bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Connexins in Cancer, the Possible Role of Connexin46 as a Cancer Stem Cell-Determining Protein
Authors: León-Fuentes Isidora M. , Salgado-Gil María G. , Novoa María S. , Retamal Mauricio A.
Published: September 2023

Cancer is a widespread and incurable disease caused by genetic mutations, leading to uncontrolled cell proliferation and metastasis. Connexins (Cx) are transmembrane proteins that facilitate intercellular communication via hemichannels and gap junction channels. Among them, Cx46 is found mostly in the eye lens. However, in pathological conditions, Cx46 has been observed in various types of cancers, such as glioblastoma, melanoma, and breast cancer. It has been demonstrated that elevated Cx46 levels in breast cancer contribute to cellular resistance to hypoxia, and it is an enhancer of cancer aggressiveness supporting a pro-tumoral role. Accordingly, Cx46 is associated with an increase in cancer stem cell phenotype. These cells display radio- and chemoresistance, high proliferative abilities, self-renewal, and differentiation capacities. This review aims to consolidate the knowledge of the relationship between Cx46, its role in forming hemichannels and gap junctions, and its connection with cancer and cancer stem cells.
Therapeutic Approach for Trigeminal Neuralgia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rana Muhammad Haseeb , Khan Abdul Ahad Ghaffar , Khalid Imran , Ishfaq Muhammad , Javali Mukhatar Ahmed , Baig Fawaz Abdul Hamid , Kota Mohammad Zahir , Khader Mohasin Abdul , Hameed Mohammad Shahul , Shaik Sharaz , Das Gotam
Published: September 2023

This umbrella review aimed to determine the various drugs used to treat trigeminal neuralgia (TN) and to evaluate their efficacies as well as side effects by surveying previously published reviews. An online search was conducted using PubMed, CRD, EBSCO, Web of Science, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library with no limits on publication date or patients’ gender, age, and ethnicity. Reviews and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials pertaining to drug therapy for TN, and other relevant review articles added from their reference lists, were evaluated. Rapid reviews, reviews published in languages other than English, and reviews of laboratory studies, case reports, and series were excluded. A total of 588 articles were initially collected; 127 full-text articles were evaluated after removing the duplicates and screening the titles and abstracts, and 11 articles were finally included in this study. Except for carbamazepine, most of the drugs had been inadequately studied. Carbamazepine and oxcarbazepine continue to be the first choice for medication for classical TN. Lamotrigine and baclofen can be regarded as second-line drugs to treat patients not responding to first-line medication or for patients having intolerable side effects from carbamazepine. Drug combinations using carbamazepine, baclofen, gabapentin, ropivacaine, tizanidine, and pimozide can yield satisfactory results and improve the tolerance to the treatment. Intravenous lidocaine can be used to treat acute exaggerations and botulinum toxin-A can be used in refractory cases. Proparacaine, dextromethorphan, and tocainide were reported to be inappropriate for treating TN. Anticonvulsants are successful in managing trigeminal neuralgia; nevertheless, there have been few studies with high levels of proof, making it challenging to compare or even combine their results in a statistically useful way. New research on other drugs, combination therapies, and newer formulations, such as vixotrigine, is awaited. There is conclusive evidence for the efficacy of pharmacological drugs in the treatment of TN.
Transvaginal Ultrasound vs. Magnetic Resonance Imaging: What Is the Optimal Imaging Modality for the Diagnosis of Endometriosis?
Authors: Baușic Alexandra Irma Gabriela , Matasariu Daniela Roxana , Manu Andrei , Brătilă Elvira
Published: September 2023

Endometriosis, an intriguing gynecological illness, poses a substantial health concern for women of reproductive age, despite its widespread occurrence and limited comprehension. The objective of this study is to assess the diagnostic precision of transvaginal sonography (TVS) and pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the identification of deep infiltrated endometriosis (DIE). This study encompassed a cohort of 256 patients exhibiting signs and symptoms of endometriosis, with the aim of assessing the diagnostic accuracy over a span of four years. Both TVS and pelvic MRI were employed in the same centers to analyze each subject. The histopathologic analysis and laparoscopy were the most reliable and widely accepted methods for evaluation. TVS is a reliable diagnostic tool for ovarian endometriomas, obviating the necessity for MRI confirmation. The specificity of TVS in diagnosing ovarian endometriomas is 57.14%, while its sensitivity is 93.78%, resulting in an overall accuracy of 84.47%. In relation to parametrial lesions, the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of TVS and MRI were as follows: TVS: 9%, 97%, 32%, MRI: 27.14%, 89.19%, and 40.11%. Concerning the uterosacral lesions, the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of TVS and MRI were as follows: TVS:14.63%, 94.74%, and 55%, while MRI: 65.88%, 66.30%, and 66.1%. Regarding rectal endometriosis, the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of TVS and MRI were as follows: 69.72%, 76.87%, and 73.82% for TVS, and 66.28%, 94.51%, and 80.79% for MRI. The results of the present study indicate that whereas MRI generally exhibits superior capability in assessing the severity of endometriosis, TVS demonstrates sufficient diagnostic accuracy in DIE comparable to MRI.
Multimarker Approach as More Reliable Method Than Single Vitamin D in Relationship with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Montenegrin Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Klisic Aleksandra , Cojic Milena , Patoulias Dimitrios , Ninic Ana
Published: September 2023

Objective: Previous studies suggested that ethnic differences, sex and obesity could modify the relationship between 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], glycometabolic markers and/or type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D). We aimed to examine the potential relationship between [25(OH)D] and T2D in postmenopausal women in Montenegro. In addition, we aimed to explore if a set of biomarkers, rather than [25(OH)D] as a single biomarker, could better explain its potential association with T2D. Patients and Methods: A total of 116 postmenopausal, otherwise healthy women and 48 postmenopausal women with T2D were included. Univariable and multivariable binary logistic regression analysis, along with principal component analysis (PCA), were applied to test the associations between examined biomarkers/set of biomarkers with T2D. Results: Women with T2D had lower serum [25(OH)D] levels than healthy controls (p = 0.024). No independent relationship between [25(OH)D] and T2D was found. PCA extracted three significant factors that were associated with T2D, i.e., age-glycometabolic-related factor (i.e., with positive loadings of age, glucose and insulin; OR = 11.321, p < 0.001), obesity-inflammation- related factor (i.e., with positive loadings of hsCRP and WC, and negative loading of [25(OH)D]; (OR = 2.079, p < 0.001)) and lipid-related factor (i.e., with positive loadings of TG and LDL-c, and negative loading of HDL-c; OR = 1.423, p = 0.044). Conclusions: The relationship between [25(OH)D] and T2D is modulated by central obesity (as measured by WC) and inflammation (as measured with hsCRP) in postmenopausal women. Their joint measurement, rather than [25(OH)D] itself, could provide better information for the risk assessment for T2D in postmenopausal women.
Novel Insights into Pathophysiology of Delayed Cerebral Ischemia: Effects of Current Rescue Therapy on Microvascular Perfusion Heterogeneity
Authors: Hofmann Björn B. , Karadag Cihat , Rubbert Christian , Schieferdecker Simon , Neyazi Milad , Abusabha Yousef , Fischer Igor , Boogaarts Hieronymus D. , Muhammad Sajjad , Beseoglu Kerim , Hänggi Daniel , Turowski Bernd , Kamp Marcel A. , Cornelius Jan F.
Published: September 2023

General microvascular perfusion and its heterogeneity are pathophysiological features of delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) that are gaining increasing attention. Recently, CT perfusion (CTP) imaging has made it possible to evaluate them radiologically using mean transit time (MTT) and its heterogeneity (measured by cvMTT). This study evaluates the effect of multimodal rescue therapy (intra-arterial nimodipine administration and elevation of blood pressure) on MTT and cvMTT during DCI in aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (aSAH) patients. A total of seventy-nine aSAH patients who underwent multimodal rescue therapy between May 2012 and December 2019 were retrospectively included in this study. CTP-based perfusion impairment (MTT and cvMTT) on the day of DCI diagnosis was compared with follow-up CTP after initiation of combined multimodal therapy. The mean MTT was significantly reduced in the follow-up CTP compared to the first CTP (3.7 ± 0.7 s vs. 3.3 ± 0.6 s; p < 0.0001). However, no significant reduction of cvMTT was observed (0.16 ± 0.06 vs. 0.15 ± 0.06; p = 0.44). Mean arterial pressure was significantly increased between follow-up and first CTP (98 ± 17 mmHg vs. 104 ± 15 mmHg; p < 0.0001). The combined multimodal rescue therapy was effective in addressing the general microvascular perfusion impairment but did not affect the mechanisms underlying microvascular perfusion heterogeneity. This highlights the need for research into new therapeutic approaches that also target these pathophysiological mechanisms of DCI.
Effect of Probiotic Therapy on Neuropsychiatric Manifestations in Children with Multiple Neurotransmitter Disorders: A Study
Authors: Matiș Loredana , Alexandru Bogdana Ariana , Fodor Radu , Daina Lucia Georgeta , Ghitea Timea Claudia , Vlad Silviu
Published: September 2023

Probiotics, also known as psychobiotics, have been linked to cognitive functions, memory, learning, and behavior, in addition to their positive effects on the digestive tract. The purpose of this study is to examine the psychoemotional effects and cognitive functioning in children with gastrointestinal disorders who undergo psychobiotherapy. A total of 135 participants, aged 5–18 years, were divided into three groups based on the pediatrician’s diagnosis: Group I (Control) consisted of 37 patients (27.4%), Group II included 65 patients (48.1%) with psychoanxiety disorders, and Group III comprised 33 individuals (24.4%) with psychiatric disorders. The study monitored neurotransmitter levels such as serotonin, GABA, glutamate, cortisol, and DHEA, as well as neuropsychiatric symptoms including headaches, fatigue, mood swings, hyperactivity, aggressiveness, sleep disorders, and lack of concentration in patients who had gastrointestinal issues such as constipation, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal problems. The results indicate that psychobiotics have a significant impact on reducing hyperactivity and aggression, and improving concentration. While further extensive studies are needed, these findings offer promising insights into the complexity of a child’s neuropsychic behavior and the potential for balancing certain behaviors through psychobiotics.
Fetal RHD Screening in RH1 Negative Pregnant Women: Experience in Switzerland
Authors: Schimanski Bernd , Kräuchi Rahel , Stettler Jolanda , Lejon Crottet Sofia , Niederhauser Christoph , Clausen Frederik Banch , Fontana Stefano , Hodel Markus , Amylidi-Mohr Sofia , Raio Luigi , Abbal Claire , Henny Christine
Published: September 2023

RH1 incompatibility between mother and fetus can cause hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn. In Switzerland, fetal RHD genotyping from maternal blood has been recommended from gestational age 18 onwards since the year 2020. This facilitates tailored administration of RH immunoglobulin (RHIG) only to RH1 negative women carrying a RH1 positive fetus. Data from 30 months of noninvasive fetal RHD screening is presented. Cell-free DNA was extracted from 7192 plasma samples using a commercial kit, followed by an in-house qPCR to detect RHD exons 5 and 7, in addition to an amplification control. Valid results were obtained from 7072 samples, with 4515 (64%) fetuses typed RHD positive and 2556 (36%) fetuses being RHD negative. A total of 120 samples led to inconclusive results due to the presence of maternal or fetal RHD variants (46%), followed by women being serologically RH1 positive (37%), and technical issues (17%). One sample was typed false positive, possibly due to contamination. No false negative results were observed. We show that unnecessary administration of RHIG can be avoided for more than one third of RH1 negative pregnant women in Switzerland. This reduces the risks of exposure to a blood-derived product and conserves this limited resource to women in actual need.
pH Quantification in Human Dermal Interstitial Fluid Using Ultra-Thin SOI Silicon Nanowire ISFETs and a High-Sensitivity Constant-Current Approach
Authors: Sprunger Yann , Capua Luca , Ernst Thomas , Barraud Sylvain , Locca Didier , Ionescu Adrian , Saeidi Ali
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we propose a novel approach to utilize silicon nanowires as high-sensitivity pH sensors. Our approach works based on fixing the current bias of silicon nanowires Ion Sensitive Field Effect Transistors (ISFETs) and monitor the resulting drain voltage as the sensing signal. By fine tuning the injected current levels, we can optimize the sensing conditions according to different sensor requirements. This method proves to be highly suitable for real-time and continuous measurements of biomarkers in human biofluids. To validate our approach, we conducted experiments, with real human sera samples to simulate the composition of human interstitial fluid (ISF), using both the conventional top-gate approach and the optimized constant current method. We successfully demonstrated pH sensing within the physiopathological range of 6.5 to 8, achieving an exceptional level of accuracy in this complex matrix. Specifically, we obtained a maximum error as low as 0.92% (equivalent to 0.07 pH unit) using the constant-current method at the optimal current levels (1.71% for top-gate). Moreover, by utilizing different pools of human sera with varying total protein content, we demonstrated that the protein content among patients does not impact the sensors’ performance in pH sensing. Furthermore, we tested real-human ISF samples collected from volunteers. The obtained accuracy in this scenario was also outstanding, with an error as low as 0.015 pH unit using the constant-current method and 0.178 pH unit in traditional top-gate configuration.
Disrupted Gray Matter Networks Associated with Cognitive Dysfunction in Cerebral Small Vessel Disease
Authors: Gao Yian , Wang Shengpei , Xin Haotian , Feng Mengmeng , Zhang Qihao , Sui Chaofan , Guo Lingfei , Liang Changhu , Wen Hongwei
Published: September 2023

This study aims to investigate the disrupted topological organization of gray matter (GM) structural networks in cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) patients with cerebral microbleeds (CMBs). Subject-wise structural networks were constructed from GM volumetric features of 49 CSVD patients with CMBs (CSVD-c), 121 CSVD patients without CMBs (CSVD-n), and 74 healthy controls. The study used graph theory to analyze the global and regional properties of the network and their correlation with cognitive performance. We found that both the control and CSVD groups exhibited efficient small-world organization in GM networks. However, compared to controls, CSVD-c and CSVD-n patients exhibited increased global and local efficiency (Eglob/Eloc) and decreased shortest path lengths (Lp), indicating increased global integration and local specialization in structural networks. Although there was no significant global topology change, partially reorganized hub distributions were found between CSVD-c and CSVD-n patients. Importantly, regional topology in nonhub regions was significantly altered between CSVD-c and CSVD-n patients, including the bilateral anterior cingulate gyrus, left superior parietal gyrus, dorsolateral superior frontal gyrus, and right MTG, which are involved in the default mode network (DMN) and sensorimotor functional modules. Intriguingly, the global metrics (Eglob, Eloc, and Lp) were significantly correlated with MoCA, AVLT, and SCWT scores in the control group but not in the CSVD-c and CSVD-n groups. In contrast, the global metrics were significantly correlated with the SDMT score in the CSVD-s and CSVD-n groups but not in the control group. Patients with CSVD show a disrupted balance between local specialization and global integration in their GM structural networks. The altered regional topology between CSVD-c and CSVD-n patients may be due to different etiological contributions, which may offer a novel understanding of the neurobiological processes involved in CSVD with CMBs.
Multiple Early Life Stressors as Risk Factors for Neurodevelopmental Abnormalities in the F1 Wistar Rats
Authors: Mujtaba Syed , Patro Ishan Kumar , Patro Nisha
Published: September 2023

Cumulative exposure to multiple early life stressors is expected to affect behavioral development, causing increased susceptibility to neuropsychiatric disorders. The present study was designed to mimic such conditions in a rat model to study behavioral impairments during adolescence and adulthood. Female Wistar rats (n = 32; 140–150 gm) were switched to a low protein (LP; 8% protein) or control (20% protein) diet 15 days prior to conception, and then the diet regime was maintained throughout the experimental period. Pups born to control and LP dams were intraperitoneally injected with deltamethrin (DLT—pyrethroid insecticide; 0.7 mg/kg body weight; PND 1 to 7), lipopolysaccharide (LPS—bacterial endotoxin; 0.3 mg/kg body weight; PND 3 and 5), or DLT+LPS, on designated days forming eight experimental groups (Control, LP, Control+LPS, LP+LPS, Control+DLT, LP+DLT, Control+DLT+LPS and LP+DLT+LPS). Neurobehavioral assessments were performed in F1 rats (1, 3, 6 months) by open field, elevated plus maze, light and dark box, and rotarod tests. LP rats were found to be highly susceptible to either singular or cumulative exposure as compared to their age-matched control counterparts, showing significantly severe behavioral abnormalities, such as hyperactivity, attention deficits and low anxiety, the hallmark symptoms of neuropsychiatric disorders like schizophrenia and ADHD, suggesting thereby that early life multi-hit exposure may predispose individuals to developmental disorders.
Resilience in Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI): Examining the Level and the Associations of Resilience with Subjective Wellbeing and Negative Affect in Early and Late-Stage MCI
Authors: Tsormpatzoudi Styliani Olympia , Moraitou Despina , Papaliagkas Vasileios , Pezirkianidis Christos , Tsolaki Magda
Published: September 2023

The current study examines the relationship between the cognitive state of participants [healthy-early mild cognitive impairment (MCI)–late MCI], some subjective wellbeing factors (positive emotions, engagement, positive relationships, meaning in life, accomplishment, and negative emotions), and negative psychological outcomes (depression, anxiety, stress), as well as psychological resilience. We expected that people with advanced MCI would perceive increased negative psychological outcomes, poorer psychological resilience, and lower levels of subjective wellbeing in contrast to early MCI and healthy participants. The study involved 30 healthy, 31 early, and 28 late MCI individuals. A series of questionnaires have been applied to assess the aforementioned constructs. To examine the hypotheses of the study, path analysis (EQS program) was applied. Results showed that early MCI persons maintain the same levels of positive emotions and feelings of accomplishment with healthy peers. Late-stage patients present those feelings in a diminished form, which adversely impacts psychological resilience. Individuals with early and late MCI exhibit negative emotions and stress that impact their resilience; however, those with early MCI experience greater stress, negative emotions, depression, and anxiety. These findings may be utilized to design psychological interventions for resilience enhancement and support brain health in elderly adults who are at risk of neurodegeneration.
Breastfeeding Apps: A Descriptive Report
Authors: Cimino Silvia , Cerniglia Luca
Published: September 2023

Background: Women are increasingly using breastfeeding apps to facilitate and organize breastfeeding; however, no study has so far focused on maternal psychopathological risk and on the quality of dyadic exchanges in this field. Aim and Methods: This preliminary, descriptive study aimed at evaluating levels of psychopathological symptoms (through the SCL-90/R) and for the quality of the interactions they have with their children during feeding (through the SVIA) in mothers who use breastfeeding apps with different grades of engagement. Results: Data analyses showed that mothers with a mild use of the apps present a higher quality of dyadic interactions during feeding and lower psychopathological risk. Conclusions: The cross-sectional and descriptive nature of this study does not allow any causal conclusions. However, results suggest that the higher the engagement and use of breastfeeding apps, the lower the quality of feeding interactions and the higher the maternal psychopathological risk.
Experimental Study of the Dimensional and Hygrothermal Properties of Hemp Concrete under Accelerated Aging
Authors: Poupard Théo , Tchiotsop Junior , Issaadi Nabil , Amiri Ouali
Published: September 2023

In this article, the functional properties of hemp concrete are studied. Hemp concrete stands to reduce the carbon impact and improve the energy consumption of houses. Hence, numerous properties are measured: mass and dimension (volume) variations are found, as is the variability in hygrothermal properties (density, thermal conductivity, heat capacity, moisture buffer value, and water vapor permeability). This entry proposes three different characterization campaigns. The first is a short introduction to the spatial variability in thermal conductivity; the second is dedicated to the study of univariate variations in the mass, volume, and hygrothermal properties of hemp concrete samples. The last one tackles the aging evolution of the properties characterized during the second campaign, in which the samples follow several aging protocols, including exposure to outdoor conditions, the application of immersion-drying cycles, and the application of freeze–thaw cycles. A set of samples is kept under control conditions to allow for comparison. As the main result, spatial variability was found in the material. This is related to the random manufacturing variability or the spatial position regarding the height of the manufactured element. A high univariate variability is found across hemp concrete samples. Moreover, the storage of samples under stable reference conditions implies very little change in the studied materials’ properties, whereas all accelerated aging protocols implied major changes of properties. In particular, we observed an evolution of the thermal conductivity of the samples kept under control conditions for 4 months, with the thermal conductivity ranging from −2.7% to +6.3% with a mean evolution of +1.22%. We observed an increase in the same property, ranging from +2.7% to +18.3%, with a mean of +9.0% for samples kept for 4 months under natural outdoor conditions, an increase ranging from +7.3% to +23.6% with a mean of +15.2% for samples that had undergone 20 cycles of immersion-drying, and an evolution of this property ranging from −5.6% to +12.3% for samples that had undergone 20 freeze–thaw cycles.
Shear Lag Analysis of Simply Supported Box Girders Considering Axial Equilibrium and Shear Deformation
Authors: Zhu Daopei , Huang Nanhui , Li Jiazheng , Zhou Shihua , Wu Cai
Published: September 2023

The conventional methods used to analyze the shear lag effect in simply supported box girders assume that the neutral axis of the section coincides with the centroid, which does not strictly satisfy the axial equilibrium condition. To address this problem, this study proposes an analysis method in which three independent functions for the shear lag are employed to define the different shear lag strengths of the top slab, the bottom slab, and the cantilever slab. To fulfill the axial equilibrium condition of the box girder and to automatically locate the neutral axis position, the longitudinal displacement of the web is introduced. The shear deformation of the box girder is also considered. The governing differential equations and corresponding boundary conditions for displacement variables such as deflection and rotation of the box girder are derived through the application of the principle of virtual work. The differential equations are solved by utilizing the boundary conditions to obtain the analytical expressions of the shear lag function, longitudinal displacement of the web, rotation, deflection, and neutral axis position. Furthermore, after performing the finite element analysis, the effectiveness of the proposed method is verified by comparing the results with those obtained from conventional methods and finite element analysis. Furthermore, the influence of the axial equilibrium condition is quantified on axial force and stress difference ratios under three methods. Finally, extensive parametric analysis is carried out to investigate the effect of different parameter ratios on the ratios of the stress difference of the flanges. The results show that when the axial equilibrium condition is not considered, the axial stresses in the upper flange of the simply supported box girder are underestimated, especially at the intersection of the top, cantilever slab, and web, and the axial stresses in the lower flange are overestimated. As a result, the method in this study is able to calculate the axial stresses and deflections on simply supported box girders more accurately.
Study on Dynamic Response of Inclined Pile Group Foundation under Earthquake Action
Authors: Huang Weihong , Liu Jiankun , Wang Heng , Ayasrah Mo’men , Qiu Hongsheng , Wang Zhuofan
Published: September 2023

With the development of all types of new special-shaped arch bridges, the deformation of the pile foundation of special-shaped steel arch bridges has a great influence on the superstructure, and the requirements for it are strict. In addition, the force of the inclined pile group under an earthquake is complicated. In this paper, based on the Zhuhai Jindao Bridge project, the finite element numerical model is established in order to study the dynamic response and parameter influence law of an inclined straight pile group foundation under earthquake action. After a thorough analysis of the results of the simulation, it was found that under the action of an earthquake, the inclination angle of inclined piles has a significant influence on the seismic ability of pile group foundations. When the inclination angle of an inclined pile is 5°, the ability of the inclined pile group foundation to resist deformation can be effectively improved, and the load distribution of the pile top is more reasonable.
Research and Implementation of Three-Dimensional Spatial Information Characterization and Visualization of Fractures in Deteriorated Sandstone
Authors: Zhang Xin , Fei Zheng , Zhong Wenwu , Li Tao , Wang Zelin , Jiang Lijun
Published: September 2023

Primary fractures significantly impacted the stability of surrounding rock in underground projects. Therefore, it is vital to find a solution for the problem of performing a non-destructive detection of rocks and extracting the internal three-dimensional (3D) data field of rocks for visualization analysis. To address this problem, this paper proposed a method of 3D reconstruction for complex cracks in deteriorated sandstone and developed a program based on MATLAB. This work carried out image recognition on the CT scan images of deteriorated sandstone, then implemented a surface reconstruction technique based on object cross-section information, a contour reconstruction technique based on object contour information, a point cloud reconstruction technique for extracting point cloud data of internal cracks in deteriorated sandstone, and a Graphical User Interface (GUI) control system that combines these three reconstruction techniques. The results showed that the 3D reconstruction techniques and the GUI control system proposed in this paper were capable of precisely marking the location of the cracks on a 3D coordinate system and accurately describing their shape with a vector. With only 10 CT scan images, the point cloud reconstruction technique constructed the digital core, and the digital core can quantitatively characterize the influence of primary fractures on the stability of surrounding rock. Additionally, the calculated results of the proposed method were very close to that of Avizo. This method realized the visualization and quantitative characterization of the internal structure of rocks and offered a model for analyzing the stress-fracture-seepage field change during excavation.
Moisture Diffusion Coefficient of Concrete under Different Conditions
Authors: Zhou Fengbin , Li Wenhao , Hu Ying , Huang Lepeng , Xie Zhuolin , Yang Jun , Wu Daifeng , Chen Zhonghao
Published: September 2023

Humidity change in concrete is the leading cause of concrete shrinkage. Moreover, the moisture diffusion coefficient of concrete is an essential parameter for assessing and predicting the internal moisture content of concrete. However, there is a lack of theoretical construction and experimental studies on the effect of different conditions, especially different constraints, on the moisture diffusion coefficient of concrete. Therefore, the internal humidity, pore structure parameters, and basic mechanical properties of concrete under different strength grades C30, C40, C50, and C60 (C stands for concrete and numbers indicate the strength class of the concrete), curing environments (dry and sealed curing conditions), and constraints were tested in this study. In addition, a calculation model of concrete’s internal humidity and humidity diffusion coefficient was established. The research findings show that the internal humidity of concrete decreased with age due to hydration and drying. External humidity had a significant effect on the moisture change of concrete, and the lower the external humidity, the larger the humidity diffusion coefficient and the faster the internal humidity of concrete decreases. Reinforcement (confinement) changes the pore structure parameters of the concrete, which in turn affects the transport of moisture within the concrete. The higher the reinforcement rate, the larger the pore structure parameters of the concrete, the larger the humidity diffusion coefficient, and the faster the concrete humidity decreases. The method proposed in the study can accurately predict the internal humidity of concrete using the humidity diffusion coefficient. The research results are a reference for preventing concrete shrinkage and cracking in construction.
Reconstructing Social Segregation in Danwei: An Examination of High-Quality Education Resources’ Impact on Housing Prices in Nanjing, China
Authors: Jin Shuqi , Zhao Yuhui , Liu Chunhui
Published: September 2023

This study investigates the impact of capitalizing educational resources on housing prices. As housing has gradually transitioned from a basic social right to a means of accumulating individual and familial wealth, it has emerged as a significant indicator of social stratification and has increasingly become a crucial tool for the intergenerational reproduction of social class. This paper takes Nanjing, China, as a case study and uses the geographically weighted regression model (GWR) and the hedonic pricing model (HPM) to investigate the impact of high-quality primary schools on housing prices. The results show that high-quality educational resources have become the most significant influencing factor on residential prices in Nanjing. The analysis in the mechanism section further indicates that the uneven distribution of educational resources in China is a continuation of the “danwei” system. Moreover, during the urbanization process, these high-quality educational resources are often leveraged by the government and developers, who see them as essential tools to attract investment and inflate housing prices. Therefore, the current overlap of the school district system and the marketization of housing in China not only intensifies residential segregation within the city, leading to severe residential inequality but also rebuilds social segregation within “danwei” and facilitates its reproduction.
Review of Mesoscale Geometric Models of Concrete Materials
Authors: Zhang Jiajun , Ma Rujin , Pan Zichao , Zhou Haijun
Published: September 2023

Concrete can be regarded as a composite material comprising aggregates, cement mortar, and an interfacial transition zone (ITZ) at the mesoscale. The mechanical properties and durability of concrete are influenced by the properties of these three phases. The establishment of a mesoscale model of concrete and the execution of numerical simulations constitute an efficacious research method. It is an efficacious method to research concrete by establishing the mesoscale model of concrete and executing numerical simulations. By this method, the influence of an aggregate shape on concrete performance can be studied. This paper presents a systematic review of mesoscale modeling methods for concrete, with a focus on three aspects: the aggregate modeling method, the collision detection algorithm, and the particle-packing algorithm. The principal processes, advantages, and disadvantages of various methods are discussed for each aspect. The paper concludes by highlighting current challenges in the mesoscale modeling of concrete.
Numerical Modelling and Proposed Design Rules of 7075-T6 and AA-6086 High-Strength Aluminium Alloy Channels under Concentrated Loading
Authors: Fu Jianhang , Sun Gang , Sun Xiaoyong
Published: September 2023

This study presents a detailed numerical investigation into the web buckling behaviour exhibited by high-strength aluminium alloy channels, namely 7075-T6 and AA-6086, when subjected to concentrated loading. A nonlinear finite element (FE) model was established and verified using the experimental data reported by other researchers, and the material properties of 7075-T6 and AA-6086 high-strength aluminium alloy were obtained through the literature. A parametric study comprising 1024 models was performed using the validated FE models. Variables examined in this work included web slenderness ratio, internal corner radii, bearing lengths, and aluminium alloy grades. The numerical results generated by the parametric investigation were used to evaluate the applicability and reliability of the most recent design specifications given in the Australian and New Zealand Standards (AS/NZ S4600) (2018) and Australian Standards (AS/NZS 1664.1) (1997). The comparison indicated that the calculated design strength using AS/NZ S4600 was over-conservative by 41% and 43% for 7075-T6 and AA-6086 aluminium alloy, correspondingly, while the design strength computed using AS/NZS 1664.1 was marginally unconservative, compared to numerical results. Finally, using bivariate linear regression analysis, new design formulas with new coefficients for determining the web buckling behaviour of 7075-T6 and AA-6086 high-strength aluminium alloy channels were proposed. A reliability analysis was then undertaken, indicating that the proposed design equations possess the capability of accurately predicting the web buckling behaviour of these members.
Prognostic Factors in Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients Treated with Immunotherapy
Authors: Rocco Danilo , Della Gravara Luigi , Ragone Angela , Sapio Luigi , Naviglio Silvio , Gridelli Cesare
Published: September 2023

Taking into account the huge epidemiologic impact of lung cancer (in 2020, lung cancer accounted for 2,206,771 of the cases and for 1,796,144 of the cancer-related deaths, representing the second most common cancer in female patients, the most common cancer in male patients, and the second most common cancer in male and female patients) and the current lack of recommendations in terms of prognostic factors for patients selection and management, this article aims to provide an overview of the current landscape in terms of currently available immunotherapy treatments and the most promising assessed prognostic biomarkers, highlighting the current state-of-the-art and hinting at future challenges.
A Single-Center Study of the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Organization of Healthcare Service Delivery to Patients with Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Kanicka Magdalena , Chabowski Mariusz , Rutkowska Monika
Published: September 2023

The aim of this study was to identify and assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the diagnosis and treatment of head and neck cancer (HNC) patients of the Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery of the 4th Military Teaching Hospital in Wroclaw for whom oncological treatment was planned by a cancer case board between March 2018 and February 2022. We analysed the medical records of 625 patients. In order to verify whether the relationships between the analysed features were statistically significant, the chi-square test of independence and the Student’s t-test for independent samples were used (p < 0.05). Our analysis showed that the impact of the pandemic on the organization of health service delivery to HNC patients was not uniform. The largest difference in the number of formulated treatment plans was observed at the beginning of the pandemic (22.1% reduction compared with the year before the pandemic). During the pandemic, the proportion of patients admitted on the basis of a DILO (diagnosis and oncological treatment) card issued by a primary care physician, instead of a regular referral to hospital, issued also by a primary care physician, was significantly higher compared with the that during the pre-pandemic period. The majority of cancer patients with a oncological treatment planned during the pandemic lived in urban areas. During the pandemic, the number of patients with more-advanced-stage cancer, assessed on the basis of the type of planned treatment (radical vs. palliative), did not increase compared with that during the pre-pandemic period. However, our follow-up period was quite short. It is necessary to intensify activities aimed at promoting health and increasing health awareness in people living in rural areas and setting long-term priorities and objectives for health policies at the national, regional and local levels, with particular focus on this group of people.
Multi-Functional Regulation by YAP/TAZ Signaling Networks in Tumor Progression and Metastasis
Authors: Thrash Hannah L. , Pendergast Ann Marie
Published: September 2023

The Hippo pathway transcriptional co-activators, YES-associated protein (YAP) and Transcriptional Co-Activator with PDZ Binding Motif (TAZ), have both been linked to tumor progression and metastasis. These two proteins possess overlapping and distinct functions, and their activities lead to the expression of genes involved in multiple cellular processes, including cell proliferation, survival, and migration. The dysregulation of YAP/TAZ-dependent cellular processes can result in altered tumor growth and metastasis. In addition to their well-documented roles in the regulation of cancer cell growth, survival, migration, and invasion, the YAP/TAZ-dependent signaling pathways have been more recently implicated in cellular processes that promote metastasis and therapy resistance in several solid tumor types. This review highlights the role of YAP/TAZ signaling networks in the regulation of tumor cell plasticity mediated by hybrid and reversible epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) states, and the promotion of cancer stem cell/progenitor phenotypes. Mechanistically, YAP and TAZ regulate these cellular processes by targeting transcriptional networks. In this review, we detail recently uncovered mechanisms whereby YAP and TAZ mediate tumor growth, metastasis, and therapy resistance, and discuss new therapeutic strategies to target YAP/TAZ function in various solid tumor types. Understanding the distinct and overlapping roles of YAP and TAZ in multiple cellular processes that promote tumor progression to metastasis is expected to enable the identification of effective therapies to treat solid tumors through the hyper-activation of YAP and TAZ.
Dual-Armed Oncolytic Myxoma Virus Encoding IFN-γ and CD47 Promotes Lymphocyte Infiltration and Tumor Suppression of Syngeneic Murine Melanoma
Authors: Woo Jong Kyu , Kim Tae-Geuk , Im Na Yeon , Son Ka-Yeon , Cho Minhyeon , Jeong Yeo Jin , Hong Jeong-Im , Kang BoRim , Enkhtaivan Gansukh , Cho Nam-Hyuk , Alain Tommy , Park Dong Guk , Lee Yeon-Sook
Published: September 2023

Myxoma virus (MyxV) is a rabbit-specific poxvirus. However, its ability to selectively target tumor cells has established it as a safe and effective anticancer therapy. To strengthen its preclinical efficacy, transgenes that can prolong cancer cell infection and enhance anti-tumor effector functions are currently being investigated. We engineered MyxV armed with CD47, to turn on a ‘do not eat me’ signal within infected cells with actively replicating viruses, and with IFN-γ to further activate host immune anticancer responses. Tumor suppressive activities were significantly enhanced by the dual-armed MyxV_CD47/IFN-γ compared to parental MyxV or single-armed MyxV_CD47 or MyxV_IFN-γ. In addition, significant increases in IFN-γ+ CD8+T-cells and CD4+ T-cells populations within tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) were observed after MyxV_CD47/IFN-γ treatment. Notably, all groups treated with MyxV showed a marked reduction in Foxp3+ CD4+ regulatory T-cells (Tregs) within TIL. We also show that MyxV infection induces PD-L1 up-regulation in cancer cells, and combinational treatment of MyxV with anti-mouse PD-L1 antibodies (αPD-L1) further controlled tumor burden and increased survival in the syngeneic melanoma model B16F10. Our data demonstrate that a CD47 and IFNγ dual-armed MyxV is an effective oncolytic viral immunotherapeutic. These findings strongly support further preclinical investigations to develop next-generation MyxV-based immunotherapy approaches.
S-Scheme Heterojunction Photocatalyst for Photocatalytic H2O2 Production: A Review
Authors: Fang Weili , Wang Liang
Published: September 2023

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a clean and mild oxidant that is receiving increasing attention. The photocatalytic H2O2 production process utilizes solar energy as an energy source and H2O and O2 as material sources, making it a safe and sustainable process. However, the high recombination rate of photogenerated carriers and the low utilization of visible light limit the photocatalytic production of H2O2. S-scheme heterojunctions can significantly reduce the recombination rate of photogenerated electron–hole pairs and retain a high reduction and oxidation capacity due to the presence of an internal electric field. Therefore, it is necessary to develop S-scheme heterojunction photocatalysts with simple preparation methods and high performance. After a brief introduction of the basic principles and advantages of photocatalytic H2O2 production and S-scheme heterojunctions, this review focuses on the design and application of S-scheme heterojunction photocatalysts in photocatalytic H2O2 production. This paper concludes with a challenge and prospect of the application of S-scheme heterojunction photocatalysts in photocatalytic H2O2 production.
Wolbachia Induces Structural Defects Harmful to Drosophila simulans Riverside Spermiogenesis
Authors: Riparbelli Maria Giovanna , Pratelli Ambra , Callaini Giuliano
Published: September 2023

The relationship between cytoplasmic incompatibility and the obligate intracellular alphaproteobacteria Wolbachia has for a long time been reported. Although the molecular mechanisms responsible for this reproductive alteration are beginning to be understood, the effects of Wolbachia on germ cell structure and dynamics have not yet been fully investigated. We report here that the presence of Wolbachia in infected cysts of elongating spermatids is associated with major structural defects that become more evident in mature sperm. We find mitochondrial defects, an improper axoneme structure, reduced sperm numbers, and individualization failures. The large heterogeneous variety of the ultrastructural defects found in elongating spermatids and mature sperm provide the first cytological evidence for the reduced fertility associated with Wolbachia infection in Drosophila simulans males. The observed abnormalities could be the result of the mechanical stress induced by the high bacteria numbers during the process of spermatid elongation, rather than the result of the released factors affecting the proper morphogenesis of the germ cells. Moreover, high Wolbachia densities in male germ cells may not be appropriate for causing cytoplasmic incompatibility as the bacteria are harmful for spermatid differentiation, leading to abnormal sperm that is unlikely to be functional.
Molecular Effect of Variants in Toll-like Receptor 4 Gene in Saudi Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Alkudmani Zeina S. , Alshammary Amal F. , Ali Khan Imran
Published: September 2023

Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) gene have been documented in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and other diseases in the Saudi population. We investigated the relationship between rs11536889, rs4986790, and rs4986791 SNPs in the TLR4 gene and T2DM in the Saudi population; 105 patients with T2DM and 105 healthy controls were analyzed. The TLR4 gene was amplified through PCR, followed by restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis for rs4986791 and Sanger sequencing for rs11536889 and rs4986790 SNPs. The clinical and biochemical characteristics were associated with T2DM (p < 0.05). The rs11536889, rs4986790, and rs4986791 SNPs in control subjects followed the Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (p > 0.05). Alleles were associated with rs11536889, rs4986791, heterozygous codominant, and dominant models (p < 0.05). However, the rs4986790 SNP was not associated with T2DM (p > 0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed that high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLc) levels were associated with T2DM (p < 0.001). Analysis of variance showed that waist (p = 0.0005) and hip circumferences (p = 0.002) in rs4986790 and rs4986791 SNPs, in SBP (p = 0.001), DBP (p = 0.002), and HDLc levels (p = 0.003), were associated with T2DM subjects. T2DM was also associated with the haplotype (p < 0.001) but not with linkage disequilibrium. The gene–gene interaction was associated with the three SNPs studied in patients with T2DM according to the generalized multifactor dimensionality reduction model (p < 0.0001). Dendrogram and graphical depletion analysis revealed a moderate association in patients with T2DM. The results suggest that rs11536889 and rs4986790 SNPs are genotypically and allelically associated with T2DM in Saudi patients. Future functional studies are recommended to validate the genetic roles of these SNPs in the pathogenesis and progression of diseases.