bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Romanian Wild-Growing Armoracia rusticana L.—Untargeted Low-Molecular Metabolomic Approach to a Potential Antitumoral Phyto-Carrier System Based on Kaolinite
Authors: Segneanu Adina-Elena , Vlase Gabriela , Chirigiu Liviu , Herea Daniel Dumitru , Pricop Maria-Alexandra , Saracin Patricia-Aida , Tanasie Ștefania Eliza
Published: June 2023

Horseradish is a globally well-known and appreciated medicinal and aromatic plant. The health benefits of this plant have been appreciated in traditional European medicine since ancient times. Various studies have investigated the remarkable phytotherapeutic properties of horseradish and its aromatic profile. However, relatively few studies have been conducted on Romanian horseradish, and they mainly refer to the ethnomedicinal or dietary uses of the plant. This study reports the first complete low-molecular-weight metabolite profile of Romanian wild-grown horseradish. A total of ninety metabolites were identified in mass spectra (MS)-positive mode from nine secondary metabolite categories (glucosilates, fatty acids, isothiocyanates, amino acids, phenolic acids, flavonoids, terpenoids, coumarins, and miscellaneous). In addition, the biological activity of each class of phytoconstituents was discussed. Furthermore, the development of a simple target phyto-carrier system that collectively exploits the bioactive properties of horseradish and kaolinite is reported. An extensive characterization (FT-IR, XRD, DLS, SEM, EDS, and zeta potential) was performed to investigate the morpho-structural properties of this new phyto-carrier system. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using a combination of three in vitro, non-competitive methods (total phenolic assay, 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical-scavenging assay, and phosphomolybdate (total antioxidant capacity)). The antioxidant assessment indicated the stronger antioxidant properties of the new phyto-carrier system compared with its components (horseradish and kaolinite). The collective results are relevant to the theoretical development of novel antioxidant agent fields with potential applications on antitumoral therapeutic platforms.
The Role of Oxidative Stress and Cellular Senescence in the Pathogenesis of Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease and Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Anastasopoulos Nikolaos-Andreas , Charchanti Antonia V. , Barbouti Alexandra , Mastoridou Eleftheria M. , Goussia Anna C. , Karampa Anastasia D. , Christodoulou Dimitrios , Glantzounis Georgios K.
Published: June 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents a worryingly increasing cause of malignancy-related mortality, while Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD) is going to become its most common cause in the next decade. Understanding the complex underlying pathophysiology of MAFLD-related HCC can provide opportunities for successful targeted therapies. Of particular interest in this sequela of hepatopathology is cellular senescence, a complex process characterised by cellular cycle arrest initiated by a variety of endogenous and exogenous cell stressors. A key biological process in establishing and maintaining senescence is oxidative stress, which is present in multiple cellular compartments of steatotic hepatocytes. Oxidative stress-induced cellular senescence can change hepatocyte function and metabolism, and alter, in a paracrine manner, the hepatic microenvironment, enabling disease progression from simple steatosis to inflammation and fibrosis, as well as HCC. The duration of senescence and the cell types it affects can tilt the scale from a tumour-protective self-restricting phenotype to the creator of an oncogenic hepatic milieu. A deeper understanding of the mechanism of the disease can guide the selection of the most appropriate senotherapeutic agent, as well as the optimal timing and cell type targeting for effectively combating HCC.
Extraction and Socket Preservation before Implant Placement Using Freeze-Dried Allograft (FDBA) and Platelet-Rich Fibrin in Smokers: Radiographic and Histological Evaluation
Authors: Alrayyes Yasser , Aloraini Saleh , Alshagroud Rana , Binrayes Abdulaziz , Aljasser Reham
Published: June 2023

Background: Dental extraction can initiate a sequence of biological events that may lead to an insufficient bone volume, which can compromise implant placement. To minimize bone loss, alveolar ridge preservation procedures were developed. However, smoking has been shown to adversely affect the outcomes of the procedures. Hence, this clinical study aimed to assess the ability of platelet-rich fibrin to maintain ridge volume and its ability to generate vital bone in smokers. Methods: Eighteen current heavy smokers with a total of forty upper molars indicated for extraction and implant placement were randomly allocated to four different groups: an advanced platelet-rich fibrin group (A-PRF) (n = 10), a factor-enriched bone graft matrix covered by A-PRF group (A/S-PRF) (n = 10); a freeze-dried bone allograft covered by a crosslinked collagen membrane group (FDBA/CM) (n = 10), which served as a positive control; and a negative-control resorbable collagen plug group (RCP) (n = 10). Two consecutive high-resolution CBCT images were taken for each augmented socket to evaluate the bone volume, one at baseline and the other after six months, and four different measurements (vertical height, horizontal 1 mm H1, horizontal 3 mm, and horizontal 5 mm) were taken for each image. To evaluate the bone vitality, three bone samples were harvested for each group and were analyzed histologically using H and E staining. The results were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0 through the Wilcoxon sign rank test and Kruskal–Wallis test. Results: In terms of preserving bone volume, A/S-PRF showed no significant reduction in bone after six months, while A-PRF showed a significant loss according to two measurements (vertical and horizontal 5 mm), and the last two groups showed a significant loss in all four measurements. For vital bone formation, three groups (A-PRF, A/S-PRF, and RCP) showed the generation of only vital bone, while the fourth group (FDBA/CM) showed the generation of a mixture of vital and non-vital bone. Conclusions: Based on the outcomes of this study, PRF was able to minimize bone loss following dental extraction and generate vital bone in smokers.
Advances in Computer-Aided Medical Image Processing
Authors: Cui Hang , Hu Liang , Chi Ling
Published: June 2023

The primary objective of this study is to provide an extensive review of deep learning techniques for medical image recognition, highlighting their potential for improving diagnostic accuracy and efficiency. We systematically organize the paper by first discussing the characteristics and challenges of medical imaging techniques, with a particular focus on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT). Subsequently, we delve into direct image processing methods, such as image enhancement and multimodal medical image fusion, followed by an examination of intelligent image recognition approaches tailored to specific anatomical structures. These approaches employ various deep learning models and techniques, including convolutional neural networks (CNNs), transfer learning, attention mechanisms, and cascading strategies, to overcome challenges related to unclear edges, overlapping regions, and structural distortions. Furthermore, we emphasize the significance of neural network design in medical imaging, concentrating on the extraction of multilevel features using U-shaped structures, dense connections, 3D convolution, and multimodal feature fusion. Finally, we identify and address the key challenges in medical image recognition, such as data quality, model interpretability, generalizability, and computational resource requirements. By proposing future directions in data accessibility, active learning, explainable AI, model robustness, and computational efficiency, this study paves the way for the successful integration of AI in clinical practice and enhanced patient care.
ReBiDet: An Enhanced Ship Detection Model Utilizing ReDet and Bi-Directional Feature Fusion
Authors: Yan Zexin , Li Zhongbo , Xie Yongqiang , Li Chengyang , Li Shaonan , Sun Fangwei
Published: June 2023

To enhance ship detection accuracy in the presence of complex scenes and significant variations in object scales, this study introduces three enhancements to ReDet, resulting in a more powerful ship detection model called rotation-equivariant bidirectional feature fusion detector (ReBiDet). Firstly, the feature pyramid network (FPN) structure in ReDet is substituted with a rotation-equivariant bidirectional feature fusion feature pyramid network (ReBiFPN) to effectively capture and enrich multiscale feature information. Secondly, K-means clustering is utilized to group the aspect ratios of ground truth boxes in the dataset and adjust the anchor size settings accordingly. Lastly, the difficult positive reinforcement learning (DPRL) sampler is employed instead of the random sampler to address the scale imbalance issue between objects and backgrounds in the dataset, enabling the model to prioritize challenging positive examples. Through numerous experiments conducted on the HRSC2016 and DOTA remote sensing image datasets, the effectiveness of the proposed improvements in handling complex environments and small object detection tasks is validated. The ReBiDet model demonstrates state-of-the-art performance in remote sensing object detection tasks. Compared to the ReDet model and other advanced models, our ReBiDet achieves mAP improvements of 3.20, 0.42, and 1.16 on HRSC2016, DOTA-v1.0, and DOTA-v1.5, respectively, with only a slight increase of 0.82 million computational parameters.
Influence of Concrete Shrinkage on the Behavior of Carbon Short-Fiber-Reinforced Concrete (CSFRC) under Tension
Authors: Džolan Ante , Lauff Philipp , Fischer Oliver , Šunjić Goran
Published: June 2023

Carbon short-fiber-reinforced concrete (CSFRC) is a novel material obtained by adding and mixing carbon fibers into fresh concrete. In this way, the concrete behavior is changed, and concrete no longer undergoes brittle failure under tension. Specifically, when concrete is reinforced with short carbon fibers, its tensile characteristics become similar to those of steel. For example, CSFRC exhibits a distinct ductility, enabling the concrete to withstand substantial damage before failure. This results in a higher energy dissipation capacity, which consequently also increases the tensile strength of the concrete. Accordingly, the tensile strength of CSFRC is about 400% higher than that of plain concrete and almost double that of UHPC. Because of the differences in mechanical performance compared to conventional concrete, extensive experimental and theoretical research is needed to characterize the behavior of CFRSC. Our main aim in this research is to investigate and describe the load bearing and deformation behavior of CSFRC, as well as the related damage processes.
A Metaheuristic Harris Hawks Optimization Algorithm for Weed Detection Using Drone Images
Authors: P.P. Fathimathul Rajeena , Ismail Walaa N. , Ali Mona A. S.
Published: June 2023

There are several major threats to crop production. As herbicide use has become overly reliant on weed control, herbicide-resistant weeds have evolved and pose an increasing threat to the environment, food safety, and human health. Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have demonstrated exceptional results in the analysis of images for the identification of weeds from crop images that are captured by drones. Manually designing such neural architectures is, however, an error-prone and time-consuming process. Natural-inspired optimization algorithms have been widely used to design and optimize neural networks, since they can perform a blackbox optimization process without explicitly formulating mathematical formulations or providing gradient information to develop appropriate representations and search paradigms for solutions. Harris Hawk Optimization algorithms (HHO) have been developed in recent years to identify optimal or near-optimal solutions to difficult problems automatically, thus overcoming the limitations of human judgment. A new automated architecture based on DenseNet-121 and DenseNet-201 models is presented in this study, which is called “DenseHHO”. A novel CNN architecture design is devised to classify weed images captured by sprayer drones using the Harris Hawk Optimization algorithm (HHO) by selecting the most appropriate parameters. Based on the results of this study, the proposed method is capable of detecting weeds in unstructured field environments with an average accuracy of 98.44% using DenseNet-121 and 97.91% using DenseNet-201, the highest accuracy among optimization-based weed-detection strategies.
Blasting Fragmentation Study Using 3D Image Analysis of a Hard Rock Mine
Authors: Figueiredo Janine , Torres Vidal , Cruz Rodolfo , Moreira Douglas
Published: June 2023

Rock blasting with explosives is the first stage of rock fragmentation and plays a key role in the results of the mining chain. Fragmentation optimization is achieved by considering the energy efficiency of the explosive, the optimal distribution of explosive energy in the rocky mass, and the programmed and controlled release of explosive energy during blasting. The quality of fragmentation is usually performed using tools that estimate the sizes of fragments via the analysis of two- or three-dimensional images. This article presents a study of the rock fragmentation optimization of very compact itabirites, based on four blasting tests, performed in a different way from the conventional blasting design. The fragmentation analysis was performed using the PortaMetricsTM tool, and compared with the Kuznetsov and Rosin–Rammler particle size distribution model, to compare the reliability of this tool. Finally, the mine productivity after blasting was estimated from the particle size distribution obtained in the tests. The model presented idealistic results considering the technical parameters used in the equations. However, the PortaMetricsTM tool suggests good performance for the preliminary evaluation of blast design.
Research on the Seismic Isolation Effect of the Ring Spring–Friction Pendulum Bearing in the Dakai Underground Subway Station
Authors: Zhang Jie , Jia Jie
Published: June 2023

During strong earthquakes, the vertical seismic force becomes an essential factor affecting shallow underground structures that cannot be ignored. In this situation, it is proposed that ring spring–friction pendulum two-way seismic isolation bearings be set up at the bottom of such structures. Targeting the Dakai underground station and the Kobe earthquake, a soil-structure force model was established based on the damage to the underground structure and dynamic simulation was carried out using Abaqus software. The advantages of the ring spring–friction pendulum bearing over the ring spring bearing alone and the friction pendulum bearing alone were compared. The simulation results showed that the structure displayed a good seismic isolation effect in both horizontal and vertical directions after setting the ring spring–friction pendulum bearing. The deflection in the midspan of the roof reduced to less than 5 cm, the horizontal relative displacement of the structure reduced to less than 3 cm, there was no obvious damage to the structure, the axial pressure ratio of the mid-pillar reduced to less than 0.5, the axial force on the mid-pillar reduced by more than 50%, and the shear force reduced by more than 30%. In addition, by comparing the damage to the structure after setting the annular spring bearing and the friction pendulum bearing, we found that a vertical seismic isolation device is more crucial than a horizontal seismic isolation device for shallow underground structures. Setting a vertical damping device can make the structure retain part of the ductility and reduce the damage to the structure, so the ground vertical seismic mitigation design should be strengthened when a shallow underground structure is designed.
Effects of Hybridization on Tensile, Flexural, and Damage Behaviors of Flax/Carbon Epoxy Composites
Authors: Habibi Mohamed , Laperrière Luc
Published: June 2023

In recent years, the hybridization of natural fibers with synthetic fibers has received much attention. This paper conducted an experimental study on the tensile and flexural behavior of unidirectional carbon/flax fiber reinforced epoxy composites and single flax fibers. Four hybridization rates were considered for 16 reinforced layers in a symmetric staking sequence, with the carbon ply at the surface. The damage evolution under load increase was monitored using the acoustic emission (AE) technique. The Davies–Bouldin index and the K-means clustering algorithm were used to correlate the hybridization rates to the contribution of each damage mechanism to overall failure. AE monitoring of tensile and flexural behaviors showed that delamination and fiber breakage mechanisms dominate the composite failure, regardless of the hybridization rate.
Effect of Pharmacist-Led Interventions on Medication Adherence among Vietnamese Patients with Asthma: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Nguyen Tan Thanh , Truong Mai Thi Xuan , Lam Dung Ngoc , Le Tuyen Thi Thanh , Vi Mai Tuyet , Tran Thanh My , Vo Thu Pham Minh , Pham Suol Thanh , Tran Bao Lam Thai , Nguyen Thang , Nguyen Lam Van
Published: June 2023

Background: Medication adherence in asthmatic patients enhances the effectiveness of treatments, but some studies in low and middle-income countries still show some limitations. Our study aimed to determine if pharmacist-led interventions could increase medication adherence, improve treatment effectiveness, and relieve symptom severity in outpatients with asthma. Methods: We conducted a randomized, controlled trial on 247 asthmatic outpatients (aged ≥ 16) with a 1:1 ratio randomization at the hospitalization time and repeated after 1-month discharge. The primary outcome was to detect the difference in medication adherence between groups. Adherence was assessed by the general medication adherence scale (GMAS). Data collected by questionnaire was coded and entered into SPSS_20 for statistical analysis; Results: 247 patients (123 intervention, 124 control) were enrolled (61.1% male). After intervention, the adherence rate was higher among the intervention group than the control group (94.3% vs. 82.8%, p = 0.001). Patient behavior and knowledge were enhanced in the intervention group (p < 0.05). Asthma symptoms were relieved in the intervention group (p = 0.014). Pharmacist-led interventions on adherence rate were higher with OR: 3.550, 95% CI: 1.378–9.143, p = 0.009. Conclusions: pharmaceutical intervention could improve medication adherence, treatment efficacy, and the outcome should not be taken for granted; further research should be carried out in this regard.
Selecting the Degree of Partial Lithiation for Preventing Fracture in Si Micoparticles
Authors: Wang Bo , Hu Pu , Aifantis Katerina E.
Published: June 2023

The limiting aspect in commercializing Si-based anodes is the fractures they undergo during lithiation and de-lithiation. Experimental and theoretical studies have shown that this fracture is minimized when the particle size is reduced below 100 nm; however, this is not a commercially viable solution. Herein, we employ a multiphysics model to capture damage in 1 µm and 2 µm Si particles for different degrees of partial lithiation and corresponding de-lithiation. It is seen that partial lithiation can reduce the mechanical stresses experienced by the Si particles and fracture is fully prevented when the Li-ion penetration does not exceed 360 nm and 600 mm for 1 µm and 2 µm Si particles, respectively, when they are distributed in a binder containing smaller Si particles of 500 nm and 1 µm particles, respectively, prior to de-insertion. This indicates that limiting lithiation to 72% for 1 µm Si particles and 66% for 2 µm Si particles can prevent their pulverization. Removing the smaller Si particles and having a uniform Si size distribution results in lower lithiation states for preventing fracture. Such design information is vital for battery developers in order to fully utilize the capabilities of Si.
Performance of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance-Based Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate in a Real-World Setting
Authors: Schwäble Santamaria Amauri , Grassi Marcello , Meeusen Jeffrey W. , Lieske John C. , Scott Renee , Robertson Andrew , Schiffer Eric
Published: June 2023

An accurate estimate of glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is essential for proper clinical management, especially in patients with kidney dysfunction. This prospective observational study evaluated the real-world performance of the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based GFRNMR equation, which combines creatinine, cystatin C, valine, and myo-inositol with age and sex. We compared GFRNMR performance to that of the 2021 CKD-EPI creatinine and creatinine-cystatin C equations (CKD-EPI2021Cr and CKD-EPI2021CrCys), using 115 fresh routine samples of patients scheduled for urinary iothalamate clearance measurement (mGFR). Median bias to mGFR of the three eGFR equations was comparably low, ranging from 0.4 to 2.0 mL/min/1.73 m2. GFRNMR outperformed the 2021 CKD-EPI equations in terms of precision (interquartile range to mGFR of 10.5 vs. 17.9 mL/min/1.73 m2 for GFRNMR vs. CKD-EPI2021CrCys; p = 0.01) and accuracy (P15, P20, and P30 of 66.1% vs. 48.7% [p = 0.007], 80.0% vs. 60.0% [p < 0.001] and 95.7% vs. 86.1% [p = 0.006], respectively, for GFRNMR vs. CKD-EPI2021CrCys). Clinical parameters such as etiology, comorbidities, or medications did not significantly alter the performance of the three eGFR equations. Altogether, this study confirmed the utility of GFRNMR for accurate GFR estimation, and its potential value in routine clinical practice for improved medical care.
Age-Related Effects of Exogenous Melatonin on Anxiety-like Behavior in C57/B6J Mice
Authors: Nasini Sofia , Tidei Sara , Shkodra Atea , De Gregorio Danilo , Cambiaghi Marco , Comai Stefano
Published: June 2023

The synthesis of melatonin (MLT) physiologically decreases during aging. Treatment with MLT has shown anxiolytic, hypnotic, and analgesic effects, but little is known about possible age-dependent differences in its efficacy. Therefore, we studied the effects of MLT (20 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) on anxiety-like behavior (open field (OFT), elevated plus maze (EPMT), three-chamber sociability, and marble-burying (MBT) tests), and the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC)-dorsal hippocampus (dHippo) circuit in adolescent (35–40 days old) and adult (three-five months old) C57BL/6 male mice. MLT did not show any effect in adolescents in the OFT and EPMT. In adults, compared to vehicles, it decreased locomotor activity and time spent in the center of the arena in the OFT and time spent in the open arms in the EPMT. In the MBT, no MLT effects were observed in both age groups. In the three-chamber sociability test, MLT decreased sociability and social novelty in adults, while it increased sociability in adolescents. Using local field potential recordings, we found higher mPFC-dHippo synchronization in the delta and low-theta frequency ranges in adults but not in adolescents after MLT treatment. Here, we show age-dependent differences in the effects of MLT in anxiety paradigms and in the modulation of the mPFC-dHippo circuit, indicating that when investigating the pharmacology of the MLT system, age can significantly impact the study outcomes.
An Experimental and Simulation Study of the Active Camber Morphing Concept on Airfoils Using Bio-Inspired Structures
Authors: Dharmdas Alexsteven , Patil Arun Y. , Baig Azar , Hosmani Owais Z. , Mathad Shridhar N. , Patil Mallikarjunagouda B. , Kumar Raman , Kotturshettar Basavaraj B. , Fattah Islam Md Rizwanul
Published: June 2023

Birds are capable of morphing their wings across different flight modes and speeds to improve their aerodynamic performance. In light of this, the study aims to investigate a more optimized solution compared to conventional structural wing designs. The design challenges faced by the aviation industry today require innovative techniques to improve flight efficiency and minimize environmental impact. This study focuses on the aeroelastic impact validation of wing trailing edge morphing, which undergoes significant structural changes to enhance performance as per mission requirements. The approach to design-concept, modeling, and construction described in this study is generalizable and requires lightweight and actively deformable structures. The objective of this work is to demonstrate the aerodynamic efficiency of an innovative structural design and trailing edge morphing concept compared to conventional wing-flap configurations. The analysis revealed that the maximum displacement at a 30-degree deflection is 47.45 mm, while the maximum stress is 21 MPa. Considering that the yield strength of ABS material is 41.14 MPa, this kerf morphing structure, with a safety factor of 2.5, can withstand both structural and aerodynamic loads. The analysis results of the flap and morph configurations showed a 27% efficiency improvement, which was confirmed through the convergence criteria in ANSYS CFX.
Using the MNL Model in a Mobile Device’s Indoor Positioning
Authors: Xie Feng , Xie Ming , Wang Cheng
Published: June 2023

Indoor Positioning Services (IPS) allow mobile devices or bionic robots to locate themselves quickly and accurately in large commercial complexes, shopping malls, supermarkets, exhibition venues, parking garages, airports, or train hubs, and access surrounding information. Wi-Fi-based indoor positioning technology can use existing WLAN networks, and has promising prospects for broad market applications. This paper presents a method using the Multinomial Logit Model (MNL) to generate Wi-Fi signal fingerprints for positioning in real time. In an experiment, 31 locations were randomly selected and tested to validate the model, showing mobile devices could determine their locations with an accuracy of around 3 m (2.53 m median).
Study of Alerting, Orienting, and Executive Control Attentional Networks in Bilingual and Monolingual Primary School Children: The Role of Socioeconomic Status
Authors: Federico Francesca , Mellone Michela , Volpi Ferida , Orsolini Margherita
Published: June 2023

For decades, researchers have suggested the existence of a bilingual cognitive advantage, especially in tasks involving executive functions such as inhibition, shifting, and updating. Recently, an increasing number of studies have questioned whether bilingualism results in a change in executive functions, highlighting conflicting data published in the literature. The present study compared the performance of third-, fourth-, and fifth-grade bilingual and monolingual children on attentional and cognitive tasks. The participants were 61 monolingual and 74 bilingual children (M = 114.6 months; SD = 8.48 months) who were tested on two versions of the attention network task (ANT), with and without social stimuli, as well as tests investigating working memory, short-term memory, narrative memory, and receptive vocabulary. Data on families’ socioeconomic status and children’s reasoning abilities were also collected. The results showed that bilingualism and socioeconomic status affected attentional networks in tasks involving social stimuli. In tasks involving non-social stimuli, socioeconomic status only affected the alerting and executive conflict networks. Consistent with the literature, a positive relationship emerged between socioeconomic status and executive control in the context of social stimuli, and a negative relationship emerged between socioeconomic status and the alerting network in the context of non-social stimuli. Interestingly, neither socioeconomic status nor social attentional networks correlated with working memory. Therefore, although more investigations are required, the results suggest that differences in social contexts mainly affect attentional functions.
Prognostic Performance of Three Lymph-Node Staging Systems on Gastric Signet-Ring-Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Limin , Ma Yan , Liu Bao
Published: June 2023

Background: The lymph-node staging system can predict the prognosis of gastric signet-ring-cell carcinoma (SRCC). However, there are significant differences in lymph-node status between early SRCC and advanced SRCC. Additionally, the optimal system for early and advanced SRCC remains unknown. Methods: This study retrospectively analyzed 693 SRCC patients who underwent radical resection in the Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital. The predicted performance of three lymph-node staging systems, including pN staging, lymph-node metastasis rate (LNR), and log odds of positive lymph nodes (LODDS), was compared using the receiver characteristic operating curve (ROC) and c-index. The Kaplan–Meier method and the log-rank test analyzed the overall survival of patients. The Cox risk regression model identified independent risk factors associated with patient outcomes. The nomogram was made by R studio. Results: The 693 SRCC included 165 early SRCC and 528 advanced SRCC. ROC showed that LODDS had better predictive performance than pN and LNR in predicting prognosis regardless of early or advanced SRCC. LODDS can be used to predict the prognosis of early and advanced SRCC and was an independent risk factor associated with patient outcomes (p = 0.002, p < 0.001). Furthermore, the nomogram constructed by LODDS and clinicopathological features had good predictive performance. Conclusions: LODDS showed clear prognostic superiority over both pN and LNR in early and advanced SRCC.
Preoperative Prognostic Index for Patients with Brain Metastases—A Population-Based Multi-Centre Study
Authors: Winther Rebecca Rootwelt , Skovlund Eva , Andreassen Joakim Stray , Arvidsson Lisa , Halvardson Jonathan , Solheim Ole , Bartek Jiri , Kaasa Stein , Hjermstad Marianne Jensen , Vik-Mo Einar Osland
Published: June 2023

Background: Brain metastases (BM) are common in cancer patients and are associated with high morbidity and mortality. Surgery is an option, but the optimal selection of patients for surgery is challenging and controversial. Current prognostication tools are not ideal for preoperative prognostication. By using a reference population (derivation data set) and two external populations (validation data set) of patients who underwent surgery for BM, we aimed to create and validate a preoperative prognostic index. Methods: The derivation data set consists of 590 patients who underwent surgery for BM (2011–2018) at Oslo University Hospital. We identified variables associated with survival and created a preoperative prognostic index with four prognostic groups, which was validated on patients who underwent surgery for BM at Karolinska University Hospital and St. Olavs University Hospital during the same time period. To reduce over-fitting, we adjusted the index in accordance with our findings. Results: 438 patients were included in the validation data set. The preoperative prognostic index correctly divided patients into four true prognostic groups. The two prognostic groups with the poorest survival outcomes overlapped, and these were merged to create the adjusted preoperative prognostic index. Conclusion: We created a prognostic index for patients with BM that predicts overall survival preoperatively. This index might be valuable in supporting informed choice when considering surgery for BM.
Myelodysplastic Syndromes/Myeloproliferative Overlap Neoplasms and Differential Diagnosis in the WHO and ICC 2022 Era: A Focused Review
Authors: Fontana Diletta , Elli Elena M. , Pagni Fabio , Piazza Rocco
Published: June 2023

The myelodysplastic syndromes/myeloproliferative neoplasms (MDS/MPN) category comprises a varied group of myeloid neoplastic diseases characterized by clinical and pathologic overlapping features of both myelodysplastic and myeloproliferative neoplasms. For these reasons, these tumors are challenging in terms of diagnosis. The recent World Health Organization (WHO) 2022 classification and the International Consensus Classification (ICC) made changes in the classification of MDS/MPN compared to the previous 2016 WHO classification and improved the diagnostic criteria of these entities. The aim of this review is to describe the main entities reported in the more recent classifications, focusing on chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML), MDS/MPN with neutrophilia (or atypical CML [aCML]), and MDS/MPN with SF3B1 mutation and thrombocytosis/MDS/MPN with ring sideroblasts and thrombocytosis. A particular emphasis is given to the differential diagnosis and analysis of subtle divergences and semantic differences between the WHO classification and the ICC for these entities.
Longitudinal Assessment of Circulating Tumor Cells and Outcome in Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Sub-Study of RASTEN—A Randomized Trial with Low Molecular Weight Heparin
Authors: Bendahl Pär-Ola , Belting Mattias , Gezelius Emelie
Published: June 2023

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) may provide a liquid biopsy approach to disease monitoring in small cell lung cancer (SCLC), a particularly aggressive tumor subtype. Yet, the prognostic role of CTCs during and after treatment in relation to baseline remains ill-defined. Here, we assessed the value of longitudinal CTC analysis and the potential of low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) to reduce CTC abundance in SCLC patients from a randomized trial (RASTEN). Blood samples were collected at baseline, before chemotherapy Cycle 3, and at 2-month follow-up from 42 patients in total, and CTCs were quantified using the FDA-approved CellSearch system. We found a gradual decline in CTC count during and after treatment, independently of the addition of LMWH to standard therapy. Detectable CTCs at baseline correlated significantly to reduced survival compared to undetectable CTCs (unadjusted hazard ratio (HR) of 2.75 (95% CI 1.05–7.20; p = 0.040)). Furthermore, a persistent CTC count at 2-month follow-up was associated with a HR of 4.22 (95% CI 1.20–14.91; p = 0.025). Our findings indicate that persistently detectable CTCs during and after completion of therapy offer further prognostic information in addition to baseline CTC, suggesting a role for CTC in the individualized management of SCLC.
Cetuximab for Immunotherapy-Refractory/Ineligible Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Marin-Acevedo Julian A. , Withycombe Bethany M. , Kim Youngchul , Brohl Andrew S. , Eroglu Zeynep , Markowitz Joseph , Tarhini Ahmad A. , Tsai Kenneth Y. , Khushalani Nikhil I.
Published: June 2023

Anti-PD1 therapy demonstrated impressive, prolonged responses in advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC). Therapy for ICI-refractory/ineligible disease remains unclear. We performed a retrospective analysis in locally-advanced/metastatic CSCC using cetuximab across three cohorts: immediately after ICI failure (A), not immediately following ICI failure (B), or without prior ICI (C). The primary endpoint was the overall response rate (ORR). Secondary endpoints included disease-control rate (DCR), progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), time-to-response (TTR) and toxicity. Twenty-three patients were included. In cohort A (n = 11), the ORR was 64% and DCR was 91%, with six ongoing responses at data cutoff. In cohort B (n = 2), all patients had progression as the best response. At a median follow-up of 21 months for A and B, TTR and PFS were 2.0 and 17.3 months, respectively. The median OS was not reached. In cohort C (n = 10), the ORR and DCR were 80%, including five ongoing responses at the data cutoff. At a median follow-up of 22.4 months, the TTR, PFS and OS were 2.5, 7.3 and 23.1 months, respectively. Cetuximab was well tolerated in all cohorts. In summary, cetuximab is effective in patients with failure/contraindications to ICI. Cetuximab immediately after ICI failure yielded particularly fast, durable responses. If confirmed, this could be the preferred therapy following ICI failure.
Novel Isolation Method Reveals Sex-Specific Composition and Neurotoxicity of Small Extracellular Vesicles in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Elsherbini Ahmed , Zhu Zhihui , Quadri Zainuddin , Crivelli Simone M. , Ren Xiaojia , Vekaria Hemendra J. , Tripathi Priyanka , Zhang Liping , Zhi Wenbo , Bieberich Erhard
Published: June 2023

We developed a new method to isolate small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) from male and female wild-type and 5xFAD mouse brains to investigate the sex-specific functions of sEVs in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). A mass spectrometric analysis revealed that sEVs contained proteins critical for EV formation and Aβ. ExoView analysis showed that female mice contained more GFAP and Aβ-labeled sEVs, suggesting that a larger proportion of sEVs from the female brain is derived from astrocytes and/or more likely to bind to Aβ. Moreover, sEVs from female brains had more acid sphingomyelinase (ASM) and ceramide, an enzyme and its sphingolipid product important for EV formation and Aβ binding to EVs, respectively. We confirmed the function of ASM in EV formation and Aβ binding using co-labeling and proximity ligation assays, showing that ASM inhibitors prevented complex formation between Aβ and ceramide in primary cultured astrocytes. Finally, our study demonstrated that sEVs from female 5xFAD mice were more neurotoxic than those from males, as determined by impaired mitochondrial function (Seahorse assays) and LDH cytotoxicity assays. Our study suggests that sex-specific sEVs are functionally distinct markers for AD and that ASM is a potential target for AD therapy.
Fe Doping in TiO2 via Anodic Dissolution of Iron: Synthesis, Characterization, and Electrophoretic Deposition on a Metal Substrate
Authors: Chatrnoor Sara , Taghaddosi Amirhossein , Alem Sayed Ali Ahmad , Taati-Asil Fatemeh , Raissi Babak , Riahifar Reza , Sahba Yaghmaee Maziar
Published: June 2023

The tailored physical properties of TiO2 are of significant importance in various fields and, as such, numerous methods for modifying these properties have been introduced. In this study, we present a novel method for doping Fe into TiO2 via the anodic dissolution of iron. The optimal conditions were determined to be an application of 200 V to acetylacetone (acac)/EtOH medium for 10 min, followed by the addition of TiO2 to the solution, sonication for 30 min, stirring at 80 °C, and drying. The resulting powder was calcined at 400 °C for 3 h, and characterization was conducted using XRD, FTIR, TEM, and UV-vis. The synthesized powder revealed the successful doping of Fe into the TiO2 structure, resulting in a decrease in the optical band gap from 3.22 to 2.92 eV. The Fe-TiO2 was then deposited on a metal substrate via the electrophoretic (EPD) technique, and the weight of the deposited layer was measured as a function of the applied voltage and exposure time. FESEM images and EDX analysis confirmed that the deposited layer was nanostructured, with Fe evenly distributed throughout the structure.
Layer-By-Layer Films of Silsesquioxane and Nickel(II) Tetrasulphophthalocyanine as Glucose Oxidase Platform Immobilization: Amperometric Determination of Glucose in Kombucha Beverages
Authors: Winiarski João Paulo , de Melo Douglas José , Santana Edson Roberto , Santos Cleverson Siqueira , de Jesus Cliciane Guadalupe , Fujiwara Sérgio Toshio , Wohnrath Karen , Pessôa Christiana Andrade
Published: June 2023

This paper describes the development of a novel glucose biosensor through the layer-by-layer technique (LbL). The self-assembled architectures were composed of a positive-charged silsesquioxane polyelectrolyte, 3-n-propylpyridinium silsesquioxane chloride (SiPy+Cl−), nickel (II) tetrassulphophthalocyanine (NiTsPc), and a conductive surface of FTO (fluor tin oxide). The construction of the biosensor was influenced by the isoelectric point (pI) of the glucose oxidase enzyme (GOx), which allowed electrostatic interaction between the outer layer of the silsesquioxane film and the enzyme. The architecture of modified electrode GOx/(SiPy+Cl−/NiTsPc)5.5/FTO was confirmed by UV-Vis, FTIR, and chronoamperometry techniques using different immobilization methods of GOx. Among the studied methods, a higher variation of current was observed for the modified electrode formed by mixed LbL films of SiPy+Cl− and NiTsPc and the enzyme immobilized by drop coating. The stability and reproducibility of the biosensor were verified when the last layer containing the enzyme was coated with 0.2% Nafion® polymer. Under these conditions, a linear response for glucose was obtained in the concentration range of 0.2 to 1.6 mmol L−1 (R2 = 0.991) with a limit of detection of 0.022 mmol L−1. The proposed biosensor was applied to quantify glucose in two different samples of kombucha juices with accuracy, allowing the glucose content of the healthy beverages to be estimated.
The Effect of Emotional Neglect on Cyberbullying among Rural Chinese Left-behind Adolescents—Mediating Role of Social Anxiety
Authors: Hu Xinran , Xiao Bin
Published: June 2023

Background: Cyberbullying is a globally shared youth problem—a problem of the interpersonal conflicts and contradictions that emerge during the socialization of adolescents. In particular, the issue of cyberbullying among rural left-behind adolescents needs to be given high priority. However, previous studies have paid little attention to how emotional neglect and social anxiety affect the cyberbullying behavior of rural left-behind adolescents. Therefore, this study was based on cognitive-behavioral theory to investigate the relationship between emotional neglect, cyberbullying, and social anxiety. Methods: This study used the Emotional Neglect Scale, the Cyberbullying Scale, and the Social Anxiety Scale to conduct an anonymous online survey of 1429 rural left-behind adolescents in China. Results: (1) Emotional neglect, social anxiety, and cyberbullying showed a two-way positive correlation. (2) The direct effect of emotional neglect on rural left-behind youth cyberbullying was significant (β = 0.14, p < 0.00). (3) Social anxiety showed a partial mediating effect in the process of emotional neglect affecting rural left-behind youth cyberbullying, with a mediating effect of 26.32%. Conclusions: The results have positive implications for improving relevant policies and constructing mechanisms for protecting the rights and interests of rural left-behind adolescents.
Emotion Regulation Difficulties, Family Functioning, and Well-Being Involved in Non-Suicidal Self-Injury and Suicidal Risk in Adolescents and Young People with Borderline Personality Traits
Authors: Marrero Rosario J. , Bello Macarena , Morales-Marrero Daida , Fumero Ascensión
Published: June 2023

Individuals with a borderline personality disorder (BPD) or BPD traits usually have a lifetime history of harmful behaviors. Emotion regulation difficulties are a risk factor for suicide, whereas adequate family functioning and well-being play an important protective role. This study aims to determine the role of emotion regulation difficulties, well-being, and family functioning in the suicide risk and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) in adolescents and young people with BPD traits. From a sample of 285 young people, 103 (36.1%) had BPD traits (mean age = 16.82, SD = 2.71), and 68.93% were females. The results showed significant differences in personal and family variables according to the type of harmful behavior. Suicide attempts (SA) were mainly predicted by difficulties in impulse control, whereas NSSI was predicted by low family satisfaction. Programs designed to prevent SA and NSSI should consider individual differences, as well as the type of harmful behaviors exhibited.
Leisure Time Activities and Subjective Happiness in Early Adolescents from Three Ibero-American Countries: The Cases of Brazil, Chile and Spain
Authors: Gomez-Baya Diego , Gaspar Tania , Corrêa Rafael , Nicoletti Javier Augusto , Garcia-Moro Francisco Jose
Published: June 2023

(1) Background: The aim of the present study is to analyze subjective happiness in relation to leisure time in 10-year-old boys and girls from Brazil, Chile and Spain and to determine which leisure time activity has a greater effect on their subjective happiness and whether there are differences according to gender. (2) Methods: Data from the third wave of the Children’s Worlds Project was used, which was collected by administering self-report measures to representative samples in each country. The sample was composed of 4008 early adolescents from Brazil (22.1%, n = 886), Chile (22.8%, n = 913) and Spain (55.1%, n = 2209). The mean age of the sample was 10.17 years (SD = 0.57), and 51.7% were girls. (3) Results: In terms of subjective happiness, moderate to high means were observed, with higher scores in boys and the Spanish sample. The results showed some differences in leisure time activities among children from Brazil, Chile and Spain. Furthermore, the results highlighted the importance of relaxation time with the family to promote happiness in pre-adolescence across genders and countries. Additionally, playing outdoors and doing homework were also found to be protective factors for subjective happiness. (4) Conclusions: In Brazil, Chile and Spain the most consistent result was the positive effect of spending time relaxing with the family on subjective happiness.
In Situ Dilatometry Measurements of Deformation of Microporous Carbon Induced by Temperature and Carbon Dioxide Adsorption under High Pressures
Authors: Shkolin Andrey , Men’shchikov Il’ya , Khozina Elena , Fomkin Anatolii
Published: June 2023

Adsorption-based carbon dioxide capture, utilization, and storage technologies aim to mitigate the accumulation of anthropogenic greenhouse gases that cause climate change. It is assumed that porous carbons as adsorbents are able to demonstrate the effectiveness of these technologies over a wide range of temperatures and pressures. The present study aimed to investigate the temperature-induced changes in the dimensions of the microporous carbon adsorbent Sorbonorit 4, as well as the carbon dioxide adsorption, by using in situ dilatometry. The nonmonotonic changes in the dimensions of Sorbonorit 4 under vacuum were found with increasing temperature from 213 to 573 K. At T > 300 K, the thermal linear expansion coefficient of Sorbonorit 4 exceeded that of a graphite crystal, reaching 5 × 10−5 K at 573 K. The CO2 adsorption onto Sorbonorit 4 gave rise to its contraction at low temperatures and pressures or to its expansion at high temperatures over the entire pressure range. An inversion of the temperature dependence of the adsorption-induced deformation (AID) of Sorbonorit-4 was observed. The AID of Sorbonorit-4 and differential isosteric heat of CO2 adsorption plotted as a function of carbon dioxide uptake varied within the same intervals of adsorption values, reflecting the changes in the state of adsorbed molecules caused by contributions from adsorbate–adsorbent and adsorbate–adsorbate interactions. A simple model of nanoporous carbon adsorbents as randomly oriented nanocrystallites interconnected by a disordered carbon phase is proposed to represent the adsorption- and temperature-induced deformation of nanocrystallites with the macroscopic deformation of the adsorbent granules.