bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prioritisation by FIT to mitigate the impact of delays in the 2-week wait colorectal cancer referral pathway during the COVID-19 pandemic: a UK modelling study
Authors: Loveday Chey , Sud Amit , Jones Michael E , Broggio John , Scott Stephen , Gronthound Firza , Torr Beth , Garrett Alice , Nicol David L , Jhanji Shaman , Boyce Stephen A , Williams Matthew , Barry Claire , Riboli Elio , Kipps Emma , McFerran Ethna , Muller David C , Lyratzopoulos Georgios , Lawler Mark , Abulafi Muti , Houlston Richard S , Turnbull Clare
Published: August 2020

Objective

To evaluate the impact of faecal immunochemical testing (FIT) prioritisation to mitigate the impact of delays in the colorectal cancer (CRC) urgent diagnostic (2-week-wait (2WW)) pathway consequent from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design

We modelled the reduction in CRC survival and life years lost resultant from per-patient delays of 2–6 months in the 2WW pathway. We stratified by age group, individual-level benefit in CRC survival versus age-specific nosocomial COVID-19–related fatality per referred patient undergoing colonoscopy. We modelled mitigation strategies using thresholds of FIT triage of 2, 10 and 150 µg Hb/g to prioritise 2WW referrals for colonoscopy. To construct the underlying models, we employed 10-year net CRC survival for England 2008–2017, 2WW pathway CRC case and referral volumes and per-day-delay HRs generated from observational studies of diagnosis-to-treatment interval.

Results

Delay of 2/4/6 months across all 11 266 patients with CRC diagnosed per typical year via the 2WW pathway were estimated to result in 653/1419/2250 attributable deaths and loss of 9214/20 315/32 799 life years. Risk–benefit from urgent investigatory referral is particularly sensitive to nosocomial COVID-19 rates for patients aged >60. Prioritisation out of delay for the 18% of symptomatic referrals with FIT >10 µg Hb/g would avoid 89% of these deaths attributable to presentational/diagnostic delay while reducing immediate requirement for colonoscopy by >80%.

Conclusions

Delays in the pathway to CRC diagnosis and treatment have potential to cause significant mortality and loss of life years. FIT triage of symptomatic patients in primary care could streamline access to colonoscopy, reduce delays for true-positive CRC cases and reduce nosocomial COVID-19 mortality in older true-negative 2WW referrals. However, this strategy offers benefit only in short-term rationalisation of limited endoscopy services: the appreciable false-negative rate of FIT in symptomatic patients means most colonoscopies will still be required.
Somatic POLE exonuclease domain mutations elicit enhanced intratumoral immune responses in stage II colorectal cancer
Authors: Mo Shaobo , Ma Xiaoji , Li Yaqi , Zhang Long , Hou Ting , Han-Zhang Han , Qian Juanjuan , Cai Sanjun , Huang Dan , Peng Junjie
Published: August 2020

Previous studies found patients with POLE exonuclease domain mutations (EDMs) in targeted exons were related to significant better outcomes in stage II-III colorectal cancer (CRC). The detailed mutational profile of the entire POLE exonuclease domain, tumor mutation burden (TMB) and immune cell infiltration in POLE EDMs tumors, and the prognostic value of such mutations in stage II CRCs were largely unknown to us. This study was to clarify the characteristics, immune response and prognostic value of somatic POLE EDMs in stage II CRC. A total of 295 patients with stage II CRC were sequenced by next-generation sequencing with a targeted genetic panel. Simultaneous detection of the immune cells was conducted using a five-color immunohistochemical multiplex technique. The detailed molecular characteristics, tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) and prognostic effect of POLE EDMs in stage II CRC were analyzed. For stage II CRCs, the POLE EDMs were detected in 3.1% of patients. Patients with POLE EDMs were more prone to be microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) (33.3% vs 11.2%, p=0.043), younger at diagnosis (median 46 years vs 62 years, p<0.001) and more common at right-sided location (66.7% vs 23.1%; p=0.003). All patients with POLE EMDs were assessed as extremely high TMB, with a mean TMB of 200.8. Compared with other stage II CRCs, POLE EDMs displayed an enhanced intratumoral cytotoxic T cell response, evidenced by increased numbers of CD8+TILs and CD8A expression. Patients with stage II CRCs could be classified into three risk subsets, with significant different 5 years disease-free survival rates of 100% for POLE EDMs, 82.0% for MSI-H and 63.0% for MSS, p=0.013. In conclusion, characterized by a robust intratumoral T cell response, ultramutated POLE EDMs could be detected in a small subset of stage II CRCs with extremely high TMB. Patients with POLE EDMs had excellent outcomes in stage II CRCs, regardless of MSI status. Sequencing of all the exonuclease domain of POLE gene is recommended in clinical practice.
Combination therapy with T cell engager and PD-L1 blockade enhances the antitumor potency of T cells as predicted by a QSP model
Authors: Ma Huilin , Wang Hanwen , Sové Richard J , Wang Jun , Giragossian Craig , Popel Aleksander S
Published: August 2020

Background

T cells have been recognized as core effectors for cancer immunotherapy. How to restore the anti-tumor ability of suppressed T cells or improve the lethality of cytotoxic T cells has become the main focus in immunotherapy. Bispecific antibodies, especially bispecific T cell engagers (TCEs), have shown their unique ability to enhance the patient’s immune response to tumors by stimulating T cell activation and cytokine production in an MHC-independent manner. Antibodies targeting the checkpoint inhibitory molecules such as programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1), PD-ligand 1 (PD-L1) and cytotoxic lymphocyte activated antigen 4 are able to restore the cytotoxic effect of immune suppressed T cells and have also shown durable responses in patients with malignancies. However, both types have their own limitations in treating certain cancers. Preclinical and clinical results have emphasized the potential of combining these two antibodies to improve tumor response and patients’ survival. However, the selection and evaluation of combination partners clinically is a costly endeavor. In addition, despite advances made in immunotherapy, there are subsets of patients who are non-responders, and reliable biomarkers for different immunotherapies are urgently needed to improve the ability to prospectively predict patients’ response and improve clinical study design. Therefore, mathematical and computational models are essential to optimize patient benefit, and guide combination approaches with lower cost and in a faster manner.

Method

In this study, we continued to extend the quantitative systems pharmacology (QSP) model we developed for a bispecific TCE to explore efficacy of combination therapy with an anti-PD-L1 monoclonal antibody in patients with colorectal cancer.

Results

Patient-specific response to TCE monotherapy, anti-PD-L1 monotherapy and the combination therapy were predicted using this model according to each patient’s individual characteristics.

Conclusions

Individual biomarkers for TCE monotherapy, anti-PD-L1 monotherapy and their combination have been determined based on the QSP model. Best treatment options for specific patients could be suggested based on their own characteristics to improve clinical trial efficiency. The model can be further used to assess plausible combination strategies for different TCEs and immune checkpoint inhibitors in different types of cancer.
Contrast-induced encephalopathy: a complication of coronary angiography
Authors: Fernando Tharanga Geethapriya , Nandasiri Shanika , Mendis Sepalika , Senanayake Sunethra , Gooneratne Inuka Kishara , Navinan Rayno , Kadiragamanathan Ambiga , Wickramasinghe Sumudu , Herath Tharuka , Thambirajah Narmathey , Markus Romesh
Published: August 2020

Contrast-induced encephalopathy is a rare idiosyncratic reaction to contrast material. A 56-year-old woman with hypertension developed a hemiparesis with confusion and disorientation 3 hours after routine coronary angiography. The procedure had been prolonged, and during it she had received 130 mL of iopromide contrast. A metabolic screen was negative, and cerebral angiography and MR scan of brain were normal. She recovered completely by day 5. Contrast-induced encephalopathy should be considered in patients developing focal neurological deficits following coronary angiography. Patients requiring investigations to exclude acute stroke in this setting should not receive additional intravenous or intra-arterial contrast, although MR with gadolinium appears safe. Better awareness of this complication should avoid potentially harmful interventions such as thrombolysis.
Functional respiratory imaging identifies redistribution of pulmonary blood flow in patients with COVID-19
Authors: Thillai Muhunthan , Patvardhan Chinmay , Swietlik Emilia M , McLellan Tom , De Backer Jan , Lanclus Maarten , De Backer Wilfried , Ruggiero Alessandro
Published: August 2020

An increasing observation is that some patients with COVID-19 have normal lung compliance but significant hypoxaemia different from typical acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). We hypothesised that changes in pulmonary blood distribution may be partially responsible and used functional respiratory imaging on CT scans to calculate pulmonary blood volume. We found that patients with COVID-19 had significantly reduced blood volume in the smaller calibre blood vessels (here defined as <5 mm2cross-sectional area) compared with matched ARDS patients and healthy controls. This suggests that using high levels of PEEP may not alone be enough to oxygenate these patients and that additional management strategies may be needed.
Southern king crab larval survival: from intra- and interfemale variations to a fishery-induced mortality
Authors: Di Salvatore Pablo , Sacristán Hernán J. , Sotelano M. Paula , Tapella Federico , Gowland-Sainz María , Lovrich Gustavo A.
Published: August 2020

The southern king crab (Lithodes santolla) supports one of the most important fisheries in southern South America. Lecithotrophic larvae hatch over an extended period, in which brooding females can be fished, but must be discarded due to regulations. Larval mortality by female fishing was evaluated. Samples of newly hatched zoeae I were obtained the day before (control) and after female treatment (aerial exposure or aerial exposure + free fall). Independently of the mothers’ treatment, larvae survived less than those from the control, explained by the air-exposure effects. The intraclutch variability in larval survival and their variability in energetic reserves were studied. Females were maintained during the hatching period, and zoea I samples were taken during 3 successive days. We found high variation in larval survival within a single egg clutch and between different females, only ascribable to the initial larval glycogen content. The intraclutch variability in larval survival combined with extended hatching may be an adaptation that allows mothers to find an adequate substrate as larvae hatch and may constitute a diversified bet-hedging strategy.
Boreal peatland forests: ditch network maintenance effort and water protection in a forest rotation framework
Authors: Miettinen Jenni , Ollikainen Markku , Aroviita Jukka , Haikarainen Soili , Nieminen Mika , Turunen Jarno , Valsta Lauri
Published: August 2020

Ditch network maintenance promotes forest growth in drained peatland forests but increases nutrient and sediment loads, which are detrimental to water quality. Society needs to balance the harvest revenue from improved forest growth against deteriorating water quality. We examine socially optimal even-aged forest management in drained peatlands when harvesting and ditch network maintenance cause nutrient and sediment loading. The means to reduce loading include establishing overland flow fields and abstaining from ditch network maintenance. We characterize this choice analytically in a rotation framework and examine, in a numerical model, the key factors affecting the choice of forest management and water protection measures. We choose a drained peatland forest site located in northeastern Finland in the vicinity of ecologically vulnerable forest headwater streams. On the given drained forest site, we find a set of parameters under which implementing ditch network maintenance is privately but not socially optimal.
Perturbative string theory from Newtonian limit of string geometry theory
Authors: Sato Matsuo , Sugimoto Yuji
Published: August 2020

String geometry theory is one of the candidates of the non-perturbative formulation of string theory. In Sato (Int J Mod Phys A 34(23):1950126, 2019), the perturbative string theory is reproduced from a string geometry model coupled with a u(1) gauge field on string manifolds. In this paper, we generalize this result and we show that the perturbative string theory is reproduced from any string geometry model by taking a Newtonian limit.
The weak decay $$B_c$$ to Z(3930) and X(4160) by Bethe–Salpeter method
Authors: Wang Zhi-Hui , Zhang Yi , Wang Tianhong , Jiang Yue , Wang Guo-Li
Published: August 2020

ConsideringZ(3930) andX(4160) as$$\chi _{c2}(2P)$$χc2(2P)and$$\chi _{c2}(3P)$$χc2(3P)states, the semileptonic and nonleptonic of$$B_c$$Bcdecays toZ(3930) andX(4160) are studied by the improved Bethe–Salpeter (B–S) Method. The form factors of decay are calculated through the overlap integrals of the meson wave functions in the whole accessible kinematical range. The influence of relativistic corrections are considered in the exclusive decays. Branching ratios of$$B_c$$Bcweak decays toZ(3930) andX(4160) are predicted. Some of the branching ratios are:$$Br(B_c^+\rightarrow Z(3930)e^+\nu _e)=(3.03^{+0.09}_{-0.16})\times 10^{-4}$$Br(Bc+→Z(3930)e+νe)=(3.03-0.16+0.09)×10-4and$$Br(B_c^+\rightarrow X(4160)e^+\nu _e)=(3.55^{+0.83}_{-0.35})\times 10^{-6}$$Br(Bc+→X(4160)e+νe)=(3.55-0.35+0.83)×10-6. These results may provide useful information to discoverZ(3930) andX(4160) and the necessary information for the phenomenological study of$$B_c$$Bcphysics.
Painlevé–Kuratowski Convergence of Solutions for Perturbed Symmetric Set-Valued Quasi-Equilibrium Problem via Improvement Sets
Authors: Peng Zai-Yun , Wang Jing-Jing , Long Xian-Jun , Liu Fu-Ping
Published: August 2020

This paper is devoted to study the Painlevé–Kuratowski convergence of solution sets for perturbed symmetric set-valued quasi-equilibrium problems (SSQEP)[Formula: see text] via improvement sets. By virtue of the oriented distance function, the sufficient conditions of Painlevé–Kuratowski convergence of efficient solution sets for (SSQEP)[Formula: see text] are obtained through a new nonlinear scalarization technical. Then, under [Formula: see text]-convergence of set-valued mappings, the Painlevé–Kuratowski convergence of weak efficient solution sets for (SSQEP)[Formula: see text] is discussed. What’s more, with suitable convergence assumptions, we also establish the sufficient conditions of lower Painlevé–Kuratowski convergence of Borwein proper efficient solution sets for (SSQEP)[Formula: see text] under improvement sets. Some interesting examples are formulated to illustrate the significance of the main results.
Mean exit time and escape probability for the stochastic logistic growth model with multiplicative α-stable Lévy noise
Authors: Tesfay Almaz , Tesfay Daniel , Khalaf Anas , Brannan James
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we formulate a stochastic logistic fish growth model driven by both white noise and non-Gaussian noise. We focus our study on the mean time to extinction, escape probability to measure the noise-induced extinction probability and the Fokker–Planck equation for fish population [Formula: see text]. In the Gaussian case, these quantities satisfy local partial differential equations while in the non-Gaussian case, they satisfy nonlocal partial differential equations. Following a discussion of existence, uniqueness and stability, we calculate numerical approximations of the solutions of those equations. For each noise model we then compare the behaviors of the mean time to extinction and the solution of the Fokker–Planck equation as growth rate [Formula: see text], carrying capacity [Formula: see text], intensity of Gaussian noise [Formula: see text], noise intensity [Formula: see text] and stability index [Formula: see text] vary. The MET from the interval [Formula: see text] at the right boundary is finite if [Formula: see text]. For [Formula: see text], the MET from [Formula: see text] at this boundary is infinite. A larger stability index [Formula: see text] is less likely leading to the extinction of the fish population.
Weak gravitational lensing by Einstein-nonlinear-Maxwell–Yukawa black hole
Authors: Javed Wajiha , Bilal Khadim Muhammad , Övgün Ali
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we analyze the weak gravitational lensing in the context of Einstein-nonlinear-Maxwell–Yukawa black hole. To this desire, we derive the deflection angle of light by Einstein-nonlinear-Maxwell–Yukawa black hole using the Gibbons and Werner method. For this purpose, we obtain the Gaussian curvature and apply the Gauss–Bonnet theorem to find the deflection angle of Einstein-nonlinear-Maxwell–Yukawa black hole in weak field limits. Moreover, we derive the deflection angle of light in the influence of plasma medium. We also analyze the graphical behavior of deflection angle by Einstein-nonlinear-Maxwell–Yukawa black hole in the presence of plasma as well as non-plasma medium.
Anisotropic charged realistic models in f(R) gravity under Durgapal transformation
Authors: Zubair M. , Saleem Rabia , Lodhi Maham
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we investigate the charged static spherically symmetric models in [Formula: see text] theory of gravity. We consider a linear equation of state (EoS) in the background of anisotropic matter configuration. We formulate the modified field equations and implement Durgapal transformation to examine the gravitational nature of compact stellar objects. For this purpose, we choose a specific gravitational potential and electric charge intensity to analytically solve the set of field equations. We generate three special cases of solutions for specific parametric values of [Formula: see text] appearing in the expression of gravitational potential. The evolution of physical observables, such as energy density, anisotropy parameter, radial and tangential pressures and electric field intensity, are presented in all cases. Via physical analysis, it is observed that the solution of charged compact spheres satisfies acceptability criteria, models are well behaved, and depict stability and consistency in accordance with [Formula: see text] gravity for generated models.
Generalized ∗-Lie Higher Derivable Mappings on ∗-Rings
Authors: Ashraf Mohammad , Akhtar Mohd Shuaib , Wani Bilal Ahmad
Published: August 2020

Let [Formula: see text] be a ∗-ring with the center 𝒵([Formula: see text]) and ℕ be the set of nonnegative integers. In this paper, it is shown that if [Formula: see text] contains a nontrivial self-adjoint idempotent which admits a generalized ∗-Lie higher derivable mapping Δ = {Gn}n∈ℕ associated with a ∗-Lie higher derivable mapping ℒ = {Ln}n∈ℕ, then for any X, Y in [Formula: see text] and for each n in ℕ there exists an element ZX,Y (depending on X and Y) in the center 𝒵([Formula: see text]) such that Gn(X + Y ) = Gn(X) + Gn(Y) + ZX,Y.
The Social Function of Imitation in Development
Authors: Over Harriet
Published: August 2020

Imitation is a deeply social process. Here, I review evidence that children use imitation as a means by which to affiliate with others. For example, children imitate the actions of others more closely when they seek a positive social relationship with them and respond positively to being imitated. Furthermore, children infer something of the relationships between third parties by observing their imitative exchanges. Understanding the social nature of imitation requires exploring the nature of the social relationships between children and the individuals they imitate. Thus, in addition to discussing children's own goals in imitative situations, I review the social pressures children experience to imitate in particular ways, learning to conform to the conventions and rituals of their group. In the latter part of this article, I discuss the extent to which this perspective on imitation can help us to understand broader topics within social development, including the origins of human cultural differences.
Strain-Tuned Nodal Ring in Two-Dimensional Zn3C6S6 Monolayers
Authors: Zong Jia-Qi , Ji Wei-Xiao , Zhang Chang-Wen , Li Ping , Wang Pei-Ji
Published: August 2020

The nodal ring material has recently attracted wide attention due to its singular properties and potential applications in spintronics. Here, two-dimensional Zn3C6S6 is calculated and discussed by using first-principle calculations. We found that two-dimensional Zn3C6S6 can generate a nodal ring at 10% compressive strain, and the existence of the ring is proved by a partial charge density map. And as the compressive strain increases, the nodal ring does not disappear. At the same time, the stability of the electron-orbit coupling to the nodal ring is applied. Our findings indicate that the two-dimensional Zn3C6S6 is promising in new electronic and spintronic applications.
Multipopulation Genetic Algorithm Based on GPU for Solving TSP Problem
Authors: Wang Boqun , Zhang Hailong , Nie Jun , Wang Jie , Ye Xinchen , Ergesh Toktonur , Zhang Meng , Li Jia , Wang Wanqiong
Published: August 2020

A GPU-based Multigroup Genetic Algorithm was proposed, which parallelized the traditional genetic algorithm with a coarse-grained architecture island model. The original population is divided into several subpopulations to simulate different living environments, thus increasing species richness. For each subpopulation, different mutation rates were adopted, and the crossover results were optimized by combining the crossover method based on distance. The adaptive mutation strategy based on the number of generations was adopted to prevent the algorithm from falling into the local optimal solution. An elite strategy was adopted for outstanding individuals to retain their superior genes. The algorithm was implemented with CUDA/C, combined with the powerful parallel computing capabilities of GPUs, which greatly improved the computing efficiency. It provided a new solution to the TSP problem.
Doxycycline-Induced Antinuclear Antibody and Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody Associated Vasculitis: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Wriston Davisson J. , Norfolk Evan R. , Smith Lindsay M. , Chen Guoli , Bulbin David H.
Published: August 2020

Drug-induced antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) has been increasingly recognized in the literature with numerous medications listed as causative agents in disease pathology. Doxycycline is a commonly prescribed medication within the United States which is a synthetic, broad-spectrum antibiotic with antimicrobial properties and at low doses exhibits anti-inflammatory effects. In this report, we describe a case of doxycycline-induced ANCA-associated vasculitis with laboratory and biopsy findings supporting the diagnosis, which to the best of our knowledge is the first described case of doxycycline-induced AAV in the literature. The patient was started on doxycycline for treatment of potential Lyme disease. She began to develop progressively worsening myasthenia, erythematous macular rash, anorexia, anemia, and fatigue for several weeks following the course of doxycycline with initial concern of a paraneoplastic process. Ultimately, the patient was discovered to be positive for antinuclear antibody (ANA), perinuclear antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (pANCA), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) antibody for which she was treated with a course of prednisone leading to complete remission of disease. A brief review of the pathogenesis of ANCA vasculitides will also be discussed within this article.
Comparison of Tick Control and Antibiotic Use Practices at Farm Level in Regions of High and Low Acaricide Resistance in Uganda
Authors: Byaruhanga Joseph , Odua Fred , Ssebunya Yvette , Aketch Olivia , Tayebwa Dickson Stuart , Rwego Innocent B. , Vudriko Patrick
Published: August 2020

Uganda has experienced tick acaricide resistance in the livestock sector. With increase in incidence of tick-borne diseases (TBDs), use of antibiotics for control of TBDs and other opportunistic diseases has raisedserious concerns. The purpose of this study was to compare the farmers’ tick control and antibiotic use practices on farms in regions of low (LARA) and high (HARA) tick acaricide resistance in Uganda, determine the prevalence of antibiotic residues in milk from both regions, and identify factors associated with antibiotic residues in milk. One representative district was selected from each region from which 10 farms were randomly selected. Delvotest SP-NT® test kit was used to detect antibiotic residues in milk. Half-body tick counts and acaricide efficacy tests were performed. Majority (70%) of HARA’s respondents reported a corresponding increase in a monthly incidence of TBDs with an average of 3.2 cases of TBDs treated per farm compared to 0.2 cases in LARA. East Coast fever (ECF) was identified as the most common TBD in both regions, though cases of coinfection were more common in HARA. Half of HARA’s respondents reported a corresponding increase in the use of antibiotics on their farms due to tick resistance compared to LARA. Antibiotics were the most used drugs on farms in both regions with oxytetracycline being the commonly used antibiotic. Ticks from HARA were resistant to deltamethrin, amitraz, and coformulation (chlorpyriphos and cypermethrin) while resistance against deltamethrin was confirmed in LARA. HARA farms had a significantly higher prevalence of antibiotic residues (21.25%) in raw milk than in LARA (4%) farms (p <  0.05). Acaricide resistance and practice of reading drug use instructions were significantly associated with antibiotic residues in milk at farm level. Overall, the study provides vital information linking acaricide resistance to antibiotic use practices, consequently leading to antibiotic residues in milk.
Hopf Bifurcation on a Cancer Therapy Model by Oncolytic Virus Involving the Malignancy Effect and Therapeutic Efficacy
Authors: Adi-Kusumo F. , Aryati L. , Risdayati S. , Norhidayah S.
Published: August 2020

We introduce a mathematical model that shows the interaction dynamics between the uninfected and the infected cancer cell populations with oncolytic viruses for the benign and the malignant cancer cases. There are two important parameters in our model that represent the malignancy level of the cancer cells and the efficacy of the therapy. The parameters play an important role to determine the possibility to have successful therapy for cancer. Our model is based on the predator-prey model with logistic growth, functional response, and the saturation effect that show the possibility for the virus to be deactivated and blocked by the human immune system after they reach a certain value. In this paper, we consider the appearance of the Hopf bifurcation on the system to characterize the treatment response based on the malignancy effect of the disease. We employ numerical bifurcation analysis when the value of the malignancy parameter is varied to understand the dynamics of the system.
Recurrence Relations and Hilbert Series of the Monoid Associated with Star Topology
Authors: Tang Jiang-Hua , Iqbal Zaffar , Nizami Abdul Rauf , Munir Mobeen , Azam Faiza , Liu Jia-Bao
Published: August 2020

Affine monoids are the considered as natural discrete analogues of the finitely generated cones. The interconnection between these two objects has been an active area of research since last decade. Star network is one of the most common in computer network topologies. In this work, we study star topology Sn and associate a Coxeter structure of affine type on it. We find a recurrence relation and the Hilbert series of the associated right-angled monoid MSn∞. We observe that the growth rate of the monoid MSn∞ is unbounded.
Real-Time Height Measurement for Moving Pedestrians
Authors: Zhou Wenju , Yao Fulong , Feng Wei , Wang Haikuan
Published: August 2020

Height measurement for moving pedestrians is quite significant in many scenarios, such as pedestrian positioning, criminal suspect tracking, and virtual reality. Although some existing height measurement methods can detect the height of the static people, it is hard to measure height accurately for moving pedestrians. Considering the height fluctuations in dynamic situation, this paper proposes a real-time height measurement based on the Time-of-Flight (TOF) camera. Depth images in a continuous sequence are addressed to obtain the real-time height of the pedestrian with moving. Firstly, a normalization equation is presented to convert the depth image into the grey image for a lower time cost and better performance. Secondly, a difference-particle swarm optimization (D-PSO) algorithm is proposed to remove the complex background and reduce the noises. Thirdly, a segmentation algorithm based on the maximally stable extremal regions (MSERs) is introduced to extract the pedestrian head region. Then, a novel multilayer iterative average algorithm (MLIA) is developed for obtaining the height of dynamic pedestrians. Finally, Kalman filtering is used to improve the measurement accuracy by combining the current measurement and the height at the last moment. In addition, the VICON system is adopted as the ground truth to verify the proposed method, and the result shows that our method can accurately measure the real-time height of moving pedestrians.
Numerical Simulation of Bending Stiffness Analysis for Spring Linkage Applied to In-Pipe Robot
Authors: Qiao Jinwei , Liu Na
Published: August 2020

Spring linkage can be applied to in-pipe robots for connecting different modules together and can make it pass through elbows more easily. However, its stiffness cannot be set to be too hard or too soft. This paper tries to make a balance between the compressive stiffness and the bending stiffness of the spring. After a brief introduction to the construction mechanism and some assumptions, the mathematical representation of the spring bending stiffness was deduced based on the Kirchhoff theory which describes the spatial curve with displacement rather than time. Then, some simulations aiming at verifying the correctness of the deduced bending stiffness expression were carried out. Finally, the relationship between the two rigidities was found out, which helps to find a way to decrease the bending stiffness of spring while keeping its compressive stiffness strong enough.
Design and Numerical Solutions of a Novel Third-Order Nonlinear Emden–Fowler Delay Differential Model
Authors: Guirao Juan L.G. , Sabir Zulqurnain , Saeed Tareq
Published: August 2020

In this study, the design of a novel model based on nonlinear third-order Emden–Fowler delay differential (EF-DD) equations is presented along with two types using the sense of delay differential and standard form of the second-order EF equation. The singularity at ξ = 0 at single or multiple points of each type of the designed EF-DD model are discussed. The detail of shape factors and delayed points is provided for both types of the designed third-order EF-DD model. For the verification and validation of the model, two numerical examples are presented of each case and numerical results have been performed using the artificial neural network along with the hybrid of global and local capabilities. The comparison of the obtained numerical results with the exact solutions shows the perfection and correctness of the designed third-order EF-DD model.
Peroxiredoxin 6 Attenuates Alloxan-Induced Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in Mice and Cytokine-Induced Cytotoxicity in RIN-m5F Beta Cells
Authors: Novoselova Elena G. , Glushkova Olga V. , Lunin Sergey M. , Khrenov Maxim O. , Parfenyuk Svetlana B. , Novoselova Tatyana V. , Sharapov Mars G. , Novoselov Vladimir I. , Fesenko Evgeny E.
Published: August 2020

Type 1 diabetes is associated with the destruction of pancreatic beta cells, which is mediated via an autoimmune mechanism and consequent inflammatory processes. In this article, we describe a beneficial effect of peroxiredoxin 6 (PRDX6) in a type 1 diabetes mouse model. The main idea of this study was based on the well-known data that oxidative stress plays an important role in pathogenesis of diabetes and its associated complications. We hypothesised that PRDX6, which is well known for its various biological functions, including antioxidant activity, may provide an antidiabetic effect. It was shown that PRDX6 prevented hyperglycemia, lowered the mortality rate, restored the plasma cytokine profile, reversed the splenic cell apoptosis, and reduced the β cell destruction in Langerhans islets in mice with a severe form of alloxan-induced diabetes. In addition, PRDX6 protected rat insulinoma RIN-m5F β cells, cultured with TNF-α and IL-1β, against the cytokine-induced cytotoxicity and reduced the apoptotic cell death and production of ROS. Signal transduction studies showed that PRDX6 prevented the activation of NF-κB and c-Jun N-terminal kinase signaling cascades in RIN-m5F β cells cultured with cytokines. In conclusion, there is a prospect for therapeutic application of PRDX6 to delay or even prevent β cell apoptosis in type 1 diabetes.
Biomechanics of Atlas Cedar Roots in response to the Medium Hydromechanical Characteristics
Authors: EL Amrani Belkacem , Amraoui Mohammed Bendriss
Published: August 2020

The biomechanical root flexibility in response to hydromechanical soil heterogeneity is the most determining factor of the root architecture which plays a paramount role in mycorrhizal infection and allows the seedlings to adapt to the environmental constraint. We examined the impact of five different hydromechanical medium properties (hydroponics, vermiculite, vermiculite-gravel, sawdust, and sand) on the morphology, physiology, and anatomy of Cedrus atlantica seedlings at a controlled growth chamber. The growth of the seedling is strongly stimulated by the hydroponic medium through the stimulation of the aerial part dry weight and the main root length. However, the sand medium increases the main root dry weight by the radial expanse stimulation at the level of the epidermis, vascular cylinder, and cortex and compensates the less root architecture by the stimulation of the xylem and phloem areas. In contrast to sand and hydroponic media, the sawdust medium stimulates the phloem/xylem ratio, the root architecture, and the short roots. The Pearson bilateral correlation shows that the aerial part dry weight is positively correlated with the permeability, porosity, and water-holding capacity and negatively with the bulk density and density at saturation, whereas the short root production is negatively correlated with the permeability and water-holding capacity. Hence, the hydromechanical characteristics of the soils must be taken into account in the reforestation and mycorrhization attempts.
Multiple Dependent State Sampling-Based Chart Using Belief Statistic under Neutrosophic Statistics
Authors: Shawky Ahmed Ibrahim , Aslam Muhammad , Khan Khushnoor
Published: August 2020

In this paper, a control chart scheme has been introduced for the mean monitoring using gamma distribution for belief statistics using multiple dependent (deferred) state sampling under the neutrosophic statistics. The coefficients of the control chart and the neutrosophic average run lengths have been estimated for specific false alarm probabilities under various process conditions. The offered chart has been compared with the existing classical chart through simulation and the real data. From the comparison, it is concluded that the performance of the proposed chart is better than that of the existing chart in terms of average run length under uncertain environment. The proposed chart has the ability to detect a shift quickly than the existing chart. It has been observed that the proposed chart is efficient in quick monitoring of the out-of-control process and a cherished addition in the toolkit of the quality control personnel.
Dynamic Modeling and Cutting Stability of Rotating Tapered Composite Cutter Bar considering Material Damping
Authors: Zhang Yuhuan , Yongsheng Ren , Ma Bole , Zhang Jinfeng
Published: August 2020

Traditional milling cutter bars are generally made up of metals and exhibit poor capacity of chatter suppression. This study proposes an anisotropic composites tapered cutter bar for increasing natural frequency and damping and finally achieves the goal of enhancing chatter stability. Based on Hamilton principle and Euler–Bernoulli beam theory, the partial differential motion equations of the cutting system with a 3D rotating tapered composite cutter bar are established. Next, using the Galerkin method, the equations of motion are discretized so as to derive ordinary differential equations. In the model, damping modeling of the composite cutter bar is achieved theoretically by using damping dissipation constitutive relations for viscoelastic composites. Moreover, by introducing the rotating effect of the 3D cutter bar in the 2-DOF analytical model of stability analysis first proposed for a fixed-type cutter bar, an improved prediction model is developed and used to solve the stability lobes of the cutting system in the frequency domain analytically. Furthermore, the influences of the gyroscopic effect, material, ply angle, stacking sequence, and taper ratio on chatter stability are also discussed.
Research on Seismic Response of Base‐Isolated Nuclear Island Building considering FSI Effect of PCS Water Tank
Authors: Song Chenning , Wei Chao , Zhang Zhi
Published: August 2020

Base isolation can be used to reduce seismic response of structure and protect the structure from damage subjected to earthquake. To study the isolation effect of new PWR nuclear power plant with a base isolation system, considering FSI (fluid‐structure interaction) effect by the simplified model, two 3D numerical models (one nonisolated model and one isolated model) were established. After natural frequency analysis, one artificial ground motion was chosen to analyze isolation effect qualitatively. Based on the results, the accelerations and relative displacements of nuclear island building under ten natural ground motions were statistically analyzed to evaluate the isolation effect quantitatively. The results show that the base isolation system can reduce the natural frequencies of nuclear island building. Horizontal accelerations can be reduced effectively, but the isolation effect is not obvious in vertical direction. The acceleration reduction ratio of the top is about 70%–90%, and the acceleration reduction ratio of the lower part is about 20%–60%. Horizontal displacement of the isolated model is far larger than that of the nonisolated model, and horizontal displacement will become larger considering FSI effect. These conclusions could provide some references for studies on the isolation system of nuclear island building.
Immunoinformatic Analysis to Identify Proteins to Be Used as Potential Targets to Control Bovine Anaplasmosis
Authors: Rodríguez-Camarillo Sergio D. , Quiroz-Castañeda Rosa E. , Aguilar-Díaz Hugo , Vara-Pastrana José E. , Pescador-Pérez Diego , Amaro-Estrada Itzel , Martínez-Ocampo Fernando
Published: August 2020

Omics sciences and new technologies to sequence full genomes provide valuable data that are revealed only after detailed bioinformatic analysis is performed. In this work, we analyzed the genomes of seven Mexican Anaplasma marginale strains and the data from a transcriptome analysis of the tick Rhipicephalus microplus. The aim of this analysis was to identify protein sequences with predicted features to be used as potential targets to control the bacteria or tick-vector transmission. We chose three amino acid sequences different to all proteins previously reported in A. marginale that have been used as potential vaccine candidates, and also, we report, for the first time, the presence of a peroxinectin protein sequence in the transcriptome of R. microplus, a protein associated with the immune response of ticks. The bioinformatics analyses revealed the presence of B-cell epitopes in all the amino acid sequences chosen, which opens the way for their likely use as single or arranged peptides to develop new strategies for the control and prevention of bovine anaplasmosis transmitted by ticks.
Nonlinear Creep Behavior and Viscoelastic‐Plastic Constitutive Model of Rock‐Concrete Composite Mass
Authors: Liu Yang , Huang Da , Zhao Baoyun , Wang Chen , Cen Duofeng
Published: August 2020

The joint force deformation of rock‐concrete composite structures is different from that of simple rock specimens or concrete specimens, such as the tunnel surrounding rock‐lining concrete, dam foundations, and concrete. In order to study the creep mechanical properties of rock‐concrete composite structures under long‐duration load, the TFD‐2000 microcomputer servo triaxial creep testing machine is used to carry out step loading creep tests on rock‐concrete composite specimens (hereinafter referred to as composite specimens) under different confining pressures (including the confining pressures σ3 = 0 MPa). The creep test results show that, under the same confining pressure, when axial deviatoric stress is applied step‐by‐step according to 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, and so forth of the UCS (σ3 = 0 MPa) and TCS (triaxial compressive strength) of the composite specimens, the failure stress that the specimen can bear is closely related to the confining pressure. When the confining pressures are 0 MPa, 7 MPa, 15 MPa, and 22 MPa, respectively, the failure stresses that the composite specimens can bear are 60% (corresponds to 0 MPa), 50%, 30%, and 20% of the TCS under the current confining pressures, respectively. Under the same confining pressure, the initial creep rate of the composite specimen on each step shows a U‐shaped change trend. Meanwhile, the instantaneous creep rate and failure creep rate of the specimen increase as the confining pressure increases. When the failure creep rate is excluded, the initial creep rate of other stepped loads at the same confining pressure level decreases step‐by‐step. The improved Nishihara model can better describe the whole creep process of rock‐concrete composite specimens, especially in the accelerating creep step. The testing data and research results in this paper can serve as references for further research on mechanical properties of rock‐concrete composite structures.
Effect of Exercise or Metformin on Biomarkers of Inflammation in Breast and Colorectal Cancer: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Brown Justin C. , Zhang Sui , Ligibel Jennifer A. , Irwin Melinda L. , Jones Lee W. , Campbell Nancy , Pollak Michael N. , Sorrentino Alexandra , Cartmel Brenda , Harrigan Maura , Tolaney Sara M. , Winer Eric P. , Ng Kimmie , Abrams Thomas A. , Sanft Tara , Douglas Pamela S. , Hu Frank B. , Fuchs Charles S. , Meyerhardt Jeffrey A.
Published: August 2020

Observational studies report that physical activity and metformin are associated with improved clinical outcome in patients with cancer. Inflammation is one biological mechanism hypothesized to mediate these associations. In this phase II, multicenter, 2 × 2 factorial trial, 139 patients with breast and colorectal cancer who completed standard therapy were randomized to one of four treatment groups for 12 weeks: exercise alone, metformin alone, exercise and metformin, or control. Inflammation outcomes included high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), soluble tumor necrosis factor alpha receptor two (sTNFαR2), and IL6. The primary modeling strategy evaluated the trial product estimand that was quantified using a generalized linear mixed model. Compared with control, exercise alone reduced hs-CRP [−30.2%; 95% confidence interval (CI), −50.3, −1.0] and IL6 (−30.9%; 95% CI, −47.3, −9.5) but did not change sTNFαR2 (1.0%; 95% CI, −10.4, 13.9). Compared with control, metformin alone did not change hs-CRP (−13.9%; 95% CI, −40.0, 23.4), sTNFαR2 (−10.4%; 95% CI, −21.3, 2.0), or IL6 (−22.9%; 95% CI, −42.3, 2.0). Compared with control, exercise and metformin reduced sTNFαR2 (−13.1%; 95% CI, −22.9, −1.0) and IL6 (−38.7%; 95% CI, −52.3, −18.9) but did not change hs-CRP (−20.5%; 95% CI, −44.0, 12.7). The combination of exercise and metformin was not synergistic for hs-CRP, sTNFαR2, or IL6. In survivors of breast and colorectal cancer with low baseline physical activity and without type 2 diabetes, exercise and metformin reduced measures of inflammation that are associated with cancer recurrence and mortality.
Does Previous Open Stone Surgery Affect the Outcome of Shock Wave Lithotripsy Treatment in Children?
Authors: Kırlı Elif Altınay , Türegün Fethi Ahmet , Selçuk Berin , Gültekin Mehmet Hamza , Tansu Nejat , Erözenci Ahmet , Önal Bülent
Published: August 2020

Introduction: The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficiency of shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) in children who previously underwent ipsilateral open renal stone surgery (ORSS). Methods: A total of 315 renal units (RUs) with renal stones underwent SWL treatment in our department over a period of 18 years. A total of 274 RUs (87%) with no history of ORSS were categorized as group 1 and 41 RUs (13%) with a history of ORSS were categorized as group 2. The characteristics of the patients and renal stones, as well as the treatment modalities, were reviewed retrospectively, and the results were compared in terms of the rates of stone-free patients and complications. Results: The stone-free rates were statistically lower in patients with an existing history of ORSS (p = 0.002), especially for stones located at the lower calyx (p = 0.006). However, there were no differences between groups in the rate of complications (p = 0.75). History of ipsilateral ORSS, age, and stone burden were independent risk factors that predicted a stone-free status in the regression analysis (p = 0.016, p = 0.045, and p = 0.001, respectively). Conclusion: The overall stone-free rate after SWL was found to be significantly lower in children with a history of ORSS than in those without, and this finding was significantly prominent for lower calyx stones. In spite of the possible difficulties in achieving surgical access due to anatomical changes in retrograde intrarenal surgery or mini-/micro-percutaneous nephrolithotomy, we believe that these techniques might be good alternatives for SWL in future cases.