bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the Suitability of Baobab Fruit Shells as Substrate for Growing Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus)
Authors: Tavarwisa Delight Michael , Govera Chido , Mutetwa Moses , Ngezimana Wonder
Published: February 2021

The baobab fruit shells were evaluated for their suitability as a substrate for growing oyster mushrooms and compared to three base substrates (wheat straw, maize cobs, and sawdust) of 1 kg dry weight. The duration of developmental stages, mycelium vigor, yield, and biological efficiency of the oyster mushroom from the four different substrates were recorded. Yields from the first 3 harvests (flushes) were considered, as they were the most productive ones. Wheat straw demonstrated significantly (

p
<
0.05

) higher mycelial colonization rate taking an average of 23 days to complete full spawn run followed by baobab fruit shells, sawdust, and maize cobs which took averages of 25.8, 27.2, and 29.5 days, respectively. Baobab fruit shells had the longest number of days taken between full spawn run and first pinhead formation with an average of 14.4 days which was significantly different (

p
<
0.05

) to the wheat straw, sawdust, and maize cobs which had 7.4, 9.4, and 10.5 days. The highest yield was observed on the sawdust which had an average of 682 g followed by wheat straw with 594 g. Maize cobs and baobab fruit shells had the least yield of 518 g and 482 g, respectively. The results showed that baobab fruit shells could be used as a substrate for the cultivation of oyster mushrooms and it can be recommended for commercial cultivation of oyster mushrooms.
CD38 and Regulation of the Immune Response Cells in Cancer
Authors: Dwivedi Sanyog , Rendón-Huerta Erika P. , Ortiz-Navarrete Vianney , Montaño Luis F.
Published: February 2021

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. Understanding the functional mechanisms associated with metabolic reprogramming, which is a typical feature of cancer cells, is key to effective therapy. CD38, primarily a NAD + glycohydrolase and ADPR cyclase, is a multifunctional transmembrane protein whose abnormal overexpression in a variety of tumor types is associated with cancer progression. It is linked to VEGFR2 mediated angiogenesis and immune suppression as it favors the recruitment of suppressive immune cells like Tregs and myeloid-derived suppressor cells, thus helping immune escape. CD38 is expressed in M1 macrophages and in neutrophil and T cell-mediated immune response and is associated with IFNγ-mediated suppressor activity of immune responses. Targeting CD38 with anti-CD38 monoclonal antibodies in hematological malignancies has shown excellent results. Bearing that in mind, targeting CD38 in other nonhematological cancer types, especially carcinomas, which are of epithelial origin with specific anti-CD38 antibodies alone or in combination with immunomodulatory drugs, is an interesting option that deserves profound consideration.
Construction and Validation of a Ferroptosis-Related Prognostic Model for Gastric Cancer
Authors: Jiang Xiaotao , Yan Qiaofeng , Xie Linling , Xu Shijie , Jiang Kailin , Huang Jiahua , Wen Yi , Yan Yanhua , Zheng Junhui , Tang Shuting , Nie Kechao , Zheng Zhihua , Pan Jinglin , Liu Peng , Huang Yuancheng , Yan Xingrui , Zou Yushan , Chen Xuan , Liu Fengbin , Li Peiwu , Zhuang Kunhai
Published: February 2021

Background. Gastric cancer (GC), an extremely aggressive tumor with a very different prognosis, is the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality. We aimed to construct a ferroptosis-related prognostic model that can be distinguished prognostically. Methods. The gene expression and the clinical data of GC patients were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus database (GEO). The ferroptosis-related genes were obtained from the FerrDb. Using the “limma” R package and univariate Cox analysis, ferroptosis-related genes with differential expression and prognostic value were identified in the TCGA cohort. Last absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression was applied to shrink ferroptosis-related predictors and construct a prognostic model. Functional enrichment, ESTIMATE algorithm, and single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) were applied for exploring the potential mechanism. GC patients from the GEO cohort were used for validation. Results. An 8-gene prognostic model was constructed and stratified GC patients from TCGA and meta-GEO cohort into high-risk groups or low-risk groups. GC patients in high-risk groups have significantly poorer OS compared with those in low-risk groups. The risk score was identified as an independent predictor for OS. Functional analysis revealed that the risk score was mainly associated with the biological function of extracellular matrix (ECM) organization and tumor immunity. Conclusion. In conclusion, the ferroptosis-related model can be utilized for the clinical prognostic prediction in GC.
Identifying Factors Contributing to the Motorcycle Crash Severity in Pakistan
Authors: Pervez Amjad , Lee Jaeyoung , Huang Helai
Published: February 2021

Motorcycle is a popular mode of transportation in many developing countries, including Pakistan. Since the last decade, the registered number of motorcycles in Pakistan has increased by six times, constituting 74% of the total registered vehicles. However, limited research efforts have been made to investigate motorcycle-related safety issues in Pakistan. Thus, the relationship between potential risk factors and injury outcomes of motorcycle crashes is still unclear in the country. This study, therefore, established a random parameter logit model to examine the factors associated with the motorcycle injury severity. The analysis is based on two years (2014–2015) of data collected through the road traffic injuries surveillance system from Karachi city, Pakistan. The results indicate that the summer season, weekends, nighttime, elderly riders, heavy vehicle, and single-vehicle collisions are positively associated with fatalities, while the presence of pillion passengers and motorcycle-to-motorcycle crashes are negatively associated with fatalities. More importantly, in the specific context of Pakistan, morning hours, young riders, and female pillion passengers whose clothes stuck in the wheel significantly increase the fatal injury outcomes. Based on the findings, potential countermeasures to improve motorcycle safety are discussed, such as strict enforcement to control motorcyclists' risky behavior and speeding, provision of exclusive motorcycles lanes, and education of female pillion passengers. The findings from this study would increase awareness of motorcycle safety and can be used by the policymakers to enhance road safety in Pakistan, as well as in other developing countries with similar situations.
A Modified Bat Algorithm for Solving Large-Scale Bound Constrained Global Optimization Problems
Authors: Mashwani Wali Khan , Mehmood Ihsan , Abu Bakar Maharani , Koçcak Ismail
Published: February 2021

In the last two decades, the field of global optimization has become very active, and, in this regard, many deterministic and stochastic algorithms were developed for solving various optimization problems. Among them, swarm intelligence (SI) is a stochastic algorithm that is more flexible and robust and has had the ability to find an optimum solution for high-dimensional optimization and search problems. SI-based algorithms are mainly inspired by the social behavior of fish schooling or bird flocking. Among the SI-based algorithms, Bat algorithm (BA) is one of the recently developed evolutionary algorithms. It employs an echolocation behavior of microbats by varying pulse rates of emission and loudness to perform their search process. In this paper, a modified Bat algorithm (MBA) is developed. The main focus of the MBA is to further enhance the exploration and exploitation search abilities of the original Bat algorithm. The performance of the modified Bat algorithm (MBA) is examined over the benchmark functions designed for evolutionary algorithms competition in the special session of 2005 IEEE Congress on Evolutionary Computation. The used benchmark functions include the unimodal, multimodal, and hybrid benchmark functions with high dimensionality. Furthermore, the impact analysis with respect to different values of temperatures is conducted by executing the proposed algorithm twenty-five times independently by using each benchmark function with different random seeds.
[Retracted] Puerarin Attenuates LPS‐Induced Inflammatory Responses and Oxidative Stress Injury in Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells through Mitochondrial Quality Control
Authors: Chang Xing , Zhang Tian , Liu Dong , Meng Qingyan , Yan Peizheng , Luo Duosheng , Wang Xue , Zhou XiuTeng
Published: February 2021

Atherosclerosis is closely associated with the inflammatory reaction of vascular endothelial cells. Puerarin (Pue), the main active component isolated from the rhizome of Pueraria lobata, is an isoflavone compound with potent antioxidant properties. Although Pue exhibits promising antiatherosclerotic pharmacological effects, only a few studies have reported its protective effect on endothelial cells. This study found that Pue could partly regulate mitochondrial function in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and reduce or inhibit lipopolysaccharide‐induced inflammatory reactions and oxidative stress injury in HUVECs, likely via mitochondrial quality control. Furthermore, the protective effect of Pue on HUVECs was closely related to the SIRT‐1 signaling pathway. Pue increased autophagy and mitochondrial antioxidant potential via increased SIRT‐1 expression, reducing excessive production of ROS and inhibiting the expression of inflammatory factors and oxidative stress injury. Therefore, Pue may improve mitochondrial respiratory function and energy metabolism, increasing the vulnerability of HUVECs to an inflammatory state.
Continuous Erector Spinae Plane Block for Analgesia after Thoracotomy for Lung Transplantation in an Anticoagulated Patient
Authors: Mudarth Mark , Satyapriya Veena , Coffman John , DeSocio Peter , Lawrence Alec , Schwartz Shana , Kushelev Michael
Published: February 2021

Lung transplant recipients are at particular high risk for postoperative respiratory failure as a result of poorly controlled pain, inadequate graft expansion, decreased cough, and reliance on systemic opioid therapy. Thoracic epidural and paravertebral blocks have been employed with the goal of improving postoperative pain control, improving pulmonary mechanics, and limiting the need for narcotic administration. These approaches require a needle position in proximity to the neuraxis and may cause significant hypotension that is poorly tolerated in transplant patients. Additionally, the use of anticoagulation or underlying clotting disorder limits the use of these regional blocks because of the concern of hematoma and subsequent neurologic injury. Ultrasound-guided continuous erector spinae plane (ESP) block has been shown to be efficacious for pain control following thoracotomy but has had minimal investigations following lung transplantation. In this study, we describe the effective use of a continuous erector spinae plane block to provide analgesia in a postoperative lung transplant recipient receiving systemic anticoagulation. The use of an ESP block with a more superficial needle tract that is further removed from the neuraxis allowed for a greater safety profile while providing efficacious pain control, decreased reliance on systemic narcotics, and improved oxygen saturation. The ESP block was effective in this case and thus may be a valuable alternative following lung transplantation for patients who are not candidates for thoracic epidural or paravertebral approaches.
Nonlinear All-Optical Diffractive Deep Neural Network with 10.6 μm Wavelength for Image Classification
Authors: Sun Yichen , Dong Mingli , Yu Mingxin , Xia Jiabin , Zhang Xu , Bai Yuchen , Lu Lidan , Zhu Lianqing
Published: February 2021

A photonic artificial intelligence chip is based on an optical neural network (ONN), low power consumption, low delay, and strong antiinterference ability. The all-optical diffractive deep neural network has recently demonstrated its inference capabilities on the image classification task. However, the size of the physical model does not have miniaturization and integration, and the optical nonlinearity is not incorporated into the diffraction neural network. By introducing the nonlinear characteristics of the network, complex tasks can be completed with high accuracy. In this study, a nonlinear all-optical diffraction deep neural network (N-D2NN) model based on 10.6 μm wavelength is constructed by combining the ONN and complex-valued neural networks with the nonlinear activation function introduced into the structure. To be specific, the improved activation function of the rectified linear unit (ReLU), i.e., Leaky-ReLU, parametric ReLU (PReLU), and randomized ReLU (RReLU), is selected as the activation function of the N-D2NN model. Through numerical simulation, it is proved that the N-D2NN model based on 10.6 μm wavelength has excellent representation ability, which enables them to perform classification learning tasks of the MNIST handwritten digital dataset and Fashion-MNIST dataset well, respectively. The results show that the N-D2NN model with the RReLU activation function has the highest classification accuracy of 97.86% and 89.28%, respectively. These results provide a theoretical basis for the preparation of miniaturized and integrated N-D2NN model photonic artificial intelligence chips.
Identification of Five Immune-Related lncRNAs Predicting Survival and Tumor Microenvironment Characteristics in Breast Cancer
Authors: Xiao Ran , Yang Meng , Tan Yuanyuan , Ding Rumeng , Li Duolu
Published: February 2021

A common cancer in females, breast cancer (BRCA) mortality has been recently reduced; however, the prognosis of BRCA patients remains poor. This study attempted to develop prognostic immune-related long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) for BRCA and identify the effects of these lncRNAs on the tumor microenvironment (TME). Gene expression data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database were collected in order to select differentially expressed lncRNAs. Immune-related lncRNAs were downloaded from the ImmLnc database, where 316 immune-related lncRNAs were identified, 12 of which were found to be significantly related to the prognosis of BRCA patients. Multivariate cox regression analysis was then applied to construct prognostic immune-related lncRNAs as the risk model, including C6orf99, LINC00987, SIAH2-AS1, LINC01010, and ELOVL2-AS1. High-risk and low-risk groups were distinguished according to the median of immune-related risk scores. Accordingly, the overall survival (OS) in the high-risk group was observed to be shorter than that in the low-risk group. qRT-PCR analysis demonstrated that lncRNA expression levels in BRCA cell lines were in basic agreement with predictions except for LINC00987. By validating numerous clinical samples, lncRNA C6orf99 was shown to be highly expressed in the advanced stage, while LINC01010 and SIAH2-AS1 decreased in the advanced T-stage and M-stage. Moreover, the expression of LINC0098 was found to be significantly decreased among the groups (>50 years old). Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was applied to analyze the cancer hallmarks and immunological characteristics of the high-risk and low-risk groups. Importantly, the TIMER database demonstrated that this immune-related lncRNA risk model for breast cancer is related to the infiltration of immune cells. In conclusion, the results indicated that five immune-related lncRNAs could be used as a prognostic model and may even accelerate immunotherapy for BRCA patients.
Mechanical Characteristic Analysis of Buried Drainage Pipes after Polymer Grouting Trenchless Rehabilitation
Authors: Xu Jian-guo , Chen Zhi-hao , Wang Ren
Published: February 2021

The application of polymer grouting in underground pipeline rehabilitation is increasing gradually. The leakage and subsidence of buried pipelines could be repaired by polymer grouting technology. In order to analyse the calculation theory of the pipeline repairing process, the Winkler model and the Vlazov model of the pipe‐soil‐polymer interaction based on the elastoplastic theory are established, the calculation formulas of the pipe‐soil interaction under polymer grouting are derived, and the MATLAB calculation program based on the transfer matrix method is compiled. Then the calculated values are compared with the pipeline experimental values, and the influence of different factors on the internal force and deformation of the polymer‐repaired pipeline under different work conditions is discussed. The results show that the values and trends of the pipe deformation and circumferential bending moment calculated by the models are consistent with the experimental results, and the results obtained by the Vlazov model are closer to the experimental values. In addition, the void at the bottom of the pipeline has a large impact on the mechanical properties of the pipeline. However, polymer grouting can repair disengaged pipelines effectively and restore their mechanical properties. The proposed methods and calculation results are valuable for pipeline polymer repairing analysis and pipeline void repairing design.
Calibrating Network Traffic with One-Dimensional Convolutional Neural Network with Autoencoder and Independent Recurrent Neural Network for Mobile Malware Detection
Authors: Wei Songjie , Zhang Zedong , Li Shasha , Jiang Pengfei
Published: February 2021

In response to the surging challenge in the number and types of mobile malware targeting smart devices and their sophistication in malicious behavior camouflage, we propose to compose a traffic behavior modeling method based on one-dimensional convolutional neural network with autoencoder and independent recurrent neural network (1DCAE-IndRNN) for mobile malware detection. The design solves the problem that most existing approaches for mobile malware traffic detection struggle with capturing the network traffic dynamics and the sequential characteristics of anomalies in the traffic. We reconstruct and apply the one-dimensional convolutional neural network to extract local features from multiple network flows. The autoencoder is applied to digest the principal traffic features from the neural network and is integrated into the independent recurrent neural network construction to highlight the sequential relationship between the highly significant features. In addition, the Softmax function with the LReLU activation function is adjusted and embedded to the neurons of the independent recurrent neural network to effectively alleviate the problem of unstable training. We conduct a series of experiments to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed method and its performance for the 1DCAE-IndRNN-integrated detection procedure. The detection results of the public Android malware dataset CICAndMal2017 show that the proposed method achieves up to 98% detection accuracy and recall rates with clear advantages over other benchmark methods.
Double-Acceptance Sampling Plan for Exponentiated Fréchet Distribution with Known Shape Parameters
Authors: Sridhar Babu M. , Srinivasa Rao G. , Rosaiah K.
Published: February 2021

We suppose that a product’s lifetime follow the exponentiated Fréchet distribution of defined shape parameters. Based on this assumption, a double-acceptance sampling plan is constructed. The zero and one failure framework is essentially thought of: if no errors are found from the first sample, then the lot is approved; also, if at least two failures occur, it is rejected. In the first sample, if one failure is observed, then the second sample is taken and decided for the same length as the first one. The cumulative sample sizes of the first and second samples are determined on the basis of the stated confidence level of the consumer to ensure that the actual median is longer than the given life. As indicated by the various ratios of the actual median life to specified median lifetime, the operating characteristics are calculated and placed in presented tables. To decrease the risk of the producer at the predefined level, the minimum ratios of this sort are additionally obtained. Lastly, examples are provided for representation reasons for the proposed model.
Autologous Lens Capsule Flap Transplantation for Persistent Macular Holes
Authors: Cisiecki Sławomir , Bonińska Karolina , Bednarski Maciej
Published: February 2021

Purpose. To analyze the anatomical and functional outcomes after autologous lens capsule transplantation in patients with persistent macular hole. Methods. This is a retrospective observational study of five eyes of five patients treated with vitrectomy and autologous lens capsular flap transplantation. Complete ophthalmic examination was performed preoperatively and seven days and 1, 3, 6, 12, and 18 months after surgery. Results. Successful macular hole closure was achieved in all patients. The mean minimum macular hole diameter before the surgery was 666.8 µm, and the mean basal diameter was 1086.4 µm. The mean visual acuity before lens capsular flap transplantation was 20/200, while after surgery, it was 20/125. Conclusions. Autologous lens capsular flap transplantation is a potential alternative treatment for patients with large persistent macular holes after other operative techniques have failed.
SIRT1 Inhibits Apoptosis by Promoting Autophagic Flux in Human Nucleus Pulposus Cells in the Key Stage of Degeneration via ERK Signal Pathway
Authors: He Fei , Li Qingshu , Sheng Bo , Yang Haitao , Jiang Wei
Published: February 2021

Background. The application of biomolecular interventions in the early stage of intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is considered an ideal method for the treatment of IVDD. However, the precise definition of the “early stage” of IVDD is unclear. Silent information regulation 2 homologue‐1 (SIRT1) can protect human degenerative nucleus pulposus (NP) cells from apoptosis by activating autophagy. However, the mechanism of this effect is still unclear. This study tried to confirm the “early stage” of IVDD and the role of NP cell autophagy during IVDD as well as to determine the mechanism by which SIRT1 protects NP cells. Methods. The characteristics of the NP in various stages of degeneration were assessed to confirm the “early stage” of IVDD. Then, autophagy and apoptosis were detected in NP cells after SIRT1 upregulation/downregulation. Finally, LY294002 and PD98059 were used to inhibit the AKT/ERK pathway to determine the mechanism by which SIRT1 regulates autophagy in NP cells. Results. Our data showed that mildly degenerative (Pfirrmann grade III with normal height of intervertebral disc) NP cells may be the key target for biomolecular interventions in IVDD and that SIRT1 protects human mildly degenerative NP cells from apoptosis by activating autophagy via the ERK signalling pathway. Conclusion. Our data showed that SIRT1 inhibits apoptosis by promoting the autophagic flux in NP cells via the ERK signalling pathway during the key stage of degeneration. These findings will assist in the development of novel therapeutic approaches for IVDD treatment.
On Analysis of Seismic Vibrations Data Applying Doppler Effect Expression
Authors: Skeivalas J. , Paršeliūnas E. K. , Šlikas D. , Obuchovski R. , Birvydienė R.
Published: February 2021

In the paper, a possibility to develop the digital models of the seismic vibrations parameters is analyzed. To reach this goal, the observations at seismic station LUWI (Indonesia) were processed applying the statistical procedures. In fact, the biggest attention was given to the introduction of the Doppler effect expression and the employment of the theory of covariance functions. The trend in vectors of vibrations intensities values was detected and estimated upon using the least‐squares method and polynomial approximation. In addition, by this technique, the random errors were eliminated partially. The self‐developed computer programs based on Matlab programming package procedures were applied.
A Chimera of Th1 Stimulatory Proteins of Leishmania donovani Offers Moderate Immunotherapeutic Efficacy with a Th1‐Inclined Immune Response against Visceral Leishmaniasis
Authors: Ratnapriya Sneha , Keerti  , Yadav Narendra Kumar , Dube Anuradha , Sahasrabuddhe Amogh Anant
Published: February 2021

Immunotherapy, a treatment based on host immune system activation, has been shown to provide a substitute for marginally effective conventional chemotherapy in controlling visceral leishmaniasis (VL), the deadliest form of leishmaniasis. As the majority of endemic inhabitants exhibit either subclinical or asymptomatic infection which often develops into the active disease state, therapeutic intervention seems to be an important avenue for combating infections by stimulating the natural defense system of infected individuals. With this perspective, the present study focuses on two immunodominant Leishmania (L.) donovani antigens (triosephosphate isomerase and enolase) previously proved to be potent prophylactic VL vaccine candidates, for generating a recombinant chimeric antigen. This is based on the premise that in a heterogeneous population, a multivalent antigen vaccine would be required for an effective response against leishmaniasis (a complex parasitic disease). The resulting molecule rLdT‐E chimeric protein was evaluated for its immunogenicity and immunotherapeutic efficacy. A Th1 stimulating adjuvant BCG was employed with the protein which showed a remarkable 70% inhibition of splenic parasitic multiplication positively correlated with boosted Th1 dominant immune response against lethal L. donovani challenge in hamsters as evidenced by high IFN‐γ and TNF‐α and low IL‐10. In addition, immunological analysis of antibody subclass presented IgG2‐based humoral response besides considerable delayed‐type hypersensitivity and lymphocyte proliferative responses in rLdT‐E/BCG‐treated animals. Our observations indicate the potential of the chimera towards its candidature for an effective vaccine against Leishmania donovani infection.
Smallholder Coffee Productivity as Affected by Socioeconomic Factors and Technology Adoption
Authors: Wambua Daniel M. , Gichimu Bernard M. , Ndirangu Samuel N.
Published: February 2021

Despite the increase in area under coffee in Kenya in the last decade, productivity has been on the decline. Numerous production technologies have been developed through on-station research but there has been limited on-farm research to assess the impact of these technologies at the farm level. On the other hand, smallholder farmers are endowed differently and this would positively or negatively affect the adoption of recommended technologies and hence coffee productivity. This study was carried out to evaluate the effects of socioeconomic factors and technology adoption on smallholder coffee productivity at the farm level. The study employed stratified random sampling where 376 farmers were randomly sampled from six cooperative societies which had been preselected using probability proportional to the size sampling technique. The effects of socioeconomic factors and technology adoption on coffee productivity were analyzed using the stochastic Cobb-Douglas production function. The study revealed that off-farm income, access to credit, type of land tenure, and land size had significant positive effects on coffee productivity. Therefore, coffee farmers should be encouraged to diversify their income sources and to embrace credit financing, as the government reviews land use policies to avail adequate agricultural land. The study further revealed that the adoption of recommended application rates of manure, fungicides, and pesticides had significant positive effects on coffee productivity. The adoption of these technologies should therefore be enhanced among small-scale farmers to improve coffee productivity at the farm level.
Dynamic Analysis of the High‐Speed and Long‐Runout Landslide Movement Process Based on the Discrete Element Method: A Case Study of the Shuicheng Landslide in Guizhou, China
Authors: Xia Guoqing , Liu Chun , Xu Chong , Le Tiancheng
Published: February 2021

On July 23, 2019, a high‐speed and long‐runout landslide occurred in Jichang Town, Shuicheng County, Guizhou Province, China, causing 42 deaths and 9 missing. This paper used the discrete element software MatDEM to construct a three‐dimensional discrete element model based on digital elevation data and then simulated and analyzed the movement and accumulation process of the landslide. The maximum average velocity of the source area elements reached 14 m/s when passed through the scraping area; meanwhile, the velocity of the scraping area elements increased rapidly. At 90 s, the maximum displacement of the source area elements reached 1358.5 m. The heat generated during the movement of the landslide was mainly the frictional heat, and the frictional heat increased sharply when the source area elements passed through the scraping area. The change of frictional heat has a certain positive correlation with the velocity of the scraping area elements. Finally, the volume of the scraping area elements was 2.4 times greater than the source area elements in the deposits. The scraping effect increases the volume of the sliding body and expands the impact area of the landslide disaster. Additionally, by setting different compressive and tensile strengths as well as internal friction coefficients to analyze the influences of their value changes on the landslide movement process, the results show that the smaller the strengths and internal friction coefficient of the model, the greater the depth and area of the scraping area, which will result in a thicker accumulation; meanwhile, the average displacement, average velocity, and heat will also increase.
Relationship between Axial Length and Levels of TGF‐β in the Aqueous Humor and Plasma of Myopic Patients
Authors: Hsiao Yuwen , Cao Yiting , Yue Yu , Zhou Jibo
Published: February 2021

Purpose. To investigate the levels of transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) in human aqueous humor (AH) and plasma (PL) of patients with myopia, and verify whether there is an association between these levels and their association with axial length (AL). Methods. Thirty‐eight myopic patients who received intraocular collamer lens (ICL) implantation were enrolled in this cross‐sectional study. Patients were divided into three groups based on AL with cut‐off points of 26 and 28 mm. AH and PL samples were obtained during ICL implantation surgery. The levels of TGF‐β1, TGF‐β2, and TGF‐β3 in the AH and PL samples were measured using Luminex xMAP Technology kits (Milliplex xMAP kits). The protein levels of TGF‐βs in both AH and PL samples and their relationships with AL were analyzed. Results. In all, 38 patients (59 eyes) were enrolled and divided into the three groups: group A contained 7 people (10 eyes), group B contained 22 people (37 eyes), and group C contained 9 people (12 eyes). In the AH group, we detected TGF‐β1 (P50: 19.97 pg/mL), TGF‐β2 (2446.00 pg/mL), and TGF‐β3 (26.33 pg/mL); in PL, these concentrations were 8984.00, 523.44, and 210.47 pg/mL, respectively. The levels of TGF‐β1 and TGF‐β3 in AH were positively associated with AL. None of the three isoforms in PL were related to those in AH or to AL. Conclusions. The levels of TGF‐β1 and TGF‐β3 in AH were more strongly associated with the severity of myopia than the types of TGF‐β in PL.
Suggested New Statistical Parameter for Estimating Joint Roughness Coefficient considering the Shear Direction
Authors: Zhang Zhiqiang , Huan Jiuyang , Li Ning , He Mingming
Published: February 2021

The 10 standard roughness joint profiles provided a visual comparison to get the joint roughness coefficient (JRC) of rock joint surface, but the accuracy of this method is influenced by human factors. Therefore, many researchers try to evaluate the roughness morphology of joint surface through the statistical parameter method. However, JRC obtained from most of the existing statistical parameters did not reflect the directional property of joint surface. Considering the 10 standard profiles as models of different roughness joints, we proposed a new idea for the accurate estimation of JRC. Based on the concept of area difference, the average of positive area difference (Sa) and sum of positive area difference (Ss) were first proposed to reflect the roughness of joint surfaces on the basis of directional property, and their fitting relationship with JRC was also investigated. The result showed that the Sa and Ss calculated by shearing from right to left (FRTL) and JRC backcalculated from right to left (FRTL) came to a satisfying power law. The correlation between JRC and Sa was better than that of Ss. The deviation between the predicted value calculated by Sa and the true value was smaller than that obtained from the existing statistical parameters. Therefore, Sa was recommended as a new statistical parameter to predict the JRC value of joint profile. As the sampling interval increased from 0.5 to 4 mm, the correlation between Sa and JRC gradually decreased, and the accuracy of the prediction results also declined. Compared with the single JRC values for joint profiles mentioned in the literature, the forward and reverse JRC were obtained. Based on the laboratory direct shear test of the natural joint surface, the JRC values of two joint surfaces in four shear directions were backcalculated by the JRC‐JCS model. Based on 3D scanning and point cloud data processing technology, JRC of joint surface in different directions were obtained by Sa method, and they are very close to those obtained by JRC‐JCS model. It is confirmed that Sa could accurately estimate the joint roughness coefficient and reflect its anisotropy.
A Hypoelastic Dynamic Constitutive Model to Account for the Hysteretic Behaviour of Soil Subjected to Cyclic Loads
Authors: Li Jian , Guo Jianhua , Dai Zhangjun , Jiang Lingfa , Chen Shanxiong
Published: February 2021

To reduce the difficulties associated with dynamic constitutive models, a model was established for soil in this study based on hypoelasticity. The stress‐strain relationship in soil under a cyclic load was divided into three stages: initial loading, unloading, and reloading. The stress‐strain relationship in each stage was ascertained using a hyperbolic equation. On this basis, the physical significance of the parameters in the model and their method of determination were described. The effects of the parameters on the stress‐strain relationship were investigated and the integration algorithm of the model was established. Finally, the rationality of the proposed model was verified by conducting triaxial tests under conventional and cyclic loads. The results show that the model is able to adequately demonstrate all the stress‐strain relations in the soil under both static and dynamic loads.
Risk Analysis of Tunnel Construction Scheme Change based on Field Monitoring and Numerical Analysis
Authors: Song Zhanping , Su Wanying , Tian Xiaoxu , Zhang Yuwei , Zhou Guannan
Published: February 2021

Because of the surrounding environment restriction, some sections of the Lanzhou Metro Line 2 were forced to change the original open excavation method to the concealed excavation method. Among them, the ingate is the transitional section connecting the shaft and the cross passage, which is accompanied by the force conversion of the structure during the plan change process, and accidents are prone to occur. Combining this project situation, a construction scheme for turning the shaft from the cross passage into the ingate of mine line was proposed, and the finite element software is used to simulate the scheme. Numerical analysis shows that the stability of the tunnel supporting structure, shaft, and cross passage all meet the design requirements. The final ground settlement caused by the proposed construction method is 7.1 mm, and the settlement of the vault is 11.97 mm. It also turns out that the proposed construction method causes less deformation, and the method can be applied to the construction of the ingate conversion. The rationality of the method and numerical model was further verified by the comparison between the monitored data of surface settlement and vault sinking and numerical simulation results. Finally, the modified concealed excavation method and the original open excavation construction method is compared. It is concluded that the concealed excavation method is superior to the original open excavation method in terms of construction schedule, construction safety, economic benefits, and impact of construction on the surrounding environment. It indicates that it is a good choice to replace the construction method early if necessary. The successful implementation of this project can provide a reference for the design and implementation of similar urban subway projects.
Analysis of the Bearing Characteristics of Single Piles under Vertical and Torsional Combined Loads
Authors: Wang Shun-Wei , Jiang Jie , Fu Chen-Zhi , Ou Xiao-Duo , Tang Juan
Published: February 2021

To investigate the bearing characteristics of single piles under the combined action of vertical loads (V) and torque (T) on a pile head, the displacement governing equations of the pile shaft were proposed in consideration of the load transfer method, and the nonlinear solution of a single‐loaded pile (vertical load or torque) was calculated by the finite difference method. According to the above mentioned investigation, a new numerical analysis model was proposed to modify the vertical and circumferential ultimate friction resistance of the pile side. Subsequently, the nonlinear solutions of single piles under the combined loads of V-T loading with different loading paths were obtained by MATLAB programming, and the bearing capacity envelopes were plotted. Based on the comparison with the existing research results, the correctness of the theoretical calculation method proposed in this article was verified. The results show that compared with a single loaded pile (V or T), with the action of the V-T combined loads, the bearing capacity of a single pile will decrease, and the single piles under the V⟶T loading path will have a higher bearing capacity than those under the T⟶V loading path. When the aspect ratio is comparatively small, the influence of the loading path is negligible; however, when the aspect ratio is comparatively large, it is necessary to avoid the preliminary application of the torque to a single pile to prevent the decrease in the ultimate bearing capacity on account of the formation of the T⟶V loading mode. The deformation of the pile body mainly occurs in the range from 0 to 0.6L, so effective deformation reduction can be achieved by reinforcing the shallow foundation. It is inadvisable for a single friction pile to be used to improve the bearing capacity by increasing the concrete grade.
Transmitting Characteristics of Seismic Motion in Super‐Deep Overburden Layer Ground
Authors: Wang Long , Yang Zheng-quan , Zhao Jian-ming , Liu Xiao-sheng , Wen Yan-feng
Published: February 2021

Dynamic response characteristics and antiseismic performance of the structures which were constructed on the super‐deep overburden layer are affected obviously by the seismic motion characteristics of the super‐deep overburden layer foundation. In this paper, the seismic motion characteristics of horizontally stratified super‐deep overburdenIn this paper, the seismic motion characteristics of horizontally stratified super‐deep overburden based on the research results of on‐site in situ tests and indoor material property tests, the horizontal shear layer method that can consider the nonlinear characteristics of dynamic soil deformation and the characteristics of seismic wave propagation in the soil is used to study the characteristics of ground motions of super‐deep and thick overburden level of an earth‐rock dam in China. The influence law of input ground motion characteristics and input ground motion position on seismic response analysis results of overburden ground is studied. Taking the uniform overburden layer model as an example, the coupling influence analysis of soil layer thickness and shear velocity on ground motion response are carried out, and the coupling influence law is proposed. The study shows that the seismic motion propagating characteristics of the earthquake in super‐deep overburden layer is involved, inputting location of the seismic motion affects the results of ground seismic response greatly; super‐deep overburden layer thickness and the soil shear wave velocity on influence law of ground motion characteristics have coupling. When the shear wave velocity of the soil layer is constant, the surface acceleration response has an inflection point with the change of the soil layer thickness; when the thickness of overburden is constant, the surface acceleration response also has an inflection point with the change of shear wave velocity of the soil layer; these inflexion values are influenced by both soil thickness and shear wave velocity.
Nasoseptal Flap for Skull Base Reconstruction in a Three-Year-Old Child With Nasofrontal Meningoencephalocele
Authors: Eden Jördis Kristin , Böttcher Arne , Betz Christian Stephan
Published: February 2021

Congenital anterior skull base defects with meningoencephaloceles causing nasal obstruction and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea are rare clinical entities. Traditionally, skull base defects have been repaired via a bifrontal craniotomy. With the introduction of pediatric endoscopic instrumentation, more of these lesions are accessible via an intranasal endoscopic approach, even in the infant population. However, due to the rarity of pediatric meningoencephaloceles, there is a lack of data demonstrating the successful adaptation of endoscopic skull base techniques to the pediatric population. In this report, we present a case of a pediatric frontonasal meningoencephalocele with an anterior skull base defect in a 3-year-old child that was successfully addressed transnasally following 4 failed transcranial approaches. The case highlights the importance of a thorough preoperative evaluation of the surgical approach as well as interdisciplinary management of these patients at a young age. Congenital anterior skull base defects with meningoencephaloceles and CSF leaks are rare clinical entities. Hence, an interdisciplinary approach is vital including experienced pediatricians, otolaryngologists, and neurosurgeons to evaluate the ideal surgical method on an individual basis. The transnasal endoscopic technique has been shown to be minimally invasive, efficient, and safe to apply even to the infant population which could positively be demonstrated in this case.
Effigy mounds and rock art of midcontinental North America: Shared iconography, shared stories
Authors: Lepper Bradley T , Boszhardt Robert F , Duncan James R , Diaz-Granados Carol
Published: February 2021

The effigy mounds of the Upper Midwest and the Ohio Valley long have been regarded as distinct and independent cultural developments. A review of effigy mound iconography in both regions reveals similarities suggesting that they are elements of a shared cultural tradition. Comparisons with rock art imagery from the Upper Midwest and Missouri, the inferred centers of this artistic and ceremonial florescence, reveal co-occurrences of specific motifs and provide additional evidence of cultural connections among the Late Woodland to early Late Precontact societies inhabiting the lower Missouri, Mississippi, and Ohio river valleys. Oral traditions of Native American groups with documented connections to these regions allow this rich corpus of imagery to be understood as key episodes in their genesis stories.
Glymphatic pathways in the gyrencephalic brain
Authors: Bèchet Nicholas Burdon , Shanbhag Nagesh C , Lundgaard Iben
Published: February 2021

Identification of the perivascular compartment as the point of exchange between cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and interstitial fluid mediating solute clearance in the brain, named the glymphatic system, has emerged as an important clearance pathway for neurotoxic peptides such as amyloid-beta. However, the foundational science of the glymphatic system is based on rodent studies. Here we investigated whether the glymphatic system exists in a large mammal with a highly gyrified brain. CSF penetration into the brain via perivascular pathways, a hallmark of glymphatic function, was seen throughout the gyrencephalic cortex and subcortical structures, validating the conservation of the glymphatic system in a large mammal. Macroscopic CSF tracer distribution followed the sulci and fissures showing that these folds enhance CSF dispersion. Three-dimensional renditions from light sheet microscopy showed a PVS influx density 4-fold larger in the pig brain than in mice. This demonstrates the existence of an advanced solute transport system in the gyrencephalic brain that could be utilised therapeutically for enhancing waste clearance.
Assessment of central cartilaginous tumor of the appendicular bone: inter-observer and intermodality agreement and comparison of diagnostic performance of CT and MRI
Authors: Lee Seungbo , Yoon Min A
Published: February 2021

Background

Diagnostic performance, inter-observer agreement, and intermodality agreement between computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the depiction of the major distinguishing imaging features of central cartilaginous tumors have not been investigated.

Purpose

To determine the inter-observer and intermodality agreement of CT and MRI in the evaluation of central cartilaginous tumors of the appendicular bones, and to compare their diagnostic performance.

Material and Methods

Two independent radiologists retrospectively reviewed preoperative CT and MRI. Inter-observer and intermodality agreement between CT and MRI in the assessment of distinguishing imaging features, including lesion size, deep endosteal scalloping, cortical expansion, cortical disruption, pathologic fracture, soft tissue extension, and peritumoral edema, were evaluated. The agreement with histopathology and the accuracy of the radiologic diagnoses made with CT and MRI were also analyzed.

Results

A total of 72 patients were included. CT and MRI showed high inter-observer and intermodality agreements with regard to size, deep endosteal scalloping, cortical expansion, cortical disruption, and soft tissue extension (ICC = 0.96–0.99, k = 0.60–0.90). However, for the evaluation of pathologic fracture, MRI showed only moderate inter-observer agreement (k = 0.47). Peritumoral edema showed only fair intermodality agreement (k = 0.28–0.33) and moderate inter-observer agreement (k = 0.46) on CT. Both CT and MRI showed excellent diagnostic performance, with high agreement with the histopathology (k = 0.89 and 0.87, respectively) and high accuracy (91.7% for both CT and MRI).

Conclusion

CT and MRI showed high inter-observer and intermodality agreement in the assessment of several distinguishing imaging features of central cartilaginous tumors of the appendicular bones and demonstrated comparable diagnostic performance.