bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fiber-to-waveguide coupling based on plasmonic devices
Authors: Sun Baoguang , Wang Xiaofeng , Zhou Canmei , Fan Yuqin
Published: September 2020

Due to the large difference in mode size and effective-index mismatch between the optical fiber and the waveguides on the photonic integrated circuits, it is a big challenge to efficiently couple light into thin semiconductor waveguides. In this paper, a taper plasmonic coupler is presented to couple fiber light into an Si waveguide. The taper plasmonic coupler structure is optimized, and the alignment tolerance of the gap, the lateral offset and the vertical offset between coupler and Si waveguide are studied. Numerical simulation shows that the coupler changes the single mode fiber light to multimode light at its input port section, while at its output port section, the coupler turns the multimode light back to a single mode light, and finally couples this light to Si waveguide. The maximum couple efficiency is 86.8% in [Formula: see text] effective coupler length.
Searching accurate predicted viscosities near the melting point in a non-strong glass-forming liquid
Authors: Gao Qian , Jian Zengyun , Zhu Man , Chen Yan , Dang Bo , Chang Fange
Published: September 2020

The accurate predicted viscosities near the melting point [Formula: see text] have been searched. In order to find the temperature ranges, where the measured viscosity data applied to obtain the accurate fitting viscosity data and the accurate fitting expressions near [Formula: see text] lie, the measured data in 15 different temperature ranges (a)–(o) are applied to obtain the fitting viscosity data and the fitting expressions by the Vogel–Fulcher–Tammann (VFT) relation. The accuracy of the fitting viscosity near [Formula: see text] will varies when the measured data in different temperature ranges are applied to obtain the fitting viscosity data by VFT relation. It is found that the accurate fitting viscosity data with the coefficients of determination [Formula: see text] in temperature range 397.3–583.6 K (0.84–1.24[Formula: see text]) near [Formula: see text] can be acquired using the measured data in temperature ranges (g)–(h) and (k) by the VFT relation. In other words, we found the temperature ranges (namely, temperature ranges (g)–(h) and (k)), in which the measured viscosity data applied to obtain the accurate fitting viscosity data and the accurate fitting expressions near [Formula: see text] exist.
Longitudinal vibration wave in the composite elastic metamaterials containing Bragg structure and local resonator
Authors: Lei Xiaofei , Chen Peng , Hou Heping , Liu Shanhui , Liu Peng
Published: September 2020

In this paper, a novel composite acoustical hyperstructure of Bragg structure with local resonator is investigated theoretically for discussing the scattering performance of longitudinal vibration wave, its bandgaps are calculated using the established mathematical model. For confirming the veritable existence of bandgap and verifying the correctness of established mathematical model, the transmission spectrum of composite acoustical hyperstructure is also studied using finite-element method, and comparing the vibration transmission spectrum with bandgaps, the results indicate that the established theoretical model can correctly predict longitudinal wave bandgaps. Moreover, the bandgaps and modes shapes are calculated and compared with an unalloyed Bragg structure for probing the dispersion mechanics of composite acoustical hyperstructure, it turned out that local resonator can add one bandgap at the base of Bragg structure and the total bandgaps can be broadened. Further, for discussing the effect of spring of local resonator on bandgaps, bandgap of local resonator with different spring is calculated, the results showed that the total width of BG is larger when Young’s modulus is 1E and 16E, the total width are 772.48 and 774.30 Hz, respectively; as Young’s modulus is 0.5E and 2E, the width of BG are lower, 753.79 and 754.23 Hz, respectively. In view of longitudinal vibration wave inducing structural distortion and vibration energy conversion, the dynamic properties of composite acoustical hyperstructure are studied via strain energy density, the results indicate that reaction formation of local resonator can dissipate strain energy, when the local resonator is not activated (or waveless along with Bragg structure), un-dissipation strain energy.
Conditional law of large numbers and entropy of Markov processes
Authors: Chen Jinwen , Dan Sen
Published: September 2020

The importance of a law of large numbers is well known. In this paper, conditional law of large numbers for Markov processes is proved, which can be used in computing quantities related to sub-Markov sequences. A variational interpretation for this limit is given, which shows that typically the quantities of interests tend to minimize a certain entropy. A quasi-compact operator argument is involved.
Clumped isotope geothermometry of an Ordovician carbonate mound, Hudson Bay Basin
Authors: Jautzy Josué J. , Savard Martine M. , Lavoie Denis , Ardakani Omid H. , Dhillon Ryan S. , Defliese William F. , Castagner Ariane
Published: September 2020

The Hudson Bay sedimentary basin was overlooked geologically until two decades ago. Recent efforts to understand the palaeogeothermal history of this basin have led to the evaluation of fluid inclusion microthermometry, apatite fission track, organic matter reflectance and Rock–Eval analyses. Although apatite fission track and organic maturity indicators tend to show relatively low maximum burial temperatures (60–80°C), evidence of potential oil slicks on the sea surface and oil and gas shows in offshore wells have been reported across Hudson Bay. Fluid inclusion microthermometry in a carbonate mound sequence suggests homogenization temperatures of 118 ± 25 and 93 ± 10°C for recrystallized synsedimentary marine calcite and late pore-filling burial calcite, respectively. This sequence provides an interesting geological framework to test the application of clumped isotope thermometry against independent geothermometers. Here, we present clumped isotope data acquired on the late calcite cements and diagenetically altered early marine phases. The integration of clumped isotopic data with other thermal indicators allows the reconstruction and refinement of the thermal–diagenetic history of these carbonates by confirming an episode of heating, probably of hydrothermal origin and prior to normal burial diagenesis, that reset both fluid inclusions and the clumped isotope indicators without recrystallization.
Cryptography with Analog Scheme Using Memristors
Authors: Cambou Bertrand , Hély David , Assiri Sareh
Published: September 2020

Networks of low-power Internet of Things do not have always access to enough computing power to support mainstream cryptographic schemes; such schemes also consume computing power that can be exposed to side channel attacks. This article describes a method, that we call “cryptography with analog scheme using memristors,” leveraging the physical properties of memristors, which are active elements suitable for the design of components such as artificial neurons. The proposed devices encrypt messages by segmenting them into blocks of bits, each modulating the injected currents into randomly selected memristor cells, resulting into sets of resistance values turned into cipher texts. Through hash-protected handshakes, identical addresses are independently generated by both communicating devices, to concurrently point at the same set of cells in the arrays, and their images. These block ciphers, for example, 1 KB long, can only be decrypted with the same memristor array driven by analog circuitry or its image, rather than digital key-based schemes. The proposed methods generate cipher text, and decrypt them, with approximately one femto joule per bit, which is below observable level through differential power analysis. The article explains how the use of different cells for each message to encrypt, driven under different conditions, has the potential to mitigate mainstream attacks. It provides a detailed characterization of memristors to evaluate the feasibility of the approach and discusses some hardware and architectures to implement the scheme.
Transposable Elements and the Evolution of Insects
Authors: Gilbert Clément , Peccoud Jean , Cordaux Richard
Published: September 2020

Insects are major contributors to our understanding of the interaction between transposable elements (TEs) and their hosts, owing to seminal discoveries, as well as to the growing number of sequenced insect genomes and population genomics and functional studies. Insect TE landscapes are highly variable both within and across insect orders, although phylogenetic relatedness appears to correlate with similarity in insect TE content. This correlation is unlikely to be solely due to inheritance of TEs from shared ancestors and may partly reflect preferential horizontal transfer of TEs between closely related species. The influence of insect traits on TE landscapes, however, remains unclear. Recent findings indicate that, in addition to being involved in insect adaptations and aging, TEs are seemingly at the cornerstone of insect antiviral immunity. Thus, TEs are emerging as essential insect symbionts that may have deleterious or beneficial consequences on their hosts, depending on context.
Combining Modern and Paleoceanographic Perspectives on Ocean Heat Uptake
Authors: Gebbie Geoffrey
Published: September 2020

Monitoring Earth's energy imbalance requires monitoring changes in the heat content of the ocean. Recent observational estimates indicate that ocean heat uptake is accelerating in the twenty-first century. Examination of estimates of ocean heat uptake over the industrial era, the Common Era of the last 2,000 years, and the period since the Last Glacial Maximum, 20,000 years ago, permits a wide perspective on modern-day warming rates. In addition, this longer-term focus illustrates how the dynamics of the deep ocean and the cryosphere were active in the past and are still active today. The large climatic shifts that started with the melting of the great ice sheets have involved significant ocean heat uptake that was sustained over centuries and millennia, and modern-ocean heat content changes are small by comparison.
Social Influence and Group Identity
Authors: Spears Russell
Published: September 2020

This chapter reviews research on the group identity explanation of social influence, grounded in self-categorization theory, and contrasts it with other group-based explanations, including normative influence, interdependence, and social network approaches, as well as approaches to persuasion and influence that background group (identity) processes. Although the review primarily discusses recent research, its focus also invites reappraisal of some classic research in order to address basic questions about the scope and power of the group identity explanation. The self-categorization explanation of influence grounded in group norms, moderated by group identification, is compared and contrasted to other normative explanations of influence, notably the concept of injunctive norms and the relation to moral conviction. A range of moderating factors relating to individual variation, features of the intragroup and intergroup context, and important contextual variables (i.e., anonymity versus visibility, isolation versus copresence) that are particularly relevant to online influence in the new media are also reviewed.
Active Forgetting: Adaptation of Memory by Prefrontal Control
Authors: Anderson Michael C. , Hulbert Justin C.
Published: September 2020

Over the past century, psychologists have discussed whether forgetting might arise from active mechanisms that promote memory loss to achieve various functions, such as minimizing errors, facilitating learning, or regulating one's emotional state. The past decade has witnessed a great expansion in knowledge about the brain mechanisms underlying active forgetting in its varying forms. A core discovery concerns the role of the prefrontal cortex in exerting top-down control over mnemonic activity in the hippocampus and other brain structures, often via inhibitory control. New findings reveal that such processes not only induce forgetting of specific memories but also can suppress the operation of mnemonic processes more broadly, triggering windows of anterograde and retrograde amnesia in healthy people. Recent work extends active forgetting to nonhuman animals, presaging the development of a multilevel mechanistic account that spans the cognitive, systems, network, and even cellular levels. This work reveals how organisms adapt their memories to their cognitive and emotional goals and has implications for understanding vulnerability to psychiatric disorders.
Photovoltaic Generation Prediction of CCIPCA Combined with LSTM
Authors: Zhu E. , Pi D.
Published: September 2020

In order to remedy problems encompassing large-scale data being collected by photovoltaic (PV) stations, multiple dimensions of power prediction mode input, noise, slow model convergence speed, and poor precision, a power prediction model that combines the Candid Covariance-free Incremental Principal Component Analysis (CCIPCA) with Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) network was proposed in this study. The corresponding model uses factor correlation coefficient to evaluate the factors that affect PV generation and obtains the most critical factor of PV generation. Then, it uses CCIPCA to reduce the dimension of PV super large-scale data to the factor dimension, avoiding the complex calculation of covariance matrix of algorithms such as Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and to some extent eliminating the influence of noise made by PV generation data acquisition equipment and transmission equipment such as sensors. The training speed and convergence speed of LSTM are improved by the dimension-reduced data. The PV generation data of a certain power station over a period is collected from SolarGIS as sample data. The model is compared with Markov chain power generation prediction model and GA-BP power generation prediction model. The experimental results indicate that the generation prediction error of the model is less than 3%.
Systematically Exploring the Antitumor Mechanisms of Core Chinese Herbs on Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Computational Study
Authors: Wu Zhulin , He Li , Wang Lianan , Peng Lisheng
Published: September 2020

Objective. Chinese herbs play a positive role in the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in China. However, it is not clear which of Chinese herbs are critical for the treatment of HCC. Besides, mechanisms of CCHs in the treatment of HCC remain unclear. Hence, our goal is to identify the core Chinese herbs (CCHs) for treating HCC and explore their antitumor mechanism. Methods. Firstly, clinical traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) prescriptions for HCC were collected from Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) database, and then, data mining software was used to identify CCHs. After that, bioactive compounds and corresponding target genes of CCHs were obtained using three TCM databases, and target genes of HCC were acquired from MalaCards and OMIM. Subsequently, common target genes of CCHs and HCC were screened. Moreover, biological functions and pathways were analyzed, and Cytoscape plugin cytoHubba was used to identify hub genes. Finally, prognostic values of hub genes were verified by survival analysis, and the molecular docking approach was utilized to validate the interactions between targets and bioactive compounds of CCHs. Results. Eight CCHs were determined from 630 prescriptions, and 100 bioactive compounds (e.g., quercetin and luteolin) and 126 common target genes were screened. Furthermore, common target genes of CCHs and HCC were mainly enriched in cancer‐associated pathways, and six hub genes with statistical significance in survival analysis were selected as key target genes for molecular docking. Additionally, molecular docking showed that the bioactive compounds docked well with the protein receptors of key target genes. Conclusion. By combining data mining, network pharmacology, molecular docking, and survival analysis methods, we found that CCHs may play a therapeutic role in HCC through regulating the target genes and pathways related to cancer occurrence and development, angiogenesis, metastasis, and prognosis.
Bioreactance-Based Noninvasive Fluid Responsiveness and Cardiac Output Monitoring: A Pilot Study in Patients with Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage and Literature Review
Authors: Sivakumar Sanjeev , Lazaridis Christos
Published: September 2020

Management of volume status, arterial blood pressure, and cardiac output are core elements in approaching the patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). For the prevention and treatment of delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI), euvolemia is advocated and caution is made towards the avoidance of hypervolemia. Induced hypertension and cardiac output augmentation are the mainstays of medical management during active DCI, whereas the older triple-H paradigm has fallen out of favor due to lack of demonstrable physiological or clinical benefits and serious concern for adverse effects such as pulmonary edema and multiorgan system dysfunction. Furthermore, insight into clinical hemodynamics of patients with SAH becomes salient when one considers the frequently associated cardiac and pulmonary manifestations of the disease such as SAH-associated cardiomyopathy and neurogenic pulmonary edema. In terms of fluid and volume targets, less attention has been paid to dynamic markers of fluid responsiveness despite the well-established, in the general critical care literature, superiority of these as compared to traditionally used static markers such as central venous pressure (CVP). Based on this literature and sound pathophysiologic reasoning, reliance on static markers (such as CVP) is unjustified when one attempts to assess strategies augmenting stroke volume (SV), arterial blood pressure, and oxygen delivery. There are several options for continuous bedside cardiorespiratory monitoring and optimization of SAH patients. We, here, review a noninvasive monitoring technique based on thoracic bioreactance and focusing on continuous cardiac output and fluid responsiveness markers.
Bayesian Estimation of Resistance Factor for Bored Piles Based on Load Test Database
Authors: Xu Zhijun , Zhang Ranran , Fan Liang , Han Xing , Yuan Fang , Du Mingfang
Published: September 2020

The quality of in situ data is key to calculating resistance factor of bored piles. However, it is difficult to summarize accuracy data due to various uncertainties in engineering. This paper employs the Bayesian method and mathematical statistics theory to put forward an estimation method for updating in situ data. A testing database (33 tests in noncohesive soils and 53 tests in cohesive soils) of bored piles is summarized. The model factor of bored piles is quantified as the ratio of the measured capacity to the calculated capacity. The proposed method is used to classify summarized data into three categories, which are “good data,” “general data,” and “bad data.” The “bad data” are discarded because of bad contribution to calculation, and Bayesian theory is incorporated into updating the model factor statistics. Three methods are used to calculate the reliability index and resistance factor of bored piles, and the results show that the reliability index and resistance factor are sensitive to the quality of data. Finally, the available values of resistance factors are proposed based on resistance factor design for bridge design specification, which can offer references to revision relevant specifications. The proposed method can be used to update other geotechnical data.
Antibiotic Resistance Profile of Bacteria Isolated from Wastewater Systems in Eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Teshome Awugchew , Alemayehu Tadesse , Deriba Wegene , Ayele Yohanes
Published: September 2020

World Health Organizations launched a global action plan on antimicrobial resistance since 2015. Along with other objectives, the plan was aimed to strengthen knowledge of the spread of antimicrobial resistance through surveillance and research. Given their high bacterial densities and that they receive antibiotics, metals, and other selective agents, wastewater systems are a logical hotspot for antibiotic resistance surveillance. The current study reports on the result of antibiotic resistance surveillance conducted in selected wastewater systems of Eastern Ethiopia from Feb. 2018 to Oct. 2019. We monitored three wastewater systems in Eastern Ethiopia, such as the activated sludge system of Dire Dawa University, waste stabilization pond of Haramaya University, and a septic tank of Hiwot Fana Specialized University Hospital for 18 months period. We collected 66 wastewater samples from 11 sampling locations and isolated 722 bacteria using selective culture media and biochemical tests. We tested their antibiotic susceptibility using the standard Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method on the surface of the Mueller-Hinton agar and interpreted the result according to EUCAST guidelines. The result shows the highest percentage of resistance for ampicillin among isolates of hospital wastewater effluent which is 36 (94.7%), 33 (91.7%), and 32 (88.9%) for E. coli, E. faecalis, and E. faecium, respectively. A lower rate of resistance was seen for gentamicin among isolates of activated sludge wastewater treatment system which is 10 (16.4%), 8 (13.3%), 11 (18.9%), and 12 (20.3%) for E. coli, E. faecalis, E. faecium, and P. aeruginosa, respectively. Hospital wastewater exhibited higher resistance than the other two wastewater systems. The Multiple Antibiotic Resistance Index (MARI) has significantly increased in the wastewater’s course treatment process, showing the proliferation of resistance in the wastewater treatment system.
Reporting Quality of Randomized Controlled Trials for the Treatment of Eczema with Chinese Patent Medicine Based on the CONSORT‐CHM Formulas 2017
Authors: Li Ming , Zhou Boyang , Zhou Lihong , Li Linfeng
Published: September 2020

Objective. Chinese patent medicine (CPM) has been widely used to treat eczema in mainland China for decades. This study aims to investigate circulating CPM for eczema in mainland China and to evaluate the reporting quality of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of them by using the CONSORT‐CHM formulas 2017 (Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials for Chinese herbal medicine formulas 2017). Methods. Circulating CPM with the indication for eczema was selected by searching three drug databases and confirmed by contacting the manufacturers. RCTs for the treatment of eczema with CPM were selected in four Chinese literature databases and four English literature databases from their inception to August 31, 2019. The reporting quality of included RCTs was assessed based on the CONSORT‐CHM formulas 2017. A univariate analysis was conducted to identify the factors associated with the reporting quality. Results. A total of 70 circulating CPMs had the indication for eczema. Among them, 21 CPMs with 144 RCTs reached the eligible criteria. The mean overall quality score (OQS) of 144 RCTs was 19.85 ± 2.73, which was much less than the maximum score of 38. Of the 38 items, 12 items were reported in over 70% of the trials, 6 items were reported in 50%–70% of the trials, and 16 items were reported in less than 50% of the trials. Publication after 2015 (P < 0.001) and the first author from a university hospital (P = 0.010) were associated with the better reporting quality. Conclusion. There are a lot of circulating CPMs with the indication for eczema in mainland China, but both the quantity and the reporting quality of RCTs regarding those CPMs are suboptimal. It is necessary that authors and journal editors learn and adhere to the CONSORT‐CHM formulas 2017 to enhance the reporting quality of RCTs for the treatment of eczema with CPM.
Application of the Artificial Fish School Algorithm and Particle Filter Algorithm in the Industrial Process Control Particle Filtering Algorithm for Industrial Process Control
Authors: Huang Zhaoxia
Published: September 2020

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is of strategic importance in the new era of industrial big data, creating a brand-new industrial ecosystem. Considering the unknown parameters in the IIoT-based industrial process control systems, this paper combines the artificial fish swarm algorithm (AFSA) and the particle filtering (PF) algorithm into the AFSA-PF algorithm based on the self-organizing state space (SOSS) model. The AFSA-PF algorithm not only can estimates the system state but also can make the sampling distribution of the unknown parameter to move the true parameter distribution. Ultimately, the true values of the unknown parameters are identified. In this way, the system model can gradually approximate the actual IIoT-based industrial process control system.
Standardized Surgical Management for Cystic Dilation of the Bile Ducts Based on Clinical and Pathological Studies: A Narrative Review
Authors: Xia Hong-Tian
Published: September 2020

The surgical method of complete/radical cyst excision plus Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy remains the primary therapy and the only effective treatment for cystic dilation of the bile ducts (CDBDs). However, the incidence of long-term postoperative complications is still high, as is the reoperation rate, and the potential for postoperative malignant transformation still exists. In recent years, significant progress has been made in understanding the pathogenic mechanism and pathological changes of adult CDBDs. Based on which, the surgical procedures for CDBDs have been revised to further improve their effectiveness. The purpose of this review is to systematically summarize the latest concepts of the etiology and pathogenic mechanism and the pathological changes of adult CDBDs. Based on the findings of these clinical and pathological studies, a comprehensive theoretical system in the surgical treatment of CDBDs has been established, which corrects many previous theoretical misunderstandings. The specific surgical method for each type of CDBDs and the key technical notes are also described in detail. Using these principles, treatment outcomes for CDBDs can be significantly improved, and the current high complication rate, reoperation rate, and rate of postoperative malignant transformation can be reduced.
Arctigenin Inhibits Glioblastoma Proliferation through the AKT/mTOR Pathway and Induces Autophagy
Authors: Jiang Yong’an , Liu Jiayu , Hong Wangwang , Fei Xiaowei , Liu Ru’en
Published: September 2020

Purpose. Arctigenin (ARG) is a natural lignan compound extracted from Arctium lappa and has displayed anticancer function and therapeutic effect in a variety of cancers. Arctigenin is mainly from Arctium lappa extract. It has been shown to induce autophagy in various cancers. However, as for whether arctigenin induces autophagy in gliomas or not, the specific mechanism is still worth exploring. Methods. Using CCK8, the monoclonal experiment was made to detect the proliferation ability. The scratch experiment and the transwell experiment were applied to the migration and invasion ability. PI/RNase and FITC‐conjugated anti‐annexin V were used to detect the cell cycle and apoptosis. Western blotting was used to determine the specified protein level, and constructed LC3B‐GFP plasmid was used for analysis of autophagy.Results. Our research showed that ARG inhibited the growth and proliferation and invasion and migration of glioma cells in a dose‐dependent manner (U87MG and T98G) and arrested the cell cycle and induced apoptosis. Interestingly, ARG induced autophagy in a dose‐dependent manner. We applied Western blotting to measure the increase in the key autophagy protein LC3B, as well as some other autophagy‐related proteins (increase in Beclin‐1 and decrease in P62). In order to further explore the mechanism that ARG passed initiating autophagy to inhibit cell growth, we further found by Western blotting that AKT and mTOR phosphorylation proteins (P‐AKT, P‐mTOR) were reduced after ARG treatment, and we used AKT agonists to rescue, and the phosphorylated proteins of AKT and mTOR increased, and we found that the autophagy‐related proteins were also reversed. And interestingly, the protein of apoptosis was also reversed along with autophagy. Conclusions. We thought ARG inhibited the proliferation of glioma cells by inducing autophagy and apoptosis through the AKT/mTOR pathway.
Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Analysis of Retinal and Choroidal Vascular Networks during Acute, Relapsing, and Quiescent Stages of Macular Toxoplasma Retinochoroiditis
Authors: Azar Georges , Favard Catherine , Salah Sawsen , Brézin Antoine , Vasseur Vivien , Mauget-Faÿsse Martine
Published: September 2020

Purpose. To highlight the advantages of optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) in delineating the morphological features of the retinal and choroidal vascular network during acute, relapsing, and quiescent stages of macular toxoplasma retinochoroiditis. Methods. This prospective study included patients presenting with both active and quiescent ocular toxoplasmoses. OCTA was obtained to diagnose and follow the subsequent vascular network changes at diagnosis and six months after acute presentation. Results. Twenty‐three eyes of 23 patients were included. In active lesions, OCTA showed extensive, well‐delineated areas of intense hyposignal and perifoveal capillary arcade disruption in the parafoveal superficial capillary plexus (pSCP) and less extensive hyposignal in the parafoveal deep capillary plexus (pDCP). Signals of decreased deep capillary density and disorganization were also seen in the choroid. In nonactive lesions, OCTA demonstrated a homogenous and equally attenuated grayish hyposignal of the pSCP and pDCP and a partial restoration of the nonperfused choroidal areas. Conclusion. OCTA is a useful technique for vascular network analysis in toxoplasma retinochoroiditis. It allows the visualization of the different network changes and behaviors during the different stages of the infection.
Mechanistic Insights into the Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein-Induced Atherosclerosis
Authors: Khatana Chainika , Saini Neeraj K. , Chakrabarti Sasanka , Saini Vipin , Sharma Anil , Saini Reena V. , Saini Adesh K.
Published: September 2020

Dyslipidaemia has a prominent role in the onset of notorious atherosclerosis, a disease of medium to large arteries. Atherosclerosis is the prime root of cardiovascular events contributing to the most considerable number of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Factors like cellular senescence, genetics, clonal haematopoiesis, sedentary lifestyle-induced obesity, or diabetes mellitus upsurge the tendency of atherosclerosis and are foremost pioneers to definitive transience. Accumulation of oxidized low-density lipoproteins (Ox-LDLs) in the tunica intima triggers the onset of this disease. In the later period of progression, the build-up plaques rupture ensuing thrombosis (completely blocking the blood flow), causing myocardial infarction, stroke, and heart attack, all of which are common atherosclerotic cardiovascular events today. The underlying mechanism is very well elucidated in literature but the therapeutic measures remains to be unleashed. Researchers tussle to demonstrate a clear understanding of treating mechanisms. A century of research suggests that lowering LDL, statin-mediated treatment, HDL, and lipid-profile management should be of prime interest to retard atherosclerosis-induced deaths. We shall brief the Ox-LDL-induced atherogenic mechanism and the treating measures in line to impede the development and progression of atherosclerosis.
Integrated Guidance and Control with Input Saturation and Impact Angle Constraint
Authors: Fu Zhenhua , Zhang Kuanqiao , Gan Qintao , Yang Suochang
Published: September 2020

Aiming at the problem of impact angle constraint and input saturation, an integrated guidance and control (IGC) algorithm with impact angle constraint and input saturation is proposed. A three-channel independent design model of missile IGC with impact angle constraint is established, and an extended state observer with fast finite-time convergence is designed to estimate and compensate model errors and coupling relationship between channels. Based on the nonsingular terminal sliding mode control and backstepping control, the IGC three-channel independent design is completed. Nussbaum function and an auxiliary system are introduced to deal with the input saturation. The Lyapunov function is constructed to prove the finite-time convergence of the IGC algorithm. The missile six-degree-of-freedom simulation results show the effectiveness and superiority of the IGC algorithm.
Reasons for Undesirable Pregnancy Outcomes among Women with Appendicitis: The Experience of a Tertiary Center
Authors: Mantoglu Baris , Altintoprak Fatih , Firat Necattin , Gonullu Emre , Dikicier Enis , Akdeniz Yesim , Aziret Mehmet , Erkorkmaz Unal
Published: September 2020

Background. Although laparoscopic appendectomy increases its popularity today, the answer to the question of whether to perform open or laparoscopic appendectomy during pregnancy is appropriate in many studies, and the choice of surgery depends on the surgeon. Herein, we aimed to evaluate the variables that affect undesirable pregnancy outcomes that occur as a result of appendicitis during pregnancy. Methods. Seventy-eight pregnant patients with acute appendicitis who underwent laparoscopic or open technique intervention enrolled in this retrospective study. In addition to the demographic structure of the patients, surgical technique, the number of pregnancies, multiple pregnancy status, surgical pathologies, laboratory values, radiological imaging methods, and length of hospital stay were evaluated. The severity of appendicitis was classified according to the pathology results. The patients were divided into two groups according to the outcomes of their pregnancy. Preterm delivery and abortion involved in the study as a single complication section. Results. The mean age of the pregnant patients was 28.6 ± 5. Of the 78 pregnant women with appendicitis, 47.4% had their first pregnancy, 37.2% had their second pregnancy, and 15.4% had 3 or more pregnancies. The preterm delivery and abortus were 19.5% in the open appendectomy (OA) group and 16.2% in the laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) group. No statistically significant difference was detected in this group in terms of appendicitis pathology triggering preterm delivery or abortion (p 0.075). When white blood count (WBC) and C-reactive protein (CRP) were evaluated by laboratory findings, CRP was found to be statistically significantly higher in patients with preterm birth (p 0.042). Conclusion. Consequently, acute appendicitis may cause serious intra-abdominal infection and inflammation in addition to the complexity of the diagnosis due to the nature of pregnancy, as well as undesired pregnancy outcomes with the surgical technique, or independently with other variables.
Implicit Two-Point Block Method for Solving Fourth-Order Initial Value Problem Directly with Application
Authors: Allogmany Reem , Ismail Fudziah , Majid Zanariah Abdul , Ibrahim Zarina Bibi
Published: September 2020

This paper proposes an implicit block method with two-point to directly solve the fourth-order Initial Value Problems (IVPs). The implicit block method is derived by adopting Hermite interpolating polynomial as the basis function, incorporating the first derivative offt,y,y′,y′′,y′′′to enhance the solution’s accuracy. A block formulation is presented to acquire the numerical approximation at two points simultaneously. The introduced method’s basic properties, including order, zero stability, and convergence, are presented. Numerical experiments are carried out to verify the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method compared with those of the several existing methods. Application in ship dynamics is also presented which yield impressive results for the proposed two-point block method.
Study on the Electro‐Osmosis Characteristics of Soft Clay from Taizhou with Various Saline Solutions
Authors: Shen Yang , Shi Wen , Li Shaoyu , Yang Long , Feng Jianting , Gao Mingjun
Published: September 2020

Chemical electro‐osmosis with an injected saline solution can be described as an efficient method for adjusting the soil microstructure and improving soil conductivity, and the effect of electro‐osmotic consolidation on soft foundations can also be improved by this novel technology in regard to foundation treatment. To better study the electro‐osmotic characteristics of soft clay from Taizhou with different grouting solutions, a series of chemical electro‐osmotic experiments concerning the injection of CaCl2, MgCl2, NaCl, KCl, and deionized water were conducted in the laboratory based on custom test devices. The actual treatment effects of these experiments were compared by monitoring the drainage, current, voltage, elemental mass fractions in the soil, and soil structure. The chemical electro‐osmotic method was further studied from a theoretical perspective based on the inherent link between the macro‐ and microlevel indexes. The results of the model test indicated that the crystal structure of the soil changed from an initial flocculated structure to a granular or laminated structure with the injection of CaCl2 and MgCl2 saline. Na+ was hereby replaced by multicharged ions, which served as the key factor that affected both the drainage efficiency and conductivity of the electro‐osmotic process. Moreover, a novel one‐dimensional electro‐osmotic consolidation equation was introduced that considered variations in the electro‐osmotic permeability coefficient, which better illustrated how the excess pore water pressure was deduced when compared with Esrig’s consolidation equation. Furthermore, the results of this experiment may be adopted as a reference or as evidence for the subsequent promotion and application of the electro‐osmosis method.
HAND2‐AS1 Works as a ceRNA of miR‐3118 to Suppress Proliferation and Migration in Breast Cancer by Upregulating PHLPP2
Authors: Dong Guolei , Wang Xiaorui , Jia Yan , Jia Yongsheng , Zhao Weipeng , Zhang Jin , Tong Zhongsheng
Published: September 2020

Large quantities of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been verified to exert vital functions in the process of breast cancer (BC). lncRNA heart and neural crest derivatives expressed 2‐antisense RNA 1 (HAND2‐AS1) was reported to suppress the development of several cancers. However, its detailed function in BC remained unclear. In the current study, HAND2‐AS1 was discovered to be low expressed in BC cell lines, and overexpression of HAND2‐AS1 could repress proliferation, migration, and invasion but facilitate apoptosis in BC cells. Moreover, HAND2‐AS1 was found to act as a sponge of miR‐3118 which was detected to be upregulated in BC cell lines. miR‐3118 depletion could constrict the progression of BC. HAND‐AS1 hindered the course of BC by reducing the expression of miR‐3118. Besides, PHLPP2 was treated as a downstream target of miR‐3118 under the selection of RNA pull‐down assays. HAND2‐AS1 inhibited the process of BC by enhancing expression of PHLPP2. In summary, our study testified that HAND2‐AS1 suppressed BC growth by targeting the miR‐3118/PHLPP2 axis, indicating that HAND2‐AS1 could be regarded as a potential target for BC treatment.
Sources and Toxicity of Mercury in the San Francisco Bay Area, Spanning California and Beyond
Authors: Kolipinski Mietek , Subramanian Mani , Kristen Kristina , Borish Steven , Ditta Stacy
Published: September 2020

This report synthesizes and evaluates published scientific literature on the environmental occurrence and biomagnification of mercury with emphasis on the San Francisco Bay Area (SFBA), California. Mercury forms various compounds, well known for their toxicity in humans and environmental ecosystems. Elemental mercury is transported and distributed by air, water, and sediments. Through the metabolic processes of algae and bacteria, mercury is converted into organic compounds, such as methylmercury (MeHg), which then bioaccumulates up through trophic levels. In fish, it is found primarily in skeletal muscle, while in humans, the primary target organs are the brain and kidneys. Health concerns exist regarding bioaccumulation of mercury in humans. This paper reviews the known anthropogenic sources of mercury contamination, including atmospheric deposition through aerial transport from coal burning power plants, cement production, and residual contaminants of mercury from gold mining, as well as mercury-containing waste from silver amalgams emitted from dental offices into waterways. Although tools exist for measuring mercury levels in hair, breast milk, urine, blood, and feces in humans, current diagnostic tools are inadequate in measuring total mercury load, including deposited mercury in tissues. Additionally, insufficient attention is being paid to potential synergistic impacts of mercury interaction with multipliers such as lead, cadmium, and aluminum. We provide specific data on methylmercury concentrations at different trophic levels, followed by recommendations for reducing the level of mercury in the SFBA in order to protect the health of humans and other species.
Urinary Paraben Concentration and Its Association with Serum Triglyceride Concentration in 2013-2014 NHANES Participants: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Pazos Rebecca , Palacios Cristina , Campa Adriana
Published: September 2020

Background. Alkyl esters of para-hydroxybenzoic acid, colloquially known as parabens, are types of preservatives found in multiple foodstuffs, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products to which Americans are exposed daily. It is unclear if parabens exhibit endocrine-disrupting properties. Parabens may interact with triglycerides in adipose tissue and impact lipid metabolism. Objective. To evaluate the association between urinary paraben concentrations and serum triglyceride concentrations. Design. A cross-sectional study. Setting. The Mobile Examination Centers affiliated with 2013-2014 NHANES. Participant(s). 827 adults (20 years or older) affiliated with the 2013-2014 NHANES. Intervention(s). None. Main Outcome Measure(s). Triglyceride levels were associated with urinary paraben concentrations (methyl, ethyl, and propyl) using a hierarchical multiple regression, adjusting for ethnicity/race, gender, BMI, and age. Unadjusted results are also reported. Results. The geometric mean of the urinary concentration of methylparaben, ethylparaben, and propylparaben was 57.100, 2.537, and 6.537 ng/ml, respectively. Triglyceride concentrations were inversely associated with methylparaben (β = −0.092, P=0.07), ethylparaben (β = −0.066, P=0.045), and propylparaben (β = −0.076, P=0.025). Being female, non-Hispanic White, and non-Hispanic Black were associated with decreasing triglyceride levels in the presence of methylparaben, ethylparaben, and propylparaben, and age, BMI, and being male were associated with increasing circulating triglycerides. Conclusion. Despite the potential detrimental effects of parabens on triglycerides, our results suggest that urinary excretions of methylparaben, ethylparaben, and propylparaben are associated with lower concentrations of circulating triglycerides in certain populations. Further research is needed to confirm the mechanisms and health impact of this relationship.
Effectiveness of Friction Dampers in Seismic and Wind Response Control of Connected Adjacent Steel Buildings
Authors: Malhotra Anshul , Roy Tathagata , Matsagar Vasant
Published: September 2020

Effectiveness of friction dampers (FDs) is investigated for connected dynamically similar and dissimilar steel buildings under uncorrelated seismic ground motion and wind excitations. The steel buildings involving moment-resisting frame (MRF) and braced frame (BF) are varied from five storeys to twenty storeys, which are connected by different configurations of the FDs. The steel buildings without and with bracing systems are modeled as plane frame structures with inertial masses lumped at each joint node. The FDs are modeled an element having yield force equal to slip load, with force-deformation behavior as elastic-perfectly plastic material. The dynamic responses of the unconnected and connected steel buildings are obtained in terms of top floor displacement and acceleration under the considered ground motion and wind excitations. It is concluded that the FDs help minimizing the gap between two adjacent buildings having utilized the space to connect the buildings. Moreover, the effectiveness of the FDs in terms of response reduction in dynamically dissimilar buildings is more than that in the similar buildings under the considered excitation scenarios. However, the effectiveness of the installed devices varies significantly under the multiple loading scenarios. Finally, the separation gap may be reduced by ∼30%, which would eventually minimize structural pounding as well as utilize the space for effective construction. Hence, important essential guidelines are outlined for structures installed with such passive control devices against such multiple scenario loadings.
Role of Chrysophanol in Epithelial‐Mesenchymal Transition in Oral Cancer Cell Lines via a Wnt‐3‐Dependent Pathway
Authors: Chung Ping-Chen , Hsieh Po-Chun , Lan Chou-Chin , Hsu Po-Chih , Sung Min-Yi , Lin Ya-Hsuan , Tzeng I.-Shiang , Chiu Valeria , Cheng Ching-Feng , Kuo Chan-Yen
Published: September 2020

Oral cancer belongs to the group of head and neck cancers. If not diagnosed or treated early, it can be life threatening. Epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays an important role in tumor formation and progression. An increase in the presence of the EMT phenotype causes tumor cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and poor prognosis. Therefore, attenuating carcinogenesis via EMT inhibition is a good strategy. Herein, we will determine the pharmacological effects of chrysophanol on the EMT in FaDu cells. To analyze EMT, we detected the expression EMT markers, including α‐SMA, β‐catenin, vimentin, N‐cadherin, E‐cadherin, phospho‐GSK‐3β, and nuclear translocations of p65 and β‐catenin by western blotting. Additionally, accumulating evidence indicates that reactive oxygen species (ROS) mediate EMT. Our results showed that the level of ROS was significantly increased after chrysophanol treatment. We further speculated that chrysophanol‐mediated EMT and metastasis are involved in the Wnt‐3‐dependent signaling pathway. The inhibition of the EMT phenotype and metastasis and accumulation of ROS caused by chrysophanol was reversed by treatment with the Wnt‐3 agonist Bml 284. Therefore, our findings indicated that chrysophanol altered EMT formation, ROS accumulation, and metastasis via the Wnt‐3‐dependent signaling pathway.
Multitarget Search of Swarm Robots in Unknown Complex Environments
Authors: Zhou You , Chen Anhua , Zhang Hongqiang , Zhang Xin , Zhou Shaowu
Published: September 2020

When searching for multiple targets in an unknown complex environment, swarm robots should firstly form a number of subswarms autonomously through a task division model and then each subswarm searches for a target in parallel. Based on the probability response principle and multitarget division strategy, a closed-loop regulation strategy is proposed, which includes target type of member, target response intensity evaluation, and distance to the corresponding individuals. Besides, it is necessary to make robots avoid other robots and convex obstacles with various shapes in the unknown complex environment. By decomposing the multitarget search behavior of swarm robots, a simplified virtual-force model (SVF-Model) is developed for individual robots, and a control method is designed for swarm robots searching for multiple targets (SRSMT-SVF). The simulation results indicate that the proposed method keeps the robot with a good performance of collision avoidance, effectively reducing the collision conflicts among the robots, environment, and individuals.