bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variability Management in Dynamic Software Product Lines for Self-Adaptive Systems—A Systematic Mapping
Authors: Aguayo Oscar , Sepúlveda Samuel
Published: October 2022

Context: Dynamic software product lines (DSPLs) have considerably increased their adoption for variability management for self-adaptive systems. The most widely used models for managing the variability of DSPLs are the MAPE-K control loop and context-aware feature models (CFMs). Aim: In this paper, we review and synthesize evidence of using variability constraint approaches, methodologies, and challenges for DSPL. Method: We conducted a systematic mapping, including three research questions. This study included 84 papers published from 2010 to 2021. Results: The main results show that open-dynamic variability shows a presence in 57.1% of the selected papers, and on the other hand, closed-dynamic variability appears in 38.1%. The most commonly used methodology for managing a DSPL environment is based on proprietary architectures (60.7%), where the use of CFMs predominates. For open-dynamic variability approaches, the MAPE-K control loop is mainly used. The main challenges in DSPL management are based on techniques (28.6%) and open variation (21.4%). Conclusions: Open-dynamic variability has prevailed over the years as the primary approach to managing variability in DSPL, where its primary methodology is the MAPE-K control loop. Response RQ3 requires further review.
Terahertz Resonators Based on YBa2Cu3O7 High-Tc Superconductor
Authors: Macis Salvatore , Paolozzi Maria Chiara , D’Arco Annalisa , Tomarchio Luca , Di Gaspare Alessandra , Lupi Stefano
Published: October 2022

Superconducting split-ring resonator arrays allow to overcome two main limitations affecting metallic metamaterial resonating in the terahertz (THz) range: ohmic losses and tunability of their optical response. In this work, we design and experimentally realize direct and complementary square arrays of superconducting YBa2Cu3O7 (YBCO) split-ring resonators working in the THz spectral range. The main purpose of this paper is to show how the metamaterial resonances can be tuned by temperature (T) when crossing the superconducting transition temperature Tc of YBCO. The tuning property can be quantified by describing the THz transmittance of the patterned YBCO films vs. T through a model of coupled resonators. This model allows us to estimate the THz resonances of split-ring arrays and their interaction, showing how the kinetic inductance Lk in the superconducting state is the main parameter affecting the metamaterial properties.
Investigation of the Feasibility of Extracting the Characteristics of Sealed Boxes Using an Automotive FMCW Radar
Authors: Singh Lovedeep , You Sungjin , Jeong Byung Jang , Kim Youngwook
Published: October 2022

This paper investigates the feasibility of extracting the characteristics of sealed paper boxes based on range profiles using a millimeter-wave automotive FMCW radar. Radar is one of the key basic sensors for driving assistance and collision avoidance. Target classification using radar has been studied extensively, yet the detection of sealed material requires further investigation to improve situational awareness for better judgment. We suggest the classification of sealed paper boxes with different materials based on range-profile plots, which capture wave reflection from the box and wave attenuation when traveling through a lossy material. We measure the range profiles of sealed boxes encompassing paper in five different quantities using a millimeter-wave FMCW radar. A theoretical approach is used as a proof of concept, which supports the results of the range-profile measurements. The range profiles of the box with several other materials are also obtained and their characteristics are compared.
Active Noise Reduction with Filtered Least-Mean-Square Algorithm Improved by Long Short-Term Memory Models for Radiation Noise of Diesel Engine
Authors: Kwon Semin , Kim Bo-Seung , Park Junhong
Published: October 2022

This study presents an active noise control (ANC) algorithm using long short-term memory (LSTM) layers as a type of recurrent neural network. The filtered least-mean-square (FxLMS) algorithm is a widely used ANC algorithm, where the noise in a target area is reduced through a control signal generated from an adaptive filter. Artificial intelligence can enhance the reduction performance of ANC for specific applications. An LSTM is an artificial neural network for recognizing patterns in arbitrarily long sequence data. In this study, an ANC controller consisting of LSTM layers based on deep neural networks was designed for predicting a reference noise signal, which was used to generate the control signal to minimize the noise residue. The structure of the LSTM neural networks and procedure for training the LSTM controller for the ANC were determined. Simulations were conducted to compare the convergence time and performances of the ANC with the LSTM controller and those with a conventional FxLMS algorithm. The noise source adopted sounds from a single-cylinder diesel engine, while reference noises selected were single harmonics, superposed harmonics, and impulsive signals generated from the diesel engine. The characteristics of each algorithm were examined through a Fourier transform analysis of the ANC results. The simulation results demonstrated that the proposed ANC method with LSTM layers showed outstanding noise reduction capabilities in narrowband, broadband, and impulsive noise environments, without high computational cost and complexity relative to the conventional FxLMS algorithm.
Guidelines of the Polish Respiratory Society on the Diagnosis and Treatment of Progressive Fibrosing Interstitial Lung Diseases Other than Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Piotrowski Wojciech , Martusewicz-Boros Magdalena , Białas Adam , Barczyk Adam , Batko Bogdan , Błasińska Katarzyna , Boros Piotr , Górska Katarzyna , Grzanka Piotr , Jassem Ewa , Jastrzębski Dariusz , Kaczyńska Janina , Kowal-Bielecka Otylia , Kucharz Eugeniusz , Kuś Jan , Kuźnar-Kamińska Barbara , Kwiatkowska Brygida , Langfort Renata , Lewandowska Katarzyna , Mackiewicz Barbara , Majewski Sebastian , Makowska Joanna , Miłkowska-Dymanowska Joanna , Puścińska Elżbieta , Siemińska Alicja , Sobiecka Małgorzata , Soroka-Dąda Renata , Szołkowska Małgorzata , Wiatr Elżbieta , Ziora Dariusz , Śliwiński Paweł
Published: October 2022

The recommendations were developed as answers to previously formulated questions concerning everyday diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. They were developed based on a review of the current literature using the GRADE methodology. The experts suggest that PF-ILD be diagnosed based on a combination of different criteria, such as the aggravation of symptoms, progression of radiological lesions, and worsening of lung function test parameters. The experts recommend a precise diagnosis of an underlying disease, with serological testing for an autoimmune disease always being included. The final diagnosis should be worked out by a multidisciplinary team (MDT). Patients with an interstitial lung disease other than IPF who do not meet the criteria for the progressive fibrosis phenotype should be monitored for progression, and those with systemic autoimmune diseases should be regularly monitored for signs of interstitial lung disease. In managing patients with interstitial lung disease associated with autoimmune diseases, an opinion of an MDT should be considered. Nintedanib rather than pirfenidon should be introduced in the event of the ineffectiveness of the therapy recommended for the treatment of the underlying disease, but in some instances, it is possible to start antifibrotic treatment without earlier immunomodulatory therapy. It is also admissible to use immunomodulatory and antifibrotic drugs simultaneously. No recommendations were made for or against termination of anti-fibrotic therapy in the case of noted progression during treatment of a PF-ILD other than IPF. The experts recommend that the same principles of non-pharmacological and palliative treatment and eligibility for lung transplantation should be applied to patients with an interstitial lung disease other than IPF with progressive fibrosis as in patients with IPF.
Spatiotemporal Characteristics and Statistical Model Prediction of Potential Evaporation during the Growing Season in Ningxia
Authors: Liu Zhe , Sun Quan , Xu Dejia , Fan Wenbo , Wang Rui , Jiang Peng
Published: October 2022

Based on the daily data of 24 meteorological warfare points in Ningxia, the potential evaporation (ET0), the Mann–Kendall test (MK), and inverse distance weight interpolation were used to analyze the temporal and spatial changes in the potential evaporation at different scales, and the Pearson correlation coefficient was used to determine the growth rate in Ningxia. The atmospheric circulation influencing factors of seasonal potential evaporation were established, and the prediction model of potential evaporation in the growing season in Ningxia was established by stepwise linear regression, using mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE), and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE). The error test was carried out, and the results show the following: (1) The areas with larger potential evaporation during the growing season are mainly the central area of Ningxia and the northern side of the northern area. The presence on the north side tends to decrease. (2) On the monthly scale, the potential evaporation continued to increase from April to June, reached the maximum in June, continued to decrease from July to October, and was the smallest in October. (3) During the MK test in the growing season, the change in potential evaporation in the growing season showed an “increase–decrease” trend. The results of the monthly MK test show that the potential evaporation in April, May, and June has shown an increasing trend over the past 30 years, and the UF value in July, August, and October has been relatively high. The change trend of potential evaporation has been relatively stable, and the potential evaporation in September has shown a downward trend over the past 20 years. (4) The prediction model of potential evaporation in the growing season established by the circulation factor has shown a good effect in Ningxia and can be used to establish the scheduling prediction of irrigation water.
PM10 and PM2.5 Dust-Retention Capacity and Leaf Morphological Characteristics of Landscape Tree Species in the Northwest of Hebei Province
Authors: Gao Zewei , Qin Yahang , Yang Xinbing , Chen Bo
Published: October 2022

This study aimed to explain the reasons for the differences in the PM2.5 and PM10 dust-retention capacity of different tree species. Ten typical landscape tree species with a strong ability to adsorb particulate matter and improve the quality of the atmospheric environment were selected in Zhangjiakou, and the leaves of each tree species were collected from April to October. The PM2.5 and PM10 dust-retention capacity of different tree species were measured using an aerosol regenerator. The differences in the leaf structure of different tree species were analyzed using an electron microscope. The results showed that the PM10 and PM2.5 per unit leaf area of 10 tree species ranged from 1.31 ± 0.68 to 2.64 ± 1.29 μg·cm−2 and from 0.28 ± 0.13 to 0.99 ± 0.34 μg·cm−2, and the PM10 and PM2.5 dust-retention capacity per unit leaf area of coniferous trees was higher than that of broad-leaved trees. Further, the PM10 dust-retention capacity per unit leaf area of each tree species in different months was the highest in October (3.17 ± 1.12 μg·cm−2) and the lowest in August (0.79 ± 0.56 μg·cm−2). The PM2.5 dust-retention capacity per unit leaf area was the highest in October (0.99 ± 0.34 μg·cm−2) and the lowest in April (0.28 ± 0.13 μg·cm−2). The annual PM10 and PM2.5 dust-retention capacity per hectare of Pinus tabulaeformis was the highest and that of Ginkgo biloba was the lowest. The conifer trees have rough leaves, and broad-leaved trees have smooth leaves. The leaves of P. tabulaeformis and Picea asperata have a widespread stomata distribution, and the leaf surface is not smooth, with a large number of grooves and bulges. The number of stomata on the leaf surface of Salix babylonica and G. biloba is less than that of P. tabulaeformis and P. asperata. When the dust-retention capacity of PM2.5 per unit leaf area is high, the corresponding roughness is also significant, and a good logarithmic relationship exists between roughness and PM2.5 per unit leaf area (R2 = 0.9504). The results of this study might have an important reference value in terms of the selection of tree species with strong PM10 and PM2.5 dust-retention capacity and the improvement in ambient air quality in the northwest of Hebei Province.
Approximating a Common Solution of Monotone Inclusion Problems and Fixed Point of Quasi-Pseudocontractive Mappings in CAT(0) Spaces
Authors: Ndlovu Professer Vogani , Jolaoso Lateef Olakunle , Aphane Maggie , Khan Safeer Hussein
Published: October 2022

In this paper, we aimed to introduce a new viscosity-type approximation method for finding the common fixed point of a class of quasi-pseudocontractive mapping and a system of monotone inclusion problems in CAT(0) spaces. We proved some fixed-point properties concerning the class of quasi-pseudocontractive mapping in CAT(0) spaces, which is more general than many other mappings such as nonexpansive, quasi-nonexpansive, pseudocontractive and demicontractive mappings which have been studied by other authors. A strong convergence result is proved under some mild conditions on the control sequences and some numerical examples were presented to illustrate the performance and efficiency of the proposed method.
Complete Invariant ⋆-Metrics on Semigroups and Groups
Authors: He Shi-Yao , Wei Jian-Cai , Xie Li-Hong
Published: October 2022

In this paper, we study the complete ⋆-metric semigroups and groups and the Raǐkov completion of invariant ⋆-metric groups. We obtain the following. (1) Let (X,d⋆) be a complete ⋆-metric space containing a semigroup (group) G that is a dense subset of X. If the restriction of d⋆ on G is invariant, then X can become a semigroup (group) containing G as a subgroup, and d⋆ is invariant on X. (2) Let (G,d⋆) be a ⋆-metric group such that d⋆ is invariant on G. Then, (G,d⋆) is complete if and only if (G,τd⋆) is Raǐkov complete.
Towards the Simulation of a Realistic Large-Scale Spiking Network on a Desktop Multi-GPU System
Authors: Torti Emanuele , Florimbi Giordana , Dorici Arianna , Danese Giovanni , Leporati Francesco
Published: October 2022

The reproduction of the brain ’sactivity and its functionality is the main goal of modern neuroscience. To this aim, several models have been proposed to describe the activity of single neurons at different levels of detail. Then, single neurons are linked together to build a network, in order to reproduce complex behaviors. In the literature, different network-building rules and models have been described, targeting realistic distributions and connections of the neurons. In particular, the Granular layEr Simulator (GES) performs the granular layer network reconstruction considering biologically realistic rules to connect the neurons. Moreover, it simulates the network considering the Hodgkin–Huxley model. The work proposed in this paper adopts the network reconstruction model of GES and proposes a simulation module based on Leaky Integrate and Fire (LIF) model. This simulator targets the reproduction of the activity of large scale networks, exploiting the GPU technology to reduce the processing times. Experimental results show that a multi-GPU system reduces the simulation of a network with more than 1.8 million neurons from approximately 54 to 13 h.
A Review of Diopatra Ecology: Current Knowledge, Open Questions, and Future Threats for an Ecosystem Engineering Polychaete
Authors: Berke Sarah K.
Published: October 2022

A well-known example of marine ecosystem engineering is the annelid genus Diopatra, which builds large tubes in coastal sediments worldwide. Early studies of Diopatra were among the first to recognize the importance of facilitation in ecology, and Diopatra has become a key marine soft-sediment application of the ecosystem engineering concept. Here, I review our current knowledge of Diopatra ecology, including its natural history, ecosystem engineering effects, and trophic relationships. I particularly explore how human activities are influencing Diopatra in terms of climate change, bait fishing, and species invasions. Most of what we know about Diopatra ecology comes from focal studies of a few species in a few well-known regions. Further evaluating how our current understanding applies to other species and/or other regions will help to refine and deepen our understanding of structure and function in marine systems.
Anti-Laminin 332-Type Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid
Authors: Shi Luhuai , Li Xiaoguang , Qian Hua
Published: October 2022

Anti-laminin (LM) 332-type mucous membrane pemphigoid (MMP) is a rare autoimmune bullous disease and was originally discovered as anti-epiligrin cicatricial pemphigoid. Anti-LM332-type MMP has clinical manifestations similar to those of other types of MMP and can only be distinguished through the detection of circulating autoantibodies against LM332. Our group and others have established a number of immunological methods with varying sensitivity and specificity for detection of anti-LM332 autoantibodies; however, none of the established methods has been widely used for clinical diagnosis. There is currently no unified standard treatment, and it is very difficult to completely cure anti-LM332-type MMP. In addition, an increasing body of evidence suggests that there may be a strong correlation between anti-LM332-type MMP and tumors. In this article, we review the current progression of diagnosis and treatment of anti-LM332-type MMP, as well as the possible correlation between anti-LM332-type MMP and tumors.
Robust Preanalytical Performance of Soluble PD-1, PD-L1 and PD-L2 Assessed by Sensitive ELISAs in Blood
Authors: Krueger Kimberly , Mayer Zsuzsanna , Kottmaier Marc , Gerckens Miriam , Boeck Stefan , Luppa Peter , Holdenrieder Stefan
Published: October 2022

The interaction between programmed death-1 receptor PD-1 and its ligands PD-L1 and PD-L2 is involved in self-tolerance, immune escape of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and COVID-19. As blood-based protein markers they bear great potential to improve oncoimmunology research and monitoring of anti-cancer immunotherapy. A variety of preanalytical conditions were tested to assure high quality plasma sample measurements: (i) different time intervals and storage temperatures before and after blood centrifugation; (ii) fresh samples and repeated freeze–thaw-cycles; (iii) different conditions of sample preparation before measurement. Concerning short-term stability, acceptable recoveries for PD-1 between 80 and 120% were obtained when samples were kept up to 24 h at 4 and 25 °C before and after blood centrifugation. Similarly, recoveries for PD-L2 were acceptable for 24 h at 4 °C and 6 h at 25 °C before blood centrifugation and up to 24 h at 4 and 25 °C after centrifugation. Variations for PD-L1 were somewhat higher, however, at very low signal levels. Sample concentrations (ng/mL) were neither affected by the freezing process nor by repeated freeze–thaw cycles with coefficients of variation for PD-1: 9.1%, PD-L1 6.8%, and PD-L2 4.8%. All three biomarkers showed good stability regarding preanalytic conditions of sample handling enabling reliable and reproducible quantification in oncoimmunology research and clinical settings of anti-cancer immunotherapy.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction, Mitophagy and Their Correlation with Perinatal Complications: Preeclampsia and Low Birth Weight
Authors: Yildirim Raziye Melike , Ergun Yagmur , Basar Murat
Published: October 2022

Mitochondria are essential organelles and crucial for cellular survival. Mitochondrial biogenesis and mitophagy are dynamic features that are essential for both maintaining the health of the mitochondrial network and cellular demands. The accumulation of damaged mitochondria has been shown to be related to a wide range of pathologies ranging from neurological to musculoskeletal. Mitophagy is the selective autophagy of mitochondria, eliminating dysfunctional mitochondria in cells by engulfment within double-membraned vesicles. Preeclampsia and low birth weight constitute prenatal complications during pregnancy and are leading causes of maternal and fetal mortality and morbidity. Both placental implantation and fetal growth require a large amount of energy, and a defect in the mitochondrial quality control mechanism may be responsible for the pathophysiology of these diseases. In this review, we compiled current studies investigating the role of BNIP3, DRAM1, and FUNDC1, mediators of receptor-mediated mitophagy, in the progression of preeclampsia and the role of mitophagy pathways in the pathophysiology of low birth weight. Recent studies have indicated that mitochondrial dysfunction and accumulation of reactive oxygen species are related to preeclampsia and low birth weight. However, due to the lack of studies in this field, the results are controversial. Therefore, mitophagy-related pathways associated with these pathologies still need to be elucidated. Mitophagy-related pathways are among the promising study targets that can reveal the pathophysiology behind preeclampsia and low birth weight.
Voltammetric Determination of 3-Methylmorphine Using Glassy Carbon Electrode Modified with rGO and Bismuth Film
Authors: Wong Ademar , Santos Anderson M. , Proença Camila A. , Baldo Thaísa A. , Feitosa Maria H. A. , Moraes Fernando C. , Sotomayor Maria D. P. T.
Published: October 2022

This work reports the development and application of a simple, rapid and low-cost voltammetric method for the determination of 3-methylmorphine at nanomolar levels in clinical and environmental samples. The proposed method involves the combined application of a glassy carbon electrode modified with reduced graphene oxide, chitosan and bismuth film (Bi-rGO-CTS/GCE) via square-wave voltammetry using 0.04 mol L−1 Britton–Robinson buffer solution (pH 4.0). The application of the technique yielded low limit of detection of 24 × 10−9 mol L−1 and linear concentration range of 2.5 × 10−7 to 8.2 × 10−6 mol L−1. The Bi-rGO-CTS/GCE sensor was successfully applied for the detection of 3-methylmorphine in the presence of other compounds, including paracetamol and caffeine. The results obtained also showed that the application of the sensor for 3-methylmorphine detection did not experience any significant interference in the presence of silicon dioxide, povidone, cellulose, magnesium stearate, urea, ascorbic acid, humic acid and croscarmellose. The applicability of the Bi-rGO-CTS/GCE sensor for the detection of 3-methylmorphine was evaluated using synthetic urine, serum, and river water samples through addition and recovery tests, and the results obtained were found to be similar to those obtained for the high-performance liquid chromatography method (HPLC)—used as a reference method. The findings of this study show that the proposed voltammetric method is a simple, fast and highly efficient alternative technique for the detection of 3-methylmorphine in both biological and environmental samples.
Adult-Onset Neuronal Intranuclear Inclusion Disease with Mitochondrial Encephalomyopathy, Lactic Acidosis, and Stroke-Like (MELAS-like) Episode: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Zhou Qian , Tian Meiqun , Yang Huan , Luo Yue-Bei
Published: October 2022

Neuronal intranuclear inclusion disease (NIID) is a rare neurodegenerative disease with highly heterogeneous manifestations. Curvilinear hyperintensity along the corticomedullary junction on diffusion-weighted images (DWI) is a vital clue for diagnosing NIID. DWI hyperintensity tends to show an anterior-to-posterior propagation pattern as the disease progresses. The rare cases of its disappearance may lead to misdiagnosis. Here, we reported a NIID patient with mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis and stroke-like (MELAS-like) episode, and reversible DWI hyperintensities. A review of the literature on NIID with MELAS-like episodes was conducted. A 69-year-old woman stated to our clinics for recurrent nausea/vomiting, mixed aphasia, altered mental status, and muscle weakness for 2 weeks. Neurological examination showed impaired mental attention and reaction capacity, miosis, mixed aphasia, decreased muscle strength in limbs, and reduced tendon reflex. Blood tests were unremarkable. The serological examination was positive for antibody against dipeptidyl-peptidase-like protein 6 (DPPX) (1:32). Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed hyperintensities in the left temporal occipitoparietal lobe on DWI and correspondingly elevated lactate peak in the identified restricted diffusion area on magnetic resonance spectroscopy, mimicking the image of MELAS. Skin biopsy and genetic testing confirmed the diagnosis of NIID. Pulse intravenous methylprednisolone and oral prednisolone were administered, ameliorating her condition with improved neuroimages. This case highlights the importance of distinguishing NIID and MELAS, and reversible DWI hyperintensities can be seen in NIID.
Heart Rate Variability Biofeedback in Cancer Patients: A Scoping Review
Authors: Spada Gea Elena , Masiero Marianna , Pizzoli Silvia Francesca Maria , Pravettoni Gabriella
Published: October 2022

Heart Rate Variability (HRV) Biofeedback (BFB) has been shown to improve autonomic balance and wellbeing in chronic diseases. As cardiac variability represents an index of cognitive and emotional regulation, HRV-BFB has been shown to lead to improvements in physiological and psychological adaptability and quality of life. However, knowledge of HRV-BFB in cancer patients is lacking, and available results are diversified according to methods and outcomes. The present paper undertakes a scoping review, exploring the use of HRV-BFB to modulate autonomic balance, cancer symptom management, and quality of life in cancer. This scoping review analyzes empirical evidence considering study designs, BFB methods, and psychophysiological outcomes. Research that focused on HRV-BFB effects in cancer patients was selected (79%). In addition, a systematic review and meta-analysis (31%) focusing on HRV, or BFB in chronic conditions, including cancer, were considered. The studies examined BFB treatment for thyroid, lung, brain or colon cancer, hematologic cancer, and survivors or terminal cancer patients. Retrieved studies reported physiological and psychological indices as primary outcomes: they included HRV values, sleep, pain, fatigue, depression, anxiety, and quality of life. Although the heterogeneity of publications makes it difficult to generalize the effectiveness of HRV-BFB, the training has been proven to improve cancer symptoms and well-being.
Mechanical Property Model of Q620 High-Strength Steel with Corrosion Effects
Authors: Xue Xuanyi , Hua Jianmin , Wang Fei , Wang Neng , Li Shuang
Published: October 2022

High-strength steel (HSS) is widely used in engineering structures, due to its superior material performance, but corrosion tends to occur in steel structures with time. The corrosion effects on mechanical performance of Q620 HSS were investigated experimentally. The electrochemical accelerated corrosion test was conducted to generate corroded Q620 HSS specimens (ρ = 0~60%). With increases in the corrosion degree, corrosion performance became more and more non-uniform. The tensile coupon test was conducted to clarify mechanical properties of corroded Q620 HSS specimens. With increases in corrosion degree, fy, fu, εu and E decreased, correspondingly. The effect of corrosion on εy could be ignored. With the deepening of corrosion, the necking of Q620 HSS specimens was weakened, which reduced their ductility. The simplified constitutive model consisting of nominal yield point (εy, fy) and ultimate point (εu, fu) was proposed to quantify the mechanical properties of Q620 HSS with different corrosion degrees. After the numerical fitting, relationships between the corrosion degree and mechanical properties were clarified. Based on the results of numerical fitting, mechanical properties of corroded Q620 HSS specimens were worse than those of specimens with idealized uniform corrosion. The adverse effect of corrosion on εuc was more obvious than that on strength properties. Comparison among different mild steels and HSSs was performed. Different indexes were chosen to clarify corrosion effects on the ductility of corroded Q620 HSS specimens. This study considers and discusses the research on corrosion rates, the relationships between service time, service environment, corrosion form and strength properties of Q620 HSS.
Influence of Grouting Sequence on the Correction Effect of Horizontal Tunnel Displacement by Grouting in Granite Residual Soil
Authors: Zhu Min , Xia Changqing , Chen Dengwei , Chen Wei , Hao Kun , Chen Xiangsheng
Published: October 2022

Shield tunnels are vulnerable to large displacements induced by surrounding environmental changes. Grouting is an effective way to correct excessive shield tunnel displacement, while the grouting scheme design, especially the grouting sequence, is the key factor affecting the correction efficiency. A finite element simulation method considering the construction of multiple grouting zones is verified by the engineering case of Shenzhen Metro Line 1, and the influence of the grouting sequence on the correction effect on the horizontal tunnel displacement is further studied. The results show that the proper grouting efficiency of sandy clay, completely decomposed granite, and strongly decomposed granite is 5.5%, 2.8%, and 1.1%, respectively. The adjacent newly-built grouting zones are significantly constrained by the reinforcement created during the preceding grouting process. It is more efficient to correct excessive tunnel displacement in the “from far to near” sequence and excessive tunnel convergence in the “from near to far” sequence with increasing reinforcement stiffness. The correction effect improves greatly as the elastic modulus of the reinforcement increases up to 100 MPa.
Immune-Checkpoint Inhibitors (ICIs) in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer (mCRC) Patients beyond Microsatellite Instability
Authors: Borelli Beatrice , Antoniotti Carlotta , Carullo Martina , Germani Marco Maria , Conca Veronica , Masi Gianluca
Published: October 2022

Immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) showed impressive results in terms of activity and efficacy in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients bearing tumors with deficient mismatch repair (dMMR) or high microsatellite instability (MSI-H). Despite that microsatellite status is the major predictive biomarker for the efficacy of ICIs, a proportion of dMMR/MSI-H mCRC tumors do not achieve benefit from immunotherapy due to the primary resistance. Deeper knowledge of biological mechanisms regulating dMMR/MSI-H CRC tumors and immune response may be useful to find new predictive biomarkers of ICIs benefit and tailor the use of immunotherapy even in dMMR/MSI-H mCRC patients. Moreover, several issues are still open, such as the secondary resection of metastases and the optimal duration of ICIs therapy in dMMR/MSI-H mCRC patients. Looking beyond microsatellite status, in a future perspective, several tools (i.e., Tumor Mutational Burden and PD-L1 expression) have been investigated to clarify their possible role as predictive biomarkers. Furthermore, a small subgroup of pMMR/MSS CRC tumors with a POLE mutation of the proofreading domain is characterized by hypermutated phenotype and might derive benefit from immune checkpoint inhibition. In the present work, we aim to review the most recent literature regarding treatment with ICIs in mCRC, focusing on dMMR/MSI-H and special subgroups of CRC patients. Hence, we summarize possible future targets and the most promising predictive biomarkers.
Targeting KRAS in PDAC: A New Way to Cure It?
Authors: He Qianyu , Liu Zuojia , Wang Jin
Published: October 2022

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most intractable malignant tumors worldwide, and is known for its refractory nature and poor prognosis. The fatality rate of pancreatic cancer can reach over 90%. In pancreatic ductal carcinoma (PDAC), the most common subtype of pancreatic cancer, KRAS is the most predominant mutated gene (more than 80%). In recent decades, KRAS proteins have maintained the reputation of being “undruggable” due to their special molecular structures and biological characteristics, making therapy targeting downstream genes challenging. Fortunately, the heavy rampart formed by KRAS has been broken down in recent years by the advent of KRASG12C inhibitors; the covalent inhibitors bond to the switch-II pocket of the KRASG12C protein. The KRASG12C inhibitor sotorasib has been received by the FDA for the treatment of patients suffering from KRASG12C-driven cancers. Meanwhile, researchers have paid close attention to the development of inhibitors for other KRAS mutations. Due to the high incidence of PDAC, developing KRASG12D/V inhibitors has become the focus of attention. Here, we review the clinical status of PDAC and recent research progress in targeting KRASG12D/V and discuss the potential applications.
High-Frequency Pulsed Electric Field Ablation in Beagle Model for Treatment of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Jeong Seung , Kim Song Hee , Kim Hongbae , Kang Jeon Min , Park Yubeen , Won Dong-Sung , Kim Ji Won , Ryu Dae Sung , Zeng Chu Hui , Chung Jong Hoon , Lim Bumjin , Park Jung-Hoon
Published: October 2022

Conventional irreversible electroporation (IRE) with low-frequency pulsed electric field (LF-PEF) is used to induce cell death; however, it has several disadvantages including a long procedure time and severe muscle contraction due to high-voltage electric field. This study investigates a novel IRE protocol with high-frequency pulsed electric field (HF-PEF) of 500 Hz repetition to ablate the prostate tissue in beagles for treatment of prostate cancer. A finite element analysis was performed to validate optimal electrical field strength for the procedure. In total, 12 beagles received HF-PEF of 500 Hz and were sacrificed at 4 h, 4 days, and 28 days (3 each). The remaining three beagles underwent sham procedure. The outcomes of HF-PEF were assessed by histological responses. HF-PEF successfully decellularized the prostate tissues 4 h after the treatment. The prostate glands, duct, and urethra were well preserved after IRE with HF-PEF. The ablated prostatic tissues were gradually regenerated and appeared similar to the original tissues 28 d after IRE with HF-PEF. Moreover, electrocardiography and hematology demonstrated that IRE with HF-PEF did not seriously affect the cardiac tissue. HF-PEF was effective and safe in the beagle prostate and effectively induced the ablation and gradually recovered with cellular regeneration.
Latest Advances in the Management of Pediatric Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors
Authors: Andrzejewska Marta , Czarny Jakub , Derwich Katarzyna
Published: October 2022

Gastrointestinal stromal tumor is the most common mesenchymal neoplasm of the gastrointestinal tract, usually found in elderly adults. It is infrequent among pediatric patients and usually differs biologically from adult-type diseases presenting mutations of KIT and PDGFR genes. In this population, more frequent is the wild-type GIST possessing SDH, TRK, RAS, NF1 mutations, among others. Both tumor types require individualized treatment with kinase inhibitors that are still being tested in the pediatric population due to the different neoplasm biology. We review the latest updates to the management of pediatric gastrointestinal tumors with a particular focus on the advances in molecular biology of the disease that enables the definition of possible resistance. Emerging treatment with kinase inhibitors that could serve as targeted therapy is discussed, especially with multikinase inhibitors of higher generation, the effectiveness of which has already been confirmed in the adult population.
Engineering Heterostructures of Layered Double Hydroxides and Metal Nanoparticles for Plasmon-Enhanced Catalysis
Authors: Gilea Diana , Ciocarlan Radu G. , Seftel Elena M. , Cool Pegie , Carja Gabriela
Published: October 2022

Artificially designed heterostructures formed by close conjunctions of plasmonic metal nanoparticles (PNPs) and non-plasmonic (2D) lamellar nanostructures are receiving extensive interest. The synergistic interactions of the nanounits induce the manifestation of localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) in plasmonic metals in the specific environment of the 2D-light absorbing matrix, impacting their potential in plasmon enhanced catalysis. Specifically, layered double hydroxides (LDH) with the advantages of their unique 2D-layered structure, tuned optical absorption, ease of preparation, composition diversity, and high surface area, have emerged as very promising candidates for obtaining versatile and robust catalysts. In this review, we cover the available PNPs/LDH heterostructures, from the most used noble-metals plasmonic of Au and Ag to the novel non-noble-metals plasmonic of Cu and Ni, mainly focusing on their synthesis strategies toward establishing a synergistic response in the coupled nanounits and relevant applications in plasmonic catalysis. First, the structure–properties relationship in LDH, establishing the desirable features of the 2D-layered matrix facilitating photocatalysis, is shortly described. Then, we address the recent research interests toward fabrication strategies for PNPs/support heterostructures as plasmonic catalysts. Next, we highlight the synthesis strategies for available PNPs/LDH heterostructures, how these are entangled with characteristics that enable the manifestation of the plasmon-induced charge separation effect (PICS), co-catalytic effect, or nanoantenna effect in plasmonic catalysis with applications in energy related and environmental photocatalysis. Finally, some perspectives on the challenges and future directions of PNPs/LDHs heterostructures to improve their performance as plasmonic catalysts are discussed.
Synthesis of Durian-like TiO2@CdS Core-Shell Structure and Study on H2 Generation Properties
Authors: Li Dongping , Chen Zeheng , Wang Xin , Zhong Zhenhong , Chen Chunjun , Wu Mengling
Published: October 2022

Novel durian-like TiO2@CdS core-shell particles were synthesized through a solvothermal method in ethylenediamine solution and the obtained nanocomposites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), and transmission electron microscopic (TEM) techniques. It can be seen from the characterization that the synthesized core-shell structured particles show uniform size. The possible formation mechanism of TiO2@CdS core-shell particles is also presented schematically. CdS grows on the TiO2 surface in the form of nanorods, turning the TiO2@CdS composite particles into durian-like structures. The durian-like TiO2@CdS core-shell particles prepared in the experiment can overcome the disadvantages of TiO2 and CdS, respectively. They not only produce a higher yield of H2 than pure TiO2; the durian-like TiO2@CdS nanostructures formed at 180 °C for 16 h produced 2.5 times as much H2 as did TiO2, also showing enhanced stability as compared with pure CdS.
Eco-Friendly Synthesis of Organo-Functionalized Mesoporous Silica for the Condensation Reaction
Authors: Rana Surjyakanta , Velázquez José J. , Jonnalagadda Sreekantha B.
Published: October 2022

Amine-functionalised mesoporous silica was prepared by the sonication method, a green approach. The method used aminopropyl trimethoxy silane as the amine source and tetraethyl orthosilicate as a silica source. We distinguished its performance compared to the amine-functionalised mesoporous silica sample prepared by the co-condensation method. The sonication method offered better catalytic activity. The amine-functionalised material was fully characterised by different characterisation techniques such as X-ray diffraction, FTIR, CHN, and SEM. The 12.8% of amine-functionalised material (12.A-MCM-41-S) gave excellent selectivity (98%) and conversion (95%). The activity remained almost unchanged for four cycles.
Impact of the Non-Uniform Catalyst Particle Size on Product Selectivities in Consecutive Reactions
Authors: García Juan Rafael , Bidabehere Claudia María , Sedran Ulises
Published: October 2022

The analysis of consecutive reactions A→B→C in porous catalyst particles, where the simultaneous processes of diffusion and chemical reactions take place and both reactant and products are subjected to diffusion limitations, was performed for catalyst particles with non-uniform sizes, a fact that has not been considered so far. The system comprises first-order consecutive irreversible reactions that proceed on spherical catalyst particles with a log-normal volume particle size distribution (PSD), which is typical in many catalytic applications. Regardless of the prevailing diffusion regime (chemical control, transition situation or intraparticle diffusion control), the yield of the intermediate product (B) reaches a maximum value as a function of the conversion of reactant (A), then decreases as a consequence of the prevalence of the secondary reaction that converts it into the secondary product (C). If intraparticle diffusion resistances affect the reactant species, given the relationship between the kinetic constants and the mean particle size, the selectivity to the intermediate product is negatively affected by the dispersion in PSD. The larger the dispersion in PSD, the stronger the negative impact.
Conversion of Sugarcane Trash to Nanocrystalline Cellulose and its Life Cycle Assessment
Authors: Wibowo Agung , Chiarasumran Nutchapon , Thanapimmetha Anusith , Saisriyoot Maythee , Srinophakun Penjit , Suriyachai Nopparat , Champreda Verawat
Published: October 2022

Sugarcane trash (SCT) is a promising, underutilized raw material for producing value-added bio-based materials. Nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) production conditions were obtained from the experiment. On the other hand, bioethanol production conditions were retrieved from the secondary data. This study compared the environmental impact of SCT in NCC production to that of bioethanol. For NCC production, SCT was subjected to organosolv pretreatment (140, 160, or 180 °C) in a mixed solvent system (methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK), ethanol, and water), bleached, and then hydrolyzed with different concentrations of sulfuric acid (50 and 58%) for varying times. Organosolv pretreatment at 180 °C removed 98.24 and 81.15% of the hemicellulose and lignin, respectively, resulting in 73.51 and 79.72% cellulose purity and recovery. In addition, bleaching increased the cellulose purity to 95.42%. Field Emission Transmission Electron Microscopy (FE-TEM) analysis showed that NCC’s small 2:1 elliptical particles were found at the hydrolysis of 50% H2SO4 for 45 min. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern revealed 70% crystalline index values for NCC obtained from 50% H2SO4 with 45 min retention times. Then, the optimum conditions of NCC production were used for LCA analysis (Sigmapro software). The analysis included global warming, marine ecotoxicity, fresh water, and human carcinogenic toxicity. NCC production’s electricity consumption (freeze-dried step) was the highest environmental impact on LCA analysis.
Distinct Mechanisms of Target Search by Endonuclease VIII-like DNA Glycosylases
Authors: Diatlova Evgeniia A. , Mechetin Grigory V. , Zharkov Dmitry O.
Published: October 2022

Proteins that recognize specific DNA sequences or structural elements often find their cognate DNA lesions in a processive mode, in which an enzyme binds DNA non-specifically and then slides along the DNA contour by one-dimensional diffusion. Opposite to the processive mechanism is distributive search, when an enzyme binds, samples and releases DNA without significant lateral movement. Many DNA glycosylases, the repair enzymes that excise damaged bases from DNA, use processive search to find their cognate lesions. Here, using a method based on correlated cleavage of multiply damaged oligonucleotide substrates we investigate the mechanism of lesion search by three structurally related DNA glycosylases—bacterial endonuclease VIII (Nei) and its mammalian homologs NEIL1 and NEIL2. Similarly to another homologous enzyme, bacterial formamidopyrimidine–DNA glycosylase, NEIL1 seems to use a processive mode to locate its targets. However, the processivity of Nei was notably lower, and NEIL2 exhibited almost fully distributive action on all types of substrates. Although one-dimensional diffusion is often regarded as a universal search mechanism, our results indicate that even proteins sharing a common fold may be quite different in the ways they locate their targets in DNA.
The Role of N6-Methyladenosine Modification in Microvascular Dysfunction
Authors: Zhang Ye-Ran , Ji Jiang-Dong , Wang Jia-Nan , Wang Ying , Zhu Hong-Jing , Sun Ru-Xu , Liu Qing-Huai , Chen Xue
Published: October 2022

Microvascular dysfunction (MVD) has long plagued the medical field despite improvements in its prevention, diagnosis, and intervention. Microvascular lesions from MVD increase with age and further lead to impaired microcirculation, target organ dysfunction, and a mass of microvascular complications, thus contributing to a heavy medical burden and rising disability rates. An up-to-date understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying MVD will facilitate discoveries of more effective therapeutic strategies. Recent advances in epigenetics have revealed that RNA methylation, an epigenetic modification, has a pivotal role in vascular events. The N6-methylation of adenosine (m6A) modification is the most prevalent internal RNA modification in eukaryotic cells, which regulates vascular transcripts through splicing, degradation, translation, as well as translocation, thus maintaining microvascular homeostasis. Conversely, the disruption of the m6A regulatory network will lead to MVD. Herein, we provide a review discussing how m6A methylation interacts with MVD. We also focus on alterations of the m6A regulatory network under pathological conditions. Finally, we highlight the value of m6A regulators as prognostic biomarkers and novel therapeutic targets, which might be a promising addition to clinical medicine.
Fetal Myocardial Expression of GLUT1: Roles of BPA Exposure and Cord Blood Exosomes in a Rat Model
Authors: Ermini Leonardo , Mandalà Maurizio , Cresti Laura , Passaponti Sofia , Patrussi Laura , Paulesu Luana , Thornburg Kent , Ietta Francesca
Published: October 2022

Dietary exposure to Bisphenol A (BPA), an industrial chemical present in food containers, affects nutrient metabolism in the myocardium of offspring during intrauterine life. Using a murine model, we observed that fetal hearts from mothers exposed to BPA (2.5 μg/kg/day) for 20 days before mating and for all of the gestation had decreased expression of glucose transporter-1 (GLUT1), the principal sugar transporter in the fetal heart, and increased expression of fatty acid cluster of differentiation 36 transporter (CD36), compared to control fetuses from vehicle-treated mothers. We confirmed the suppression of GLUT1 by exposing fetal heart organotypic cultures to BPA (1 nM) for 48 h but did not detect changes in CD36 compared to controls. During pregnancy, the placenta continuously releases extracellular vesicles such as exosomes into fetal circulation. These vesicles influence the growth and development of fetal organs. When fetal heart cultures were treated with cord blood-derived exosomes isolated from BPA-fed animals, GLUT1 expression was increased by approximately 40%. Based on our results, we speculate that exosomes from cord blood, in particular placenta-derived nanovesicles, could contribute to the stabilization of the fetal heart metabolism by ameliorating the harmful effects of BPA on GLUT1 expression.