bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role and Prospects of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Skin Repair and Regeneration
Authors: Wu Si , Sun Shengbo , Fu Wentao , Yang Zhengyang , Yao Hongwei , Zhang Zhongtao
Published: March 2024

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been recognized as a cell therapy with the potential to promote skin healing. MSCs, with their multipotent differentiation ability, can generate various cells related to wound healing, such as dermal fibroblasts (DFs), endothelial cells, and keratinocytes. In addition, MSCs promote neovascularization, cellular regeneration, and tissue healing through mechanisms including paracrine and autocrine signaling. Due to these characteristics, MSCs have been extensively studied in the context of burn healing and chronic wound repair. Furthermore, during the investigation of MSCs, their unique roles in skin aging and scarless healing have also been discovered. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms by which MSCs promote wound healing and discuss the recent findings from preclinical and clinical studies. We also explore strategies to enhance the therapeutic effects of MSCs. Moreover, we discuss the emerging trend of combining MSCs with tissue engineering techniques, leveraging the advantages of MSCs and tissue engineering materials, such as biodegradable scaffolds and hydrogels, to enhance the skin repair capacity of MSCs. Additionally, we highlight the potential of using paracrine and autocrine characteristics of MSCs to explore cell-free therapies as a future direction in stem cell-based treatments, further demonstrating the clinical and regenerative aesthetic applications of MSCs in skin repair and regeneration.
Detection of ER Stress in iPSC-Derived Neurons Carrying the p.N370S Mutation in the GBA1 Gene
Authors: Yarkova Elena S. , Grigor’eva Elena V. , Medvedev Sergey P. , Tarasevich Denis A. , Pavlova Sophia V. , Valetdinova Kamila R. , Minina Julia M. , Zakian Suren M. , Malakhova Anastasia A.
Published: March 2024

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is involved in the pathogenesis of many human diseases, such as cancer, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease, atherosclerosis and neurodegenerative diseases, in particular Parkinson’s disease (PD). Since there is currently no treatment for PD, a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying its pathogenesis, including the mechanisms of the switch from adaptation in the form of unfolded protein response (UPR) to apoptosis under ER stress conditions, may help in the search for treatment methods. Genetically encoded biosensors based on fluorescent proteins are suitable tools that facilitate the study of living cells and visualization of molecular events in real time. The combination of technologies to generate patient-specific iPSC lines and genetically encoded biosensors allows the creation of cell models with new properties. Using CRISPR-Cas9-mediated homologous recombination at the AAVS1 locus of iPSC with the genetic variant p.N370S (rs76763715) in the GBA1 gene, we created a cell model designed to study the activation conditions of the IRE1-XBP1 cascade of the UPR system. The cell lines obtained have a doxycycline-dependent expression of the genetically encoded biosensor XBP1-TagRFP, possess all the properties of human pluripotent cells, and can be used to test physical conditions and chemical compounds that affect the development of ER stress, the functioning of the UPR system, and in particular, the IRE1-XBP1 cascade.
Aldose Reductase as a Key Target in the Prevention and Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Dănilă Alexandra-Ioana , Ghenciu Laura Andreea , Stoicescu Emil Robert , Bolintineanu Sorin Lucian , Iacob Roxana , Săndesc Mihai-Alexandru , Faur Alexandra Corina
Published: March 2024

The escalating global prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) over the past two decades has led to a persistent high incidence of diabetic retinopathy (DR), necessitating screening for early symptoms and proper treatment. Effective management of DR aims to decrease vision impairment by controlling modifiable risk factors including hypertension, obesity, and dyslipidemia. Moreover, systemic medications and plant-based therapy show promise in advancing DR treatment. One of the key mechanisms related to DR pathogenesis is the polyol pathway, through which aldose reductase (AR) catalyzes the conversion of glucose to sorbitol within various tissues, including the retina, lens, ciliary body and iris. Elevated glucose levels activate AR, leading to osmotic stress, advanced glycation end-product formation, and oxidative damage. This further implies chronic inflammation, vascular permeability, and angiogenesis. Our comprehensive narrative review describes the therapeutic potential of aldose reductase inhibitors in treating DR, where both synthetic and natural inhibitors have been studied in recent decades. Our synthesis aims to guide future research and clinical interventions in DR management.
Controllable Fabrication of Sub-10 nm Graphene Nanopores via Helium Ion Microscopy and DNA Detection
Authors: Yuan Zhishan , Lin Yanbang , Hu Jieming , Wang Chengyong
Published: March 2024

Solid-state nanopores have become a prominent tool in the field of single-molecule detection. Conventional solid-state nanopores are thick, which affects the spatial resolution of the detection results. Graphene is the thinnest 2D material and has the highest spatial detection resolution. In this study, a graphene membrane chip was fabricated by combining a MEMS process with a 2D material wet transfer process. Raman spectroscopy was used to assess the quality of graphene after the transfer. The mechanism behind the influence of the processing dose and residence time of the helium ion beam on the processed pore size was investigated. Subsequently, graphene nanopores with diameters less than 10 nm were fabricated via helium ion microscopy. DNA was detected using a 5.8 nm graphene nanopore chip, and the appearance of double-peak signals on the surface of 20 mer DNA was successfully detected. These results serve as a valuable reference for nanopore fabrication using 2D material for DNA analysis.
Embodied Cross-Modal Interactions Based on an Altercentric Reference Frame
Authors: Guo Guanchen , Wang Nanbo , Sun Chu , Geng Haiyan
Published: March 2024

Accurate comprehension of others’ thoughts and intentions is crucial for smooth social interactions, wherein understanding their perceptual experiences serves as a fundamental basis for this high-level social cognition. However, previous research has predominantly focused on the visual modality when investigating perceptual processing from others’ perspectives, leaving the exploration of multisensory inputs during this process largely unexplored. By incorporating auditory stimuli into visual perspective-taking (VPT) tasks, we have designed a novel experimental paradigm in which the spatial correspondence between visual and auditory stimuli was limited to the altercentric rather than the egocentric reference frame. Overall, we found that when individuals engaged in explicit or implicit VPT to process visual stimuli from an avatar’s viewpoint, the concomitantly presented auditory stimuli were also processed within this avatar-centered reference frame, revealing altercentric cross-modal interactions.
Models of Trigeminal Activation: Is There an Animal Model of Migraine?
Authors: Spekker Eleonóra , Fejes-Szabó Annamária , Nagy-Grócz Gábor
Published: March 2024

Migraine, recognized as a severe headache disorder, is widely prevalent, significantly impacting the quality of life for those affected. This article aims to provide a comprehensive review of the application of animal model technologies in unraveling the pathomechanism of migraine and developing more effective therapies. It introduces a variety of animal experimental models used in migraine research, emphasizing their versatility and importance in simulating various aspects of the condition. It details the benefits arising from the utilization of these models, emphasizing their role in elucidating pain mechanisms, clarifying trigeminal activation, as well as replicating migraine symptoms and histological changes. In addition, the article consciously acknowledges the inherent limitations and challenges associated with the application of animal experimental models. Recognizing these constraints is a fundamental step toward fine-tuning and optimizing the models for a more accurate reflection of and translatability to the human environment. Overall, a detailed and comprehensive understanding of migraine animal models is crucial for navigating the complexity of the disease. These findings not only provide a deeper insight into the multifaceted nature of migraine but also serve as a foundation for developing effective therapeutic strategies that specifically address the unique challenges arising from migraine pathology.
Improving Neuroplasticity through Robotic Verticalization Training in Patients with Minimally Conscious State: A Retrospective Study
Authors: De Luca Rosaria , Gangemi Antonio , Bonanno Mirjam , Fabio Rosa Angela , Cardile Davide , Maggio Maria Grazia , Rifici Carmela , Vermiglio Giuliana , Di Ciuccio Daniela , Messina Angela , Quartarone Angelo , Calabrò Rocco Salvatore
Published: March 2024

In disorders of consciousness, verticalization is considered an effective type of treatment to improve motor and cognitive recovery. Our purpose is to investigate neurophysiological effects of robotic verticalization training (RVT) in patients with minimally conscious state (MCS). Thirty subjects affected by MCS due to traumatic or vascular brain injury, attending the intensive Neurorehabilitation Unit of the IRCCS Neurolesi (Messina, Italy), were included in this retrospective study. They were equally divided into two groups: the control group (CG) received traditional verticalization with a static bed and the experimental group (EG) received advanced robotic verticalization using the Erigo device. Each patient was evaluated using both clinical scales, including Levels of Cognitive Functioning (LCF) and Functional Independence Measure (FIM), and quantitative EEG pre (T0) and post each treatment (T1). The treatment lasted for eight consecutive weeks, and sessions were held three times a week, in addition to standard neurorehabilitation. In addition to a notable improvement in clinical parameters, such as functional (FIM) (p < 0.01) and cognitive (LCF) (p < 0.01) outcomes, our findings showed a significant modification in alpha and beta bands post-intervention, underscoring the promising effect of the Erigo device to influence neural plasticity and indicating a noteworthy difference between pre-post intervention. This was not observed in the CG. The observed changes in alpha and beta bands underscore the potential of the Erigo device to induce neural plasticity. The device’s custom features and programming, tailored to individual patient needs, may contribute to its unique impact on brain responses.
Evaluating the Efficacy of Perfusion MRI and Conventional MRI in Distinguishing Recurrent Cerebral Metastasis from Brain Radiation Necrosis
Authors: Schack Anders , Aunan-Diop Jan Saip , Gerhardt Frederik A. , Pedersen Christian Bonde , Halle Bo , Kofoed Mikkel S. , Markovic Ljubo , Wirenfeldt Martin , Poulsen Frantz Rom
Published: March 2024

Differentiating recurrent cerebral metastasis (CM) from brain radiation necrosis (BRN) is pivotal for guiding appropriate treatment and prognostication. Despite advances in imaging techniques, however, accurately distinguishing these conditions non-invasively is still challenging. This single-center retrospective study reviewed 32 cases (28 patients) with confirmed cerebral metastases who underwent surgical excision of lesions initially diagnosed by MRI and/or MR perfusion scans from 1 January 2015 to 30 September 2020. Diagnostic accuracy was assessed by comparing imaging findings with postoperative histopathology. Conventional MRI accurately identified recurrent CM in 75% of cases. MR perfusion scans showed significantly higher mean maximum relative cerebral blood volume (max. rCBV) in metastasis cases, indicating its potential as a discriminative biomarker. No single imaging modality could definitively distinguish CM from BRN. Survival analysis revealed gender as the only significant factor affecting overall survival, with no significant survival difference observed between patients with CM and BRN after controlling for confounding factors. This study underscores the limitations of both conventional MRI and MR perfusion scans in differentiating recurrent CM from BRN. Histopathological examination remains essential for accurate diagnosis. Further research is needed to improve the reliability of non-invasive imaging and to guide the management of patients with these post-radiation events.
The Prediction of Pervious Concrete Compressive Strength Based on a Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Yu Gaoming , Zhu Senlai , Xiang Ziru
Published: March 2024

To overcome limitations inherent in existing mechanical performance prediction models for pervious concrete, including material constraints, limited applicability, and inadequate accuracy, this study employs a deep learning approach to construct a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) model with three convolutional modules. The primary objective of the model is to precisely predict the 28-day compressive strength of pervious concrete. Eight input variables, encompassing coarse and fine aggregate content, water content, admixture content, cement content, fly ash content, and silica fume content, were selected for the model. The dataset utilized for both model training and testing consists of 111 sample sets. To ensure the model’s coverage within the practical range of pervious concrete strength and to enhance its robustness in real-world applications, an additional 12 sets of experimental data were incorporated for training and testing. The research findings indicate that, in comparison to the conventional machine learning method of Backpropagation (BP) neural networks, the developed CNN prediction model in this paper demonstrates a higher coefficient of determination, reaching 0.938, on the test dataset. The mean absolute percentage error is 9.13%, signifying that the proposed prediction model exhibits notable accuracy and universality in predicting the 28-day compressive strength of pervious concrete, regardless of the materials used in its preparation.
Should We Depend on Expert Opinion or Statistics? A Meta-Analysis of Accident-Contributing Factors in Construction
Authors: Antoniou Fani , Agrafioti Nektaria Filitsa , Aretoulis Georgios
Published: March 2024

International research overflows with studies looking into the causes of construction accidents. Hundreds of studies by postgraduate students in the past 20 years focus on identifying and assessing risks contributing to accidents on Greek construction workplace sites. Many base their work on results from questionnaire surveys that collect the opinions of construction site professionals or on the analysis of data from actual accident records or statistics. Consequently, this study seeks to determine if the data source leads to differing conclusions by using two techniques to synthesize individual results and rank the accident-contributing factors investigated in the original studies. The first utilizes their relative importance index (RII) values, and the second uses their overall ranking index (ORI) to execute meta-analyses. The professional opinion concludes that factors related to operative behavior are the most significant accident-contributing factors. At the same time, actual accident statistics point to site risk factors of the construction process itself as the most important, indicating that expert opinion of Greek professionals should be considered in conjunction with data from actual accident records to provide the focus points for mitigation and assurance of safe construction sites in Greece.
Structural Design and Mechanical Behavior Investigation of Steel–Concrete Composite Decks of Narrow-Width Steel Box Composite Bridge
Authors: Chen Yunteng , Zhang Yongchun , Yu Maofeng , Hu Xiangsen , He Wei , Qin Kaiqiang , Zhu Yaoyu , Wei Xiaochen
Published: March 2024

Steel–concrete composite decks are commonly employed in narrow-width steel box composite girder bridges to augment their lateral spanning capabilities, while the concurrent omission of longitudinal stiffeners leads to a substantial reduction in the number of components, thereby yielding a structurally optimized bridge configuration. This paper delineates the structural design parameters of a narrow-profile steel box composite girder bridge and assess the mechanical behavior of its incorporated steel–concrete composite deck under static and fatigue loading conditions. To this end, two full-scale segment specimens from the composite bridge decks were subjected to equal amplitude cyclic fatigue tests. The investigation specifically concentrated on the impacts of two types of shear connectors—namely, perforated steel plates combined with shear studs and perfobond rib shear connectors (PBL connectors)—on the static and fatigue performance, including fatigue stiffness, of the steel–concrete composite bridge decks. The results indicate that, under the static bending condition, the composite deck specimen equipped with stud connectors demonstrates superior overall flexural stiffness in comparison to the specimen featuring PBL connectors. Furthermore, the flexural stiffness of the steel–concrete composite specimens experiences a negligible alteration across two million fatigue loading cycles. Upon the completion of two million fatigue loading cycles, the composite deck specimens incorporating the shear connectors composed of perforated steel plates and shear studs exhibit relatively wider crack widths under the static peak load. Both configurations of the steel–concrete composite bridge deck specimens manifest evident interfacial detachment, signifying insufficient tensile pull-out stiffness of the shear connectors. It is recommended to increase the quantity of the shear connectors or select the pertinent types in order to enhance the interface shear resistance.
Out-of-Plane Design Equations for Confined Masonry Walls
Authors: Fernandez-Baqueiro Luis , Varela-Rivera Jorge , Moreno-Herrera Joel
Published: March 2024

Nowadays there is still a lack of requirements for the out-of-plane design of confined masonry walls. Current code requirements are mainly based on the in-plane behavior of those walls. This research is divided into two parts. In the first part, two confined walls subjected to out-of-plane uniform loads were tested in the laboratory. Confining elements with minimum cross-section dimensions and wall aspect ratios smaller than one were considered. The variable studied was the wall length. Out-of-plane load—displacement curves of walls were obtained. In the second part, two design equations were developed to determine the out-of-plane strength of confined walls. A design equation was developed to determine the corresponding in-plane forces transferred to the confining elements. The out-of-plane strength of 6912 walls was determined using a computer program based on the bidirectional strut method. A parametric analysis was carried out for the out-of-plane strength considering different variables. Multiple linear regression analyses were carried out to propose out-of-plane strength design equations. It was concluded that the experimental out-of-plane strength increased, and the wall failure type changed as the wall length decreased. In addition, the experimental out-of-plane strength of walls was well predicted with both out-of-plane design equations.
Correlation Analysis of Urban Road Network Structure and Spatial Distribution of Tourism Service Facilities at Multi-Scales Based on Tourists’ Travel Preferences
Authors: Song Xiaoyun , Du Lizhu , Wang Zheyu
Published: March 2024

Harbin, as a popular tourist city in China, and the host of the 2025 Asian Winter Games, boasts rich tourism resources and significant potential for further development. The structure of the urban road network is a crucial factor influencing the spatial distribution of tourism service facilities. However, the current research on the correlation between the two, analyzed at multiple scales based on tourists’ travel preferences, is not sufficient. First, utilizing the questionnaire survey method to analyze tourists’ travel preferences and combining it with the theory of 15-min life circle, we determine the study scales at 500 m, 1000 m, 3000 m, and 5000 m. Secondly, the integration value and choice value of roads in the main urban area of Harbin are analyzed based on the theory of spatial syntax. The spatial distribution characteristics of tourism service facilities are then revealed through kernel density analysis. Finally, the correlation between the road network structure and the distribution of various types of tourism service facilities in Harbin at different scales is determined through buffer analysis and Pearson bivariate correlation analysis. The results show that: (1) Integration value plays a significant positive role in promoting the clustering of tourism service facilities, especially tending to cluster in areas with high integration value formed at a scale of 500 m; (2) At the scale of 3000 m, the distribution of tourism service facilities exhibits a significant correlation with the choice value; (3) The correlation between dining, shopping, and entertainment facilities and the integration value decreases with the increase in scale, whereas the spatial distribution of accommodation and attraction facilities does not exhibit a regular pattern with changes in integration value. In addition, this paper also puts forward targeted suggestions for optimizing the urban road network structure, reasonably locating tourism service facilities, and implementing balanced regional development. The contribution of this study is that it will help improve tourists’ travel experience in the city and provide scientific support for promoting the overall sustainable development of tourism in Harbin.
Strategic Integration of a Vegetative Component on a Metal Roof Base: An Evaluation of Its Impacts on Thermal and Acoustic Performance in the Tropics
Authors: Aw Siew Bee , Leng Pau Chung , Ling Gabriel Hoh Teck , Wong Keng Yinn , Mohamed Anuar Mohamed Rohaizad , Mohd Rokhibi Ismail Wajdi , Ng Cheah Haur , Law Nathan Hui Kai , Goh Santa Ying Zi
Published: March 2024

This paper attempts to ascertain the thermal and acoustic impacts of introducing a vegetative roof layer on insulated and uninsulated metal roofs for tropical climates, through field measurements in Skudai, Johor, Malaysia, that were conducted for both dry and wet days. Four small-scale roof modules were tested, namely an uninsulated metal roof (uiMDR), an insulated metal roof (iMDR), and two identical corresponding modules with an additional vegetative component (uiGR and iGR, respectively). Outdoor ambient temperature (Tamb) was the most influential correlated variable affecting the roof outer surface temperature (RTOS) in 50% of the assessed scenarios. On the selected dry day, the inter-quartile ranges (IQR) of iGR, iMDR, uiGR, and uiMDR were 6.21 °C, 8.32 °C, 6.69 °C, and 1.66 °C, respectively; the IQRs were 1.6 °C, 4.11 °C, 2.59 °C, and 1.78 °C, respectively, on the selected wet day. Based on design U-value calculations, iGR was better than iMDR and uiMDR for both dry and wet days. The U-value of uiGR was also better than iMDR under dry-day conditions. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test also indicated a statistically significant difference in the roof inner surface temperature (RTIS) measurements (p-value = 0.00) during Malaysian daylight hours, between 8.00 a.m. and 6.00 p.m., regardless of the weather. In terms of sound level reduction under dry-day conditions, the Kruskal–Wallis and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests showed statistically significant differences in sound level reductions, with iGR and uiGR performing better than iMDR and uiMDR (p-values = 0.00). The sound level reductions for iGR, iMDR, and uiGR were 51%, 32%, and 31%, respectively, while uiMDR experienced sound level amplifications by 6%, possibly due to the acoustic resonance effect. This proof of concept may encourage a broader application of extensive GRs in Malaysia using metal roofs, beyond the conventional RC base construction method.
Building Information Modeling (BIM), Blockchain, and LiDAR Applications in Construction Lifecycle: Bibliometric, and Network Analysis
Authors: Faraji Amir , Homayoon Arya Shima , Ghasemi Elnaz , Rahnamayiezekavat Payam , Perera Srinath
Published: March 2024

Investigating Industry 4.0 technologies and studying their impacts on various aspects of the construction industry, including stakeholders and the lifecycle, is vital to enhance novel applications of such technologies in an industry that is known as Construction 4.0. The main objective of the current state-of-the-art review is to provide a comprehensive literature review on three widely used Industry 4.0 technologies, Building Information Modeling (BIM), Blockchain, and LiDAR, which have strong potential to promote and optimize different activities of the project, and also, the integration of them can greatly impact the construction industry in the whole project lifecycle. A bibliometric analysis of keyword co-occurrence and citations revealed a significant number of publications from 2014 to 2023 investigating the selected technologies. Recent trends indicate that the majority of papers have considered the selected technologies in the integration with each other. However, a specific gap exists in the literature regarding the interactions and potential synergies among these technologies. This gap limits the understanding of how these integrations can address challenges unique to the construction industry and hinders the development of comprehensive solutions. The review has been analyzed and discussed in reference to the type of article, single or multi technologies, the lifecycle, and their applications. The study showed that the integration of BIM, Blockchain, and LiDAR, as a recent trend and as a beneficial solution to automate the whole construction process, has considerable capacities to improve the productivity of the construction industry. Finally, some application areas for the integration of these three technologies are concluded and are suggested, and therefore, an advantageous reference has been provided for scholars to plan their future research in this sector.
Decoding BIM Adoption: A Meta-Analysis of 10 Years of Research—Exploring the Influence of Sample Size, Economic Level, and National Culture
Authors: Wang Kaiyang , Guo Min , Di Sarno Luigi , Sun Yao
Published: March 2024

In recent years, some studies have explored the determinants of Building Information Modeling (BIM) adoption. However, the findings of these studies are varied and sometimes contradicting. Consequently, this study undertakes an in-depth exploration of the relationship between influencing factors and behavioral intention. This analysis is achieved through a synthesis of findings from prior empirical studies, considering the nuanced impacts of specific contextual factors, including sample size, national culture, and economic level, on these relationships. In total, this meta-analysis encompasses 57 articles, and as of 31 December 2023, incorporates 63 datasets comprising a collective sample size of 13,301. An extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model was developed based on the most frequently studied constructs relevant to BIM adoption. The analysis reveals that BIM adoption is primarily affected by performance expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, effort expectancy, and perceived value. The moderator analysis indicates that sample size statistically significantly moderates the relationships between facilitating conditions and use behavior. Moreover, the extent of individualism in each national culture significantly moderates the associations between facilitating conditions and user behavior. The research serves to enrich the existing body of literature on BIM acceptance by addressing contradictory and mixed results found in empirical studies. It represents one of the first attempts to explore the influence of sample size, economic level, and Hofstede’s six cultural dimensions as moderators in the field of BIM utilizing meta-analytic techniques.
Blast Loading of Small-Scale Circular RC Columns Using an Explosive-Driven Shock Tube
Authors: Rhouma Mohamed Ben , Maazoun Azer , Aminou Aldjabar , Belkassem Bachir , Vandenbruwane Ignaas , Tysmans Tine , Lecompte David
Published: March 2024

Reinforced concrete (RC) columns, being axial-bearing components in buildings, are susceptible to damage and failure when subjected to blast loading. The failure of these columns can trigger a progressive collapse in targeted buildings. The primary objective of this study is to investigate the failure characteristics of laboratory-scale RC columns subjected to localized blast loading. The columns, with a length of 1500 mm and an outer diameter of 100 mm, are reinforced with 6 mm diameter longitudinal bars and 2 mm diameter steel ties. The blast loading is generated using an explosive-driven shock tube (EDST) positioned in front of the mid-span of the RC columns with a 30 g and 50 g charge. To capture the global response of the RC columns, high-speed stereoscopic DIC is used in addition to LVDTs. Furthermore, an FE model is developed using LS-DYNA R10.0 and validated against the experimental data. The results show that the proposed FE approach is able to reproduce the applied blast loading and the failure characteristics of the columns. The relative difference in column mid-span out-of-plane displacement between the FE model and the average measured data lies below 5%. Finally, the gray correlation method is conducted to assess the influence of various parameters on the blast resistance of the RC columns.
End-of-Life Symptom Burden among Patients with Cancer Who Were Provided Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID): A Longitudinal Propensity-Score-Matched Cohort Study
Authors: Russell K. Brooke , Forbes Caitlin , Qi Siwei , Link Claire , Watson Linda , Deiure Andrea , Lu Shuang , Silvius James , Kelly Brian , Bultz Barry D. , Schulte Fiona
Published: March 2024

Cancer is the primary underlying condition for most Canadians who are provided Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID). However, it is unknown whether cancer patients who are provided MAID experience disproportionally higher symptom burden compared to those who are not provided MAID. Thus, we used a propensity-score-matched cohort design to evaluate longitudinal symptom trajectories over the last 12 months of patients’ lives, comparing cancer patients in Alberta who were and were not provided MAID. We utilized routinely collected retrospective Patient-Reported Outcomes (PROs) data from the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS-r) reported by Albertans with cancer who died between July 2017 and January 2019. The data were analyzed using mixed-effect models for repeated measures to compare differences in symptom trajectories between the cohorts over time. Both cohorts experienced increasing severity in all symptoms in the year prior to death (β from 0.086 to 0.231, p ≤ .001 to .002). Those in the MAID cohort reported significantly greater anxiety (β = −0.831, p = .044) and greater lack of appetite (β = −0.934, p = .039) compared to those in the non-MAID cohort. The majority (65.8%) of patients who received MAID submitted their request for MAID within one month of their death. Overall, the MAID patients did not experience disproportionally higher symptom burden. These results emphasize opportunities to address patient suffering for all patients with cancer through routine collection of PROs as well as targeted and early palliative approaches to care.
Causes of Childhood Cancer: A Review of the Recent Literature: Part I—Childhood Factors
Authors: Ricci Angela M. , Emeny Rebecca T. , Bagley Pamela J. , Blunt Heather B. , Butow Mary E. , Morgan Alexandra , Alford-Teaster Jennifer A. , Titus Linda , Walston Raymond R. , Rees Judy R.
Published: March 2024

Purpose: To review the childhood risk factors for pediatric cancer (diagnosis before age 20). Methods: We conducted literature searches using Ovid Medline and Scopus to find primary research studies, review articles, and meta-analyses published from 2014 to 3 March 2021. Results: Strong evidence indicates that an array of genetic and epigenetic phenomena, structural birth defects, and chromosomal anomalies are associated with an increased risk of various childhood cancers. Increased risk is also associated with prior cancer, likely due to previous treatment agents and therapeutic ionizing radiation. Convincing evidence supports associations between several pediatric cancers and ionizing radiation, immunosuppression, and carcinogenic virus infection both in healthy children and in association with immune suppression following organ transplantation. Breastfeeding and a childhood diet rich in fruits and vegetables appears to reduce the risk of pediatric leukemia but the evidence is less strong. Childhood vaccination against carcinogenic viruses is associated with a lower risk of several cancers; there is less strong evidence that other childhood vaccinations more broadly may also lower risk. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is associated with increased melanoma risk, although most melanomas following childhood UV exposure occur later, in adulthood. Evidence is weak or conflicting for the role of body mass index, other childhood infections, allergies, and certain treatments, including immunomodulator medications and human growth therapy.
Erdheim–Chester Disease: Investigating the Correlation between Targeted Treatment Therapy and Disease Outcomes
Authors: Wilcox Sabrina R. , Reynolds Samuel B. , Ahmed Asra Z.
Published: March 2024

A retrospective analysis of 20 adult patients with histopathological and clinical diagnoses of ECD was conducted at a single institution over a twenty-year period (2002–2022). Clinical responses were compared on the basis of treatments rendered, which included chemotherapy, immunotherapy, systemic corticosteroids, surgery and radiation, or targeted agents, referring to any small molecular inhibitors. Treatment response evaluation varied by the anatomic site(s) of disease, the extent of disease at diagnosis, and the imaging modality employed. In this analysis, patients were treated with a combination of targeted agents, myelosuppressive therapies, and radiation at various points in their disease courses. Of these, the most common treatment modality rendered was targeted therapy, employed in 11 of 20 patients. Partial responses or better were observed in 15 of 20 patients. Rates of stable disease trended towards being more frequent with targeted therapy versus conventional therapy but did not reach significance (p = 0.2967). Complete response rates trended towards being more common with conventional therapy than molecular (p = 0.5) but were equivocal overall. Trends of peripheral blood absolute monocytes with relation to disease activity were reviewed as recent literature implied that monocyte levels surrounding disease progression were of potential prognostic significance in histiocytic diseases. Amongst the patients who progressed at any point during their treatment course, absolute monocyte count (in K/µL) was identified at the closest available timepoint prior to or following disease progression and at the lowest value (nadir) following re-institution of therapy prior to any additional agent(s) being employed. There was no statistically significant difference in either of these monocyte values nor in disease outcomes with respect to treatments rendered within our cohort. However, our cohort consists of a heterogenous population of patients with ECD with data that highlights several trends over a longitudinal period, spanning the advent of targeted therapy. Significant differences are anticipated in ongoing analyses.
SMARCA4 Mutations in Gastroesophageal Adenocarcinoma: An Observational Study via a Next-Generation Sequencing Panel
Authors: Yamashita Kohei , Sewastjanow-Silva Matheus , Yoshimura Katsuhiro , Rogers Jane E. , Rosa Vicentini Ernesto , Pool Pizzi Melissa , Fan Yibo , Zou Gengyi , Li Jenny J. , Blum Murphy Mariela , Gan Qiong , Waters Rebecca E. , Wang Linghua , Ajani Jaffer A.
Published: March 2024

Background: The clinical impact of SMARCA4 mutations (SMARCA4ms) in gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma (GEA) remains underexplored. This study aimed to examine the association of SMARCA4ms with clinical outcomes and co-occurrence with other gene mutations identified through a next-generation sequencing (NGS) panel in GEA patients. Methods: A total of 256 patients with metastatic or recurrent GEA who underwent NGS panel profiling at the MD Anderson Cancer Center between 2016 and 2022 were included. Comparative analyses were performed to assess clinical outcomes related to SMARCA4ms. The frequency and types of SMARCA4ms and their co-occurrence with other gene mutations were also examined. Results: SMARCA4ms were identified in 19 patients (7.4%). These SMARCA4ms were significantly associated with non-signet ring cell subtype (p = 0.044) and PD-L1 positive expression (p = 0.046). No difference in survival between the SMARCA4m and SMARCA4-normal group was observed (p = 0.84). There were significant associations between SMARCA4ms and FANCA, IGF1R, KRAS, FANCL, and PTEN alterations. Notably, 15 of the 19 SMARCA4m cases involved SNV missense mutations, with frequent co-occurrences noted with TP53, KRAS, ARID1A, and ERBB2 mutations. Conclusions: These results serve as the first comprehensive examination of the relationship between SMARCA4ms and clinical outcomes in GEA.
Sex-Based Differences in Melanoma Survival Improvement from 2004 to 2018
Authors: Shaw Vikram R. , Hudock Angela , Zhang Baoyi , Amos Christopher , Cheng Chao
Published: March 2024

Background: Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer and its incidence and mortality vary by sex, age, race, and socioeconomic status. Relatively few studies, however, have characterized disparities in survival improvement across these demographic groups in melanoma. Methods: Survival data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database were obtained from 2004 to 2018. The compiled data were analyzed for cancer-specific survival (CSS) to produce multivariable Cox regressions that estimate sex-based survival disparities across patient demographic groups. Additionally, time-to-progression and survival analyses were conducted for a cohort of patients with carcinoma-in situ (CIS) that developed into melanoma. Results: In both female and male patients, melanoma diagnosis in more recent years (2014–2018 versus 2004–2008) was associated with an improved CSS, with females demonstrating an HR of 0.55 (95% CI: 0.49–0.60) and males demonstrating an HR of 0.49 (0.46–0.53). The trend remained consistent upon analyzing the effects of both sex and race on survival improvement for White and Hispanic males and females, but the results were not significant for Black and Asian patients. Joint sex and age analysis demonstrated significant reductions in HR across all age groups for female and male patients with a diagnosis in more recent years. Analysis of lesions progressing from CIS to melanoma (high-risk CIS) demonstrated an increased OR for males over females (OR: 1.70; 95% CI: 1.55–1.85), while survival analysis demonstrated no difference between sexes in the HR. Finally, for male patients, high-risk CIS demonstrated worse CSS compared to female patients with high-risk CIS (OR: 1.43; 95% CI: 1.15–1.79). Conclusion: Overall, melanoma survival has improved in recent years, though some patient subgroups have experienced a lower improvement in survival from 2004 to 2018.
Development of a Mouse Experimental System for the In Vivo Characterization of Bioengineered Adipose-Derived Stromal Cells
Authors: Ichise Taeko , Ichise Hirotake , Shimizu Yusuke
Published: March 2024

Human adipose-derived stromal cells (ADSCs) are an important resource for cell-based therapies. However, the dynamics of ADSCs after transplantation and their mechanisms of action in recipients remain unclear. Herein, we generated genetically engineered mouse ADSCs to clarify their biodistribution and post-transplantation status and to analyze their role in recipient mesenchymal tissue modeling. Immortalized ADSCs (iADSCs) retained ADSC characteristics such as stromal marker gene expression and differentiation potential. iADSCs expressing a fluorescent reporter gene were seeded into biocompatible nonwoven fabric sheets and transplanted into the dorsal subcutaneous region of neonatal mice. Transplanted donor ADSCs were distributed as CD90-positive stromal cells on the sheets and survived 1 month after transplantation. Although accumulation of T lymphocytes or macrophages inside the sheet was not observed with or without donor cells, earlier migration and accumulation of recipient blood vascular endothelial cells (ECs) inside the sheet was observed in the presence of donor cells. Thus, our mouse model can help in studying the interplay between donor ADSCs and recipient cells over a 1-month period. This system may be of value for assessing and screening bioengineered ADSCs in vivo for optimal cell-based therapies.
Developing a Novel Pediatric Eye Chart Assessing Visual Acuity by Minimum Separable Threshold
Authors: Iwata Yo
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this study was to develop a new pediatric acuity chart that can assess the minimum separation threshold by incorporating the minimum separation threshold into the picture. To overcome the design limitations of the Landolt ring, two designs of highly versatile minimum separable thresholds that can be easily incorporated into a picture were created: a black, filled circle (the “Circle”) and a segment (the “Square”), both with the same break as in the Landolt ring. The three designs—the Landolt ring, Circle, and Square—were used to evaluate and compare the differences in the visual acuity of 21 healthy adults. No significant differences were observed between the results of the visual acuity tested with the Landolt ring, Circle, and Square (Landolt ring vs. Circle: p = 0.92, Landolt ring vs. Square: p = 0.31, Circle vs. Square: p = 0.40). The Bland–Altman analysis revealed no fixed errors between the Landolt ring and Circle and between the Landolt ring and Square (95% CI: −0.09–0.08, −0.09–0.12). Proportional errors were also not observed (p = 0.68, p = 0.41). The Landolt ring, Circle, and Square designs obtained equal results in visual acuity, thus achieving the successful development of a novel pediatric visual acuity chart using these designs.
Management of Pediatric Bilateral Vocal Fold Paralysis: A State-of-the-Art Review of Etiologies, Diagnosis, and Treatments
Authors: Lechien Jerome R.
Published: March 2024

Objective: This paper reviews the current literature about epidemiology, etiologies, diagnosis, and management of pediatric bilateral vocal fold paralysis (PBVFP). Methods: According to PRISMA statements, a narrative review of the current literature was conducted through the PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases about the epidemiology, etiologies, diagnosis, and management of PBVFP. Results: PBVCP is the second most common congenital laryngeal anomaly in the pediatric population, accounting for 10% to 20% of pediatric laryngeal conditions. PBVCP is related to idiopathic (42.2%), congenital (19.7%), and neurological (16.9%) conditions. A tracheotomy is required in 60% of cases regarding stridor and dyspnea, which are the most prevalent symptoms. The diagnosis is based on the etiological features, clinical presentation, laryngoscopic findings, and objective examinations. Laryngeal electromyography may be used to support the diagnosis in difficult cases, but its reliability depends on the practitioner’s experience. The primary differential diagnosis is posterior glottis stenosis, which needs to be excluded regarding therapeutic and management differences with PBVCP. Transient surgical procedures consist of tracheotomy or laterofixation of the vocal fold. Current permanent procedures include uni- or bilateral partial arytenoidectomy, posterior transverse cordotomy, cricoid splits, and laryngeal selective reinnervation. There is no evidence of the superiority of some procedures over others. Conclusions: PBVCP is the second most common laryngeal disorder in the pediatric population. Diagnosis is based on etiological and clinical findings and may require the use of laryngeal electromyography. Therapeutic management may involve several transient or permanent surgical procedures that are associated with overall subjective improvements in symptoms, laryngeal findings, and low complication rates.
Case Report of a Dental Implant with Conometric Abutment–Prosthetic Cap Connection: Advanced High-Resolution Imaging and Peri-Implant Connective Tissue Performance
Authors: Riberti Nicole , D’Amico Emira , Pierfelice Tania Vanessa , Furlani Michele , Giuliani Alessandra , Piattelli Adriano , Iezzi Giovanna , Comuzzi Luca
Published: March 2024

Background: In recent years, the use of conometric systems to connect dental implant abutments and prosthetic caps has been advocated because they seem to eliminate the side effects reported when using screw- and cement-connected prosthetic restorations. Objectives: The present case study is focused on conometric connection characterization and its performance in terms of the microarchitecture of peri-implant soft tissues by using a cross-linked approach based on optical microscopy and three-dimensional imaging. Methods: Two dental implants were characterized using micro-CT and another identical one was implanted into a patient; the latter was retrieved 45 days later due to changes in prosthetic needs. Afterward, the peri-implant soft tissues were investigated using synchrotron-based phase contrast imaging, histology, and polarized light microscopy. Results: Micro-CT analysis showed perfect adhesion between the abutment and prosthetic cap; histology and polarized light microscopy showed that connective tissue was richly present around the abutment retrieved from the patient. Moreover, the quantitative evaluation of connective tissues using synchrotron imaging, supported by artificial intelligence, revealed that this tissue was rich in mature collagen, with longitudinal and transverse collagen bundles intertwined. The number and connectivity of transverse bundles were consistently greater than those of the longitudinal bundles. Conclusion: It was found that the peri-implant soft tissue was already mature and well organized after only 45 days of implantation, supporting the hypothesis that conometric connections contribute to the significant stabilization of peri-implant soft tissues.
CoMoO4 Nanoflowers Doped with La Element for Advanced Electrode Materials
Authors: Chen Donghua , Liu Yang , Li Danting , Ma Tenghao , Wang Jing
Published: March 2024

La-CoMoO4 was prepared as the electrode material for supercapacitors using the freeze-drying method. The physical and structural properties of the prepared electrode La-CoMoO4 were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). We further investigated the electrochemical performance of La-CoMoO4 electrode materials through cyclic voltammetry, constant current charge–discharge, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The research results indicate that compared with CoMoO4 material (1400 F/g), La-CoMoO4 material has a high specific capacitance of 2248 F/g at a current density of 1 A/g. In addition, La-CoMoO4 has a high stability, with a capacitance retention rate of up to 99.2% after 5500 cycles. Finally, supercapacitor devices using La-CoMoO4 material as the positive electrode have a high energy density of 55 Wh/Kg (power density of 1000 W/Kg), making them a promising electrode material.