bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficiency is doing things right: high-throughput, automated, 3D methods in the modern era of otolith morphometrics
Authors: Quindazzi Micah J. , Summers Adam P. , Juanes Francis
Published: August 2021

The morphometrics of fish otoliths have been commonly used to investigate population structures and the environmental impacts on ontogeny. These studies can require hundreds if not thousands of otoliths to be collected and processed. Processing these otoliths takes up valuable time, money, and resources that can be saved by automation. These structures also contain relevant information in three dimensions that is lost with 2D morphometric methods from photographic analysis. In this study, the otoliths of three populations of coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) were examined with manual 2D, automated 2D, and automated 3D otolith measurement methods. The automated 3D method was able to detect an 8% difference in average otolith density, while 2D methods could not. Due to the loss of information in the z axis, and the longer processing time, 2D methods can take up to 100 times longer to reach the same statistical power as automated 3D methods. Automated 3D methods are faster, can answer a wider range of questions, and allow fisheries scientists to automate rather monotonous tasks.
Eliciting increased flavonoids content in Ginkgo biloba leaves through exogenous salicylic acid and methyl jasmonate treatments
Authors: Guo Ying , Feng Yu , Fu Fang-Fang , El-Kassaby Yousry A. , Wang Tongli , Wang Guibin
Published: August 2021

Prior to Ginkgo leaf harvest, we implemented four exogenous applications of salicylic acid (SA: 50, 80, and 100 mg·L−1) or methyl jasmonate (MJ: 20, 40, and 80 mg·L−1) as leaf spray to investigate their effect on flavonoids content and related enzyme activity. Compared with the control, a significant increase of 12% and 26% in flavonoid content was observed 7 days after the first application of 100 mg·L−1 SA and 20 mg·L−1 MJ, respectively; both were determined to be the best treatments. Operationally, administering either elicitor (SA or MJ) 1 week prior to leaf harvest is deemed to be the most practical and economic option. Additionally, enzymes activity involved in flavonoid metabolism (phenylalanine ammonia-lyase, cinnamate 4-hydroxylase, and 4-coumarate:coenzyme A ligase) and antioxidants (peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase) significantly increased in most SA and MJ treatments. The results strongly support Ginkgo leaf response to SA- or MJ-induced stress through increased nonenzymatic antioxidant compounds (flavonoids) and activity of antioxidant enzymes.
Global population structure of Haemophilus influenzae serotype a (Hia) and emergence of invasive Hia disease: capsule switching or capsule replacement?
Authors: Shuel Michelle , Knox Natalie , Tsang Raymond S.W.
Published: August 2021

The population structure of Haemophilus influenzae serotype a (Hia) was examined by interrogation of the H. influenzae MLST website. There were 196 entries of Hia with 55 sequence types (STs) identified (as of 3 September 2020). BURST analysis clustered related STs into four complexes with ST-23, ST-4, ST-21, and ST-62 identified as their ancestral STs. The majority of Hia entries (73.4%) and STs (65.5%) were identified as clonal division I (ST-23 and ST-4 complexes). Only 43 (21.9%) entries and 14 STs (25.5%) were identified as clonal division II (ST-62 and ST-21 complexes). Current data suggest that most invasive Hia belonged to clonal division I and the ST-23 complex, while most clonal division II Hia were respiratory isolates, with the exception of ST-62 which was common among invasive Hia in the US southwest. Comparison of the capsule bexABCD genes from clonal divisions I and II strains showed sequence diversity with variations following the pattern of clonal divisions. Evidence from the literature and the current study suggests that the recent emergence of invasive Hia might be related to capsule replacement subsequent to the implementation of the Hib conjugate vaccine and possibly exacerbated by other conjugate vaccines that may have altered the microbial flora of the human respiratory tract.
Slip in adhesion tests of a Kaolin clay
Authors: Hayes M. J. , Smith M. I.
Published: August 2021

Adhesion tests were performed on concentrated suspensions of Kaolin clay. At low concentrations samples formed conical deposits on both the top and bottom plates with the central region narrowing to a filament before undergoing breakup. In contrast high concentration samples deformed as a cylinder before apparently fracturing into two pieces. As the concentration of the samples was increased the samples underwent quite different forms of slip which it is shown can be deduced from their respective force distance curves. The type of slip behaviour for a given concentration of clay could be modified with changes to surface roughness, the initial compressive load prior to an experiment and with the separation velocity of the plates. The different slip characteristics appear to arise from the concentration dependent way in which particles interact with the rough surface topography.

Graphic Abstract
Certain non-homogeneous matricial domains and Pick–Nevanlinna interpolation problem
Authors: Chandel Vikramjeet Singh
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we consider certain matricial domains that are naturally associated to a given domain of the complex plane. A particular example of such domains is the spectral unit ball. We present several results for these matricial domains. Our first result shows — generalizing a result of Ransford–White for the spectral unit ball — that the holomorphic automorphism group of these matricial domains does not act transitively. We also consider [Formula: see text]-point and [Formula: see text]-point Pick–Nevanlinna interpolation problem from the unit disc to these matricial domains. We present results providing necessary conditions for the existence of a holomorphic interpolant for these problems. In particular, we shall observe that these results are generalizations of the results provided by Bharali and Chandel related to these problems.
Solving Clique Partitioning Problems: A Comparison of Models and Commercial Solvers
Authors: Du Yu , Kochenberger Gary , Glover Fred , Wang Haibo , Lewis Mark , Xie Weihong , Tsuyuguchi Takeshi
Published: August 2021

Finding good solutions to clique partitioning problems remains a computational challenge. With rare exceptions, finding optimal solutions for all but small instances is not practically possible. However, choosing the most appropriate modeling structure can have a huge impact on what is practical to obtain from exact solvers within a reasonable amount of run time. Commercial solvers have improved tremendously in recent years and the combination of the right solver and the right model can significantly increase our ability to compute acceptable solutions to modest-sized problems with solvers like CPLEX, GUROBI and XPRESS. In this paper, we explore and compare the use of three commercial solvers on modest sized test problems for clique partitioning. For each problem instance, a conventional linear model from the literature and a relatively new quadratic model are compared. Extensive computational experience indicates that the quadratic model outperforms the classic linear model as problem size grows.
Phenazine-bridged Ni(II) porphyrin dimers and its oxidative fusion
Authors: Liang Min , Zi Lili , Cheng Fei , Rao Yutao , Xu Ling , Zhou Mingbo , Song Jianxin
Published: August 2021

Oxidative fusion reaction of phenazine-bridged dimer 4 with DDQ and Sc(OTf)3 generated half phenazine-fused porphyrin dimer 6 and 10,12-, 18,20-, 10[Formula: see text],12[Formula: see text]- and 18[Formula: see text],20[Formula: see text]-quadruply 3,5-di-tert-butylphenyl-fused porphyrin dimer 7. The structures of 4, 6 and 7 were unambiguously confirmed by the comprehensive results of nuclear magnetic resonance, highresolution mass spectrometry, and X-ray crystallographic analysis. As compared to their precursors, the fused porphyrins exhibit significant change in optical properties due to the extended [Formula: see text]-conjugation, such as a bathochromic shift of absorption and broadening of the Soret band. In addition, NICS(0) calculations were performed to understand the aromaticity variation of porphyrins 4, 6 and 7. Electrochemical properties were determined and DFT calculations were performed to deepen our understanding of the electronic structures and spectral properties of these Ni(II) porphyrin dimers.
Synthesis and electrochemistry of nickel(II)porphyrins bearing external palladium(II) or platinum(II) complexes
Authors: Dekkiche Hervé , Carvalho Mary-Ambre , Jeandon Christophe , Karmazin Lydia , Boudon Corinne , Ruhlmann Laurent , Ruppert Romain
Published: August 2021

The syntheses of nickel(II)porphyrins bearing palladium(II) or platinum(II) complexes at their periphery were performed. These new compounds were characterized by standard spectroscopic techniques and studied by electrochemistry. The electrochemical data were then compared with previously published data of porphyrin dimers linked by metal ions like palladium(II) or platinum(II). An X-ray structure of one of these species was obtained and confirmed the structure of this series of compounds.
Envisioning the “Air Economy” — Powered by Reticular Chemistry and Sunlight for Clean Air, Clean Energy, and Clean Water
Authors: Yang Peidong , Clark Douglas S. , Yaghi Omar M.
Published: August 2021

Addressing the three major stresses facing our planet, clean air, clean energy, and clean water, is within our reach. At present, new materials such as metal-organic frameworks and covalent organic frameworks, produced by reticular chemistry, are at the forefront of efforts to capture carbon dioxide from air and harvest water from air. We envision that the products of these two capture processes (carbon dioxide and water) can be fed into a conversion cycle in which they are used to produce fuels and chemicals via artificial photosynthesis. The use of air as a nonpolluting, cyclable, and sustainable resource for carbon and water can be powered by sunlight. We describe how the scientific basis for realizing this vision is either already achieved or being established, and that in the fullness of time this paradigm may lead to new global industries and a thriving “air economy.”
Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction: Mechanisms and Treatment Strategies
Authors: Omote Kazunori , Verbrugge Frederik H. , Borlaug Barry A.
Published: August 2021

Approximately half of all patients with heart failure (HF) have a preserved ejection fraction, and the prevalence is growing rapidly given the aging population in many countries and the rising prevalence of obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. Functional capacity and quality of life are severely impaired in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), and morbidity and mortality are high. In striking contrast to HF with reduced ejection fraction, there are few effective treatments currently identified for HFpEF, and these are limited to decongestion by diuretics, promotion of a healthy active lifestyle, and management of comorbidities. Improved phenotyping of subgroups within the overall HFpEF population might enhance individualization of treatment. This review focuses on the current understanding of the pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying HFpEF and treatment strategies for this complex syndrome.
Class A scavenger receptor-1/2 facilitates the uptake of bovine milk exosomes in murine bone marrow-derived macrophages and C57BL/6J mice
Authors: Khanam Afsana , Yu Jiujiu , Zempleni Janos
Published: August 2021

Bovine milk exosomes (BMEs) are being explored in drug delivery despite their rapid elimination by macrophages. We aimed at identifying the BME transporter in murine bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs). Fluorophore-labeled BMEs were used in transport studies in BMDMs from C57BL/6J and class A scavenger receptor type 1/2 (CASR-1/2) knockout mice and tissue accumulation in macrophage-depleted C57BL/6J mice. Parametric and nonparametric statistics tests for pairwise and multiple comparisons were used. Chemical inhibitors of phagocytosis by cytochalasin D led to a 69 ± 18% decrease in BME uptake compared with controls ( P < 0.05), whereas inhibitors of endocytic pathways other than phagocytosis had a modest effect on uptake ( P > 0.05). Inhibitors of class A scavenger receptors (CASRs) including CASR-1/2 caused a 70% decrease in BME uptake ( P < 0.05). The uptake of BMEs by BMDMs from CASR-1/2 knockout mice was smaller by 58 ± 23% compared with wild-type controls ( P < 0.05). Macrophage depletion by clodronate caused a more than 44% decrease in BME uptake in the spleen and lungs ( P < 0.05), whereas the decrease observed in liver was not statistically significant. In conclusion, CASR-1/2 facilitates the uptake of BMEs in BMDMs and C57BL/6J mice.
Systematic analysis of candidate reference genes for gene expression analysis in hyperoxia-based mouse models of bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Authors: Linge Mary , Möbius Marius A. , Rösen-Wolff Angela , Winkler Stefan
Published: August 2021

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a chronic lung disease of preterm infants. Mouse models of hyperoxia-induced lung injury are often used to study pathogenesis and potential therapeutic approaches of BPD. Beside histological studies, gene expression analysis of lung tissue is typically used as experimental readout. Reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) is the standard method for gene expression analysis; however, the accuracy of the quantitative data depends on the appropriate selection of reference genes. No data on validated reference genes for hyperoxia-induced neonatal lung injury in mice are available. In this study, 12 potential reference genes were systematically analyzed for their expression stability in lung tissue of neonatal mice exposed to room air or hyperoxia and healthy adult controls using published software algorithms. Analysis of gene expression data identified Hprt, Tbp, and Hmbs as the most stable reference genes and proposed combinations of Hprt/Sdha or Hprt/Rpl13a as potential normalization factors. These reference genes and normalization factors were validated by comparing Il6 gene and protein expression and may facilitate accurate gene expression analysis in lung tissues of similar designed studies.
Disease modeling following organoid-based expansion of airway epithelial cells
Authors: Eenjes Evelien , van Riet Sander , Kroon Andre A. , Slats Annelies M. , Khedoe P. Padmini S. J. , Boerema-de Munck Anne , Buscop-van Kempen Marjon , Ninaber Dennis K. , Reiss Irwin K. M. , Clevers Hans , Rottier Robbert J. , Hiemstra Pieter S.
Published: August 2021

Air-liquid interface (ALI) cultures are frequently used in lung research but require substantial cell numbers that cannot readily be obtained from patients. We explored whether organoid expansion [three-dimensional (3D)] can be used to establish ALI cultures from clinical samples with low epithelial cell numbers. Airway epithelial cells were obtained from tracheal aspirates (TA) from preterm newborns and from bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) or bronchial tissue (BT) from adults. TA and BAL cells were 3D-expanded, whereas cells from BT were expanded in 3D and 2D. Following expansion, cells were cultured at ALI to induce differentiation. The impact of cell origin and 2D or 3D expansion was assessed with respect to 1) cellular composition, 2) response to cigarette smoke exposure, and 3) effect of Notch inhibition or IL-13 stimulation on cellular differentiation. We established well-differentiated ALI cultures from all samples. Cellular compositions (basal, ciliated, and goblet cells) were comparable. All 3D-expanded cultures showed a similar stress response following cigarette smoke exposure but differed from the 2D-expanded cultures. Higher peak levels of antioxidant genes HMOX1 and NQO1 and a more rapid return to baseline, and a lower unfolded protein response was observed after cigarette smoke exposure in 3D-derived cultures compared to 2D-derived cultures. In addition, TA- and BAL-derived cultures were less sensitive to modulation by DAPT or IL-13 than BT-derived cultures. Organoid-based expansion of clinical samples with low cell numbers, such as TA from preterm newborns is a valid method and tool to establish ALI cultures.
Associative learning in peripersonal space: fear responses are acquired in hand-centered coordinates
Authors: Zanini A. , Salemme R. , Farnè A. , Brozzoli C.
Published: August 2021

Associative fear learning takes place in hand-centered coordinates. Using a Pavlovian fear-learning paradigm, we show that the anticipatory skin conductance response indicating the association between the negative value and an initially neutral stimulus is acquired and then remapped in space when the stimulated body part moves to a different position. These results demonstrate the relationship between the representation of peripersonal space and the encoding of threatening stimuli. Hypotheses concerning the underlying neural network are discussed.
Deciphering how interneuron specific 3 cells control oriens lacunosum-moleculare cells to contribute to circuit function
Authors: Guet-McCreight Alexandre , Skinner Frances K.
Published: August 2021

How information is processed across different brain structures is an important question that relates to the different functions that the brain performs. Using modeling and theoretical analyses, we show that an inhibitory cell type that only inhibits other inhibitory cells can broaden the window for disinhibition of excitatory cells, manage input pathway switching, and modulate inhibitory cell spiking. This work contributes to the knowledge of how coordination between sensory and memory consolidation information can be attained.
Sensitivity to error during visuomotor adaptation is similarly modulated by abrupt, gradual, and random perturbation schedules
Authors: Coltman Susan K. , van Beers Robert J. , Medendorp W. Pieter , Gribble Paul L.
Published: August 2021

We investigated what aspects of prior experience modulate error sensitivity, within the framework of a two-state model of short-term sensorimotor adaptation. We manipulated initial training on a visuomotor adaptation reaching task using specific perturbation schedules that are thought to differentially affect fast and slow learning processes, and we tested what effect these had on subsequent adaptation. We found that sensitivity to adaptation error was similarly modulated by abrupt, gradual, and random perturbation schedules.
Largely shared neural codes for biological and nonbiological observed movements but not for executed actions in monkey premotor areas
Authors: Albertini Davide , Lanzilotto Marco , Maranesi Monica , Bonini Luca
Published: August 2021

Pioneering studies on mirror neurons (MNs) in premotor areas emphasized the absence of response to the sight of nonbiological moving objects, suggesting a match between execution and observation activities. This study shows that although premotor neurons can discriminate between biological and nonbiological observed movements, these visual stimuli rely on largely shared neural codes, which differ strongly from those associated with executed actions.
Effect of spinal cord injury on neural encoding of spontaneous postural perturbations in the hindlimb sensorimotor cortex
Authors: Dougherty Jaimie B. , Disse Gregory D. , Bridges Nathaniel R. , Moxon Karen A.
Published: August 2021

The role of cortical circuits in the encoding of posture and balance is of interest for developing therapies for spinal cord injury. This work demonstrated that unexpected postural perturbations are encoded in the hindlimb sensorimotor cortex even in the absence of hindlimb sensory feedback. In fact, the hindlimb sensorimotor cortex continues to encode for postural perturbations after complete spinal transection.
En Bloc Transplantation of Horseshoe Kidney from Deceased Donor: An Unusual Transplantation Utilizing Kidneys with Congenital Fusion Abnormality
Authors: Sengupta Bodhisatwa , Khan Iftikhar , Saiaghi Akram , Gaw Ethar A. , Tawfeeq Mansour , AlQahtani Mohammed S. , Obeid Mahmoud
Published: August 2021

Transplanting horseshoe kidneys is challenging and has higher complication rates due to the unusual anatomy of the vascular and urinary collecting systems. Most centers avoid using these kidneys for transplantation. However, if chosen carefully, these organs can be used successfully to reduce organ shortage. In this paper, we will describe the technique of procurement of horseshoe kidneys from cadaveric donors, back table preparation, and its successful implantation in a recipient. With good planning and skillful surgical techniques, horseshoe kidneys can be successfully transplanted in suitable recipients. If properly selected, these kidneys can be used to reduce the organ scarcity and diminish waitlist morbidity and mortality.
Energy Consumption Predication in China Based on the Modified Fractional Grey Prediction Model
Authors: Liu Jiefang , Gao Pumei
Published: August 2021

China’s increasing energy consumption poses challenges to economy and environment. How to predict the energy consumption accurately and regulate the future energy consumption production is a problem worth studying. In this paper, the fractional order cumulative linear time-varying parameter discrete grey prediction model (FTDGM (1, 1) model) is introduced. Firstly, the data are preprocessed by buffer operators, and then, the FTDGM (1, 1) model is established. In this paper, the parameter estimation method and the specific process of model establishment are presented. Finally, the models of energy consumption in China are built. The advantages and prediction accuracy of the model established in this paper are analyzed, and the data in the following years are effectively predicted, so as to provide theoretical support for the government to formulate reasonable energy policies.
Mechanical and Dynamic Properties of Hybrid Fiber Reinforced Fly‐Ash Concrete
Authors: Su Dan-Yang , Pang Jian-Yong , Huang Xiao-Wen
Published: August 2021

In order to explore the influence of basalt‐polypropylene hybrid fiber on the static mechanical properties and dynamic compression properties of fly‐ash concrete, 16 groups of basalt‐polypropylene hybrid fiber fly‐ash concrete (HBPC) and 1 group of benchmark concrete were designed and prepared. The slump, static compressive strength, static splitting tensile strength, and dynamic compressive performance tests were tested. At the same time, the mechanism of the mechanical properties of hybrid fiber reinforced fly‐ash concrete was analyzed by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results show that the failure of the benchmark concrete is mainly brittle failure. Compared with the benchmark concrete, the static compressive strength and splitting tensile strength of HBPC are significantly enhanced. Basalt‐polypropylene hybrid fiber, polypropylene fiber, and basalt fiber, are extremely significant factors affecting the slump, static compressive strength, and static splitting tensile strength of HBPC, respectively. The peak stress of the benchmark concrete and HBPC increases with the increase of the loading air pressure, showing a certain strain rate effect. SEM shows that the fibers have good dispersibility in the concrete and good adhesion with the concrete matrix interface, but excessive fibers will cause fiber agglomeration, which increases the internal defects of HBPC.
[Retracted] Tongyang Huoxue Decoction (TYHX) Ameliorating Hypoxia/Reoxygenation‐Induced Disequilibrium of Calcium Homeostasis and Redox Imbalance via Regulating Mitochondrial Quality Control in Sinoatrial Node Cells
Authors: Chang Xing , Yao Shunyu , Wu Qiaomin , Wang Yanli , Liu Jinfeng , Liu Ruxiu
Published: August 2021

Sick sinus syndrome (SSS) is a disease with bradycardia or arrhythmia. The pathological mechanism of SSS is mainly due to the abnormal conduction function of the sinoatrial node (SAN) caused by interstitial lesions or fibrosis of the SAN or surrounding tissues, SAN pacing dysfunction, and SAN impulse conduction accompanied by SAN fibrosis. Tongyang Huoxue Decoction (TYHX) is widely used in SSS treatment and amelioration of SAN fibrosis. It has a variety of active ingredients to regulate the redox balance and mitochondrial quality control. This study mainly discusses the mechanism of TYHX in ameliorating calcium homeostasis disorder and redox imbalance of sinoatrial node cells (SANCs) and clarifies the protective mechanism of TYHX on the activity of SANCs. The activity of SANCs was determined by CCK‐8 and the TUNEL method. The levels of apoptosis, ROS, and calcium release were analyzed by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence. The mRNA and protein levels of calcium channel regulatory molecules and mitochondrial quality control‐related molecules were detected by real‐time quantitative PCR and Western Blot. The level of calcium release was detected by laser confocal. It was found that after H/R treatment, the viability of SANCs decreased significantly, the levels of apoptosis and ROS increased, and the cells showed calcium overload, redox imbalance, and mitochondrial dysfunction. After treatment with TYHX, the cell survival level was improved, calcium overload and oxidative stress were inhibited, and mitochondrial energy metabolism and mitochondrial function were restored. However, after the SANCs were treated with siRNA (si‐β‐tubulin), the regulation of TYHX on calcium homeostasis and redox balance was counteracted. These results suggest that β‐tubulin interacts with the regulation of mitochondrial function and calcium release. TYHX may regulate mitochondrial quality control, maintain calcium homeostasis and redox balance, and protect SANCs through β‐tubulin. The regulation mechanism of TYHX on mitochondrial quality control may also become a new target for SSS treatment.
Herbal Prescription SH003 Alleviates Docetaxel-Induced Neuropathic Pain in C57BL/6 Mice
Authors: Lee Kangwook , Ku Jin Mo , Choi Yu-Jeong , Hwang Hyun Ha , Jeong Miso , Kim Yun-Gyeong , Kim Min Jeong , Ko Seong-Gyu
Published: August 2021

Docetaxel-based therapy has been applied to kill cancers including lung and breast cancers but frequently causes peripheral neuropathy such as mechanical allodynia. Lack of effective drugs for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) treatment leads us to find novel drugs. Here, we investigated whether and how novel anticancer herbal prescription SH003 alleviates mechanical allodynia in mouse model of docetaxel-induced neuropathic pain. Docetaxel-induced mechanical allodynia was evaluated using von Frey filaments. Nerve damage and degeneration in paw skin of mice were investigated by immunofluorescence staining. Neuroinflammation markers in bloodstream, lumbar (L4-L6) spinal cord, and sciatic nerves were examined by ELISA or western blot analysis. Docetaxel (15.277 mg/kg) was intravenously injected into the tail vein of C57BL/6 mice, and mechanical allodynia was followed up. SH003 (557.569 mg/kg) was orally administered at least 60 min before the mechanical allodynia test, and von Frey test was performed twice. Docetaxel injection induced mechanical allodynia, and SH003 administration restored withdrawal threshold. Meanwhile, degeneration of intraepidermal nerve fibers (IENF) was observed in docetaxel-treated mice, but SH003 treatment suppressed it. Moreover, docetaxel injection increased levels of TNF-α and IL-6 in plasma and expressions of phospho-NF-κB and phospho-STAT3 in both of lumbar spinal cord and sciatic nerves, while SH003 treatment inhibited those changes. Taken together, it is worth noting that TNF-α and IL-6 in plasma and phospho-NF-κB and phospho-STAT3 in spinal cord and sciatic nerves are putative biomarkers of docetaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy (DIPN) in mouse models. In addition, we suggest that SH003 would be beneficial for alleviation of docetaxel-induced neuropathic pain.
Therapeutic Effect of Matrine on Collagen-Induced Arthritis Rats and Its Regulatory Effect on RANKL and OPG Expression
Authors: Li Xin , Zhang Lijie , Xu Yongsong , Zhao Dong , Mu Lin , Zhang Baoyu , Ke Jing
Published: August 2021

Objective. To investigate the effect of matrine on rats with collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) and its regulatory effect on receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) and osteoprotegerin (OPG) expression. Methods. Wistar rats (

n
=
6

) and CIA rats (

n
=
30

) were randomly divided into six groups: healthy, CIA control, low/medium/high matrine (25, 50, or 100 mg/kg, once per day for six weeks), and methotrexate (MTX) (2 mg/kg, once per week for six weeks). The degree of joint damage was evaluated by X-ray and HE staining. Bone marrow suppression was assessed by routine blood analysis. In addition, the levels of serum RANKL and OPG in the rats were measured by ELISA. Results. The level of joint swelling and degree of joint damage assessed by ankle swelling measurements, AI score, X-ray, and HE staining were alleviated in the CIA rats treated with MTX or different doses of matrine. Furthermore, no obvious inhibitory effect was observed on the bone marrow of the CIA rats, regardless of the dose of matrine or treatment with 2 mg/kg MTX (

P
>
0.05

). The levels of OPG in serum and the ratio of OPG/RANKL were higher, and RANKL expression was lower in the low/medium/high matrine group compared with that of the CIA control group. The serum levels of OPG and OPG/RANKL ratio increased with the matrine dose, while the opposite was observed for RANKL expression. Conclusion. Matrine treatment was associated with a lower degree of bone destruction, increased OPG expression and OPG/RANKL ratio, and decreased RANKL expression in CIA rats. Thus, matrine may represent a novel drug candidate for the treatment of RA.
Segmented Cantilever and Array Configurations for Wider Frequency Band and Higher Power Generation in Piezoelectric Vibration Energy Harvester
Authors: Zou Aicheng , Li Jiefeng , Han Xingguo , Wang Qunying
Published: August 2021

This letter reports a piezoelectric vibration energy harvester which energy conversion efficiency is significantly improved by arraying piezoelectric sheets on cantilever beams, and the operation frequency band is widened by applying two‐segment cantilever beams. A prototype is developed and tested. In this case, two group piezoelectric arrays are combined on the cantilever beams with the optimum load resistance. The total output power remains above 6.54 mW within the operation frequency band ranges from 27.5 Hz to 37.5 Hz when the generator is under an acceleration of 0.7 g and reaches two power peaks: 20.5 mW at 29.2 Hz and 12.95 mW at 35.4 Hz.
Hierarchical Coordinated Control Method for Multiload DC Microgrid Units
Authors: Zhang Zhigang , Mo Jinping
Published: August 2021

Electricity has become not merely a source of power but also a vital component of our lives in a rapidly changing world. However, according to a World Bank report, 17% of the globe’s population live without power. The key cause for such a huge population not being electrified is the proximity of the central electrical grid system or the high expenditure of installing the grid lines to such remote areas. The notion of a microgrid was first proposed more than a decade ago, but the numerous obstacles it entails have hampered its broad adoption and made it a research focus in recent years. A hierarchical control structure of the microgrid is designed, which is divided into layers according to the control objectives and control time scales of the microgrid, and the hierarchical control structure is realized by using multiagent technology. In the framework of hierarchical control, aiming at the demand of energy coordination and optimization of the microgrid, the operation strategy of the microgrid is proposed in grid‐connected and/or off‐grid mode. In the grid‐connected mode, the large power grid is used for power supply and in the off‐grid mode, the load bidding mechanism is introduced to ensure the power supply of important loads. Experiment results reveal the power quality and stability of the system.
Maxillofacial-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Characteristics and Progress in Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Yan Xin , Yan Fei , Mohammed Hanan Abdulfattah Gamal , Liu Ousheng
Published: August 2021

Maxillofacial-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MFSCs) are a particular collective type of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) that originate from the hard and soft tissue of the maxillofacial region. Recently, many types of MFSCs have been isolated and characterized. MFSCs have the common characteristics of being extremely accessible and amazingly multipotent and thus have become a promising stem cell resource in tissue regeneration. However, different MFSCs can give rise to different cell lineages, have different advantages in clinical use, and regulate the immune and inflammation microenvironment through paracrine mechanisms in different ways. Hence, in this review, we will concentrate on the updated new findings of all types of MFSCs in tissue regeneration and also introduce the recently discovered types of MFSCs. Important issues about proliferation and differentiation in vitro and in vivo, up-to-date clinical application, and paracrine effect of MFSCs in tissue regeneration will also be discussed. Our review may provide a better guide for the clinical use of MFSCs and further direction of research in MFSC regeneration medicine.
Omega-3 Supplementation Prevents Short-Term High-Fat Diet Effects on the α7 Nicotinic Cholinergic Receptor Expression and Inflammatory Response
Authors: Martins I. C. A. , Contieri L. S. , Amaral C. L. , Costa S. O. , Souza A. C. P. , Ignacio-Souza L. M. , Milanski M. , Torsoni A. S. , Torsoni M. A.
Published: August 2021

The study is aimed at investigating if PUFA supplementation could prevent the effects of a short-term HFD on α7nAChR expression and on the severity of sepsis. Swiss mice were used for the in vivo experiments. For the in vitro experiments, we used a microglia cell line (BV-2) and a hepatoma cell line (Hepa-1c1c7) derived from mice. The animals were either fed standard chow, fed a short-term HFD (60%), or given supplementation with omega-3 fatty acid (2 g/kg or 4 g/kg bw) for 17 days, followed by a short-term HFD. Endotoxemia was induced with an intraperitoneal (i.p.) lipopolysaccharide injection (LPS, 5 or 12 mg/kg), and sepsis was induced by subjecting the animals to cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). BV-2 and Hepa-1c1c7 cells were treated with LPS (100 and 500 ng/mL, respectively) for 3 hours. RT-PCR or Western blotting was used to evaluate α7nAChR expression, inflammatory markers, DNMT1, and overall ubiquitination. LPS and HFD reduced the expression of α7nAChR and increased the expression of inflammatory markers. Omega-3 partially prevented the damage caused by the HFD to the expression of α7nAChR in the bone marrow and hypothalamus, decreased the inflammatory markers, and reduced susceptibility to sepsis-induced death. Exposing the BV-2 cells to LPS increased the protein content of DNMT1 and the overall ubiquitination and reduced the expression of α7nAChR. The inflammation induced by LPS in the BV-2 cell decreased α7nAChR expression and concomitantly increased DNMT1 expression and the ubiquitinated protein levels, indicating the participation of pre- and posttranscriptional mechanisms.
A Constitutive Model for Overconsolidated Structured Soils Using Structural Variable
Authors: Li Wugang , Liu Wenhua , Xue Zhijia , Sun Xiuli
Published: August 2021

Due to the influence of soil structure, structured soils exhibit significantly different mechanical behavior compared to the reconstituted soils having the same material. In this work, a theoretical analysis focusing on the mechanical behavior of structured soils is presented. Based on the mechanical behavior of the structured soil, a newly defined variable structural index was used as a measurement of the integrity of soil structure based on the concept of intrinsic compression line of intact structured soils. Furthermore, a novel correlation for the variation in volume of structured soils is established using effective stress and newly defined structural index as the constitutive variables. The novel correlation provided interpretation about the mechanism of compression behavior of the structured soils. Afterwards, the proposed correlation for the variation in volume was extended to triaxial stress state in the framework of subloading surface to include the effect of overconsolidation. Comparisons between the predictions and experimental results validated the proposed constitutive model for structured soils.
Comparative Study on Grouting Protection Schemes for Shield Tunneling to Adjacent Viaduct Piles
Authors: Huang Kan , Sun Yiwei , He Jun , Huang Xianqiang , Jiang Meng , Li Yujian
Published: August 2021

Shield tunnels will inevitably pass through viaduct piles at a close distance due to the extensive construction of subways and viaducts in the city. In order to understand the influence of shield tunneling on the deformation of existing pile foundation and grouting protection measures, based on an engineering case, Changsha Metro Line 5 (from South Gaoqiao station to Guitang station), a three‐dimensional finite element model was established to analyze the deformation of bridge pile using grouting protection wall with different depths and shapes when the shield tunnel is under construction. The analytical results indicate that the grouting protection wall can effectively reduce the pile displacement; especially the grouting depth is 3 m below the bottom of the tunnel. Moreover, the L‐shaped grouting protection wall can effectively reduce the longitudinal displacement of the piles. The present findings may provide a reference for the design and construction of shield tunnels passing through viaduct piles.
TMEM100 Modulates TGF-β Signaling Pathway to Inhibit Colorectal Cancer Progression
Authors: Li Huixia , Cheng Chuan , You Weibo , Zheng Jiujian , Xu Jie , Gao Peng , Wang Jianping
Published: August 2021

Objectives. This study investigated the functional mechanism of transmembrane protein 100 (TMEM100) as a tumor inhibitor gene in CRC cells and offered a reference for the treatment of CRC. Methods. The mRNA expression data of CRC were acquired from the TCGA database to mine differentially expressed mRNAs. The role of TMEM100 in the progression of CRC cells was evaluated by MTT, colony formation, scratch healing, and Transwell assays. The influence of TMEM100 on the TGF-β signaling pathway was detected by western blot. Results. TMEM100 was markedly lowly expressed in CRC. CRC cell growth was significantly suppressed by overexpressing TMEM100 but noticeably facilitated by silencing TMEM100. Overexpression of TMEM100 inhibited the activation of the TGF-β signaling pathway, thus inhibiting malignant progression of CRC. Conclusion. TMEM100 is lowly expressed in CRC, which can suppress CRC cell growth by regulating the TGF-β signaling pathway.
A Randomized Controlled Trial of the Effect of 0.01% Atropine Eye Drops Combined with Auricular Acupoint Stimulation on Myopia Progression
Authors: Kong Xie-He , Zhao Yue , Chen Zhi , Zeng Li , Han Rong , Dong Xiao-Qing , Guo Xiao-Cong , Shi Zheng , Yang Guang , Yang Yan-Ting , Zhang Dan , Zhou Xing-Tao , Ma Xiao-Peng
Published: August 2021

Background. Use of 0.01% atropine eye drops (0.01% A) is one of the most common treatments for myopia control for children in Asia. Auricular acupoint stimulation (AAS) was reported to enhance the effect of higher-concentration atropine (0.25%, 0.125%) on myopia control. This study was designed to compare the effect of 0.01% A combined with AAS and 0.01% A alone on myopia progression and choroidal thickness in children. Methods. A total of 104 children were stratified by age and randomly assigned at 1 : 1 to receive 0.01% A or 0.01% A + AAS treatment for 6 months. Repeated measurements of cycloplegic spherical equivalent (SE) autorefraction, axial length (AL), and choroidal thickness were performed at baseline, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months. Results. The adjusted mean SE change over the 6 months was −0.38 ± 0.04 D in the 0.01% A group (n = 50) and −0.25 ± 0.04 D in the 0.01% A + AAS group (n = 50), demonstrating a significant between-group difference (

P

 = 0.02). There was no statistically significant difference in the change of AL and choroidal thickness between the two groups (both

P

 > 0.05). Conclusions. Adjunctive AAS compared with 0.01% A monotherapy slowed myopic progression in Chinese children by a statistically small amount, but had no effect on axial elongation and choroidal thickness during this 6-month observation. The trial is registered with ChiCTR1900021316.
Identification of Engine Inertia Parameters and System Dynamic Stiffness via In Situ Method
Authors: Xu Chuanyan , Gong Xun , Meng Lixue , Li Aijuan
Published: August 2021

An in situ method is presented to identify ten engine inertia parameters and system dynamic stiffness from the frequency response functions. The ten engine inertia parameters and system dynamic stiffness are estimated from two distinct steps. The accuracy of the proposed technique is verified by finite element simulation, and then the generality is validated using an engine supported by a specially designed curved bar spring. The locations of the measure points on the results are also carefully investigated. The identification of system dynamic stiffness is validated comparing with the engine with an auxiliary plate, which shows good consistency with the results identified from the study.
The Influence of Virtual Reality Technology on the Cultivation of Agricultural Students
Authors: Wang Yuying
Published: August 2021

Virtual reality learning environment is a virtual learning environment created by the use of virtual reality technology, which expands the physical learning environment and provides learners with richer learning experience and learning resources. It has the characteristics of immersion, interaction, and imagination. From these three characteristics, this paper studies the virtual reality learning environment to promote the deeper learning of agricultural students, immersion teaching provides experience support for agricultural students' deeper learning, interaction provides emotional support for agricultural students' deeper learning, and imagination provides situational support for agricultural students' deeper learning. The virtual reality technology is helpful to the cultivation of higher-order thinking of agricultural talents. It is expected to provide a reference for the future exploration of virtual reality technology to the cultivation of agricultural talents.
A Review of Intrusion Detection Systems in RPL Routing Protocol Based on Machine Learning for Internet of Things Applications
Authors: Seyfollahi Ali , Ghaffari Ali
Published: August 2021

IPv6 routing protocol for low‐power and lossy networks (RPL) has been developed as a routing agent in low‐power and lossy networks (LLN), where nodes’ resource constraint nature is challenging. This protocol operates at the network layer and can create routing and optimally distribute routing information between nodes. RPL is a low‐power, high‐throughput IPv6 routing protocol that uses distance vectors. Each sensor‐to‐wire network router has a collection of fixed parents and a preferred parent on the path to the Destination‐oriented directed acyclic graph (DODAG) graph’s root in steady‐state. Each router part of the graph sends DODAG information object (DIO) control messages and specifies its rank within the graph, indicating its position within the network relative to the root. When a node receives a DIO message, it determines its network rank, which must be higher than all its parents’ rank, and then continues sending DIO messages using the trickle timer. As a result, DODAG begins at the root and eventually extends to encompass the whole network. This paper is the first review to study intrusion detection systems in the RPL protocol based on machine learning (ML) techniques to the best of our knowledge. The complexity of the new attack models identified for RPL and the efficiency of ML in intelligent and collaborative threats detection, and the issues of deploying ML in challenging LLN environments underscore the importance of research in this area. The analysis is done using research sources of “Google Scholar,” “Crossref,” “Scopus,” and “Web of Science” resources. The evaluations are assessed for studies from 2016 to 2021. The results are illustrated with tables and figures.
Object Detection and Movement Tracking Using Tubelets and Faster RCNN Algorithm with Anchor Generation
Authors: Mohandas Prabu , Anni Jerline Sheebha , Thanasekaran Rajkumar , Hasikin Khairunnisa , Azizan Muhammad Mokhzaini
Published: August 2021

Object detection in images and videos has become an important task in computer vision. It has been a challenging task due to misclassification and localization errors. The proposed approach explored the feasibility of automated detection and tracking of elephant intrusion along forest border areas. Due to an alarming increase in crop damages resulted from movements of elephant herds, combined with high risk of elephant extinction due to human activities, this paper looked into an efficient solution through elephant’s tracking. The convolutional neural network with transfer learning is used as the model for object classification and feature extraction. A new tracking system using automated tubelet generation and anchor generation methods in combination with faster RCNN was developed and tested on 5,482 video sequences. Real‐time video taken for analysis consisted of heavily occluded objects such as trees and animals. Tubelet generated from each video sequence with intersection over union (IoU) thresholds have been effective in tracking the elephant object movement in the forest areas. The proposed work has been compared with other state‐of‐the‐art techniques, namely, faster RCNN, YOLO v3, and HyperNet. Experimental results on the real‐time dataset show that the proposed work achieves an improved performance of 73.9% in detecting and tracking of objects, which outperformed the existing approaches.
Optimized Vegetation Density to Dissipate Energy of Flood Flow in Open Canals
Authors: Feizbahr Mahdi , Tonekaboni Navid , Jiang Guang-Jun , Chen Hong-Xia
Published: August 2021

Vegetation along the river increases the roughness and reduces the average flow velocity, reduces flow energy, and changes the flow velocity profile in the cross section of the river. Many canals and rivers in nature are covered with vegetation during the floods. Canal’s roughness is strongly affected by plants and therefore it has a great effect on flow resistance during flood. Roughness resistance against the flow due to the plants depends on the flow conditions and plant, so the model should simulate the current velocity by considering the effects of velocity, depth of flow, and type of vegetation along the canal. Total of 48 models have been simulated to investigate the effect of roughness in the canal. The results indicated that, by enhancing the velocity, the effect of vegetation in decreasing the bed velocity is negligible, while when the current has lower speed, the effect of vegetation on decreasing the bed velocity is obviously considerable.