bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surface Passivation of ITO on Heterojunction Solar Cells with Enhanced Cell Performance and Module Reliability
Authors: Du Guanlin , Bai Yanhui , Huang Jin , Zhang Juan , Wang Jilei , Lin Yinyue , Lu Linfeng , Yang Liyou , Bao Shaojuan , Huang Zhongxi , Chen Xiaoyuan , Yin Min , Li Dongdong
Published: March 2021

The indium tin oxide (ITO) thin film plays an important role in the silicon heterojunction (SHJ) solar cells, which acts as not only a carrier transport layer in vertical and lateral directions but an anti-reflection layer as well. Thickness reduction of the expensive ITO is an efficient strategy to reduce the cost of SHJ solar cells. In this work, the simulated antireflection effects of several dielectric capping layers demonstrate that Al2O3 and SiO2 are the suitable candidates for both of the SHJ solar cell and module. Hall effect measurements show that the SiO2 layer is able to passivate the ITO surface and improve the mobility and conductivity of the ITO film, which is beneficial to further reduce the thickness of ITO films. It is also found that the SiO2 capping layer can significantly enhance the adhesion strength between the solar cell and the encapsulating polymer film by 26% in the SHJ module. The improved adhesion strength is attributed to the higher surface energy of SiO2 than ITO, according to the liquid-solid contact angle measurements. These results show that the SiO2 capping layer can not only reduce the consumption of ITO thin films, but also increase the reliability of SHJ module.
Refractive Indices and Related Properties for Binary Mixtures of Methyl Acetate and Derivatives of Alkanolamines at Temperature Ranging from 293.15 to 313.15 K
Authors: Hyder M. K. Mohammad Ziaul , Akhtar Shamim
Published: March 2021

Refractive indices, n
D, of two binary liquid systems of methyl acetate (MAc) + methylethanolamine (MEA), and MAc + dimethylethanolamine (DMEA) each at twenty-one different compositions at T = 293.15, 303.15 and 313.15 K under ambient pressure are reported. The effect of temperature on the n
D values is relatively small and the higher the temperature, the lower the refractive index. From the n
D data, deviation in refractive indices, Δn
D, molar refraction, R
m, as well as deviation in molar refractions, ΔR
m are estimated. The Δn
D and ΔR
m were correlated with the Redlich–Kister equation. For each system, as a function of composition of alkanolamines, x
2, the Δn
D form a single positive lobe with a maximum between 0.5 and 0.65 mole fraction of alkanolamine. The ΔR
m for both the systems are positive, the maxima lying within x
2 = 0.3 to 0.5.
Amelioration of bone fragility by pulsed electromagnetic fields in type 2 diabetic KK-Ay mice involving Wnt/β-catenin signaling
Authors: Shao Xi , Yang Yongqing , Tan Zhifen , Ding Yuanjun , Luo Erping , Jing Da , Cai Jing
Published: March 2021

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) results in compromised bone microstructure and quality, and subsequently increased risks of fractures. However, it still lacks safe and effective approaches resisting T2DM bone fragility. Pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMFs) exposure has proven to be effective in accelerating fracture healing and attenuating osteopenia/osteoporosis induced by estrogen deficiency. Nevertheless, whether and how PEMFs resist T2DM-associated bone deterioration remain not fully identified. The KK-Ay mouse was used as the T2DM model. We found that PEMF stimulation with 2 h/day for 8 wk remarkably improved trabecular bone microarchitecture, decreased cortical bone porosity, and promoted trabecular and cortical bone material properties in KK-Ay mice. PEMF stimulated bone formation in KK-Ay mice, as evidenced by increased serum levels of bone formation (osteocalcin and P1NP), enhanced bone formation rate, and increased osteoblast number. PEMF significantly suppressed osteocytic apoptosis and sclerostin expression in KK-Ay mice. PEMF exerted beneficial effects on osteoblast- and osteocyte-related gene expression in the skeleton of KK-Ay mice. Nevertheless, PEMF exerted no effect on serum biomarkers of bone resorption (TRAcP5b and CTX-1), osteoclast number, or osteoclast-specific gene expression ( TRAP and cathepsin K). PEMF upregulated gene expression of canonical Wnt ligands (including Wnt1, Wnt3a, and Wnt10b), but not noncanonical Wnt5a. PEMF also upregulated skeletal protein expression of downstream p-GSK-3β and β-catenin in KK-Ay mice. Moreover, PEMF-induced improvement in bone microstructure, mechanical strength, and bone formation in KK-Ay mice was abolished after intragastric administration with the Wnt antagonist ETC-159. Together, our results suggest that PEMF can improve bone microarchitecture and quality by enhancing the biological activities of osteoblasts and osteocytes, which are associated with the activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. PEMF might become an effective countermeasure against T2DM-induced bone deterioration.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY PEMF improved trabecular bone microarchitecture and suppressed cortical bone porosity in T2DM KK-Ay mice. It attenuated T2DM-induced detrimental consequence on trabecular and cortical bone material properties. PEMF resisted bone deterioration in KK-Ay mice by enhancing osteoblast-mediated bone formation. PEMF also significantly suppressed osteocytic apoptosis and sclerostin expression in KK-Ay mice. The therapeutic potential of PEMF on T2DM-induced bone deterioration was associated with the activation of Wnt/ß-catenin signaling.
NK1.1−natural killer T cells upregulate interleukin-17 expression in experimental lupus nephritis
Authors: An Jung Nam , Ryu Seungwon , Kim Yong Chul , Yoo Kyung Don , Lee Jangwook , Kim Hye Young , Lee Hajeong , Lee Jung Pyo , Lee Jae Wook , Jeon Un Sil , Kim Dong Ki , Kim Yon Su , Yang Seung Hee
Published: March 2021

This study makes a significant contribution to the literature because our results indicate that IL-17 is upregulated in lupus nephritis and that natural killer T (NKT) cells are involved in its pathogenesis. Activation of NKT cells regulates IL-17-related immune responses, both systemically and in the kidney, and this mainly involves NK1.1−NKT cells. Furthermore, IL-17-secreting NK1.1−NKT cells could serve as a diagnostic and therapeutic target for lupus nephritis.
Mapping kidney tubule diameter ex vivo by diffusion MRI
Authors: Morozov Darya , Parvin Neda , Charlton Jennifer R. , Bennett Kevin M.
Published: March 2021

Tubular pathologies are a common feature of kidney disease. Current metrics to assess kidney health, in vivo or in transplant, are generally based on urinary or serum biomarkers and pathological findings from kidney biopsies. Diffusion MRI can be used to measure the distribution of tubule diameters in the kidney cortex ex vivo and may provide a new noninvasive biomarker of tubular pathology.
Roles of WNK4 and SPAK in K+-mediated dephosphorylation of the NaCl cotransporter
Authors: Mukherjee Anindit , Yang Chao-Ling , McCormick James A. , Martz Kevin , Sharma Avika , Ellison David H.
Published: March 2021

Although a great deal is known about mechanisms by which thiazide-sensitive NaCl cotransporter is phosphorylated and activated, much less is known about dephosphorylation. Here, we show that rapid dephosphorylation by high K+ depends on the Cl− sensitivity of with-no-lysine 4 and the rapid dephosphorylation of STE20/SPS1-related proline-alanine-rich protein kinase, primarily along the early distal convoluted tubule.
Expression of lactate dehydrogenase A and B isoforms in the mouse kidney
Authors: Osis Gunars , Traylor Amie M. , Black Laurence M. , Spangler Daryll , George James F. , Zarjou Abolfazl , Verlander Jill W. , Agarwal Anupam
Published: March 2021

Cellular release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is being used as an injury marker; however, the exact localization of LDH within the nephron remains unclear. We show that LDH isoform A is expressed proximally, whereas isoform B is expressed distally. Both subunit expressions were significantly altered in models of acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease. Our study provides new insights into basal and postinjury renal lactate metabolism.
Distinct uterine artery gene expression profiles during early gestation in the stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rat
Authors: Scott Kayley , Morgan Hannah L. , Delles Christian , Fisher Simon , Graham Delyth , McBride Martin W.
Published: March 2021

During pregnancy, the uterine spiral arteries undergo major vascular remodeling to ensure sufficient uteroplacental perfusion to support the fetus. In pregnancies complicated by hypertensive disorders, this remodeling is deficient leading to impaired uteroplacental blood flow and poor maternal and fetal outcomes. The underlying genetic mechanisms for failed vascular remodeling are not fully understood. This study aimed to examine the early-pregnancy-associated gene changes in the uterine arteries of spontaneously hypertensive stroke-prone rats (SHRSP) compared with their normotensive counterparts, Wistar–Kyoto rats (WKY). Uterine arteries from gestational day 6.5 WKY and SHRSP were processed for RNA-sequencing, along with virgin, age-matched controls for each strain. Gene expression changes were identified and biological pathways were implicated and interpretated using ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA). This study found that WKY uterine arteries from early pregnancy exhibit a gene expression pattern that is suggestive of a pregnancy-dependent reduction in Ca2+ handling and renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) components and an increase in ATP production. In contrast, the expression pattern of pregnant SHRSP uterine arteries was dominated by an elevated immune response and increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and downstream effectors of the RAAS. These results suggest that in a rat model, hypertension during pregnancy impacts uterine artery gene expression patterns as early as the first week of pregnancy. The pathway changes involved may underlie or contribute to the adverse vascular remodeling and resultant placental ischemia and systemic vascular dysfunction observed in SHRSP in late gestation.
Barrier Corrosion Protection Properties of Metakaolin Clay-Kadilux Epoxy Coatings on Galvanized Steel
Authors: Tasew Fantaye , Thothadri Ganesh
Published: March 2021

Epoxy polymer, an illustrious barrier corrosion protective coating, was reinforced with metakaolin clay, an eco-friendly inorganic filler to enhance the barrier corrosion protection properties in water and in acidic environment on galvanized steel plates. Various proportions 0, 1, 3, 5, and 7 wt.% of metakaolin fillers were mixed intrinsically with kadilux epoxy and characterized for thermal stability, water absorption according to ASTM G31, and acid immersion according to ASTM D-570 standards, respectively. The reinforced coatings minimized the pore size and density, lower water absorption, and better acid resistance properties especially at 7 wt.% of the fillers. The thermal stability of the films improved beyond 5 wt.% of filler composition.
Efficacy of Weekly Split versus Single Doses of Ergocalciferol on Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D among Patients on Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Nata Naowanit , Kanchanasinitth Jessada , Tasanavipas Pamila , Supasyndh Ouppatham , Satirapoj Bancha
Published: March 2021

Background. Vitamin D deficiency is a common problem among patients on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). Vitamin D supplementation leads to reduced serum parathyroid hormone levels and improved cardiovascular markers. Different doses and time intervals of oral vitamin D supplementation may differ in each patient on dialysis. The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of weekly split and single dose of ergocalciferol at 60,000 IU on serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) among patients on CAPD. Methods. A randomized study was conducted among patients on CAPD with vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency (25(OH)D < 30 ng/mL). Patients were randomly assigned to two groups: the split dose group was given ergocalciferol 20,000 IU three times weekly and the single dose group was given ergocalciferol 60,000 IU once weekly for 8 weeks. Main outcomes measured serum 25(OH)D concentrations, serum calcium, serum phosphate, and intact parathyroid levels at 8 weeks after being enrolled. Results. Of 128 screened patients, 50 met the criteria for eligibility and were randomized. At 8 weeks after treatment, mean serum 25(OH)D concentrations significantly increased from baseline 22.7 ± 5.9 to 29.5 ± 9.5 ng/mL

P
=
0.004

in the split dose group and 22.9 ± 5.3 to 31.2 ± 12.3 ng/mL

P
=
0.003

in the single dose group. No significant change was found in increase of serum 25(OH)D between the two groups

P
=
0.561

. At the end of study, a similar proportion of patients in both groups reached the desirable serum concentration of 25(OH)D ≥ 30 ng/mL (60% in the single group vs. 40% in the split group,

P
=
0.258

). No significant cases of hypercalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, or serious adverse events occurred during the study. Conclusion. Weekly single and split doses of ergocalciferol 60,000 IU achieved similar effects on serum 25(OH)D levels among patients on CAPD with vitamin D insufficiency or deficiency, suggesting that weekly single dose would be prescribed for adequate vitamin D repletion. This trial is registered with TCTR20200821005.
The Application of the Vibration Absorber in Laser Inertial Navigation Products
Authors: Cheng Guoda , Zhang Yi , Lei Hongjie , Zhang Pengyu , Wang Shengjun , Li Xueying
Published: March 2021

The navigation accuracy of laser strap‐down inertial navigation products declines with gyro dither, which is a bottleneck problem for the development of the important aviation instrument. The reason is that the dither of three gyros in the product couples and generates extra noise in the output signals of gyros. To decouple dither, this paper applies the vibration absorber in laser inertial navigation products. First of all, an angular vibration model of the three‐rigid body system, which is constructed by the gyro, platform, and vibration absorber, is established. Then, the theoretical restriction of the absorber and the system response are derived. Finally, considering the power limitation for dither, the total power of the vibration system is analyzed. The analytical and experimental results show that the efficiency of the vibration absorber only relates to the frequency offset with gyros, and the absorber does lead to a sharp power increase.
An FBG Strain Sensor-Based NPW Method for Natural Gas Pipeline Leakage Detection
Authors: Hou Qingmin
Published: March 2021

Natural gas pipeline leaks can lead to serious and dangerous accidents that can cause great losses of life and property. Therefore, detecting natural gas pipeline leaks has always been an important subject. The negative pressure wave (NPW) method is currently the most widely used leakage detection method. Generally, this method uses pressure sensors to detect NPW signals to assess the leak and determine the location of the leakage point. However, the installation of a pressure sensor requires penetrating the pipeline structure, so the sensor intervals are often distant, leading to large signal attenuations and the ineffective detection of small leaks. An NPW method based on fiber Bragg grating (FBG) strain sensors is proposed in this paper which detects NPWs by monitoring the annular strain of the pipeline. Moreover, due to the advantages of nondestructive installation FBG strain sensors can be arranged closer along the distance of the pipeline, the attenuation of the NPW is small and the detection of leaks is improved. This method is tested through experiments and compared with a pressure sensor-based method; the experimental results verify that the proposed method is more effective in detecting natural gas pipeline leaks.
Layout of the First‐Mining Working Face in the Protected Seam for Pressure Relief by Peak Stress Shift
Authors: Gao Xiao-Xu , Chai Guo-Jin , Zhu Guang-An
Published: March 2021

An appropriate layout of the first‐mining working face of protected seams is key to rockburst prevention in coal seams. By taking the first‐mining working face in the 2‐2# middle coal seam in Hulusu Coal Mine as the background, a mechanical model for the stress distribution after mining the upper protective seams was established through theoretical analysis and in situ measurement. The problem concerning the layout of the first‐mining working face in the protected seam was transformed into one concerning the optimal horizontal distance L. Furthermore, based on the theory of stress transfer within a semi‐infinite plane, the distribution of the vertical stress in the protected seam was deduced, for which numerical simulation was performed. Through calculation, it is best (in terms of roadway excavation) to set L to between 50 and 75 m; the mining‐induced disturbance shows the least influence on the two roadways at L = 80 to 140 m and at L = 40 to 100 m, and the influence of the remaining coal pillar on mining of the working face is the least significant. Based on the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) evaluation method, the weights of three groups of contradictory criteria and the weighted values of the peak stress under different values of L were calculated. The results show that the global stress on the first‐mining working face in the protected seams is lowest at L = 60 m. The results can provide a reference for the layout of the working faces in protected seams in adjacent coal mines.
The Aqueous Extract from the Stem Bark of Garcinia lucida Vesque (Clusiaceae) Exhibits Cardioprotective and Nephroprotective Effects in Adenine-Induced Chronic Kidney Disease in Rats
Authors: Sonfack Christelle Stéphanie , Nguelefack-Mbuyo Elvine Pami , Kojom Jacquy Joyce , Lappa Edwige Laure , Peyembouo Fernande Petingmve , Fofié Christian Kuété , Nolé Tsabang , Nguelefack Télesphore Benoît , Dongmo Alain Bertrand
Published: March 2021

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a serious health problem with high morbidity and mortality, mainly attributable to cardiovascular risk. Garcinia lucida is traditionally used in Cameroon for the management of cardiovascular diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cardioprotective and nephroprotective effects of the aqueous extract from the stem bark of G. lucida (AEGL). The in vitro antioxidant effect of AEGL was assessed at concentrations ranging 1–300 μg/mL against DPPH, lipid peroxidation, and AAPH-induced hemolysis. The reducing power and phenolic and flavonoids contents were also determined. CKD was induced by intraperitoneal bolus injection of adenine (50 mg/kg/day) for 4 consecutive weeks to male Wistar rats. AEGL (150 and 300 mg/kg/day) or captopril (20 mg/kg/day) was concomitantly administered with adenine per os. Bodyweight and blood pressure were monitored at baseline and weekly during the test. At the end of the experiment, plasma creatinine, urea, AST, and ALT were quantified. Proteinuria, creatinine excretion, and creatinine clearance were also assessed. The effect on GSH, CAT, and SOD activity was evaluated in cardiac and renal homogenates. Sections of the heart and kidney were stained with hematoxylin and eosin. AEGL exhibited a potent in vitro antioxidant activity and was shown to possess a large amount of phenolic compounds. Adenine alone increased blood pressure, cardiac and kidney mass, proteinuria, protein to creatinine ratio, plasma creatinine, AST, and urea levels (

p
<
0.05

, 0.01, and 0.001). Besides, the bodyweight and creatinine clearance were significantly reduced (

p
<
0.05

and

p
<
0.01

). All these alterations were blunted by the plant extract, except the bodyweight loss. In addition, AEGL improved GSH levels and CAT and SOD activities. AEGL attenuated adenine-induced glomerular necrosis, tubular dilatation, and cardiac inflammation. AEGL exhibits cardioprotective and nephroprotective effects that may be ascribed to its antihypertensive and antioxidant activities.
Construction of a Prognostic Gene Signature Associated with Immune Infiltration in Glioma: A Comprehensive Analysis Based on the CGGA
Authors: Gong Xiaoxiang , Liu Lingjuan , Xiong Jie , Li Xingfang , Xu Jie , Xiao Yangyang , Li Jian , Luo Xuemei , Mao Dingan , Liu Liqun
Published: March 2021

Background. Tumor microenvironment (TME) is closely related to the progression of glioma and the therapeutic effect of drugs on this cancer. The aim of this study was to develop a signature associated with the tumor immune microenvironment using machine learning. Methods. We downloaded the transcriptomic and clinical data of glioma patients from the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) databases (mRNAseq_693). The single-sample Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (ssGSEA) database was used to quantify the relative abundance of immune cells. We divided patients into two different infiltration groups via unsupervised clustering analysis of immune cells and then selected differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the two groups. Survival-related genes were determined using Cox regression analysis. We next randomly divided patients into a training set and a testing set at a ratio of 7 : 3. By integrating the DEGs into least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analysis in the training set, we were able to construct a 15-gene signature, which was validated in the testing and total sets. We further validated the signature in the mRNAseq_325 dataset of CGGA. Results. We identified 74 DEGs associated with tumor immune infiltration, 70 of which were significantly associated with overall survival (OS). An immune-related gene signature was established, consisting of 15 key genes: adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-binding cassette subfamily C member 3 (ABCC3), collagen type IV alpha 1 chain (COL4A1), podoplanin (PDPN), annexin A1 (ANXA1), COL4A2, insulin-like growth factor binding protein 2 (IGFBP2), serpin family A member 3 (SERPINA3), CXXC-type zinc finger protein 11 (CXXC11), junctophilin 3 (JPH3), secretogranin III (SCG3), secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC)-related modular calcium-binding protein 1 (SMOC1), Cluster of Differentiation 14 (CD14), COL1A1, S100 calcium-binding protein A4 (S100A4), and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1). The OS of patients in the high-risk group was worse than that of patients in the low-risk group. GSEA showed that interleukin-6 (IL-6)/Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT3) signaling, interferon gamma (IFN-γ) response, angiogenesis, and coagulation were more highly enriched in the high-risk group and that oxidative phosphorylation was more highly enriched in the low-risk group. Conclusion. We constructed a stable gene signature associated with immune infiltration to predict the survival rates of glioma patients.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Salt Tolerance in Asparagus Germplasm Accessions (Asparagus officinalis L.) at Different Growth Stages
Authors: Gao Huimin , Zhang Xuhong , Liang Yuqin , Dong Lingdi , Han Changzhi , Cao Yanpo
Published: March 2021

The screening and cultivation of salt-tolerant crops are becoming more and more important owing to the constant increase in the saline soil area worldwide. Asparagus (A. officinalis L.) is a highly nutritious vegetable crop and widely consumed globally for a long time; however, little research has been done on asparagus. In this study, the salt tolerance of 95 asparagus germplasm accessions was evaluated at three growth stages (germination, seedling, and adult stages) under both salt-stressed and control conditions. Results showed that the growth parameters of most germplasm accessions were obviously inhibited by salt stress. The mean value of the seed germination rate at the germination stage decreased by half under salt-stressed conditions, the mean salt-injury index at the seedling stage reached 57.68%, and the fresh weight of the aboveground part (FWA) and the dry weight of the aboveground part (DWA) decreased the most among the traits determined at the adult stage by more than 60%. Our study screened out 30, 19, and 18 tolerant germplasm accessions (including highly salt-tolerant and salt-tolerant germplasm accessions) at the germination stage, seedling stage, and adult stage, respectively. Among them, two germplasm accessions (Ji08-2 and Jx1502) were simultaneously identified to be tolerant in all three growth stages, while other germplasm accessions were tolerant only at one or two stages. Thus, the salt tolerance of asparagus has periodic characteristics and changes throughout the lifecycle, and the identification of salt tolerance at all the main growth stages facilitates adequate assessment and application of tolerant germplasm accessions.
Optimal Design of Grid-Connected Solar Photovoltaic System Using Selective Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: Kefale Habtemariam Aberie , Getie Elias Mandefro , Eshetie Kassaye Gizaw
Published: March 2021

The electricity distribution network in Ethiopia has the radial nature of network configuration. The interruption of power is due to overloading and failure of distribution lines due to external forces, like trees, animals, and wind. The failure of the radial distribution network brings blackout in the whole power system network as there is no alternative electricity supply. The renewable energy potential of Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, especially solar power is abundant and needs a mechanism to give a response for electricity demand in the country and city other than expecting from the national grid. The solar photovoltaic system interconnection in radial feeders may bring a solution for power interruption and network performance. The sizing and siting of the solar photovoltaic system in the Ethiopian radial distribution system required an optimization tool to obtain better distribution network parameter. The power loss minimization and voltage profile enhancement of the radial distribution network are the key objectives of this research. Selective particle swarm optimization (SPSO) is used to fix the size and site of installation for network capacity enhancement. A multiobjective optimization problem is formulated so as to meet different constraints to be optimized by the SPSO. Finally, the SPSO enables determining proper size and site of solar power installation and bringing better performance in the radial distribution network of Ethiopia.
Threshold‐Optimized Swarm Decomposition Using Grey Wolf Optimizer for the Acoustic‐Based Internal Defect Detection of Arc Magnets
Authors: Huang Qinyuan , Li Qiang , Ran Maoxia , Liu Xin , Zhou Ying
Published: March 2021

The acoustic‐based internal defect detection is essential to ensure the quality of arc magnets efficiently. Swarm decomposition (SWD) is conducive to processing acoustic signals, but it is still confronted with threshold optimization problems. Especially, the existing optimization methods for the SWD thresholds are merely available for a single signal with exclusive characteristics, instead of the various signals with similar characteristics. Therefore, a threshold‐optimized SWD using grey wolf optimizer (GWO) is proposed to solve these issues and applied to detect the internal defects of arc magnets. In this method, a fitness function is designed to indicate the relationship between the SWD thresholds and the overall decomposition effect of similar signals. The minimum value of it corresponds to the threshold setting yielding the optimal decomposition. GWO is used for searching such a minimum value, and the obtained optimal threshold setting allows SWD to decompose any signal into a series of oscillatory components. The frequency information in the two oscillatory components with the highest energy ratio is extracted as the internal defect features. Random forest is carried out to identify these features. Experimentally, the detection accuracy reaches above 97%, and the detection speed per single arc magnet does not exceed 3.4 seconds. The proposed method cannot only determine the unified threshold setting of SWD for similar signals but also achieve an accurate, rapid detection for the internal defects.
Interaction of Indirect and Hyperdirect Pathways on Synchrony and Tremor-Related Oscillation in the Basal Ganglia
Authors: Shi Xia , Du Danwen , Wang Yuan
Published: March 2021

Low-frequency oscillatory activity (3-9 Hz) and increased synchrony in the basal ganglia (BG) are recognized to be crucial for Parkinsonian tremor. However, the dynamical mechanism underlying the tremor-related oscillations still remains unknown. In this paper, the roles of the indirect and hyperdirect pathways on synchronization and tremor-related oscillations are considered based on a modified Hodgkin-Huxley model. Firstly, the effects of indirect and hyperdirect pathways are analysed individually, which show that increased striatal activity to the globus pallidus external (GPe) or strong cortical gamma input to the subthalamic nucleus (STN) is sufficient to promote synchrony and tremor-related oscillations in the BG network. Then, the mutual effects of both pathways are analysed by adjusting the related currents simultaneously. Our results suggest that synchrony and tremor-related oscillations would be strengthened if the current of these two paths are in relative imbalance. And the network tends to be less synchronized and less tremulous when the frequency of cortical input is in the theta band. These findings may provide novel treatments in the cortex and striatum to alleviate symptoms of tremor in Parkinson’s disease.
Numerical Study of the Inverse Problem of Generalized Burgers–Fisher and Generalized Burgers–Huxley Equations
Authors: Alavi Javad , Aminikhah Hossein
Published: March 2021

In this paper, the boundary value inverse problem related to the generalized Burgers–Fisher and generalized Burgers–Huxley equations is solved numerically based on a spline approximation tool. B-splines with quasilinearization and Tikhonov regularization methods are used to obtain new numerical solutions to this problem. First, a quasilinearization method is used to linearize the equation in a specific time step. Then, a linear combination of B-splines is used to approximate the largest order of derivatives in the equation. By integrating from this linear combination, some approximations have been obtained for each of the functions and derivatives with respect to time and space. The boundary and additional conditions of the problem are also applied in these approximations. The Tikhonov regularization method is used to solve the system of linear equations using noisy data. Several numerical examples are provided to illustrate the accuracy and efficiency of the method.
H2O2‐Driven Anticancer Activity of Mn Porphyrins and the Underlying Molecular Pathways
Authors: Batinic-Haberle Ines , Tovmasyan Artak , Huang Zhiqing , Duan Weina , Du Li , Siamakpour-Reihani Sharareh , Cao Zhipeng , Sheng Huaxin , Spasojevic Ivan , Alvarez Secord Angeles
Published: March 2021

Mn(III) ortho‐N‐alkyl‐ and N‐alkoxyalkyl porphyrins (MnPs) were initially developed as superoxide dismutase (SOD) mimics. These compounds were later shown to react with numerous reactive species (such as ONOO-, H2O2, H2S, CO3•-, ascorbate, and GSH). Moreover, the ability of MnPs to oxidatively modify activities of numerous proteins has emerged as their major mechanism of action both in normal and in cancer cells. Among those proteins are transcription factors (NF‐κB and Nrf2), mitogen‐activated protein kinases, MAPKs, antiapoptotic bcl‐2, and endogenous antioxidative defenses. The lead Mn porphyrins, namely, MnTE‐2‐PyP5+ (BMX‐010, AEOL10113), MnTnBuOE‐2‐PyP5+ (BMX‐001), and MnTnHex‐2‐PyP5+, were tested in numerous injuries of normal tissue and cellular and animal cancer models. The wealth of the data led to the progression of MnTnBuOE‐2‐PyP5+ into four Phase II clinical trials on glioma, head and neck cancer, anal cancer, and multiple brain metastases, while MnTE‐2‐PyP5+ is in Phase II clinical trial on atopic dermatitis and itch.
Studies on the Regulatory Roles and Related Mechanisms of lncRNAs in the Nervous System
Authors: Zhou Zijian , Qi Dake , Gan Quan , Wang Fang , Qin Bengang , Li Jiachun , Wang Honggang , Wang Dong
Published: March 2021

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have attracted extensive attention due to their regulatory role in various cellular processes. Emerging studies have indicated that lncRNAs are expressed to varying degrees after the growth and development of the nervous system as well as injury and degeneration, thus affecting various physiological processes of the nervous system. In this review, we have compiled various reported lncRNAs related to the growth and development of central and peripheral nerves and pathophysiology (including advanced nerve centers, spinal cord, and peripheral nervous system) and explained how these lncRNAs play regulatory roles through their interactions with target‐coding genes. We believe that a full understanding of the regulatory function of lncRNAs in the nervous system will contribute to understand the molecular mechanism of changes after nerve injury and will contribute to discover new diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets for nerve injury diseases.
Matching Boundary Conditions for the Euler–Bernoulli Beam
Authors: Feng Yaoqi , Wang Xianming
Published: March 2021

Artificial boundary conditions play a crucial role in the dynamic simulation of infinite Euler–Bernoulli beams. In this paper, a class of artificial boundary conditions, matching boundary conditions (MBCs), is presented to provide effective absorption of incident waves in numerical simulations of the Euler–Bernoulli beam. First, matching boundary conditions are proposed based on the space central difference scheme of the Euler–Bernoulli beam, and then, the specific coefficients of MBCs are determined by matching the dispersion relation. Moreover, reflection coefficient study and numerical tests are carried out to analyze the effectiveness of the proposed MBCs, indicating a remarkable agreement. Taken together, the proposed boundary conditions herein can absorb dispersive waves efficiently and are more compact than previous artificial boundary conditions, particularly suitable for real‐time simulation.
Numerical Analyses on Deformation and Failure Characteristics of Surrounding Rock of Gob‐Side Entry Retention by Roof Cutting
Authors: Wu Qunying , Liu Binhui , Yang Jun , Wang Yajun , Chen Kuikui , Cheng Yu
Published: March 2021

Universal distinct element code (UDEC) is a simulation software based on the discrete element method, widely used in geotechnical mining. However, in the UDEC, when simulating large‐scale excavation, the subsidence of the fractured zone is almost equal to the mining height, which makes the deformation value calculated in the study of gob‐side entry retention too large. To solve this problem, in this paper, the double‐yield constitutive model is applied to the whole caving zone to analyze the deformation and failure characteristics of surrounding rock along gob‐side entry retaining by roof cutting. The results of the simulation are in good agreement with the result of drilling peeking (drilling observation by borehole televiewer) and field condition (observation and measurement in the field). Finally, by using this numerical method, the effects of roadway width, temporary support, and coal side support on the failure of the roof and the arc coal side are studied.
Comparative Study of Accurate Descriptions of Hot Flow Behaviors of BT22 Alloy by Intelligence Algorithm and Physical Modeling
Authors: Ding Shaoling , Fang Chao , Zhang Shulin
Published: March 2021

The nonlinear flow behaviors of BT22 alloy were investigated by thermal simulation experiments at different temperature and strain rates. Taking the experimental stress-strain data as samples, the support vector regression (SVR) model and back propagation artificial neural network (BPANN) model were established by cross-validation (CV) method to describe the nonlinear flow behaviors of BT22 alloy. Genetic algorithm (GA) was used to optimize the parameters of the SVR model and establish the GA-SVR model. At the same time, the physical model optimized by GA algorithm is compared with the machine learning model. Average absolute relative error (AARE), absolute relative error (ARE), and correlation coefficient (R) were used to evaluate the predictive ability of the four models. The results show that the order of model accuracy and generalization ability is GA-SVR > BPANN > SVR > physical model. The AARE value of the GA-SVR model is 1.5752%, and the R value is as high as 0.9984, which can accurately predict the flow behaviors of BT22 alloy. According to the GA-SVR model, the flow behaviors under other conditions could be predicted to expand the experimental stress-strain data and avoid a large number of artificial tests.
Appendicectomy for Uncomplicated Simple Appendicitis: Is It Always Required?
Authors: Falih Noori Alsubsiee Ibrahim , Falih Noori Alsubsiee Ahmed
Published: March 2021

Background. Although appendicectomy is still the classical and standard treatment for acute appendicitis, initial conservative antibiotic only treatment for simple uncomplicated cases has been proposed and tried as a feasible and effective approach. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of antibiotics treatment for acute simple uncomplicated appendicitis. Methods. This is a prospective controlled nonrandomized study in which a total of 156 patients whose ages range from 16 to 54 years presenting with clinical diagnosis of acute uncomplicated appendicitis were assigned for conservative antibiotics treatment, which consists of ceftriaxone I gram twice daily and metronidazole infusions, 500 mg in 100 ml, 3 times daily for 48 to 72 hours to be converted on oral antibiotics after clinical improvement for 5 to 7 days. Patients who failed to initial conservative treatment and those who had recurring symptoms of appendicitis were presented for appendectomy. Results. Antibiotic treatment was successful and feasible in 138 (88.5%) patients. Progression of the signs and symptoms despite full medical treatment was observed in 11 (7%) patients during the same admission. Further 7 (4.5%) patients showed recurrence of the symptoms during follow-up period of 6–12 months after successful initial conservative treatment and also proceeded for appendicectomy. Conclusion. Nonoperative antibiotic treatment of acute simple appendicitis is safe, feasible, and effective for properly selected cases, thus avoiding unnecessary surgery with its possible complications.
Multiattribute Fuzzy Decision Evaluation Approach and Its Application in Enterprise Competitiveness Evaluation
Authors: Li Jing , Sun Yue , Gong Lingling , Chai Nana , Yin Yanfei
Published: March 2021

Multiattribute decision-making approach is one of the key complex system evaluation technologies which has attracted high attention of academic research studies. This paper establishes a novel multiattribute decision evaluation approach. First, we propose a high-dimensional data attribute reduction model based on partial correlation analysis and factor analysis methods. Second, based on the attribute weights calculated by multiple weighting methods, the corresponding multiple evaluation score vectors of the objects evaluated can be obtained. The final scoring vector can be determined by combining the quadratic combination weighting and the Spearman consistency test. Third, we use fuzzy C-means algorithm to grade evaluated objects. Finally, the established evaluation approach in this paper is verified by using the 107 observations in China. This approach also provides a decision-making example for attribute reduction of high-dimensional data, scoring of complex system evaluation, and clustering analysis when conducting evaluation in other fields.
Clinical Significance of Procalcitonin, C-Reactive Protein, and Interleukin-6 in Helping Guide the Antibiotic Use for Patients with Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Song Wen , Wang Yue , Tian Fengming , Ge Liang , Shang Xiaoqian , Zeng Qiang , Feng Ning , Fan Jiahui , Wang Jing , Ma Xiumin
Published: March 2021

Background. Currently, standards of antibiotic use in acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) patients are controversial. Objective. The aim of the present study was to analyze the value of procalcitonin (PCT), C-reactive protein (CRP), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels to guide the antibiotic treatment of AECOPD patients. Methods. A total of 371 patients with COPD or AECOPD were included in the study. Clinical and laboratory data were obtained at admission, 325 AECOPD patients and 46 sCOPD patients treated with antibiotics. The receiver operating curve (ROC) was used to evaluate the relationship between CRP, PCT, and IL-6. Results. This study included medical record/case control 1, the COPD group (

n
=
46

) and the AECOPD group (

n
=
325

), and medical record control 2, the nonchanged antibiotic group (

n
=
203

) and the changed antibiotic group (

n
=
61

). In case 1, CRP, PCT, and IL-6 levels in the AECOPD group were higher than that in the control group (

P
<
0.05

), while the result of ROC showed that IL-6 had higher AUC values (0.773) and higher sensitivity (71.7%) than other indicators. The specificity of PCT (93.5%) is higher than other indicators. In case 2, ROC curve results showed that the AUC value of IL-6 (0.771) was slightly higher than PCT and CRP. The sensitivity (85.2%) and specificity (65.5%) of CRP were higher than other indicators. Conclusions. IL-6 and PCT were elevated in AECOPD patients, resulting in a higher diagnostic value for AECOPD. CRP had a higher diagnostic value for antibiotic use in AECOPD patients.
Inhibitory Effect of Paquinimod on a Murine Model of Neutrophilic Asthma Induced by Ovalbumin with Complete Freund’s Adjuvant
Authors: Lee Jong-Uk , Park Jong Sook , Jun Ji Ae , Kim Min Kyung , Chang Hun Soo , Baek Dong Gyu , Song Hyun Ji , Kim Myung-Sin , Park Choon-Sik
Published: March 2021

Background. Quinoline-3-carboxamides have been used to treat autoimmune/inflammatory diseases in humans because they inhibit the functions of S100 calcium-binding protein A9 (S100A9), which participates in the development of neutrophilic inflammation in asthmatics and in an animal model of neutrophilic asthma. However, the therapeutic effects of these chemicals have not been evaluated in asthma. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of paquinimod, one of the quinoline-3-carboxamides, on a murine model of neutrophilic asthma. Methods. Paquinimod was orally administered to 6-week-old C57BL/6 mice sensitized and challenged with ovalbumin (OVA)/complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) and OVA. Lung inflammation and remodeling were evaluated using bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and histologic findings including goblet cell count. S100A9, caspase-1, IL-1β, MPO, IL-17, IFN-γ, and TNF-α were measured in lung lysates using western blotting. Results. Paquinimod restored the enhancement of airway resistance and the increases in numbers of neutrophils and macrophages of BAL fluids and those of goblet cells in OVA/CFA mice toward the levels of sham-treated mice in a dose-dependent manner (0.1, 1, 10, and 25 mg/kg/day, p.o.). Concomitantly, p20 activated caspase-1, IL-1β, IL-17, TNF-α, and IFN-γ levels were markedly attenuated. Conclusion. These data indicate that paquinimod effectively inhibits neutrophilic inflammation and remodeling in the murine model of neutrophilic asthma, possibly via downregulation of IL-17, IFN-γ, and IL-1β.
A High‐Dimensional Video Sequence Completion Method with Traffic Data Completion Generative Adversarial Networks
Authors: Wu Lan , Gao Tian , Wen Chenglin , Zhang Kunpeng , Kong Fanshi
Published: March 2021

The lack of traffic data is a bottleneck restricting the development of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). Most existing traffic data completion methods aim at low‐dimensional data, which cannot cope with high‐dimensional video data. Therefore, this paper proposes a traffic data complete generation adversarial network (TDC‐GAN) model to solve the problem of missing frames in traffic video. Based on the Feature Pyramid Network (FPN), we designed a multiscale semantic information extraction model, which employs a convolution mechanism to mine informative features from high‐dimensional data. Moreover, by constructing a discriminator model with global and local branch networks, the temporal and spatial information are captured to ensure the time‐space consistency of consecutive frames. Finally, the TDC‐GAN model performs single‐frame and multiframe completion experiments on the Caltech pedestrian dataset and KITTI dataset. The results show that the proposed model can complete the corresponding missing frames in the video sequences and achieve a good performance in quantitative comparative analysis.
The Dolaflexin-based Antibody–Drug Conjugate XMT-1536 Targets the Solid Tumor Lineage Antigen SLC34A2/NaPi2b
Authors: Bodyak Natalya D. , Mosher Rebecca , Yurkovetskiy Aleksandr V. , Yin Mao , Bu Charlie , Conlon Patrick R. , Demady Damon R. , DeVit Michael J. , Gumerov Dmitry R. , Gurijala Venu R. , Lee Winnie , McGillicuddy Dennis , Park Peter U. , Poling Laura L. , Protopova Marina , Qin LiuLiang , Stevenson Cheri A. , Ter-Ovanesyan Elena , Uttard Alex , Xiao Dongmei , Xu Jian , Xu Ling , Bergstrom Donald A. , Lowinger Timothy B.
Published: March 2021

Target selection for antibody–drug conjugates (ADC) frequently focuses on identifying antigens with differential expression in tumor and normal tissue, to mitigate the risk of on-target toxicity. However, this strategy restricts the possible target space. SLC34A2/NaPi2b is a sodium phosphate transporter expressed in a variety of human tumors including lung and ovarian carcinoma, as well as the normal tissues from which these tumors arise. Previous clinical trials with a NaPi2b targeting MMAE-ADCs have shown objective durable responses. However, the protein-based biomarker assay developed for use in that study was unable to discern a statistically significant relationship between NaPi2b protein expression and the probability of response. XMT-1536 is a NaPi2b targeting ADC comprised of a unique humanized antibody conjugated with 10–15 auristatin F- hydroxypropylamide (AF-HPA) payload molecules via the Dolaflexin platform. AF-HPA is a cell-permeable, antimitotic compound that is slowly metabolized intratumorally to an active, very low-permeable metabolite, auristatin F (AF), resulting in controlled bystander killing. We describe the preclinical in vitro and in vivo antitumor effects of XMT-1536 in models of ovarian and lung adenocarcinoma. Pharmacokinetic analysis showed approximately proportional increases in exposure in rat and monkey. Systemic free AF-HPA and AF concentrations were observed to be low in all animal species. Finally, we describe a unique IHC reagent, generated from a chimeric construct of the therapeutic antibody, that was used to derive a target expression and efficacy relationship in a series of ovarian primary xenograft cancer models.