bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CCNB2, TOP2A, and ASPM Reflect the Prognosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma, as Determined by Weighted Gene Coexpression Network Analysis
Authors: Zeng Yuping , He He , Zhang Yu , Wang Xia , Yang Lidan , An Zhenmei
Published: June 2020

Background. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is characterized by increased mortality and poor prognosis. We aimed to identify potential prognostic markers by weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA), to assist clinical outcome prediction and improve treatment decisions for HCC patients. Methods. Prognosis‐related gene modules were first established by WGCNA. Venn diagrams obtained intersection genes of module genes and differentially expressed genes. The Kaplan‐Meier overall survival curves and disease‐free survival curves of intersection genes were further analyzed on the Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis website. Chi‐square tests were performed to explore the associations between prognostic gene expressions and clinicopathological features. Results. CCNB2, TOP2A, and ASPM were identified as both prognosis‐related genes and differentially expressed genes. TOP2A (HR: 1.7, P = 0.003) and ASPM (HR: 1.8, P < 0.001) exhibited a significant difference between the high‐ and low‐expression groups in the overall survival analysis, while CCNB2 (HR: 1.4, P = 0.052) was not statistically significant. CCNB2 (HR: 1.5, P = 0.006), TOP2A (HR: 1.7, P < 0.001), and ASPM (HR: 1.6, P = 0.003) were all statistically significant in the disease‐free survival analysis. All three genes were significantly associated with race and fetoprotein values (P < 0.05). CCNB2 expression was associated with tumor stage (P = 0.01), and ASPM expression was associated with new tumor events (P = 0.03). Conclusion. Overexpression of CCNB2, TOP2A, and ASPM are associated with poor prognosis, and these genes could serve as potential prognostic markers and therapeutic targets for HCC.
Artificial-Noise-Aided Energy-Efficient Secure Multibeam Wireless Communication Schemes Based on Frequency Diverse Array
Authors: Gao Jianbang , Yuan Zhaohui , Zhou Jing , Qiu Bin
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we research synthesis scheme for secure wireless communication in multibeam directional modulation (MBDM) system, which consists of multiple legitimate users (LUs) receiving their own individual confidential messages, respectively, and multiple eavesdroppers (Eves) intercepting confidential messages. We propose a new type of array antennas, termed frequency diverse arrays (FDA), to enhance security of confidential messages. Leveraging FDA technology and artificial noise (AN) technology, we aim to address the PHY security problem for MBDM by jointly optimizing the frequency offsets, the precoding matrix and the AN projection matrix. In the first stage, with known locations of Eves, precoding matrix is designed to minimize Eve’s receiving power of confidential message (Min-ERP), while satisfying power requirement of LUs. And then artificial-noise projection matrix (ANPM) is calculated to enhance AN impact on Eves without influencing LUs. Furthermore, we research a more practical scenario, where locations of Eves are unknown. Unlike the scenario of the known locations of Eves, precoding matrix is designed to maximize AN transmit power (Max-ATP), while satisfying each LU’s requirement received power of confidential message. In the second stage, we analyze and further optimize secrecy capacity. The problem is solved by optimizing frequency offsets through modified artificial bee colony (M-ABC) algorithm. Numerical results show that the proposed scheme can achieve a secure transmission in MBDM system.
Study on the Selection of the Targets of Esophageal Carcinoma and Interventions of Ginsenosides Based on Network Pharmacology and Bioinformatics
Authors: Yang Xin , Li Yahui , Qian Haibing
Published: June 2020

Background. Esophageal carcinoma (ESCA) is not only a threat to people’s health but also the sixth most common cause of cancer‐related mortality worldwide. Methods. In this study, the key targets of ESCA are screened through GeneCards and DisGeNET databases combined with the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database (GSE1420 and GSE20347). Then, data associated with ESCA samples are downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database for integrated analysis. Moreover, the effect of epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) expression on the survival of patients with ESCA is evaluated by Kaplan–Meier and Cox analyses. The virtual screening is carried out using a Suflex‐Dock molecular docking module. The chemical components, which have been well bound to EpCAM, are screened out based on a total score >5 as a threshold. Ginsenosides and EpCAM are analyzed by LigPlot + v.2.2 software to identify the binding sites. Results. Four ESCA targets are obtained from GeneCards, DisGeNET, and GEO databases. In this study, it is found that high EpCAM expression is associated with histologic grade, stage, patient age, N classification, T classification, and radiation therapy. The Kaplan–Meier curves for overall survival also show that the higher expression of EpCAM is associated with worse outcomes in patients with ESCA. Univariate and multivariate Cox analyses indicate that EpCAM mRNA expression might be a useful biomarker for ESCA(P < 0.05). Molecular docking technology suggests that ginsenoside Rg3 and ginsenoside Rh2 can easily establish good docking modes and have a high affinity with EpCAM. The 6′‐hydroxyl and 6″‐hydroxyl on the 3‐glycosyl of ginsenoside Rg3 are prone to form hydrogen bonds (Lys151 and Lys221) with the active sites of EpCAM ligand binding domain. The hydroxyl groups on the 12 sites of the ginsenoside Rh2 glycoside framework are found to have hydrogen bonding with Leu240. The formation of hydrogen bonds plays an important role in binding of ginsenoside Rg3 and ginsenoside Rh2 to EpCAM, as well as the stability of EpCAM conformation. Conclusion. EpCAM may be determined as a potential biomarker for early diagnosis and prognosis of ESCA. Ginsenoside Rg3 and ginsenoside Rh2 have potential antiesophageal cancer activities. This experiment provides a reference for the study of the chemical compositions of ginsenosides in the treatment of esophageal cancer.
Role of Terlipressin in Cirrhotic Patients with Ascites and without Hepatorenal Syndrome: A Systematic Review of Current Evidence
Authors: Bai Zhaohui , An Yang , Guo Xiaozhong , Teschke Rolf , Méndez-Sánchez Nahum , Li Hongyu , Qi Xingshun
Published: June 2020

Ascites, a common complication in cirrhosis, is prone to the development of acute kidney injury or hepatorenal syndrome and can be complicated by circulatory dysfunction after paracentesis. Terlipressin has not been considered as the mainstay treatment option for ascites in cirrhosis yet. The present work aimed to systematically review the current evidence regarding the use of terlipressin in cirrhosis with ascites and without hepatorenal syndrome. PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for relevant studies. Twelve studies were eligible. In 3 studies (1 randomized controlled trial and 2 single-arm studies without controls) involving 32 patients who received terlipressin for nonrefractory ascites, terlipressin improved hemodynamics by decreasing the heart rate and cardiac output and increasing the mean arterial pressure and systemic vascular resistance. In 5 studies (1 randomized controlled trial, 2 single-arm studies without controls, and 2 comparative studies with controls) involving 67 patients who received terlipressin for refractory ascites, terlipressin improved renal function by increasing the glomerular filtration rate, renal blood flow, urinary sodium, and urine output and decreasing serum creatinine. In 4 studies (4 randomized controlled trials) involving 71 patients who received terlipressin for preventing from paracentesis-induced circulatory dysfunction, terlipressin prevented from paracentesis-induced circulatory dysfunction by increasing the mean arterial pressure and systemic vascular resistance and decreasing plasma renin. Terlipressin may improve hemodynamics, severity of ascites, and renal function and prevent from paracentesis-induced circulatory dysfunction in cirrhosis with ascites and without hepatorenal syndrome. However, no study has evaluated the effect of terlipressin for prevention of acute kidney injury.
[Retracted] Protective Effect of a Novel Polysaccharide from Lonicera japonica on Cardiomyocytes of Mice Injured by Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Zhou Xiaonan , He Gui , Ma Jinming , Tang Min , Tian Geng , Gong Xun , Zhang Huajun , Kui Ling
Published: June 2020

Lonicera japonica is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine with antioxidation, anti‐inflammatory, antibacterial, and immunoregulation functions. A method to isolate polysaccharides from Lonicera japonica (LJP) has been reported previously by our group. We also reported previously that LJP was consisted of 6 types of monosaccharides and had the characteristic absorption of typical polysaccharides. In this study, we investigated the protective effect of LJP on cardiomyocytes of mice injured by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The results showed that LJP can increase the cardiomyocyte viability and the activities of the enzyme (SOD, CAT, GSH‐Px, AST, CPK, and LDH) in cardiomyocytes of mice injured by hydrogen peroxide. The results of intracellular ROS contents showed that a high dose (40 μg mL-1) of LJP had the best effects on protecting the cardiomyocytes of mice injured by H2O2. In addition, the measurement results of the cardiomyocyte apoptosis and the activity of caspase‐3, caspase‐8, and caspase‐9 in cardiomyocytes confirmed this conclusion from another perspective.
Assessment of Health Risk due to Pesticide Residues in Fruits, Vegetables, Soil, and Water
Authors: Khan Nikhat , Yaqub Ghazala , Hafeez Tahreem , Tariq Madiha
Published: June 2020

The present study was conducted to assess the contamination and health risk due to the presence of pesticides in fruits and vegetables. A total of six vegetable samples, 3 fruit samples, 7 soil samples, and 6 water samples were collected from three different sampling points. High-performance liquid chromatography using acetonitrile and water solvent system was employed for the quantitative and qualitative analysis. The pesticides having the highest health risk in vegetables were Bifenthrin and Difenoconazole as their health risk index was found to be exceeding the cut off value of 1. Imidacloprid was found in all vegetable samples but had no associated health risk, as all the health risk indices for imidacloprid were below the cut off value of 1. The pesticide Glyphosate detected in only one sample had no health risk associated with it. Health risks in fruits were the highest for Amamectin, Bifenthrin, and Difenoconazole and were crossing the threshold limit of 1. The results reveal the health risk indices of Bifenthrin and Difenoconazole range from 7.8 to 12.46 in vegetables and from 2.704 to 30.454 in fruits, hence, posing a serious threat to human health. Amamectin, although detected in only fruit and water samples, had the highest health risk of 30.454. Imidacloprid and Glyphosate found in every fruit sample had no associated health risk. The results revealed the presence of pesticides in water, soil, fruit, and vegetable samples. Consumers utilizing these vegetables and fruits are under potential health risks due to the presence of pesticides in soil and water. Practical Applications. In this study, an analytical method for detecting pesticides in a variety of environmental matrices including fruits, vegetables, water, and the soil is presented and the health risk associated with the presence of pesticides in a wide range of fruits and vegetables is assessed. It is highly significant because in developing countries agricultural activities contribute majorly toward the total gross domestic product and pesticides are extensively used to control, prevent, devastate, and diminish any harmful pest that destroys crops.
Optimization of the Accelerated Degradation Test Plan for Electrical Connector Contact Pairs Based on a Nonlinear Wiener Process
Authors: Qian Ping , Hong Lei , Chen Wenhua , Qian Yongwang , Wang Zhe , Yao Huajun
Published: June 2020

Accelerated degradation test is an effective method to evaluate the reliability of products with long life and high reliability. The performance of most products fluctuates randomly in the degradation process, so it is suitable to use Wiener process. At present, the diffusion coefficient is regarded as constant in Wiener process, while the drift coefficient is related to stress. However, in practice, the amplitude of product performance fluctuation increases with the increase of stress level, which is not constant. Therefore, for the nonlinear Wiener case where both the drift coefficient and the diffusion coefficient are stress dependent, this paper studies the constant-stress accelerated degradation test theories and methods. Taking the contact pairs of electrical connectors as the research object, the minimum variance of reliable life estimate under normal stress is taken as the target. After determining the censored time at each stress level, the test stress level, the sample distribution ratio at each stress level, and the test interval at the one-third power scale of time are taken as design variables. The test plan under 3, 4, and 5 stress levels is optimized and compared with the general test plan. The influence of the difference between high and low stress levels on the evaluation accuracy is analyzed. Finally, the sensitivity analysis of parameters shows that the optimization plan has good robustness, and the change of stress quantity has little influence on the robustness of the plan.
Oltipraz Prevents High Glucose‐Induced Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis in RSC96 Cells through the Nrf2/NQO1 Signalling Pathway
Authors: Jiang Zengxin , Bian Mengxuan , Wu Jingping , Li Defang , Ding Lei , Zeng Qingmin
Published: June 2020

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common complication of diabetes mellitus (DM). Schwann cell (SC) apoptosis contributes to the occurrence and development of DPN. Effective drugs to prevent SC apoptosis are required to relieve and reverse peripheral nerve injury caused by DM. Oltipraz [4‐methyl‐5‐(2‐pyrazinyl)‐1,2‐dithiole‐3‐thione], an agonist of nuclear factor erythroid derived‐2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2), exerts strong effect against oxidative stress in animal models or clinical patients in certain diseases, including heart failure, acute kidney injury, and liver injury. The aim of the present study was to determine the effectiveness of oltipraz in preventing SC apoptosis induced by high glucose levels. RSC96 cells pretreated with oltipraz were cultured in high‐glucose medium (50 mM glucose) for 24 h, and cells cultured in medium containing 5 mM glucose were used as the control. Flow cytometry was used to evaluate the degree of apoptosis. A Cell Counting Kit‐8 assay was used to assess cell viability. The mitochondrial membrane potential was assessed using JC‐1 staining, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation was measured using 20,70‐dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate staining. In addition, the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were also evaluated using the corresponding kits. Flow cytometry was subsequently used to detect apoptosis, and western blotting was used to measure the expression levels of nuclear factor erythroid derived‐2‐related factor 2 and NADPH quinone oxidoreductase 1. The results showed that high glucose concentration increased oxidative stress and apoptosis in RSC96 cells. Oltipraz improved cell viability and reduced apoptosis of RSC96 cells in the high glucose environment. Additionally, oltipraz exhibited a significant antioxidative effect, as shown by the decrease in MDA levels, increased SOD levels, and reduced ROS generation in RSC96 cells. The results of the present study suggest that oltipraz exhibits potential as an effective drug for treatment with DPN.
The Possible Biotechnological Use of Edible Mushroom Bioproducts for Controlling Plant and Animal Parasitic Nematodes
Authors: Castañeda-Ramírez Gloria Sarahi , Torres-Acosta Juan Felipe de Jesús , Sánchez José Ernesto , Mendoza-de-Gives Pedro , González-Cortázar Manases , Zamilpa Alejandro , Al-Ani Laith Khalil Tawfeeq , Sandoval-Castro Carlos , de Freitas Soares Filippe Elias , Aguilar-Marcelino Liliana
Published: June 2020

The present paper reviewed publications on the nematocidal activity of edible mushrooms (EM) and their potential use as sustainable tools for the control of parasitic nematodes affecting agriculture and livestock industry. Nematodes are organisms living in the soil and animals’ guts where they may live as parasites severely affecting economically important crops and farm animals, thus causing economic losses to worldwide agriculture. Traditionally, parasitic nematodes have been controlled using commercial pesticides and anthelmintic (AH) drugs. Over the years, nematodes developed resistance to the AH drugs, reducing the usefulness of many commercial drugs. Also, the use of pesticides/anthelmintic drugs to control nematodes can have important negative impacts on the environment. Different EM have been not only used as food but also studied as alternative methods for controlling several diseases including parasitic nematodes. The present paper reviewed publications from the last decades about the nematocidal activity of EM and assessed their potential use as sustainable tools for the control of nematodes affecting agriculture and livestock industry. A reduced number of reports on the effect of EM against nematodes were found, and an even smaller number of reports regarding the potential AH activity of chemical compounds isolated from EM products were found. However, those studies have produced promising results that certainly deserve further investigation. It is concluded that EM, their fractions and extracts, and some compounds contained in them may have biotechnological application for the control of animal and plant parasitic nematodes.
Hypoxic Exposure Increases Energy Expenditure by Increasing Carbohydrate Oxidation in Mice
Authors: Park Yeram , Hwang Deunsol , Park Hun-Young , Kim Jisu , Lim Kiwon
Published: June 2020

Aims. Hypoxic exposure improves glucose metabolism. We investigated to validate the hypothesis that carbohydrate (CHO) oxidation could increase in mice exposed to severe hypoxic conditions. Methods. Seven‐week‐old male ICR mice (n = 16) were randomly divided into two groups: the control group (CON) was kept in normoxic condition (fraction of inspired O2 = 21%) and the hypoxia group (HYP) was exposed to hypoxic condition (fraction of inspired O2 = 12%, ≈altitude of 4,300 m). The CON group was pair‐fed with the HYP group. After 3 weeks of hypoxic exposure, we measured respiratory metabolism (energy expenditure and substrate utilization) at normoxic conditions for 24 hours using an open‐circuit calorimetry system. In addition, we investigated changes in carbohydrate mechanism‐related protein expression, including hexokinase 2 (HK2), pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH), pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 (PDK4), and regulator of the genes involved in energy metabolism (peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma coactivator 1‐alpha, PGC1α) in soleus muscle. Results. Energy expenditure (EE) and CHO oxidation over 24 hours were higher in the HYP group by approximately 15% and 34% (p < 0.001), respectively. Fat oxidation was approximately 29% lower in the HYP group than the CON group (p < 0.01). Body weight gains were significantly lower in the HYP group than in the CON group (CON vs. HYP; 1.9 ± 0.9 vs. −0.3 ± 0.9; p < 0.001). Hypoxic exposure for 3 weeks significantly reduced body fat by approximately 42% (p < 0.001). PDH and PGC1α protein levels were significantly higher in the HYP group (p < 0.05). Additionally, HK2 was approximately 21% higher in the HYP group. Conclusions. Hypoxic exposure might significantly enhance CHO oxidation by increasing the expression of PDH and HK2. This investigation can be useful for patients with impaired glucose metabolism, such as those with type 2 diabetes.
A Comparative Analysis of Asymmetric (BaTiO3)  (1 − x)Λ/(BaZrO3) xΛ Superlattices via X‐Ray Diffraction and Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Maslova O. A. , Yuzyuk Yu. I. , Barannikova S. A.
Published: June 2020

This work is aimed at studying asymmetric ((BT)  (1 − x)Λ/(BZ) xΛ) superlattices, grown by pulsed laser deposition onto (001) MgO substrates. The thicknesses of BT (ferroelectric) and BZ (paraelectric) layers were varied so that х ranged from 0 to 1 at a modulation period Λ of about 80 Å. The films were 400 nm thick. The out‐of‐plane lattice parameters of constituents were assessed using X‐ray diffraction. The lattice dynamic peculiarities of superlattices were probed via Raman spectroscopy; special attention is paid to the analysis of E(1TO) and A1(2TO) ferroelectric soft modes. A comparative analysis of data acquired via both experimental techniques reveals the enhancement of stress between BT and BZ layers with a decrease in symmetry from the tetragonal to a monoclinic phase due to strains induced by the lattice parameter mismatch between the constituents.
Consensus Control of Nonlinear Multiagent Systems with Incremental Quadratic Constraints and Time Delays
Authors: Wang Dachao , Song Fang , Zhang Wei , Hu Zhi
Published: June 2020

This paper considers the problem of consensus control for a class of nonlinear multiagent systems with incremental quadratic constraints and time delays. Each agent exchanges state information through a strongly connected communication topology. Based on the information obtained from neighboring agents, a distributed consensus protocol is designed. A delay-independent consensus condition is formed for the protocol to solve the consensus problem by employing Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional method. In order to deal with the nonlinear terms in matrix inequalities, an iterative algorithm is proposed by using the Schur complement lemma and the cone complementary linearization method. The nonlinearities under consideration are more general than many other nonlinearities considered in related literature studies since the incremental quadratic constraints include many other known nonlinearities as some special cases. Finally, we give a numerical example to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed consensus control protocol.
Crosscorrelation Analysis between P2P Lending Market and Stock Market in China
Authors: Wang Bin , Ding Zhonghui , Wang Xiang , Shi Kai
Published: June 2020

We first use the Hurst index and the Vn statistic to study the respective characteristics of the P2P lending market and the stock market by rescaled range analysis. In terms of fluctuations, there is an antipersistence in the P2P lending market and long-term persistence in the stock market. Then, we studied the crosscorrelation between the daily logarithmic return series of P2P lending market and stock market and found that the crosscorrelation was multifractal and antipersistent.
Effective Absorption Capacity Examined by Isothermal Calorimetry: Effect of Pore Structure and Water‐to‐Cement Ratio
Authors: Lee Joo-Ha , Yoo Do Guen , Lee Bo Yeon
Published: June 2020

The accurate measurement of effective absorption capacity is crucial for highly absorptive materials when they are used within cement‐based materials. In this study, a method for examining effective absorption capacity using isothermal calorimetry is reviewed and investigated in detail to accommodate different circumstances. Specifically, the effect of different pore structures and water‐to‐cement ratios in determining effective absorption capacity is experimentally examined using activated carbon fibre and powdered activated carbon. The results suggest that the method may be suitable for porous materials with micropores but not suitable for those with mesopores. Also, the results indicate that the effective absorption capacity value can change with the water‐to‐cement ratio used. These findings can be used to find the effective absorption capacity of highly absorptive materials more accurately using the isothermal calorimetry method.
The Analysis of Biomimetic Caudal Fin Propulsion Mechanism with CFD
Authors: Liu Guijie , Liu Shuikuan , Xie Yingchun , Leng Dingxin , Li Guanghao
Published: June 2020

In nature, fish not only have extraordinary ability of underwater movement but also have high mobility and flexibility. The low energy consumption and high efficiency of fish propulsive method provide a new idea for the research of bionic underwater robot and bionic propulsive technology. In this paper, the swordfish was taken as the research object, and the mechanism of the caudal fin propulsion was preliminarily explored by analyzing the flow field structure generated by the swing of caudal fin. Subsequently, the influence of the phase difference of the heaving and pitching movement, the swing amplitude of caudal fin, and Strouhal number (St number) on the propulsion performance of fish was discussed. The results demonstrated that the fish can obtain a greater propulsion force by optimizing the motion parameters of the caudal fin in a certain range. Lastly, through the mathematical model analysis of the tail of the swordfish, the producing propulsive force principle of the caudal fin and the caudal peduncle was obtained. Hence, the proposed method provided a theoretical basis for the design of a high-efficiency bionic propulsion system.
Influence of Dose Intensity in Consolidation with HIDAC and Other Clinical and Biological Parameters in the Survival of AML
Authors: Ballesteros-Ramírez Ricardo , Quijano Sandra , Solano Julio , Ordoñez-Reyes Camila , Herrera María V. , Murillo Raúl , Fiorentino Susana , Arevalo-Zambrano Mónica
Published: June 2020

Background. The impact of the dose intensity administered in consolidation in Latin America is unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the relative dose intensity (RDI) in consolidation and its impact in overall survival. Methods. A retrospective study of 86 patients with AML who were diagnosed between 2010 and 2016 with a 2-year follow-up in a fourth-level Colombian hospital was carried out. Clinical characteristics were reported, Kaplan-Meier was used for estimating the overall survival, and Cox regression was used for multivariate analysis. Results. The median overall survival (OS) was 20.83 months, and the median event-free survival (EFS) was 16.83 months. 64.3% of the patients achieved remission after the 7+3 chemotherapy induction treatment. Patients under 30 years of age, with white blood cell counts less than 100.000 cells/mm3 who responded to induction treatment had a better OS. Additionally, patients receiving an RDI greater than 0.75 of the planned consolidation dose had better survival. The prognostic variables with impact in the OS were the leukocyte count in peripheral blood at diagnosis, the RDI in consolidation treatment with HIDAC and the response obtained after induction. Conclusion. This retrospective study allowed us to know the epidemiology of AML in a reference Colombian Hospital. Additionally, in our knowledge, it is the first study that reports the RDI in consolidation with HIDAC in Latin America as a prognostic factor that directly impacts the OS.
Prognostic Impact of the Number of Examined Lymph Nodes in Stage II Colorectal Adenocarcinoma: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Lei Purun , Ruan Ying , Liu Jianpei , Zhang Qixian , Tang Xiao , Wu Juekun
Published: June 2020

Background. Evaluation of lymph node status is critical in colorectal carcinoma (CRC) treatment. However, as patients with node involvement may be incorrectly classified into earlier stages if the examined lymph node (ELN) number is too small and escape adjuvant therapy, especially for stage II CRC. The aims of this study were to assess the impact of the ELN on the survival of patients with stage II colorectal cancer and to determine the optimal number. Methods. Data from the US Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database on stage II resected CRC (1988-2013) were extracted for mathematical modeling as ELN was available since 1988. Relationship between ELN count and stage migration and disease-specific survival was analyzed by using multivariable models. The series of the mean positive LNs, odds ratios (ORs), and hazard ratios (HRs) were fitted with a LOWESS (Locally Weighted Scatterplot Smoothing) smoother, and the structural break points were determined by the Chow test. An independent cohort of cases from 2014 was retrieved for validation in 5-year disease-specific survival (DSS). Results. An increased ELN count was associated with a higher possibility of metastasis LN detection (OR 1.010, CI 1.009-1.011, p<0.001) and better DSS in LN negative patients (OR 0.976, CI 0.975-0.977, p<0.001). The cut-off point analysis showed a threshold ELN count of 21 nodes (HR 0.692, CI 0.667-0.719, p<0.001) and was validated with significantly better DSS in the SEER 2009 cohort CRC (OR 0.657, CI 0.522-0.827, p<0.001). The cut-off value of the ELN count in site-specific surgeries was analyzed as 20 nodes in the right hemicolectomy (HR 0.674, CI 0.638-0.713, p<0.001), 19 nodes in left hemicolectomy (HR 0.691, CI 0.639-0.749, p<0.001), and 20 nodes in rectal resection patients (HR 0.671, CI 0.604-0.746, p<0.001), respectively. Conclusions. A higher number of ELNs are associated with more-accurate node staging and better prognosis in stage II CRCs. We recommend that at least 21 lymph nodes be examined for accurate diagnosis of stage II colorectal cancer.
Land Use Changes Affecting Soil Organic Matter Accumulation in Topsoil and Subsoil in Northeast Thailand
Authors: Kunlanit Benjapon , Khwanchum Laksanara , Vityakon Patma
Published: June 2020

The objectives of this study were to investigate effects of land use on accumulation of soil organic matter (SOM) in the soil profile (0–100 cm) and to determine pattern of SOM stock distribution in soil profiles. Soil samples were collected from five soil depths at 20 cm intervals from 0 to 100 cm under four adjacent land uses including forest, cassava, sugarcane, and paddy lands located in six districts of Maha Sarakham province in the Northeast of Thailand. When considering SOM stock among different land uses in all locations, forest soils had significantly higher total SOM stocks in 0–100 cm (193 Mg·C·ha−1) than those in cassava, sugarcane, and paddy soils in all locations. Leaf litter and remaining rice stover on soil surfaces resulted in a higher amount of SOM stocks in topsoil (0–20 cm) than subsoil (20–100 cm) in some forest and paddy land uses. General pattern of SOM stock distribution in soil profiles was such that the SOM stock declined with soil depth. Although SOM stocks decreased with depth, the subsoil stock contributes to longer term storage of C than topsoils as they are more stabilized through adsorption onto clay fraction in finer textured subsoil than those of the topsoils. Agricultural practices, notably applications of organic materials, such as cattle manure, could increase subsoil SOM stock as found in some agricultural land uses (cassava and sugarcane) in some location in our study. Upland agricultural land uses, notably cassava, caused high rate of soil degradation. To restore soil fertility of these agricultural lands, appropriate agronomic practices including application of organic soil amendments, return of crop residues, and reduction of soil disturbance to increase and maintain SOM stock, should be practiced.
Biosynthesis of Silver and Gold Nanoparticles Using Aqueous Extract of Codonopsis pilosula Roots for Antibacterial and Catalytic Applications
Authors: Doan Van-Dat , Huynh Bao-An , Nguyen Thanh-Danh , Cao Xuan-Thang , Nguyen Van-Cuong , Nguyen Thi Lan-Huong , Nguyen Hoai Thuong , Le Van Thuan
Published: June 2020

In this study, biogenic silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were synthesized by a green approach using an aqueous extract from Codonopsis pilosula (CP) roots as a reducing and stabilizing agent. The formation of CP-AgNPs and CP-AuNPs was confirmed and optimized by UV-Vis spectroscopy. The CP-AgNPs and CP-AuNPs obtained under optimum conditions of metal ion concentration, reaction temperature, and reaction time were characterized by high-resolution transition electron microscopy (HR-TEM), selected area electron diffraction (SAED) analysis, field-emission scan electron microscopy (FE-SEM), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and dynamic light scattering (DLS) method. It has been found that the biosynthesized CP-AgNPs and CP-AuNPs were formed in spherical shape with an average size of 10±2.5 nm and 20±3.2 nm, respectively. The biosynthesized metallic nanoparticles exhibited selective bacterial activity against three bacterial strains including two Gram-positive bacteria of Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus and one Gram-negative bacteria of Escherichia coli. Meanwhile, there was no antibacterial activity detected toward Gram-negative Salmonella enteritidis. CP-AgNPs and CP-AuNPs also manifested an excellent catalytic performance in the reduction of 1,4-dinitrobenzene, 2-nitrophenol, 3-nitrophenol, and 4-nitrophenol.
Bayesian Approach for Sequential Probabilistic Back Analysis of Uncertain Geomechanical Parameters and Reliability Updating of Tunneling‐Induced Ground Settlements
Authors: Li Cong , Jiang Shui-Hua , Li Jinhui , Huang Jinsong
Published: June 2020

This paper proposes a new sequential probabilistic back analysis approach for probabilistically determining the uncertain geomechanical parameters of shield tunnels by using time‐series monitoring data. The approach is proposed based on the recently developed Bayesian updating with subset simulation. Within the framework of the proposed approach, a complex Bayesian back analysis problem is transformed into an equivalent structural reliability problem based on subset simulation. Hermite polynomial chaos expansion‐based surrogate models are constructed to improve the computational efficiency of probabilistic back analysis. The reliability of tunneling‐induced ground settlements is updated in the process of sequential back analyses. A real shield tunnel project of No. 1 Nanchang Metro Line in China is investigated to assess the effectiveness of the approach. The proposed approach is able to infer the posterior distributions of uncertain geomechanical parameters (i.e., Young’s moduli of surrounding soil layers and ground vehicle load). The reliability of tunneling‐induced ground settlements can be updated in a real‐time manner by fully utilizing the time‐series monitoring data. The results show good agreement with the variation trend of field monitoring data of ground settlement and the post‐event investigations.
Solid Dispersion Pellets: An Efficient Pharmaceutical Approach to Enrich the Solubility and Dissolution Rate of Deferasirox
Authors: Farmoudeh Ali , Rezaeiroshan Anahita , Abbaspour Mohammadreza , Nokhodchi Ali , Ebrahimnejad Pedram
Published: June 2020

Deferasirox (DFX) is an oral iron‐chelating agent and classified into class II of the Biopharmaceutics Classification System. Low bioavailability of the drug due to insufficient solubility in physiological fluids is the main drawback of DFX. The idea of the current study was to explore the potential of solid dispersion (SD) as an effective method to improve the dissolution rate of DFX in pellets. The SDs were made by the solvent evaporation technique using polyethylene glycol 4000 (PEG 4000) and polyvinylpyrrolidone K25 with different drug‐to‐carrier ratios. Then, the dispersion was milled and mixed with other components and the mixture layered on sugar‐based cores by pan coating technique. The pellets were evaluated in terms of size distribution, morphology (SEM), and dissolution behaviour. Drug‐polymer interactions were studied using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X‐ray diffraction study (XRD), and Fourier transformation infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The pellets coated with SD showed a remarkable rise in the solubility of DFX than that of free drug‐loaded pellets. The dispersion with PVP K25 showed a faster dissolution rate as compared to other mixtures. The DSC and XRD analysis indicated that the drug was in the amorphous state when dispersed in the polymer. The FTIR studies demonstrated any ruled out interaction between drug and polymer. The SEM showed smoothness on the surface of the pellets. It is resolved that the SD method considerably enriched the dissolution rate of DFX in pellets, which can also be utilized for other poorly water‐soluble drugs.
Physics and Dynamics Characteristics and Energy Analysis of Freeze‐Thaw Limestone
Authors: Ping Qi , Sun Hongjian , Zhang Chuanliang , Zhou Xin
Published: June 2020

In order to study the physical and dynamic properties of rock after damage, an open‐type saturated water freeze‐thaw test at ±20°C was carried out on the limestone specimen, the size, quality, and longitudinal wave velocity with measured after freeze‐thaw cycles for 0, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, and 100 times, and the SHPB test device was used to carry out the impact compression test with eight kinds of loading rate. This text analyzes the damage evolution characteristics on the physical properties of limestone of cycle times of freeze‐thaw and discusses the dynamic compression mechanical characteristics and energy dissipation law of limestone specimens after freeze‐thaw cycles. The test results show that the mass and longitudinal wave velocity of the specimen decreased and the volume and density increased. The damage factors have the quadratic function positive correlation with the cycle time of freeze‐thaw. Moreover, the dynamic compression stress‐strain curves of the specimens under different loading rates are similar in shape, and the curve shows an upward trend with increasing loading speed. In addition, with the loading rate increasing, the dynamic compressive strength and dynamic elastic modulus of the specimen increased and the dynamic strain decreased. In the SHPB test, the reflected energy, transmitted energy, and absorbed energy all increased linearly with incident energy. The dynamic compressive strength and absorbed energy increase as a power function, and the strain rate and absorbed energy increase as a quadratic function.
A Class of Shock Wave Solution to Singularly Perturbed Nonlinear Time-Delay Evolution Equations
Authors: Feng Yi-Hu , Hou Lei
Published: June 2020

Nonlinear singularly perturbed problem for time-delay evolution equation with two parameters is studied. Using the variables of the multiple scales method, homogeneous equilibrium method, and approximation expansion method from the singularly perturbed theories, the structure of the solution to the time-delay problem with two small parameters is discussed. Under suitable conditions, first, the outer solution to the time-delay initial boundary value problem is given. Second, the multiple scales variables are introduced to obtain the shock wave solution and boundary layer corrective terms for the solution. Then, the stretched variable is applied to get the initial layer correction terms. Finally, using the singularly perturbed theory and the fixed point theorem from functional analysis, the uniform validity of asymptotic expansion solution to the problem is proved. In addition, the proposed method possesses the advantages of being very convenient to use.
A Filament Supply System Capable of Remote Monitoring and Automatic Humidity Control for 3D Printer
Authors: Kwon SoonWon , Lee SeonWoo , Kim YongRae , Oh YoungChan , Lee SunKon , Kim JooHyung , Kwon JangWoo
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we suggest an edge computing system for 3D printers that can monitor and control the relative humidity inside the filament supply. To this end, we studied changes in the stress-strain curve from a 3D-printed object owing to the humidity-sensitive characteristics of the polylactic acid (PLA) filament. The filament supply system is equipped with a relative humidity and temperature sensor and a photo interrupter in order to obtain data; a server is implemented using a Raspberry Pi to remotely monitor the temperature and humidity inside the filament supply and to monitor its state. In addition, a humidity control system (manufactured using a Peltier module) allows users to remotely control the humidity level inside the supply system. In conclusion, an integrated monitoring system was constructed with a filament supply system and the abovementioned functions, and was then integrated into an existing 3D printer monitoring system. This monitoring system can be used to constitute a stable environment for research on 3D printers.
Effects of Bitter Melon Saponin on the Glucose and Lipid Metabolism in HepG2 Cell and C. elegans
Authors: Bai Juan , Zhu Ying , Li Jie , Zhang Yi , Dong Ying , Xiao Xiang
Published: June 2020

This study tried to explore how saponins from bitter melon (BMS) affect the glucose and lipid metabolism in palmitic acid-treated HepG2 cell and glucose-treated Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). Results showed that BMS could effectively accelerate glucose consumption and elevate the levels of glycogen and ATP in palmitic acid-treated HepG2 cell, while significantly decreasing the triglyceride (TG) content. qRT-PCR data indicated that BMS might promote fatty acid β-oxidation by AMPK-ACC2-CPT1 pathway and glucose uptake by upregulating GLUT4 expression. In the model of glucose-treated C. elegans, we observed that BMS obviously inhibited fat accumulation, along with no toxicity towards some physical activities. The potential mechanism of BMS in the metabolism involved the suppression of synthesis of polyunsaturated fatty acids and enhancement of fatty acid β-oxidation. Taken together, BMS exhibited ability of regulating energy metabolism in HepG2 cell line and C. elegans.
A Combined Upper-Sided SyntheticS2Chart for Monitoring the Process Variance
Authors: Shan Tingting , Wu Liusan , Hu Xuelong
Published: June 2020

In order to monitor the process variance, this paper proposes a combined upper-sided syntheticS2chart for monitoring the process standard deviation of a normally distributed process. This combined upper-sided syntheticS2chart comprises a synthetic chart and an upper-sidedS2chart. The design and performance of the proposed chart are presented, and the steady-state average run length comparisons show that the combined upper-sided syntheticS2chart outperforms the standard syntheticS2chart as well as several run rulesS2charts, especially for larger shifts in the process variance.
Application of a Spectroscopic Analysis-Based Portable Sensor for Phosphate Quantitation in Hydroponic Solutions
Authors: Han HeeJo , Jung Dae-Hyun , Kim Hak-Jin , Lee Taek Sung , Kim Hyoung Seok , Kim Ho-Youn , Park Soo Hyun
Published: June 2020

Hydroponic plant culturing requires the concentration of nutrients in the supplied solution to be maintained at a constant level. For example, phosphate ion concentration directly affects crop growth, which necessitates the development of convenient and rapid techniques for on-site phosphate quantitation. Herein, we developed a new low-cost colorimetric method of quick on-site phosphate quantitation based on a modification of the conventional molybdenum colorimetric method. Specifically, the nutrient solution treated with ascorbic acid and molybdate was analyzed by colorimetric method after 10 min incubation, and a phosphate quantitation protocol was proposed. To verify this protocol, 50 nutrient solution samples with concentrations of 0–200 ppm were used to develop a model and perform a validation experiment, and the PLSR (Partial Least Squares Regression) and PCR (Principal Component Regression) models were developed and validated using a crossvalidation method and sample transmission spectra. The PLSR model, employing smoothing preprocessing at a 5 nm wavelength spacing, exhibited the best prediction performance and showed an error of ~10% within the measurement range during verification. In addition, an artificial neural network-based model achieved R2=0.93 for the training set and R2=0.86 for the validation set. Finally, we developed convenient-to-use software for phosphate ion quantitation by the presented method and performed a demonstration test.
Misidentification of Scedosporium boydii Infection as Aspergillosis in a Patient with Chronic Renal Failure
Authors: Jiang Yuying , Gohara Amira F , Mrak Robert E. , Muldrew Kenneth L.
Published: June 2020

Aspergillosis is a commonly diagnosed fungal infection. Histopathologic examination alone can have diagnostic pitfalls due to the overlapping of fungal morphology. We report a case of Scedosporium boydii infection initially misdiagnosed as aspergillosis. The patient presented to the hospital with shortness of breath and chest and abdominal pain. Laboratory tests revealed leukocytosis and elevated serum liver enzymes, myoglobin and lipase. He died of hypotensive shock and brain abscesses despite antibiotic treatment. Autopsy revealed invasive fungal infection in the heart, thyroid, and brain with presence of 45-degree angled, branching hyphae. The initial diagnosis of aspergillosis was made; however, further molecular studies identified the organism as S. boydii. This report reveals the potential pitfalls of morphologic diagnosis alone; and the necessity of other testing modalities to render an accurate diagnosis which is crucial for appropriate.
p38γ MAPK Is Essential for Aerobic Glycolysis and Pancreatic Tumorigenesis
Authors: Wang Fang , Qi Xiao-Mei , Wertz Ryan , Mortensen Matthew , Hagen Catherine , Evans John , Sheinin Yuri , James Michael , Liu Pengyuan , Tsai Susan , Thomas James , Mackinnon Alexander , Dwinell Michael , Myers Charles R. , Bartrons Bach Ramon , Fu Liwu , Chen Guan
Published: June 2020

KRAS is mutated in most pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDAC) and yet remains undruggable. Here, we report that p38γ MAPK, which promotes PDAC tumorigenesis by linking KRAS signaling and aerobic glycolysis (also called the Warburg effect), is a novel therapeutic target. p38γ interacted with a glycolytic activator PFKFB3 that was dependent on mutated KRAS. KRAS transformation and overexpression of p38γ increased expression of PFKFB3 and glucose transporter GLUT2, conversely, silencing mutant KRAS, and p38γ decreased PFKFB3 and GLUT2 expression. p38γ phosphorylated PFKFB3 at S467, stabilized PFKFB3, and promoted their interaction with GLUT2. Pancreatic knockout of p38γ decreased p-PFKFB3/PFKFB3/GLUT2 protein levels, reduced aerobic glycolysis, and inhibited PDAC tumorigenesis in KPC mice. PFKFB3 and GLUT2 depended on p38γ to stimulate glycolysis and PDAC growth and p38γ required PFKFB3/S467 to promote these activities. A p38γ inhibitor cooperated with a PFKFB3 inhibitor to blunt aerobic glycolysis and PDAC growth, which was dependent on p38γ. Moreover, overexpression of p38γ, p-PFKFB3, PFKFB3, and GLUT2 in PDAC predicted poor clinical prognosis. These results indicate that p38γ links KRAS oncogene signaling and aerobic glycolysis to promote pancreatic tumorigenesis through PFKFB3 and GLUT2, and that p38γ and PFKFB3 may be targeted for therapeutic intervention in PDAC.

Significance:

These findings show that p38γ links KRAS oncogene signaling and the Warburg effect through PFKBF3 and Glut2 to promote pancreatic tumorigenesis, which can be disrupted via inhibition of p38γ and PFKFB3.