bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study on the Amplification Effect and Optimum Control of the Intermediate Column–Lever Negative Stiffness Viscous Damper
Authors: Zhou Qiang , Pan Wen , Lan Xiang , Li Zuwei
Published: August 2024

Currently, the energy dissipation efficiency of intermediate column dampers is extremely low, and traditional lever amplification damping systems occupy a large space in buildings. Aiming at solving these problems, this paper puts forward a new intermediate column–lever negative stiffness viscous damper (CLNVD), which has the characteristics of small impact on building space and significant amplification of the damper displacement. The CLNVD consists of the following four parts: the viscous damper, the negative stiffness device, the lever, and the intermediate column. This paper introduces the displacement amplification coefficient (fd) to assess the CLNVD’s displacement amplification effect and introduces the energy dissipation coefficient (fE) to assess the CLNVD’s energy dissipation effect. The expressions for fd and fE are derived according to the geometric magnification coefficient and effective displacement factor. Moreover, the impacts of multiple factors including the CLNVD’s position, the lever’s amplification coefficient, the bending line stiffness of beam, the negative stiffness, the damping coefficient, the damping index, and the inter-story displacement on the CLNVD’s fd and fE are elaborated. The analysis results reveal the following: when the CLNVD is located in the middle of the span, the fd and fE of the CLNVD will be maximized, and fE will increase first and then decrease as the beam’s bending line stiffness increases. Meanwhile, the amplification capability of the CLNVD increases as the lever’s amplification coefficient χ rises. When the negative stiffness does not exist, there exists an optimum lever’s amplification coefficient χ that maximizes fE. When the combination of damping coefficient c and index α satisfies a specific relationship, fE of the CLNVD reaches its largest value. When the negative stiffness and the loss stiffness of VD are within the region proposed in this paper, the CLNVD will achieve a higher fd and avoid providing significant negative stiffness. Subsequently, this paper proposes an optimization design method of the CLNVD. Finally, the amplification effect of CLNVD as well as the effectiveness of its optimization design method are verified through examples. In the case study, the CLNVD offers a larger damping ratio under the circumstance of fortification earthquakes. Under fortification and rare earthquakes, the inter-story displacement of Scheme 1 has been decreased by half roughly. According to the above-mentioned results, the CLNVD provides a brand-new approach for designers in the seismic design of buildings. Furthermore, this paper will provide beneficial reference for the damping design of other amplification devices equipped with negative stiffness dampers.
Special Issue: Recent Research in Occupational Exposure Assessments and Hazard Control Measures
Authors: Hon Chun-Yip
Published: August 2024

According to the International Labour Organization, there are 340 million cases of work-related accidents and 160 million victims of occupational illness globally every year [...]
Aqua Extracts of Lyophilized Sea Buckthorn Modify Fermentation and Quality Properties of Set-Type Yogurt
Authors: Silyvridou Aikaterini , Bari Anastasia , Georgopoulou Theodora , Baxevanou Catherine , Giannouli Persephoni
Published: August 2024

Sea buckthorn is a promising ingredient for the food industry because it is a good source of vitamins, polyphenols, phytosterols, etc. In this research, it is the first time that aqueous extracts of lyophilized sea buckthorn (LSB) 0%, 0.5%, 1%, 2%, and 3% w/w were used to enrich set-type yogurts. Therefore, fermentation kinetics, hardness, color, titratable acidity, syneresis, water holding capacity, total phenolic content microstructure, and sensory analysis were investigated. Extracts of lyophilized sea buckthorn shorten the yogurt fermentation time, change the microstructure, reduce syneresis, and increase water-holding capacity compared to plain yogurt. Also, the titratable acidity for all yogurts remained the same but the total phenolic content of yogurts increased as the concentration of extracts from lyophilized sea buckthorn increased. The color parameters of the fortified set-type yogurts were affected by the color of the sea buckthorn extract with increasing a* and b* values according to extract concentrations. Finally, yogurts fortified with 0.5% and 1.0% w/w extracts of LSB have good quality characteristics, increased total phenolic content, and higher scores of being liked compared to the rest of the enriched samples. This study could increase the knowledge of the uses of aqueous extracts of lyophilized sea buckthorn in dairy products.
Super-Frequency Sampling for Thermal Transient Analysis
Authors: Anke Simon H. , Ziegeler Nils J. , Nolte Peter W. , Schweizer Stefan
Published: August 2024

Thermal transients of small or thermally well-conducting components typically relax with a very short time constant. In some cases, the fastest changes occur on a time scale of a few tens to hundreds of microseconds. Providing a sampling rate higher than 1 kHz is challenging, even for modern infrared cameras. This work presents a periodic non-uniform sampling technique for measuring thermographic transients, which increases the effective sampling rate by one order of magnitude to 10 kHz, resulting in a temporal resolution of 100 μs. The practical application of this technique captures parts of the thermal transient that would otherwise be missed for standard sampling rates. The results confirm the algorithm’s ability to enhance the effective sampling rate, providing a more detailed thermal analysis of rapid transient processes in small-scale electronic components.
Application of Ultrasonic Testing for Assessing the Elastic Properties of PLA Manufactured by Fused Deposition Modeling
Authors: Pozhanka Mariya , Zagrai Andrei , Baez Avila Fidel , Drach Borys
Published: August 2024

This study demonstrated the potential of a non-destructive evaluation (NDE) method to assess the elastic properties of materials printed under various parameters. A database was created documenting the relationship between the elastic properties (Young’s modulus, shear modulus, and Poisson’s ratio) of PLA (polylactic acid) materials and selected printing parameters such as temperature, speed, and layer height. PLA, which is widely used in additive manufacturing, offers convenient testing conditions due to its less demanding control compared to materials like metals. Ultrasonic testing was conducted on specimens printed under different nozzle temperatures, speeds, and layer heights. The results indicated that an increase in the printing temperature corresponded to an increase in material density and elastic properties of the material. In contrast, an increase in layer height led to a decrease in both density and the elastic properties of the material. Variations in the nozzle speed had a negligible effect on density and did not show a notable effect on the elastic moduli. This study demonstrated that ultrasonic testing is effective in measuring the elastic properties of PLA materials and shows the potential of real-time ultrasonic NDE.
Assessing Anatase TiO2 Nanofluids Performance: Experimental Heat Transfer Coefficients vs. Mouromtseff Number Ratios
Authors: Calviño Uxía , Prado Jose I. , Vallejo Javier P. , Lugo Luis
Published: August 2024

This research aims to evaluate the efficacy of Mouromtseff’s numbers in assessing the thermal transfer performance of titanium oxide (TiO2) nanosized dispersions in convective heat transfer through a pipe. New experimental coefficients of convective heat transfer, thermophysical and rheological characterisation are carried out for TiO2-based nanodispersions in an aqueous propylene glycol 30 vol% mixture at various nanoadditive mass loadings (from 0.25 to 2.0 wt%). Different Mouromtseff’s number formulations, including the Dittus–Boelter and Simons expressions, were obtained from experimental data of thermophysical properties, enabling concise analyses on the prospective improvement of heat transfer in cooling and heating systems. The morphology, particle size, and crystallinity of the anatase TiO2 nanopowder were confirmed, and the stability of the nanofluids with various surfactants was evaluated, with PSS at a 1:4 mass ratio being optimal. Slight increments in thermal conductivity (up to 1.5%) and density (up to 1.3%) with nanoparticle loading were observed, while isobaric heat capacity presents a decreasing trend (less than 13%). Dynamic viscosity increases with higher nanoadditive concentrations, 8.8% for the 2.0 wt% A-TiO2/PG:W 30:70 + PSS 1:4 nanofluid. The employed Dittus–Boelter and Simons expressions correctly predict a worsening of the convective heat transfer, but the percentages diverge slightly from experimental data.
Position-Specific Reference Data for an Ice Hockey-Specific Complex Test—An Update and Practical Recommendations
Authors: Schulze Stephan , Laudner Kevin G. , Delank Karl-Stefan , Bartels Thomas , Marshall Robert Percy , Schwesig René
Published: August 2024

This real-life data collection aimed to expand an existing reference database regarding an extensively evaluated ice hockey-specific complex test (IHCT). One hundred and thirty-eight third-league professional ice hockey field players (mean ± SD; age: 26.4 ± 5.24 years; forwards: n = 94, defenders: n = 44) were investigated. IHCT data were collected over eight seasons from three third-league teams. The IHCT included parameters for the load (e.g., 10 m and 30 m sprint times, transition and weave agility times with and without a puck, slap and wrist shots on goal) and stress (e.g., lactate, heart rate). The only relevant (p < 0.002, ηp2 ≥ 0.10) difference between forwards and defenders for performance was found for 30 m backward sprint without a puck (p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.10, d = 0.74). As expected, in this regard, defenders performed better than forwards. Significant differences were also found in 10 m backward sprint without a puck (p = 0.005), weave agility with a puck (p = 0.014), heart rate recovery minute 10 (p = 0.057), and goals after the test (p = 0.041). This study provides expanded position-specific third-league reference data for the IHCT. On this basis, coaches are able to evaluate players’ performance (forwards vs. defenders) and the effect of the training periods. Further research is necessary to extend this database to first- and second-league players in order to enhance the scope of the IHCT.
Advancements in Phytoremediation Research in South Africa (1997–2022)
Authors: Akinpelu Enoch Akinbiyi , Nchu Felix
Published: August 2024

Several mining-related pollutions, industrial waste, and soil deterioration define South Africa’s environmental landscape. These have led to the consumption of unhealthy food, contaminated agricultural products, and polluted water. The polluted environment has been linked to numerous diseases among the populace, thus making environmental remediation an important issue in South Africa. Phytoremediation has been identified as a biological method for the restoration of polluted environments naturally and holistically. Therefore, it is vital to evaluate the level of phytoremediation-related research in South Africa in pursuit of a way out of environmental pollution. Thus, the purpose of this study was to map phytoremediation-related research in South Africa from inception to 2022. Statistical records from the Web of Science Core Collection were analyzed with the bibliometric package in RStudio, while mapping was performed via VOSviewer. Our study showed a low annual growth rate of publication (4.49%). The analysis uncovered that the 39 documents analyzed were written by 112 authors, and the first document was featured in the Journal of Geochemical Exploration in 1997. Kirkham, MB and Liphadzi, MS are the most relevant authors. USA has the strongest collaboration with South Africa, while the International Journal of Phytoremediation, the South African Journal of Botany, and Water SA are the most relevant journals. The result of this study can guide upcoming researchers and policymakers, together with essential facts for enhancing the restoration of the polluted environment in the country.
Nano-Encapsulation and Conjugation Applied in the Development of Lipid Nanoparticles Delivering Nucleic Acid Materials to Enable Gene Therapies
Authors: Dinh Linh , Mahon Lanesa , Yan Bingfang
Published: August 2024

Nano-encapsulation and conjugation are the main strategies employed for drug delivery. Nanoparticles help improve encapsulation and targeting efficiency, thus optimizing therapeutic efficacy. Through nanoparticle technology, replacement of a defective gene or delivery of a new gene into a patient’s genome has become possible. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) loaded with genetic materials are designed to be delivered to specific target sites to enable gene therapy. The lipid shells protect the fragile genetic materials from degradation, then successfully release the payload inside of the cells, where it can integrate into the patient’s genome and subsequently express the protein of interest. This review focuses on the development of LNPs and nano-pharmaceutical techniques for improving the potency of gene therapies, reducing toxicities, targeting specific cells, and releasing genetic materials to achieve therapeutic effects. In addition, we discuss preparation techniques, encapsulation efficiency, and the effects of conjugation on the efficacy of LNPs in delivering nucleic acid materials.
Review of the Mechanisms of Liquid-Phase Transformation of Atmospheric Phenolic Compounds: Implications for Air Quality and Environmental Health
Authors: Yang Yuyan , Li Xingru , Cai Min , Chen Kaitao
Published: August 2024

Phenolic compounds (PhCs) are aromatic compounds with benzene rings that have one or more hydroxyl groups. They are found or formed in the atmosphere due to various factors such as combustion processes, industrial emissions, oxidation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other photochemical reactions. Due to properties such as relatively high Henry’s law constants and moderate/high water solubility, PhCs are vulnerable to reactions in atmospheric liquid phase conditions with high relative humidity, fog or cloudy conditions. PhCs can lead to the formation of secondary organic aerosols (SOAs), which can have negative effects on atmospheric conditions and human health. Changes in the optical properties of PhCs impact solar radiation absorption and scattering, potentially influencing climate. Additionally, PhCs may interact with other atmospheric constituents, potentially affecting cloud or fog formation and properties, which in turn can impact climate and precipitation patterns. Therefore, monitoring and controlling the emission of PhCs is essential. This paper discusses the transformation processes of PhCs in the atmosphere, including direct conversion of phenol, nitrate-induced and nitrite-induced reactions, hydroxylation reactions and oxidation processes involving triplet excited state organics, also providing a detailed analysis of the transformation processes. The findings lay a theoretical foundation for the future monitoring and control of atmospheric pollutants.
Statistical Analysis of Atmospheric Ducts in the Yellow and Bohai Seas of China and Study of Their Electromagnetic Wave Propagation Characteristics
Authors: Yang Xiao , Li Lei , Lin Leke , Zhang Rui , Liang Shuaishuai , Zhao Zhenwei
Published: August 2024

Atmospheric ducts play a critical role in the propagation of electromagnetic waves by minimizing signal loss and extending transmission distances, which is essential for radar, communication, and navigation systems. This study leverages meteorological sounding data and reanalysis data to analyze the distribution of atmospheric ducts in the Bohai Sea and Yellow Sea regions of China. The parabolic equation method was employed to simulate the propagation characteristics of electromagnetic waves in evaporation ducts, surface ducts, and mixed duct environments, focusing on the effects of electromagnetic wave frequency and antenna height. In the Bohai Sea region, the height of evaporation ducts peaks at 13 m in spring and autumn, decreasing to 6 m in winter. In the Yellow Sea region, the height reaches 12 m in autumn and drops to 7 m in summer, indicating a heterogeneous distribution. The monthly mean occurrence rate of atmospheric ducts is defined as the number of atmospheric duct events in a given month divided by the total number of samples for that month. Influenced by the summer and winter monsoons, the occurrence rate of surface ducts is higher from May to September and lower from October to April of the following year. In contrast, elevated ducts reach their peak occurrence rate of 60% in October. In an evaporation duct environment, propagation loss gradually increases with distance, and the loss is more pronounced in non-uniform environments. In surface ducts, propagation loss exhibits periodic fluctuations with distance, exceeding 47 dB. The mixed duct environment integrates the characteristics of both evaporation and surface ducts, effectively filling the shadow zone between 10 m and 70 m.
Removal of Atmospheric Methane by Increasing Hydroxyl Radicals via a Water Vapor Enhancement Strategy
Authors: Liu Yang , Yao Xiaokun , Zhou Li , Ming Tingzhen , Li Wei , de Richter Renaud
Published: August 2024

Methane is the second largest contributor to global surface air temperature rise. Reducing atmospheric methane will mitigate climate change and improve air quality. Since the main sink of methane is the hydroxyl radical (OH) in the atmosphere, increasing OH concentration will accelerate the methane oxidation process and reduce methane concentration. Because the primary source of OH is the reaction between water vapor and ozone, scientists have proposed a water vapor enhancement strategy to raise OH concentrations in the atmosphere and remove methane. We use a two-box model to evaluate interactions between OH and methane and a radiative kernel method to calculate radiative responses to water vapor content growth. This proves that increasing OH concentration does have a positive effect on methane reduction. If the concentration of OH is increased by 10% from its current value and maintained for 50 (100) years, 45 Tg yr−1 (67.5 Tg yr−1) more methane will be oxidized by OH, and the cumulative effects of the oxidation are equivalent to a 120.5 Gt (219.6 Gt) reduction in CO2 and will lower the global surface air temperature by 0.054 °C (0.099 °C). Our study also provides insights into a mixed picture of global and regional radiative responses to the growth of water vapor content. The reduced radiative forcing by methane removal cannot overpower the increased radiative forcing by water vapor from the global average point of view. However, due to OH’s greater sensitivity to water vapor and weaker radiative response at higher latitudes, this perspective may be reversed if abrupt CH4 emissions from permafrost thaw occur.
Reconstruction of Summer Rainfall over the Last Five Centuries Based on Oak Chronology (Western Pomerania, Poland)
Authors: Cedro Anna , Wilczyński Sławomir , Wertz Bogdan , Gaziński Radosław , Kirschenstein Małgorzata , Sztajner Przemysław , Musielak Stanisław
Published: August 2024

The quantity and distribution of summer rainfall in Poland is one of the main elements of weather and makes a strong impact on the economy, mostly agriculture, stockbreeding, and forestry and the associated industries. Droughts or heavy rains, occurring increasingly more frequently in summer, are a threat for human activity. This study presents a nearly 500-year-long reconstruction of precipitation in the June–July period for northwestern Poland based on an analysis of tree-ring widths in the native oak species (Quercus spp.) from 24 study plots located in Western Pomerania. Due to the frequent droughts occurring in the last four decades, and due to strong air pollution in the 1960s–1990s, we chose the period 1901–1941 as the calibration period. The performed reconstruction is characterized by a high annual variability in precipitation sums for June and July of the year of the tree-ring formation from 1565 to 2020, with an average rainfall sum for this period equal to 131.7 mm (standard deviation: 28.4 mm). Periods with rainfall shortages in summer occurred in the following years: 1579–1596, 1629–1637, 1650–1655, 1669–1672, 1703–1706, 1739–1748, 1757–1760, 1765–1768, 1808–1811, 1838–1841, 1856–1859, 1958–1961, 1965–1968, 1981–1983, and 2002–2006. Periods with higher than average rainfall in June and July occurred in the following years: 1573–1578, 1605–1609, 1613–1617, 1638–1642, 1694–1698, 1776–1780, 1791–1794, 1828–1831, 1852–1855, 1863–1866, 1877–1879, and 1944–1946. Our reconstruction was verified based on the historical records, available from the XVI century onward. Not all the reconstructed summer precipitation values, however, were confirmed by historical records. Notably, however, the historical data are often incomplete and imprecise. Further, the tree-ring width in the oak depends not only on the precipitation in June and July but also, e.g., on the pluvial conditions late in the previous growth season.
Assessment of BDS-3 PPP-B2b Service and Its Applications for the Determination of Precipitable Water Vapour
Authors: Wang Xiaoming , Chen Yufei , Zhang Jinglei , Qiu Cong , Zhou Kai , Li Haobo , Huang Qiuying
Published: August 2024

The precise point positioning (PPP) service via the B2b signal (PPP-B2b) on the BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS) provides high-accuracy orbit and clock data for global navigation satellite systems (GNSSs), enabling real-time atmospheric data acquisition without internet access. In this study, we assessed the quality of orbit, clock, and differential code bias (DCB) products from the PPP-B2b service, comparing them to post-processed products from various analysis centres. The zenith tropospheric delay (ZTD) and precipitable water vapour (PWV) were computed at 32 stations using the PPP technique with PPP-B2b corrections. These results were compared with post-processed ZTD with final orbit/clock products and ZTD/PWV values derived from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts Reanalysis (ERA5) and radiosonde data. For stations between 30° N and 48° N, the mean root mean square error (RMSE) of ZTD for the PPP-B2b solution was approximately 15 mm compared to ZTD from the International GNSS Service (IGS). However, accuracy declined at stations between 30° N and 38° S, with a mean RMSE of about 25 mm, performing worse than ZTD estimates using Centre National d’Études Spatiales (CNES) products. The mean RMSEs of PWV derived from PPP-B2b were 3.7 mm and 4.4 mm when compared to PWV from 11 co-located radiosonde stations and ERA5 reanalysis, respectively, and underperformed relative to CNES solutions. Seasonal variability in GNSS-derived PWV was also noted. This reduction in accuracy limits the global applicability of PPP-B2b. Despite these shortcomings, satellite-based PPP services like PPP-B2b remain viable alternatives for real-time positioning and atmospheric applications without requiring internet connectivity.
Review of Federated Learning and Machine Learning-Based Methods for Medical Image Analysis
Authors: Hernandez-Cruz Netzahualcoyotl , Saha Pramit , Sarker Md Mostafa Kamal , Noble J. Alison
Published: August 2024

Federated learning is an emerging technology that enables the decentralised training of machine learning-based methods for medical image analysis across multiple sites while ensuring privacy. This review paper thoroughly examines federated learning research applied to medical image analysis, outlining technical contributions. We followed the guidelines of Okali and Schabram, a review methodology, to produce a comprehensive summary and discussion of the literature in information systems. Searches were conducted at leading indexing platforms: PubMed, IEEE Xplore, Scopus, ACM, and Web of Science. We found a total of 433 papers and selected 118 of them for further examination. The findings highlighted research on applying federated learning to neural network methods in cardiology, dermatology, gastroenterology, neurology, oncology, respiratory medicine, and urology. The main challenges reported were the ability of machine learning models to adapt effectively to real-world datasets and privacy preservation. We outlined two strategies to address these challenges: non-independent and identically distributed data and privacy-enhancing methods. This review paper offers a reference overview for those already working in the field and an introduction to those new to the topic.
Precision Medicine for Apical Lesions and Peri-Endo Combined Lesions Based on Transfer Learning Using Periapical Radiographs
Authors: Wu Pei-Yi , Mao Yi-Cheng , Lin Yuan-Jin , Li Xin-Hua , Ku Li-Tzu , Li Kuo-Chen , Chen Chiung-An , Chen Tsung-Yi , Chen Shih-Lun , Tu Wei-Chen , Abu Patricia
Published: August 2024

An apical lesion is caused by bacteria invading the tooth apex through caries. Periodontal disease is caused by plaque accumulation. Peri-endo combined lesions include both diseases and significantly affect dental prognosis. The lack of clear symptoms in the early stages of onset makes diagnosis challenging, and delayed treatment can lead to the spread of symptoms. Early infection detection is crucial for preventing complications. PAs used as the database were provided by Chang Gung Memorial Medical Center, Taoyuan, Taiwan, with permission from the Institutional Review Board (IRB): 02002030B0. The tooth apex image enhancement method is a new technology in PA detection. This image enhancement method is used with convolutional neural networks (CNN) to classify apical lesions, peri-endo combined lesions, and asymptomatic cases, and to compare with You Only Look Once-v8-Oriented Bounding Box (YOLOv8-OBB) disease detection results. The contributions lie in the utilization of database augmentation and adaptive histogram equalization on individual tooth images, achieving the highest comprehensive validation accuracy of 95.23% with the ConvNextv2 model. Furthermore, the CNN outperformed YOLOv8 in identifying apical lesions, achieving an F1-Score of 92.45%. For the classification of peri-endo combined lesions, CNN attained the highest F1-Score of 96.49%, whereas YOLOv8 scored 88.49%.
The Biological Clock of Liver Metabolism in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis Progression to Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Rajan Pradeep Kumar , Udoh Utibe-Abasi S. , Finley Robert , Pierre Sandrine V. , Sanabria Juan
Published: August 2024

Circadian rhythms are endogenous behavioral or physiological cycles that are driven by a daily biological clock that persists in the absence of geophysical or environmental temporal cues. Circadian rhythm-related genes code for clock proteins that rise and fall in rhythmic patterns driving biochemical signals of biological processes from metabolism to physiology and behavior. Clock proteins have a pivotal role in liver metabolism and homeostasis, and their disturbances are implicated in various liver disease processes. Encoded genes play critical roles in the initiation and progression of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and their proteins may become diagnostic markers as well as therapeutic targets. Understanding molecular and metabolic mechanisms underlying circadian rhythms will aid in therapeutic interventions and may have broader clinical applications. The present review provides an overview of the role of the liver’s circadian rhythm in metabolic processes in health and disease, emphasizing MASH progression and the oncogenic associations that lead to HCC.
Advances in Shear Stress Stimulation of Stem Cells: A Review of the Last Three Decades
Authors: Lin Qiyuan , Yang Zhen , Xu Hao , Niu Yudi , Meng Qingchen , Xing Dan
Published: August 2024

Stem cells are widely used in scientific research because of their ability to self-renew and differentiate into a variety of specialized cell types needed for body functions. However, the self-renewal and differentiation of stem cells are regulated by various stimuli, with mechanical stimulation being particularly notable due to its ability to mimic the physical environment in the body. This study systematically collected 2638 research papers published between 1994 and 2024, employing tools such as VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and GraphPad Prism to uncover research hotspots, publication trends, and collaboration networks. The results indicate a yearly increase in global research on the shear stress stimulation of stem cells, with significant contributions from the United States and China in terms of research investment and output. Future research directions include a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying mechanical stimulation’s effects on stem cell differentiation, the development of new materials and scaffold designs to better replicate the natural cellular environment, and advancements in regenerative medicine. Despite considerable progress, challenges remain in translating basic research findings into clinical applications.
Maxillary Sinus Augmentation with Autogenous Tooth Grafting Material: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ghodsian Diba , D’Jesús Sofía , Sánchez-Labrador Luis , Cobo-Vázquez Carlos Manuel , Cortés-Bretón Brinkmann Jorge , Martínez-González José María , Meniz-García Cristina
Published: August 2024

The aim of this systematic review was to determine whether autogenous tooth grafting material (ATGM) is as safe and effective as other bone substitutes used for maxillary sinus augmentation procedures, evaluating histomorphometric and/or histological data, implant primary stability, associated complications and radiographic bone height measurements. An automated electronic search was conducted using four databases (Medline/PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane Library), supplemented by a manual search, to identify clinical human studies using particulate ATGM for the aforementioned procedure. The included studies had a sample size of at least four patients and were published before 31st July 2024. The Newcastle–Ottawa scale (NOS) and Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist were used to assess the risk of bias in cohort studies and case series, respectively. Seven studies were included in the descriptive analysis, obtaining 128 participants (46.8% only treated with ATGM) and 192 placed implants. Due to the heterogeneity of the studies, meta-analysis could not be performed. The authors concluded that ATGM appears to be a feasible and safe alternative for maxillary sinus augmentation procedures. These results should be interpreted with caution due to the limited amount of scientific evidence on this topic and the heterogeneity between the included studies.
An Adaptive Spiral Strategy Dung Beetle Optimization Algorithm: Research and Applications
Authors: Wang Xiong , Zhang Yi , Zheng Changbo , Feng Shuwan , Yu Hui , Hu Bin , Xie Zihan
Published: August 2024

The Dung Beetle Optimization (DBO) algorithm, a well-established swarm intelligence technique, has shown considerable promise in solving complex engineering design challenges. However, it is hampered by limitations such as suboptimal population initialization, sluggish search speeds, and restricted global exploration capabilities. To overcome these shortcomings, we propose an enhanced version termed Adaptive Spiral Strategy Dung Beetle Optimization (ADBO). Key enhancements include the application of the Gaussian Chaos strategy for a more effective population initialization, the integration of the Whale Spiral Search Strategy inspired by the Whale Optimization Algorithm, and the introduction of an adaptive weight factor to improve search efficiency and enhance global exploration capabilities. These improvements collectively elevate the performance of the DBO algorithm, significantly enhancing its ability to address intricate real-world problems. We evaluate the ADBO algorithm against a suite of benchmark algorithms using the CEC2017 test functions, demonstrating its superiority. Furthermore, we validate its effectiveness through applications in diverse engineering domains such as robot manipulator design, triangular linkage problems, and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) path planning, highlighting its impact on improving UAV safety and energy efficiency.
Quantum Well Model for Charge Transfer in Aperiodic DNA and Superlattice Sequences
Authors: Tai Alan
Published: August 2024

This study presents a quantum well model using the transfer matrix technique to analyze the charge transfer characteristics of nanostructure sequences in both DNA and superlattices. The unconfined state, or unbound state, above the quantum well is used to investigate carrier behaviors in a semiconductor nanostructure. These analytical approaches can be extended to enhance the understanding of charge transfer in DNA nanostructures with periodic and aperiodic sequences. Experimental validation was conducted through photoreflectance spectroscopy on nanostructures within the semiconductor superlattices. Furthermore, the study’s findings were compared with earlier research by Li et al. on the thermoelectric effect and its dependence on molecular length and sequences in single DNA molecules. The results showed agreement, offering novel insights into charge transfer and transport in DNA nanostructures across various sequence types.
Betahistine’s Neuroprotective Actions against Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Neurotoxicity: Insights from Experimental and Computational Studies
Authors: Mani Vasudevan , Arfeen Minhajul
Published: August 2024

Histamine H3 receptor (H3R) antagonists, such as betahistine (BHTE), have shown significant potential in treating central nervous system (CNS) disorders due to their neuroprotective properties. This study investigated BHTE’s effects on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced neurotoxicity, which is associated with neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. Rats were divided into groups and pre-treated with BHTE (5 or 10 mg/kg, p.o.) for 30 days, followed by LPS administration (1 mg/kg, i.p.) for 4 consecutive days to induce neurotoxicity. LPS exposure resulted in cognitive impairment, as evidenced by performance deficits in maze tests, and a significant reduction in brain acetylcholine (ACh) levels. Additionally, LPS led to increased neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and apoptosis. Pre-treatment with BHTE effectively counteracted these effects, improving cognitive performance and restoring ACh levels. BHTE significantly reduced LPS-induced increases in pro-inflammatory markers (COX-2, TNF-α, and IL-6) while enhancing anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10 and TGF-β1). Furthermore, BHTE improved mitochondrial function by increasing enzyme levels (MRCC-I, II, and IV) and boosted anti-apoptotic (Bcl-2) and antioxidant defenses (GSH and catalase). BHTE also reduced apoptosis markers, including pro-apoptotic protein caspase-3, and oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde (MDA). Molecular modeling studies revealed that BHTE effectively binds to key enzymes involved in neuroinflammation and apoptosis (AChE, COX-2, and caspase-3), with binding free energies between 4 and 5 kcal/mol, interacting with critical residues. These findings underscore BHTE’s multifaceted neuroprotective effects against LPS-induced neurotoxicity, offering potential therapeutic avenues for managing neuroinflammation and related neurodegenerative disorders.
Essential Working Features of Asphalt Airport Pavement Revealed by Structural State-of-Stress Theory
Authors: Chen Shuaikun , Liu Jianmin , Zhou Guangchun , Hou Xiaomeng
Published: August 2024

The National Airport Pavement Test Facility (NAPTF) in USA obtained the strain and deformation data of the asphalt airport pavement numbered as Track 3 under the wheel load traveling in the north area of Construction Cycle 7 (CC7). But, the classic theories and methods still could not find out the definite and essential working characteristics, such as the starting point of the asphalt pavement’s failure process and the ending point of the normal working process. This study reveals the essential working characteristics of the asphalt airport pavement by modeling the tested strain and deformation data based on structural state-of-stress theory. Firstly, the tested data are modeled as state variables to build the state-of-stress mode and the parameter characterizing the mode. Then, the slope increment criterion detects the mutation points in the evolution curve of the characteristic parameter with a wheel load traveling number increase. Correspondingly, the mutation features are verified by investigating the evolution curves of the state-of-stress modes. The mutation points define the failure starting point and the elastoplastic branch (EPB) point in the working process of the asphalt airport pavements. The strain state-of-stress mode (Δεt) and characteristic parameters (Ej and Φj) presented an obvious mutation feature around the EPB point; in addition, the deformation state-of-stress mode (ΔDt) showed that the total deformation of the pavement changed evidently before and after the failure starting point, and the characteristic parameters (Ej and Φj) also presented an obvious mutation feature around the failure starting point, so both characteristic points could address the classic issues in the load-bearing capacity of asphalt airport pavements. Furthermore, the EPB point could be directly taken as the design point, and the failure starting point could be taken as the limit-bearing traffic capacity. Hence, this study could open a new way to address the classic issues in the load-bearing capacity of asphalt airport pavements and provide a new reference for their safe estimation and rational design.
Enhancing Preoperative Outcome Prediction: A Comparative Retrospective Case–Control Study on Machine Learning versus the International Esodata Study Group Risk Model for Predicting 90-Day Mortality in Oncologic Esophagectomy
Authors: Winter Axel , van de Water Robin P. , Pfitzner Bjarne , Ibach Marius , Riepe Christoph , Ahlborn Robert , Faraj Lara , Krenzien Felix , Dobrindt Eva M. , Raakow Jonas , Sauer Igor M. , Arnrich Bert , Beyer Katharina , Denecke Christian , Pratschke Johann , Maurer Max M.
Published: August 2024

Risk prediction prior to oncologic esophagectomy is crucial for assisting surgeons and patients in their joint informed decision making. Recently, a new risk prediction model for 90-day mortality after esophagectomy using the International Esodata Study Group (IESG) database was proposed, allowing for the preoperative assignment of patients into different risk categories. However, given the non-linear dependencies between patient- and tumor-related risk factors contributing to cumulative surgical risk, machine learning (ML) may evolve as a novel and more integrated approach for mortality prediction. We evaluated the IESG risk model and compared its performance to ML models. Multiple classifiers were trained and validated on 552 patients from two independent centers undergoing oncologic esophagectomies. The discrimination performance of each model was assessed utilizing the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUROC), the area under the precision–recall curve (AUPRC), and the Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC). The 90-day mortality rate was 5.8%. We found that IESG categorization allowed for adequate group-based risk prediction. However, ML models provided better discrimination performance, reaching superior AUROCs (0.64 [0.63–0.65] vs. 0.44 [0.32–0.56]), AUPRCs (0.25 [0.24–0.27] vs. 0.11 [0.05–0.21]), and MCCs (0.27 ([0.25–0.28] vs. 0.15 [0.03–0.27]). Conclusively, ML shows promising potential to identify patients at risk prior to surgery, surpassing conventional statistics. Still, larger datasets are needed to achieve higher discrimination performances for large-scale clinical implementation in the future.
Retrieval of the Clipped Axillary Lymph Node and Its Impact on Treatment Decisions
Authors: Detz Jr. David , Hanssen Diego , Whiting Junmin , Sun Weihong , Czerniecki Brian , Hoover Susan , Khakpour Nazanin , Kiluk John , Laronga Christine , Mallory Melissa , Lee M. Catherine , Kruper Laura
Published: August 2024

We examined clinically node-positive (cN+) breast cancer patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy and clipped lymph node (CLN) localization to determine the rate of CLN = non-sentinel lymph node (SLN), the factors associated with cN+ to pN0 conversion, and the treatment impact. We conducted a single institution review of cN+ patients receiving NAC from 2016 to 2022 with preoperative CLN localization (N = 81). Demographics, hormone receptor (HR) and HER2 status, time to surgery, staging, chemotherapy regimen, localization method, pathology, and adjuvant therapy were analyzed. Pathologic complete response (pCR) of the CLN was observed in 41 patients (50.6%): 18.8% HR+/HER2−, 75% HR+/HER2+, 75% HR−/HER2+, and 62.5% triple-negative breast cancer (p-value = 0.006). CLN = SLN in 68 (84%) patients, while CLN = non-SLN in 13 (16%). In 14 (17.3%) patients, the final treatment was altered based on +CLN status: 11 patients underwent axillary lymph node dissection (ALND), and 3 had systemic treatment changes. pCR rates varied, with the highest conversion rates observed in HER2+ disease and the lowest in HR+/HER2− disease. In 2 (2.5%) patients, adjuvant therapy changes were made based on a non-sentinel CLN, while in 97.5% of patients, a SLN biopsy alone represented the status of the axilla. This demonstrates that a +CLN often alters final plans and that, despite also being a SLN in most cases, a subset of patients will be undertreated by SLN biopsy alone.
Correlation of Immunomodulatory Cytokines with Tumor Volume and Cerebrospinal Fluid in Vestibular Schwannoma Patients
Authors: Becker Anna-Louisa , Scholle Leila , Klause Clara Helene , Staege Martin Sebastian , Strauss Christian , Otto Markus , Rampp Stefan , Scheller Christian , Leisz Sandra
Published: August 2024

Sporadic vestibular schwannomas (VSs) often exhibit slow or negligible growth. Nevertheless, some VSs increase significantly in volume within a few months or grow continuously. Recent evidence indicates a role of inflammation in promoting VS growth. Therefore, our study aimed to identify cytokines, which are associated with larger VSs. The expression of different cytokines in VS tumor samples and VS primary cultures was investigated. Additionally, the concentration of cytokines in cell culture supernatants of VS primary cultures and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of VS patients and healthy controls were determined. Correlation analysis of cytokine levels with tumor volume, growth rate, Koos grade, age, and hearing was examined with Spearman’s-rank test. The mRNA expression of CC-chemokine ligand (CCL) 18, growth differentiation factor (GDF) 15, and interferon regulatory factor 4 correlated positively with tumor volume. Moreover, the amount of GDF15 in the cell culture supernatant of primary cells correlated positively with tumor volume. The concentrations of the cytokines CCL2, CCL5, and CCL18 and transforming growth factor beta (TGFB) 1 in the CSF of the patients were significantly different from those in the CSF controls. Inhibition of immune cell infiltration could be a putative approach to prevent and control VS growth.
Methods for Overcoming Chemoresistance in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Keeping the Focus on Cancer Stem Cells, a Systematic Review
Authors: Bizzoca Maria Eleonora , Caponio Vito Carlo Alberto , Lo Muzio Lorenzo , Claudio Pier Paolo , Cortese Antonio
Published: August 2024

According to the “cancer stem cell” (CSCs) theory, tumors are a diverse and expanding group of malignant cells that originate from a small number of CSCs. Despite treatment, these cells can still become active and proliferate, which can result in distant metastasis and local recurrences. A new paradigm in cancer treatment involves targeting both CSCs and the cancer cells in a tumor. This review aims to examine the literature on methods published to overcome chemoresistance due to the presence of CSCs in head and neck cancers. The review was registered with PROSPERO (ID# CRD42024512809). After Pub Med, Scopus, and WoS database searches, 31 relevant articles on oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) were selected. Compounds that increased chemosensitivity by targeting CSCs in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) were divided into (1) natural products, (2) adjuvant molecules to traditional chemotherapy, and (3) CSCs targeting patient-specific fresh biopsies for functional precision medicine.
Health Professionals’ Perceptions about Prostate Cancer—A Focus Group Study
Authors: Leitão Catarina , Estrela Marta , Monteiro Luís , Fardilha Margarida , Herdeiro Maria Teresa , Roque Fátima
Published: August 2024

Prostate cancer (PCa) accounts for 20% of new cancer cases and 10.5% of cancer-associated mortality in Portugal. Associated risk factors include advanced age, family history, genetic alterations, and race/ethnicity. However, the role of lifestyle factors is often underestimated. To explore health professionals’ perceptions of PCa risk factors, a qualitative study with three focus groups (FG), with a total of twenty-one general practitioners and urologists, was conducted via videoconference between February and April 2023. Seven themes emerged, including general perceptions of PCa; PCa risk factors; nutritional impact; the role of physical activity; alcohol consumption and smoking; sexual activity and sexually transmitted diseases roles in PCa; and screening, diagnosis, and treatment methods. Despite agreeing that healthy lifestyles could promote better PCa outcomes and quality of life, participants did not specify any lifestyle factors that could promote or prevent this disease, posing challenges to lifestyle changes, particularly among older adults. Non-invasive screening methods, such as biomarkers and alternative treatments, are crucial for future research. This study underscores the need for further investigation into the correlation of lifestyle factors with PCa and highlights the necessity of health professionals in encouraging their patients to adopt healthier lifestyles, while offering important insights into awareness, prevention, and alternative screening, diagnosis, and treatment methods, which could help reduce false positives and treatment side effects.
Hypoxia-Targeted Immunotherapy with PD-1 Blockade in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Wakisaka Risa , Yamaki Hidekiyo , Kono Michihisa , Inoue Takahiro , Sato Ryosuke , Komatsuda Hiroki , Ohara Kenzo , Kosaka Akemi , Ohkuri Takayuki , Nagato Toshihiro , Kishibe Kan , Nakayama Koh , Kobayashi Hiroya , Kumai Takumi , Takahara Miki
Published: August 2024

Intratumoral hypoxia is associated with tumor progression, aggressiveness, and therapeutic resistance in several cancers. Hypoxia causes cancer cells to experience replication stress, thereby activating DNA damage and repair pathways. MutT homologue-1 (MTH1, also known as NUDT1), a member of the Nudix family, maintains the genomic integrity and viability of tumor cells in the hypoxic tumor microenvironment. Although hypoxia is associated with poor prognosis and can cause therapeutic resistance by regulating the microenvironment, it has not been considered a treatable target in cancer. This study aimed to investigate whether hypoxia-induced MTH1 is a useful target for immunotherapy and whether hypoxic conditions influence the antitumor activity of immune cells. Our results showed that MTH1 expression was elevated under hypoxic conditions in head and neck cancer cell lines. Furthermore, we identified a novel MTH1-targeting epitope peptide that can activate peptide-specific CD4+ helper T cells with cytotoxic activity. The proliferation and cytotoxic activity of T cells were maintained under hypoxic conditions, and PD-1 blockade further augmented the cytotoxicity. These results indicate that MTH1-targeted immunotherapy combined with checkpoint blockade can be an effective strategy for the treatment of hypoxic tumors.