Adaptive and Collision-free Line Coverage Algorithm for Multi-agent Networks with Unknown Density Function

Lei Zuo,Maode Yan,Ye Zhang 제어·로봇·시스템학회 2022 International Journal of Control, Automation, and Vol.20 No.1

This paper studies the coverage control problems for a group of agents on a given line, in which both the unknown density function and the collision avoidance among the agents are taken into consideration. To deal with this problem, a novel adaptive line coverage control algorithm is proposed to deploy the agents. In details, the density function is used to describe the distribution of the interested information over the line. Then, an adaptive estimation algorithm is provided to approximate the density function. Comparing with the other density estimation algorithms, the estimation accuracy and efficiency of our proposed algorithm are improved by using the linear regression techniques and a group of error-correction functions. On this basis, a line coverage control scheme with parameter conditions is provided to deploy the agents without any collision. Moreover, the stability of proposed coverage system is strictly analyzed. In final, both numerical simulations and experiments are provided respectively to validate the proposed approaches.

A force-based element for direct analysis using stress-resultant plasticity model

Zuo-Lei Du,Yao-Peng Liu,Siu-Lai Chan 국제구조공학회 2018 Steel and Composite Structures, An International J Vol.29 No.2

The plastic hinge method and the plastic zone method are extensively adopted in displacement-based elements and force-based elements respectively for second-order inelastic analysis. The former enhances the computational efficiency with relatively less accurate results while the latter precisely predicts the structural behavior but generally requires more computer time. The displacement-based elements receive criticism mainly on plasticity dominated problems not only in accuracy but also in longer computer time to redistribute the forces due to formation of plastic hinges. The multi-element-per-member model relieves this problem to some extent but will induce a new problem in modeling of member initial imperfections required in design codes for direct analysis. On the contrary, a force-based element with several integration points is sufficient for material yielding. However, use of more integration points or elements associated with fiber section reduces computational efficiency. In this paper, a new force-based element equipped with stress-resultant plasticity model with minimal computational cost is proposed for second-order inelastic analysis. This element is able to take the member initial bowing into account such that one-element-per-member model is adequate and complied with the codified requirements of direct analysis. This innovative solution is new and practical for routine design. Finally, several examples demonstrate the validity and accuracy of the proposed method.

KLF4 Expression Correlates with the Degree of Differentiation in Colorectal Cancer

( Ruo Lei Hu ),( Yan Zuo ),( Li Zuo ),( Chao Liu ),( Su Mei Zhang ),( Qiang Wu ),( Qing Zhou ),( Shu Yu Gui ),( Wei Wei ),( Yuan Wang ) 대한소화기기능성질환·운동학회 2011 Gut and Liver Vol.5 No.2

Background/Aims: Kruppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) is an epithelial-specifi c transcription factor primarily expressed in the gastrointestinal tract that mediates growth arrest in the colonic epithelium. We tried to find whether KLF4 expression is associated with the progression and differentiation of colorectal cancer. Methods: We detected KLF4 expression in 109 colorectal specimens (40 normal appearing mucosa, 7 adenomas, and 62 carcinomas) by immunohistochemistry using a tissue microarray. Western blot and RT-PCR analyses were also performed. Results: The upregulation of KLF4 expression in carcinoma tissue was statistically significant (p<0.05) when compared to normal appearing mucosa. The negative and weak positive staining rates in normal appearing mucosa, adenoma, and carcinoma were 42.5%, 71.4%, and 82.3%, respectively, indicating a decreased degree of KLF4 expression over the course of progressive transformation of normal cells into malignant derivatives. KLF4 protein levels showed no correlation with sex, age, or metastatic state (p>0.05), while KLF4 protein expression correlated with the diagnostic stage (p<0.05). Furthermore, strong KLF4 staining was detected in 22.9% (11/48) and 0% (0/14) of well/moderately and poorly differentiated colorectal cancers, respectively. Our results clearly indicate that KLF4 protein expression signifi cantly correlates with the degree of differentiation in colorectal cancers (p<0.05). KLF4 expression in RKO cells is also upregulated by butyrate, an inducer of differentiation. Conclusions: Downregulation of KLF4 expression may lead to more poorly differentiated tumors. (Gut Liver 2011;5:154-159)

Simulation analysis and evaluation of decontamination effect of different abrasive jet process parameters on radioactively contaminated metal

Zhong Lin,Deng Jian,Zuo Zhe-wen,Huang Can-yu,Chen Bo,Lei Lin,Lei Ze-yong,Lei Jie-heng,Zhao Mu,Hua Yun-fei 한국원자력학회 2023 Nuclear Engineering and Technology Vol.55 No.11

A new method of numerical simulating prediction and decontamination effect evaluation for abrasive jet decontamination to radioactively contaminated metal is proposed. Based on the Computational Fluid Dynamics and Discrete Element Model (CFD-DEM) coupled simulation model, the motion patterns and distribution of abrasives can be predicted, and the decontamination effect can be evaluated by image processing and recognition technology. The impact of three key parameters (impact distance, inlet pressure, abrasive mass flow rate) on the decontamination effect is revealed. Moreover, here are experiments of reliability verification to decontamination effect and numerical simulation methods that has been conducted. The results show that: 60Co and other homogeneous solid solution radioactive pollutants can be removed by abrasive jet, and the average removal rate of Co exceeds 80%. It is reliable for the proposed numerical simulation and evaluation method because of the well goodness of fit between predicted value and actual values: The predicted values and actual values of the abrasive distribution diameter are Ф57 and Ф55; the total coverage rate is 26.42% and 23.50%; the average impact velocity is 81.73 m/s and 78.00 m/s. Further analysis shows that the impact distance has a significant impact on the distribution of abrasive particles on the target surface, the coverage rate of the core area increases at first, and then decreases with the increase of the impact distance of the nozzle, which reach a maximum of 14.44% at 300 mm. It is recommended to set the impact distance around 300 mm, because at this time the core area coverage of the abrasive is the largest and the impact velocity is stable at the highest speed of 81.94 m/s. The impact of the nozzle inlet pressure on the decontamination effect mainly affects the impact kinetic energy of the abrasive and has little impact on the distribution. The greater the inlet pressure, the greater the impact kinetic energy, and the stronger the decontamination ability of the abrasive. But in return, the energy consumption is higher, too. For the decontamination of radioactively contaminated metals, it is recommended to set the inlet pressure of the nozzle at around 0.6 MPa. Because most of the Co elements can be removed under this pressure. Increasing the mass and flow of abrasives appropriately can enhance the decontamination effectiveness. The total mass of abrasives per unit decontamination area is suggested to be 50 g because the core area coverage rate of the abrasive is relatively large under this condition; and the nozzle wear extent is acceptable

Transcatheter Arterial Chemoembolization Combined with Interferon-α is Safe and Effective for Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma after Curative Resection

Zuo, Chaohui,Xia, Man,Liu, Jingshi,Qiu, Xiaoxin,Lei, Xiong,Xu, Ruocai,Liu, Hanchun,Li, Jianliang,Li, Yongguo,Li, Qinglong,Xiao, Hua,Hong, Yuan,Wang, Xiaohong,Zhu, Haizhen,Wu, Qunfeng,Burns, Michael,Li Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention 2015 Asian Pacific journal of cancer prevention Vol.16 No.1

Objectives: Intrahepatic recurrence is the major cause of death among patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after curative surgical resection. Several approaches have been reported to decrease the recurrence rate. The objective of our study was to compare the clinical effects of transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) combined with interferon-alpha (IFN-${\alpha}$) therapy on recurrence after hepatic resection in patients with HBV-related HCC with that of TACE chemotherapy alone. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the data from 228 patients who were diagnosed with HBV-related HCC and underwent curative resection between January 2001 to December 2008. The patients were divided into TACE (n = 126) and TACE-IFN-${\alpha}$ (n = 102) groups for postoperative chemotherapy. The TACE regimen consisted of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), cisplatin (DDP), and the emulsion mixed with mitomycin C (MMC) and lipiodol. The recurrence rates, disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), and risk of recurrence were evaluated. Results: The clinicopathological parameters and adverse effects were similar between the 2 groups (P > 0.05). The median OS for the TACE-IFN-${\alpha}$ group (36.3 months) was significantly longer than that of the TACE group (24.5 months, P < 0.05). The 3-and 5-year OS for the TACE-IFN-${\alpha}$ group were significantly longer than those of the TACE group (P < 0.05) and the recurrence rate was significantly lower (P < 0.05). The TACE and IFN-${\alpha}$ combination therapy, active hepatitis HBV infection, the number of tumor nodules, microvascular invasion, liver cirrhosis, and the BCLC stage were independent predictors of OS and DFS. Conclusions: The use of the TACE and IFN-${\alpha}$ combination chemotherapy after curative hepatic resection safely and effectively improves OS and decreases recurrence in patients with HBV-related HCC who are at high risk. Our findings can serve as a guide for the selection of postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy for patients with HBV-related HCC who are at high risk of recurrence.

Mapping of Quantitative Trait Loci on Porcine Chromosome 7 Using Combined Data Analysis

Zuo, B.,Xiong, Y.Z.,Su, Y.H.,Deng, C.Y.,Lei, M.G.,Zheng, R.,Jiang, S.W.,Li, F.E. Asian Australasian Association of Animal Productio 2004 Animal Bioscience Vol.17 No.10

To further investigate the regions on porcine chromosome 7 that are responsible for economically important traits, phenotypic data from a total of 287 F2 individuals were collected and analyzed from 1998 to 2000. All animals were genotyped for eight microsatellite loci spanning the length of chromosome 7. QTL analysis was performed using interval mapping under the line-cross model. A permutation test was used to establish significance levels associated with QTL effects. Observed QTL effects were (chromosomewide significance, position of maximum significance in centimorgans): Birth weight (<0.01, 3); Carcass length (<0.05, 80); Longissimus muscle area (<0.01, 69); Skin percentage (<0.01, 69); Bone percentage (<0.01, 74); Fat depths at shoulder (<0.05, 54);Mean fat depth (<0.05, 81); Moisture in m. Longissimus Dorsi (<0.05, 88). Additional evidence was also found which suggested QTL for dressing percentage and fat depths at buttock. This study offers confirmation of several QTL affecting growth and carcass traits on SSC7 and provides an important step in the search for the actual major genes involved in the traits of economic interest.

Effects of exploration and molecular mechanism of CsV on eNOS and vascular endothelial functions

Zuo, Deyu,Jiang, Heng,Yi, Shixiong,Fu, Yang,Xie, Lei,Peng, Qifeng,Liu, Pei,Zhou, Jie,Li, Xunjia Techno-Press 2022 Advances in nano research Vol.12 No.5

This study aimed to investigate the effects and potential mechanisms of Chikusetsusaponin V (CsV) on endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and vascular endothelial cell functions. Different concentrations of CsV were added to animal models, bovine aorta endothelial cells (BAECs) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) cultured in vitro. qPCR, Western blotting (WB), and B ultrasound were performed to explore the effects of CsV on mouse endothelial cell functions, vascular stiffness and cellular eNOS mRNA, protein expression and NO release. Bioinformatics analysis, network pharmacology, molecular docking and protein mass spectrometry analysis were conducted to jointly predict the upstream transcription factors of eNOS. Furthermore, pulldown and ChIP and dual luciferase assays were employed for subsequent verification. At the presence or absence of CsV stimulation, either overexpression or knockdown of purine rich element binding protein A (PURA) was conducted, and PCR assay was employed to detect PURA and eNOS mRNA expressions, Western blot was used to detect PURA and eNOS protein expressions, cell NO release and serum NO levels. Tube formation experiment was conducted to detect the tube forming capability of HUVECs cells. The animal vasodilation function test detected the vasodilation functions. Ultrasonic detection was performed to determine the mouse aortic arch pulse wave velocity to identify aortic stiffness. CsV stimulus on bovine aortic cells revealed that CsV could upregulate eNOS protein levels in vascular endothelial cells in a concentration and time dependent manner. The expression levels of eNOS mRNA and phosphorylation sites Ser1177, Ser633 and Thr495 increased significantly after CsV stimulation. Meanwhile, CsV could also enhance the tube forming capability of HUVECs cells. Following the mice were gavaged using CsV, the eNOS protein level of mouse aortic endothelial cells was upregulated in a concentration- and time-dependent manner, and serum NO release and vasodilation ability were simultaneously elevated whereas arterial stiffness was alleviated. The pulldown, ChIP and dual luciferase assays demonstrated that PURA could bind to the eNOS promoter and facilitate the transcription of eNOS. Under the conditions of presence or absence of CsV stimulation, overexpression or knockdown of PURA indicated that the effect of CsV on vascular endothelial function and eNOS was weakened following PURA gene silence, whereas overexpression of PURA gene could enhance the effect of CsV upregulating eNOS expression. CsV could promote NO release from endothelial cells by upregulating the expression of PURA/eNOS pathway, improve endothelial cell functions, enhance vasodilation capability, and alleviate vessel stiffness. The present study plays a role in offering a theoretical basis for the development and application of CsV in vascular function improvement, and it also provides a more comprehensive understanding of the pharmacodynamics of CsV.

REGULARITY RELATIVE TO A HEREDITARY TORSION THEORY FOR MODULES OVER A COMMUTATIVE RING

Qiao, Lei,Zuo, Kai Korean Mathematical Society 2022 대한수학회지 Vol.59 No.4

In this paper, we introduce and study regular rings relative to the hereditary torsion theory w (a special case of a well-centered torsion theory over a commutative ring), called w-regular rings. We focus mainly on the w-regularity for w-coherent rings and w-Noetherian rings. In particular, it is shown that the w-coherent w-regular domains are exactly the Prüfer v-multiplication domains and that an integral domain is w-Noetherian and w-regular if and only if it is a Krull domain. We also prove the w-analogue of the global version of the Serre-Auslander-Buchsbaum Theorem. Among other things, we show that every w-Noetherian w-regular ring is the direct sum of a finite number of Krull domains. Finally, we obtain that the global weak w-projective dimension of a w-Noetherian ring is 0, 1, or ∞.

Identification a novel de novo RUNX2 frameshift mutation associated with cleidocranial dysplasia

Gong Lei,Odilov Bekzod,Han Feng,Liu Fuqiang,Sun Yujing,Zhang Ningxin,Zuo Xiaolin,Yang Jiaojiao,Wang Shouyu,Hou Xinguo,Ren Jianmin 한국유전학회 2022 Genes & Genomics Vol.44 No.6

Background: Cleidocranial dysplasia (CCD) is a rare genetic disorder affecting bone and cartilage development. Clinical features of CCD comprise short stature, delayed ossification of craniofacial structures with numerous Wormian bones, underdeveloped or aplastic clavicles and multiple dental anomalies. Several studies have revealed that CCD development is strongly linked with different mutations in runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) gene. Objective: Identification and functional characterization of RUNX2 mutation associated with CCD. Methods: We performed genetic testing of a patient with CCD using whole exome sequencing and found a novel RUNX2 frameshift mutation: c.1550delT in a sporadic case. We also compared the functional activity of the mutant and wild-type RUNX2 through immunofluorescence microscopy and osteocalcin promoter luciferase assay. Results: We found a novel RUNX2 frameshift mutation, c.1550delT (p.Trp518Glyfs*60). Both mutant RUNX2 and wild-type RUNX2 protein were similarly confined in the nuclei. The novel mutation caused abrogative transactivation activity of RUNX2 on osteocalcin promoter. Conclusions: We explored a novel RUNX2 deletion/frameshift mutation in a sporadic CCD patient. This finding suggests that the VWRPY domain may play a key role in RUNX2 transactivation ability.

The Effects of Estrogen Receptor Locus on Reproductive Tracts Components and Performance Traits in Large White×Meishan F2 Offspring

Li, Fenge,Lei, Minggang,Zheng, Rong,Zuo, Bo,Jiang, Siwen,Deng, Changyan,Xiong, Yuanzhu Asian Australasian Association of Animal Productio 2004 Animal Bioscience Vol.17 No.9

Previously candidate gene approach revealed estrogen receptor (ESR) locus was associated with increased litter size. In this study, PvuII polymorphisms of ESR gene was detected by PCR-RFLP, and ESR locus was evaluated for its association with reproductive tracts components in the Large $White{\times}Meishan$ ($LW{\times}M$) F2 offspring. Ninety seven gilts with reproductive tracts components records and 136 offspring with performance traits records were genotyped and the results were used to estimate allele substitution effects. The results showed that two alleles (A and B) were identified, and 121 bp fragments were observed for the AA genotype and 65 bp and 56 bp fragments for the BB genotype; the length of uterine body (LUB) of BB gilts were significantly shorter than AA gilts', the additive effect was -1.762 cm; the uterine weight (UW) of AB gilts were significantly lighter than AA gilts' with the additive effect -18.058 g; no significant associations of ESR alleles with ovulation rate (OR), length of uterine horn (LUH), length of uterine cervix (LUC), weight of two ovaries (OW), volume of uterine lumen (VUL), length of oviduct (LO) were observed. BB genotypes gilts need significantly less days to 100 kg ($D_{100kg}$) than AA genotypes (p<0.01), the additive effect was per copy of B allele. Allele B is also favorable for average daily gain (ADG), with additive effect 0.015 kg/d (p<0.05). There was no difference between genotypes for backfat thickness at the 13th rib (SF13), loin meat height (ELMH), and loin meat percentage was estimated (ELMP), individual birth weight (IBW) and teat number (TN).