bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Meditation-Induced Self-Boundary Flexibility and Prosociality: A MEG and Behavioral Measures Study
Authors: Schweitzer Yoav , Trautwein Fynn-Mathis , Dor-Ziderman Yair , Nave Ohad , David Jonathan , Fulder Stephen , Berkovich-Ohana Aviva
Published: November 2024

Background: In the last decade, empirical studies on the beneficial effects of meditation on prosocial capacities have accumulated, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Buddhist sources state that liberating oneself from a fixed view of the self by gaining access to its transitory and malleable nature leads to increased compassion and other prosocial traits. These, however, have not yet been empirically tested. Methods: The current study aims at filling this gap by first examining whether 44 long term meditators differ from 53 controls in prosocial capacities on different levels of the socio-cognitive hierarchy, and second by examining whether these are associated with meditation-induced ‘selfless’ states, operationalized here as the sense of boundary (SB) flexibility. We capitalize on our previous work on the neurophenomenology of mindfulness-induced SB dissolution, which yielded a neural index of SB-flexibility, solely for the meditators, and examine its correlations with a battery of validated behavioral prosociality tasks. Results: Our findings reveal enhanced low-level prosocial processes in meditators, including enhanced emotion recognition and reduced outgroup bias. We show the stability of SB flexibility over a year, demonstrating consistent high beta deactivation. The neural index of SB flexibility negatively correlates with recognizing negative emotions, suggesting a link to reduced social threat perception. Conclusions: These results connect the neural correlates of SB flexibility to prosociality, supported by stable high beta deactivations. We expect the results to raise awareness regarding the prosocial potential of flexing one’s self-boundaries through meditation.
Current Stroke Solutions Using Artificial Intelligence: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Al-Janabi Omar M. , El Refaei Amro , Elgazzar Tasnim , Mahmood Yamama M. , Bakir Danah , Gajjar Aryan , Alateya Aysha , Jha Saroj Kumar , Ghozy Sherief , Kallmes David F. , Brinjikji Waleed
Published: November 2024

Introduction: In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative tool for enhancing stroke diagnosis, aiding treatment decision making, and improving overall patient care. Leading AI-driven platforms such as RapidAI, Brainomix®, and Viz.ai have been developed to assist healthcare professionals in the swift and accurate assessment of stroke patients. Methods: Following the PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive systematic review was conducted using PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus. Characteristic descriptive measures were gathered as appropriate from all included studies, including the sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and comparison of the available tools. Results: A total of 31 studies were included, of which 29 studies focused on detecting acute ischemic stroke (AIS) or large vessel occlusions (LVOs), and 2 studies focused on hemorrhagic strokes. The four main tools used were Viz.ai, RapidAI, Brainomix®, and deep learning modules. Conclusions: AI tools in the treatment of stroke have demonstrated usefulness for diagnosing different stroke types, providing high levels of accuracy and helping to make quicker and more precise clinical judgments.
Relationship Between DWI-Based Acute Ischemic Stroke Volume, Location and Severity of Dysphagia
Authors: Mallio Carlo A. , Vertulli Daniele , Di Gennaro Gianfranco , Ascrizzi Maria Teresa , Capone Fioravante , Grattarola Chiara , Luccarelli Vitaliana , Greco Federico , Beomonte Zobel Bruno , Di Lazzaro Vincenzo , Pilato Fabio
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: The impact of stroke location and volume on the development of post-stroke dysphagia is not fully understood. The aim of this study is to evaluate the relationship between acute ischemic lesions and the severity of dysphagia. Methods: Brain MRIs were obtained with a 1.5 Tesla MRI system (Magnetom Avanto B13, Siemens, Erlangen, Germany). The brain MRI protocol included axial echo planar diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI). The acute ischemic volume was obtained using DWI by drawing regions of interest (ROIs). The diagnosis and assessment of the severity of dysphagia was carried out by a multidisciplinary team and included the Dysphagia Outcome and Severity Scale (DOSS), the Penetration–Aspiration Scale (PAS), and the Pooling score (P-score). The threshold for statistical significance was set at 5%. Results: Among all the patients enrolled (n = 64), 28 (43.8%) were males and 36 (56.2%) were females, with a mean age of 78.8 years. Thirty-three (51.6%) of them had mild dysphagia and thirty-one (48.4%) had moderate–severe dysphagia. The total ischemic volume was negatively correlated with the DOSS (r = −0.441, p = 0.0003) and positively with the P-score (rs = 0.3054, p = 0.0328). Conclusions: There are significant associations between the severity of dysphagia and the quantitative DWI-based data of the acute ischemic volume and anatomical location.
rTMS Modulation of Behavioral and Biological Measures in 3xTg-AD Mice
Authors: Kraybill Eric P. , Mojabi Fatemeh S. , Heath Alesha M. , Spikes Cierra R. , Beard Charlotte , McNerney M. Windy
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: The biological basis for behavioral manifestations of Alzheimer’s disease remains unclear. Emotional and behavioral alterations of Alzheimer’s disease can result in substantial caregiver burden and lack effective management. This study expands upon previous work investigating behavioral alterations in mice with Alzheimer’s disease and a potential treatment of increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) using repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). Methods: A total of 47 3xTg-AD (Alzheimer’s) and 53 B6 (wildtype) mice were administered ANA12 (an antagonist of TrkB receptor) or Vehicle (saline) and then rTMS or Sham treatment daily. After 14 days of treatments and injections, mouse behavior was assessed under various behavioral cognitive tests. Mice were then perfused, and brain samples were processed for histology and protein assays. Brain homogenates were analyzed for BDNF and its downstream signaling molecules. Results: Open field testing demonstrated that 3xTg-AD mice spent more time in the center than B6 mice. 3xTg-AD-Sham mice injected with ANA12 were the only group to travel significantly less distance than B6-ANA12-Sham or B6-Vehicle-Sham mice (p < 0.05), while 3xTg-AD-rTMS mice (irrespective of injection) were not significantly different from B6 mice. 3xTg-AD mice had significantly greater measured levels of BDNF and TrkB than the wild-type mice. Conclusions: Treatment of Alzheimer’s disease using rTMS positively affects elements of hypoactivity, but not all behavioral abnormalities. rTMS shifted 3xTg-AD open field behavioral test measures, generating significant differences between untreated 3xTg-AD and B6 genotypes. Despite its benefit, further investigation of rTMS as a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease as well as its biological underpinnings are needed.
Coupling Up: A Dynamic Investigation of Romantic Partners’ Neurobiological States During Nonverbal Connection
Authors: Nelson Cailee M. , O’Reilly Christian , Xia Mengya , Hudac Caitlin M.
Published: November 2024

Nonverbal connection is an important aspect of everyday communication. For romantic partners, nonverbal connection is essential for establishing and maintaining feelings of closeness. EEG hyperscanning offers a unique opportunity to examine the link between nonverbal connection and neural synchrony among romantic partners. This current study used an EEG hyperscanning paradigm to collect frontal alpha asymmetry (FAA) signatures from 30 participants (15 romantic dyads) engaged in five different types of nonverbal connection that varied based on physical touch and visual contact. The results suggest that there was a lack of FAA while romantic partners were embracing and positive FAA (i.e., indicating approach) while they were holding hands, looking at each other, or doing both. Additionally, partners’ FAA synchrony was greatest at a four second lag while they were holding hands and looking at each other. Finally, there was a significant association between partners’ weekly negative feelings and FAA such that as they felt more negative their FAA became more positive. Taken together, this study further supports the idea that fleeting moments of interpersonal touch and gaze are important for the biological mechanisms that may underlie affiliative pair bonding in romantic relationships.
Emerging Love: A Subjective Exploration of Romantic Bonds in Early Adulthood Within the South Korean Context
Authors: Shin Seo Jung , Yi Ji Seong , Lee Song Yi
Published: November 2024

This study examines and categorises subjective perceptions of love among individuals in their twenties and thirties, offering insights into their viewpoints during early adulthood. The study employed the Q methodology, suitable for analysing subjective perceptions such as perspectives, thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes. It included 23 participants selected through purposive sampling from the 2030 generation residing in South Korea, with 40 statements constructed for the research. The findings revealed four types. Type 1, ‘Love Healing’, experiences psychological well-being through love. Type 2, ‘Love Anxious’, longs for true love but is anxious. Type 3, ‘Love Myself’, expresses hope for healthy love through self-awareness. Type 4, ‘Love Mate’, seeks to maintain psychological love while pursuing independence. This research also explores similarities and differences between existing adult attachment and love types, highlighting the need for practical support tailored to each type. These insights may serve as a foundation for developing coaching and counselling services that help individuals in their twenties and thirties cultivate healthy love and mature into their authentic selves.
Do K-Pop Consumers’ Fandom Activities Affect Their Happiness, Listening Intention, and Loyalty?
Authors: Choi Hyun-ju
Published: November 2024

This study examines the influence of K-pop consumers’ (online/offline) fandom activities on their happiness and their contemporary Christian music (CCM) listening intention and does so considering two base theories: activity theory and the content theory of motivation. In this context, we also examine the influence of happiness and CCM listening intention on CCM loyalty (word of mouth/purchase). We focus on global consumers of K-pop (people with experience in online/offline K-pop fandom activities) from two countries: the US and the UK. For our investigation, we surveyed these consumers between 1 April and 30 September 2022 through two global research agencies, namely Entrust Survey and META G DATA lnc. We received valid responses from 331 participants. We then used structural equation modeling to analyze the data and found the following: First, although K-pop consumers’ online fandom activities did not have a statistically significant effect on their happiness, their offline fandom activities did. Second, their fandom activities had a statistically significant positive effect on their CCM listening intention, although their offline fandom activities did not. Third, their happiness also had a statistically significant positive effect on their CCM listening intention. Ultimately, their happiness and CCM listening intention had a statistically significant positive effect on their loyalty (CCM word of mouth/purchase). We identified a new trend and applied it in the context of K-pop culture and CCM, thereby contributing to consumer psychology studies through creative/innovative empirical research.
Research on Mechanical Properties of Silica Fume Cementitious Materials Excited by Wet Grinding Methods
Authors: Zhao Canhao , Li Ben , Li Kaihang , Li Zhuocheng
Published: November 2024

Silica fume (SF) has been widely used in engineering; however, its densification during transportation reduces its original pozzolanic activity. This paper investigates the effects of wet grinding and chemical activation on the mechanical properties and hydration products of silica fume in cement-based materials, revealing the mechanism by which wet grinding improves these properties. The results indicate that wet grinding effectively reduces the particle size of silica fume. Under optimal excitation conditions (250 r/min, 20 min), the median particle size is reduced to 12.1 μm, 2.27 times smaller than before excitation. The 28-day compressive strength of the silica fume cement paste reaches 60.8 MPa, 23.7% higher than that of the reference group. This approach effectively mitigates nano-agglomeration, enhances the pozzolanic activity of silica fume, and promotes AFt and C-S-H gel formation. The findings demonstrate that wet grinding activation can further enhance the utilization rate of silica fume.
Bending Performance of F-Type Socket Joints for Rectangular Pipe Jacking Tunnels with Longitudinal Connectors
Authors: Xu Youjun , Xu Chengjun , Zhang Chao , Zhang Xu
Published: November 2024

Joints are the weakest part of rectangular pipe jacking tunnels, and the structural form of the joint is closely related to its bending resistance. In this work, the F-type socket joint of a rectangular pipe jacking tunnel is selected as the object of study. The bending mechanical properties of the joints connected by steel screws and those connected by bent bolts are compared via a three-point bending test. The results show that the two longitudinal connection joints have similar bending stiffnesses. Compared with the bent bolt connection joint, the steel screw connection joint has better toughness, and the load at which the joint enters the plastic stage and the bearing capacity are increased by 0.47 times and 1.02 times, respectively. The failure modes of the joints connected by steel screw connections and those connected by bent bolts are crushing of the concrete of the top plate and cracking of the concrete above the screw holes, respectively. When a bent bolt connection is used, the reinforcement at the screw hole should be locally strengthened, or ultrahigh-performance concrete (UHPC) should be used at the screw hole to improve the load-bearing capacity of the joint.
Evolving Trends and Innovations in Facilities Management Within Higher Education Institutions
Authors: Mahmoud Abubakar S. , Hassanain Mohammad A. , Alshibani Adel
Published: November 2024

The increasing global influence of FM in higher education institutions (HEIs) reported in the literature necessitates a comprehensive examination of the research landscape, with emphasis on how facility management (FM) plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of teaching, learning, and research environments. This study provides an analysis of the research landscape of FM within HEIs. Using the PRISMA approach to analyze 428 documents from the Scopus™ database, this paper employs a combination of bibliometric analysis, systematic literature review, and meta-analysis to provide a comprehensive examination of FM research trends and key themes. This study reveals a significant increase in publications in the field of FM research over the past three decades, emphasizing its growing significance in fostering efficient and sustainable learning environments. The significant role of effective FM practices in enhancing student satisfaction, academic performance, and institutional reputation was emphasized. Indoor environmental quality (IEQ) (viz., thermal comfort, air quality, lighting, and acoustics) is crucial for the well-being and productivity of building occupants. The integration of FM with building information modeling (BIM), smart campus technologies, and sustainability initiatives has improved operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. This study underscores the importance of allocating resources for facility maintenance and professional services and implementing advanced technologies and sustainable practices in FM for HEIs to create a conducive academic environment. This study provides beneficial insights for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners aiming to increase FM in higher education.
Analysis of Damage Factors of Reinforced Concrete Frame Under Internal Explosion
Authors: Li Jiaxin , Yin Jianping , Li Xudong , Rui Shi
Published: November 2024

To explore the mechanisms of the damage to reinforced concrete (RC) frame structures subjected to internal explosions, this paper establishes a precise finite element model (FEM) of an RC frame utilizing ANSYS/LS-DYNA software 14.5. The influence of four important damage factors on the degree of structural damage is systematically analyzed. Specifically, the vertical displacement at the top center of the frame serves as the primary evaluation metric, while the four damage factors are treated as independent variables. An empty column is incorporated as an error term, facilitating a five-factor, four-level orthogonal optimization design for the simulation experiments. Based on this design, a variance analysis of the simulation outcomes is conducted. The results show that by increasing the reinforcement ratio of the beam section and reducing the charge weight, when the explosion point is located at the higher part of the building floor and near the external window, the vertical displacement of the building after the internal explosion can be reduced. The order of the influence degree of each damage factor on the damage to the reinforced concrete frame structure is as follows: explosion floor, charge weight, beam section reinforcement ratio, and explosion horizontal position.
Characteristics of Damage to Rural Houses in the High-Intensity Area of the Jishishan Mw 6.2 Earthquake
Authors: Zhong Xiumei , Wang Qian , Wang Yan , Wang Ping , Li Chen , Hu Xuefeng
Published: November 2024

On 18 December 2023, a 6.2-magnitude earthquake struck Jishishan, affecting multiple counties and cities in Gansu and Qinghai Provinces. The seismic intensity of the meizoseismal area was VIII, resulting in extensive structural damage and building collapses. A damage assessment was conducted of the epicenter and surrounding high-intensity zones. To understand the typical structures and characteristics of the buildings that were damaged in these high-intensity zones, this study summarizes the characteristics of the damage to typical rural houses, compares the damage of the rural houses across different sites, and analyzes the causes behind these variations. The findings of the study indicate the following: (1) Timber and some brick–timber structures, due to their age, insufficient material strength, and lack of adequate connections between parts of the building, primarily experienced severe damage or total collapse, characterized by through-wall cracks, partial collapses, or complete collapses. (2) Brick–concrete structures predominantly suffered moderate to severe damage due to factors such as improper layout, uneven façades, and inadequate or incomplete seismic measures. The observed damage included significant wall cracks and extensive damage to two-story buildings. (3) Frame structures, mainly used for public facilities like schools, hospitals, and health centers, exhibited strong integrity and excellent seismic performance, resulting in minimal to no damage, with damage largely confined to non-load-bearing components. (4) The amplification effects of seismic waves in thick loess basin areas, slope sites, and the hanging wall effect of faults exacerbated structural damage to rural houses located in certain villages within the high-intensity areas. The results of this study can serve as a reference for post-disaster reconstruction and seismic retrofitting of buildings and contribute positively to enhancing the disaster resilience of rural housing.
Damage Evolution and NOx Photocatalytic Degradation Performance of Nano-TiO2 Concrete Under Freeze–Thaw Cycles
Authors: Jia Zongming , Zhao Yanru , Niu Hengmao
Published: November 2024

The internal pore structure of nano-TiO2 concrete deteriorates gradually during freeze–thaw (F–T) cycles. The deterioration process can reveal the F–T damage mechanism and the deterioration law of photocatalytic performance. The evolution law of the pore structure of nano-TiO2 concrete during F–T damage was investigated. Moreover, this paper defined the microscopic F–T damage factor based on porosity and fractal dimension. The results showed that a 2% dosage of nano–TiO2 concrete had better frost resistance and lower porosity in this experiment. Its porosity only increased by 13.3% after 200 F–T cycles, which was much smaller than that of ordinary concrete. Furthermore, the presence of nano-TiO2 enhanced the volume fractal dimension of concrete pores larger than 100 nm, increasing the complexity of the pore structure and contributing to improved frost resistance. F–T damage led to a decrease in the photocatalytic performance of nano–TiO2 concrete. Still, it helped the nitrate on the surface of the concrete to dissolve and disappear more quickly under rainwater washout. Finally, a thermodynamic theory-based concrete F–T damage correction model was constructed, and the model was used to predict F–T damage values for some scholars. The results showed that the correlation between the model values and the experimental values was more than 0.95, which could accurately reflect the degree of F–T damage of concrete. In addition, a prediction model of photocatalytic NO reduction by nano-TiO2 concrete based on microscopic damage factor was established. It provides a theoretical basis for the application of nano-TiO2 concrete in the field of gas pollutant treatment.
Investigation of Building Profiles for the Energy Simulation of a Factory Building: A Case Study in South Korea
Authors: Lim Hansol , Park Guan-Ho , Kim Seheon , Kim Yeweon , Yu Ki-Hyung
Published: November 2024

In the Republic of Korea, the 2030 Nationally Determined Contributions aim for carbon neutrality by 2050, with the building sector targeting a 32.8% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 compared with the 2018 baseline. To achieve these goals, significant efforts are underway to improve the energy efficiency of buildings. Building energy simulation is a standard method for evaluating energy performance as it assesses the current performance and predicts the potential contributions of energy retrofitting initiatives. However, industrial factories often lack specific energy simulation profiles, posing a challenge for accurate energy performance assessment. This case study aims to bridge this gap by investigating a detailed building profile for factory building based on the extended operational data and experimental measurements within a live factory setting. Energy simulations employing these factory-specific profiles yielded R2 values (coefficient of determination) of 98.2% and 94.1% for cooling and heating energy accuracy, respectively, when compared with the actual monthly consumption data. Additionally, simulations with these profiles demonstrated a 2.81% improvement in R2 accuracy compared to those using conventional office building profiles, particularly enhancing the precision during the cooling season. These findings highlight the effectiveness of customized profiles in building energy simulations, ensuring more precise and reliable energy efficiency assessments.
Multi-Objective Optimization of Outdoor Thermal Comfort and Sunlight Hours in Elderly Residential Areas: A Case Study of Beijing, China
Authors: Yan Hainan , Zhang Lu , Ding Xinyang , Zhang Zhaoye , Qi Zizhuo , Jiang Ling , Bu Deqing
Published: November 2024

To optimize the outdoor thermal comfort and sunlight hours of elderly residential areas in cold regions of China, we collected data on streets and building forms from 121 elderly residential sites in Beijing. Utilizing parametric modeling tools to generate ideal residential models, a multi-objective optimization algorithm was applied to identify 144 Pareto solutions. The optimal solutions were analyzed using K-means clustering and Pearson correlation analysis to examine how block form affects outdoor environmental performance. The universal thermal climate index (UTCI) in summer showed significant positive correlations (r > 0.72) with the distance between buildings (DB), building density (BD), shape coefficient (SC), and coefficient of variation for building height (CVH), and significant negative correlations (r < −0.82) with average building height (AH), floor area ratio (FAR), volume area ratio (VAR), mean building area (MA), average building volume (AV), and open space ratio (OSR). Winter UTCI was significantly positively correlated with AH, FAR, VAR, MA, and AV (r > 0.83) and significantly negatively correlated with DB, porosity (PO), SC, and CVH (r < −0.88). Sunlight hours were significantly positively correlated with DB, PO, OSR, and CVH (r > 0.84) and significantly negatively correlated with AH, BD, FAR, SC, VAR, MA, and AV (r > 0.88). Courtyard and point-building configurations performed the best across all optimization objectives. (The value of r, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, ranges from −1 to +1. r = +1: Perfect positive correlation, r = −1: Perfect negative correlation, r = 0: No linear correlation).
Seismic Behavior Improvement of Rigid Steel Frame Braced with Cable and Optimal Rotational Friction Damper
Authors: Azarsa Pouya , Amir Mohammad Saleh Abdul , Almansour Abdullah I. , Shen Dejian
Published: November 2024

The research focused on enhancing the seismic performance of steel moment frames using cable braces and a central friction damper. By optimizing the design and pretensioning force of the cable braces, this study aimed to improve the energy absorption and overall behavior of the frames under cyclic earthquake loads. A quasi-cyclic loading test was developed through FE simulations using ABAQUS software, version 2023. To verify the modeling, an experimental test was compared with the numerical modeling, and the numerical results confirmed the accuracy of the experimental data. Results made by modeling in ABAQUS software (version 2023) include the impact of pretensioning force on stiffness and energy absorption, the relationship between pretensioning force and force required to move the target, the increase in absorbed energy with pretension force up to 25%, and the superior seismic performance of frames with rotational friction dampers. This study also highlighted the benefits of using cable braces with a friction damper regarding the symmetry of hysteresis diagrams, cyclic performance, and energy absorption capacity. The amount of pretensioning of the cables affects the energy dissipation capacity. As the pretensioning of the cables increases, the energy dissipation capacity initially increases. However, further increases in pretensioning lead to decreased energy dissipation capacity beyond a certain point. When the percentage of cable brace pretension increases from 2% to 25%, the energy dissipation capacity is enhanced by 2%, and when in the 25–30% range, it stabilizes at around 35%. Energy dissipation capacity decreases for pretensions of more than 30%.
Evaluation of Earned Value Management-Based Cost Estimation via Machine Learning
Authors: Yalçın Gamze , Bayram Savaş , Çıtakoğlu Hatice
Published: November 2024

Accurate estimation of construction costs is of foremost importance in construction management processes. Considering the changes and unexpected situations, cost estimations should be revised during the construction process. This study investigates the predictability of earned value management (EVM)-based approaches using machine learning (ML) methods. A total of 2318 data points via 19 EVM-based cost estimation methods were created and six ML methods were used for the analyses. The planned and actual project data of the rough construction activities of a housing project completed in Türkiye were used. The ML methods considered consisted of adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference systems (ANFISs), artificial neural networks (ANNs), Gaussian process regression (GPR), long-short-term memory (LSTM), M5 model trees (M5TREEs), and support vector machines (SVMs). The created models were compared using performance criteria such as mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), relative root means square error (RRMSE), coefficient of determination (R2), Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency coefficient (NSE), and overall index of model performance (OI). Moreover, radar charts, trend graphs, Taylor diagrams, violin plots, and error boxplots were used to evaluate the performance of the estimation models. The results revealed that the classical ANN model outperforms EVM-based cost methods that utilize current ML methods.
Seismic Resistance of Reinforced Concrete Building Frames Based on Interval Assessment of the Coefficient of Permissible Damage
Authors: Tamrazyan Ashot , Matseevich Tatiana
Published: November 2024

The main method for assessing the seismic resistance of buildings in the standards of most countries is the linear-spectral method. This method allows for the calculation of the spatial model of a building for seismic load in the elastic range without resorting to direct integration of the equations of motion. Nonlinear characteristics of reinforced concrete structure materials are usually considered integrally using the reduction factor. However, the values of this factor in the Russian standards are not sufficiently substantiated, as the later studies show. To determine the coefficient of permissible damage (reduction factor), six reinforced concrete frames were considered, with different parameters such as span length, number of spans, and number of floors. The design parameters of beams and columns (section sizes, reinforcement, etc.) were preliminarily selected based on the calculation using the linear-spectral method. In the second stage, numerical modeling was carried out in the OpenSEES PC to implement the pushover analysis procedure. Then, the coefficient of permissible damage was estimated by processing the capacity curves obtained on the basis of nonlinear static calculation. The value of the sought coefficients is practically not affected by the number of stores of the frame; however, with an increase in the number of spans, the coefficient K1 increases, which is explained by a decrease in the plasticity of the system. On average, for the frames under consideration, the coefficient K1 was 0.526, which is 1.5 times greater than the coefficient proposed in modern Russian standards, K1 = 0.35. The results obtained on the basis of pushover analysis are compared with the coefficients K1 determined through the values of the average degree of damage (d) of the buildings according to the modified seismic scale MMSK-86. For various types of reinforced concrete frame buildings, K1 = 0.51 was obtained. It is recommended that the coefficient K1 for reinforced concrete frame buildings should be increased to a value of at least K1 = 0.5 in the Russian standard.
An Investigation of Parameter Sensitivity and a Dynamic Analysis of Subsurface Storage Chambers Utilizing the Finite Difference Method
Authors: Luo Hongming , Lin Shan , Hu Quanke , Dong Miao
Published: November 2024

Underground compressed air energy storage chambers are a promising emerging energy storage technology with strict limitations relating to the stability of the surrounding rock. This study conducted displacement and plastic zone analyses during the excavation and stabilization phases of the chamber utilizing the finite difference method based on engineering data, demonstrating that the stability of salt rock can effectively withstand internal pressures ranging from 0 to 9 MPa, with an average of 15 mm in the Z-axis and 19.23 mm in the X-axis. To further investigate the feasibility of subterranean energy storage reservoirs, the FOS for various surrounding rocks was calculated at different burial depths. These results facilitated a parameter sensitivity analysis on the stability of the surrounding rock of the underground energy storage reservoir. The dynamic reaction of the underground chamber was studied using synthetic seismic wave technology, demonstrating that the seismic capacity of the structure adhered to the code, and the post-seismic displacement remained within the safe range (Z-axis 34 mm, horizontal 19 mm). The results demonstrate the stability analysis method of the chamber and establish a foundation for the extensive implementation of CAES which will contribute to the development of energy storage technology.
Reply to Itagaki et al. Comment on “Dorobisz et al. Assessment of Prognostic Factors, Clinical Features Including the Microbiome, and Treatment Outcomes in Patients with Cancer of Unknown Primary Site. Cancers 2024, 16, 3416”
Authors: Dorobisz Karolina , Dorobisz Tadeusz , Pazdro-Zastawny Katarzyna
Published: November 2024

In his commentary [...]
Unraveling the Genetic Heterogeneity of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Based on NGS Applications
Authors: Ramírez Maldonado Valentina , Navas Acosta Josgrey , Maldonado Marcos Iván , Villaverde Ramiro Ángela , Hernández-Sánchez Alberto , Hernández Rivas Jesús M. , Benito Sánchez Rocío
Published: November 2024

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a hematological neoplasm characterized by the clonal expansion of abnormal lymphoid precursors in bone marrow, which leads to alterations in the processes of cell differentiation and maturation as a consequence of genetic alterations. The integration of conventional methods, such as cytogenetics and immunophenotyping, and next-generation sequencing (NGS) has led to significant improvements at diagnosis and patient stratification; this has also allowed the discovery of several novel molecular entities with specific genetic variants that may drive the processes of leukemogenesis. Nevertheless, the understanding of the process of leukemogenesis remains a challenge since this disease persists as the most frequent cancer in children; it accounts for approximately one-quarter of adult acute leukemias, and the patient management may take into consideration the high intra- and inter-tumor heterogeneity and the relapse risk due to the various molecular events that can occur during clonal evolution. Some germline variants have been identified as risk factors or have been found to be related to the response to treatment. Therefore, better knowledge of the genetic alterations in B-ALL will have a prognostic impact from the perspective of personalized medicine. This review aims to compare, synthesize, and highlight recent findings concerning ALL obtained through NGS that have led to a better understanding of new molecular subtypes based on immunophenotypic characteristics, mutational profiles, and expression profiles.
Molecular and Clinical Features of Adrenocortical Tumors in Beckwith–Wiedemann Spectrum
Authors: Carli Diana , Rondot Federico , Luca Maria , Campello Anna , Vallero Stefano Gabriele , Tirtei Elisa , Gazzin Andrea , Cardaropoli Simona , Montanari Francesca , Graziano Claudio , Quarello Paola , Saadat Abu , Sparago Angela , Ferrero Giovanni Battista , Fagioli Franca , Mussa Alessandro
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Adrenocortical tumors (ACTs), including adrenocortical adenoma (ACA) and carcinoma (ACC), represent 0.3–0.4% of pediatric tumors. Beckwith–Wiedemann spectrum (BWSp) confer an increased risk of ACTs, but prognosis, management, and associated molecular characteristics are unclear. Methods: This paper combines a literature review of 54 published cases of BWSp-ACT with a report of one newly identified patient, totaling 55 cases with a confirmed BWSp clinical and/or molecular diagnosis. Results: Nineteen patients with ACA, 33 with ACC, and 3 with ACT of uncertain malignant potential (umACT) were included. Twenty patients had uniparental disomy of chromosome 11p15.5 (patUPD11), 11imprinting Center 2 Loss-of-methylation (IC2-LoM), and had 2 11p15 locus duplication. Eleven patients were diagnosed during cancer screening procedures, including two metastatic at diagnosis ACC. Conclusions: Almost half of ACC patients reached the minimum score for clinical BWSp diagnosis only after ACC onset, suggesting that the BWSp score has limited value for the early diagnosis in such a setting. Two patients with metastatic ACC had a histopathological Wieneke score ≤2, not correlating with clinical malignancy and confirming limitations of the current histopathological classification, as previously documented. Ultrasound screening failed identifying the ACC before metastasis in two cases, indicating an urgent need to develop new strategies for screening of ACTs in BWSp. Furthermore, some cases of metastatic ACC exhibited unexpectedly indolent behavior despite being malignant.
Preparation of Bi2WO6/MXene(Ti3C2Tx) Composite Material and Its Photothermal Catalytic Reduction of CO2 in Air
Authors: Zhang Lingji , Shi Mengke , Zhang Shuo , Yue Feng , Yang Cairong , Meng Yang , Li Wen , Li Cong , Berrettoni Mario , Zamponi Silvia , Ma Yongpeng , Zhang Hongzhong
Published: November 2024

In response to growing concerns about the greenhouse effect, the direct conversion of atmospheric CO2 has become a pivotal research focus. This research utilizes hydrothermal synthesis to develop Bi2WO6/MXene(Ti3C2Tx), which efficiently reduces CO2 directly at the gas–solid interface through photothermal synergy, without requiring additional sacrificial agents or alkaline absorption solutions. The results indicate that the CO formation rate is about 216.9 μmol·g−1h−1. Notably, this system demonstrates exceptional selectivity for reducing CO2 to CO. The outstanding photothermal catalytic efficiency is attributed to the introduction of MXene, which serves as an efficient and economical co-catalyst. The integration of MXene improves the composite material’s specific surface area and pore structure, enhances its CO2 adsorption capacity, and results in the Bi2WO6/MXene hybrid having a shorter charge transfer distance and a larger interface contact area. This ensures superior charge transfer capabilities, ultimately leading to a significant enhancement in the catalytic efficiency of the composite. This study presents a straightforward and highly selective method for capturing and converting atmospheric CO2, offering fresh insights for developing efficient photothermal catalytic materials.
Construction of Lamellar CoFe-LDHs@MoS2 to Promote Permonosulfate Properties Leading to Effective Photocatalytic Degradation of Norfloxacin
Authors: Wu Tao , Ren Xin , Zhao Xuesong
Published: November 2024

The utilization of the photo catalytic activation of permonosulfate (PMS) for the combined breakdown of pollutants has become a focal point in research. Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) have a unique layered structure which is conducive to the adsorption and diffusion of reactants, and can provide more active sites for photocatalytic reactions. The anions between the layers can be exchanged with a variety of substances so that specific catalytically active species can be introduced as needed. LDHs themselves have certain catalytic activity, which can produce synergistic catalysis between LDHs and the supported photocatalytic active substances, and further improve the degradation effect of antibiotics. In actual wastewater treatment, LDHs as a catalyst carrier have a good application prospect. However, the poor activation effect is attributed to the low separation efficiency of catalyst carriers and insufficient active sites. In this study, a dual active site system consisting of Co and Fe, known as CoFe-LDHs@MoS2, was developed as a catalyst to facilitate the synergistic degradation of norfloxacin (NOF) by PMS under visible light. The findings demonstrate that the material possesses an effective capacity for the synergistic degradation of NOF. A comprehensive investigation was conducted to assess the impact of different catalysts, PMS dosage, degradation systems (Vis, PMS, or Vis PMS), catalyst dosage, NOF concentration, pH, and cycle times on the degradation performance. The active free radicals, degradation pathways, and intermediate toxicity were elucidated through capture experiments, Electron Paramagnetic Resonance Spectrometer (ESR) analysis, a liquid mass spectrometry (LC-MS) toxicity assessment, and theoretical calculations. This research offers a novel approach for designing catalysts with exposed high activity sites for the effective removal of NOF from environmental water.
Study of Chiral Center Effect on CaLB-Catalyzed Hydrolysis of (±)-1-(Acetoxymethyl)-3, 4, 5-methylpyrrolidin-2-ones
Authors: Hernández-Vázquez Luis G. , Sánchez-Muñoz Grecia Katherine , Escalante Jaime
Published: November 2024

Several chemical and biocatalytic methods have been described for chiral γ-lactams syntheses. However, only one biocatalytic method has been reported for γ4-lactam resolution, while γ2- and γ3-lactams have not been reported. On the other hand, its resolution through biocatalysts is complicated since enzymes such as ENZA-1 (Rhodococcus equi NCIB 40213) and ENZA-20 (Pseudomonas solanacearum NCIB 40249) are difficult to obtain. Therefore, in this paper, the resolution of γ-lactams 7-9 was carried out through a hydrolysis reaction using the commercially available enzyme CaLB.
A CoFe2O4/Nb2C-MXene-Modified Anode Improved the Performance Characteristics of a Microbial Fuel Cell in Terms of Bioelectricity Generation and Water Treatment
Authors: Ashraf Haseeb , Mumtaz Muhammad Waseem , Jamil Haamid , Muktar Hamid , Miran Waheed , Akhtar Muhammad Tayyab , Wali Faisal
Published: November 2024

Water pollution is an alarming and critical environmental challenge that demands immediate attention. In addition to this, the world is also facing an energy crisis of ever-increasing proportions. Managing these issues through a sustainable approach is the need of the hour. In this context, microbial fuel cell (MFC) technology, with its dual capability to treat wastewater with simultaneous power generation, is gaining recognition as a sustainable solution. The current study was designed to evaluate the impact of a modified MFC anode, i.e., CoFe2O4@CF, Nb2C-MXene@CF, and CoFe2O4/Nb2C-MXene@CF, on the performance of MFC technology. A hydrothermal technique was used to synthesize CoFe2O4 and Nb2C-MXene, followed by characterization using XRD, SEM, and EDX tools. The results demonstrated that CoFe2O4/Nb2C-MXene@CF significantly enhanced the working performance of a MFC as compared to CoFe2O4@CF and Nb2C-MXene@CF. The MFC with this configuration produces a stable voltage (699.8 mV), coulombic efficiency (23.8%), COD removal (84%), and power density (394.272 mWm−2), with corresponding current density (888 mAm−2). These improvements were possibly due to the excellent electrocatalytic activity and strong biocompatibility of the modifier. Conclusively, the CoFe2O4/Nb2C-MXene composite is ascertained to be an emphatic anode material for MFCs with superior characteristics.
Human Cytochrome P450 Cancer-Related Metabolic Activities and Gene Polymorphisms: A Review
Authors: Mokhosoev Innokenty M. , Astakhov Dmitry V. , Terentiev Alexander A. , Moldogazieva Nurbubu T.
Published: November 2024

Background: Cytochromes P450 (CYPs) are heme-containing oxidoreductase enzymes with mono-oxygenase activity. Human CYPs catalyze the oxidation of a great variety of chemicals, including xenobiotics, steroid hormones, vitamins, bile acids, procarcinogens, and drugs. Findings: In our review article, we discuss recent data evidencing that the same CYP isoform can be involved in both bioactivation and detoxification reactions and convert the same substrate to different products. Conversely, different CYP isoforms can convert the same substrate, xenobiotic or procarcinogen, into either a more or less toxic product. These phenomena depend on the type of catalyzed reaction, substrate, tissue type, and biological species. Since the CYPs involved in bioactivation (CYP3A4, CYP1A1, CYP2D6, and CYP2C8) are primarily expressed in the liver, their metabolites can induce hepatotoxicity and hepatocarcinogenesis. Additionally, we discuss the role of drugs as CYP substrates, inducers, and inhibitors as well as the implication of nuclear receptors, efflux transporters, and drug–drug interactions in anticancer drug resistance. We highlight the molecular mechanisms underlying the development of hormone-sensitive cancers, including breast, ovarian, endometrial, and prostate cancers. Key players in these mechanisms are the 2,3- and 3,4-catechols of estrogens, which are formed by CYP1A1, CYP1A2, and CYP1B1. The catechols can also produce quinones, leading to the formation of toxic protein and DNA adducts that contribute to cancer progression. However, 2-hydroxy- and 4-hydroxy-estrogens and their O-methylated derivatives along with conjugated metabolites play cancer-protective roles. CYP17A1 and CYP11A1, which are involved in the biosynthesis of testosterone precursors, contribute to prostate cancer, whereas conversion of testosterone to 5α-dihydrotestosterone as well as sustained activation and mutation of the androgen receptor are implicated in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). CYP enzymatic activities are influenced by CYP gene polymorphisms, although a significant portion of them have no effects. However, CYP polymorphisms can determine poor, intermediate, rapid, and ultrarapid metabolizer genotypes, which can affect cancer and drug susceptibility. Despite limited statistically significant data, associations between CYP polymorphisms and cancer risk, tumor size, and metastatic status among various populations have been demonstrated. Conclusions: The metabolic diversity and dual character of biological effects of CYPs underlie their implications in, preliminarily, hormone-sensitive cancers. Variations in CYP activities and CYP gene polymorphisms are implicated in the interindividual variability in cancer and drug susceptibility. The development of CYP inhibitors provides options for personalized anticancer therapy.
Standardized Protocol for Resazurin-Based Viability Assays on A549 Cell Line for Improving Cytotoxicity Data Reliability
Authors: Petiti Jessica , Caria Sabrina , Revel Laura , Pegoraro Mattia , Divieto Carla
Published: November 2024

The A549 cell line has become a cornerstone in biomedical research, particularly in cancer studies and serves as a critical tool in cytotoxicity studies and drug screening where it is used to evaluate the impact of pharmaceutical compounds on cellular viability. One of the most widely adopted methods for viability assessment, which is also used in evaluating drug cytotoxicity, is the resazurin-based assay. This assay exploits the ability of living cells to convert resazurin into fluorescent resorufin, providing a reliable indicator of metabolic activity. By measuring this conversion, cell viability can be estimated. Resazurin assay is extensively used for evaluating cytotoxic effects on various cell lines, including A549 cells, thereby bridging the gap between in vitro experimentation and drug development. However, frequent data inconsistencies in pre-clinical drug screening highlight the critical need for standardization to ensure reliability and reproducibility. This manuscript addresses these challenges by describing the optimization of resazurin-based viability assays for A549 cells in both 2D cultures and 3D fibrin gel models. By optimizing this test, the study aims to enhance the reliability of cytotoxicity results and introduces a new standard operating procedure, thus providing consistent results with minimal measurement uncertainty. This standardization is crucial for advancing drug screening and ensuring robust research findings.