bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the Combined Use of Artificial Intelligence and Virtual Reality in Higher Education: A Bibliometric and Systematic Analysis
Authors: Ozdamli Fezile , Bicen Huseyin , Ercag Erinc , Hursen Cigdem
Published: October 2024

In the study, which aims to determine the advantages and difficulties of using “artificial intelligence” and “virtual reality” applications in higher education, a systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis were used together to determine the trends in the studies conducted. Web of Science database was preferred to obtain the data in the study. “Artificial intelligence”, “virtual reality”, and “higher education” were used as keywords. Only English, open-access journals, literature reviews, and conference proceedings were included in the study. First, the abstracts of 61 studies that met these criteria were reviewed. Then, the documents to be included in the study were determined by the PRISMA steps. As a result of the PRISMA processes, ten studies were read in detail, and the study findings were obtained. According to the results obtained, it was determined that there were difficulties in motivation continuity and reflecting human emotions, in addition to the many positive effects of using “artificial intelligence” and “virtual reality” applications in higher education. In addition, as a result of the bibliometric mapping, it was determined that the most preferred keywords in studies containing these applications were “Virtual reality”, “artificial intelligence”, and “machine learning”. Suggestions are given depending on the results obtained.
The Phenomenon of Collective Memory in the Semantic Contexts of Post-Modernity
Authors: Marchenko Oleksii , Pushonkova Oksana , Kondratieva Iryna , Hladun Olha , Kolomiiets Olena , Pianzin Serhii , Kalinichenko Bohdan , Sipko Liudmyla
Published: October 2024

The article is devoted to the study of the phenomenon of collective memory in the value contexts of post-modernity. During the 20th century, the culture of memory is revealed through the individual-collective polarity, and in the postmodern era attention is focused on the boundary between them, on the culture of memory in the dimension of the modern media, on the contexts of the global information war. While individual memory loses touch with the past in the dimension of simulated identity, collective memory is usually associated with tradition as a reservoir of memory of the past. Collective memory in the age of modern media is in certain danger of targeted negative external influence, falsification, and inflation. The deepest cultural fears of the 20th century are the deformation or loss of memory, as well as the fear of memory substitution. The main value is linking memory with authenticity in the reproduction of the basic narrative in the cultural practices of today, in which the individual intersects with the collective. That is why the article pays special attention to the border between individual and collective memory, the culture of recall in communicative projects, and the reflection of moral dilemmas in different models of historical memory, the confrontation of different memories.
Evolution of the Correlation Between Body Mass Index (BMI) and Agility of Primary School Students in North-Eastern Romania
Authors: Trofin Petruț Florin , Coteață Maria Andreea , Honceriu Cezar , Ciobîcă Alin Stelian , Puni Rareș Alexandru
Published: October 2024

Interacting with children's cognitive processes and mental health status, body mass index (BMI) could be analyzed in relation to motor performance. This study aims to analyse the relationship between BMI and agility of primary school students in the northeast of Romania. Hypothesis testing was done by analyzing data obtained from 3250 pupils (1605 girls and 1645 boys) aged 6 to 11 years old from the North-East of Romania. BMI was calculated based on height and weight, as well as agility through the 505 change of direction speed test. The sample was divided according to gender and age, and the differences and correlations were analysed. We assumed that our sample has a significant correlation of BMI with agility and that its strength increases with age, based on neural maturation. Children's results showed gender- and age-determined differences in anthropometric as well as motor skills. The development of Romanian girls and boys differs punctually at this stage, with the two genders having close BMI values at age 11. The time to complete the 505 test is close at age 6, with boys performing better by age 11. The correlation between BMI and agility has weak strength in the 6-11 years age group of Romanian students. It is significant in girls at 9 (r = 0.20) and 10 years (r = 0.15), and in boys from 7 (r = 0.20) to 10 years (r = 0.22). The data partially confirm our hypothesis, with the correlation existing in the 7-10 years age range, its strength having a fluctuating evolution. At 11 years the link between BMI and agility ceases to exist.
Experimental Testing of a Short Model of Integrative Psychotherapeutic Intervention to Reduce Suicidal Behavior and Ideation in Depressed Patients Admitted to the Psychiatric Ward
Authors: Nicoară Romulus Dan , Cosman Doina , Nicoară Ana-Maria , Coman Horia George
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the efficacy of a short-term integrative psychotherapeutic intervention designed to reduce suicidal behavior and ideation in depressed patients admitted to a psychiatric ward. Suicidal risk, influenced by mental health disorders, personal crises, social isolation, substance abuse, and trauma, is typically treated with pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy. The study focuses on combining various psychotherapeutic techniques including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) into a cohesive intervention program.

The intervention, delivered over four weeks, included six modules encompassing psychoeducation, behavioral activation, cognitive restructuring, mindfulness practices, and personal development strategies. Participants were divided into an experimental group receiving both the psychotherapeutic intervention and medication and a control group receiving only medication.

The study measured changes in hopelessness and depression using the Beck Hopelessness Scale (BHS), Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), and the DASS-21R depression scale. The study concludes that integrative psychotherapeutic intervention significantly improves psychological outcomes for depressed patients at risk of suicide, offering a viable complement to pharmacological treatments. These findings support the potential of combining cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness techniques for the holistic management of depression and suicidal ideation in clinical settings.
Results indicated significant reductions in hopelessness and depression among the experimental group. Specifically, the BHS and MADRS scores showed substantial decreases post-intervention, highlighting the immediate efficacy of the integrated psychotherapeutic approach. However, the DASS-21R results did not demonstrate statistically significant differences.
A NOVEL HYBRID DEEP LEARNING APPROACH FOR 3D OBJECT DETECTION AND TRACKING IN AUTONOMOUS DRIVING
Authors: PS Dheepika , V Umadevi
Published: October 2024

Recently Object detection and tracking using fusion of LiDAR and RGB camera for the autonomous vehicle environment is a challenging task. The existingworks initiates several object detection and tracking frameworks using ArtificialIntelligence (AI) algorithms. However, they were limited with high false positives and computation time issues thus lacking the performance of autonomousdriving environment. The existing issues are resolved by proposing HybridDeep Learning based Multi Object Detection and Tracking (HDL-MODT) using sensor fusion methods. The proposed work performs fusion of solid stateLiDAR, Pseudo LiDAR, and RGB camera for improving detection and trackingquality. At first, the multi-stage preprocessing is done in which noise removal isperformed using Adaptive Fuzzy Filter (A-Fuzzy). The pre-processed fused image is then provided for instance segmentation to reduce the classification andtracking complexity. For that, the proposed work adopts Lightweight GeneralAdversarial Networks (LGAN). The segmented image is provided for objectdetection and tracking using HDL. For reducing the complexity, the proposedwork utilized VGG-16 for feature extraction which forms the feature vectors.The features vectors are then provided for object detection using YOLOv4.Finally, the detected objects were tracked using Improved Unscented KalmanFilter (IUKF) and mapping the vehicles using time based mapping by considering their RFID, velocity, location, dimension and unique ID. The simulation ofthe proposed work is carried out using MATLAB R2020a simulation tool andperformance of the proposed work is compared with several metrics that showthat the proposed work outperforms than the existing works.
CV19T, A NOVEL BIO-SOCIALLY INSPIRED METHOD, BELONGING TO A NEW NATURE-INSPIRED METAHEURISTICS CLASS
Authors: Saib Bouthina , Abdessemed Mohamed-Rida , Hocin Riadh
Published: October 2024

The paper presents CV19T, a novel bio-socially inspired meta-heuristic, wherethe cornerstone on which rests is the relationship between humans crowdingdensity, on one side, influenced by their mobility, mutual attractiveness to eachother and individual consciousness, and on the other side, the amazing speedof COVID-19 propagation. CV19T originality resides in the fact of combining features from two completely distinct and famous classes, namely: swarm intelligence and Evolutionary Algorithms. Moreover, CV19T extends elitismconcept (i.e. survival of the most powerful), on which are based courant evolutionist approaches to the survival of the most beneficial one. Also, CV19T shows that additional parameters can increase control of its behaviour, in manycases, leading to rise in its results relevance. To validate CV19T, it was testedon benchmarks set, including 23 functions (unimodal, multimodal and fixeddimensional multimodal) and 4 real-world problems.
FORMALIZATION AND ANALYSIS OF UML 2.0 INTERACTION OVERVIEW DIAGRAM USING MAUDE REWRITING LOGIC LANGUAGE
Authors: Djaoui Chafika , Chaoui Allaoua
Published: October 2024

The visual modeling language UML embodies object-oriented design principles.It provides a standard way to visualize the design of a system. It exploits a richset of well-defined graphical notations for creating abstract models. However,the power of UML is lessened through partially specified formal semantics. Indeed, UML notations are semi-formal and do not lead to fully formalized andexecutable semantics. Fortunately, UML diagrams are prone to early formalization. Formal methods are a valuable tool that can help overcome the UMLconstructs’ shortage of firm semantics. It is a powerful way to ascribe precise semantics to the graphical notations used in UML diagrams and models.Our work aims to support the semantics of the UML Interaction Overview Diagram. It introduces an approach to leveraging the strengths of the MaudeRewriting Logic language as a formal specification language. The proposal relies on a model-driven engineering approach. It aims to automate the UMLInteraction Overview Diagram’s mapping to a Maude language specification.The Maude language and its linked tools, including the Maude Model Checker,are used to analyze and verify the resulting Maude specification. Finally, anapplication example shows the feasibility and benefits of the proposed approach.
Response of Different Bougainvillea Varieties to Cutting Propagation
Authors: Borkar Yojana Anant , Salvi B. R. , Dalvi N. V. , Kulkarni M. M. , Mahadik S. G.
Published: October 2024

The experiment was carried out in factorial randomized block design with three replications. There were two factors viz. nine varieties of bougainvillea (Golden Blow, Pink Beauty, Blondie, Mr. Odicee, Singapore Red, Filoman, Rose Vellis Delight, M.P.S. and Dr. Bhabha) and three type of cutting (softwood, semi hardwood and hardwood cutting). Among the various interactions, hardwood cuttings of varieties Singapore red and Blondie performed better with respect to survival (75.55% and 73.33% respectively) as compared to others. Variety Singapore Red propagated by hardwood cutting recorded highest plant height (56.21 cm), stem girth (6.98 mm) and root length (13.72 cm) while variety Pink Beauty propagated by hardwood cutting recorded highest number of shoots (4.53) and number of leaves (57.33). Highest number of roots (35.89) was recorded in variety Blondie propagated by hardwood cutting. Variety M.P.S. recorded better survival percentage in all three types of cutting (softwood, semi hardwood and hardwood) which was followed by Blondie and Filoman.
Kinetic Insights into Solar-Assisted Fabrication and Photocatalytic Performance of CoWO4/NCW Heterostructure
Authors: Hassan Ali Abed , Shakir Ibtehal Kareem
Published: October 2024

This work studies the kinetic model for the solar-driven fabrication of CoWO4/NCW heterostructure photocatalysts and investigates their enhanced photocatalytic degradation activity. The synthesis of CoWO4/NCW, its characterization, and the kinetic aspects of photocatalytic degradation under solar light. New nanocomposite prepared from Nano cellulose (NCW) by hydrolysis cotton waste (CW) by nitric acid and cobalt tungstate (CoWO4) prepared from sodium tungstate and cobalt chloride by wet chemical method and characterized through XRD, FTIR, EDX, and FE-SEM analyses. The composite's performance in organic oxidation from refinery wastewater (RWW) was evaluated under solar light. The high removal ratio was 97.4% for organic pollutants (OP) in refinery wastewater. The results indicate that the heterostructure exhibits improved photocatalytic performance compared to individual components, which kinetics model was the best to represent the photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants from oily wastewater over the heterostructure CoWO4/NCW catalyst. Add future applications of this finding in the relevant industries. Copyright © 2024 by Authors, Published by BCREC Publishing Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Magma buoyancy and volatile ascent driving autocyclic eruptivity at Hekla Volcano (Iceland)
Authors: Hautmann Stefanie , Sacks I. Selwyn , Linde Alan T. , Roberts Matthew J.
Published: August 2017

Volcanic eruptions are typically accompanied by ground deflation due to the withdrawal of magma from depth and its effusion at the surface. Here, based on continuous high‐resolution borehole strain data, we show that ground deformation was absent during the major effusion phases of the 1991 and 2000 eruptions of Hekla Volcano, Iceland. This lack of surface deformation challenges the classic model of magma intrusion/withdrawal as source for volcanic ground uplift/subsidence. We incorporate geodetic and geochemical observables into theoretical models of magma chamber dynamics in order to constrain quantitatively alternative co‐ and intereruptive physical mechanisms that govern magma propagation and system pressurization. We find the lack of surface deformation during lava effusion to be linked to chamber replenishment from below whilst magma migrates as a buoyancy‐driven flow from the magma chamber towards the surface. We further demonstrate that intereruptive pressure build‐up is likely to be generated by volatile ascent within the chamber rather than magma injection. Our model explains the persistent periodic eruptivity at Hekla throughout historic times with self‐initiating cycles and is conceptually relevant to other volcanic systems.
Transitions in sleep problems from late adolescence to young adulthood: A longitudinal analysis of the effects of peer victimization
Authors: Chang Ling‐Yin , Chang Hsing‐Yi , Lin Linen Nymphas , Wu Chi‐Chen , Yen Lee‐Lan
Published: August 2017

Adolescence is a developmental period with high vulnerability to sleep problems. However, research identifying distinct patterns and underlying determinants of sleep problems is scarce. This study investigated discrete subgroups of, changes in, and stability of sleep problems. We also examined whether peer victimization influenced sleep problem subgroups and transitions in patterns of sleep problems from late adolescence to young adulthood. Sex differences in the effects of peer victimization were also explored. In total, 1,455 male and 1,399 female adolescents from northern Taiwan participated in this longitudinal study. Latent transition analysis was used to examine changes in patterns of sleep problems and the effects of peer victimization on these changes. We identified three subgroups of sleep problems in males and two in females, and found that there was a certain level of instability in patterns of sleep problems during the study period. For both sexes, those with greater increases in peer victimization over time were more likely to change from being a good sleeper to a poor sleeper. The effects of peer victimization on baseline status of sleep problems, however, was only significant for males, with those exposed to higher levels of peer victimization more likely to be poor sleepers at baseline. Our findings reveal an important role of peer victimization in predicting transitions in patterns of sleep problems. Intervention programs aimed at decreasing peer victimization may help reduce the development and escalation of sleep problems among adolescents, especially in males.
Practical implications for the quality assurance of modulated radiation therapy techniques using point detector arrays
Authors: Kantz Steffi , Troeller McDermott Almut , Söhn Matthias , Reinhardt Sabine , Belka Claus , Parodi Katia , Reiner Michael
Published: August 2017

Purpose

Linac parameters potentially influencing the delivery quality of IMRT and VMAT plans are investigated with respect to threshold ranges, consequently to be considered in a linac based quality assurance procedure. Three commercially available 2D arrays are used to further investigate the influence of the measurement device.

Methods

Using three commercially available 2D arrays (Mx: MatriXXevolution, Oc: Octavius1500, Mc: MapCHECK2), simple static measurements, measurements for MLC characterization and dynamic interplay of gantry movement, MLC movement and variable dose rate were performed. The results were evaluated with respect to each single array as well as among each other.

Results

Simple static measurements showed different array responses to dose, dose rate and profile homogeneity and revealed instabilities in dose delivery and profile shape during linac ramp up. Using the sweeping gap test, all arrays were able to detect small leaf misalignments down to ±0.1 mm, but this test also demonstrated up to 15% dose deviation due to profile instabilities and fast accelerating leaves during linac ramp up. Tests including gantry rotation showed different stability of gantry mounts for each array. Including gantry movement and dose rate variability, differences compared to static delivery were smaller compared to dose differences when simultaneously controling interplay of gantry movement, leaf movement and dose rate variability.

Conclusion

Linac based QA is feasible with the tested commercially available 2D arrays. Limitations of each array and the linac ramp up characteristics should be carefully considered during individual plan generation and regularly checked in linac QA. Especially the dose and dose profile during linac ramp up should be checked regularly, as well as MLC positioning accuracy using a sweeping gap test. Additionally, dynamic interplay tests including various gantry rotation speeds and angles, various leaf speeds and various dose rates should be included.
Dose uncertainties associated with a set density override of unknown hip prosthetic composition
Authors: Rijken James D. , Colyer Christopher J.
Published: August 2017

The dosimetric uncertainties associated with radiotherapy through hip prostheses while overriding the implant to a set density within the TPS has not yet been reported. In this study, the uncertainty in dose within a PTV resulting from this planning choice was investigated. A set of metallic hip prosthetics (stainless steel, titanium, and two different Co‐Cr‐Mo alloys) were CT scanned in a water bath. Within the TPS, the prosthetic pieces were overridden to densities between 3 and 10 g/cm3 and irradiated on a linear accelerator. Measured dose maps were compared to the TPS to determine which density was most appropriate to override each metal. This was shown to be in disagreement with the reported literature values of density which was attributed to the TPS dose calculation algorithm and total mass attenuation coefficient differences in water and metal. The dose difference was then calculated for a set density override of 6 g/cm3 in the TPS and used to estimate the dose uncertainty beyond the prosthesis. For beams passing through an implant, the dosimetric uncertainty in regions of the PTV may be as high as 10% if the implant composition remains unknown and a set density override is used. These results highlight limitations of such assumptions and the need for careful consideration by radiation oncologist, therapist, and physics staff.
NMNAT3 is protective against the effects of neonatal cerebral hypoxia‐ischemia
Authors: Galindo Rafael , Banks Greenberg Marianne , Araki Toshiyuki , Sasaki Yo , Mehta Nehali , Milbrandt Jeffrey , Holtzman David M.
Published: August 2017

Objective

To determine whether the NAD+ biosynthetic protein, nicotinamide mononucleotide adenylyltransferase‐3 (NMNAT3), is a neuroprotective inducible enzyme capable of decreasing cerebral injury after neonatal hypoxia‐ischemia (H‐I) and reducing glutamate receptor‐mediated excitotoxic neurodegeneration of immature neurons.

Methods

Using NMNAT3‐overexpressing mice we investigated whether increases in brain NMNAT3 reduced cerebral tissue loss following H‐I. We then employed biochemical methods from injured neonatal brains to examine the inducibility of NMNAT3 and the mechanism of NMNAT3‐dependent neuroprotection. Using AAV8‐mediated vectors for in vitro neuronal NMNAT3 knockdown, we then examine the endogenous role of this protein on immature neuronal survival prior and following NMDA receptor‐mediated excitotoxicity.

Results

NMNAT3 mRNA and protein levels increased after neonatal H‐I. In addition, NMNAT3 overexpression decreased cortical and hippocampal tissue loss 7 days following injury. We further show that the NMNAT3 neuroprotective mechanism involves a decrease in calpastatin degradation, and a decrease in caspase‐3 activity and calpain‐mediated cleavage. Conversely, NMNAT3 knockdown of cortical and hippocampal neurons in vitro caused neuronal degeneration and increased excitotoxic cell death. The neurodegenerative effects of NMNAT3 knockdown were counteracted by exogenous upregulation of NMNAT3.

Conclusions

Our observations provide new insights into the neuroprotective mechanisms of NMNATs in the injured developing brain, adding NMNAT3 as an important neuroprotective enzyme in neonatal H‐I via inhibition of apoptotic and necrotic neurodegeneration. Interestingly, we find that endogenous NMNAT3 is an inducible protein important for maintaining the survival of immature neurons. Future studies aimed at uncovering the mechanisms of NMNAT3 upregulation and neuroprotection may offer new therapies against the effects of hypoxic‐ischemic encephalopathy.
Twinned Growth of Metal‐Free, Triazine‐Based Photocatalyst Films as Mixed‐Dimensional (2D/3D) van der Waals Heterostructures
Authors: Schwarz Dana , Noda Yu , Klouda Jan , Schwarzová‐Pecková Karolina , Tarábek Ján , Rybáček Jiří , Janoušek Jiří , Simon Frank , Opanasenko Maksym V. , Čejka Jiří , Acharjya Amitava , Schmidt Johannes , Selve Sören , Reiter‐Scherer Valentin , Severin Nikolai , Rabe Jürgen P. , Ecorchard Petra , He Junjie , Polozij Miroslav , Nachtigall Petr , Bojdys Michael J.
Published: August 2017

Design and synthesis of ordered, metal‐free layered materials is intrinsically difficult due to the limitations of vapor deposition processes that are used in their making. Mixed‐dimensional (2D/3D) metal‐free van der Waals (vdW) heterostructures based on triazine (C3N3) linkers grow as large area, transparent yellow‐orange membranes on copper surfaces from solution. The membranes have an indirect band gap (Eg,opt = 1.91 eV, Eg,elec = 1.84 eV) and are moderately porous (124 m2 g−1). The material consists of a crystalline 2D phase that is fully sp2 hybridized and provides structural stability, and an amorphous, porous phase with mixed sp2–sp hybridization. Interestingly, this 2D/3D vdW heterostructure grows in a twinned mechanism from a one‐pot reaction mixture: unprecedented for metal‐free frameworks and a direct consequence of on‐catalyst synthesis. Thanks to the efficient type I heterojunction, electron transfer processes are fundamentally improved and hence, the material is capable of metal‐free, light‐induced hydrogen evolution from water without the need for a noble metal cocatalyst (34 µmol h−1 g−1 without Pt). The results highlight that twinned growth mechanisms are observed in the realm of “wet” chemistry, and that they can be used to fabricate otherwise challenging 2D/3D vdW heterostructures with composite properties.
Copper‐Catalyzed Aerobic Annulation of Hydrazones: Direct Access to Cinnolines
Authors: Lan Chunling , Tian Zhuang , Liang Xuchun , Gao Mingchun , Liu Wenting , An Yu , Fu Wencheng , Jiao Guanming , Xiao Junjie , Xu Bin
Published: August 2017

A novel method was developed for the construction of biologically active poly‐substituted cinnolines from easily accessible hydrazones in good to excellent yields. A simple copper catalyst could efficiently promote C−N bond formation through selective C−H functionalization and dehydrogenative amination. Furthermore, the inert C−Heteroatom (O/F/N) bonds are susceptible to cleavage in high selectivity in the newly developed aerobic annulation, in preference to the alternative C−H bond, which is left intact.

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Design and Fabrication of a Precious Metal‐Free Tandem Core–Shell p+n Si/W‐Doped BiVO4 Photoanode for Unassisted Water Splitting
Authors: Chakthranont Pongkarn , Hellstern Thomas R. , McEnaney Joshua M. , Jaramillo Thomas F.
Published: August 2017

Tandem photoelectrochemical water splitting cells utilizing crystalline Si and metal oxide photoabsorbers are promising for low‐cost solar hydrogen production. This study presents a device design and a scalable fabrication scheme for a tandem heterostructure photoanode: p+n black silicon (Si)/SnO2 interface/W‐doped bismuth vanadate (BiVO4)/cobalt phosphate (CoPi) catalyst. The black‐Si not only provides a substantial photovoltage of 550 mV, but it also serves as a conductive scaffold to decrease charge transport pathlengths within the W‐doped BiVO4 shell. When coupled with cobalt phosphide (CoP) nanoparticles as hydrogen evolution catalysts, the device demonstrates spontaneous water splitting without employing any precious metals, achieving an average solar‐to‐hydrogen efficiency of 0.45% over the course of an hour at pH 7. This fabrication scheme offers the modularity to optimize individual cell components, e.g., Si nanowire dimensions and metal oxide film thickness, involving steps that are compatible with fabricating monolithic devices. This design is general in nature and can be readily adapted to novel, higher performance semiconducting materials beyond BiVO4 as they become available, which will accelerate the process of device realization.
Glycogen synthase kinase‐3β activity plays a key role in the antitumor effect of nafamostat mesilate in pancreatic cancer cells
Authors: Haruki Koichiro , Shiba Hiroaki , Shimada Yohta , Shirai Yoshihiro , Iwase Ryota , Fujiwara Yuki , Uwagawa Tadashi , Ohashi Toya , Yanaga Katsuhiko
Published: August 2017

Pancreatic cancer is often resistant to chemotherapy. We previously showed the efficacy of combination treatment using gemcitabine and nafamostat mesilate (FUT‐175) for patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer. However, the mechanisms that affect the sensitivity of FUT‐175 are not fully understood. The purpose of the present study was to clarify the mechanism of the sensitivity to FUT‐175, with a focus on the activity of glycogen synthase kinase‐3β (GSK‐3β). In vitro, we assessed sensitivity to FUT‐175 in human pancreatic cancer cell lines (PANC‐1 and MIAPaCa‐2) and difference of signaling in these cells by cell proliferation assay, Western blot analysis and microarray. Next, we assessed cell viability, apoptotic signal and nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) activity in response to treatment with FUT‐175 alone and in combination with GSK‐3 inhibitor or protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) by cell proliferation assay, Western blot analysis and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Phosphorylated GSK‐3β level was significantly higher in MIAPaCa‐2 (high sensitivity cell) than in PANC‐1 (low sensitivity cell). Cell viability and NF‐κB activity were significantly decreased by addition of GSK‐3 inhibitor to FUT‐175, and levels of cleaved caspase‐8 were increased by inhibition of GSK‐3. PP2A inhibitor increased the levels of phosphorylated GSK‐3β and sensitized both cell lines to FUT‐175 as measured by cell viability and apoptotic signal. The results indicate that GSK‐3β activity plays a key role in the antitumor effect of FUT‐175 in pancreatic cancer cells, and regulation of GSK‐3β by PP2A inhibition could be a novel therapeutic approach for pancreatic cancer.
Graphene Growth by Conversion of Aromatic Self‐Assembled Monolayers
Authors: Turchanin Andrey
Published: August 2017

Despite present diversity of graphene production methods there is still a high demand for improvement of the existing production schemes or development of new. Here a method is reviewed to produce graphene employing aromatic self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) as molecular precursors. This method is based on electron irradiation induced crosslinking of aromatic SAMs resulting in their conversion into carbon nanomembranes (CNMs) with high thermal stability and subsequent pyrolysis of CNMs into graphene in vacuum or in the inert atmosphere. Depending on the production conditions, such as chemical structure of molecular precursors, irradiation and annealing parameters, various properties of the produced graphene sheets including shape, crystallinity, thickness, optical properties and electric transport can be adjusted. The assembly of CNM/graphene van der Waals heterostructures opens a flexible route to non‐destructive chemical functionalization of graphene for a variety of applications in electronic and photonic devices.
CuO‐loaded hydrophobically modified chitosan as hybrid carrier for curcumin delivery and anticancer activity
Authors: Sriram Kamaraj , Maheswari Palanisamy Uma , Ezhilarasu Arasagounder , Begum Kadhar Mohamed Meera Sheriffa , Arthanareeswaran Gangasalam
Published: August 2017

The hydrophobic modification of chitosan was performed by the incorporation of aromatic phendione to the amino group of chitosan to improve the hydrophobic drug encapsulation efficiency and anticancer activity. The phendione‐modified chitosan was coated with the copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles to obtain the hybrid material for the model drug (curcumin) delivery. The synthesized hybrid nanoparticles were characterized by Fourier transform infrared, proton nuclear magnetic resonance, thermogravimetric analysis, X‐ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy techniques. The extent of phendione modification on chitosan, presence of CuO nanoparticles, drug encapsulation, and size and morphology of the prepared hybrid materials were observed by using the techniques mentioned. The drug release studies were performed on simulated gastric fluid (pH 1.2) and simulated body fluid (pH 7.4) to analyze the release kinetics of curcumin from the chitosan and chitosan–phendione with CuO. The drug release was also monitored at different initial drug loading conditions. As the initial loading of drug decreased, the rate of drug release was also decreased. Mostly, the drug release followed a non‐Fickian, case II type transport mechanism. The drug‐loaded chitosan–phendione and chitosan with CuO nanoparticles were investigated for anticancer activities toward the cell lines M19‐MEL, MCF‐7, and HeLa. © 2017 Curtin University and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Controlled Synthesis of Hollow PbS‐TiO2 Hybrid Structures through an Ion Adsorption–Heating Process and their Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Xia Hongbo , Wu Suli , Zhang Shufen
Published: August 2017

Hollow hybrid nanostructures have received significant attention because of their unique structural features. This study reports a facile ion adsorption–heating method to fabricate hollow PbS‐TiO2 hybrid particles. In this method, the TiO2 spheres used as a substrate material to grow PbS are aggregates of many small amorphous TiO2 particles, and each small particle is covered with thioglycolic acid ligands through Ti4+–carboxyl coordination. When Pb2+ ions are added to a colloidal solution of these TiO2 spheres, these ions are adsorbed by sulfhydryl (‐SH) groups to form metal thiolates, and the C−S bond is dissociated by heating to release S2−. The S2− ions react with Pb2+ ions to form PbS without additive sulfur sources. Additionally, the amorphous TiO2 spheres are transformed into the anatase phase during the heating process. As a result, the crystallization of TiO2 spheres along with the formation of PbS is simultaneously carried out by heating. During the heating process, owing to the Kirkendall effect of S2− diffusion and the Ostwald ripening effect of the crystallization of amorphous TiO2 spheres, PbS‐TiO2 hollow hybrid structures can be obtained. The XRD and XPS characterizations proved the formation of anatase TiO2 and PbS. The TEM characterization confirmed the formation of hollow structures in the PbS‐TiO2 hybrid sample. The photocatalytic activity of the hollow PbS‐TiO2 hybrid spheres have been investigated for the degradation of Cr6+ under visible light. The results show that hollow PbS‐TiO2 hybrid spheres exhibited the highest photocatalytic activity, in which almost all the Cr6+ was degraded after 140 min.
Stochastic Stability and Stabilization of Singular It‐type Markovian Jump Systems with Uncertain Transition Rates: An LMI Approach
Authors: Jiang Baoping , Gao Cunchen , Kao Yonggui
Published: August 2017

This paper investigates the stochastic stability and stabilization for a class of singular stochastic systems of Itô‐type with Markovian switching, the transition rates (TRs) in the jumping processes are uncertain. The aims are to establish sufficient conditions to ensure the considered system to be stochastically stable in the mean square sense, which is supported by a detailed proof of existence and uniqueness of the system solution, and to propose a controller such that the system can be stabilizable. The controller is first proposed and has advantage over traditional ones, the controller gain matrices are obtained by solving a strict linear matrix inequality (LMI). Finally, a numerical example is provided to illustrate the validity of the obtained methodology.
An evaluation of the multivariate dispersion charts with estimated parameters under non‐normality
Authors: Mostajeran A. , Iranpanah N. , Noorossana R.
Published: August 2017

Various charts such as |S|, W, and G are used for monitoring process dispersion. Most of these charts are based on the normality assumption, while exact distribution of the control statistic is unknown, and thus limiting distribution of control statistic is employed which is applicable for large sample sizes. In practice, the normality assumption of distribution might be violated, while it is not always possible to collect large sample size. Furthermore, to use control charts in practice, the in‐control state usually has to be estimated. Such estimation has a negative effect on the performance of control chart. Non‐parametric bootstrap control charts can be considered as an alternative when the distribution is unknown or a collection of large sample size is not possible or the process parameters are estimated from a Phase I data set. In this paper, non‐parametric bootstrap multivariate control charts |S|, W, and G are introduced, and their performances are compared against Shewhart‐type control charts. The proposed method is based on bootstrapping the data used for estimating the in‐control state. Simulation results show satisfactory performance for the bootstrap control charts. Ultimately, the proposed control charts are applied to a real case study.
Gastrointestinal symptoms in autism spectrum disorder: A review of the literature on ascertainment and prevalence
Authors: Holingue Calliope , Newill Carol , Lee Li‐Ching , Pasricha Pankaj J. , Daniele Fallin M.
Published: August 2017

There is no standard approach to measuring GI symptoms in individuals with ASD, despite postulated interactions. The objectives of this study were to (a) describe the range of GI symptom ascertainment approaches in studies of ASD, (b) describe the range of prevalence estimates across studies, and (c) assess associations between ascertainment approach and prevalence estimates. Studies published from 1/1/1980 to 1/31/2017 were collected via PubMed. Eligibility included studies with at least ten individuals with ASD that measured GI symptoms or conditions. We excluded review and hypothesis papers. We extracted information on study design, GI symptom ascertainment method, demographics, and ASD diagnostic criteria. From a subset of studies, we extracted GI symptom estimates. Out of a possible 386 titles, 144 were included. The prevalence range for constipation was 4.3–45.5% (median 22%), for diarrhea was 2.3–75.6% (median 13.0%), and for any or more than one symptom was 4.2–96.8% (median 46.8%). GI symptoms differed significantly by age of individuals, primary goal of study, study design, study sample, and who reported symptoms (P < .05). Due to small sample size, we were not able to test for associations between every GI symptom and study characteristic of interest, or examine associations between GI symptoms and intellectual or verbal disability. Studies used a broad range of methods to ascertain GI symptoms in ASD. GI symptoms varied widely across these studies, with significant differences by study characteristics. Our findings highlight the need for a reliable, valid GI assessment tool to be used consistently across studies of ASD. Autism Res 2018, 11: 24–36. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

We reviewed studies having to do with autism spectrum disorder and the gastrointestinal system, dating back to 1980. We found that the median prevalence of constipation was 22.2%, diarrhea 13.0%, and any symptom 46.8%. All symptoms had a wide range of estimates across studies. GI symptoms were associated with characteristics of the study, including who measured the GI symptoms. We call for the development of a reliable and valid GI questionnaire for studies of ASD.
Size of single‐wall carbon nanotube affects the folate receptor‐mediated cancer cell targeting
Authors: Charbgoo Fahimeh , Nikkhah Maryam , Behmanesh Mehrdad
Published: August 2017

Advances in nanobiotechnology and targeting strategy could improve the delivery of therapeutic molecules into cancer cells, leading to improved treatment efficiency with minimal side effects on normal cells. To design an efficient nanocarrier, consideration of parameters that facilitate direct drug delivery into the target cells is important. We studied the effect of single‐wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) size on their cell internalization level via the folate receptor‐mediated pathway through folic acid targeting. Folate‐SWNTs were covalently synthesized and characterized. Folate‐SWNTs ≤ 450 nm had lower cell internalization level than folate‐SWNTs >450 nm with a P value of ≤0.01. This indicated that using folate‐SWNT with an average length of ≤450 nm was not suitable for receptor‐mediated cancer cell targeting. Receptor‐mediated uptake of folate‐SWNTs is dependent on the nanoparticle length. However, sub‐450 nm SWNTs could serve as a vehicle to transfer nucleic acids into the cells due to direct cell penetrance based on their needle‐like structure. We find that SWNTs larger than 450 nm were suitable to target the cells through receptors. These results might provide a promising approach for designing more effective targeted delivery systems based on SWNTs.
Rapid and sensitive colorimetric detection of ascorbic acid in food based on the intrinsic oxidase‐like activity of MnO2 nanosheets
Authors: He Liuying , Wang Feiyang , Chen Ying , Liu Yueying
Published: August 2017

In this paper, we report a colorimetric sensor for the rapid, selective detection of ascorbic acid (AA) in aqueous solutions. Single‐layered MnO2 nanosheets were established as an artificial oxidase; consequently colorless 3,3´,5,5´‐tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) was oxidized to a blue product (oxTMB), with increase in absorbance at 650 nm. The absorbance of the reaction system decreased after introduction AA, which reduced MnO2 into Mn2+. Under optimum conditions, a detection limit of 62.81 nM for AA in aqueous solutions could be achieved. The linear response range for AA was 0.25–30 μM with a correlation coefficient of 0.996. Importantly, the MnO2 nanosheet–TMB chromogenic reaction exhibited great selectivity as there was no interference from other metal ions, amino acids and small biological molecules. The proposed colorimetric sensing of AA could be applied for fruit, juice and pharmaceutical samples. Moreover, the proposed sensor showed satisfying performance, including low cost, easy preparation, rapid detection, and good biocompatibility.
Enhancement in Tensile Mechanical and Shape Recovery Properties of Polyurethane by Incorporating Graft‐polymerized Poly(tert‐Butyl Acrylate) into Polyurethane
Authors: Chung Yong‐Chan , Park Eon Ho , Choi Jae Won , Chun Byoung Chul
Published: August 2017

The graft polymerization of tert‐butyl acrylate (TBA) onto polyurethane (PU) was conducted to prepare a series of samples that was compared to a control series comprising a physical mixture of poly(TBA) and PU. Maximum tensile stress sharply increased because of chemical cross‐linking via poly(TBA), whereas tensile breaking strain slightly diminished by the grafted poly(TBA). Percent shape recovery at 10°C rapidly increased by the additional grafting of poly(TBA), whereas control series decreased with increases in TBA monomer content. Chemical cross‐linking from the grafted poly(TBA) was responsible for the enhancement of shape recovery. Low‐temperature flexibility tests from −35°C demonstrated that a proper composition of grafted poly(TBA) could enhance the flexibility of PU below 0°C. Overall, the grafted poly(TBA) greatly stepped up the maximum tensile stress, recovery capability to original form, and flexibility of PU at very low temperature.
Development and validation of a simple high‐performance liquid chromatography analytical method for simultaneous determination of phytosterols, cholesterol and squalene in parenteral lipid emulsions
Authors: Novak Ana , Gutiérrez‐Zamora Mercè , Domenech Lluís , Suñé‐Negre Josep M. , Miñarro Montserrat , García‐Montoya Encarna , Llop Josep M. , Ticó Josep R. , Pérez‐Lozano Pilar
Published: August 2017

A simple analytical method for simultaneous determination of phytosterols, cholesterol and squalene in lipid emulsions was developed owing to increased interest in their clinical effects. Method development was based on commonly used stationary (C18, C8 and phenyl) and mobile phases (mixtures of acetonitrile, methanol and water) under isocratic conditions. Differences in stationary phases resulted in peak overlapping or coelution of different peaks. The best separation of all analyzed compounds was achieved on Zorbax Eclipse XDB C8 (150 × 4.6 mm, 5 μm; Agilent) and ACN–H2O–MeOH, 80:19.5:0.5 (v/v/v). In order to achieve a shorter time of analysis, the method was further optimized and gradient separation was established. The optimized analytical method was validated and tested for routine use in lipid emulsion analyses.
Multi‐DGAS: A pattern based educational framework design for power transformers faults interpretation and comparative performance analysis
Authors: Varan Metin , Yurtsever Ulaş
Published: August 2017

Taking necessary measures in advance for early prediction of the transformer failures are very crucial. Dissolved gas in oil analysis (DGA) techniques that used in electrical power systems has become an internationally accepted standard in condition based maintenance (CBM) studies have high complexity and increasing demands of the quick‐service‐ready paradigm in power transformers. This standard includes the implementation steps of various complex DGA methods named basic gas, Rogers, Doernenburg, Duval triangle, and pentagon. Mentioned methods are quite complicated and their application steps are strict rules defined in detailed procedures. The adaptation of these methods to transformer maintenance procedures that prepared according to standards and tested for correctness creates a valuable tool. In this study, a pattern based educational framework has been designed to integrate state of arts DGA techniques help for trainers, graduate researchers working on DGA techniques, and also for maintenance teams while taking critical decisions on power transformers. Developed Multi‐DGAS educational framework is designed for modular construction that can be integrated with online condition monitoring and diagnostic systems for electric power systems. Success of the proposed framework revealed with newly proposed pentagon method in regard with comparison of classical methods by using oil samples which have been taken under the energized condition of different 135 transformers within multi‐phase which failure histories already known. Analysis of dissolved gases in transformer oil is performed according to ASTM‐D 3612 procedure using 3800 GC Varian gas chromatograph apparatus.
Site‐Specific Reactivity of Copper Chabazite Zeolites with Nitric Oxide, Ammonia, and Oxygen
Authors: Godiksen Anita , Isaksen Oliver L. , Rasmussen Søren B. , Vennestrøm Peter N. R. , Mossin Susanne
Published: August 2017

In situ electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy was applied to dilute copper chabazite (CHA) zeolites under gas flows relevant for the selective catalytic reduction of NO with ammonia (NH3‐SCR). Under both reducing and oxidizing conditions, we observed differences in reactivity between the different monomeric copper sites present: Upon reduction of Cu2+ with NO+NH3, the rate is seen to depend on the NH3 coverage. Subsequent oxidation with O2 resulted in a clean EPR spectrum of only one type of copper site, whereas oxidation with NO+O2 gave two types of copper sites. The rate of oxidation differed significantly between the reaction with O2 alone and with NO+O2 together. Thus, it was revealed that [Cu(NH3)2]+ complexes, which are regarded to be only weakly associated with the framework, nevertheless have different reactivity depending on the Al distribution in the proximity. The observed differences in reactivity of the copper sites have implications for the mechanistic understanding of NH3‐SCR with Cu zeolites.