bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Update and Drug Target in Molecular and Pharmacological Insights into Autophagy Modulation in Cancer Treatment and Future Progress
Authors: Rahman Md. Ataur , Saikat Abu Saim Mohammad , Rahman Md. Saidur , Islam Mobinul , Parvez Md. Anowar Khasru , Kim Bonglee
Published: February 2023

Recent evidence suggests that autophagy is a governed catabolic framework enabling the recycling of nutrients from injured organelles and other cellular constituents via a lysosomal breakdown. This mechanism has been associated with the development of various pathologic conditions, including cancer and neurological disorders; however, recently updated studies have indicated that autophagy plays a dual role in cancer, acting as a cytoprotective or cytotoxic mechanism. Numerous preclinical and clinical investigations have shown that inhibiting autophagy enhances an anticancer medicine’s effectiveness in various malignancies. Autophagy antagonists, including chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine, have previously been authorized in clinical trials, encouraging the development of medication-combination therapies targeting the autophagic processes for cancer. In this review, we provide an update on the recent research examining the anticancer efficacy of combining drugs that activate cytoprotective autophagy with autophagy inhibitors. Additionally, we highlight the difficulties and progress toward using cytoprotective autophagy targeting as a cancer treatment strategy. Importantly, we must enable the use of suitable autophagy inhibitors and coadministration delivery systems in conjunction with anticancer agents. Therefore, this review briefly summarizes the general molecular process behind autophagy and its bifunctional role that is important in cancer suppression and in encouraging tumor growth and resistance to chemotherapy and metastasis regulation. We then emphasize how autophagy and cancer cells interacting with one another is a promising therapeutic target in cancer treatment.
Kynurenine Pathway in Diabetes Mellitus—Novel Pharmacological Target?
Authors: Kozieł Kamila , Urbanska Ewa M.
Published: February 2023

The tryptophan–kynurenine pathway (Trp–KYN) is the major route for tryptophan conversion in the brain and in the periphery. Kynurenines display a wide range of biological actions (which are often contrasting) such as cytotoxic/cytoprotective, oxidant/antioxidant or pro-/anti-inflammatory. The net effect depends on their local concentration, cellular environment, as well as a complex positive and negative feedback loops. The imbalance between beneficial and harmful kynurenines was implicated in the pathogenesis of various neurodegenerative disorders, psychiatric illnesses and metabolic disorders, including diabetes mellitus (DM). Despite available therapies, DM may lead to serious macro- and microvascular complications including cardio- and cerebrovascular disease, peripheral vascular disease, chronic renal disease, diabetic retinopathy, autonomic neuropathy or cognitive impairment. It is well established that low-grade inflammation, which often coincides with DM, can affect the function of KP and, conversely, that kynurenines may modulate the immune response. This review provides a detailed summary of findings concerning the status of the Trp–KYN pathway in DM based on available animal, human and microbiome studies. We highlight the importance of the molecular interplay between the deranged (functionally and qualitatively) conversion of Trp to kynurenines in the development of DM and insulin resistance. The Trp–KYN pathway emerges as a novel target in the search for preventive and therapeutic interventions in DM.
The Role of Aquaporin 5 (AQP5) in Lung Adenocarcinoma: A Review Article
Authors: Jaskiewicz Lukasz , Romaszko-Wojtowicz Anna , Doboszynska Anna , Skowronska Agnieszka
Published: February 2023

Aquaporins (AQPs) are selective, transmembrane proteins, which are primarily responsible for the transport of water and small molecules. They have been demonstrated to play a key role in the development and progression of cancer. Lung adenocarcinoma is the most common primary lung cancer diagnosed in patients in Europe and the USA. The research done so far has provided firm evidence that some AQPs can be biomarkers for various diseases. The objective of this review article is to present a potential role of AQP5 in the development of lung adenocarcinoma. Original papers discussing the involvement of AQP5 in carcinogenesis and containing relevant clinical data were identified. In order to analyze the research material in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search of the ScienceDirect, Web of Science, and Pubmed databases was conducted. Out of the total number of 199 papers identified, 14 original articles were subject to analysis. This article presents the pathophysiological role of AQP5 in the biology of lung adenocarcinoma as well as its prognostic value. The analysis substantiates the conclusion that the prognostic value of AQP5 in lung cancer requires further research. Another aim of this paper is to disseminate knowledge about AQPs among clinicians.
An Inverse Agonist of Estrogen-Related Receptor Gamma, GSK5182, Enhances Na+/I− Symporter Function in Radioiodine-Refractory Papillary Thyroid Cancer Cells
Authors: Singh Thoudam Debraj , Lee Jae Eon , Son Kwang Hee , Lee Bo Ra , Kim Sang Kyoon , Gulwani Deepak , Sarangthem Vijaya , Jeon Yong Hyun
Published: February 2023

Previously, we reported that an inverse agonist of estrogen-related receptor gamma (ERRγ), GSK5182, enhances sodium iodide (Na+/I−) symporter (NIS) function through mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase signaling in anaplastic thyroid cancer cells. This finding helped us to further investigate the effects of GSK5182 on NIS function in papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) refractory to radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy. Herein, we report the effects of ERRγ on the regulation of NIS function in RAI-resistant PTC cells using GSK5182. RAI-refractory BCPAP cells were treated with GK5182 for 24 h at various concentrations, and radioiodine avidity was determined with or without potassium perchlorate (KClO4) as an NIS inhibitor. We explored the effects of GSK5182 on ERRγ, the mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase pathway, and iodide metabolism-related genes. We examined whether the MAP pathway affected GSK5182-mediated NIS function using U0126, a selective MEK inhibitor. A clonogenic assay was performed to evaluate the cytotoxic effects of I-131. GSK5182 induced an increase in radioiodine avidity in a dose-dependent manner, and the enhanced uptake was completely inhibited by KClO4 in BCPAP cells. We found that ERRγ was downregulated and phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 was upregulated in BCPAP cells, with an increase in total and membranous NIS and iodide metabolism-related genes. MEK inhibitors reversed the increase in radioiodine avidity induced by GSK5182. Clonogenic examination revealed the lowest survival in cells treated with a combination of GSK5182 and I-131 compared to those treated with either GSK518 or I-131 alone. We demonstrate that an inverse agonist of ERRγ, GSK5182, enhances the function of NIS protein via the modulation of ERRγ and MAP kinase signaling, thereby leading to increased responsiveness to radioiodine in RAI-refractory papillary thyroid cancer cells.
Djck1α Is Required for Proper Regeneration and Maintenance of the Medial Tissues in Planarians
Authors: Huang Yongding , Sun Yujia , Guo Yajun , Ma Mengwen , Zhang Shoutao , Tian Qingnan
Published: February 2023

CK1α (Casein kinase 1α) is a member of the casein kinase 1(CK1) family that is involved in diverse cellular processes, but its functions remain unclear in stem cell development. Freshwater planarians are capable of whole-body regeneration, making it a classic model for the study of regeneration, tissue homeostasis, and polarity in vivo. To investigate the roles of CK1α in regeneration and homeostasis progress, we characterize a homolog of CK1α from planarian Dugesia japonica. We find that Djck1α, which shows an enriched expression pattern in the nascent tissues, is widely expressed especially in the medial regions of planarians. Knockdown of CK1α by RNAi presents a thicker body due to dorsal hyperplasia, along with defects in the medial tissues including nerve proliferation, missing epidermis, intestine disturbance, and hyper-proliferation during the progression of regeneration and homeostasis. Moreover, we find that the ck1α RNAi animals exhibit expansion of the midline marker slit. The eye deficiency induced by slit RNAi can be rescued by ck1α and slit double RNAi. These results suggest that ck1α is required for the medial tissue regeneration and maintenance in planarian Dugesia japonica by regulating the expression of slit, which helps to further investigate the regulation of planarian mediolateral axis.
Finding the Proportion of Females with Autistic Spectrum Disorder Who Develop Anorexia Nervosa, the True Prevalence of Female ASD and Its Clinical Significance
Authors: McCrossin Robert
Published: February 2023

It appears that up to 80% of females with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) have not been diagnosed by the age of 18. This translates to a prevalence of about 5–6%, and if true, has serious implications for female mental health. One way of finding the true value is to use Bayes’ Theorem with a comorbid condition as a more easily recognizable flag. An obvious choice is anorexia nervosa (AN), but it transpires that the proportion of women with ASD who develop AN is unknown. This study uses published data in novel ways to provide two methods of estimating a range for this variable, and gives a median value of 8.3% for AN in ASD and, with four other methods, a median prevalence of 6% for female ASD. The clinical implications of the diagnosis and management of ASD and its comorbidities are discussed and, as an example, a solution is provided for the rate of ASD in symptomatic generalized joint hypermobility. It is probable that one in six women with a mental health condition is autistic.
Disarm The Bacteria: What Temperate Phages Can Do
Authors: Zhou Shiyue , Liu Zhengjie , Song Jiaoyang , Chen Yibao
Published: February 2023

In the field of phage applications and clinical treatment, virulent phages have been in the spotlight whereas temperate phages received, relatively speaking, less attention. The fact that temperate phages often carry virulent or drug-resistant genes is a constant concern and drawback in temperate phage applications. However, temperate phages also play a role in bacterial regulation. This review elucidates the biological properties of temperate phages based on their life cycle and introduces the latest work on temperate phage applications, such as on host virulence reduction, biofilm degradation, genetic engineering and phage display. The versatile use of temperate phages coupled with their inherent properties, such as economy, ready accessibility, wide variety and host specificity, make temperate phages a solid candidate in tackling bacterial infections.
Long-Exposure Air and Steam Oxidation Characteristics of IN 617 Alloys
Authors: Karthikeyan Rishikesh , Seshadri Satyanaryanan , Sarma V Subramanya , Kamaraj M
Published: February 2023

India’s growing power demands and emission norms require more efficient coal-based power plants. The shifting of power plants from subcritical to ultra-supercritical (USC) steam conditions could improve efficiency by 12% and reduce CO2 emissions by 35%. There is a need to develop and qualify materials under ultra-supercritical steam conditions with high temperatures and high pressures in laboratory scale. The sample materials were exposed to high temperatures of 700 °C under air and high pressure steam at 700 °C/243 bars for 1000 h in as-received and grain-boundary-enhanced conditions. Grain boundary enhancement included optimization of a thermo-mechanical process involving cold rolling and annealing of samples. The effect of air and steam oxidation on IN 617, a nickel-based candidate superalloy, was analysed. Steam oxidation was performed on a custom-built PARR 4650 series autoclave, and the oxidized samples were characterised under scanning electron microscopy, to evaluate the oxide scales. The grain-boundary-engineered material performed better than the as-received samples. IN 617 overall fared better under both air and steam conditions, with far less weight gains.
Ball-Milling Preparation of La3+/TiO2 Photocatalyst and Application in Photodegradation of PVC Plastics
Authors: Zhang Yan , Sun Tianyi , Zhang Dashuai , Li Chen , Liu Jinrui , Li Bangsen , Shi Zaifeng
Published: February 2023

The fact that the use of a large number of plastic products has brought serious pollution to the environment has always been the focus of global attention. The development of photocatalytic degradable plastics is one of the effective ways to solve the problem of “white pollution”. In this work, La3+ modified TiO2 nanoparticles were prepared by ball milling and characterized. La3+/TiO2 was mixed with Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic to make a photodegradable composite film, and the photodegradation performance and mechanical properties of films were evaluated. The photodegradable films were characterized by infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffractometry (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). After 30 h UV irradiation, the weight loss rate of the PVC was only 2.12%, while that of the TiO2/PVC reached 8.94%. The accelerating of the degradation rate was due to the mixing of TiO2 into PVC. As for the La3+/TiO2/PVC composite film, when the mass percentage of La3+/TiO2 was 1.5%, the weight loss rate of La3+/TiO2/PVC sample reached a maximum of 17.78%, which was eight times the degradation rate of PVC and two times the degradation rate of TiO2/PVC. The La3+/TiO2/PVC film showed good photodegradability. La is a transition metal element with a special 4f electronic structure. The reaction mechanism of photodegradation of PVC by the interaction of La3+ and TiO2 were discussed.
Oxidation Behavior of NiCoCrAlY Coatings Deposited by Vacuum Plasma Spraying and High-Velocity Oxygen Fuel Processes
Authors: Kim Junseong , Pyeon Janghyeok , Kim Bong-Gu , Khadaa Tserendorj , Choi Hyeryang , Zhe Lu , Dube Tejesh , Zhang Jing , Yang Byung-il , Jung Yeon-gil , Yang SeungCheol
Published: February 2023

To reduce the formation of detrimental complex oxides, bond coatings in the thermal barrier coatings for gas turbines are typically fabricated using vacuum plasma spraying (VPS) or the high-velocity oxygen fuel (HVOF) process. Herein, VPS and HVOF processes were applied using NiCoCrAlY + HfSi-based powder to assess the oxidation behavior of the bond coatings for both coating processes. Each coated sample was subjected to 50 cyclic heat treatments at 950 °C for 23 h and cooling for 1 h at 20 °C with nitrogen gas, and the weight change during the heat treatment was measured to evaluate the oxidation behavior. After the oxidation test, the coating layer was analyzed with X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The VPS coating exhibited faster weight gain than the HVOF coating because the alumina particles generated during the initial formation of the HVOF coating inhibited oxidation and diffusion. The VPS coating formed a dense and thick thermal growth oxide (TGO) layer until the middle of the oxidation test and remained stable until the end of the evaluation. However, the HVOF coating demonstrated rapid weight loss during the final 20 cycles. Alumina within the bond coat suppressed the diffusion of internal elements and prevented the Al from being supplied to the surface. The isolation of the Al accelerated the growth of spinel TGO due to the oxidation of Ni, Co, and Cr near the surface. The as-coated VPS coating showed higher hardness and lower interfacial bonding strength than the HVOF did. Diffusion induced by heat treatment after the furnace cyclic test (FCT) led to a similar internal hardness and bonding strengths in both coating layers. To improve the quality of the HVOF process, the densification of the coating layer, suppression of internal oxide formation, and formation of a dense and uniform alumina layer on the surface must be additionally implemented.
A Simple and Effective Method to Adjust the Structure and Performance of DLC Films on Polymethyl Methacrylate(PMMA) Substrate
Authors: Bu Yinzhong , Yu Kaihuan , Zhang Bin , Kuang Bin , Qiang Li
Published: February 2023

DLC (diamond-like carbon) films were prepared on Ti/PMMA(polymethyl methacrylate) under the different bias; the principal purpose of this study is to explore structural differences of films on Ti/PMMA with and without conductive material, and to further clarify the role of the conductive Ti interlayer in influencing the deposition mechanism. The results indicate that the films deposited on Ti/PMMA with conductive material exhibit uniform DLC structure and mechanical hardness when the bias voltage is ≥550 V. Furthermore, the deposited DLC does not change the wettability of PMMA, while the addition of the Ti interlayer virtually increases the risk of peeling off of the film. The results of the tribological study demonstrate the films on Ti/PMMA with conductive material have better tribological properties than those without conductive adhesive. This research work can provide basic theoretical guidance for depositing uniform DLC films on PMMA and even on all non-conductive substrates.
An Experimental Investigation into Residual Stress Control of 24CrNiMo Alloy Steel by Selective Laser Melting
Authors: Chen Yong , Rong Peng , Men Xiangnan , Deng Ailin , Liu Yan , Chen Hui , Zhang Zhenlin , Liu Yue , Ren Lisha
Published: February 2023

Residual stresses are a major problem in SLM forming of large-sized parts of high-performance materials. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of scanning strategy, preheating temperature, and heat treatment on residual stresses in SLM formed high-strength steels. An experimental method was used to investigate the residual stresses in SLM forming of high-strength steels. The peak and distribution of residual stresses can be changed by optimizing the scanning strategy. The most suitable scanning method is the strip rotation scanning strategy. The optimum substrate preheating temperature is 200 °C, and the residual stress of SLM forming can be significantly reduced by 62.5%. The annealing temperature has a clear effect on the residual stress release, and also has an impact on the microstructure and mechanical properties. After annealing treatment at 550 °C for 3 h, the residual stresses can be effectively released, while the uniformity of microstructure and mechanical properties is improved. Finally, the control strategy of residual stress, microstructure and mechanical properties of 24CrNiMo high-strength steel was obtained.
Novel Alumina Dispersion-Strengthened 316L Steel Produced by Attrition Milling and Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: Ben Zine Haroune Rachid , Horváth Zsolt Endre , Balázsi Katalin , Balázsi Csaba
Published: February 2023

Alumina dispersion-strengthened 316L stainless steels were successfully produced using attrition milling and spark plasma sintering. Two different composites (316L/0.33 wt% and 316L/1 wt% Al2O3) were prepared by powder technology. The attrition milling produced a significant morphological transformation of the globular 316L starting powders and provided a homogeneous distribution of the nanosized alumina particles. The XRD results confirmed that the 316L steel was an austenitic γ-Fe3Ni2. The formation of a ferrite α-Fe phase was detected after milling; this was transformed to the austenitic γ-Fe3Ni2 after the sintering process. The addition of nanosized alumina particles increased the composites’ microhardness significantly to 2.25 GPa HV. With higher amounts of alumina, the nanosized particles tended to agglomerate during the milling process. The friction coefficient (FC) of the 316L/0.33 wt% Al2O3 and the 316L/1 wt% Al2O3 decreased because of the increase in the composite’s hardness; FC values of 0.96, 0.93 and 0.85, respectively, were measured respectively for the 316L reference, the 316L/0.33 wt% and the 316L/1 wt% Al2O3. The 316L/0.33 wt% Al2O3 composite had a higher flexural strength of 630.4 MPa compared with the 316L/1 wt% Al2O3 with 386.6 MPa; the lower value of the latter was related the agglomeration of the alumina powder during attrition milling.
The Perspectives of Hydrophobic Coatings for Mitigating Icing on Atmospheric Structures
Authors: Jiang Xingliang , Zhuo Yizhi , Wang Peng , Yang Mengyu , Liao Yongli , Chen Baohui
Published: February 2023

Ice accumulation on atmospheric structures will result not only in inconvenience to human activities, but also various catastrophic events. Many anti-icing coatings have been developed for anti-ice accretion on various atmospheric structures. However, such mitigating icing performances and developments in practical applications are restricted by various factors. Therefore, current mitigating icing coatings are far from practical implementation. Rough and smooth hydrophobic coatings have demonstrated their potential for mitigating ice formation. To advance the development of mitigating icing coatings, a perspective of hydrophobic coatings for mitigating icing is in need. Herein, this paper categorizes the mitigating icing coatings by their wettability firstly. Then, we recap the state-of-the-art hydrophobic coatings for mitigating icing. Afterwards, we point out the deficiency and limitations of current coatings for anti-icing. At last, we provide a perspective of future trends and development directions. This perspective review can guide the design of mitigating icing coatings towards practical implementation.
A Microfluidic Approach to Investigate the Contact Force Needed for Successful Contact-Mediated Nucleation
Authors: Kaysan Gina , Hirsch Theresa , Dubil Konrad , Kind Matthias
Published: February 2023

Emulsions with crystalline dispersed phase fractions are becoming increasingly important in the pharmaceutical, chemical, and life science industries. They can be produced by using two-stage melt emulsification processes. The completeness of the crystallization step is of particular importance as it influences the properties, quality, and shelf life of the products. Subcooled, liquid droplets in agitated vessels may contact an already crystallized particle, leading to so-called contact-mediated nucleation (CMN). Energetically, CMN is a more favorable mechanism than spontaneous nucleation. The CMN happens regularly because melt emulsions are stirred during production and storage. It is assumed that three main factors influence the efficiency of CNM, those being collision frequency, contact time, and contact force. Not all contacts lead to successful nucleation of the liquid droplet, therefore, we used microfluidic experiments with inline measurements of the differential pressure to investigate the minimum contact force needed for successful nucleation. Numerical simulations were performed to support the experimental data obtained. We were able to show that the minimum contact force needed for CMN increases with increasing surfactant concentration in the aqueous phase.
Nanostructure, Mechanical Properties, and Corrosion Resistance of Super Duplex Stainless Steel 2507 Aged at 500 °C
Authors: Yuan Ye , Yuan Sui , Wang Yifei , Li Qikang , Deng Zize , Xie Yinsong , Ke Yubin , Xu Jian , Yu Hongying , Sun Dongbai , Xu Xin
Published: February 2023

In order to investigate the effect of phase separation (PS) on the super duplex stainless steel SAF 2507, the evolution of the nanostructure, mechanical properties, and corrosion resistance of the alloy was studied after aging at 500 °C for 1, 10, 100, and 1000 h. The nanostructure of PS was quantitatively characterized by small-angle neutron scattering. The hardness, impact toughness, and pitting corrosion resistance were measured for different conditions. The results show that the early stage of PS had a more significant impact on the nanostructure and properties of SAF 2507. The fracture behavior of the alloy was likely determined by the mechanical properties of ferrite for aged conditions. The pitting corrosion resistance of SAF 2507 aged at 500 °C was closely related to the Cr depletion caused by PS, and the resistance became weaker with the progression of PS. The evolution of the passivation region with aging time correlated well with that of mechanical properties and characteristic parameters of PS, indicating that it is possible to develop a new nondestructive electrochemical method to quantify the evolution of PS in SAF 2507.
Characterization of the Plastid Genome of the Vulnerable Endemic Indosasa lipoensis and Phylogenetic Analysis
Authors: Wu Ming-Li , Yan Rong-Rong , Xu Xue , Gou Guang-Qian , Dai Zhao-Xia
Published: February 2023

Indosasa lipoensis, an ornamental garden plant, belongs to the Indosasa genus of the subfamily Bambooaceae within Poaceae. Indosasa lipoensis is endangered and requires protection owing to its relatively narrow distribution area. Chloroplast (cp) genome offers a novel awareness of the evolutionary and genetic variation of higher plants. Herein, we assembled and elucidated the complete cp genome of I. lipoensis, and compared it with four previously published cp genomes from this genus. The I. lipoensis cp genome was 139,655 bp in size, with a typical quadripartite structure, encompassing a large single-copy region (LSC, 83,256 bp), a small single-copy region (SSC, 12,809 bp), and a pair of inverted repeat regions (IR, 21,795 bp). The cp genome consisted of 130 genes with 84 protein-coding genes (CDS), 38 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. The plastomes were highly conservative, compared to other bamboo species, and exhibited similar patterns of codon usage, number of repeat sequences, and expansion and contraction of the IR boundary. Five hypervariable hotspots were identified as potential DNA barcodes, namely rbcL, petA, petB, trnL-UAG, and ndhE-ndhI, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis based on the complete cp genomes revealed, with high resolution, that I. lipoensis and I. gigantea were most closely related. Overall, these results provided valuable characterization for the future conservation, genetic evaluation, and the breeding of I. lipoensis.
Fungal Diversity in Korean Caves and Cave-Inhabiting Bats with Attention to Pseudogymnoascus Species
Authors: Kim Young-Sik , Lee Sook-Young , Chung Chul-Un , Park Jun-Soo , Kim Yoon-Ji , Oem Jae-Ku
Published: February 2023

Pseudogymnoascus is a psychrophilic fungus, which is a genus widely distributed in cold regions around the world. Recently, the presence of Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd), the causative agent of white-nose syndrome (WNS) belonging to Pseudogymnoascus, has been reported in neighboring countries of Korea. However, no investigation on Pd has been reported in Korea. In this study, cave-inhabiting bats and their habitats were investigated in terms of the diversity of cave fungi, and we tried to confirm the presence of Pd. Three caves suspected of hosting Pd were selected, and 83 environmental and 53 bat samples were collected. A total of 154 fungal strains belonging to 31 different genera were isolated, and 20 of 154 were confirmed to belong to Pseudogymnoascus. Pd-diagnostic PCR was performed to check whether Pd was present in the isolated Pseudogymnoascus, and seven positives were confirmed. However, phylogenetic analyses revealed that no isolates belonged or were closely related to the clade with Pd. Although samples were collected from limited areas, undescribed Pseudogymnoascus species were isolated, and it was confirmed that Korean isolates were distributed in various clades. In conclusion, it is hypothesized that Korean Pseudogymnoascus presents high diversity.
Host Migration and Size Do Not Influence the Prevalence of Most Chewing Lice (Phthiraptera: Amblycera and Ischnocera) on Shorebirds (Aves: Charadriiformes) across the World
Authors: Grossi Alexandra Ashley , Lee Myung-Bok , Tian Chunpo , Zou Fasheng , Choi Chi-Yeung , Gustafsson Daniel Roland
Published: February 2023

Patterns of prevalence in chewing lice (Phthiraptera) on wild birds are poorly known, as are the underlying factors that influence these patterns. Here, we analyze a data set consisting of published prevalence data of lice on shorebirds, as well as new prevalence data from shorebirds examined in Australia, Canada, China, Japan, and Sweden between 2007 and 2020. In total, prevalence data from 10 genera of lice from over 110 host species were included, including all major families of shorebirds. Using a generalized linear mixed model, we examine how the prevalence of lice of different genera varies between different sets of birds, focusing on two factors associated with migration (migration length and migration route). We found that host body size does not influence prevalence of lice in the Charadriiformes for any of the four most common and widely distributed louse genera (Actornithophilus, Austromenopon, Quadraceps, and Saemundssonia). Moreover, neither of the two migration variables showed any statistically significant correlations with prevalence, except for the genus Saemundssonia in which the prevalence of lice on short-distance migrants was significantly higher than on intermediate- and long-distance migrants. We also present 15 new records of chewing lice for China and 12 for Australia.
Potential Threat of an Invasive Fish Species for Two Native Newts Inhabiting Wetlands of Europe Vulnerable to Climate Change
Authors: Pupins Mihails , Nekrasova Oksana , Marushchak Oleksii , Tytar Volodymyr , Theissinger Kathrin , Čeirāns Andris , Skute Arturs , Georges Jean-Yves
Published: February 2023

In the modern world, when the problems of the environment are most acutely associated with climate change, amphibians are considered to be the most vulnerable group of anamniotes as an indicator of the state of wetlands. Along with a decrease of numbers among amphibians in Europe, nowadays newts especially suffer from the impact of invasive species, in particular predators such as the Chinese sleeper, Perccottus glenii. This predatory fish species has recently spread to areas of primary relevance for newt reproduction. This fish consumes eggs, larvae, and even adult newt individuals. Using an ecological niche approach and climate based species distribution models (SDM), we applied the coefficient of determination (R2) for comparing the level of similarity of the built SDM for the newts Triturus cristatus and Lissotriton vulgaris, and the Chinese sleeper. We show that by 2050, the level of climatic niche similarity for these native and invasive species will increase from 12% to 22% throughout Europe, and from 44% to 66% in Eastern Europe. This study highlights the expansion of the Chinese sleeper as a real threat to European biodiversity of wetlands in the near future, especially in their most northeastern distribution range.
Information-Seeking in Education for Creative Solving of Design and Engineering Problems
Authors: Slătineanu Laurențiu , Coteață Margareta , Hrițuc Adelina , Beșliu-Băncescu Irina , Dodun Oana
Published: February 2023

The paper aims to highlight the significance and place of information-seeking in finding improved solutions in the design of innovative products. The observation method was used to identify a way to increase the efficiency of searching for information needed when pursuing a creative solution to a design problem. The study was based on the experience gained in professional activities in higher education for industrial engineering and in the classes held for two academic subjects, when students’ creativity was stimulated, including in the search for information. One conclusion is that an experienced designer or researcher should make sketches and notes immediately after formulating the design objective. In this way, the possible inhibitory influence exerted by the results of a deep search for information could be avoided. In the case of a novice designer, it may be necessary to have a minimum collection of general information in the design topic field to familiarize the designer more with the problem addressed. The novice designer could thus develop a few sketches and notes and then go through a deeper stage of information-seeking. Another conclusion was that a certain minimum amount of scientific and technical knowledge is necessary to use technical creativity effectively.
Transitioning to Telehealth during COVID-19: Experiences and Insights from Diabetes Prevention and Management Program Providers in Los Angeles County
Authors: Bullock Sally L. , Menendez Telma , Schwarte Liz , Craypo Lisa , Mosst Jennifer T. , Green Gabrielle , Barragan Noel C. , Kuo Tony
Published: February 2023

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 accelerated the efforts of several organizations providing the National Diabetes Prevention Program (National DPP) and the Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES) program to rapidly transition from in-person service delivery to program administration via telehealth. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 35 National DPP and DSMES experts and providers in Los Angeles County to gain a better understanding of the challenges and benefits associated with this transition. Interviews were completed during June to October 2021. Thematic analyses were performed using the Social-Ecological Model as a guiding framework. The analyses revealed several factors that influenced the transition, including at the individual (e.g., technology and health behaviors), interpersonal (e.g., social connections and support), organizational (e.g., provider workload and program enrollment and retention), community (e.g., recruitment), and policy (e.g., government support and reimbursement for telehealth services) levels. Findings suggest that the transition to telehealth was challenging for most National DPP and DSMES providers. However, because of its lower cost, ability to reach long distances virtually, and potential efficiency when employed as part of a hybrid approach, this delivery modality remains viable, offering benefits beyond the traditional program models.
A Systematic Review of Application Progress on Machine Learning-Based Natural Language Processing in Breast Cancer over the Past 5 Years
Authors: Li Chengtai , Weng Ying , Zhang Yiming , Wang Boding
Published: February 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been steadily developing in the medical field in the past few years, and AI-based applications have advanced cancer diagnosis. Breast cancer has a massive amount of data in oncology. There has been a high level of research enthusiasm to apply AI techniques to assist in breast cancer diagnosis and improve doctors’ efficiency. However, the wise utilization of tedious breast cancer-related medical care is still challenging. Over the past few years, AI-based NLP applications have been increasingly proposed in breast cancer. In this systematic review, we conduct the review using preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) and investigate the recent five years of literature in natural language processing (NLP)-based AI applications. This systematic review aims to uncover the recent trends in this area, close the research gap, and help doctors better understand the NLP application pipeline. We first conduct an initial literature search of 202 publications from Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, Google Scholar, and the Association for Computational Linguistics (ACL) Anthology. Then, we screen the literature based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Next, we categorize and analyze the advantages and disadvantages of the different machine learning models. We also discuss the current challenges, such as the lack of a public dataset. Furthermore, we suggest some promising future directions, including semi-supervised learning, active learning, and transfer learning.
A Novel Temporal Network-Embedding Algorithm for Link Prediction in Dynamic Networks
Authors: Abbas Khushnood , Abbasi Alireza , Dong Shi , Niu Ling , Chen Liyong , Chen Bolun
Published: February 2023

Understanding the evolutionary patterns of real-world complex systems such as human interactions, biological interactions, transport networks, and computer networks is important for our daily lives. Predicting future links among the nodes in these dynamic networks has many practical implications. This research aims to enhance our understanding of the evolution of networks by formulating and solving the link-prediction problem for temporal networks using graph representation learning as an advanced machine learning approach. Learning useful representations of nodes in these networks provides greater predictive power with less computational complexity and facilitates the use of machine learning methods. Considering that existing models fail to consider the temporal dimensions of the networks, this research proposes a novel temporal network-embedding algorithm for graph representation learning. This algorithm generates low-dimensional features from large, high-dimensional networks to predict temporal patterns in dynamic networks. The proposed algorithm includes a new dynamic node-embedding algorithm that exploits the evolving nature of the networks by considering a simple three-layer graph neural network at each time step and extracting node orientation by using Given’s angle method. Our proposed temporal network-embedding algorithm, TempNodeEmb, is validated by comparing it to seven state-of-the-art benchmark network-embedding models. These models are applied to eight dynamic protein–protein interaction networks and three other real-world networks, including dynamic email networks, online college text message networks, and human real contact datasets. To improve our model, we have considered time encoding and proposed another extension to our model, TempNodeEmb++. The results show that our proposed models outperform the state-of-the-art models in most cases based on two evaluation metrics.
A Parallel Multiobjective PSO Weighted Average Clustering Algorithm Based on Apache Spark
Authors: Ling Huidong , Zhu Xinmu , Zhu Tao , Nie Mingxing , Liu Zhenghai , Liu Zhenyu
Published: February 2023

Multiobjective clustering algorithm using particle swarm optimization has been applied successfully in some applications. However, existing algorithms are implemented on a single machine and cannot be directly parallelized on a cluster, which makes it difficult for existing algorithms to handle large-scale data. With the development of distributed parallel computing framework, data parallelism was proposed. However, the increase in parallelism will lead to the problem of unbalanced data distribution affecting the clustering effect. In this paper, we propose a parallel multiobjective PSO weighted average clustering algorithm based on apache Spark (Spark-MOPSO-Avg). First, the entire data set is divided into multiple partitions and cached in memory using the distributed parallel and memory-based computing of Apache Spark. The local fitness value of the particle is calculated in parallel according to the data in the partition. After the calculation is completed, only particle information is transmitted, and there is no need to transmit a large number of data objects between each node, reducing the communication of data in the network and thus effectively reducing the algorithm’s running time. Second, a weighted average calculation of the local fitness values is performed to improve the problem of unbalanced data distribution affecting the results. Experimental results show that the Spark-MOPSO-Avg algorithm achieves lower information loss under data parallelism, losing about 1% to 9% accuracy, but can effectively reduce the algorithm time overhead. It shows good execution efficiency and parallel computing capability under the Spark distributed cluster.
Towards a Link between Quantitative and Qualitative Sciences to Understand Social Systems Using the Example of Informal Settlements
Authors: Friesen John
Published: February 2023

Urbanization is one of the defining trends of our time and appropriate models are needed to anticipate the changes in cities, which are largely determined by human behavior. In the social sciences, where the task of describing human behavior falls, a distinction is made between quantitative and qualitative approaches, each of which has its own advantages and disadvantages. While the latter often provide descriptions of exemplary processes in order to describe phenomena as holistically as possible, the goal of mathematically motivated modeling is primarily to make a problem tangible. Both approaches are discussed in terms of the temporal evolution of one of the dominant settlement types in the world today: informal settlements. These areas have been modeled in conceptual works as self-organizing entities and in mathematical works as Turing systems. It is shown that the social issues surrounding these areas need to be understood both qualitatively and quantitatively. Inspired by the philosopher C. S. Peirce, a framework is proposed in which the various modeling approaches describing these settlements can be combined to arrive at a more holistic understanding of this phenomenon by using the language of mathematical modeling.
A Novel Contrastive Self-Supervised Learning Framework for Solving Data Imbalance in Solder Joint Defect Detection
Authors: Zhou Jing , Li Guang , Wang Ruifeng , Chen Ruiyang , Luo Shouhua
Published: February 2023

Poor chip solder joints can severely affect the quality of the finished printed circuit boards (PCBs). Due to the diversity of solder joint defects and the scarcity of anomaly data, it is a challenging task to automatically and accurately detect all types of solder joint defects in the production process in real time. To address this issue, we propose a flexible framework based on contrastive self-supervised learning (CSSL). In this framework, we first design several special data augmentation approaches to generate abundant synthetic, not good (sNG) data from the normal solder joint data. Then, we develop a data filter network to distill the highest quality data from sNG data. Based on the proposed CSSL framework, a high-accuracy classifier can be obtained even when the available training data are very limited. Ablation experiments verify that the proposed method can effectively improve the ability of the classifier to learn normal solder joint (OK) features. Through comparative experiments, the classifier trained with the help of the proposed method can achieve an accuracy of 99.14% on the test set, which is better than other competitive methods. In addition, its reasoning time is less than 6 ms per chip image, which is in favor of the real-time defect detection of chip solder joints.
Modeling and Stability Analysis Based on Internal Voltage Dynamics in Synchronverter
Authors: Zhang Yao , Mou Jiajun , Zhang Fan , Huang Na
Published: February 2023

With the large-scale centralized penetration of renewable energy represented by wind turbine and photovoltaic power generation, the equivalent inertia and synchronous torque of traditional power grids have decreased, which is worsening the frequency dynamics and threatening the stability and reliability of power grids. Virtual synchronous generators (VSGs) are a type of grid-friendly inverter in microgrids (MGs) that mimic rotational synchronous generators (SGs) to maintain system stability with the increasing penetration of power electronic converters. In this paper, the stability analysis method of one type of VSG, synchronverter, is investigated based on internal voltage dynamics. The torque components affecting the stability mechanism of synchronizing, inertia, and damping torque is introduced, which offers a physical insight into transient stability and dynamic performance. Insufficiency in either damping or synchronizing torque would increase the unstable possibility. The characterization method of stability mechanisms can be illustrated by the phasor diagram of synchronverter internal voltage. Some cases under different disturbances which change the pattern of synchronizing and damping torque and in turn influence the internal voltage dynamics of synchronverters, are also discussed. In addition, an auxiliary correction control loop is proposed and added in the synchronverter control loop to enhance the robustness of the synchronverter against disturbances. The tunable coefficient of the correction loop is analyzed based on the internal voltage method. Simulation results verify the validity of the internal voltage stability method in synchronverters.
3D Point Cloud Stitching for Object Detection with Wide FoV Using Roadside LiDAR
Authors: Lan Xiaowei , Wang Chuan , Lv Bin , Li Jian , Zhang Mei , Zhang Ziyi
Published: February 2023

Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) is widely used in the perception of physical environment to complete object detection and tracking tasks. The current methods and datasets are mainly developed for autonomous vehicles, which could not be directly used for roadside perception. This paper presents a 3D point cloud stitching method for object detection with wide horizontal field of view (FoV) using roadside LiDAR. Firstly, the base detection model is trained by KITTI dataset and has achieved detection accuracy of 88.94. Then, a new detection range of 180° can be inferred to break the limitation of camera’s FoV. Finally, multiple sets of detection results from a single LiDAR are stitched to build a 360° detection range and solve the problem of overlapping objects. The effectiveness of the proposed approach has been evaluated using KITTI dataset and collected point clouds. The experimental results show that the point cloud stitching method offers a cost-effective solution to achieve a larger FoV, and the number of output objects has increased by 77.15% more than the base model, which improves the detection performance of roadside LiDAR.
Real Estate App Development Based on AI/VR Technologies
Authors: Miljkovic Ivana , Shlyakhetko Olena , Fedushko Solomiia
Published: February 2023

This paper deals with an investigation centered on developing a real estate app on the basis of Artificial Intelligence and Virtual Reality technologies. The study explores the advantages and disadvantages of using Artificial Intelligence and Virtual Reality technologies in real estate. The main focus of the study was on AI/VR applications that have importance for the real estate industry. This paper explains how AI and VR technologies can benefit the real estate market. VR and AI technologies have had a long history in the academic world since the middle of the last century, but not at the same level, due to the lack of large amounts of data and computational power required for both technologies. In recent years, the expansion of IT technologies has helped to remove the technical obstacles, which is why the interest in VR and AI technologies has acutely increased in society and the public over the past several years. Not only the research and abstract ideas of the virtual world but also the feasibility of companies from different industries are becoming more and more relevant. In particular, when it comes to virtual reality, the focus is on 360° images. With special cameras, the entire environment can be captured in a three-dimensional space and then cut together in such a way that the viewer can actually look around in this room and monitor events from his perspective. This opens the possibility of presenting different content in a completely new way. Technical shortcomings currently hamper the feeling of true immersion in virtual worlds. A detailed literature review provides the necessary theoretical basis for artificial intelligence and virtual reality with a particular emphasis on its use in the real estate industry.