bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Data for Construction Digital Twins: Building Health and Safety and Progress Monitoring Twins Using the Unreal Gaming Engine
Authors: Ellul Claire , Hamilton Neve , Pieri Alexandros , Floros George
Published: July 2024

Although digital twins have been established in manufacturing for a long time, they are only more recently making their way into the urban environment and present a relatively new concept for the construction industry. The concept of a digital twin—a model of the physical environment that has a real-time two-way link between the physical and the digital, with the virtual model changing over time to reflect changes in the real world—lends itself well to the continually changing environment of a construction project. Predictive capabilities built into a twin also have great potential for construction planning—including in supply chain management and waste disposal as well as in the construction process itself. Underpinning this opportunity is location data, which model where something is happening and when and can be used to solve a wide range of problems. In particular, location (the power of where) can integrate diverse data sources and types into a single system, overcoming interoperability challenges that are known to be a barrier to twin implementation. This paper demonstrates the power of location-enabled digital twins in the context of a highway construction project, documenting and addressing data engineering tasks and functionality development to explore the potential of digital twins in the context of two case studies—health and safety and construction monitoring. We develop two demonstrators using data from an existing construction project (building on data and requirements from industry partner Skanska) to build twins that make use of the powers of 4D data presentation offered by the Unreal Gaming Engine and CesiumJS mapping, while software development expertise is sometimes available to construction firms, we specifically explore to what extent the no-code approach available within Unreal can be deployed in this context. Our findings provide evidence to construction companies as to the benefits of digital twins, as well as an understanding of the data engineering and technical skills required to achieve these benefits. The overall results demonstrate the potential for digital twins to unlock and democratise construction data, taking them beyond the niche use of experts and into the boardroom.
The Influences of Positive and Negative Resal Effects on the Shear Performance of Tapered Girders with Corrugated Steel Webs
Authors: Xu Fen , Cheng Yikai , Pei Huiteng , Wang Jixiang , Zhou Man
Published: July 2024

This study theoretically and numerically examines the differences in shear performance between tapered and prismatic girder configurations with corrugated steel webs (CSWs) and investigates the influence of the Resal effect on the shear performance of tapered girders with CSWs. The vertical components of the inclined bottom slab forces (which are zero in prismatic cases) may decrease or increase the effective shear force on the CSWs, reflecting the positive and negative influences of the Resal effect. Based on these influences, this study introduces the concepts of positive and negative Resal effects and proposes an improved shear method to predict the effective shear forces acting on tapered CSWs. The results of the theoretical and finite element (FE) analyses show that the traditional shear method, which assumes CSWs bear all the shear force, is not applicable to tapered girders. The improved shear method significantly reduced the error in predicting shear forces within the CSWs, decreasing the maximum error from 42.25% (traditional method) to 7.71% (improved method) in specific sections. Quantitative analyses of three different types of girders with CSWs indicate that the Resal effect is influenced by both the internal forces and the structural form of the box girder. In cases of a positive Resal effect, the inclined bottom slab shares a considerable portion of the shear force with CSWs, resulting in a surplus shear capacity in the CSWs; conversely, under a negative Resal effect, there is an increase in the effective shear force on the web, which could lead to an overestimation of the shear buckling strength of CSWs. These findings highlight the necessity of incorporating Resal effects for accurate shear force predictions in tapered girders. By accurately predicting shear forces, engineers can enhance the performance and reliability of these structures, avoiding both overestimation and underestimation of shear capacities.
Effect of Direct Acting Antiviral Drugs on the Occurrence and Recurrence of Intra- and Extra-Hepatic Malignancies in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection
Authors: Radu Pompilia , Becchetti Chiara , Schropp Jonas , Schmid Patrick , Künzler-Heule Patrizia , Mertens Joachim , Moradpour Darius , Müllaupt Beat , Semela David , Negro Francesco , Heim Markus , Clerc Olivier , Roelens Maroussia , Keiser Olivia , Berzigotti Annalisa ,   Swiss Hepatitis C Cohort Study
Published: July 2024

Introduction: The use of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) has drastically changed the management of HCV-infected patients by achieving a 95–98% sustained virologic response (SVR) and reducing morbidity and mortality in this population. However, despite their effectiveness, controversy exists concerning the occurrence of oncologic events following DAA therapy. Aims and Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on data from the Swiss Hepatitis C Cohort Study, a prospective cohort involving patients with positive HCV viremia upon inclusion, enrolled in various Swiss centers from September 2000 to November 2021. To examine potential differences in the risk of intrahepatic tumor (IHT) occurrence and death among patients treated with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), untreated patients, and those receiving interferon (IFN)-based therapy, a semiparametric competing risk proportional hazards regression model was used. Results: Among 4082 patients (63.1% male, median age 45 years; genotype 1: 54.1%; cirrhosis: 16.1%), 1026 received exclusive treatment with IFN-based regimens, and 1180 were treated solely with DAAs. Over a median follow-up of 7.8 years (range: 3.8–11.9), 179 patients (4.4%) developed intrahepatic tumors (IHT), and 168 (4.1%) experienced extrahepatic tumors (EHT). The 5-year cumulative incidence of IHT was 1.55% (95% CI 0.96–2.48) for IFN-based therapy, 4.27% (95% CI 2.93–6.2) for DAA and 0.89% (95% CI 0.4–1.99) for untreated patients. There was no statistically significant difference in the risk of developing IHT (HR = 1.34; 95% CI = [0.70; 2.58]; p = 0.380) or death (HR = 0.66; 95% CI = [0.43; 1.03]; p = 0.066) between patients treated with DAAs and those treated with IFN. Conclusions: The DAAs reduced the risk of death and were not associated with an increased risk of extrahepatic tumors (EHT). In the adjusted model, accounting for cirrhosis and high liver stiffness, the DAA treatment was associated with a higher risk of IHT occurrence compared with untreated patients, emphasizing the relevance of implementing standardized hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) screening post-DAA treatment.
Benign and Malignant Outcomes in the Offspring of Females Exposed In Utero to Diethylstilbestrol (DES): An Update from the NCI Third Generation Study
Authors: Titus Linda , Hatch Elizabeth E. , Bertrand Kimberly A. , Palmer Julie R. , Strohsnitter William C. , Huo Dezheng , Curry Michael , Hyer Marianne , Aagaard Kjersti , Gierach Gretchen L. , Troisi Rebecca
Published: July 2024

Background: Females exposed prenatally to diethylstilbestrol (DES) have an elevated risk of cervical dysplasia, breast cancer, and clear cell adenocarcinoma (CCA) of the cervix/vagina. Testicular cancer risk is increased in prenatally exposed males. Epigenetic changes may mediate the transmission of DES effects to the next (“third”) generation of offspring. Methods: Using data self-reported by third-generation females, we assessed DES in relation to the risk of cancer and benign breast and reproductive tract conditions. Using data from prenatally DES-exposed and unexposed mothers, we assessed DES in relation to cancer risk in their female and male offspring. Cancer risk was assessed by standardized incidence ratios (SIR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI); the risks of benign and malignant diagnoses were assessed by hazard ratios (HR) and 95% CI. Results: In self-reported data, DES exposure was not associated with an increased risk of overall cancer (HR 0.83; CI 0.36–1.90), breast cancer, or severe cervical dysplasia. No females reported CCA. The risk of borderline ovarian cancer appeared elevated, but the HR was imprecise (3.46; CI 0.37–32.42). Based on mothers’ reports, DES exposure did not increase the risk of overall cancer (HR 0.80; CI 0.49–1.32) or of other cancers in third-generation females. Overall cancer risk in exposed males appeared elevated (HR 1.41; CI 0.70–2.86), but the CI was wide. The risk of testicular cancer was not elevated in exposed males; no cases of prostate cancer were reported. Conclusions: To date, there is little evidence that DES is associated with cancer risk in third-generation females or males, but these individuals are relatively young, and further follow-up is needed.
Baseline Association between Healthy Eating Index-2015 and Health-Related Quality of Life in Breast Cancer Patients Enrolled in a Randomized Trial
Authors: Porciello Giuseppe , Coluccia Sergio , Vitale Sara , Palumbo Elvira , Luongo Assunta , Grimaldi Maria , Pica Rosa , Prete Melania , Calabrese Ilaria , Cubisino Serena , Montagnese Concetta , Falzone Luca , Martinuzzo Valentina , Poletto Luigina , Rotondo Emanuela , Di Gennaro Piergiacomo , De Laurentiis Michelino , D’Aiuto Massimiliano , Rinaldo Massimo , Thomas Guglielmo , Messina Francesco , Catalano Francesca , Ferraù Francesco , Montesarchio Vincenzo , Serraino Diego , Crispo Anna , Libra Massimo , Celentano Egidio , Augustin Livia S. A. ,   the DEDiCa Study Group
Published: July 2024

Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) represents one of the most concerning aspects for cancer patients. The Healthy Eating Index (HEI) is an a priori diet quality index directly associated with health outcomes and HRQoL in cancer survivors in North American populations. We evaluated, in a Mediterranean population, the baseline associations between HEI-2015 and HRQoL in 492 women with breast cancer recruited in a DEDiCa lifestyle trial. Dietary data were obtained from 7-day food records; HRQoL was assessed through the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 (EORTC QLQ C30) and the C30 Summary Score (SumSc). Analysis of variance and multivariable linear and log-gamma regression models were performed. Mean and standard deviation for HEI-2015 score was 68.8 ± 11.2; SumSc was 81.5 ± 12.9. Women with lower HEI-2015 score had higher BMI, were more frequently exposed to tobacco smoke and had fewer years of education. Patients with a HEI-2015 score greater than 68.7 (median value) showed a significant increase in SumSc of 4% (p = 0.02). HEI-2015 components also associated with SumSc were beans and greens (β = 1.04; p = 0.02). Weak associations were found for total vegetables and saturated fats. Higher diet quality in breast cancer survivors was associated with higher overall HRQoL in this cross-sectional analysis.
Impact of Tumor Size on Prognosis in Differentiated Thyroid Cancer with Gross Extrathyroidal Extension to Strap Muscles: Redefining T3b
Authors: Park Joonseon , An Solji , Bae Ja Seong , Kim Kwangsoon , Kim Jeong Soo
Published: July 2024

The prognostic significance of tumor size in T3b differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) remains debated and underexplored. This study aimed to examine the varying impact of T3b based on tumor size, analyzing disease-specific survival, disease-free survival, and overall survival. A retrospective review of 6282 DTC patients who underwent thyroid surgery at Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital from September 2000 to December 2017 was conducted. T3b was classified into three subcategories, T3b-1 (≤2 cm), T3b-2 (2–4 cm), and T3b-3 (>4 cm), using the same size criteria for T1, T2, and T3a. T3b-1 showed no significant difference in disease specific survival compared to T1, and both disease-free and disease-specific survival curves were sequentially ranked as T1, T3b-1, T2, T3a, T3b-2, and T3b-3. The modified T category, reclassifying T3b-1 as T1, demonstrated superior staging performance compared to the classic T category (c-index: 0.8961 vs. 0.8959 and AUC: 0.8573 vs. 0.8518). Tumors measuring 2 cm or less within the T3b category may require downstaging, and a modified T category could improve the precision of prognostic staging compared to the current T category.
Machine Learning Analysis in Diffusion Kurtosis Imaging for Discriminating Pediatric Posterior Fossa Tumors: A Repeatability and Accuracy Pilot Study
Authors: Voicu Ioan Paul , Dotta Francesco , Napolitano Antonio , Caulo Massimo , Piccirilli Eleonora , D’Orazio Claudia , Carai Andrea , Miele Evelina , Vinci Maria , Rossi Sabrina , Cacchione Antonella , Vennarini Sabina , Del Baldo Giada , Mastronuzzi Angela , Tomà Paolo , Colafati Giovanna Stefania
Published: July 2024

Background and purpose: Differentiating pediatric posterior fossa (PF) tumors such as medulloblastoma (MB), ependymoma (EP), and pilocytic astrocytoma (PA) remains relevant, because of important treatment and prognostic implications. Diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) has not yet been investigated for discrimination of pediatric PF tumors. Estimating diffusion values from whole-tumor-based (VOI) segmentations may improve diffusion measurement repeatability compared to conventional region-of-interest (ROI) approaches. Our purpose was to compare repeatability between ROI and VOI DKI-derived diffusion measurements and assess DKI accuracy in discriminating among pediatric PF tumors. Materials and methods: We retrospectively analyzed 34 children (M, F, mean age 7.48 years) with PF tumors who underwent preoperative examination on a 3 Tesla magnet, including DKI. For each patient, two neuroradiologists independently segmented the whole solid tumor, the ROI of the area of maximum tumor diameter, and a small 5 mm ROI. The automated analysis pipeline included inter-observer variability, statistical, and machine learning (ML) analyses. We evaluated inter-observer variability with coefficient of variation (COV) and Bland–Altman plots. We estimated DKI metrics accuracy in discriminating among tumor histology with MANOVA analysis. In order to account for class imbalances, we applied SMOTE to balance the dataset. Finally, we performed a Random Forest (RF) machine learning classification analysis based on all DKI metrics from the SMOTE dataset by partitioning 70/30 the training and testing cohort. Results: Tumor histology included medulloblastoma (15), pilocytic astrocytoma (14), and ependymoma (5). VOI-based measurements presented lower variability than ROI-based measurements across all DKI metrics and were used for the analysis. DKI-derived metrics could accurately discriminate between tumor subtypes (Pillai’s trace: p < 0.001). SMOTE generated 11 synthetic observations (10 EP and 1 PA), resulting in a balanced dataset with 45 instances (34 original and 11 synthetic). ML analysis yielded an accuracy of 0.928, which correctly predicted all but one lesion in the testing set. Conclusions: VOI-based measurements presented improved repeatability compared to ROI-based measurements across all diffusion metrics. An ML classification algorithm resulted accurate in discriminating PF tumors on a SMOTE-generated dataset. ML techniques based on DKI-derived metrics are useful for the discrimination of pediatric PF tumors.
The Bright Side of Curcumin: A Narrative Review of Its Therapeutic Potential in Cancer Management
Authors: Amaroli Andrea , Panfoli Isabella , Bozzo Matteo , Ferrando Sara , Candiani Simona , Ravera Silvia
Published: July 2024

Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound derived from Curcuma longa, exhibits significant therapeutic potential in cancer management. This review explores curcumin’s mechanisms of action, the challenges related to its bioavailability, and its enhancement through modern technology and approaches. Curcumin demonstrates strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to its ability to neutralize free radicals and inhibit inflammatory mediators. Its anticancer effects are mediated by inducing apoptosis, inhibiting cell proliferation, and interfering with tumor growth pathways in various colon, pancreatic, and breast cancers. However, its clinical application is limited by its poor bioavailability due to its rapid metabolism and low absorption. Novel delivery systems, such as curcumin-loaded hydrogels and nanoparticles, have shown promise in improving curcumin bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. Additionally, photodynamic therapy has emerged as a complementary approach, where light exposure enhances curcumin’s anticancer effects by modulating molecular pathways crucial for tumor cell growth and survival. Studies highlight that combining low concentrations of curcumin with visible light irradiation significantly boosts its antitumor efficacy compared to curcumin alone. The interaction of curcumin with cytochromes or drug transporters may play a crucial role in altering the pharmacokinetics of conventional medications, which necessitates careful consideration in clinical settings. Future research should focus on optimizing delivery mechanisms and understanding curcumin’s pharmacokinetics to fully harness its therapeutic potential in cancer treatment.
Histomolecular Validation of [18F]-FACBC in Gliomas Using Image-Localized Biopsies
Authors: Vindstad Benedikte Emilie , Skjulsvik Anne Jarstein , Pedersen Lars Kjelsberg , Berntsen Erik Magnus , Solheim Ole Skeidsvoll , Ingebrigtsen Tor , Reinertsen Ingerid , Johansen Håkon , Eikenes Live , Karlberg Anna Maria
Published: July 2024

Background: Gliomas have a heterogeneous nature, and identifying the most aggressive parts of the tumor and defining tumor borders are important for histomolecular diagnosis, surgical resection, and radiation therapy planning. This study evaluated [18F]-FACBC PET for glioma tissue classification. Methods: Pre-surgical [18F]-FACBC PET/MR images were used during surgery and image-localized biopsy sampling in patients with high- and low-grade glioma. TBR was compared to histomolecular results to determine optimal threshold values, sensitivity, specificity, and AUC values for the classification of tumor tissue. Additionally, PET volumes were determined in patients with glioblastoma based on the optimal threshold. [18F]-FACBC PET volumes and diagnostic accuracy were compared to ce-T1 MRI. In total, 48 biopsies from 17 patients were analyzed. Results: [18F]-FACBC had low uptake in non-glioblastoma tumors, but overall higher sensitivity and specificity for the classification of tumor tissue (0.63 and 0.57) than ce-T1 MRI (0.24 and 0.43). Additionally, [18F]-FACBC TBR was an excellent classifier for IDH1-wildtype tumor tissue (AUC: 0.83, 95% CI: 0.71–0.96). In glioblastoma patients, PET tumor volumes were on average eight times larger than ce-T1 MRI volumes and included 87.5% of tumor-positive biopsies compared to 31.5% for ce-T1 MRI. Conclusion: The addition of [18F]-FACBC PET to conventional MRI could improve tumor classification and volume delineation.
Mn-Based Catalysts in the Selective Reduction of NOx with CO: Current Status, Existing Challenges, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Lian Dianxing , Chen Mohaoyang , Wang Huanli , Li Chenxi , Liu Botao , Dai Guiyao , Hou Shujun , Liu Yuxi , Ji Yongjun
Published: July 2024

The technology for the selective catalytic reduction of NOx by CO (CO-SCR) has the capability to simultaneously eliminate CO and NOx from industrial flue gas and automobile exhaust, thus making it a promising denitrification method. The advancement of cost-effective and high-performing catalysts is crucial for the commercialization of this technology. Mn-based catalysts demonstrate enhanced catalytic efficiency under conditions of low temperature and low oxygen content when compared to other transition metal-based catalysts, indicating significant potential for practical applications. This review outlines the diverse Mn-based catalysts, including bulk or supported MnOx catalysts, bulk or supported Mn-based composite oxide catalysts, and the use of MnOx as dopants. Subsequently, the synthesis methods and catalytic mechanism employed by Mn-based catalysts are presented. The following section examines the impact of O2, H2O, and SO2 on the catalytic performance. Finally, the potential and implications of this reaction are deliberated. This work aims to offer theoretical guidance for the rational design of highly efficient Mn-based catalysts in the CO-SCR reaction for industrial applications.
Intake of Special Amino Acids Mixture Leads to Blunted Murine Colon Cancer Growth In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Corsetti Giovanni , Romano Claudia , Codenotti Silvia , Giugno Lorena , Pasini Evasio , Fanzani Alessandro , Scarabelli Tiziano , Dioguardi Francesco S.
Published: July 2024

Cancer cells require substantial amounts of energy and substrates for their metabolic hyperactivity, enabling the synthesis of new cells at the expense of healthy ones. Preliminary in vitro data suggest that a mix of free essential amino acids (EAA-mix) can promote cancer cell apoptosis by enhancing autophagy. This study aimed to confirm, both in vitro and in vivo, whether EAA intake could influence the development of colon cancer in mice. We investigated changes in cancer proliferation in CT26 cells treated with EAA-mix and in mice fed with EAA-rich modified diets (EAARD) as compared to those on a standard laboratory diet (StD). CT26 cells were injected subcutaneously (s.c.) or intraperitoneally (i.p.). After 21 days, tumors were removed and measured. In vitro data corroborated that EAA-mix impairs cancer growth by inducing apoptosis. In vivo data revealed that mice on StD developed significantly larger (s.c.) and more numerous (i.p.) cancers than those on EAARD. EAA administration appears to influence cancer cell survival with notable antiproliferative properties.
Navigating the CRISPR/Cas Landscape for Enhanced Diagnosis and Treatment of Wilson’s Disease
Authors: Choi Woong , Cha Seongkwang , Kim Kyoungmi
Published: July 2024

The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein (Cas) system continues to evolve, thereby enabling more precise detection and repair of mutagenesis. The development of CRISPR/Cas-based diagnosis holds promise for high-throughput, cost-effective, and portable nucleic acid screening and genetic disease diagnosis. In addition, advancements in transportation strategies such as adeno-associated virus (AAV), lentiviral vectors, nanoparticles, and virus-like vectors (VLPs) offer synergistic insights for gene therapeutics in vivo. Wilson’s disease (WD), a copper metabolism disorder, is primarily caused by mutations in the ATPase copper transporting beta (ATP7B) gene. The condition is associated with the accumulation of copper in the body, leading to irreversible damage to various organs, including the liver, nervous system, kidneys, and eyes. However, the heterogeneous nature and individualized presentation of physical and neurological symptoms in WD patients pose significant challenges to accurate diagnosis. Furthermore, patients must consume copper-chelating medication throughout their lifetime. Herein, we provide a detailed description of WD and review the application of novel CRISPR-based strategies for its diagnosis and treatment, along with the challenges that need to be overcome.
Anti-Bacterial and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of a Ceramic Bone Filler Containing Polyphenols from Grape Pomace
Authors: Torre Elisa , Morra Marco , Cassinelli Clara , Iviglia Giorgio
Published: July 2024

Bone loss is a major burden for society and impacts people’s health all over the world. In a changing world looking toward a more conscious use of raw materials, efforts are being made to increasingly consider new promising biomaterials that account for, on one side, the ability to provide specific functional biological activities and, on the other, the feature of being well tolerated. In this regard, the use of phenolic compounds in the field of bone-related bioengineering shows a rising interest in the development of medical solutions aimed at taking advantage of the multiple beneficial properties of these plant molecules. In this work, the anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory power of a biphasic calcium phosphate synthetic bone filler coated with a mixture of phenolic compounds was investigated by evaluating the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) value against Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis and the expression of genes involved in inflammation and autophagy by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) on J774a.1 murine macrophage cells. Results show a MIC of 0.8 μg/mL, a neat anti-inflammatory effect, and induction of autophagy key genes compared to a ceramic bone filler. In conclusion, functionalization with a polyphenol-rich extract confers to a ceramic bone filler anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Azidoindolines—From Synthesis to Application: A Review
Authors: Abe Takumi
Published: July 2024

Azide-containing compounds, organic azides, showcases a variety of reactivities, making them highly convenient and chameleonic intermediates. An indoline derivative has been proven to be of great significance in drug discovery due to its sp3-rich property. In this context, it is interesting to perform such vigorous azidation on medicinal-relevant indoles/indolines, resulting in the production of sp3-rich azidoindolines. The potential biological activity, in combination with the sp3-rich indoline bearing the azido moiety, makes azidoindolines an attractive synthetic target for medicinal and synthetic chemists. This review describes recent advances in the synthesis and application of azidoindolines: (1) iodine-mediated azidations, (2) metal-catalyzed azidations, (3) electrochemical azidations, (4) photochemical azidations, (5) azidation using a combination of an oxidant and an azide source, and (6) nucleophilic azidation.
Exploring Mental Health Services for Youth Experiencing Homelessness in East Asian Pacific Regions: A Systematic Scoping Review
Authors: Ermita Kimberley Cortez , Rosenthal Diana Margot
Published: July 2024

Background: Youth experiencing homelessness (YEH) in East Asian Pacific (EAP) regions represent one of the most at-risk populations due to cultural and geographical factors. Effective mental health interventions, primarily researched in Western contexts, may not fully apply to YEH in EAP. Their lack of stable shelter, disrupted social networks, and limited access to mental health services elevate their susceptibility to adverse mental health, making urgent interventions essential to address their needs. Objective: The objective of this study is to explore and systematically search the types of mental health services and interventions available for YEH in EAP and their impact on overall quality of life and wellbeing. Methods: Electronic databases (e.g., Medline, PsycINFO, PubMed, Scopus) were systematically searched (publication dates between 1 January 1990 and 13 May 2023), as well as additional online resources specific to homelessness. Articles were screened, and a critical appraisal assessed the quality of the included studies. Results: Eight studies with different interventions were identified in Indonesia (n = 2), Malaysia (n = 1), South Korea (n = 3), and the Philippines (n = 1). These were thematically clustered into six categories: art, cognitive behavioural therapy, life skills education, resilience enhancement, family strengthening, and government interventions/services. Conclusions: This review highlights effective mental health interventions’ positive impact on YEH mental health outcomes and quality of life in EAP, stressing the urgent need to implement socio-culturally sensitive services. Future research should address knowledge gaps through comprehensive studies covering diverse EAP regions and populations, prioritising socio-culturally specific psychological measures.
Ghrelin/GHSR System in Depressive Disorder: Pathologic Roles and Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Pan Xingli , Gao Yuxin , Guan Kaifu , Chen Jing , Ji Bingyuan
Published: July 2024

Depression is the most common chronic mental illness and is characterized by low mood, insomnia, and affective disorders. However, its pathologic mechanisms remain unclear. Numerous studies have suggested that the ghrelin/GHSR system may be involved in the pathophysiologic process of depression. Ghrelin plays a dual role in experimental animals, increasing depressed behavior and decreasing anxiety. By combining several neuropeptides and traditional neurotransmitter systems to construct neural networks, this hormone modifies signals connected to depression. The present review focuses on the role of ghrelin in neuritogenesis, astrocyte protection, inflammatory factor production, and endocrine disruption in depression. Furthermore, ghrelin/GHSR can activate multiple signaling pathways, including cAMP/CREB/BDNF, PI3K/Akt, Jak2/STAT3, and p38-MAPK, to produce antidepressant effects, given which it is expected to become a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of depression.
Reconstruction of Eriocheir sinensis Protein–Protein Interaction Network Based on DGO-SVM Method
Authors: Hao Tong , Zhang Mingzhi , Song Zhentao , Gou Yifei , Wang Bin , Sun Jinsheng
Published: July 2024

Eriocheir sinensis is an economically important aquatic animal. Its regulatory mechanisms underlying many biological processes are still vague due to the lack of systematic analysis tools. The protein–protein interaction network (PIN) is an important tool for the systematic analysis of regulatory mechanisms. In this work, a novel machine learning method, DGO-SVM, was applied to predict the protein–protein interaction (PPI) in E. sinensis, and its PIN was reconstructed. With the domain, biological process, molecular functions and subcellular locations of proteins as the features, DGO-SVM showed excellent performance in Bombyx mori, humans and five aquatic crustaceans, with 92–96% accuracy. With DGO-SVM, the PIN of E. sinensis was reconstructed, containing 14,703 proteins and 7,243,597 interactions, in which 35,604 interactions were associated with 566 novel proteins mainly involved in the response to exogenous stimuli, cellular macromolecular metabolism and regulation. The DGO-SVM demonstrated that the biological process, molecular functions and subcellular locations of proteins are significant factors for the precise prediction of PPIs. We reconstructed the largest PIN for E. sinensis, which provides a systematic tool for the regulatory mechanism analysis. Furthermore, the novel-protein-related PPIs in the PIN may provide important clues for the mechanism analysis of the underlying specific physiological processes in E. sinensis.
Skimmianine Showed Neuroprotection against Cerebral Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Ayaz Hayat , Aşır Fırat , Korak Tuğcan
Published: July 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of skimmianine on cerebral ischemia–reperfusion (IR) injury. Twenty-four female Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into three groups: Sham, Ischemia–Reperfusion (IR), and IR + Skimmianine (40 mg/kg Skimmianine). Cerebral ischemia was induced using a monofilament nylon suture to occlude the middle cerebral artery for 60 min. Following 23 h of reperfusion, the animals were sacrificed 14 days later. The effects of skimmianine on brain tissue post-IR injury were examined through biochemical and immunochemical analyses. In silico analysis using the Enrichr platform explored skimmianine’s potential biological processes involving IBA-1, IL-6, and NF-κB proteins. In the IR group, MDA levels increased, while SOD and CAT antioxidant enzyme activities decreased. In the IR + Skimmianine group, skimmianine treatment resulted in decreased MDA levels and increased SOD and CAT activities. Significant increases in IBA-1 expression were observed in the IR group, which skimmianine treatment significantly reduced, modulating microglial activation. High levels of IL-6 expression were noted in pyramidal neurons, vascular structures, and neuroglial cells in the IR group; skimmianine treatment reduced IL-6 expression, demonstrating anti-inflammatory effects. Increased NF-κB expression was observed in neurons and blood vessels in the gray and white matter in the IR group; skimmianine treatment reduced NF-κB expression. Gene Ontology results suggest skimmianine impacts immune and inflammatory responses via IBA-1 and IL-6, with potential effects on estrogen mechanisms mediated by NF-κB. Skimmianine may be a potential therapeutic strategy due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects on cerebral IR injury.
Erlotinib Treatment in Colorectal Cancer Suppresses Autophagy Based on KRAS Mutation
Authors: Siegman Alexander , Shaykevich Aaron , Chae Danbee , Silverman Isaac , Goel Sanjay , Maitra Radhashree
Published: July 2024

The KRAS gene is mutated in approximately 45% of colorectal cancer patients. There are currently very few targeted treatments or therapies equipped to directly inhibit KRAS due to its unusual structural intricacies. Erlotinib, an EGFR inhibitor, has previously been demonstrated to reduce cell viability by inducing autophagy in lung cancer cell lines with varying EGFR mutations. In contrast to lung cancer cells, evidence is provided herein for the first time that erlotinib treatment in colorectal cancer (CRC) cell lines reduces autophagy and still results in decreased cell viability. However, the effects of erlotinib in CRC cell lines containing a wildtype KRAS gene were different than in cells carrying a mutant KRAS gene. We show that there is significantly more downregulation of autophagy in KRAS mutant CRC cells compared to KRAS wildtype cells, both at transcriptional and translational levels, suggesting that the KRAS mutation is advantageous for cancer growth, even in the presence of erlotinib. Cell viability results determined that KRAS wildtype CRC cells had significantly more cell death compared to KRAS mutant cells. Using patient mRNA datasets, we showed that there was a significant correlation between the presence of the KRAS mutation and the expression of autophagy proteins. Additionally, through molecular dynamics simulations, we develop a blueprint for KRAS and autophagy protein interaction and the impact of the KRAS mutation on autophagy protein regulation. Overall, this is the first report of erlotinib treatment in CRC cells that assesses autophagy, and we demonstrate that autophagy activity is downregulated in these cells. This effect is not only greater in cells carrying a KRAS mutation compared to wildtype cells, but the KRAS mutant cells also have increased cell viability compared to wildtype cells. We hypothesize that the difference in cell viability and autophagy expression between KRAS mutant and KRAS wildtype cells after treatment with erlotinib can be of therapeutic value to treat CRC patients carrying KRAS mutations.
Phytotherapy-Induced Hepatocytotoxicity: A Case Report
Authors: Malnick Stephen , Abdullah Ali , Maor Yaacov , Neuman Manuela G.
Published: July 2024

Herbal and complementary medicine are frequently integrated with conventional medicine. We aim to report a case of severe herbal-induced liver injury (HILI) due to chronic use of green tea and protein shake. We present both clinical and laboratory evidence implicating mitochondrial toxicity and an immune response leading to a hypersensitivity reaction to the products. We have recently treated a 39-year-old man with hepatotoxicity resulting from a combination of a green tea-containing powder and a branched-chain amino acid supplement that was commenced 2 months previously. The hepatotoxicity resolved by stopping the consumption of these products and no other cause was detected. We decided to perform a lymphocyte toxicity assay (LTA) to determine if there was laboratory support for this diagnosis. LTA (% toxicity) represents the response of the mitochondria to toxic injury. To determine the role of the proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in the patient’s reaction, we measured the level of cytokines and chemokine in the media of growing cells, exposed to each product or to a combination of products. The increased cytokines and chemokines are presented as the x-fold elevations from the upper limit of normal (ULN) for matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) (pg/mL × 1.5 ULN) and interleukin (IL)-1β (pg/mL × 1.8 ULN). Higher elevations were found for interferon (IFN)-β, IFN-γ, IL-8, IL 13, IL-15 (pg/mL × 2 ULN), regulated upon activation, normal T cell expressed and presumably secreted (RANTES) (pg/mL × 2 ULN), and nuclear factor (NFκB) (pg/mL × 3 ULN). The highest increases were for vascular endothelial factor (VEGF) (pg/mL × 10 ULN), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) (pg/mL × 13 ULN). An examination of cellular markers showed the difference between programmed cell death (apoptosis) and cell death due to necrosis. In our case, cytokeratin—ccK18 (M-30) U/L was within the normal limits, suggesting that apoptosis was normal, while ccK8(M65) U/L was elevated at 1.5 × ULN. This result implies that upon the treatment of the patient’s lymphocytes with the products, the mechanism of toxicity is necrosis. In susceptible individuals, the combination of protein and herbal tea produces mitochondrial toxicity and a strong T-lymphocyte-1 response, leading to HILI. There is a need of international reporting of adverse drug reactions by clinicians, laboratories, and pharmaceutical manufacturers to drug regulatory authorities. This requires internationally accepted standard definitions of reactions, as well as criteria for assessment.
Review on Long Non-Coding RNAs as Biomarkers and Potentially Therapeutic Targets for Bacterial Infections
Authors: Shi Liqin , Han Xueya , Liu Fang , Long Jinzhao , Jin Yuefei , Chen Shuaiyin , Duan Guangcai , Yang Haiyan
Published: July 2024

The confrontation between humans and bacteria is ongoing, with strategies for combating bacterial infections continually evolving. With the advancement of RNA sequencing technology, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) associated with bacterial infections have garnered significant attention. Recently, long ncRNAs (lncRNAs) have been identified as regulators of sterile inflammatory responses and cellular defense against live bacterial pathogens. They are involved in regulating host antimicrobial immunity in both the nucleus and cytoplasm. Increasing evidence indicates that lncRNAs are critical for the intricate interactions between host and pathogen during bacterial infections. This paper emphatically elaborates on the potential applications of lncRNAs in clinical hallmarks, cellular damage, immunity, virulence, and drug resistance in bacterial infections in greater detail. Additionally, we discuss the challenges and limitations of studying lncRNAs in the context of bacterial infections and highlight clear directions for this promising field.
Improving Surface Antimicrobial Performance by Coating Homogeneous PDA-Ag Micro–Nano Particles
Authors: Wang Shuilin , Meng Fanping , Cao Zhimin
Published: July 2024

Implants and other medical devices are prone to bacterial infections on their surface due to bacterial attachment and biofilm formation. In this study, silver nanoparticles were generated in situ onto regulated synthesized polydopamine particles, and the optimal amount of silver nitrate was determined. Composite micro–nano particles were then deposited on a titanium alloy surface. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy were used to confirm that the titanium alloy surface was successfully coated with PDA-Ag. Scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and three-dimensional optical profilometry were utilized to analysis the morphology of the micro–nano particles and the surface morphology after deposition. The diameters of the polydopamine particles and silver nanoparticles were 150 nm and 25 nm, respectively. The surface roughness values decreased from 0.357 μm to 25.253 μm because of the coated PDA-Ag. Morphology and chemical composition analyses of the modified surface indicated that the PDA-Ag particles were uniformly bonded to the substrate surface. Antimicrobial assays illustrated that the PDA-Ag-modified surface possessed resistance against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus attachment, with an effectiveness of 96.14 and 85.78%, respectively. This work provides a new strategy and theoretical basis for tackling medical-related surface infections caused by bacterial adhesion.
An Experimental Study Based on Surface Microtexture of Medical Devices
Authors: Chen Chaoda , Shao Xiaoqiang , Guo Junrong , Yu Zhuoyuan , Chen Ziyang , Lu Xuan , Jiang Zhansi
Published: July 2024

Surface microstructures formed by jet electrolytic processing are widely used in aerospace and biomedical applications, and their unique process has an important role in medical devices. To improve the precision and usability of medical devices processed using this process, electrolytic characterization and micropit morphology experiments under different processing parameters were carried out to study the effect of EJM processing on processing efficiency and processing quality. The influencing factors of electrolytic machining rate were deduced by electrochemical theory, the electric field simulation was carried out using Comsol to analyze the electric field distribution and current density profile in the micropit, and the actual machining micropit was measured using a scanning microscope. The experiments show that increasing the peak voltage, reducing the machining gap, and extending the machining time can increase the depth of the micropit by 20%–40% and reduce the height of the silo by 45%–65%, which can effectively improve the surface structure of the medical device.
Experimental Investigation of Corrosion Behavior of Zinc–Aluminum Alloy-Coated High-Strength Steel Wires under Stress Condition
Authors: Fang Kun , Liu Xiaoyong , Chen Pei , Luo Xianfu , Liu Zhenliang , Zha Xiaoqin , Zhang Xinyao , Zhai Jianfei
Published: July 2024

To cope with harsh working conditions, new corrosion-resistant coated steel wires with higher tensile strength have been developed. This study investigates the corrosion characteristics of a new zinc–aluminum alloy-coated steel wire under stress conditions. The particulate corrosion products generated by the oxidation of the coating in the initial stage of corrosion are converted into layer-structured corrosion products at the early stage of corrosion. Moreover, high-stress conditions have a significant influence on the critical conversion time from the coating corrosion stage to the iron matrix corrosion stage. Thus, the uniform corrosion depth (i.e., the mass loss rate) could be fitted with a continuous power function model rather than the previously used two-stage model owing to an ambiguous moment of conversion under stress conditions. The pitting corrosion depth could be fitted with a lognormal distribution in this study. The probability distributions for the aspect ratios of corrosion pits under different stress conditions tended to be consistent. Finally, the block’s maximum pitting factor followed a Gumbel distribution with a scale parameter that changed linearly with the stress level and a location parameter related to the square of the stress level.
Adsorption Capability and Mechanism of Pb(II) Using MgO Nanomaterials Synthesized by Ultrasonic Electrodeposition
Authors: Tang Dan , Zhang Quanqing , Tan Guanglei , He Lijie , Xia Fafeng
Published: July 2024

This work describes the process of synthesizing magnesia (MgO) nanomaterials through ultrasonic electrodeposition, followed by an examination of their ability and mechanism to remove Pb(II) from industrial soil at 100, 150, and 200 W ultrasonic powers. Nanomaterials were examined for their surface shape and phase composition using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray diffractometry (XRD). The capability of magnesia nanomaterials to adsorb Pb(II) improved greatly when operated at 150 W, attaining a maximal 68.94 mg/g value. Adsorption of Pb(II) onto magnesia nanomaterial surfaces was examined by utilizing the pseudo-second-order kinetic and Langmuir models. The nanomaterials exhibited significant features of both chemical and monolayer adsorptions for Pb(II) as a result of the intense chemical interactions between the atoms of the magnesia nanomaterials’ surface and Pb(II), as shown by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis. At 30 °C, the magnesia nanomaterial exhibited the highest adsorption capacity for Pb(II), suggesting that temperature played a significant role in this capacity. Furthermore, the Langmuir model produced a correlation coefficient greater than 0.99, indicating an excellent fit for the adsorption behavior of magnesia towards Pb(II). The findings suggest that ultrasonic power significantly impacts the adsorption characteristics of magnesia nanoparticles synthesized via ultrasonic electrodeposition. Specifically, ultrasonic power of 150 W yields the most efficient adsorption characteristics. Moreover, the 150 W-fabricated magnesia materials demonstrated exceptional pH compatibility.
In Situ Fabrication of Ti-xNb Alloys by Conventional Powder Metallurgy
Authors: Macias Rogelio , Garnica González Pedro , Olmos Luis , Alanis-Fuerte Ivon , Jimenez Omar , Alvarado-Hernández Francisco , Velasco-Plascencia Melina , Ávila-Olivera Jorge Alejandro
Published: July 2024

The present study shows the effect of Nb on a Ti matrix to fabricate composites via the conventional powder metallurgy for medical applications. Ti powder mixture compacts with different Nb contents were obtained from the conventional pressing and sintering technique. The sintering behavior was evaluated using the dilatometry technique, and the microstructure was studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XDR). The mechanical properties were obtained from simple compression tests, and the corrosion resistance was determined from a standard three-electrode arrangement in Hank’s solution. The results showed that the Nb in the Ti matrix limits the evolution of sintering depending on the Nb content. Nb slightly accelerates the phase transition temperature. The microstructure and X-rays revealed that biphasic α + β-Ti structures can be obtained, in addition to retaining the β-Ti phase and forming the martensitic phases α′ and α″ of Ti. Likewise, the mechanical behavior showed a Young’s modulus of 10–45 GPa, which is close to that reported for human bones. Furthermore, the circuit analysis revealed that the Ti-Nb sintered systems were conditioned by the surface oxide layer and that the oxide layer formed within the residual pores of the sintering process. Finally, it was demonstrated that adding Nb to the Ti matrix increases the corrosion resistance and that contents close to 15 wt.% of this element have the best results.
Multilevel Quasi-Interpolation on Chebyshev Sparse Grids
Authors: Alsharif Faisal
Published: July 2024

This paper investigates the potential of utilising multilevel quasi-interpolation techniques on Chebyshev sparse grids for complex numerical computations. The paper starts by laying down the motivations for choosing Chebyshev sparse grids and quasi-interpolation methods with Gaussian kernels. It delves into the practical aspects of implementing these techniques. Various numerical experiments are performed to evaluate the efficiency and limitations of the multilevel quasi-sparse interpolation methods with dimensions two dimension and three dimension. The work ultimately aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the computational efficiency and accuracy achievable through this approach, comparing its performance with traditional methods.