bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulating the trade effects of the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Bekkers Eddy , Koopman Robert B.
Published: November 2020

The WTO Global Trade Model, a quantitative trade model, is employed to project the impact on the global economy of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Because of the profound uncertainty about the duration of the pandemic and the containment measures, three scenarios are constructed, V‐shaped, U‐shaped and L‐shaped recovery, corresponding with a duration of the pandemic of 3 months, 6 months and more than a year. The pandemic and containment measures are assumed to lead to a general reduction of labour supply, a rise in trade costs, and reductions in both demand and supply in sectors most affected by the containment measures. GDP and trade are projected to fall by, respectively, 5% and 11% in the V‐shaped and L‐shaped scenarios and trade by, respectively, 8% and 20%. The response of trade to the reduction in GDP, measured by the trade‐to‐GDP elasticity, is projected to rise as the crisis lasts longer. The reason is that a longer duration will lead to a larger drop in spending on durables which are highly tradable.
Virtual Block Augmented Reality Game Using Freehand Gesture Interaction
Authors: Yusof Cik Suhaimi , Ismail Ajune Wanis
Published: November 2020

Augmented Reality (AR) manages to bring a virtual environment into a real-world environment seamlessly. As AR has been recognised as advancing technology, AR brings future changes to the learning process. The goal of this study is to use freehand gestures to create a virtual block game in AR. First of all, the stages of this study are to explore block games and freehand movements by using Leap Motion. Secondly, the design and development of Leap Motion virtual block games, and thirdly, the implementation of free-hand gesture interaction virtual block games. The paper explains about virtual blocks AR game using freehand gesture. AR tracking system with real hand gesture recognition system is merged to execute the freehand gesture. A prototype virtual block has been described in this paper. The paper ends with the conclusion and future works.
Upper and Lower Bounds for the Parameters of One-Dimensional Theories for Sandwich Fracture Specimens
Authors: Massabò Roberta
Published: November 2020

Upper and lower bounds for the parameters of one-dimensional theories used in the analysis of sandwich fracture specimens are derived by matching the energy release rate with two-dimensional elasticity solutions. The theory of a beam on an elastic foundation and modified beam theory are considered. Bounds are derived analytically for foundation modulus and crack length correction in single cantilever beam (SCB) sandwich specimens and verified using accurate finite element results and experimental data from the literature. Foundation modulus and crack length correction depend on the elastic mismatch between face sheets and core and are independent of the core thickness if this is above a limit value, which also depends on the elastic mismatch. The results in this paper clarify conflicting results in the literature, explain the approximate solutions, and highlight their limitations. The bounds of the model parameters can be applied directly to specimens satisfying specific geometrical/material ratios, which are given in the paper, or used to support and validate numerical calculations and define asymptotic limits.
Numerical Investigation of the Damage Mechanism of Offshore Pipeline Impacted by the Lump-Shaped Falling Object
Authors: Zhang Han , Zhang Jie , Lin Ruinan , Li Yangjie
Published: November 2020

Damage mechanism analysis of the exposed offshore pipeline impacted by lump-shaped falling objects plays a significant role in offshore pipeline design, inspection, maintenance, and protection. A series of three-dimensional (3D) coupling models are established and simulated to investigate mechanical behaviors and responses of exposed offshore pipelines impacted by lump-shaped falling objects. The effects of both offshore pipeline parameters and lump-shaped falling object parameters were discussed under the joint action of internal pressure and external seawater pressure. The results demonstrate that seabed soil could absorb partial impact energy and act as a cushion. Indentation on the pipeline top and stress concentrations on the pipeline bottom starts to appear when the impact velocity is larger than 10 m/s and 14 m/s, respectively. The critical impact energy before pipeline failure is around 9733.339 J. A variation in contact area has a noticeable influence on the dent depth, but a slight influence on the global deformation. An increase in pressure difference mitigates the impact damage. The depression rate increases with the rise of the radius-thickness ratio, and the most severe plastic deformation occurs when the radius-thickness ratio is 40. Besides, the eccentric distance is an essential factor influencing the damage mechanism of the offshore pipeline.
Spatial filtering of structured light
Authors: Pinnell Jonathan , Klug Asher , Forbes Andrew
Published: November 2020

Spatial filtering is a commonly deployed technique to improve the quality of laser beams by optically filtering the noise. In the “textbook” example, the noise is usually assumed to be high frequency and the laser beam, Gaussian. In this case, the filtering is achieved by a simple pinhole placed at the common focal plane of two lenses. Here, we explain how to generalize the concept of spatial filtering to arbitrary beam profiles: spatial filtering of structured light. We show how to construct the spatial filters using a range of structured light examples and highlight under what conditions spatial filtering works. In the process, we address some misconceptions in the community as to how and when spatial filters can be applied, extend the concept of spatial filtering to arbitrary beam types, and provide a theoretical and experimental framework for further study at both the undergraduate and graduate level.
Ancestry-dependent gene expression correlates with reprogramming to pluripotency and multiple dynamic biological processes
Authors: Bisogno Laura S. , Yang Jun , Bennett Brian D. , Ward James M. , Mackey Lantz C. , Annab Lois A. , Bushel Pierre R. , Singhal Sandeep , Schurman Shepherd H. , Byun Jung S. , Nápoles Anna María , Pérez-Stable Eliseo J. , Fargo David C. , Gardner Kevin , Archer Trevor K.
Published: November 2020

Transcriptomic analysis of racially diverse fibroblasts and iPSCs shows that individual variability affects pluripotent potential.
Overcoming the ceiling effects of experts’ motor expertise through active haptic training
Authors: Hirano M. , Sakurada M. , Furuya S.
Published: November 2020

Specialized active haptic training can surmount the limits of motor expertise of experts.
Human innate lymphoid cell precursors express CD48 that modulates ILC differentiation through 2B4 signaling
Authors: Tufa Dejene M. , Yingst Ashley M. , Trahan George Devon , Shank Tyler , Jones Dallas , Shim Seonhui , Lake Jessica , Winkler Kevin , Cobb Laura , Woods Renee , Jones Kenneth , Verneris Michael R.
Published: November 2020

Human common ILC progenitors acquire CD48 and CD52, defining innate lymphoid cell precursors and NK progenitors.
Gut microbiota–specific IgA
+
B cells traffic to the CNS in active multiple sclerosis
Authors: Pröbstel Anne-Katrin , Zhou Xiaoyuan , Baumann Ryan , Wischnewski Sven , Kutza Michael , Rojas Olga L. , Sellrie Katrin , Bischof Antje , Kim Kicheol , Ramesh Akshaya , Dandekar Ravi , Greenfield Ariele L. , Schubert Ryan D. , Bisanz Jordan E. , Vistnes Stephanie , Khaleghi Khashayar , Landefeld James , Kirkish Gina , Liesche-Starnecker Friederike , Ramaglia Valeria , Singh Sneha , Tran Edwina B. , Barba Patrick , Zorn Kelsey , Oechtering Johanna , Forsberg Karin , Shiow Lawrence R. , Henry Roland G. , Graves Jennifer , Cree Bruce A. C. , Hauser Stephen L. , Kuhle Jens , Gelfand Jeffrey M. , Andersen Peter M. , Schlegel Jürgen , Turnbaugh Peter J. , Seeberger Peter H. , Gommerman Jennifer L. , Wilson Michael R. , Schirmer Lucas , Baranzini Sergio E.
Published: November 2020

IgA
+
cells act as a systemic mediator between the gut and the central nervous system during active multiple sclerosis.
Pretomanid Pharmacokinetics in the Presence of Rifamycins: Interim Results from a Randomized Trial among Patients with Tuberculosis
Authors: Ignatius Elisa H. , Abdelwahab Mahmoud Tareq , Hendricks Bronwyn , Gupte Nikhil , Narunsky Kim , Wiesner Lubbe , Barnes Grace , Dawson Rodney , Dooley Kelly E. , Denti Paolo
Published: November 2020

Shorter, more potent regimens are needed for tuberculosis. The nitroimidazole pretomanid was recently approved for extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis in combination with bedaquiline and linezolid.
Bile Salts Differentially Enhance Resistance of Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli O157:H7 to Host Defense Peptides
Authors: Gadishaw-Lue Crystal , Banaag Alyssa , Birstonas Sarah , Francis Aju-Sue , Barnett Foster Debora
Published: November 2020

During passage through the human gastrointestinal tract, enterohemorrhagic
Escherichia coli
(EHEC) is exposed to membrane-damaging bile in the small intestine. We previously reported that EHEC treatment with a physiological bile salt mixture upregulates
basRS
, encoding a two-component system, and
arnBCADTEF
, encoding the aminoarabinose lipid A modification pathway (J.
Supplemental Material: Mercury fluxes record regional volcanism in the South China craton prior to the end-Permian mass extinction
Authors: Shen Jun , al. et
Published: November 2020

Descriptions of studied sections, analytical methods, mercury as volcanic proxy, host of Hg in sediments, and geological time scale and volcanic ash distributions.
Supplemental Material: Inverted south China: A novel configuration for Rodinia and its breakup
Authors: Jing Xianqing , Yang zhenyu , al. et
Published: November 2020

Data presented in the paper, detailed geological setting of the sampling section, laboratory methods, paleomagnetic results, and data analysis.
Neuromuscular electrical stimulation but not photobiomodulation therapy improves cardiovascular parameters of rats with heart failure
Authors: Capalonga Lucas , de Araujo Cintia Laura Pereira , Hentschke Vítor Scotta , Rossato Douglas Dalcin , Quagliotto Edson , Becker Tiago , Rigatto Katya , Ferraresi Cleber , Parizotto Nivaldo Antonio , Dal Lago Pedro
Published: November 2020

The aim of the present study was to analyze the effect of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) and photobiomodulation (PBMT) on the cardiovascular parameters, hemodynamic function, arterial baroreflex sensitivity (BRS), and autonomic balance (ANS) of rats with heart failure (HF). Male Wistar rats (220–290 g) were organized into five groups: Sham (n = 6), Control-HF (n = 5), NMES-HF (n = 6), PBMT-HF (n = 6), and NMES + PBMT-HF (n = 6). Myocardial infarction (MI) was induced by left coronary artery ligation. Animals were subjected to an eight-week NMES and PBMT protocol. Statistical analysis included the General Linear Model (GLM) followed by a Bonferroni post-hoc test. Rats of the NMES-HF group showed a higher MI area than the Control-HF (P = 0.003), PBMT-HF (P = 0.002), and NMES + PBMT-HF (P = 0.012) groups. NMES-HF and NMES + PBMT-HF showed higher pulmonary congestion (P = 0.004 and P = 0.02) and lower systolic pressure (P = 0.019 and P = 0.002) than the Sham group. NMES + PBMT-HF showed lower mean arterial pressure (P = 0.02) than the Sham group. Control-HF showed a higher heart rate than the NMES-HF and NMES + PBMT-HF (P = 0.017 and P = 0.013) groups. There was no difference in the BRS and ANS variables between groups. In conclusion, eight-week NMES isolated or associated with PBMT protocol reduced basal heart rate, systolic and mean arterial pressure, without influence on baroreflex sensibility and autonomic control, and no effect of PBMT was seen in rats with HF.
Learning a Deep Regression Forest for Head Pose Estimation from a Single Depth Image
Authors: Ma Xiangtian , Sang Nan , Xiao Shihua , Wang Xupeng
Published: November 2020

Robust head pose estimation significantly improves the performance of applications related to face analysis in Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) such as driving assistance and expression recognition. However, there exist two main challenges in this issue, i.e., the large pose variations and the property of inhomogeneous facial feature space. Head pose in large variations makes the distinguished facial features, such as nose or lips, invisible, especially in extreme cases. Additionally, features extracted from a head do not change in a stationary manner with respect to the head pose, which results in an inhomogeneous feature space. To deal with the above problems, we propose an end-to-end framework to estimate the head pose from a single depth image. To be specific, the PointNet network is adopted to automatically select distinguished facial feature points from visible surface of a head and to extract discriminative features. The Deep Regression Forest is utilized to handle the nonstationary property of the facial feature space and to learn the head pose distributions. Experimental results show that our proposed method achieves the state-of-the-art performance on the Biwi Kinect Head Pose Dataset, the Pandora Dataset and the ICT-3DHP Dataset.
Design of Convolutional Neural Network with Cuckoo Search Algorithm for Super-Resolution UHD Systems on FPGA
Authors: Chidadala Janardhan , Ramanaiah K. V. , Babulu K.
Published: November 2020

Ultra high definition (UHD) video is considered as a technology that generates a video image with a resolution 16 times as many pixels as high definition television. Extensive and complex computational difficulties are there to generate a video in super-resolution (SR). Some extensive floating-point computations are needed for the direct implementation of area-pixel scaling, which is a factor for calculating one target pixel. In this paper, a hybrid Convolutional Neural Network and Cuckoo Search (CNN-CS) algorithm are proposed, which can replace the large scale of complex training and time-consuming machine learning technique. Cuckoo Search (CS) algorithm is based on bird’s levy-flight approach that can optimize the CNN. CS forecasting model isolates the redundant or irrelevant image patches and, therefore, it reduces the required memory space. The SR is performed effectively in hardware with less hardware utilization and memory space, where LR input data are processed line-by-line using the proposed hybrid CNN-CS algorithm. To optimize the design constraints, CS forecasting model estimates the required patches. Parallel sub pipeline (PSP) technique improves the parallelism process thereby reducing the computational complexity and improving the throughput rate and speed of execution. Finally, the proposed hybrid CNN-CS SR design is coded in Verilog HDL and is implemented with the XCKU040 FPGA device. To validate the proposed CNN-CS SR algorithm, standard datasets, such as Set-5, Set-14, BS-100 and Urban-100, are used. The visual quality of the proposed CNN-CS SR design is evaluated by the standard evaluation metrics such as peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) and SSIM. The proposed hybrid CNN-CS SR design is compared with the existing state-of-the-art techniques both qualitatively and quantitatively. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method improved the throughput of 42.83%, memory space and power consumption are reduced to 16.16%, 63.81%, respectively, over the existing techniques.
MBIST Controller Based on March-ee Algorithm
Authors: Ahmed Mohammed Altaf , Abuagoub Ali Ma
Published: November 2020

In the modern System on Chip (SoC)-based designs, embedded memory occupies the majority of the area. Therefore, the demand for fast self-testing plays a vital role in the SoC device as its memory density increases. The focus of this research study is to provide a self-testing mechanism integrated with the SoC design for fault diagnosis and failure analysis. In particular, this paper proposes a controller design to test memories at SoC devices, called a memory built-in self-test (MBIST) controller. This controller works on the principle of the proposed March-ee (enhanced elements) algorithm with the primary objective to improve the test speed, fault coverage, and power consumption at a low area overhead. The complete design of the MBIST controller with the associated March-ee algorithm is minimal and easy to be integrated into any SoC device to provide a vibrant feature of memory fault detection. The results obtained are compared with that provided by the existing March algorithms, using the same design specifications, where the proposed March-ee MBIST controller has shown better results in terms of power consumption, fault coverage, timing, and area.
Transient Response Analysis of Underwater Structures Based on Total Field Formulas and Modified High-order Transmission Boundary
Authors: Zhao Zibin , Li S. M. , Yin Yihui
Published: November 2020

The scaled boundary finite element method (SBFEM) has obvious advantages in simulating both finite and infinite domains. However, the present high-order transmission boundary of SBFEM has a problem in numerical stability, especially for 3D fluid–structure interaction (FSI) problems. In this paper, a modified method is put forward to improve the numerical stability of the high-order transmission boundary and the total field formulas of the modified high-order transmission boundary are derived. In the transient response analysis, the nonreflecting characteristics of the infinite fluid domain are simulated by the modified high-order transmission boundary, while the impacts loading is calculated by the total field formulas. Several numerical examples are presented to prove the validity of the modified high-order transmission boundary and the total field formulas.
A higher dimensional cosmological model for the search of dark energy source
Authors: Singh Pheiroijam Suranjoy , Singh Kangujam Priyokumar
Published: November 2020

With due consideration of reasonable cosmological assumptions within the limit of the present cosmological scenario, we have analyzed a spherically symmetric metric in 5D setting within the framework of Lyra manifold. The model universe is predicted to be a DE model, dominated by vacuum energy. The model represents an oscillating model, each cycle evolving with a big bang and ending at a big crunch, undergoing a series of bounces. The universe is isotropic and undergoes super-exponential expansion. The value of Hubble’s parameter is measured to be [Formula: see text] which is very close to [Formula: see text], the value estimated by the latest Planck 2018 result. A detailed discussion on the cosmological parameters obtained is also presented with graphs.
Development of Human Vectored Brucellosis Vaccine Formulation: Assessment of Safety and Protectiveness of Influenza Viral Vectors Expressing Brucella Immunodominant Proteins in Mice and Guinea Pigs
Authors: Bugybayeva Dina , Ryskeldinova Sholpan , Zinina Nadezhda , Sarmykova Makhpal , Assanzhanova Nurika , Kydyrbayev Zhailaubay , Tabynov Kaissar
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we first used recombinant influenza viral vector (rIVV) subtype H5N1 expressing from the open reading frame of NS1 80 and NS1 124 amino acids of Brucella outer membrane proteins (Omp) 16 and 19, ribosomal L7/L12, and Cu‐Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD) proteins to develop a human brucellosis vaccine. We made 18 combinations of IVVs in mono‐, bi‐, and tetravalent vaccine formulations and tested them on mice to select the safest and most effective vaccine samples. Then, the most effective vaccine candidates were further tested on guinea pigs. Safety of the rIVV‐based vaccine candidate was evaluated by a mouse weight‐gain test. Mice and guinea pigs were challenged with the virulent strain B. melitensis 16M. The protective effect of the rIVV‐based vaccine candidate was assessed by quantitation of Brucella colonization in tissues and organs of challenged animals. All vaccine formulations were safe in mice. Tested vaccine formulations, as well as the commercial B. melitensis Rev.1 vaccine, have been found to protect mice from B. melitensis 16M infection within the range of 1.6 to 2.97 log10 units (P < 0.05). Tetravalent vaccine formulations from the position of NS1 80 amino acids (0.2 ± 0.4), as well as the commercial B. melitensis Rev.1 vaccine (1.2 ± 2.6), have been found to protect guinea pigs from B. melitensis 16M infection at a significant level (P < 0.05). Thus, tetravalent vaccine formulation Flu‐NS1‐80‐Omp16+Flu‐NS1‐80‐L7/L12+Flu‐NS1‐80‐Omp19+Flu‐NS1‐80‐SOD was chosen as a potential vaccine candidate for further development of an effective human vaccine against brucellosis. These results show a promising future for the development of a safe human vaccine against brucellosis based on rIVVs.
Green Tea Polyphenols Protect against Acetaminophen‐Induced Liver Injury by Regulating the Drug Metabolizing Enzymes and Transporters
Authors: Lv Le , Xu Chenshu , Mo Xiaoye , Sun Hai-Yan , Bi Huichang
Published: November 2020

Green tea polyphenols (GTPs) have been shown to exhibit diverse beneficial effects against a variety of diseases. Acetaminophen (APAP) overdose is one of the most frequent causes of drug‐induced liver injury. In the current study, we aimed to investigate the protective effect of GTP on APAP‐induced liver injury in mice and the underlying mechanisms involved. Male C57BL/6J mice were treated orally with different doses of GTP (37.5, 75, or 150 mg/kg) 4 h after APAP overdose (400 mg/kg) and continuously given every 8 h until sacrificed at 4, 12, 20, and 48 h after the first treatment of GTP. Survival rate and histological and biochemical assessments were performed to evaluate the APAP‐induced liver injury. Protein expression of multiple drug metabolizing enzymes and transporters was measured to demonstrate the possible mechanisms involved. Our results revealed that administration of different doses of GTP significantly alleviated APAP‐induced liver injury by improving the survival rate, hepatocellular necrosis, and ALT/AST/GSH levels after APAP overdose (400 mg/kg). The protein expression of APAP‐induced drug transporters and metabolizing enzymes was mostly induced by GTP treatment, which was followed by reduction in drug transporters at the later time points. The current study collectively demonstrated that GTP protects against APAP‐induced liver injury, possibly through regulating drug metabolizing enzymes and transporters after APAP overdose.
Cardioprotective Activities of Ethanolic Extract Root of Ageratum conyzoides on Alloxan‐Induced Cardiotoxicity in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Ojewale Abdulfatai , Mada Sanusi , Oyebadejo Samson , Afodun Adam , Aladeyelu Okikioluwa , Kolawole Bolaji
Published: November 2020

Diabetes mellitus has developed into one of the debilitating diseases disturbing the health of many people living with cardiovascular diseases in modern times. The root of Ageratum conyzoides was investigated for its effects on alloxan‐induced diabetic Wistar rats’ cardiac tissues. Thirty‐two (32) Wistar rats weighing between 180 and 190 g were randomly divided into four groups. The animals in groups B‐D were induced with a single dose of 150 mg/kg body weight of alloxan (ALX) intraperitoneally. They were confirmed hyperglycemic after 72 hours of induction and then sustained in hyperglycemic condition for 2 weeks. Animals in groups C and D received AC intervention, as stated above, for four weeks. The body weight of the experimental animals and blood collection for glucose estimation were taken weekly for six weeks using appropriate instruments. Biochemical assays for lipid profile, antioxidant enzymatic, and nonenzymatic markers were carried out. Histopathological changes in the cardiac tissues were also studied. Administration of 150 mg/kg of ALX to experimental rats induced diabetes and significantly reduced the body weights, significantly (p < 0.05) increased the glucose level, triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) levels, and decreased the levels of high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) and antioxidant enzymatic markers such as catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) while the antioxidant nonenzymatic marker such as malondialdehyde (MDA) level was significantly increased. By contrast, rats given the ethanolic extract root of A. conyzoides had significantly (p < 0.05) increased the body weight gain, whereas the glucose levels significantly (p < 0.05) improved in treated diabetic rats. This extract also improved the cardiovascular system of the diabetic rats by significantly decreasing TG and LDL levels, significantly (p < 0.05) increasing the HDL level, significantly reducing the cardiac contents of CAT, SOD, and GPx, and significantly (p < 0.05) decreasing MDA. Ethanolic extract root of A. conyzoides exhibited antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic activities and mitigates damage to the heart from the ALX‐induced myocardial toxicity associated with type‐1 diabetes.
Ion Transport Modulators as Antimycobacterial Agents
Authors: Mitini-Nkhoma Steven C. , Fernando Narmada , Ishaka G. K. D. , Handunnetti Shiroma M. , Pathirana Sisira L.
Published: November 2020

There is an urgent need for better and safer therapeutic interventions for tuberculosis (TB). We assessed the effects of FDA-approved ion transport modulators, namely, ambroxol HCl, amiloride HCl, diazoxide, digoxin, furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), metformin, omeprazole, pantoprazole, phenytoin, verapamil, and drug X and Y on the growth of free and intracellular Mycobacterium bovis BCG. Free and intracellular M. bovis BCG were cultured in the presence or absence of the test drugs for 3 to 9 days and then quantified. For both free and intracellular bacteria, cultures that were exposed to furosemide, phenytoin, or drug Y yielded lower bacteria counts compared to drug-free controls (p<0.05). The same was observed with diazoxide, HCTZ, verapamil, and drug X, but only for intracellular M. bovis BCG (p<0.05). To assess the effects of the drugs on bactericidal activity of rifampicin, free and intracellular M. bovis BCG were treated with rifampicin alone or in combination with each of the thirteen test drugs for 3 to 9 days. For extracellular bacteria, higher bacteria clearance rates were observed in cultures exposed to rifampicin in combination with amiloride HCl, diazoxide, digoxin, furosemide, HCTZ, metformin, pantoprazole, phenytoin, drug X, or drug Y than those exposed to rifampicin alone, indicating that rifampicin had a synergistic effect with these test drugs. Rifampicin was also synergistic with ambroxol HCl, diazoxide, digoxin, furosemide, HCTZ, omeprazole, pantoprazole, phenytoin, verapamil, and drug X against intracellular M. bovis BCG. The antimycobacterial properties exhibited by the ion transport modulators in this study make them viable candidates as adjuncts to the current anti-TB regimens.
Effect of Traverse Speed on the Defect Characteristic, Microstructure, and Mechanical Property of Friction Stir Welded T‐Joints of Dissimilar Mg/Al Alloy
Authors: Tao Sun , Siyu Wu , Shen Yifu , Jiayi Jin , Jiazhu Lu , Tianxiang Qin
Published: November 2020

The AZ31 B/2024‐T4 T‐lap‐joint was successfully fabricated by friction stir welding (FSW) with different welding parameters. The defect characteristics and metallurgical structure were observed and analyzed using optical microscope (OM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Besides, the effects of defects and welding parameters on mechanical properties were investigated. The results show that an effective metallurgical reaction zone can be formed between Mg and Al (Mg‐Al MRZ) and the island structures and lamellar structures appeared in the Mg‐Al MRZ. The T‐joints without tunnel defects can be obtained and the excellent mechanical properties of the T‐joint were achieved using the welding speed of 50 mm/min. The tensile strength along the skin and the stringer was mainly affected by the kiss bonding defects.
Effects of Switching from Anti‐VEGF Treatment to Triamcinolone Acetonide in Eyes with Refractory Macular Edema Associated with Diabetic Retinopathy or Retinal Vein Occlusion
Authors: Tatsumi Tomoaki , Oshitari Toshiyuki , Baba Takayuki , Takatsuna Yoko , Yamamoto Shuichi
Published: November 2020

Purpose. To evaluate the efficacy of switching from intravitreal antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents to triamcinolone acetonide (TA) in eyes with diabetic macular edema (DME) or with retinal vein occlusion‐associated macular edema (RVO‐ME) on the resolution of the macular edema (ME). Methods. The medical records of 11 eyes of 11 patients with DME and 9 eyes of 9 patients with RVO‐ME whose MEs were refractory to anti‐VEGF treatment were reviewed. The central retinal thickness (CRT), best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), and the mean interval of the recurrences were measured during the anti‐VEGF treatment and after switching to the TA injections. Results. Switching to TA injections significantly increased the mean interval for recurrences from 9.2 ± 2.7 weeks to 22.3 ± 12.9 weeks in eyes with DME (P = 0.006). In eyes with RVO‐ME, the mean period of recurrence was 12.3 ± 5.6 weeks before and 11.6 ± 4.4 weeks after the switch (P = 0.44). The mean interval for recurrence was extended to more than 8 weeks in 7 of 11 eyes with DME, but none of the eyes with RVO‐ME had a prolongation of more than 4 weeks. An elevation of the IOP was observed in 3 of the 20 eyes after the TA injection. Conclusions. These findings indicate that switching to TA injections can be a good option for DME eyes refractory to anti‐VEGF injections but not for the RVO‐ME eyes.
Seed Proteomic Profiles of Three Paeonia Varieties and Evaluation of Peony Seed Protein as a Food Product
Authors: Ren Xiuxia , Shi Yantong , Xue Yuqian , Xue Jingqi , Tian Yuanyuan , Wang Shunli , Zhang Xiuxin
Published: November 2020

Peony (Paeonia) has high ornamental, edible, and medicinal values. In order to distinguish seeds varieties, describe the proteomic profiles correlated with stress tolerance, and evaluate peony seed protein (PSP) as a functional food product, we characterized the seed protein profiles of these three species and their glucosidase inhibition activities. Results showed that the intensity of protein bands in sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) and specific protein ID (especially for specifically expressed proteins (SEPs)) was effective to distinguish these peony seed varieties. Proteomic analysis of the three species showed that P. ostii “Fengdan” has heat and pathogen tolerance‐related proteins, while P. rockii has higher content of proteins related to cold resistance, which were all highly consistent with their adaptation of heat or cold habitat. Moreover, stress‐related proteins were also accumulated in P. lactiflora Pall “Hangshao” seeds, showing its potential for stress resistance. Further protein analysis showed that the primary composition of PSP was albumin and globulin. And the solubility of PSP was good. Furthermore, PSP also showed high glucosidase inhibition activity, indicating that PSP might have some potential function for the remission of hyperglycemia. And P. ostii “Fengdan” seeds may be a better source for protein production than seeds of the other two species in terms of protein solubility and the content of total protein, albumin, and globulin. In addition, an optimal protocol of microwave‐assisted alkali extraction was developed to produce PSP. In conclusion, the evaluated stress‐related proteins in three peony seed species by proteomic analysis quite agreed with their adaptation of heat or cold stress; proteomics could also be a very useful tool for distinguishing species in the production; and peony seeds may be a good source for protein production.
Regulatory Mechanisms of Coicis Semen on Bionetwork of Liver Cancer Based on Network Pharmacology
Authors: Liu Bonan , Bai Chen
Published: November 2020

At present, there is an increasing incidence and mortality of liver cancer. Despite surgery and chemoradiotherapy, there is a lack of effective oral medications with low side effects. In East Asia, Coicis Semen (CS) is used as both food and natural medicine and has a significant impact on the treatment of liver cancer. However, due to its multicomponent and multitarget characteristics, the mechanisms of CS against liver cancer remain unclear. This study collected CS compounds and target proteins in SymMap, then cross‐matched with the liver cancer targets in the CTD database to construct an interaction network of CS‐liver cancer proteins, and visualized by Cytoscape software. DAVID database was used to perform pathway enrichment analysis to find target proteins in core pathways and the related small molecules in CS. The results showed that a total of 103 common genes shared by CS and liver cancer were obtained, which were enriched for precancerous lesion pathways such as hepatitis B and fatty liver and biological signaling pathways such as HIF‐1 and TNF. The combination of sitosterol and CASP3 in CS, acting on “pathways in cancer” and restoring normal cell apoptosis, could be the core mechanisms of CS in the treatment of liver cancer. Based on the system biology analysis, it is speculated that CS may not only participate in multiple mechanisms of action to treat liver cancer synergistically but may also be involved in factors that reduce the incidence of liver cancer.
A Review Study on Mechanical Properties of Obtained Products by FDM Method and Metal/Polymer Composite Filament Production
Authors: Çevik Ümit , Kam Menderes
Published: November 2020

In addition to traditional manufacturing methods, Additive Manufacturing (AM) has become a widespread production technique used in the industry. The Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) method is one of the most known and widely used additive manufacturing techniques. Due to the fact that polymer-based materials used as depositing materials by the FDM method in printing of parts have insufficient mechanical properties, the technique generally has limited application areas such as model making and prototyping. With the development of polymer-based materials with improved mechanical properties, this technique can be preferred in wider application areas. In this context, analysis of the mechanical properties of the products has an important role in the production method with FDM. This study investigated the mechanical properties of the products obtained by metal/polymer composite filament production and FDM method in detail. It was reviewed current literature on the production of metal/polymer composite filaments with better mechanical properties than filaments compatible with three-dimensional (3D) printers. As a result, it was found that by adding reinforcements of composites in various proportions, products with high mechanical properties can be obtained. Thus, it was predicted that the composite products obtained in this way can be used in wider application areas.
Level of Knowledge and Risk Factors for Visceral Leishmaniasis in a Mining Area of Minas Gerais State, Brazil
Authors: Margonari Carina , Menezes Júlia Alves , Mayr de Lima Carvalho Gustavo , Miranda Júlia Bahia , Furtado de Sousa Fabrizio , Rêgo Felipe Dutra , Campos Aldenise Martins , Monteiro Carolina Cunha , Madureira Ana Paula , Andrade Filho José Dilermando
Published: November 2020

Aiming to optimize and adjust leishmaniasis prevention and control measures for the resident population of Pains, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, a structured questionnaire containing conceptual questions and questions about household characteristics was used to evaluate knowledge level and exposure risk. A total of 396 individuals were interviewed revealing unscientific and fragmented knowledge about the subject for most of the studied population. The female population was found to have 1.68 times more chance of knowing about the disease than the male population, while highly educated individuals were found to have 2.92 times more chances of knowing about leishmaniasis compared to basic educated individuals. All of the respondents reported the presence of, at least, one risk factor, while ages ≥40 years were considered a protective factor compared to younger ages, indicating that older individuals are more likely to recognize risks and protect themselves against leishmaniasis. These results will contribute to the production of didactic materials for the population with respect to their previous knowledge and will provide a basis for control and prophylactic measures.
Sodium Butyrate Inhibits Neovascularization Partially via TNXIP/VEGFR2 Pathway
Authors: Xiao Xiaoqiang , Chen Min , Xu Yanxuan , Huang Shaofen , Liang Jiajian , Cao Yingjie , Chen Haoyu
Published: November 2020

Control of neovascularization with small molecules is a promising tactics. Here, we tested the roles of sodium butyrate (NaBu) on the neovascularization and primary explained its underlining molecular links. We used models including cell and ex vivo culture of choroid and mouse, as well as the biochemical and cellular techniques, to confirm our hypothesis. We found that treating HUVEC cells with NaBu (both 2.5 mM and 5 mM) significantly inhibited its ability in tube formation and proliferation. This inhibitory effect was also observed in choroid sprouting experiments, compared to the control. Interestingly, the choroid sprouting suppressed by NaBu can proliferate again after removing it, indicating that the cell cycle progression might be arrested. The laser-induced choroid neovascularization (CNV) was significantly alleviated by assessing the CNV size (decreased to 0.73 fold) in contrast with the vehicle control group after 2.5 mM NaBu injection for 7 days. Mechanistically, we found an enhanced TXNIP expression in response to NaBu treatment in all the three models. Overexpressing TXNIP in HUVEC cells blocked its tube formation and inhibited its proliferation; on the other hand, knocking down its expression with shRNA reversed those phenotypes in context of NaBu treatment. Further investigation showed the expression of VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2) in HUVEC cells was regulated by TXNIP undergoing NaBu treatment. We therefore argued that NaBu inhibited neovascularization partially through TXNIP-regulated VEGFR2 signal pathway.
Virus Propagation in Wireless Sensor Networks with Media Access Control Mechanism
Authors: Jiang Lurong , Xu Qiaoyu , Pan Hangyi , Dai Yanyun , Tong Jijun
Published: November 2020

In wireless sensor networks, network security against virus propagation is one of the challenges with the applications. In severe cases, the network system may become paralyzed. In order to study the process of virus propagation in wireless sensor networks with the media access control mechanism, this paper uses the susceptible-infectious-removed (SIR) model to analyze the spreading process. It provides a theoretical basis for the development of virus immune mechanisms to solve network virus attack hidden dangers. The research shows that the media access control (MAC) mechanism in the wireless sensor network can inhibit the process of virus propagation, reduce the network virus propagating speed, and decrease the scale of infected nodes. The listen/sleep duty cycle of this mechanism will affect the suppression effect of virus propagation. The smaller the listen/sleep duty cycle, the stronger the suppression effect. Energy consumption has a peak value under specific infection probability. Meanwhile, it is also found that the spreading scale of the virus in wireless sensor networks can be effectively inhibited by the MAC mechanism.
Evaluation of Serum Levels and Expression of Galectin‐4 in Cervical Cancer
Authors: Conde-Rodríguez Ileana , Delgado-López Guadalupe , Armenta-Castro Erick , Ramírez-Díaz Ivonne , Anaya-Ruiz Maricruz , Gutiérrez-Quiroz Claudia T. , Flores-Alonso Juan Carlos , Reyes-Salinas Salvador , Vazquez-Zamora Víctor J. , Ceja-Utrera Francisco J. , López-Colombo Aurelio , Reyes-Leyva Julio , López-López Gustavo , Vallejo-Ruiz Verónica
Published: November 2020

Galectin‐4 has been reported to be altered in different cancer types. Its expression changes have been associated with early recurrence and metastasis. In cervical cancer (CC), galectin‐4 has not been studied. The aim of the study was to determine the expression level and subcellular localization of galectin‐4 in CC tissue and the concentration in the serum of patients with CC. For the analysis of serum levels of galectin‐4, an ELISA assay was performed. To assess the expression in cervical tissue, immunohistochemical staining was performed. The results showed that the concentration of galectin‐4 in the serum of patients with CC was higher (647.9 pg/ml) than that in the serum of women with normal cytology (382.1 pg/ml). The immunohistochemical analysis of CC samples showed a higher expression in keratinizing tumor than nonkeratinizing tumors and a trend of increased expression in tumors from patients with advanced clinical stage. In normal cervical tissue, galectin‐4 was detected in the cytoplasm, and in tumor cells, the presence of galectin‐4 was also detected in the nucleus, in both adenocarcinoma and squamous cervical cancer. The increase in serum concentration and different localization in the tumor cells suggest a possible role of galectin‐4 in CC development.
Numerical Simulation of the Natural Convection with Presence of the Nanofluids in Cubical Cavity
Authors: Sannad Mohamed , Btissam Abourida , Lahoucine Belarche
Published: November 2020

This article consists of a numerical study of natural convection heat transfer in three-dimensional cavity filled with nanofluids. This configuration is heated by a partition maintained at a hot constant and uniform temperature TH. The right and left vertical walls are kept at a cold temperature TC while the rest is adiabatic. The fluid flow and heat transfer in the cavity are studied for different sets of the governing parameters, namely, the nanofluid type, the Rayleigh number Ra = 103, 104, 105, and 106, and the volume fraction Ф varying between Ф = 0 and 0.1. The obtained results show a positive effect of the volume fraction and the Rayleigh number on the heat transfer improvement. The analysis of the results related to the heat transfer shows that the copper-based nanofluid guarantees the best thermal transfer. In addition, the increase of the heating section size and Ra leads to an increased amount of heat. Similarly, increasing the volume fraction improves the intensification of the flow and increases the heat exchange.
Stability and Stabilization of Delayed Neural Networks with Hybrid Impulses
Authors: Zou Kefa , Li Xuechen , Wang Nan , Lou Jungang , Lu Jianquan
Published: November 2020

In this paper, the stability and stabilization issues for a class of delayed neural networks with time-varying hybrid impulses are investigated. The hybrid effect of two types of impulses including both stabilizing and destabilizing impulses is considered simultaneously in the analysis of systems. To characterize the occurrence features of impulses, the concepts of average impulse interval and average impulse strength are employed. Based on the analysis of stability, a pinning impulsive controller which can ensure the global exponential stability of the studied neural networks is designed by pinning a small fraction of neurons. Finally, two numerical examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed control schemes for delayed neural networks with hybrid impulses.
Prognostic Value of the Pretreatment Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index in Patients with Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Li Jing , Shao Jingjing , Zhang Xunlei , Chen Xin , Zhao Wenjing , Qian Hongyan , Cui Xiaopeng , Jiang Xiaohui
Published: November 2020

Background. Multiple studies have reported the significance of the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) in the prognosis of colorectal cancer (CRC), but no consensus has yet been reached. The purpose of this study was to systematically assess the prognostic value of SII in patients with CRC. Materials and Methods. We performed a systematic literature search in PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library for eligible studies. The correlation between pretreatment SII and overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), and progression-free survival (PFS) in CRC patients was evaluated by combining the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Results. Twelve studies involving 3919 patients were included. Comprehensive analysis results showed that high SII indicated poor OS in CRC patients (

HR
=
1.777

, 95% CI: 1.328-2.376). Compared with patients with low SII values, patients with high SII had lower PFS (

HR
=
1.658

, 95% CI: 1.189-2.311). Subgroup analysis further verified the above results. Conclusions. SII may be a noninvasive and powerful tool for predicting survival outcomes in CRC patients. However, more well-designed studies are needed to validate our findings.
Early Enteral Nutrition Preserves Intestinal Barrier Function through Reducing the Formation of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs) in Critically Ill Surgical Patients
Authors: Hu Qiongyuan , Ren Huajian , Hong Zhiwu , Wang Chenyang , Zheng Tao , Ren Yanhan , Chen Kai , Liu Song , Wang Gefei , Gu Guosheng , Wu Xiuwen , Ren Jianan
Published: November 2020

Background. The gut was suggested as the driver of critical illness and organ injury. Recently, excessive formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) was associated with mucosal inflammation. Direct investigation of intestinal mucosa is essential to illuminate the potential mechanism of gut barrier in critically ill patients. We hypothesized that early enteral nutrition (EN) could decrease intestinal NETs and maintain the gut barrier. Methods. Intestinal biopsies were obtained using biopsy forceps from critically ill surgical patients complicated with enterocutaneous fistula. Expressions of tight junction (TJ) proteins, mucosal inflammation, and apoptosis were evaluated. Moreover, NET-associated proteins were evaluated in intestinal specimens of patients by Western blot and immunofluorescence analysis. Results. The intestinal barrier was significantly impaired in critically ill patients receiving early total parenteral nutrition (TPN), evidenced by intestinal villi atrophy, inflammatory infiltration, increased enterocyte apoptosis, and abnormal TJ expressions. Early EN significantly alleviated these intestinal injuries. In addition, we observed increased formation of the NET structure and elevated expressions of NET-associated proteins in intestines of critically ill surgical patients. Early EN was associated with the diminished presence of NETs and reduced expression of NET-associated proteins. Mechanically, analysis of the TLR4 pathway showed a significant increase in TLR4, NFκB, and MAPK signaling in patients receiving TPN when compared to those receiving early EN. Conclusion. The intestinal barrier is disrupted in the human gut during critical illness. Our data suggests that an increased NET structure was showed in the gut of critically ill surgical patients, and early EN treatment was associated with the reduction of NET formation and the preservation of mucosal immunity.