bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First-Time Observation on Magnetic Behavior of Pure and Doped Tungsten Oxide WO3 Nanoparticles for Magnetic Applications
Authors: Basker N. Jothi , Dhivya K. S. , Karthika K. , Srinivasan P. , Anandbabu G.
Published: November 2022

This interesting study focuses on the contribution of dopant such as “Fe” as a ferromagnetic material in the lattice sites of WO3[Formula: see text]H2O nanopowders, which were synthesized using a cost-effective microwave irradiation procedure and then annealed at [Formula: see text]C in air for 6[Formula: see text]h in order to increase the crystallinity of the end products and also to eliminate impurities obtained during the synthesis process. The main focus is to understand the magnetic behavior of the end products for the first time using novel synthesis approach. The samples were further characterized using powder diffraction of X-rays (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), diffusion reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and the corresponding magnetic behaviors of the products were carried out with the help of vibrational sample magnetometer (VSM). According to the diffraction patterns, both pure and doped samples belong to the hexogonal phase. On the other hand, the annealing effect made an impact on the samples that were formed with the same paranet phase. The samples had an influence on the growth rate and morphology at microlevel of the generated nanoparticles, according to FE-SEM micrographs. The optical band gap of these samples was determined using UV–VIS–DRS spectroscopy and the results revealed the contribution of dopant materials in the optical band gap ([Formula: see text]) values using the KM model, as well as a 450[Formula: see text]nm wavelength revealed blue shift. The exciting results of hysteresis loops from vibrating sample magnetometer on annealed samples showed that doped samples that tend to explore high into the ferromagnetic state may investigate the further nonsuper conducting behavior of the end products prepared using microwave irradiation technique.
The Automation of Management Decisions: A Systematic Review and Research Agenda of the Factors Influencing the Decision to Increase the Level of Automation
Authors: Rossmann Lorenz , Wald Andreas
Published: November 2022

Driven by promises of better and quicker decision-making, research on applications of technologies such as artificial intelligence in automating management decisions is increasing. However, the factors influencing the decision to increase the level of automation of a given management decision have remained a sidenote in the literature. In this systematic literature review, we organize these factors from the fragmented and heterogeneous research landscape concerned with automating management decisions. Using a systematically derived sample of research, we categorize and distill a multitude of factors into four themes: goals, foundations, design considerations, and application. We propose positive influences of six factors and a negative influence of one, namely costs, on the decision to increase the level of automation of a management decision. Finally, based on these propositions, we derive an agenda to guide future research.
Remote Innovation: How Remote Work Enables Open Innovation in Times of COVID-19
Authors: Konrad-Maerk Marina
Published: November 2022

The rapid spread of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated infection control measures imposed by governments caused a major disruption to traditional workflows, leading to an immense increase in remote work. At the same time, innovation activities became more collaborative and digitalized than ever before, as firms worldwide were forced to shift from physical to virtual innovation spaces literally overnight and suddenly had to adapt and practice “remote innovation”. By means of a systematic literature review based on 80 selected articles, this paper contributes to the academic discussion in three ways: First, the paper explores the synthesis between open innovation and remote work and uncovers a set of necessary determinants that form the basis for practicing remote innovation. Second, the paper offers a conceptual framework based on Chesbrough’s open innovation model and extended by various determinants of open innovation in a remote work environment to provide initial advice to managers on how to innovate in times of social distancing. Third, the study concludes by identifying several promising areas for future research in the field of remote innovation management, a hitherto under-researched but highly topical field.
Smart Innovation Stimuli: Firms’ Contributions in Resilient Cities
Authors: D’Auria Anna , Tregua Marco , Bifulco Francesco
Published: November 2022

This paper deals with cities’ transformation from the perspectives of smartness, sustainability, and resilience, to stress the contribution of private firms. Indeed, technology providers globally have been observed as being partners of local authorities, mainly with reference to service platforms. To accomplish this aim, we reviewed the literature, considering the most relevant contributions on the themes, to establish an analytical framework; further on, we discussed 15 illustrative case studies — from a wider list — of firms involved in smart, sustainable, and resilient initiatives. The paper offers an analytical framework to merge, consisting of the five key features of smart, sustainable, and resilient cities, and leads to opportunities to further investigate the contribution of firms to cities’ transformation in a new way that embeds multiple perspectives.
How Imitating Sources’ R&D Practices Influences the Recipients’ Innovation Consequences of Technology Transfer: The Moderating Effect of Source–Recipient Interactions
Authors: Lai Hsien-Che , Lee Tai-Yu
Published: November 2022

This study investigates whether managing the relationship between the imitation of sources’ R&D practices and source–recipient interactions is critical for the recipients’ innovation of technology transfer because the choice of source–recipient interactions dominates the efficacy of recipients’ imitation. This study tests its hypotheses by using a sample of technology transfer experiences from among 86 electronics firms from 2003 to 2012 in Taiwan, with data collected from the responses to a mailed survey. For a focal firm acting as a recipient during technology transfer, results show that the imitation of a source’s R&D practices has a significant and positive influence on a recipient’s innovation. Relational embeddedness is the only appropriate source–recipient interaction that complements the imitation of a source’s R&D practices and then effectively promotes a recipient’s innovation. However, the source–recipient interactions of both the technology source lead and the technology recipient lead cannot moderate the positive relationship between the imitation of the source’s R&D practices and the recipient’s innovation. Identifying these three source–recipient interactions can harness a recipient’s innovation benefits from technology transfer.
New Tsallis holographic dark energy with apparent horizon as IR-cutoff in non-flat Universe
Authors: Pankaj  , Ali Nisha Muttathazhathu , Sharma Umesh Kumar , Kumar P. Suresh , Srivastava Shikha
Published: November 2022

In this work, new Tsallis holographic dark energy with apparent horizon as IR-cutoff is constructed in a non-flat Friedmann–Lemaitre–Robertson–Walker Universe. The accelerating expansion phase of the Universe is described by using deceleration parameter, equation of state parameter and density parameter by using different values of new Tsallis holographic dark energy (NTHDE) parameter “[Formula: see text]”. The NTHDE Universe’s transition from a decelerated to an accelerated expanding phase is described by the smooth graph of deceleration parameter. Depending on distinct values of Tsallis parameter “[Formula: see text]”, we have explored the quintessence behavior of the equation of state parameter. We used Hubble data sets obtained using Cosmic Chronometric methods and distance modulus measurement of Type Ia Supernova to fit the NTHDE parameters. Stability of our model by analyzing the squared speed of sound is investigated as well.
Uncertain Logistic Growth Model for Confirmed COVID-19 Cases in Brazil
Authors: Ding Chunxiao , Ye Tingqing
Published: November 2022

The pandemic COVID-19 gives rise to a serious threat to people’s health, economic development and social stability. This paper employs uncertain regression analysis to model the cumulative number of COVID-19 infection in Brazil. Some fundamental knowledge about the uncertain regression analysis is reviewed firstly. Then parameter estimation, residual analysis, uncertain hypothesis test and the forecast value and confidence interval are studied for confirmed COVID-19 cases in Brazil. As a byproduct, the reason for using uncertain regression analysis instead of probabilistic regression analysis is explained by analyzing the characteristics of the residual plot. All the analysis and prediction are devoted to proposing some theoretical supports for the epidemic prevention and control to some extent.
Application of the Unscented Kalman Filter to Estimate the Material Properties of a Layered Half-Space
Authors: Nguyen Hieu Van , Lee Se-Hyeok , Lee Jin Ho
Published: November 2022

Full waveform inversion (FWI) to estimate physical properties of a system is one of the major research topics in science and engineering. This study proposes a probabilistic approach toward these solutions by applying the unscented Kalman filter (UKF). The responses of the vertical displacements of a layered half-space subjected to a harmonic vertical disk load on the surface are calculated from an estimated profile of shear-wave velocities and compared with measurements or observations. In the calculation of the dynamic responses, the thin-layer method (TLM), which is efficient for layered media, is employed. In order to improve the solutions to the considered inverse problem, regularization terms are included in the observations so that the differences in the material properties between two consecutive layers vanish. The proposed UKF method is demonstrated with a variety of FWI problems in a layered half-space. The results show that the proposed method can estimate the material properties of a layered half-space accurately.
Padé-Based Strain Gradient Modeling of Bandgaps in Two-Dimensional Acoustic Lattice Metamaterials
Authors: Wang Binying , Liu Jinxing
Published: November 2022

A strain gradient (SG) continuum theory of two-dimensional (2D) lattice metamaterials based on Padé approximation has been proposed, called PSGM hereafter, to predict their acoustic dispersion characteristics. Square and triangular elastic lattices have been investigated for a demonstrating purpose. By applying Padé approximation to the Taylor expansion of displacement field, the fourth- and eighth-order SG continuum models are established. The dispersion relations obtained by the proposed model are examined by comparing with the results by discrete analyses as well as existing SG theories. It is confirmed that the proposed theory is always more accurate than the existing SG counterpart with the same SG order. Furthermore, the present formulation is free of any unrealistic instability issue in dispersion, which has challenged the existing SG theories. The results also show that the accuracy of PSGM will be enhanced with increasing SG orders. Within the present parameter settings, it can be found that the eighth-order PSGM can successfully capture the dispersive properties of both lattices throughout the first irreducible Brillouin zone.
Analytical and Numerical Study on Anti-Perforation Performance of Steel-Liner-Concrete Composite Targets Subjected to Projectile Impact
Authors: Cheng Yi , Liu Jun , Xiao Zhimin , Zhang Yuan
Published: November 2022

As an armor composite material, the damage mechanism, perforation resistance, damage evaluation and enhancement measures of steel-concrete are crucial to the protective design. In this paper, a modified prediction model of residual velocity and perforation resistance was proposed for the steel-liner-concrete composite target (SLCCT), which considered the fracture energy caused by steel liners and concrete. The numerical models were validated by comparing with previous penetration tests and the modified prediction model. Then LS-DYNA was used to analyze how the layer number (1–5) and rear-steel-liner layout influenced the projectile energy consumption, target damage and integral perforation resistance. The conclusions indicated that, when the reduction coefficient of fracture energy [Formula: see text] was taken as 0.1, the modified prediction model of residual velocity and perforation resistance for SLCCTs was firstly proposed and verified. Noteworthily, with regard to thin segmented SLCCTs (the ratio between layer thickness and projectile diameter was no more than 2.5), the structural perforation resistance was weakened with an increase of the layer number, where the ratio of residual and initial kinetic energy [Formula: see text] for five-layer target was approximately 17.9% higher than that of monolithic slab. Furthermore, as the ratio between layer thickness and projectile diameter was no more than 2, the perforation resistance provided by a rear steel liner was particularly prominent compared with each layer concrete in a SLCCT.
Development of an Electrostatically Actuated Flow Rate Controller: Modeling and Characterization
Authors: Soltani Kamran , Fathalilou Mohammad , Rezazadeh Ghader
Published: November 2022

This paper investigates the fluid–solid interaction in an electrostatic microvalve to control the flow rate. A double clamped microbeam which has been considered as a microvalve by imposing a DC voltage on it in a capacitive system, is deflected and hence changes the boundary conditions of the fluid domain. So, in each step of increasing the voltage, the Navier–Stokes and Euler–Bernoulli equations have been solved simultaneously. To overcome the difficulties of the finite element solution in moving boundaries of the fluid domain, after each step, a mapping approach has been accomplished. Silicon and dielectric elastomer (DE) have been adopted as the microbeam’s material and capability of them to control the flow rate has been compared. The results have shown that DE can be an attractive candidate for microvalve instead of silicon due to the decreasing required applied voltage for achievement for a certain flow rate. The presented results can be also useful for modeling the FSI problems with moving boundaries in the fluid domain, especially in the microvalve design applications.
Modeling the effect of time delay in implementation of mitigation policies on the control of atmospheric greenhouse gases
Authors: Verma Alok Kumar , Verma Maitri
Published: November 2022

Mitigation of the enhanced greenhouse gas (GHG) concentrations in the Earth’s atmosphere is imperative to meet the climate change mitigation objective. Governments of many countries are developing and implementing various mitigation strategies to reduce their GHG emissions. However, a time delay between the formulation and implementation of these mitigation policies can affect their effectiveness in controlling greenhouse gas levels in the atmosphere. This work presents black a nonlinear mathematical model to investigate the effect of application of mitigation strategies and the delay involved in their implementation over the reduction of atmospheric greenhouse gases. In model formulation, it is assumed that the mitigation strategies work two-fold; first they black reduce the GHG emission rate from the anthropogenic source and second they increase the black removal rate of greenhouse gas from the atmosphere. black A comprehensive stability analysis of the proposed model system is made to examine its long-term behavior. The model analysis shows that an increase in the implementation rate of mitigation strategies and their efficiencies to cut down the GHG emission rate from point sources and increase the GHG uptake rate lead to reduction in equilibrium GHG concentration. It is found that a long delay in the execution of mitigation policies can destabilize the system dynamics and leads to the generation of periodic oscillations. The expression for the threshold value of the delay parameter at which periodic oscillations arise via Hopf-bifurcation is determined. The stability and direction of bifurcating periodic solutions are discussed. A sensitivity analysis is performed to investigate the effect of changes in key parameters over system dynamics.
Microwave synthesis of Bi2Se2 nanoflakes as high-performance electrode for supercapacitor
Authors: He Jiahao , Emmanuel Hounkabrin Senan Romaric Jiawu , Guo Zhen , Li Tianbao , Luo Jujie
Published: November 2022

The self-supported nanoflake-shaped Bi2Se2 was synthesized with the convenient method of microwave reaction, and adhered to the flexible carbon fiber felt. A series of electrochemical tests indicate that capacitance of Bi2Se2/CF electrode can reach 877.0 C g[Formula: see text] (1 A g[Formula: see text]). Assembled by ligninbased carbon materials and Bi2Se2/CF electrode, the asymmetric capacitor has the energy density of 20.83 W h Kg[Formula: see text] while the power density can reach 749.9 W kg[Formula: see text]. After circulating for 2000 times under 3 A g[Formula: see text], the remaining capacitance retention reaches 81% of the initial one.
Enhanced Ammonia Synthesis by Mo2+-Rich Graphene-Based Nanocomposite
Authors: Niu Shanshan , Qian Lei-Lei , Du Pan , Si Nan , Jiang Dawei , Feng Yan , Huang Bin , Gu Xiaomin , Zhao Qiang , Ji Jiao , Zhu Hua
Published: November 2022

Graphene coupling molybdenum-based nanocomposite structures were synthesized by changing the pyrolytic temperature to implement the molybdenum-based optimized microstructure. The structural and surface properties tests showed that the presence of the most variable species and a high proportion of divalent molybdenum on the surface of the material could effectively expose catalytic sites to improve reduction ability of N2and inhibited hydrogen evolution reaction. Electrochemical investigations indicated that the Mo-700/rGO nanocomposite exhibited a significantly enhanced electrochemical ammonia synthesis performance. In 0.05[Formula: see text]M H2SO4, the Mo-700/rGO electrode achieved a Faradic efficiency of 12.7% at [Formula: see text]0.15[Formula: see text]V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE), and an ammonia yield of 3.93[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text] at [Formula: see text]0.2[Formula: see text]V versus RHE.
Dielectric Properties of Ovalene-Like Nanostructure with RKKY Interactions: Monte Carlo Study
Authors: Fadil Z. , Saber N. , Mhirech A. , Kabouchi B. , Bahmad L.
Published: November 2022

In this study, we investigated the dielectric properties of ovalene-like nanostructure with RKKY (Ruderman–Kittel–Kasuya–Yoshida) interactions, using Monte Carlo simulations. Nanosystem consists of an ovalene-like nanostructure with mixed spins [Formula: see text]-7/2 and S-1, separated by non-electric layers (NEL). We investigated the effect of the non-electric layers, external longitudinal electric field and ferrielectric exchange coupling on polarization and dielectric susceptibility of the nanostructure. We find that the transition temperature is affected by an increase in the number of non-electrical layers. These results can enrich the dielectric properties of ovalene-like nanostructure for future nanotechnology applications.
ARIES 130-cm Devasthal Fast Optical Telescope — Operation and Outcome
Authors: Joshi Y. C. , Bangia T. , Jaiswar M. K. , Pant J. , Reddy K. , Yadav S.
Published: November 2022

This paper studies about the 130-cm Devasthal Fast Optical Telescope (DFOT) at Devasthal, India that has been in operation for more than 10 years and is the main workhorse for the photometric observations for a wide range of scientific programs carried out at ARIES, Nainital. Having a [Formula: see text] pixel imager mounted on the prime focus of the telescope, DFOT provides a field of view of about [Formula: see text] arcmin2 in the sky. Another frame transfer CCD imager of [Formula: see text] pixel size enables monitoring transient sources with millisecond temporal resolution. DFOT is equipped with a filter assembly having eight filters, an auto-guider, an All Sky Camera, and GPS-enabled weather monitoring system to support the observations in the most optimum way. The telescope is capable of producing sub-milimag photometric stability which has allowed us to detect many small-scale photometric variations.
Overview of the Galileo Project
Authors: Loeb Abraham Avi , Laukien Frank H.
Published: November 2022

The Galileo Project is the first systematic scientific research program in the search for potential astro-archaeological artifacts or remnants of extraterrestrial technological civilizations (ETCs) or potentially active equipment near Earth. Taking a path not taken, it conceivably may pick some low-hanging fruit, and without asserting probabilities — make discoveries of ETC-related objects, which would have far-reaching implications for science and our worldview.
Distributed Cooperative Complete Coverage Path Planning in an Unknown Environment Based on a Heuristic Method
Authors: Dong Qichen , Zhang Jia
Published: December 2022

This paper proposes a distributed collaborative complete coverage path planning (CCPP) algorithm based on a heuristic method to solve a CCPP problem for multiple agents in an unknown environment. Based on the relationship between path length, energy consumption and number of turns, the algorithm instructs the agents to autonomously plan their respective paths in real time by giving the priority of directions. Simulation experiments show that the proposed CCPP algorithm can guarantee efficient collision-free complete coverage compared with related approaches.
Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer Analysis of Magnetized Casson Hybrid Nanofluid Flow via a Riga Plate with Thermal Radiation
Authors: Upreti Himanshu , Pandey Alok Kumar , Joshi Navneet , Makinde O. D.
Published: November 2022

The importance of non-Newtonian fluid (Casson fluid) in industry is increasingly appreciated. However, little is known about the flow rheology of Casson fluid flowing over a Riga plate. Thus, the purpose of this investigation is to examine the nature of entropy generation (EG) and heat transfer (HT) on Casson hybrid nanofluid flow past a Riga plate by considering the influences of magnetic field and thermal radiation. The Hamilton–Crosser (Model 1) and Xue model (Model 2) of thermal conductivity are incorporated for Casson hybrid nanofluid. The governing equations are solved by numerical methods i.e., bvp4c and shooting techniques. In the current framework, the comparative patterns for both models of temperature, velocities, EG and Bejan number are depicted due to the existing parameters. The domain of the pertinent parameters is taken as thermal radiation, [Formula: see text]; stretching parameter, [Formula: see text]; Casson factor, [Formula: see text]; rotation parameter, [Formula: see text]and Hartmann number, [Formula: see text]. The outcomes show that the rise in volume fraction and thermal conductivity profile of Xue model (Model 2) is better than Hamilton–Crosser model (Model 1). Moreover, EG profiles are escalated with augmentation in values of Hartmann number and stretching parameter for both models. The results of the study are useful for predicting the rheology of right fluid, while it also assists in safeguarding the boundary layer (BL) separation, along with establishing a parallel force to the surface in assisting the domain of science and technology.
Selectivity Mechanism of Hsp90 Isoform Inhibition Through Computational Investigation
Authors: Xu Hanqing , Wang Hanxun , Hu Baichun , Gao Yinli , Shen Lanlan , Wang Jian
Published: November 2022

The Hsp90 family has been extensively studied as a promising target against cancer and neurodegenerative diseases due to its crucial role in protein maturation and transport. However, the toxic and side effects such as cardiotoxicity and ocular toxicity caused by the pan-inhibition of Hsp90 cannot be ignored. The development of highly selective inhibitors toward Hsp90[Formula: see text] over Grp94 has been proved to be a feasible approach to avoid these toxic and side effects. Therefore, to explore the different binding modes of inhibitors against Hsp90[Formula: see text] and Grp94, hybrid computational methods were used to demonstrate the interaction mechanism between selective inhibitors targeting Hsp90[Formula: see text] and Grp94. The results showed that hydrogen bond interaction and hydrophobicity are crucial for the selective inhibition of Hsp90[Formula: see text], while Grp94 specificity mainly relies on a typical hydrophobic cavity. These findings would provide the theoretical basis for the future development of novel selective inhibitors of Hsp90[Formula: see text] and Grp94.
Determining Zn(II) Binding Affinities of the YiiP–Zinc Transporter and Uno Ferro Single Chain (UFsc) Protein with a Novel Modification of the PKA17 Software
Authors: Kaminski George A. , Raymond Greggory W.
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we report results of using molecular modeling to assign specific Zn(II) binding affinities to the known binding sites of the YiiP–zinc transporter. YiiP is a cation-diffusion facilitator. It facilitates the transmembrane exchange of Zn(II) ions and protons. The crystal structure of this protein is known. There are several zinc binding sites, and some of the Zn(II) binding affinities have been measured, but the value of all the binding/dissociation constants and the exact assignment of the sites with these affinities are not completely understood. We have recently developed a fast and accurate coarse-grain framework for predicting protein pKa shifts named PKA17. In this paper, we report extending of the same technique to produce a methodology capable of quickly predicting metal–protein binding affinities. The new software has been named M21. It has been tested on several zinc–protein binding cases, and the average unsigned error in the binding energies has been found to be 2.17[Formula: see text]kcal/mol vs. the AMBER average error of 3.49[Formula: see text]kcal/mol ([Formula: see text] ratio of ca. 30 vs. the AMBER one of 330). We have then applied the M21 methodology to calculate and assign the YiiP–Zn(II) binding constants of [Formula: see text]2.31[Formula: see text]13.28[Formula: see text]kcal/mol ([Formula: see text] values from [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text]). We have also undertaken additional modifications of parameters. On one hand, we have included another 11 zinc binding proteins in our target fitting set. These were the Uno Ferro single chain (UFsc) and its modifications created by the Professor Olga Makhlynets group. On the other hand, we have significantly reduced the number of fittable parameters in order to further reduce the possibility of overfitting and to demonstrate the stability of the technique. The final parameter set has only eight adjustable parameters (as opposed to the above case with 17 independent parameters). The average error for the binding cases compared with the same AMBER test set as above did not change much and was still very low at 2.17[Formula: see text]kcal/mol. We believe that these results not only further validate the presented methodology but also point out a promising direction for potential multiple joint experimental and computational collaborative projects. Both PKA17 and M21 software have been deployed with web-based interfaces at http://kaminski.wpi.edu/PKA17/pka_calc.html and http://kaminski.wpi.edu/METAL/metal_calc.html , respectively.
Intranasal Vaccination with rePcrV Protects against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Generates Lung Tissue-Resident Memory T Cells
Authors: Ou Yangxue , Wang Ying , Yu Ting , Cui Zhiyuan , Chen Xin , Zhang Weijun , Zou Quanming , Gu Jiang , Zuo Qianfei
Published: November 2022

Tissue-resident memory T (TRM) cells are immune sentinels that bear a key role in the local immune system and rapidly respond to infection. Our previous studies showed that mucosal immunization via intranasal pathways was more effective than intramuscular route. However, the mechanism of enhanced protective immunity remains unclear. Here, we formulated a Pseudomonas aeruginosa vaccine composed of type III secretion protein PcrV from P. aeruginosa and curdlan adjuvant and then administered by the intranasal route. Flow cytometry and immunofluorescence staining showed that the ratio of CD44+CD62L-CD69+CD4+ TRM cells induced by this vaccine was significantly increased, and IL-17A production was notably enhanced. Further analysis revealed that vaccinated mice can protect against the P. aeruginosa challenge even after administration with FTY720 treatment. What is more, our results showed that CD4+ TRM might be involved in the recruitment of neutrophils and provided partial protection against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Taken together, these data demonstrated that CD4+ TRM cells were elicited in lung tissues after immunization with rePcrV and contributed to protective immunity. Furthermore, it provided novel strategies for the development of vaccines for P. aeruginosa and other respiratory-targeted vaccines.
Application of Radiomics in Predicting Treatment Response to Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy in Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer: Strategies and Challenges
Authors: Chen Rui , Fu Yan , Yi Xiaoping , Pei Qian , Zai Hongyan , Chen Bihong T.
Published: November 2022

Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) followed by total mesorectal excision is the standard treatment for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC). A noninvasive preoperative prediction method should greatly assist in the evaluation of response to nCRT and for the development of a personalized strategy for patients with LARC. Assessment of nCRT relies on imaging and radiomics can extract valuable quantitative data from medical images. In this review, we examined the status of radiomic application for assessing response to nCRT in patients with LARC and indicated a potential direction for future research.
A Study on the Potential Mechanism of Shujin Dingtong Recipe against Osteoarthritis Based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking
Authors: Yuan Zhen-zhen , Yang Zhao , Wu Si
Published: November 2022

Background. With the aging of the social population, Osteoarthritis (OA) has already become a vital health and economic problem globally. Shujin Dingtong recipe (SJDTR) is an effective formula to treat OA in China. Although studies have shown that SJDTR can significantly alleviate OA symptoms, its mechanism still remains unclear. Purpose. This study is aimed at investigating the potential mechanism of SJDTR for the treatment of OA based on network pharmacology and molecular docking. Methods. Main ingredients of SJDTR were retrieved from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) database. OA disease targets were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The overlapped targets and signaling pathways were explored using Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) network, Gene Ontology (GO), and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). Following this, the core targets were employed to dock with corresponding components via molecular docking in order to further explore the mechanism of SJDTR in the treatment of OA. Results. From network pharmacology, we found 100 active components of SJDTR, 31 drug and OA-related targets, 1161 GO items, and 91 signaling pathways. Based on the analysis with PPI network and molecular docking, TP53, CCNB1, and MMP-2 were selected for the core targets of SJDTR against OA. Molecular docking demonstrated that Quercetin, Baicalein, and Luteolin, had good binding with the TP53, CCNB1, and MMP-2 protein, respectively. Conclusion. To conclude, our study suggested the main ingredients of SJDTR might alleviate the progression of OA through multiple targets and pathways. Additionally, network pharmacology and molecular docking, as new approaches, were adopted for systematically exploring the potential mechanism of SJDTR for the treatment of OA.
Ultrahigh Adsorption Capacity Zirconium-Magnesium Composite Oxide Nanoclusters Remove Malachite Green from Aqueous Media
Authors: Sun Yulong , Zheng Haoxin , Pu Yanfeng , Yang Hao , Wang Jianhong , Zhou Shuaishuai , Li Qian , Qiao Congzhen
Published: November 2022

The environmental pollution caused by organic dyes has damaged serious harm to human life. Hence, a series of Zr-Mg composite oxide nanoclusters with different metal ratios were synthesized by solvothermal method for adsorption of malachite green in aqueous solution. The optimal adsorbent with Zr/Mg metal molar ratio of 1 : 2 presented good adsorption performance, which adsorption capacity reached 12647.60 mg/g, and removal rate of malachite green reached more than 99%. These adsorbents were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectra, nitrogen adsorption-desorption, scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, and other methods. Influence of initial concentration of malachite green solution, pH, adsorption temperature, and contact time on absorption efficiency was investigated through batch experiments. Pseudo-second-order kinetic model can well describe the adsorption kinetic data. The three-parameter Sips isotherm model was more suitable for predicting the experimental results than Langmuir and Freundlich, and the adsorption process was endothermic.
Relationship between Medical Students’ Perceived Stress and Gaming Behavior at King Saud University
Authors: Almigbal Turky H. , Alrasheed Abdullah A. , Almutairi Ebtesam S. , Alrehaili Rawan A. , Alzahrani Arwa M. , Alhassan Nourah A. , Aldekhyyel Ranyah , Batais Mohammed A.
Published: December 2022

Gaming addiction has gradually developed among medical students and has been a contentious topic for nearly a decade. This study is aimed at estimating the prevalence of gaming addiction among medical students at King Saud University and examining the relationship between perceived stress levels and gaming addiction. We conducted a cross‐sectional study among 370 students from 2019 to 2020 using a self‐reporting questionnaire consisting of two validated test scales: the Gaming Disorder Test and the Perceived Stress Scale. The questionnaire was sent to all students through an email. Descriptive analyses and t‐test statistical tests were used in this study. The prevalence rate of gaming addiction was found to be 4.6%, while the prevalence of perceived stress was confirmed at 95.9%. Students with excellent GPAs and high family income were associated (p < 0.001). Younger groups, females, and students with high family incomes showed higher levels of perceived stress than others. According to Pearson’s correlation, gaming addiction was not significantly correlated with stress among medical students (p > 0.05). According to chi‐square test also, no significant association was found between gaming disorder and perceived stress (χ2 = 4.412; p = 0.353). In conclusion, gaming addiction among medical students has scored low prevalence, indicating gaming is not a factor contributing to stress among this group. The high level of perceived stress among medical students should draw attention to the provision of regular psychological care.
The Diagnostic Value of Artificial Intelligence Ultrasound S-Detect Technology for Thyroid Nodules
Authors: Huang Peizhen , Zheng Bin , Li Mengyi , Xu Lin , Rabbani Sajjad , Mayet Abdulilah Mohammad , Chen Chengchun , Zhan Beishu , Jun He
Published: November 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the consistency of ultrasound TI-RADS classification used by sonographers with different ultrasound diagnosis experience in the diagnosis of thyroid nodules and the diagnostic value of using artificial intelligence ultrasound S-Detect technology in the differentiation of benign and malignant thyroid lesions. 100 patients who underwent ultrasound examination of thyroid masses in our hospital from June 2019 to June 2021 and were further punctured or operated on were included in the study. Pathological results were used as the gold standard to evaluate ultrasound S-Detect technology and the value of TI-RADS classification and the combined application of the two in diagnosing benign and malignant thyroid TI-RADS 4 types of nodules, and the consistency of judgments of doctors of different ages is assessed by a Kappa value. There were 128 nodules in 100 patients, 51 benign nodules, and 77 malignant nodules. For senior physicians, the sensitivity of diagnosis using TI-RADS classification combined with ultrasound S-Detect technology is 93.5%, specificity is 94.1%, and accuracy is 93.8%; for middle-aged physicians using TI-RADS classification combined with ultrasound S-Detect technology for diagnosis, the sensitivity is 89.6%, specificity is 92.2%, and accuracy is 90.6%; for junior doctors, the sensitivity of diagnosis using TI-RADS classification combined with ultrasound S-Detect technology is 83.1%, specificity is 88.2%, and accuracy is 85.1%. Regardless of seniority, the combined application of artificial intelligence ultrasound S-Detect technology and TI-RADS classification can improve the diagnostic ability of sonographers for thyroid nodules and at the same time improve the consistency of judgment among physicians, and this is especially important for radiologists.
[Retracted] Ecotoxicological Assessment of Heavy Metal and Its Biochemical Effect in Fishes
Authors: Haseeb Abdul , Fozia  , Ahmad Ijaz , Ullah Hidayat , Iqbal Anwar , Ullah Riaz , Moharram Bushra Abdulkarim , Kowalczyk Alicja
Published: November 2022

Level of toxic heavy metal concentration like lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and nickel (Ni) in thirty‐six soft and hard organs and their impact on lipid profile of Hypophthalmichthys molitrix and Catla catla fish species inhibiting in Tanda Dam reservoir were investigated. The heavy metal concentrations in water, sediment, and fish of the different regions in the reservoir were determined with atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Lipid profile was carried out by AOAC official methods. The results showed that Pb was dominant among all the heavy metals in six organs, and its maximum concentration of Pb (22.5 mg kg-1 and 32.9 mg kg-1) was observed in scales in Hypophthalmichthys molitrix and tail of Catla catla, respectively. The maximum concentrations of Cd were observed in the head, scales, fins, and gills of Catla catla. The bioaccumulation of heavy metals was significantly different at (p ≤ 0.01) within the organs and between the fish species. The lipid concentration was minimum in those organs where the concentrations of heavy metals were maximum. It is clear from the findings that heavy metal accumulation reduces the lipid content of fish. It is inevitable to monitor the Tanda Dam reservoir to safeguard human health.
Investigation of Factors Affecting COVID-19 and Sixth Wave Management Using a System Dynamics Approach
Authors: Safaie Nasser , Kaveie Maryam , Mardanian Siroos , Mohammadi Mina , Abdol Mohamadi Rasoul , Nasri Seyed Amir
Published: November 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has plunged the world into a health and economic crisis never seen before since the Spanish flu pandemic in 1918. The closure of schools and universities, the banning of rallies, and other social distancing in countries have been done to disrupt the transmission of the virus. Governments have planned to reduce restrictions on corona management by implementing vaccination programs. This research aims to better understand the Coronavirus disease’s behavior, identify the prevalent factors, and adopt effective policies to control the pandemic. This study examines the different scenarios of releasing the constraints and returning to normal conditions before Corona to analyze the results of different scenarios to prevent the occurrence of subsequent peaks. The system dynamics approach is an effective means of studying COVID-19’s behavioral characteristics. The factors that affect Coronavirus disease outbreak and control by expanding the basic SEIR model, interventions, and policies, such as vaccination, were investigated in this research. Based on the obtained results, the most critical factor in reducing the prevalence of the disease is reducing the behavioral risks of people and increasing the vaccination process. Observance of hygienic principles leads to disruption of the transmission chain, and vaccination increases the immunity of individuals against the acute type of infection. In addition, the closure of businesses and educational centers, along with government support for incomes, effectively controls and reduces the pandemic, which requires cooperation between the people and the government. In a situation where a new type of corona has spread, if the implementation of the policy of reducing restrictions and reopening schools and universities is done without planning, it will cause a lot of people to suffer.
Artocarpus hirsutus Lam Leaf Extract-Evaluation of Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Activity
Authors: Karthik M. , D’Souza Ullas Prakash , Khandige Prasanna Shama , Sadananda Vandana , Gowrish S. , Subramani Savadamoorthi Kamatchi
Published: November 2022

The study involved extraction, identification, and evaluation of pharmacological activities of the phytochemicals present. Artocarpus hirsutus Lam, commonly known as Wild jack is a greatly valued medicinal plant, which belongs to the plant family Moraceae. Preliminary phytochemical screening studies indicated the presence of flavonoids, saponins, tannins, glycosides, and alkaloids. This study estimated the analgesic and anti-inflammatory prospective of ethanolic leaf extract of Artocarpus hirsutus Lam. The findings showed that at various doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg body weight when administered orally to rats, analgesic effects were produced, also the anti-inflammatory effect studied by carrageenan-induced rat paw edema test showed major anti-inflammatory action. The result indicates that the leaf extract of Artocarpus hirsutus Lam possesses major analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity and therefore requires further investigations to better understand the mechanism of action.
The Regulatory Network of Gastric Cancer Pathogenesis and Its Potential Therapeutic Active Ingredients of Traditional Chinese Medicine Based on Bioinformatics, Molecular Docking, and Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Yang Peng , Liu Peng , Li Junmao
Published: November 2022

Objective. This study aims to investigate the functional gene network in gastric carcinogenesis by using bioinformatics; besides, the diagnostic utility of key genes and potential active ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for treatment in gastric cancer have been explored. Methods. The Cancer Genome Atlas and Gene Expression Omnibus databases have been applied to analyze the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between gastric cancer and normal gastric tissues. Then, the DEGs underwent Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses using the Metascape database. The STRING database and the Cytoscape software were utilized for the protein-protein interaction network of DEGs and hub genes screening. Furthermore, survival and expression analyses of hub genes were conducted using Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis and Human Protein Atlas databases. By using the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database, the hub genes interconnected with active ingredients of TCM were analyzed to provide potential information for the treatment of gastric cancer. After the molecular docking of the active ingredients of TCM to specific hub gene receptor proteins, the molecular dynamics simulation GROMACS was applied to validate the conformation of the strongest binding ability in the molecular docking. Results. A total of 291 significant DEGs were found, from which 12 hub genes were screened out. Among these hub genes, the expressions of five hub genes including COL1A1, COL5A2, MMP12, SERPINE1, and VCAN were significantly correlated with the overall survival. Furthermore, four potential therapeutic active ingredients of TCM were acquired, including quercetin, resveratrol, emodin, and schizandrin B. In addition, the molecular docking results exhibited that the active ingredients of TCM formed stable binding with the hub gene targets. SERPINE1 (3UT3)-Emodin and COL1A1 (7DV6)-Quercetin were subjected to molecular dynamics simulations as conformations of continuing research significance, and both were found to be stably bound as a result of the interaction of van der Waals potentials, electrostatic, and hydrogen bonding. Conclusion. Our findings may provide novel insights and references for the screening of biomarkers, the prognostic evaluation, and the identification of potential active ingredients of TCM for gastric cancer treatment.
Attenuation of the Severity of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome by Pomiferin through Blocking Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in an AKT/Foxo1 Pathway-Dependent Manner
Authors: Tang Zheng , Yang Zetian , Feng Hui , Zhou Xuefeng , Mao Ming
Published: November 2022

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) gives rise to uncontrolled inflammatory response and oxidative stress, causing very high mortality globally. Pomiferin is a kind of prenylated isoflavonoid extracted from Maclura pomifera, owning anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, the functions and possible mechanisms of pomiferin in lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) induced ARDS remain unknown. C57BL/6 mice were injected with LPS (5 mg/kg) intratracheally to induce an in vivo ARDS model while RAW264.7 macrophages were stimulated with LPS (100 ng/ml) to induce an in vitro model. Our data demonstrated that pomiferin (20 mg/kg) significantly improved pulmonary function and lung pathological injury in mice with ARDS, apart from increasing survival rate. Meanwhile, pomiferin treatment also inhibited LPS-induced inflammation as well as oxidative stress in lung tissues. LPS stimulation significantly activated AKT/Foxo1 signal pathway in lung tissues, which could be reversed after pomiferin treatment. In vitro experiments further showed that 10, 20, and 50 μM of pomiferin could enhance cell viability of RAW264.7 macrophages stimulated with LPS. What is more, 3-deoxysappanchalcone (3-DE), one AKT agonist, was used to active AKT in RAW264.7 macrophages. The results further showed that 3-DE could abolish pomiferin-elicited protection in LPS-treated RAW264.7 macrophages, evidenced by activated inflammation and oxidative stress. Taken together, our study showed that pomiferin could exert an ARDS-protective effect by blocking the AKT/Foxo1 signal pathway to inhibit LPS-induced inflammatory response and oxidative injury, which may serve as a potential candidate for the treatment of ARDS in the future.