bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Advances in Food Emulsions and Engineering Foodstuffs Using Plant-Based Nanocelluloses
Authors: Bai Long , Huan Siqi , Zhu Ya , Chu Guang , McClements David Julian , Rojas Orlando J.
Published: December 2020

In this article, the application of nanocelluloses, especially cellulose nanofibrils and cellulose nanocrystals, as functional ingredients in foods is reviewed. These ingredients offer a sustainable and economic source of natural plant-based nanoparticles. Nanocelluloses are particularly suitable for altering the physicochemical, sensory, and nutritional properties of foods because of their ability to create novel structures. For instance, they can adsorb to air–water or oil–water interfaces and stabilize foams or emulsions, self-assemble in aqueous solutions to form gel networks, and act as fillers or fat replacers. The functionality of nanocelluloses can be extended by chemical functionalization of their surfaces or by using them in combination with other natural food ingredients, such as biosurfactants or biopolymers. As a result, it is possible to create stimuli-responsive, tailorable, and/or active functional biomaterials suitable for a range of foodapplications. In this article, we describe the chemistry, structure, and physicochemical properties of cellulose as well as their relevance for the application of nanocelluloses as functional ingredients in foods. Special emphasis is given to their use as particle stabilizers in Pickering emulsions, but we also discuss their potential application for creating innovative biomaterials with novel functional attributes, such as edible films and packaging. Finally, some of the challenges associated with using nanocelluloses in foods are critically evaluated, including their potential safety and consumer acceptance.
Breath-hold task induces temporal heterogeneity in electroencephalographic regional field power in healthy subjects
Authors: Morelli Maria Sole , Vanello Nicola , Callara Alejandro Luis , Hartwig Valentina , Maestri Michelangelo , Bonanni Enrica , Emdin Michele , Passino Claudio , Giannoni Alberto
Published: December 2020

We demonstrated that the end tidal CO2 oscillation causes oscillations of delta and alpha bands. The analysis of the regional field power showed that different cortical areas respond with different time delays to CO2 challenges. An opposite behavior was found for the end-tidal O2. We can suppose that the different cortical time delay response likely expresses specific ascending pathways to the cortex generated by chemoreceptor nuclei in the brainstem.
Metabonomics Analysis of Myocardial Metabolic Dysfunction in Patients with Cardiac Natriuretic Peptide Resistance
Authors: Chang Pan , Lei Shengping , Zhang Xiaomeng , Zhang Jing , Wang Xihui , Wu Juan , Wang Jianbang , Geng Jianping , Chen Baoying , Yu Jun
Published: December 2020

Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is an important biological marker and regulator of cardiac function. BNP resistance is characterized by high concentrations of less functionally effective BNP and common in heart failure (HF) patients. However, the roles and consequences of BNP resistance remain poorly understood. Investigate the effects of cardiac BNP resistance and identify potential metabolic biomarkers for screening and diagnosis. Thirty patients and thirty healthy subjects were enrolled in this study. Cardiac functions were evaluated by echocardiography. The plasma levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) and BNP were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and the cGMP/BNP ratio is calculated to determine cardiac natriuretic peptide resistance. Liquid chromatograph tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS) based untargeted metabolomics analysis was applied to screen metabolic changes. The cGMP/BNP ratio was markedly lower in HF patients than controls. The cGMP/BNP ratio and ejection fraction (EF) were strongly correlated (R2 = 0.676,

P
<
0.05

). Importantly, metabolic profiles were substantially different between HF patients and healthy controls. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis demonstrated that the differentially expressed metabolites are involved in signaling pathways that regulate cardiac functions. In HF patients, BNP resistance develops in association with a reduction in heart function and metabolic remodeling. It suggests possible functional roles of BNP resistance in the regulation of cardiac metabolism.
Clinical and Imaging Prognosis in Patients with Delayed Encephalopathy after Acute Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Authors: Liu Jinzhi , Si Zhihua , Liu Jie , Lin Yan , Yuan Jing , Xu Shan , He Yan , Zhang Tao , Wang Aihua
Published: December 2020

Objective. To study the clinical manifestations, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings, and prognosis of delayed encephalopathy after carbon monoxide poisoning (DEACMP). Methods. The medical records of 20 patients with DEACMP were retrospectively reviewed. All the patients received hyperbaric oxygen treatment and other treatments as necessary. Results. The patients had diverse clinical manifestations, including memory deficits, personality changes, cognitive or executive function deficits, mood disorders, Parkinsonism, dystonia or other motor impairments, and akinetic mutism. MRI revealed lesions in the bilateral cerebral white matter and/or basal ganglia. Except for the pathologically confirmed DEACMP, epileptic seizure, hemiplegia, and vegetative state, the remaining symptoms had been improved, especially the cognitive impairment, which had been decreased from 95% to 25% and psychiatric symptoms also decreased from 95% to 55% at the 6-month follow-up. Conclusions. The prognosis of patients with DEACMP was poor, and they had a relatively severe disability. The early use of hyperbaric oxygen is of great significance to improve clinical efficacy and get a better prognosis.
Inhibition of MEIS3 Generates Cetuximab Resistance through c‐Met and Akt
Authors: Cai Ping , Xie Yangyang , Dong Mingjun , Zhu Qiaoqiao
Published: December 2020

Introduction. Although cetuximab has been widely used in the treatment of colon cancer, a large number of patients eventually develop drug resistance. Therefore, it is essential to clarify the mechanism of drug resistance. Methods. In this study, we combined in silico analysis and a single guide RNA (sgRNA) library to locate cetuximab‐sensitive genes. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, and cell cycle were assessed to validate the change in cetuximab sensitivity. Finally, western blotting was performed to detect changes in epidermal growth factor (EGFR) upstream and downstream genes. Results. Using in silico analysis and the sgRNA library, MEIS3 was confirmed as the cetuximab‐sensitive gene. Further experiments indicated that the expression of MEIS3 could determine the level of cetuximab. Meanwhile, MEIS3‐inhibited cells were sensitive to mesenchymal epithelial transition factor (c‐Met) and protein kinase B (Akt) inhibitors, which is related to the change in phosphorylation of c‐Met and degradation of Akt. Conclusion. MEIS3 modified the sensitivity to cetuximab through c‐Met and Akt.
What Open‐Lung Biopsy Teaches Us about ARDS in COVID‐19 Patients: Mechanisms, Pathology, and Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Abourida Yassamine , Rebahi Houssam , Chichou Hajar , Fenane Hicham , Msougar Yassine , Fakhri Anas , Hazmiri Fatima Ezzahra , Ismail Ayman , Rais Hanane , Soraa Nabila , Samkaoui Mohammed Abdenasser
Published: December 2020

Difficulties have risen while managing Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) caused by COVID‐19, although it meets the Berlin definition. Severe hypoxemia with near‐normal compliance was noted along with coagulopathy. Understanding the precise pathophysiology of this atypical ARDS will assist researchers and physicians in improving their therapeutic approach. Previous work is limited to postmortem studies, while our report addresses patients under protective lung mechanical ventilation. An open‐lung minithoracotomy was performed in 3 patients who developed ARDS related to COVID‐19 and were admitted to the intensive care unit to carry out a pathological and microbiological analysis on lung tissue biopsy. Diffused alveolar damage with hyaline membranes was found, as well as plurifocal fibrin microthrombi and vascular congestion in all patients’ specimens. Microbiological cultures were negative, whereas qualitative Reversed Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT‐PCR) detected SARS‐CoV‐2 in the pulmonary parenchyma and pleural fluid in two patients. COVID‐19 causes progressive ARDS with onset of severe hypoxemia, underlying a dual mechanism: shunt effect through diffused alveolar damage and dead space effect through thrombotic injuries in microvascular beds. It seems reasonable to manage this ventilation‐perfusion ratio mismatch using a high dose of anticoagulant combined with glucocorticoids.
Who Is the Keyman? Integrating Two-Stage DEA and Social Network Analysis to Evaluate Operational and Environmental Efficiency in the Semiconductor Industry
Authors: Fang Tzu-Yi
Published: December 2020

The study considers the semiconductor industry’s business process to be made up of two stages. In the business development process, a company generates profit and consumes energy while polluting the environment. After the two-stage data envelopment analysis approach was employed for calculating the operational efficiency and environmental efficiency, social network analysis was used to compare the manner in which the internal advantages or individual process factors of 28 semiconductor companies contribute to efficiency. A network graph was plotted to visualize relationships, with each node in the network graph representing a company. This graph was plotted to help decision-makers and manufacturers understand information communication among companies and the importance of the company in the network and help companies develop a mutual understanding to improve operational efficiency. The results of the study indicated that having an efficient company does not necessarily mean that the company plays a key role in the entire industry. The results provide decision-makers with references for improvements and information for learning from these references.
10‐HDA Induces ROS‐Mediated Apoptosis in A549 Human Lung Cancer Cells by Regulating the MAPK, STAT3, NF‐κB, and TGF‐β1 Signaling Pathways
Authors: Lin Xin-Mei , Liu Shao-Bin , Luo Ying-Hua , Xu Wan-Ting , Zhang Yu , Zhang Tong , Xue Hui , Zuo Wen-Bo , Li Yan-Nan , Lu Bao-Xin , Jin Cheng-Hao
Published: December 2020

10‐Hydroxy‐2‐decenoic acid (10‐HDA), also known as royal jelly acid, has a variety of physiological functions, and recent studies have shown that it also has anticancer effects. However, its anticancer mechanisms have not been clearly defined. In this study, we investigated the underlying mechanisms of 10‐HDA in A549 human lung cancer cells. We used Cell Counting Kit‐8 assay, scratch wound healing assay, flow cytometry, and western blot analysis to investigate its apoptotic effects and underlying mechanism. Our results showed that 10‐HDA inhibited the proliferation of three types of human lung cancer cells and had no significant toxic effects on normal cells. Accompanying reactive oxygen species (ROS), 10‐HDA induced A549 cell apoptosis by regulating mitochondrial‐associated apoptosis, and caused cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase in a time‐dependent manner. Meanwhile, 10‐HDA also regulated mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK), signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) signaling pathways by increasing the expression levels of phosphorylated c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase, p‐p38, and I‐κB, and additionally, by decreasing the expression levels of phosphorylated extracellular signal‐regulated kinase, p‐STAT3, and NF‐κB. These effects were blocked by MAPK inhibitors and N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine. Furthermore, 10‐HDA inhibited cell migration by regulating transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF‐β1), SNAI1, GSK‐3β, E‐cadherin, N‐cadherin, and vimentin. Taken together, the results of this study showed that 10‐HDA induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in A549 human lung cancer cells through ROS‐mediated MAPK, STAT3, NF‐κB, and TGF‐β1 signaling pathways. Therefore, 10‐HDA may be a potential therapy for human lung cancer.
Molecular Characterization and Evolution Analysis of Two Forms of TLR5 and TLR13 Genes Base on Larimichthys crocea Genome Data
Authors: Jiang Lihua , Pei Liyi , Wang Ping , Liu Liqin , Li Gong , Liu Binjian , Lǚ Zhenming , Hiromasa Tabata , Pan Hao , Ogura Atsushi
Published: December 2020

TLRs (Toll-like receptors) are essential in host defense against pathogens. There are two types of TLR5, namely, membrane form of TLR5 (TLR5M) and soluble form of TLR5 (TLR5S), both of which perform a crucial role in flagellin response. TLR13 is a TLR that localizes to endosomes and recognizes nucleic acids released by internal microorganisms, including viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Here, the full-length coding sequence (CDS), protein structure, and immune response and subcellular localization of TLR5 (TLR5S) and TLR13 were characterized in large yellow croaker (Larimichthys crocea). These TLRs share high sequence homology with other ichthyic TLRs, while also having their own characters; qtPCR was determined and the results found that the three genes were constitutively expressed in all examined tissues: TLR5M was highly expressed in the spleen and liver; TLR13 expression was high in the kidney, liver, and spleen. And TLRs were upregulated following stimulation with Vibrio parahaemolyticus in the liver, spleen, and kidney. Immunofluorescence staining revealed that TLR5M were localized in the cytoplasm, while TLR5S and TLR13 were in the endosome. The evolutionary analysis has shown that TLR13 was clustered with TLR11, 19, 20, 21, and 22, while TLR5 and TLR3 were classified into a group; these results suggest that TLRs are vital in the defense of L. crocea against bacterial infection and further increase our understanding of TLR function in innate immunity in teleosts.
Novel miRNA Predicts Survival and Prognosis of Cholangiocarcinoma Based on RNA‐seq Data and In Vitro Experiments
Authors: Yao Yuan , Jiao Dechao , Liu Zaoqu , Chen Jianjian , Zhou Xueliang , Li Zhaonan , Li Jing , Han Xinwei
Published: December 2020

Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that microRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) play an important role in the diagnosis and prognosis of tumors. In the case of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), miRNAs may serve as potential tumor biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, fold change >2 was used to screen out miRNAs with differential expression in patients with CCA. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses identified miR‐3913‐5p as an independent prognostic factor in patients with CCA. Overall survival and progression‐free survival of patients with CCA were analyzed based on clinical data from TCGA database. In addition, four datasets were combined to identify 21 possible target genes of miR‐3913, and Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses were conducted to predict potential pathways and functions of the molecular target genes. Subsequently, the miRNAs associated with survival were selected to build the miRNA‐mRNA expression network. Furthermore, the differential expression of miR‐3913‐5p in CCA cells and normal bile duct epithelial cells was confirmed through in vitro experiments. The possible target genes (RNF24 and SIGLEC) were further screened by reverse transcription‐quantitative PCR. In addition, functional experiments showed that miR‐3913‐5p might be an oncogene that affects the proliferation and migration of CCA cells by inhibiting and mimicking miR‐3913‐5p. Therefore, miR‐3913 may serve as a biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of patients with CCA.
Identification of 6 Hub Proteins and Protein Risk Signature of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Yue Taohua , Liu Cheng , Zhu Jing , Huang Zhihao , Guo Shihao , Zhang Yuyang , Xu Hao , Liu Yucun , Wang Pengyuan , Chen Shanwen
Published: December 2020

Background. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common cause of cancer death in the United States and the third most common cancer globally. The incidence of CRC tends to be younger, and we urgently need a reliable prognostic assessment strategy. Methods. Protein expression profile and clinical information of 390 CRC patients/samples were downloaded from the TCPA and TCGA database, respectively. The Kaplan‐Meier, Cox regression, and Pearson correlation analysis were applied in this study. Results. Based on the TCPA and TCGA database, we screened 6 hub proteins and first constructed protein risk signature, all of which were significantly associated with CRC patients’ overall survival (OS). The risk score was an independent prognostic factor and significantly related with the size of the tumor in situ (T). 6 hub proteins were differentially expressed in cancer and normal tissues and in different CRC stages, which were validated at the ONCOMINE database. Next, 40 coexpressed proteins of 6 hub proteins were extracted from the TCPA database. In the protein‐protein interaction (PPI) network, HER1, HER2, and CTNNB1 were at the center. Function enrichment analysis illustrated that 46 proteins were mainly involved in the EGFR (HER1) tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance pathway. Conclusion. Studies indicated that 6 hub proteins might be considered as new targets for CRC therapies, and the protein risk signature can be used to predict the OS of CRC patients.
Impact of the Timing of Rocuronium Injection after Propofol Administration on Temporal Summation of Pain in Gynecologic Laparoscopic Surgery: A Prospective and Controlled Study
Authors: Jung Jaehak , Kim Byoungryun , Park Seong Nam , Lee Jiheui , Choi Insung , Lee Myeong Jong , Yim Hyeonbin , Lee Cheol , Lee JuHwan
Published: December 2020

Purpose. Temporal summation of pain, which is defined as the perception of greater pain evoked by repetitive painful stimuli, varies among individuals. This study aimed at determining the impact of the timing of rocuronium after induction with propofol on the temporal summation of pain. Methods. One hundred patients aged 19–60 years underwent gynecologic laparoscopic surgery. Patients were randomly assigned to one of the two groups: group PRi received immediate injections of rocuronium after propofol administration and group PRd received rocuronium injections when the bispectral index score (BIS) decreased to <60 after propofol administration. The grade of rocuronium-induced withdrawal movement (RIWM) according to the timing of propofol injection, the incidence and severity of propofol injection pain (PIP), rescue analgesics, visual analog scale (VAS) score after surgery for postoperative pain, patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) opioid consumption, association between PIP and the grade of RIWM, and associations between PIP, the grade of RIWM, and postoperative pain outcomes were measured. Results. The differences between the incidence and severity of PIP in the two groups were not significant. The grade of the RIWM in the PRd group was significantly reduced compared with the PRi group. Rescue analgesics, severity for postoperative pain, and PCA opioid consumption were not significant. Correlations between the incidence and severity of PIP and the grade of RIWM were weakly negative. Correlations between the grade of RIWM and pain outcomes were moderately positive, but correlations between the severity for PIP and the postoperative pain outcomes were negligible. Conclusion. The timing of rocuronium administration after propofol injection played a role in reducing RIWM. The grade of RIWM was significantly related to pain outcomes compared with the severity of PIP. Therefore, delayed rocuronium injection after induction with propofol reduced temporal summation of pain.
Adaptive Anomaly Detection Framework Model Objects in Cyberspace
Authors: Alkahtani Hasan , Aldhyani Theyazn H. H. , Al-Yaari Mohammed
Published: December 2020

Telecommunication has registered strong and rapid growth in the past decade. Accordingly, the monitoring of computers and networks is too complicated for network administrators. Hence, network security represents one of the biggest serious challenges that can be faced by network security communities. Taking into consideration the fact that e-banking, e-commerce, and business data will be shared on the computer network, these data may face a threat from intrusion. The purpose of this research is to propose a methodology that will lead to a high level and sustainable protection against cyberattacks. In particular, an adaptive anomaly detection framework model was developed using deep and machine learning algorithms to manage automatically-configured application-level firewalls. The standard network datasets were used to evaluate the proposed model which is designed for improving the cybersecurity system. The deep learning based on Long-Short Term Memory Recurrent Neural Network (LSTM-RNN) and machine learning algorithms namely Support Vector Machine (SVM), K-Nearest Neighbor (K-NN) algorithms were implemented to classify the Denial-of-Service attack (DoS) and Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks. The information gain method was applied to select the relevant features from the network dataset. These network features were significant to improve the classification algorithm. The system was used to classify DoS and DDoS attacks in four stand datasets namely KDD cup 199, NSL-KDD, ISCX, and ICI-ID2017. The empirical results indicate that the deep learning based on the LSTM-RNN algorithm has obtained the highest accuracy. The proposed system based on the LSTM-RNN algorithm produced the highest testing accuracy rate of 99.51% and 99.91% with respect to KDD Cup’99, NSL-KDD, ISCX, and ICI-Id2017 datasets, respectively. A comparative result analysis between the machine learning algorithms, namely SVM and KNN, and the deep learning algorithms based on the LSTM-RNN model is presented. Finally, it is concluded that the LSTM-RNN model is efficient and effective to improve the cybersecurity system for detecting anomaly-based cybersecurity.
Controllability and Optimization of Complex Networks Based on Bridges
Authors: Wang Lifu , Zhao Guotao , Kong Zhi , Zhao Yunkang
Published: December 2020

In a complex network, each edge has different functions on controllability of the whole network. A network may be out of control due to failure or attack of some specific edges. Bridges are a kind of key edges whose removal will disconnect a network and increase connected components. Here, we investigate the effects of removing bridges on controllability of network. Various strategies, including random deletion of edges, deletion based on betweenness centrality, and deletion based on degree of source or target nodes, are used to compare with the effect of removing bridges. It is found that the removing bridges strategy is more efficient on reducing controllability than the other strategies of removing edges for ER networks and scale-free networks. In addition, we also found the controllability robustness under edge attack is related to the average degree of complex networks. Therefore, we propose two optimization strategies based on bridges to improve the controllability robustness of complex networks against attacks. The effectiveness of the proposed strategies is demonstrated by simulation results of some model networks. These results are helpful for people to understand and control spreading processes of epidemic across different paths.
TIR-Domain-Containing Adaptor-Inducing Interferon-β (TRIF) Is Involved in Glucose Metabolism in Adipose Tissue through the Insulin/AKT Signaling Pathway
Authors: Yang Junling , Fukuchi Ken-Ichiro
Published: December 2020

Obesity significantly increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus and other metabolic diseases. Obesity is associated with chronic low-grade inflammation in white adipose tissues, which is thought to play an essential role in developing insulin resistance. Many lines of evidence indicate that toll-like receptors (TLRs) and their downstream signaling pathways are involved in development of chronic low-grade inflammation and insulin resistance, which are associated with obesity. Mice lacking molecules positively involved in the TLR signaling pathways are generally protected from high-fat diet-induced inflammation and insulin resistance. In this study, we have determined the effects of genetic deficiency of toll/interleukin-1 receptor-domain-containing adaptor-inducing interferon-β (TRIF) on food intake, bodyweight, glucose metabolism, adipose tissue macrophage polarization, and insulin signaling in normal chow diet-fed mice to investigate the role of the TRIF-dependent TLR signaling in adipose tissue metabolism and inflammation. TRIF deficiency (TRIF−/−) increased food intake and bodyweight. The significant increase in bodyweight in TRIF−/− mice was discernible as early as 24 weeks of age and sustained thereafter. TRIF−/− mice showed impaired glucose tolerance in glucose tolerance tests, but their insulin tolerance tests were similar to those in TRIF+/+ mice. Although no difference was found in the epididymal adipose mass between the two groups, the percentage of CD206+ M2 macrophages in epididymal adipose tissue decreased in TRIF−/− mice compared with those in TRIF+/+ mice. Furthermore, activation of epididymal adipose AKT in response to insulin stimulation was remarkably diminished in TRIF−/− mice compared with TRIF+/+ mice. Our results indicate that the TRIF-dependent TLR signaling contributes to maintaining insulin/AKT signaling and M2 macrophages in epididymal adipose tissue under a normal chow diet and provide new evidence that TLR4-targeted therapies for type 2 diabetes require caution.
Comparison of Point and Snow Load Deflections in Design and Analysis of Tensile Membrane Structures
Authors: Milošević Vuk S. , Marković Biserka Lj.
Published: December 2020

Tensile membrane structures are often used as protective structures in order to provide cover from snow, rain, and direct sunlight. They are widely popular because of their advanced structural and architectural properties. Currently, their application is common at sport stadia and public spaces. There are several types of loads acting on tensile membrane structures, most importantly prestress, snow load, and wind load. However, concentrated loads also act on these structures, but they are frequently neglected during the structural analysis. There is yet no European standard on designing tensile membrane structures that would give guidance on structural analysis and incorporation of point load actions in the analysis. In addition, there is little scientific knowledge on how point loads affect tensile membrane structures. This research aims at revealing whether point loads can produce significant membrane deflections and in such way cause damage to the structure or to the objects underneath the membrane. In order to evaluate their importance, point load deflections are compared to deflections induced by snow load. This was done on a large number of numerical models differing in several parameters. Models represent typical geometries of hypar membrane structures on a square base. Obtained results show that, in many cases, point loads can produce larger membrane deflections compared to the snow load. This finding will have an impact on including the point load actions into standardization of design and analysis procedures of tensile membrane structures in Europe.
Evaluation of the Acute Hepatoprotective Potential of Hydroethanolic Extract of Duranta erecta L. Parts
Authors: Donkor Shadrack , Larbie Christopher , Komlaga Gustav , Emikpe Benjamin Obukowho
Published: December 2020

Liver disease is a major health problem and its treatment is costly in most developing countries with attendant adverse effects. This study aimed at determining the acute hepatoprotective efficacy of Duranta erecta hydroethanolic extracts of leaves, ripe and unripe fruits against CCl4-, and acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity in animals. Materials and Methods. CCl4 (1 mL/kg body weight in olive oil) and acetaminophen (500 mg/kg b.wt) were used to induce hepatotoxicity in the animals. Animals were treated with extracts at 250 mg/kg b.wt and standard drug, silymarin (100 mg/kg), for 7 days. Hepatoprotective efficacy was assessed by assaying serum biochemical markers such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyl transferase (γGT), bilirubin (Bil), antioxidative biomarkers including reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione transferase (GST), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxidase (H202), and nitric oxide (NO), as well as histological observations. Results. Exposure of the animals to CCl4 and acetaminophen resulted in liver injury as evidenced by elevated ALT, AST, ALP, γGT, Bil, MDA, H2O2, and NO levels with resultant derangement in liver microarchitecture. Pretreatment with hydroethanolic extracts, particularly ripe fruits of Duranta erecta, led to a reduction in these indicators and an increase in GSH, GPx, GST, and SOD levels. Biochemical data were supported by improvement in liver structure. Conclusion. The findings suggest that hydroethanolic Duranta erecta ripe fruits extract possesses hepatoprotective and antioxidative activities against CCl4- and acetaminophen-induced toxicity and could be developed as a potent agent for drug-induced liver diseases.
Analysis and Research of Key Genes in Gene Expression Network Based on Complex Network
Authors: Chen Guobin , Qi Jun , Tang Chao , Wang Ying , Wu Yongzhong , Shi Xiaolong
Published: December 2020

Gene expression network is also a type of complex network. It is challenging to analyze the gene expression network through relevant knowledge and algorithms of a complex network. In this paper, the existing characteristics of genes are analyzed from various indexes of the gene expression network to analyze key genes and TOP genes. Firstly, gene chip data are screened, gene data with obvious characteristics are selected, and relevant clustering characteristics are analyzed. Then, the complex gene network structure is established, and gene networks with different threshold shapes and different sizes are selected. Finally, the relevant indexes and PR values after the PageRank algorithm are analyzed for complex networks under different thresholds, thus establishing the TOP gene and PR sequence.
Nootropic Effects of C. melo and C. lanatus seed extracts
Authors: Wahid Shahana , Alqahtani Ali , Khan Rafeeq Alam
Published: December 2020

Dementia and related conditions disturb the ability to perform routine life activities prohibiting a person from making appropriate decisions. Seeds of Cucumis melo and Citrullus lanatus have been investigated extensively for various pharmacological properties; hence, considering the presence of bioactive compounds, it was assumed that these seed extracts may support the functioning of the central nervous system. Thus, the present study was designed to investigate the short‐term and long‐term memory‐enhancing effects of C. melo and C. lanatus seed extracts in mice by the Morris water maze (spatial learning and memory), stationary rod test, and passive avoidance tests (fear‐motivated tests). Ethanol extract of both seeds were prepared by standard procedure and given to animals in the doses of 50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg, and 200 mg/kg. The results were compared to standard drugs diazepam and imipramine given in the doses of 3 mg/kg and 30 mg/kg, respectively. Extracts of both the seeds were found to possess significant memory and cognition‐enhancing effects in mice when tested by passive avoidance, stationary rod, and water maze tests. Results demonstrate memory and cognition‐enhancing effects of these extracts which may be due to the presence of bioactive compounds in these seeds.
Novel Robust Stability Criteria of Uncertain Systems with Interval Time-Varying Delay Based on Time-Delay Segmentation Method and Multiple Integrals Functional
Authors: He Xing , Song Li-Jun , Wu Yu-Bin , Zhou Zi-Yu
Published: December 2020

Interval time-varying delay is common in control process, e.g., automatic robot control system, and its stability analysis is of great significance to ensure the reliable control of industrial processes. In order to improve the conservation of the existing robust stability analysis method, this paper considers a class of linear systems with norm-bounded uncertainty and interval time-varying delay as the research object. Less conservative robust stability criterion is put forward based on augmented Lyapunov-Krasovskii (L-K) functional method and reciprocally convex combination. Firstly, the delay interval is partitioned into multiple equidistant subintervals, and a new Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional comprising quadruple-integral term is introduced for each subinterval. Secondly, a novel delay-dependent stability criterion in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) is given by less conservative Wirtinger-based integral inequality approach. Three numerical comparative examples are given to verify the superiority of the proposed approach in reducing the conservation of conclusion. For the first example about closed-loop control systems with interval time-varying delays, the proposed robust stability criterion could get MADB (Maximum Allowable Delay Bound) about 0.3 more than the best results in the previous literature; and, for two other uncertain systems with interval time-varying delays, the MADB results obtained by the proposed method are better than those in the previous literature by about 0.045 and 0.054, respectively. All the example results obtained in this paper clearly show that our approach is better than other existing methods.
Multiframe Astronomical Image Registration Based on Block Homography Estimation
Authors: Li Ran , Luo Lin , Zhang Yu
Published: December 2020

Due to the influence of atmospheric turbulence, a time-variate video of an observed object by using the astronomical telescope drifts randomly with the passing of time. Thereafter, a series of images is obtained snapshotting from the video. In this paper, a method is proposed to improve the quality of astronomical images only through multiframe image registration and superimposition for the first time. In order to overcome the influence of anisoplanatism, a specific image registration algorithm based on multiple local homography transformations is proposed. Superimposing registered images can achieve an image with high definition. As a result, signal-to-noise ratio, contrast-to-noise ratio, and definition are improved significantly.
Utilization of Open-Source OpenFOAM Code to Examine the Hydrodynamic Characteristics of a Linear Jet Propulsion System with or without Stator in Bollard Pull Condition
Authors: Ghadimi Parviz , Donyavizadeh Negin , Taghikhani Pouria
Published: December 2020

With the development of high-speed crafts, new propulsion systems are introduced into the marine industry. One of the new propulsion systems is linear jet which is similar to pump jet and has a rotor, a stator, and a duct. The main difference between this system and pump jet is the placement of linear jet system under the hull body and inside a tunnel. Since this system, like a water jet, is inside the tunnel, the design idea of this system is a combination of a water jet and pump jet. In this paper, hydrodynamic performance of linear jet propulsion system is numerically investigated. To this end, the OpenFOAM software is utilized and RANS steady equations are solved using a

k

-

ε

turbulent model. The linear jet geometry is produced by assembling a Kaplan rotor, stator with a NACA 5505 cross section, and a decelerating duct. The results of numerical solution in the form of thrust, torque coefficient, and efficiency are compared with available experimental data for a ducted propeller, and good agreement is displayed. Subsequently, the hydrodynamic parameters are computed in two conditions: with a stator and without a stator. By comparing the results, it is observed that the total thrust coefficient of the propulsion system with a stator at all advance ratios increases by at least 40%. It is further observed that addition of a stator also improves its efficiency.
Assessment of the Oxidative Desulfurization of Middle Distillate Surrogate Fuels with Spectroscopic Techniques
Authors: Syntyhaki Eleni , Detsi Anastasia , Karonis Dimitrios
Published: December 2020

The oxidative desulfurization of five (5) model sulfur compounds and eleven (11) surrogate blends was investigated using the hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-acetic acid (CH3COOH) system. Consequently, extractive desulfurization was carried out using conventional solvents. The model sulfur compounds, as well as the solvent, are present in petroleum middle distillates. The selection of the compounds was made so that they represent various kinds of sulfur compounds. The goal of this study was the implementation of a simple and economical oxidative and extractive system for the desulfurization of surrogate mixtures with an intermediate sulfur concentration 1% w/w, at the mild temperature of 70°C, and without the use of supplementary and assisting methods such as heterogeneous catalysis or ultrasound irradiation. The sulfur content was estimated using X-ray fluorescence. The progress of the oxidation reaction was monitored using liquid FT-IR. The solid sediments of the oxidation procedure were identified with solid-state FT-IR and 1H NMR spectroscopy.
Systemic Risk Contagion in Reconstructed Financial Credit Network within Banking and Firm Sectors on DebtRank Based Model
Authors: Bian Yuetang (Peter) , Wang Yu , Xu Lu
Published: December 2020

This paper is dedicated to building a multilayer financial network within banking sectors and firm sectors (nonbanking) on the balance sheet of two types of agents and to assessing systemic risk contagion in the reconstructed network. Two propagation channels due to interbank credit and counterparty risk via banks’ loans to firms are comprehensively taken into account in systemic risk contagion assessment, which is based on the DebtRank model by analyzing the relative loss of each bank’s equity and the vulnerability of the network. The computational simulation on how systemic risk contagious process evolves has been conducted, where the possible influential factors of network structure, agent’s initial risk status, external shock ratio, liquidity flow rate, and different layers of the network are considered. The findings show that the reconstructed network is absolutely vulnerable under the assumed market circumstance without any bailouts and the risk contagion process shows nonlinear behavior. Specifically, when the average degree of the network and the external shock ratio increases, the risk contagion speed becomes relatively high and the resulting negative effects on the network are more intense. Besides, risks originating from the failed firms in bank-firm layer should place more negative effect on the financial system than that only happening in interbank market. Different liquidity rates in financial market could lead to obvious discrepancy of the risk contagion speed and the extent of asset loss. Additionally, the two layers of the network have diverse influences on risk contagious process resulting in totally different banks’ status in each layer.
Physical and Chemical Properties, Pretreatment, and Recycling of Municipal Solid Waste Incineration Fly Ash and Bottom Ash for Highway Engineering: A Literature Review
Authors: Lu Yong , Tian Angran , Zhang Junhui , Tang Yongsheng , Shi Peixin , Tang Qiang , Huang Yucheng
Published: December 2020

Municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) has been widely used due to its benefits in reducing waste and recovering energy. However, MSWI fly ash and bottom ash are increasing rapidly, causing harm to human health and the environment. This paper discussed the production process, physical and chemical properties, leaching properties, pretreatment methods, and applications of fly ash and bottom ash. By summarizing the previous literature, it is found that MSWI fly ash and bottom ash have mechanical properties similar to natural aggregate. Many beneficial attempts have been made in cement concrete aggregates, ceramic raw materials, and highway engineering materials. Due to concerns about the leaching of heavy metals in fly ash, its application in highway engineering is limited. The application of bottom ash in asphalt pavement is rare because of the side effect on the performance of asphalt mixture. Considering the solidification effect of cement on heavy metals and the low cost of fly ash and bottom ash, the application in cement‐stabilized macadam base has broad application prospects. This is beneficial to reduce the construction cost and promote the process of waste incineration, especially in developing countries.
Impact of Radiotherapy on Prognosis in Patients Diagnosed with Metastatic Prostate Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Liu Shuai , Wang Xiao-ying , Huang Tian-bao , Ma Xiao-xi , Xia Zhi-zhong , Tang Liu-biao , Zhao Tong-sheng , Zhou Guang-chen
Published: December 2020

Background: It has been reported that compared with no local therapy (NLT), patients treated with local therapy (LT) using radiotherapy (RT) possess higher survival rate in metastatic prostate cancer (mPCa). The aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the impact of RT on prognosis in patients with mPCa. Methods: We retrieved the literature in PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases until June 2019 using structured search terms. Several studies were included, which evaluated patients with mPCa who received RT versus NLT. Results: A total of 14,542 patients were analyzed in 7 included papers (2 randomized controlled trials [RCTs] and 5 cohort retrospective studies [CRS]), and 2,232 mPCa patients were treated with RT and 12,310 with NLT. The data of RCTs and CRS were analyzed separately. In RCTs, RT was associated with no significant difference in overall survival (OS) (pooled hazard ratio [HR] = 0.96; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.85–1.09; p = 0.55; I2 = 42%) relative to NLT, while survival benefit was observed in the low-metastatic burden group (pooled HR = 0.68; 95% CI: 0.54–0.86; p = 0.001; I2 = 0%), and no survival benefit was observed in the high-metastatic burden group (pooled HR = 1.07; 95% CI: 0.92–1.24; p = 0.39; I2 = 0%). In CRS, RT results in lower cancer-specific mortality (CSM) (pooled HR = 0.49; 95% CI: 0.34–0.75; p < 0.00001; I2 = 0%) and higher OS (pooled HR = 0.61; 95% CI: 0.55–0.68; p < 0.00001; I2 = 0%) relative to NLT. Subsequent analysis demonstrated that high level of M-stage or N-stage was associated with increased CSM (pooled HR = 2.08; 95% CI: 1.69–2.55; p < 0.00001; I2 = 0% and pooled HR = 1.16; 95% CI: 1.03–1.30; p < 0.00001; I2 = 0%; respectively). Conclusions: Our observations in aggregate indicated that RT at least does not appear to be harmful and may be beneficial for low-metastatic burden patients and better condition patients. More prospective and randomized studies evaluating RT for mPCa are warranted.
Pattern, Trend and Predictors of Adult-Onset Type 1 Diabetes in Uyo, Nigeria
Authors: Amadi Collins , Ayoade Olufisayo G. , Onung Samuel I. , Essien Sarah I. , Etuk Anietie A. , Okafor Chidozie J.
Published: December 2020

Background: Unlike what obtains in childhood-onset type 1 diabetes, there remains a paucity of data on adult-onset type 1 diabetes in Nigeria. Hence, the current study aimed to determine the general characteristics of adult-onset type 1 diabetes among subjects (aged ≥18 years) presenting at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) in Akwa Ibom State, South-south Nigeria. Methods: A 5-year (2014–2018) retrospective records review of subjects with type 1 diabetes was undertaken, using hospital medical records retrieved from the Department of Health Information Management of UUTH. Diagnosed adult cases of type 1 diabetes were meticulously identified and the relevant data at the point of initial diagnosis were acquired on a specially designed data acquisition template. Results: A total of 47,357 medical cases were identified of which 362 adults were diagnosed with type I diabetes (mean age 33.12 ± 4.40, range 20–51 years) and the females (n = 204; 56.4%) predominated among those diagnosed. The overall, male gender, and female gender prevalence was 7.4/1,000 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 6.89–7.98), 3.3/1,000 (95% CI: 2.52–4.08), and 4.3/1,000 (95% CI: 3.61–4.99), respectively. The females exhibited the highest trough, peak, annual, and overall prevalence during the study period. The female gender (OR: 2.334; 95% CI: 1.407–3.478; p = 0.010), age ≤30 years (OR: 1.976; 95% CI: 0.875–3.211; p < 0.001), urban-dwelling (OR: 3.243; 95% CI: 2.3407.780; <0.001), diabetes family history (OR: 1.365; 95% CI: 0.678–2.010; p = 0.033), and the rainy season (OR: 1.129; 95% CI: 0.401–1.910; p < 0.001) were independent predictors among the overall adult type 1 diabetics. On gender-segregated analyses, age ≤30 years, urban-dwelling, diabetes family history, and the rainy season remained independent predictors among the male and female adult type 1 diabetics (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The study demonstrated a high burden of type 1 diabetes among adult residents of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, South-South Nigeria. The predictors of adult type 1 diabetes, identified in the present study, are valuable epidemiologic evidence for the design of type 1 diabetes-targeted preventive programs by various concerned stakeholders.
Challenges of Aligning Artificial Intelligence with Human Values
Authors:   University of Tartu, Sutrop Margit
Published: December 2020

As artificial intelligence (AI) systems are becoming increasingly autonomous and will soon be able to make decisions on their own about what to do, AI researchers have started to talk about the need to align AI with human values. The AI ‘value alignment problem’ faces two kinds of challenges—a technical and a normative one—which are interrelated. The technical challenge deals with the question of how to encode human values in artificial intelligence. The normative challenge is associated with two questions: “Which values or whose values should artificial intelligence align with?” My concern is that AI developers underestimate the difficulty of answering the normative question. They hope that we can easily identify the purposes we really desire and that they can focus on the design of those objectives. But how are we to decide which objectives or values to induce in AI, given that there is a plurality of values and moral principles and that our everyday life is full of moral disagreements? In my paper I will show that although it is not realistic to reach an agreement on what we, humans, really want as people value different things and seek different ends, it may be possible to agree on what we do not want to happen, considering the possibility that intelligence, equal to our own, or even exceeding it, can be created. I will argue for pluralism (and not for relativism!) which is compatible with objectivism. In spite of the fact that there is no uniquely best solution to every moral problem, it is still possible to identify which answers are wrong. And this is where we should begin the value alignment of AI.