bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Supervised Machine Learning Model for Regression to Predict Melt Pool Formation and Morphology in Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Baldi Niccolò , Giorgetti Alessandro , Polidoro Alessandro , Palladino Marco , Giovannetti Iacopo , Arcidiacono Gabriele , Citti Paolo
Published: December 2023

In the additive manufacturing laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) process, the optimization of the print process parameters and the development of conduction zones in the laser power (P) and scanning speed (V) parameter spaces are critical to meeting production quality, productivity, and volume goals. In this paper, we propose the use of a machine learning approach during the process parameter development to predict the melt pool dimensions as a function of the P/V combination. This approach turns out to be useful in speeding up the identification of the printability map of the material and defining the conduction zone during the development phase. Moreover, a machine learning method allows for an accurate investigation of the most promising configurations in the P-V space, facilitating the optimization and identification of the P-V set with the highest productivity. This approach is validated by an experimental campaign carried out on samples of Inconel 718, and the effects of some additional parameters, such as the layer thickness (in the range of 30 to 90 microns) and the preheating temperature of the building platform, are evaluated. More specifically, the experimental data have been used to train supervised machine learning models for regression using the KNIME Analytics Platform (version 4.7.7). An AutoML (node for regression) tool is used to identify the most appropriate model based on the evaluation of R2 and MAE scores. The gradient boosted tree model also performs best compared to Rosenthal’s analytical model.
Boosting Deep Reinforcement Learning Agents with Generative Data Augmentation
Authors: Papagiannis Tasos , Alexandridis Georgios , Stafylopatis Andreas
Published: December 2023

Data augmentation is a promising technique in improving exploration and convergence speed in deep reinforcement learning methodologies. In this work, we propose a data augmentation framework based on generative models for creating completely novel states and increasing diversity. For this purpose, a diffusion model is used to generate artificial states (learning the distribution of original, collected states), while an additional model is trained to predict the action executed between two consecutive states. These models are combined to create synthetic data for cases of high and low immediate rewards, which are encountered less frequently during the agent’s interaction with the environment. During the training process, the synthetic samples are mixed with the actually observed data in order to speed up agent learning. The proposed methodology is tested on the Atari 2600 framework, producing realistic and diverse synthetic data which improve training in most cases. Specifically, the agent is evaluated on three heterogeneous games, achieving a reward increase of up to 31%, although the results indicate performance variance among the different environments. The augmentation models are independent of the learning process and can be integrated to different algorithms, as well as different environments, with slight adaptations.
Unsupervised Low-Light Image Enhancement in the Fourier Transform Domain
Authors: Ming Feng , Wei Zhihui , Zhang Jun
Published: December 2023

Low-light image enhancement is an important task in computer vision. Deep learning-based low-light image enhancement has made significant progress. But the current methods also face the challenge of relying on a wide variety of low-light/normal-light paired images and amplifying noise while enhancing brightness. Based on existing experimental observation that most luminance information concentrates on amplitudes while noise is closely related to phases, an unsupervised low-light image enhancement method in the Fourier transform domain is proposed. In our method, the low-light image is firstly transformed into the amplitude component and phase component via Fourier transform. The luminance of low-light image is enhanced by CycleGAN in the amplitude domain, and the phase component is denoising. The cycle consistency losses both in the Fourier transform domain and spatial domain are used in training. The proposed method has been validated on publicly available test sets and shows that our method achieves superior results than other approaches in low-light image enhancement and noise suppression.
Intelligent Space Object Detection Driven by Data from Space Objects
Authors: Tang Qiang , Li Xiangwei , Xie Meilin , Zhen Jialiang
Published: December 2023

With the rapid development of space programs in various countries, the number of satellites in space is rising continuously, which makes the space environment increasingly complex. In this context, it is essential to improve space object identification technology. Herein, it is proposed to perform intelligent detection of space objects by means of deep learning. To be specific, 49 authentic 3D satellite models with 16 scenarios involved are applied to generate a dataset comprising 17,942 images, including over 500 actual satellite Palatino images. Then, the five components are labeled for each satellite. Additionally, a substantial amount of annotated data is collected through semi-automatic labeling, which reduces the labor cost significantly. Finally, a total of 39,000 labels are obtained. On this dataset, RepPoint is employed to replace the 3 × 3 convolution of the ElAN backbone in YOLOv7, which leads to YOLOv7-R. According to the experimental results, the accuracy reaches 0.983 at a maximum. Compared to other algorithms, the precision of the proposed method is at least 1.9% higher. This provides an effective solution to intelligent recognition for spatial target components.
An Integrated Shape Optimization Method for Hybrid Structure Consisting of Branch and Free-Form Surface
Authors: Wang Jianghong , Cui Changyu , Jiang Baoshi
Published: December 2023

Branching and free-form structures are widely used in large-span buildings. Their shapes are the main factors that affect their mechanical performances. Many studies have been carried out on the morphology of single structural systems, but less on hybrid structures. However, both of them often appear in the same building. In order to reflect the cooperative bearing of substructures in the optimization process of branch-supported free-form surface structures, this paper proposes a holistic shape optimization method. The proposed method extracts design variables based on the structural modeling process, and uses the coordinates in the parametric domain to realize a mathematical description of the positional relationship between substructures. Then, the sensitivity analysis method is used to adjust the position of design variables to reduce the overall strain energy, realizing the integrated shape optimization of this hybrid structure. The effectiveness of the method is validated through several numerical examples. The results show that the overall stiffness of the optimized structure has been significantly improved, and the process of integrated optimization is more convenient. Furthermore, the way of adjusting design variables directly affects the shape and mechanical performance of the optimized structure. This feature serves as a valuable design tool that can provide multiple feasible solutions for architectural and structural design.
A High-Quality Hybrid Mapping Model Based on Averaging Dense Sampling Parameters
Authors: Yi Fanxiao , Li Weishi , Huang Mengjie , Du Yingchang , Ye Lei
Published: December 2023

Navigation map generation based on remote sensing images is crucial in fields such as autonomous driving and geographic surveying. Style transfer is an effective method for obtaining a navigation map of the current environment. However, there is lack of robustness of the map-style transfer model, resulting in unsatisfactory quality of the generated navigation maps. To address these challenges, we average the parameters of generators sampled from different iterations with a dense sampling strategy in the Generative Adversarial Network (CycleGAN). The results demonstrate that the training efficiency of our method on the MNIST and generation quality on the Google Map dataset are significantly superior to traditional style transfer methods. Moreover, it performs well in multi-environment hybrid mapping. Our method improves the generalization ability of the model and converts existing navigation maps to other styles of maps precisely. It can better adapt to different types of urban layout and road planning, bringing innovative solutions for traffic management and navigation systems.
Thermomechanical Properties of a Concrete Composed of Cherry Tree Resin and Expanded Clay (Exclay) Aggregate
Authors: Bicer Ayse , Celik Nevin , Ozgen Filiz , Kistak Celal , Taskiran Ali
Published: December 2023

Expanded clay (exclay) aggregate and cherry tree resin are used in this study to produce a lightweight construction material. Based on the grain diameter, exclays are classified as d = 2–4 mm and d = 4–6 mm. Cement is added to each group as the binder material. The exclay ratios vary as 10%, 20%, 30%, 40% and 50% of the total volume in the samples. The cherry tree resin is poured into the concrete mixture with a ratio of 1% and 1.5% of cement + exclay mixture in order to form artificial pores in each sample group. The produced samples are subjected to some tests, such as thermal conductivity, water absorption and compressive strength. It is determined that due to the increase in exclay ratios and particle diameter, there is an increase in porosity along with water absorption, but there is a decrease in density, thermal conductivity and compressive strength. Hence, these newly produced concretes are recommended for panel walls, brick, concrete briquettes, inner and outer plaster and concrete partition elements.
Steady-Speed Traffic Capacity Analysis for Autonomous and Human-Driven Vehicles
Authors: Mohammed Dilshad , Horváth Balázs
Published: December 2023

As the automotive industry transitions towards the era of autonomous vehicles, it is imperative to assess and compare the following distances maintained by vehicles equipped with adaptive cruise control (ACC) systems against those of traditional human-driven vehicles. This study aims to provide insights into the future use of autonomous vehicles by empirically examining the following distances achieved under different driving conditions. Controlled experiments were conducted using three vehicles equipped with various types of ACC sensors, and comparable scenarios were replicated with human drivers. The experiments involved driving at multiple constant speeds to evaluate the efficacy of ACC in maintaining safe following distances. Our findings indicate that ACC systems consistently converge on optimal following distances, demonstrating their ability to regulate spacing between vehicles effectively. However, a notable downside emerged in terms of their adverse impact on road capacities, where the results indicate a mitigation in capacity percentages of 7.6%, 9.3%, and 15.6% for the three types of ACC-equipped vehicles compared to human drivers. This study sheds light on the intricate interplay between ACC systems and human driving behaviors, emphasizing the need to consider both factors when envisioning the future of autonomous vehicles. While ACC systems provide a standardized and reliable approach to following distances, the shorter distances observed in human-driven scenarios suggest a potential trade-off between safety and traffic capacity. These insights contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics involved in autonomous driving, facilitating informed decision making for the integration of autonomous vehicles into future transportation systems.
Development and Assessment of a 4D Printing Technique for Space Applications
Authors: Richter Tim , Völlmecke Christina
Published: December 2023

Shape memory polymers (SMPs), a class of polymers exhibiting the unique ability to restore deformation induced during the programming process in response to external stimuli, have garnered significant attention. In this study, our objectives were two-fold: to develop an efficient device for programming SMP hinges crafted from polyetheretherketon (PEEK) and to optimize their performance for potential utilization in space applications. Two versions of the programming device were constructed and compared. Through three systematic experiments, we identified optimal programming and recovery conditions for the hinges, revealing the best shape memory effects (SMEs) at a programming temperature of 250 °C. Remarkably, the hinges were able to recover the previously induced deformation up to 100%, maintaining functionality down to a lower temperature limit of 150 °C. Notably, these hinges demonstrated a wide operational range of over 180°, rendering them promising for space applications, as extensively discussed within the manuscript. However, challenges arise due to the high recovery temperature of 150 °C, presenting obstacles in achieving optimal functionality in the demanding conditions of a space environment.
Design and Numerical Simulation Study of Film Rod Reparation Device for Residual Film Recycling Machine
Authors: Jiang Zhangzhen , Zhang Jianjie , Lin Ying , Tang Yiyu
Published: December 2023

For the residual film recycling machine work, after the recovery of residual film, cotton stalks, crushed soil, and other impurities are not easy to separate; it is challenging to realize the secondary use of the problem. A waste film and impurity wind selection device were designed to recognize waste film recycling and separate soil film rods. The overall structure and working principles of the machine are described. A three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics model of a film rod separation device was developed. The flow field within the film rod separation unit was analyzed by numerical simulation using 2023 R1 ANSYS Fluent software. Based on the differences of impurities such as residual film, soil, and cotton stalks in terms of density, suspension velocity, and their characteristics, the pressure distribution and velocity distribution of the internal flow field of soil, residual film, and cotton stalks at the site were investigated. The air inlet velocity, screen cylinder rotation, and main shaft rotation velocity were changed. Experiments were conducted to obtain wind selection parameters for suitable soil, residual film, and cotton stalk separators. Analysis of orthogonal experiments, polar variance of analysis, and analysis of variance yielded a better combination of working parameters: when the drum sieve velocity is 25 r/min, the spindle velocity is 35 r/min, and inlet wind velocity is 14 m/s, after the separation of residual film impurity rate of 8.9%. The results of the study can provide a theoretical basis for the development of film separation equipment.
Air Pollution and Climate Change Risk Perception among Residents in Three Cities of the Mexico Megalopolis
Authors: Landeros-Mugica Karina , Urbina-Soria Javier , Angeles-Hernández Diana Isabel , Gutiérrez-Arzaluz Mirella , Mugica-Álvarez Violeta
Published: December 2023

Recent reports of the criteria pollutants in the Megalopolis, located in the central part of Mexico, consistently show air quality standard exceedances in most of the cities that make it up, since it is a large concentration where approximately 17% of the national population resides and because it has significant commercial and industrial development. To investigate the similarities and disparities in risk perception concerning air pollution and climate change among residents living in Central Mexico, a cross-sectional survey study was carried out within three metropolitan areas encompassed by the Megalopolis. A total of 1750 questionnaire surveys were conducted across 21 municipalities within the Mexico City Metropolitan Area (MCMA), 16 municipalities within the Toluca Valley Metropolitan Area (TVMA), and 8 municipalities within the Cuernavaca Metropolitan Area. The three metropolitan areas showed significant differences in terms of air quality perception, risk perception, attitudes, and causal attribution perception, but health-related perception did not have significant differences among the areas. The MCMA exhibited higher knowledge about air pollution, although it associated the causes with urban activities such as car usage, while the Toluca and Cuernavaca areas linked this issue to the burning of garbage, coal, wood, and agricultural activities. Although residents expressed concern about air pollution, climate change, and their effects, they do not know how to act to contribute to the solution.
Plasmodium, the Apicomplexa Outlier When It Comes to Protein Synthesis
Authors: Jaramillo Ponce José R. , Frugier Magali
Published: December 2023

Plasmodium is an obligate intracellular parasite that has numerous interactions with different hosts during its elaborate life cycle. This is also the case for the other parasites belonging to the same phylum Apicomplexa. In this study, we bioinformatically identified the components of the multi-synthetase complexes (MSCs) of several Apicomplexa parasites and modelled their assembly using AlphaFold2. It appears that none of these MSCs resemble the two MSCs that we have identified and characterized in Plasmodium. Indeed, tRip, the central protein involved in the association of the two Plasmodium MSCs is different from its homologues, suggesting also that the tRip-dependent import of exogenous tRNAs is not conserved in other apicomplexan parasites. Based on this observation, we searched for obvious differences that could explain the singularity of Plasmodium protein synthesis by comparing tRNA genes and amino acid usage in the different genomes. We noted a contradiction between the large number of asparagine residues used in Plasmodium proteomes and the single gene encoding the tRNA that inserts them into proteins. This observation remains true for all the Plasmodia strains studied, even those that do not contain long asparagine homorepeats.
Modified Meta Heuristic BAT with ML Classifiers for Detection of Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Sha Mohemmed , Alqahtani Abdullah , Alsubai Shtwai , Dutta Ashit Kumar
Published: December 2023

ASD (autism spectrum disorder) is a complex developmental and neurological disorder that impacts the social life of the affected person by disturbing their capability for interaction and communication. As it is a behavioural disorder, early treatment will improve the quality of life of ASD patients. Traditional screening is carried out with behavioural assessment through trained physicians, which is expensive and time-consuming. To resolve the issue, several conventional methods strive to achieve an effective ASD identification system, but are limited by handling large data sets, accuracy, and speed. Therefore, the proposed identification system employed the MBA (modified bat) algorithm based on ANN (artificial neural networks), modified ANN (modified artificial neural networks), DT (decision tree), and KNN (k-nearest neighbours) for the classification of ASD in children and adolescents. A BA (bat algorithm) is utilised for the automatic zooming capability, which improves the system’s efficacy by excellently finding the solutions in the identification system. Conversely, BA is effective in the identification, it still has certain drawbacks like speed, accuracy, and falls into local extremum. Therefore, the proposed identification system modifies the BA optimisation with random perturbation of trends and optimal orientation. The dataset utilised in the respective model is the Q-chat-10 dataset. This dataset contains data of four stages of age groups such as toddlers, children, adolescents, and adults. To analyse the quality of the dataset, dataset evaluation mechanism, such as the Chi-Squared Statistic and p-value, are used in the respective research. The evaluation signifies the relation of the dataset with respect to the proposed model. Further, the performance of the proposed detection system is examined with certain performance metrics to calculate its efficiency. The outcome revealed that the modified ANN classifier model attained an accuracy of 1.00, ensuring improved performance when compared with other state-of-the-art methods. Thus, the proposed model was intended to assist physicians and researchers in enhancing the diagnosis of ASD to improve the standard of life of ASD patients.
Nanoisland SERS-Substrates for Specific Detection and Quantification of Influenza A Virus
Authors: Zhdanov Gleb , Gambaryan Alexandra , Akhmetova Assel , Yaminsky Igor , Kukushkin Vladimir , Zavyalova Elena
Published: December 2023

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS)-based aptasensors for virus determination have attracted a lot of interest recently. This approach provides both specificity due to an aptamer component and a low limit of detection due to signal enhancement by a SERS substrate. The most successful SERS-based aptasensors have a limit of detection (LoD) of 10–100 viral particles per mL (VP/mL) that is advantageous compared to polymerase chain reactions. These characteristics of the sensors require the use of complex substrates. Previously, we described silver nanoisland SERS-substrate with a reproducible and uniform surface, demonstrating high potency for industrial production and a suboptimal LoD of 4 × 105 VP/mL of influenza A virus. Here we describe a study of the sensor morphology, revealing an unexpected mechanism of signal enhancement through the distortion of the nanoisland layer. A novel modification of the aptasensor was proposed with chromium-enhanced adhesion of silver nanoparticles to the surface as well as elimination of the buffer-dependent distortion-triggering steps. As a result, the LoD of the Influenza A virus was decreased to 190 VP/mL, placing the nanoisland SERS-based aptasensors in the rank of the most powerful sensors for viral detection.
Associations of Lipoprotein(a) Level with Cerebral Small Vessel Disease in Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Chen Nihong , Jiang Fuping , Chen Xiangliang , Zhu Lin , Qiao Na , Zhou Junshan , Zhang Yingdong
Published: December 2023

Background: This study aimed to examine the association of lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] level with the burden of cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Methods: Data from 111 consecutive patients with AD admitted to Nanjing First Hospital from 2015 to 2022 were retrospectively analyzed in this study. Serum Lp(a) concentrations were grouped into tertiles (T1–T3). Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was rated for the presence of CSVD, including enlarged perivascular spaces (EPVS), lacunes, white-matter lesions, and cerebral microbleeds (CMBs). The CSVD burden was calculated by summing the scores of each MRI marker at baseline. A binary or ordinal logistic regression model was used to estimate the relationship of serum Lp(a) levels with CSVD burden and each MRI marker. Results: Patients with higher tertiles of Lp(a) levels were less likely to have any CSVD (T1, 94.6%; T2, 78.4%; T3, 66.2%; p = 0.013). Multivariable analysis found that Lp(a) levels were inversely associated with the presence of CSVD (T2 vs. T1: adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.132, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.018–0.946, p = 0.044; T3 vs. T1: aOR 0.109, 95% CI 0.016–0.737, p = 0.023) and CSVD burden (T3 vs. T1: aOR 0.576, 95% CI 0.362–0.915, p = 0.019). The independent relationship between Lp(a) levels and individual CSVD features was significant for moderate-to-severe EPVS in the centrum semiovale (T2 vs. T1: aOR 0.059, 95% CI 0.006–0.542, p = 0.012; T3 vs. T1: aOR 0.029, 95% CI 0.003–0.273, p = 0.002) and CMBs (T3 vs. T1: aOR 0.144, 95% CI 0.029–0.716, p = 0.018). Conclusions: In this study, serum Lp(a) level was inversely associated with CSVD in AD patients.
Evaluation of Phase Change Materials for Pre-Cooling of Supply Air into Air Conditioning Systems in Extremely Hot Climates
Authors: Masood Usman , Haggag Mahmoud , Hassan Ahmed , Laghari Mohammad
Published: December 2023

This research investigates the use of phase change materials (PCMs) in thermal energy storage (TES) unit-based cooling systems to increase the efficiency of air conditioners (ACs) by reducing the air inlet temperature. This study aims to evaluate different configurations of PCM enclosures, and different PCMs (paraffin and salt hydrate), by changing the speed of inlet air to achieve heat reduction of inlet air. The study includes experimental and simulation investigations. Every configuration simulates the hot-season atmospheric conditions of the UAE. A duct containing enclosures of paraffin RT-31 and salt hydrate (calcium chloride hexahydrate) was used for the simulation study using ANSYS/Fluent. A conjugate heat transfer model employing an enthalpy-based formulation is developed to predict the optimized PCM number of series and optimum airflow rate. Four designs of the AC duct were modelled and evaluated that contained one to four series of PCM containers subjected to different levels of supplied air velocities ranging from 1 m/s–4 m/s. The simulation study revealed that employing four series (Design 4) of PCM enclosures at a low air velocity of 1 m/s enhanced the pre-cooling performance and reduced the outlet air temperature to 33 °C, yielding a temperature drop up to 13 °C. The performance of salt hydrate (calcium chloride hexahydrate) was observed to be better than paraffin (RT-31) in terms of the cooling effect. Characterization of paraffin wax (RT-31) and salt hydrate was performed to establish the thermophysical properties. The experimental setup based on a duct with integrated PCM enclosures was studied. The experiment was repeated for three days as the repeatability test incorporating RT-31 as the PCM and a 3 °C maximum temperature drop was observed. The drop in the outlet air temperature of the duct system quantifies the cooling effect. Net heat reduction was around 16%.
Analyzing the Evolution of a Rural Construction Community in China from the Perspective of Cultural Landscape
Authors: Ren Kai , Wu Tiehong
Published: December 2023

The rural construction community embodies a confluence of social dynamics within rural areas, constituting an organic self-organization with hierarchical relationships. Over a specific period, the amalgamation of various roles and relationships within the rural construction community shapes the prevalent culture, distinctive image, and production techniques within villages. This study examines the structural composition of village communities and endeavors to establish a linkage mechanism among different elements within the construction framework. Focusing on villages and their inhabitants, this research traces the temporal evolution along the following axes: (1) Traditional Agricultural Civilization Age; (2) Collective Economy Age; (3) Rural Industrialization Age; (4) Rural Differentiation Age; and (5) Rural Revitalization Age. This paper primarily observes the evolution through the cultural foundation and manifestation of rural communities, emphasizing that the communities represent cooperative, autonomous, and transformative constructs. From the perspective of cultural landscapes, this article elucidates the interconnected trajectory of ecology–institution–livelihood in the creation of rural communities. It interprets the interplay among the resource patterns, social structure, and economic forms of villages across five distinct periods, fostering a comprehensive understanding of rural community development amidst changing circumstances. Recent years have seen a concerning decline in rural areas, where rural community culture faces a significant impact from modern industrial civilization, resulting in the disintegration of the social fabric within community construction. Nevertheless, the resilient common sense and self-organization capabilities of villagers persist. This study seeks to offer theoretical guidance and decision-making support to advance innovative social governance in rural locales. Moving forward, China’s rural revitalization demands a more adaptive sustainable assessment within rural construction communities.
The Interactive Effects of Communication Network Structure and Organizational Size on Task Performance in Project-Based Organizations: The Mediating Role of Bootleg Innovation Behavior
Authors: Ding Xue , Feng Long , Huang Yao , Li Wei
Published: December 2023

A PBO is a temporary organization formed by assembling members with diverse experiences and backgrounds, aimed at achieving specific innovation goals. Constructing a reasonable communication network structure and enhancing organizational synergy are effective ways to promote the sustainable development of the system. This study, based on the Input–Process–Output (IPO) model and social network analysis, utilized a group collaboration platform to conduct a three-stage communication experiment on 685 construction project managers. Under two organizational sizes, the internal mechanism of how communication networks with two levels of centralization influence task performance were tested. The results indicate that in the case of a smaller organizational size, PBOs using a decentralized communication network tend to achieve higher task performance. However, as the organizational size expands, PBOs employing a centralized communication network may surpass in task performance. Additionally, we found that with the expansion of organizational size, bootleg innovation behaviors of organizational members are continually stimulated, further enhancing collective task performance. This study, based on the evolution of communication network parameters, explores the structural characteristics of organizational communication networks and the mechanisms underlying the emergence of bootleg innovation behaviors. It delineates the key pathways for improving collective task performance. The findings can provide a scientific reference for the organizational evolution and development of engineering project management.
Imaging GRPr Expression in Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer with [68Ga]Ga-RM2—A Head-to-Head Pilot Comparison with [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11
Authors: Fernández René , Soza-Ried Cristian , Iagaru Andrei , Stephens Andrew , Müller Andre , Schieferstein Hanno , Sandoval Camilo , Amaral Horacio , Kramer Vasko
Published: December 2023

Background: The gastrin-releasing peptide receptor (GRPr) is highly overexpressed in several solid tumors, including treatment-naïve and recurrent prostate cancer. [68Ga]Ga-RM2 is a well-established radiotracer for PET imaging of GRPr, and [177Lu]Lu-RM2 has been proposed as a therapeutic alternative for patients with heterogeneous and/or low expression of PSMA. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the expression of GRPr and PSMA in a group of patients diagnosed with castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) by means of PET imaging. Methods: Seventeen mCRPC patients referred for radio-ligand therapy (RLT) were enrolled and underwent [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 and [68Ga]Ga-RM2 PET/CT imaging, 8.8 ± 8.6 days apart, to compare the biodistribution of each tracer. Uptake in healthy organs and tumor lesions was assessed by SUV values, and tumor-to-background ratios were analyzed. Results: [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 showed significantly higher uptake in tumor lesions in bone, lymph nodes, prostate, and soft tissues and detected 23% more lesions compared to [68Ga]Ga-RM2. In 4/17 patients (23.5%), the biodistribution of both tracers was comparable. Conclusions: Our results show that in our cohort of mCRPC patients, PSMA expression was higher compared to GRPr. Nevertheless, RLT with [177Lu]Lu-RM2 may be an alternative treatment option for selected patients or patients in earlier disease stages, such as biochemical recurrence.
Low Alanine Aminotransferase as a Marker for Sarcopenia and Frailty, Is Associated with Decreased Survival of Bladder Cancer Patients and Survivors—A Retrospective Data Analysis of 3075 Patients
Authors: Laufer Menachem , Perelman Maxim , Segal Gad , Sarfaty Michal , Itelman Edward
Published: December 2023

Background. Sarcopenia is characterized by the loss of muscle mass and function and is associated with frailty, a syndrome linked to an increased likelihood of falls, fractures, and physical disability. Both frailty and sarcopenia are recognized as markers for shortened survival in a number of medical conditions and in cancer patient populations. Low alanine aminotransferase (ALT) values, representing low muscle mass (sarcopenia), may be associated with increased frailty and subsequently shortened survival in cancer patients. In the current study, we aimed to assess the potential relationship between low ALT and shorter survival in bladder cancer patients and survivors. Patients and Methods. This was a retrospective analysis of bladder cancer patients and survivors, both in and outpatients. We defined patients with sarcopenia as those presenting with ALT < 17 IU/L. Results. A total of 5769 bladder cancer patients’ records were identified. After the exclusion of patients with no available ALT values or ALT levels above the upper normal limit, the final study cohort included 3075 patients (mean age 73.2 ± 12 years), of whom 80% were men and 1362 (53% had ALT ≤ 17 IU/L. The mean ALT value of patients within the low ALT group was 11.44 IU/L, while the mean value in the higher ALT level group was 24.32 IU/L (p < 0.001). Patients in the lower ALT group were older (74.7 vs. 71.4 years; p < 0.001), had lower BMI (25.8 vs. 27; p < 0.001), and their hemoglobin values were lower (11.7 vs. 12.6 g/dL; p < 0.001). In a univariate analysis, low ALT levels were associated with a 45% increase in mortality (95% CI 1.31–1.60, p < 0.001). In a multivariate model controlling for age, kidney function, and hemoglobin, low ALT levels were still associated with 22% increased mortality. Conclusions. Low ALT values, indicative of sarcopenia and frailty, are associated with decreased survival of bladder cancer patients and survivors and could potentially be applied for optimizing individual treatment decisions.
Oral Problems in Oncology Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy for Solid Tumors: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Ottaviani Giulia , Targato Giada , Rupel Katia , Gobbo Margherita , Generali Daniele , Guglielmi Alessandra , Dicorato Angela , Adamo Daniela , Canfora Federica , Di Lenarda Roberto , Biasotto Matteo
Published: December 2023

PURPOSE: Oral problems in a group of oncological patients undergoing chemotherapy (CT) for solid tumors have been examined. Incidence and severity of patients’ self-reported oral problems have been evaluated along their interaction with age, gender, tumor diagnosis and stage, presence of mestastasis, CT agent type, and number of CT cycle. We also analyzed the presence of paraesthesia and anaesthesia and their predisposing factors associated with clinical and treatment-related variables. METHODS: Patients were asked to fill in a questionnaire to evaluate the onset and the intensity of oral and perioral pain, oral mucositis, salivary gland hypofunction, dysgeusia, dysphagia, dysphonia, and sensitivity neuropathy (paraesthesia or dysaesthesia) since the last CT infusion. We also investigated which types of medications have possibly been used and who recommended it, as well as patients’ degree of awareness about the possibility of oral problems arising during CT. RESULTS: We recruited 194 patients and obtained 491 questionnaires. We found that a metastatic disease was a risk factor for OM (OR 2.02, p = 0.026) and salivary gland hypofunction (OR 1.66, p = 0.042) and that platinum agents, compared to mitotic inhibitors, increased the risk of developing salivary gland hypofunction (OR 2.16, p = 0.013), dysphagia (OR 3.26, p = 0.001), and anaesthesia (OR 5.16, p = 0.041). Young age was a slight protective factor for most symptoms. The 80% of enrolled patients were informed by the oncologist about possible oral problems arising during CT. CONCLUSIONS: Our study highlighted the importance of collecting observational data from the patients’ perspective on oral problems arising during the routine oncology practice, across a range of solid tumors and CT regimens. The relevance of these findings focused on the key role of the multidisciplinary team in advising the patients on the possible occurrence of oral problems, also by recommending their management.
Metastases and Recurrence Risk Factors in Endometrial Cancer—The Role of Selected Molecular Changes, Hormonal Factors, Diagnostic Methods and Surgery Procedures
Authors: Markowska Anna , Baranowski Włodzimierz , Pityński Kazimierz , Chudecka-Głaz Anita , Markowska Janina , Sawicki Włodzimierz
Published: December 2023

The presence of metastatic endometrial cancer (EC) is a key problem in treatment failure associated with reduced overall survival rates. The most common metastatic location is the pelvic lymph nodes, and the least common is the brain. The presence of metastasis depends on many factors, including the molecular profile of cancer (according to the TCGA—Genome Atlas), the activity of certain hormones (estrogen, prolactin), and pro-inflammatory adipocytokines. Additionally, an altered expression of microRNAs affecting the regulation of numerous genes is also related to the spread of cancer. This paper also discusses the value of imaging methods in detecting metastases; the primary role is attributed to the standard transvaginal USG with the tumor-free distance (uTFD) option. The influence of diagnostic and therapeutic methods on EC spread is also described. Hysteroscopy, according to the analysis discussed above, may increase the risk of metastases through a fluid medium, mainly performed in advanced stages of EC. According to another analysis, laparoscopic hysterectomy performed with particular attention to avoiding risky procedures (trocar flushing, tissue traumatization, preserving a margin of normal tissue) was not found to increase the risk of EC dissemination.
Intraoperative Parathyroid Gland Identification Using Autofluorescence Imaging in Thyroid Cancer Surgery with Central Neck Dissection: Impact on Post-Operative Hypocalcemia
Authors: Guerlain Joanne , Breuskin Ingrid , Abbaci Muriel , Lamartina Livia , Hadoux Julien , Baudin Eric , Al Ghuzlan Abir , Moog Sophie , Marhic Alix , Villard Adrien , Obongo Rais , Hartl Dana M.
Published: December 2023

Hypoparathyroidism is the most frequent complication in thyroid surgery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of intraoperative parathyroid gland identification, using autofluorescence imaging, on the rate of post-operative (PO) hypoparathyroidism in thyroid cancer surgery. Patients undergoing total thyroidectomy with central neck dissection from 2018 to 2022 were included. A prospective cohort of 77 patients operated on using near-infrared autofluorescence (NIRAF+) with the Fluobeam® (Fluoptics, Grenoble, France) system was compared to a retrospective cohort of 94 patients (NIR−). The main outcomes were the rate of PO hypocalcemia, with three cutoffs: corrected calcium (Cac) < 2.10 mmol/L, <2.00 mmol/L and <1.875 mmol/L, and the rate of permanent hypoparathyroidism, at 12 months. The rate of PO Cac < 2.10 mmol/L was statistically lower in the NIRAF+ group, compared to the control group (36% and 60%, p = 0.003, respectively). No statistically significant difference was observed for the other two thresholds. There was a lower rate of permanent hypoparathyroidism in the NIRAF+ group (5% vs. 14% in the control group), although not statistically significant (p = 0.07). NIRAF is a surgically non-invasive adjunct, and can improve patients’ outcomes for thyroid cancer surgery by reducing post-operative temporary hypoparathyroidism. Larger prospective studies are warranted to validate our findings.
Viral Targeting of Importin Alpha-Mediated Nuclear Import to Block Innate Immunity
Authors: Vogel Olivia A. , Forwood Jade K. , Leung Daisy W. , Amarasinghe Gaya K. , Basler Christopher F.
Published: December 2023

Cellular nucleocytoplasmic trafficking is mediated by the importin family of nuclear transport proteins. The well-characterized importin alpha (IMPA) and importin beta (IMPB) nuclear import pathway plays a crucial role in the innate immune response to viral infection by mediating the nuclear import of transcription factors such as IRF3, NFκB, and STAT1. The nuclear transport of these transcription factors ultimately leads to the upregulation of a wide range of antiviral genes, including IFN and IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs). To replicate efficiently in cells, viruses have developed mechanisms to block these signaling pathways. One strategy to evade host innate immune responses involves blocking the nuclear import of host antiviral transcription factors. By binding IMPA proteins, these viral proteins prevent the nuclear transport of key transcription factors and suppress the induction of antiviral gene expression. In this review, we describe examples of proteins encoded by viruses from several different families that utilize such a competitive inhibition strategy to suppress the induction of antiviral gene expression.
Controlling Dye Adsorption Kinetics of Graphene Oxide Nano-Sheets via Optimized Oxidation Treatment
Authors: Alshammari Abdullah S.
Published: December 2023

Graphene derivatives have demonstrated high potential for various applications, including environmental ones. In this work, graphene oxide nano-sheets were obtained by utilizing a simple chemical method and were tested for water treatment applications. The pollutant adsorption ability of the produced GO was adjusted through a proper oxidation treatment of the graphene nano-sheets. The GO treatment time was systematically varied to control the oxidation level of the graphene nano-sheets and was found to considerably affect the GO’s properties and performance in removing methylene blue. The microscopic studies showed well-exfoliated, few-layer GO nano-sheets. EDS and FTIR techniques were used to probe the presence of oxygen functional groups on the GO surface. The XRD investigations revealed various crystallinity levels of the prepared GO nano-sheets depending on the treatment time. The MB degradation efficiency was maximized by optimizing the GO treatment time. The results showed that the oxidation treatment parameters of GO play a major role in adjusting its properties and can be effectively utilized to boost its performance for water purification applications.
Cobalt Doping Effects in Zinc Oxide: A Combined Experimental and Ab Initio Approach
Authors: Pereira Luciano F. D. , Ferreira Wanderson L. , Correa Bruno S. , Costa Messias S. , Costa Cleidilane S. , Filho Arnaldo A. M. , Sales Tatiane S. N. , Bosch-Santos Brianna , Schell Juliana , Burimova Anastasia , Saxena Rajendra N. , Cabrera-Pasca Gabriel A. , Carbonari Artur W.
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we investigate the solubility effects of Co in ZnO (Zn1−xCoxO, where x = 0, 0.03, 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.25, 0.4, 0.8, and 1) by combining the results of perturbed angular correlation (PAC) spectroscopy using highly diluted 111Cd as probe nuclei and ab initio calculations based on spin-density functional theory (SDFT). This combined approach enables us to characterize the local structure around Cd ions, where, through PAC technique, it was possible to measure the EFG as a function of temperature and Co concentration and thereby monitor the changes in the structure and the Co solubility threshold in ZnO and the ZnO/CoO/Co3O4 mixed phase. The full-potential linear augmented plane wave plus local orbital (APW+lo) formalism were used here to describe the electronic structure of the supercells, including the atomic relaxations. These Ab initio calculations show an interesting behavior of the Cd and Co impurity levels in the band structure of ZnO, which explains the experimental results in terms of the origin of EFG and the evidence of ferromagnetic response.
Recent Advances in the Therapeutic Management of Advanced Systemic Mastocytosis
Authors: Veitch Scott , Radia Deepti H.
Published: December 2023

Advanced systemic mastocytosis (AdvSM) is a rare haematological neoplasm characterised by the accumulation of neoplastic mast cells (MCs) in various organs, resulting in organ dysfunction and reduced life expectancy. The subtypes include aggressive SM (ASM), SM with an associated haematological neoplasm (SM-AHN) and mast cell leukaemia (MCL). The gain of function KIT D816V mutation is present in most cases. The availability of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) has revolutionised the treatment landscape for patients with this life-limiting disease. Patients are now able to achieve molecular remission, improved quality of life and improved overall survival. This review focuses on the targeted therapies currently available in clinical practice and within the clinical trial setting for AdvSM. This review also highlights possible future therapeutic targets and discusses therapeutic strategies for this multimutated and clinically heterogeneous disease.
Rare Diaphragmatic Hernias in Adults—Experience of a Tertiary Center in Esophageal Surgery and Narrative Review of the Literature
Authors: Predescu Dragos , Achim Florin , Socea Bogdan , Ceaușu Mihail Constantin , Constantin Adrian
Published: December 2023

A rare entity of non-hiatal type transdiaphragmatic hernias, which must be clearly differentiated from paraoesophageal hernias, are the phrenic defects that bear the generic name of congenital hernias—Bochdalek hernia and Larey-Morgagni hernia, respectively. The etiological substrate is relatively simple: the presence of preformed anatomical openings, which either do or do not enable transit from the thoracic region to the abdominal region or, most often, vice versa, from the abdomen to the thorax, of various visceral elements (spleen, liver, stomach, colon, pancreas, etc.). Apart from the congenital origin, a somewhat rarer group is described, representing about 1–7% of the total: an acquired variant of the traumatic type, frequently through a contusive type mechanism, which produces diaphragmatic strains/ruptures. Apparently, the symptomatology is heterogeneous, being dependent on the location of the hernia, the dimensions of the defect, which abdominal viscera is involved through the hernial opening, its degree of migration, and whether there are volvulation/ischemia/obstruction phenomena. Often, its clinical appearance is modest, mainly incidental discoveries, the majority being digestive manifestations. Severe digestive complications such as strangulation, volvus, and perforation are rare and are accompanied by severe shock, suddenly appearing after several non-specific digestive prodromes. Diagnosis combines imaging evaluations (plain radiology, contrast, CT) with endoscopic ones. Surgical treatment is recommended regardless of the side on which the diaphragmatic defect is located or the secondary symptoms due to potential complications. The approach options are thoracic, abdominal or combined thoracoabdominal approach, and classic or minimally invasive. Most often, selection of the type of approach should be made taking into account two elements: the size of the defect, assessed by CT, and the presence of major complications. Any hiatal defect that is larger than 5 cm2 (the hiatal hernia surface (HSA)) has a formal recommendation of mesh reinforcement. The recurrence rate is not negligible, and statistical data show that the period of the first postoperative year is prime for recurrence, being directly proportional to the size of the defect. As a result, in patients who were required to use mesh, the recurrence rate is somewhere between 27 and 41% (!), while for cases with primary suture, i.e., with a modest diaphragmatic defect, this is approx. 4%.