization of Feta-type cheese during storage. In order to produce Feta-type cheese with pomegranate juice, part of the milk was replaced with pomegranate juice. Therefore, it was necessary to produce Feta-type cheese with whey-less method, which is a good substitute for ultrafiltrated cheese. Initially, whey-less Feta-type cheese was produced. The formula was optimized based on the physicochemical characteristics of the marketed ultrafiltrated Feta cheeses. At the optimal point, the amount of cream, MPC, WPC, and fresh milk were 45.6, 11.7, 2.7, and 40%, respectively. Whey-less Feta-type cheese with these ratios was produced and the effects of different levels of pomegranate juice (0, 5, 10, 15, and 20%) on its physicochemical, textural, microbial, and sensorial properties during 60 days of storage were studied. The results showed that pomegranate juice increased acidity, total phenol, anthocyanin, DPPH inhibition, and a

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value, and reduced the pH, peroxide value, thiobarbituric acid (TBA), proteolysis, lipolysis, and L

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and b

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values. Adding pomegranate juice to cheese reduced all of the textural indices except the adhesiveness. Sensory evaluation of the samples showed that the sample containing 20% of pomegranate juice had a higher score and was selected as the best sample.
Integrated Treatment Technology of Storage‐Mining Inclined Goaf under Expressway
Authors: Bao Weixing , Ma Zhiwei , Wang Haibo , Ren Jianjun , Huang Yong , Liang Bangwei
Published: November 2020

An inclined goaf caused by storage mining is a serious risk to subgrades and pavements. In this paper, effective investigation and detection methods of goafs were discussed considering the project of the Urumqi East Ring Expressway crossing the existing goaf of Zhongxing no. 2 mine. Moreover, by theoretical analysis and a series of field comparative tests, reasonable grouting parameters and the treatment plan were obtained. By comparing the test results of the field and laboratory, the influence of groundwater on the effect of grouting was revealed to reduce the compressive strength of the consolidating objects of the slurry. The high‐density resistivity method presented strong anti‐interference ability and high accuracy in a depth range of less than 150 m in the investigation of the goaf. The results of the treatment showed that it is necessary to conduct research and analysis from multiple aspects to obtain the best treatment plan of a goaf and ensure the safety of a project.
Application of PS-INSAR Technique on Health Diagnosis of the Deformable Body on Front Slope beside Mountain Tunnel Portal
Authors: Jia Jiaxin
Published: November 2020

When tunnel construction develops to surrounding mountainous areas, tunnel portal presents the topographic characteristics of “high, steep, and slant” and geological characteristics of kinds of hugely thick colluvial or residual slope, and the health condition of the deformable body on front slope beside tunnel portal has a great influence on tunnel construction and operation. Tunnel portal has suffered from many disasters, and it is urgent to study and solve the engineering problem on how to diagnose the health condition of front slope beside tunnel portal quickly and accurately. Based on the tunnel of Jianquan village, this paper uses PS-INSAR technique for the first time to analyze and diagnose the health condition of the deformable body on front slope beside mountain tunnel portal at the construction stage and operation stage, so as to provide early warnings to unstable deformable body at tunnel portal and provide strong bases for the treatment of unstable deformable body. Therefore, PS-INSAR technique promotes the health monitoring method for deformable body on front slope beside mountain tunnel portal to a higher level.
Simulating Heavy Meiyu Rainfall: A Note on the Choice of the Model Microphysics Scheme
Authors: Zhou Zhimin , Deng Yi , Hu Yang , Kang Zhaoping
Published: November 2020

Better simulations and predictions of heavy rainfall associated with Meiyu fronts are critical for flood management in the Yangtze River Valley, China. This work systematically evaluates and compares the performances of three microphysics schemes in Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model with regard to simulating properties of a classic Meiyu rainstorm in central China which occurred during a 30-hour period in July 2016, including spatial distribution, rain rate PDF, and lifecycle behavior of local rainfall. Model simulations are validated using both in situ and remote sensing observations. It is found that all three schemes capture the overall spatial distribution of precipitation and the average rainfall intensity changes more rapidly with time in the simulation than in the observation. Further insights are gained through an examination of the budget terms of raindrop and ice-phase hydrometeors in the model. Accretion of cloud droplets by raindrops and melting of ice-phase hydrometeors are the major source of rainwater. Bergeron and riming processes are found to play a prevailing role in the growth of ice-phase hydrometeors in Meiyu rainfall. Large differences in the parameterization of riming process in different schemes lead to significant differences in the simulated growth of ice-phase hydrometeors.
Fungus- (Alternaria sp.) Mediated Silver Nanoparticles Synthesis, Characterization, and Screening of Antifungal Activity against Some Phytopathogens
Authors: Win Theint Theint , Khan Sikandar , Fu PengCheng
Published: November 2020

The scientific consensus is now on developing a biocontrol agent that can cause cellular metabolic reprogramming against agricultural pathogens. Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles was performed by using phytopathogenic fungi (Alternaria sp.) isolated from banana cultivated soil. Alternaria sp. can grow very fast and produce high enough bioactive compounds. This study aims to biosynthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using fungal Alternaria sp.’s metabolites as a safe antifungal agent against plant pathogenic fungi (Fusarium spp. and Alternaria sp.). To visualize the formation of AgNPs, analytical instruments were used, such as ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), and elemental mapping. The UV-visible spectra showed a peak at 435 nm. Analysis of scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) micrographs evidenced that the size of synthesized silver nanoparticles ranged between 3 and 10 nm. The resulting AgNPs showed distinct antifungal activity against selected plant pathogenic fungi. Synthesized AgNPs have demonstrated remarkable potential for the use of antifungal compounds to combat plant diseases.
Pantoprazole (PPZ) Inhibits RANKL-Induced Osteoclast Formation and Function In Vitro and Prevents Lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) Induced Inflammatory Calvarial Bone Loss In Vivo
Authors: Li Yu-Xi , Chen Fu-Chao , Liu Ting , Cai Zhao-Peng , Chen Keng , Tang Guo-Xue , Huang Jun-Shen , Liu Xiang-Ge , Huang Jia-Jun , Wang Peng , Liang Yu-Wei , Huang Lin
Published: November 2020

Bone remodeling is a process delicately balanced between osteoclastic bone resorption and osteoblastic bone formation. Osteoclasts (OCs) are multinucleated giant cells formed through the fusion of monocytic precursors of the hematopoietic stem cells lineage. OCs are the exclusive cells responsible for the resorption and degradation of the mineralized bone matrix. Pantoprazole (PPZ), a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), is commonly prescribed to reduce excess gastric acid production for conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease and peptic ulcer disease. Studies have found contradictory effects of PPI therapy on bone metabolism due to the lack of understanding of the exact underlying mechanism. In this study, we found that PPZ inhibits receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) ligand- (RANKL-) induced osteoclastogenesis from bone marrow monocytic/macrophage (BMMs) precursors and the bone-resorbing activity of mature OCs. Correspondingly, the expression of OC marker genes was also attenuated. At the molecular level, PPZ treatment was associated with reduced activation of the ERK MAPK signaling pathways crucial to OC differentiation. Additionally, the in vivo administration of PPZ protected mice against lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) induced inflammatory calvarial bone erosion, as a result of the reduced number and activity of OCs on the calvarial bone surface. Although PPI use is associated with increased risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures, our study provides evidence for the direct inhibitory effect of PPZ on OC formation and bone resorption in vitro and in vivo, suggesting a potential therapeutic use of PPZ in the treatment of osteolytic disease with localized bone destruction.