bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The legal adaptation of Electronic Attacks between prohibition and legalisation In public international law
Authors: Elhow Amr Ezzat
Published: August 2023

The input discusses the increasing use of cyber capabilities in regional conflicts and the role of cyber power in various aspects of society. It mentions the International Court of Justice's endorsement of the effective control standard and the genocide standard for assessing the relationship between governments and groups. The input also discusses the ambiguity surrounding the delineation of force in international law and the United Nations Charter's aim to protect future generations from the consequences of armed conflict. It mentions economic coercion as an early form of coercion or intimidation and highlights the recognition of information technology as a potential instrument in armed conflicts. The study aims to determine if electronic attacks can be considered a manifestation of force and if they violate international law. It also mentions the concept of critical infrastructure and its importance for various nations.
AIDD, an interactive AI-driven drug design system that uses molecular evolution and mechanistic pharmacokinetic simulation to optimize multiple property objectives simultaneously
Authors: Clark Robert D. , Jones Jeremy , Lawless Michael S. , Miller David W. , Waldman Marvin
Published: August 2023

Computer-aided drug design has advanced rapidly in recent years, and multiple instances of in silico designed molecules advancing to the clinic have demonstrated the contribution of this field to medicine. Properly designed and implemented platforms can drastically reduce drug development timelines and costs. While such efforts were initially focused primarily on target affinity/activity, it is now appreciated that other parameters are equally important in the successful development of a drug and its progression to the clinic, including pharmacokinetic (PK) properties as well as absorption, distribution, metabolic, excretion and toxicological (ADMET) properties. Here, we introduce the Artificial Intelligence-driven Drug Design (AIDD) platform, which automates the drug design process by integrating high-throughput physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) simulations (powered by GastroPlus) and ADMET predictions (powered by ADMET Predictor) with advanced generative chemistry algorithms. AIDD uses these and other estimates in iteratively performing multi-objective optimizations to produce novel molecules that are active and lead-like. Here we describe the AIDD workflow and details of the methodologies involved therein. We use a dataset of triazolopyrimidine (TzP) inhibitors of the dihydroorotate dehydrogenase from Plasmodium falciparum (PfDHODH) to illustrate how AIDD generates novel sets of molecules.
The Integration of Patient-Reported Quality of Life and Systemic Biomarkers in Patients with Immune Dysregulation
Authors: LaBere Brenna , Chu Anne , Platt Craig D. , Chou Janet
Published: August 2023

Background Patient-reported quality of life measurements are an important method for improving the treatment of patients with a variety of diseases. These tools have been minimally investigated in patients with inborn errors of immunity (IEI). Patients with IEI may have immune dysregulation and autoimmune-mediated multi-system organ involvement, making treatment optimization vitally important. Routine laboratory and radiologic testing are typically used for treatment monitoring; however, these modalities have the potential to miss early organ damage. T follicular helper cells are T cells that contribute to antibody production and are known to be expanded in patients with active autoimmunity. We hypothesized that a combination of patient-reported quality of life measurements, in addition to T follicular helper cell percentages, would help us to better understand the level of disease activity in patients with IEI and autoimmunity.Methods Patients with immune dysregulation were consented to provide a blood sample and to complete a questionnaire. The Centers for Disease Control HRQOL-14 tool was utilized for the questionnaire portion, and T follicular helper cell levels were measured from whole blood using surface staining and flow cytometry analysis. Patient disease activity was abstracted from the patient medical record, and this was compared to the questionnaire and whole blood assay results.Results A total of 20 patients participated in the study; 8 patients had active disease and the remaining were found to be quiescent. There was no significant difference between the patient-reported general health ratings based on sex, age, disease activity, or category of immune dysregulation (p > 0.05). The cTfh percentages were expanded in patients with active disease as compared to those with quiescent (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant correlation between cTfh percentage and patient-reported unhealthy days from the questionnaire (R2 = 0.113, p > 0.05).Conclusions Patients with active immune dysregulation were found to have expanded cTfh percentages as compared to those with quiescent disease, however this was not reflected in patient-reported quality of life questionnaires. Better understanding of disease activity and the patient experience is vital to optimize appropriate treatments and outcomes for patients with IEI and immune dysregulation, and more investigation is needed.
Gut yeast diversity of Helicoverpa armigera under different dietary conditions
Authors: Yu Man , Li Yang , Ji Jingyuan , Lei Yonghui , Sun Yanfei
Published: August 2023

Intestinal endophytic fungi have played an important role in the nutrition, detoxification and development of host insects during natural co-evolution. Insects also provide suitable living environment for endophytic fungi. Insect endophytic yeast is also one of the important flora. Currently, it is little known about intestinal endophytic yeast of host feeding on different dietary conditions. Helicoverpa armigera is an important pest of economic crop in Xinjiang of China. However, the composition and function of intestinal yeast community in H.armigera in Xinjiang remains unclear. In this paper, the structural composition of yeast microorganisms in the larvae of H.armigera was explored under different environments feeding on apple, pear, tomato, artificial diet(laboratory feeding), urtica fissa, sunflower, and zinnia (wild environment) by high-throughput sequencing. Results showed that a total of 43 yeast OUT readings were obtained, including 33 yeast genera and 42 yeast species. The yeast genera with a total content of more than 5% were Hanseniaspora (36.27%), Moesziomyces (21.47%), Trichosporon(16.20%), Wickerhamomyces (12.96%) and Pichia (6.38%). Hanseniaspora was predominant when fed indoors with fruits, whereas Moesziomyces was only detected in the wild group (urtica fissa, sunflower, zinnia) and the artificial diet group. After the larvae were transferred from artificial diet to apple, pear and tomato, the structure of intestinal yeast community changed, mainly reflected in the increase of relative abundance of Hanseniaspora and the decrease of Trichosporon. At the same time, the results of α diversity index (Chao1) indicated that the intestinal yeast microbial diversity of H.armigera fed on wild plants was higher than that of indoor artificial feeding, and the highest was group Z (17.17±4.37). PCoA and PERMANOVA analysis conclued that there were significant differences in the gut yeast structure of larvaes of H.armigera on different diets which is likely to relate to host adaptation.
Evolutionary and Swarm Intelligence in Optimization of Α-amylase From Bacillus Velezensis Sp.
Authors: BHIMANA SASIDHAR , RAVINDRAN SARAVANAN
Published: August 2023

Background
To optimize α-amylase synthesis from fermented broth, this research employed evolutionary and swarm intelligence-based techniques such as genetic algorithm (GA) and particle swarm optimisation (PSO). The nonlinear response surface model (RSM) of α-amylase from Bacillus velezensis sp.was used as the objective function.
Results
In contrast to the enzyme activity, 418.25 U/mL, achieved by the thirteen factors OFAT technique was increased by 2.76 times using GA and PSO optimization with only nine significant parameters. The optimal process parameters predicted using GA and PSO were pH (5.37), temperature (34.18 oC), carbon source (4.12%), nitrogen source (2.04%), K2PO4 (0.34%), MgSO4 (0.2%), NaCl (0.14%), fructose (2.0%), and NaNO3 (0.47%).
Conclusions
The results showed that α-amylase activity was significantly improved with both approaches, with similar predictions of optimized process parameters and α-amylase activity of 1157.2 U/ml. PSO, on the other hand, surpasses GA in terms of optimized α-amylase activity and convergence rate, which might be attributed to its simple structure and efficient memory capabilities. In conclusion, the suggested GA and PSO techniques are thought to be natural and may be used instead of existing gradient-based optimization strategies in downstream enzyme processing.
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth affects the progression of HBV-associated liver disease
Authors: 罗 罗欧 , Zhang MingMei , Wang XiaoYing , Sun Lei , Ma MenJuan , You Jing , Li Jing
Published: August 2023

Objective: To exploring whether the Overgrowth small intestinal bacterial overgrowth could aggravate the progression of HBV-associated liver disease. The disorder of intestinal microflora increases the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which can aggravate the inflammatory response and promote the progression of liver cirrhosis. To provide new ideas for the treatment and prognosis of HBV-related liver diseases, such as improving the prognosis of HBV-related liver disease by regulating the intestinal flora.
Methed: All statistical analyses and graphs sketching were performed using SPSS version 26.0 and GraphPad Prism 9.0.0 version software. Measurement data were expressed as mean ± Std, the number of count data cases are indicated (n) . t‐test, One‐way analysis of variance or Kruskal−Wallis were used as appropriate.P <0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.
Result: There was significant difference in IL-8 (H=19.29, p=0.00), IL-10 (H=15.18, p=0.04), IL-6 (H=41.32, p=0.00) and IL-17 (H=11.48, p=0.02) among the 5 groups. There was significant difference in the levels of IL-6, IL-8, IL-8, IL-10 and IL-17 between the five groups. Compared with the healthy group (P<0.0001, P<0.001, P<0.01, P<0.05), the IL-6 were significantly increased in the group of LC, HCC and HF (P<0.0001, P<0.001, P<0.001), the IL-8 level were significantly increasedr in the HCC and HF groups (P<0.001, P<0.01). IL-10 level were significantly increased in the HF group (P<0.01), the IL-17 level was significantly increased in the HF group (P<0.05) and there was significant difference in the IL-6 levels between the CHB group and the HF group (P<0.001).
Conclusion: Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth upregulates proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and IL-17 through the "gut-liver axis", promoting liver inflammation and fibrosis, thus affecting the progression of HBV-associated liver disease.
CB-5083 and luteolin synergistically induce apoptosis of bladder cancer cells via multiple mechanisms
Authors: Sun Shuben , Liu Ping , Xie Guohai , Zheng Junhua
Published: August 2023

Purpose
Bladder cancer (BC) is a common urological malignancy that still lacks of effective treatments. In recent years, valosin-containing protein (VCP) was emerging as potential target for the treatment of cancers. CB-5083 was a VCP inhibitor that has been evaluated in phase I clinical trials. However, drug-resistance and severe side effects hamper the application of CB-5083. Amounting evidence suggest that combined treatment is a useful strategy to improve the anticancer efficiency with lower toxicity. The aim of this study is to evaluate the combined effects of CB-5083 and luteolin (Lut), a natural flavonoid, on BC cells.
Methods
Cellular viabilities were measured by the MTT assays. Cell cycle distribution, cellular death and mitochondrial membrane potential were assayed by the flow cytometry. mRNA levels were assayed by the qRT-PCR. Protein levels were measured by western blots. RNA interference was applied to knockdown genes. Xenografts experiments were conducted to evaluate the toxicity in vivo.
Results
It was found that co-treatment of CB-5083 and luteolin synergistically reduced the viabilities of BC cells. In addition, co-treatment of CB-5083 and Lut also synergistically induced cell cycle arrest at G1 phase and apoptosis in BC cells. Mechanically, CB-5083/Lut cooperatively reduced the expression of Bcl-xl and Mcl-1 in BC cells. Moreover, CB-5083 and Lut synergistically induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in BC cells. Genetical or pharmacological inhibition of ER stress markedly reduced the apoptosis induced by CB-5083, Lut or their combination in BC cells. In addition, combined treatment of CB-5083 and Lut also synergistically repressed the growth of BC cells in vivo.
Conclusion
Our data suggest that combined treatment of CB-5083 and Lut might be applied to treat BC.
Hierarchical Channel Morphology in O-rings after Two Cycling Exposures to 70 MPa Hydrogen Gas: A Case Study of Sealing Failure
Authors: Lee Chang Hoon , Jung Jae Kap , Kim Kyung Sook
Published: August 2023

This study investigates the impact of high-pressure hydrogen gas exposure on the structural and morphological characteristics of O-ring materials. O-ring specimens undergo two cycles of sealing under 70 MPa hydrogen gas, and their resulting variations are examined using advanced characterization techniques, including powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Our findings reveal that at the microscopic level, the lattice spacing of the O-ring material shows no significant changes when exposed to 70 MPa hydrogen gas. However, at a larger scale in the micrometre range, the formation of a hierarchical channel morphology becomes evident. This morphology is accompanied by the separation of carbon black filler from the rubber matrix, contributing to mechanical weakening of the O-ring. These observations can be attributed to the pressure gradient that develops between the inner and outer radii of the O-ring, resulting from compression forces acting perpendicularly to the radial direction due to clamp locking.
The incidence rate and severity of COVID-19 infection in hospitalized vaccinated patients and outpatients who received remdesivir from March to September 2021 and outcome comparison between single and double vaccinated patients
Authors: Khosravi Mina , Babaee Ebrahim , Nafissi Nahid , Shokri Sima , Riahi Taghi , Fallahpour Morteza , kalantari Saeed , Janani Majid , Mozafarpoor Samaneh , Goodarzi Azadeh
Published: August 2023

Background: This study assessed the impact of COVID-19 vaccination on infection rates and severity, the protective period after vaccination, risk factors for hospitalization, and adverse reactions. It involved PCR-confirmed COVID-19 patients managed as inpatients or outpatients at Rasool-e Akram Hospital, Tehran, Iran, from March 21 to September 21, 2021.
Methods: A standard checklist was used to gather data through phone calls from 3701 PCR+ patients, including 989 inpatients and 2712 outpatients.
Results: After the first dose, COVID-19 incidence rate was 70.98%, mostly occurring one to four weeks post-vaccination. Following the second dose, the incidence rate dropped to 31.82%, with infections occurring between one to two months post-vaccination. Among inpatients and outpatients, 23% and 21% respectively had been vaccinated. Notably, 95.46% of outpatients and 91.52% of inpatients received both doses. Double vaccinated patients showed better outcomes, with lower O2 saturation below 70% (4.78% vs. 14.53%), and less severe lung involvement (0.65% vs. 5.71%).
Conclusion: The study revealed that the second sinopharm vaccine dose significantly reduces the incidence and severity of COVID-19 infection. While it offers protection against moderate to severe illness and reduces hospitalization, it may not prevent very severe cases or ICU admission. The most effective protection against infection occurs between one month after the first dose and one to two months after the second dose. Nonetheless, two doses do not provide long-term protection against infection. Further research is warranted to understand long-term vaccine efficacy.
Genomic characterization reveals distinct mutational landscapes and therapeutic implications between different molecular subtypes of triple negative breast cancer
Authors: Li Ruoqi , Yan Lei , Ma Hai Xia , Wang Hui Wen , Bu Peng , Xi Yan Feng , Lian Jing
Published: August 2023

Background
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has high heterogeneity, poor prognosis, and limited treatment success. Recently, an immunohistochemistry (IHC)-based surrogate classification for the “Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center (FUSCC) subtyping” has been developed and is considered more suitable for clinical application. Here, the genetics and potential therapeutic targets for TNBC molecular subtypes classified by the surrogate classification were investigated.
Methods
Seventy-one paraffin-embedded sections of surgically resected TNBC were classified into four molecular subtypes using the IHC-based surrogate classification. Genomic analysis was performed by targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS). The specificity of the subtypes was explored by bioinformatics, including survival analysis, multivariate Cox regression, pathway enrichment, Pyclone analysis, mutational signature analysis and PHIAL analysis.
Results
In total, 71 TNBC specimens were examined. AKT1 and BRCA1 mutations were identified as independent prognostic factors. Clear heterogeneity was observed in somatic mutations, key mutation pathways, evolutionary and mutational signatures, and copy number variations in the molecular subtypes. Importantly, 70 (98.5%) samples harbored putative clinically relevant alterations. The luminal androgen receptor (LAR) subtype was associated with mutations in PIK3CA and PI3K pathways, which are potentially sensitive to PI3K pathway inhibitors. The basal-like immune-suppressed (BLIS) subtype was characterized by high genomic instability and the specific possession of signature 19 while patients in the immunomodulatory (IM) subtype belonged to the PD-L1 ≥ 1% subgroup with enrichment in Notch signaling, suggesting a possible benefit of immune checkpoint inhibitors and Notch inhibitors. Moreover, mesenchymal-like (MES) tumors displayed enrichment in the receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK)-RAS pathway and potential sensitivity to RTK pathway inhibitors.
Conclusions
TNBC molecular subtypes encompass distinct genomic landscapes that show specific heterogeneities. The findings suggest potential treatment targets and prognostic factors, indicating the possibility of stratified therapy in the future.
Development of indigenous acoustic emission system for structural health monitoring
Authors: Banerjee Aishwarya , Mukherjee Arpita , Karmakar Pratap , Datta Aloke Kr. , Roy Parikshit , Kundu Tamal , Topdar Pijush
Published: August 2023

The development of instrumentation for the acoustic emission (AE) technique is presented here. The proposed system captures the AE signals of the damage source using WD piezoelectric sensors and stores the acquired data using an algorithm. The developed preamplifier amplifies the AE signals. The designed band-pass filter suppresses noise and passes data in a certain frequency range. This system also helps with the localization of structural damage. The applicability of this system has been experimentally studied on different structures with satisfactory performance. Also, it is compared with a commercially available AE system. This indigenously developed system is useful because of its cost-effectiveness, too.
Nacc-Guard: A Lightweight DNN Accelerator Architecture for Secure Deep Learning
Authors: Li Peng , Che Cheng , Hou Rui
Published: August 2023

Recent breakthroughs in artificial intelligence and deep neural networks (DNNs) have produced an explosive demand for computing platforms equipped with customized domain-specific accelerators. However, DNN accelerators have security vulnerabilities. Researchers have previously explored DNN attack and defense technologies that mainly focus on training and inference algorithms or model structure robustness. The problem of how to design a secure accelerator architecture has received relatively little attention, especially with the rapid development of FPGA-based heterogeneous computing SoCs. To mitigate this bottleneck, we propose Nacc-Guard, a lightweight DNN accelerator architecture which can effectively defend against neural network bit-flip attacks and memory trojan attacks. By utilizing a linear randomization encryption algorithm based on stream cipher Trivium, interrupt signal confused coding, and hash-based message authentication code, Nacc-Guard can not only guarantee the integrity of the uploaded DNN file but also ensure buffer data confidentiality. To evaluate Nacc-Guard, NVDLA and a SIMD accelerator coupling with a RISC-V Rocket and ARM processor is implemented at RTL. Experimental evaluation shows that Nacc-Guard has a 3× hardware overhead reduction compared with conventional AES. Experiments on VGG, ResNet50, GoogLeNet, and YOLOv4-tiny validate that this framework can successfully ensure secure DNN inference with negligible performance loss. It achieves a 3.63× speedup and 35% energy reduction over the AES baseline.
Effect of Diagrid Systems on Seismic Performance of High Rise Buildings
Authors: Elmi Abdiaziz Abdillahi
Published: August 2023

In the past decade, numerous research works have been conducted on diagrid buildings. Researchers and practitioners have recognized the importance of diagrid structures, and as a result, have developed advanced design strategies to improve the efficiency and economy of diagrid structural systems. The unique architectural flexibility and structural efficiency of the diagrid make it an innovative system for tall buildings. To further expand on this innovation, multiple studies have focused on joint connections and established design methodologies. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to provide a systematic summary of existing research accomplishments related to the diagrid structural system in tall buildings.
Digital Identity of Software Robots - workplace interactions inside hybrid workforce
Authors: Kedziora Damian , Juszczyk Marta , Lesniewska Agnieszka
Published: August 2023

Automation of mundane and manual office work with Robotic Process Automation (RPA) technology has been intensively growing on importance at various organizations. At the same time, collaborating with software robots as virtual co-workers is becoming an omnipresent and disruptive challenge from the perspective of employee well-being at the workplace. Our case study conducted at a large insurance enterprise based in Poland focused on exploring the perception of digital teammates by employees whose work get partially automated, as well as relations inside hybrid workforce, and competencies required for the successful performance of hybrid teams, formed by human workers and robots together. Having identified the dynamics and value flow between humans and robots at the case organization, we draw attention to the importance of facilitating development in social skills, subject knowledge and willingness to cooperate with robots at the hybrid workforce of the future.
Symptom severity and complexity trends in patients undergoing radiation therapy
Authors: Yannitsos Demetra , Qi Siwei , Davies Oluwaseun , Watson Linda , Barbera Lisa
Published: August 2023

Objective: Symptom severity has considerable impact on patients’ cancer care journey. This study aims to better understand psychological and physical symptom scores of radiotherapy patients across their radiotherapy care trajectory.
Methods: Patients who received radiotherapy at a single tertiary cancer center, who also completed at least one symptom-reporting questionnaire, the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale – Revised (ESAS-r) between October 1, 2019 and April 1, 2020 were included in this retrospective analysis. Within the study period, time points included consultation, first and last radiation treatment reviews and first post-treatment follow-up. Symptoms were divided into psychological and physical. Mixed effect models assessed trajectories of psychological and physical scores across appointments. A symptom complexity score was assigned to each ESAS-r encounter. Symptom complexity score association with appointment type and tumor group was modelled using Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE).
Results: The study cohort consisted of 1,632 patients who completed 2,519 ESAS-r questionnaires. Patients reported significantly higher psychological symptom scores at consultations than at first review, last review and follow-up. Patients reported significantly higher physical scores at last reviews compared to consultations. Patients at first review had significantly lower odds of having a higher (more severe) symptom complexity score, compared with patients at consultations (OR =0.77, 95% CI=0.64-0.93).
Conclusions: Symptoms change over the course of a patient’s care trajectory. Understanding how particular symptoms change over time provides a target for initiatives that improve symptom management.
Aloe ×vera: A New High Gel Yielding Natural Hybrid of Aloe vera from CSIR- NBRI Botanical Garden
Authors: Banyal Sudesh Kumar , Srivst Shalini , Bahadur Lal
Published: August 2023

In recent years, plant breeders have been developing new hybrids of Aloe vera to increase the yield of the plant's gel. One natural hybrid Aloe ×vera has been shown to yield at least two times more gel than traditional A. vera plants. This hybrid has been carefully selected to combine the desirable traits of several different A. vera varieties, resulting in a plant with a higher gel content and a more robust growth habit and disease resistance. The increased gel yield of this hybrid is highly desirable for commercial cultivation, as it can significantly improve the efficiency of gel processing operations. Additionally, this hybrid has been found to possess enhanced medicinal properties, making it an ideal choice for the health and wellness industry. Overall, the development of this high-yielding hybrid represents a significant advancement in the field of plant breeding and offers exciting opportunities for those involved in the A. vera industry.
Synergy of adsorption and solar photoreduction for removal Cr(VI) with spinel CuFe2O4
Authors: Benaissa Sihem , Alouache Ali , Kaid Hamza , Berrahou Ghezlane , Boudjemaa Amel , Dib Khaoula
Published: August 2023

The synergy effect between adsorption and solar photocatalysis to remove Cr (VI) is a new approach which is environmentally friendly and sustainable development technology. the choice of photocatalyst is crucial for achieving better performance in adsorption and photocatalytic reactions. The CuFe2O4 catalysts with a spinel structure was synthesized by co-precipitation and sol-gel methods, and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Brunauer, Emmett and Teller (BET) surface area, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The results of this study show that the CuFe2O4-co is an excellent adsorbent and photocatalyst simultaneously for Cr (VI) removal, this activity is correlated to it structural, textural properties and a relatively narrow band gap. The catalyst is mainly crystallized in cubic inverse spinel structure, and exhibit a large pore size facilitates the accessibility of active sites by chromium ions on the surface, and which can also improve absorbed light penetration. Moreover, UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectrum (UV–vis DRS) show that the catalyst has a low band gap energy (Eg=1.2 eV), allowing a broader absorption spectrum, which enhances it capability to generate electron-hole pairs under visible light of solar irradiation.We investigated the effects of oxalic acid as a reducing agent, preparation technique, catalyst concentration, and initial dose of Cr (VI) in this research. The optimum catalyst and pollutant concentrations are 0.25g/L and 25 g/L, respectively, with a 100% reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III) accomplished within 1 hour.
Radiomics for differentiation of gliomas from primary central nervous system lymphomas: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Garaba Alexandru , Aslam Nummra , Ponzio Francesco , Awadhi Abdullah Al , Panciani Pier Paolo , Brinjikji Waleed , Fontanella Marco , De Maria Lucio
Published: August 2023

Purpose: Numerous radiomics-based models have been proposed to discriminate between central nervous system (CNS) gliomas and primary central nervous system lymphomas (PCNSLs). Given the heterogeneity of the existing models, we aimed to define their overall performance and identify the most critical variables to pilot future algorithms.
Methods: A systematic review of the literature and a meta-analysis were conducted, focusing on studies reporting on radiomics to differentiate gliomas from PCNSLs. A comprehensive literature search was performed through PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, Web of Science, and Scopus databases. Overall sensitivity (SEN) and specificity (SPE) were estimated. Event rates were pooled using a random-effects meta-analysis, and the heterogeneity was assessed using the χ2 test.
Results: The overall SEN and SPE for differentiation between CNS gliomas and PCNSLs were 88% (95% CI = 0.83 – 0.91) and 87% (95% CI = 0.83 – 0.91), respectively. The best-performing features were the Gray Level Run Length Matrix (GLRLM; ACC 97%), followed by the Neighboring Gray Tone Difference Matrix (NGTDM; ACC 93%), and shape-based features (ACC 91%). The 18F-FDG-PET/CT was the best-performing imaging modality (ACC 97%), followed by the MRI CE-T1W (AUC 87% - 95%). Most studies applied a cross-validation analysis (92%).
Conclusion: The current SEN and SPE of radiomics to discriminate CNS gliomas from PCNSLs are high, making radiomics a helpful method to differentiate these tumor types. The best-performing features are the GLRLM, NGTDM, and shape-based features. The 18F-FDG-PET/CTimaging modality is the best-performing, while the MRI CE-T1W is the most used.
Reconstructing sunspot number by forward-modelling open solar flux
Authors: Owens Mathew J. , Lockwood Mike , Barnard Luke A. , Usoskin Ilya , Hayakawa Hisashi H. , Pope Benjamin J.S. , McCracken Ken
Published: August 2023

The open solar flux (OSF) is the integrated unsigned magnetic flux leaving the top of the solar atmosphere to form the heliospheric magnetic field (HMF). As the HMF modulates the intensity of galactic cosmic rays at Earth, the production rate of cosmogenic isotopes – such as 14C and 10Be stored in tree rings and ice sheets – is closely related to the OSF. Sunspots are related to the production of OSF and this provides the possibility of converting OSF to sunspot number (SSN) in order to reconstruct properties of the solar cycles prior to the first sunspot telescopic observations in 1610. While models exist for estimating OSF on the basis of sunspot number, the hysteresis present in OSF and the lack of a priori knowledge of solar cycle phase means that inverting these models is not possible. We here describe a new method that uses a forward model of OSF to estimate SSN and solar cycle phase through a Monte Carlo approach. The method is tested by application to geomagnetic reconstructions of OSF over the period 1850-present and comparison to the known SSN. There is a substantial improvement in reconstruction of both the SSN time series and the solar cycle start dates compared with a simple OSF-SSN regression. This suggests more accurate solar cycle information can be extracted from annual cosmogenic isotope records by this method.
Functionalizing of Polydimethylsiloxane with Cell Shape Imprinting and Nano Layer Hydroxyapatite-Coating to Accelerate Osteoblast Proliferation and Differentiation
Authors: Morteza Mehrjoo , Karkhaneh Akbar , Nazarpak Masoumeh Haghbin , Alishahi Mostafa , Bonakdar Shahin
Published: August 2023

Bone repair in elderly individuals is challenging due to slower regeneration rates. To enhance stem cell response and tissue repair, biomimetic substrates with physical and chemical stimuli are investigated. Here, we optimized osteoblast patterns on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrates and deposited a nano layer of hydroxyapatite (nHA) using a sputtering technique to mimic the bone extracellular matrix (ECM) and improve differentiation. Substrate morphology, tensile strength, and biocompatibility were assessed. Differentiation and proliferation were evaluated using various staining techniques and real-time PCR. The results showed effective printing of cell patterns on substrates, with no alteration in surface topography following nHA deposition. All substrates exhibited good cytocompatibility. The combination of nHA as a chemical stimulus and cell patterns as a physical stimulus increased stem cell differentiation significantly, as evidenced by enhanced alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity on nHA-coated substrates (97%). Real-time PCR analysis revealed higher expression of osteoblast-specific genes (RNX2 and OSC) on nHA-coated patterned substrates. The simultaneous physical and chemical changes in the cell environment promoted increased differentiation and proliferation during each step of stem cell differentiation. In conclusion, these substrates hold promise as a viable method for bone regeneration, providing valuable insights for tissue engineering application.
Techno-Economic Analysis of Hybrid Renewable Power Generation System Under Different Climatic Zones in India
Authors: Baghel Neelam , K. Manjunath , Kumar Anil
Published: August 2023

This research focuses on the techno-economic analysis of hybrid renewable energy systems (HRESs) for power generation under different climatic zones i.e., composite, temperate, cold, warm and humid, and hot and dry. The system is modelled and simulated based on meteorological data of New Delhi, Bangalore, Srinagar, Kolkata and Jodhpur. It consists of a solar photovoltaic system (PV), a wind turbine, a fuel cell, a converter, an electrolyzer, and a hydrogen tank. Srinagar has the highest total net present cost (NPC) of 57,44,105.53 US$ whereas Bangalore has the lowest NPC i.e., 34,01,103.82 US$. Hydrogen production range is between 1955 to 1963 kg/yr for all climatic zones. Solar PV power is reasonably good for all climatic zones whereas wind power is not suitable for colder zones, but it is proven to be quite good for hot and dry climatic conditions. Therefore, installing a HRES according to the climatic conditions will provide a sustainable and dependable energy solution that solves climate issues, improves energy security, and encourages ecological responsibility.
Droplet detachment force and its relation to Young-Dupre adhesion
Authors: Daniel Dan , Koh Xue Qi
Published: August 2023

Droplets adhere to surfaces due to their surface tension γ and understanding the vertical
force Fd required to detach the droplet is key to many technologies (e.g., inkjet printing, optimal
paint formulations). Here, we predicted Fd on different surfaces by numerically solving the Young-Laplace equation. Our numerical results are consistent with previously reported results for a wide range of experimental conditions: droplets subjected to surface vs. body forces with |Fd| ranging from nano- to milli-newtons, droplet radii R ranging from tens of microns to several millimetres, and for various surfaces (micro-/nano-structured superhydrophobic vs. lubricated surfaces). Finally, we derive an analytic solution for Fd on highly hydrophobic surfaces and further show that for receding contact angle θr > 120◦, the normalized Fd/πR is equivalent to the Young-Dupre work of adhesion γ(1 + cos θr).
Evaluation of Pesticide Residues in some Commonly Consumed Grains in Kogi State, North Central, Nigeria
Authors: Onoja Alexander D. , Idakwoji Precious A. , Zakari David A. , Oniemola Joan M. , Enesi Katumi O.
Published: August 2023

Indiscriminate use of pesticides to boost agricultural produce and in public health to control pests has raised the emphasis on pesticide residue levels in foods. This study analyzed the pesticides residue levels in some common grains (rice, maize, millet and beans) consumed in Kogi State, North Central, Nigeria and ascertained their suitability for human consumption. The samples were analyzed for the presence of several benzimidazole, triazole, organochloride and organophosphate pesticide residues using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The residual pesticides levels in the different grains were compared with FAO/WHO established maximum residual levels (MRL) for the pesticides. The results showed that the common pesticide residues found in rice across the 3 Senatorial Districts of Kogi State include; thiabendazole, phosmet, acetamiprid, carbendazim, pyrimethanil and pyroclostrobin. Only pyroclostrobin was found to be above its MRL in rice samples from Kogi Central Senatorial District. In maize, the common pesticides detected were tebuconazole, Acephate, atrazine, clothianidin and quinoxyfen. Atrazine and clothianidin were found to be above their MRL in the 3 Senatorial Districts. Azoxystrobin, formethanate, chlorpyrifos, fludioxonil and thiabendazole were detected in millet samples from across the Senatorial Districts but only formethanate was discovered to be above its MRL. For beans, chlorpyrifos, acetamiprid and endosulfan were detected across the Senatorial Districts but at levels below their MRL. The presence of these pesticides even at levels lower their MRLs may pose no immediate risks to human health, but may lead to bioaccumulation and eventually become a threat to public health in the long term.
In-Silico Drug Discovery Through Interaction-Based Perspectives for ATAD3A
Authors: Gong Kevin , McKenna Patrick
Published: August 2023

The overexpression of ATAD3A, a mitochondrial membrane oncoprotein, is correlated with worsened prognosis of many prevalent cancers and has been identified as an attractive target for drug development. This work investigates drug development for ATAD3A through a site-specific, interaction-based, in-silico framework bypassing conventional drug development obstacles, notably the inability to experimentally resolve the ATAD3A structure. In our approach, we target the critical ATAD3A-S100B binding interaction, which facilitates the cytoplasmic processing of ATAD3A. Relying on the canonicality of the S100B binding mechanism of ATAD3A, and the ATAD3A C-terminal sequence being highly conserved and homologous to existing structures, we reduce the necessity for an accurate model from the whole target protein to a single, well-established domain. In our in-silico framework, a model of the ATAD3A S100B binding domain was constructed, followed by drug discovery targeting the S100B binding domain utilizing virtual screening and hit identification. QSAR modeling and physicochemical filters were then subsequently employed to assess the hit compounds. Further analyzing the specific binding contacts between the hit compounds and ATAD3A compared to ATAD3A-S100B binding contacts from protein-protein docking, we were able to determine that two hit compounds, ZINC6235062 and ZINC20728831, strongly occupy the critical residues established in previous literature as necessary for S100B binding, and thus indicate great potential in inhibiting ATAD3A oncoprotein function through disrupting the ATAD3A-S100B binding interaction in competitive inhibition.
The Effect of Neem (Azadirachta Indica) Bark Extracts on Maize Weevil (Sitophilus Zeamais) in Stored Maize (Zea Mays) in Lokoja, Kogi State
Authors: Olusanmi Pelumi
Published: August 2023

Background
This study investigated the effect of crude aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Azadirachta indica against Sitophilus zeamais (Maize weevil) on stored Zea mays (Maize). The pesticidal activity of Azadirachta indica extracts on Sitophilus zeamais was evaluated at concentrations of 500, 1000, and 1500mg/ml. The cold maceration method was employed in this study for the preparation of extracts. The mortality rate of the weevils was monitored every 24 hours for 72 hours consecutively. Measured and recorded mortality were presented in tabular format, indicating the concentrations and total number of death counts. The data obtained were analyzed using SPSS (Version 21). Proportions of the mortality rate of Sitophilus zeamais in relation to concentrations of aqueous and ethanolic extracts were compared using ANOVA.
Results
Inferences drawn from this study showed that both the crude aqueous and ethanolic extracts were effective at the maximum concentration, but the ethanolic extract showed a higher rate of effectiveness than the crude aqueous extract.
Conclusion
To further assess their potential as an insecticide against pests in storage seeds, it is also advised to extract Azadirachta indica using a different solvent. Although these extracts have an impact on maize weevil populations, biosafety research should be done to determine their toxicity to humans. To evaluate the practical application of botanical insecticides, field tests should be conducted.
Broadening the Capture of Natural Products Mentioned in FAERS Using Fuzzy String-Matching and a Siamese Neural Network
Authors: Dilán-Pantojas Israel , Boonchalermvichien Tanupat , Taneja Sanya , Li Xiaotong , Chapin Maryann , Karcher Sandra , Boyce Richard D.
Published: August 2023

Increased sales of natural products (NPs) in the US and growing safety concerns highlight the need for NP pharmacovigilance. A challenge for NP pharmacovigilance is ambiguity when referring to NPs in spontaneous reporting systems. We used a combination of fuzzy string-matching and a neural network to reduce this ambiguity. We aim to increase the capture of reports involving NPs in the US Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). Gestalt pattern-matching (GPM) and Siamese neural network (SM) were used to identify potential mentions of NPs of interest in 389,386 FAERS reports with unmapped drug names. We refined the identified candidates through manual review and annotation by health professionals. After adjudication, GPM identified 595 unique NP names and SM 504. There was little overlap between candidates identified by the approaches (Non-overlapping: GPM 347, SM 248). In total, 686 novel NP names were identified in the unmapped FAERS reports. Including these names in the FAERS collection yielded 3,486 additional reports mentioning NPs.
A phenomenographic Study on Teachers’ Experiences of Emergency Remote Teaching During COVID-19
Authors: Asamoah Daniel
Published: August 2023

This pilot phenomenographic study explored teachers’ understanding of their experiences of emergency remote teaching during COVID-19. Unstructured interviews were conducted among twelve teachers from different Ghanaian higher education institutions. Teachers were purposely selected to share their experiences of what it takes to teach during COVID-19. Phonomenographic analysis was performed to identify qualitatively different ways teachers understood their emergency remote teaching experiences. Findings were presented in three categories of description that highlighted that emergency remote teaching during COVID-19 is experienced as a) being suitable for certain applications, c) effective for certain instructional approaches, and c) challenging. This study highlights how emergency remote teaching is experienced in different ways by those who experienced it, providing implications for effective teaching and learning during crisis situations.
The Triad of Knowledge, Regular Medical Consultation, and Recommendations for Enhanced Breast Cancer Screening Intention in Morocco
Authors: OUZENNOU Nadia , ABOUFARAS Mohamed , NACER Nezha , MEJDOULI Hicham , CHOUIKH Jaouad , RKHA Samia
Published: August 2023

Purpose
The low rate of breast cancer screening in Morocco is linked to delayed diagnosis and increased mortality rates. Furthermore, there is a lack of research on the association between screening intention and knowledge levels. Our objective was to assess the level of knowledge regarding breast cancer and screening, identify the determinants of this knowledge, and determine predictive factors for screening intention.
Methods
A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted on 1014 women in the city of Essaouira, Morocco, during the years 2018-2020. A stepwise logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the predictors using SPSS software.
Results
We found an above-average level of knowledge (67%). These knowledge levels were associated with several personal characteristics. Moreover, these knowledge levels proved to be powerful predictive factors for the intention to undergo screening, along with regular medical consultations and recommendations to undergo screening.
Conclusion
Women had a high level of knowledge about breast cancer and its characteristics. These knowledge levels were strongly associated with the intention to undergo screening. However, despite this, the low participation rate encourages the reinforcement of research to align knowledge, intention, and screening practices.
Vorwort zu #unbequem
Authors: Güggi Nils , Haux Dario , Ranzoni Luca , Schlegel Stefan , Sieber-Gasser Charlotte , Thommen Marc
Published: August 2023

Die Reihe «#unbequem» soll das Wirken von Daniel Hürlimann für eine offene Wissensgesellschaft weitertragen. Im Unterschied zu üblichen Artikeln in sui generis sind die Texte weder auf juristische Fragen beschränkt noch werden sie einer doppelblinden Peer Review unterzogen. Sie werden vom Herausgeber:innen-Team in einem offenen Verfahren gesichtet und kommentiert. Zum Auftakt legen die Herausgeber:innen einige Hintergründe offen, die den Entstehungsprozess der Reihe nachhaltig prägten.
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La série « #unbequem » a pour but de poursuivre l’engagement de Daniel Hürlimann en faveur d’une société dans laquelle le savoir est accessible à tous. Contrairement aux articles habituellement publiés chez sui generis, les textes de cette série ne se limitent pas aux questions juridiques et ne sont pas soumis à la procédure d’évaluation par les pairs en double aveugle. Ils sont examinés et commentés par la rédaction dans le cadre d’une procédure ouverte. En guise de préambule, les éditeurs dévoilent quelques éléments de contexte qui ont jalonné le processus de création de la série.
Servant leadership and leadership effectiveness in healthcare institutions
Authors: Faleh Alharbi Mohammad , Muhammad Kundi Ghulam
Published: August 2023

The significance of leadership in the healthcare sector has been increasingly recognized in recent times. It is now widely acknowledged as a crucial determinant of patient security, clinical treatment quality, and the overall healthcare culture prevailing in the community. The purpose of the present study is to analyze the moderating effect of cognitive style indicator on the relationship between servant leadership style and leadership effectiveness. Mix method explanatory sequential research design was used to collect data. AMOS SEM was run for data analysis, and development of measurement and structural models. The study population were drawn from healthcare institutions in the Qassim region, Saudi Arabia. The results showed a positive association between servant leadership style, cognitive style indicator, and leadership efficiency. In addition, all values were significant and indicative of the cognitive style’s moderating impact on servant leadership and leadership effectiveness.