bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pedometer-free Geomagnetic Fingerprinting with Casual Walking Speed
Authors: Wu Hang , Tan Jiajie , Chan S.-H. Gary
Published: October 2021

The geomagnetic field has been wildly advocated as an effective signal for fingerprint-based indoor localization due to its omnipresence and local distinctive features. Prior survey-based approaches to collect magnetic fingerprints often required surveyors to walk at constant speeds or rely on a meticulously calibrated pedometer (step counter) or manual training. This is inconvenient, error-prone, and not highly deployable in practice. To overcome that, we propose Maficon, a novel and efficient pedometer-free approach for geo
ma
gnetic
fi
ngerprint database
con
struction. In Maficon, a surveyor simply walks at
casual
(arbitrary) speed along the survey path to collect geomagnetic signals. By correlating the features of geomagnetic signals and accelerometer readings (user motions), Maficon adopts a self-learning approach and formulates a quadratic programming to accurately estimate the walking speed in each signal segment and label these segments with their physical locations. To the best of our knowledge, Maficon is the first piece of work on pedometer-free magnetic fingerprinting with casual walking speed. Extensive experiments show that Maficon significantly reduces walking speed estimation error (by more than 20%) and hence fingerprint error (by 35% in general) as compared with traditional and state-of-the-art schemes.
AutoML to Date and Beyond: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Karmaker (“Santu”) Shubhra Kanti , Hassan Md. Mahadi , Smith Micah J. , Xu Lei , Zhai Chengxiang , Veeramachaneni Kalyan
Published: October 2021

As big data becomes ubiquitous across domains, and more and more stakeholders aspire to make the most of their data, demand for machine learning tools has spurred researchers to explore the possibilities of automated machine learning (AutoML). AutoML tools aim to make machine learning accessible for non-machine learning experts (domain experts), to improve the efficiency of machine learning, and to accelerate machine learning research. But although automation and efficiency are among AutoML’s main selling points, the process still requires human involvement at a number of vital steps, including understanding the attributes of domain-specific data, defining prediction problems, creating a suitable training dataset, and selecting a promising machine learning technique. These steps often require a prolonged back-and-forth that makes this process inefficient for domain experts and data scientists alike and keeps so-called AutoML systems from being truly automatic. In this review article, we introduce a new classification system for AutoML systems, using a seven-tiered schematic to distinguish these systems based on their level of autonomy. We begin by describing what an end-to-end machine learning pipeline actually looks like, and which subtasks of the machine learning pipeline have been automated so far. We highlight those subtasks that are still done manually—generally by a data scientist—and explain how this limits domain experts’ access to machine learning. Next, we introduce our novel level-based taxonomy for AutoML systems and define each level according to the scope of automation support provided. Finally, we lay out a roadmap for the future, pinpointing the research required to further automate the end-to-end machine learning pipeline and discussing important challenges that stand in the way of this ambitious goal.
Shared Secret Key Generation by Exploiting Inaudible Acoustic Channels
Authors: Lu Youjing , Wu Fan , Huang Qianyi , Tang Shaojie , Kong Linghe , Chen Guihai
Published: October 2021

To build a secure wireless networking system, it is essential that the cryptographic key is known only to the two (or more) communicating parties. Existing key extraction schemes put the devices into physical proximity and utilize the common inherent randomness between the devices to agree on a secret key, but they often rely on specialized hardware (e.g., the specific wireless NIC model) and have low bit rates. In this article, we seek a key extraction approach that only leverages off-the-shelf mobile devices, while achieving significantly higher key generation efficiency. The core idea of our approach is to exploit the fast varying inaudible acoustic channel as the common random source for key generation and wireless parallel communication for exchanging reconciliation information to improve the key generation rate. We have carefully studied and validated the feasibility of our approach through both theoretical analysis and a variety of measurements. We implement our approach on different mobile devices and conduct extensive experiments in different real scenarios. The experiment results show that our approach achieves high efficiency and satisfactory robustness. Compared with state-of-the-art methods, our approach improves the key generation rate by 38.46% and reduces the bit mismatch ratio by 42.34%.
Tiotropium Bromide Attenuates Mucus Hypersecretion in Patients with Stable Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Yu Suyun , Zhang Caili , Yan Zhijun , Fang Qingqing , Gao Xiwen
Published: October 2021

Background. Patients with stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have been observed to benefit from tiotropium bromide. However, there are few studies of tiotropium bromide on sputum and sputum viscosity. To evaluate the effect of tiotropium bromide on mucus hypersecretion, a randomized, double-blind controlled trial was performed. Methods. 120 cases of patients with pulmonary function grade II were divided into two groups, which include the treatment group given tiotropium bromide powder inhalation (18 μg, inhalation, QD) and the control group given formoterol fumarate powder inhalation (12 μg, inhalation, BID) plus ambroxol hydrochloride tablets (60 mg, oral, TID). After 3 months of treatment, the pulmonary function and α1-acid glycoprotein (α1-AGP) in sputum were detected, and the changes of glycoprotein and Ca2+ content were evaluated by Miller classification. Results. Three patients (2 cases in the treatment group and 1 case in the control group) were dropped due to loss of follow-up, and 117 cases of patients were enrolled in this study. After 3 months of treatment, the sputum character score, α1-acid glycoprotein, Ca2+ content, and lung function of the two groups were significantly improved; group comparison analyses revealed that there was no significant difference in the content of α1-AGP, Ca2+ in sputum, and lung function between the two groups (

P
>
0.05

), but the improvement of sputum properties was significant (

P
<
0.05

), and the treatment group was better than the control group (

t
=
−
2.77

;

P
=
0.007

). Conclusions. Inhaled tiotropium bromide can effectively inhibit the mucus hypersecretion in stable COPD patients, improve the sputum properties and lung function of patients, and improve the quality of life of patients.
Ultrasonographic Changes in Brain Hemodynamics in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease and Risk Factors for Cerebrovascular Disease: A Pilot Study
Authors: Brisson Rodrigo Tavares , de Cássia Leite Fernandes Rita , Fulgêncio de Lima Arruda Josevânia , Silva Liene Duarte , Sales Dantas de Lima Marco Antônio , Zuma Rosso Ana Lucia
Published: October 2021

Recent epidemiological studies have revealed a correlation between atypical features and worse functional outcomes in Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients with cerebrovascular disease (CVD). We aimed to evaluate the brain hemodynamics of PD patients with risk factors for CVD using Doppler ultrasonography. In this prospective pilot study, we randomly included 27 outpatients diagnosed with PD. Transcranial color-coded sonography (TCCS) examinations were performed, obtaining measurements of middle cerebral artery mean flow velocities (Vm), the resistance index (RI), and the pulsatility index (PI). The breath-holding index (BHI) was used to assess cerebrovascular reactivity (cVR). Standardized functional scales (UPDRS III, Hoehn & Yahr scale, and MoCA) were administered. The patients were divided into two groups: those with two or more vascular risk factors (PDvasc) and those with fewer than two vascular risk factors (PDnvasc). Patients in the PDvasc group showed higher PI (1.00 vs. 0.85;

p
=
0.020

), RI (0.59 vs. 0.5;

p
=
0.05

), H&Y mean (2.4 vs. 1.4;

p
=
0.036

), higher frequency of altered cVR (90.9% vs. 25.0%;

p
=
0.001

), and lower BHI (0.46 vs. 1.01;

p
=
0.027

). We also divided the patients in other two groups: one with patients with classical and another with akinetic-rigid PD clinical type. Patients with the akinetic-rigid type of PD had significantly higher RI (0.60 vs. 0.51;

p
=
0.03

), PI (0.99 vs. 0.77;

p
=
0.03

), higher frequency of altered cVR (80% vs. 35%;

p
=
0.02

), and lower BHI (0.48 vs. 0.96;

p
=
0.05

) than patients with classic-type PD. We concluded that TCCS displays impaired cerebrovascular reactivity and a more severe disease pattern in Parkinsonian patients with two or more risk factors for CVD and in the akinetic-rigid type. Doppler ultrasonography may be a useful tool in a clinical setting to investigate PD patients.
Enhancement of Mechanical Properties on Novel Friction Stir Welded Al-Mg-Zn Alloy Joints Reinforced with Nano-SiC Particles
Authors: Natrayan L. , Ravichandran M. , Veeman Dhinakaran , Sureshkumar P. , Jagadeesha T. , Suryanarayanan R. , Mammo Wubishet Degife
Published: October 2021

Friction stir welding (FSW) is a solid-state technique used to join Al-Zn-Mg alloys effectively compared with other conventional welding methods. Al-Zn-Mg alloy was processed for welding because they significantly demanded various engineering applications. A novel method of this research work is to characterize the unique mechanical properties of Al-Zn-Mg alloy reinforced with 1 to 3 wt% of nano silicon carbide (nano-SiC) particles developed by novel interlock friction-stir welding. The process parameters chosen for welding are rotational tool speed 1100 rpm, weld speed 25 mm/min, and triangular pin profile. The weld joint properties such as tensile strength, yield strength, and hardness were tested per ASTM standard. The microstructure of weld joints was studied with XRD and optical and scanning electron microscopy. The existence of silica particles in the weld joints and uniformed and homogeneous distribution of the particulates in the weld was verified by EDS analysis and microstructure. Al-Zn-Mg reinforced with nano-SiC joints has better static properties due to intensive softening in the stir region. Al-Zn-Mg with 3 wt% nano-SiC exhibits maximum tensile strength, yield strength, and nugget hardness of 191 MPa, 165 MPa, and 171 HV. Weld microstructures showed a pinning mechanism because nano-SiC particles were used as reinforcement during friction stir welding.
Large Relics Scenario‐Based Visualization Using Head‐Mounted Displays
Authors: Xu Hui , Zhang Jiawan
Published: October 2021

Most visitors come to visit museums; in reality, few immersive solutions support the senses experience. Virtual reality (VR) technology attaches the virtual information from the real environment. Applying the VR technology in the 3D relic information display and visualization in the museum field is a hot research issue. However, most current solutions of relics are one‐sided, only focusing on the virtual exhibition, lack of associations with actual function, and senses experience, especially the large artistic cultural relics. The scenario‐based virtual exhibition solution is an available approach to allow visitors to imitate ancient artist and provide relatively experience in the form of content and sense organ of ancient art. It converts large relics into “digital large relics” and enables experiencing performance of ancient civilization in person. The solution presents relics to the visitors in a more direct and vivid manner and with innovative forms, strong interaction, and intelligence, thereby improving the interests and satisfaction among visitors in this type of relic exhibition. Besides, it also provides visitors with a convenient way to experience and learn ritual and culture. Evaluation and conclusion can be drawn that most participants appreciated this solution in clear interface and completion aspects.
Genetic Polymorphisms of IFNG, IFNGR1, and Androgen Receptor and Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome in a Chinese Han Population
Authors: Chen Lei , Chen Junyi , Mo Fan , Bian Zichen , Jin Chen , Chen Xianguo , Liang Chaozhao
Published: October 2021

Background. Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) refers to a common disorder with unclear etiology and unsatisfactory treatment, which reduces the male’s quality of life. Objective. To examine the effects of genetic polymorphisms of IFNG, IFNGR1, and androgen receptor (AR) on CP/CPPS. Methods. The single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of IFNG, IFNGR1, and AR were genotyped with the improved multiplex ligation detection reaction. The GTEx, RegulomeDB, HaploReg, and 3DSNP databases were adopted to predict the regulatory functions of the genotyped SNPs. The correlation between SNPs and CP/CPPS was analyzed with the

χ

2

test, logistic regression, and two genetic models (codominant and log-additive models). The nomogram was built to predict the risk of CP/CPPS occurrence. Results. On the whole, 130 CP/CPPS patients and 125 healthy controls were recruited in the study, and 18 SNPs of IFNG, IFNGR1, and AR were genotyped. The results of functional annotation indicated that the 18 genotyped SNPs might have regulatory effects in the whole blood. The rs144488434 was correlated with the elevated CP/CPPS risk (odds ratio (OR): 2.40, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.12-5.13,

χ

2

=
5.37

, and

P
=
0.021

) by the

χ

2

test. In the built genetic models, rs10457655 was correlated with the elevated National Institutes of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH-CPSI) scores (codominant model: GA/GG:

crude
 
mean
 
difference
 

MD

=
0.98

, 95% CI: -1.71-3.67 and AA/GG:

crude
 
MD
=
9.10

, 95% CI: 0.58-17.62,

P
=
0.10

). In subgroup analysis, rs2069718 was correlated with the elevated CP/CPPS risk (log-additive model:

crude
 
OR
=
2.18

, 95% CI: 1.03-4.64, and

P
=
0.034

) in

patients
≥
35

years. The nomogram integrating age, rs2069718, rs10457655, and rs144488434 showed good performance to predict the risk of CP/CPPS. Conclusions. Genetic polymorphisms of IFNG, IFNGR1, and AR might act as the genetic factors for CP/CPPS susceptibility, which deserved further explorations.
Some Inequalities of Generalized p-Convex Functions concerning Raina’s Fractional Integral Operators
Authors: Chen Changyue , Sallem Muhammad Shoaib , Zahoor Muhammad Sajid
Published: October 2021

Convex functions play an important role in pure and applied mathematics specially in optimization theory. In this paper, we will deal with well-known class of convex functions named as generalized p-convex functions. We develop Hermite–Hadamard-type inequalities for this class of convex function via Raina’s fractional integral operator.
A Liver Transplant for Local Control in a Pediatric Patient with Metastatic TFE3-Associated Perivascular Epithelioid Cell Tumor (PEComa) to the Liver
Authors: Lee Whayoung , HaDuong Josephine , Sassoon Aaron , Dao Tuan , Nael Ali
Published: October 2021

Perivascular epithelioid cell tumors (PEComas) are rare mesenchymal tumors with widespread distribution throughout the body and unpredictable clinical behavior. Recently, a subset of these tumors has been reported to harbor Transcription Factor E3 (TFE3) gene rearrangement with distinct morphologic and immunophenotypic features. Although limited, these tumors may represent a separate entity from the conventional PEComas and may require different treatment approaches. Surgery is the main treatment option with no clear consensus on systemic therapy. Here, we present the first case of a malignant pediatric colonic TFE3-associated PEComa with isolated liver metastasis leading to liver transplantation for the local control.
Intelligent Resource Allocation Method for Wireless Communication Networks Based on Deep Learning Techniques
Authors: Hui Hancheng
Published: October 2021

In this paper, a deep learning approach is used to conduct an in‐depth study and analysis of intelligent resource allocation in wireless communication networks. Firstly, the concepts related to CSCN architecture are discussed and the throughput of small base stations (SBS) in CSCN architecture is analyzed; then, the long short‐term memory network (LSTM) model is used to predict the mobile location of users, and the transmission conditions of users are scored based on two conditions, namely, the mobile location of users and whether the small base stations to which users are connected have their desired cache states, and the small base stations select the transmission. The small base station selects several users with optimal transmission conditions based on the scores; then, the concept of game theory is introduced to model the problem of maximizing network throughput as a multi‐intelligent noncooperative game problem; finally, a deep augmented learning‐based wireless resource allocation algorithm is proposed to enable the small base station to learn autonomously and select channel resources based on the network environment to maximize the network throughput. Simulation results show that the algorithm proposed in this paper leads to a significant improvement in network throughput compared to the traditional random‐access algorithm and the algorithm proposed in the literature. In this paper, we apply it to the fine‐grained resource control problem of user traffic allocation and find that the resource control technique based on the AC framework can obtain a performance very close to the local optimal solution of a matching‐based proportional fair user dual connection algorithm with polynomial‐level computational complexity. The resource allocation and task unloading decision policy optimization is implemented, and at the end of the training process, each intelligent body independently performs resource allocation and task unloading according to the current system state and policy. Finally, the simulation results show that the algorithm can effectively improve the quality of user experience and reduce latency and energy consumption.
Myelin Basic Protein and Cardiac Sympathetic Neurodegeneration in Nonhuman Primates
Authors: Metzger Jeanette M. , Matsoff Helen N. , Vu Don , Zinnen Alexandra D. , Jones Kathryn M. , Bondarenko Viktoriya , Simmons Heather A. , Moore Colleen F. , Emborg Marina E.
Published: October 2021

Minimal myelination is proposed to be a contributing factor to the preferential nigral neuronal loss in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Similar to nigral dopaminergic neurons, sympathetic neurons innervating the heart have long, thin axons which are unmyelinated or minimally myelinated. Interestingly, cardiac sympathetic loss in PD is heterogeneous across the heart, yet the spatial relationship between myelination and neurodegeneration is unknown. Here, we report the mapping of myelin basic protein (MBP) expression across the left ventricle of normal rhesus macaques (n = 5) and animals intoxicated with systemic 6-OHDA (50 mg/kg iv) to model parkinsonian cardiac neurodegeneration (n = 10). A subset of 6-OHDA-treated rhesus received daily dosing of pioglitazone (5 mg/kg po; n = 5), a PPARγ agonist with neuroprotective properties. In normal animals, MBP-immunoreactivity (-ir) was identified surrounding approximately 14% of axonal fibers within nerve bundles of the left ventricle, with more myelinated nerve fibers at the base level of the left ventricle than the apexp<0.014. Greater MBP-ir at the base was related to a greater number of nerve bundles at that level relative to the apexp<0.05, as the percent of myelinated nerve fibers in bundles was not significantly different between levels of the heart. Cardiac sympathetic loss following 6-OHDA was associated with decreased MBP-ir in cardiac nerve bundles, with the percent decrease of MBP-ir greater in the apex (84.5%) than the base (52.0%). Interestingly, cardiac regions and levels with more MBP-ir in normal animals showed attenuated sympathetic loss relative to areas with less MBP-ir in 6-OHDA + placebo (r = −0.7,p<0.014), but not in 6-OHDA + pioglitazone (r = −0.1) subjects. Our results demonstrate that myelination is present around a minority of left ventricle nerve bundle fibers, is heterogeneously distributed in the heart of rhesus macaques, and has a complex relationship with cardiac sympathetic neurodegeneration and neuroprotection.
Research on Algorithm to Improve Accuracy of Temperature Measurement of Moving Strong Reflector
Authors: Wei Shaoliang , Yang Yuanjia , Cheng Fengyu
Published: October 2021

The roll is necessary and important equipment in aluminum processing, and its surface temperature will change its thermal expansion. The gap shape between rolls will change accordingly, affecting the quality of aluminum products. Therefore, it is important to monitor and control the roll surface temperature. The roller is a highly reflective body that rotates continuously during work. This article proposes an infrared temperature sensor to measure its surface temperature. Through field investigation and a literature review, we know that a roller’s motion will affect the accuracy of its surface temperature measurement. An infrared temperature measurement compensation algorithm based on rotation speed is constructed to eliminate this influence. Experimental results show that this method can make up for the temperature measurement error caused by the change of rotation speed and hence improve measurement accuracy. The algorithm is simple and adaptable and provides a new method to improve the accuracy of temperature measurement given speed change.
Organizational Structure Differentiation and Evolution of International Corporations Based on Company-Atom Analogy in the Mobile Internet Era
Authors: Shi Kun
Published: October 2021

It goes without saying that people play a critical and active role in economic activity, and humans are the fundamental unit of companies in the global economy, in which organizational changes have occurred in the emerging mobile Internet era. This paper aims to establish a theoretical model of analogy between companies and atoms to study the differentiation and evolution of the recent international expansion of corporations. It fulfills a comparative study of what leads to organizational change and how it is influenced by economic activity from an interdisciplinary perspective. An exploratory study was made to evaluate economic activity in relation to quantum mechanics theory, clarify the organizational structure according to the electron cloud model, elaborate on the evolution of the expanding organizational structure by referring to the periodic table, and develop an insight into sustainability for economic globalization. It reveals that sustainable economic globalization may rely on the global values of connecting and sharing with information systems in the mobile Internet era, along with organizational evolution. Global sustainability depends on economic development achieving a balance with resource constraints and population growth.
Hydration with Mannitol and Dextrose May Promote Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity: Test of Five Protocols of Hydration during Cisplatin Therapy in Rat Models
Authors: Khosravi Mohammad-Sedigh , Samimiat Alireza , Mazaheri Bahar , Ashrafi Farzaneh , Talebi Ardeshir , Nematbakhsh Mehdi
Published: October 2021

Backgrounds. Cisplatin (CP) still is a novel choice for solid tumor therapy, but it is accompanied with the side effect of nephrotoxicity. Hydration may reduce the risk of CP-induced nephrotoxicity, while the issue is still challenging. In this study, five types of hydration protocols including saline, mannitol, dextrose saline, saline plus furosemide, and saline plus mannitol were examined in both sexes of rats during CP therapy. Methods. Seventy-six male and female Wistar rats in 14 groups of experiments were subjected to CP therapy, and five types of hydration protocols were implemented, and the induced nephrotoxicity was evaluated via biochemical markers, kidney function parameters, and pathology investigation. Results. Male and female rats had different responses to hydration protocol types. The higher mortality rate was seen in female rats that received mannitol or dextrose hydration types. In addition, the serum levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine (Cr) and sodium excretion fraction (ENa%) increased and the clearance of Cr (ClCr) decreased significantly (

P
<
0.05

) in female rats hydrated with saline plus furosemide or mannitol plus saline-treated groups. The worsened condition in male rats is observed in the mannitol hydration group with a significant decrease of ClCr and significant increase of serum BUN and Cr and ENa% (

P
<
0.05

). The higher kidney tissue damage score (KTDS) in the mentioned groups verified the findings. Conclusion. Hydration with mannitol or dextrose promotes the risk of nephrotoxicity during CP therapy with more intensity on the female.
Two-Stage Degradation Assessment and Prediction Method for Aircraft Engine Based on Data Fusion
Authors: Yan Hongsheng , Zuo Hongfu , Sun Jianzhong , Zhou Di , Wang Han
Published: October 2021

Aeroengine is one of the most concerned objects of the relevant aviation industry and researchers, and it is a hard work to assess and predict performance degradation due to the complex structure and the changeable operating condition of the engine. In order to realize the performance degradation assessment and remaining useful life (RUL) prediction of aeroengine, this paper proposes a two-stage assessment and prediction method based on data fusion. First, the standard deviation merged by multiple selected features is used as the health indicator to characterize the engine performance. Second, a sliding window detection method called average local window slope is proposed to determine the current health state of observations by a specified rule. Finally, the RUL prediction is performed on the observation in the two stages, respectively. On the one hand, a similarity-based RUL prediction method is used to engines in the health stage, and on the other hand, for engines in the degradation stage, a RUL prediction method based on a mapping function of the standard deviation and the current using cycle is established. The proposed method has been applied and verified on the NASA’s C-MAPSS simulation data. Results of degradation assessment and prediction show that the proposed method is trustworthy and feasible from the engineering perspective, and it has better performance in the comprehensive indicator compared with other methods.
A Cascade Flexible Neural Forest Model for Cancer Subtypes Classification on Gene Expression Data
Authors: Zhong Lianxin , Meng Qingfang , Chen Yuehui
Published: October 2021

The correct classification of cancer subtypes is of great significance for the in‐depth study of cancer pathogenesis and the realization of accurate treatment for cancer patients. In recent years, the classification of cancer subtypes using deep neural networks and gene expression data has become a hot topic. However, most classifiers may face the challenges of overfitting and low classification accuracy when dealing with small sample size and high‐dimensional biological data. In this paper, the Cascade Flexible Neural Forest (CFNForest) Model was proposed to accomplish cancer subtype classification. CFNForest extended the traditional flexible neural tree structure to FNT Group Forest exploiting a bagging ensemble strategy and could automatically generate the model’s structure and parameters. In order to deepen the FNT Group Forest without introducing new hyperparameters, the multilayer cascade framework was exploited to design the FNT Group Forest model, which transformed features between levels and improved the performance of the model. The proposed CFNForest model also improved the operational efficiency and the robustness of the model by sample selection mechanism between layers and setting different weights for the output of each layer. To accomplish cancer subtype classification, FNT Group Forest with different feature sets was used to enrich the structural diversity of the model, which make it more suitable for processing small sample size datasets. The experiments on RNA‐seq gene expression data showed that CFNForest effectively improves the accuracy of cancer subtype classification. The classification results have good robustness.
Time‐Varying Spatial Memory Model and Its Impact on Virus Spreading
Authors: Xu Mingyue , Han Dingding , Zhao Kaidi , Yao Qingqing
Published: October 2021

The models of time‐varying network have a profound impact on the study of virus spreading on the networks. On the basis of an activity‐driven memory evolution model, a time‐varying spatial memory model (TSM) is proposed. In the TSM model, the cumulative number of connections between nodes is recorded, and the spatiality of nodes is considered at the same time. Therefore, the active nodes tend to connect the nodes with high intimacy and close proximity. Then, the TSM model is applied to epidemic spreading, and the epidemic spreading on different models is compared. To verify the universality of the TSM model, this model is also applied to rumor spreading, and it is proved that it can also play a good inhibiting effect. We find that, in the TSM network, the introduction of spatiality and memory can slow down the propagation speed and narrow the propagation scope of disease or rumor, and memory is more important. We then explore the impact of different prevention and control methods on pandemic spreading to provide reference for COVID‐19 management control and find when the activity of node is restricted, the spreading will be controlled. As floating population has been acknowledged as a key parameter that affects the situation of COVID‐19 after work resumption, the factor of population mobility is introduced to calculate the interregional population interaction rate, and the time‐varying interregional epidemic model is established. Finally, our results of infectious disease parameters based on daily cases are in good agreement with the real data, and the effectiveness of different control measures is evaluated.
Experimental Study of Size Effects on the Deformation Strength and Failure Characteristics of Hard Rocks under True Triaxial Compression
Authors: Han Qiang , Gao Yaohui , Zhang Yan
Published: October 2021

Size effect has always been the focus of rock mechanics as a bridge between laboratory test and engineering site. Previously, the research conditions and objects of the rock size effect have mostly focused on cylindrical rock samples with different height‐to‐diameter ratios (H/Ds) under uniaxial or conventional triaxial compression, while there has been little research on the rock size effect under true triaxial compression (TTC), especially rectangular rock samples with different sizes and the same length‐to‐width‐to‐height ratio. Based on this, the deformation, strength, and failure characteristics of Beishan (BS) granite and Baihetan (BHT) basalt with different sample sizes under TTC were studied by a comparative analysis method. The size effect of deformation and failure characteristics under TTC are not obvious, including stress‐strain curves, Young’s modulus, peak strains, failure angles, and macrofailure mode. However, the damage stress (σcd) and peak strength (σp) have obvious size effect; that is, the smaller the sample size is, the higher the strength is. Additionally, the relationship among the peak strength, sample size, and intermediate principal stress (σ2) is power function. In addition, by comparing the peak strength increment caused by the sample size of the two types of rocks, the σp of the fine‐grained BHT basalt is more sensitive to sample size than that of the coarse‐grained BS granite. Finally, by analyzing the relationship between the size of the mineral grains or clusters in the two types of hard rocks and the complexity of crack propagation in the fracture surface under TTC, it is suggested that the minimum side length of rock samples should not be less than 10 times the maximum mineral clusters (such as feldspar phenocrysts in BHT basalt). In addition, the method of estimating elastic strain is established by analyzing the relationship between the size of the rock sample σ2 and the elastic strain under TTC.
Image Processing Design and Algorithm Research Based on Cloud Computing
Authors: He Defu , Xiong Si
Published: October 2021

Image processing technology is a popular practical technology in the computer field and has important research value for signal information processing. This article is aimed at studying the design and algorithm of image processing under cloud computing technology. This paper proposes cloud computing technology and image processing algorithms for image data processing. Among them, the material structure and performance of the system can choose a verification algorithm to achieve the final operation. Moreover, let us start with the image editing features. This article isolates software and hardware that function rationally. On this basis, the structure of a real‐time image processing system based on SOPC technology is built and the corresponding functional receiving unit is designed for real‐time image storage, editing, and viewing. Studies have shown that the design of an image processing system based on cloud computing has increased the speed of image data processing by 14%. Compared with other algorithms, this image processing algorithm has great advantages in image compression and image restoration.
DCLK1-Short Splice Variant Promotes Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Progression via the MAPK/ERK/MMP2 Pathway
Authors: Ge Yang , Fan Xiaona , Huang Xuying , Weygant Nathaniel , Xiao Zeru , Yan Rui , Liu Heshu , Liu Jian , An Guangyu , Yao Jiannan
Published: October 2021

Cancer stem cell (CSC) marker doublecortin-like kinase 1 (DCLK1) contributes greatly to the malignancy of gastrointestinal cancers, and DCLK1-targeted agents have potential therapeutic value. However, the molecular pathways regulated by DCLK1-S (DCLK1 isoform 4), a shortened splice variant of DCLK1, still remain obscure. Here we found that the expression of DCLK1-S is significantly increased in human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) tissues and associated with malignant progression and poor prognosis. Functional studies indicated that silencing total of DCLK1 mediated by CRISPR/Cas9 inhibited ESCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Conversely, these changes were largely reversed after DCLK1-S rescue or overexpression. More importantly, DCLK1-S significantly enhanced primary tumor formation and metastatic lung colonization in vivo. The Cancer Genome Atlas database and molecular analysis showed that DCLK1-S was closely related to the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in patients with ESCC. Further RNA sequencing and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis demonstrated that MAPK signaling pathway was significantly enriched. Our in vitro study proclaimed that DCLK1-S induced MMP2 expression in ESCC cells via MAPK/ERK signaling, leading to the activation of EMT. In addition, administration of ERK1/2 blocker SCH772984 attenuated the proliferative and migratory phenotype induced by DCLK1-S. In conclusion, these findings suggest that DCLK1-S may be a key molecule in MAPK/ERK/MMP2 pathway–mediated progression of ESCC, and that it has potential as a biomarker or therapeutic target to improve outcomes in patients with ESCC.

Implications

: DCLK1-S induces ESCC progression by activating the MAPK/ERK/MMP2 axis and may serve as a prognostic biomarker or therapeutic target for patients with ESCC.
Epigenetic Silencing of BMP6 by the SIN3A–HDAC1/2 Repressor Complex Drives Melanoma Metastasis via FAM83G/PAWS1
Authors: Min Dongkook , Byun Jaemin , Lee Eun-Joon , Khan Abdul A. , Liu Christina , Loudig Oliver , Hu Wei , Zhao Yong , Herlyn Meenhard , Tycko Benjamin , Cole Phillip A. , Ryu Byungwoo
Published: October 2021

Aberrant epigenetic transcriptional regulation is linked to metastasis, a primary cause of cancer-related death. Dissecting the epigenetic mechanisms controlling metastatic progression may uncover important insights to tumor biology and potential therapeutic targets. Here, we investigated the role of the SIN3A histone deacetylase 1 and 2 (SIN3A–HDAC1/2) complex in cancer metastasis. Using a mouse model of melanoma metastasis, we found that the SIN3A–HDAC1/2 transcription repressor complex silences BMP6 expression, causing increased metastatic dissemination and tumor growth via suppression of BMP6-activated SMAD5 signaling. We further discovered that FAM83G/PAWS1, a downstream effector of BMP6–SMAD5 signaling, contributes critically to metastatic progression by promoting actin-dependent cytoskeletal dynamics and cell migration. Pharmacologic inhibition of the SIN3A–HDAC1/2 complex reduced the numbers of melanoma cells in the circulation and inhibited metastatic tumor growth by inducing disseminated cell dormancy, highlighting the SIN3A–HDAC1/2 repressor complex as a potential therapeutic target for blocking cancer metastasis.

Implications:

This study identifies the novel molecular links in the metastatic progression to target cytoskeletal dynamics in melanoma and identifies the SIN3A–HDAC1/2 complex and FAM83G/PAWS1 as potential targets for melanoma adjuvant therapy.
Reduction in Vaccine HPV Type Infections in a Young Women Group (18–25 Years) Five Years after HPV Vaccine Introduction in Colombia
Authors: Combita Alba L. , Reyes Viviana , Puerto Devi , Murillo Raúl , Sánchez Ricardo , Nuñez Marcela , Hernandez-Suarez Gustavo A. , Wiesner Carolina
Published: October 2021

In Colombia, the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine was launched in 2012 in the context of a school-based national vaccination program targeting girls ages 9 to 14 and offering catch-up vaccination for girls ages 14 to 17. In this study, we evaluated the program's impact on type-specific HPV infection by comparing HPV cervical prevalence among vaccinated and nonvaccinated women. This is a comparative cross-sectional study conducted 5 years after the quadrivalent HPV vaccination implementation in a sentinel Colombian City. This study included young women (18–25 years old) who had been vaccinated in the catch-up group and were attending universities and technical institutions, and women who attended primary health care facilities for Pap smear screening. The HPV prevalence of 1,287 unvaccinated women was compared with the prevalence of 1,986 vaccinated women. The prevalence of HPV16/18 infections was significantly lower in vaccinated compared with unvaccinated women (6.5% vs. 15.4%; P < 0.001), whereas for HPV6/11 infections, a decrease of 63.7% in vaccinated women (1.02% vs. 2.81%) was observed. The adjusted effectiveness to HPV16/18 was 61.4%; 95% CI, 54.3%–67.6%. However, the effectiveness against HPV16/18 was significantly higher among women vaccinated before their sexual debut 91.5%; 95% CI, 86.8–94.5, compared with effectiveness for vaccination after their sexual debut, 36.2%; 95% CI, 23.6–46.7. Five years after the introduction of HPV vaccines in Colombia, high effectiveness of HPV to prevent HPV16/18 infections is observed in the catch-up cohorts including virgin and sexually active women.

Prevention Relevance:

Monitoring HPV vaccines post-licensure plays an important role in assessing the progress of immunization programs, demonstrating the impact of vaccines on the population, and providing data for policy needs. In Colombia, HPV vaccines showed effectiveness when administered before start of sexual activity, and two doses are sufficient to achieve good protection.
Celecoxib Colorectal Bioavailability and Chemopreventive Response in Patients with Familial Adenomatous Polyposis
Authors: Yang Peiying , Zuo Xiangsheng , Advani Shailesh , Wei Bo , Malek Jessica , Day Rena Sue , Shureiqi Imad
Published: October 2021

Why celecoxib exerts chemopreventive activity in only some familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) patients remains poorly understood. We conducted a phase II clinical study to identify potential predictive biomarkers for celecoxib chemopreventive activity in FAP. Twenty-seven patients with FAP completed a 6-month oral course of 400 mg of celecoxib twice a day; they underwent colonoscopies before and after celecoxib treatment to assess colorectal polyp tumor burden and to obtain normal and polyp colorectal biopsies to measure celecoxib, 13-S-hydroxyoctadecadienoic acid (13-HODE), 15-HETE, 12-HETE, and LTB4 levels by LC/MS-MS. Celecoxib levels in sera from those patients were also measured before treatment and after 2, 4, and 6 months of treatment. Nineteen of the 27 patients experienced a response to celecoxib, with a ≥ 28% reduction of colonic polyp burden on the basis of a reproducible quantitative assessment of colonoscopy results. Celecoxib levels were significantly lower in polyp tissues than in normal colorectal tissues. Celecoxib levels in sera and normal colorectal tissues were correlated in patients who experienced a response to celecoxib but not in those who did not. Among the measured lipoxygenase products, only 13-HODE levels were significantly lower in polyp tissues than in normal tissues. Our findings demonstrate the differential bioavailability of celecoxib between normal and polyp tissues and its potential effects on clinical response in patients with FAP.

Prevention Relevance:

This study evaluated potential predictive biomarkers for celecoxib chemopreventive activity in patients with FAP. Our findings demonstrated the differential bioavailability of celecoxib between normal and polyp tissues and its potential effects on clinical chemopreventive response in patients with FAP.

See related Spotlight, p. 205
Characterization of the Genomic and Immunologic Diversity of Malignant Brain Tumors through Multisector Analysis
Authors: Schaettler Maximilian O. , Richters Megan M. , Wang Anthony Z. , Skidmore Zachary L. , Fisk Bryan , Miller Katherine E. , Vickery Tammi L. , Kim Albert H. , Chicoine Michael R. , Osbun Joshua W. , Leuthardt Eric C. , Dowling Joshua L. , Zipfel Gregory J. , Dacey Ralph G. , Lu Hsiang-Chih , Johanns Tanner M. , Griffith Obi L. , Mardis Elaine R. , Griffith Malachi , Dunn Gavin P.
Published: October 2021

Despite some success in secondary brain metastases, targeted or immune-based therapies have shown limited efficacy against primary brain malignancies such as glioblastoma (GBM). Although the intratumoral heterogeneity of GBM is implicated in treatment resistance, it remains unclear whether this diversity is observed within brain metastases and to what extent cancer cell–intrinsic heterogeneity sculpts the local immune microenvironment. Here, we profiled the immunogenomic state of 93 spatially distinct regions from 30 malignant brain tumors through whole-exome, RNA, and T-cell receptor sequencing. Our analyses identified differences between primary and secondary malignancies, with gliomas displaying more spatial heterogeneity at the genomic and neoantigen levels. In addition, this spatial diversity was recapitulated in the distribution of T-cell clones in which some gliomas harbored highly expanded but spatially restricted clonotypes. This study defines the immunogenomic landscape across a cohort of malignant brain tumors and contains implications for the design of targeted and immune-based therapies against intracranial malignancies.

Significance:

This study describes the impact of spatial heterogeneity on genomic and immunologic characteristics of gliomas and brain metastases. The results suggest that gliomas harbor significantly greater intratumoral heterogeneity of genomic alterations, neoantigens, and T-cell clones than brain metastases, indicating the importance of multisector analysis for clinical or translational studies.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1
Presumed Solitary Dissemination of Colon Cancer Mimicking Primary Cancer of the Small Intestine
Authors: Inoue Daisuke , Oura Shoji , Takami Tomoya , Makimoto Shinichiro
Published: October 2021

A 69-year-old man with abdominal distention was referred to our hospital. The patient had undergone laparoscopic surgery for his Borrmann type 2 rectal cancer 2 years before. In addition to the re-elevation of serum CEA and CA19-9 levels, computed tomography (CT) showed intestinal dilatation, and positron emission CT showed a presumed tumor with abnormal fluorodeoxyglucose accumulation in the small intestine. We judged the small intestinal dilatation was highly due to the solitary recurrent peritoneal dissemination of rectal cancer and performed laparoscopic evaluation of the abdominal cavity followed by laparoscopic resection of the affected small intestine. The small intestinal tumor resembled the rectal cancer both on macroscopical and microscopical findings, that is, Borrmann type 2 phenotype and adenocarcinoma that was well differentiated in the part that protruded into the small intestinal lumen and whose degree of differentiation gradually decreased toward the serosa. In addition, abrupt disruption of the normal small intestinal epithelium and the lymphocytic aggregation, presumed tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, just between the tumor and the small intestinal epithelium highly suggested the tumor originating from the colon cancer. The patient recovered uneventfully with marked decrease in tumor marker levels 1 month after the operation but did not receive colon cancer-oriented chemotherapy as adjuvant therapy for his financial reasons. Oncologists should note this type of recurrence to properly treat the patients with recurrent colorectal cancer.
Tecnoimagética: vida esparramada em superfícies
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Comunicações e Artes
Published: October 2021

Esta publicação reúne contribuições de mestres e doutores que cursaram a disciplina Tecnoimagética: Produção e Circulação da Imagem na Comunicação Contemporânea, como parte do Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Comunicação da Escola de Comunicações e Artes da Universidade de São Paulo (ECA-USP). É esse ambiente didático-pedagógico que está por trás da presente coletânea de textos, que reflete as trocas de experiências, repertórios e interpretações a respeito dessa temática. Assim, é certo que este livro tem a intenção de contribuir para os estudos da imagem na comunicação, mas é também seu objetivo compartilhar a experiência da sala de aula de pós-graduação como espaço de convivência, debate e aprendizado.
Mistaken identity: a new Spathiphyllum (Araceae) from Veracruz, Mexico
Authors: DÍAZ JIMÉNEZ PEDRO , PÉREZ-FARRERA MIGUEL ÁNGEL , HENTRICH HEIKO , GÓMEZ-DOMÍNGUEZ HÉCTOR , AMECA-JUÁREZ ERASMO ÓSCAR , AGUILAR-RODRÍGUEZ PEDRO A.
Published: October 2021

The genus Spathiphyllum is represented in Mexico by 11 species, four of which are registered for the state of Veracruz. As a result of the revision of material collected in Los Tuxtlas, Veracruz, in addition to a detailed review of herbarium specimens, and comparison to individuals collected at and the type locality of Spathiphyllum cochlearispathum, we determined that the Spathiphyllum species identified as S. cochlearispathum in the Gulf of Mexico corresponds to a different species, not previously designated. The new species, Spathiphyllum croatii, is described taxonomically, illustrated, and compared with S. cochlearispathum.