bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Circulating Small Extracellular Vesicles Reflect the Severity of Myocardial Damage in STEMI Patients
Authors: Zarà Marta , Baggiano Andrea , Amadio Patrizia , Campodonico Jeness , Gili Sebastiano , Annoni Andrea , De Dona Gianluca , Carerj Maria Ludovica , Cilia Francesco , Formenti Alberto , Fusini Laura , Banfi Cristina , Gripari Paola , Tedesco Calogero Claudio , Mancini Maria Elisabetta , Chiesa Mattia , Maragna Riccardo , Marchetti Francesca , Penso Marco , Tassetti Luigi , Volpe Alessandra , Bonomi Alice , Marenzi Giancarlo , Pontone Gianluca , Barbieri Silvia Stella
Published: October 2023

Circulating small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) contribute to inflammation, coagulation and vascular injury, and have great potential as diagnostic markers of disease. The ability of sEVs to reflect myocardial damage assessed by Cardiac Magnetic Resonance (CMR) in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is unknown. To fill this gap, plasma sEVs were isolated from 42 STEMI patients treated by primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) and evaluated by CMR between days 3 and 6. Nanoparticle tracking analysis showed that sEVs were greater in patients with anterior STEMI (p = 0.0001), with the culprit lesion located in LAD (p = 0.045), and in those who underwent late revascularization (p = 0.038). A smaller sEV size was observed in patients with a low myocardial salvage index (MSI, p = 0.014). Patients with microvascular obstruction (MVO) had smaller sEVs (p < 0.002) and lower expression of the platelet marker CD41–CD61 (p = 0.039). sEV size and CD41–CD61 expression were independent predictors of MVO/MSI (OR [95% CI]: 0.93 [0.87–0.98] and 0.04 [0–0.61], respectively). In conclusion, we provide evidence that the CD41–CD61 expression in sEVs reflects the CMR-assessed ischemic damage after STEMI. This finding paves the way for the development of a new strategy for the timely identification of high-risk patients and their treatment optimization.
Newborns with Favourable Outcomes after Perinatal Asphyxia Have Upregulated Glucose Metabolism-Related Proteins in Plasma
Authors: Yip Ping K. , Bremang Michael , Pike Ian , Ponnusamy Vennila , Michael-Titus Adina T. , Shah Divyen K.
Published: October 2023

Hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality globally. Although mild therapeutic hypothermia (TH) may improve outcomes in selected babies, the mechanism of action is not fully understood. A proteomics discovery study was carried out to analyse proteins in the plasma of newborns with HIE. Proteomic analysis of plasma from 22 newborns with moderate-severe HIE that had initially undergone TH, and relative controls including 10 newborns with mild HIE who did not warrant TH and also cord blood from 10 normal births (non-HIE) were carried out using the isobaric Tandem Mass Tag (TMT®) 10plexTM labelling with tandem mass spectrometry. A total of 7818 unique peptides were identified in all TMT10plexTM samples, translating to 3457 peptides representing 405 proteins, after applying stringent filter criteria. Apart from the unique protein signature from normal cord blood, unsupervised analysis revealed several significantly regulated proteins in the TH-treated moderate-severe HIE group. GO annotation and functional clustering revealed various proteins associated with glucose metabolism: the enzymes fructose-bisphosphate aldolase A, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, phosphoglycerate mutase 1, phosphoglycerate kinase 1, and pyruvate kinase PKM were upregulated in newborns with favourable (sHIE+) outcomes compared to newborns with unfavourable (sHIE−) outcomes. Those with favourable outcomes had normal MR imaging or mild abnormalities not predictive of adverse outcomes. However, in comparison to mild HIE and the sHIE− groups, the sHIE+ group had the additional glucose metabolism-related enzymes upregulated, including triosephosphate isomerase, α-enolase, 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase, transaldolase, and mitochondrial glutathione reductase. In conclusion, our plasma proteomic study demonstrates that TH-treated newborns with favourable outcomes have an upregulation in glucose metabolism. These findings may open new avenues for more effective neuroprotective therapy.
Antioxidant, LC-MS Analysis, and Cholinesterase Inhibitory Potentials of Phoenix dactylifera Cultivar Khudari: An In Vitro Enzyme Kinetics and In Silico Study
Authors: Almalki Sami G. , Alqurashi Yaser E. , Alturaiki Wael , Almawash Saud , Khan Amir , Ahmad Parvej , Iqbal Danish
Published: October 2023

We evaluated the therapeutic potentials of Khudari fruit pulp, a functional food and cultivar of Phoenix dactylifera, against neurological disorders. Our results demonstrate a good amount of phytochemicals (total phenolic content: 17.77 ± 8.21 µg GA/mg extract) with a high antioxidant potential of aqueous extract (DPPH assay IC50 = 235.84 ± 11.65 µg/mL) and FRAP value: 331.81 ± 4.56 µmol. Furthermore, the aqueous extract showed the marked inhibition of cell-free acetylcholinesterase (electric eel) with an IC50 value of 48.25 ± 2.04 µg/mL, and an enzyme inhibition kinetics study revealed that it exhibits mixed inhibition. Thereafter, we listed the 18 best-matched phytochemical compounds present in aqueous extract through LC/MS analysis. The computational study revealed that five out of eighteen predicted compounds can cross the BBB and exert considerable aqueous solubility. where 2-{5-[(1E)-3-methylbuta-1,3-dien-1-yl]-1H-indol-3-yl}ethanol (MDIE) indicates an acceptable LD50. value. A molecular docking study exhibited that the compounds occupied the key residues of acetylcholinesterase with ΔG range between −6.91 and −9.49 kcal/mol, where MDIE has ∆G: −8.67 kcal/mol, which was better than that of tacrine, ∆G: −8.25 kcal/mol. Molecular dynamics analyses of 100 ns supported the stability of the protein–ligand complexes analyzed through RMSD, RMSF, Rg, and SASA parameters. TRP_84 and GLY_442 are the most critical hydrophobic contacts for the complex, although GLU_199 is important for H-bonds. Prime/MM-GBSA showed that the protein–ligand complex formed a stable confirmation. These findings suggest that the aqueous extract of Khudari fruit pulp has significant antioxidant and acetylcholinesterase inhibition potentials, and its compound, MDIE, forms stably with confirmation with the target protein, though this fruit of Khudari dates can be a better functional food for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Further investigations are needed to fully understand the therapeutic role of this plant-based compound via in vivo study.
USP39-Mediated Non-Proteolytic Control of ETS2 Suppresses Nuclear Localization and Activity
Authors: Choi Yunsik , Lee Yuri , Kim Jin Seo , Zhang Peijing , Kim Jongchan
Published: October 2023

ETS2 is a member of the ETS family of transcription factors and has been implicated in the regulation of cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and tumorigenesis. The aberrant activation of ETS2 is associated with various human cancers, highlighting its importance as a therapeutic target. Understanding the regulatory mechanisms and interacting partners of ETS2 is crucial for elucidating its precise role in cellular processes and developing novel strategies to modulate its activity. In this study, we conducted binding assays using a human deubiquitinase (DUB) library and identified USP39 as a novel ETS2-binding DUB. USP39 interacts with ETS2 through their respective amino-terminal regions, and the zinc finger and PNT domains are not required for this binding. USP39 deubiquitinates ETS2 without affecting its protein stability. Interestingly, however, USP39 significantly suppresses the transcriptional activity of ETS2. Furthermore, we demonstrated that USP39 leads to a reduction in the nuclear localization of ETS2. Our findings provide valuable insights into the intricate regulatory mechanisms governing ETS2 function. Understanding the interplay between USP39 and ETS2 may have implications for therapeutic interventions targeting ETS2-related diseases, including cancer, where the dysregulation of ETS2 is frequently observed.
Sonic Influence on Initially Neutral Brands: Using EEG to Unveil the Secrets of Audio Evaluative Conditioning
Authors: Bosshard Shannon , Walla Peter
Published: October 2023

The present study addresses the question of whether explicit, survey-type measures of attitude differ in sensitivity when compared to implicit, non-conscious measures of attitude in the context of attitude changes in response to evaluative conditioning (EC). In the frame of a pre-test, participants rated 300 brand names on a Likert-type scale, the results of which were then used to create personalised lists of neutral brands. After this initial online component, the participants were exposed to one, five, and ten rounds of EC (during three separate sessions), during which half of the brands were paired with pleasant audio excerpts (positive EC) and the remainder were paired with unpleasant audio excerpts (negative EC). Following each conditioning round, the participants rated the brand names again, whilst changes in the brain’s electrical activity in response to the brands were recorded via electroencephalography (EEG). After having rated the brand names, the participants also completed two implicit association tests (IAT; one for each of the neutral conditions). The results revealed that self-reported, explicit responses of brand names remained unchanged despite having been conditioned. Similarly, the IAT did not reveal any declines in reaction time. In contrast, the EEG data appeared to not only be sensitive to initial brand ratings, but also the conditioning effects of initially neutral brands. Respective neurophysiological effects were found at frontal electrode locations AF3 and AF4 for a 1 s-long time window starting at 400 ms after stimulus onset. Furthermore, the EEG revealed that changes in brand attitude are more susceptible to the effects of negative conditioning than positive conditioning. Given the rather small sample size, any generalizability seems vague, but the present results provide scientific evidence that EEG could indeed be a valuable additional method to investigate EC effects. The results of this study support the notion of utilising a multidimensional approach, inclusive of neuroscience, to understanding consumer attitudes instead of solely relying on self-report measures. In the end, the brain knows more than it admits to consciousness and language, which is why objective methods should always be included in any study.
Modified Vertical Parasagittal Sub-Insular Hemispherotomy—Case Series and Technical Note
Authors: Del Gaudio Nicole , Ferrao Santos Susana , Raftopoulos Christian
Published: October 2023

(1) Background: Hemispherotomy is the generally accepted treatment for hemispheric drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). Lateral or vertical approaches are performed according to the surgeon’s preference. Multiple technical variations have been proposed since Delalande first described his vertical technique. We propose a sub-insular variation of the vertical parasagittal hemispherotomy (VPH) and describe our case series of patients operated on using this procedure. (2) Methods: Data from a continuous series of patients with hemispheric DRE who were operated on by the senior author (CR) using the modified sub-insular VPH technique were analyzed retrospectively. Pre-operative demographic and epilepsy characteristics, functional outcome, and surgical complications were extracted from medical charts. (3) Results: Twenty-five patients were operated on between August 2008 and August 2023; 23 have at least 3 months of follow-up. Of this group, 20 (86.9%) patients are seizure-free. Only two patients developed postoperative hydrocephalus (8.7%). All patients who were able to walk autonomously preoperatively and 20 (86.9%) of those with follow-up were able to walk without assistance. A total of 17 (74%) patients were able to perform adapted social activities at the latest follow-up. (4) Conclusions: Modified sub-insular VPH is a successful surgical technique for hemispheric DRE with seizure freedom rates similar to the largest series reported in the literature. Compared to other series, patients who were operated on with our modified technique had a lower rate of postoperative hydrocephalus and excellent long-term motor and cognitive outcomes.
Within-Person Modulation of Neural Networks following Interoceptive Awareness Training through Mindful Awareness in Body-Oriented Therapy (MABT): A Pilot Study
Authors: Price Cynthia J. , Sevinc Gunes , Farb Norman A. S.
Published: October 2023

Interoception, the representation of the body’s internal state, is increasingly recognized for informing subjective wellbeing and promoting regulatory behavior. However, few empirical reports characterize interoceptive neural networks, and fewer demonstrate changes to these networks in response to an efficacious intervention. Using a two-group randomized controlled trial, this pilot study explored within-participant neural plasticity in interoceptive networks following Mindful Awareness in Body-oriented Therapy (MABT). Participants (N = 22) were assigned to either 8 weeks of MABT or to a no-treatment control and completed baseline and post-intervention assessments that included subjective interoceptive awareness (MAIA) and neuroimaging of an interoceptive awareness task. MABT was uniquely associated with insula deactivation, increased functional connectivity between the dorsal attention network and the somatomotor cortex, and connectivity changes correlated positively with changes in subjective interoception. Within the MABT group, changes in subjective interoception interacted with changes in a predefined anterior cingulate seed region to predict changes in right middle insula activity, a putative primary interoceptive representation region. While the small sample size requires the replication of findings, results suggest that interoceptive training enhances sensory–prefrontal connectivity, and that such changes are commensurate with enhanced interoceptive awareness.
Safety and Efficacy of Drug Holidays for Women with Sexual Dysfunction Induced by Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) Other than Fluoxetine: An Open-Label Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Lalegani Elham , Eissazade Negin , Shalbafan Mohammadreza , Salehian Razieh , Shariat Seyed Vahid , Askari Sanaz , Orsolini Laura , Soraya Shiva
Published: October 2023

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the cornerstone of psychopharmacology. However, they cause side effects such as sexual dysfunction, leading to the discontinuation of treatment. We aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of drug holidays for women experiencing sexual dysfunction Induced by SSRIs other than fluoxetine. This study was an 8-week randomized, open-label, controlled trial including married women aged between 18 and 50 years who had experienced sexual dysfunction while undergoing treatment with SSRIs. The intervention group implemented drug holidays by not taking medications on Thursdays and Fridays, while the control group continued regular medication use. The female sexual function index (FSFI) and the 28-question general health questionnaire (GHQ-28) were administered to assess sexual function and mental health, respectively. A total of 50 participants completed the trial. The drug holidays’ group showed significant improvements in arousal (p < 0.001), desire (p = 0.001), orgasm (p < 0.001), satisfaction (p < 0.001), lubrication (p = 0.021), and overall sexual health (p < 0.001). The between-group difference of pain was significant (p < 0.001), despite no significant within-group change. Mental health improved in both groups, despite no significant between-group difference. No major adverse effects were reported. Drug holidays did not introduce immediate safety concerns or significant adverse effects during the timeframe of eight weeks, suggesting that it may be a safe and effective strategy for managing SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction in women, alongside improving mental health. Further research is needed to reach a definitive conclusion.
Brain MRI Biomarkers in Isolated Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Behavior Disorder: Where Are We? A Systematic Review
Authors: Grimaldi Stephan , Guye Maxime , Bianciardi Marta , Eusebio Alexandre
Published: October 2023

The increasing number of MRI studies focused on prodromal Parkinson’s Disease (PD) demonstrates a strong interest in identifying early biomarkers capable of monitoring neurodegeneration. In this systematic review, we present the latest information regarding the most promising MRI markers of neurodegeneration in relation to the most specific prodromal symptoms of PD, namely isolated rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder (iRBD). We reviewed structural, diffusion, functional, iron-sensitive, neuro-melanin-sensitive MRI, and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy studies conducted between 2000 and 2023, which yielded a total of 77 relevant papers. Among these markers, iron and neuromelanin emerged as the most robust and promising indicators for early neurodegenerative processes in iRBD. Atrophy was observed in several regions, including the frontal and temporal cortices, limbic cortices, and basal ganglia, suggesting that neurodegenerative processes had been underway for some time. Diffusion and functional MRI produced heterogeneous yet intriguing results. Additionally, reduced glymphatic clearance function was reported. Technological advancements, such as the development of ultra-high field MRI, have enabled the exploration of minute anatomical structures and the detection of previously undetectable anomalies. The race to achieve early detection of neurodegeneration is well underway.
The Rehabilitation Potential of Neurostimulation for Mild Traumatic Brain Injury in Animal and Human Studies
Authors: McNerney M. Windy , Gurkoff Gene G. , Beard Charlotte , Berryhill Marian E.
Published: October 2023

Neurostimulation carries high therapeutic potential, accompanied by an excellent safety profile. In this review, we argue that an arena in which these tools could provide breakthrough benefits is traumatic brain injury (TBI). TBI is a major health problem worldwide, with the majority of cases identified as mild TBI (mTBI). MTBI is of concern because it is a modifiable risk factor for dementia. A major challenge in studying mTBI is its inherent heterogeneity across a large feature space (e.g., etiology, age of injury, sex, treatment, initial health status, etc.). Parallel lines of research in human and rodent mTBI can be collated to take advantage of the full suite of neuroscience tools, from neuroimaging (electroencephalography: EEG; functional magnetic resonance imaging: fMRI; diffusion tensor imaging: DTI) to biochemical assays. Despite these attractive components and the need for effective treatments, there are at least two major challenges to implementation. First, there is insufficient understanding of how neurostimulation alters neural mechanisms. Second, there is insufficient understanding of how mTBI alters neural function. The goal of this review is to assemble interrelated but disparate areas of research to identify important gaps in knowledge impeding the implementation of neurostimulation.
Deficits in Key Brain Network for Social Interaction in Individuals with Schizophrenia
Authors: Wu Yiwen , Wang Hongyan , Li Chuoran , Zhang Chen , Li Qingfeng , Shao Yang , Yang Zhi , Li Chunbo , Fan Qing
Published: October 2023

Individuals with schizophrenia (SZ) show impairment in social functioning. The reward network and the emotional salience network are considered to play important roles in social interaction. The current study investigated alterations in the resting-state (rs-) amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (ALFF), fractional ALFF (fALFF), regional homogeneity (ReHo) and functional connectivity (fc) in the reward network and the emotional salience network in SZ patients. MRI scans were collected from 60 subjects, including 30 SZ patients and 30 matched healthy controls. SZ symptoms were measured using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). We analyzed the ALFF, fALFF and ReHo in key brain regions in the reward network and emotional salience network as well as rs-fc among the bilateral amygdala, lateral orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), medial OFC and insula between groups. The SZ patients demonstrated increased ALFF in the right caudate and right putamen, increased fALFF and ReHo in the bilateral caudate, putamen and pallidum, along with decreased fALFF in the bilateral insula. Additionally, reduced rs-fc was found between the right lateral OFC and the left amygdala, which simultaneously belong to the reward network and the emotional salience network. These findings highlight the association between impaired social functioning in SZ patients and aberrant resting-state ALFF, fALFF, ReHo and fc. Future studies are needed to conduct network-based statistical analysis and task-state fMRI, reflecting live social interaction to advance our understanding of the mechanism of social interaction deficits in SZ.
Using the PEAR1 Polymorphisms Rs12041331 and Rs2768759 as Potential Predictive Markers of 90-Day Bleeding Events in the Context of Minor Strokes and Transient Ischemic Attack
Authors: Xu Yanjie , Yao Dongxiao , Chen Weiqi , Yan Hongyi , Zhao Dexiu , Jiang Lingling , Wang Yicong , Zhao Xingquan , Liu Liping , Wang Yongjun , Pan Yuesong , Wang Yilong
Published: October 2023

In this study, we explored the relationship between the platelet endothelial aggregation receptor 1 (PEAR1) polymorphisms, platelet reactivity, and clinical outcomes in patients with minor stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). Randomized controlled trial subgroups were assessed, wherein patients received dual antiplatelet therapy for at least 21 days. Platelet reactivity was measured at different time intervals. Genotypes were categorized as wild-type, mutant heterozygous, and mutant homozygous. Clinical outcomes were evaluated after 90 days. The rs12041331 polymorphism predominantly influenced adenosine diphosphate channel platelet activity, with the AA genotype displaying significantly lower residual platelet activity to the P2Y12 response unit (p < 0.01). This effect was more evident after 7 days of dual antiplatelet treatment (p = 0.016). Mutant A allele carriers had decreased rates of recurrent stroke and complex endpoint events but were more prone to bleeding (p = 0.015). The rs2768759 polymorphism majorly impacted arachidonic acid (AA) channel platelet activity, which was particularly noticeable in the C allele carriers. Our regression analysis demonstrated that rs12041331 AA + GA and rs2768759 CA predicted 90-day post-stroke bleeding. In conclusion, the PEAR1 polymorphisms rs12041331 and rs2768759 interfere with platelet aggregation and the performance of antiplatelet drugs. These genetic variations may contribute to bleeding events associated with minor stroke and TIA.
Motives for Cannabis Use and Risky Decision Making Influence Cannabis Use Trajectories in Teens
Authors: Lehman Sarah M. , Thompson Erin L. , Adams Ashley R. , Hawes Samuel W. , Pacheco-Colón Ileana , Granja Karen , Paula Dayana C. , Gonzalez Raul
Published: October 2023

The current study will examine the interactive effects of motives for cannabis use (i.e., health or recreational) and risky decision making (DM) on cannabis use trajectories among adolescents. Data from 171 adolescents, aged 14–17 at the initial visit (baseline), were prospectively analyzed across five time points approximately six months apart. Latent growth curve modeling and linear regression analyses were used. We found a significant interactive effect of “recreational motives” and risky DM on the rate of cannabis use over time. Specifically, among those less likely to use cannabis for recreational purposes, riskier DM was associated with a faster increase in the rate of use over time relative to those with lower risky DM. Additionally, a significant main effect showed that those with a greater proclivity to use cannabis for health purposes had higher initial levels of use at baseline and faster increases in the rate of use over time. Regardless of risky DM, using cannabis for health purposes is associated with faster increases in cannabis use escalation. Additionally, risky DM does impact the association between recreational motives for use and cannabis use trajectories. Future work should examine these associations with additional motives for cannabis use that have been previously validated within the literature.
Real-Time Classification of Motor Imagery Using Dynamic Window-Level Granger Causality Analysis of fMRI Data
Authors: Liu Tianyuan , Li Bao , Zhang Chi , Chen Panpan , Zhao Weichen , Yan Bin
Published: October 2023

This article presents a method for extracting neural signal features to identify the imagination of left- and right-hand grasping movements. A functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) experiment is employed to identify four brain regions with significant activations during motor imagery (MI) and the effective connections between these regions of interest (ROIs) were calculated using Dynamic Window-level Granger Causality (DWGC). Then, a real-time fMRI (rt-fMRI) classification system for left- and right-hand MI is developed using the Open-NFT platform. We conducted data acquisition and processing on three subjects, and all of whom were recruited from a local college. As a result, the maximum accuracy of using Support Vector Machine (SVM) classifier on real-time three-class classification (rest, left hand, and right hand) with effective connections is 69.3%. And it is 3% higher than that of traditional multivoxel pattern classification analysis on average. Moreover, it significantly improves classification accuracy during the initial stage of MI tasks while reducing the latency effects in real-time decoding. The study suggests that the effective connections obtained through the DWGC method serve as valuable features for real-time decoding of MI using fMRI. Moreover, they exhibit higher sensitivity to changes in brain states. This research offers theoretical support and technical guidance for extracting neural signal features in the context of fMRI-based studies.
Using Neck Muscle Afferentation to Control an Ongoing Limb Movement? Individual Differences in the Influence of Brief Neck Vibration
Authors: Alekhina Maria , Perkic Goran , Manson Gerome Aleandro , Blouin Jean , Tremblay Luc
Published: October 2023

When preparing and executing goal-directed actions, neck proprioceptive information is critical to determining the relative positions of the body and target in space. While the contribution of neck proprioception for upper-limb movements has been previously investigated, we could not find evidence discerning its impact on the planning vs. online control of upper-limb trajectories. To investigate these distinct sensorimotor processes, participants performed discrete reaches towards a virtual target. On some trials, neck vibration was randomly applied before and/or during the movement, or not at all. The main dependent variable was the medio-lateral/directional bias of the reaching finger. The neck vibration conditions induced early leftward trajectory biases in some participants and late rightward trajectory biases in others. These different patterns of trajectory biases were explained by individual differences in the use of body-centered and head-centered frames of reference. Importantly, the current study provides direct evidence that sensory cues from the neck muscles contribute to the online control of goal-directed arm movements, likely accompanied by significant individual differences.
A Descriptive Review of Medication-Overuse Headache: From Pathophysiology to the Comorbidities
Authors: Ljubisavljevic Srdjan , Ljubisavljevic Marina , Damjanovic Radomir , Kalinic Sreten
Published: October 2023

Purpose of review: Medication-overuse headache (MOH) is an important problem worldwide, with different areas of controversy regarding its entity. This article reviews the risk factors, comorbidities, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, effective management, and prognosis of MOH by summarizing and integrating the results and findings from previously performed more than 15,000 studies (from 2010 to 2023) available from the scientific database of the University Medical Library in the University Clinical Center of Niš, which aimed to investigate and define the complexity of this type of headache. Recent finding: It has been proposed that all acute migraine medications can lead to MOH, with differences in the propensity of different agents to cause the problem. Early data suggests that triptans and other painkillers used for the acute treatment of migraine may be an exception. Recent studies show that practitioners and the general public are still largely unaware of the problem of medication overuse and its damaging effects. Summary: Although it is likely that MOH does occur, restricting the number of acute medications is necessary to prevent it. It is also possible that increasing amounts of acute medications are simply a reflection of poorly controlled headaches rather than a cause. Further research needs to be developed to identify more precise mechanisms for effective MOH management and its evolution.
Numerical Study on the Influence of Bubble Defection on the Bond Strength of Externally Bonded Fiber-Reinforced Polymer-to-Concrete Joints
Authors: Chen Yong , Wu Tao , Lin Jian-Ping
Published: October 2023

The influences of bubble defects on the bond strengths of externally bonded fiber-reinforced polymer (EB-FRP) concrete joints were investigated using numerical method in this research. Studies of the influences of increasing bubble defect areas on interfacial bonding performance were first conducted. It was observed that the influence of a bubble deficiency located in the middle of the bond region is not significant when the size of the bubble area is less than 2.5% of the effective bond area. Then, further investigation was conducted on the influences of the distances between the bubble and the loaded end, as well as the distance between the bubble and the side of the FRP, the ratio of the bubble’s width to the width of the FRP, the number of bubbles with a fixed total area and the distribution of multiple bubbles. It was found that the distances of the bubble to the loaded end and different numbers of bubbles distributed within a fixed area do not significantly affect the bond strength. When the bubble is positioned closer to the side of the FRP, a decrease in load capacity tends to occur earlier, and the amount of decrease also slightly increases. The bond capacity can be influenced by the shapes of the bubbles, and as the bubble width in the lateral direction increases while keeping the bubble areas constant, the load capacity decreases.
Experimental Study on Seismic Response of Underground Tunnel–Soil–Piled Structure Interaction Using Shaking Table in Loose Sand
Authors: Ekraminia SeyedSaeid , Hajialilue Bonab Masoud , Ghassemi Saba , Derakhshani Reza
Published: October 2023

The seismic response of structures can have a significant impact on adjacent structures’ response. Although several numerical studies have been applied in the field of tunnel–soil–pile interaction systems, there is a lack of experimental research specifically focused on the effects of this interaction on tunnel cross-section deformation and the existence of structure on encircling soil response. In this study, shaking table tests were conducted to examine the seismic response of a tunnel and the surrounding soil when an eight-story structure with piles was located in the vicinity of the tunnel. Four series of physical models were analyzed, including free-field soil (S), tunnel–soil (TS), soil-piled structure (SP), and tunnel–soil-piled structure (TSP), under sinusoidal vibration at three frequencies on loose sand. According to the results, the tunnel significantly impacts the surrounding soil response during seismic excitation with reduced acceleration at the tunnel invert and increased acceleration at the tunnel crown. In the TSP model, applied frequency affects the recorded acceleration amplitude at the tunnel invert. Although acceleration amplitude decreases at 3 Hz frequency excitation compared to the free field model, 8 Hz excitation resulted in bigger values in tunnel invert. Displacements are higher at the tunnel crown, indicating tunnel-induced soil deformation and maximum shear strain concentrated near the tunnel crown. The tunnel cross-section exhibited oval shape changes, with higher forces on the tunnel crown in the presence of piles.
Prefabricated Ferrocement Jacket for Repairing and Strengthening Axially Loaded Square Sub-Standard Concrete Stub Columns
Authors: Mahmood Abir , Kaish A. , Mohammed Ali Taghreed , Al Zand Ahmed , Jamil Maslina , Hamid Roszilah
Published: October 2023

For decades, ferrocement has been used to repair, strengthen, and even build structural components because it is a long-lasting and reasonably priced material. However, onsite ferrocement jacketing is time-consuming and labour-intensive. Alternatively, prefabricated ferrocement jacket installation eliminates these shortcomings. Therefore, this study utilises wearable prefabricated ferrocement jackets to repair and strengthen axially loaded sub-standard low-strength concrete elements. In order to repair cracked specimens and strengthen existing intact specimens, two types of wearable prefabricated jackets are proposed, ‘L’ shape and ‘U’ shape. Besides a control specimen, two preloaded and two unloaded square concrete specimens were utilised to repair and strengthen using the Prefabricated Ferrocement Jacketing system. The test results and crack patterns show that all the jacketed specimens performed better than the control specimens in terms of load-bearing capacity, ultimate axial and lateral deflection, and ductility. In terms of load-bearing capacity, the unloaded strengthened specimens showed significant results consistently. Based on the results, the proposed solutions were found to be effective in solving the problem of typical square ferrocement jackets.
Effect of Load Eccentricity on CRC Structures with Different Slenderness Ratios Subjected to Axial Compression
Authors: Giese Josiane , Beckmann Birgit , Schladitz Frank , Marx Steffen , Curbach Manfred
Published: October 2023

The use of nonmetallic reinforcement in concrete aims at the decrease in material consumption by reducing the component sizes when compared to conventional reinforced concrete structures, which inherently results in very filigree structures. Although intensive basic research has been carried out on textile-reinforced concrete for about 30 years, the subject of stability behavior has hardly been investigated so far. This study focuses the fundamental understanding of the structural behavior of slender carbon-reinforced concrete (CRC) structures subjected to axial compression. Therefore, buckling experiments have been carried out in order to quantify the influence of two parameters: the slenderness ratio of the specimens (varying between 60 and 130) and the load eccentricity (0, 2, and 4 mm). The results of the specimens that were tested with the initial load eccentricities revealed a good overall agreement with those obtained by a second-order theory approach throughout all of the investigated slenderness ratios. For the centrally pressed samples that featured high slenderness ratios, the failure stresses could successfully be predicted with Euler’s buckling formula, whereas this theory overestimated the results of the specimens with intermediate to low slenderness ratios due to the plastic buckling phenomenon. The presented study emphasizes that the consideration of the stability problem is inevitable when designing material-efficient structures made of textile-reinforced concrete.
Research on the Public’s Support for Emergency Infrastructure Projects Based on K-Nearest Neighbors Machine Learning Algorithm
Authors: Cui Caiyun , Cao Huan , Shao Qianwen , Xie Tingyu , Li Yaming
Published: October 2023

The public’s support for emergency infrastructure projects, which will affect the government’s credibility, social stability, and development, is very important. However, there are few systematic research findings on public support for emergency infrastructure projects. In order to explore the factors influencing the public’s support and the degree of influence of each factor on the public’s support, this paper employs K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), a learning curve with m-fold cross-validation, grid search, and random forest to study the public’s support for emergency infrastructure projects and its influencing factors. In this paper, a prediction model of the public’s support for emergency infrastructure projects is developed based on KNN from data drawn from a questionnaire survey of 445 local residents concerning Wuhan Leishenshan Hospital, China. Two optimization algorithms, the learning curve with m-fold cross-validation and the grid search algorithm, are proposed to optimize the key parameters of the KNN predictive model. Additionally, quantitative analysis is conducted by using the random forest algorithm to assess the importance of various factors influencing public support. The results show that the prediction accuracy and model stability of the KNN prediction model based on the grid search algorithm are better than those using a learning curve with m-fold cross-validation. Furthermore, the random forest algorithm quantitative analysis shows that the most important factor influencing the public’s support is government attention. The conclusions drawn from this paper provide a theoretical reference and practical guidance for decision making and the sustainable development of emergency infrastructure projects in China.
A New Method for Correcting the Deviation of a Middle Pier Tower of a Long-Span Intermediate Arch Bridge
Authors: Dong Xiaojin , Ye Dan
Published: October 2023

To control the deviation of a long-span concrete-filled steel tube (CFST) arch bridge during construction monitoring, a practical method for controlling tower deviation is studied and established. The form of construction of this bridge is an intermediate double-arch bridge, which differs from conventional bridges, thus requiring the urgent resolution of the issue of unbalanced middle piers. Therefore, the mechanical characteristics and construction process of an intermediate long-span, dual-coupled steel pipe arch bridge are meticulously examined by using a 1:10 scale model, with particular focus on discussing the deflection of the buckle tower during the installation of the arch rib segments. Construction control is implemented using a novel tower deflection control method that addresses unilateral torsion problems and difficulties in controlling the deflection of the tower. The model results are compared with the finite element analysis output, demonstrating that this new approach can resolve unbalanced tower deviations by maintaining absolute values within 0.5 mm. After correcting these deviations, the measured results from the model bridge tower align with the calculated analytical results and even surpass the theoretical expectations for tower deviation. This remarkable new method accurately resolves real-world bridge tower deviations.
Enhancing the Production of Syngas from Spent Green Tea Waste through Dual-Stage Pyrolysis and Catalytic Cracking
Authors: Ben Abdallah Asma , Ben Hassen Trabelsi Aïda , Veses Alberto , García Tomás , López José Manuel , Navarro María Victoria , Mihoubi Daoued
Published: October 2023

A sequential two-step thermochemical process was studied for spent green tea waste (SGTW), involving an initial pyrolysis step followed by thermal or catalytic cracking. This process was carried out in two bench-scale reactors (fixed bed reactor and tubular reactor) serially coupled. At a fixed pyrolysis temperature of SGTW (550 °C), the application of high cracking temperatures (700 and 800 °C) positively affected both the yield and composition of the gas product. Consequently, it has the potential to be used for the production of diverse biofuels and chemicals, or to be partially recycled to optimize the process efficiency. Moreover, the use of inexpensive catalysts, particularly dolomite, was considered advantageous, since the syngas yield (56.5 wt%) and its potential were greatly enhanced, reaching a H2/CO ratio of 1.5. The homogenous biochar obtained, with a calorific value of 26.84 MJ/kg, could be harnessed as good-quality fuel for briquette applications and as a biofuel source for generating stationary power. Furthermore, catalytic cracking pyrolysis was examined for different types of coffee waste, revealing that this process is a simple and clean solution to valorize oxygen-rich lignocellulosic biomass and generate valuable gaseous by-products.
A Comprehensive Overview on Biochar-Based Materials for Catalytic Applications
Authors: Bartoli Mattia , Giorcelli Mauro , Tagliaferro Alberto
Published: October 2023

The development of heterogeneous catalysts is one of the pillars of modern material science. Among all supports, carbonaceous ones are the most popular due to their high surface area, limited cost, and tunable properties. Nevertheless, materials such as carbon black are produced from oil-derived sources lacking in sustainability. Pyrolytic carbon produced from biomass, known as biochar, could represent a valid solution to combine the sustainability and performance of supported catalysts. In this review, we report a comprehensive overview of the most cutting-edge applications of biochar-based catalysts, providing a reference point for both experts and newcomers. This review will provide a description of all possible applications of biochar-based catalysts, proving their sustainability for the widest range of processes.
The Effects of Aging on Rod Bipolar Cell Ribbon Synapses
Authors: Shrestha Abhishek P. , Rameshkumar Nirujan , Boff Johane M. , Rajmanna Rhea , Chandrasegaran Thadshayini , Frederick Courtney E. , Zenisek David , Vaithianathan Thirumalini
Published: October 2023

The global health concern posed by age-related visual impairment highlights the need for further research focused on the visual changes that occur during the process of aging. To date, multiple sensory alterations related to aging have been identified, including morphological and functional changes in inner hair cochlear cells, photoreceptors, and retinal ganglion cells. While some age-related morphological changes are known to occur in rod bipolar cells in the retina, their effects on these cells and on their connection to other cells via ribbon synapses remain elusive. To investigate the effects of aging on rod bipolar cells and their ribbon synapses, we compared synaptic calcium currents, calcium dynamics, and exocytosis in zebrafish (Danio rerio) that were middle-aged (MA,18 months) or old-aged (OA, 36 months). The bipolar cell terminal in OA zebrafish exhibited a two-fold reduction in number of synaptic ribbons, an increased ribbon length, and a decrease in local Ca2+ signals at the tested ribbon location, with little change in the overall magnitude of the calcium current or exocytosis in response to brief pulses. Staining of the synaptic ribbons with antibodies specific for PKCa revealed shortening of the inner nuclear and plexiform layers (INL and IPL). These findings shed light on age-related changes in the retina that are related to synaptic ribbons and calcium signals.
Using a Topical Formulation of Vitamin D for the Treatment of Vitiligo: A Systematic Review
Authors: Al-Smadi Khadeejeh , Ali Masood , Alavi Seyed Ebrahim , Jin Xuping , Imran Mohammad , Leite-Silva Vania R. , Mohammed Yousuf
Published: October 2023

Vitamin D is one significant prohormone substance in human organ systems. It is a steroidal hormone produced in the skin upon exposure to UVB rays. This paper presents a systematic review of the utilization of topical vitamin D, specifically cholecalciferol, calcipotriol, and tacalcitol, in the treatment of vitiligo. It considers the role of vitamin D in stimulating the synthesis of melanin and melanogenesis, which can help with the process of repigmentation. The inclusion of calcipotriol or tacalcitol in Narrowband Ultraviolet Phototherapy (NB-UVB) has shown the potential to enhance therapeutic outcomes for vitiligo. However, their effectiveness in combination with Psoralens Long Wave Ultraviolet Radiation (PUVA) and Monochromatic Excimer Light (MEL) treatment for vitiligo is limited. In contrast, combining topical corticosteroids with vitamin D analogues has demonstrated superior efficacy in treating vitiligo compared to using vitamin D analogues alone, while also providing the added benefit of reducing corticosteroid-related adverse effects. In addition, treating stable vitiligo with topical cholecalciferol and microneedling has shown success. Future studies are needed to ascertain an efficient method of administering vitamin D topically as an anti-vitiligo agent.
Unlocking Translational Potential: Conditionally Reprogrammed Cells in Advancing Breast Cancer Research
Authors: Daneshdoust Danyal , Luo Mingjue , Li Zaibo , Mo Xiaokui , Alothman Sahar , Kallakury Bhaskar , Schlegel Richard , Zhang Junran , Guo Deliang , Furth Priscilla A. , Liu Xuefeng , Li Jenny
Published: October 2023

Preclinical in vitro models play an important role in studying cancer cell biology and facilitating translational research, especially in the identification of drug targets and drug discovery studies. This is particularly relevant in breast cancer, where the global burden of disease is quite high based on prevalence and a relatively high rate of lethality. Predictive tools to select patients who will be responsive to invasive or morbid therapies (radiotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and/or surgery) are relatively lacking. To be clinically relevant, a model must accurately replicate the biology and cellular heterogeneity of the primary tumor. Addressing these requirements and overcoming the limitations of most existing cancer cell lines, which are typically derived from a single clone, we have recently developed conditional reprogramming (CR) technology. The CR technology refers to a co-culture system of primary human normal or tumor cells with irradiated murine fibroblasts in the presence of a Rho-associated kinase inhibitor to allow the primary cells to acquire stem cell properties and the ability to proliferate indefinitely in vitro without any exogenous gene or viral transfection. This innovative approach fulfills many of these needs and offers an alternative that surpasses the deficiencies associated with traditional cancer cell lines. These CR cells (CRCs) can be reprogrammed to maintain a highly proliferative state and reproduce the genomic and histological characteristics of the parental tissue. Therefore, CR technology may be a clinically relevant model to test and predict drug sensitivity, conduct gene profile analysis and xenograft research, and undertake personalized medicine. This review discusses studies that have applied CR technology to conduct breast cancer research.