bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human endogenous retroviral protein triggers deficit in glutamate synapse maturation and behaviors associated with psychosis
Authors: Johansson E. M. , Bouchet D. , Tamouza R. , Ellul P. , Morr AS. , Avignone E. , Germi R. , Leboyer M. , Perron H. , Groc L.
Published: July 2020

Retroviral protein, expressed in patients with psychotic disorders, corrupts the development of excitatory synapses and behavior.
Resistance to PD1 blockade in the absence of metalloprotease-mediated LAG3 shedding
Authors: Andrews Lawrence P. , Somasundaram Ashwin , Moskovitz Jessica M. , Szymczak-Workman Andrea L. , Liu Chang , Cillo Anthony R. , Lin Huang , Normolle Daniel P. , Moynihan Kelly D. , Taniuchi Ichiro , Irvine Darrell J. , Kirkwood John M. , Lipson Evan J. , Ferris Robert L. , Bruno Tullia C. , Workman Creg J. , Vignali Dario A. A.
Published: July 2020

LAG3 shedding from conventional CD4
+
T cells drives responsiveness to anti-PD1 immunotherapy (see the related Focus by
Seidel and Bengsch
).
Shed it, and help—LAG3 cleavage drives conventional CD4
+
T cells to overcome resistance to PD-1 immunotherapy
Authors: Seidel Lea , Bengsch Bertram
Published: July 2020

LAG3 cleavage from conventional CD4
+
T cells, but not CD8
+
T cells, is required for effective PD-1 blockade (see the related Research Article by

Andrews
et al
.

).
SARS-CoV-2 T cell immunity: Specificity, function, durability, and role in protection
Authors: Altmann Daniel M. , Boyton Rosemary J.
Published: July 2020

Answers are starting to emerge about target antigens and cytokine profiles of CD4 and CD8 subsets responding to SARS-CoV-2.
Editing of the Proteolytic System of Lactococcus lactis Increases Its Bioactive Potential
Authors: Huang Chenxi , Kok Jan
Published: July 2020

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are very important for the production of safe and healthy human and animal fermented foods and feed and, increasingly more, in the functional food industry. The intracellular peptidomes of LAB are promising reservoirs of bioactive peptides. We show here that targeted genetic engineering of the peptide degradation pathway allows steering the composition of the peptide pool of the LAB
Lactococcus lactis
and production of peptides with interesting bioactivities. Our work could be used as a guideline for modifying proteolytic systems in other LAB to further explore their potential as cell peptide factories.
The Novel Streptococcal Transcriptional Regulator XtgS Negatively Regulates Bacterial Virulence and Directly Represses PseP Transcription
Authors: Liu Guangjin , Gao Tingting , Zhong Xiaojun , Ma Jiale , Zhang Yumin , Zhang Shiyu , Wu Zongfu , Pan Zihao , Zhu Yinchu , Yao Huochun , Liu Yongjie , Lu Chengping
Published: July 2020

Streptococcus agalactiae
(group B streptococcus [GBS]) has received continuous attention for its involvement in invasive infections and its broad host range. Transcriptional regulators have an important impact on bacterial adaptation to various environments. Research on transcriptional regulators will shed new light on GBS pathogenesis. In this study, we identified a novel XRE-family transcriptional regulator encoded on the GBS genome, designated XtgS. Our data demonstrate that XtgS inactivation significantly increases bacterial survival in host blood and animal challenge test, suggesting that it is a negative regulator of GBS pathogenicity.
Brucella abortus and Pregnancy in Mice: Impact of Chronic Infection on Fertility and the Role of Regulatory T Cells in Tissue Colonization
Authors: Adetunji Shakirat A. , Faustman Denise L. , Adams L. Garry , Garcia-Gonzalez Daniel G. , Hensel Martha E. , Khalaf Omar H. , Arenas-Gamboa Angela M.
Published: July 2020

Stealthy intracellular bacterial pathogens are known to establish persistent and sometimes lifelong infections. Some of these pathogens also have a tropism for the reproductive system, thereby increasing the risk of reproductive disease and infertility. To date, the pathogenic mechanism involved remains poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate thatBrucella abortus, a notorious reproductive pathogen, has the ability to infect the nonpregnant uterus, sustain infection, and induce inflammatory changes during both acute and chronic stages of infection.
Differential Induction of Type I and III Interferons by
Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Peignier Adeline , Planet Paul J. , Parker Dane
Published: July 2020

Staphylococcus aureus
is a leading cause of bacterial pneumonia, and we have shown previously that type I interferon (IFN) contributes to the pathogenesis of this disease. In this study, we screened 75
S. aureus
strains for their ability to induce type I and III IFN. Both cytokine pathways were differentially stimulated by various
S. aureus
strains independently of their isolation sites or methicillin resistance profiles. These induction patterns persisted over time, and type I and III IFN generation differentially correlated with tumor necrosis factor alpha production.
Successful curative surgery for postoperative oesophageal recurrence of oesophagogastric junction cancer
Authors: Ikebe Masahiko , Kubo Nobuhide , Fukuyama Seiichi , Yano Tokujiro
Published: July 2020

A man in his 70s had undergone total gastrectomy for oesophagogastric junction cancer. Three years and 11 months later, he began to vomit after meals and was diagnosed with mediastinal recurrence of oesophagogastric junction cancer. A CT scan showed that the tumour was suspected of infiltrating the aorta and lung. He received two cycles of chemotherapy with S-1 plus cisplatin, resulting in tumour reduction. The patient underwent resection of the lower oesophagus, including the tumour, the left lower lobe of the lung and the pericardium through a left thoracoabdominal incision. This is the first report of a patient surgically resected for postoperative oesophageal recurrence of oesophagogastric junction cancer. Although most postoperative recurrences of oesophagogastric junction cancer are far advanced at the time of diagnosis and prognosis is poor, chemotherapy followed by surgery may improve the prognosis of patients with locoregional recurrence.
Cervicovaginal cellular angiofibroma
Authors: Van Mulders Sarah , Faes Ellen , Broeckx Glenn , Jacquemyn Yves
Published: July 2020

Cellular angiofibroma is a rare type of benign mesenchymal tumour that arises mostly in middle-aged women. It needs to be distinguished from other neoplasms and has a predilection for the vulvovaginal region. To our knowledge, this is the first case of a cervical cellular angiofibroma. A 34-year-old nulligravid woman was referred with a large mass bulging in the fornix posterior. Ultrasound scanning and MRI showed a large solid mass projecting in the pouch of Douglas. Laparoscopic surgical excision was performed. Histopathological examination showed a well-demarcated, unencapsulated tumour, consisting of short fascicles of spindle cells in-between thick-walled medium-sized vessels. On immunohistochemistry, there was strong reactivity with antibodies against CD34 and oestrogen receptor. Angiofibromas are benign mesenchymal tumours mostly occurring in middle-aged women. They can cause abnormal swelling and uterine bleeding and need to be distinguished from other (malignant) neoplasms.
Aggregatibacter aphrophilusspinal epidural abscess
Authors: Altdorfer Antoine , Gavage Pierre , Moerman Filip
Published: July 2020

A 76-year-old woman with a rare case of spinal epidural abscess (SEA) that had no risk factors for such type of infection, presented symptoms of back pain, progressive neurological deficit of the lower limb and loss of sphincter control. A gadolinium-enhanced MRI confirmed the diagnosis of an SEA. The patient underwent laminectomy with surgical drainage, where cultures showed the presence ofAggregatibacter aphrophilus, a bacterium of the HACEK group (Haemophilusspecies,Aggregatibacterspecies,Cardiobacterium hominis,Eikenella corrodens, andKingellaspecies), rarely involved in SEA. Following surgery, the patient was treated with intravenous ceftriaxone for 6 weeks, and this gave excellent results.
Intravascular ultrasound-guided mechanical thrombectomy using the INARI ClotTriever device of an iatrogenic deep venous thrombosis
Authors: Abdel-Hafez Osama , Salih Mohammed , Aloka Feras , Patel Kirit
Published: July 2020

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a common disorder affecting 1 to 2 per 1000 Americans annually, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. Anticoagulation is the mainstay management strategy for DVT. However, this could prove insufficient in cases where a mechanical obstruction is responsible for the DVT. We are presenting an interesting case of iatrogenic DVT incurred after Prolene suturing of lacerated iliac vein and the management employed for this challenging case with a successful and significant improvement in the clinical outcome.
Clinical improvement of severe COVID-19 pneumonia in a pregnant patient after caesarean delivery
Authors: Oliva Margeaux , Hsu Karen , Alsamarai Sarah , Chavez Vincent de , Ferrara Lauren
Published: July 2020

The clinical implications of COVID-19 in pregnancy remain unknown. While preliminary reports demonstrate that pregnant patients have a similar symptomatic presentation to the general population, the appropriate management and timing of delivery in these patients is still unclear, as pregnancy may impose additional risk factors and impede recovery in gravid patients. In this brief report, we present a case of COVID-19 in a pregnant patient with severe respiratory compromise, whose clinical status significantly improved after caesarean delivery. We also address the potential benefits of experimental therapy, including tocilizumab, a monoclonal antibody that targets interleukin-6 receptors.
Generalised gingival enlargement as a sole manifestation of IgG4-related disease
Authors: Goyal Ashima , Rathore Mrinalini , Singh Sanjeev Kumar , Nada Ritambara
Published: July 2020

An 18-year-old woman presented with enlarged gingivae of 1-year duration with no history of drug consumption or systemic conditions that might explain the enlargement. Biopsy revealed hyperplastic gingival epithelium and a plasma cell-rich inflammatory infiltrate in the subepithelial connective tissue with the presence of scattered multinucleated giant cells. Immunostaining revealed the plasma cells to be positive for IgG4. Serum IgG4 levels were elevated at 3.6 g/L (reference range: 0.049–1.985). These findings led towards the diagnosis of an IgG4-related disease (RD). Other granulomatous conditions were also ruled out via series of investigations. The enlarged tissue was surgically excised. No corticosteroids were administered owing to the localised nature of the manifestations. After 3 months, the gingival size remained unchanged. This case has been reported with a relatively shorter follow-up period because of the rarity of the presentation. IgG4-RD should be considered while diagnosing a patient with gingival enlargement.
Iron overload is related to elevated blood glucose levels in obese children and aggravates high glucose-induced endothelial cell dysfunction in vitro
Authors: Wu Wei , Yuan Jinna , Shen Yu , Yu Yunxian , Chen Xuefeng , Zhang Li , Huang Ke , Zhan Jianying , Dong Guan-Ping , Fu Junfen
Published: July 2020

Introduction

This study was performed to investigate the role of iron overload in the early stage of hyperglycemia-induced vascular functional impairment.

Research design and methods

A total of 196 obese children were enrolled, and data regarding ferritin levels, blood glucose levels, intima-media thickness of carotid arteries, liver function and fibrosis index, hemoglobin, blood pressure, blood lipids, and inflammation indicators were collected. Ferritin levels were compared with a control group, which consisted of 148 healthy non-obese children who were age-matched and gender-matched. Endothelial cells were cultured in high glucose medium and supplemented with ferric citrate with or without iron remover (deferoxamine), a reducing agent (N-acetyl-cysteine), or a nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) inhibitor (BAY 11-7082). Apoptosis, oxidative stress, nitric oxide levels, and endothelin content were evaluated. DNA microarray analysis was performed to analyze the expression of genes in the NF-κB signaling pathway.

Results

Obese children have significantly higher ferritin levels compared with the control group. Ferritin level was positively correlated with hemoglobin and was related to metabolic disorders, including impaired glucose tolerance, higher blood pressure, dyslipidemia, and impaired hepatic function. Endothelial cells treated with ferric citrate showed a significantly higher rate of apoptosis, higher levels of oxidative stress, and impaired vasomotor function under high glucose conditions. The above effects were rescued by treatment with an iron remover, reducing agent, or NF-κB inhibitor. Further, detection of phosphorylated-p65 distribution in cells confirmed activation of the NF-κB pathway. DNA microarrays and subsequent gene oncology enrichment analyses revealed the main processes activated in cells.

Conclusion

Increased ferritin levels are related to impaired glucose tolerance and other metabolic disorders in obese children. At the cellular level, iron overload aggravated the endothelial cell dysfunction caused by high glucose.
Improved outcomes in cystic fibrosis using modified Re-Education of Airway Clearance Technique (REACT) programme
Authors: Reamer Courtney , O'Malley Catherine , Nufer Julie , Savant Adrienne
Published: July 2020

Background and objectives

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is known to reduce lung function as measured by per cent predicted for the forced expiratory volume in the first second (ppFEV1) over time. Our paediatric CF programme demonstrated significant gaps in benchmarked ppFEV1predicted compared with the national median. Our objective was to assess whether the implementation of a modifiedRe-Education ofAirwayClearanceTechniques (REACT) programme could lead to an improvement in lung function as measured by ppFEV1.

Methods

This 2-year prospective quality improvement study at Lurie Children’s CF Center for children aged >6 years used improvement methodology to implement a modified REACT programme. Outcome measures were assessed for our entire programme via the CF Foundation Patient Registry (CFFPR) and statistical process control. Comparisons were also made before and after REACT for outcome measures.

Results

By the end of implementation, monthly participation rate achieved 100%. Using CFFPR data and SPC, median ppFEV1increased by 3.9%, whereas only body mass index (BMI) as a secondary outcome increased. Comparison of pre and post REACT showed improvements in average ppFEV1(95% vs 96%, p<0.0001), FEF25%−75%(82% vs 83%, p=0.0590), rate of ppFEV1 decline (+2% vs −4%, p=0.0262) and BMI percentile (57% vs 60%, p<0.0001).

Conclusions

Implementation of a modified REACT at Lurie Children’s paediatric CF programme led to an increase in ppFEV1, FEF25%−75%and BMI percentile.
Local injection of CCL19-expressing mesenchymal stem cells augments the therapeutic efficacy of anti-PD-L1 antibody by promoting infiltration of immune cells
Authors: Iida Yuichi , Yoshikawa Rintaro , Murata Akihiko , Kotani Hitoshi , Kazuki Yasuhiro , Oshimura Mitsuo , Matsuzaki Yumi , Harada Mamoru
Published: July 2020

Background

Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSC) accumulate and reside in tumor sites.

Methods

Taking advantage of this feature in anticancer therapy, immortalized murine MSC (iMSC) were genetically altered to produce chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 19 (iMSC/CCL19), which attracts dendritic cells (DC) and T lymphocytes. Thereafter, iMSC/CCL19 were examined for their therapeutic efficacy using a syngeneic CT26 colon carcinoma cell line.

Results

Co-injection of iMSC/CCL19 into mice significantly suppressed the in vivo growth of CT26 cells compared with that of CCL19-expressing immortalized fibroblasts (iFib/CCL19). This anticancer effect was not observed when injected in CT26-bearing nude mice. Co-injected iMSC/CCL19 survived longer than iFib/CCL19 in the tumor sites. In a therapeutic model, local injection of iMSC/CCL19 suppressed the tumor growth, and increased IFN (interferon)-γ+CD8+T cells and CCR7+DC infiltration in tumor site was observed when treated with iMSC/CCL19, but not with iMSC. This antitumor effect was completely negated by depletion of CD4+cells and partially negated by depletion of CD8+cells. Furthermore, the antitumor effects induced by local injection of iMSC/CCL19 were augmented by additional therapy with anti-programmed death (PD)-ligand 1 (PD-L1) antibody, but not with anti-PD-1 antibody. This combination therapy cured most of the tumors in CT26-bearing mice.

Conclusion

These results suggest that local therapy with iMSC/CCL19 can suppress tumor growth via effective recruitment of CCR7+DC into tumor sites and increase IFN-γ+CD8+T cells, and that combination with anti-PD-L1 antibody therapy can be a powerful anticancer therapy.
Contradictory impact of the natural forest closing policy and sanitary–phytosanitary measures on the export of non-timber forest products: a case study of Vietnam
Authors: Thanh Van Nguyen , Lv Jie Hua , Vu Thi Thanh Huyen , Ngo Van Quang
Published: July 2020

The gravity model was used in this paper to clarify the influencing factors of the export value of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) for Vietnam from 2003 to 2017. The estimates of this model indicate the importance of the size of economies, distance, common borders, exchange rates, average forest area, the natural forest closing (NFC) policy of the Vietnamese government, sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures, and the interaction of SPS and importers’ GDP (SPS–GDP) as determinants of Vietnam’s NTFP exports. The main result of this study is the distinct and contradictory effects of the NFC policy and SPS measures. While the NFC policy increases the value of Vietnam’s NTFP exports, SPS measures significantly decrease the exportation. Using the SPS–GDP interaction variable yields a noticeable result: the negative impact of SPS on NTFP trade decreases with increasing income of NTFP importers. Furthermore, the NFC needs to continue to implement policies to increase investments in the NTFP trade and increase the quality of NTFPs from planting, to harvesting, to processing to meet the requirements of future importers. The findings offer several implications both in theory and in practice for trade policies and economic development theory based on Vietnam’s forest resources.
Jeans instability in non-minimal matter-curvature coupling gravity
Authors: Gomes Cláudio
Published: July 2020

The weak field limit of the nonminimally coupled Boltzmann equation is studied, and relations between the invariant Bardeen scalar potentials are derived. The Jean’s criterion for instabilities is found through the modified dispersion relation. Special cases are scrutinised and considerations on the model parameters are discussed for Bok globules.
Reliability Analysis of the Generalized Exchanged Hypercube
Authors: Zhang Qifan , Xu Liqiong , Yang Weihua , Yin Shanshan
Published: July 2020

Let [Formula: see text] be a non-complete graph, a subset [Formula: see text] is called a [Formula: see text]-component cut of [Formula: see text], if [Formula: see text] is disconnected and has at least [Formula: see text] components. The cardinality of the minimum [Formula: see text]-component cut is the [Formula: see text]-component connectivity of [Formula: see text] and is denoted by [Formula: see text]. The [Formula: see text]-component connectivity is a natural extension of the classical connectivity. As an application, the [Formula: see text]-component connectivity can be used to evaluate the reliability and fault tolerance of an interconnection network structure based on a graph model. In a previous work, E. Cheng et al. obtained the [Formula: see text]-component connectivity of the generalized exchanged hypercube [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we continue the work and determine that [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text]. Moreover, we show that every optimal [Formula: see text]-component cut of [Formula: see text] is trivial for [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text].
Searching for diboson resonances in the boosted all-hadronic final state at s = 13 TeV with CMS
Authors: Aarrestad Thea
Published: July 2020

This article summarizes three searches for diboson resonances in the all-hadronic final state using data collected at a center-of-mass energy of [Formula: see text] = 13 TeV with the CMS experiment at the CERN LHC. The boson decay products are contained in one large-radius jet, resulting in dijet final states which are resolved using jet substructure techniques. The analyses presented use 2.3 fb[Formula: see text], 35.9 fb[Formula: see text] and 77.3 fb[Formula: see text] of data collected between 2015 and 2017. These include the first search for diboson resonances in data collected at a 13 TeV collision energy, the introduction of a new algorithm to tag vector bosons in the context of analyzing the data collected in 2016, and the development of a novel multidimensional fit improving on the sensitivity of the previous search method with up to 30%. The results presented here are the most sensitive to date of all diboson resonance searches in the dijet final state. An emphasis on improvements in technique for vector boson tagging is made.
A new pressure-parametric cosmological model
Authors: Yao Yan-Hong , Meng Xin-He
Published: July 2020

We put forward a pressure-parametric model to study the tiny deviation from cosmological constant(CC) behavior of the dark sector accelerating the expansion of the Universe. Data from cosmic microwave background (CMB) anisotropies, baryonic acoustic oscillations (BAO), Type Ia supernovae (SN Ia) observation are applied to constrict the model parameters. The constraint results show that such model suffers with [Formula: see text] tension as well. To realize this model more physically, we reconstruct it with the quintessence and phantom scalar fields, and find out that although the model predicts a quintessence-induced acceleration of the Universe at past and present, at some moment of the future, dark energy’s density have a disposition to increase.
Probing kinematics and fate of Bianchi type V Universe
Authors: Goswami G. K. , Yadav Anil Kumar , Mishra B.
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we have constrained the cosmological parameters of Bianchi type V universe by bounding the model under consideration with recent observational [Formula: see text] and Pantheon data. It is assumed that the energy conservation law holds separately for barotropic fluid and dark energy fluid i.e. dark energy component does not interact with barotropic matter. We obtain the present value of deceleration parameter and age of universe as [Formula: see text] and 13.329 Gyrs respectively. The analysis of [Formula: see text] and jerk parameters concur that the derived model approaches [Formula: see text]CDM universe at late time. We find that estimated values of Hubble’s constant and energy density parameters have pretty consistency with their corresponding values, obtained by recent observations of WMAP and PLANCK collaborations. It is also observed that the universe shows signature flipping from decelerating to accelerating phase for transitional red-shift value [Formula: see text] in past.
Incorporating external knowledge for image captioning using CNN and LSTM
Authors: Sharma Himanshu , Jalal Anand Singh
Published: July 2020

Image captioning is a multidisciplinary artificial intelligence (AI) research task that has captures the interest of both image and natural language processing experts. Image captioning is a complex problem as it sometimes requires accessing the information that may not be directly visualized in a given scene. It possibly will require common sense interpretation or the detailed knowledge about the object present in image. In this paper, we have given a method that utilizes both visual and external knowledge from knowledge bases such as ConceptNet for better description the images. We demonstrated the usefulness of the method on two publicly available datasets; Flickr8k and Flickr30k.The results explain that the proposed model outperforms the state-of-the art approaches for generating image captions. At last, we will talk about possible future prospects in image captioning.
Thermal-Driven Floorplanning for Fixed Outline Layouts
Authors: Banerjee Suchandra , Roy Suchismita
Published: July 2020

In the nano-scale era, chip temperature has gained a lot of importance due to various reasons. Localized high temperatures in certain regions, commonly known as hotspots, directly affect the performance and reliability of the chip. The proposed work concentrates on temperature-driven floorplanning of chips because incorporating cooling techniques may lead to increase in cost. The proposed approach attempts to evenly distribute power dense components across the chip area in order to suppress hotspots and at the same time generate a layout with aspect ratio nearly 1, as is required in the present day floorplanning scenario. The positions of the blocks in the layout are generated using Boolean Satisfiability (SAT). Apart from peak temperature, wirelength being an important cost factor is also taken into consideration. The proposed technique is successful in decreasing the wirelength and peak temperature for large GSRC, MCNC and IBM HB[Formula: see text] benchmarks.
Binomial edge ideals of generalized block graphs
Authors: Kumar Arvind
Published: July 2020

We classify generalized block graphs whose binomial edge ideals admit a unique extremal Betti number. We prove that the Castelnuovo–Mumford regularity of binomial edge ideals of generalized block graphs is bounded below by [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is the number of minimal cut sets of the graph [Formula: see text] and obtain an improved upper bound for the regularity in terms of the number of maximal cliques and pendant vertices of [Formula: see text].
Designing a Customer Feedback Service Channel Through AI to Improve Customer Satisfaction in the Supermarket Industry
Authors: Omisakin Olufemi Muibi , Bandara Chanaka , Kularatne Indrapriya
Published: July 2020

This study examines the impact of customer feedback channels on customer satisfaction, the need to design a new feedback channel using artificial intelligence (AI) as a goods locator map and internal survey model in the supermarket industry. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from customers in supermarkets. Descriptive statistics and correlations were used to analyse the collected data sets to attain a statistically supported conclusion. The research found customer feedback service channels impacted on customers’ satisfaction. Customers were not satisfied with the rate of responsiveness to their feedback. The study designed and proposed a customer feedback service channel with AI as an alternative to existing feedback channels. It concluded that an AI designed system should be developed and implemented in supermarkets to test the intended outcome of the feedback channels and to design a robust system as a goods locator map and internal survey model.
A Novel Nature-Inspired Technique Based on Mushroom Reproduction for Constraint Solving and Optimization
Authors: Bidar Mahdi , Mouhoub Malek , Sadaoui Samira , Kanan Hamidreza Rashidy
Published: July 2020

Constraint optimization consists of looking for an optimal solution maximizing a given objective function while meeting a set of constraints. In this study, we propose a new algorithm based on mushroom reproduction for solving constraint optimization problems. Our algorithm, that we call Mushroom Reproduction Optimization (MRO), is inspired by the natural reproduction and growth mechanisms of mushrooms. This process includes the discovery of rich areas with good living conditions allowing spores to grow and develop their own colonies. Given that constraint optimization problems often suffer from a high-time computation cost, we thoroughly assess MRO performance on well-known constrained engineering and real-world problems. The experimental results confirm the high performance of MRO, comparing to other known metaheursitcs, in dealing with complex optimization problems.
A Hybrid Machine Learning Approach for Flood Risk Assessment and Classification
Authors: Inyang Udoinyang Godwin , Akpan Emem Etok , Akinyokun Oluwole Charles
Published: July 2020

Communities globally experience devastating effects, high monetary loss and loss of lives due to incidents of flood and other hazards. Inadequate information and awareness of flood hazard make the management of flood risks arduous and challenging. This paper proposes a hybridized analytic approach via unsupervised and supervised learning methodologies, for the discovery of pieces of knowledge, clustering and prediction of flood severity levels (FSL). A two-staged unsupervised learning based on [Formula: see text]-means and self-organizing maps (SOM) was performed on the unlabeled flood dataset. [Formula: see text]-means based on silhouette criterion discovered top three representatives of the optimal numbers of clusters inherent in the flood dataset. Experts’ judgment favored four clusters, while Squared Euclidean distance was the best performing distance measure. SOM provided cluster visuals of the input attributes within the four different groups and transformed the dataset into a labeled one. A 5-layered Adaptive Neuro Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) driven by hybrid learning algorithm was applied to classify and predict FSL. ANFIS optimized by Genetic Algorithm (GA) produced root mean squared error (RMSE) of 0.323 and Error Standard Deviation of 0.408 while Particle Swarm Optimized ANFIS model produced 0.288 as the RMSE, depicting 11% improvement when compared with GA optimized model. The result shows significant improvement in the classification and prediction of flood risks using single ML tool.
Deep Network based on Long Short-Term Memory for Time Series Prediction of Microclimate Data inside the Greenhouse
Authors: Gharghory Sawsan Morkos
Published: July 2020

An enhanced architecture of recurrent neural network based on Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) is suggested in this paper for predicting the microclimate inside the greenhouse through its time series data. The microclimate inside the greenhouse largely affected by the external weather variations and it has a great impact on the greenhouse crops and its production. Therefore, it is a massive importance to predict the microclimate inside greenhouse as a preceding stage for accurate design of a control system that could fulfill the requirements of suitable environment for the plants and crop managing. The LSTM network is trained and tested by the temperatures and relative humidity data measured inside the greenhouse utilizing the mathematical greenhouse model with the outside weather data over 27 days. To evaluate the prediction accuracy of the suggested LSTM network, different measurements, such as Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and Mean Absolute Error (MAE), are calculated and compared to those of conventional networks in references. The simulation results of LSTM network for forecasting the temperature and relative humidity inside greenhouse outperform over those of the traditional methods. The prediction results of temperature and humidity inside greenhouse in terms of RMSE approximately are 0.16 and 0.62 and in terms of MAE are 0.11 and 0.4, respectively, for both of them.
NAGPRA at 30: The Effects of Repatriation
Authors: Nash Stephen E. , Colwell Chip
Published: July 2020

On November 16, 1990, US President George H.W. Bush signed into law the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). This federal legislation marked the culmination of decades of debate among scientists, curators, and Native American leaders and activists over the control of ancestral human remains and sacred, funerary, and communally owned objects. Anthropologists have now investigated myriad aspects of NAGPRA, from its underlying philosophical arguments; to its legislative history, its legal ramifications and political effects, and the methods of its implementation; to how it has remade American museums, archaeologists, tribes, and federally funded repositories; and to how it has ushered in a new (even if imperfect) period of collaboration and partnership. This article reviews the last 50 years of scholarship on repatriation, with a particular focus on NAGPRA's last 30 years.
Two-Pore Domain Potassium Channels as Drug Targets: Anesthesia and Beyond
Authors: Mathie Alistair , Veale Emma L. , Cunningham Kevin P. , Holden Robyn G. , Wright Paul D.
Published: July 2020

Two-pore domain potassium (K2P) channels stabilize the resting membrane potential of both excitable and nonexcitable cells and, as such, are important regulators of cell activity. There are many conditions where pharmacological regulation of K2P channel activity would be of therapeutic benefit, including, but not limited to, atrial fibrillation, respiratory depression, pulmonary hypertension, neuropathic pain, migraine, depression, and some forms of cancer. Up until now, few if any selective pharmacological regulators of K2P channels have been available. However, recent publications of solved structures with small-molecule activators and inhibitors bound to TREK-1, TREK-2, and TASK-1 K2P channels have given insight into the pharmacophore requirements for compound binding to these sites. Together with the increasing availability of a number of novel, active, small-molecule compounds from K2P channel screening programs, these advances have opened up the possibility of rational activator and inhibitor design to selectively target K2P channels.
Sodium Butyrate-Modulated Mitochondrial Function in High-Insulin Induced HepG2 Cell Dysfunction
Authors: Zhao Tingting , Gu Junling , Zhang Huixia , Wang Zhe , Zhang Wenqian , Zhao Yonghua , Zheng Ying , Zhang Wei , Zhou Hua , Zhang Guilin , Sun Qingmin , Zhou Enchao , Liu Zhilong , Xu Youhua
Published: July 2020

The liver plays a pivotal role in maintaining euglycemia. Biogenesis and function of mitochondria within hepatocytes are often the first to be damaged in a diabetic population, and restoring its function is recently believed to be a promising strategy on inhibiting the progression of diabetes. Previously, we demonstrated that the gut microbiota metabolite butyrate could reduce hyperglycemia and modulate the metabolism of glycogen in both db/db mice and HepG2 cells. To further explore the mechanism of butyrate in controlling energy metabolism, we investigated its influence and underlying mechanism on the biogenesis and function of mitochondria within high insulin-induced hepatocytes in this study. We found that butyrate significantly modulated the expression of 54 genes participating in mitochondrial energy metabolism by a PCR array kit, both the content of mitochondrial DNA and production of ATP were enhanced, expressions of histone deacetylases 3 and 4 were inhibited, beta-oxidation of fatty acids was increased, and oxidative stress damage was ameliorated at the same time. A mechanism study showed that expression of GPR43 and its downstream protein beta-arrestin2 was increased on butyrate administration and that activation of Akt was inhibited, while the AMPK-PGC-1alpha signaling pathway and expression of p-GSK3 were enhanced. In conclusion, we found in the present study that butyrate could significantly promote biogenesis and function of mitochondria under high insulin circumstances, and the GPR43-β-arrestin2-AMPK-PGC1-alpha signaling pathway contributed to these effects. Our present findings will bring new insight on the pivotal role of metabolites from microbiota on maintaining euglycemia in diabetic population.
Identification of Potential Inhibitors of Calcium/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase IV from Bioactive Phytoconstituents
Authors: Gupta Preeti , Khan Shama , Fakhar Zeynab , Hussain Afzal , Rehman Md. Tabish , AlAjmi Mohamed F. , Islam Asimul , Ahmad Faizan , Hassan Md. Imtaiyaz
Published: July 2020

Calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase IV (CaMKIV) is an upstream regulator of CaMKK-CaMKIV signaling cascade that activates various transcription factors, thereby regulating several cellular activities including, neuronal communication and immune response. Owing to the abnormal expression in cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, the CaMKIV has been considered a potential drug target. In the present study, we checked the binding affinity of plant-derived natural compounds viz., quercetin, ellagic acid (EA), simvastatin, capsaicin, ursolic acid, DL-α-tocopherol acetate, and limonin towards CaMKIV. Molecular docking and fluorescence binding studies showed that EA and quercetin bind to the CaMKIV with a considerable affinity in comparison to other compounds. Enzyme inhibition assay revealed that both EA and quercetin inhibit CaMKIV activity with their IC50values in the micromolar range. To get atomistic insights into the mode of interactions, inhibition mechanism, and the stability of the CaMKIV-ligand complex, a 100 ns MD simulation analysis was performed. Both EA and quercetin bind to the catalytically important residues of active site pocket of CaMKIV forming enough stabilizing interactions presumably inhibiting enzyme activity. Moreover, no significant structural change in the CaMKIV was observed upon binding of EA and quercetin. In conclusion, this study illustrates the application of phytoconstituents in the development of therapeutic molecules targeting CaMKIV having implications in cancer and neurodegenerative diseases afterin vivovalidation.
Hypertension among Mississippi Workers by Sociodemographic Characteristics and Occupation, Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System
Authors: Mendy Vincent L. , Vargas Rodolfo , Ogungbe Oluwabunmi , Zhang Lei
Published: July 2020

In 2017, Mississippi had the third highest age-adjusted prevalence of hypertension in the United States. We estimated the prevalence of hypertension by sociodemographic characteristics and occupation and examined the association between hypertension with occupation and sociodemographic characteristics among Mississippi workers. We calculated adjusted prevalence and adjusted prevalence ratios (APRs) by sociodemographic characteristics and occupation among Mississippi adult workers. We analyzed combined 2013, 2015, and 2017 data from the Mississippi Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System for 6,965 workers in ten Standard Occupational Classification System major groups. Of the estimated 1.1 million Mississippi workers during the three survey years, 31.4% (95% confidence interval (CI), 30.0–32.8) had hypertension. The likelihood of having hypertension was significantly higher among workers aged 30–44 years, 45–64 years, blacks, and those classified as overweight and obese workers compared to their counterparts. The likelihood of having hypertension among workers in the fields of installation, repair and maintenance, and production were 26% higher (APR, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.03–1.55) and 33% higher (APR, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.11–1.58), respectively, than workers in all other occupational groups. Among Mississippi workers, hypertension prevalence varied by sociodemographic characteristics and occupational groups. Age, race, obesity status, installation, repair, maintenance, and production occupation groups are associated with an increased likelihood of hypertension. Novel and/or community-based or linked programs are needed that could target workers at risk of hypertension that are outside of a single-site workplace.
Research on Probability Mean-Lower Semivariance-Entropy Portfolio Model with Background Risk
Authors: Wu Qi , Gao Yuelin , Sun Ying
Published: July 2020

In the financial market, investors must deal with uncertain risk, and they also face background risk and many uncertain factors caused by their own characteristics. Considering the fuzzy nature of these factors as well as investors’ risk preferences, transaction costs, and so on, in order to reduce investment risk, an improved probability entropy measure is introduced, and a probability mean-lower semivariance-entropy model with different risk attitudes is established by using fuzzy sets and probability theory. To solve the portfolio model, an improved differential evolution algorithm is proposed and a numerical example is given. The numerical results show that the proposed algorithm is effective and that the model can disperse the financial risk to a certain extent and reasonably solve the portfolio problem under many different conditions.
Investigation of the Optical and Electrical Properties of ITO/ZnO/CdS/CuO:Co/Ag Structure for Solar Cell
Authors: Nkhaili L. , Narjis A. , Outzourhit A. , El Kissani A. , El Moznine R.
Published: July 2020

In this work, a new structure ITO/n‐ZnO/n‐CdS/p‐CuO:Co/Ag for solar cell was prepared on a glass/ITO substrate. The RF sputtering was used to deposit the window layer (n‐ZnO) at different time periods in order to reach various thickness of this film. The n‐CdS thin films were synthesized by sol‐gel technique to reduce the energy bands. The buffer layer (p‐CuO:Co) was sputtered at 200 W, under 30% of oxygen. Then, the electrode (Ag) with a thickness of 100 nm was deposited by thermal evaporation under a pressure of 10−5 mbar. The photovoltaic activity results obtained from this structure showed that the above method is more relevant to achieve such structure. The electrical properties of this structure were investigated using the current‐voltage (I‐V) and AC impedance complex measurements. The values of open circuit voltage (Voc), short‐circuit current (Jsc), and fill factor (FF) are 0.46 V, 4.1 mA cm−2, and 30%, respectively. The analysis of complex impedance measurements was very useful to investigate the electrical behavior of n‐ZnO/n‐CdS and n‐CdS/p‐CuO:Co interfaces. The impedance data are presented in the Nyquist and Bode plots at different thicknesses of the n‐ZnO films. An equivalent circuit was used to analyze and to fit the experimental data. The validity of these fitting results is further supported by the extrapolation and the deconvolution of both process of the diffusion and recombination processes at the n‐ZnO/n‐CdS and n‐CdS/p‐CuO:Co interfaces, respectively. Our finding could provide an efficient method for fabricating a new configuration for improving the efficiency of inorganic ZnO/CuO solar cells as well as a useful approach for the analysis of complex impedance measurements. Further works are in progress in order to better improve the conversion efficiency.
Perioperative Surgical Home Model Improves Outcomes in Crohn’s Disease Patients Undergoing Disease-Related Surgery
Authors: Xu Hang , Yao Danhua , Huang Yuhua , Fan Haining , Li Yousheng
Published: July 2020

Background. To evaluate Perioperative Surgical Home (PSH) practice model implementation in Crohn’s disease (CD) patients undergoing disease-related surgery. Methods. A retrospective analysis of CD patients requiring disease-related surgery in the Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital was undertaken. Subjects were divided into a non-PSH group consisting of 49 patients (June 2016 to November 2017) and a PSH group consisting of 72 patients (December 2017 until May 2019). Conventional treatment was used for the non-PSH group, while in the PSH group, a standardized pre- and postoperative management routine was employed. The postoperative lengths of stay and incidences of postoperative complications were analyzed. Results. There were no significant differences in demographics, reasons for surgery, preoperative BMIs, and preoperative hemoglobin between the two groups (P>0.05). The overall incidence of complications in the PSH group was dramatically lower than that in the non-PSH group (26.4% vs. 44.9%, P=0.035). In the PSH group, postoperative length of stay was significantly shorter than that in the non-PSH group (11.5±5.7 vs. 9.0±6.8, P<0.001). Conclusions. The PSH conditioning routine in CD patients undergoing disease-related surgeries suggests a trend of fewer postoperative complications and shorter lengths of hospital stay. The PSH model may have clinical advantages when applied to CD patients.
Modeling the Curb Parking Price in Urban Center District of China Using TSM-RAM Approach
Authors: Wan Yan , Zhou Jibiao , He Wenqiang , Ma Changxi
Published: July 2020

Parking demand forecasting is an important part of urban parking planning and is also an important basis for the development of parking facilities. The primary objective of this study was to explore multiple factors that affect the curb parking price (CPP) and the changing rules of the curb parking price (CPP) with these factors and to predict the CPP in terms of urban mobility. The data were collected through a statistical survey that was administered in 81 cities in China. The cities were divided into three categories: rich cities (RCs), poor cities (PCs), and tourist cities (TCs). Both the time series method (TSM) and regression analysis method (RAM) were developed to simultaneously examine the factors associated with the CPP among parking users. The results showed that TSM and RAM can account for common urban curb parking prices. The prediction results showed that the CPP is affected by the number of urban dwellers (UD), the prevalence of car ownership (CO), and the per capita disposable income (PCDI) of urban residents; the CPP can be predicted by a model built on the basis of the above three influencing factors. The results can enhance our understanding of the factors that affect CPP. Based on the results, some suggestions regarding the use of the CPP range in parking policy planning were discussed.
Assessing the Short-Term Efficacy and Safety of Guselkumab for Moderate-to-Severe Plaque Psoriasis: Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Yang Jing , Wang Zongming , Zhang Xilin
Published: July 2020

Background. To investigate the efficacy and safety of guselkumab in the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. Methods. A systematic review was undertaken to identify double-blind randomized controlled trials (RCTs). PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and Google Scholar databases were searched before 1 March 2020. The odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated. All analyses were conducted with intention-to-treat basis. A range of sensitivity analyses was undertaken. Results. A total of 7 articles contained 1206 plaque psoriasis patients with guselkumab, 585 patients with placebo, and 1250 patients with adalimumab were included. The results indicated that guselkumab had better efficacy than placebo or adalimumab for Psoriasis Area and Severity Index score reductions from baseline of 75% (PASI 75) (OR=61.37, 95% CI=31.15 to 120.91; OR=3.08, 95% CI=2.35 to 4.06), Investigator’s Global Assessment scores of 0 or 1 (IGA 0/1) (OR=65.75, 95% CI=45.54 to 94.95; OR=2.79, 95% CI=2.17 to 3.59), and Dermatology Life Quality Index scores of 0 or 1 (DLQI 0/1) (OR=29.64, 95% CI=18.80 to 46.73; OR=1.86, 95% CI=1.50 to 2.31). The guselkumab had similar safety with placebo or adalimumab about the incidence of adverse events (AEs) (OR=1.05, 95% CI=0.86 to 1.29; OR=0.97, 95% CI=0.79 to 1.19) and serious adverse events (SAEs) (OR=1.03, 95% CI=0.47 to 2.27; OR=0.91, 95% CI=0.44 to 1.87). Meanwhile, there was no statistically significant association of infections and serious infections compared with the placebo or adalimumab group. The guselkumab was more effective and had the similar tolerance. Conclusion. The guselkumab had excellent efficacy and great safety in moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, but long-term safety remained to be determined.