bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FIRST-PRINCIPLES SIMULATION: STUDY OF THE STRUCTURAL, ELECTRONIC, MECHANICAL AND OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF DISULFIDE XS2 (X=Ta, Ti) COMPOUNDS FOR OPTOELECTRONIC APPLICATIONS
Authors: KHALIL R. M. ARIF , HUSSAIN MUHAMMAD IQBAL , ARSHAD SABA , HUSSAIN FAYYAZ , RANA ANWAR MANZOOR , JAVED HAFIZ M. ASIF
Published: April 2022

First-principles simulation has been performed to investigate the structural, electronic and optical properties of two disulfide compounds, i.e. [Formula: see text]S2 ([Formula: see text], Ti). The properties are examined through the density functional theory (DFT) with the implementation of Cambridge series total energy package (CASTEP) code. As regards, the structural and electronic analyses are done by Perdew–Burke–Ernzerhof-generalized gradient approximation (PBE-GGA) and hybrid Heyd–Scuseria–Ernzerhof (HSE06) functional and their results are compared herewith. The values of lattice parameters obtained through geometry optimization for TaS2 with GGA and HSE06 are [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]Å and [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]Å and [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]Å and [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]Å, respectively, while for TiS2 these parameters are found as [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]Å and [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]Å. These values are found in agreement with the experimental values. The electronic band structure, as well as density of states (DOS) of these structures, show their semiconducting nature with the direct bandgap of 1.9[Formula: see text]eV (PBE-GGA) and 2.05[Formula: see text]eV (HSE06) for TaS2 and 0.09[Formula: see text]eV (PBE-GGA) and 0.13[Formula: see text]eV (HSE06) for TiS2. The mechanical study of these compounds also has been anticipated using Voigt–Reuss–Hill approximation under the pressure range 0–30[Formula: see text]GPa to show their stability by calculating the elastic parameters, i.e. Young’s modulus, bulk and shear modulus, Poisson’s ratio, Pugh’s ratio and anisotropic factor. The analysis of optical properties divulges that TiS2 material possesses maximum absorptivity in the UV range of incident photon’s energy with minimum energy loss and decrease in reflectivity. Our comprehensive study about the considered compounds delineates them as potential candidates for technological applications in optoelectronic devices.
ELECTROCHEMICAL MIGRATION FAILURE OF PURE TIN UNDER BROMIDE-POLLUTED THIN ELECTROLYTE LAYER
Authors: ZENG QIAO , CHEN HUIKAN , LIAO BOKAI , GUO XINGPENG
Published: April 2022

The electrochemical migration (ECM) time to failure (TTF) tests for pure tin in the bromide-containing environment were carried out using the thin electrolyte layer (TEL) method. In-situ electrochemical measurement was made to monitor the ECM behavior while the changes of surface morphology and localized pH during the ECM process were real-time observed using the 3D optical digital microscope. Microstructure and composition of products obtained after the ECM tests were characterized using the scanning electron microscope, energy-dispersive spectrometer and X-ray diffractometer. Results indicated that the growth rate of dendrite increased with bromide ion concentration at low bromide concentration levels, and it decreased at medium concentration levels. Tree-like tin dendrites covered with white precipitates are formed after the ECM tests. As for the high bromide ion concentration condition, no dendrite can be found and a thick layer of precipitate is formed between the twin electrodes. This precipitate layer has a higher thickness than the electrolyte layer, which can act as a barrier layer retarding ionic migration and thus inhibiting the ECM failure. Relevant mechanism has been proposed to clarify the effect of bromide ions on the ECM of pure tin under the thin electrolyte layer.
DIVIDENDS AND COMPOUND POISSON PROCESSES: A NEW STOCHASTIC STOCK PRICE MODEL
Authors: GANKHUU BATTULGA , KLEINOW JACOB , LKHAMSUREN ALTANGEREL , HORSCH ANDREAS
Published: April 2022

This study introduces a stochastic multi-period dividend discount model (DDM) that includes (i) a compound nonhomogenous Poisson process for dividend growth and (ii) the probability of firm default. We obtain maximum likelihood (ML) estimators and confidence interval formulas of our model parameters. We apply the model to a set of firms from the S&P 500 index using historical dividend and price data over a 42-year period. Interestingly, stock price estimations calculated with the model are close to the observable prices. Overall, we prove that the model can be a useful tool for stock pricing.
A Review on Synthesis and Applications of Tungsten Oxide Nanoparticles and their Polymer Composites
Authors: Rashmi S. N. , Chandrashekar H. K. , Sangamesha M. A. , Sankarshan B. M.
Published: April 2022

In recent times, nanomaterials have attracted the interest of the scientific community with their superior applications when compared to bulk counterparts. Tungsten oxide (WO3) nanoparticles (NPs) with their distinct properties such as electrochemical, photocatalytic, photoluminescent and gas sensing capabilities, are highly sought out. With these distinct properties, WO3NPs find significant application in device fabrication. This review provides an overview of the different synthesis methods, the properties and applications of tungsten oxide and doped tungsten oxide. The enhanced properties of WO3NPs with doping are also discussed in detail. In addition, this review also emphasizes on properties of WO3polymer nanocomposite and their applications in several areas of human enterprise.
A Bayesian Deep Learning Network System Based on Edge Computing
Authors: Liu Lei
Published: April 2022

According to a study of health centers across the country, the physical health state is evaluated through a log-based, multi-access physical monitoring program and the accompanying challenges they face in their lifestyle. The deficiency of important nutrients is causing organ degradation, which in turn causes a wide range of health issues, especially for newborns, children, and adults. The physical activities of children and teenagers must be constantly monitored to eliminate issues in their lives through a smart environment. Physical monitoring systems with many access points, information needs, and accurate health-status diagnoses are becoming increasingly important in today’s fast-paced world. In eliminating problems from their lives, a smart environment must constantly monitor the physical activities of children and teenagers. There is a growing need for physical monitoring systems with multiple access points, information needs, and accurate health-status diagnoses in today’s human–robot interactive communication process rapidly changing world. Smart-log patches incorporating researchers have developed and tested sensors for the Internet of Things (IoT) in this study. The smart-log patch is a Bayesian deep learning network system that is based on edge computing (BDLN-EC) to infer and recognize various physical data gathered from people. Deep learning-driven wireless communication is described in signal analysis, encoding and decoding, security and privacy, channel estimation, and compression sensing. Deep learning-driven wireless connectivity intuitions and methodologies are the focus of our work. Wearable IoT systems with multimedia capabilities have been tested and evaluated for accuracy, efficacy, error, and energy usage.
Discrete System Insights of Logistic Quota Harvesting Model: A Fuzzy Difference Equation Approach
Authors: Alamin Abdul , Rahaman Mostafijur , Mondal Sankar Prasad , Chatterjee Banashree , Alam Shariful
Published: April 2022

Optimal harvesting modeling is a matter of great importance for the sustainability of the eco-system. It is customary to consider the population dynamics in a continuous frame of time. In this paper, a discrete analogue of the study of the Logistic quota harvesting model under uncertainty is developed. The corresponding mathematical model is discussed in terms of nonlinear fuzzy difference equation. Different possible combinations of the fuzzy initial conditions and fuzzy coefficients are used for the manifestation of the difference equation. The equilibrium points and the subsequent stability analysis are carried out with the help of the characterization theorem which converts the fuzzy difference equation to a system of crisp difference equations. The numerical and graphical simulation are practiced to make a clear insight advocated by this study.
Significant Solar Thermal Conversion Properties of Ethylene Glycol Nanofluids Enhanced by Carbon Chain Nanostructures
Authors: Wang Jiayao , Zhang Wei , Wu Daxiong , Zhang Canying , Zhu Haitao
Published: April 2022

Nanofluids are promising in solar harvesting and solar thermal utilization. Ethylene glycol (EG) nanofluids have the advantages of high boiling point and low volatility, and therefore are highly desired in some circumstances. In this study, the solar harvesting and solar thermal conversion properties of EG were significantly enhanced by carbon chain nanostructures (CCNSs). The prepared CCNSs/EG nanofluids showed greater optical absorption compared to EG in the wavelength range from 250[Formula: see text]nm to 1400[Formula: see text]nm. The solar weighted absorption factor (Am) of the CCNSs/EG nanofluids was 95.9% at the mass fraction of 0.05 wt.%. The enhancement was 649.2% compared to that of EG. The photothermal conversion efficiency was determined to be 97.7% and the enhancement of 83.0% was achieved. An enhancement of 1.2% in thermal conductivity was also been observed. These enhancements can be ascribed to the special architectures of the CCNSs that provide fast transfer path for the generated heat.
H2O2-sensitive nanoscale coordination polymers for photoacoustic tumors imaging viain vivochromogenic assay
Authors: Zhao Jiayue , Gong Fei , Yang Nailin , Lei Huali , Han Zhihui , Yang Yuqi , Cheng Liang
Published: April 2022

Photoacoustic (PA) imaging with much deeper tissue penetration and better spatial resolution had been widely employed for the prevention and diagnosis of many diseases. In this study, a new type of hydrogen peroxide (H2O[Formula: see text]-activated photoacoustic nanoprobe [Mn-AH nanoscale coordination polymer nanodots (NCPs)] was successfully synthesized by a simple one-step method in water phase containing 2,2[Formula: see text]-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), horse radish peroxidase (HRP), and manganese ion (Mn[Formula: see text]. After modification by polyethylene glycol (PEG), Mn-AH NCPs exhibited excellent stability and biocompatibility for in vivo H2O2-responsive chromogenic assay with great specificity and sensitivity. In the presence of H2O2, colorless ABTS would be converted by HRP into the oxidized form with strong near-infrared (NIR) absorbance, enabling photoacoustic detection of endogenous H2O2. Using H2O2-activated Mn-AH NCPs, we have successfully performed PA imaging and H2O2detection of subcutaneous murine colon CT26 tumor and deep-seated orthotopic bladder tumor. Due to the inherent Mn element existence inside the Mn-AH, this nanoprobe also serves as a good T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent simultaneously. Lastly, after accomplishing its imaging functions, the Mn-AH NCPs could be cleared out from the body without any long-term toxicity, providing a new opportunity for cancer diagnosis and treatment.
A multivocal literature review on record management potential components in CRUD operation for web application development
Authors: Anuar Asyraf Wahi , Kama Nazri , Azmi Azri , Rusli Hazlifah Mohd
Published: April 2022

In recent years, web application frameworks have been widely practised by many developers to increase programming productivity as the frameworks are more flexible, rapidly built using CRUD operation, MVC-based, secure and most of them are published under an open-source license which will reduce the final cost of development. Although the CRUD automation in the web application framework boosts the development process, there are many important aspects of a web application absent from the CRUD output. Therefore, this multivocal literature review investigates the record management aspects that are required in modern WA and the perceived benefit of integrating the record management aspect into CRUD operation. The study extracted 284 publications from respectable scientific resources and the grey resources literature created by WA development practitioners outside academic mediums. After a detailed review process, only 14 scientific primary studies and 13 gray studies were considered for this review based on defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The review shows that the most important aspects required in WA are search, role-based access control, retention, appraisal, search, audit trail, digital archiving, sharing, reporting, inactive files management and several other features. These important aspects have been analyzed and characterized according to its function and features. The method and procedure for integrating the specified aspect into CRUD operation are identified and discussed. Integrating and implementing the specified record management features into CRUD operation will boost the WA development productivity by producing more features as a standard output with integrated record management functions.
Training room management based on speech recognition and artificial intelligence
Authors: Xiao Honglan
Published: April 2022

This paper starts from the basic principles of speech recognition, starting from acoustic models and features, and applies deep convolutional neural networks to speech recognition processing. It also introduces the overall process of speech recognition and mainstream algorithms to classify and summarize the speech recognition system. Due to the technological innovation of speech recognition and offline speech recognition systems, we found that traditional systems have low interactivity, poor flexibility, poor recognition command library, and other problems. We provide solutions for this paper according to the specific application environment. This paper introduces the design and implementation of an artificial intelligence teaching management system based on the Internet of Things (IoT) technology. Based on the design of the entire system, the system databases such as the video surveillance module, artificial intelligence security module, and remote control module are designed and realized the functions of these modules. Finally, RFID technology and database technology will be used to realize the informatization of training room personnel and equipment management, and the positioning and storage inspection of training room equipment. Secondly, from the perspective of environmental monitoring of the training room, temperature/ humidity sensors and optical sensors are used to complete the collection of real-time environmental data in the training room, thereby transmitting the data to the host system. It realizes the pairing through the Zigbee wireless communication module. Real-time monitoring of training room and management system. This paper introduces speech recognition and artificial intelligence into the management system of the training room so that the training can be better recorded and managed.
Can Investors Benefit from Hedge Fund Strategies? Utility-Based, Out-of-Sample Evidence
Authors: Guidolin Massimo , Orlov Alexei G.
Published: April 2022

We report systematic, out-of-sample evidence on the benefits to an already well-diversified investor that may derive from further diversification into various hedge fund strategies. We investigate dynamic strategic asset allocation decisions that take into account investors’ preferences, realistic transaction costs, return predictability, and the parameter uncertainty that such predictability implies. Our results suggest that not all hedge fund strategies benefit a long-term investor who is already well-diversified across stocks, government and corporate bonds, and REITs. However, when parameter uncertainty is accounted for, the best performing models offer net positive economic gains to investors with low and moderate risk aversion. Most of the realized economic value fails to result from mean-variance-type enhancements in realized performance but comes instead from an improvement in realized higher-moment properties of optimal portfolios.
An Immersion and Invariance Controller for Aerial Manipulation
Authors: Luna Aarón López , Cortés Hugo Rodríguez , Vega Israel Cruz , Martinez-Carranza Jose
Published: April 2022

For aerial manipulators, a steady flight must be guaranteed to perform safe interaction with the surrounding environment. This paper focuses on the development of a position control algorithm for an aerial manipulator system (AMS). The position control algorithm is based on the Immersion and Invariance (I&I) theory. The proposed controller maintains the position of the aerial manipulator at the desired point under external and internal disturbances. The control architecture uses a Visual-SLAM technique using on-board sensors for AMS positioning. A series of outdoor experimental tests are performed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy.
A data-driven exploration of the race between human labor and machines in the 21
st
century
Authors: Park Jiyong , Kim Jongho
Published: April 2022

To understand automation and the future of work, this study explores how human labor competes, or cooperates, with technology in performing a range of tasks.
Neural networks learn to speed up simulations
Authors: Edwards Chris
Published: April 2022

Physics-informed machine learning is gaining attention, but suffers from training issues.
Cybersecurity as illuminator for the future of computing research
Authors: Wroclawski John , Benzel Terry
Published: April 2022

Considering the shifting fundamentals of cybersecurity research.
Entropy Change Characteristics for Sodium Ion Half/Full Cells Based on Na3V2(PO4)3 and Hard Carbon Materials
Authors: Wei Fanglin , Li Pengzhao , Zhang Qiaoping , Shao Guosheng , Mao Jing
Published: April 2022

Understanding the entropy change (ΔS) characteristics of Hard carbon ∣∣ Na3V2(PO4)3 full cell is crucial for its long cycle life and high safety. This work investigated the thermodynamic data of sodium ion half/full cells based on Na3V2(PO4)3 and hard carbon material. The results show that the trend of ΔS for Na ∣∣ Na3V2(PO4)3 exhibits great change at 0%–10% and 90%–100% SOCs (states of charge), and remains constant (≈−14.54 J·mol−1·k−1) in 10%–90% SOCs, which is consistent with the characteristics of two-phase reaction. Whereas the ΔS of Na ∣∣ hard carbon (HC) remains essentially constant (≈8.30 J·mol−1·k−1) in the most Na+ concentration, fluctuating in the range of 3.17–11.71 J·mol−1·k−1. Notably, ΔS shows a negative value (−6.09 J·mol−1·k−1) at x = 0.3 (x in Na
x
C) and is close to 0 J·mol−1·k−1 at x = 1.0. The HC ∣∣ Na3V2(PO4)3 full cell entropy change is basically constant (≈−19.56 J·mol−1·k−1) in 10%–90% SOCs, and reaches a peak at 60% SOC (−10.75 J·mol−1·k−1), indicating the ΔS of full cell is mainly influenced by Na3V2(PO4)3 electrode. Based on thermodynamic entropy change characteristics, this work aims to provide a reliable reference to the storage, transportation, thermal management, and safety boundary for batteries.
Charge–Discharge Behavior of Graphite Negative Electrodes in FSA-Based Ionic Liquid Electrolytes: Comparative Study of Li-, Na-, K-Ion Systems
Authors: Yamamoto Takayuki , Yadav Alisha , Nohira Toshiyuki
Published: April 2022

K-ion batteries utilizing ionic liquid (IL) electrolytes are promising candidates for next-generation batteries because of the abundance of potassium resources, low redox potential of potassium, and high safety of ILs. Our major interest is in the comprehensive understanding of electrochemical alkali metal intercalation/deintercalation into graphite negative electrodes, because graphite can easily form graphite intercalation compounds (GICs) with various ionic species, but not with sodium. In this study, we investigated the potassium storage mechanism of graphite negative electrodes in bis(fluorosulfonyl)amide (FSA)-based ILs, and compared the electrochemical GIC formation of Li-, Na-, and K-ion systems. Charge–discharge tests of graphite in K[FSA]–[C3C1pyrr][FSA] IL (C3C1pyrr = N-methyl-N-propylpyrrolidinium) at 313 K yielded an initial discharge capacity as high as 268 mAh (g-C)−1, leading to the formation of several K-GICs including stage-3 KC36, stage-2 KC24, and stage-1 KC8. The rate capability and long-term cycling tests indicated stable potassiation/depotassiation behavior for 225 cycles. A comparison of the electrochemical behavior of graphite among M[FSA]–[C3C1pyrr][FSA] (M = Li, Na, and K) ILs at 298 K indicated that the formation of binary M-GICs is localized in the potential range below −2.85 V vs. Fc+/Fc (Fc = ferrocene), which possibly hinders Na-GIC formation.
T-cell factor 7L2 is a novel regulator of osteoblast functions that acts in part by modulation of hypoxia signaling
Authors: Mohan Subburaman , Kesavan Chandrasekhar
Published: April 2022

TCF7L2 is expressed by bone but it was not known whether TCF7L2 expression influenced bone development. By using a mouse model with conditional disruption of Tcf7l2 in osteoblast lineage cells, we have demonstrated for the first time, to our knowledge, that TCF7L2 plays an important role in regulating osteoblasts via a noncanonical pathway.
Contributions of afferent and sympathetic renal nerves to cystogenesis and arterial pressure regulation in a preclinical model of autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease
Authors: Gauthier Madeline M. , Dennis Melissa R. , Morales Mark N. , Brooks Heddwen L. , Banek Christopher T.
Published: April 2022

This is the first study to dissect the contributions of renal sympathetic and afferent innervation in the PCK rat, a preclinical model of autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease. We demonstrated that resting afferent renal nerve activity is greater in the PCK rat than noncystic controls and that basal afferent renal nerve activity is directly correlated with the extent of renal cystogenesis.
Comparative transcriptome analysis of experimental cryptorchidism: of mice and cynomolgus monkeys
Authors: Zheng Zhan-Hong , Tian Qing , He Jia-Peng , Yuan Jing-Li , Yang Shi-Hua , Liu Ji-Long
Published: April 2022

In most mammalian species, the testis descends from the abdomen into the scrotum during fetal or neonatal life. The failure of testicular descent, a pathological condition known as cryptorchidism, has long been the subject of scientific interest in a wide range of fields, including medicine, developmental biology, and evolutionary biology. In this study, we analyzed global gene expression changes associated with experimental cryptorchidism in mice by using RNA-seq. A total of 453 differentially expressed genes were identified, of which 236 genes were upregulated, and 217 genes were downregulated. Gene ontology, pathway, and gene network analysis highlighted the activation of inflammatory response in experimental cryptorchidism. By examining the promoter regions of differentially expressed genes, we identified 12 causal transcription factors. In addition, we also induced experimental cryptorchidism in two cynomolgus monkeys and performed RNA-seq. A cross-species comparison was performed at the gene expression level. Our study provides a valuable resource for further understanding the molecular mechanisms of cryptorchidism in mammals.
An Integrated Fault Diagnosis Method for Rotating Machinery Based on Smoothness Priors Approach Fluctuation Dispersion Entropy and Density Peak Clustering
Authors: Ge Hongping , Huang Zhaohui , Liu Huaying
Published: April 2022

In order to fully excavate the fault feature information of rotating machinery and accurately recognize the fault category, a novel fault diagnosis method was proposed, which combines with smoothness priors approach (SPA), fluctuation dispersion entropy (FDE), and density peak clustering (DPC). Firstly, the smoothness priors approach is used to decompose the collected vibration signal of rotating machinery to obtain the trend term and detrend term. Secondly, the fault features of the trend term and detrend term were quantified by fluctuation dispersion entropy to construct eigenvector matrix. Finally, the eigenvector matrix was input into the density peak clustering algorithm for fault recognition and classification. The proposed novel algorithm was applied to the experimental data of the rotating machinery under various working conditions. The experimental results show that our method can precisely identify various fault patterns of rotating machinery. Moreover, our approach can attain higher recognition accuracy than other combination clustering model algorithms involved in this paper.
Vehicle Routing Simulation for Prediction of Commuter’s Behaviour
Authors: Szufel Przemysław , Pankratz Bartosz , Szczurek Anna , Kamiński Bogumił , Prałat Paweł
Published: April 2022

We propose a multiagent, large-scale, vehicle routing modeling framework for the simulation of transportation system. The goal of this paper is twofold. Firstly, we investigate how individual and social knowledge interact and ultimately influence the effectiveness of resulting traffic flow. Secondly, we evaluate how different discrete-event simulation designs (delays vs. queuing) affect conclusions within the model. We present a new agent-based model that combines the efficient discrete-event approach to modeling with the intelligent drivers who are capable to learn about their environment in the long-term perspective from both, individual experience, and widely available social knowledge. The approach is illustrated as practical application to modeling commuter behavior in the city of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. All simulations in the paper are fully reproducible as they have been carried out by utilizing a set of opensource libraries and tools that we have developed for the Julia programming language and that are openly available on GitHub.
Evaluation of Satellite Rainfall Products over the Mahaweli River Basin in Sri Lanka
Authors: Perera Helani , Fernando Shalinda , Gunathilake Miyuru B. , Sirisena T. A. J. G. , Rathnayake Upaka
Published: April 2022

The availability of accurate spatiotemporal rainfall data is of utmost importance for reliable predictions from hydroclimatological studies. Challenges and limitations faced due to the absence of dense rain gauge (RG) networks are seen especially in the developing countries. Therefore, alternative rainfall measurements such as satellite rainfall products (SRPs) are used when RG networks are scarce or completely do not exist. Noteworthy, rainfall data retrieved from satellites also possess several uncertainties. Hence, these SRPs should essentially be validated beforehand. The Mahaweli River Basin (MRB), the largest river basin in Sri Lanka, is the heart of the country’s water resources contributing to a significant share of the hydropower production and agricultural sector. Given the importance of the MRB, this study explored the suitability of SRPs as an alternative for RG data for the basin. Daily rainfall data of six types of SRPs were extracted at 14 locations within the MRB. Thereafter, statistical analysis was carried out using continuous and categorical evaluation indices to evaluate the accuracy of SRPs. Nonparametric tests, including the Mann-Kendall and Sen’s slope estimator tests, were used to detect the possibility of trends and the magnitude, respectively. Integrated MultisatellitE Retrievals for Global Precipitation Measurement (IMERG) outperformed among all SRPs, while Precipitation Estimation from Remotely Sensed Information using Artificial Neural Networks (PERSIANN) products showed dire performances. However, IMERG also demonstrated underestimations when compared to RG data. Trend analysis results showcased that the IMERG product agreed more with RG data on monthly and annual time scales while Tropical Rainfall Measurement Mission Multisatellite Precipitation Analysis–3B42 (TRMM-3B42) agreed more on the seasonal scale. Overall, IMERG turned out to be the best alternative among the SRPs analyzed for MRB. However, it was clear that these products possess significant errors which cannot be ignored when using them in hydrological applications. The results of the study will be valuable for many parties including river basin authorities, agriculturists, meteorologists, hydrologists, and many other stakeholders.
Plin5, a New Target in Diabetic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Cui Xiangning , Wang Jingwu , Zhang Yang , Wei Jianliang , Wang Yan
Published: April 2022

Abnormal lipid accumulation is commonly observed in diabetic cardiomyopathy (DC), which can create a lipotoxic microenvironment and damage cardiomyocytes. Lipid toxicity is an important pathogenic factor due to abnormal lipid accumulation in DC. As a lipid droplet (LD) decomposition barrier, Plin5 can protect LDs from lipase decomposition and regulate lipid metabolism, which is involved in the occurrence and development of cardiovascular diseases. In recent years, studies have shown that Plin5 expression is involved in the pathogenesis of DC lipid toxicity, such as oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and insulin resistance (IR) and has become a key target of DC research. Therefore, understanding the relationship between Plin5 and DC progression as well as the mechanism of this process is crucial for developing new therapeutic approaches and exploring new therapeutic targets. This review is aimed at exploring the latest findings and roles of Plin5 in lipid metabolism and DC-related pathogenesis, to explore possible clinical intervention approaches.
circ-0007707/miR-429/PDGFD Pathway Regulates the Progression of Gastric Cancer by Modulating the Immune-Gene Signature
Authors: Yang Yang , Kang Weibiao , Yuan Yu , Duan Chen , Chen Wei , Yu Changjun
Published: April 2022

Background. Immunotherapy is an important treatment modality for gastric cancer, therefore, it is crucial to understand the regulators of the tumor microenvironment in gastric cancer. Numerous studies have shown that noncoding RNAs have a critical status in the tumor progression, and the influence of competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks on gastric adenocarcinoma has been widely discussed over the years, but the connection between ceRNA networks and the immune microenvironment of cancer is unclear. This study was aimed at exploring how ceRNA networks influence the prognosis of patients with gastric cancer by modulating the tumor microenvironment. Methods. The Gene Expression Omnibus was analyzed to obtain differential expression matrixes of the noncoding RNAs (circular RNAs (circRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs)), and mRNAs. The Circular RNA Interactome web tool and TargetScan were applied to determine the miRNA binding sites of the circRNAs and miRNA target genes. The Cancer Genome Atlas provided prognostic genes for gastric cancer, and Cytoscape created the ceRNA networks. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and western blot assay were adopted to find out how the ceRNA network regulates the expression of the hub gene. Additionally, the TISIDB and TIMER databases were used to assess the link between the hub gene and immunotherapy, with TISIDB providing the immune genes that are coexpressed with the hub gene. Furthermore, the immune-gene signature was constructed by using Cox regression analysis. Moreover, the nomogram, which could predict the prognostic role of gastric cancer patients was created on the basis of the immune-gene signature. Results. In gastric cancer, the circ-0007707/miR-429/PDGFD pathway had a differential expression. The results demonstrated that the pathway could regulate the progression and immune microenvironment of gastric cancer by modulating the immune-gene signature, which included two immune genes (TAB1 and CXCR4). Moreover, the low-risk group patients had better survival. Conclusion. The circ-0007707/miR-429/PDGFD pathway may play a regulatory role in the progression and prognosis of gastric cancer by interfering with the tumor microenvironment, and the PDGFD-related immune-gene signature could be considered a moderator of prognostic factor for gastric cancer and to guide immunotherapy programs.
Comparison of the Type and Severity of Nasal Septal Deviation between Chronic Rhinosinusitis Patients Undergoing Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery and Controls
Authors: Nikkerdar Nafiseh , Karimi Atena , Bazmayoon Fatemeh , Golshah Amin
Published: April 2022

Objectives. Some correlations have been proposed between chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and type and severity of nasal septal deviation. This study sought to compare the type and severity of nasal septal deviation between CRS patients undergoing functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) and asymptomatic controls using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and Methods. This prospective case-control study evaluated 49 CRS patients who did not respond to pharmaceutical therapy and were candidates for FESS and 49 asymptomatic controls. All participants underwent CBCT and were inspected for septal deviation type and severity. Data were analyzed by the independent t-test and chi-square test. Results. The study population comprised of 58.25% males and 41.8% females, with a mean age of 33.74 ± 11.78 years. Significant correlations were noted between the presence of CRS and severity of septal deviation (

P
=
0.007

). Type of septal deviation had no significant correlation with the presence of CRS (

P
=
0.443

). Conclusion. Patients with CRS have significantly more severe nasal septal deviation. However, type of septal deviation is not correlated with CRS.
Gegen Qinlian Decoction Relieves Ulcerative Colitis via Adjusting Dysregulated Nrf2/ARE Signaling
Authors: Lin Chuan , Zhou Zehua , Zhang Lijun , Wang Hongqing , Lu Jie , Wang Xinhong , An Rui
Published: April 2022

Objective. Oxidative stress has been proven to be essential in the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC). Therefore, this study was designed to investigate the effect of Gegen Qinlian decoction (GQ) on the Nrf2 pathway in the treatment of UC and explore the potential mechanism. Methods. The UC rat model was induced by 5% dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) aqueous solution, and UC rats were treated with GQ orally. The effect of GQ on UC rats was recorded. Human clonal colon adenocarcinoma cells (Caco-2) stimulated by tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were employed in this study. After being stimulated with TNF-α for 2 hours, Caco-2 cells were cultured with GQ or its major components (puerarin, baicalin, berberine, and liquiritin) for 22 hours. In addition, the Nrf2 gene of Caco-2 cells was silenced and then cultured with GQ for 22 hours. The contents of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), and malondialdehyde (MDA) in colonic tissues and Caco-2 cells were detected by assay kits. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) in Caco-2 cells were analyzed by flow cytometry. Quantitative real-time PCR and western blot were employed to detect the mRNA and protein expression of Nrf2 and its related target genes in colon tissues and Caco-2 cells. Results. GQ alleviated the injured colonic mucosa and activated the expression of Nrf2 in UC rats. In TNF-α stimulated Caco-2 cells and Nrf2 silenced Caco-2 cells, GQ also reversed the inhibitory effect of Nrf2. Furthermore, the major components of GQ could activate Nrf2 signaling in TNF-α stimulated cells as well. Moreover, the contents of SOD, GSH, MDA, and ROS were restored to normal after treatment with GQ or its major components. Among these components, puerarin, berberine, and liquiritin appear to have a better effect on activating Nrf2 in vitro. Overall, GQ can alleviate UC by increasing the activity of Nrf2/ARE signaling and enhancing the effect of antioxidant stress.
Paclitaxel-Containing Extract Exerts Anti-Cancer Activity through Oral Administration in A549-Xenografted BALB/C Nude Mice: Synergistic Effect between Paclitaxel and Flavonoids or Lignoids
Authors: Cai Dake , Jin Jing , Bi Huichang , Zhong Guoping , Zhou Minhua , Guo Jianfen , Cai Yike , Liang Miaoyin , Gu Qiong , Hu Zixuan , Lai Yijing , Dai Zi , Li Lingjie , Chen Yuxing , Gao Haili , Huang Min
Published: April 2022

Taxus yunnanensis is a paclitaxel-containing herb with traditional usage in cancer treatment, and its extract possesses great oral bioavailability of paclitaxel. However, it is elusive whether paclitaxel-containing extract (HDS-1) can exert anti-tumor effect through oral administration and how other components contribute to its efficacy. Therefore, we investigate the oral-route anti-tumor effect of HDS-1 in A549-bearing mice. HDS-1-derived flavonoids (HDS-2) and lignoids (HDS-3) are hypothesized to contribute to HDS-1’s efficacy, and their effects of enhancing enterocytic absorption and cytotoxicity of paclitaxel are validated in 2 permeability experiments and apoptosis-related assay, respectively. In vivo, A549 growth is significantly inhibited by 86.1 ± 12.94% (P<0.01) at 600 mg/kg of HDS-1 and 65.7 ± 38.71% (P<0.01) at 200 mg/kg. HDS-2 and HDS-3 significantly reduce the efflux ratio of paclitaxel to 2.33 and 3.70, respectively, in Caco-2 permeability experiment and reduce paclitaxel reflux in MDCK-MDR1 experiment. Furthermore, HDS-2 and HDS-3 potentiated paclitaxel-induced cytotoxicity by 19.1–22.45% (P<0.05) and 10.52–18.03% (P<0.05), respectively, inhibited the expression of cyclinB1, Bcl-2, and pMCL-1, and increased the percentage of necrosis cell in the condition of paclitaxel exposure. Conclusively, paclitaxel-containing extracts exert anti-cancer effects through oral administration, and flavonoid and lignoids contribute to its anti-cancer effect through simultaneously improving enterocytic absorption of paclitaxel and the cytotoxic effect of paclitaxel.
Early Identification, Accurate Diagnosis, and Treatment of Silicosis
Authors: Li Tian , Yang Xinyu , Xu Hong , Liu Heliang
Published: April 2022

Silicosis is a global problem, and it has brought about great burdens to society and patients’ families. The etiology of silicosis is clear, preventable, and controllable, but the onset is hidden and the duration is long. Thus, it is difficult to diagnose it early and treat it effectively, leaving workers unaware of the consequences of dust exposure. As such, a lack of details in the work history and a slow progression of lung disease contribute to the deterioration of patients until silicosis has advanced to fibrosis. These issues are the key factors impeding the diagnosis and the treatment of silicosis. This article reviews the literature on the early identification, diagnosis, and treatment of silicosis as well as analyzes the difficulties in the diagnosis and the treatment of silicosis and discusses its direction of future development.
HO-1 Contributes to Luteolin-Triggered Ferroptosis in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma via Increasing the Labile Iron Pool and Promoting Lipid Peroxidation
Authors: Han Shangting , Lin Fangyou , Qi Yucheng , Liu Cong , Zhou Linxiang , Xia Yuqi , Chen Kang , Xing Ji , Liu Zilin , Yu Weimin , Zhang Yunlong , Zhou Xiangjun , Rao Ting , Cheng Fan
Published: April 2022

Ferroptosis, a novel form of regulated cell death characterized by disrupted iron metabolism and the accumulation of lipid peroxides, has exhibited enormous potential in the therapy of cancer particularly clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Luteolin (Lut), a natural flavonoid widely existing in various fruits and vegetables, has been proven to exert potent anticancer activity in vitro and in vivo. However, previous studies on the anticancer mechanism of Lut have been shown in apoptosis but not ferroptosis. In the present study, we identified that Lut substantially inhibited the survival of ccRCC in vitro and in vivo, and this phenomenon was accompanied by excessively increased intracellular Fe2+ and abnormal depletion of GSH. In addition, Lut induced the imbalance of mitochondrial membrane potential, classical morphological alterations of mitochondrial ferroptosis, generation of ROS, and occurrence of lipid peroxidation in an iron-dependent manner in ccRCC cells. However, these alterations induced by Lut could be reversed to some extent by the iron ion chelator deferiprone or the ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin-1, indicating that ccRCC cells treated with Lut underwent ferroptosis. Mechanistically, molecular docking further established that Lut probably promoted the heme degradation and accumulation of labile iron pool (LIP) by excessively upregulating the HO-1 expression, which led to the Fenton reaction, GSH depletion, and lipid peroxidation in ccRCC, whereas blocking this signaling pathway evidently rescued the Lut-induced cell death of ccRCC by inhibiting ferroptosis. Altogether, the current study shows that the natural compound monomer Lut exerted anticancer efficacy by excessively upregulating HO-1 expression and activating LIP to trigger ferroptosis in ccRCC and could be a promising and potent drug candidate for ccRCC treatment.
Spectral Velocity of the Ground Surface in Alluvial Soils due to the Presence of Circular Urban Subway Tunnels
Authors: Fakhriyeh Hamed , Vahdani Reza , Gerami Mohsen
Published: April 2022

In this study, the effect of urban subway tunnels with a circular cross section on the spectral velocity of the ground surface in alluvial soils was investigated. By changing the soil characteristics of the tunnel construction site and the geometric characteristics of the tunnel section (such as the radius and thickness of the lining and the depth of its placement), the frequency of the soil-tunnel system was changed. Then, the maximum velocity values were extracted for different parts of the ground surface. By averaging the data for each model, the amount of spectral velocity for different parts of the ground surface was extracted. The results show that the spectral velocity of the ground surface decreases by increasing the tunnel radius by 92% to a maximum of 12.3% in the tunnel center image on the ground’s surface. Also, by increasing the doubling of the depth of the tunnel, the spectral velocity of the ground surface at a distance approximately equal to the radius of the tunnel is reduced to a maximum of 4.42%. The increase in the spectral velocity of the ground surface due to the increase in the depth of the tunnel is a maximum of 12.13% and occurs at a distance approximately equal to the tunnel radius. In a small number of reviewed models, increasing the depth of the tunnel placement increases the spectral velocity of the ground around the tunnel. The effect of increasing the thickness of the tunnel lining on the spectral velocity of the ground surface was also investigated. In tunnels with greater overhead depth, the spectral velocity of the ground surface increases by a maximum of 10.86% with increasing thickness of the tunnel lining and occurs in the image of the center of the tunnel on the ground surface. In tunnels with less overhead depth, the spectral velocity of the ground surface decreases by a maximum of 7.56% with increasing thickness of the tunnel lining and occurs approximately at a distance equal to the diameter of the tunnel from the image of the tunnel center to the ground surface. The study was performed using PLAXIS 2D and Ansys finite element software.
Secure Event‐Triggered Mechanism for Networked Control Systems under Injection Cyber‐Attacks
Authors: Cai Xiao , Kang Jian , Shi Kaibo
Published: April 2022

This study focuses on the secure stability issue of networked control systems (NCSs) under injection cyber‐attacks (ICAs), which have important research value of applications for network security. Firstly, a more general Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional (LKF) is constructed based on the time‐delay phenomenon in systems. Secondly, a novel boundary looped function (BLF) is developed depending on the sampling period, fully considering delay and sampling information, and the initial constraints of the criteria on the matrices are effectively relaxed. In addition, appropriate integral inequalities are used, making the obtained criteria less conservative in this paper. Then, a new event‐trigger mechanism (ETM) controller under ICAs is designed to control the asymptotical stability (AS) of NCSs. Finally, a numerical experiment verifies the correctness and feasibility of the theory.
Biocompatible and Electroconductive Nanocomposite Scaffolds with Improved Piezoelectric Response for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Por Hajrezaei Sana , Haghbin Nazarpak Masoumeh , Hojjati Emami Shahriar , Shahryari Elham
Published: April 2022

Electroactive scaffolds are relatively new tools in tissue engineering that open new avenue in repairing damaged soft and hard tissues. These scaffolds can induce electrical signaling while providing an ECM-like microenvironment. However, low biocompatibility and lack of biodegradability of piezoelectric and conductive polymers limits their clinical translation. In the current study, we have developed highly biocompatible, electroconductive nanofibrous scaffolds based on poly-L-lactic acid/polyaniline/carbon nanotube (PLLA/polyaniline/CNT). Physical and chemical properties of fabricated scaffolds were tested using various techniques. Biological characteristics of the scaffolds are also examined to check cellular attachment as well as differentiation of cultured (progenitor) cells. Scaffolds were optimized to direct osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells. Such scaffolds can offer new strategies for the regeneration of damaged/lost bone.
Surgical Results of Phacoemulsification Performed by Residents: A Time-Trend Analysis in a Teaching Hospital from 2005 to 2021
Authors: Lee Jiahn-Shing , Hou Chiun-Ho , Lin Ken-Kuo
Published: April 2022

Purpose. To report a long-term trend of surgical results of phacoemulsification performed by residents in a teaching hospital. Methods. This study analyzed 1,409 consecutive cases of phacoemulsification performed by residents under a single supervisor from July 2005 to March 2021. The 15.75-year period was divided into seven equal intervals for time-trend analysis. Main Outcome Measures. Rates of completion and complications were collected to assess the surgical results. Results. The overall completion rate was 60.5% (852/1409), and the intraoperative complication rate was 14.5% (204/1409). The completion rates from the first to the seventh interval were 44.7%, 54.2%, 60.6%, 50.6%, 65.1%, 72.5%, and 81.8%, respectively. The completion rate improved significantly with time, mainly in the steps of anterior capsulorhexis and nucleus emulsification. The intraoperative complication rates from the first to the seventh interval were 27.4%, 20.4%, 14.0%, 11.8%, 8.2%, 9.6%, and 7.3%, respectively. The complication rate also decreased significantly with time, mainly in the steps of anterior capsulorhexis, nucleus emulsification, and cortex removal. The major complications included anterior capsulorhexis tear (n = 95), vitreous loss (n = 40), iris damage or prolapse (n = 36), and posterior capsule tear without vitreous loss (n = 29). There was a significant improvement of surgical results with the level of residency in the completion rate but not in the complication rate. Conclusions. With a long-term evolution in the surgical training curriculum, it is possible to reach a goal of both higher completion and lower complication rates of resident-performed phacoemulsification.