bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A State-of-the-Art Review on Axial Compressive Behavior of Concrete-Filled Steel Tubes Incorporating Steel Fiber and GFRP Jacketing
Authors: Bahrami Alireza , Rashid S. M. Priok
Published: March 2023

Several types of fibers have enhanced the structural response of reinforced concrete-filled steel tubes (CFSTs). This article presents a state-of-the-art review of studies done on the axial compressive behavior of steel and glass fiber-reinforced CFSTs. The aim of using fibers is to improve the response of the CFSTs. This research indicates the findings of experimental programs and analytical evaluations of the effects of the fiber incorporation on the behavior of the CFSTs. The results of this research work demonstrate that steel fibers (SFs) have enough evident improving effects on the failure mode and load-carrying capacity of the CFSTs. The SFs greatly increase the ductility of the CFSTs. To enhance the compressive strength and ductility of the CFSTs, adding the SFs by 1% to the concrete mix is more effective than adding by 1.5%. The use of the SFs mixed with expansion agent considerably increases the yield and ultimate loads of the CFSTs. More glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) sheets reduce buckling and develop the compressive strength of the CFSTs. The implementation of the GFRP jackets not only enhances the load-carrying capacity of the CFSTs, but also increases their ductility. The GFRP reinforcement techniques for the CFSTs are also effective in improving their structural stiffness and energy absorption capacity.
Metabolic Alterations in Multiple Myeloma: From Oncogenesis to Proteasome Inhibitor Resistance
Authors: Weir Philip , Donaldson David , McMullin Mary Frances , Crawford Lisa
Published: March 2023

Despite significant improvements in treatment strategies over the past couple of decades, multiple myeloma (MM) remains an incurable disease due to the development of drug resistance. Metabolic reprogramming is a key feature of cancer cells, including MM, and acts to fuel increased proliferation, create a permissive tumour microenvironment, and promote drug resistance. This review presents an overview of the key metabolic adaptations that occur in MM pathogenesis and in the development of resistance to proteasome inhibitors, the backbone of current MM therapy, and considers the potential for therapeutic targeting of key metabolic pathways to improve outcomes.
Small Extracellular Vesicles (sEVs) Biogenesis Molecular Players Are Associated with Clinical Outcome of Colorectal Cancer Patients
Authors: Kottorou Anastasia , Dimitrakopoulos Foteinos-Ioannis , Diamantopoulou Georgia , Kalofonou Foteini , Stavropoulos Michalis , Thomopoulos Konstantinos , Makatsoris Thomas , Koutras Angelos , Kalofonos Haralabos
Published: March 2023

A growing number of studies have shed light on the role of small extracellular vesicles (sEVs), including exosomes, in colorectal cancer (CRC). Available data regarding the clinical significance of molecular players in CRC, implicated in sEVs biogenesis, is limited. In this study, we assessed the expression of the most important genes which are implicated in sEVs biogenesis and their association with sEVs plasma levels, investigated with a double sandwich ELISA assay, as well as with the clinical outcome of patients with CRC. Our study shows that RAB27A, RAB27B, RAB2B, and RAB3B mRNA levels were lower in tumor tissues compared to tumor adjacent, non-malignant tissues (p < 0.001, p = 0.009, p = 0.011, and p < 0.001, respectively). In addition, high tumor expression of RAB27A, RAB27B, RAB9A, RAB11B, and STX1A was favorable of a 5-year survival (p = 0.038, p = 0.015, p = 0.008, p = 0.002, and p = 0.028, respectively). Furthermore, patients with adenomas had lower overall plasma sEVs concentrations, compared to healthy volunteers (p = 0.026), while no statistically significant differences were observed in the overall or tumor-derived plasma sEVs concentration (p = 0.885 and p = 0.330, respectively) of CRC patients. In conclusion, sEVs biogenesis has a potentially significant role in CRC, with RAB27A, RAB27B, RAB9A, RAB11B, and STX1A having a promising role in survival outcomes.
Evaluation of ERBB2 mRNA Expression in HER2-Equivocal (2+) Immunohistochemistry Cases
Authors: Carretero-Barrio Irene , Caniego-Casas Tamara , Rosas Marta , Sánchez María Concepción , Martínez-Jáñez Noelia , Chiva Miguel , Sarrió David , Moreno-Bueno Gema , Palacios José , Pérez-Mies Belén
Published: March 2023

Xpert Breast Cancer STRAT4 is a RT-qPCR platform that studies the mRNA expression of ESR1, PGR, MKI67 and ERBB2, providing a positive or negative result for each of these breast cancer biomarkers. Its concordance with immunohistochemistry (IHC) and in situ hybridization (ISH) has been previously demonstrated, but none of the previous works was focused on HER2-equivocal (2+) cases identified by IHC. Thus, we studied the concordance between IHC/ISH and STRAT4 results for 112 HER2 2+ IBC samples, using 148 HER2 0+, 1+ and 3+ (no-HER2 2+) samples for comparison. We found 91.3% accuracy for the determination of HER2 status globally, 99.3% for no-HER2 2+ samples and 80.7% for HER2 2+ samples. Regarding the other biomarkers, we obtained 96.4% accuracy for estrogen receptor, 84.1% for progesterone receptor and 58.2% for Ki67. Our results suggest that the use of ERBB2 mRNA for the evaluation of HER2 2+ cases is not a reliable reflex method to assess the ERBB2 amplification status.
Pancreatic Cancer Surveillance in Carriers of a Germline Pathogenic Variant in CDKN2A
Authors: Llach Joan , Aguilera Paula , Sánchez Ariadna , Ginès Angels , Fernández-Esparrach Glòria , Soy Guillem , Sendino Oriol , Vaquero Eva , Carballal Sabela , Ausania Fabio , Ayuso Juan Ramón , Darnell Anna , Pellisé María , Castellví-Bel Sergi , Puig Susana , Balaguer Francesc , Moreira Leticia
Published: March 2023

Three percent of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) present a germline pathogenic variant (GPV) associated with an increased risk of this tumor, CDKN2A being one of the genes associated with the highest risk. There is no clear consensus on the recommendations for surveillance in CDKN2A GPV carriers, although the latest guidelines from the International Cancer of the Pancreas Screening Consortium recommend annual endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) regardless of family history. Our aim is to describe the findings of the PDAC surveillance program in a cohort of healthy CDKN2A GPV heterozygotes. This is an observational analysis of prospectively collected data from all CDKN2A carriers who underwent screening for PDAC at the high-risk digestive cancer clinic of the “Hospital Clínic de Barcelona” between 2013 and 2021. A total of 78 subjects were included. EUS or MRI was performed annually with a median follow-up of 66 months. Up to 17 pancreatic findings were described in 16 (20.5%) individuals under surveillance, although most of them were benign. No significant precursor lesions were identified, but an early PDAC was detected and treated. While better preventive strategies are developed, we believe that annual surveillance with EUS and/or MRI in CDKN2A GPV heterozygotes may be beneficial.
Polycomb Alterations in Acute Myeloid Leukaemia: From Structure to Function
Authors: Bhattacharyya Teerna , Bond Jonathan
Published: March 2023

Epigenetic dysregulation is a hallmark of many haematological malignancies and is very frequent in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). A cardinal example is the altered activity of the Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2) due to somatic mutations and deletions in genes encoding PRC2 core factors that are necessary for correct complex assembly. These genetic alterations typically lead to reduced histone methyltransferase activity that, in turn, has been strongly linked to poor prognosis and chemoresistance. In this review, we provide an overview of genetic alterations of PRC components in AML, with particular reference to structural and functional features of PRC2 factors. We further review genetic interactions between these alterations and other AML-associated mutations in both adult and paediatric leukaemias. Finally, we discuss reported prognostic links between PRC2 mutations and deletions and disease outcomes and potential implications for therapy.
The Surgical Management of Lung Neuroendocrine Neoplasms
Authors: Soldath Patrick , Petersen René Horsleben
Published: March 2023

This review summarizes key recent developments relevant to the surgical management of lung neuroendocrine neoplasms (L-NENs), including typical and atypical carcinoids, large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma, and small cell lung carcinoma. This review includes recent insights into the classification, clinical presentation, diagnostic workup, treatment options, and follow-up. Highlighted topics include general principles of surgery in localized or locally advanced or metastatic L-NENs, lung-sparing surgery for small, peripheral typical carcinoids, adjuvant and systemic therapies for typical and atypical carcinoids, and surgery and adjuvant therapies for large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma and small cell lung carcinoma.
Interactions of SNPs in Folate Metabolism Related Genes on Prostate Cancer Aggressiveness in European Americans and African Americans
Authors: Lin Hui-Yi , Steck Susan E. , Sarkar Indrani , Fontham Elizabeth T. H. , Diekman Alan , Rogers Lora J. , Ratliff Calvin T. , Bensen Jeannette T. , Mohler James L. , Su L. Joseph
Published: March 2023

Background: Studies showed that folate and related single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) could predict prostate cancer (PCa) risk. However, little is known about the interactions of folate-related SNPs associated with PCa aggressiveness. The study’s objective is to evaluate SNP–SNP interactions among the DHFR 19-bp polymorphism and 10 SNPs in folate metabolism and the one-carbon metabolism pathway associated with PCa aggressiveness. Methods: We evaluated 1294 PCa patients, including 690 European Americans (EAs) and 604 African Americans (AAs). Both individual SNP effects and pairwise SNP–SNP interactions were analyzed. Results: None of the 11 individual polymorphisms were significant for EAs and AAs. Three SNP–SNP interaction pairs can predict PCa aggressiveness with a medium to large effect size. For the EA PCa patients, the interaction between rs1801133 (MTHFR) and rs2236225 (MTHFD1), and rs1801131 (MTHFR) and rs7587117 (SLC4A5) were significantly associated with aggressive PCa. For the AA PCa patients, the interaction of DHFR-19bp polymorphism and rs4652 (LGALS3) was significantly associated with aggressive PCa. Conclusions: These SNP–SNP interactions in the folate metabolism-related genes have a larger impact than SNP individual effects on tumor aggressiveness for EA and AA PCa patients. These findings can provide valuable information for potential biological mechanisms of PCa aggressiveness.
Minimally Invasive ALPPS Procedure: A Review of Feasibility and Short-Term Outcomes
Authors: Cioffi Luigi , Belli Giulio , Izzo Francesco , Fantini Corrado , D’Agostino Alberto , Russo Gianluca , Patrone Renato , Granata Vincenza , Belli Andrea
Published: March 2023

Background: Associated liver partition with portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy (ALPPS) represents a recent strategy to improve resectability of extensive hepatic malignancies. Recent surgical advances, such as the application of technical variants and use of a mini-invasive approach (MI-ALPPS), have been proposed to improve clinical outcomes in terms of morbidity and mortality. Methods: A total of 119 MI-ALPPS cases from 6 series were identified and discussed to evaluate the feasibility of the procedure and short-term clinical outcomes. Results: Hepatocellular carcinoma were widely the most common indication for MI-ALPPS. The median estimated blood loss was 260 mL during Stage 1 and 1625 mL in Stage 2. The median length of the procedures was 230 min in Stage 1 and 184 in Stage 2. The median increase ratio of future liver remnant volume was 87.8%. The median major morbidity was 8.14% in Stage 1 and 23.39 in Stage 2. The mortality rate was 0.6%. Conclusions: MI-ALPPS appears to be a feasible and safe procedure, with potentially better short-term outcomes in terms of blood loss, morbidity, and mortality rate if compared with those of open series.
Differential Spatial Gene and Protein Expression Associated with Recurrence Following Chemoradiation for Localized Anal Squamous Cell Cancer
Authors: Hernandez Sharia , Das Prajnan , Holliday Emma B. , Shen Li , Lu Wei , Johnson Benny , Messick Craig A. , Taniguchi Cullen M. , Skibber John , Ludmir Ethan B. , You Y. Nancy , Smith Grace Li , Bednarski Brian , Kostousov Larisa , Koay Eugene J. , Minsky Bruce D. , Tillman Matthew , Portier Shaelynn , Eng Cathy , Koong Albert C. , Chang George J. , Foo Wai Chin , Wang Jing , Soto Luisa Solis , Morris Van K.
Published: March 2023

The identification of transcriptomic and protein biomarkers prognosticating recurrence risk after chemoradiation of localized squamous cell carcinoma of the anus (SCCA) has been limited by a lack of available fresh tissue at initial presentation. We analyzed archival FFPE SCCA specimens from pretreatment biopsies prior to chemoradiation for protein and RNA biomarkers from patients with localized SCCA who recurred (N = 23) and who did not recur (N = 25). Tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME) were analyzed separately to identify biomarkers with significantly different expression between the recurrent and non-recurrent groups. Recurrent patients had higher mean protein expression of FoxP3, MAPK-activation markers (BRAF, p38-MAPK) and PI3K/Akt activation (phospho-Akt) within the tumor regions. The TME was characterized by the higher protein expression of immune checkpoint biomarkers such as PD-1, OX40L and LAG3. For patients with recurrent SCCA, the higher mean protein expression of fibronectin was observed in the tumor and TME compartments. No significant differences in RNA expression were observed. The higher baseline expression of immune checkpoint biomarkers, together with markers of MAPK and PI3K/Akt signaling, are associated with recurrence following chemoradiation for patients with localized SCCA. These data provide a rationale towards the application of immune-based therapeutic strategies to improve curative-intent outcomes beyond conventional therapies for patients with SCCA.
Vertical Growth of WO3 Nanosheets on TiO2 Nanoribbons as 2D/1D Heterojunction Photocatalysts with Improved Photocatalytic Performance under Visible Light
Authors: Wang Ling , Xu Keyi , Tang Hongwang , Zhu Lianwen
Published: March 2023

We report the construction of 2D/1D heterojunction photocatalysts through the hydrothermal growth of WO3 nanosheets on TiO2 nanoribbons for the first time. Two-dimensional WO3 nanosheets were vertically arrayed on the surface of TiO2 nanoribbons, and the growth density could be simply controlled by adjusting the concentration of the precursors. The construction of WO3/TiO2 heterojunctions not only decreases the band gap energy of TiO2 from 3.12 to 2.30 eV and broadens the photoresponse range from the UV region to the visible light region but also significantly reduces electron–hole pair recombination and enhances photo-generated carrier separation. Consequently, WO3/TiO2 heterostructures exhibit improved photocatalytic activity compared to pure WO3 nanosheets and TiO2 nanoribbons upon visible light irradiation. WO3/TiO2-25 possesses the highest photocatalytic activity and can remove 92.8% of RhB pollutants in 120 min. Both further increase and decrease in the growth density of WO3 nanosheets result in an obvious reduction in photocatalytic activity. The kinetic studies confirmed that the photocatalytic degradation of RhB follows the kinetics of the pseudo-first-order model. The present study demonstrates that the prepared WO3/TiO2 2D/1D heterostructures are promising materials for photocatalytic removal of organic pollutants to produce clean water.
Expression of Checkpoint Molecules in the Tumor Microenvironment of Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma: Implications for Immune Checkpoint Blockade Therapy
Authors: Heij Lara , Bednarsch Jan , Tan Xiuxiang , Rosin Mika , Appinger Simone , Reichel Konrad , Pecina Dana , Doukas Michail , van Dam Ronald M. , Garcia Vallejo Juan , Ulmer Florian , Lang Sven , Luedde Tom , Rocha Flavio G. , Sivakumar Shivan , Neumann Ulf Peter
Published: March 2023

Background: The tumor microenvironment (TME) in cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) influences the immune environment. Checkpoint blockade is promising, but reliable biomarkers to predict response to treatment are still lacking. Materials and Methods: The levels of checkpoint molecules (PD-1, PD-L1, PD-L2, LAG-3, ICOS, TIGIT, TIM-3, CTLA-4), macrophages (CD68), and T cells (CD4 and CD8 cells) were assessed by multiplexed immunofluorescence in 50 intrahepatic cases. Associations between marker expression, immune cells, and region of expression were studied in the annotated regions of tumor, interface, sclerotic tumor, and tumor-free tissue. Results: ICCA demonstrated CD4_TIM-3 high densities in the tumor region of interest (ROI) compared to the interface (p = 0.014). CD8_PD-L1 and CD8_ICOS densities were elevated in the sclerotic tumor compared to the interface (p = 0.011 and p = 0.031, respectively). In a multivariate model, high expression of CD8_PD-L2 (p = 0.048) and CD4_ICOS_TIGIT (p = 0.011) was associated with nodal metastases. Conclusions: High densities of PD-L1 were more abundant in the sclerotic tumor region; this is meaningful for the stratification of immunotherapy. Lymph node metastasis correlates with CD4_ICOS_TIGIT co-expression and CD8_PD-L2 expression, indicating the checkpoint expression profile of patients with a poor prognosis. Also, multiple co-expressions occur, and this potentially suggests a role for combination therapy with different immune checkpoint targets than just PD-1 blockade monotherapy.
Circulating Melanoma Cell Numbers Correlate with TIGIT-Positive Cytotoxic T Cell Counts in Advanced-Stage Melanoma Patients
Authors: Kamińska Paula , Buszka Karolina , Galus Łukasz , Jankowski Maurycy , Nowicki Michał , Mackiewicz Jacek , Kaczmarek Mariusz , Budna-Tukan Joanna
Published: March 2023

Despite the rising public awareness of the risk factors and the possible prevention of melanoma development, it remains challenging in terms of diagnosis and treatment. To improve the clinical situation of patients, it would be especially beneficial to develop prognostic methods for the effective and continuous assessment of the disease course. The solution could lie in the selection of effective biomarkers derived from the tumor microenvironment, increasing the effectiveness of melanoma prognoses and monitoring. Hence, in this study, we evaluated the number of circulating melanoma cells (CMCs) in representative blood samples of melanoma patients vs. healthy controls, as well as the proportion of particular cytotoxic T cells in the total lymphocyte and leukocyte population as a reflection of immune resistance. The results were correlated with the clinical parameters of the patients to examine the potential value of CMC quantification and lymphoid cell phenotyping in melanoma diagnostics, prognostics, and treatment outcome monitoring. The CMC numbers were significantly higher in melanoma patients than in healthy controls. However, an analysis of the correlations between the baseline CMC counts and the clinical parameters found no significant results. In turn, we found significant differences between the groups in the percentage of various profiles of CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes characterized by TIGIT and TIM-3 differential expression. Importantly, the CMC number correlated with CD8+TIGIT+ and CD8+TIGIT+TIM-3- cytotoxic T cell counts in the melanoma patient group. Considering the above, the combination of CMCs and the immunological status of the patient, as defined by the prevalence of selected immune cell types, seems to be a promising approach in melanoma diagnostics and prognostics.
Application of 3D Printing in Bone Grafts
Authors: Brachet Adam , Bełżek Aleksandra , Furtak Daria , Geworgjan Zuzanna , Tulej Dawid , Kulczycka Kinga , Karpiński Robert , Maciejewski Marcin , Baj Jacek
Published: March 2023

The application of 3D printing in bone grafts is gaining in importance and is becoming more and more popular. The choice of the method has a direct impact on the preparation of the patient for surgery, the probability of rejection of the transplant, and many other complications. The aim of the article is to discuss methods of bone grafting and to compare these methods. This review of literature is based on a selective literature search of the PubMed and Web of Science databases from 2001 to 2022 using the search terms “bone graft”, “bone transplant”, and “3D printing”. In addition, we also reviewed non-medical literature related to materials used for 3D printing. There are several methods of bone grafting, such as a demineralized bone matrix, cancellous allograft, nonvascular cortical allograft, osteoarticular allograft, osteochondral allograft, vascularized allograft, and an autogenic transplant using a bone substitute. Currently, autogenous grafting, which involves removing the patient’s bone from an area of low aesthetic importance, is referred to as the gold standard. 3D printing enables using a variety of materials. 3D technology is being applied to bone tissue engineering much more often. It allows for the treatment of bone defects thanks to the creation of a porous scaffold with adequate mechanical strength and favorable macro- and microstructures. Bone tissue engineering is an innovative approach that can be used to repair multiple bone defects in the process of transplantation. In this process, biomaterials are a very important factor in supporting regenerative cells and the regeneration of tissue. We have years of research ahead of us; however, it is certain that 3D printing is the future of transplant medicine.
Retinoic Acid and Retinoid X Receptors
Authors: Schubert Michael , Germain Pierre
Published: March 2023

One of the most fundamental discoveries in human biology was that of the existence of essential micronutrients that the body cannot synthesize but nonetheless requires for proper functioning [...]
Evaluation and Application of Drug Resistance by Biomarkers in the Clinical Treatment of Liver Cancer
Authors: Huang Po-Shuan , Wang Ling-Yu , Wang Yi-Wen , Tsai Ming-Ming , Lin Tzu-Kang , Liao Chia-Jung , Yeh Chau-Ting , Lin Kwang-Huei
Published: March 2023

Liver cancer is one of the most lethal cancers in the world, mainly owing to the lack of effective means for early monitoring and treatment. Accordingly, there is considerable research interest in various clinically applicable methods for addressing these unmet needs. At present, the most commonly used biomarker for the early diagnosis of liver cancer is alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), but AFP is sensitive to interference from other factors and cannot really be used as the basis for determining liver cancer. Treatment options in addition to liver surgery (resection, transplantation) include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. However, even more expensive targeted drug therapies have a limited impact on the clinical outcome of liver cancer. One of the big reasons is the rapid emergence of drug resistance. Therefore, in addition to finding effective biomarkers for early diagnosis, an important focus of current discussions is on how to effectively adjust and select drug strategies and guidelines for the treatment of liver cancer patients. In this review, we bring this thought process to the drug resistance problem faced by different treatment strategies, approaching it from the perspective of gene expression and molecular biology and the possibility of finding effective solutions.
Molecular Signature of Long Non-Coding RNA Associated with Areca Nut-Induced Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Huang Hung-Han , You Guo-Rung , Tang Shang-Ju , Chang Joseph T. , Cheng Ann-Joy
Published: March 2023

The areca nut is a high-risk carcinogen for head and neck cancer (HNC) patients in Southeast Asia. The underlying molecular mechanism of areca nut-induced HNC remains unclear, especially regarding the role of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA). This study employed a systemic strategy to identify lncRNA signatures related to areca nut-induced HNC. In total, 84 cancer-related lncRNAs were identified. Using a PCR array method, 28 lncRNAs were identified as being dysregulated in HNC cells treated with areca nut (17 upregulated and 11 downregulated). Using bioinformatics analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas Head-Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (TCGA-HNSC) dataset, 45 lncRNAs were differentially expressed in tumor tissues from HNC patients (39 over- and 6 under-expressions). The integrated evaluation showed 10 lncRNAs dysregulated by the areca nut and altered expression in patients, suggesting that these panel molecules participate in areca nut-induced HNC. Five oncogenic (LUCAT1, MIR31HG, UCA1, HIF1A-AS2, and SUMO1P3) and tumor-suppressive (LINC00312) lncRNAs were independently validated, and three key molecules were further examined. Pathway prediction revealed that LUCAT1, UCA1, and MIR31HG modulate multiple oncogenic mechanisms, including stress response and cellular motility. Clinical assessment showed that these lncRNAs exhibited biomarker potentials in diagnosis (area under the curve = 0.815 for LUCAT1) and a worse prognosis (both p < 0.05, survival analysis). Cellular studies further demonstrated that MIR31HG facilitates areca nut-induced cancer progression, as silencing this molecule attenuated arecoline-induced invasion ability in HNC cells. This study identified lncRNA signatures that play a role in areca nut-induced HNC. These molecules may be further applied in risk assessment, diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutics for areca nut-associated malignancies.
The Influence of Ambient Temperature on Adipose Tissue Homeostasis, Metabolic Diseases and Cancers
Authors: Ginting Rehna Paula , Lee Ji-Min , Lee Min-Woo
Published: March 2023

Adipose tissue is a recognized energy storage organ during excessive energy intake and an endocrine and thermoregulator, which interacts with other tissues to regulate systemic metabolism. Adipose tissue dysfunction is observed in most obese mouse models and humans. However, most studies using mouse models were conducted at room temperature (RT), where mice were chronically exposed to mild cold. In this condition, energy use is prioritized for thermogenesis to maintain body temperature in mice. It also leads to the activation of the sympathetic nervous system, followed by the activation of β-adrenergic signaling. As humans live primarily in their thermoneutral (TN) zone, RT housing for mice limits the interpretation of disease studies from mouse models to humans. Therefore, housing mice in their TN zone (~28–30 °C) can be considered to mimic humans physiologically. However, factors such as temperature ranges and TN pre-acclimatization periods should be examined to obtain reliable results. In this review, we discuss how adipose tissue responds to housing temperature and the outcomes of the TN zone in metabolic disease studies. This review highlights the critical role of TN housing in mouse models for studying adipose tissue function and human metabolic diseases.
Mobilising the Next Generation of Planetary Health Leaders: The Dynamism of Youth Engagement in Malaysia
Authors: Faiesall Saidatul Maisarah , Ahmad Tajuddin Sarah Hanani , George Andrew Jason , Marzuki Nur Hazirah , Lacey-Hall Oliver , Mahmood Jemilah , Clements Gopalasamy Reuben , Guinto Renzo
Published: March 2023

With planetary health gaining traction as a global movement and problem-solving approach, this trans-disciplinary field is well-placed to provide an exciting and dynamic platform to promote engagement with young people. Previous studies have shown that although there is great energy and passion from youth, the global planetary health community struggles in sustaining young people’s motivations and engagement in today’s crowded physical and online environments. Planetary health advocates are also dealing with an increase in climate anxiety that has taken a toll on the emotional and mental wellbeing of young people. Here, we review our experience in engaging youth groups and networks in Malaysia through a four-pronged approach (consultation, facilitation, capacity-sharing, and evidence-building), as well as challenges commonly faced by the planetary health community in educating and building a youth movement. After a year of engagement, we found that mobilising the next generation of planetary health leaders requires a change in existing power dynamics to a capacity-sharing model, an emphasis on clear, simplified, and effective communications that utilise the mainstream youth spaces (e.g., social media), and hopeful messages to counter apathy and anxiety into action.
Highly Sensitive p-SmFeO3/p-YFeO3 Planar-Electrode Sensor for Detection of Volatile Organic Compounds
Authors: Liu Huiyang , Zhu Denghui , Miao Tingting , Liu Weikang , Chen Juan , Cheng Bin , Qin Hongwei , Hu Jifan
Published: March 2023

Nanocomposites of SmFeO3/YFeO3 (1:0, 0.8:0.2, 0.6:0.4, 0.4:0.6, 0.2:0.8, and 0:1) with different molar proportions were prepared by the sol–gel method. The material’s properties were characterized by various test methods, such as scanning-electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray photoelectron-diffraction spectrometry (XPS). The gas-sensing characteristics of the sensor were tested in darkness and under illumination using monochromatic light with various selected wavelengths. The test results show that the SmFeO3/YFeO3 sensor with the molar ratio of 0.4:0.6 had the highest gas response to volatile organic compound (VOC) gases and that the optimum operating temperature was lower (120 °C). The light illumination improved the sensor’s sensitivity to gas. Under the 370-nanometer light illumination, the sensor’s responses to 30 ppm of ethanol, acetone, and methanol gases were 163.59, 134.02, and 111.637, respectively, which were 1.35, 1.28, and 1.59 times higher, respectively, than those without light. The high gas sensitivity of the sensor was mainly due to the adsorption of oxygen on the material’s surface and the formation of a p–p heterojunction. The SmFeO3/YFeO3 sensor, which can respond to different VOC gases, can be used to detect the safety of unknown environments and provide a timely warning of the presence of dangerous gases in working environments.
Temporal Trend, Causes, and Timing of Neonatal Mortality of Moderate and Late Preterm Infants in São Paulo State, Brazil: A Population-Based Study
Authors: de Almeida Maria Fernanda B. , Sanudo Adriana , Areco Kelsy N. , Balda Rita de Cássia X. , Costa-Nobre Daniela T. , Kawakami Mandira D. , Konstantyner Tulio , Marinonio Ana Sílvia S. , Miyoshi Milton H. , Bandiera-Paiva Paulo , Freitas Rosa M. V. , Morais Liliam C. C. , Teixeira Mônica L. P. , Waldvogel Bernadette , Kiffer Carlos Roberto V. , Guinsburg Ruth
Published: March 2023

Moderate and late preterm newborns comprise around 85% of live births < 37 weeks gestation. Data on their neonatal mortality in middle-income countries is limited. This study aims to analyze the temporal trend, causes and timing of neonatal mortality of infants with 320/7–366/7 weeks gestation without congenital anomalies from 2004–2015 in the population of São Paulo State, Brazil. A database was built by deterministic linkage of birth and death certificates. Causes of death were classified by ICD-10 codes. Among 7,317,611 live births in the period, there were 545,606 infants with 320/7–366/7 weeks gestation without congenital anomalies, and 5782 of them died between 0 and 27 days. The neonatal mortality rate decreased from 16.4 in 2004 to 7.6 per thousand live births in 2015 (7.47% annual decrease by Prais–Winsten model). Perinatal asphyxia, respiratory disorders and infections were responsible, respectively, for 14%, 27% and 44% of the 5782 deaths. Median time to death was 24, 53 and 168 h, respectively, for perinatal asphyxia, respiratory disorders, and infections. Bottlenecks in perinatal health care are probably associated with the results that indicate the need for policies to reduce preventable neonatal deaths of moderate and late preterm infants in the most developed state of Brazil.
Applying Universal Principles of ‘Best Interest’: Practice Challenges across Transnational Jurisdictions, Cultural Norms, and Values
Authors: Littlechild Brian , Housman Carolyn
Published: March 2023

This article sets out key issues in determining and upholding the best interests of children, in need of social service support, who have family networks that span outside of the UK. These issues are then analysed against whether and how child protection professionals take these into account along with an overall consideration of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child’s (UNCRC) ‘best interests of the child’, when assessing and planning for those needs in kinship care cases. Building on these themes, the findings of an exploratory study on international kinship care cases carried out by Children and Families Across Borders (CFAB), the UK branch of the non-governmental organisation, International Social Service, as well as CFAB’s associated Freedom of Information Requests to the UK government, are examined. These are then analysed in relation to legal and policy documents in England. Agency case records are analysed to identify a range of factors for children placed with ‘kinship’ carers across national borders, relating to the cultural relativity of the ‘best interest’ principle, the availability of family support in different social service structures, the understanding and application of legislation and policy in transnational contexts, and the availability of markers to track and analyse the scale of children crossing borders to join family.
Social Information Processing Theory Indicators of Child Abuse Risk: Cultural Comparison of Mothers from Peru and the United States
Authors: Rodriguez Christina M. , Bárrig Jó Patricia , Gracia Enrique , Lila Marisol
Published: March 2023

Much of the research conducted on social information processing (SIP) factors predictive of child abuse risk has been conducted in North America, raising questions about how applicable such models may be in other cultures. Based on the premise that the parents’ child abuse risk is affected by both risk and protective factors, the current study considered how specific SIP socio-cognitive risk factors (acceptability of parent–child aggression as a discipline approach; empathic ability; frustration tolerance) as well as social support satisfaction as a resource related to child abuse risk by comparing a sample of mothers in Peru (n = 102) with a sample of mothers in the U.S. (n = 180). Using multi-group regression analyses, the current investigation identified that lower empathy was more salient for the abuse risk of U.S. mothers relative to the salience of lower frustration tolerance for Peruvian mothers. Although effects were observed for the approval of parent-aggression for the child abuse risk of both samples, such approval did not appear to be related to the Peruvian mothers’ actual use of such tactics. When considered alongside the socio-cognitive risk factors, greater social support satisfaction did not significantly relate to child abuse risk for either sample. The findings are discussed in reference to future cross-cultural work that may need to better examine how factors may or may not be universal to craft more culturally informed child abuse prevention programs.
Two-Layer Heat-Resistant Protective Coatings for Turbine Engine Blades
Authors: Ułanowicz Leszek , Dudziński Andrzej
Published: March 2023

One of the most important factors for increasing the durability of turbine engines is the use of turbine blades characterized by the best possible convergence of the thermophysical properties of the protective coating and the base material of the blade. The aim of the research was to evaluate the heat resistance of prototype two-layer protective coatings applied to turbine blades. The inner layer of the coating enables shaping the thermophysical convergence of the coating and the base material of the blade. The outer layer is used for thermal protection of the blade material. The inner layer was applied to the blade by plasma spraying, and the outer layer was diffusion aluminized for the first type by a non-contact gas method, for the second type by a slurry method, and for the third type, the ceramics were plasma sprayed. Turbine blades with prototype coatings were subjected to an engine test, and after the test, macro- and microstructure tests were performed. The tests showed that the prototype protective coating with an inner layer of the MCrAlY type applied to the blade by plasma spraying and an outer layer aluminized by diffusion by a non-contact gas method protects the blade material against oxidation and ensures its thermal insulation.
Special Issue “Application of Advanced Quantum Dots Films in Optoelectronics”
Authors: Tang Xin
Published: March 2023

Colloidal quantum dots (CQDs) have been extensively investigated in recent decades [...]
Cure Kinetics of Commercial Epoxy-Amine Products with Iso-Conversional Methods
Authors: Bashir Muhammad Ahsan
Published: March 2023

The dependence of the apparent activation energy for the epoxy-amine reaction on the degree of conversion can be obtained by applying iso-conversional methods to the non-isothermal cure data obtained by using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The application of three iso-conversional methods has been utilized for the analysis of non-isothermal DSC cure data for three commercial high solids epoxy-amine coatings. The average apparent activation energy for cure of the fully formulated commercial product(s) is very similar to that previously reported for the epoxy-amine clear coats, indicating that the presence of additives does not influence the epoxy-amine apparent activation energy. Among the methods tested, Friedman’s method performed the best in fitting the experimental DSC data. In addition, all three methods underpredict the experimental isothermal cure data for three commercial products at two different cure conditions (i.e., 23 °C/50% RH and 40 °C/70% RH), showing that the non-isothermal DSC experiments cannot capture the catalytic effect of water on the curing reaction of epoxy-amine coatings. Furthermore, for high-solids epoxy-amine products, at least 60% conversion is required to achieve the time when the applied coating will not show any tackiness (i.e., the T2 time measured using the Beck Koller method).
Reconstructed NiCo Alloy Enables High-Rate Ni-Zn Microbattery with High Capacity
Authors: Duan Yixue , You Gongchuan , Zhu Zhe , Lv Linfeng , Liao Xiaoqiao , He Xin , Yang Kai , Song Ruiqi , Tian Peng , He Liang
Published: March 2023

Miniaturized powering devices with both sufficient capacity as well as fast charging capability are anticipated to support microelectronics with multi-functions. However, most reported miniaturized energy storage devices only display limited performances around capacity or rate performance, and it remains challenging to develop high-rate microdevices with large capacities. Herein, a reconstructed NiCo alloy is proposed as a promising microcathode for a Ni-Zn microbattery with a high-rate performance and large capacity. With the reconstructed layer compactly adhered on the metal substrate, the activated NiCo alloy demonstrates an excellent conductivity close to metals. Meanwhile, the abundant alloying defect contributes to a relatively higher reconstruction depth up to 20 nm. Both the superior electron transport and the higher reaction depth facilitate the simultaneous excellent performance in the reaction rate and capacity. As a consequence, the microcathode achieves a large capacity up to 1.51 mAh cm−2, as well as an excellent rate performance with a capacity retention of 82.9% when the current density is expanded to 100 mA cm−2. More surprisingly, such excellent performance can shift towards the full Ni-Zn microbattery, and the fast-charging capability based on large capacity can stably maintain 7000 cycles. This unique strategy of reconstructed NiCo alloy microcathode provides a new direction for the construction of high-performance output units.
Effect of Titanium Cation Doping on the Performance of In2O3 Thin Film Transistors Grown via Atomic Layer Deposition
Authors: Yang Bing , Li Pingping , Chen Zihui , Xu Haiyang , Fu Chaoying , Ding Xingwei , Zhang Jianhua
Published: March 2023

Indium oxide semiconductors, as one of the channel materials for thin film transistors (TFTs), have been extensively studied. However, the high carrier concentration and excess oxygen defects of intrinsic In2O3 can cause the devices to fail to work properly. We overcame this hurdle by incorporating the titanium cation (Ti4+) into In2O3 via atomic layer deposition (ALD). The InTiOx TFTs with an In:Ti atomic ratio of 15:1 demonstrated excellent electrical and optical properties, such as a lower threshold voltage (Vth) of 0.17 V, a lower subthreshold swing (SS) of 0.13 V/dec., a higher Ion/Ioff ratio of 107, and a transmittance greater than 90% in the visible region. With the doping ratio increasing from 20:1 to 10:1, the mobility decreased from 9.38 to 1.26 cm2/Vs. The threshold voltage shift (ΔVth) of InTiO (15:1) under 5 V positive bias stress (PBS) for 900 s is 0.93 V, which is less than other devices. The improvement in stability with increasing Ti4+ concentrations is attributed to the reduction of oxygen defects. Therefore, these InTiO (15:1) TFTs with excellent performance show great potential for future applications in transparent electronic devices.
Study on Thermal Conductivity and Mechanical Properties of Cyclotriphosphazene Resin-Forced Epoxy Resin Composites
Authors: Dagdag Omar , El Gana Lahoucine , Haldhar Rajesh , Berisha Avni , Kim Seong-Cheol , Berdimurodov Elyor , Hamed Othman , Jodeh Shehdeh , Akpan Ekemini Daniel , Ebenso Eno Effiong
Published: March 2023

Cyclotriphosphazenes, a variety of inorganic rings together with a curing ingredient, 4,4′-methylene dianiline (MDA), are mainly used to enhance the thermal conductivity and mechanical characteristics of epoxy resin (DGEBA). Three DGEBA@MDA, HGCP@MDA, and thermosets were produced, and their curing behaviors were investigated. Using a molecular dynamics (MD) approach, the impact of cyclotriphosphazene on the characteristics of DGEBA composites is thoroughly explored in this paper. Results indicated that the glass transition temperatures (Tg) of DGEBA containing HGCP had slightly decreased compared to DGEBA. With the addition of HGCP to DGEBA, epoxy resin (DGEBA@HGCP@MDA) has a high thermal conductivity of 0.215284 W/m·K, with an increase of 116.04% more than pure DGEBA (0.185524 W/m·K). Moreover, the DGEBA@HGCP@MDA composite has high mechanical strength with a specific Young’s modulus of 5.4902 GPa. In order to forecast and analyze certain performances directly associated with the microstructure characteristics of the various cross-linked resin systems and their composite materials, an MD simulation approach will be quite valuable.
Study on the Fracture Behaviour of 6061 Aluminum Alloy Extruded Tube during Different Stress Conditions
Authors: Hong Tengjiao , Ding Fengjuan , Chen Feng , Zhang Hua , Zeng Qiliang , Wang Juan
Published: March 2023

To study the deformation and fracture mechanism of 6061 aluminum alloy extruded pipe after secondary heat treatment under different stress triaxiality, a Johnson–Cook failure model was developed. Through the FEM method and SEM, the fracture mechanism of different types of aluminum alloy tensile specimens was analyzed. The research results show that the Johnson–Cook failure model could better simulate the tensile deformation of 6061 aluminum alloy specimens of different types, the parameters of the Johnson–Cook failure model were finally obtained D1 = 0.29, D2 = 1.356, and D3 = −2.567. With the increase of the stress triaxiality, the fracture strain showed a decreasing trend as a whole, and the fracture mechanism changed from a shear type to a hole aggregation type. The stress triaxiality gradually decreased with the increase of the notch radius/angles of the aluminum alloy notch specimen, and the stress triaxiality at the center of the notch was higher than the stress triaxiality at the root of the notch.
Climate Cycles, Habitat Stability, and Lineage Diversification in an African Biodiversity Hotspot
Authors: Bowie Rauri C. K. , Monahan William B. , Fjeldså Jon
Published: March 2023

The Eastern Arc Mountains of Tanzania and Kenya, a montane archipelago of 13 uplifted fault blocks (sky islands) isolated by lowland arid savanna, are a center of exceptional biological endemism. Under the influence of humid winds from the Indian Ocean, forests and associated species may have persisted in this region since the final uplift of these blocks in the late Miocene. Today, these mountains are inhabited by a remarkable diversity of bird species. To better understand the evolutionary processes behind this diversity, we combined molecular phylogenetic studies of East African montane birds with paleoclimate modeling of its montane forests. Across its largest lowland barrier, the 125 km between the Usambara and Nguru/Nguu Mountains, 10 of the 14 bird lineages exhibited a phylogeographic break. Using Bayesian methods, we established that at least three periods of forest contraction and expansion affected the diversification of Eastern Arc birds. Habitat distribution models suggest that lower-elevation hills may have acted as stepping-stones connecting isolated highlands to allow for the dispersal of montane forest-dependent species across them. Periods of vicariance during paleoclimatic cycles extending back through the Last Glacial Maximum would have then isolated these populations within the highlands they had reached. The broad distribution of neoendemic species across the mountains of East Africa provides evidence of climate cycling as a driver of lineage diversification. The high incidence of narrow-range endemism of paleoendemic species on the Usambara, Uluguru, and Udzungwa Mountains of this region is harder to explain. Our paleoclimate models retrodicted the persistence of montane forest during climate cycles on several Eastern Arc sky islands but not on the Southern Tanzania Volcanic Highlands. Consistent with recent theoretical work, different rates of local extinction rather than increased rates of lineage diversification may explain the pattern of excessive narrow-range endemism on some sky islands over others. Thus, a regional filtering effect is generated, with paleoendemics maintaining populations through time only in areas where habitat persisted, providing a credible explanation for the dramatic variance in levels of endemism among different East African sky islands.