bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intrinsic Immunogenic Tumor Cell Death Subtypes Delineate Prognosis and Responsiveness to Immunotherapy in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: He Xiaotian , Zhao Dechang , Zhang Xuewen , Ma Yiyang , Zhang Rusi , Huang Zirui , Wang Gongming , Guo Guangran , Wang Weidong , Wen Yingsheng , Zhang Lanjun
Published: June 2023

Recent studies have highlighted the combination of activation of host immunogenic cell death (ICD) and tumor-directed cytotoxic strategies. However, overall multiomic analysis of the intrinsic ICD property in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) has not been performed. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop an ICD-based risk scoring system to predict overall survival (OS) and immunotherapeutic efficacy in patients. In our study, both weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and LASSO-Cox analysis were utilized to identify ICDrisk subtypes (ICDrisk). Moreover, we identify genomic alterations and differences in biological processes, analyze the immune microenvironment, and predict the response to immunotherapy in patients with pan-cancer. Importantly, immunogenicity subgroup typing was performed based on the immune score (IS) and microenvironmental tumor neoantigens (meTNAs). Our results demonstrate that ICDrisk subtypes were identified based on 16 genes. Furthermore, high ICDrisk was proved to be a poor prognostic factor in LUAD patients and indicated poor efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) treatment in patients with pan-cancer. The two ICDrisk subtypes displayed distinct clinicopathologic features, tumor-infiltrating immune cell patterns, and biological processes. The ISlowmeTNAhigh subtype showed low intratumoral heterogeneity (ITH) and immune-activated phenotypes and correlated with better survival than the other subtypes within the high ICDrisk group. This study suggests effective biomarkers for the prediction of OS in LUAD patients and immunotherapeutic response across Pan-cancer and contributes to enhancing our understanding of intrinsic immunogenic tumor cell death.
Plant–Fungi Interactions: Where It Goes?
Authors: Priyashantha A. , Dai Dong-Qin , Bhat Darbhe , Stephenson Steven , Promputtha Itthayakorn , Kaushik Prashant , Tibpromma Saowaluck , Karunarathna Samantha
Published: June 2023

Fungi live different lifestyles—including pathogenic and symbiotic—by interacting with living plants. Recently, there has been a substantial increase in the study of phytopathogenic fungi and their interactions with plants. Symbiotic relationships with plants appear to be lagging behind, although progressive. Phytopathogenic fungi cause diseases in plants and put pressure on survival. Plants fight back against such pathogens through complicated self-defense mechanisms. However, phytopathogenic fungi develop virulent responses to overcome plant defense reactions, thus continuing their deteriorative impacts. Symbiotic relationships positively influence both plants and fungi. More interestingly, they also help plants protect themselves from pathogens. In light of the nonstop discovery of novel fungi and their strains, it is imperative to pay more attention to plant–fungi interactions. Both plants and fungi are responsive to environmental changes, therefore construction of their interaction effects has emerged as a new field of study. In this review, we first attempt to highlight the evolutionary aspect of plant–fungi interactions, then the mechanism of plants to avoid the negative impact of pathogenic fungi, and fungal strategies to overcome the plant defensive responses once they have been invaded, and finally the changes of such interactions under the different environmental conditions.
Recombinant α1-Microglobulin (rA1M) Protects against Hematopoietic and Renal Toxicity, Alone and in Combination with Amino Acids, in a 177Lu-DOTATATE Mouse Radiation Model
Authors: Alattar Abdul Ghani , Kristiansson Amanda , Karlsson Helena , Vallius Suvi , Ahlstedt Jonas , Forssell-Aronsson Eva , Åkerström Bo , Strand Sven-Erik , Flygare Johan , Gram Magnus
Published: June 2023

177Lu-DOTATATE peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) is used clinically to treat metastasized or unresectable neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). Although 177Lu-DOTATATE is mostly well tolerated in patients, bone marrow suppression and long-term renal toxicity are still side effects that should be considered. Amino acids are often used to minimize renal radiotoxicity, however, they are associated with nausea and vomiting in patients. α1-microglobulin (A1M) is an antioxidant with heme- and radical-scavenging abilities. A recombinant form (rA1M) has previously been shown to be renoprotective in preclinical models, including in PRRT-induced kidney damage. Here, we further investigated rA1M’s renal protective effect in a mouse 177Lu-DOTATATE model in terms of administration route and dosing regimen and as a combined therapy with amino acids (Vamin). Moreover, we investigated the protective effect of rA1M on peripheral blood and bone marrow cells, as well as circulatory biomarkers. Intravenous (i.v.) administration of rA1M reduced albuminuria levels and circulatory levels of the oxidative stress-related protein fibroblast growth factor-21 (FGF-21). Dual injections of rA1M (i.e., at 0 and 24 h post-177Lu-DOTATATE administration) preserved bone marrow cellularity and peripheral blood reticulocytes. Administration of Vamin, alone or in combination with rA1M, did not show any protection of bone marrow cellularity or peripheral reticulocytes. In conclusion, this study suggests that rA1M, administered i.v. for two consecutive days in conjunction with 177Lu-DOTATATE, may reduce hematopoietic and kidney toxicity during PRRT with 177Lu-DOTATATE.
Identification and Characterization of C-Mos in Pearl Mussel Hyriopsis cumingii and Its Role in Gonadal Development
Authors: Liu Zongyu , Jin Xin , Miao Yulin , Wang Ping , Gu Yang , Shangguan Xiaozhao , Chen Lijing , Wang Guiling
Published: June 2023

C-Mos, a proto-oncogene, regulates oocyte maturation by activating the classical MAPK pathway in cells. To examine the function of C-Mos in Hyriopsis cumingii, C-Mos was identified in this study. The full-length cDNA of C-Mos was 2213 bp, including 144 bp in the 5′ UTR, 923 bp in 3′ the UTR, and 1146 bp in the open reading frame (ORF) region. During early gonad development, the expression of C-Mos from 4 to 6 months of age in H. cumingii was significantly higher than that in other months, with the highest expression in 6-month-old H. cumingii, suggesting that C-Mos may be involved in early gonadal development in H. cumingii. Clear hybridization signals were found by in situ hybridization in the oocytes, oocyte nucleus and oogonium, and a small number of hybridization signals were found in the follicular wall of the male gonads. In addition, the C-Mos RNA interference (RNAi) assay results showed that the knockdown of C-Mos caused a down-regulation of ERK and P90rsk. In summary, these results indicate that C-Mos has a crucial part to play in gonadal development in H. cumingii.
Protein Biomarker Discovery Studies on Urinary sEV Fractions Separated with UF-SEC for the First Diagnosis and Detection of Recurrence in Bladder Cancer Patients
Authors: Jordaens Stephanie , Oeyen Eline , Willems Hanny , Ameye Filip , De Wachter Stefan , Pauwels Patrick , Mertens Inge
Published: June 2023

Urinary extracellular vesicles (EVs) are an attractive source of bladder cancer biomarkers. Here, a protein biomarker discovery study was performed on the protein content of small urinary EVs (sEVs) to identify possible biomarkers for the primary diagnosis and recurrence of non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). The sEVs were isolated by ultrafiltration (UF) in combination with size-exclusion chromatography (SEC). The first part of the study compared healthy individuals with NMIBC patients with a primary diagnosis. The second part compared tumor-free patients with patients with a recurrent NMIBC diagnosis. The separated sEVs were in the size range of 40 to 200 nm. Based on manually curated high quality mass spectrometry (MS) data, the statistical analysis revealed 69 proteins that were differentially expressed in these sEV fractions of patients with a first bladder cancer tumor vs. an age- and gender-matched healthy control group. When the discriminating power between healthy individuals and first diagnosis patients is taken into account, the biomarkers with the most potential are MASP2, C3, A2M, CHMP2A and NHE-RF1. Additionally, two proteins (HBB and HBA1) were differentially expressed between bladder cancer patients with a recurrent diagnosis vs. tumor-free samples of bladder cancer patients, but their biological relevance is very limited.
Assessing the Resilience of Machine Learning Classification Algorithms on SARS-CoV-2 Genome Sequences Generated with Long-Read Specific Errors
Authors: Sahoo Bikram , Ali Sarwan , Chen Pin-Yu , Patterson Murray , Zelikovsky Alexander
Published: June 2023

The emergence of third-generation single-molecule sequencing (TGS) technology has revolutionized the generation of long reads, which are essential for genome assembly and have been widely employed in sequencing the SARS-CoV-2 virus during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although long-read sequencing has been crucial in understanding the evolution and transmission of the virus, the high error rate associated with these reads can lead to inadequate genome assembly and downstream biological interpretation. In this study, we evaluate the accuracy and robustness of machine learning (ML) models using six different embedding techniques on SARS-CoV-2 error-incorporated genome sequences. Our analysis includes two types of error-incorporated genome sequences: those generated using simulation tools to emulate error profiles of long-read sequencing platforms and those generated by introducing random errors. We show that the spaced k-mers embedding method achieves high accuracy in classifying error-free SARS-CoV-2 genome sequences, and the spaced k-mers and weighted k-mers embedding methods are highly accurate in predicting error-incorporated sequences. The fixed-length vectors generated by these methods contribute to the high accuracy achieved. Our study provides valuable insights for researchers to effectively evaluate ML models and gain a better understanding of the approach for accurate identification of critical SARS-CoV-2 genome sequences.
Application and Performance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Oral Cancer Diagnosis and Prediction Using Histopathological Images: A Systematic Review
Authors: Khanagar Sanjeev B. , Alkadi Lubna , Alghilan Maryam A. , Kalagi Sara , Awawdeh Mohammed , Bijai Lalitytha Kumar , Vishwanathaiah Satish , Aldhebaib Ali , Singh Oinam Gokulchandra
Published: June 2023

Oral cancer (OC) is one of the most common forms of head and neck cancer and continues to have the lowest survival rates worldwide, even with advancements in research and therapy. The prognosis of OC has not significantly improved in recent years, presenting a persistent challenge in the biomedical field. In the field of oncology, artificial intelligence (AI) has seen rapid development, with notable successes being reported in recent times. This systematic review aimed to critically appraise the available evidence regarding the utilization of AI in the diagnosis, classification, and prediction of oral cancer (OC) using histopathological images. An electronic search of several databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and the Saudi Digital Library, was conducted for articles published between January 2000 and January 2023. Nineteen articles that met the inclusion criteria were then subjected to critical analysis utilizing QUADAS-2, and the certainty of the evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach. AI models have been widely applied in diagnosing oral cancer, differentiating normal and malignant regions, predicting the survival of OC patients, and grading OC. The AI models used in these studies displayed an accuracy in a range from 89.47% to 100%, sensitivity from 97.76% to 99.26%, and specificity ranging from 92% to 99.42%. The models’ abilities to diagnose, classify, and predict the occurrence of OC outperform existing clinical approaches. This demonstrates the potential for AI to deliver a superior level of precision and accuracy, helping pathologists significantly improve their diagnostic outcomes and reduce the probability of errors. Considering these advantages, regulatory bodies and policymakers should expedite the process of approval and marketing of these products for application in clinical scenarios.
The Role of the Microbiome in the Pathogenesis and Treatment of Asthma
Authors: Logoń Katarzyna , Świrkosz Gabriela , Nowak Monika , Wrześniewska Martyna , Szczygieł Aleksandra , Gomułka Krzysztof
Published: June 2023

The role of the microbiome in the pathogenesis and treatment of asthma is significant. The purpose of this article is to show the interplay between asthma and the microbiome, and main areas that require further research are also highlighted. The literature search was conducted using the PubMed database. After a screening process of studies published before May 2023, a total of 128 articles were selected in our paper. The pre-treatment bronchial microbiome in asthmatic patients plays a role in their responsiveness to treatment. Gut microbiota and its dysbiosis can contribute to immune system modulation and the development of asthma. The association between the microbiome and asthma is complex. Further research is necessary to clarify which factors might moderate that relationship. An appropriate gut microbiome and its intestinal metabolites are a protective factor for asthma development. Prebiotics and certain dietary strategies may have a prophylactic or therapeutic effect, but more research is needed to establish final conclusions. Although the evidence regarding probiotics is ambiguous, and most meta-analyses do not support the use of probiotic intake to reduce asthma, several of the most recent studies have provided promising effects. Further studies should focus on the investigation of specific strains and the examination of their mechanistic and genetic aspects.
Glucose, Insulin and Oxygen Modulate Expression of Serotonin-Regulating Genes in Human First-Trimester Trophoblast Cell Line ACH-3P
Authors: Perić Maja , Horvatiček Marina , Tandl Veronika , Bečeheli Ivona , Majali-Martinez Alejandro , Desoye Gernot , Štefulj Jasminka
Published: June 2023

Serotonin signaling plays an important role in regulating development and functions of the placenta. We hypothesized that metabolic disturbances associated with maternal obesity and/or gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) affect placental serotonin homeostasis. Therefore, we examined the effects of high glucose (25 mM) and insulin (10 nM)—two hallmarks of maternal obesity and GDM—on mRNA expression of key regulators of serotonin homeostasis, including serotonin transporter (SERT), tryptophan hydroxylase 1 (TPH1), and monoamine oxidase A (MAOA), in the first-trimester trophoblast cell line ACH-3P, focusing on oxygen levels characteristic of early human placental development. Glucose downregulated expression of SERT and MAOA independently of oxygen level and upregulated expression of TPH1 at 6.5% oxygen but not at 2.5% oxygen. Compared to 6.5% oxygen, 2.5% oxygen upregulated SERT and downregulated TPH1 expression, with no effect on MAOA expression. Insulin upregulated SERT only at 2.5% oxygen but had no effect on TPH1 and MAOA expression. These results suggest that maternal metabolic alterations in early pregnancy may be a driving force for changes in placental serotonin homeostasis.
A Fast and Reliable Method Based on QCM-D Instrumentation for the Screening of Nanoparticle/Blood Protein Interactions
Authors: Gagliardi Mariacristina , Colagiorgio Laura , Cecchini Marco
Published: June 2023

The interactions that nanoparticles have with blood proteins are crucial for their fate in vivo. Such interactions result in the formation of the protein corona around the nanoparticles, and studying them aids in nanoparticle optimization. Quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring (QCM-D) can be used for this study. The present work proposes a QCM-D method to study the interactions on polymeric nanoparticles with three different human blood proteins (albumin, fibrinogen and γ-globulin) by monitoring the frequency shifts of sensors immobilizing the selected proteins. Bare PEGylated and surfactant-coated poly-(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticles are tested. The QCM-D data are validated with DLS and UV-Vis experiments in which changes in the size and optical density of nanoparticle/protein blends are monitored. We find that the bare nanoparticles have a high affinity towards fibrinogen and γ-globulin, with measured frequency shifts around −210 Hz and −50 Hz, respectively. PEGylation greatly reduces these interactions (frequency shifts around −5 Hz and −10 Hz for fibrinogen and γ-globulin, respectively), while the surfactant appears to increase them (around −240 Hz and −100 Hz and −30 Hz for albumin). The QCM-D data are confirmed by the increase in the nanoparticle size over time (up to 3300% in surfactant-coated nanoparticles), measured by DLS in protein-incubated samples, and by the trends of the optical densities, measured by UV-Vis. The results indicate that the proposed approach is valid for studying the interactions between nanoparticles and blood proteins, and the study paves the way for a more comprehensive analysis of the whole protein corona.
Ischemic Preconditioning Provides Neuroprotection by Inhibiting NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation and Cell Pyroptosis
Authors: Gao Li , Sun Xin , Pan Meibo , Zhang Wenrui , Zhu Desheng , Lu Zhongjiao , Wang Kan , Dong Yinfeng , Guan Yangtai
Published: June 2023

Increasing evidence has demonstrated that ischemic preconditioning (IPC) increases cerebral tolerance to subsequent prolonged ischemic insults. However, the exact mechanisms underlying the process have not been fully explored. In the current study, we aim to investigate whether NLRP3 inflammasome and cell pyroptosis are involved in the neuroprotective mechanism of IPC after ischemic stroke. In vitro, IPC was set up by exposing BV-2 cells to 10 min of oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD). In vivo, IPC was performed by a transient cerebral ischemia of 10 min occlusion of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) in mice. We found that the NLRP3 inflammasome was activated and cell pyroptosis was induced at 6 h and 24 h post-stroke in an ischemic brain. IPC treatment increased cell viability under OGD state, reduced the infarct size, and attenuated the neurological deficits of mice. However, the effects NLRP3 inflammasome activation and pyroptosis after stroke were attenuated by IPC, which decreased the expression of NLRP3, ASC, cleaved caspase 1, and GSDMD-N and reduced the production of IL-1β and IL-18. In addition, confocal immunofluorescence staining of Annexin V-mCherry and SYTOX green was inhibited by IPC. These findings suggest a more enhanced link between IPC and inflammatory signature and cell death, highlighting that the NLRP3 inflammasome may act as a promising target for the prevention and treatment of ischemic stroke.
The Application of Soft Robotic Gloves in Stroke Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Ko Ming-Jian , Chuang Ya-Chi , Ou-Yang Liang-Jun , Cheng Yuan-Yang , Tsai Yu-Lin , Lee Yu-Chun
Published: June 2023

Wearable robotic devices have been strongly put into use in both the clinical and research fields of stroke rehabilitation over the past decades. This study aimed to explore the effectiveness of soft robotic gloves (SRGs) towards improving the motor recovery and functional abilities in patients with post-stroke hemiparesis. Five major bibliographic databases, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and the Physiotherapy Evidence Database, were all reviewed for enrollment regarding comparative trials prior to 7 March 2023. We included adults with stroke and compared their rehabilitation using SRGs to conventional rehabilitation (CR) on hand function in terms of the Fugl-Meyer Upper Extremity Motor Assessment (FMA-UE), Fugl-Meyer Distal Upper Extremity Motor Assessment (FMA-distal UE), box and blocks test score, grip strength test, and the Jebsen–Taylor hand function test (JTT). A total of 8 studies, comprising 309 participants, were included in the analysis. Compared to CR, rehabilitation involving SRGs achieved better FMA-UE (MD 6.52, 95% CI: 3.65~9.39), FMA-distal UE (MD 3.27, 95% CI: 1.50~5.04), and JJT (MD 13.34, CI: 5.16~21.53) results. Subgroup analysis showed that stroke latency of more than 6 months and training for more than 30 min offered a better effect as well. In conclusion, for patients with stroke, rehabilitation using SRGs is recommended to promote the functional abilities of the upper extremities.
Kindness Isn’t Just about Being Nice: The Value Proposition of Kindness as Viewed through the Lens of Incivility in the Healthcare Workplace
Authors: Fryburg David A.
Published: June 2023

The healthcare workplace is a high-stress environment. All stakeholders, including patients and providers, display evidence of that stress. High stress has several effects. Even acutely, stress can negatively affect cognitive function, worsening diagnostic acumen, decision-making, and problem-solving. It decreases helpfulness. As stress increases, it can progress to burnout and more severe mental health consequences, including depression and suicide. One of the consequences (and causes) of stress is incivility. Both patients and staff can manifest these unkind behaviors, which in turn have been shown to cause medical errors. The human cost of errors is enormous, reflected in thousands of lives impacted every year. The economic cost is also enormous, costing at least several billion dollars annually. The warrant for promoting kindness, therefore, is enormous. Kindness creates positive interpersonal connections, which, in turn, buffers stress and fosters resilience. Kindness, therefore, is not just a nice thing to do: it is critically important in the workplace. Ways to promote kindness, including leadership modeling positive behaviors as well as the deterrence of negative behaviors, are essential. A new approach using kindness media is described. It uplifts patients and staff, decreases irritation and stress, and increases happiness, calmness, and feeling connected to others.
The Role of Gratitude in a Positive Psychology Group Intervention Program Implemented for Undergraduate Engineering Students
Authors: Kalamatianos Antonios , Kounenou Kalliope , Pezirkianidis Christos , Kourmousi Ntina
Published: June 2023

Over the past decades, research on positive psychology for building strengths has proliferated. The present study aimed to explore the effect of gratitude in a 5-week positive psychology group program for undergraduate engineering students which included an intermediary 2-week gratitude intervention. In a mixed-design, 69 students from three engineering departments of the School of Pedagogical and Technological Education (ASPETE), assigned to the intervention (N = 34) and the control group (N = 35), with an average age of 21.52 years (SD = 4.63), were administered the Gratitude Questionnaire—six item form (GQ-6), the Modified Differential Emotions Scale (mDES), the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC), the Subjective Happiness Scale (SHS), and the Life Orientation Test—Revised (LOT-R). The condition experimental vs. control group was designated as the between-subjects factor, and time, that is, baseline vs. post intervention, was set as the within-subjects factor. Students who received the intervention reported significantly higher levels of gratitude. The increase in gratitude was due to the positive psychology group program. In addition, gratitude showed a significant effect on happiness and optimism, but failed to attain a significant impact on positive and negative emotions and resilience. Further research is needed to elucidate the effectiveness of positive psychology programs for undergraduate engineering students and the intervening cognitive processes.
Subjective Perceptions of ‘Meaning of Work’ of Generation MZ Employees of South Korean NGOs
Authors: Moon Sangsuk , Kim Yucheon
Published: June 2023

This study used the Q methodology to analyse the perceptions of the meaning of work among Generation MZ employees working for South Korean nongovernmental organisations (NGOs). Forty Q samples about the meaning of work were extracted through a literature review and in-depth interviews, and 24 Generation MZ employees working for NGOs were selected as P samples to carry out Q sorting. The results were analysed using the KenQ program, and the perceptions of the meaning of work among Generation MZ employees working for NGOs were classified into four types. For Type 1, work was perceived as a means of self-realization corresponding to their values and an opportunity for new challenges. Type 2 employees expect people to recognise them as people of value through their work and pursue the satisfaction of contributing to people and society through their employment. Type 3 employees expected work to be a happy and interesting experience that coincided with their values beyond simple money-making. Finally, Type 4 considered work and personal life more separate and prioritised solidarity with colleagues.
Why Do Employees Show Pro-Environmental Behaviors? A Perspective of Environment Social Responsibility
Authors: Lee Shih-Chin , Huang Stanley Y. B. , Hu Ling , Chang Tai-Wei
Published: June 2023

This research uses social identity theory to propose that environmental social responsibility perceptions influence green commitment, and then influence pro-environmental behaviors, which are moderated by institutional pressure. Data were collected from 100 employees of technology firms in Taiwan, and the results support all hypotheses. This research chose technology firms as empirical data because Taiwan’s technological level is known to the world, which can reduce sampling errors caused by the lack of environmental knowledge. Finally, this research not only advances the literature on sustainability issues in organizational management but also provides a paradigm to help firms implement pro-environmental behaviors to achieve competitive advantage and sustainable development goals.
A New Principle for Building Simulation of Radiative Heat Transfer in the Presence of Spherical Surfaces
Authors: Cabeza-Lainez Joseph
Published: June 2023

Radiant heat interchanges are pivotal to assessing the energy use of buildings and facilities that channel some sort of solar radiation. Form factor integrals are needed for an accurate simulation of the main features of the envelope of such buildings. However, the expressions required when the space under analysis is curved, for instance, in domes and vaults, are not feasible. The calculation process of algorithms is usually addressed by cumbersome analytical deductions or else by rough statistical approximations included in the simulations, such as ray-tracing methods. Neither of which works properly under curved geometries. The following article deals with an innovative methodology for employing an exact property that solves any spherical configuration of the radiant surfaces. The newly found relationship is validated by comparison with other solutions previously deducted by the author and by numerical simulations when available. Since there is no other exact method of calculating radiation exchanges within spherical fragments, we consider that this finding represents an advance which contributes to overcoming a variety of unexplained and practical problems of radiative heat transfer applicable to architectural developments, lighting elements and aircraft components.
A User’s Perspective on the Factors Influencing the Satisfaction of Assistive Technology Resources Centers’ Built Environment Services
Authors: Chang Tsen-Yao , Huang Shao-Wei
Published: June 2023

Taiwan will move into a super-aged society by 2025. The government is actively establishing assistive technology resources centers (ATR Centers) throughout Taiwan to provide assistive technology services such as display, evaluation, rental, and maintenance services; they also recycle unused assistive devices, disinfect and clean them, and then rent them to people in need to achieve sustainable development. This study investigates the users’ perceptions about receiving services from the ATR Center in Yunlin and explores their satisfaction. “Service convenience”, “service quality”, “user experience” and “corporate social responsibility (CSR)” were used as the overall research framework and hypotheses are based on the mediating role of “CSR”; data are collected through questionnaires, and structural equation modeling (SEM) is used to test the model and hypotheses. A total of 532 valid questionnaires were collected from the users and caregivers who had used the services of the center in the past two years. The statistical analysis was conducted in three stages: sample data analysis, measurement model validation, and structural equation model analysis. According to the research findings, service convenience, service quality, and user experience all have a significant positive impact on CSR. Additionally, service convenience, service quality, user experience, and CSR have a positive impact on user satisfaction. Moreover, service quality and user experience indirectly affect user satisfaction through CSR. Finally, based on the research results, suggestions are proposed for addressing issues related to assistive service promotion and future adjustments.
Comparative Study on BIM Acceptance Model by Adoption Period
Authors: Yu Jungho , Lee Seulki
Published: June 2023

As the need for digital transformation (DT) increased in order to improve productivity in the construction industry, the market for building information modeling (BIM), the main technology of DT, gradually expanded. Strategies for promoting BIM have been established and announced in South Korea. Accordingly, the related regulations have been modified and there is continuous investment in BIM. Despite these efforts, BIM adoption has not gone smoothly. This study aims to empirically verify an acceptance model as of 2021 based on the BIM acceptance models proposed by previous studies, and to propose implications by analyzing the significant relationship changes in acceptance models by period. It found a change in the mechanism of accepting BIM over time and derived implications about the causes of changes in connection with the comparative analysis results and the status of BIM-related policy announcements. If promotion strategies are inspected and adoption strategies suitable for each period are established through the regular verification of the BIM acceptance mechanism, we expect that the effectiveness and efficiency of investments in promoting BIM will improve.
Cyclic Behavior of Slab–Wall Connections with Concrete-Filled Steel Tubes Embedded in Wall Piers
Authors: Chen Kai-Min , Wang Fan , Fang Xiao-Dan , Zeng Hua-Ming , Li Xie-Sheng
Published: June 2023

Concrete-filled steel tubes (CFSTs) embedded in structural walls can improve the lateral-force resistance of slab–wall structures, but also impede the passage and anchorage of steel bars in slabs around the tubes. Therefore, the objective of this research is to propose the design of anchorage detailing to solve this problem, and analyze the bearing capacity and seismic performance of the joint using this design. Two types of no-through-tube anchorage detailing were put forward for steel bars in slabs that intersect with CFST-strengthened structural walls: (1) an anchoring ring (AR) detailing; (2) a direct anchoring (DA) detailing. Four slab–wall concrete specimens using these two detailing types were tested cyclically. It was found that the connection specimens with the AR detailing had better ductility and energy dissipation capacity compared to those with the DA detailing. Nevertheless, the connection specimens with the DA detailing had more direct force-transferring capacities, meaning that they were better at transferring the force received by the slabs to the shear walls. Overall, both types of detailing can be adopted in practice to significantly improve the seismic performance of slab–wall connections, and the choice of which to use would depend on the specific requirements of a project.
Analyzing the Effect of Rotary Inertia and Elastic Constraints on a Beam Supported by a Wrinkle Elastic Foundation: A Numerical Investigation
Authors: Kanwal Gulnaz , Nawaz Rab , Ahmed Naveed
Published: June 2023

This article presents a modal analysis of an elastically constrained Rayleigh beam that is placed on an elastic Winkler foundation. The study of beams plays a crucial role in building construction, providing essential support and stability to the structure. The objective of this investigation is to examine how the vibrational frequencies of the Rayleigh beam are affected by the elastic foundation parameter and the rotational inertia. The results obtained from analytical and numerical methods are presented and compared with the configuration of the Euler–Bernoulli beam. The analytic approach employs the technique of separation of variable and root finding, while the numerical approach involves using the Galerkin finite element method to calculate the eigenfrequencies and mode functions. The study explains the dispersive behavior of natural frequencies and mode shapes for the initial modes of frequency. The article provides an accurate and efficient numerical scheme for both Rayleigh and Euler–Bernoulli beams, which demonstrate excellent agreement with analytical results. It is important to note that this scheme has the highest accuracy for eigenfrequencies and eigenmodes compared to other existing tools for these types of problems. The study reveals that Rayleigh beam eigenvalues depend on geometry, rotational inertia minimally affects the fundamental frequency mode, and linear spring stiffness has a more significant impact on vibration frequencies and mode shapes than rotary spring stiffness. Further, the finite element scheme used provides the most accurate results for obtaining mode shapes of beam structures. The numerical scheme developed is suitable for calculating optimal solutions for complex beam structures with multi-parameter foundations.
Generation of an Obese Diabetic Mouse Model upon Conditional Atrx Disruption
Authors: Gaspar Tiago Bordeira , Jesus Tito Teles , Azevedo Maria Teresa , Macedo Sofia , Soares Mariana Alves , Martins Rui Sousa , Leite Rúben , Rodrigues Lia , Rodrigues Daniela Ferreira , Cardoso Luís , Borges Inês , Canberk Sule , Gärtner Fátima , Miranda-Alves Leandro , Lopes José Manuel , Soares Paula , Vinagre João
Published: June 2023

Atrx loss was recently ascertained as insufficient to drive pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour (PanNET) formation in mice islets. We have identified a preponderant role of Atrx in the endocrine dysfunction in a Rip-Cre;AtrxKO genetically engineered mouse model (GEMM). To validate the impact of a different Cre-driver line, we used similar methodologies and characterised the Pdx1-Cre;AtrxKO (P.AtrxKO) GEMM to search for PanNET formation and endocrine fitness disruption for a period of up to 24 months. Male and female mice presented different phenotypes. Compared to P.AtrxWT, P.AtrxHOM males were heavier during the entire study period, hyperglycaemic between 3 and 12 mo., and glucose intolerant only from 6 mo.; in contrast, P.AtrxHOM females started exhibiting increased weight gains later (after 6 mo.), but diabetes or glucose intolerance was detected by 3 mo. Overall, all studied mice were overweight or obese from early ages, which challenged the histopathological evaluation of the pancreas and liver, especially after 12 mo. Noteworthily, losing Atrx predisposed mice to an increase in intrapancreatic fatty infiltration (FI), peripancreatic fat deposition, and macrovesicular steatosis. As expected, no animal developed PanNETs. An obese diabetic GEMM of disrupted Atrx is presented as potentially useful for metabolic studies and as a putative candidate for inserting additional tumourigenic genetic events.
Texture Analysis of the Apparent Diffusion Coefficient Focused on Contrast-Enhancing Lesions in Predicting Survival for Bevacizumab-Treated Patients with Recurrent Glioblastoma
Authors: Lopez-Rueda Antonio , Puig Josep , Thió-Henestrosa Santiago , Moreno-Negrete Javier Luis , Zwanzger Christian , Pujol Teresa , Aldecoa Iban , Pineda Estela , Valduvieco Izaskun , González José Juan , Oleaga Laura
Published: June 2023

Purpose: Glioblastoma often recurs after treatment. Bevacizumab increases progression-free survival in some patients with recurrent glioblastoma. Identifying pretreatment predictors of survival can help clinical decision making. Magnetic resonance texture analysis (MRTA) quantifies macroscopic tissue heterogeneity indirectly linked to microscopic tissue properties. We investigated the usefulness of MRTA in predicting survival in patients with recurrent glioblastoma treated with bevacizumab. Methods: We evaluated retrospective longitudinal data from 33 patients (20 men; mean age 56 ± 13 years) who received bevacizumab on the first recurrence of glioblastoma. Volumes of contrast-enhancing lesions segmented on postcontrast T1-weighted sequences were co-registered on apparent diffusion coefficient maps to extract 107 radiomic features. To assess the performance of textural parameters in predicting progression-free survival and overall survival, we used receiver operating characteristic curves, univariate and multivariate regression analysis, and Kaplan–Meier plots. Results: Longer progression-free survival (>6 months) and overall survival (>1 year) were associated with lower values of major axis length (MAL), a lower maximum 2D diameter row (m2Ddr), and higher skewness values. Longer progression-free survival was also associated with higher kurtosis, and longer overall survival with higher elongation values. The model combining MAL, m2Ddr, and skewness best predicted progression-free survival at 6 months (AUC 0.886, 100% sensitivity, 77.8% specificity, 50% PPV, 100% NPV), and the model combining m2Ddr, elongation, and skewness best predicted overall survival (AUC 0.895, 83.3% sensitivity, 85.2% specificity, 55.6% PPV, 95.8% NPV). Conclusions: Our preliminary analyses suggest that in patients with recurrent glioblastoma pretreatment, MRTA helps to predict survival after bevacizumab treatment.
Evaluation of Staging Systems for Cancer of the Nasal Vestibule
Authors: Scheurleer Willem Frederik Julius , Tagliaferri Luca , Rijken Johannes A. , Crescio Claudia , Rizzo Davide , Mattiucci Gian Carlo , Pameijer Frank A. , de Bree Remco , Fionda Bruno , de Ridder Mischa , Bussu Francesco
Published: June 2023

Squamous cell carcinoma of the nasal vestibule is reported to account for less than one percent of all head and neck malignancies. It lacks a designated WHO ICD-O topography code, and multiple systems are available for the staging of this disease, which results in unwanted variability and the subsequent poor reliability of data. The aim of this study was to evaluate the currently available staging systems for cancer of the nasal vestibule, including the recently introduced classification by Bussu et al., which built on Wang’s original concept but with clearer anatomical cutoffs. Different staging systems for cancer of the nasal vestibule (UICC nasal cavity, UICC skin cancer of the head and neck, Wang and Bussu et al.) were evaluated via a retrospective analysis of 148 patients. The staging system, per Bussu et al., had the most balanced allocation of patients among the stages. When using the Wang classification as a reference, stage migration occurred less frequently with the Bussu classification. The widespread adoption of a single staging system, as well as the introduction of a designated topography code for cancer of the nasal vestibule, could lead to more uniformity in data reporting and improve an understanding of the incidence and disease outcome. The newly proposed carcinoma of the nasal vestibule classification by Bussu et al. has the potential to improve the staging and allocation among stages. Further analysis of survival data is needed to assess which classification system is best suited for nasal vestibule carcinoma.
Electronic Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (ePROMs) Improve the Assessment of Underrated Physical and Psychological Symptom Burden among Oncological Inpatients
Authors: Warnecke Eva , Salvador Comino Maria , Kocol Dilara , Hosters Bernadette , Wiesweg Marcel , Bauer Sebastian , Welt Anja , Heinzelmann Anna , Müller Sandy , Schuler Martin , Teufel Martin , Tewes Mitra
Published: June 2023

For advanced cancer inpatients, the established standard for gathering information about symptom burden involves a daily assessment by nursing staff using validated assessments. In contrast, a systematic assessment of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) is required, but it is not yet systematically implemented. We hypothesized that current practice results in underrating the severity of patients’ symptom burden. To explore this hypothesis, we have established systematic electronic PROMs (ePROMs) using validated instruments at a major German Comprehensive Cancer Center. In this retrospective, non-interventional study, lasting from September 2021 to February 2022, we analyzed collected data from 230 inpatients. Symptom burden obtained by nursing staff was compared to the data acquired by ePROMs. Differences were detected by performing descriptive analyses, Chi-Square tests, Fisher’s exact, Phi-correlation, Wilcoxon tests, and Cohen’s r. Our analyses pointed out that pain and anxiety especially were significantly underrated by nursing staff. Nursing staff ranked these symptoms as non-existent, whereas patients stated at least mild symptom burden (pain: meanNRS/epaAC = 0 (no); meanePROM = 1 (mild); p < 0.05; r = 0.46; anxiety: meanepaAC = 0 (no); meanePROM = 1 (mild); p < 0.05; r = 0.48). In conclusion, supplementing routine symptom assessment used daily by nursing staff with the systematic, e-health-enabled acquisition of PROMs may improve the quality of supportive and palliative care.
Creation of EGD-Derived Gastric Cancer Organoids to Predict Treatment Responses
Authors: McDonald Hannah G. , Harper Megan M. , Hill Kristen , Gao Anqi , Solomon Angelica L. , Bailey Charles J. , Lin Miranda , Barry-Hundeyin Mautin , Cavnar Michael J. , Mardini Samuel H. , Pandalai Prakash J. , Patel Reema A. , Kolesar Jill M. , Rueckert Justin A. , Hookey Lawrence , Ropeleski Mark , Merchant Shaila J. , Kim Joseph , Gao Mei
Published: June 2023

Gastric adenocarcinoma (GAd) is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Most patients require perioperative chemotherapy, yet methods to accurately predict responses to therapy are lacking. Thus, patients may be unnecessarily exposed to considerable toxicities. Here, we present a novel methodology using patient-derived organoids (PDOs) that rapidly and accurately predicts the chemotherapy efficacy for GAd patients. Methods: Endoscopic GAd biopsies were obtained from 19 patients, shipped overnight, and PDOs were developed within 24 h. Drug sensitivity testing was performed on PDO single-cells with current standard-of-care systemic GAd regimens and cell viability was measured. Whole exome sequencing was used to confirm the consistency of tumor-related gene mutations and copy number alterations between primary tumors, PDOs, and PDO single-cells. Results: Overall, 15 of 19 biopsies (79%) were appropriate for PDO creation and single-cell expansion within 24 h of specimen collection and overnight shipment. With our PDO single-cell technique, PDOs (53%) were successfully developed. Subsequently, two PDO lines were subjected to drug sensitivity testing within 12 days from initial biopsy procurement. Drug sensitivity assays revealed unique treatment response profiles for combination drug regimens in both of the two unique PDOs, which corresponded with the clinical response. Conclusions: The successful creation of PDOs within 24 h of endoscopic biopsy and rapid drug testing within 2 weeks demonstrate the feasibility of our novel approach for future applications in clinical decision making. This proof of concept sets the foundation for future clinical trials using PDOs to predict clinical responses to GAd therapies.
Role of Natural and Synthetic Compounds in Modulating NRF2/KEAP1 Signaling Pathway in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Tossetta Giovanni , Fantone Sonia , Marzioni Daniela , Mazzucchelli Roberta
Published: June 2023

Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men worldwide. Prostate cancer can be treated by surgery or active surveillance when early diagnosed but, when diagnosed at an advanced or metastatic stage, radiation therapy or androgen-deprivation therapy is needed to reduce cancer progression. However, both of these therapies can cause prostate cancer resistance to treatment. Several studies demonstrated that oxidative stress is involved in cancer occurrence, development, progression and treatment resistance. The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2)/KEAP1 (Kelch-Like ECH-Associated Protein 1) pathway plays an important role in protecting cells against oxidative damage. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and NRF2 activation can determine cell fate. In particular, toxic levels of ROS lead physiological cell death and cell tumor suppression, while lower ROS levels are associated with carcinogenesis and cancer progression. On the contrary, a high level of NRF2 promotes cell survival related to cancer progression activating an adaptive antioxidant response. In this review, we analyzed the current literature regarding the role of natural and synthetic compounds in modulating NRF2/KEAP1 signaling pathway in prostate cancer.
Theoretical Study on the Mechanism of CO* Electrochemical Reduction on Cu(111) under Constant Potential
Authors: Mei Shange , Liang Wanzhen
Published: June 2023

In order to understand the mechanism of the electrochemical reduction of CO* on Cu(111), which competitively generates two intermediates, CHO* and COH*, we performed a first principles calculation on these two electrocatalytic reactions, including the solvent effect and imposing a constant potential. The transition states of the two reactions under constant potential conditions were located by the electrochemical nudged elastic band (eNEB) method and the charge effect in the two reactions was elucidated by charge correction in the constant potential model and Bader charge analysis. It was found that the two reactions have different potential dependencies and involve different degrees of partial charge transfer. In addition, we confirmed that the COH* reaction pathway exists only in a certain potential range when using the implicit solvent model.
Synergy between Sulfonic Functions and Ru Nanoparticles Supported on Activated Carbon for the Valorization of Cellulose into Sorbitol
Authors: Carlier Samuel , Baaziz Walid , Ersen Ovidiu , Hermans Sophie
Published: June 2023

The production of sorbitol from biomass, and especially from its cellulosic component, has been studied as a sustainable method for producing platform molecules. Because it requires two steps, namely, hydrolysis and hydrogenation, bifunctional materials are required as catalysts for this transformation. This study reports a bifunctional catalyst composed of sulfonic functions grafted onto a carbon support for the hydrolysis step and RuO2 nanoparticles for the hydrogenation step. As sulfur can easily poison Ru, synthetic optimization is necessary to obtain an efficient bifunctional catalyst that surpasses a mere Ru/C catalyst. Kinetic studies highlight the better activity of the bifunctional catalysts compared to the reference monofunctional catalysts. Besides being active in hydrolysis reactions, sulfonic functions also have a role in avoiding the degradation of the sorbitol produced. The recyclability of the bifunctional catalyst is also superior to that of the monofunctional one.