bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phytoceramides from the Marine Sponge Monanchora clathrata: Structural Analysis and Cytoprotective Effects
Authors: Santalova Elena A. , Kuzmich Alexandra S. , Chingizova Ekaterina A. , Menchinskaya Ekaterina S. , Pislyagin Evgeny A. , Dmitrenok Pavel S.
Published: April 2023

In our research on sphingolipids from marine invertebrates, a mixture of phytoceramides was isolated from the sponge Monanchora clathrata (Western Australia). Total ceramide, ceramide molecular species (obtained by RP-HPLC, high-performance liquid chromatography on reversed-phase column) and their sphingoid/fatty acid components were analyzed by NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. Sixteen new (1b, 3a, 3c, 3d, 3f, 3g, 5c, 5d, 5f, 5g, 6b–g) and twelve known (2b, 2e, 2f, 3b, 3e, 4a–c, 4e, 4f, 5b, 5e) compounds were shown to contain phytosphingosine-type backbones i-t17:0 (1), n-t17:0 (2), i-t18:0 (3), n-t18:0 (4), i-t19:0 (5), or ai-t19:0 (6), N-acylated with saturated (2R)-2-hydroxy C21 (a), C22 (b), C23 (c), i-C23 (d), C24 (e), C25 (f), or C26 (g) acids. The used combination of the instrumental and chemical methods permitted the more detailed investigation of the sponge ceramides than previously reported. It was found that the cytotoxic effect of crambescidin 359 (alkaloid from M. clathrata) and cisplatin decreased after pre-incubation of MDA-MB-231 and HL-60 cells with the investigated phytoceramides. In an in vitro paraquat model of Parkinson’s disease, the phytoceramides decreased the neurodegenerative effect and ROS (reactive oxygen species) formation induced by paraquat in neuroblastoma cells. In general, the preliminary treatment (for 24 or 48 h) of the cells with the phytoceramides of M. clathrata was necessary for their cytoprotective functions, otherwise the additive damaging effect of these sphingolipids and cytotoxic compounds (crambescidin 359, cisplatin or paraquat) was observed.
Microneurotrophin BNN27 Reduces Astrogliosis and Increases Density of Neurons and Implanted Neural Stem Cell-Derived Cells after Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Georgelou Konstantina , Saridaki Erasmia-Angeliki , Karali Kanelina , Papagiannaki Argyri , Charalampopoulos Ioannis , Gravanis Achille , Tzeranis Dimitrios S.
Published: April 2023

Microneurotrophins, small-molecule mimetics of endogenous neurotrophins, have demonstrated significant therapeutic effects on various animal models of neurological diseases. Nevertheless, their effects on central nervous system injuries remain unknown. Herein, we evaluate the effects of microneurotrophin BNN27, an NGF analog, in the mouse dorsal column crush spinal cord injury (SCI) model. BNN27 was delivered systemically either by itself or combined with neural stem cell (NSC)-seeded collagen-based scaffold grafts, demonstrated recently to improve locomotion performance in the same SCI model. Data validate the ability of NSC-seeded grafts to enhance locomotion recovery, neuronal cell integration with surrounding tissues, axonal elongation and angiogenesis. Our findings also show that systemic administration of BNN27 significantly reduced astrogliosis and increased neuron density in mice SCI lesion sites at 12 weeks post injury. Furthermore, when BNN27 administration was combined with NSC-seeded PCS grafts, BNN27 increased the density of survived implanted NSC-derived cells, possibly addressing a major challenge of NSC-based SCI treatments. In conclusion, this study provides evidence that small-molecule mimetics of endogenous neurotrophins can contribute to effective combinatorial treatments for SCI, by simultaneously regulating key events of SCI and supporting grafted cell therapies in the lesion site.
Timing Is Important—Management of Metabolic Syndrome According to the Circadian Rhythm
Authors: Zečević Ksenija , Popović Nataša , Vuksanović Božarić Aleksandra , Vukmirović Mihailo , Rizzo Manfredi , Muzurović Emir
Published: April 2023

Physiological processes occur in accordance with a rhythm regulated by the endogenous biological clock. This clock is programmed at the molecular level and synchronized with the daily light–dark cycle, as well as activities such as feeding, exercise, and social interactions. It consists of the core clock genes, Circadian Locomotor Output Cycles Protein Kaput (CLOCK) and Brain and Muscle Arnt-Like protein 1 (BMAL1), and their products, the period (PER) and cryptochrome (CRY) proteins, as well as an interlocked feedback loop which includes reverse-strand avian erythroblastic leukemia (ERBA) oncogene receptors (REV-ERBs) and retinoic acid-related orphan receptors (RORs). These genes are involved in the regulation of metabolic pathways and hormone release. Therefore, circadian rhythm disruption leads to development of metabolic syndrome (MetS). MetS refers to a cluster of risk factors (RFs), which are not only associated with the development of cardiovascular (CV) disease (CVD), but also with increased all-cause mortality. In this review, we consider the importance of the circadian rhythm in the regulation of metabolic processes, the significance of circadian misalignment in the pathogenesis of MetS, and the management of MetS in relation to the cellular molecular clock.
Preparation of Cell-Loaded Microbeads as Stable and Injectable Delivery Platforms for Tissue Engineering
Authors: Karaca Mehmet Ali , Kancagi Derya Dilek , Ozbek Ugur , Ovali Ercument , Gok Ozgul
Published: April 2023

Cell transplants in therapeutic studies do not preserve their long-term function inside the donor body. In mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplants, transplanted cells disperse through the body and are prone to degradation by immune cells after the transplant process. Various strategies, such as usage of the immunosuppressive drugs to eliminate allograft rejection, are designed to increase the efficiency of cell therapy. Another strategy is the construction of biomimetic encapsulates using polymeric materials, which isolate stem cells and protect them from environmental effects. In this study, fibroblasts (L929) and MSCs were investigated for their improved viability and functionality once encapsulated inside the alginate microbeads under in vitro conditions for up to 12 days of incubation. Thus, uniform and injectable (<200 µm) cell-loaded microbeads were constructed by the electrostatically assisted spraying technique. Results showed that both L929 and MSCs cells continue their metabolic activity inside the microbeads during the incubation periods. Glucose consumption and lactic acid production levels of both cell lines were consistently observed. The released cell number on day 12 was found to be increased compared to day 0. Protein expression levels of both groups increased every day with the expected doubling rate. Hence, this strategy with a simple yet clever design to encapsulate either MSCs or L929 cells might outstand as a potential cell delivery platform for cell therapy-based tissue engineering.
Comparative Investigation of XPS Spectra of Oxidated Carbon Nanotubes and Graphene
Authors: Afanas’ev Viktor P. , Bocharov Grigorii S. , Eletskii Alexander V. , Lobanova Lidiya G. , Maslakov Konstantin I. , Savilov Serguei V.
Published: April 2023

X-ray photoelectron emission spectra of thermally reduced graphene oxide samples and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) with various oxidation degrees are presented in this paper. A method for the reconstruction of differential electron inelastic scattering cross sections from the energy loss spectra of photoelectrons is described and discussed. The analysis of the part of the characteristic photoelectron energy loss spectrum adjacent to the C1 peak indicated a considerable influence of the thermal reduction of graphene oxide on the electron properties of the samples obtained. On the contrary, the oxidation of CNTs by refluxing in a concentrated HNO3 solution does not change the free electron excitation spectrum.
Recent Advances in Biomolecular Detection Based on Aptamers and Nanoparticles
Authors: Xu Ruiting , Ouyang Leixin , Chen Heyi , Zhang Ge , Zhe Jiang
Published: April 2023

The fast, accurate detection of biomolecules, ranging from nucleic acids and small molecules to proteins and cellular secretions, plays an essential role in various biomedical applications. These include disease diagnostics and prognostics, environmental monitoring, public health, and food safety. Aptamer recognition (DNA or RNA) has gained extensive attention for biomolecular detection due to its high selectivity, affinity, reproducibility, and robustness. Concurrently, biosensing with nanoparticles has been widely used for its high carrier capacity, stability and feasibility of incorporating optical and catalytic activity, and enhanced diffusivity. Biosensors based on aptamers and nanoparticles utilize the combination of their advantages and have become a promising technology for detecting of a wide variety of biomolecules with high sensitivity, reliability, specificity, and detection speed. Via various sensing mechanisms, target biomolecules have been quantified in terms of optical (e.g., colorimetric and fluorometric), magnetic, and electrical signals. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in and compare different aptamer–nanoparticle-based biosensors by nanoparticle types and detection mechanisms. We also share our views on the highlights and challenges of the different nanoparticle-aptamer-based biosensors.
High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein, Its Change, and Cognitive Function: A National Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Wang Yechuang , Fu Jialin , Liang Fang , Oniffrey Theresa M. , Ding Kai , Zeng Jing , Moore Justin B. , Luo Xianwu , Li Rui
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the associations of baseline high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (Hs-CRP) and its change with subsequent cognitive decline and cognitive impairment. Data for this study were obtained from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, a national community-based prospective cohort study. Hs-CRP level and cognitive function were measured repeatedly over a 7-year follow-up. Linear mixed models and cox proportional hazard models were used to evaluate the associations. The study comprised 7385 participants (50.67% women, mean age 59.08 ± 8.86 years) with baseline Hs-CRP ranging from 0.03 to 178.10 mg/L (median: 1.01 mg/L, IQR: 0.55–2.11 mg/L). During a median of 5.79 years follow-up, the highest quartile of the Hs-CRP group showed a faster rate of cognitive decline (−0.0053 SD/year, p = 0.006) and a higher risk of cognitive impairment (HR 1.0814, p = 0.044) than those in the lowest quartile. Individuals in the elevated group of Hs-CRP change had a significantly faster cognitive decline (−0.0070 SD/year, p = 0.016) compared with those in the stable group. In this study, significant longitudinal associations between baseline Hs-CRP, elevated Hs-CRP, and long-term cognitive deterioration were observed. Hs-CRP level could perhaps serve as a predictor for cognitive deterioration in middle-aged and older adults.
Autoimmune Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (Gfap) Astrocytopa-Thy Accompanied with Reversible Splenial Lesion Syndrome (RESLES): A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Wang Siting , Yuan Jianlan , Liu Jingli
Published: April 2023

Background: Autoimmune glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) astrocytopathy usually presents as meningoencephalomyelitis. Many patients developed flu-like symptoms preceding the neurologic symptoms. Reversible lesion in the splenium of the corpus callosum (SCC) is a clinical and radiological syndrome secondary to many kinds of etiologies, including infections, which is termed RESLES. Case presentation: we reported a case developing irregularly high fever, both temporal pain, low limbs fatigue with frequent urination admitted to our neurology department. CSF test showed GFAP-IgG positive, elevated WBC counts and protein, with low glucose and chlorine, while MRI showed a reversible lesion on SCC, leading us to diagnose autoimmune GFAP autocytopathy accompanied with RESLES. The boy had significantly improved after anti-virus and steroids therapy. Discussion: Autoimmune GFAP autocytopathy accompanied with RESLES is rarely seen, and pathogenesis for the co-existence has not been clarified. Autoimmune GFAP autocytopathy and RESLES are both related to viral infection. Our case covered infectious symptoms and improved after antiviral treatment, suggesting virus infection may perform a key role in pathogenesis.
Sleep Apnea and Substance Use Disorders Associated with Co-Occurrence of Anxiety Disorder and Depression among U.S. Adults: Findings from the NSDUH 2008–2014
Authors: Xu Chun , Acevedo Priscila , Wang Liang , Wang Nianyang , Ozuna Kaysie , Shafique Saima , Karithara Annu , Padilla Victoria , Mao Chunxiang , Xie Xin , Wang Kesheng
Published: April 2023

Few studies have focused on sleep apnea and substance use disorders with co-occurrence of anxiety disorder and depression. This study included a total of 270,227 adults, 9268 with co-occurrence of anxiety disorder and depression in the past year, from the combined 2008–2014 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) data, which are the latest datasets with measures of anxiety disorder and sleep apnea. Weighted multinomial logistic regression analyses were used to estimate the associations between anxiety disorder and depression and their co-occurrence. Comorbidity was highly prevalent: 40.4% of those with depression also met the criteria for anxiety disorder, whereas 51.8% of those with anxiety disorder also met the criteria for depression. The prevalences of anxiety only and co-occurrence increased from 2008 to 2014. The prevalences of anxiety disorder only, depression only, and co-occurrence of anxiety disorder and depression in individuals with sleep apnea were 4.4%, 12.9%, and 12.2%, respectively, and the prevalences in substance use disorders were 6.4%, 9.4%, and 10.7%, respectively. The results showed that sleep apnea, substance use disorders, and nicotine dependence were significantly associated with increased odds of anxiety disorder, depression, and co-occurrence (all p values < 0.0001). Furthermore, several chronic diseases (asthma, bronchitis, hypertension, and heart disease) were associated with the co-occurrence of anxiety disorder and depression. These findings suggest clinicians and other healthcare providers consider screening for depression and anxiety with sleep apnea and substance use disorders for improved therapeutic outcomes.
The Psychosocial Model of Absenteeism: Transition from 4.0 to 5.0
Authors: Sitarević Aleksandra , Nešić Tomašević Ana , Sofić Aleksandar , Banjac Nikola , Novaković Nenad
Published: April 2023

The research provides insight into the factors that determine absenteeism in different types of organizations, in order to facilitate the adjustment of employees and organizations in the transition process from Industry 4.0 to Industry 5.0. The aim of the study is to predict the absenteeism of employees in the context of job characteristics and mental health. Additionally, the research investigated the effect of size, ownership, and sector of the companies on absenteeism, job characteristics, and mental health. The sample included responses from 502 employees of different sociodemographic characteristics that work in various types of organizations, performing white-collar and blue-collar jobs. A short mental health questionnaire—Mental Health Inventory, MHI-5—was used in order to measure mental health. The Job Characteristics Questionnaire was used to measure the employees’ perceptions of their job characteristics—job variety, autonomy, feedback, dealing with others, task identity, and friendship. The absenteeism is operationalized with the question: “During the past 12 months, how many days were you absent from work for any reason?”. The findings suggest that mental health and job characteristics significantly reduce absenteeism among different sectors. The result showed that the size, ownership, and sector of the organization significantly affect the absenteeism, job characteristics, and the mental health of the employees. The results support the premises of Industry 5.0 and offer a new human-centric approach to absenteeism through the promotion of mental health through long-term organizational strategies and a more inclusive approach to employees’ preferences in relation to job characteristics. The study offers a new, double-sided model of absenteeism, determining causal factors from the perspective of personal and organizational factors.
Integrating Sustainable Manufacturing into Architectural Design Teaching through Architectural Design Competitions
Authors: Li Lin , Yang Xiaolong , Xiang Xingwei , Kong Luyi , Dai Jiner , Zeng Qingyong
Published: April 2023

Sustainable manufacturing is essential for boosting resource allocation efficiency, as well as sustainable economic development, while the construction industry is one of the main sectors affecting it. However, the complexity of multidisciplinary integration of sustainable manufacturing makes it challenging to fully integrate into architectural design teaching. By incorporating architectural design competitions in architectural design teaching, we can encourage students to systematically reflect on the role of elements beyond traditional architectural design during the architectural design process to help them gain a more comprehensive understanding of sustainable manufacturing. The research results were obtained with a combination of both qualitative and quantitative analysis. We analyzed the survey data through grounded theory and presented the results graphically, which include a framework for promoting the learning of sustainable manufacturing through architectural design competitions in teaching architectural design. In order to gain an in-depth and comprehensive understanding of the teaching effect and to ensure the reliability and accuracy of the results, in addition to qualitative analysis, we also adopted statistical analysis to clarify whether the new teaching method is really effective. In evaluating whether there was a statistically significant difference in the understanding of sustainable manufacturing between students who participated in architectural design competitions and those who did not, according to the established teaching objectives, we found that a statistically significant difference did exist in the results, and further analyzed other contributing factors through regression analysis. Our research shows that introducing architectural design competitions into architectural design teaching is a feasible way to promote students’ understanding of sustainable manufacturing. In architectural design competitions, sustainable-manufacturing-related elements, such as resources and economy, were taken into consideration in line with various design elements, such as site, environment, ecology, and energy consumption, which were integrated into students’ design process of thinking, drawing, modeling, and presenting. In this way, students will have a clearer understanding of approaches to achieve sustainable manufacturing through architectural design. This research helps tap into the value and potential of architectural design competitions in delivering sustainable manufacturing during architecture education and can offer references for college teachers to conduct sustainability education.
Structural Landmark Salience Computation in Compact Urban Districts with 3D Node-Landmark Grid Analysis Model: A Case Study on Two Sample Districts in Changsha, China
Authors: Guo Yang , Hu Xijun , Tang Jia
Published: April 2023

Mastering the relationship between urban landmarks and urban space morphology in urban planning, landscape planning, and architectural design helps maintain the intelligibility of compact urban districts. The objective of the present study was to numerically determine the structural salience of various landmarks in an urban environment and use it to interpret the intelligibility of the city. Combining the measurement method of 3D visibility and the related principles of space syntax, this study develops a new 3D Node–Landmark Grid Analysis Model (3D NL GAM) for structural salience computation of urban landmarks. In this study, a numerical approach is used to construct a 3D simulation model. Firstly, the visibility of each decision node to landmarks in an urban environment, using a 3D digital model, is measured using the 3D isovist component of Rhinoceros and Grasshopper software. Secondly, links among wayfinding decision nodes and landmarks are established to form a 3D NL GAM. The normalized angular integration of decision nodes and the normalized angular choice of landmarks are computed using the principle of space syntax. Thirdly, the structural salience of landmarks is determined with a function of landmark visibility, spatial properties of landmarks, and wayfinding decision nodes. Finally, a case study was carried out by using a 3D NL GAM to analyze three types of urban areas located in Changsha. The results indicated that large-scale natural landscapes have a higher structural salience among the types of landmarks. The structural salience of architectural landmarks in the combined spatial form of combining tall and low building groups has a clear advantage over the form dominated by high-rise building groups. Raising the height of landmark buildings can modify the structure of the grid analysis model and improve the people aggregation of urban space. The 3D NL GAM can quantify the spatial properties and landmark structural salience of a city and can effectively assist in the evaluation of the intelligibility of built or future urban environments.
Experimental Analysis of Thermo-Technical Parameters of Windows Glazing in the Pavilion Laboratory
Authors: Bartko Marek , Durica Pavol
Published: April 2023

Improving the energy performance of buildings in the context of external climatic conditions and the requirements of indoor environments is a hot topic in the construction industry. It primarily concerns reducing the energy used for heating and cooling in buildings. In the EU sector, this is addressed by the Energy Performance Directive (EPBD), which is followed by relevant national standards. The energy performance of buildings is strongly influenced by the window structures that are part of the building envelope. Their influence on energy performance is represented by the heat transfer coefficient, which differs in the actual built-in window construction from the design value given by the manufacturer. In this paper, the authors deal with its measurement in situ using the heat flux measurement method. The measurement was carried out in the pavilion laboratory of the Department of Building Engineering and Urban Planning (DBEUP), Faculty of Civil Engineering (FCE), University of Zilina (UNIZA), on three window constructions of different material bases. During the measurements, surface temperatures on the glazing, heat flux density, and air temperatures were recorded in minute increments. The influence of the year-round cycle of the outdoor environment on the embedded window structures is presented and the results are presented in the conclusion of the paper.
Study on Axial Compression Stability of Q345 Large-Section Angle Steel Columns
Authors: Chen Haoyuan , Chen Hao , Cao Ke , Guo Yaojie
Published: April 2023

With the growing demand for the bearing capacity of columns, large-section angle steel (LAS) columns have been widely adopted. Q345 is the most commonly used steel, but research on the axial compression stability of LAS columns mainly focuses on steels with 420 MPa and above. In order to study the buckling behavior of Q345 LAS columns, a total of 96 specimens are subjected to axial compression tests. The test results are compared with the specification and analyzed. Based on test data, an accurate finite element model of the Q345 LAS column is established, and the parametric analysis is carried out through the model. The results show that the buckling mode of Q345 LAS columns is flexural buckling, and local buckling is not observed. The axial compression stability coefficient of Q345 LAS short columns is significantly higher than the result of the specification. The reasons come from the constitutive model and the buckling mode, and the influence of section size can be ignored. The curve a in GB50017-2017 and Eurocode 3 can be used to calculate the axial compression stability of Q345 LAS columns. Finally, a new column curve is proposed to calculate the axial compression stability of Q345 LAS columns.
Performance of Geopolymer Mortar Containing PVC Plastic Waste from Bottle Labels at Normal and Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Kunthawatwong Ronnakrit , Wongsa Ampol , Ekprasert Jindarat , Sukontasukkul Piti , Sata Vanchai , Chindaprasirt Prinya
Published: April 2023

This work focused on reusing polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic waste from bottle labels (BLWA) as lightweight aggregates in geopolymer mortar. This way of reusing plastic waste is beneficial for diminishing the negative impacts of plastics on the environment and reducing CO2 emissions by using geopolymer as an alternative cementing material. BLWA was used to partially substitute natural fine aggregate at ratios of 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20% by volume. The geopolymer mortar properties were tested, and the durability after exposure to elevated temperatures was also assessed. It was found that the strengths were adversely affected by increasing BLWA content. The water absorption and porosity were also increased with beneficial benefits on the reduced density (9–17%) and thermal conductivity (28–44%). The geopolymer mortar containing 5–15% BLWA satisfied the requirement of a lightweight mortar used in masonry work. After exposure to temperatures up to 600 °C, the properties of geopolymer mortar containing BLWA reduced more than that of the control mortar due to the thermal degradation of BLWA at high temperatures. However, when increasing the temperature from 600 °C to 900 °C, there was no further loss in strength. Microstructure analysis indicated that increasing temperatures caused more increased voids and microcracks in geopolymer mortars, especially the ones containing BLWA. However, after exposure at 900 °C, these voids and cracks were minimized at 900 °C due to sintering effects. The findings in this work confirmed the feasibility of using this PVC waste derived to produce lightweight construction material with thermal insulation properties.
Effect of Entrance Frame on Crack Development around Prefabricated Subway Station Openings
Authors: Mo Zhenze , Feng Shuaike , Guan Dongzhi , Guo Zhengxing
Published: April 2023

The openings at the sidewalls of subway station entrances generally reduce the localized load-bearing capacity of the sidewalls and lead to concentrated stress around the openings. In this study, to strengthen the sidewalls with openings in a newly-developed prefabricated subway station, a prefabricated steel-reinforced concrete (SRC) frame around the entrance was developed. To further investigate the effect of the developed entrance frame on the mechanical behavior of the sidewalls, a monotonic static test and finite element analysis were performed on a 1/2 scale station entrance substructure, including the proposed entrance frame and the adjacent top slab, bottom slab, and sidewalls. It was found that the developed entrance frame could effectively prevent stress concentration in the adjacent sidewall region. The most severe crack development was concentrated at the corner of the opening, which could be attributed to the torsional moment at the SRC beam end. The ratio of the torque shared by the beam to the total bending moment of the slab end varied from 21.2% to 26.8% in the elastic stage of all cases. In addition, both the improvement in the torsional bearing capacity of the SRC beam and the out-of-plane flexural capacity of the SRC column could positively contribute to controlling the crack development around the opening.
Prediction of the Long-Term Tensile Strength of GFRP Bars in Concrete
Authors: Zhu Peng , Li Zongyang , Zhu Yunming , Wu Yuching , Qu Wenjun
Published: April 2023

The durability of two types of widely used glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) bars, one without coating (G1) and one with slightly surface sand-coating (G2), were studied through accelerated aging. Concrete cylinders reinforced with GFRP bars were immersed in tap water in temperature-controlled tanks. The influence of different exposure temperatures, 20, 40, and 60 °C, and also different exposure times, 30, 60, 90, 120, and 180 days, on the degradation of the two types of GFRP bars was investigated. The tensile strengths of GFRP bars after different exposure times were evaluated with tensile tests, and the variation of the microstructure and elemental compositions of conditioned specimens was evaluated with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), respectively. The degradation rate of the tensile strength retentions of two types of GFRP bars decreased with an increase in the exposure time at all exposure temperatures. The tensile strength retentions of the GFRP bars were studied by three commonly used prediction models. Based on the degradation mechanism of fiber-matrix debonding, a new model was proposed. These four models were evaluated with the test results and a new model proposed was suggested as the best model to predict the residual tensile strength of the GFRP bars. The durability parameters of the GFRP bars were discussed. The tensile strength retention tended to converge to a constant value (52%) with the increase of exposure time, which contributes to the determination of the environmental reduction factor in relevant design guides, and the fiber-matrix debonding was found to be the main degradation mechanism due to the surrounding concrete environment. The sand-coating had some effect on the activation energy of the GFRP bars.
Study the Influence of Cable Breakage on Wind-Induced Vibration Characteristics of the Curved Beam Unilateral Stayed Bridge
Authors: Zhao Shuang , Shi Yi , Chen Jiahao , Yan Zhitao , Zhang Bin , Zhang Xueqin , Wang Zhenqiang
Published: April 2023

Existing studies have found that curved beam unilateral stayed bridges (CBUSB) have a risk of cable breakage under the design wind velocity. To ensure structural wind-induced vibration security, it is necessary to study the wind-induced vibration characteristics of CBUSBs considering the influence of the impact load due to the cable breakage. Based on the aerodynamic coefficients determined by a wind tunnel test and the established impact load model, parametric analyses of important CBUSBs’ characteristics (beam curvature and cable arrangement scheme) and the location of the cable breakage are carried out to assess the influence of cable breakage on the time-domain statistical values and frequency-domain distribution characteristics of wind-induced vibration response. The DAF, considering the influence of cable breakages on the wind-induced vibration peak value of CBUSBs, is proposed through dynamic analysis. Study results show that, with increasing curvature, under the two-modes action of wind loads and impact loads, the fluctuation component of the CBUSB is changed, resulting in a smaller proportion of resonant response. For CBUSBs with unilateral or bilateral cable arrangements, their wind-induced vibration behavior is significantly different. The former have dynamic characteristics and the latter have quasi-static characteristics. The breakage of the shortest cable at 7/33 to 7/22 of the curved beam length and its symmetry part significantly increases the wind-induced peak response of CBUSBs. The DAF recommended values can consider the amplification effect of wind-induced vibration due to the cable breakage.
Greening Umbria’s Future: Investigation of the Retrofit Measures’ Potential to Achieve Energy Goals by 2030 in the Umbria Region
Authors: Palladino Domenico
Published: April 2023

The new European targets of achieving net zero emissions by 2050 have spurred Italy to aim for a 30% reduction in emissions by 2030, compared with 2005 levels. This goal will be achieved through the promotion of renewable energy sources and energy savings in the residential sector, which remains one of the main sectors accountable for total energy consumption, mainly for heating. This study aims at investigating the potential of some retrofit measures implemented in the Umbria Region, chosen as a case study, to reach the goal by 2030. Using parametric energy simulations with the standard calculation method and artificial neural networks (ANN), the energy consumption of Umbria’s building stock and potential CO2 reductions were assessed. Results showed that with current energy policies, a reduction of 28% could be achieved, which is below the goal by 2030, while ANN integration within energy strategies could allow reaching it as early as 2025 or 2029, depending on the restriction set to the ANN and the extent of current energy policies. This study confirmed the potential benefits of using advanced technology in achieving national environmental goals, highlighting that they could be essential tools to be integrated into energy policies to accelerate progress towards ambitious climate goals.
Sequence-Based Platforms for Discovering Biomarkers in Liquid Biopsy of Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Brockley Liam J. , Souza Vanessa G. P. , Forder Aisling , Pewarchuk Michelle E. , Erkan Melis , Telkar Nikita , Benard Katya , Trejo Jessica , Stewart Matt D. , Stewart Greg L. , Reis Patricia P. , Lam Wan L. , Martinez Victor D.
Published: April 2023

Lung cancer detection and monitoring are hampered by a lack of sensitive biomarkers, which results in diagnosis at late stages and difficulty in tracking response to treatment. Recent developments have established liquid biopsies as promising non-invasive methods for detecting biomarkers in lung cancer patients. With concurrent advances in high-throughput sequencing technologies and bioinformatics tools, new approaches for biomarker discovery have emerged. In this article, we survey established and emerging biomarker discovery methods using nucleic acid materials derived from bodily fluids in the context of lung cancer. We introduce nucleic acid biomarkers extracted from liquid biopsies and outline biological sources and methods of isolation. We discuss next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms commonly used to identify novel biomarkers and describe how these have been applied to liquid biopsy. We highlight emerging biomarker discovery methods, including applications of long-read sequencing, fragmentomics, whole-genome amplification methods for single-cell analysis, and whole-genome methylation assays. Finally, we discuss advanced bioinformatics tools, describing methods for processing NGS data, as well as recently developed software tailored for liquid biopsy biomarker detection, which holds promise for early diagnosis of lung cancer.
The Optimal Cutoff Value of Tumor Markers for Prognosis Prediction in Ampullary Cancer
Authors: Lee Seungho , Kim Hongbeom , Sohn Heeju , Lee Mirang , Jung Hyesol , Jo Youngjae , Han Youngmin , Kwon Wooil , Jang Jin-Young
Published: April 2023

Background: Carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA 19-9) is a representative tumor marker used for the diagnosis of pancreatic and biliary tract cancers. There are few published research results that can be applied to actual clinical practice for ampullary cancer (AC) alone. This study aimed to demonstrate the relationship between the prognosis of AC and the level of CA 19-9, and to determine the optimal thresholds. Methods: Patients who underwent curative resection (pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) or pylorus preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy (PPPD)) for AC at the Seoul National University Hospital between January 2000 and December 2017 were enrolled. To determine the optimal cutoff values that could clearly stratify the survival outcome, the conditional inference tree (C-tree) method was used. After obtaining the optimal cutoff values, they were compared to the upper normal clinical limit of 36 U/mL for CA 19-9. Results In total, 385 patients were enrolled in this study. The median value of the tumor marker CA 19-9 was 18.6 U/mL. Using the C-tree method, 46 U/mL was determined to be the optimal cutoff value for CA 19-9. Histological differentiation, N stage, and adjuvant chemotherapy were significant predictors. CA 19-9 36 U/mL had marginal significance as a prognostic factor. In contrast, the new cutoff value, CA 19-9 46 U/mL, was found to be a statistically significant prognostic factor (HR: 1.37, p = 0.048). Conclusions: The new cutoff value of CA 19-9 46 U/mL may be used for evaluating the prognosis of AC. Therefore, it may be an effective indicator for determining treatment strategies such as surgical treatments and adjuvant chemotherapy.
Intestinal Microbes and Hematological Malignancies
Authors: Zhu Yinghong , Yang Qiaohui , Yang Qin , He Yanjuan , Zhou Wen
Published: April 2023

Hematological malignancies are diverse, with high malignancy characteristics, poor prognoses, and high mortality rates. The development of hematological malignancies is driven by genetic factors, tumor microenvironment factors, or metabolic factors; however, even when considering all of these factors, one still cannot fully estimate the risk of hematological malignancies. Several recent studies have demonstrated an intimate connection between intestinal microbes and the progression of hematological malignancies, and gut microbes play a primary role in the initiation and progression of hematological tumors through direct and indirect mechanisms. Thus, we summarize the correlation between intestinal microbes and hematological malignancies’ onset, progression, and therapeutic effect in order to better understand how intestinal microbes affect their initiation and progression, especially in leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma, which may provide potential therapeutic targets for improving the survival of patients with hematological malignancies.
TIGD1 Function as a Potential Cuproptosis Regulator Following a Novel Cuproptosis-Related Gene Risk Signature in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Wu Zhiwei , Lin Changwei , Zhang Fan , Lu Zhixing , Wang Yaohui , Liu Yang , Zhou Zhijiao , Li Liang , Song Liying
Published: April 2023

Cuproptosis is a new form of copper-dependent programmed cell death commonly occurring within the body. There is emerging evidence indicating that cuproptosis has a significant regulatory function in the onset and progression of cancer. However, it is still unclear how cuproptosis regulates cancer and whether other genes are involved in the regulation. Using the TCGA-COAD dataset of 512 samples, we found that seven of ten cuproptosis markers showed prognostic value in colorectal cancer (CRC) using Kaplan–Meier survival analysis. Furthermore, 31 prognostic cuproptosis-related genes were identified using weighted gene co-expression network analysis and univariate Cox analysis. Subsequently, we constructed a 7-PCRG signature using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO)–Cox regression analysis. The risk score predicting survival in patients with CRC was evaluated. Two risk groups were classified based on their risk scores. The two groups revealed a significant difference in immune cells, such as B and T cells. Furthermore, we identified differences in many immune functions and checkpoints, including CD276 and CD28. In vitro experiments showed that a hub cuproptosis-related gene, TIGD1, could significantly regulate cuproptosis in CRC after exposure to elesclomol. This study validated that cuproptosis was closely related to the progression of CRC. Seven new cuproptosis-related genes were identified, and the function of TIGD1 in cuproptosis was preliminarily understood. Since a certain concentration of copper in CRC cells is important, cuproptosis may provide a new target for cancer therapy. This study may provide novel insights into the treatment of CRC.
Current Landscape of Immunotherapy for Advanced Sarcoma
Authors: Albarrán Víctor , Villamayor María Luisa , Pozas Javier , Chamorro Jesús , Rosero Diana Isabel , San Román María , Guerrero Patricia , Pérez de Aguado Patricia , Calvo Juan Carlos , García de Quevedo Coral , González Carlos , Vaz María Ángeles
Published: April 2023

There is substantial heterogeneity between different subtypes of sarcoma regarding their biological behavior and microenvironment, which impacts their responsiveness to immunotherapy. Alveolar soft-part sarcoma, synovial sarcoma and undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma show higher immunogenicity and better responses to checkpoint inhibitors. Combination strategies adding immunotherapy to chemotherapy and/or tyrosine–kinase inhibitors globally seem superior to single-agent schemes. Therapeutic vaccines and different forms of adoptive cell therapy, mainly engineered TCRs, CAR-T cells and TIL therapy, are emerging as new forms of immunotherapy for advanced solid tumors. Tumor lymphocytic infiltration and other prognostic and predictive biomarkers are under research.
Prognostic Factors in Children and Adolescents with Lymphomas and Vertical Transmission of HIV in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: A Multicentric Hospital-Based Survival Analysis Study
Authors: Duarte Nathalia Lopez , Bueno Ana Paula Silva , Sanches Bárbara Sarni , Ramos Gabriella Alves , Santos Julia Maria Bispo dos , Silva Henrique Floriano Hess e , Pondé Janaina de Oliveira , Sá José Gilberto de , Rossi Priscila Mazucanti , Horn Patricia Regina Cavalcanti Barbosa , Sztajnbok Denise Cardoso das Neves , Rubini Norma de Paula Motta , da Costa Elaine Sobral , Milito Cristiane Bedran , de Abreu Thalita Fernandes , Land Marcelo Gerardin Poirot
Published: April 2023

Lymphomas related to HIV are generally aggressive and have a poor prognosis, despite the use of combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) and effective chemotherapy treatment. To determine survival and prognostic factors in children and adolescents living with HIV (CLWH) in Rio de Janeiro (RJ), Brazil, who developed lymphomas, we performed a retrospective and observational study of vertically infected CLWH aged from 0 to 20 incomplete years during1995 to 2018 at five reference centers for cancer and HIV/AIDS treatment. Of the 25 lymphomas, 19 were AIDS-defining malignancies (ADM) and 6 were non-AIDS-defining malignancies (NADM). The 5-year overall survival (OS) and 5-year event-free survival (EFS) probabilities were both 32.00% (95% CI = 13.72–50.23%), and the 5-year disease-free survival (DFS) probability was 53.30% (95% CI = 28.02–78.58%). In the multivariate Cox regression analysis, performance status 4 (PS 4) was considered a poor prognostic factor for OS (HR 4.85, 95% CI = 1.81–12.97, p = 0.002) and EFS (HR 4.95, 95% CI = 1.84–13.34, p = 0.002). For the DFS, higher CD4+ T-cell counts were considered a better prognostic factor (HR 0.86, 95% CI = 0.76–0.97, p = 0.017) in the multivariate Cox regression analysis. This study demonstrates, for the first time, survival and prognostic factors for CLWH who developed lymphomas in RJ, Brazil.
Anthocyanins Reduce Cell Invasion and Migration through Akt/mTOR Downregulation and Apoptosis Activation in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Rabelo Ana Carolina Silveira , Guerreiro Caroline de Aquino , Shinzato Vivian Izumi , Ong Thomas Prates , Noratto Giuliana
Published: April 2023

Background: Studies have suggested the chemopreventive effects of anthocyanins on breast cancer carcinogenesis. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effect of anthocyanins on triple-negative breast cancer cells (TNBC) cultured in vitro. Methods: We searched for all relevant studies that evaluated the mechanisms of migration, invasion, Akt/mTOR and MAPK pathways, and apoptosis, using PubMed and Scopus. Means and standard deviation were used, and a randomized effects model was applied, with a confidence interval of 95%. Statistical heterogeneity between studies was assessed using the Chi2 test and I2 statistics. All analyses were performed using RevMan software (version 5.4). Results: Eleven studies were included in the systematic review and ten in the meta-analysis, where the roles of anthocyanin-enriched extract or cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C-3-O-G) on MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-453 cells were investigated. Discussion: There was a significant reduction in invasion (mean difference: −98.64; 95% CI: −153.98, −43.3; p ˂ 0.00001) and migration (mean difference: −90.13; 95% CI: −130.57, −49.68; p ˂ 0.00001) in TNBC cells after anthocyanins treatment. Anthocyanins also downregulated Akt (mean difference: −0.63; 95% CI: −0.70, −0.57; p ˂ 0.00001) and mTOR (mean difference: −0.93; 95% CI: −1.58, −0.29; p = 0.005), while JNK (mean difference: −0.06; 95% CI: −1.21, 1.09; p = 0.92) and p38 (mean difference: 0.05; 95% CI: −1.32, 1.41; p = 0.95) were not modulated. There was also an increase in cleaved caspase-3 (mean difference: 1.13; 95% CI: 0.11, 2.16; p = 0.03), cleaved caspase-8 (mean difference: 1.64; 95% CI: 0.05, 3.22; p = 0.04), and cleaved PARP (mean difference: 0.93; 95% CI: 0.54, 1.32). Although the difference between control and anthocyanin groups was not significant regarding apoptosis rate (mean difference: 3.63; 95% CI: −2.88, 10.14; p = 0.27), the analysis between subgroups showed that anthocyanins are more favorable in inducing overall apoptosis (p ˂ 0.00001). Conclusion: The results show that anthocyanins hold promise in fighting against TNBC, but their effects should not be generalized. In addition, further primary studies should be conducted so that more accurate conclusions can be drawn.
Advanced Radio Frequency Applicators for Thermal Magnetic Resonance Theranostics of Brain Tumors
Authors: Saha Nandita , Kuehne Andre , Millward Jason M. , Eigentler Thomas Wilhelm , Starke Ludger , Waiczies Sonia , Niendorf Thoralf
Published: April 2023

Thermal Magnetic Resonance (ThermalMR) is a theranostic concept that combines diagnostic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with targeted thermal therapy in the hyperthermia (HT) range using a radiofrequency (RF) applicator in an integrated system. ThermalMR adds a therapeutic dimension to a diagnostic MRI device. Focused, targeted RF heating of deep-seated brain tumors, accurate non-invasive temperature monitoring and high-resolution MRI are specific requirements of ThermalMR that can be addressed with novel concepts in RF applicator design. This work examines hybrid RF applicator arrays combining loop and self-grounded bow-tie (SGBT) dipole antennas for ThermalMR of brain tumors, at magnetic field strengths of 7.0 T, 9.4 T and 10.5 T. These high-density RF arrays improve the feasible transmission channel count, and provide additional degrees of freedom for RF shimming not afforded by using dipole antennas only, for superior thermal therapy and MRI diagnostics. These improvements are especially relevant for ThermalMR theranostics of deep-seated brain tumors because of the small surface area of the head. ThermalMR RF applicators with the hybrid loop+SGBT dipole design outperformed applicators using dipole-only and loop-only designs, with superior MRI performance and targeted RF heating. Array variants with a horse-shoe configuration covering an arc (270°) around the head avoiding the eyes performed better than designs with 360° coverage, with a 1.3 °C higher temperature rise inside the tumor while sparing healthy tissue. Our EMF and temperature simulations performed on a virtual patient with a clinically realistic intracranial tumor provide a technical foundation for implementation of advanced RF applicators tailored for ThermalMR theranostics of brain tumors.