bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three Milliliters of Peripheral Blood Is Sufficient for Preparing Liquid Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF): An In Vitro Study
Authors: Al-Maawi Sarah , Dohle Eva , Sader Robert , Ghanaati Shahram
Published: March 2024

Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) has assumed an important role in supporting tissue regeneration in different fields. To date, the standard protocol for liquid PRF requires at least 10 mL of peripheral blood. The present study aimed to analyze the composition, growth factor release, and effects on the cell proliferation of PRF samples produced using 3 mL vs. 10 mL of peripheral blood in vitro. Peripheral venous blood from six healthy donors was used to prepare liquid PRF using either 3 mL or 10 mL tubes. Three different centrifugation protocols were used according to the low-speed centrifugation concept. The cellular distribution was evaluated using immunohistology and automated cell count. ELISA was used to determine the release of different growth factors (EGF, TGF-β1, and PDGF) and interleukin 8 at different time points. Primary human osteoblasts (pOBs) were cultivated for 7 days using PRF-conditioned media acquired from either 3 mL or 10 mL of peripheral blood. The results showed that 3 mL of peripheral blood is sufficient to produce a liquid PRF concentrate similar to that acquired when using 10 mL blood. The concentrations of platelets and leukocytes were comparable regardless of the initial blood volume (3 mL vs. 10 mL). Similarly, the release of growth factors (EGF, TGF-β1, and PDGF) and interleukin 8 was often comparable in both groups over 7 days. The cultivation of pOBs using PRF-conditioned media showed a similar proliferation rate regardless of the initial blood volume. This proliferation rate was also similar to that of pOBs treated with 20% FBS-conditioned media. These findings validated the use of 3 mL of peripheral blood to generate liquid PRF matrices according to the low-speed centrifugation concept, which may open new application fields for research purposes such as in vivo experiments and clinical applications such as pediatric surgery.
The TRPV6 Calcium Channel and Its Relationship with Cancer
Authors: Wang Yifang , Deng Xiaoling , Zhang Rui , Lyu Hao , Xiao Shuai , Guo Dong , Ali Declan William , Michalak Marek , Zhou Cefan , Chen Xing-Zhen , Tang Jingfeng
Published: March 2024

Transient receptor potential vanilloid-6 (TRPV6) is a cation channel belonging to the TRP superfamily, specifically the vanilloid subfamily, and is the sixth member of this subfamily. Its presence in the body is primarily limited to the skin, ovaries, kidney, testes, and digestive tract epithelium. The body maintains calcium homeostasis using the TRPV6 channel, which has a greater calcium selectivity than the other TRP channels. Several pieces of evidence suggest that it is upregulated in the advanced stages of thyroid, ovarian, breast, colon, and prostate cancers. The function of TRPV6 in regulating calcium signaling in cancer will be covered in this review, along with its potential applications as a cancer treatment target.
Reproductive and Oncologic Outcomes in Young Women with Stage IA and Grade 2 Endometrial Carcinoma Undergoing Fertility-Sparing Treatment: A Systematic Review
Authors: Etrusco Andrea , Laganà Antonio Simone , Chiantera Vito , Mikuš Mislav , Arsalan Hafiz Muhammad , d’Amati Antonio , Vitagliano Amerigo , Cicinelli Ettore , Favilli Alessandro , D’Amato Antonio
Published: March 2024

Background: Endometrial cancer (EC) is the most common gynecological malignancy in both Europe and the USA. Approximately 3–5% of cases occur in women of reproductive age. Fertility-sparing treatment (FST) options are available, but very limited evidence regarding grade 2 (G2) ECs exists in the current literature. This systematic review aimed to comprehensively evaluate reproductive and oncologic outcomes among young women diagnosed with stage IA or G2EC disease who underwent FST. Methods: A comprehensive search of the literature was carried out on the following databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, Global Health, The Cochrane Library (Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Methodology Register), the Health Technology Assessment Database, and Web of Science. Only original studies that reported the oncologic and reproductive outcomes of patients with stage IA and G2EC tumors who underwent FST were considered eligible for inclusion in this systematic review (CRD42023484892). Studies describing only the FST for endometrial hyperplasia or G1 EC were excluded. Results: Twenty-two papers that met the abovementioned inclusion criteria were included in the present systematic review. Preliminary analysis suggested encouraging oncologic and reproductive outcomes after FST. Conclusions: The FST approach may represent a feasible and safe option for women of childbearing age diagnosed with G2EC. Despite these promising findings, cautious interpretation is warranted due to inherent limitations, including heterogeneity in study designs and potential biases. Further research with standardized methodologies and larger sample sizes is imperative for obtaining more robust conclusions.
Neurodegeneration in Cognitive Impairment and Mood Disorders for Experimental, Clinical and Translational Neuropsychiatry
Authors: Battaglia Simone , Avenanti Alessio , Vécsei László , Tanaka Masaru
Published: March 2024

Neurodegeneration poses a significant challenge for the fields of neuroscience and medicine, as it is the underlying cause of the development and advancement of numerous neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders [...]
Predictive Analysis of Endoscope Demand in Otolaryngology Outpatient Settings
Authors: Lanier David , Roush Cristie , Young Gwendolyn , Masoud Sara
Published: March 2024

Background: There has been a trend to transit reprocessing of flexible endoscopes from a high-level disinfectant (HLD) centralized manner to sterilization performed by nursing staff in some Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) clinics. In doing so, the clinic nursing staff are responsible for predicting and managing clinical demand for flexible endoscopes. The HLD disinfection process is time-consuming and requires specialized training and competency to be performed safely. Solely depending on human expertise for predicting the flexible endoscope demands is unreliable and produced a concern of an inadequate supply of devices available for diagnostic purposes. Method: The demand for flexible endoscopes for future patient visits has not been well studied but can be modeled based on patients’ historical information, provider, and other visit-related factors. Such factors are available to the clinic before the visit. Binary classifiers can be used to help inform the sterile processing department of reprocessing needs days or weeks earlier for each patient. Results: Among all our trained models, Logistic Regression reports an average AUC ROC score of 89% and accuracy of 80%. Conclusion: The proposed framework not only significantly reduces the reprocessing efforts in terms of time spent on communication, cleaning, scheduling, and transferring scopes, but also helps to improve patient safety by reducing the exposure risk to potential infections.
Clivus-Cervical Stabilization through Transoral Approach in Patients with Craniocervical Tumor: Three Cases and Surgical Technical Note
Authors: Reyes-Soto Gervith , Corona De la Torre Alfonso , Honda Partida Kaori Guadalupe , Nurmukhametov Renat , Encarnacion Ramirez Manuel De Jesus , Montemurro Nicola
Published: March 2024

Craniocervical tumors lead to cervical pain, instability, and neurological symptoms, reducing the quality of life. Effective surgical intervention at the craniocervical junction (CCJ) is critical and complex, involving comprehensive approaches and advanced reconstructive techniques. This study, conducted at Mexico City’s National Institute of Cancerology, focused on three surgical cases that occurred in 2023 involving tumors at the CCJ: two chordomas and one prostate adenocarcinoma. We utilized a specialized technique: clivus-cervical stabilization reinforced with a polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)-filled cervical mesh. Postoperatively, patients showed marked neurological recovery and reduced cervical pain, with enhanced Karnofsky and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) scores indicating improved life quality. The surgical technique provided excellent exposure and effective tumor resection, utilizing PMMA-filled cervical mesh for stability. Tumoral lesions at the CCJ causing instability can be surgically treated through a transoral approach. This type of approach should be performed with precise indications to avoid complications associated with the procedure.
Sedentary Behaviors and Eating Habits in Active and Inactive Individuals: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Population from Southern Italy
Authors: Calella Patrizia , Di Dio Mirella , Pelullo Concetta Paola , Di Giuseppe Gabriella , Liguori Fabrizio , Paduano Giovanna , Valerio Giuliana , Liguori Giorgio , Gallè Francesca
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study was to analyze sedentary behaviors and dietary habits assumed by individuals regularly practicing exercise in a gym, sports athletes and inactive individuals. The Sedentary Behavior Questionnaire and the Healthy Dietary Habits Index were administered online to evaluate the time spent in sedentary activities during the week and the habits of food consumption among adult individuals from the Campania region, in the south of Italy. Of the 411 participants, 25% were inactive, 34% were gym practitioners and 41% practiced different sport disciplines. Significant differences were found for sedentary habits adopted during the week and diets between athletes and inactive participants. However, no significant differences were observed for sedentary activities on the weekend and some sedentary behaviors such as video gaming or working/studying during the week. With regard to diet, athletes showed healthier food choices, such as fruit and vegetable consumption. The findings of this study underline the need for enhancing the awareness of the local population regarding the detrimental effects of unhealthy dietary behaviors and sedentary time, especially but not exclusively among inactive individuals.
Devastating Wildfires and Mental Health: Major Depressive Disorder Prevalence and Associated Factors among Residents in Alberta and Nova Scotia, Canada
Authors: Mao Wanying , Shalaby Reham , Agyapong Belinda , Obuobi-Donkor Gloria , Da Luz Dias Raquel , Agyapong Vincent I. O.
Published: March 2024

Background: Since March 2023, hundreds of fires have burned from coast to coast throughout the country, placing Canada on track to have the worst wildfire season ever recorded. From East to West, provinces such as Quebec, Ontario, Nova Scotia, Alberta, and British Columbia have been particularly affected by large and uncontrollable wildfires. Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of depression symptoms and predictors among residents living in extreme climate conditions during the Canadian wildfires of 2023 in Alberta and Nova Scotia and to update the literature with data related to those wildfires. Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative survey was conducted in this study. REDCap was used to administer an online survey between 14 May and 23 June 2023. Through the Text4Hope program, participants subscribe to receive supportive SMS messages daily. As part of the initial welcome message, participants were invited to complete an online questionnaire, containing demographic information, wildfire-related information, and responses to the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) for depression assessment. SPSS version 25 was used to analyze the data. Descriptive, univariate, and multivariate regression analyses were employed. Results: A total of 298 respondents completed the survey out of 1802 who self-subscribed to the Text4Hope program in Alberta and Nova Scotia and received a link to the online survey, producing a response rate of 16.54%. Most of the respondents were females (85.2%, 253), below 40 years of age (28.3%, 84), employed (63.6%, 189), and in a relationship (56.4%, 167). A historical depression diagnosis (OR = 3.15; 95% CI: 1.39–7.14) was a significant predictor of moderate to severe MDD in our study. The unemployed individuals were two times more likely to report moderate to severe symptoms of MDD than employed individuals (OR = 2.46; 95% CI: 1.06–5.67). Among the total sample population, the moderate to severe MDD prevalence was 50.4%, whereas it was 56.1% among those living in areas affected by wildfires. Conclusion: Based on our study findings, unemployment and a history of depression diagnosis were independently significant risk factors associated with the developing moderate to severe MDD symptoms during wildfire disasters. Further research is required to identify robust predictors of mental health disorders in disaster survivors and provide appropriate interventions to the most vulnerable communities and individuals.
Determinants of Urban Residential Electricity Consumption in Burkina Faso: A Study of Dwelling, Household, Socio-Economic and Appliance-Related Factors
Authors: Tete Komlan Hector Seth , Soro Yrébégnan Moussa , Coulibaly Samir Franck Amadou , Jones Rory Victor , Sidibé Sayon dit Sadio
Published: March 2024

This study analyses the dwelling, household, socio-economic and appliance-related determinants of urban domestic electricity use in Burkina Faso. A survey of 387 households in Ouagadougou was conducted and combined with their electricity use, collected from energy bills. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first large-scale, city-wide household electricity study undertaken in Burkina Faso. Linear regression models were applied to the data to assess the influence of household, dwelling, socio-economic and appliance-related factors on electricity use. Significant and unambiguous predictors of urban domestic electricity use included household income, dwelling tenure type and ownership, and use of lighting fixtures, television sets, fridges, fans, freezers and air conditioners. Dwelling, household and socio-economic factors explained 70.2% and 70.5% of the variance in electricity use, respectively, when combined with appliance ownership and use factors. This study provides an understanding of the driving factors of domestic electricity use and discusses the implications and applications of this research for a range of stakeholders in the electricity sector.
Development of a Low-Density Waste-Based Geopolymer Construction Material
Authors: Ncube Brian , Roopchund Rishen
Published: March 2024

The construction industry, integral to national infrastructure development, faces environmental challenges attributed to Portland cement’s high energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions during production. To address this challenge, this study integrated waste fly ash and polystyrene into geopolymers to enhance environmental sustainability and economic feasibility. The objectives included developing low-density geopolymers using polystyrene inclusion, optimizing component mixing ratios, assessing activator concentration effects, determining the optimal curing conditions, and characterizing the resulting geopolymers. Through experimental investigation, low-density geopolymers were developed with optimized component ratios and curing conditions. The experimental procedure began with the classification of fly ash to determine its suitability for various applications, revealing it to be type F. Geopolymers were fabricated using a mixture of fly ash, water, sodium hydroxide activator, and polystyrene. Varied concentrations of sodium hydroxide and polystyrene were employed. Two curing temperatures, 60 °C and 100 °C, were explored. The results showed that greater sodium hydroxide concentrations improved the structure and compressive strength of the geopolymers. The results also demonstrated a significant correlation between the curing conditions and the mechanical properties of the produced geopolymers. The goal of reducing the density of the geopolymers for lightweight thermal-resistant applications was achieved through polystyrene incorporation. However, polystyrene incorporation negatively impacted the compressive strength. The optimum production conditions for the sodium hydroxide-varied samples were 8 g sodium hydroxide/g sample cured at 100 °C, while the optimum production conditions for polystyrene-varied samples were 1 g polystyrene/g sample cured at 60 °C. The findings confirmed the viability of utilizing fly ash and polystyrene wastes to produce sustainable, low-density, thermal-resistant construction materials. Overall, increasing activator concentration enhances the strength and durability of geopolymers, while polystyrene contributes to the development of lightweight geopolymers, provided the appropriate amount is utilized. To ensure replicability, the formulation procedure and input quantities must be tailored according to the intended geopolymer application. These insights offer practical guidance for optimizing geopolymer manufacturing processes towards enhanced sustainability and performance.
Investigation of Sandstone-like Material for Damaged Rock Mass Based on Orthogonal Experimental Method
Authors: Wang Hongwei , Xie Fuxiang , Song Jian , Bao Wenke , Yin Zhaoming , Fu Xi , Tian Yong
Published: March 2024

The investigation of the mechanical properties of rock mass can be effectively carried out through rock-like material experiments. In this study, polystyrene foam particles were utilized as a novel material for simulating initial damage within rocks. Our research involved the development of sandstone-like materials with comparable mechanical properties to actual sandstone. These materials were then subjected to orthogonal mechanical tests, allowing us to identify the key factors that have a substantial impact on the mechanical parameters of sandstone-like rocks. The influencing factors considered in the orthogonal mechanical tests were the proportion of aggregate and binder, the proportion of polystyrene foam in the entire model, the proportion of binder and regulator, and the size of polystyrene foam. Five levels were set for each factor, and mechanical parameters such as compressive strength, tensile strength, elastic modulus, axial strain, and Poisson’s ratio were tested for each group of samples. The changes in mechanical parameters with the levels of the above four factors were studied. The study found that modifying the proportion of aggregate to binder can alter the elastic modulus, tensile strength, and compressive strength values of sandstone-like material. The size of polystyrene foam can be modified to alter the axial strain values of sandstone-like materials. Additionally, adjusting the ratio of binder and regulator can modify the value of Poisson’s ratio. The comparison of mechanical parameters between sandstone-like samples and sandstone reveals that sandstone-like materials can better simulate the deformation and failure mechanisms of sandstone. The error in the main mechanical parameters, such as modulus of elasticity, strength, and Poisson’s ratio, is less than 7%, indicating a greater resemblance between sandstone-like materials and sandstone. Therefore, sandstone-like materials can be used to investigate the deformation law, damage evolution law, and failure mechanism of sandstone. This can help alleviate the difficulty of obtaining specimens of deep damaged rock and the high cost of testing.
Modelling of Multi-Storey Cross-Laminated Timber Buildings for Vibration Serviceability
Authors: Kurent Blaž , Friedman Noemi , Brank Boštjan
Published: March 2024

In this study, the vibration serviceability of multi-storey timber buildings is addressed. The core of this study pertains to the preparation of a comprehensive finite element model to predict modal properties for an accurate vibration serviceability checking. To that end, findings obtained from studying three multi-storey timber buildings are summarized and discussed. Two of the buildings (of seven and eight storeys) consist entirely of cross-laminated timber (CLT), while the third is a five-storey hybrid CLT-concrete building. Thanks to the detailed finite element models and modal testing results, one has the capability to conduct sensitivity analyses, classical and Bayesian model updating, and uncertainty quantifications. With these methodologies, influential modelling parameters as well as the sources of modelling error were identified. This allowed for conclusions to be drawn about the in-plane shear stiffness of the constructed walls (whose higher value causes the natural frequencies to increase by up to 25%), the soil deformability (which may cause the natural frequencies to drop by up to 20%), and the perpendicular-to-the-grain deformation of floor slabs (which may lead to an overestimation of a fundamental frequency by up to 8%).
Research on the Effect of Spray Ventilation Cooling Systems on Human Physiological and Psychological Indexes
Authors: Cao Yingxue , Li Haodong , Yang Honggang , Meng Xiaojing , Liu Di , Wang Jinxiao , Zhang Xin , Li Ao
Published: March 2024

Hot working environment not only affects work efficiency, but also poses a potential threat to the physical and mental health of staff. The current common method for dealing with high temperatures is spray-only or ventilation-only. To investigate the impact of different spray and ventilation modes on indoor high-temperature environments, this study examined their effects on indoor environmental parameters, average skin temperature, and psychological indicators. By establishing an experimental platform for high-temperature thermal environments, a spray ventilation cooling system was implemented, and its cooling efficacy in the indoor thermal environment was analyzed. The environmental classification of the high-temperature working environment under experimental conditions is provided based on the experimental data. A comparison and analysis of environmental parameters and physiological and psychological indicators between moderate and high-temperature environments were conducted. The combination of spray and ventilation modes resulted in a 5.3 °C reduction in air temperature, a 24.1% increase in average relative humidity, and a 3.3 °C reduction in average Wet-bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT). The cooling effect was increased by 2.3 °C and the average relative humidity was increased by 10.8% compared to spray-only and ventilation-only modes. In spray and ventilation mode, when the spray volume is increased by 15 mL/min, the air temperature is reduced by 8.2 °C, the average relative humidity is increased by 31.9%, and the average WBGT is reduced by 5.1 °C. This study has guiding significance for finding a reasonable cooling scheme to cope with indoor high-temperature environments.
Evaluating Techno-Eco-Efficiency of Waste Clay Brick Powder (WCBP) in Geopolymer Binders
Authors: Sharmin Shaila , Biswas Wahidul K. , Sarker Prabir K.
Published: March 2024

The global focus on geopolymer binder production has increased due to the adoption of waste materials and industrial byproducts. Given the gradual decline in the availability of fly ash and ground granular blast furnace slag (GGBFS) resulting from the decarbonization process in electricity and steel production, waste clay brick powder (WCBP) could be a viable substitute for these pozzolanic by-products. This study presents the economic and environmental benefits of the use of WCBP as a replacement for conventional pozzolanic by-products in geopolymer binder production by assessing its techno-eco-efficiency, environmental impact, and cost-effectiveness performances. The favorable mechanical characteristics exhibited by the fly ash–GGBFS–WCBP-based geopolymer binder emphasize the importance of assessing its sustainability alongside its technical viability. The study employed life cycle analysis (LCA), following ISO framework, and using the Simapro software 9.2, to evaluate the environmental implications of the use of WCBP-based geopolymer mixtures. Human toxicity emerged as the primary impact. Moreover, the analysis of life cycle costs highlighted key financial factors, with around 65–70% attributed to alkaline activators of the total cost. The production of alkaline activators was identified as a critical point for both environmental impact and economic considerations due to energy consumption. While WCBP-rich samples exhibit a 1.7–0.7% higher environmental impact compared to the control mix (CM), their high mechanical strength and cost-effectiveness make them technologically and economically efficient geopolymer mixes. In conclusion, the portfolio analysis for techno-eco-efficiency affirms that mixes containing 40%, 30%, and 20% WCBP are more efficient than those using 10% and 0% WCBP, respectively.
Effects of Periodic Materials on Distance Attenuation in Wall–Slab Structures: An Experiment
Authors: Cho Jongwoo , Song Kwonsik , Kwon Nahyun , Park Moonseo , Kim Tae Wan
Published: March 2024

This research examines the application of periodic materials in wall–slab structures to mitigate impact noise and vibration propagation, a prevalent issue in multifamily housing. Traditional methods, such as floating floors, have proven insufficient in addressing low-frequency impact noises and in facilitating the identification of noise origins, leading to increased resident annoyance. Periodic materials, known for their effectiveness in controlling plane waves in civil engineering, were applied to the intermediate slab of a wall–slab experimental setup. The research involved assessing the attenuation of noise and vibration over distance before and after the application of periodic materials by measuring indoor sound pressure levels and the natural vibration amplitude of the structure’s members upon impact. The results showed that periodic materials not only facilitated distance attenuation but also significantly diminished noise and vibration throughout the structure, without the side effects of vibration amplification seen in prior civil engineering applications. This indicates a practical advancement in using these materials, offering a novel approach to sound insulation and enabling more precise impact source localization. Ultimately, this study contributes to improving urban living by suggesting a method to enhance acoustic comfort in multifamily housing, underlining the importance of further exploration in architectural applications of periodic materials.
Impact of Primary Tumor Location on Demographics, Resectability, Outcomes, and Quality of Life in Finnish Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Patients (Subgroup Analysis of the RAXO Study)
Authors: Aho Sonja , Osterlund Emerik , Ristimäki Ari , Nieminen Lasse , Sundström Jari , Mäkinen Markus J. , Kuopio Teijo , Kytölä Soili , Ålgars Annika , Ristamäki Raija , Heervä Eetu , Kallio Raija , Halonen Päivi , Soveri Leena-Maija , Nordin Arno , Uutela Aki , Salminen Tapio , Stedt Hanna , Lamminmäki Annamarja , Muhonen Timo , Kononen Juha , Glimelius Bengt , Isoniemi Helena , Lehto Juho T. , Lehtomäki Kaisa , Osterlund Pia
Published: March 2024

The primary tumor location (PTL) is associated with the phenotype, metastatic sites, mutations, and outcomes of metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients, but this has mostly been studied according to sidedness (right vs. left sided). We studied right colon vs. left colon vs. rectal PTL in a real-life study population (n = 1080). Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) was assessed multi-cross-sectionally with QLQ-C30, QLQ-CR29, EQ-5D, and 15D. A chi-square, Kaplan–Meier, and Cox regression were used to compare the groups. The PTL was in the right colon in 310 patients (29%), the left colon in 396 patients (37%), and the rectum in 375 patients (35%). The PTL was associated with distinct differences in metastatic sites during the disease trajectory. The resectability, conversion, and resection rates were lowest in the right colon, followed by the rectum, and were highest in the left colon. Overall survival was shortest for right colon compared with left colon or rectal PTL (median 21 vs. 35 vs. 36 months), with the same trends after metastasectomy or systemic therapy only. PTL also remained statistically significant in a multivariable model. The distribution of symptoms varied according to PTL, especially between the right colon (with general symptoms of metastases) and rectal PTL (with sexual- and bowel-related symptoms). mCRC, according to PTL, behaves differently regarding metastatic sites, resectability of the metastases, outcomes of treatment, and HRQoL.
Dynamic Survival Risk Prognostic Model and Genomic Landscape for Atypical Teratoid/Rhabdoid Tumors: A Population-Based, Real-World Study
Authors: Chen Sihao , He Yi , Liu Jiao , Wu Ruixin , Wang Menglei , Jin Aishun
Published: March 2024

Background: An atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor (AT/RT) is an uncommon and aggressive pediatric central nervous system neoplasm. However, a universal clinical consensus or reliable prognostic evaluation system for this malignancy is lacking. Our study aimed to develop a risk model based on comprehensive clinical data to assist in clinical decision-making. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study by examining data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) repository, spanning 2000 to 2019. The external validation cohort was sourced from the Children’s Hospital Affiliated to Chongqing Medical University, China. To discern independent factors affecting overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS), we applied Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) and Random Forest (RF) regression analyses. Based on these factors, we structured nomogram survival predictions and initiated a dynamic online risk-evaluation system. To contrast survival outcomes among diverse treatments, we used propensity score matching (PSM) methodology. Molecular data with the most common mutations in AT/RT were extracted from the Catalogue of Somatic Mutations in Cancer (COSMIC) database. Results: The annual incidence of AT/RT showed an increasing trend (APC, 2.86%; 95% CI:0.75–5.01). Our prognostic study included 316 SEER database participants and 27 external validation patients. The entire group had a median OS of 18 months (range 11.5 to 24 months) and median CSS of 21 months (range 11.7 to 29.2). Evaluations involving C-statistics, DCA, and ROC analysis underscored the distinctive capabilities of our prediction model. An analysis via PSM highlighted that individuals undergoing triple therapy (integrating surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy) had discernibly enhanced OS and CSS. The most common mutations of AT/RT identified in the COSMIC database were SMARCB1, BRAF, SMARCA4, NF2, and NRAS. Conclusions: In this study, we devised a predictive model that effectively gauges the prognosis of AT/RT and briefly analyzed its genomic features, which might offer a valuable tool to address existing clinical challenges.
The Potential Influence of Residual or Recurrent Disease on Bevacizumab Treatment Efficacy in Ovarian Cancer: Current Evidence and Future Perspectives
Authors: Żak Klaudia , Satora Małgorzata , Skrabalak Ilona , Tarkowski Rafał , Ostrowska-Leśko Marta , Bobiński Marcin
Published: March 2024

There were high hopes for the new antiangiogenic medicament, bevacizumab, which could inhibit the creation of new blood vessels through binding to isoform A of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). However, it is not only blood vessels that are responsible for tumor cell spread. During the process of tumor growth, lymphangiogenesis is mediated by other members of the VEGF family, specifically VEGF-C and VEGF-D, which act independent to bevacizumab. Therefore, based on the mechanism of bevacizumab action and the processes of angio- and lymphangiogenesis, we formed three hypotheses: (1) if the lymph nodes in primary ovarian cancers are metastatic, the outcome of bevacizumab treatment is worsened; (2) concerning the second-line treatment, bevacizumab will act in a weakened manner if recurrence occurs in lymph nodes as opposed to a local recurrence; (3) patients treated by bevacizumab are more likely to have recurrences in lymph nodes. These hypotheses raise the issue of the existing knowledge gap, which concerns the effect of bevacizumab on metastatic lymph nodes.
Emerging Roles and Mechanisms of RNA Modifications in Neurodegenerative Diseases and Glioma
Authors: Kobayashi Ami , Kitagawa Yosuke , Nasser Ali , Wakimoto Hiroaki , Yamada Keisuke , Tanaka Shota
Published: March 2024

Despite a long history of research, neurodegenerative diseases and malignant brain tumor gliomas are both considered incurable, facing challenges in the development of treatments. Recent evidence suggests that RNA modifications, previously considered as static components of intracellular RNAs, are in fact dynamically regulated across various RNA species in cells and play a critical role in major biological processes in the nervous system. Innovations in next-generation sequencing have enabled the accurate detection of modifications on bases and sugars within various RNA molecules. These RNA modifications influence the stability and transportation of RNA, and crucially affect its translation. This review delves into existing knowledge on RNA modifications to offer a comprehensive inventory of these modifications across different RNA species. The detailed regulatory functions and roles of RNA modifications within the nervous system are discussed with a focus on neurodegenerative diseases and gliomas. This article presents a comprehensive overview of the fundamental mechanisms and emerging roles of RNA modifications in these diseases, which can facilitate the creation of innovative diagnostics and therapeutics for these conditions.
Optimizing Palliative Pelvic Radiotherapy in Gynecological Cancers: A Systematic Review and Analysis
Authors: Anghel Beatrice , Georgescu Mihai-Teodor , Serboiu Crenguta Sorina , Marinescu Andreea Nicoleta , Aliuș Cătălin , Georgescu Dragoș-Eugen , Mocanu Bogdan , Sucuri Sabina , Stanescu Anca Daniela
Published: March 2024

Background: Palliative radiotherapy plays a crucial role in managing symptomatic gynecological cancers (GCs). This article aims to systematically review literature studies on palliative pelvic radiotherapy in cervical, endometrial, ovarian, vaginal, and vulvar cancers. The primary focus is centered around evaluating symptom relief, quality of life (QOL), and toxicity in order to ascertain optimal radiotherapy regimens. Methodology: For this thorough review, we mainly relied on Medline to gather papers published until November 2023. Selected studies specifically detailed symptomatology and QOL responses in palliative pelvic radiotherapy used for GCs. Results: Thirty-one studies, mostly retrospective studies and those lacking standardized outcome measures, showed varied responses. Encouraging outcomes were noted in managing hemorrhage (55%) and pain control (70%). However, comprehensively assessing overall symptom response rates and toxicity remained challenging. Investigations into 10 Gy fractionation revealed benefits in addressing tumor-related bleeding and pain in female genital tract cancers. Conclusions: Palliative pelvic radiotherapy effectively manages symptomatic GCs. Nonetheless, unresolved dosing and fractionation considerations warrant further investigation. Embracing modern therapies alongside radiotherapy offers improved symptom control, emphasizing the importance of selecting suitable patients for successful GC palliation interventions.
Tumor-to-Tumor Metastasis of Lung Cancer to Kidney Cancer: A Review of the Literature and Our Experience
Authors: Baston Catalin , Parosanu Andreea Ioana , Mihai Mihaela , Moldoveanu Oana , Stanciu Ioana Miruna , Nitipir Cornelia
Published: March 2024

Tumor-to-tumor metastasis (TTM) is a rare phenomenon documented in patients with multiple primary cancers. This condition is defined as a metastasis between two true primary tumors. The most frequently reported recipient tumor is renal cell carcinoma (RCC), and the lung carcinomas are the most common metastatic tumor donors. Therefore, this paper attempts to address the current gap in knowledge about this rare phenomenon. The first part of this review outlines the recently proposed models and mechanisms involved in the TTM process. The second part then summarizes and analyzes previous case reports in the literature. We also present our experience with the case of lung cancer that metastasized into RCC. Given the sporadic incidence of TTM, no specific management guidelines exist. Therefore, considering TTM in patients with multiple primary tumors is important as it could potentially modify the oncological management offered.
Practitioner Enquiry as Lifelong Teacher Education for Inclusion
Authors: Alves Ines , Christodoulidis Annie , Carpenter Jeff , Hogg Victoria Maria
Published: March 2024

This article focuses on the use of a practitioner enquiry (PE) course to develop teacher education for inclusion, particularly when referring to continuous professional development (CPD). The article aims to answer the following research questions: How does this PE course compared to other experiences of CPD? To what extent is this model of CPD a way of promoting teacher education for inclusion? The data presented in this article were generated by three student-practitioners and a course tutor who engaged in a practitioner enquiry course offered in a higher education institution in Scotland during the academic year 2022–2023. Data were generated through autoethnography, and all authors individually reflected on their experiences of CPD, namely this PE course. The data were then analysed through a thematic analysis process that combined individual and collaborative tasks, including the writing of this article. This article concludes that long-term CPD with a constructivist alignment allows student-practitioners to develop their agency as inclusive educators. Engagement with research, both by critically analysing ‘global’ academic research and by designing and implementing a ‘local’ PE, provides lifelong tools for teachers to identify and remove barriers to ensuring that all learners can access, participate, and succeed in education.
Secure Device-to-Device Communication in IoT: Fuzzy Identity from Wireless Channel State Information for Identity-Based Encryption
Authors: Zhang Bo , Zhang Tao , Xi Zesheng , Chen Ping , Wei Jin , Liu Yu
Published: March 2024

With the rapid development of the Internet of Things (IoT), ensuring secure communication between devices has become a crucial challenge. This paper proposes a novel secure communication solution by extracting wireless channel state information (CSI) features from IoT devices to generate a device identity. Due to the instability of the wireless channel, the CSI features are fuzzy and time-varying; thus, we a employ locally sensitive hashing (LSH) algorithm to ensure the stability of the generated identity in a dynamically changing wireless channel environment. Furthermore, zero-knowledge proofs are utilized to guarantee the authenticity and effectiveness of the generated identity. Finally, the identity generated using the aforementioned approach is integrated into an IBE communication scheme, which involves the fuzzy extraction of channel state information from IoT devices, stable identity extraction for fuzzy IoT devices using LSH, and the use of zero-knowledge proofs to ensure the authenticity of the generated identity. This identity is then employed as the identity information in identity-based encryption (IBE), constructing the device’s public key for achieving confidential communication between devices.
Deep Reinforcement Learning with Godot Game Engine
Authors: Ranaweera Mahesh , Mahmoud Qusay H.
Published: March 2024

This paper introduces a Python framework for developing Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) in an open-source Godot game engine to tackle sim-to-real research. A framework was designed to communicate and interface with the Godot game engine to perform the DRL. With the Godot game engine, users will be able to set up their environment while defining the constraints, motion, interactive objects, and actions to be performed. The framework interfaces with the Godot game engine to perform defined actions. It can be further extended to perform domain randomization and enhance overall learning by increasing the complexity of the environment. Unlike other proprietary physics or game engines, Godot provides extensive developmental freedom under an open-source licence. By incorporating Godot’s built-in powerful node-based environment system, flexible user interface, and the proposed Python framework, developers can extend its features to develop deep learning applications. Research performed on Sim2Real using this framework has provided great insight into the factors that affect the gap in reality. It also demonstrated the effectiveness of this framework in Sim2Real applications and research.
Analysis of Phase-Locked Loop Filter Delay on Transient Stability of Grid-Following Converters
Authors: Zhang Chenglin , Chen Junru , Si Wenjia
Published: March 2024

To ensure precise phase estimation within the q-axis of the phase-locked loop (PLL), integrating a filter into the q-axis loop is essential to mitigate grid-voltage harmonics. Nevertheless, the intrinsic delay characteristics of this filter impede PLL synchronization during significant grid disturbances. This study begins by developing mathematical models for three types of filters—moving-average filter (MAF) for eliminating odd harmonic components, dq-frame cascaded delayed signal cancellation (dqCDSC) filter, and notch filter (NF). Following the reduction in filter orders, a third-order nonlinear large-signal model of the PLL, incorporating an additional q-axis internal filter, is formulated. Using phase plane analysis, this study investigates the transient synchronism of the grid-following converter (GFL) and explores the influence of delay time constants from the three PLL filters on its behavior while delineating the boundaries of their basins of attraction. Theoretical findings indicate that, relative to the traditional SRF-PLL, incorporating an internal filter into the PLL compromises the transient synchronous stability of GFL. Specifically, greater filter delay time constants exacerbate the GFL’s vulnerability to transient instability amid substantial grid disturbances. Hence, careful consideration is essential when using MAF-PLL and NF-PLL in situations demanding high synchronization stability. The theoretical analyses are validated using Matlab/Simulink to verify their accuracy.
Optimizing Piezoelectric Energy Harvesting from Mechanical Vibration for Electrical Efficiency: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Wakshume Demeke Girma , Płaczek Marek Łukasz
Published: March 2024

In the current era, energy resources from the environment via piezoelectric materials are not only used for self-powered electronic devices, but also play a significant role in creating a pleasant living environment. Piezoelectric materials have the potential to produce energy from micro to milliwatts of power depending on the ambient conditions. The energy obtained from these materials is used for powering small electronic devices such as sensors, health monitoring devices, and various smart electronic gadgets like watches, personal computers, and cameras. These reviews explain the comprehensive concepts related to piezoelectric (classical and non-classical) materials, energy harvesting from the mechanical vibration of piezoelectric materials, structural modelling, and their optimization. Non-conventional smart materials, such as polyceramics, polymers, or composite piezoelectric materials, stand out due to their slender actuator and sensor profiles, offering superior performance, flexibility, and reliability at competitive costs despite their susceptibility to performance fluctuations caused by temperature variations. Accurate modeling and performance optimization, employing analytical, numerical, and experimental methodologies are imperative. This review also furthers research and development in optimizing piezoelectric energy utilization, suggesting the need for continued experimentation to select optimal materials and structures for various energy applications.
A Robust CNN for Malware Classification against Executable Adversarial Attack
Authors: Zhang Yunchun , Jiang Jiaqi , Yi Chao , Li Hai , Min Shaohui , Zuo Ruifeng , An Zhenzhou , Yu Yongtao
Published: March 2024

Deep-learning-based malware-detection models are threatened by adversarial attacks. This paper designs a robust and secure convolutional neural network (CNN) for malware classification. First, three CNNs with different pooling layers, including global average pooling (GAP), global max pooling (GMP), and spatial pyramid pooling (SPP), are proposed. Second, we designed an executable adversarial attack to construct adversarial malware by changing the meaningless and unimportant segments within the Portable Executable (PE) header file. Finally, to consolidate the GMP-based CNN, a header-aware loss algorithm based on the attention mechanism is proposed to defend the executive adversarial attack. The experiments showed that the GMP-based CNN achieved better performance in malware detection than other CNNs with around 98.61% accuracy. However, all CNNs were vulnerable to the executable adversarial attack and a fast gradient-based attack with a 46.34% and 34.65% accuracy decline on average, respectively. Meanwhile, the improved header-aware CNN achieved the best performance with an evasion ratio of less than 5.0%.
A Transmission and Distribution Cooperative Congestion Scheduling Strategy Based on Flexible Load Dynamic Compensation Prices
Authors: Sun Hui , Jin Tian , Gao Zhengnan , Hu Shubo , Dou Yanan , Lu Xueli
Published: March 2024

With the demand response and the massive access of distributed energy to the distribution network, it is possible to solve the transmission congestion problem by coordinating the controllable resources in a transmission network and distribution network. Aiming at resolving the problems of scattered side response resources and difficult-to-negotiate compensation prices, a bi-level optimal congestion scheduling strategy based on flexible load dynamic compensation prices is proposed. Under this strategy, the transmission network layer aims at minimizing the congestion cost and optimizes the adjustment scheme of the generator set and the node price. The active distribution network layer obtains the dynamic compensation price of the flexible load of the distribution network through the load characteristics and the node price. Through the interaction and coordination between the two layers, an optimal congestion scheduling scheme is obtained, and the transmission and distribution jointly solve the congestion problem. Based on the modified IEEE-39 experimental system, the effectiveness of the proposed strategy is verified via a simulation.