bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Further Accurate Numerical Radius Inequalities
Authors: Qawasmeh Tariq , Qazza Ahmad , Hatamleh Raed , Alomari Mohammad W. , Saadeh Rania
Published: August 2023

The goal of this study is to refine some numerical radius inequalities in a novel way. The new improvements and refinements purify some famous inequalities pertaining to Hilbert space operators numerical radii. The inequalities that have been demonstrated in this work are not only an improvement over old inequalities but also stronger than them. Several examples supporting the validity of our results are provided as well.
The Influence of Sagittal Pin Angulation on the Stiffness and Pull-Out Strength of a Monolateral Fixator Construct
Authors: Klemeit Axel , Weber Anna , Bourauel Christoph , Welle Kristian , Burger Christof , Schildberg Frank A. , Deborre Christoph
Published: August 2023

Monolateral pin-to-bar-clamp fixators are commonly used to stabilize acute extremity injuries. Certain rules regarding frame geometry have been established that affect construct stability. The influence of sagittal pin angulation on construct stiffness and strength has not been investigated. The purpose of this biomechanical study was to demonstrate the effect of a pin angulation in the monolateral fixator using a composite cylinder model. Three groups of composite cylinder models with a fracture gap were loaded with different mounting variants of monolateral pin-to-bar-clamp fixators. In the first group, the pins were set parallel to each other and perpendicular to the specimen. In the second group, both pins were set convergent each in an angle of 15° to the specimen. In the third group, the pins were set each 15° divergent. The strength of the constructions was tested using a mechanical testing machine. This was followed by a cyclic loading test to produce pin loosening. A pull-out test was then performed to evaluate the strength of each construct at the pin–bone interface. Initial stiffness analyses showed that the converging configuration was the stiffest, while the diverging configuration was the least stiff. The parallel mounting showed an intermediate stiffness. There was a significantly higher resistance to pull-out force in the diverging pin configuration compared to the converging pin configuration. There was no significant difference in the pull-out strength of the parallel pins compared to the angled pin pairs. Convergent mounting of pin pairs increases the stiffness of a monolateral fixator, whereas a divergent mounting weakens it. Regarding the strength of the pin–bone interface, the divergent pin configuration appears to provide greater resistance to pull-out force than the convergent one. The results of this pilot study should be important for the doctrine of fixator mounting as well as for fixator component design.
Study of the Relationship between Pulmonary Artery Pressure and Heart Valve Vibration Sound Based on Mock Loop
Authors: Mi Jiachen , Zhao Zehang , Wang Hongkai , Tang Hong
Published: August 2023

The vibration of the heart valves’ closure is an important component of the heart sound and contains important information about the mechanical activity of a heart. Stenosis of the distal pulmonary artery can lead to pulmonary hypertension (PH). Therefore, in this paper, the relationship between the vibration sound of heart valves and the pulmonary artery blood pressure was investigated to contribute to the noninvasive detection of PH. In this paper, a lumped parameter circuit platform of pulmonary circulation was first set to guide the establishment of a mock loop of circulation. By adjusting the distal vascular resistance of the pulmonary artery, six different pulmonary arterial pressure states were achieved. In the experiment, pulmonary artery blood pressure, right ventricular blood pressure, and the vibration sound of the pulmonary valve and tricuspid valve were measured synchronously. Features of the time domain and frequency domain of two valves’ vibration sound were extracted. By conducting a significance analysis of the inter-group features, it was found that the amplitude, energy and frequency features of vibration sounds changed significantly. Finally, the continuously varied pulmonary arterial blood pressure and valves’ vibration sound were obtained by continuously adjusting the resistance of the distal pulmonary artery. A backward propagation neural network and deep learning model were used, respectively, to estimate the features of pulmonary arterial blood pressure, pulmonary artery systolic blood pressure, the maximum rising rate of pulmonary artery blood pressure and the maximum falling rate of pulmonary artery blood pressure by the vibration sound of the pulmonary and tricuspid valves. The results showed that the pulmonary artery pressure parameters can be well estimated by valve vibration sounds.
Novel Multivariable Evolutionary Algorithm-Based Method for Modal Reconstruction of the Corneal Surface from Sparse and Incomplete Point Clouds
Authors: Sáez-Gutiérrez Francisco L. , Velázquez Jose S. , Alió del Barrio Jorge L. , Alio Jorge L. , Cavas Francisco
Published: August 2023

Three-dimensional reconstruction of the corneal surface provides a powerful tool for managing corneal diseases. This study proposes a novel method for reconstructing the corneal surface from elevation point clouds, using modal schemes capable of reproducing corneal shapes using surface polynomial functions. The multivariable polynomial fitting was performed using a non-dominated sorting multivariable genetic algorithm (NS-MVGA). Standard reconstruction methods using least-squares discrete fitting (LSQ) and sequential quadratic programming (SQP) were compared with the evolutionary algorithm-based approach. The study included 270 corneal surfaces of 135 eyes of 102 patients (ages 11–63) sorted in two groups: control (66 eyes of 33 patients) and keratoconus (KC) (69 eyes of 69 patients). Tomographic information (Sirius, Costruzione Strumenti Oftalmici, Italy) was processed using Matlab. The goodness of fit for each method was evaluated using mean squared error (MSE), measured at the same nodes where the elevation data were collected. Polynomial fitting based on NS-MVGA improves MSE values by 86% compared to LSQ-based methods in healthy patients. Moreover, this new method improves aberrated surface reconstruction by an average value of 56% if compared with LSQ-based methods in keratoconus patients. Finally, significant improvements were also found in morpho-geometric parameters, such as asphericity and corneal curvature radii.
Ontogenetic Shifts in Body Morphology of Demersal Sharks’ Species (Order: Squaliformes) Inhabiting the Western-Central Mediterranean Sea, with Implications for Their Bio-Ecological Role
Authors: Bellodi Andrea , Mulas Antonello , Daniel Louise , Cau Alessandro , Porcu Cristina , Carbonara Pierluigi , Follesa Maria Cristina
Published: August 2023

Several elasmobranch species undergo shifts in body proportions during their ontogenetic growth. Such morphological changes could reflect variation in diet, locomotion, or, more broadly, in the species’ interactions with their environment. However, to date, only a few studies have been conducted on this topic, and most of them focused on particular body regions. In the present study, the ontogenetic growth of five different demersal shark species was investigated by using both traditional linear morphometry of the entire body and shape analysis of the caudal fin. A total of 449 sharks were analysed: 95 little gulper sharks, 80 longnose spurdogs, 103 kitefin sharks, 124 velvet belly lanternsharks, and 47 angular roughsharks. From each specimen, 36 linear morphometric measurements were taken. While a first canonical analysis of principal coordinates ruled out the possibility of different growth patterns between males and females, the same analysis statistically discriminated between small and large individuals in every species based on their morphology. A Similarity Percentage analysis revealed that the most important measurements in distinguishing these two groups were those related to body lengths, indicating that large individuals are more elongated than small individuals. The shape analysis of caudal fins revealed allometric growth during ontogenetic development, with adult individuals having a wider fin (discriminant analysis, p < 0.05). These findings could be related to changes in predatory skills, supporting the hypothesis of a shift in the ecological role that these sharks play in their environment, thus providing new essential information for their conservation.
Intestinal Flora in Chemotherapy Resistance of Biliary Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Bai Liuhui , Yan Xiangdong , Lv Jin , Qi Ping , Song Xiaojing , Zhang Lei
Published: August 2023

Biliary pancreatic malignancy has an occultic onset, a high degree of malignancy, and a poor prognosis. Most clinical patients miss the opportunity for surgical resection of the tumor. Systemic chemotherapy is still one of the important methods for the treatment of biliary pancreatic malignancies. Many chemotherapy regimens are available, but their efficacy is not satisfactory, and the occurrence of chemotherapy resistance is a major reason leading to poor prognosis. With the advancement of studies on intestinal flora, it has been found that intestinal flora is correlated with and plays an important role in chemotherapy resistance. The application of probiotics and other ways to regulate intestinal flora can improve this problem. This paper aims to review and analyze the research progress of intestinal flora in the chemotherapy resistance of biliary pancreatic malignancies to provide new ideas for treatment.
Survival Benefit after Shifting from Upfront Surgery to Neoadjuvant Treatment in Borderline Resectable Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Jeon Hyun Jeong , Lim Soo Yeun , Jeong HyeJeong , Yoon So Jeong , Kim Hongbeom , Shin Sang Hyun , Heo Jin Seok , Han In Woong
Published: August 2023

According to the 2016 National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines, patients with borderline resectable pancreatic cancer (BRPC) should receive chemotherapy as the first-line treatment. This study examined the real-world survival benefits of modifying BRPC treatment guidelines. Patients treated for BRPC at a single institution from 2013 to 2015 (pre-guideline group) and 2017 to 2019 (post-guideline group) were retrospectively reviewed. According to the treatment method used, patients were classified into upfront surgery (US), surgery after neoadjuvant treatment (NAT), and chemotherapy only (CO) groups. Overall survival (OS) was compared according to period and treatment type. Factors associated with OS were analyzed using a Cox regression model. Among the 165 patients, 63 were in the pre-guideline group and 102 patients were in the post-guideline group. The median OS was significantly improved in the post-guideline group compared to the pre-guideline group (29 vs. 13 months, p < 0.001). According to the treatment method, the median OS of the NAT group was significantly longer than that of the US and CO groups (40 vs. 16 vs. 15 months, respectively, p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, tumor size, differentiation, NAT, and perineural invasion were significant prognostic factors. NAT is an important treatment option for BRPC and increased patient survival in the real world.
Novel Gene Polymorphisms for Stable Warfarin Dose in a Korean Population: Genome-Wide Association Study
Authors: Kim Jung Sun , Lee Sak , Yee Jeong , Park Kyemyung , Jang Eun Jeong , Chang Byung Chul , Gwak Hye Sun
Published: August 2023

Warfarin has a narrow therapeutic window and high intra- and inter-individual variability. Considering that many published papers on genotype-guided dosing are derived from European populations, the aim of this study was to investigate novel genetic variants associated with the variability of stable warfarin dose in the Korean population with cardiac valve replacement, using the GWAS approach. This retrospective cohort study was performed from January 1982 to December 2020 at the Severance Cardiovascular Hospital of Yonsei University College of Medicine. GWAS was performed to identify associations between genotypes and the warfarin maintenance dose, by comparing the allele frequency of genetic variants between individuals. Then, the extent of genetic and non-genetic factors on the dose variability was determined by multivariable regression analysis. The study enrolled 214 participants, and the most robust signal cluster was detected on chromosome 16 around VKORC1. Followed by VKORC1, three novel variants (NKX2-6 rs310279, FRAS1 rs4386623, and FAM201A rs1890109) showed an association with stable warfarin dose requirement in univariate analysis. The algorithm was constructed by using multivariable analysis that includes genetic and non-genetic factors, and it could explain 58.5% of the variations in stable warfarin doses. In this variability, VKORC1 rs9934438 and FRAS1 rs4386623 accounted for 33.0% and 9.9%, respectively. This GWAS analysis identified the fact that three novel variants (NKX2-6 rs310279, FRAS1 rs4386623, and FAM201A rs1890109) were associated with stable warfarin doses. Additional research is necessary to validate the results and establish personalized treatment strategies for the Korean population.
Adipocyte-Derived Adipokines and Other Obesity-Associated Molecules in Feline Mammary Cancer
Authors: Marshall Taylor , Chen Jing , Viloria-Petit Alicia M.
Published: August 2023

Obesity has been identified as a serious health concern in domestic cats. Feline mammary cancer (FMC) is also a concern, as it is highly prevalent and aggressive. Considering the identified connection between obesity and breast cancer, it is worthwhile to investigate the potential obesity–cancer relationship in FMC. This review investigated the association between adipokines and other obesity-associated molecules and FMC, with the aim of identifying gaps in the current literature for future research. Based on the reports to date, it was found that tissue concentrations of leptin, serum concentrations of leptin receptor, serum amyloid A, and estrogen correlate positively with FMC, and serum concentrations of leptin correlate negatively with FMC. The roles of adiponectin and prolactin in FMC development were also investigated, but the reports are either lacking or insufficient to suggest an association. Numerous research gaps were identified and could be used as opportunities for future research. These include the need for studies on additional cohorts to confirm the association of leptin/leptin receptor and serum amyloid A with FMC, and to address the role of adiponectin and prolactin in FMC. It is also important to investigate the genetic determinants of FMC, evaluate the use of molecular-targeted therapies in FMC, and exploit the enrichment of the triple-negative immunophenotype in FMC to address current clinical needs for both human triple-negative breast cancer and FMC. Finally, mechanistic studies with any of the molecules reviewed are scarce and are important to generate hypotheses and ultimately advance our knowledge and the outcome of FMC.
Isolation of Fucoxanthin from Sargassum oligocystum Montagne, 1845 Seaweed in Vietnam and Its Neuroprotective Activity
Authors: Hong Dang Diem , Thom Le Thi , Ha Nguyen Cam , Thu Ngo Thi Hoai , Hien Hoang Thi Minh , Tam Luu Thi , Dat Nguyen Manh , Duc Tran Mai , Tru Nguyen Van , Hang Nguyen Thi Minh , Ambati Ranga Rao
Published: August 2023

Fucoxanthin extracted and purified from Vietnamese Sargassum oligocystum Montagne, 1845 exhibits various biological activities. In this study, the ability of fucoxanthin to inhibit acetylcholinesterase (AChE), the antioxidant activities, and the expression of antioxidant enzymes were investigated. Fucoxanthin isolated from Vietnamese S. oligocystum showed no cytotoxic effects; moreover, it exhibited AChE inhibitory activity (with an IC50 value of 130.12 ± 6.65 μg mL−1) and antioxidant activity (with an IC50 value of 3.42 ± 0.15 mg mL−1). At concentrations of 50 and 100 µg mL−1, fucoxanthin provided protection against amyloid β-protein fragment 25–35-induced neurotoxicity in a C6 neuronal cell line, and the survival of C6 cells was higher than 81.01% and 80.98%, respectively, compared to the control group (59%). Moreover, antioxidant enzyme activity and quantitative PCR analysis suggested that the neuroprotective effect of fucoxanthin resulted from regulation of the gene expression of antioxidant enzymes (CAT and GPx) and ER pathways (caspase-3 and Bax), as well as the promotion of expression of genes involved in PI3K/Akt signaling (GSK-3β), autophagy (p62 and ATG5), and the biosynthesis of ACh (VAChT and ChAT). Therefore, fucoxanthin extracted from the seaweed S. oligocystum in Vietnam is a potential feedstock source for the production of health foods that exert neuroprotective effects.
Recent Advances in Microbiota-Associated Metabolites in Heart Failure
Authors: Masenga Sepiso K. , Povia Joreen P. , Lwiindi Propheria C. , Kirabo Annet
Published: August 2023

Heart failure is a risk factor for adverse events such as sudden cardiac arrest, liver and kidney failure and death. The gut microbiota and its metabolites are directly linked to the pathogenesis of heart failure. As emerging studies have increased in the literature on the role of specific gut microbiota metabolites in heart failure development, this review highlights and summarizes the current evidence and underlying mechanisms associated with the pathogenesis of heart failure. We found that gut microbiota-derived metabolites such as short chain fatty acids, bile acids, branched-chain amino acids, tryptophan and indole derivatives as well as trimethylamine-derived metabolite, trimethylamine N-oxide, play critical roles in promoting heart failure through various mechanisms. Mainly, they modulate complex signaling pathways such as nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells, Bcl-2 interacting protein 3, NLR Family Pyrin Domain Containing inflammasome, and Protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase. We have also highlighted the beneficial role of other gut metabolites in heart failure and other cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.
Zyxin Inhibits the Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion of Osteosarcoma via Rap1-Mediated Inhibition of the MEK/ERK Signaling Pathway
Authors: Wei Zhun , Xia Kezhou , Zhou Bin , Zheng Di , Guo Weichun
Published: August 2023

Zyxin (ZYX) is an actin-interacting protein with unknown biological functions in patients with osteosarcoma. This research sought to understand how ZYX affects the biological behavior of osteosarcoma cells and to identify the associated mechanism. Firstly, ZYX expression was decreased in osteosarcoma, and its higher expression indicated better outcomes in patients with osteosarcoma. ZYX overexpression significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of osteosarcoma cells, whereas ZYX silencing resulted in the opposite trend. Subsequently, we found that the Rap1 signaling pathway was significantly correlated with ZYX expression as reported in The Cancer Genome Atlas’s database using bioinformatic analysis. Moreover, we found that ZYX overexpression regulated the Rap1/MEK/ERK axis, and osteosarcoma cell growth, migration, and invasion were consequently restrained. Additionally, by administering tumor cells subcutaneously to nude mice, a mouse model of transplanted tumors was created. Compared to the control group, the ZYX overexpression group’s tumors were lighter and smaller, and the ZYX/Rap1 axis was activated in the ZYX overexpression group. Taken together, our results suggest that ZYX inhibits osteosarcoma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion by regulating the Rap1/MEK/ERK signaling pathway. ZYX might be crucial in the clinical management of osteosarcoma and is a promising novel therapeutic target in patients with this disease.
Non-Surgical Treatments of Trigeminal Neuralgia from the Perspective of a Pain Physician: A Narrative Review
Authors: Lee Jin Young , Lee Gil Ho , Yi Seung Hyun , Sim Woo Seog , Kim Bae Wook , Park Hue Jung
Published: August 2023

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a unilateral disorder characterized by electric shock-like pain, abrupt onset and termination, and limited to one or more branches of the trigeminal nerve. Various therapeutic modalities for TN have been introduced. We searched for literature indexed in PubMed, Medline, and the National Library of Medicine and reviewed all relevant articles on non-surgical treatments for TN. Published studies were reviewed with no restrictions on date; reviews, clinical trials, animal studies, retrospective studies, and cases were included. Carbamazepine and oxcarbazepine are the recommended first-line pharmacotherapies. Interventional treatments should be considered when pharmacotherapy is insufficient or withdrawn because of adverse effects.
Optimizing TMS Coil Placement Approaches for Targeting the Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex in Depressed Adolescents: An Electric Field Modeling Study
Authors: Deng Zhi-De , Robins Pei L. , Dannhauer Moritz , Haugen Laura M. , Port John D. , Croarkin Paul E.
Published: August 2023

High-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (L-DLPFC) shows promise as a treatment for treatment-resistant depression in adolescents. Conventional rTMS coil placement strategies include the 5 cm, the Beam F3, and the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) neuronavigation methods. The purpose of this study was to use electric field (E-field) models to compare the three targeting approaches to a computational E-field optimization coil placement method in depressed adolescents. Ten depressed adolescents (4 females, age: 15.9±1.1) participated in an open-label rTMS treatment study and were offered MRI-guided rTMS five times per week over 6–8 weeks. Head models were generated based on individual MRI images, and E-fields were simulated for the four targeting approaches. Results showed a significant difference in the induced E-fields at the L-DLPFC between the four targeting methods (χ2=24.7, p<0.001). Post hoc pairwise comparisons showed that there was a significant difference between any two of the targeting methods (Holm adjusted p<0.05), with the 5 cm rule producing the weakest E-field (46.0±17.4V/m), followed by the F3 method (87.4±35.4V/m), followed by MRI-guided (112.1±14.6V/m), and followed by the computational approach (130.1±18.1V/m). Variance analysis showed that there was a significant difference in sample variance between the groups (K2=8.0, p<0.05), with F3 having the largest variance. Participants who completed the full course of treatment had median E-fields correlated with depression symptom improvement (r=−0.77, p<0.05). E-field models revealed limitations of scalp-based methods compared to MRI guidance, suggesting computational optimization could enhance dose delivery to the target.
Decoding the Postulated Entourage Effect of Medicinal Cannabis: What It Is and What It Isn’t
Authors: Christensen Catalina , Rose Martin , Cornett Claus , Allesø Morten
Published: August 2023

The ‘entourage effect’ term was originally coined in a pre-clinical study observing endogenous bio-inactive metabolites potentiating the activity of a bioactive endocannabinoid. As a hypothetical afterthought, this was proposed to hold general relevance to the usage of products based on Cannabis sativa L. The term was later juxtaposed to polypharmacy pertaining to full-spectrum medicinal Cannabis products exerting an overall higher effect than the single compounds. Since the emergence of the term, a discussion of its pharmacological foundation and relevance has been ongoing. Advocates suggest that the ‘entourage effect’ is the reason many patients experience an overall better effect from full-spectrum products. Critics state that the term is unfounded and used primarily for marketing purposes in the Cannabis industry. This scoping review aims to segregate the primary research claiming as well as disputing the existence of the ‘entourage effect’ from a pharmacological perspective. The literature on this topic is in its infancy. Existing pre-clinical and clinical studies are in general based on simplistic methodologies and show contradictory findings, with the clinical data mostly relying on anecdotal and real-world evidence. We propose that the ‘entourage effect’ is explained by traditional pharmacological terms pertaining to other plant-based medicinal products and polypharmacy in general (e.g., synergistic interactions and bioenhancement).
Prediction of 3-Year Survival in Patients with Cognitive Impairment Based on Demographics, Neuropsychological Data, and Comorbidities: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Xing Dianxia , Chen Lihua , Zhang Wenbo , Yi Qingjie , Huang Hong , Wu Jiani , Yu Weihua , Lü Yang
Published: August 2023

Objectives: Based on readily available demographic data, neuropsychological assessment results, and comorbidity data, we aimed to develop and validate a 3-year survival prediction model for patients with cognitive impairment. Methods: In this prospective cohort study, 616 patients with cognitive impairment were included. Demographic information, data on comorbidities, and scores of the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) scale, and Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire were collected. Survival status was determined via telephone interviews and further verified in the official death register in the third year. A 7:3 ratio was used to divide patients into the training and validation sets. Variables with statistical significance (p < 0.05) in the single-factor analysis were incorporated into the binary logistic regression model. A nomogram was constructed according to multivariate analysis and validated. Results: The final cohort included 587 patients, of whom 525 (89.44%) survived and 62 (10.56%) died. Younger age, higher MMSE score, lower IADL score, absence of disinhibition, and Charlson comorbidity index score ≤ 1 were all associated with 3-year survival. These predictors yielded good discrimination with C-indices of 0.80 (0.73–0.87) and 0.85 (0.77–0.94) in the training and validation cohorts, respectively. According to the Hosmer–Lemeshow test results, neither cohort displayed any statistical significance, and calibration curves displayed a good match between predictions and results. Conclusions: Our study provided further insight into the factors contributing to the survival of patients with cognitive impairment. Clinical Implications: Our model showed good accuracy and discrimination ability, and it can be used at community hospitals or primary care facilities that lack sophisticated equipment.
Association between Electronic Media Use and Internalizing Problems: The Mediating Effect of Parent–Child Conflict and Moderating Effect of Children’s Age
Authors: Geng Shuliang , Xu Ke , Liu Xiaocen
Published: August 2023

In today’s digital world, children are exposed extensively to electronic media, making it an integral part of their daily lives. However, excessive use of electronic media during childhood has been associated with various internalizing problems. Moreover, parent–child conflict and children’s age may be closely associated with children’s problem behaviors. The current study employed a cross-sectional design and conducted a questionnaire survey of 711 parents to examine the association between children’s electronic media use and their internalizing problems. Furthermore, this study probed the mediating role of parent–child conflict within this association and the moderating effect of children’s age. The results of structural equation modeling showed a positive correlation between children’s use of electronic media and their internalizing difficulties. Parent–child conflict served as a mediating factor in this association. Results also showed that the association between parent–child conflict and internalizing problems becomes more pronounced as children grow older. These findings imply that parents should encourage their children to develop healthy habits in using electronic media while fostering positive relationships. Parents should also be mindful of the psychological changes as children age and provide guidance to help them become proficient digital citizens.
The Importance of Urban Green Spaces in Enhancing Holistic Health and Sustainable Well-Being for People with Disabilities: A Narrative Review
Authors: Selanon Pattamon , Chuangchai Warawoot
Published: August 2023

Urban green spaces have been increasingly evidenced to not only improve human health (both body and mind) and well-being but also promote a sustainable way of living for citizens as well as cities. These positive health and sustainable advantages have even greater impacts when applied to people with disabilities, which can ultimately evaluate their quality of life in the long run. Unfortunately, people with disabilities receive less attention and tend to be disregarded in terms of equal access to public facilities, health-related services, and opportunities in society. Therefore, this article emphasizes the value of having green spaces within cities and acknowledges how people with disabilities gain the benefits through active and passive methods as well as direct and indirect means at the global, population, and individual levels. With that, this article argues that urban green spaces or the development of sustainable urbanism must prioritize and include people with disabilities in the planning process, as this inclusive population has the greatest potential for advancing public resources (e.g., environmentally, socially, and economically) and moving cities closer to being truly sustainable.
Influence of Spanish Energy-Saving Standard on Thermal Comfort and Energy Efficiency Owing to the War in Ukraine: Case Study of an Office Building in a Dry Mediterranean Climate
Authors: Pérez-Carramiñana Carlos , Sabatell-Canales Samuel , González-Avilés Ángel Benigno , Galiano-Garrigós Antonio
Published: August 2023

The energy-supply crisis, aggravated by the war in Ukraine, has prompted EU governments to approve urgent energy-saving measures. The new Spanish energy-saving standard aims to reduce energy consumption by changing the regulatory limits for indoor hygrothermal conditions in buildings. This regulation has provoked a great social debate about its real effectiveness and its impact on user comfort. This work explores the hygrothermal performance of an office building in southeastern Spain. The objective of this research is to determine qualitatively and quantitatively how the new energy-saving standard in Spain influences energy efficiency and indoor thermal comfort, by considering the characteristics of the dry Mediterranean climate (BShs) within a warm semi-arid climate (BSh). The scientific novelty of the study is to demonstrate that the new Spanish standard not only reduces energy costs but also makes the indoor comfort of buildings much worse; for this reason, an improvement in the standard is also proposed. The study methodology consists of a comparative study between the thermal performance, thermal comfort, and energy demand of the building, considering both the new and previous standards’ requirements. It also includes the evaluation of a proposal to improve the current standard. The results showed that the new energy-saving standard reduced energy consumption by 21.78% in comparison to former standards, but the new comfort ranges were not acceptable for 60% of the users. The proposed improvement does achieve acceptable comfort for most users (75%) and an additional reduction in energy demand of 48.76% compared to current standard. We conclude that the thermal comfort requirements of the current energy standard should be modified to better adapt the design criteria to the dry Mediterranean climate.
Review of the Properties of Sustainable Cementitious Systems Incorporating Ceramic Waste
Authors: Al-Fakih Amin , Odeh Ali , Mahamood Mohammed , Al-Shugaa Madyan , Al-Osta Mohammed , Ahmad Shamsad
Published: August 2023

Global carbon dioxide emissions can be attributed to Portland cement production; thus, an alternative cementitious system is essential to reduce cement demand. Ceramic waste powder (CWP), which contains high proportions of silica and alumina, has emerged as a promising alternative because of its chemical composition. This review discusses the potential of CWP as an alternative cementitious system and its effects on the physical, mechanical, and durability properties of cementitious systems. The findings revealed that the utilization of CWP in cementitious systems has positive effects on their physical, mechanical, and durability properties owing to the chemical composition of CWP, which can act as a filler material or contribute to the pozzolanic reaction. A pozzolanic reaction occurs between the silica and alumina in the CWP and calcium hydroxide in the cement, resulting in the production of additional cementitious materials such as calcium silicate hydrates and calcium aluminate hydrates. These additional materials can improve the strength and durability of cementitious systems. Various studies have demonstrated that CWP can be effectively used as a partial replacement for cement in cementitious systems. This can reduce the carbon footprint of construction activities by reducing the demand for Portland cement. However, the optimal amount and particle size of CWP have not been fully determined, and further research is required to optimize its use in cementitious systems. In addition, the technical and economic challenges associated with the use of CWP in construction must be further investigated to ensure its effective implementation.
Study on the Performance of a New Ultra-Low Temperature Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) Unit in Cold Regions
Authors: Di Yanqiang , Zhao Chen , Lian Xueli , Li Xiaolong , Bao Daorina , Liu Jinxing
Published: August 2023

Low air temperature and frosting have been reported as the critical factors that greatly attenuate the efficiency and performance of the ASHP in cold regions. In order to ensure the potential prevalence of the ASHP in cold regions of China, a new ultra-low temperature ASHP unit was developed, and the field measurement was carried out in an office building where these ASHP units were installed in Shanxi Province. Results showed that a coefficient of performance (COP) of 1.83 was obtained at the ultra-low environmental temperature of −25 °C. Meanwhile, measured results indicated significant frosting suppression and improved heating performance under three typical frosting conditions. In addition, long-term measurement results revealed that the mean COP and COPsys reached up to 3.34 and 2.63, respectively, indicating a higher performance in the cold regions of China. Consequently, the corresponding CO2 emission reached 11.3 kg per year and per square meter, and the annual total cost on the unit reduced by 15.8% compared with the conventional ASHP, which meant that the total investment could be covered in the second year. The reduced CO2 emission and the annual cost implied that the ASHP unit could produce better environmental and economic benefits. Findings of this study revealed that this ultra-low temperature ASHP unit had a better performance under cold environment, which offered a possibility for the prevailing of the ASHP in cold or extremely cold regions, as well as could contribute to the carbon peaking and neutralization.
Research on Intelligent Monitoring of Fire Safety and Fire Rescue Plan for Tunnel Operation under Quasi-Unattended Background
Authors: Li Hao , Chen Zhitao , Lu Yanming , Li Peng , Wang Qi-Ang , Liu Zichen , Li Shu
Published: August 2023

Tunnel structures account for la large proportion of the structures in mountain highway transportation systems. Most tunnels are located in remote areas in which the geological conditions are complex and harsh and in which the layout of the management facilities along the way is complex. Thus, the management and maintenance costs of various facilities are expensive, the cost of fire safety operations and management is high, and disaster prevention and rescue have a difficult time meeting the objective requirements. Therefore, it is urgent to carry out research on quasi-unmanned operations and intelligent remote monitoring. This study firstly proposes a fire safety intelligent monitoring framework for quasi-unattended tunnels. By making full use of various intelligent sensor monitoring data in the tunnel, the tunnel operation status can be grasped in real time. Then, a fire safety evaluation model can be established through the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), and, based on the monitoring data, the AHP model parameters can be evaluated to realize the real-time evaluation and management of tunnel fire safety. Finally, on the basis of the fire safety intelligent monitoring system and the fire safety evaluation system, an adaptive fire rescue plan formulation scheme is proposed for the quasi-unattended tunnels so as to provide guaranteed support for the rapid automatic response of tunnel fire protection and to provide technical data support for the design and realization of intelligent and efficient tunnel management
Analysis of Measured CO2 Levels through Long-Term Monitoring in Renovated Multifamily Buildings: A Common Case
Authors: Măgurean Ancuța Maria , Petran Horia Alexandru
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this study was to analyze the indoor air quality, in particular, the CO2 level, in a real environment, within 16 apartments located in the municipality of Zalău, Romania, in five recently renovated multifamily buildings in which families live under normal conditions. Long-term monitoring was undertaken for 4.5 months, during the heating season of 2022–2023. A representative microclimate perspective was analyzed: the median value of the time fraction, which exceeded the Indoor Environment Quality Category I (IEQcat I) threshold for adults’ bedrooms was 82.30%. For children’s bedrooms, it was 75.65%, while for living rooms, it was 58.78%. When considering IEQcat IV, it was identified that for the bedrooms, the time fraction for which the threshold values were exceeded was still significant (median value of 45.37% for adults’ bedrooms and 50.14% for children’s bedrooms). Even if the indoor thermal comfort conditions increased, it was found that for almost half of the time, the bedrooms did not provide a health-safe indoor environment for the occupants due to inadequate ventilation, exceeding the health threshold values. Thus, it was identified that the ventilation of buildings is a key issue within the renovation process and, currently, is not properly undertaken for the mass renovation of existing multifamily residential buildings.
Flexural Performance of Cracked Reinforced Concrete Beams Strengthened with Prestressed CFRP Sheets under Repeated Loads
Authors: Wang Huijuan , Li Changyong , Song Sihao , Wang Yao , Meng Qingxin , Li Fenglan
Published: August 2023

Because researchers are aiming to restore the deformation and minimize the crack width of existing concrete structures, the strengthening technology of prestressed carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) is currently the focus of many studies and applications. In terms of the strengthening of a prestressed CFRP sheet on the flexural performance of cracked reinforced concrete beams under repeated loads, a four-point bending test of 12 beams was conducted considering the prestress degree reflected by the amount and the prestress force of the CFRP sheet. The longitudinal strengthened CFRP sheet was bonded on the bottom surface of the test beam and fixed by U-jacket CFRP sheets at the ends after tensioning. The strains of concrete, longitudinal tensile steel bars and CFRP sheets were measured at the pure bending segment of test beams, while the cracks, midspan deflection and failure pattern were recorded. The results show that the normal strain on the mid-span section of the strengthened beams by the prestress CFRP sheets was fitted for the assumption of plane section, the cracks and mid-span deflection decreased with the prestress degree of the CFRP sheets to provide better serviceability for the strengthened beams, the load capacity could be increased by 41.0–88.8% at the yield of longitudinal tensile steel bars and increased by 41.9–74.8% at the ultimate state and the ductility at the failure state was sharply reduced by 54.9–186%. The peeling off of broken CFRP sheets played a role in controlling the failure pattern of the strengthened beams under repeated loads. Finally, methods for predicting the bending performance of reinforced concrete beams strengthened by prestressed CFRP sheets were proposed. This study enriches the knowledge about damaged reinforced concrete beams that were strengthened with prestressed CFRP sheets.
Validation Study of the PALCOM Scale of Complexity of Palliative Care Needs: A Cohort Study in Advanced Cancer Patients
Authors: Viladot Margarita , Gallardo-Martínez Jose-Luís , Hernandez-Rodríguez Fany , Izcara-Cobo Jessica , Majó-LLopart Josep , Peguera-Carré Marta , Russinyol-Fonte Giselle , Saavedra-Cruz Katia , Barrera Carmen , Chicote Manoli , Barreto Tanny-Daniela , Carrera Gemma , Cimerman Jackeline , Font Elena , Grafia Ignacio , Llavata Lucia , Marco-Hernandez Javier , Padrosa Joan , Pascual Anais , Quera Dolors , Zamora-Martínez Carles , Bozzone Ana-Maria , Font Carme , Tuca Albert
Published: August 2023

Background: In a patient-centred model of care, referral to early palliative care (EPC) depends on both the prognosis and the complexity of care needs. The PALCOM scale is a 5-domain multidimensional assessment tool developed to identify the level of complexity of palliative care needs of cancer patients. The aim of this study was to validate the PALCOM scale. Patient and methods: We conducted a prospective cohort study of cancer patients to compare the PALCOM scale and expert empirical assessment (EA) of the complexity of palliative care needs. The EA had to categorise patients according to their complexity, considering that medium to high levels required priority attention from specialist EPC teams, while those with low levels could be managed by non-specialist teams. Systematically collected multidimensional variables were recorded in an electronic report form and stratified by level of complexity and rating system (PALCOM scale versus EA). The correlation rank (Kendall’s tau test) and accuracy test (F1-score) between the two rating systems were analysed. ROC curve analysis was used to determine the predictive power of the PALCOM scale. Results: A total of 283 advanced cancer patients were included. There were no significant differences in the frequency of the levels of complexity between the EA and the PALCOM scale (low 22.3–23.7%; medium 57.2–59.0%; high 20.5–17.3%). The prevalence of high symptom burden, severe pain, functional impairment, socio-familial risk, existential/spiritual problems, 6-month mortality and in-hospital death was significantly higher (p < 0.001) at the high complexity levels in both scoring systems. Comparative analysis showed a high correlation rank and accuracy between the two scoring systems (Kendall’s tau test 0.81, F1 score 0.84). The predictive ability of the PALCOM scale was confirmed by an area under the curve in the ROC analysis of 0.907 for high and 0.902 for low complexity. Conclusions: In a patient-centred care model, the identification of complexity is a key point to appropriate referral and management of shared care with EPC teams. The PALCOM scale is a high precision tool for determining the level of complexity of palliative care needs.
Application of 18F-PSMA-1007 PET/MR Imaging in Early Biochemical Recurrence of Prostate Cancer: Results of a Prospective Study of 60 Patients with Very Low PSA Levels ≤ 0.5 ng/mL
Authors: Mojsak Małgorzata , Szumowski Piotr , Amelian Anna , Hladunski Marcin , Kubas Bożena , Myśliwiec Janusz , Kochanowicz Jan , Moniuszko Marcin
Published: August 2023

The use of 18F-PSMA-1007 and the role of PET/MR in the diagnosis of prostate cancer are not conclusively confirmed. There are reports indicating the potential pros and cons of using 18F-PSMA-1007 as well as the PET/MR technique in prostate cancer recurrence, but they are not yet included in the EAU guidelines. The aim of the study was to assess the effectiveness of 18F-PSMA-1007 PET/MR in detecting BCR lesions at very low PSA levels <0.5 ng/mL. Methods: Sixty patients with BCR after radical prostatectomy (RP) with PSA ranged 0.1–0.5 ng/mL were enrolled in a prospective study. All patients underwent simultaneous whole-body and pelvic 18F-PSMA-1007 PET/MR. The obtained results were verified by 12-month follow-up. Results: Fifty-three lesions were detected in 45 patients with 75% detection rate. The mean PSA value was 0.31 ng/mL. Of all PSMA-positive foci, 91% were localized in the pelvis, and only 9% of lesions were located in the extrapelvic region. Local recurrences were detected in 29%, PSMA-positive lymph nodes were detected in 64% of patients and bone metastases lesions were detected in 7% of patients. Conclusions: 18F-PSMA-1007 PET/MR seems to be an excellent diagnostic tool in patients with early BCR with very low PSA levels, especially with dt PSA < 6 months. The synergistic effect of combining 18F-PSMA-1007 and whole-body PET/MR with precise multiparametric assessment of pelvic lesions is of particular benefit in early BCR.
Decoding the Complexity of Immune–Cancer Cell Interactions: Empowering the Future of Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Maffuid Kaitlyn , Cao Yanguang
Published: August 2023

The tumor and tumor microenvironment (TME) consist of a complex network of cells, including malignant, immune, fibroblast, and vascular cells, which communicate with each other. Disruptions in cell–cell communication within the TME, caused by a multitude of extrinsic and intrinsic factors, can contribute to tumorigenesis, hinder the host immune system, and enable tumor evasion. Understanding and addressing intercellular miscommunications in the TME are vital for combating these processes. The effectiveness of immunotherapy and the heterogeneous response observed among patients can be attributed to the intricate cellular communication between immune cells and cancer cells. To unravel these interactions, various experimental, statistical, and computational techniques have been developed. These include ligand–receptor analysis, intercellular proximity labeling approaches, and imaging-based methods, which provide insights into the distorted cell–cell interactions within the TME. By characterizing these interactions, we can enhance the design of cancer immunotherapy strategies. In this review, we present recent advancements in the field of mapping intercellular communication, with a particular focus on immune–tumor cellular interactions. By modeling these interactions, we can identify critical factors and develop strategies to improve immunotherapy response and overcome treatment resistance.