bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic Temporospatial Patterns of Functional Connectivity and Alterations in Idiopathic Generalized Epilepsy
Authors: Jiang Sisi , Pei Haonan , Huang Yang , Chen Yan , Liu Linli , Li Jianfu , He Hui , Yao Dezhong , Luo Cheng
Published: August 2020

The dynamic profile of brain function has received much attention in recent years and is also a focus in the study of epilepsy. The present study aims to integrate the dynamics of temporal and spatial characteristics to provide comprehensive and novel understanding of epileptic dynamics. Resting state fMRI data were collected from eighty-three patients with idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE) and 87 healthy controls (HC). Specifically, we explored the temporal and spatial variation of functional connectivity density (tvFCD and svFCD) in the whole brain. Using a sliding-window approach, for a given region, the standard variation of the FCD series was calculated as the tvFCD and the variation of voxel-wise spatial distribution was calculated as the svFCD. We found primary, high-level, and sub-cortical networks demonstrated distinct tvFCD and svFCD patterns in HC. In general, the high-level networks showed the highest variation, the subcortical and primary networks showed moderate variation, and the limbic system showed the lowest variation. Relative to HC, the patients with IGE showed weaken temporal and enhanced spatial variation in the default mode network and weaken temporospatial variation in the subcortical network. Besides, enhanced temporospatial variation in sensorimotor and high-level networks was also observed in patients. The hyper-synchronization of specific brain networks was inferred to be associated with the phenomenon responsible for the intrinsic propensity of generation and propagation of epileptic activities. The disrupted dynamic characteristics of sensorimotor and high-level networks might potentially contribute to the driven motion and cognition phenotypes in patients. In all, presently provided evidence from the temporospatial variation of functional interaction shed light on the dynamics underlying neuropathological profiles of epilepsy.
TRADE OPENNESS AND THE PHILLIPS CURVE: EVIDENCE FROM ASEAN COUNTRIES
Authors: FURUOKA FUMITAKA , PUI KIEW LING , CHOMAR MA TIN , NIKITINA LARISA
Published: August 2020

A flattening of the Phillips curve in recent decades has attracted a considerable interest of researchers and central bankers. As trade openness might be among the main causes of this phenomenon, this study puts forward a testable ‘openness–Phillips curve’ hypothesis. Two methods — a static and a dynamic approaches — were employed to test the hypothesis by estimating slope coefficients of the new Keynesian Phillips curve (NKPC) and hybrid NKPC in ten ASEAN countries. A notable empirical finding is that in the periods of a higher trade openness, the Phillips curve tended to be flatter in the close economies and steeper in the open economies. These findings have some economic and political implications. The main one is that central banks in the ASEAN countries where the flattening of the Phillips curve takes place would not be able to employ the Phillips curve as an effective policy tool. Besides, countries with high inflation and unemployment rates could face some political uncertainty.
Delivering total skin electron therapy using regular electron cones
Authors: Shi Jun-Wen , Jen Yee-Min , Yeh Shyh-An , Wu Jia-Ming
Published: August 2020

This study presents a technique requiring relatively simple supporting devices and protection accessories for treating conditions like mycosis fungoides in which a uniform radiation dose to the whole body can be achieved by using the regular largest electron cone instead of HDRe[Formula: see text] mode in one treatment course. The regular cone total skin electron therapy technique presented in this study is able to deliver a uniform radiation dose to the patient’s skin surface. The result is satisfying when compared with the High Dose Rate e[Formula: see text] (HDRe[Formula: see text]) Stanford Six Field Technique.
A novel quantum computing model based on entanglement degree
Authors: Zidan Mohammed
Published: August 2020

This paper shows a novel quantum computing model that solves quantum computing problems based on the degree of entanglement. We show two main theorems: the first theorem shows the quantum circuit that can be used to quantify the concurrence value between two adjacent qubits. The second theorem shows the quantum circuit of a proposed operator, called [Formula: see text] operator, which can be used to differentiate between the non-orthogonal states in the form [Formula: see text], with arbitrary accuracy, using the concurrence value. Then, the mathematical machinery for implementing the proposed model and its techniques using the circuit model is investigated extensively.
Structural and luminescent properties of BaFe12−xAlxO19 compounds
Authors: Mammadov A. I. , Dang N. T. , Mehdiyeva R. Z. , Trukhanov A. V. , Asadullayeva S. G. , Trukhanov S. V. , Huseynov R. E. , Jabarov S. H.
Published: August 2020

The crystal structure and luminescent properties of Al-substituted [Formula: see text] were studied. It was found that under normal conditions, the samples are characterized by the space group P63/mmc. Depending on the ionic radii of the Al and Fe atoms and the concentration of Al atoms, a decrease in the distance between the atoms in the crystal structure and the lattice parameters was observed. [Formula: see text] crystals ([Formula: see text] = 0.1–1.2) were excited by a laser with a wavelength of 375 nm and 435 nm, to study their luminescent features. From the information obtained from luminescent spectrum, it is seen that with the replacement of magnetic [Formula: see text] ions by diamagnetic [Formula: see text] ions, the intensity of the spectra increases. During exciting by a laser with a wavelength of 435 nm, anti-Stokes luminescence is observed in the ultraviolet region.
Graph Pattern Matching: Capturing Bisimilar Subgraph
Authors: Qiao Rui , Feng Ke , He Heng , Zhong Xiaolei
Published: August 2020

Graph pattern matching that aims to seek out answer graphs in a data graph matching a provided graph, plays a fundamental role as a part of graph search for graph databases. “Matching” indicates that the two graphs are correlated, such as bisimulation, isomorphism, simulation, etc. The strictness of bisimulation is between simulation and isomorphism. Seldom work has been done to search for bisimulation subgraphs. This research focuses on the problem. The symbol [Formula: see text] is introduced to fundamental modal logic language, thereby yielding [Formula: see text] language; the symbols [Formula: see text] is added for forming [Formula: see text] formulas. Then conclusions about graph bisimulations are shown. Subsequently, a theorem with detailed proof is presented, stating that [Formula: see text] formulas characterize finite directed graphs modulo bisimulation. According to the conclusions and theorem, algorithms for finding subgraphs are proposed. After dividing the query graph, the match graphs undergo the characterization using [Formula: see text] formulas. In the data graphs, by model checking the formulas, the answer graphs exhibiting bisimilarity to the match graphs are able to be captured.
Parameter Optimization of Impedance Gradient Change Medium Based on Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Li Ke , Li Shengjun , Bao Zhonghua , Liu Qianqian , Liu Tao
Published: August 2020

Based on the relative researches, in order to solve the problem that the parameters of impedance gradient change medium are difficult to be optimized and generalized in different environments, an optimization method of the parameters of the impedance gradient change medium based on reinforcement learning was proposed. First, the propagation principle of sound wave in impedance gradient medium was analyzed. The sound field distribution in the medium was also studied, in order to master its acoustic characteristics. Second, the parameters of sound velocity and impedance distribution were optimized by DQN algorithm to reduce the sound reflection. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed reinforcement learning model was verified by the traditional method. The experimental results show that the method presented in this paper was superior to the traditional method. The trained parameters are effective to reduce the acoustic reflection to a lower level.
Modification of tensor force in 0p-shell model effective interaction
Authors: Jha Kanhaiya , Kumar Pawan , Sarkar Shahariar , Raina P. K.
Published: August 2020

In many shell model interactions, the tensor force monopole matrix elements often retain systematic trends originating in the bare tensor force. However, in this work, we find that Isospin [Formula: see text] tensor force monopole matrix elements of widely used p-shell effective interaction CK(8–16) do not share these systematic. We correct these discrepancies by modifying [Formula: see text] tensor force two-body matrix elements (TBMEs) of CK(8–16) by the analytically calculated tensor force TBMEs. With some additional modification of single-particle energies and TBMEs, the revised effective interaction is named as CKN. The effective interaction CKN has been tested for the calculations of p-shell nuclei of normal parity states from various physics viewpoints such as excitation spectra, electromagnetic moments, and electromagnetic and Gamow–Teller (GT) transitions. The obtained results are found to be satisfactory with respect to the experimental results.
WEAR STUDY OF JUTE FIBER POLYMER COMPOSITE — INFLUENCE OF MONTMORILLONITE NANOPARTICLES
Authors: ARULMURUGAN S. , VENKATESHWARAN N.
Published: August 2020

This paper presents the tribological examination of various percentages of montmorillonite nanoclay-filled polyester composites and jute fiber reinforced hybrid composites by the Pin on Disc wear testing method. The wear rate and coefficient of friction were investigated for each composition with the working parameters like applied load (10,20,30[Formula: see text]N), sliding speed (3[Formula: see text]m/s), and sliding distance (1500[Formula: see text]m). The reduction in the wear rate was found on the inclusion of 5[Formula: see text]wt.% clay and 25[Formula: see text]wt.% jute fiber and further addition of fiber changes the trend due to the reduced matrix concentration. The wear mechanism of the worn-out surface samples was studied using scanning electron microscopy.
Effect of Soil–Structure Interaction on Nonlinear Dynamic Response of Reinforced Concrete Structures
Authors: Mourlas Christos , Khabele Neo , Bark Hussein A. , Karamitros Dimitris , Taddei Francesca , Markou George , Papadrakakis Manolis
Published: August 2020

Investigating the nonlinear dynamic response of reinforced concrete (RC) structures is of significant importance in understanding the expected behavior of these structures under dynamic loading. This becomes more crucial during the design of new or the assessment of the existing RC structures that are located in seismically active areas. The numerical simulation of this problem through the use of detailed 3D modeling is still a subject that has not been investigated thoroughly due to the significant challenges related to numerical instabilities and excessive computational demand, especially when the soil–structure interaction (SSI) phenomenon is accounted for. This study aims at presenting a nonlinear simulation tool to investigate this numerically cumbersome problem in order to provide further inside into the SSI effect on RC structures under nonlinear dynamic loading conditions. A detailed 3D numerical model of full-scale RC structures considering the SSI effect through modeling the nonlinear frame and soil domain is performed and discussed herein. The constructed models are subjected to dynamic loading conditions and an elaborate investigation is presented considering different type of structures, material properties of soil domains and depths. The RC structures and the soil domains are modeled through 8-noded hexahedral isoparametric elements, where the steel bar reinforcement of concrete is modeled as embedded beam and truss finite elements. The Ramberg–Osgood constitutive law was used for modeling the soil domain. It was shown that the SSI effect can significantly increase the flexibility of the system, altering the nonlinear dynamic response of the RC frames causing local damages that are not observed when the fixed-base model is analyzed. Furthermore, it was found that the structures founded on soft soil developed larger base-shear compared to the fixed-base model which is attributed to resonance phenomena connected to the SSI effect and the imposed accelerograms.
Gust Response Factor of a Transmission Tower Under Typhoon
Authors: Fu Xing , Du Wen-Long , Li Hong-Nan , Xie Wen-Ping , Xiao Kai , Lei Xu
Published: August 2020

The gust response factors (GRFs) of transmission towers in current standards are reviewed for synoptic winds. The collapse of most transmission towers has occurred under the high-intensity wind (HIW) caused by events such as typhoons, hurricanes, and downbursts. Thus, this paper studies the GRF of a transmission tower under the typhoon. First, the definition of GRF and its extended form for the transmission towers are developed. Then the wind speed simulation of a typhoon event is introduced. Based on the structural health monitoring (SHM) system installed on tower #32, the measured GRFs under the super typhoon Mangkhut are calculated. Then the finite element model (FEM) of the transmission tower-line system is established to simulate the dynamic response to further calculate the GRFs, which agrees well with the field measurements. Both the field measurement and simulation results show that the GRFs under the typhoon are larger than those under the synoptic wind and that the recommended GRFs in the Chinese standard underestimate the peak responses. Finally, a parametric analysis is performed, which demonstrates that the turbulence intensity, wind speed, and power-law exponent all have great effects on the GRFs of transmission towers. In the HIW-prone areas, it is recommended that the characteristics of the HIW can be considered in improving the GRF values to guarantee the structural safety of transmission towers.
On Leavitt inverse semigroups
Authors: Fan Haibin , Wang Zhenpan
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we find a presentation of a Leavitt inverse semigroup and give normal forms of elements of a Leavitt inverse semigroup.
Shape robust Siamese network tracking based on weakly supervised learning
Authors: Ma Ding , Zhou Yong , Yao Rui , Zhao Jiaqi , Liu Bing , Gua Banji
Published: August 2020

This paper combines the boundary box regression with the training data occlusion processing method, the occlusion problem is more accurate and the tracking accuracy is improved. The occlusion problem is now the major challenge in target tracking. This paper puts forward a weakly monitoring framework to address this problem. The main idea is to randomly hide the most discriminating patches in the input images, forcing the network to focus on other relevant parts. Our method only needs to modify the inputs, no need to hide any patches during the test.
Paradoxes of Control and Creativity: Evidence from Indian Public Sector Enterprises
Authors: Ganguly Sanjeev , Das Satyasiba
Published: August 2020

Management control systems (MCSs) are commonly assumed to limit autonomy and freedom, thereby hindering innovation. Over the past several years, researchers have studied this relationship in western societies and have compiled contradictory findings. As such, the relationship between MCSs and innovation needs to be further explored. This study seeks to provide a better understanding of this relationship by applying the theoretical levers-of-control (LoC) framework while using two new second-order constructs. Quantitative data are collected from large Indian public sector enterprises (PSE) and are analyzed using the structural equation modeling (SEM) partial least squares (PLS) method. Findings confirm that Indian PSEs tend to use all four levers of the framework and that control and innovation can co-exist. It also differentiates the effect on innovation of two new second-order control constructs: constraining and inspirational. Findings of this study may help managers influence innovation by giving them the ability to adjust the different LoC.
Separation of variables in Hamilton–Jacobi equation for a charged test particle in the Stackel spaces of type (2.1)
Authors: Obukhov Valeriy
Published: August 2020

We can find all equivalence classes for electromagnetic potentials and space-time metrics of Stackel spaces, provided that the equations of motion of the classical charged test particles are integrated by the method of complete separation of variables in the Hamilton–Jacobi equation. Separation is carried out using the complete sets of mutually-commuting integrals of motion of type (2.1), whereby in a privileged coordinate system the Hamilton–Jacobi equation turns into a parabolic type equation.
Assessing MiFID II Regulation on Tick Sizes: A Transaction Costs Analysis Viewpoint
Authors: Laruelle Sophie , Rosenbaum Mathieu , Savku Emel
Published: August 2020

The new MiFID II regulation put in place in January 2018 has deeply modified the microstructure of European financial markets. In particular, new tick size tables have been created, leading to tick size modifications for hundreds of assets. In this work, we investigate the relevance of this new tick size regime for the assets traded on Euronext. To do so, we analyze the changes of transaction costs paid by investors under this new regulation. We find that from this viewpoint, MiFID II clearly induced an improvement of market quality.
Towards Provable Timing-Channel Prevention
Authors: Heiser Gernot , Murray Toby , Klein Gerwin
Published: August 2020

We describe our ongoing research that aims to eliminate microarchitectural timing channels through time protection, which eliminates the root cause of these channels, competition for capacity-limited hardware resources. A proof-ofconcept implementation of time protection demonstrated the approach can be effective a nd l ow o verhead, b ut also that present hardware fails to support the approach in some aspects and that we need an improved hardXare-software contract to achieve real security. We have demonstrated that these mechanisms are not hard to provide, and are working on their inclusion in the RISC-V ISA. Assuming compliant hardware, we outline how we think we can then formally prove that timing channels are eliminated.
RCU Usage In the Linux Kernel
Authors: McKenney Paul E. , Fernandes Joel , Boyd-Wickizer Silas , Walpole Jonathan
Published: August 2020

Read-copy update (RCU) is a scalable high-performance synchronization mechanism implemented in the Linux kernel. RCU's novel properties include support for concurrent forward progress for readers and writers as well as highly optimized inter-CPU synchronization. RCU was introduced into the Linux kernel eighteen years ago and most subsystems now use RCU. This paper discusses the requirements that drove the development of RCU, the design and API of the Linux RCU implementation, and how kernel developers apply RCU.
Gene Drive Dynamics in Natural Populations: The Importance of Density Dependence, Space, and Sex
Authors: Dhole Sumit , Lloyd Alun L. , Gould Fred
Published: August 2020

The spread of synthetic gene drives is often discussed in the context of panmictic populations connected by gene flow and described with simple deterministic models. Under such assumptions, an entire species could be altered by releasing a single individual carrying an invasive gene drive, such as a standard homing drive. While this remains a theoretical possibility, gene drive spread in natural populations is more complex and merits a more realistic assessment. The fate of any gene drive released in a population would be inextricably linked to the population's ecology. Given the uncertainty often involved in ecological assessment of natural populations, understanding the sensitivity of gene drive spread to important ecological factors is critical. Here we review how different forms of density dependence, spatial heterogeneity, and mating behaviors can impact the spread of self-sustaining gene drives. We highlight specific aspects of gene drive dynamics and the target populations that need further research.
The Evolution of Annual and Perennial Plant Life Histories: Ecological Correlates and Genetic Mechanisms
Authors: Friedman Jannice
Published: August 2020

Flowering plants exhibit two principal life-history strategies: annuality (living and reproducing in one year) and perenniality (living more than one year). The advantages of either strategy depend on the relative benefits of immediate reproduction balanced against survivorship and future reproduction. This trade-off means that life-history strategies are associated with particular environments, with annuals being found more often in unpredictable habitats. Annuality and perenniality are the outcome of developmental genetic programs responding to their environment, with perennials being distinguished by their delayed competence to flower and reversion to growth after flowering. Evolutionary transitions between these strategies are frequent and have consequences for mating systems and genome evolution, with perennials being more likely to outcross with higher inbreeding depression and lower rates of molecular evolution. Integrating expectations from life-history theory with knowledge of the developmental genetics of flowering and seasonality is required to understand the mechanisms involved in the evolution of annual and perennial life histories.
Mitochondria Are Fundamental for the Emergence of Metazoans: On Metabolism, Genomic Regulation, and the Birth of Complex Organisms
Authors: Medini Hadar , Cohen Tal , Mishmar Dan
Published: August 2020

Out of many intracellular bacteria, only the mitochondria and chloroplasts abandoned their independence billions of years ago and became endosymbionts within the host eukaryotic cell. Consequently, one cannot grow eukaryotic cells without their mitochondria, and the mitochondria cannot divide outside of the cell, thus reflecting interdependence. Here, we argue that such interdependence underlies the fundamental role of mitochondrial activities in the emergence of metazoans. Several lines of evidence support our hypothesis: ( a) Differentiation and embryogenesis rely on mitochondrial function; ( b) mitochondrial metabolites are primary precursors for epigenetic modifications (such as methyl and acetyl), which are critical for chromatin remodeling and gene expression, particularly during differentiation and embryogenesis; and ( c) mitonuclear coregulation adapted to accommodate both housekeeping and tissue-dependent metabolic needs. We discuss the evolution of the unique mitochondrial genetic system, mitochondrial metabolites, mitonuclear coregulation, and their critical roles in the emergence of metazoans and in human disorders.
Ischemic preconditioning prevents impact of prolonged sitting on glucose tolerance and markers of cardiovascular health but not cerebrovascular responses
Authors: Horiuchi Masahiro , Thijssen Dick H. J.
Published: August 2020

Prolonged, uninterrupted sitting is demonstrated to acutely impair glucose homeostasis, but it also leads to detrimental cardiovascular health effects. We examined whether ischemic preconditioning (IPC) prevents the impact of prolonged sitting-induced glucose intolerance and measured related influencing factors such as (para)sympathetic nerve activity [assessed by heart rate variability (HRV)] and blood pressure during 2 h of prolonged sitting. In this randomized, controlled crossover study, 15 healthy participants (80% men) with a mean age of 21 ± 1 yr (means ± SD) and body mass index of 25.0 ± 2.4 kg/m2 performed IPC (IPC, 4 × 5-min 220-mmHg unilateral occlusion at the thigh muscle) or a sham intervention (sham, 4 × 5 min 20-mmHg), followed by 2 h of sitting. After IPC or sham intervention, fingertip blood glucose was measured before and after 30, 60, 90, and 120 min of 75 g of glucose ingestions. Blood glucose responses during an oral glucose tolerance test were significantly attenuated, resulting in a lower area under the curve when sitting was preceded by a bout of IPC than sham ( P < 0.05). IPC increased high-frequency oscillations and decreased the ratio of low-frequency-to-high-frequency oscillations at 120 min in HRV ( P < 0.05). Moreover, a lower blood pressure was observed with IPC compared with sham ( P < 0.05). Prolonged sitting or IPC did not affect cerebrovascular responses ( P > 0.05). Collectively, these results indicate that the application of IPC before prolonged, uninterrupted sitting bout was associated with a better glucose tolerance and prevented impairment in (para)sympathetic nerve activity and blood pressure in healthy young men and women.
Methods and sensors for functional genomic studies of cell-cycle transitions in single cells
Authors: Zambon Alexander C. , Hsu Tom , Kim Seunghee Erin , Klinck Miranda , Stowe Jennifer , Henderson Lindsay M. , Singer Donald , Patam Leomar , Lim Curtis , McCulloch Andrew D. , Hu Bing , Hickerson Anna I.
Published: August 2020

Much of our understanding of the regulatory mechanisms governing the cell cycle in mammals has relied heavily on methods that measure the aggregate state of a population of cells. While instrumental in shaping our current understanding of cell proliferation, these approaches mask the genetic signatures of rare subpopulations such as quiescent (G0) and very slowly dividing (SD) cells. Results described in this study and those of others using single-cell analysis reveal that even in clonally derived immortalized cancer cells, ∼1–5% of cells can exhibit G0 and SD phenotypes. Therefore to enable the study of these rare cell phenotypes we established an integrated molecular, computational, and imaging approach to track, isolate, and genetically perturb single cells as they proliferate. A genetically encoded cell-cycle reporter (K67p-FUCCI) was used to track single cells as they traversed the cell cycle. A set of R-scripts were written to quantify K67p-FUCCI over time. To enable the further study G0 and SD phenotypes, we retrofitted a live cell imaging system with a micromanipulator to enable single-cell targeting for functional validation studies. Single-cell analysis revealed HT1080 and MCF7 cells had a doubling time of ∼24 and ∼48 h, respectively, with high duration variability in G1 and G2 phases. Direct single-cell microinjection of mRNA encoding (GFP) achieves detectable GFP fluorescence within ∼5 h in both cell types. These findings coupled with the possibility of targeting several hundreds of single cells improves throughput and sensitivity over conventional methods to study rare cell subpopulations.
Algorithm to Estimate Direction of Arrival with Interpolated Array Elements for Coprime Array Holes
Authors: Yu Guicai
Published: August 2020

A novel method for adding antennas in the coprime arrays is introduced in this study, in order to solve the problem of the reduced degree of freedom of the array in the hole-existing coprime arrays. The minimum number of antennas interpolated in the algorithm maximizes the available degrees of freedom of virtual arrays, and the number of interpolated antennas does not change the original aperture size of the coprime arrays. With the proposed algorithm, the estimate of the direction of arrival is more accurate for a given signal-to-noise ratio. The scheme first finds the regular pattern of hole positions in virtual array elements, and then, according to the regular pattern, the position of the hole of the partial virtual array element is interpolated with the array element antenna at the position of the corresponding coprime arrays. The holes of the virtual array element are filled, giving virtual uniform continuous array elements with maximum degrees of freedom. We use the ESPRIT, and the simulation results show that the proposed algorithm improves the accuracy and resolution of estimates of the direction of arrival.
HuR Affects Proliferation and Apoptosis of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Cells via NF‐κB Pathway
Authors: Xiao Kai , Yang Lin , Gao Xinfeng , An Ying , Xie Wei , Jingquan Guo
Published: August 2020

Objective. To investigate the effects of HuR protein on the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Methods. LCL lymphoblast cells and B lymphocytes were subjected to HuR overexpression (OV) or interference (IV). Western blot was used to observe the protein expression of human tumor necrosis factor‐associated factor 1 (TRAF1), human inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa‐B kinase α (IKK‐α), NF‐κB‐inducing kinase (NIK), and p52. Flow cytometry was performed to evaluate apoptosis, and the mRNA expression of TRAF1 was examined by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Immunofluorescence was carried out to visualize the expression of HuR, and the relationship between HuR and TRAF1 was observed by pull‐down test. Cell sensitivity to chlorambucil (CLB) and fludarabine (Flu) was assessed by Cell Counting Kit‐8. Results. The expression of HuR and TRAF1 in LCLs was significantly increased compared to that in B lymphocytes. Compared with the control, HuR OV significantly increased the expression of TRAF1 (P < 0.05), whereas it was significantly decreased in the IV group (P < 0.05). HuR can bind to TRAF1 directly, and the binding rate is positively correlated with HuR expression. After inhibiting HuR, the expression of TRAF1, IKK‐α, NIK, p52, pro‐Caspase 3, and PARP was significantly upregulated in LCLs and B lymphocytes (P < 0.05), while Caspase 3 was downregulated (P < 0.05). Compared with the control, the proliferation of LCLs and B lymphocytes treated by CLB and Flu decreased significantly after HuR blockade (P < 0.05). Conclusion. HuR may be a key protein regulating CLL resistance. After inhibiting HuR, inflammatory response and apoptosis were significantly increased, and the cell sensitivity to CLB and Flu increased, suggesting that inhibiting HuR activity may be a potential strategy to solve the problem of drug resistance in CLL cells.
Numerical Algorithms of the Discrete Coupled Algebraic Riccati Equation Arising in Optimal Control Systems
Authors: Wang Li
Published: August 2020

The discrete coupled algebraic Riccati equation (DCARE) has wide applications in robust control, optimal control, and so on. In this paper, we present two iterative algorithms for solving the DCARE. The two iterative algorithms contain both the iterative solution in the last iterative step and the iterative solution in the current iterative step. And, for different initial value, the iterative sequences are increasing and bounded in one algorithm and decreasing and bounded in another. They are all monotonous and convergent. Numerical examples demonstrate the convergence effect of the presented algorithms.
Assessment of Real-Life Outcomes in Schizophrenia Patients according to Compliance
Authors: Qureshi Zaina P. , Khandker Rezaul , Shepherd Jason , Samant Salome , Chekani Farid , Bailey Hollie M. L.
Published: August 2020

Objective. To describe and compare demographics, outcomes and comorbidities in schizophrenia patients by treatment compliance. Methods. This was a cross-sectional survey of hospital- or office-based psychiatrists who saw ≥6 schizophrenia patients per week and were responsible for treatment decisions. Recruited physicians completed a patient record form (PRF) for their first 10 consulted schizophrenia patients aged ≥18. These patients voluntarily completed a patient self-completion form (PSC). Compliance was measured by subjective physician assessment. Drivers of and outcomes associated with compliance were identified by regression analyses. Results. A total of 150 physicians completed PRFs for 1489 patients (706 sometimes compliant (SC), 636 always compliant (AC)). A total of 680 patients completed a PSC (327 SC, 295 AC). AC patients were less likely to be male (52.2% vs. 58.6%; P=0.021) and unemployed (odds ratio (OR) 0.91, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.82–1.00; P<0.001) or to have had a treatment regimen change (OR 0.56, 95% CI 0.40–0.80; P=0.001) than SC patients. AC patients were less likely to have had more comorbidities (OR 0.91, 95% CI 0.82–1.00; P=0.045) and hospitalizations in the past 12 months (OR 0.59, 95% CI 0.43–0.80; P=0.001) than SC patients. Overall, AC patients had better clinical and humanistic outcomes. Weight gain was a common side effect for all patients; SC patients with weight gain had poorer outcomes than those without weight gain. Conclusion. Schizophrenia patients that were SC experienced poorer clinical outcomes and quality of life. Weight gain may exacerbate these poorer outcomes.
The Wooden Skull: An Innovation through the Use of Local Materials and Technology to Promote the Teaching and Learning of Human Anatomy
Authors: Mugagga Kintu , Mwarisi Masilili G. , Dare Samuel S.
Published: August 2020

Skeleton models are important in facilitating a student’s easy retention and recollection of information in the future. These may assist students carry out hands‐on practice in order to acquire and practice new skills that are relevant to first aid. The increasing number of medical institutions and medical students attracts the challenge of inadequate facilitation of the teaching and learning processes. This warrants a study and/or an exploration of an alternative solution such as wooden models in order to solve the problem of scarce and ethically restricted human teaching aids. Wooden pieces (50 cm length × 20 cm diameter) from a Jacaranda mimosifolia tree were prepared for the carving process, and wooden replicas of human skulls were made. Two experimental groups of randomly selected medical students (60: active and 60: control) were separately taught using wooden and natural skull models, respectively. The two groups were assessed and evaluated using the natural skull models to compare their understanding of the anatomy of the skull. Additionally, opinion statements were collected from participants in the active group during the oral examination. Six (6) wooden skull models were produced and used for experimental study. Comparisons of academic scores (mean and median) between active (students using the wooden skull) and control (students using natural skull) groups showed no statistically significant difference (P ≥ 0.05). Concerning the enhancement of learning skills, the wooden model was constructed in a way that would be able to enhance learning as it would be the natural skull. The wooden skull model, with more improvement in structural formation, can adequately facilitate the teaching and learning of anatomy of the human skull. This project and the experimental study about utilization of the wooden skull model provide a good potential of using the wooden models to supplement the use of the natural human skull.
PRDX2 Promotes the Proliferation and Metastasis of Non‐Small Cell Lung Cancer In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Chen Yun , Yang Sifu , Zhou Hongying , Su Dan
Published: August 2020

Purpose. Previous studies have reported that the levels of PRDX2 were correlated with tumorigenicity, recurrence, and prognosis of patients with different cancers. We investigated the association between PRDX2 levels and the prognosis of lung cancer patients. We also measured PRDX2 expression of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells and examined its roles in the proliferation and migration in vitro and in vivo. Methods. We used the Kaplan–Meier plotter to analyze the survival of different levels of PRDX2 in lung cancer patients. The expression of PRDX2 in normal bronchial epithelial cell line and NSCLC cell lines was measured by qRT‐PCR and western blot assays. Biological functions of NSCLC cells were detected by CCK8 and Transwell assays. We constructed tumor growth model using subcutaneously injection of nude mice and metastasis model by tail vein injection in vivo. The protein levels of proliferation related markers were measured by immunohistochemistry assay. Immunofluorescence method was used to detected EMT‐related proteins. Results. The high levels of PRDX2 were associated with bad prognosis in lung cancer patients, especially in patients with adenocarcinoma. The expression of PRDX2 in NSCLC cell lines was higher than normal bronchial epithelial cells. Knockdown of PRDX2 inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion in A549 cells, while overexpression of PRDX2 promoted the malignancy in NCI‐H1299 cells in vitro. Silencing PRDX2 restrained tumor growth and repressed lung metastasis by EMT in vivo. Conclusion. Our data indicates that PRDX2 functions as a protumor regulator and is involved in tumorigenesis and tumor progression of lung cancer.
Extramedullary Leukemia, Presenting at the Cervix of the Uterus
Authors: Tsagkas Nikolaos , Troussa Androniki , Vorgias George , Tzaida Olympia , Zagorianakou Nektaria , Gonidi Maria
Published: August 2020

Extramedullary relapse of leukemia is encountered more often than in the past. The reason is that leukemia survival rates increase with improved treatment schemes. We present a rare case of involvement of the cervix of the uterus in an adult B Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (B-ALL) survivor. Relapses affect various organs but rarely the female genital tract. Nevertheless, in this case, a woman with a history of induced amenorrhea due to treatment for leukemia presented to the gynecologist because of vaginal spotting. Colposcopy evaluation of the vagina/cervix, sonography and cytological and histological sampling established the diagnosis of leukemia relapse in the cervix of the uterus. Under these circumstances, our study highlights the rare extramedullary presentation of leukemia in the cervix of the uterus of a young lady considered to be disease-free and listed for bone marrow transplantation. In this rare case of relapse in the cervix of the uterus, Pap smears alarmed physicians, and radiology examinations assisted the diagnostic workup. Still, only biopsy, microscopic evaluation, and immunohistochemistry studies established the exact diagnosis. Prognosis in the situation of extramedullary disease relapse in the female genital tract was poor, but gynecologists’ high suspicion led to a prompt diagnosis. Survival is in general limited, but together with high suspicion, multidisciplinary team involvement is imperative to improve the reduced chances of survival.
Quantification Analysis of 13 Organic Components and 8 Inorganic Elements in Angelica Sinensis Radix and Its Different Parts Combined with Chemical Recognition Pattern
Authors: Li Xi , Yao Yixin , Wang Xiaoxiao , An Chang , Gao Shanshan , Xiang Fangtao , Dong Yangli
Published: August 2020

Angelica Sinensis Radix (Danggui, DG) is one of the most commonly prescribed traditional Chinese medicines. The organic components include phthalides and phenolic acids. Meanwhile, inorganic elements play an important role in clinical effect. DG and its different parts have different effects. There is no relevant report on the analysis of organic compounds and inorganic elements among them. Therefore, ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry was developed for the simultaneous determination of 13 organic components (8 phthalides and 5 phenolic acids), and 8 inorganic elements were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The contents of 32 samples were analyzed by orthogonal partial least squares discrimination analysis, hierarchical cluster analysis, and least-significant difference of one-way analysis of variance. The results showed that the differences were significant among DG and its different parts. 11 difference markers (Ca, Z-ligustilide, Mg, Mn, Fe, Na, K, Cu, Zn, coniferyl ferulate, and senkyunolide A) were obtained by variable importance for the project. These difference markers were some different among DG and its different parts, especially Z‐ligustilide, coniferyl ferulate, Mg, Zn, the differences were significant. This study can provide a reference for DG research.
Investigation on the Time Factor of CO‐Based Emission Factors for Sustainable Development of Urban Tunnels in China
Authors: Liu Weiwei , Chen Jianxun , Luo Yanbin , Shi Zhou , Wu Yunfei , Xu Zilong , Dong Fangfang
Published: August 2020

Environmental pollution problems and energy‐saving issues of urban tunnels have increasingly been attracting people’s attention. The paper aims at investigating a reasonable time factor for CO‐based emission factors in the ventilation design of urban road tunnels. The study results show that the prediction curve of CO‐based emission factor for passenger cars consists of two stages. The average reduction rates of Stage I (2004–2010) and Stage II (2010–2030) are 38% and 14% per year, respectively. The CO emission factor series of passenger cars conforms to exponential function distribution. The time factors of CO‐based emission backcalculated from the measured data range from 4.9% to 12.6%, which are 2.4–6.3 times the specified value in the Chinese ventilation specification but slightly smaller than predicted ones. Based on four aspects of predicted results, back analysis results, related references, and engineering applications, it is indicated that the time factor of CO‐based emission factor (2%) in the current ventilation specification is conservative. And when defining 2000 and 2010 as base years, respectively, 4% and 3% can be used as the time factors of CO‐based emission factors respectively for the ventilation design of urban tunnels. This study can provide a reference for ventilation design of urban tunnels in other regions.
Study on Treatment of Loess Landslide Based on Nanosilica and Fly Ash Composite Stabilizer Filling Fissures
Authors: Gao Jiulong , Wang Jiading , Wei Yao , Jiao Shaotong , Jing Meng , Gao Jialing , Wang Cong
Published: August 2020

Frequent occurrence of landslides has seriously threatened the infrastructural projects in the Loess Plateau, China. At the beginning, with development of the landslide, several fissures were generated along the internal weak surface. Then, under the constant influence of rainfall and irrigation, the fissures were expanded and connected, which formed a consecutive sliding surface, consequently leading to the occurrence of the landslide. Therefore, the key to treat the landslide is to prevent the expansion and connection of fissures in the potential slip zone inside the slope. In this paper, an old landslide, which occurred at an early stage of the construction of the Lvliang Airport, was selected as a case study. A new type of grouting material was used to fill the fissures and reinforce the loess in the slip zone, so as to study the effect of material content on the slope stability. With current methods, loess specimens were taken from the slip zone inside the Lvliang Airport slope. Based on the GDS triaxial test system, a series of laboratory tests were performed on the undisturbed loess and the remolded which contained the stabilizer, including triaxial shear tests at constant matric suctions and wetting tests at constant deviator stresses. Moreover, the dichotomy in mathematics was chosen to find the threshold of the material content. The test results showed that the cohesion and the internal friction angle of the loess obviously increased after grouting. The failure behaviour of the loess along the wetting path was dependent on the material ratio and the stress level. Meanwhile, the critical state line of the slope, grouted with materials of different ratios, was compared by fitting the regression equation. It was found that the threshold value of the stabilizer content was between 15% and 20%, which was the most suitable ratio for improving slope stability with relatively lower cost.
Health Insurance Coverage Disruptions and Access to Care and Affordability among Cancer Survivors in the United States
Authors: Zhao Jingxuan , Han Xuesong , Nogueira Leticia , Zheng Zhiyuan , Jemal Ahmedin , Yabroff K. Robin
Published: August 2020

Background:

Lack of health insurance is associated with having problems with access to high-quality care. We estimated prevalence and evaluated associations of insurance coverage disruptions and access to health care and affordability among cancer survivors in the United States.

Methods:

Adult cancer survivors ages 18 to 64 years with current private or public health insurance were identified from the 2011 to 2018 National Health Interview Survey (n = 7,186). Health insurance coverage disruption was measured as self-reports of any time in the prior year without coverage. Outcomes included preventive services use, problems with care affordability, and cost-related medication nonadherence in the prior year. We used separate multivariable logistic models to evaluate associations between coverage disruptions and study outcomes by current insurance coverage.

Results:

Among currently insured survivors, 3.7% [95% confidence interval (95% CI), 3.0%–4.4%] with private, and 7.8% (95% CI, 6.5%–9.4%) with public insurance reported coverage disruptions in 2011 to 2018. We estimated that approximately 260,000 survivors ages 18 to 64 years had coverage disruptions in 2018. Among privately and publicly insured survivors, those with coverage disruptions were less likely to report all preventive services use (16.9% vs. 36.2%; 14.6% vs. 25.3%, respectively) and more likely to report any problems with care affordability (55.0% vs. 17.7%; 71.1% vs. 38.4%, respectively) and any cost-related medication nonadherence (39.4% vs. 10.1%; 36.5% vs. 16.3%, respectively) compared with those continuously insured (all P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

Coverage disruptions in the prior year were associated with problems with health care access and affordability among currently insured survivors.

Impact:

Reducing coverage disruptions may help improve access and affordability for survivors.
Diet and Risk of Myeloproliferative Neoplasms in Older Individuals from the NIH-AARP Cohort
Authors: Podoltsev Nikolai A. , Wang Xiaoyi , Wang Rong , Hofmann Jonathan N. , Liao Linda M. , Zeidan Amer M. , Mesa Ruben A. , Ma Xiaomei
Published: August 2020

Background:

The etiology of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) is obscure, and no previous studies have evaluated the role of diet.

Methods:

In the NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study, a prospective cohort of 463,049 participants ages 50 to 71 years at baseline (1995–1996), we identified 490 MPN cases after a median follow-up of 15.5 years, including 190 with polycythemia vera (PV) and 146 with essential thrombocythemia (ET). We examined possible associations between various dietary factors and the risk of MPN as a group, as well as PV and ET, using multivariable Cox proportional hazards models to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) and adjust for potential confounding variables.

Results:

An increased risk was observed between fruit consumption and the risk of MPN overall (third tertile vs. first tertile, HR = 1.32; 95% CI, 1.04–1.67; Ptrend = 0.02) and PV (third tertile vs. first tertile, HR = 2.00; 95% CI, 1.35–2.95; Ptrend < 0.01). Increased risk of PV was also observed among those with high intake of sugar (HR = 1.77; 95% CI, 1.12–2.79), sugar from natural sources (HR = 1.77; 95% CI, 1.16–2.71), sugar from natural beverage sources (HR = 1.57; 95% CI, 1.08–2.29), and fructose (HR = 1.84; 95% CI, 1.21–2.79).

Conclusions:

The intake of fat and protein did not appear to influence PV risk—neither did meat or vegetable consumption. None of the dietary factors studied was associated with the risk of ET. The role of sugar intake in the etiology of PV in older individuals warrants further investigation.

Impact:

Our results indicate that high sugar intake is associated with an increased risk of polycythemia vera.