bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Malware Detection Issues, Challenges, and Future Directions: A Survey
Authors: Aboaoja Faitouri A. , Zainal Anazida , Ghaleb Fuad A. , Al-rimy Bander Ali Saleh , Eisa Taiseer Abdalla Elfadil , Elnour Asma Abbas Hassan
Published: August 2022

The evolution of recent malicious software with the rising use of digital services has increased the probability of corrupting data, stealing information, or other cybercrimes by malware attacks. Therefore, malicious software must be detected before it impacts a large number of computers. Recently, many malware detection solutions have been proposed by researchers. However, many challenges limit these solutions to effectively detecting several types of malware, especially zero-day attacks due to obfuscation and evasion techniques, as well as the diversity of malicious behavior caused by the rapid rate of new malware and malware variants being produced every day. Several review papers have explored the issues and challenges of malware detection from various viewpoints. However, there is a lack of a deep review article that associates each analysis and detection approach with the data type. Such an association is imperative for the research community as it helps to determine the suitable mitigation approach. In addition, the current survey articles stopped at a generic detection approach taxonomy. Moreover, some review papers presented the feature extraction methods as static, dynamic, and hybrid based on the utilized analysis approach and neglected the feature representation methods taxonomy, which is considered essential in developing the malware detection model. This survey bridges the gap by providing a comprehensive state-of-the-art review of malware detection model research. This survey introduces a feature representation taxonomy in addition to the deeper taxonomy of malware analysis and detection approaches and links each approach with the most commonly used data types. The feature extraction method is introduced according to the techniques used instead of the analysis approach. The survey ends with a discussion of the challenges and future research directions.
Deep Learning Model for Classifying Periodontitis Stages on Dental Panoramic Radiography
Authors: Shon Ho Sun , Kong Vungsovanreach , Park Jae Sung , Jang Wooyeong , Cha Eun Jong , Kim Sang-Yup , Lee Eun-Young , Kang Tae-Geon , Kim Kyung Ah
Published: August 2022

In this study, an integrated deep learning framework was developed for classifying the periodontitis stages of each individual tooth using dental panoramic radiographs. Based on actual patient panoramic radiographs data, the bone loss by periodontitis and cementoenamel junction boundaries were detected, while the tooth number and tooth length were identified using data from AIHub, an open database platform. The two factors were integrated to classify and to evaluate the periodontitis staging on dental panoramic radiography. Periodontitis is classified into four stages based on the criteria of the radiographic bone level, as suggested at the relevant international conference in 2017. For the integrated deep learning framework developed in this study, the classification performance was evaluated by comparing the results of dental specialists, which indicated that the integrated framework had an accuracy of 0.929, with a recall and precision of 0.807 and 0.724, respectively, in average across all four stages. The novel framework was thus shown to exhibit a relatively high level of performance, and the findings in this study are expected to assist dental specialists with detecting the periodontitis stage and subsequent effective treatment. A systematic application will be developed in the future, to provide ancillary data for diagnosis and basic data for the treatment and prevention of periodontal disease.
Experimental Study and Engineering Application of the Spatial Reticulated Grid Bolt-Shotcrete Support Structure for Excavation Tunnels
Authors: Huang Mingli , Song Yuan , Zhang Xudong , Sun Tong
Published: August 2022

In view of the problems of rapid construction and deformation control of large cross-section tunnels in complex urban environments, the concept of “timely high-strength support” was put forward to form strong support over time and bear the load of surrounding rock in real time, and innovatively developed the spatial reticulated grid bolt-shotcrete support structure (SRGB). The research in this paper focuses on the supporting principle, bearing mechanical properties, snatch simulation test, construction process, and engineering application effects. The components of the SRGB and their respective functions were expounded in detail. The failure modes and deformation characteristics of the tested components were revealed through the indoor loading test, and the performance characteristics of the spatial reticulated grid concrete components with high strength and high rigidity were displayed. With the help of the multi-functional operation trolley, the assembly process test of the spatial reticulated grid was carried out, which verified the feasibility of mechanized construction and the rationality of structural design. Relying on the underground tunnel project of Guangzhou Metro, the spatial reticulated grid structure was successfully used as the initial support of the tunnel for the first time, forming a complete set of mechanized rapid construction technology for a large cross-section tunnel, and constructing a timely high-strength support system suitable for the complex urban environment. The research results provide a new idea and new technology for the mechanized rapid construction and efficient support of large cross-section tunnels.
Observation and Study of Lithospheric Magnetic Anomalies on Profile SD in Mongolia
Authors: Yuan Jiehao , Gu Zuowen , Xin Changjiang , Song Chengke , Chen Bin , Wang Zhendong , Wang Can
Published: August 2022

To understand the deep tectonic environment at the origin of strong earthquakes along the northern section of the North-South seismic belt and the central continental block of Mongolia, large-scale gravity and geomagnetic surveys and rock sample collection were carried out along the Suhbaatar-Ulaanbaatar-Dalandzadgad profile in Mongolia. The spatial distribution characteristics of the lithospheric magnetic field at 160 geomagnetic measuring points along the profile were then systematically analyzed and summarized. Based on the composition of the lithospheric magnetic field from different sources at different depths combined with the regional geological structure and collected rock sample lithology, the lithospheric magnetic field was further decomposed into different components—the basement, middle layer, and shallow surface—by the upward continuation method. The results show that these components have obvious zoning characteristics and that the lithospheric magnetic field distribution of the Suhbaatar-Ulaanbaatar-Dalandzadgad profile is related to the geological structure, rock lithology, seismic activity, natural remanent magnetization, and magnetic susceptibility. Many destructive earthquakes have occurred in the area where the lithospheric magnetic field changes dramatically, the lithologies are dominantly igneous, and the magnetic susceptibility and natural remanent magnetization are high. In contrast, the lithologies in the area with moderate variation in the lithospheric magnetic field are mostly sedimentary, the magnetic susceptibility and natural remanent magnetization are low, and destructive earthquakes are rare. Since the lithospheric magnetic field reflects the magnetic characteristics of the rocks above the Curie interface, its spatial distribution not only corresponds to the geological structure but also predicts the depth and location of faults. Therefore, it is significant to carry out geomagnetic surveys and rock sampling to analyze the characteristics of geological structures and research regional seismicity.
Inverse Modeling of Seepage Parameters Based on an Improved Gray Wolf Optimizer
Authors: Shu Yongkang , Shen Zhenzhong , Xu Liqun , Duan Junrong , Ju Luyi , Liu Qi
Published: August 2022

The seepage parameters of the dam body and dam foundation are difficult to determine accurately and quickly. Based on the inverse analysis, a Gray Wolf Optimizer (GWO) was introduced into this study to search the target hydraulic conductivity. A novel approach for initialization, a polynomial-based nonlinear convergence factor, and weighting factors based on Euclidean norms and hierarchy were applied to improve GWO. The practicability and effectiveness of Improved Gray Wolf Optimizer (IGWO) were evaluated by numerical experiments. Taking Kakiwa dam located on the Muli River of China as a case, an inversion analysis for seepage parameters was accomplished by adopting the proposed optimization algorithm. The simulated hydraulic heads and seepage volume agree with measurements obtained from piezometers and measuring weir. The steady seepage field of the dam was analyzed. The results indicate the feasibility of IGWO in determining the seepage parameters of Kakiwa dam.
Impacts of Radio Occultation Data on Typhoon Forecasts as Explored by the Global MPAS-GSI System
Authors: Chien Tzu-Yu , Chen Shu-Ya , Huang Ching-Yuang , Shih Cheng-Peng , Schwartz Craig S. , Liu Zhiquan , Bresch Jamie , Lin Jia-Yang
Published: August 2022

Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) radio occultation (RO) provides plentiful sounding profiles over regions lacking conventional observations. The Gridpoint Statistical Interpolation (GSI) hybrid system for assimilating RO data is integrated in this study with the Model for Prediction Across Scales–Atmosphere (MPAS) to improve tropical cyclone forecasts. After the MPAS-GSI assimilation cycles, dynamical vortex initialization (DVI) that may effectively spin up the initial inner typhoon vortex through cycled model integration is implemented to improve the initial analysis fit to the best track position as well as maximum wind or pressure intensity for Typhoon Nepartak (2016) that moved northwestward toward southern Taiwan. During the cycling assimilation, assimilation with RO data improves the temperature and moisture analysis, and largely reduces the forecast errors compared to those without RO data assimilation. The two RO operators that assimilate local bending angle or refractivity produce similar analyses, but the temperature and moisture increments from bending angle assimilation are slightly larger than those from refractivity assimilation. The MPAS forecasts at 60-15 km resolution show that the typhoon track prediction is improved with RO data, especially using bending angle data. The reduction in track deviations is explained by the wavenumber-one potential vorticity budget for several forecasts associated with the track deflection near southern Taiwan. Assimilation of RO data has fewer impacts on the typhoon intensity forecast compared to the DVI that largely improves the initial and thus forecasted intensity of the typhoon but at the cost of a slightly degraded track. Use of the enhanced 3 km resolution in the typhoon path also further improved the forecasts with and without the DVI. The feasible performance of the MPAS-GSI system with the RO data impact is also illustrated for Typhoon Mitag (2019), that passed around northern Taiwan.
Dielectrophoresis-Based SERS Sensors for the Detection of Cancer Cells in Microfluidic Chips
Authors: Szymborski Tomasz R. , Czaplicka Marta , Nowicka Ariadna B. , Trzcińska-Danielewicz Joanna , Girstun Agnieszka , Kamińska Agnieszka
Published: August 2022

The detection of freely circulating cancer cells (CTCs) is one of the greatest challenges of modern medical diagnostics. For several years, there has been increased attention on the use of surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) for the detection of CTCs. SERS is a non-destructive, accurate and precise technique, and the use of special SERS platforms even enables the amplification of weak signals from biological objects. In the current study, we demonstrate the unique arrangement of the SERS technique combined with the deposition of CTCs cells on the surface of the SERS platform via a dielectrophoretic effect. The appropriate frequencies of an alternating electric field and a selected shape of the electric field can result in the efficient deposition of CTCs on the SERS platform. The geometry of the microfluidic chip, the type of the cancer cells and the positive dielectrophoretic phenomenon resulted in the trapping of CTCs on the surface of the SERS platform. We presented results for two type of breast cancer cells, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231, deposited from the 0.1 PBS solution. The limit of detection (LOD) is 20 cells/mL, which reflects the clinical potential and usefulness of the developed approach. We also provide a proof-of-concept for these CTCs deposited on the SERS platform from blood plasma.
Cortical Source Analysis of the Face Sensitive N290 ERP Component in Infants at High Risk for Autism
Authors: Guy Maggie W. , Richards John E. , Roberts Jane E.
Published: August 2022

Appropriate head models for cortical source analysis were investigated and applied to source analyses examining the neural bases of the face-sensitive N290 event-related potential (ERP) component in infants at high risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This included infant siblings of children with ASD (ASIBs) and infants with fragile X syndrome (FXS). First, alternative head models for use with ASIBs and FXS were investigated. Head models created from the infant’s own MRI were examined in relation to five head models based on average MRI templates. The results of the head model comparison identified group-specific (i.e., ASIB or FXS) head models created from a large collection of structural MRIs as the best substitution for the head model created from the participant’s own structural MRI. Second, the cortical source analysis was completed on N290 data collected from a previous study to investigate brain areas associated with face sensitive ERP responses. Participants’ own MRIs were used for head models when available, and the group-specific head model was used when the participants’ own MRIs were not available. The results provide evidence for unique patterns of neural activation during face processing across infants at high and low risk for ASD and across etiologically distinct high-risk groups. All infants demonstrated greater activation to faces than toys in brain areas most associated with specialized face processing. Infants with FXS displayed higher levels of activation to faces across all areas analyzed, while ASIBs show more muted levels of activation. Overall, the results of the current study demonstrate the importance of group-specific head models for accurate cortical source analysis in infants at high risk for ASD. This also allows for further research on early distinctions in brain function based on risk status.
CFD Analysis of Different Ventilation Strategies for a Room with a Heated Wall
Authors: Nguyen Y Quoc , Nguyen Viet T. , Tran Long T. , Wells John C.
Published: August 2022

Solar chimneys can help to reduce solar heat gain on a building envelope and to enhance natural ventilation. In this work, we proposed three configurations of two solar chimneys combined with a heated wall for the natural ventilation of a room: (I) the chimneys are connected serially, (II) the chimneys are parallel and exhaust air at two separate outlets, and (III) the chimneys are parallel, but the outlets are combined. The airflow rate achieved with each configuration was predicted with a Computational Fluid Dynamics model. The results show the effects of the heat flux in each channel and the geometries of the channels. Configuration (II) shows the highest flow rate. Particularly, the proposed configurations enhance the flow rate significantly and up to 40% when compared to the typical setup with a single channel solar chimney. The findings offer a novel design option for building façades for reducing solar heat gain and enhancing natural ventilation.
Do Green Buildings Have Superior Performance over Non-Certified Buildings? Occupants’ Perceptions of Strengths and Weaknesses in Office Buildings
Authors: Khoshbakht Maryam , Rasheed Eziaku , Baird George
Published: August 2022

The main objectives of green buildings are to improve their design and operation. Many studies have investigated whether green buildings lead to higher occupant satisfaction, yet with contradictory conclusions. The paper builds on the results of post-occupancy evaluation surveys of 68 buildings using the BUS Methodology. Satisfaction scores expressed by occupants with the qualities of their indoor environment were compared between the green and non-certified buildings. This research investigates whether green buildings have superior performance to non-certified buildings from the occupants’ perspectives. It was found that generally occupants were more satisfied in green buildings than in non-certified buildings. However, the differences were not significant for any of the environmental and operational parameters including thermal comfort, lighting, noise, and air quality. In the case of operational parameters such as design, needs, image of the building, and cleaning, the differences between the two building groups were notable. Air quality, design and work requirement had the strongest influence on perceived comfort in both green and non-certified buildings. Noise had the strongest influence on perceived productivity for both building groups. Although overall green buildings performed better than the non-certified buildings, the differences between the two were negligible particularly for environmental parameters. Most of the green buildings were not performing entirely as their designers may have intended and had weaknesses that needed to be addressed.
A Study on the Optimization of Wind Environment of Existing Villa Buildings in Lingnan Area: A Case Study of Jiangmen’s “Yunshan Poetic” Moon Island Houses
Authors: Du Zhaoming , Guo Weihong , Li Weicong , Gao Xuyi
Published: August 2022

Effective natural ventilation reduces humidity, cools the space, and enhances thermal comfort. In light of the frequent ventilation issues in the Lingnan area, this research suggests a successful ventilation technique using Jiangmen’s “Yunshan Poetic” Moon Island houses as an example. With its symmetrical architectural layout of townhouses and its primary courtyard villa product, the community typifies the Lingnan area. First off, we discovered that the district’s average temperature is as high as 30.95 °C and its average humidity is as high as 83.592%RH using actual measurements and simulation of heat and humidity data. The district’s buildings’ issues with dampness, peeling walls, and substance mold are primarily caused by poor ventilation. Secondly, the PHOENICS program was used to provide efficient ventilation solutions for the following six aspects: external wind infusion organization, group orientation layout, planar grouping optimization, building façade combination, monolithic building openings, and indoor ventilation block. In order to determine if the technique is effective, the ventilation variables are compared before and after optimization using the Building Ventilation Effectiveness Test and Evaluation Criteria. The study concluded that the building’s architectural characteristics and the local climate have an impact on natural ventilation’s effectiveness. This serves as a guide for both the scientific layout development of future urban settlements and the optimization of ventilation of existing villa buildings in humid and hot areas.
Examining In Situ Acoustic Conditions for Enhanced Occupant Satisfaction in Contemporary Offices
Authors: Park Jihyun , Loftness Vivian , Wang Tsung-Hsien
Published: August 2022

Indoor acoustic quality is one of the critical indicators for occupants’ health, comfort, and productivity in contemporary office environments. Post-occupancy evaluation (POE) is usually employed to examine in situ acoustic measurements to ensure indoor acoustic quality. However, prevailing acoustic performance evaluation does not often consider the technical attributes of building systems (TABS) to holistically investigate the significant correlations between objective acoustic field measurements and subjective POE. As such, this study proposes to cross-examine in situ and perceived acoustic quality indices with TABS to quantify critical factors leading to enhanced occupant satisfaction. Statistical analyses suggest that technical building attributes can significantly influence occupants’ acoustic satisfaction compared to sound levels recorded in contemporary offices. For instance, lowering the distributed noise level from above 40% to 2% can lead to an average 21% increase in occupant satisfaction. Ultimately, incorporating environmental measurements with physical building attributes from an occupant-centric perspective can uncover applicable design guidelines for achieving optimal acoustic quality with the highest occupant satisfaction.
Clinically Applicable Pathological Diagnosis System for Cell Clumps in Endometrial Cancer Screening via Deep Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Li Qing , Wang Ruijie , Xie Zhonglin , Zhao Lanbo , Wang Yiran , Sun Chao , Han Lu , Liu Yu , Hou Huilian , Liu Chen , Zhang Guanjun , Shi Guizhi , Zhong Dexing , Li Qiling
Published: August 2022

Objectives: The soaring demand for endometrial cancer screening has exposed a huge shortage of cytopathologists worldwide. To address this problem, our study set out to establish an artificial intelligence system that automatically recognizes and diagnoses pathological images of endometrial cell clumps (ECCs). Methods: We used Li Brush to acquire endometrial cells from patients. Liquid-based cytology technology was used to provide slides. The slides were scanned and divided into malignant and benign groups. We proposed two (a U-net segmentation and a DenseNet classification) networks to identify images. Another four classification networks were used for comparison tests. Results: A total of 113 (42 malignant and 71 benign) endometrial samples were collected, and a dataset containing 15,913 images was constructed. A total of 39,000 ECCs patches were obtained by the segmentation network. Then, 26,880 and 11,520 patches were used for training and testing, respectively. On the premise that the training set reached 100%, the testing set gained 93.5% accuracy, 92.2% specificity, and 92.0% sensitivity. The remaining 600 malignant patches were used for verification. Conclusions: An artificial intelligence system was successfully built to classify malignant and benign ECCs.
Novel Strategies to Address Critical Challenges in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Puik Jisce R. , Swijnenburg Rutger-Jan , Kazemier Geert , Giovannetti Elisa
Published: August 2022

Whereas mortality rates improved for breast and prostate cancer as a result of successful tumour biology-based therapies and biomarkers, mortality rates for pancreatic cancer patients remained stable [...]
Effect of Smoking on Treatment Efficacy and Toxicity in Patients with Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bergman Marie , Fountoukidis Georgios , Smith Daniel , Ahlgren Johan , Lambe Mats , Valachis Antonios
Published: August 2022

Aim: The aim of the present systematic review and meta-analysis was to summarize the current evidence on the potential impact of smoking during cancer treatment on treatment efficacy and toxicity irrespective of cancer type. Methods: A systematic literature search was performed using two electronic databases for potentially eligible studies. Only studies based on multivariable analysis for the association between smoking, compared to non-smokers (never or former), and treatment efficacy or toxicity were included. Pooled Hazard Ratios (HRs) or Odds Ratios (ORs) and corresponding 95% Confidence Intervals (CIs) were estimated through random-effects meta-analyses. Results: In total, 97 eligible studies were identified, of which 79 were eligible for the pooled analyses. Smoking during radiation therapy, with or without chemotherapy, was associated with an increased risk of locoregional recurrence (pooled HR: 1.56; 95% CI: 1.28–1.91 for radiation therapy; pooled HR: 4.28; 95% CI: 2.06–8.90 for chemoradiotherapy) and worse disease-free survival (pooled HR: 1.88; 95% CI: 1.21–2.90 for radiation therapy; pooled HR: 1.92; 95% CI: 1.41–2.62 for chemoradiotherapy) as well as a higher risk for radiation-induced toxicity (pooled OR: 1.84; 95% CI: 1.32–2.56 for radiation therapy; pooled OR: 2.43; 95% CI: 1.43–4.07 for chemoradiotherapy) with low-to-moderate certainty of evidence. Smoking during treatment with EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs) in patients with lung cancer was associated with worse progression-free survival compared to non-smokers (pooled HR: 1.43; 95% CI: 1.14–1.80; moderate certainty of evidence), whereas smoking was associated with improved progression-free survival in patients treated with checkpoint inhibitors (HR: 0.70; 95% CI: 0.58–0.84; moderate certainty of evidence). No statistically significant associations were observed between smoking and treatment efficacy or toxicity to chemotherapy. Conclusion: The present meta-analysis confirms earlier evidence of the negative impact of smoking during radiation therapy, with or without chemotherapy, on treatment efficacy and radiation-induced toxicity as well as a negative impact of smoking on the efficacy of EGFR-TKIs and a positive impact on the efficacy of checkpoint inhibitors. The evidence is too weak to draw firm conclusions on the potential association between smoking and chemotherapy, whereas there is no evidence for pooled analyses regarding other types of systemic oncological therapy.
Dynamic Expression of EpCAM in Primary and Metastatic Lung Cancer Is Controlled by Both Genetic and Epigenetic Mechanisms
Authors: Cui Yeting , Li Jiapeng , Liu Xiyu , Gu Lixing , Lyu Mengqing , Zhou Jingjiao , Zhang Xiaoyu , Liu Yu , Zhu Haichuan , Zhang Tongcun , Sun Fan
Published: August 2022

Although great progress has been achieved in cancer treatment in the past decades, lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death, which is partially caused by the fact that most lung cancers are diagnosed at advanced stages. To improve the sensitivity and specificity of lung cancer diagnosis, the underlying mechanisms of current diagnosis methods are in urgent need to be explored. Herein, we find that the expression of EpCAM, the widely used molecular marker for tumor cell characterization and isolation, is strongly upregulated in primary lung tumors, which is caused by both gene amplification and promoter hypomethylation. In contrast, EpCAM expression is severely repressed in metastatic lung tumors, which can be reversed by epigenetic drugs, DNMT inhibitor 5-aza-dC and HDAC inhibitor MS-275. Moreover, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) impede EpCAM expression probably through TGFβ-induced EMT signaling. These findings unveil the dynamic expression patterns of EpCAM and differential roles of epigenetic modification in EpCAM expression in primary and metastatic lung tumors, providing novel insights into tumor cell isolation and lung cancer diagnosis.
Disinfection and Photocatalytic Degradation of Organic Contaminants Using Visible Light-Activated GCN/Ag2CrO4 Nanocomposites
Authors: Akintunde Olufemi Oluseun , Yu Linlong , Hu Jinguang , Kibria Md Golam , Hubert Casey R. J. , Pogosian Samuel , Achari Gopal
Published: August 2022

Visible-light-driven photocatalysts have gained increasing attention in the past few decades in treating emerging contaminants in water and wastewater. In this work, the photocatalytic activity of the coupled graphitic carbon nitride (GCN) and silver chromate (Ag2CrO4), herein denoted as GCN/Ag2CrO4, nanocomposites was evaluated for degrading organic pollutants and inactivating microorganisms under visible light irradiation using a royal blue light-emitting diode (LED). The organic pollutants studied were 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and methyl chlorophenoxy propionic acid (MCPP or Mecoprop-P) present in KillexR, a commercially available herbicide, bovine serum albumin (BSA) protein, and SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. The disinfection experiments were conducted on wastewater secondary effluent. The results showed that over 85% degradation was achieved for both 2,4-D and Mecoprop-P in 120 min while 100% of BSA protein and 77.5% of SARS-CoV-2 protein were degraded in 20 min and 30 min, respectively. Additionally, GCN/Ag2CrO4 nanocomposites led to over one log reduction of cellular ATP (cATP), total coliforms, and E. coli in wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) secondary effluent after 60 min of royal blue LED irradiation. It was observed that the degradation performance of a photocatalyst under light irradiation is contaminant-specific. The binding affinity of the released metal ions from GCN/Ag2CrO4 with protein and ATP functional groups was responsible for the degradation of proteins and the reduction of cATP, while the generated ROS was responsible for the disinfection of total coliforms and E. coli. Overall, the results indicate that GCN/Ag2CrO4 nanocomposite is a promising photocatalyst in degrading organic pollutants and disinfecting microorganisms under visible light irradiation within a reasonable time.
Chromium Catalysts Based on Unsymmetrical PNP Ligands for Selective Ethylene Tri-/Tetramerization: Effect of Electron-Withdrawing/Donating Substituents on Catalytic Performance
Authors: Cao Chengang , Zhai Yang , Alam Fakhre , Fan Haonan , Zhang Jingyi , Jiang Tao
Published: August 2022

The in situ formation and activation of Cr(III) catalysts based on unsymmetrical PNP ligands yield efficient catalytic systems for selective ethylene tri-/tetramerization. The electronic nature (electron-withdrawing or electron-donating) and position (para or meta) of the substituents over the phenyl rings of the PNP, the nature of cocatalyst (DMAO/AlEt3 and MMAO-3A), and reaction conditions have been observed to have a marked impact on catalytic performance, particularly catalytic activity. Ligand L2, bearing 4-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl substituents, yielded 33.6 kg(product).g(Cr)−1·h−1 catalytic activity with 57.7% C8 selectivity under optimal conditions. Ligand L4, having para-tolyl substituents, yielded 43.3 kg(product).g(Cr)−1·h−1 with 59.0% C8 selectivity under optimum conditions. Changing the positions of both the electron-withdrawing and electron-donating substituents from para to meta over the phenyls of the PNP may lead to both catalytic systems exhibiting poor performance.
Influence of Wurtzite ZnO Morphology on Piezophototronic Effect in Photocatalysis
Authors: Su Xiaowen , Zhao Xiaolei , Cui Chao , Xi Ning , Zhang Xiao Li , Liu Hong , Yu Xiaowen , Sang Yuanhua
Published: August 2022

A piezoelectric field promotes the photocatalytic activity of a photocatalyst by helping separating photo-generated charge carriers. Wurtzite phase ZnO is a typical photocatalyst with a piezoelectric property, thus self-assisted photocatalysis with ZnO based on the piezophototronic effect can be achieved. ZnO nanorods or nanowires with a clear c-axis have been well studied, while other morphologies have not been fully discussed. In this work, we prepared wurtzite phase ZnO with four different morphologies. By comparing their photocatalytic activity for degradation of Rhodamine B under the same mechanical energy source provided by ultrasound, the effect of morphology and exposed facets on photo-induced charge separation were highlighted. The ZnO nanowire photocatalyst delivered an impressive improvement in photocatalytic efficiency when ultrasound driven, suggesting that the morphology-related piezophototronic effect had a positive effect on separation of photo-generated charge carriers, and more exposed active facets benefitted the utilization of charge carriers.
Desialylated Mesenchymal Stem Cells-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Loaded with Doxorubicin for Targeted Inhibition of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Yang Chunyan , Guan Zixuan , Pang Xincheng , Tan Zengqi , Yang Xiaomin , Li Xiang , Guan Feng
Published: August 2022

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the dominating causes of cancer-related death throughout the world. Treatment options for patients with HCC vary, however, the lack of effective targeted drugs is the major reason for death in advanced HCC patients. In this study, a delivery system based on mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) loaded with doxorubicin (Dox) was developed. In this system, we initially erased terminal linked α2–3 and α2–6 sialic acids on the surface of EVs by neuraminidase. The exhibition of galactose (Gal) and N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc) residues in treated MSC-EVs can specifically be recognized by asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGPR) of hepatoma cells. Compared to free Dox and Dox-loaded EVs, desialylated EVs loaded with Dox significantly presented the improved cellular uptake, prioritized targeting efficacy, and had a better inhibiting effect in vitro and in vivo. Overall, the results of the present study of the demonstrated delivery system using desialylated MSC-EVs suggest its therapeutic potential for HCC.
Autophagy in Rat Müller Glial Cells Is Modulated by the Sirtuin 4/AMPK/mTOR Pathway and Induces Apoptosis under Oxidative Stress
Authors: Qin Mengqi , Xie Zhi , Cao Ting , Wang Zhiruo , Zhang Xiaoyu , Wang Feifei , Wei Wei , Jin Ming , Ma Jingyuan , Zeng Ling , Wang Yanan , Pei Shaonan , Zhang Xu
Published: August 2022

Müller glial cells (MGCs) are a group of glial cells in the retina that provide essential support to retinal neurons; however, the understanding of MGC apoptosis and autophagy remains limited. This study was aimed at investigating the role of autophagy in MGCs under normal and oxidative conditions, and identifying the underlying mechanisms. In addition, the sirtuin 4 (SIRT4)-mediated signaling pathway was observed to regulate the autophagic process in MGCs. To assess the effect of autophagy on MGC mitochondrial function and survival, we treated rMC-1 cells—rat-derived Müller glial cells—with rapamycin and 3-methyladenine (3-MA), and found that MGC death was not induced by such treatment, while autophagic dysfunction could increase MGC apoptosis under oxidative stress, as reflected by the expression level of cleaved caspase 3 and PI staining. In addition, the downregulation of autophagy by 3-MA could influence the morphology of the mitochondrial network structure, the mitochondrial membrane potential, and generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) under oxidative stress. Moreover, SIRT4 depletion enhanced autophagosome formation, as verified by an increase in the LC3 II/I ratio and a decrease in the expression of SQSTM1/p62, and vice versa. The inhibition of AMPK phosphorylation by compound C could reverse these changes in LC3 II/I and SQSTM1/p62 caused by SIRT4 knockdown. Our research concludes that MGCs can endure autophagic dysfunction in the absence of oxidative stress, while the downregulation of autophagy can cause MGCs to become more sensitized to oxidative stress. Simultaneous exposure to oxidative stress and autophagic dysfunction in MGCs can result in a pronounced impairment of cell survival. Mechanically, SIRT4 depletion can activate the autophagic process in MGCs by regulating the AMPK–mTOR signaling pathway.
Rule-Based Pruning and In Silico Identification of Essential Proteins in Yeast PPIN
Authors: Banik Anik , Podder Souvik , Saha Sovan , Chatterjee Piyali , Halder Anup Kumar , Nasipuri Mita , Basu Subhadip , Plewczynski Dariusz
Published: August 2022

Proteins are vital for the significant cellular activities of living organisms. However, not all of them are essential. Identifying essential proteins through different biological experiments is relatively more laborious and time-consuming than the computational approaches used in recent times. However, practical implementation of conventional scientific methods sometimes becomes challenging due to poor performance impact in specific scenarios. Thus, more developed and efficient computational prediction models are required for essential protein identification. An effective methodology is proposed in this research, capable of predicting essential proteins in a refined yeast protein–protein interaction network (PPIN). The rule-based refinement is done using protein complex and local interaction density information derived from the neighborhood properties of proteins in the network. Identification and pruning of non-essential proteins are equally crucial here. In the initial phase, careful assessment is performed by applying node and edge weights to identify and discard the non-essential proteins from the interaction network. Three cut-off levels are considered for each node and edge weight for pruning the non-essential proteins. Once the PPIN has been filtered out, the second phase starts with two centralities-based approaches: (1) local interaction density (LID) and (2) local interaction density with protein complex (LIDC), which are successively implemented to identify the essential proteins in the yeast PPIN. Our proposed methodology achieves better performance in comparison to the existing state-of-the-art techniques.
Pulsed Electrical Stimulation Affects Osteoblast Adhesion and Calcium Ion Signaling
Authors: Staehlke Susanne , Bielfeldt Meike , Zimmermann Julius , Gruening Martina , Barke Ingo , Freitag Thomas , Speller Sylvia , Van Rienen Ursula , Nebe Barbara
Published: August 2022

An extensive research field in regenerative medicine is electrical stimulation (ES) and its impact on tissue and cells. The mechanism of action of ES, particularly the role of electrical parameters like intensity, frequency, and duration of the electric field, is not yet fully understood. Human MG-63 osteoblasts were electrically stimulated for 10 min with a commercially available multi-channel system (IonOptix). We generated alternating current (AC) electrical fields with a voltage of 1 or 5 V and frequencies of 7.9 or 20 Hz, respectively. To exclude liquid-mediated effects, we characterized the AC-stimulated culture medium. AC stimulation did not change the medium’s pH, temperature, and oxygen content. The H2O2 level was comparable with the unstimulated samples except at 5 V_7.9 Hz, where a significant increase in H2O2 was found within the first 30 min. Pulsed electrical stimulation was beneficial for the process of attachment and initial adhesion of suspended osteoblasts. At the same time, the intracellular Ca2+ level was enhanced and highest for 20 Hz stimulated cells with 1 and 5 V, respectively. In addition, increased Ca2+ mobilization after an additional trigger (ATP) was detected at these parameters. New knowledge was provided on why electrical stimulation contributes to cell activation in bone tissue regeneration.
On the Spectral Identification and Wavelength Dependence of Rare-Earth Ore Emission by Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy
Authors: Afgan Muhammad Sher , Hou Zongyu , Song Weiran , Liu Jiachen , Song Yuzhou , Gu Weilun , Wang Zhe
Published: August 2022

The increasing demand for rare earth elements (REE) requires faster analysis techniques for their rapid exploration. Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) has on-site and real time analysis capability. However, interference and the weaker emission of minor REEs are key challenges for the complex REE emission spectra. Using simulations and experimental results, we presented essential principles for improved line identification in the transient spectra of complicated samples, such as those of REE ores (e.g., monazite). Knowledge of plasma conditions, spectral collection setup, and capability of the spectral system are key parameters to consider for the identification of an emission line in such spectra. Furthermore, emission intensity dependence on laser wavelength was analyzed for major and minor REEs using IR (1064 nm), visible (532 nm) and UV (266 nm) irradiation. A higher plasma temperature was found with the IR laser, while stronger material ablation was observed by UV irradiation. Higher particle density by UV laser ablation was the key factor in the higher signal intensity of the minor elements, and this laser can improve the emission signals for LIBS use as an REE analyzer.
Comparing the Perceptions of Gender Norms among Adolescents with Different Sibling Contexts in Shanghai, China
Authors: Yu Chunyan , Zuo Xiayun , Lian Qiguo , Zhong Xiangyang , Fang Yuhang , Lou Chaohua , Tu Xiaowen
Published: August 2022

Individuals’ gender development is influenced by the characteristics of personal and contextual environments. However, the role of sibling contexts in shaping gender norms has rarely been studied among Chinese youth at early adolescence as most of them were the only child. The aim of this paper is to compare perceived gender norms among adolescents aged 10–14 with different sibling configurations, to help inform and tailor guidance for sexual and reproductive health education in the future. We used the Global Early Adolescent Study baseline data collected from Shanghai, China. The sample for analysis was 1615 students. We used univariate analysis and multivariate ordinal logistic regression to compare perceived gender-stereotyped traits and gender role attitudes, stratified by age and sex. The results showed that sibling context was more influential for boys than girls at early adolescence in their gender socialization process. Among boys those who were with mixed-sex siblings scored higher on gender-stereotyped traits (ORonly-childvs. mixed-sex siblings = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.48–0.94, p = 0.019; ORsame-sex siblingsvs. mixed-sex siblings = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.37–0.96, p = 0.033). Younger early adolescents aged 10–12 who were the only child or who had mixed-sex siblings perceived more traditional gender role attitudes than those living with same-sex siblings (ORonly-childvs. same-sex siblings = 1.71, 95% CI: 1.06–2.75, p = 0.028; ORmixed-sex siblingsvs. same-sex siblings = 1.74, 95% CI: 1.03–2.94, p = 0.037). Comprehensive sexuality education with gender and power components being well addressed, both in and out of the family, is needed to provide extra gender-inclusive and gender-egalitarian environments for youth.
Effectiveness of Drought Indices in the Assessment of Different Types of Droughts, Managing and Mitigating Their Effects
Authors: Ndayiragije Jean Marie , Li Fan
Published: August 2022

Droughts are the most destructive catastrophes in the world. The persistence of drought is considered to cause many challenges for both humans and animals and ruins the ecosystem. These challenges have encouraged scientists to search for innovative methods and models that are effective for assessing and predicting drought events. The use of drought indices has been extensively employed in many regions across the globe and their effectiveness demonstrated. This review illustrates the effectiveness of drought indices in the assessment of droughts, with a focus on drought management and mitigation measures. Additionally, several ways of managing drought risk and proactive strategies that need to be implemented to mitigate droughts have been illustrated. In conclusion, this article suggests that drought mitigation should be done more naturally, in ways that strongly protect the environment rather than involve engineering projects which might cause the degradation of rivers and land, and damage the ecosystem.
Multiple Adenocarcinomas of the Small Bowel in a Patient with Brunner’s Glands Agenesia: A Previously Unreported Association
Authors: Coverlizza Sergio , Masu Lavinia , Manini Claudia
Published: August 2022

Adenocarcinoma of the small bowel is rather uncommon and several etio-pathogenic factors have been proposed. We report a case of multiple synchronous adenocarcinomas arising in the non-ampullary duodenum and first tract of the jejunum in a background of Brunner’s glands agenesia, chronic duodenitis, and extensive dysplasia in a 64 year-old woman. To the best of our knowledge such association has not been reported so far.
Colorectal Cancer in Ulcerative Colitis: Mechanisms, Surveillance and Chemoprevention
Authors: Li Wenqian , Zhao Tiantian , Wu Dacheng , Li Jiajia , Wang Mei , Sun Yunyun , Hou Sicong
Published: August 2022

Patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) are at a two- to three-fold increased risk of developing colorectal cancer (CRC) than the general population based on population-based data. UC-CRC has generated a series of clinical problems, which are reflected in its worse prognosis and higher mortality than sporadic CRC. Chronic inflammation is a significant contributor to the development of UC-CRC, so comprehending the relationship between the proinflammatory factors and epithelial cells together with downstream signaling pathways is the core to elucidate the mechanisms involved in developing of CRC. Clinical studies have shown the importance of early prevention, detection and management of CRC in patients with UC, and colonoscopic surveillance at regular intervals with multiple biopsies is considered the most effective way. The use of endoscopy with targeted biopsies of visible lesions has been supported in most populations. In contrast, random biopsies in patients with high-risk characteristics have been suggested during surveillance. Some of the agents used to treat UC are chemopreventive, the effects of which will be examined in cancers in UC in a population-based setting. In this review, we outline the current state of potential risk factors and chemopreventive recommendations in UC-CRC, with a specific focus on the proinflammatory mechanisms in promoting CRC and evidence for personalized surveillance.
Rhizomaticola guizhouensis gen. et sp. nov. and Five Rosellinia Like Species Isolated from Decaying Wood
Authors: Li Qirui , Long Sihan , Lin Yan , Liu Lili , Shen Xiangchun , Kang Jichuan
Published: August 2022

During the investigation of xylarialean taxa in China and Thailand, six rosellinia like taxa were collected. Rhizomaticola gen. nov. with type species of Rh. guizhouensis is established based on its morphology and multi-gene molecular data. Rhizomaticola owns no carbonaceous stromata and has black ascospores without a germ slit which are distinguished from those of Rosellinia, Dematophora, Stilbohypoxylon and Xylaria. Five rosellinia like species are introduced based on their morphology, inducing three new species (Dematophora populi,Rosellinia thailandica, Ro. vitis), one new record for China (Ro. cainii) and one known species (D. necatrix). Their descriptions and illustrations are detailed.
Controversies in the Surgical Treatment of Chronic Subdural Hematoma: A Systematic Scoping Review
Authors: Solou Mary , Ydreos Ioannis , Gavra Maria , Papadopoulos Evangelos K. , Banos Stamatis , Boviatsis Efstathios J. , Savvanis Georgios , Stavrinou Lampis C.
Published: August 2022

Chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) is one of the most common neurosurgical entities, especially in the elderly population. Diagnosis is usually established via a head computed tomography, while an increasing number of studies are investigating biomarkers to predict the natural history of cSDH, including progression and recurrence. Surgical evacuation remains the mainstay of treatment in the overwhelming majority of cases. Nevertheless, many controversies are associated with the nuances of surgical treatment. We performed a systematic review of the literature between 2010 and 2022, aiming to identify and address the issues in cSDH surgical management where consensus is lacking. The results show ambiguous data in regard to indication, the timing and type of surgery, the duration of drainage, concomitant membranectomy and the need for embolization of the middle meningeal artery. Other aspects of surgical treatment—such as the use of drainage and its location and number of burr holes—seem to have been adequately clarified: the drainage of hematoma is strongly recommended and the outcome is considered as independent of drainage location or the number of burr holes.