bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vibration Suppression of a Linear Oscillator Force-Excited by Random Excitation via an Inerter Pendulum Vibration Absorber
Authors: Cosner Joel A. , Tai Wei-Che
Published: November 2021

In this theoretical study, the vibration suppression and nonlinear energy transfer, as a function of a dimensionless pendulum length parameter, is investigated for an Inerter Pendulum Vibration Absorber (IPVA) attached to a linear single-degree-of-freedom spring-mass-damper system, subject to white noise excitation. Stochastic differential equations of motion are first developed and integrated to determine the evolution of the response and associated mean and mean square values for long integration times. Dynamic statistical moment equations are then developed, while arc-length continuation is used to track stationary the moments as a function of the pendulum length. Two noise intensity and damping configurations are analyzed and a critical parameter value, in both cases, is found to produce a qualitative change in the system dynamics accompanied by optimal vibration suppression. The results are compared to the response of a linear system without an IPVA to quantify the vibration suppression. Realizations in the time domain are finally calculated to provide validation for the results and gain insight into the changing dynamics of the system as a function of the pendulum length, leading to the discovery of intermittent rotation for sufficiently large pendulum length.
Classification of Dimensional Deviation in Additive Manufacturing LPBF Process for AlSi10Mg Alloy According to ISO 286 and ANSI B4.2
Authors: Ben Amor Sabrine , Zongo Floriane , Louhichi Borhen , Brailovski Vladimir , Tahan Antoine
Published: November 2021

Additive manufacturing (AM) processes are gaining popularity and are currently used in many research activities including the biomedical applications, the automotive industries and the aerospace. Laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) is an important AM process. Metallic LPBF process is experiencing significant growth, but one of the difficulties facing this growth is limited knowledge of its dimensional and geometrical performances, in addition to the inability to predict it. In this paper, we present the dimensional deviations of some LPBF-manufactured parts selected for this investigation. a uniform method was developed regarding relevant test specimens to examine dimensional deviations in order to derive dimensional tolerance values. The manufactured test specimens were measured to examine the process dimensional deviations behavior. These parts were manufactured from AlSi10Mg powder using an EOSINT M280 printer. The results show possible dimensional tolerance values that were classified from IT1 to IT11 according to the international standard ISO 286.
Friction of magnetene, a non–van der Waals 2D material
Authors: Serles Peter , Arif Taib , Puthirath Anand B. , Yadav Shwetank , Wang Guorui , Cui Teng , Balan Aravind Puthirath , Yadav Thakur Prasad , Thibeorchews Prasankumar , Chakingal Nithya , Costin Gelu , Singh Chandra Veer , Ajayan Pulickel M. , Filleter Tobin
Published: November 2021

The friction of magnetene is found to be low despite its covalent bonding, which is correlated to its 2D confinement effects.
Pathogenesis of Wild-Type-Like Rhesus Cytomegalovirus Strains following Oral Exposure of Immune-Competent Rhesus Macaques
Authors: Yue Yujuan , Chang W. L. William , Li Julia , Nguyen Nancy , Schmidt Kimberli A. , Dormitzer Philip R. , Yang Xinzhen , Barry Peter A.
Published: November 2021

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is globally ubiquitous with high seroprevalence rates in all communities. HCMV infections can occur vertically following mother-to-fetus transmission across the placenta and horizontally following shedding of virus in bodily fluids in HCMV-infected hosts and subsequent exposure of susceptible individuals to virus-laden fluids.
Deletion of the
H240R
Gene of African Swine Fever Virus Decreases Infectious Progeny Virus Production Due to Aberrant Virion Morphogenesis and Enhances Inflammatory Cytokine Expression in Porcine Macrophages
Authors: Zhou Pingping , Li Lian-Feng , Zhang Kehui , Wang Bing , Tang Lijie , Li Miao , Wang Tao , Sun Yuan , Li Su , Qiu Hua-Ji
Published: November 2021

African swine fever is a lethal hemorrhagic disease of global concern that is caused by African swine fever virus (ASFV). Despite extensive research, there exist relevant gaps in knowledge of the fundamental biology of the viral life cycle.
Emergence, Evolution, and Pathogenicity of Influenza A(H7N4) Virus in Shorebirds in China
Authors: Chai Hongliang , Li Xiang , Li Minghui , Lv Xinru , Yu Wentao , Li Yi , Sun Jing , Li Yulei , Sun Heting , Tian Jingman , Xu Yu , Bai Xiaoli , Peng Peng , Xie Linhong , Qin Siyuan , An Qing , Zhang Fengjiang , Zhang Hailong , Du Jiang , Yang Siyuan , Hou Zhijun , Zeng Xiangwei , Wang Yulong , Richt Juergen A. , Wang Yajun , Li Yanbing , Ma Jianzhang
Published: November 2021

The H7 subtype avian influenza viruses, such as H7N2, H7N3, H7N4, H7N7, and H7N9, were documented as being capable of infecting humans, and the H7 subtype low pathogenicity avian influenza viruses are capable of mutating into highly pathogenic avian influenza; therefore, they pose a serious threat to public health. Here, we investigated the evolutionary history, molecular characteristics, and pathogenicity of shorebird-origin influenza A(H7N4) viruses, showing a similar evolutionary trajectory with Jiangsu human A(H7N4) viruses in HA and NA genes.
Protein-RNA Interactome Analysis Reveals Wide Association of Kaposi’s Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus ORF57 with Host Noncoding RNAs and Polysomes
Authors: Alvarado-Hernandez Beatriz , Ma Yanping , Sharma Nishi R. , Majerciak Vladimir , Lobanov Alexei , Cam Maggie , Zhu Jun , Zheng Zhi-Ming
Published: November 2021

As an RNA-binding protein, KSHV ORF57 regulates RNA splicing, stability, and translation and inhibits host innate immunity by blocking the formation of RNA granules in virus-infected cells. In this study, ORF57 was found to interact with many host noncoding RNAs, including lncRNAs, snoRNAs, and rRNAs, to carry out additional unknown functions.
Undervalued Pseudo-
nifH
Sequences in Public Databases Distort Metagenomic Insights into Biological Nitrogen Fixers
Authors: Mise Kazumori , Masuda Yoko , Senoo Keishi , Itoh Hideomi
Published: November 2021

Nitrogen-fixing microbes affect biogeochemical cycling, agricultural productivity, and microbial ecosystems, and their distributions have been investigated intensively using genomic and metagenomic sequencing. Currently, insights into nitrogen fixers in the environment have been acquired by homology searches against nitrogenase genes, particularly the
nifH
gene, in public databases.
Evaluating Humoral Immunity against SARS-CoV-2: Validation of a Plaque-Reduction Neutralization Test and a Multilaboratory Comparison of Conventional and Surrogate Neutralization Assays
Authors: Valcourt Emelissa J. , Manguiat Kathy , Robinson Alyssia , Lin Yi-Chan , Abe Kento T. , Mubareka Samira , Shigayeva Altynay , Zhong Zoë , Girardin Roxie C. , DuPuis Alan , Payne Anne , McDonough Kathleen , Wang Zhen , Gasser Romain , Laumaea Annemarie , Benlarbi Mehdi , Richard Jonathan , Prévost Jérémie , Anand Sai Priya , Dimitrova Kristina , Phillipson Clark , Evans David H. , McGeer Allison , Gingras Anne-Claude , Liang Chen , Petric Martin , Sekirov Inna , Morshed Muhammad , Finzi Andrés , Drebot Michael , Wood Heidi
Published: November 2021

SARS-CoV-2, the causal agent of COVID-19, has infected over 150 million people and led to 3.8 million deaths worldwide. With the approval of several efficacious COVID-19 vaccines, methods to evaluate protective immune responses will be crucial for the understanding of long-term immunity in the rapidly growing vaccinated population.
Single-Point Mutations in the N Gene of SARS-CoV-2 Adversely Impact Detection by a Commercial Dual Target Diagnostic Assay
Authors: Miller Sharon , Lee Terence , Merritt Adam , Pryce Todd , Levy Avram , Speers David
Published: November 2021

This paper reports the identification of single-point mutations in the N gene of SARS-CoV-2 associated with a gene target failure by the Cepheid Xpert commercial system. In order to determine the mutation(s) responsible for the N gene detection failures, the genomic products from the Cepheid Xpert system were sequenced and compared to whole genomes of SARS-CoV-2 from clinical cases.
Molecular characterisation and antibiotic susceptibility of meningococcal isolates from healthy men who have sex with men
Authors: Neri Arianna , Palmieri Annapina , Prignano Grazia , Giuliani Massimo , Latini Alessandra , Fazio Cecilia , Vacca Paola , Ambrosio Luigina , Ciammaruconi Andrea , Fillo Silvia , Anselmo Anna , Fortunato Antonella , Lista Romano , Stefanelli Paola
Published: November 2021

Objectives

To evaluate and characterise meningococcal carriage among healthy men who have sex with men (MSM) within a screening programme forNeisseria gonorrhoeaeinfection at the San Gallicano Dermatological Institute, Italy.

Methods

A total of 441 MSM attending the STI/HIV Centre of the San Gallicano Institute, Rome, Italy, in 2016 were routinely screened forN. gonorrhoeaeinfection by pharyngeal and rectal swabs.N. meningitidisisolates were evaluated for antibiotic susceptibility and characterised by whole genome sequencing. Genetic relationships among the meningococcal carriage isolates were determined using core genome multilocus sequence typing analysis. The soluble domain of AniA (sAniA) protein expression by western blotting was also evaluated.

Results

A total of 62 (14.1%, 95% CI 11.1 to 17.6) carriage meningococci were found among 441 MSM. Forty-three viableN. meningitidisisolates were cultivated (42 from pharyngeal and 1 from rectal swabs). All the viable isolates were susceptible to cefotaxime, ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin and rifampicin. Four isolates were penicillin G-resistant and 73% of those penicillin G-susceptible showed a minimum inhibitory concentration from 0.064 μg/mL to 0.25 μg/mL. Serogroup B was the most frequent (44.2%), followed by Z (16.3%), E (9.3%), and Y and W (2.3%), respectively. Multilocus sequence typing analysis identified 29 sequence types belonging to 12 clonal complexes. The sAniA protein was expressed in 8 out of 28 (29%) screened meningococcal carriage isolates.

Conclusions

Serogroup B meningococcal carriage identified from oral and anal specimens among healthy MSM was the most frequent serogroup identified in this study. Molecular evaluation revealed a degree of similarity among strains belonging to the same clonal complex.
Effects of electronic cigarette e-liquid flavouring on cigarette craving
Authors: Dyer Maddy L , Khouja Jasmine N , Jackson Abigail R , Havill Michelle A , Dockrell Martin J , Munafo Marcus R , Attwood Angela S
Published: November 2021

Background

E-liquid flavour restrictions may discourage electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) uptake among youth. However, possible unintended consequences may include reduced appeal and effectiveness of e-cigarettes for smoking cessation. Non-tobacco flavours appear to be important for smoking cessation, but how and why are currently unclear.

Methods

We conducted an experimental study in a UK sample of adult daily smokers using an independent groups design (N=84). Participants were randomised to use an e-cigarette with nicotine-containing fruit/sweet-flavoured e-liquid (blackcurrant, strawberry, vanilla, caramel) or unflavoured e-liquid for 1 week. The primary outcomes were average, peak and cue-elicited cigarette craving (the latter was assessed using a cue exposure task). The secondary outcomes were smoking lapse occurrence, enjoyment of the e-cigarette, ease of transitioning from smoking to using an e-cigarette, intentions to continue using an e-cigarette, intentions and motivation to quit smoking, return to smoking, and continuation of e-cigarette use.

Results

E-liquid flavouring did not appear to have an effect on average cigarette craving (b0.18, 95% CI −0.44 to 0.79, p=0.57), peak cigarette craving (b−0.12, 95% CI −0.59 to 0.35, p=0.62) or cue-elicited cigarette craving (b−0.21, 95% CI −3.86 to 3.43, p=0.91). We did not find evidence of a difference in secondary outcomes.

Conclusions

We did not find evidence to suggest that nicotine-containing fruit/sweet-flavoured and unflavoured e-liquids have different effects on cigarette cravings after 1 week of use. Further research is needed to establish if differences emerge over longer periods of exposure and extend to smoking cessation outcomes.
Feature Matching-based Approaches to Improve the Robustness of Android Visual GUI Testing
Authors: Ardito Luca , Bottino Andrea , Coppola Riccardo , Lamberti Fabrizio , Manigrasso Francesco , Morra Lia , Torchiano Marco
Published: November 2021

In automated Visual GUI Testing (VGT) for Android devices, the available tools often suffer from low robustness to mobile fragmentation, leading to incorrect results when running the same tests on different devices.

To soften these issues, we evaluate two feature matching-based approaches for widget detection in VGT scripts, which use, respectively, the complete full-screen snapshot of the application (
Fullscreen
) and the cropped images of its widgets (
Cropped
) as
visual locators
to match on emulated devices.

Our analysis includes validating the portability of different feature-based visual locators over various apps and devices and evaluating their robustness in terms of cross-device portability and correctly executed interactions. We assessed our results through a comparison with two state-of-the-art tools, EyeAutomate and Sikuli.

Despite a limited increase in the computational burden, our Fullscreen approach outperformed state-of-the-art tools in terms of correctly identified locators across a wide range of devices and led to a 30% increase in passing tests.

Our work shows that VGT tools’ dependability can be improved by bridging the testing and computer vision communities. This connection enables the design of algorithms targeted to domain-specific needs and thus inherently more usable and robust.
Energy Efficient Error Resilient Multiplier Using Low-power Compressors
Authors: S Skandha Deepsita , M Dhayala Kumar , SK Noor Mahammad
Published: November 2021

The approximate hardware design can save huge energy at the cost of errors incurred in the design. This article proposes the approximate algorithm for low-power compressors, utilized to build approximate multiplier with low energy and acceptable error profiles. This article presents two design approaches (DA1 and DA2) for higher bit size approximate multipliers. The proposed multiplier of DA1 have no propagation of carry signal from LSB to MSB, resulted in a very high-speed design. The increment in delay, power, and energy are not exponential with increment of multiplier size (
n
) for DA1 multiplier. It can be observed that the maximum combinations lie in the threshold Error Distance of 5% of the maximum value possible for any particular multiplier of size
n
. The proposed 4-bit DA1 multiplier consumes only 1.3 fJ of energy, which is 87.9%, 78%, 94%, 67.5%, and 58.9% less when compared to M1, M2, LxA, MxA, accurate designs respectively. The DA2 approach is recursive method, i.e.,
n
-bit multiplier built with n/2-bit sub-multipliers. The proposed 8-bit multiplication has 92% energy savings with Mean Relative Error Distance (MRED) of 0.3 for the DA1 approach and at least 11% to 40% of energy savings with MRED of 0.08 for the DA2 approach. The proposed multipliers are employed in the image processing algorithm of DCT, and the quality is evaluated. The standard PSNR metric is 55 dB for less approximation and 35 dB for maximum approximation.
Comparison of Material Activity and Selectivity in the Electrocatalytic Oxidation of Dibenzothiophene
Authors: Kompanijec Victoria , Swierk John R.
Published: November 2021

There is an increasing demand for efficient methods to remove sulfur from oil products, such as oxidative desulfurization. In this work, a set of five materials (gold, glassy carbon, nickel, palladium and platinum) were evaluated as electrochemical catalysts for the oxidation of dibenzothiophene (DBT). Bulk electrolysis performed without water present produced DBT dimer, while the addition of 2 M water produced dibenzothiophene sulfoxide (DBTO), both more polar than DBT. LC-MS and NMR were used to characterize the oxidation products. Faradaic efficiencies ranged from 18.4%–56.5% for DBT consumption without water present, and there was a correlation between higher rate constants, lower activation energies, and more efficient DBT oxidation. With water present, selectivity for DBTO formation was highest using gold with a Faradaic efficiency of 87.9%. Group ten metals demonstrated low Faradaic efficiencies due to competitive water oxidation. Though there were differences in the observed selectivity for DBT oxidation, all catalysts reduced the concentration of DBT in solution by similar amounts. Our findings indicate that the overall percent conversion does not give a complete picture of catalytic activity. Of the materials tested, gold was the most selective for oxidation to DBTO, with the presence of water improving the overall reaction activity.
Insight into the Anchoring Effect of Two-Dimensional TiX2 (X = S, Se, Te) Materials for Lithium-Sulfur Batteries: A DFT Study
Authors: Wu Qiao , Chen Yuchao , Hao Xiaoqian , Zhu Tianjiao , Cao Yongan , Wang Wenju
Published: November 2021

It is desirable to develop suitable anchoring materials to refrain the notorious shuttle phenomenon in lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries. Two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides (2D TMDs), especially TiS2, with excellent physicochemical properties have attracted much attention. Here, in this work, density functional theory (DFT) computations were performed to systematically explore the adsorption behaviors of lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) over TiX2 (X = S, Se, Te) monolayer. It is concluded that TiS2 shows the best anchoring effect owing to the strongest adsorption energy. And it’s found that the intrinsic structures of LiPSs after adsorption could be preserved by calculating the decomposition energy. Moreover, the low diffusion energy barrier of Li2S on TiS2 surface is expected to accelerate the kinetics during the charge/discharge process. Based on a series of calculations and discussion, we can theoretically demonstrate that TiS2, as an anchoring material, has advantages over TiSe2 and TiTe2 in enhancing Li-S batteries performance.
Impact of CeO2 Nanoparticle Morphology: Radical Scavenging within the Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell
Authors: Yun Yejin , Kumar Aniket , Hong Jaewoon , Song Sun-Ju
Published: November 2021

This paper reports a systematic investigation of the radical scavenging behaviour of ceria with different morphological shapes inside Nafion membrane. All the ceria nanostructure is synthesized using a template-free hydrothermal route. Distinct crystal planes of CeO2 have different numbers of broken bonds and reaction sites having different surface energies. So, the preparation of CeO2 with various uncovered planes may enhance its scavenging activity. The crystal structure, morphology, and lattice structure are investigated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and x-ray diffraction (XRD). The results show that the radical scavenging efficiency of ceria strongly depends on the active surface plane, and decreases in the following order: nanorods > nanocube > nanosphere. Furthermore, the concentrations of surface oxygen vacancies and lattice cerium (III) are correlated with the morphology of the nanoparticles. This relationship clarifies the vital scavenging mechanism of CeO2 that mitigates degradation inside the polymer electrolyte membrane. This is because the inherent lattice strain on the active planes of nanosized ceria with different shapes affects their surficial reactions. The existence of prominent concentration of oxygen vacancy in the nanometric dimension of ceria leading to greater Ce3+ generation by exposed active phase CeO2 nanoparticles is key to achieve a durable hybrid Nafion membrane.
ZIF-8 Coupling with Reduced Graphene Oxide to Enhance the Electrochemical Sensing of Dopamine
Authors: Dong Xiuxiu , Xu Chunxiang , Lu Shun , Wang Ru , Shi Zengliang , Cui Qiannan , You Tianyan
Published: November 2021

A reduced graphene oxide@zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (rGO@ZIF-8) based electrochemical sensor was developed and used for dopamine detection. ZIF-8 was rapidly prepared by zinc hydroxide nitrate (Zn-HDS, Zn5(OH)8(NO3)2·2H2O) as precursor. Subsequently, rGO was introduced to enhance the performance of ZIF-8 (e.g., high carrier mobility, favorable stability), and a label-free electrochemical dopamine sensor based on the composite material was obtained with high specific surface area and better conductivity verified by Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface analysis and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, respectively. Consequently, rGO@ZIF-8 complex exhibited an admirable electrochemical catalytic performance. For determination of dopamine, the sensor behaves wide linear range from 2.0 × 10−6 to 1.4 × 10−4 mol l−1 and lower detection limit of 2.0 × 10−8 mol l−1 (S/N = 3). It also showed sufficient repeatability and durability due to the coordinated amplification effect of rGO and ZIF-8.
Two Cases of Armour Thyroid Interference in Thyroglobulin Monitoring for Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Ponder Michelle , Lamos Elizabeth , Munir Kashif
Published: November 2021

Thyroglobulin (Tg) monitoring is the biochemical standard for surveillance of recurrent differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC). Several assays are available to quantify Tg levels: immunometric assay (IMA), radioimmunoassay (RIA), and the newer liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS). It is well known that a number of entities can interfere with the accuracy of testing, and at this point in time, no one assay perfectly balances high sensitivity with low risk of interference. In this case study, we present two cases in which treatment with desiccated thyroid extract (Armour thyroid) led to a sudden elevation in Tg, which resolved when Armour thyroid was discontinued. This elevation occurred when Tg was measured with both IMA and LC-MS, which suggests direct interference from porcine Tg rather than heterophilic or thyroglobulin antibody (TgAb) interference. We suggest that patients with a history of DTC not be treated with desiccated thyroid extracts consistent with guidelines. Furthermore, more advances need to be made in the area of Tg testing to improve specificity and avoid detection of nonhuman Tg and other similar proteins.
Establishment and Mechanism Study of a Primary Ovarian Insufficiency Mouse Model Using Lipopolysaccharide
Authors: Lv Si-Ji , Hou Shu-Hui , Gan Lei , Sun Jing
Published: November 2021

This study is aimed at establishing a lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) induced primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) mouse model and investigating the underlying mechanism. C57BL/6N female mice were intraperitoneally injected with low-dose LPS (0.5 mg/kg) once daily for 14 days, high-dose LPS (2.5 mg/kg) twice weekly for 2 weeks, or cyclophosphamide (CTX; 150 mg/kg) once weekly for 2 weeks. Ovarian function was assessed by measuring the length of estrous cycle, the number of primordial follicles, and the levels of serum hormones. Expression and production of interleukin 1β (IL-1β) were determined to evaluate ovarian inflammation. Histopathological examination was performed to examine ovarian fibrosis. TUNEL assay was carried out to evaluate granulosa cell apoptosis. Western blotting was performed to measure the levels of inflammation-, fibrosis-, and apoptosis-related proteins in the mouse ovaries. Like CTX, both low- and high-dose LPS significantly impaired ovarian functions in mice, as evidenced by extended lengths of estrous cycles, reduced counts of primordial follicles, and alterations in the levels of serum hormones. Also, LPS promoted granulosa cell apoptosis and ovarian fibrosis in mice. However, LPS but not CTX promoted IL-1β expression and production in mice. Moreover, LPS but not CTX enhanced TLR, p-p65, p65, and MyD88 expression in mouse ovaries, suggesting that LPS differs from CTX in triggering ovarian inflammation. In general, continuous low-dose LPS stimulation was less potent than high-dose LPS to affect the ovarian functions. In conclusion, LPS may induce ovarian inflammation, fibrosis, and granulosa cell apoptosis and can be used to establish a POI model in mice.
Diagnosis of an Umbilical Vein Aneurysm at 30 Weeks Gestation
Authors: Campbell Meredith S. , Craig Amanda M. , Reese Jeff , Crum Alicia K. , Patel Soha S.
Published: November 2021

Background. Fetal umbilical vein aneurysm is an uncommon anomaly without clear guidelines regarding the management of these pregnancies. Case Presentation. We describe an ultrasound diagnosis of this condition involving a 38-year-old multigravid woman who presented at 30 weeks and 3 days gestation with severe fetal growth restriction, reverse end-diastolic flow on umbilical artery dopplers, elevated ductus venosus doppler, and an umbilical vein aneurysm. Due to nonreassuring fetal assessment in the setting of an umbilical vein aneurysm, she underwent a cesarean delivery with a favorable neonatal outcome. Conclusions. There are currently no guidelines for the management of an umbilical vein aneurysm. This case demonstrates a successful multidisciplinary approach for creating a plan of care focused on achieving a favorable outcome for a fetus with a large umbilical vein aneurysm. The approach took into account timing of delivery given the potential for fetal morbidity and mortality, while factoring in the risk of prematurity.
Type-2 Fuzzy Neural System for Diagnosis of Diabetes
Authors: Abiyev Rahib H. , Altiparmak Hamit
Published: November 2021

Diabetes is a chronic disease that is characterized by insufficient production or utilization of insulin and a consequent high increase in blood sugar. Diagnosis of diabetes is a complex process and requires a high level of expertise. The disease is characterized by a set of signs and symptoms. Some of these symptoms are obtained through laboratory analysis. Creation of a knowledge base and automation of disease diagnosis are important and allow fast detection and treatment. Various techniques have been used to develop a high-accuracy system for the diagnosis of diabetes. Fuzzy logic is one of the appropriate methodologies for the development of such medical diagnostic systems. Several research studies have used fuzzy models to diagnose medical diseases due to the imprecision and uncertainty associated with medical data. Moreover, a high level of uncertainty in medical data requires a type-2 fuzzy system to handle these uncertainties and diagnose diabetes. The paper proposes the integration of a type-2 fuzzy system and neural networks for the diagnosis of diabetes. Using the structure of type-2 fuzzy neural network (T2FNN) and statistical data, the system’s design for the diagnosis of diabetes is performed. A number of simulations have been done in order to evaluate the performance of the designed system. The comparative results demonstrated the efficiency of using the T2FNN system in the diagnosis of diabetes. The physician can use the system for diabetes’ diagnosis.
Construction and Comprehensive Analysis of a Stratification System Based on AGTRAP in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Li , Zhang Wenjun , Yang Tao , He Le , Liao Yunmei , Lu Jiaxi
Published: November 2021

Background. With the development of sequencing technology, several signatures have been reported for the prediction of prognosis in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the above signatures are characterized by cumbersome application. Therefore, the study is aimed at screening out a robust stratification system based on only one gene to guide treatment. Methods. Firstly, we used the limma package for performing differential expression analysis on 374 HCC samples, followed by Cox regression analysis on overall survival (OS) and disease-free interval (PFI). Subsequently, hub prognostic genes were found at the intersection of the above three groups. In addition, the topological degree inside the PPI network was used to screen for a unique hub gene. The rms package was used to construct two visual stratification systems for OS and PFI, and Kaplan-Meier analysis was utilized to investigate survival differences in clinical subgroups. The ssGSEA algorithm was then used to reveal the relationship between the hub gene and immune cells, immunological function, and checkpoints. In addition, we also used function annotation to explore into putative biological functions. Finally, for preliminary validation, the hub gene was knocked down in the HCC cell line. Results. We discovered 6 prognostic genes (SKA1, CDC20, AGTRAP, BIRC5, NEIL3, and CDC25C) for constructing a PPI network after investigating survival and differential expression genes. According to the topological degree, AGTRAP was chosen as the basis for the stratification system, and it was revealed to be a risk factor with an independent prognostic value in Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox regression analysis (

P
<
0.05

). In addition, we constructed two visualized nomograms based on AGTRAP. The novel stratification system had a robust predictive value for PFI and OS in ROC analysis and calibration curve (

P
<
0.05

). Meanwhile, AGTRAP upregulation was associated with T staging, N staging, M staging, pathological stage, grade, and vascular invasion (

P
<
0.05

). Notably, AGTRAP was overexpressed in tumor tissues in all pancancers with paired samples (

P
<
0.05

). Furthermore, AGTRAP was associated with immune response and may change immune microenvironment in HCC (

P
<
0.05

). Next, gene enrichment analysis suggested that AGTRAP may be involved in the biological process, such as cotranslational protein targeting to the membrane. Finally, we identified the oncogenic effect of AGTRAP by qRT-PCR, colony formation, western blot, and CCK-8 assay (

P
<
0.05

). Conclusion. We provided robust evidences that a stratification system based on AGTRAP can guide survival prediction for HCC patients.
[Retracted] A Data‐Driven Control Strategy for Urban Express Ramp
Authors: Zhang Liyan , Zhang Min , Ma Jian , Ge Jing
Published: November 2021

Expressway, as the main artery of urban traffic, realizes the smooth operation of the whole urban road network through reasonably balancing the traffic flow. However, due to the lack of reasonable and effective traffic control, the safety and congestion of expressways are becoming more and more serious. The development of intelligent network technology provides a new idea to solve the control problem of expressways. In this paper, a data‐driven ramp control model of urban expressway is constructed. The interaction of traffic information is realized through intelligent network connection technology. The cooperative control strategy of VSL and RM is adopted. The mutual feedback of VSL and RM is realized based on the improved METANET model. The simulation experiment based on VISSIM secondary development shows that the collaborative control strategy under the intelligent network environment could make the vehicle travel time reduced by 20.59% and the speed difference between adjacent sections of the expressway mainline by 34.07%, which realized the coordinated control of the mainline and the on‐ramp under the intelligent network environment, alleviate the expressway traffic congestion, reduce the traffic pressure, and improve the efficiency of the road network.
A Study on the Small Organic Cities in China Combining PCA and CNN
Authors: Xu Mengdie , Yang Zhiwei , Li Zhiting , Liu Die , Yang Tan
Published: November 2021

Background. Organic development is one of the evolutionary development models for cities, and it can facilitate cities to continually adapt to their surroundings and therefore adjust their development. Former research is mostly focused on cities and environmental changes, and research on the organic development of cities in various conditions is rather scarce. Purpose. By creating an evaluation index system for organic cities, this paper has established a multifactor evaluation model and improved the evaluation methodologies for organic cities. Methods. The authors have come up with a method that combines PCA and CNN, established an optimized model to calculate the organic cities, verified the accuracy of the evaluation index system for organic cities, and finally concluded that urban organic development is mostly associated with the aspects of the natural environment, economic basis, land use, and population scale of the city. Case Study. In addition, the examples of Bishan District, Chongqing, and Jiangyin, Jiangsu Province, are simulated and compared, and an accurate prediction for the organic development of small cities in China is given. Conclusion. The evaluation index system for organic cities devised by this paper can be applied effectively to evaluate the organic city of cities, and the neural network prediction model for organic cities designed by this paper can provide references for further research on organic cities.
Blockchain-Enhanced Fair and Efficient Energy Trading in Industrial Internet of Things
Authors: Hu Jianwen , Chen Yuling , Ren Xiaojun , Yang Yixian , Qian Xiaobin , Yu Xiaomei
Published: November 2021

As the technical support of the industrial Internet of Things, blockchain technology has been widely used in energy trading, data transactions, and Internet of Vehicles. However, most of the existing energy trading models only address the transaction security and transaction privacy issues that arise in the energy trading process, ignoring the fairness of resource allocation and transaction equity in the trading process. In order to tackle those problems, an energy trading scheme called HO-TRAD is proposed in this paper to improve the efficiency of model trading while ensuring the fairness of energy trading. We propose a new trading strategy in the HO-TRAD energy trading scheme that guarantees fairness in the allocation of trading resources by introducing an entity’s active reputation value. Use smart contracts to achieve transparency and ensure fairness in the transaction process. Based on the identity verification foundation of the consortium chain, the scheme enhances the existing PBFT consensus algorithm and improves the efficiency of model transactions. The experimental simulation indicates that the scheme requires less transaction time and has higher transaction fairness and security.
Study of Gob‐Side Entry Retaining Technology with Roof Cutting under Upper Roadway Condition
Authors: Ma Xingen , He Manchao , Sun Xuewei , Li Jianfeng , He Gang , Zhen Enze
Published: November 2021

Gob‐side entry retaining technology with roof cutting (GERRC) has been widely used in flat and near‐flat coal seam conditions, but its application under inclined coal seam is still very deficient. In order to further improve the application system of GERRC and overcome the application difficulties under special geological conditions, this paper takes the 43073 working face of Yixin coal mine as an example to research the GERRC with upper roadway under gently inclined thick coal seam. Firstly, the difficulties in the upper entry retaining with inclined coal seam are analyzed and the corresponding key technologies and system designs are put forward. Subsequently, the roof cutting and upper entry retaining are designed in detail according to geological conditions of test working face, and the roof cutting and pressure releasing effect is analyzed by numerical simulation to expound the stress distribution and pressure releasing mechanism of surrounding rock. Finally, the upper entry retaining field test is carried out to verify the feasibility and applicability of the technology and related designs. Through field monitoring, it is found that the weighting step increases significantly, the weighting strength decreases effectively on the roof cutting side, and the pressure relief effect is obvious. Meanwhile, the maximum roof to floor convergence is 361 mm and the maximum shrinkage of both sides is 280 mm, so the retained entry can meet the reuse requirement of adjacent working face.
The Optimal Graph Whose Least Eigenvalue is Minimal among All Graphs via 1-2 Adjacency Matrix
Authors: Gul Lubna , Ali Gohar , Waheed Usama , Aamir Nudrat
Published: November 2021

All graphs under consideration are finite, simple, connected, and undirected. Adjacency matrix of a graph

G

is 0,1 matrix

A
=

a

i
j

=

0
,
 
i
f
 

v

i

=

v

j

 
o
r
 
 
d

v

i

,

v

j

≥
2

1
,
 
i
f
 
 
d

v

i

,

v

j

=
1.

. Here in this paper, we discussed new type of adjacency matrix known by 1-2 adjacency matrix defined as

A

1,2

G

=

a

i
j

=

0
,
 
i
f
 

v

i

=

v

j

 
o
r
 
 
d

v

i

,

v

j

≥
3

1
,
 
i
f
 
 
d

v

i

,

v

j

=
2

, from eigenvalues of the graph, we mean eigenvalues of the 1-2 adjacency matrix. Let

T
n
c

be the set of the complement of trees of order

n

. In this paper, we characterized a unique graph whose least eigenvalue is minimal among all the graphs in

T
n
c

.
Monte Carlo Algorithm-Based Multimodal Magnetic Resonance Imaging Prognosis Prediction in Analysis of Rehabilitation Effect of Exercise Learning on Stroke Patients and Influencing Factors of Memory Function
Authors: Wang Luyi , Chen Ying , Zhang Jian , Wang Congxiao
Published: November 2021

Based on Monte Carlo algorithm and multimodal MRI diagnosis, the effect of motor learning on motor memory function recovery in stroke patients was investigated in this research. A total of 26 stroke patients with hemiplegia treated in hospital in the past three years were recruited. Patients were rolled into routine group (13 cases) and experimental group (13 cases) according to different follow-up rehabilitation methods. All patients were treated with intravenous thrombolysis. After treatment, the conventional group received conventional rehabilitation therapy and the experimental group received restraint induced exercise therapy (CIMT). Then, T1-weighted imaging, T2-weighted imaging, 3D anatomical imaging, and resting state examinations were performed on the patients before and after treatment. All image data and image processing were performed by the Monte Carlo algorithm. Before treatment and six weeks after rehabilitation treatment, the patients’ mental state and memory function were tested using Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination (ACE-III) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). In addition, the Fugl-Meyer motor assessment, the simple test for evaluating hand function, and the modified Barthel index were used to evaluate the patient’s ability of daily living. After processing, the quality of multimode MRI image was improved obviously, and the lesion was more prominent. The fractional amplitude of low frequency fluctuation of supplement motor area in stroke patients increased after treatment combined with exercise rehabilitation (

P
<
0.05

) and ReHo decreased compared with that before treatment. The connection function of the left and right hippocampus was enhanced. The difference in ACE-III (experimental group: 16 versus 21; control group: 17.1 versus 19) scores between the two groups after treatment and before treatment was remarkable (

P
<
0.05

), but the score of patients in experimental group improved better. The MoCA (experimental group: 24.38 versus 26.47; control group: 23.13 versus 23.37) scores of the two groups of patients changed greatly from those before treatment (

P
<
0.05

), and the MoCA score ratio between the two groups was also statistically different (26.47 versus 23.37;

P
<
0.05

). There was a statistical difference in the living ability of the two groups of patients before and after treatment (

P
<
0.05

). The Monte Carlo algorithm had a good processing effect on multimodal MRI images. The recovery of the experimental group was evidently better, and the difference between the two groups was substantial (

P
<
0.05

). CIMT had a good effect on the recovery of exercise rehabilitation and memory function of patients with ischemic stroke.
Research on the Application of Environmental Art Design Based on the Combination of VR and Panoramic Video Technology
Authors: Kong Yingqi
Published: November 2021

The panoramic video technology is introduced to collect multiangle data of design objects, draw a 3D spatial model with the collected data, solve the first-order differential equation for the 3D spatial model, obtain the spatial positioning extremes of the object scales, and realize the alignment and fusion of panoramic video images according to the positioning extremes above and below the scale space. Then, the panoramic video is generated and displayed by computer processing so that the tourist can watch the scene with virtual information added to the panoramic video by wearing the display device elsewhere. It solves the technical difficulties of the high complexity of the algorithm in the system of panoramic video stitching and the existence of stitching cracks and the “GHOST” phenomenon in the stitched video, as well as the technical difficulties that the 3D registration is easily affected by the time-consuming environment and target tracking detection algorithm. The simulation results show that the panoramic video stitching method performs well in real time and effectively suppresses stitching cracks and the “GHOST” phenomenon, and the augmented reality 3D registration method performs well for the local enhancement of the panoramic video.
Characterization and Potential Application of Bromelain from Pineapple (Ananas comosus) Waste (Peel) in Recovery of Silver from X-Ray Films
Authors: Anbesaw Muhammed Seid
Published: November 2021

Bromelain is a proteolytic enzyme, which is predominately found in all parts of a pineapple plant (Ananas comosus). It has immense application in the pharmaceutical industry as well as in food, cosmetic, and leather industries. However, bromelain from pineapple fruit peels is a less explored source for making valuable products. Therefore, the objective of this study was to characterize and investigate the potential application of bromelain enzyme extracted from pineapple juice processing waste peels in gelatin hydrolysis and removal of silver from X-ray films. Extraction of bromelain was performed with a 1 : 2 ratio (w/v) of the extraction mix, pineapple fruit peel, in phosphate buffer (pH = 7.0). The activity of a crude enzyme was 7.2 U/ml, and it was active in a broad range of pH (2.5–12) and temperature (25–85°C) without losing its activity. This implies that the enzyme is heat tolerant. The optimum temperature and pH of the enzyme were recorded at 70°C and pH 7.0, respectively. At optimum conditions (70°C and pH 7.0), complete hydrolysis of the gelatin layer from X-ray film was observed at 30 and 34 seconds, respectively. The enzyme was repeatedly used more than 50 times without significant loss of its activity. Using a minimum concentration of bromelain (3 ml = 21.6 U) along with phosphate buffer (37 ml), it is possible completely to remove gelatin within 210 seconds. The properties of the enzyme showed that it has promising potential industrial applications for repeated utilization of the enzyme in both silver recovery and recycling of the X-ray film base.
Trimethylamine-N-Oxide Aggravates Kidney Injury via Activation of p38/MAPK Signaling and Upregulation of HuR
Authors: Lai Yunshi , Tang Haie , Zhang Xinrong , Zhou Zhanmei , Zhou Miaomiao , Hu Zheng , Zhu Fengxin , Zhang Lei , Nie Jing
Published: November 2021

Background: Trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) is an intestinal metabolic toxin, which is produced by gut flora via metabolizing high-choline foods. TMAO is known to increase the risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Objectives: The objective of this study was to explore the role and mechanism of TMAO aggravating kidney injury. Method: We used the five-sixths nephrectomy (5/6 Nx)-induced CKD rats to investigate whether TMAO could aggravate kidney damage and its possible mechanisms. Six weeks after the operation, the two groups of 5/6 Nx rats were subjected to intraperitoneal injection with 2.5% glucose peritoneal dialysis fluid (2.5% PDF) and 2.5% PDF plus TMAO 20 mg/kg/day. Results: In this study, we provided evidence showing TMAO significantly aggravated renal failure as well as inflammatory cell infiltration and in five-sixths nephrectomy-induced CKD rats. We found that TMAO could upregulate inflammatory factors including MCP-1, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and IL-18 by activating p38 phosphorylation and upregulation of human antigen R. TMAO could aggravate oxidative stress by upregulating NOX4 and downregulating SOD. The result also confirmed that TMAO promoted NLRP3 inflammasome formation as well as cleaved caspase-1 and IL-1β activation in the kidney tissue. Conclusions: Taken together, the present study validates TMAO as a pro-inflammatory factor that causes renal inflammatory injury and renal function impairment. Inhibition of TMAO synthesis or promoting its clearance may be a potential therapeutic approach of CKD in the future.
Study on the Baseline Factors and Platelet Indices That Predict Outcome of Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients after Thrombolytic Therapy
Authors: Yao Yiqin , Cao Xuejin , Zou Rongcheng , Wen Hongbo , Zhang Shiyao , Xu Hui , Guo Xiaoying , Guo Yijing
Published: November 2021

Background: The aim of the study was to investigate the baseline characters that influence 3-month clinical outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) after thrombolytic therapy. Methods: We consecutively enrolled 241 AIS patients who are treated with thrombolytic therapy with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator. Baseline characters were measured on admission including the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), Trial of Org 10172 in Acute Stroke Treatment (TOAST), risk factors, platelet indices, and lipid parameters. The subjects were divided into good or poor functional outcomes based on modified Rankin Scale at 3 months. The multivariate logistic regression was performed to explore the association between baseline factors and outcomes. Pearson correlation was used to investigate whether linear associations existed between platelet indices in different outcomes. Results: Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the NIHSS, TOAST classification, diabetes, mean platelet volume (MPV) are important factors for predicting clinical outcomes after 3 months in AIS patients. We found a correlation between elevated MPV and worse outcome at 3 months, particularly in large-artery atherosclerosis stroke patients. MPV and platelet count are negative correlated (r = −0.375, p = 0.000). MPV and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) (r = 0.83, p = 0.000), MPV and platelet distribution width (PDW) (r = 0.820, p = 0.000) both have highly positive linear correlations in patients with good outcome. Conclusions: Overall, lower NIHSS and MPV levels on admission were predictors of good functional outcomes in patients with AIS after undergoing thrombolytic therapy. The correlations between MPV, PDW, and PLR may be helpful to evaluate prognosis in stroke patients and deserve further exploration.