bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Passenger Flow Prediction of Integrated Passenger Terminal Based on K-Means–GRNN
Authors: Tan Yifan , Liu Haixu , Pu Yun , Wu Xuemei , Jiao Yubo
Published: October 2021

As the passenger flow distribution center cooperating with various modes of transportation, the comprehensive passenger transport hub brings convenience to passengers. With the diversification of passenger travel modes, the passenger flow scale gradually increases, which brings significant challenges to the integrated passenger hub. Therefore, it is urgent to solve the problem of early warning and response to the future passenger flow to avoid congestion accidents. In this paper, the passenger flow GRNN prediction model is proposed, based on the K-means cluster algorithm, and an improved index named BWPs (Between-Within Proportion-Similarity) is proposed to improve the clustering effect of K-means so that the clustering effect of the new index is verified. In addition, the passenger flow data are studied and trained by combining with the GRNN neural network model based on parameter optimization (GA); the passenger flow prediction model is obtained. Finally, the passenger flow of Chengdu East Railway Station has been taken as an example, which is divided into 16 models, and each type of passenger flow is predicted, respectively. Compared with the traditional method, the results show that the model can predict the passenger flow with high accuracy.
Soluble B7‐H5 Is a Novel Diagnostic, Severity, and Prognosis Marker in Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Xu Ruoxin , Gong Ju , Chen Wei , Jin Yakang , Huang Jian
Published: October 2021

As an important ligand in T lymphocyte costimulatory pathways, B7‐H5 is involved deeply in the immune response in various diseases. However, its clinical usefulness as an early indicator in acute pancreatitis (AP) remains unclear. In this study, the levels of sB7‐H5 and cytokines in plasma samples of 75 AP patients, 20 abdominal pain patients without AP, and 20 healthy volunteers were determined. Then, the correlation of sB7‐H5 and clinical features, cytokines, the Ranson score, APACHE II score, Marshall score, and BISAP score was analysed, and the value of sB7‐H5 for diagnostic, severity, and prognosis of AP was evaluated. We found that the levels of sB7‐H5 were specifically upregulated in AP patients. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis revealed that sB7‐H5 can identify AP patients from healthy or abdominal pain patients with 78.9% or 86.4% sensitivity and 93.3% or 90.0% specificity. Further analysis showed that the levels of sB7‐H5 were significantly correlated with WBC (p = 0.004), GLU (p = 0.008), LDH (p < 0.001), Ca2+ (p = 0.006), AST (p = 0.009), PLT (p = 0.041), IL‐6 (p < 0.001), IL‐10 (p < 0.001), and TNF‐α (p < 0.001). And levels of sB7‐H5 were gradually increased among patients with mildly acute pancreatitis (MAP), moderately severe acute pancreatitis (MSAP), and severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). It can distinguish the severity of AP with good sensitivity and specificity. Moreover, when dividing the patients into two groups according to the median level of sB7‐H5, the local complication and length of stay of low levels of the sB7‐H5 group were significantly less than those in high levels of the sB7‐H5 group. And the levels of sB7‐H5 in AP patients were significantly correlated with the Ranson score (p < 0.001), APACHE II score (p < 0.001), Marshall score (p < 0.001), and BISAP score (p < 0.001). The AUCs of assessing local complications of sB7‐H5 at day 1 and day 3 were 0.704 (p = 0.0024) and 0.727 (p = 0.0373). These results showed the potential value of sB7‐H5 as a diagnostic, severity, and prognosis marker of AP.
Clinical Effect of Virtual Reality Technology on Rehabilitation Training of Sports Injury
Authors: Chen Jing
Published: October 2021

In order to make most patients recover most of their limb functions after rehabilitation training, virtual reality technology is an emerging human-computer interaction technology, which uses the computer and the corresponding application software to build the virtual reality environment. Completing the training tasks in the virtual environment attracts the patients to conduct repeated training in the game and task-based training mode and gradually realizes the rehabilitation training goals. For the rehabilitation population with certain exercise ability, the kinematics of human upper limbs is mainly analyzed, and the virtual reality system based on HTC VIVE is developed. The feasibility and work efficiency of the upper limb rehabilitation training system were verified by experiments. Adult volunteers who are healthy and need rehabilitation training to participate in the experiment were recruited, and experimental data were recorded. The virtual reality upper limb rehabilitation system was a questionnaire. By extracting the motion data, the system application effect is analyzed and evaluated by the simulation diagram. Follow-up results of rehabilitation training showed that the average score of healthy subjects was more than 4 points and 3.8 points per question. Therefore, it is feasible to perform upper limb rehabilitation training using the HTC VIVE virtual reality rehabilitation system.
Preparation of Polymeric Nanomaterials Using Emulsion Polymerization
Authors: Sahoo Satyajeet , Gopalan Anitha , Ramesh S. , Nirmala P. , Ramkumar G. , Agnes Shifani S. , Subbiah Ram , Isaac JoshuaRamesh Lalvani J.
Published: October 2021

Nanoparticles are said to be active particles which are entrapped in the surface of the polymeric core. Since nanoparticles were used in medical and biotechnological fields, there is a great demand in the preparation of nanoparticles. Nanoparticles are prepared from different substances; mainly, polymer material is used in the field of preparing nanomaterials. There are different methods involved in the preparation of nanoparticles from the polymer. Various experiments and research studies were carried out on the basic preparation of nanoparticles. Emulsion polymerization could be used to make polymeric nanoparticles with a high solid concentration without the need of surfactants. To make carboxylate polystyrene beads or amidine polystyrene nanoparticles, polymeric nanocolloids containing surface functional groups were produced. In this research, the preparation of nanoparticles from emulsion polymerization is represented along with the size and distribution material.
Compound Fault Diagnosis of Stator Interturn Short Circuit and Air Gap Eccentricity Based on Random Forest and XGBoost
Authors: Tian Rui , Chen Fuyang , Dong Shiyi
Published: October 2021

Taking the traction motor of CRH2 high-speed train as the research object, this paper proposes a diagnosis method based on random forest and XGBoost for the compound fault resulting from stator interturn short circuit and air gap eccentricity. First, the U-phase and V-phase currents are used as fault diagnosis signal and then the Savitzky–Golay filtering method is used for the noise deduction from the signal. Second, the wavelet packet decomposition is used to extract the composite fault features and then the high-dimensional features are optimized by the principal component analysis (PCA) method. Finally, the random forest and XGBoost are combined to detect composite faults. Using the experimental data of CRH2 semiphysical simulation platform, the diagnosis of different fault modes is completed, and the high diagnosis accuracy is achieved, which verifies the validity of this method.
Securing 5G-IoT Device Connectivity and Coverage Using Boltzmann Machine Keys Generation
Authors: Rajawat Anand Singh , Bedi Pradeep , Goyal S. B. , Shukla Piyush Kumar , Jamal Sajjad Shaukat , Alharbi Adel R. , Aljaedi Amer
Published: October 2021

In terms of growth, effect, and capability, the 5G-enabled Internet of Things (IoT) is incredible. The volume of data distributed and processed by IoT (Internet of Things) systems that trust connectivity and coverage raises some security problems. As IoT technology is directly used in our daily lives, the threats of present cyberspace may grow more prominent globally. Extended network life, coverage, and connectivity are all required for securing IoT-based 5G network devices. As a result of these failures, there are flaws that lead to security breaches. Because purposeful faults can quickly render the entire network dysfunctional, they are more difficult to identify than unexpected failures. Securing IoT-based 5G Network Device Connectivity and Coverage for expending Encryption and Authentication Scheme (EAS) framework is proposed in this study, which uses novel security flaws. In this research, we proposed a Boltzmann machine (BMKG)-based encryption algorithm for securing 5G-enabled IoT device network environment and compared various asymmetric algorithms for key exchange.
Investigation of Contributing Factors to Traffic Crashes and Violations: A Random Parameter Multinomial Logit Approach
Authors: Lee Jaeyoung , Li Xing , Mao Suyi , Fu Wen
Published: October 2021

This study investigates contributing factors to traffic violations by seriousness. The traffic violations are divided into four categories by seriousness (unintentional violation, minor violation, serious violation, and crash with violation). The results of the random parameter multinomial logit model indicate that various factors potentially affect the severity of traffic violations. The key findings include the following: (1) female drivers are more likely to commit minor violations; (2) drivers from an area with a longer travel time to work and a higher proportion of driving to work are more likely to have minor violations and serious violations, while those from the high-income area are less likely; (3) drivers are more likely to be associated with a more minor infraction during the afternoon peak (4 p.m.–6 p.m.). The results from this study are expected to be beneficial for policymakers and traffic police to comprehend the factors affecting violations and implement effective strategies to minimize the number and seriousness of traffic violations.
Interval Type-2 Fuzzy Standardized Cumulative Sum Control Charts in Production of Fertilizers
Authors: Mohd Razali Nur Hidayah , Abdullah Lazim , Salleh Zabidin , Ab Ghani Ahmad Termimi , Yap Bee Wah
Published: October 2021

Statistical process control is a method used for controlling processes in which causes of variations and correction actions can be observed. Control chart is one of the powerful tools of statistical process control that are used to control nonconforming products. Previous literature suggests that fuzzy charts are more sensitive than conventional control charts, and hence, they provide better quality and conformance of products. Nevertheless, some of the data used are more suitable to be presented in interval type-2 fuzzy numbers compared to type-1 fuzzy numbers as interval type-2 fuzzy numbers have more ability to capture uncertain and vague information. In this paper, we develop an interval type-2 fuzzy standardized cumulative sum (IT2F-SCUSUM) control chart and apply it to data of fertilizer production. This new approach combines the advantages of interval type-2 fuzzy numbers and standardized sample means which can control the variability. Twenty samples with a sample size of six were examined for testing the conformance. The proposed IT2F-SCUSUM control chart unveils that 15 samples are “out of control.” The results are also compared to the conventional CUSUM chart and type-1 fuzzy CUSUM chart. The conventional chart shows that 13 samples are “out of control.” In contrast, the type-1 fuzzy CUSUM chart shows that the process is “out of control” for 14 samples. In the analysis of average run length, the proposed IT2F-SCUSUM chart outperforms the other two CUSUM charts. Thus, we can conclude that the IT2F-SCUSUM chart is more sensitive and takes lesser number of observations to identify the shift in the process. The analyses suggest that the IT2F-SCUSUM chart is a promising tool in examining conformance of the quality of the fertilizer production.
Real-Time Detection of Linear Structure Objects Using Mean Shift Segmentation and Heuristic Search
Authors: Cai Huiying , Zou Lida , Lv Peng , Ran Lingqiang
Published: October 2021

With the development of intelligent industrial production, industrial components with linear structure tend to be regular, such as TV LCD module, mobile phone screen, and electronic equipment shell. Recognition of linear structure objects by machine vision is an important aspect of intelligent industry. At present, shape matching algorithm is mostly used for arbitrary structure objects. It will be time-consuming if it is directly used to detect the linear structure objects as it needs to traverse the parameter space of the object. To solve the traversal problem and detect the linear structure objects in real time, a heuristic detection algorithm is designed according to the characteristics of linear structure objects. First, the coarse position and orientation are obtained by mean shift filtering and heuristic region grouping to reduce the searching range. Then, the heuristic search method is used to get the precise location information. The heuristic search method is designed based on the particle swarm optimization algorithm and heuristic information. The proposed method has been evaluated on two image databases of common industrial parts and backlight units which are typical linear structure objects. The experimental results showed that the proposed algorithm could reduce the detect time by more than 70% averagely while the detection accuracy is kept. It proves that the proposed algorithm can detect linear structure objects in real time and is suitable for the detection of objects with linear structures.
Preventive Control Strategy of Cascading Fault considering Safety and Economy
Authors: Deng Hui-Qiong , Luo Jie , Li Chen-Chen , Li Pei-Qiang , Zheng Rong-Jin
Published: October 2021

The operation and structure of the power system are becoming increasingly complex, and the probability of cascading fault increases. To this end, this paper proposes a cascading fault preventive control strategy that considers safety and the economy. First is to give a mathematical form to discriminate the cascading fault according to the action characteristics of the current-type backup protection. Second, the safety and economy of the system are evaluated in terms of power grid safety margin and generation operation cost, respectively, the initial faults are selected based on the power grid vulnerability and safety margin, and a cascading fault preventive control model is constructed for different initial faults’ scenarios. The model is a two-layer optimization mathematical model, with the inner model being solved by particle swarm optimization to minimize the power grid safety margin. The outer model is solved by the multiobjective algorithm to minimize generation cost and maximizing power grid safety margin. Finally, the calculated Pareto set is evaluated using fuzzy set theory to determine the optimal generator output strategy. The feasibility of the proposed method is verified by conducting a simulation study with the IEEE39 node system as an example.
Turbulence Calculations of a Dual-Structure Oxygen Lance for Converter Based on Hydrodynamics
Authors: Jia Hongbin , Li Yanxin , Han Peng , Liu Kun , Han Haolei , Feng Lianghua
Published: October 2021

The oxygen lance is a piece of special equipment in the converter steelmaking process for blowing oxygen into the molten steel. After more than 80 years of development, the structure and function of the oxygen lance have undergone many changes. In this paper, based on the theory of hydrodynamics, the jet behavior characteristics of a dual-structure oxygen lance for the converter are determined and optimized by CFD simulations and compared with those of the traditional-structure oxygen lance. The research results show that multiple jets deflect to the central axis of the oxygen lance during movement and the inclination angle of the nozzle holes influences the jet deflection. A decrease in the nozzle hole angle results in an increase in the mutual suction between the streams. With the increasing flow rate through the large holes in the new dual-structure oxygen lance, the dynamic radial pressure increases at the middle of the jet. The jet flow characteristics of the new dual-structure oxygen lance are better than those of the traditional oxygen lance. Its impact on the molten pool includes greater momentum, a larger impact area, and a more uniform and powerful stirring of the molten pool. A nozzle angle of 14° combined with a flow rate ratio of 65% and a nozzle angle of 17° combined with a flow rate ratio of 35% are the optimal parameters for the new dual-structure oxygen lance.
LINC00035 Transcriptional Regulation of SLC16A3 via CEBPB Affects Glycolysis and Cell Apoptosis in Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Yang Shuyan , Wang Jing , Cheng Rongjie , Pang Bo , Sun Pengcheng
Published: October 2021

Objective. Ovarian cancer (OC) represents the most lethal gynecologic malignancy globally. Over the decades, lncRNAs have been considered as study focuses due to their genome-wide expression through multiple mechanisms in which regulation of target gene transcription through interaction with transcription factors or epigenetic proteins is proven. In the present work, we focus on the functional role of LINC00035 in OC and its regulation mechanism on gene expression. Methods. We collected OC tissues and adjacent tumor-free tissues surgically resected from 67 OC patients. Cultured human OC cell lines SKOV3 and A2780 were assayed for their viability, migration, invasion, apoptosis in vitro using CCK-8 assays, transwell assays, and flow cytometric analysis. OC cell tumorigenesis in vivo was evaluated by mouse xenograft experiments. Glycolysis was evaluated by glucose uptake, lactate release, and ATP production assays. Luciferase activity assay, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), and RNA pull-down were performed to confirm the interactions among LINC00035, CEBPB, and SLC16A3. Results. LINC00035 was upregulated in OC tissues. LINC00035 knockdown was shown to repress SKOV3 and A2780 cell viability, migration, invasion, induce their apoptosis, and reduce glucose uptake, lactate release, and ATP production. LINC00035 could recruit CEBPB into the SLC16A3 promoter region, thus increasing the SLC16A3 transcription. SLC16A3 was upregulated in OC tissues. SLC16A3 knockdown exerted similar effects on SKOV3 and A2780 cells as LINC00035 knockdown. Rescue experiments found SLC16A3 overexpression resisting to LINC00035 knockdown on SKOV3 and A2780 cell viability, migration, invasion, apoptosis, glucose uptake, lactate release, and ATP production. Results also showed LINC00035 knockdown could inhibit OC cell tumorigenesis in vivo. Conclusion. The study reveals that LINC00035 promotes OC progression by regulating glycolysis and cell apoptosis through CEBPB-mediated transcriptional promotion of SLC16A3.
Fourth-Grade Primary School Students’ Misconception on Greatest Common Factor and Least Common Multiple
Authors: Sutarto  , Dwi Hastuti Intan , Listiawan Tomi , Sutopo  , Komariah Aan , Dabirnia Mohammadreza
Published: October 2021

This study is aimed at determining students’ misconceptions on the teaching material of the greatest common factor and least common multiple. The sample of this study consisted of 124 fourth-grade elementary school students in the academic year of 2019–2020 in areas of Mataram, West Lombok, North Lombok, and East Lombok at West Nusa Tenggara Province. The instrument of this study is a test covering five questions in the form of open questions. The data are analyzed based on the students’ explanations while they answer the test. The students’ wrong answers are grouped into categories. The interview activities are carried out for students who have a misconception. Then, researchers create a table of frequencies/presentations relating to each type of students’ misconception. The results show that students experience misconceptions due to factors, including having a weak multiplication concept, having a weak prime number concept, determining the least common multiple of two numbers by multiplying the two numbers, and inability to distinguish between multiples and factors of a number. In light of the findings, a number of conclusions are obtained and several implications are put forward.
Two-Echelon Multidepot Logistics Network Design with Resource Sharing
Authors: Luo Siyu , Wang Yong , Tang Jinjun , Guan Xiangyang , Xu Maozeng
Published: October 2021

Resource sharing within a logistics network offers an effective way to solve problems resulting from inefficient and costly operations of individual logistics facilities. However, the existing analysis of resource sharing and profit allocation is still limited. Therefore, this study aims to model resource sharing in two-echelon delivery and pickup logistics networks to improve the overall efficiency and decrease the total network operating cost. A bi-objective integer programming model is first proposed for two-echelon collaborative multidepot pickup and delivery problems with time windows (2E-CMDPDTW) to seek the minimization of operating costs and number of vehicles. Integrating a customer clustering algorithm, a greedy algorithm, and an improved nondominated sorting genetic algorithm-II (Im-NSGA-II), a hybrid method is then designed to handle the 2E-CMDPDTW model. The customer clustering and the greedy algorithms are employed to generate locally optimized initial solutions to accelerate the calculating velocity and guarantee the diversity of feasible solutions. The Im-NSGA-II combines the order crossover operation and the polynomial mutation process to find the optimal solution of the 2E-CMDPDTW. The comparative results show that the proposed hybrid method outperforms the NSGA-II and the multiobjective genetic algorithm. Furthermore, a Shapley value method is used for allocating total profits of established alliances and finding an optimal coalition sequence of the logistics facilities joining alliances based on the strictly monotonic path strategy. Finally, a case study of 2E-CMDPDTW in Chongqing China is conducted to validate the feasibility. Results indicate that this study contributes to long-term partnerships between logistics facilities within multi-echelon logistics networks in practice and contributes to the long-term sustainability of urban logistics pickup and delivery networks’ development.
Impact of Cervical Spine Rehabilitation on Temporomandibular Joint Functioning in Patients with Idiopathic Neck Pain
Authors: Oleksy Łukasz , Kielnar Renata , Mika Anna , Jankowicz-Szymańska Agnieszka , Bylina Dorota , Sołtan Jarosław , Pruszczyński Błażej , Stolarczyk Artur , Królikowska Aleksandra
Published: October 2021

Objective. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a 3‐week rehabilitation programme focusing only on the cervical region, pain intensity, range of motion in the cervical spine, head posture, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) functioning in subjects with idiopathic neck pain who did not report TMJ pain. Design. A parallel group trial with follow‐up. Methods. The study included 60 participants divided into 2 groups: experimental: n = 25, 27‐57 years old, experiencing idiopathic neck pain and who underwent a 3‐week rehabilitation programme, and the control, n = 35, 27‐47 years, who were cervical pain‐free. At baseline and after 3 weeks of treatment in the experimental group and with a 3‐week time interval in the control group, pain intensity, head posture in the sagittal plane, range of motion in the cervical spine, and TMJ functioning were evaluated. Results. After 3 weeks of rehabilitation, there was a significant decrease in pain intensity, improved range of motion of the cervical spine and head posture, and improved clinical condition of TMJ in participants with idiopathic neck pain who did not report TMJ pain. Conclusion. The study suggested that idiopathic neck pain is associated with limited range of motion in the cervical spine, incorrect head posture, and TMJ dysfunction. Our data suggests that therapy focusing only on the cervical region may improve the clinical condition of the TMJ in subjects with idiopathic neck pain who do not report TMJ pain. These observations could be helpful in physiotherapeutic treatment of neck and craniofacial area dysfunctions. This trial is registered with ISRCTN Registry ISRCTN14511735.
Predicting Cross-Species Infection of Swine Influenza Virus with Representation Learning of Amino Acid Features
Authors: Kou Zheng , Li Junjie , Fan Xinyue , Kosari Saeed , Qiang Xiaoli
Published: October 2021

Swine influenza viruses (SIVs) can unforeseeably cross the species barriers and directly infect humans, which pose huge challenges for public health and trigger pandemic risk at irregular intervals. Computational tools are needed to predict infection phenotype and early pandemic risk of SIVs. For this purpose, we propose a feature representation algorithm to predict cross-species infection of SIVs. We built a high-quality dataset of 1902 viruses. A feature representation learning scheme was applied to learn feature representations from 64 well-trained random forest models with multiple feature descriptors of mutant amino acid in the viral proteins, including compositional information, position-specific information, and physicochemical properties. Class and probabilistic information were integrated into the feature representations, and redundant features were removed by feature space optimization. High performance was achieved using 20 informative features and 22 probabilistic information. The proposed method will facilitate SIV characterization of transmission phenotype.
Coexpression Network Analysis of lncRNA Associated with Overexpression of DNMT1 in Esophageal Epithelial Cells
Authors: Lei Yi , Xu Yi , Li Xu-feng , Chen Yan
Published: October 2021

Screening and preliminary identification of high DNMT1 expression‐related lncRNA, which is involved in various interrelated signaling pathways, has led to the development of a theoretical basis for various types of disease mechanisms. Differential expression profiles of lncRNA and mRNA were identified in a microarray. Ten lncRNAs with high levels of variation were identified by qRT‐PCR. KEGG and GO analyses were used to identify differentially expressed mRNAs. Six signaling pathways were selected based on the KEGG results of the lncRNA‐mRNA expression network analysis. From the microarrays in the experimental and control groups, we found a total of 6987 differentially expressed lncRNAs, and 7421 differentially expressed mRNAs were obtained (P < 0.05; fold change > 2.0x). GO analysis and KEGG pathway analysis showed high expression of DNMT1 in esophageal epithelial cells. Nine pathways were involved in mRNA upregulation, including natural killer cell‐mediated cytotoxicity and many other prominent biochemical pathways. Forty‐six pathways were associated with downregulated mRNAs and ribosomes involving multiple biological pathways. Coexpression network analysis showed that 8 mRNAs and 16 lncRNAs were linked to the p53 signaling pathway. In Helicobacter pylori infections, interactions occurred between 22 lncRNAs and 11 mRNAs in the ErbB signaling pathway and between 19 lncRNAs and 8 mRNAs in epithelial cell signal transduction. Interactions were present between 19 lncRNAs and 5 mRNAs in the sphingolipid signaling pathway, along with interactions between 21 lncRNAs and 12 mRNAs in the PI3K‐Akt signaling pathway. Cytotoxicity interactions occurred between 22 lncRNAs and 9 mRNAs in natural killer cells.
Impulsive Coupled System of Fractional Differential Equations with Caputo–Katugampola Fuzzy Fractional Derivative
Authors: Sajedi Leila , Eghbali Nasrin , Aydi Hassen
Published: October 2021

In this article, we investigate the existence, uniqueness, and different kinds of Ulam–Hyers stability of solutions of an impulsive coupled system of fractional differential equations by using the Caputo–Katugampola fuzzy fractional derivative. We applied the Perov-type fixed point theorem to prove the existence and uniqueness of the proposed system. Furthermore, the Ulam–Hyers–Rassias stability and Ulam–Hyers–Rassias–Mittag-Leffler’s stability results for the given system are discussed.
An English Reading and Learning System Based on Web
Authors: He Xiaoying
Published: October 2021

Learning management system (LMS) is a web-based system used to develop, implement, and assess a specific learning process. When designing an administration learning system, it is important to understand the general architecture and roles of each level of the system. In this study, we propose a web-based English reading learning system to address the drawbacks of existing methods in English learning resource management that include login impact, system response time, and user satisfaction. English reading materials are integrated using a feature model, and the adaptive recommendation system is built using the ID3 method. The design of the proposed English reading learning system was intended to employ a hybrid of software and hardware that will benefit a wide variety of groups, especially universities, colleges, and organizations. The statistic results showed that the proposed model is capable of meeting the functional objectives of English learning resource management, as well as having a rapid and accurate response time with high user satisfaction.
Existence and Stability of a Caputo Variable-Order Boundary Value Problem
Authors: Benkerrouche Amar , Souid Mohammed Said , Chandok Sumit , Hakem Ali
Published: October 2021

In this study, we investigate the existence of a solution to the boundary value problem (BVP) of variable-order Caputo-type fractional differential equation by converting it into an equivalent standard Caputo (BVP) of the fractional constant order with the help of the generalized intervals and the piecewise constant functions. All our results in this study are proved by using Darbo’s fixed-point theorem and the Ulam–Hyers (UH) stability definition. A numerical example is given at the end to support and validate the potentiality of our obtained results.
Application of Adaptive Local Iterative Filtering and Permutation Entropy in Gear Fault Recognition
Authors: Zhang Wenbin , Wang Yun , Tan Yushuo , Guo Dewei , Pu Yasong
Published: October 2021

In this paper, a fault identification method combining adaptive local iterative filtering and permutation entropy is proposed. The adaptive local iterative filtering can decompose the nonstationary signal into a finite number of stationary intrinsic mode functions. And the experiment gear fault data are decomposed into several intrinsic mode functions by this method. Then, using the permutation entropy to calculate each intrinsic mode function, it is found that the permutation entropy of the first several intrinsic mode functions can represent the characteristics of different fault types, and the permutation entropy of the intrinsic mode function corresponding to the rotating frequency signal of the gear system could be the boundary. Finally, the fault type of gear is identified by calculating the gray correlation degree of permutation entropy of essential mode function of vibration signal decomposition under different working conditions. The example analysis results show that the proposed method can be effectively applied to the fault diagnosis of the gear system.
Effect of the Number of Nozzles of Swirl Flow Generator Utilized in Flat Plate Solar Collector: An Entropic Analysis
Authors: Cao Yan , Ayed Hamdi , Abdulrazzaq Tuqa , Gul Taza , Bariq Abdul , Bouallegue Belgacem
Published: October 2021

The numerical model of the pipes of a flat plate solar collector (FPSC) with several nozzles has been investigated in the present study. Indeed, the effect of the number of nozzles of the swirl generator on the entropic characteristics has been evaluated. The nozzles were applied for improving the performance of FPSC. For evaluating the proposed system based on the entropy concept, the effect of injection angle and mass flow rate has been considered. The selected injection angles were 30°, 45°, 60°, and 90°. Also, the total mass flow rates entered from all of the nozzles were 0.2 kg/s, 1 kg/s, and 2 kg/s. The effect of said variables on frictional and thermal entropy generations was analyzed; then, the overall energetic-entropic performance of the system was predicted using several dimensionless parameters including NE, NS, Nu

∗

, and heat transfer improvement (HTI). Moreover, Witte-Shamsundar efficiency (

η

W
−
S

) was applied to pinpoint the efficiency of the system. The highest value of HTI and

η

W
−
S

was 1.7 and 0.9 that achieved by “single-nozzle; A90-D50-N12.5-M0.2” and “quad-nozzle; A30-D50-N12.5-M2,” respectively.
Bioinformatics Analysis Reveals MCM3 as an Important Prognostic Marker in Cervical Cancer
Authors: Ma Hui , Liu Zhen , Li Honglin , Guo Xuewang , Guo Sujie , Qu Pengpeng , Wang Yuquan
Published: October 2021

The minichromosome maintenance complex 3 (MCM3) is essential for the regulation of DNA replication and cell cycle progression. However, the expression and prognostic values of MCM3 in cervical cancer (CC) have not been well-studied. Herein, we investigated the expression patterns and survival data of MCM3 in cervical cancer patients from the ONCOMINE, GEPIA, Human Protein Atlas, UALCAN, Kaplan-Meier Plotter, and LinkedOmics databases. The expression level of MCM3 is negatively correlated with advanced tumor stage and metastatic status. Specifically, MCM3 is significantly differentially expressed between patients in stage 1 and stage 3 cervical cancer with

p

value 0.0138. Similarly, the

p

values between stage 1 and stage 4 cervical cancer, between stage 2 and stage 3, and between stage 2 and stage 4 are 0.00089, 0.0244, and 0.00197, respectively. Not only that, cervical cancer patients with high mRNA expression of MCM3 may indicate longer overall survival but indicate shorter relapse-free survival. PRIM2 and MCM6 are positively correlated genes of MCM3. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that MCM3 might be considered a biological indicator for prognostic evaluation of cervical cancer. However, it is currently limited to bioinformatics analysis, and more clinical tissue specimens and cell experiments are needed to further explore the role of MCM3 in the occurrence and progression of cervical cancer.
Association between Diabetes Complications and the Triglyceride-Glucose Index in Hospitalized Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Pan Ying , Zhong Shao , Zhou Kaixin , Tian Zijian , Chen Fei , Liu Ziqing , Geng Zhaoxu , Li Shaoyun , Huang Rong , Wang Heyou , Zou Weiqing , Hu Ji
Published: October 2021

Background. Triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index is a convenient indicator of insulin resistance. It has been shown to be associated with macrovascular and microvascular complications in nonhospitalized diabetic patients. However, whether TyG index is a risk factor of diabetes vascular complications in hospitalized type 2 diabetic patients is unclear. We sought to explore the association between TyG index and the risk of macrovascular and microvascular complications in a large Chinese cohort of hospitalized patients. Method. A total of 4,721 patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) who were hospitalized in the Department of Endocrinology, Kunshan Hospital Affiliated to Jiangsu University were enrolled between January 2015 and November 2020. TyG index was calculated as

ln

fasting
 
triglycerides
 

mg
/
dL

×
fasting
 
glucose
 

mg
/
dL

/
2

. Measures of macrovascular complications included brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (ba-PWV) and ankle-brachial index (ABI), whilst urine microalbumin (MAU), chronic kidney disease (CKD), and diabetic retinopathy (DR) were evaluated for microvascular complications. Logistic regressions were used to examine the association between TyG index and diabetes complications. Results. In univariate logistic regressions, higher TyG index was significantly (

p
<
0.002

) associated with increased odds of MAU (

OR
=
1.39

, 95% CI: [1.22~1.59]) and ABI (

OR
=
1.31

, 95% CI: [1.10-1.57]) but not CKD, DR, or ba-PWV. After controlling for confounders such as age, sex, and body mass index (BMI), TyG index remained strongly (

p
<
0.002

) associated with MAU and ABI. These associations were more pronounced (

p
<
0.001

) in patients with poor glycemic control or in the elderly. Conclusion. Hospitalized patients with an elevated TyG index were at a higher risk of lower limb vascular stenosis and nephric microvascular damage. Close monitoring of TyG index in patients with younger age or poor glycemic control could potentially reduce the burden of diabetes complications and prevent readmission.
Characteristics of Organic Matter Pores and the Relationship with Current Pressure System of Lower Silurian Longmaxi Shales in Dingshan Field, Southern Sichuan, China
Authors: Cao Qian , Jiang Ke , Wen Zhentao , Wang Xingzhi , Qi Minghui , Yin Zhongshan
Published: October 2021

Organic matter pores (OMP) provide significant storage space for hydrocarbons in lower Silurian Longmaxi shales in the Dingshan field of southern Sichuan, China. The distributions of organic matter and the different OMP structure parameters were characterized through Ar-ion polishing, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and image analysis software for shale samples of different wells. The research results indicated that organic matter has been divided into two categories based on its occurrence, location, and its relationship with authigenic minerals: organic matter in situ and migrated organic matter. OMP for organic matter in situ are mainly micropores mostly arranged isolatedly, while in migrated organic matter pores show larger sizes and higher roundness. The development of OMP in samples is predominantly controlled by the formation pressure. The existence of overpressure alleviated the stress on the rock skeleton, causing the compaction of some migrated organic matters to lag or decrease. This played a positive role in protecting the development of pores in the interior and edge of the rock skeleton, and it can also induce the development of microfractures in shale. The protective effect of formation pressure on organic pores was provided for understanding the exploration and exploitation of Longmaxi shales in the study area.
Bismuth Pelvic X‐Ray Shielding Reduces Radiation Dose Exposure in Pediatric Radiography
Authors: Wang Bow , Ting Chien-Yi , Lai Cheng-Shih , Tsai Yi-Shan
Published: October 2021

Background. Radiation using conventional X‐ray is associated with exposure of radiosensitive organs and typically requires the use of protection. This study is aimed at evaluating the use of bismuth shielding for radiation protection in pediatric pelvic radiography. The effects of the anteroposterior and lateral bismuth shielding were verified by direct measurements at the anatomical position of the gonads. Methods. Radiation doses were measured using optically stimulated luminescence dosimeters (OSLD) and CIRS ATOM Dosimetry Verification Phantoms. Gonad radiographs were acquired using different shields of varying material (lead, bismuth) and thickness and were compared with radiographs obtained without shielding to examine the effects on image quality and optimal reduction of radiation dose. All images were evaluated separately by three pediatric orthopedic practitioners. Results. Results showed that conventional lead gonadal shielding reduces radiation doses by 67.45%, whereas dose reduction using one layer of bismuth shielding is 76.38%. The use of two layers of bismuth shielding reduces the dose by 84.01%. Using three and four layers of bismuth shielding reduces dose by 97.33% and 99.34%, respectively. Progressively lower radiation doses can be achieved by increasing the number of bismuth layers. Images obtained using both one and two layers of bismuth shielding provided adequate diagnostic information, but those obtained using three or four layers of bismuth shielding were inadequate for diagnosis. Conclusions. Bismuth shielding reduces radiation dose exposure providing appropriate protection for children undergoing pelvic radiography. The bismuth shielding material is lighter than lead, making pediatric patients more comfortable and less apt to move, thereby avoiding repeat radiography.
Regulation of Chemosensitivity in Human Medulloblastoma Cells by p53 and the PI3 Kinase Signaling Pathway
Authors: Naeem Aisha , Harish Varsha , Coste Sophie , Parasido Erika M. , Choudhry Muhammad Umer , Kromer Lawrence F. , Ihemelandu Chukuemeka , Petricoin Emanuel F. , Pierobon Mariaelena , Noon Muhammad Saad , Yenugonda Venkata Mahidhar , Avantaggiati Maria , Kupfer Gary M. , Fricke Stanley , Rodriguez Olga , Albanese Chris
Published: October 2021

In medulloblastoma, p53 expression has been associated with chemoresistance and radiation resistance and with poor long-term outcomes in the p53-mutated sonic hedgehog, MYC-p53, and p53-positive medulloblastoma subgroups. We previously established a direct role for p53 in supporting drug resistance in medulloblastoma cells with high basal protein expression levels (D556 and DAOY). We now show that p53 genetic suppression in medulloblastoma cells with low basal p53 protein expression levels (D283 and UW228) significantly reduced drug responsiveness, suggesting opposing roles for low p53 protein expression levels. Mechanistically, the enhanced cell death by p53 knockdown in high-p53 cells was associated with an induction of mTOR/PI3K signaling. Both mTOR inhibition and p110α/PIK3CA induction confirmed these findings, which abrogated or accentuated the enhanced chemosensitivity response in D556 cells respectively while converse was seen in D283 cells. Co-treatment with G-actin–sequestering peptide, thymosin β4 (Tβ4), induced p-AKTS473 in both p53-high and p53-low cells, enhancing chemosensitivity in D556 cells while enhancing chemoresistance in D283 and UW228 cells.

Implications:

Collectively, we identified an unexpected role for the PI3K signaling in enhancing cell death in medulloblastoma cells with high basal p53 expression. These studies indicate that levels of p53 immunopositivity may serve as a diagnostic marker of chemotherapy resistance and for defining therapeutic targeting.
Genomic and Transcriptomic Correlates of Thyroid Carcinoma Evolution after BRAF Inhibitor Therapy
Authors: Lee Mark , Untch Brian R. , Xu Bin , Ghossein Ronald , Han Catherine , Kuo Fengshen , Valero Cristina , Nadeem Zaineb , Patel Neal , Makarov Vladimir , Dogan Snjezana , Wong Richard J. , Sherman Eric J. , Ho Alan L. , Chan Timothy A. , Fagin James A. , Morris Luc G.T.
Published: October 2021

Targeted inhibition of BRAF V600E achieves tumor control in a subset of advanced thyroid tumors. Nearly all tumors develop resistance, and some have been observed to subsequently undergo dedifferentiation. The molecular alterations associated with thyroid cancer dedifferentiation in the setting of BRAF inhibition are unknown. We analyzed targeted next-generation sequencing data from 639 advanced, recurrent and/or metastatic thyroid carcinomas, including 15 tumors that were treated with BRAF inhibitor drugs and had tissue sampled during or posttreatment, 8 of which had matched pretherapy samples. Pre- and posttherapy tissues from one additional patient were profiled with whole-exome sequencing and RNA expression profiling. Mutations in genes comprising the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex and the PI3K–AKT–mTOR, MAPK, and JAK–STAT pathways all increased in prevalence across more dedifferentiated thyroid cancer histologies. Of 7 thyroid cancers that dedifferentiated after BRAF inhibition, 6 had mutations in these pathways. These mutations were mostly absent from matched pretreatment samples and were rarely detected in tumors that did not dedifferentiate. Additional analyses in one of the vemurafenib-treated tumors before and after anaplastic transformation revealed the emergence of an oncogenic PIK3CA mutation, activation of ERK signaling, dedifferentiation, and development of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. These findings validate earlier preclinical data implicating these genetic pathways in resistance to BRAF inhibitors, and suggest that genetic alterations mediating acquired drug resistance may also promote thyroid tumor dedifferentiation.

Implications:

The possibility that thyroid cancer dedifferentiation may be attributed to selective pressure applied by BRAF inhibitor–targeted therapy should be investigated further.
Screening Novel Drug Candidates for Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma Treatment: A Study on Differentially Expressed Genes through the Connectivity Map Database
Authors: Gao Bin , Wang Lijuan , Zhang Na , Han Miaomiao , Zhang Yubo , Liu Huancai , Sun Dongli , Liu Yifei
Published: October 2021

Objective: Kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) is a common cancer with high morbidity and mortality in renal cancer. Thus, the transcriptome data of KIRC patients in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database were analyzed and drug candidates for the treatment of KIRC were explored through the connectivity map (CMap) database. Methods: The transcriptome data of KIRC patients were downloaded from TCGA database, and KIRC-associated hub genes were screened out through differential analysis and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis. Afterward, the CMap database was used to select drug candidates for KIRC treatment, and the drug-targeted genes were obtained through the STITCH database. A PPI network was constructed by combining drug-targeted genes with hub genes that affected the pathogenesis of KIRC to obtain final hub genes. Finally, combining hub genes and KIRC-associated hub genes, the pathways affected by drugs were explored by pathway enrichment analysis. Results: A total of 2,312 differentially expressed genes were found in patients, which were concentrated in immune cell activity, cytokine, and chemokine secretion pathways. Drug screening disclosed 5 drug candidates for KIRC treatment: fedratinib, Ly344864, geldanamycin, AS-605240, and luminespib. Based on drug-targeted genes and KIRC-associated hub genes, 16 hub genes were screened out. Pathway enrichment analysis revealed that drugs mainly affected pathways such as neuroactive ligand pathways, cell adhesion, and chemokines. Conclusion: The above results indicated that fedratinib, LY 344864, geldanamycin, AS-605240, and luminespib could be used as candidates for KIRC therapy. The findings from this study will make contributions to the treatment of KIRC in the future.
Cutaneous Anthrax on the Upper Eyelid
Authors: Celik Ekrem , Gonen Tansu
Published: October 2021

A 46-year-old female patient, who presented with a black, crusty lesion on the upper eyelid, was diagnosed with cutaneous anthrax after the detection of Bacillus anthracis in the skin culture. It was determined that the symptoms started after she cooked the meat she bought from a butcher. Anthrax is a disease that should be kept in mind in cutaneous infections even in isolated lesions, especially in endemic areas.