bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CHARACTERIZATION OF INTRINSIC AND EXTRINSIC NOISE EFFECTS IN POSITIVELY REGULATED GENES
Authors: VÁZQUEZ-JIMÉNEZ AARÓN , SANTILLÁN MOISÉS , RODRÍGUEZ-GONZÁLEZ JESÚS
Published: August 2019

Gene regulation is fundamental for cell survival. This regulation must be both robust to noise and sensitive enough to external stimuli to elicit the proper responses. In this work, we study, through stochastic numerical simulations, how a gene regulatory network with a positive feedback loop responds to environmental changes in the presence of intrinsic and extrinsic noises. Noise effects were characterized by measuring the statistical differences between two protein time series resulting from identical systems subject to the same source of extrinsic noise. A robust analysis was implemented by modifying the kinetic system parameters. We found that the common source of time-varying extrinsic fluctuations leads to a correlation in the systems it affects. The correlation and the extrinsic and intrinsic noise components are modulated by the update period and noise intensity parameters. Our results suggest that noise perception is controlled through the parameters associated with the response time: degradation rates and promoter dissociation constant.
A quantum ring in a nanosphere
Authors: Silva Netto A. L. , Farias B. , Carvalho J. , Furtado C.
Published: August 2019

In this paper, we study the quantum dynamics of an electron/hole in a two-dimensional quantum ring within a spherical space. For this geometry, we consider a harmonic confining potential. Suggesting that the quantum ring is affected by the presence of an Aharonov–Bohm flux and a uniform magnetic field, we solve the Schrödinger equation for this problem and obtain exactly the eigenvalues of energy and corresponding eigenfunctions for this nanometric quantum system. Afterwards, we calculate the magnetization and persistent current are calculated, and discuss influence of curvature of space on these values.
A Highly Stretchable, Sensitive Strain Sensor Based on the Dry Printing Method
Authors: Ye Xiang Dong , Li Jie , Ma Jia Wei
Published: August 2019

Use of Electronic skin (E-skin) has attracted significant attention, as it has broad application prospects in medical care, wearable electronic equipment, and body monitoring — particularly with respect to human motion detection. In this work, we developed a flexible, tensile strain sensor based on the dry printing method. A conductive layer, with a miniaturized network structure, was obtained by: (1) packing the grooves of a grid-like silicon template with a conductive powder composed of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and silicon dioxide (SiO[Formula: see text] nanoparticles; (2) infiltrating liquid polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) into the powder voids using a coated, flexible PDMS substrate cover; (3) transferring the solidified, patterned conductive powder onto the flexible substrate by peeling the PDMS substrate cover off the template; (4) fabricating metal electrodes at both ends of the conductive layer and (5) encapsulating the strain sensor with liquid PDMS. After manufacture, the strain sensor was tested using the tensile test. Results from the tensile test demonstrate that the sensor has excellent electrical conductivity, including super high-sensitivity [Formula: see text], a large strain range (up to 35%), and good transparency; as ultraviolet (UV) spectrum analysis shows that the transmittance can reach [Formula: see text]%. Thus, the sensor is potentially applicable to numerous sub-specialties that require specialized electronics.
First-principles investigation of bandgap tailoring in tetragonal Bi2FeCrO6 by magnetic ordering and B-site-cation ordering
Authors: Wei Lijing , Guo Jianxin , Guan Li , Liu Baoting
Published: August 2019

The development of ferroelectric photovoltaic (FE-PV) materials has been limited for a long time due to their large bandgap. Many strategies for lowering the bandgap have been suggested to promote FE-PV properties. The effects of magnetic ordering and B-site-cation ordering to lower the bandgap of FE-PV are investigated in this paper using first-principles calculations. Results show that the most stable structure of tetragonal Bi2FeCrO6 ([Formula: see text]-Bi2[Formula: see text] is the AS1 structure (Fe/Cr alternate stacking ordering) with C-type antiferromagnetic ordering (defined as AC-[Formula: see text]-Bi2FeCrO6), which has a small bandgap, suggesting that AC-[Formula: see text]-Bi2FeCrO6 is among the FE-PV materials with the highest application potential.
Vibration energy harvesting: A review
Authors: Mohanty Anwesa , Parida Suraj , Behera Rabindra Kumar , Roy Tarapada
Published: August 2019

This study is based on energy harvesting from vibration and deals with the comparison of different techniques. In the present scenario, energy harvesting has drawn the attention of researchers due to a rapid increase in the use of wireless and small-scale devices. So, there is a huge thirst among scientists to develop permanent portable power sources. In the surroundings, a lot of unutilized energy is wasted which can be collected and used for power generation. Research works have been extensively carried out to develop energy harvesting devices catering to the increasing needs of being efficient and economical. Effective energy harvesting mainly depends on the design of the transducer. Different types of design techniques, material properties, and availability of energy harvesters are reviewed in this paper. The paper aims to explore the advantages and limitations of different energy harvesting principles, advances, and findings of the recent past. This study also discusses some of the key ideas for the enhancement of power output. This paper provides a broad view of the energy harvesting system to the learners, which will facilitate them to design more efficient energy harvesting devices by using different principles.
Approximate solution of imbibition phenomenon arising in heterogeneous porous media by optimal homotopy analysis method
Authors: Pathak Shreekant , Singh Twinkle
Published: August 2019

This paper deals with approximate homotopy series solution of imbibition phenomenon occurring in multiphase flow during the secondary oil recovery process. In heterogeneous porous media, the geometry of pores is irregular while in homogeneous porous media, the geometry of pores is uniformly same. The comparative study of counter-current imbibition phenomenon in heterogeneous and homogeneous porous medium has been also discussed. The governing partial differential equation obtained by mathematical formation of imbibition phenomenon has been solved by the optimal homotopy analysis method. The numerical as well as graphical interpretation of the solution have been given.
The application of geology to the design, construction and continuing maintenance of the Mullardoch Tunnel
Authors: Jack Christopher D. , Lyall Robert J. W.
Published: August 2019

Mullardoch Tunnel is a hydro-electric tunnel in the Highlands of Scotland, driven through metamorphic rocks of the Moine Series between 1947 and 1952. As with all large-scale hydro-electric projects, the geology exerted significant control and influence on the overall design and construction. However, although there was implicit and explicit consideration of geological aspects during the planning, design and construction of the schemes, the works largely predated the systematic application of engineering geology and rock engineering in the UK. Nonetheless, the geologists involved with the project were able to identify and effectively communicate the main geological issues relevant to the engineers. Given the continuing national import of hydro-electric schemes, this forms an interesting case study through which to retrospectively consider the geological input to hydro-electric tunnels. The geology, design, construction and maintenance of the tunnel are discussed together with the findings of recent inspections. Examples of good and bad practice are identified and implications for improved practice are drawn, including the continuing importance of high-quality geological input to engineering projects and the need for improved training in geological skills, particularly when applying modern practice to historical structures.
Modeling and Optimization for Self-powered Non-volatile IoT Edge Devices with Ultra-low Harvesting Power
Authors: Pan Chen , Xie Mimi , Han Song , Mao Zhi-Hong , Hu Jingtong
Published: August 2019

Energy harvesters are becoming increasingly popular as power sources for IoT edge devices. However, one of the intrinsic problems of energy harvester is that harvesting power is often weak and frequently interrupted. Therefore, energy harvesting powered edge devices have to work intermittently. To maintain execution progress, execution states need to be checkpointed into the non-volatile memory before each power failure. In this way, previous execution states can be resumed after power comes back again. Nevertheless, frequent checkpointing and low charging efficiency generate significant energy overhead. To alleviate these problems, this article conducts a thorough energy efficiency analysis and proposes three algorithms to maximize the energy efficiency of program execution. First, a non-volatile processor-aware task scheduling algorithm is proposed to reduce the size of checkpointing data. Second, a tentative checkpointing avoidance technique is proposed to avoid checkpointing for further reduction of checkpointing overhead. Finally, a dynamic wake-up strategy is proposed to wake up the edge device at proper voltages where the total hardware and software overhead is minimized for further energy efficiency maximization. The experiments on a real testbed demonstrate that, with the proposed algorithms, an edge device is resilient to the extremely weak and intermittent power supply and the energy efficiency can be achieved more than 2× higher than the fundamental baseline and 1.5× higher than the state-of-the-art technique.
Hypoxia exacerbates nonalcoholic fatty liver disease via the HIF-2α/PPARα pathway
Authors: Chen Jiandi , Chen Jianxu , Fu Huirong , Li Yun , Wang Lingling , Luo Shunkui , Lu Hongyun
Published: August 2019

This study aimed to investigate whether hypoxia can affect nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) progression and the associated mechanisms, specifically regarding the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-2α/peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)α pathway in vitro and in vivo. Recent studies have reported that, compared with HIF-1α, HIF-2α has different effects on lipid metabolism. We propose hypoxia may exacerbate NAFLD by the HIF-2α upregulation-induced suppression of PPARα in the liver. To verify this hypothesis, a steatotic human hepatocyte (L02) cell line treated with free fatty acids and a mouse model of NAFLD fed a high-fat diet were used. Steatotic hepatocytes were treated with hypoxia, HIF-2α siRNA, PPARα agonists, and inhibitors, respectively. Meanwhile, the NAFLD mice were exposed to intermittent hypoxia or intermittent hypoxia with PPARα agonists. The relative gene expression levels of HIF-1α, HIF-2α, mitochondrial function, fatty acid β-oxidation and lipogenesis were examined. Evidence of lipid accumulation was observed, which demonstrated that, compared with normal hepatocytes, steatotic hepatocytes exhibited higher sensitivity to hypoxia. This phenomenon was closely associated with HIF-2α. Moreover, lipid accumulation in hepatocytes was ameliorated by HIF-2α silencing or a PPARα agonist, despite the hypoxia treatment. HIF-2α overexpression under hypoxic conditions suppressed PPARα, leading to PGC-1α, NRF-1, ESRRα downregulation, and mitochondrial impairment. Additionally, β-oxidation genes such as CPT1α, CPT2α, ACOX1, and ACOX2 were downregulated and lipogenesis genes including LXRα, FAS, and SCD1 were upregulated by hypoxia. Therefore, we concluded that HIF-2α overexpression induced by hypoxia aggravated NAFLD progression by suppressing fatty acid β-oxidation and inducing lipogenesis in the liver via PPARα.
A Neighbor Prototype Selection Method Based on CCHPSO for Intrusion Detection
Authors: Shen Yanping , Zheng Kangfeng , Wu Chunhua , Yang Yixian
Published: August 2019

Nearest neighbor (NN) models play an important role in the intrusion detection system (IDS). However, with the advent of the era of big data, the NN model has the disadvantages of low efficiency, noise sensitivity, and high storage requirement. This paper presents a neighbor prototype selection method based on CCHPSO for intrusion detection. In the model, the prototype selection and feature weight adjustment are performed simultaneously and k-nearest neighbor (KNN) is used as the basic classifier. To deal with large-scale optimization problems, a cooperative coevolving algorithm based on hybrid standard particle swarm and binary particle swarm optimization, which employs the divide-and-conquer strategy, is proposed in this paper. Meanwhile, a fitness function based on the accuracy and data reduction rate is defined in the CCHPSO to obtain a set of appropriate prototypes and feature weights. The KDD99 and NSL datasets are used to assess the effectiveness of the method. The empirical results indicate that the data reduction rate of the proposed method is very high, ranging from 82.32% to 92.01%. Compared with all the data used, the proposed method can not only achieve comparable accuracy performance but also save a lot of storage and computing resources.
On Subclasses of Uniformly Spiral-like Functions Associated with Generalized Bessel Functions
Authors: Frasin B. A. , Aldawish Ibtisam
Published: August 2019

The main object of this paper is to find necessary and sufficient conditions for generalized Bessel functions of first kindzup(z)to be in the classesSPp(α,β)andUCSP(α,β)of uniformly spiral-like functions and also give necessary and sufficient conditions forz(2-up(z))to be in the above classes. Furthermore, we give necessary and sufficient conditions forI(κ,c)fto be inUCSPT(α,β)provided that the functionfis in the classRτ(A,B). Finally, we give conditions for the integral operatorG(κ,c,z)=∫0z(2-up(t))dtto be in the classUCSPT(α,β).Several corollaries and consequences of the main results are also considered.
Aesthetic Rehabilitation of a Patient with Bruxism Using Ceramic Veneers and Overlays Combined with Four-Point Monolithic Zirconia Crowns for Occlusal Stabilization: A 4-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Moreira André , Freitas Filipe , Marques Duarte , Caramês João
Published: August 2019

Management of severe worn dentition in patients with bruxism is challenging as a result of the loss of tooth structure and occlusal vertical dimension, temporomandibular implications, tooth hypersensitivity, and masticatory or aesthetic impairment. This case describes the 4-year follow-up clinical evaluation of a full mouth tooth-supported rehabilitation made on a 66-year-old man with bruxism and tooth wear, with aesthetic complaints and compromised masticatory function. The prosthetic treatment was planned with a digital smile design and a mock-up technique for an aesthetic and minimally invasive approach using lithium disilicate pressed and layered veneers on anterior teeth, posterior CAD/CAM lithium disilicate overlays with facial coverage, and CAD/CAM monolithic zirconia crowns with facial feldspathic ceramic on maxillary and mandibular canines and first molars in order to ensure the occlusal stability at the increased occlusal vertical dimension. After 4 years of function, no complications were registered. The choice of an appropriate material for the rehabilitation of these patients is essential to improve treatment prognosis and should be guided by mechanical and aesthetical properties. The use of four-point occlusal stabilization with CAD/CAM high strength monolithic zirconia crowns combined with ceramic veneers and overlays appears to be a reliable treatment option that enhances aesthetics and minimizes the occurrence of ceramic fractures, ensuring the treatment prognosis and predictability.
Circulating miRNAs as Novel Diagnostic Biomarkers in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Cai Changzhou , Lin Yiming , Yu Chaohui
Published: August 2019

Background and Aims. Recent studies have indicated that circulating miRNAs could serve as accurate biomarkers for diagnosing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We aimed to assess the evidence on the probability of circulating miRNAs as new diagnostic biomarkers in patients with NAFLD. Methods. We comprehensively retrieved relevant English literature from the databases of PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library from 2000 to 1 January 2019. The diagnostic accuracy of circulating miRNAs as markers for NAFLD was analyzed. Moreover, we evaluated the methodological quality of the included article. STATA was applied to perform statistical analyses. Results. In this meta-analysis, 17 studies that enrolled 1408 patients of NAFLD and 926 healthy people from 6 articles were analyzed. We constructed a summary receiver-operating characteristic (SROC) curve of all circulating miRNAs, and the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.83, with the pooled sensitivity (SEN) 0.70 and the pooled specificity (SPE) 0.82 in distinguishing patients with NAFLD from healthy controls. Among them, miR-122 showed high diagnostic accuracy, with the diagnostic index of pooled SEN, SPE, and AUC being 0.88, 0.66, and 0.86, respectively. We then performed subgroup analyses based on the mode of miRNA regulation, countries, miRNA profiling, sample size, and male proportion. We then did a regression analysis and found the cause of heterogeneity might be miRNA profiling. Finally, publication bias was not found, and Fagan’s nomogram showed valuable clinical utility. Conclusion. Circulating miRNAs, especially miR-122, might be promising diagnostic biomarkers for NAFLD with high-accuracy, and more large-sample studies are required to support the above findings in the future.
‘Rationality’ in Collective Escape Behaviour: Identifying Reference Points of Measurement at Micro and Macro Levels
Authors: Haghani Milad , Sarvi Majid
Published: August 2019

Background. Evacuation behaviour of human crowds is often characterised by the notion of ‘irrational behaviour’. While the term has been frequently used in the literature, clear definitions and methods for measuring rationality do not exist. Objective. Here, we suggest that rationality, in this context, can alternatively and more effectively be formulated as a question of ‘optimal behaviour’. Decision optimality can potentially be measured and quantified. The main challenges, however, include (i) distinctly identifying the level at which we measure optimality, and (ii) identifying proper reference points at each level. Methods. We differentiate between optimality at the individual (i.e., micro) and the system (i.e., macro/aggregate) levels and illustrate how certain reference points can be established at each level. We suggest that, at the micro level, optimality of individual decisions can be quantified by comparing the outcome of each individual’s decision to those of their ‘nearly equal peers’. At the macro level, optimality can be measured by simulating the system using parametric numerical models and measuring the system performance while altering the behavioural parameters compared to their empirical estimates. Results. Having applied these methods, we observed that variation in micro level decision optimality rises rapidly as the space becomes more heavily crowded. As crowdedness increases in the environment, the difference between ‘good’ and ‘bad’ decisions becomes more distinct; and suboptimal decisions become more frequent. In other words, optimality at individual level seems to be moderated by the level of crowdedness. At the macro level, numerical simulations showed that, for certain exit attributes (like exit congestion), extreme marginal valuations (or preferences) were optimal, whereas for certain other attributes (like exit visibility), intermediate levels of valuation were closer to the optimal. In most cases, the natural observed (or estimated) tendency of evacuees (at the aggregate level) was not quite at the optimum level, meaning that the system could improve by modifying individuals’ marginal valuations of exit attributes. Applications and Recommendations. These results highlight the importance of guiding evacuation decisions particularly in heavily crowded spaces. They also theoretically illustrate the potential benefit of influencing/modifying people’s evacuation strategies, so they make decisions that are collectively more efficient. A crucial step to this end, however, is to identify what optimum strategy is and under what circumstances people are likelier to make suboptimal decisions.
A Secure and Efficient ECC-Based Anonymous Authentication Protocol
Authors: Wang Feifei , Xu Guoai , Gu Lize
Published: August 2019

Nowadays, remote user authentication protocol plays a great role in ensuring the security of data transmission and protecting the privacy of users for various network services. In this study, we discover two recently introduced anonymous authentication schemes are not as secure as they claimed, by demonstrating they suffer from offline password guessing attack, desynchronization attack, session key disclosure attack, failure to achieve user anonymity, or forward secrecy. Besides, we reveal two environment-specific authentication schemes have weaknesses like impersonation attack. To eliminate the security vulnerabilities of existing schemes, we propose an improved authentication scheme based on elliptic curve cryptosystem. We use BAN logic and heuristic analysis to prove our scheme provides perfect security attributes and is resistant to known attacks. In addition, the security and performance comparison show that our scheme is superior with better security and low computation and communication cost.
Trajectory Tracking Control for WMRs with the Time-Varying Longitudinal Slippage Based on a New Adaptive SMC Method
Authors: Li Zhi , You Bo , Ding Liang , Gao Haibo , Huang Fengxiang
Published: August 2019

Wheeled mobile robots (WMRs) in real complex environments such as on extraterrestrial planets are confronted with uncertain external disturbances and strong coupling of wheel-ground interactions while tracking commanded trajectories. Methods based on sliding mode control (SMC) are popular approaches for these situations. Traditional SMC has some potential problems, such as slow convergence, poor robustness, and excessive output chattering. In this paper, a kinematic-based feed-forward control model is designed for WMRs with longitudinal slippage and applied to the closed-loop control system for active compensation of time-varying slip rates. And a new adaptive SMC method is proposed to guide a WMR in trajectory tracking missions based on the kinematic model of a general WMR. This method combines the adaptive control method and a fast double-power reaching law with the SMC method. A complete control loop with active slip compensation and adaptive SMC is thus established. Simulation results show that the proposed method can greatly suppress chattering and improve the robustness of trajectory tracking. The feasibility of the proposed method in the real world is demonstrated by experiments with a skid-steered WMR on the loose-soil terrain.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) in the Prevention of Ageing and Degenerative Diseases: Review of Current Evidence
Authors: Mohd Sahardi Nur Fatin Nabilah , Makpol Suzana
Published: August 2019

Currently, the age of the population is increasing as a result of increased life expectancy. Ageing is defined as the progressive loss of physiological integrity, which can be characterized by functional impairment and high vulnerability to various types of diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and atherosclerosis. Numerous studies have reported that the presence of oxidative stress and inflammation contributes to the development of these diseases. In general, oxidative stress could induce proinflammatory cytokines and reduce cellular antioxidant capacity. Increased oxidative stress levels beyond the production of antioxidant agents cause oxidative damage to biological molecules, including DNA, protein, and carbohydrates, which affects normal cell signalling, cell growth, differentiation, and apoptosis and leads to disease pathogenesis. Since oxidative stress and inflammation contribute to these diseases, ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) is one of the potential herbs that can be used to reduce the level of oxidative stress and inflammation. Ginger consists of two major active components, 6-gingerol and 6-shogaol, which are essential for preventing oxidative stress and inflammation. Thus, this paper will review the effects of ginger on ageing and degenerative diseases, including AD, PD, type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension, and osteoarthritis.
The Potential Role of Seminal Plasma in the Fertilization Outcomes
Authors: Szczykutowicz Justyna , Kałuża Anna , Kaźmierowska-Niemczuk Maria , Ferens-Sieczkowska Mirosława
Published: August 2019

For human infertility both male and female factors may be equally important. Searching for molecular biomarkers of male infertility, neglected for decades, and the attempts to explain regulatory mechanisms of fertilization become thus extremely important. Apart from examination of the structure and function of male gametes, also the possible importance of seminal plasma components should be considered. In this article we discuss data that indicate for the substantial significance of active seminal plasma components for conception and achievement of healthy pregnancy. Seminal plasma impact on the storage and cryopreservation of human and animal sperm and regulatory role of glycodelin on human sperm capacitation as well as hypothesized course of female immune response to allogenic sperm and conceptus has been discussed. The possible involvement of carbohydrates in molecular mechanism of fetoembryonic defense has been also mentioned.
Bladder Dysfunction in an Obese Zucker Rat: The Role of TRPA1 Channels, Oxidative Stress, and Hydrogen Sulfide
Authors: Blaha Igor , López-Oliva María Elvira , Martínez María Pilar , Recio Paz , Agis-Torres Ángel , Martínez Ana Cristina , Benedito Sara , García-Sacristán Albino , Prieto Dolores , Fernandes Vítor S. , Hernández Medardo
Published: August 2019

Purpose. This study investigates whether functionality and/or expression changes of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) and transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) channels, oxidative stress, and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) are involved in the bladder dysfunction from an insulin-resistant obese Zucker rat (OZR). Materials and Methods. Detrusor smooth muscle (DSM) samples from the OZR and their respective controls, a lean Zucker rat (LZR), were processed for immunohistochemistry for studying the expression of TRPA1 and TRPV1 and the H2S synthase cystathionine beta-synthase (CBS) and cysthathionine-γ-lyase (CSE). Isometric force recordings to assess the effects of TRPA1 agonists and antagonists on DSM contractility and measurement of oxidative stress and H2S production were also performed. Results. Neuronal TRPA1 expression was increased in the OZR bladder. Electrical field stimulation- (EFS-) elicited contraction was reduced in the OZR bladder. In both LZR and OZR, TRPA1 activation failed to modify DSM basal tension but enhanced EFS contraction; this response is inhibited by the TRPA1 blockade. In the OZR bladder, reactive oxygen species, malondialdehyde, and protein carbonyl contents were increased and antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase, catalase, GR, and GPx) were diminished. CSE expression and CSE-generated H2S production were also reduced in the OZR. Both TRPV1 and CBS expressions were not changed in the OZR. Conclusions. These results suggest that an increased expression and functionality of TRPA1, an augmented oxidative stress, and a downregulation of the CSE/H2S pathway are involved in the impairment of nerve-evoked DSM contraction from the OZR.
Dynamic Influence Prediction of Social Network Based on Partial Autoregression Single Index Model
Authors: Jia Ya-hui , Song Taotao , Wu Shun-yao , Zhang Qi , Su Yu-xia
Published: August 2019

Everything is connected in the world. From small groups to global societies, the interactions among people, technology, and policies need sophisticated techniques to be perceived and forecasted. In social network, it has been concluded that the microblog users influence and microblog grade are nonlinearly dependent. However, to the best of our knowledge, the nonlinear influence predication of social network has not been explored in the existing literature. This article proposes a partial autoregression single index model to combine network structure (linear) and static covariates (nonparametric) flexibly. Compared with previous work, our model has fewer limits and more applications. The profile least squares estimation is employed to infer this semiparametric model, and variables selection is performed via the smoothly clipped absolute deviation penalty (SCAD). Simulations are conducted to demonstrate finite sample behaviors.
Spatial Pattern of Urban System Based on Gravity Model and Whole Network Analysis in Eight Urban Agglomerations of China
Authors: Sun Qipeng , Wang Sijie , Zhang Kaiqi , Ma Fei , Guo Xiaozhuang , Li Tingzhen
Published: August 2019

An urban agglomeration (shorted as UA) is a highly developed spatial form of integrated city and an important driving force for regional economic development. The network of UA mainly reflects the spatial connections and organizational structure of all cities, which is of great significance for understanding the development status of UAs and revealing their development laws. However, there are few horizontal studies comparing the network structure of China’s UAs. This study constructs the economic network of China’s eight UAs with the gravity model and explores the overall network structure and city centrality using indicators in network analysis. Then, two groups of UAs with similar network structures are compared. Finally, the association between the gravity model and empirical data is discussed. The results show that the spatial pattern of cities in UAs can be expressed by the gravity model approximately. Besides, UAs with different development levels present different spatial network structures, but the network structures cannot reflect the development levels of UAs directly. We also find that the cities with high betweenness centrality have greater development potential to be the next growth pole.
Path Planning of Slab Library Crane Based on Improved Ant Colony Algorithm
Authors: Zhao Yuntao , Li Weigang , Wang Xiao , Yi Chengxin
Published: August 2019

Due to the equipment characteristics (for example, the crane of each span cannot transfer products directly to other spans and path has less turning points and no slash lines) in a slab library, slab transportation is mainly realized by manually operating the crane. Firstly, the grid method is used to model the slab library. Secondly, an improved ant colony algorithm is proposed. The algorithm is used to solve the path planning of the slab library crane, which is improved by integrating the turning points, filtering the candidate solutions, dynamically evaporating pheromone, setting the dynamic region, etc. Finally, the algorithm is applied to plan the crane path of the slab library. The results show that the obstacle‐free optimal path with fewer turning points, no slash lines, and short paths is found automatically.
The Use of Complex Additives for the Formation of Corrosion- and Wear-Resistant Epoxy Composites
Authors: Buketov Andriy , Sapronov Oleksandr , Brailo Mykola , Stukhlyak Danylo , Yakushchenko Serhii , Buketova Natalia , Sapronova Anna , Sotsenko Vitalii
Published: August 2019

The corrosion resistance and hydroabrasive resistance of the developed epoxy composite coatings are investigated in this paper. The analysis of the penetration index change after τ = 50–150 days of immersion in a water medium and 10% sulfuric acid solution is carried out. The optimal ratio of the modifier and nanodispersed (Si3N4, Al2O3, AlN, and TiN) and fibrous (viscose, polyamide, matka silk, rong, and cashmere) fillers in the epoxy binder is determined. It was allowed to slow down the process of electrochemical reaction on the metal surface. The penetration of aggressive media in such a coating during the time t = 150 days is 0.8–2.8%. It is 1.5–2 times lower than the similar indexes of the initial epoxy matrix. The rational combination of the fibrous filler (wool, acrylic PAN, and cashmere), modifier, and nanodispersed (Si3N4, AlF3, IH, and ZrH) filler in the epoxy binder is found, which allows to provide optimum indexes of wear rate. The wear rate under the action of a hydroabrasive of such a coating is I = 0.20%, which is 4 times lower than the similar indexes of the initial epoxy matrix. The wear mechanism of such coatings is caused by the physical and mechanical processes of microcutting and plastic deformation of the surface layer of the material.
Impact of High-Altitude on Truck’s Climbing Speed: Case study in Qinghai-Tibet Plateau Area in China
Authors: Lei Tian , Xu Jinliang , Jia Xingli , Wei Leyu , Tian Lin
Published: August 2019

Truck’s climbing performance is an important consideration in traffic safety, efficiency, and highway geometric design. With the infrastructure development in high-altitude area in China, more attention needs to be paid on truck’s climbing performance in such area. In this article, truck’s climbing speed in high-altitude area was examined through field tests on different grade sections at different altitudes. Truck’s speed-distance curves were built at different altitudes and the impact of altitude on truck’s climbing speed was explored based on the test results. It was shown that, within the altitude range of 3000~5000m, altitude had an obvious influence on test truck’s decelerating and accelerating performance. Truck’s speed decreased faster on steep grades and increased slower on gentle grades with the increase of the altitude. Also, the stable speed that test truck could maintain on a certain grade was lower at a higher altitude. In addition, test truck’s theoretical speed-distance curves at the sea level were estimated through truck’s dynamic model. Compared with the theoretical crawl speed, a negative effect of altitude change (from 0 to the altitude above 3000 m) was found on truck’s climbing performance.
Vibrational Fingerprint of Erlotinib: FTIR, RS, and DFT Studies
Authors: Piergies Natalia , Paluszkiewicz Czesława , Kwiatek Wojciech M.
Published: August 2019

In this study, we provide the first Fourier-transform infrared absorption spectroscopy (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy (RS) analysis of a vibrational fingerprint of erlotinib, a drug which is applied in non-small cell lung cancer therapy, in solid state and solution in different pH conditions. Additionally, the performed DFT theoretical calculations in vacuum and PCM models support the interpretation of vibrational spectra and give insight into an optimized spatial configuration of the investigated drug. The present considerations show vibrational structure of erlotinib and details of its molecular geometry. Furthermore, we discuss the pH condition where the protonated –NH+ and C=N+ forms occur and indicate the spectral changes characteristic for the erlotinib protonation. It is of great of importance to better understand biological activity of the drug and to develop new tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
Relationship between Echocardiographic and Magnetic Resonance-Derived Measurements of the Thoracic Aorta in Turner Syndrome Patients
Authors: Krikščiūnienė Rūta , Navickaitė Inesa , Ereminienė Eglė , Lukoševičius Saulius , Žilaitienė Birutė , Verkauskienė Rasa
Published: August 2019

Introduction. Turner syndrome (TS) is assigned to the rare diseases group. Morbidity and mortality of TS patients are high, particularly due to the cardiovascular disorders, so monitoring for cardiovascular complications must be ensured. The data demonstrate a strong correlation between 2-dimensional echocardiographic (2Decho) evaluation and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); still, according to recent guidelines, MRI remains a gold standard. In this study, we aimed to compare aortic dimensions on MRI and 2Decho in TS patients. Methods. 50 TS patients (≥18 years) were enrolled into the cross-sectional study. 2Decho and MRI were performed. The measurements of the aorta were assessed in five standard positions on 2Decho and in 9 standard positions on MRI; ASI (aortic size index) of the ascending aorta was calculated since reduced adult height is observed in TS patients. Results. ASI on echocardiography strongly correlated with ASI on MRI in all positions of the ascending aorta, but significantly larger medians of ASI were found on 2Decho in all positions of the ascending aorta and arch when compared with MRI measurements. Still, the prevalence of aortic sinus dilation was significantly and more frequently (52% vs. 38%, p<0.001) observed on MRI when compared with 2Decho. Conclusion. The relation of aortic size was significant in all positions when comparing the MRI and 2Decho methods; still, the dilatation of the sinus of aorta was more frequently found on MRI compared with echocardiography.
Notch Signaling Pathway Is Involved in bFGF-Induced Corneal Lymphangiogenesis and Hemangiogenesis
Authors: Xie Fang , Zhang Xue , Luo Wenting , Ge Hongyan , Sun Dawei , Liu Ping
Published: August 2019

Background. Notch/Dll4 involvement in cornea neovascularization (CRNV) and lymphangiogenesis is unclear. This study aimed to explore the role of notch signaling in basic fibroblast growth factor- (bFGF-) induced corneal lymphangiogenesis and hemangiogenesis. Methods. Corneal stroma of C57BL/6 mice was implanted with bFGF- or phosphate-buffered saline- (PBS-) soaked pellets. Corneal lymphangiogenesis and neovascularization were evaluated by immunofluorescence. Vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A), Delta-like ligand 4 (Dll4), and Notch1 mRNA and protein expression were examined on days 1, 3, 7, and 14 by real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot. Corneal cells were treated with ranibizumab, dexamethasone, and γ-secretase inhibitor (GSI). Microspheres were used to evaluate corneal hemangiogenesis in vivo. Results. Corneal hemangiogenesis reached its peak on day 7 after bFGF implantation, and corneal lymphangiogenesis was significantly higher on day 7 and 14, compared with PBS. mRNA and protein expression of VEGF-A, Dll4, and Notch1 were higher in bFGF-induced animal models compared with controls. Corneal hemangiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis decreased after 7 days of ranibizumab or dexamethasone treatment. After adding GSI for 24 h in bFGF-induced cells, the expression of Notch1 and Dll4 were downregulated compared with that in the control group whereas the expression level of VEGF-A was upregulated. Fluorescent particle number was higher in the GSI group. Ranibizumab and dexamethasone decreased the fluorescence signal. Conclusion. The notch signaling pathway plays a role in regulating VEGF expression, affecting corneal lymphangiogenesis and hemangiogenesis in mice. The molecular imaging probe technique can visualize the changes in the VEGF-A expression level of corneal limbus hemangiogenesis.
Analysis and Tuning for Active Disturbance Rejection Control
Authors: Wang Fan , Wang Ran-Jun , Liu En-Hai
Published: August 2019

The linear active disturbance rejection control (LADRC) method is investigated in this paper. Firstly, the integral effect of the ADRC is analyzed under the premise that ADRC was transformed into a new form. Then, ADRC is changed into an internal model control (IMC) framework, and an almost necessary and sufficient condition for stability and tracking performance of the ADRC system are proposed on this basis. In addition, some useful corollaries are proposed so that the traditional open‐loop frequency‐domain analysis method can be applied to ADRC system stability analysis. It also provides a theoretical principle and theoretical guidance for some parameter tuning. To improve the performance of ADRC, an approximate integral gain is treated as a separated adjustable parameter according to the new structure. Furthermore, tuning of some parameters is discussed to enhance system performance. Finally, simulations are used to verify the effectiveness of proposed methods.
Bufalin, a Traditional Chinese Medicine Compound, Prevents Tumor Formation in Two Murine Models of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Sun Xiao , Ng Tony T.H. , Sham Kathy W.Y. , Zhang Lin , Chan Matthew T.V. , Wu William K.K. , Cheng Christopher H.K.
Published: August 2019

Chemoprevention is cost-effective for colorectal cancer when targeted at intermediate- or high-risk populations. Bufalin is a cardiac glycoside extracted from the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) “Chan Su,” which has been used as an anticancer agent. On the basis of the relative safety of bufalin, we investigated whether bufalin could act as a chemoprophylactic agent to prevent colon tumorigenesis in two murine models, namely colitis-associated colorectal cancer and Apc germline mutation-developed colorectal cancer. Our results revealed that long-term (12–16 weeks) administration of low-dose bufalin (0.5 mg/kg) effectively suppressed tumorigenesis in both colorectal cancer models, accompanied by attenuated epithelial cell proliferation (reduced bromodeoxyuridine incorporation, lower levels of cyclin A, cyclin D1, cyclin E, and cyclin-dependent kinases-2/4, and higher levels of p21 and p27) and promoted apoptosis (increased TUNEL positivity and caspase-3/9 cleavages, reduced levels of Bcl-2, Bcl-xL and survivin, and increased levels of Bax and Bak). Bufalin also suppressed the expression of proinflammatory mediators [reduced levels of cyclooxygenase-2, tumor TNFα, IL1β, IL6, C-X-C motif chemokine ligand (CXCL)-1, CXCL-2, and CXCL-5] in the colitis-associated colorectal cancer model. These effects were associated with the inhibition of oncogenic NF-κB and PI3K/Akt pathways. Our findings unveil a novel chemoprophylactic action of bufalin in colorectal cancer in vivo and provided efficacy data and mechanistic evidence for further clinical evaluation of this TCM compound for colorectal cancer chemoprevention in individuals at risk of colorectal cancer.
Migration of an Ingested Fish Bone to the Submandibular Gland: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Ma Jinhua , Sun Yahui , Dai Baoqiang , Wang  Hongqin
Published: August 2019

Background: Fish bone is one of the most common foreign bodies that gets lodged in the upper digestive tract, often located in the tonsil, epiglottis, pear-shaped fossa, and esophagus, where it may be easily located on routine inspection and removed. The forcible swallowing of food such as rice balls after ingesting fish bones by mistake may lead to the migration of the fish bone from the pharynx, throat, or esophagus to the surrounding tissues. Migration most commonly occurs to the soft tissues of the neck, even to the thyroid gland, but migration to the submandibular gland has rarely been reported. Conclusions: Foreign body ingestion may cause a series of complications and endanger a patient’s life. Cases require high awareness and attentiveness on the part of the first physician to diagnose and manage the condition, and appropriate health education should be imparted to the patient.
A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing a Mapleson Circuit with Nasal Trumpet to Standard Oxygen Supplementation during EBUS Bronchoscopy under Monitored Anesthesia Care
Authors: Abouzgheib Wissam , Ben-Jacob Talia K. , Borah Amit , Terrigno Rocco , Cruz-Morel Karla , Dy Robert , Gratz Irwin , Boujaoude Ziad
Published: August 2019

Background: Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) procedures tend to be longer than routine bronchoscopies. Increased duration and sedative dosing put patients at increased risk for ­hypoxic events. Objective: To determine whether oxygen supplementation via a nasal trumpet connected to a Mapleson B circuit (NTM) was effective in decreasing hypoxic events when compared with the standard of care, oxygen supplementation with a nasal cannula (NC). Methods: Patients referred for EBUS-guided transbronchial needle aspiration with monitored anesthesia care (MAC) were randomized 1:1 to NTM or to NC. Hypoxia-related procedural interruptions, the primary endpoint of the study, were documented for all patients. Patients in the NC group who had refractory desaturations were allowed to cross over to the NTM group. Secondary endpoints included: number of crossovers from NC to NTM, sedative dosing, total procedure times, whether procedure goals were achieved, complications apart from hypoxia, patient discharge status. Results: Fifty-two patients were randomized to NC and 48 to NTM. Baseline characteristics were comparable. The NC group had significantly more interruptions than did the NTM group (p < 0.001). Procedure duration was also significantly (p < 0.03) shorter for the NTM group. Fourteen patients were crossed over from NC to NTM because of hypoxia. Thirteen out of the 14 completed the procedure with no interruptions. All procedures were successfully completed, and all goals were achieved. All patients returned to baseline status prior to discharge. Three minor complications of epistaxis occurred. Conclusion: For patients undergoing EBUS with MAC, oxygen supplementation with NTM significantly decreased the incidence of hypoxic events when compared with NC. NTM may also be of value for other subsets of patients who are at increased risk for desaturation when undergoing bronchoscopy.
Faecal Microbiota Transplantation Eradicated Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase-Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae from a Renal Transplant Recipient with Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Grosen Anne Karmisholt , Povlsen Johan Vestergaard , Lemming Lars Erik , Jørgensen Simon Mark Dahl , Dahlerup Jens Frederik , Hvas Christian Lodberg
Published: August 2019

Renal transplant recipients (RTRs) are highly susceptible to infections, and antimicrobial resistance is an increasing problem with limited treatment options. Faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is effective for recurrent Clostridium difficile infection and may be used for patients with intestinal carriage of multidrug-resistant (MDR) microorganisms. We present a RTR who suffered from recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing (ESBL+) Klebsiella pneumoniae. Blood and urinary isolates revealed the same antibiotic susceptibility pattern, and whole-genome sequencing confirmed identical isolates in blood and urine. Despite several treatments with meropenem, the patient experienced recurrent infections that caused hospitalisation. ESBL+ K. pneumoniae was isolated in faeces. In an attempt to decolonise the gut, FMT was performed. A few days after nasojejunal infusion of donor faeces, the patient experienced a single relapse of UTI. During the subsequent 12 months, no further episodes of UTI occurred. Absence of ESBL+ K. pneumoniae in urine and faeces was demonstrated during follow-up. We conclude that FMT may be an effective treatment in RTRs with recurrent UTIs caused by intestinal colonisation with MDR organisms.