bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health-related quality of life in children after surgical repair of esophageal atresia: a cross-sectional study in China
Authors: Feng Zhong , Zhu Haitao , He Weijing , Peng Xueni , Gao Runnan , Tian Yuxin , Cao Xuqing , Chen Gong , Dong Kuiran , Zheng Shan , Shen Chun
Published: January 2024

Objective

To investigate health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in patients after surgical repair for esophageal atresia (EA) and identify its potential influencing factors.

Methods

A total of 102 EA children who had previously visited our hospital participated in this cross-sectional study. Basic data and disease data of the patients were collected. The HRQOL was measured with the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™4.0 (PedsQL™4.0) and EA-QOL questionnaire and ranked on a reverse 0–100 scale, with a higher number indicative of a better HRQOL perception. The scores of PedsQL™4.0 in children with EA were collected and compared with that of the demographically matched healthy control group. Meanwhile, the condition-specific HRQOL of EA was analyzed by the EA-QOL questionnaire, and the potential clinical factors that influenced the HRQOL were determined by the generalized linear model.

Results

The group of EA and control reached a similar score in the generic PedsQL™4.0 (EA group: 86.55 ± 9.69; control group: 89.41 ± 6.54; p = 0.670). There was no significant difference between the EA group and the control group in other domains except the school functioning. Condition-specific HRQOL in the 2–7-year-old group had the highest score in social isolation and stress domain and the lowest score in the physical health and treatment domain, with an overall quality of life score of 83.48 ± 10.22. The scores of the 8–17-year-old group were relatively high in social relationships and health and well-being and lowest in the eating domain, with an overall quality of life score of 89.43 ± 8.57. Heart malformation, complicated esophageal surgery history, respiratory symptoms,and digestive symptoms in the past 1 month were the main factors affecting the HRQOL of children aged 2–7 years. Complicated esophageal surgery history, respiratory symptoms, and digestive symptoms in the past 1 month were the main factors affecting the HRQOL of children aged 8–17 years.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that patients with EA generally had a good HRQOL. However, EA children with postoperative complications and associated symptoms have lower scores in the EA-QOL questionnaire.
Machine learning in onco-pharmacogenomics: a path to precision medicine with many challenges
Authors: Mondello Alessia , Dal Bo Michele , Toffoli Giuseppe , Polano Maurizio
Published: January 2024

Over the past two decades, Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) has revolutionized the approach to cancer research. Applications of NGS include the identification of tumor specific alterations that can influence tumor pathobiology and also impact diagnosis, prognosis and therapeutic options. Pharmacogenomics (PGx) studies the role of inheritance of individual genetic patterns in drug response and has taken advantage of NGS technology as it provides access to high-throughput data that can, however, be difficult to manage. Machine learning (ML) has recently been used in the life sciences to discover hidden patterns from complex NGS data and to solve various PGx problems. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the NGS approaches that can be employed and the different PGx studies implicating the use of NGS data. We also provide an excursus of the ML algorithms that can exert a role as fundamental strategies in the PGx field to improve personalized medicine in cancer.
Agranulocytosis and secondary infection related to JAK inhibitors and IL-6 receptor blockers: a disproportionality analysis using the US Food and drug administration adverse event reporting system
Authors: Wei Chunyan , Yin Wanhong , Hu Tingting , Zhang Jingyi , Dan Huifang , Wu Bin
Published: January 2024

Background: Given that the fight against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is not over, we aimed to explore the occurrence of agranulocytosis and infectious complications in patients with and without COVID-19 following immunoregulatory therapy based on real-world data.

Methods: This was a retrospective disproportionality analysis based on the US Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). All cases reported between the first quarter of 2004 and the fourth quarter of 2022 about Janus kinase inhibitors (baricitinib, tofacitinib, ruxolitinib) and interleukin-6 receptor blockers (tocilizumab, sarilumab) were collected. Disproportionality analyses were conducted by reporting odds ratio (ROR) and information component (IC).

Results: A total of 211,363 cases were recognized from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System database. Data analysis showed that tocilizumab (reporting odds ratio: 3.18, 95% CI: 3.18–3.29; information component: 1.37, 95% CI: 1.31–1.42), sarilumab (ROR: 1.64, 95% CI: 1.55–1.73; IC: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.43–0.79), baricitinib (ROR: 3.42, 95% CI: 3.19–3.67; IC: 1.43, 95% CI: 1.21–1.65), tofacitinib (ROR: 2.53, 95% CI: 2.49–2.57; IC: 1.11, 95% CI: 1.05–1.16), and ruxolitinib (ROR: 1.87, 95% CI: 1.83–1.91; IC: 0.77, 95% CI: 0.70–0.84) were all associated with secondary infection. The association in the combination group was higher than that in the monotherapy group (ROR: 4.69, 95% CI: 4.53–4.86; IC: 1.73, 95% CI: 1.62–1.84). As for agranulocytosis, tocilizumab (ROR: 1.61, 95% CI: 1.53–1.69; IC: 0.67, 95% CI: 0.50–0.84) and ruxolitinib (ROR: 2.32, 95% CI: 2.21–2.43; IC: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.02–1.33) showed the significant signals. The association was higher in the combination group than in the monotherapy group (ROR: 2.36, 95% CI: 2.15–2.58; IC: 1.20, 95% CI: 0.90–1.51). Secondary infection after treatment with tofacitinib (ROR: 1.37, 95% CI: 1.02–1.84), tocilizumab (ROR: 1.46, 95% CI: 1.01–2.09), and sarilumab (ROR: 2.46, 95% CI: 1.10–5.50) was reported more frequently in COVID-19 than in non–COVID-19 patients.

Conclusion: Both Janus kinase inhibitors and interleukin-6 receptor blockers are significantly associated with secondary infection and agranulocytosis, and the combined treatment further increases the association. The correlation with secondary infection in patients treated with tofacitinib, tocilizumab, and sarilumab is higher in COVID-19 than in non–COVID-19 patients.
Cyclohexene oxide CA, a derivative of zeylenone, exhibits anti-cancer activity in glioblastoma by inducing G0/G1 phase arrest through interference with EZH2
Authors: Su Rui , Cao Weiwei , Ma Guoxu , Li Weiping , Li Zongyang , Liu Yongpei , Chen Lei , Chen Zebin , Li Xuejuan , Cui Ping , Huang Guodong
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Due to its highly aggressiveness and malignancy, glioblastoma (GBM) urgently requires a safe and effective treatment strategy. Zeylenone, a natural polyoxygenated cyclohexenes compound isolated from Uvaria grandiflora, has exhibited potential biological activities in various human diseases, including tumors.

Methods: We designed and synthesized a series of (+)-Zeylenone analogues and evaluated their anti-GBM roles through structural-activity analysis. Cell Counting Kit-8, TUNEL, transwell and flow cytometry were employed for investigating the anticancer effects of CA on GBM cells. Western blotting, molecular docking, qRT-PCR and ChIP assays were performed to reveal the underlying mechanisms by which CA regulates the GBM cell cycle. The nude mouse xenograft model, HE staining, immunohistochemistry and was used to evaluate the anticancer effect of CA in vivo.

Results: We identified CA ((1R, 2R, 3S)-3-p-fluorobenzoyl-zeylenone) as having the lowest IC50 value in GBM cells. CA treatment significantly inhibited the malignant behaviors of GBM cells and induced G0/G1 phase arrest in vitro. Furthermore, we validated the molecular mechanism by which CA interferes with EZH2, attenuating the down-regulation of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors p27 and p16 by the PRC2 complex. By establishing orthotopic nude mice models, we further validated the inhibitory role of CA on tumorigenesis of GBM cells in vivo and its potential values to synergistically potentiate the anti-tumor effects of EZH2 inhibitors.

Conclusion: Overall, this paper elucidated the anti-GBM effects and potential mechanisms of CA, and may provide a therapeutic drug candidate for GBM treatment.
Spanish validation of the simple lifestyle indicator questionnaire: validity and reliability analysis
Authors: Montero-Sandiego Elisabet , Ruiz-Robledillo Nicolás , Ferrer-Cascales Rosario , Clement-Carbonell Violeta , Alcocer-Bruno Cristian , Albaladejo-Blázquez Natalia
Published: January 2024

Introduction

It has been shown that lifestyle is a highly modifiable determinant having a direct effect on the health status. Therefore, short and simple questionnaires assessing the lifestyle of the general and clinical population are needed to create interventions on behavioral aspects that can improve the health status. The Simple Lifestyle Indicator Questionnaire (SLIQ) is a validated health scale in English that combines five lifestyle factors: diet, exercise, alcohol consumption, tobacco use, and stress level. The objective of this study was to validate the SLIQ questionnaire in Spanish by analyzing the scale’s validity and reliability. Its discriminatory power of the scale was also examined by evaluating the differences in health outcomes according to the levels of adherence to a healthy lifestyle.

Methods

The sample consisted of 745 participants with an average age of 39.94 (SD: 16.99). A transcultural adaptation process was carried out to validate the SLIQ questionnaire in the Spanish context, to determinate the structural equivalence of the Spanish version as compared to the English version, and to assess the psychometric properties of the scale. PREDIMED and IPAQ scales were used to analyze the convergent validity of the Spanish version of the SLIQ regarding to diet and exercise, and the questionnaires SF-12 and DASS-21 questionnaires were used to assess the capacity of the Spanish version of the SLIQ to discriminate health status related to different levels of reported lifestyles.

Results

Regarding validity, the results indicate significant correlations between the different dimensions of the SLIQ questionnaire and those used as a reference. As for reliability, the test–retest analyses reveal a high temporal consistency for the scores obtained on the questionnaire. Finally, the differences found in anxiety, depression, and quality of life, with regard to the different levels of adherence in the SLIQ questionnaire, suggest that the questionnaire’s Spanish version has adequate discriminatory power.

Discussion

The obtained correlation coefficients between the SLIQ and the other standardized measures pointed out the adequate convergent validity of the instrument. Moreover, the test–retest results demonstrated the stability of the results obtained through this questionnaire. Finally, the lifestyle categories derived from the SLIQ showed a high ability to discriminate between participants’ health profiles. Hence, it can be concluded that the Spanish version of the SLIQ questionnaire is a valid and reliable tool for the quick and effective assessment of lifestyle.
Measurement of the burdens of neonatal disorders in 204 countries, 1990–2019: a global burden of disease-based study
Authors: Xin Juan , Luo Yiwen , Xiang Wanwan , Zhu Sijing , Niu Hui , Feng Jiayuan , Sun Landi , Zhang Boxing , Zhou Xihui , Yang Wenfang
Published: January 2024

Background

Neonatal disorders are facing serious public health challenges. Previous studies were based on limited data sources and had a narrow geographical scope. We aim to understand the trends of alteration in the burden of neonatal disorders from 1990 to 2019 in 204 countries and territories.

Methods

Data were investigated from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019. First, we visualized the burden of neonatal disorders using the number of cases and the age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR), death rate (ASDR), and disability-adjusted life years (ASR-DALYs) from 1990 to 2019. Second, estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs) were used to evaluate the temporal trends of disease burden during different periods. Finally, the sociodemographic index (SDI) and human development index (HDI) were used to determine whether there exists a correlation between socioeconomic development level, human development level, and potential burden consequences.

Results

Overall, in the past 30 years, the ASIR trends have remained relatively steady, whereas the ASDR and ASR-DALYs have declined. However, the burden of neonatal disorders varied greatly in various regions and countries. Among 21 regions, the ASIR trend had the largest increase in Central Latin America (EAPC = 0.42, 95%CI = 0.33–0.50). Conversely, the ASDR and ASR-DALYs experienced the largest decrease in Central Europe (EAPC = −5.10, 95%CI = −5.28 to 4.93) and East Asia (EAPC = −4.07, 95%CI = −4.41 to 3.73), respectively. Among 204 countries, the ASIR (EAPC = 3.35, 95%CI = 3.13–3.56) trend in Greece displayed the most significant increase, while the ASDR (EAPC = 1.26, 95%CI = 1.01–1.50) and ASR-DALYs (EAPC = 1.26, 95%CI = 1.03–1.49) trends in Dominica experienced the most substantial increase. Furthermore, there was a strong correlation between the EAPCs in ASIR, ASDR, ASR-DALYs, and SDI or HDI in 2019, with some exceptions. In addition, countries with elevated levels of HDI experienced a faster increase in ASDR and ASR-DALYs for neonatal disorders.

Conclusion

Although the burden of neonatal disorders shows a downward trend from 1990 to 2019, it is still not optimistic. It is necessary to implement a multi-pronged approach to reduce the increasing burden of neonatal disorders.
Attention to brand labels affects, and is affected by, evaluations of product attractiveness
Authors: Yang Xiaozhi , Retzler Chris , Krajbich Ian , Ratcliff Roger , Philiastides Marios G.
Published: January 2024

When considering whether to purchase consumer products, people consider both the items' attractiveness and their brand labels. Brands may affect the decision process through various mechanisms. For example, brand labels may provide direct support for their paired products, or they may indirectly affect choice outcomes by changing the way that people evaluate and compare their options. To examine these possibilities, we combined computational modeling with an eye-tracking experiment in which subjects made clothing choices with brand labels either present or absent. Subjects' choices were consistent with both the attractiveness of the clothing items and, to a smaller extent, the appeal of the brands. In line with the direct support mechanism, subjects who spent more time looking at the brands were more likely to choose the options with the preferred brands. When a clothing item was more attractive, subjects were more likely to look longer at the associated brand label, but not vice versa. In line with indirect mechanisms, in the presence of brand labels subjects exerted more caution and showed marginally less attentional bias in their choices. This research sheds light on the interplay between gaze and choice in decisions involving brand information, indicating that brands have both direct and indirect influences on choice.
The high energy X-ray probe (HEX-P): magnetars and other isolated neutron stars
Authors: Alford J. A. J. , Younes G. A. , Wadiasingh Z. , Abdelmaguid M. , An H. , Bachetti M. , Baring M. G. , Beloborodov A. , Chen A. Y. , Enoto T. , García J. A. , Gelfand J. D. , Gotthelf E. V. , Harding A. K. , Hu C-P. , Jaodand A. D. , Kaspi V. , Kim C. , Kouveliotou C. , Kuiper L. , Mori K. , Nynka M. , Park J. , Stern D. , Valverde J. , Walton D. J.
Published: January 2024

The hard X-ray emission from magnetars and other isolated neutron stars remains under-explored. An instrument with higher sensitivity to hard X-rays is critical to understanding the physics of neutron star magnetospheres and also the relationship between magnetars and Fast Radio Bursts (FRBs). High sensitivity to hard X-rays is required to determine the number of magnetars with hard X-ray tails, and to track transient non-thermal emission from these sources for years post-outburst. This sensitivity would also enable previously impossible studies of the faint non-thermal emission from middle-aged rotation-powered pulsars (RPPs), and detailed phase-resolved spectroscopic studies of younger, bright RPPs. The High Energy X-ray Probe (HEX-P) is a probe-class mission concept that will combine high spatial resolution X-ray imaging (<5 arcsec half-power diameter (HPD) at 0.2–25 keV) and broad spectral coverage (0.2–80 keV) with a sensitivity superior to current facilities (including XMM-Newton and NuSTAR). HEX-P has the required timing resolution to perform follow-up observations of sources identified by other facilities and positively identify candidate pulsating neutron stars. Here we discuss how HEX-P is ideally suited to address important questions about the physics of magnetars and other isolated neutron stars.
Allocation and Sizing of DSTATCOM with Renewable Energy Systems and Load Uncertainty Using Enhanced Gray Wolf Optimization
Authors: Mohammedi Ridha Djamel , Kouzou Abdellah , Mosbah Mustafa , Souli Aissa , Rodriguez Jose , Abdelrahem Mohamed
Published: January 2024

Over the last decade, flexible alternating current transmission systems (FACTS) have been crucial in ensuring optimal power distribution within modern power systems. A vital component of FACTS devices is the distribution static compensator (DSTATCOM), which is essential for maintaining a reliable power supply. It is commonly used for reactive power compensation, voltage regulation, and harmonic reduction. Determining the appropriate size and placement of DSTATCOMs is vital to ensuring their efficiency. This study introduces the improved gray wolf optimizer (I-GWO), a refined version of the classical gray wolf optimization (GWO) method. The I-GWO incorporates a dimension learning-based hunting (DLH) strategy to preserve population diversity, balance exploration and exploitation, and prevent the premature convergence of classical GWO. In this research, the I-GWO was applied to determine the optimum allocation and sizing of the DSTATCOMs, considering system constraints, including those presented by the intermittent and stochastic nature of the load and renewable energy resources, specifically wind and solar energy. The suggested approach was successfully tested on 33-, 69-, and 85-bus distribution systems and then compared with existing studies. The results demonstrated the I-GWO-based approach’s superiority in terms of reducing power losses, improving voltage profiles, and enhancing voltage stability.
Experiment on Flexural Fatigue Performance of Precast Bridge Deck Joints with Loop Connections
Authors: Hu Ke , Zhu Chaoyu , Shi Xuefei , Zhong Yuzhuo
Published: January 2024

With the background of bridge industrialized construction, as a convenient construction form of a joint, a joint with loop connections has been applied in the connection of the precast bridge deck. As a relatively new type of connection structure, the fatigue performance and degradation law of a loop connection joint are still not clear. In this paper, different flexural fatigue specimens are designed based on the application situation of the loop connection joint. After 0 to 2 million fatigue-loading cycles, the fatigue-loading process is suspended and the static flexural performance of the specimen is tested. The load-deflection curves of specimens under static loading remain roughly linear, and the slope changes little. After 200 × 104 fatigue-loading cycles, the failure mode of each specimen is still presented as typical pure flexural failure. In addition, the strain of steel and concrete changes little, as well, and the stiffness degradation of each specimen is not obvious. It is indicated from this experiment that the fatigue-loading cycles has little effect on the mechanical properties of the concrete and loop bars, and the joint with loop connections has good fatigue performance.
2D and 3D Properties of Stably Stratified Turbulence
Authors: Kimura Yoshifumi , Sullivan Peter P.
Published: January 2024

Through interactions between the modes of “waves” and “vortices”, stably stratified turbulence exhibits characteristic features both in 2D and 3D. Using DNS of the Navier–Stokes equations coupled to an equation for temperature (the Bousinessq system), we investigate dynamical properties of stably stratified turbulence. After reviewing the importance of three characteristic length scales and their relations in stably stratified turbulence, we present numerical results showing how structures and spectra develop with the growth of the length scales. It is demonstrated that the temperature fluctuations make sharp fronts vertically which result in non-symmetric PDFs of the vertical derivative ∂zθ.
Trends in Nighttime Fires in South/Southeast Asian Countries
Authors: Vadrevu Krishna , Eaturu Aditya
Published: January 2024

Quantifying spatial variations and trends in nighttime fires is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of fire dynamics. Traditional fire monitoring typically focuses on daytime observations, but controlling nocturnal fires poses unique challenges due to reduced visibility. While several studies have focused on examining global and regional fire trends, very few studies have focused on nighttime fires, particularly in South/Southeast Asian (S/SEA) countries. In this study, we analyzed nighttime vegetation fires in S/SEA using VIIRS I-band (375 m) data, including a comparison with Sentinel-3A SLSTR data. The results suggested that ~28.25% of total fires occurred at night in SA, and 18.98% in SEA. In SA, a statistically significant (p =< 0.05) increase in nighttime fires was observed in Bangladesh. India showed a positive trend in nighttime fires, while Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka exhibited negative trends; however, these results were not statistically significant. In SEA, we detected statistically significant (p =< 0.05) decreases in nighttime fires in Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam, with increases in Myanmar and the Philippines. Indonesia experienced the most substantial reduction in nighttime fires. Furthermore, VIIRS I-band detections were approximately 92–98 times higher than those of SLSTR-3A in S/SEA. Overall, our study offers valuable insights into nighttime fires and trends in S/SEA countries, which are useful for fire prevention, mitigation and management in the region.
A Detailed Limited-Area Atmospheric Energy Cycle for Climate and Weather Studies
Authors: Ngueto Yves Franklin , Laprise René , Nikiéma Oumarou
Published: January 2024

Lorenz’ seminal work on global atmospheric energetics improved our understanding of the general circulation. With the advent of Regional Climate Models (RCMs), it is important to have a limited-area energetic budget available that is applicable for both weather and climate, analogous to Lorenz’ global atmospheric energetics. A regional-scale energetic budget is obtained in this study by applying Reynolds decomposition rules to quadratic forms of the kinetic energy K and the available enthalpy A, to obtain time mean and time deviation contributions. According to the employed definition, the time mean energy contributions are decomposed in a component associated with the time-averaged atmospheric state and a component due to the time-averaged statistics of transient eddies; these contributions are suitable for the study of the climate over a region of interest. Energy fluctuations (the deviations of instantaneous energies from their climate value) that are appropriate for weather studies are split into quadratic and linear contributions. The sum of all the contributions returns exactly to the total primitive kinetic energy and available enthalpy equations.
Chemopreventive and Biological Strategies in the Management of Oral Potentially Malignant and Malignant Disorders
Authors: Viglianisi Gaia , Polizzi Alessandro , Grippaudo Cristina , Cocuzza Salvatore , Leonardi Rosalia , Isola Gaetano
Published: January 2024

Oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) represent a significant global health burden due to their potential for malignant transformation and the challenges associated with their diagnosis and treatment. Chemoprevention, an innovative approach aimed at halting or reversing the neoplastic process before full malignancy, has emerged as a promising avenue for mitigating the impact of OPMD and OSCC. The pivotal role of chemopreventive strategies is underscored by the need for effective interventions that go beyond traditional therapies. In this regard, chemopreventive agents offer a unique opportunity to intercept disease progression by targeting the molecular pathways implicated in carcinogenesis. Natural compounds, such as curcumin, green tea polyphenols, and resveratrol, exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties that could make them potential candidates for curtailing the transformation of OPMD to OSCC. Moreover, targeted therapies directed at specific molecular alterations hold promise in disrupting the signaling cascades driving OSCC growth. Immunomodulatory agents, like immune checkpoint inhibitors, are gaining attention for their potential to harness the body’s immune response against early malignancies, thus impeding OSCC advancement. Additionally, nutritional interventions and topical formulations of chemopreventive agents offer localized strategies for preventing carcinogenesis in the oral cavity. The challenge lies in optimizing these strategies for efficacy, safety, and patient compliance. This review presents an up to date on the dynamic interplay between molecular insights, clinical interventions, and the broader goal of reducing the burden of oral malignancies. As research progresses, the synergy between early diagnosis, non-invasive biomarker identification, and chemopreventive therapy is poised to reshape the landscape of OPMD and OSCC management, offering a glimpse of a future where these diseases are no longer insurmountable challenges but rather preventable and manageable conditions.
Enhancing Concrete Performance with Crumb Rubber and Waste Materials: A Study on Mechanical and Durability Properties
Authors: Moolchandani Karan , Sharma Abhay , Kishan Dharavath
Published: January 2024

In addressing the dual challenges of sustainable waste management and environmental conservation in the construction industry, particularly the disposal of waste tire crumb rubber (CR) and the demand for eco-friendly building materials, this study explores a novel solution. It examines the sustainable incorporation of waste tire crumb rubber and mineral additions—namely silica fume (SF), marble slurry powder (MSP), and fly ash (FA)—as partial substitutes for natural fine aggregates and cement in concrete. Through comprehensive testing of seventeen concrete samples, the study reveals that the specific mix of R10S5M10F15 that contained 10% crumb rubber as replacement of fine aggregates, and 5% silica fume, 10% marble slurry powder and 15% fly ash as replacements of cement, not only achieves compressive and split tensile strength comparable to the control mix, while the 90 days flexural strength was improved by 4.48%; credited to SF’s pozzolanic action and the filler effects of MSP and FA, but also that the inclusion of CR, while reducing compressive strength due to material variations, enhances ductility and improves resistance to sulfate and acid attacks, despite increasing water absorption. The primary goal of this research is to investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of using waste materials in concrete to foster more sustainable construction practices. The objectives include a detailed assessment of the mechanical properties and durability of concrete incorporating these waste materials, aiming to determine the optimal mix proportions for their effective utilization. This study’s novelty lies in its detailed analysis of the synergistic effects of combining CR, SF, MSP, and FA in concrete, contributing to the field by offering a sustainable alternative approach to traditional concrete formulations and highlighting the delicate balance required for optimized concrete performance.
Carboplatin and Etoposide for the Treatment of Metastatic Prostate Cancer with or without Neuroendocrine Features: A French Single-Center Experience
Authors: Baude Jérémy , Niogret Julie , Jacob Pierre , Bardet Florian , Desmoulins Isabelle , Zanetta Sylvie , Kaderbhai Courèche , Galland Loïck , Mayeur Didier , Delattre Benjamin , Cormier Luc , Ladoire Sylvain
Published: January 2024

Background: Chemotherapy using carboplatin and etoposide (CE) is frequently pragmatically proposed to treat metastatic prostate cancer (mPC), both primary small-cell neuroendocrine (PSC-NE) carcinoma and adenocarcinoma with or without neuroendocrine (NE) marker elevation. However, the real benefit of CE is poorly reported in the recent therapeutic context. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the efficacy and tolerance of CE chemotherapy in these three different groups of mPC patients. Efficacy endpoints included radiological response, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS), as well as PSA response and PFS2/PFS1 ratio in patients with adenocarcinoma. Results: Sixty-nine patients were included in this single-center study (N = 18 with PSC-NE carcinoma and 51 with adenocarcinoma with (N = 18) or without (N = 33) NE marker elevation). Patients with adenocarcinoma were highly pretreated with next-generation hormonal agents (NHAs) and taxanes. In patients with adenocarcinoma, a PSA response ≥50% was observed in six patients (15.8%), four of whom had NE marker elevation. The radiological response was higher in PSC-NE and tended to be higher in adenocarcinoma when NE marker elevation was present. Comparing patients with adenocarcinoma with vs. without NE marker elevation, the median PFS was 3.7 and 2.1 months and the median OS was 7.7 and 4.7 months, respectively. Overall, 62.3% of patients experienced grade 3–4 adverse events (mainly hematological), and three treatment-related deaths were recorded. Conclusion: Reports of the clinical results of CE suggest that we should not mix PSC-NE and castration-resistant adenocarcinoma of the prostate. In patients with heavily pretreated adenocarcinoma, the benefit/risk ratio of CE chemotherapy seems unfavorable due to poor response and high toxicity.
CSF-1R in Cancer: More than a Myeloid Cell Receptor
Authors: Cersosimo Francesca , Lonardi Silvia , Ulivieri Cristina , Martini Paolo , Morrione Andrea , Vermi William , Giordano Antonio , Giurisato Emanuele
Published: January 2024

Colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor (CFS-1R) is a myeloid receptor with a crucial role in monocyte survival and differentiation. Its overexpression is associated with aggressive tumors characterized by an immunosuppressive microenvironment and poor prognosis. CSF-1R ligands, IL-34 and M-CSF, are produced by many cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), suggesting a key role for the receptor in the crosstalk between tumor, immune and stromal cells in the TME. Recently, CSF-1R expression was reported in the cell membrane of the cancer cells of different solid tumors, capturing the interest of various research groups interested in investigating the role of this receptor in non-myeloid cells. This review summarizes the current data available on the expression and activity of CSF-1R in different tumor types. Notably, CSF-1R+ cancer cells have been shown to produce CSF-1R ligands, indicating that CSF-1R signaling is positively regulated in an autocrine manner in cancer cells. Recent research demonstrated that CSF-1R signaling enhances cell transformation by supporting tumor cell proliferation, invasion, stemness and drug resistance. In addition, this review covers recent therapeutic strategies, including monoclonal antibodies and small-molecule inhibitors, targeting the CSF-1R and designed to block the pro-oncogenic role of CSF-1R in cancer cells.
Heat-Induced Fragmentation and Adhesive Behaviour of Gold Nanowires for Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Substrates
Authors: Trausa Annamarija , Tipaldi Ciro Federiko , Ignatane Liga , Polyakov Boris , Oras Sven , Butanovs Edgars , Vanags Edgars , Smits Krisjanis
Published: January 2024

This study explores a novel approach to surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate fabrication through the heat-induced fragmentation of gold nanowires (Au NWs) and its impact on gold nanoparticle adhesion/static friction using atomic force microscopy manipulations. Controlled heating experiments and scanning electron microscopy measurements reveal significant structural transformations, with NWs transitioning into nanospheres or nanorods in a patterned fashion at elevated temperatures. These morphological changes lead to enhanced Raman signals, particularly demonstrated in the case of Rhodamine B molecules. The results underscore the critical role of NW shape modifications in augmenting the SERS effect, shedding light on a cost-effective and reliable method for producing SERS substrates.
Neurodevelopment Outcomes in Very-Low-Birth-Weight Infants with Metabolic Bone Disease at 2 Years of Age
Authors: Chen Yu-Wen , Chang Yu-Jun , Chen Lih-Ju , Lee Cheng-Han , Hsiao Chien-Chou , Chen Jia-Yuh , Chen Hsiao-Neng
Published: January 2024

Metabolic bone disease (MBD) predominantly affects preterm infants, particularly very-low-birth-weight (VLBW) infants weighing <1500 g. However, there are limited reports on MBD and neurodevelopmental outcomes. This study aimed to analyze the risk factors for MBD and understand its impact on neurodevelopmental outcomes at 2 years of corrected age. Overall, 749 VLBW infants weighing <1350 g at birth were enrolled. Exclusion criteria were major congenital abnormalities, chromosomal abnormalities, and loss of follow-up on the Bayley Scales of Infant Development, Third Edition (BSID-III) test at 24 months of corrected age. Infants were retrospectively assessed by a trained case manager using the BSID-III test at 6, 12, and 24 months old. Infants were categorized as with or without MBD according to radiographic signs. Of those enrolled, 97 VLBW infants were diagnosed with MBD, compared to 362 VLBW infants without MBD. The proportion of infants that completed three follow-ups was 86%. At the assessment at 2 years of age, infants with MBD had lower and more significant differences in motor, language, and cognitive composites. MBD is associated with poor neurodevelopmental outcomes in cognitive, motor, and language composites for VLBW infants at 24 months of corrected age.
Advanced Road Safety: Collective Perception for Probability of Collision Estimation of Connected Vehicles
Authors: Belmekki Sabrine , Gruyer Dominique
Published: January 2024

In the dynamic landscape of vehicular communication systems, connected vehicles (CVs) present unprecedented capabilities in perception, cooperation, and, notably, probability of collision management. This paper’s main concern is the collision probability of collision estimation. Achieving effective collision estimation heavily relies on the sensor perception of obstacles and a critical collision probability prediction system. This paper is dedicated to refining the estimation of collision probability through the intentional integration of CV communications, with a specific focus on the collective perception of connected vehicles. The primary objective is to enhance the understanding of the potential probability of collisions in the surrounding environment by harnessing the collective insights gathered through inter-vehicular communication and collaboration. This improvement enables a superior anticipation capacity for both the driving system and the human driver, thereby enhancing road safety. Furthermore, the incorporation of extended perception strategies holds the potential for more accurate collision probability estimation, providing the driving system or human driver with increased time to react and make informed decisions, further fortifying road safety measures. The results underscore a significant enhancement in collision probability awareness, as connected vehicles collectively contribute to a more comprehensive collision probability landscape. Consequently, this heightened collective collision probability perception improves the anticipation capacity of both the driving system and the human driver, contributing to an elevated level of road safety. For future work, the exploration of our extended perception techniques to achieve real-time probability of collision estimation is proposed. Such endeavors aim to drive the development of robust and anticipatory autonomous driving systems that truly harness the benefits of connected vehicle technologies.
Counselling Framework for Germline BRCA1/2 and PALB2 Carriers Considering Risk-Reducing Mastectomy
Authors: Wong Stephanie M. , Apostolova Carla , Eisenberg Elisheva , Foulkes William D.
Published: January 2024

Female BRCA1/2 and PALB2 germline pathogenic variant carriers have an increased lifetime risk of breast cancer and may wish to consider risk-reducing mastectomy (RRM) for surgical prevention. Quantifying the residual lifetime risk and absolute benefit from RRM requires careful consideration of a patient’s age, pathogenic variant, and their personal history of breast or ovarian cancer. Historically, patients have been counselled that RRM does not necessarily prolong survival relative to high-risk surveillance, although recent studies suggest a possible survival benefit of RRM in BRCA1 carriers. The uptake of RRM has increased dramatically over the last several decades yet varies according to sociodemographic factors and geographic region. The increased adoption of nipple-sparing mastectomy techniques, ability to avoid axillary staging, and availability of reconstructive options for most germline pathogenic variant carriers has helped to minimize the morbidity of RRM. Preoperative discussions should include evidence regarding postmastectomy sensation, the potential for supplemental surgery, pregnancy-related chest wall changes, and the need for continued clinical surveillance. Approaches that include sensation preservation and robotic nipple-sparing mastectomy are an area of evolving research that may be more widely adopted in the future.
2-Hydroxy-4-(Methylthio)-Mutanoate Supplementation Affects Production, Milk Fatty Acid Profile, and Blood Metabolites of High-Producing Holstein Cows
Authors: Lourenço Jean C. S. , Carrari Isabela F. , Aguiar Georgia C. de , Janssen Huibert P. , Lanna Dante P. D. , Teixeira Izabelle A. M. A. , Almeida Rodrigo de
Published: January 2024

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effects of supplementing the diet of high-producing Holstein cows with 2-hydroxy-4-(methylthio)-butanoate (HMTBa) on their milk production and composition, milk fatty acid profile, blood metabolites, and body parameters. The study was conducted in a commercial dairy herd in Paraná State, Southern Brazil. One hundred and fifty-eight multiparous cows were used in a randomized block design during 42 experimental days. Cows were distributed into two treatments: the control treatment cows received 100 g/cow/day of corn meal, while the HMTBa-supplemented cows received 35 g of HMTBa + 65 g/cow/day of corn meal. HMTBa supplementation did not alter milk production but improved milk fat content. Cows receiving HMTBa supplementation showed an increase in the concentration of milk medium-chain fatty acids. Serum levels of blood urea and aspartate aminotransferase were lower in HMTBa-supplemented cows. Cows supplemented with HMTBa increased their body condition score. In summary, HMTB supplementation in high-producing Holstein cows improved productive performance, particularly increased milk fat content, altered milk fatty acid profile, and changed some blood metabolites. Our findings contribute to our understanding of using a methionine analogue as a dietary strategy for optimizing milk quality in high-producing Holstein cows.
Development of a New Scale to Assess Students’ Autodetermination At School (AAS)
Authors: Sanchez Christine , Porro Bertrand , Blanc Nathalie
Published: January 2024

The Autodetermination At School (AAS) hetero-evaluative scale was created and validated in a French teacher population with the aim of quantifying, in an ecological way, the commitment at school of elementary students. After establishing the scale’s face validity, AAS was tested with an exploratory factor analysis, a confirmatory factor analysis, a convergent validity analysis, a test–retest analysis and an inter-individual analysis. The EFA highlighted three distinct factors and the CFA validated the reliability of a three-factor model for AAS with relevant fits and indices. The first dimension concerns teacher perception of academic commitment, reflecting both child performance and autonomous motivation. The second and third ones reflect teacher perception of the child’s social commitment, to their peers as well as to their teacher. Consequently, AAS is a useful, reliable and robust psychometric instrument that emphases how intrinsic motivation and performance are closely linked. It also considers the importance of social child commitment at school. The inter-individual analysis revealed trends of grade, gender and school environment effects.
Increase in Power Efficiency When Discharging Series Capacitors with a Step-Down Circuit Compared to Discharging Parallel Capacitors with a Step-Up Circuit
Authors: Nakata Shunji
Published: January 2024

A discharging circuit with high energy efficiency is designed for supercapacitors. In this design, the capacitors are connected in parallel during charging and connected in series during discharging. With this method, the voltage of the capacitors in series becomes two times larger during discharging; thus, the step-down circuit can be used to produce the desired output voltage. The efficiency of the step-down circuit is four times larger than that of the step-up circuit in simulations. The experimental results agree well with the theoretical values. These results show that a step-down circuit is superior to a step-up circuit for extracting electrical energy from supercapacitors.
Numerical Simulation of Turbulent Structure and Particle Deposition in a Three-Dimensional Heat Transfer Pipe with Corrugation
Authors: Lu Hao , Wang Yu , Li Hongchang , Zhao Wenjun
Published: January 2024

When colloidal particles are deposited in a heat transfer channel, they increase the flow resistance in the channel, resulting in a substantial decrease in heat transfer efficiency. It is critical to have a comprehensive understanding of particle properties in heat transfer channels for practical engineering applications. This study employed the Reynolds stress model (RSM) and the discrete particle model (DPM) to simulate particle deposition in a 3D corrugated rough-walled channel. The turbulent diffusion of particles was modeled with the discrete random walk model (DRW). A user-defined function (UDF) was created for particle–wall contact, and an improved particle bounce deposition model was implemented. The research focused on investigating secondary flow near the corrugated wall, Q-value standards, turbulent kinetic energy distribution, and particle deposition through validation of velocity in the tube and particle deposition modeling. The study analyzed the impact of airflow velocity, particle size, corrugation height, and corrugation period on particle deposition efficiency. The findings suggest that the use of corrugated walls can significantly improve the efficiency of deposition for particles less than 20 μm in size. Specifically, particles with a diameter of 3 μm showed five times higher efficacy of deposition with a corrugation height of 24 mm compared to a smooth surface.
Deformation Analysis of Different Lithium Battery Designs Using the DIC Technique
Authors: Kocsis Szürke Szabolcs , Szabó Mátyás , Szalai Szabolcs , Fischer Szabolcs
Published: January 2024

The growing number of electric vehicles and devices drives the demand for lithium-ion batteries. The purpose of the batteries used in electric vehicles and applications is primarily to preserve the cells and extend their lifetime, but they will wear out over time, even under ideal conditions. Most battery system failures are caused by a few cells, but the entire system may have to be scrapped in such cases. To address this issue, the goal is to create a concept that will extend the life of batteries while reducing the industrial and chemical waste generated by batteries. Secondary use can increase battery utilization and extend battery life. However, processing a large number of used battery cells at an industrial level is a significant challenge for both manufacturers and users. The different battery sizes and compositions used by various manufacturers of electric vehicles and electronic devices make it extremely difficult to solve the processing problem at the system level. The purpose of this study is to look into non-destructive battery diagnostic options. During the tests, the condition of the cells is assessed using a new diagnostic technique, 3D surface digitalization, and the fusion of electrical parameters. In the case of surface digitalization, the digital image correlation (DIC) technique was used to estimate the cell state. The tests were conducted on various cells with widely used geometries and encapsulations. These included a lithium polymer (soft casing), 18650 standard sizes (hard casing), and prismatic cells (semi-hard). The study also included testing each battery at various charge states during charging and discharging. The findings help to clarify the changes in battery cell geometry and their localization. The findings can be applied to cell diagnostic applications such as recycling, quality assurance, and vehicle diagnostics.
Rapid Decision-Making Tool for Electric Powertrain Sizing for Motorcycles during New Product Development
Authors: Kirca Mehmet Cagin , McGordon Andrew , Dinh Truong Quang
Published: January 2024

As part of the intergovernmental and public interventions to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, there are no existing regulations to ban the sale of petrol motorcycles (PM), but it is expected that motorcycle regulations will follow car regulations with several years of delay. There is an emerging trend in motorcycle uptake, which will lead to new development projects with existing brands, and new brands, and will clearly increase the need for development tools that satisfies design challenges specific to electric motorcycles (EM) and electric powertrains. There is significant importance in motorcycle design to quantify the vehicle-level performance indicators and specifications, which are not limited to total vehicle mass, range, acceleration performance, and top speed. Those performance indicators should be quantified for different powertrain configurations and component selections to identify the most suitable configuration for the specific motorcycle development. In this paper, an innovative powertrain sizing approach is proposed to provide solutions for EMs against the design challenges specific to electric motorcycles. The innovative approach is to apply the practice of design space exploration (DSE) in resilient system design (RSD) to EM development. As a proof of concept, a case study of battery sizing is presented, in which a powertrain sizing tool is used to identify battery pack sizing requirements using requirement-based design (RBD), sensitivity analysis and DSE. The case study shows that the RBD approach allows EM product developers to identify a single solution, while DSE clearly demonstrates the trade-off between different configurations, taking multiple design variables into account. The tool prioritises high accessibility and high confidence with limited information at the early phases of electric motorcycle powertrain component sizing and selection.