bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of home-based interventions using exergames on physical and cognitive functions in community-dwelling older adults: a PRISMA-P-compliant protocol for a systematic review
Authors: Seinsche Julia , de Bruin Eling D. , Hinrichs Timo , Giannouli Eleftheria
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Physical activity and exercise are crucial to counteract physical and cognitive decline in old age. Home-based exergame training can be a solution to overcome physical inactivity. This systematic review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of home-based exergame interventions and evaluate their effectiveness in improving cognitive and physical functions through physical activity enhancement in older adults.

Methods and analysis

We are conducting a systematic literature search including studies examining (1) community-dwelling older adults aged 60 years and older without any specific disease, (2) exergame-based exercise programs that take place at least partially in a home setting, and (3) intervention-related physical and/or cognitive outcomes. We will include randomized controlled trials and any other type of pre-post study published in English. There are no restrictions in terms of control group type and publication date. A search string was created and used in PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus and CINAHL. In addition, a hand search is carried out. This involves checking the references of the included studies and searching Google Scholar for further studies. The included studies will be summarized and, if homogeneity is sufficient, a random-effects meta-analysis will be performed. We will assess the risk of bias using RoB 2.0 and ROBINS-I.

Conclusion

The findings of this systematic review will help to define the most suitable exergame programs to counteract cognitive and physical decline in older adults. Additionally, they will inform the development of effective home-based exergame systems and point to future pathways of digital rehabilitation in older adults.

Registration

Prospero (ID: CRD42023374234).
Mini review of metabolism in leukaemia: from complexity to the clinic
Authors: Rattigan Kevin M.
Published: January 2024

The importance of metabolism to cancer has increasingly been recognised and this is particularly the case for leukaemia. This has opened the possibility of targeting dysregulated metabolism with the aim of increasing the effectiveness of current therapies, some of which are anti-metabolites. One key challenge to be addressed is avoiding negative side effects due to shared metabolic dependencies between leukaemic and normal cells. This Mini Review will discuss how our understanding of wide-ranging effects of metabolism is continuing to evolve thanks to recent discoveries, as well as how metabolism can both directly and indirectly affect leukaemia cell functions. This includes introducing how metabolism is compartmentalised at levels ranging from organelle to whole body as well as how the metabolome can modify other ‘Omes.’ This Mini Review also places a focus on the overlay in metabolic demands of normal haematopoietic and immune cells. Finally, how therapies targeting metabolic processes have already delivered success, as well as the promise of new therapies targeting metabolism that are currently being investigated in clinical trials, will also be discussed.
Grand challenges at the frontiers of fish science
Authors: McKenzie David J. , Aarestrup Kim , Domenici Paolo , Fanelli Emanuela , Mourier Johann , Tsigenopoulos Costas S.
Published: January 2024

We provide a review of what we consider to be grand research challenges for fish science in an era of human-induced rapid environmental change.
Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder risk and outcomes in renal transplant patients treated with belatacept immunosuppression
Authors: Koff Jean L. , Karadkhele Geeta M. , Switchenko Jeffrey M. , Rupji Manali , Little Kendra , Larsen Christian P.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) is a rare but life-threatening malignancy that arises in the setting of immunosuppression (IS) after solid organ transplant. IS regimens containing belatacept have been associated with an increased risk of PTLD in Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)-seronegative renal transplant recipients, and the use of belatacept is contraindicated in this population. However, the impact of belatacept-based regimens on PTLD risk and outcomes in EBV-seropositive renal transplant recipients is less well characterized.

Methods

A case-control study was conducted to investigate how combinatorial IS regimens impact the risk of PTLD and survival outcomes in renal transplant recipients at a large transplant center between 2010 and 2019. In total, 17 cases of PTLD were identified and matched 1:2 to controls without PTLD by age, sex, and transplanted organ(s). We compared baseline clinical characteristics, examined changes in IS regimen, viral loads, and renal function over time, and evaluated time-to-event analyses, including graft rejection and survival.

Results

Cases of PTLD largely resembled matched controls in terms of baseline characteristics, although expected differences in EBV serostatus trended toward significance (42.9% of PTLD cases were donor-positive/recipient-negative vs. 8.3% controls, p = 0.063). PTLD cases were not more likely to have received belatacept than controls. Belatacept was not associated with graft rejection or failure, re-transplant, hospitalization, or decreased survival.

Conclusions

Belatacept was not associated with an increased risk of PTLD, and was not associated with decreased survival in either PTLD cases or in the entire cohort. Our case-control study supports the concept that belatacept remains a safe and effective option for IS in EBV-seropositive renal transplant patients.
Single center study investigating the clinical association of donor-derived cell-free DNA with acute outcomes in lung transplantation
Authors: Noda Kentaro , Snyder Mark E. , Xu Qingyong , Peters David , McDyer John F. , Zeevi Adriana , Sanchez Pablo G.
Published: January 2024

Background

Circulating donor-derived cell-free DNA (dd-cfDNA) levels have been proposed as a potential tool for the diagnosis of graft injury. In this study, we prospectively investigated dd-cfDNA plasma levels and their association with severe primary graft dysfunction (PGD) and graft rejection after lung transplant.

Methods

A total of 40 subjects undergoing de-novo lung transplants at our institution were recruited in this study. Blood samples were collected at various time points before and after lung transplant for 1 year. Dd-cfDNA in samples was determined using AlloSure assay (CareDx Inc.). The correlation of the value of %dd-cfDNA was investigated with the incidence of PGD, acute cellular rejection (ACR), and donor-specific antibody.

Results

We observed a rapid increase of %dd-cfDNA in the blood of recipients after lung transplantation compared to baseline. The levels of dd-cfDNA decreased during the first two weeks. The peak was observed within 72 h after transplantation. The peak values of %dd-cfDNA varied among subjects and did not correlate with severe PGD incidence. We observed an association between levels of %dd-cfDNA from blood collected at the time of transbronchial biopsy and the histological diagnosis of ACR at 3 weeks.

Conclusion

Our data show that circulating dd-cfDNA levels are associated with ACR early after transplantation but not with severe PGD. Plasma levels of dd-cfDNA may be a less invasive tool to estimate graft rejection after lung transplantation however larger studies are still necessary to better identify thresholds.
Visual thinking in virtual environments: evaluating multidisciplinary interaction through drawing ideation in real-time remote co-design
Authors: Close Alex , Field Stephen , Teather Robert
Published: January 2024

This study investigated remote multidisciplinary sketching ideation across three systems: virtual reality (VR), tablet drawing, and uploading images of paper drawings. Though cumbersome, expressiveness and line control with drawing on paper was still noted to be important even in remote sketching, particularly by people experienced with this method. The tablet method was user-friendly, fostering effective collaborative understanding, especially in object-based ideation. Existing skills played a significant role in shaping collaborative perceptions. Despite challenges, VR exhibited promise in fostering creative expression and visualization in collaborative design workflows. Notably, it proved beneficial in early problem-solving stages where spatial and sensory considerations influenced structural decisions—potentially useful after general brainstorming and 2D sketching has established themes and objects. This research contributes to further understanding of VR’s evolving role in design thinking, its synergy with other drawing methods in remote sketching collaboration, and the evolving landscape of diverse user needs in ideation processes.
The Dilemma of Dividing Five Candies Between Two Children
Authors: Choshen-Hillel Shoham , Nahari Yair
Published: January 2024

Distributing resources between individuals often leads to difficult dilemmas. Imagine, for example, a father who wants to give out five lollipops to his two daughters. He can give two lollipops to one girl and three to the other, which will make things unequal between the two girls. Alternatively, he can give two lollipops to each girl and throw away the fifth. This will maintain equality but will be wasteful. In this article, we will review recent findings on how children and adults resolve the tension between unequal distribution and waste. In particular, we will describe findings showing that children, and even adults, often waste resources to avoid inequality. This tendency develops at a young age and is observed in multiple countries. Finally, we will describe ways to distribute resources fairly without wasting them, which can make people feel good and avoid waste.
The Play-Doh Brain: How Shapeable Neurons Help You Learn and Remember
Authors: Corti Elisa , Rizzi Manuela , Duarte Carlos B. , Osterweil Emily K.
Published: January 2024

Imagine that your mom just baked a pizza, and you immediately take a bite of it. Bad choice—it is really hot, and you burn your tongue! You learn a lesson from this experience, but what is happening in your brain? When the burning sensation reaches the brain, some brain cells, called neurons, become active and communicate with each other. Thanks to a process called synaptic plasticity, neurons can increase the strength of their communication and store new information. The next time your mom prepares pizza, the same neurons that were active the first time will start talking again, and you will know to wait for it to cool down before taking a bite. In this article, we will describe some properties of neurons and what happens to these cells when you create new memories. We hope that you will learn something new and share it with your friends, as neurons would do!
Is the perceived public stigma of smokers associated with value opposites? An exploratory cross-sectional analysis of Norwegian data 2011–2013
Authors: Sæbø Gunnar , Lund Marianne
Published: January 2024

Smoker stigma is a likely unintended consequence of tobacco polices aiming to denormalise smoking. Little is known about the dissemination of stigmatising attitudes toward smokers at the population level, including their associations with personal values. Applying a theoretical approach that conceptualises stigma as a cultural (moral and intersubjective) issue, we analyse the spread of perceived public stigma of smokers in Norway and factors predicting agreement with such a perception. Using merged data from the biennial national survey Norwegian Monitor 2011 and 2013 (N = 7,792), we tested whether the tendency to agree with a perceived public stigma of smokers differs by four indexes of value opposites (‘puritanism/emancipation,’ ‘conformity/individuality,’ ‘tolerance/intolerance,’ ‘status/anti-status’), controlling for smoking status, SES, and demographics. Descriptive statistics and block-wise logistic regression models were applied. In the total sample, 59.1% agree with the statement that ‘most people think less of a person who smokes.’ Two of the four indexes of value opposites tested were associated with tendencies to agree with the perceived public stigma of smokers (‘puritanism/emancipation’ and ‘status/anti-status’). Smokers with current plans to quit expressed the highest perceived public stigma, while ex-smokers expressed a higher perceived public stigma than never-smokers. Women, young people and respondents with high SES agree with a public stigma of smokers more than men, older people and respondents with low SES do. The perceived public stigma of smokers is high in Norway and varies to some extent with personal values, but also with socio-demographics and especially smoking status.
“Older people are weak”: perceptions and meanings of ageing and abuse against older people
Authors: Dias Isabel , Fraga Silvia
Published: January 2024

Introduction

This paper addresses the broader issue of elder abuse and seeks to analyse how victims and non-victims of abuse connect and explain the perception of ageing and the phenomenon of violence against older people.

Methods

A qualitative study was conducted based on evidence gathered through 45 semi-structured interviews with people aged 60 or above who are part of the Portuguese EPIPorto population cohort. The interviews were analysed using grounded theory.

Results/discussion

The results show that respondents link the ageist narratives that exist in our societies to the prevalence and naturalisation of violence against older people, that the risk of abuse increases with the weakening of family support networks, and that abuse is both a manifestation of asymmetrical power relations between victims and perpetrators and a severe violation of human rights. The findings also highlight the need to broaden the concept of violence against older people to include offences in the public sphere and not just in the context of the family and institutions.
Enzymatic synthesis of the modified mycotoxins 3-lactyl- and 3-propionyl-deoxynivalenol
Authors: Michlmayr Herbert , Wiesenberger Gerlinde , Twaruschek Krisztian , Kastner Florian , Sopel Marta M. , Hametner Christian , Berthiller Franz , Adam Gerhard
Published: January 2024

The use of lactic acid bacteria as a low-cost sustainable management tool to prevent further build-up of Fusarium mycotoxins during grain storage is increasingly propagated. It has been reported that even deoxynivalenol contamination already formed in the field can be reduced by such treatment in unknown ways. An enigmatic deoxynivalenol derivative, 3-lactyl-deoxynivalenol, has been reported already in 1982 as the toxic principle of Fusarium-infected barley from China, but very little is known about this metabolite. Here, we show that the enzymatic machinery of Fusarium graminearum is sufficient for its biosynthesis. Similarly, when challenged with propionic acid, F. graminearum can form a novel modified mycotoxin, 3-propionyl-deoxynivalenol. Lactic acid and propionic acid are first converted into lactyl-CoA and propionyl-CoA, respectively. These acyl-CoA derivatives can subsequently be used by the 3-O-acyltransferase encoded by TRI101. We expressed the respective genes in E. coli and utilized the affinity-purified proteins for enzymatic synthesis of the reference substances 3-lactyl- and 3-propionyl-deoxynivalenol. The structures of the purified compounds were confirmed by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Preliminary toxicological assessment using in vitro translation assays indicated residual toxicity, most likely due to reactivation of deoxynivalenol by de-acylation. In conclusion, this study reports a method to synthesize 3-lactyl- and 3-propionyl-deoxynivalenol reference substances, which will be highly useful to determine occurrences of these acylated deoxynivalenol-derivatives in cereal samples and to perform more detailed studies to evaluate their toxicological relevance.
Considering the alternatives: lessons from Israel’s meat substitutes initiatives
Authors: Grosglik Rafi , Raz Aviad , Shahar Danit R. , Avieli Nir
Published: January 2024

As one of the industry leaders in the field of alternative proteins, Israel provides an interesting and important test case for examining explicit and implicit agendas in the professional and public debate regarding sustainable pathways for alternative proteins. Based on in-depth interviews with key stakeholders in the Israeli food-tech ecosystem and analysis of two recent reports (The Good Food Institute-Israel’s report on the State of Protein Alternative Innovation and the Israel Innovation Authority report), we elucidate and highlight institutional, socio-cultural, socio-technological, and nutritional aspects inherent to the debate on meat substitutes. Looking at the socially constructed classification of meat substitutes in Israel, we explore the regulatory challenges and public discourses and scrutinize sustainability considerations in the context of meat substitutes. Finally, we advocate for diverse solutions to address the multifaceted issues intertwined with meat substitutes, emphasizing the need for more comprehensive research to understand the intricate interplay among distinct categories of meat alternatives.
Perspective: science and the future of livestock industries
Authors: Martin Graeme B.
Published: January 2024

Since the 1990s, livestock industries have been forced to respond to major pressures from society, particularly with respect to methane emissions and animal welfare. These challenges are exacerbated by the inevitability of global heating and the effects it will have on livestock productivity. The same challenges also led to questions about the value of animal-sourced foods for feeding the world. The industries and the research communities supporting them are meeting those challenges. For example, we can now envisage solutions to the ruminant methane problem and those solutions will also improve the efficiency of meat and milk production. Animal welfare is a complex mix of health, nutrition and management. With respect to health, the ‘One Health’ concept is offering better perspectives, and major diseases, such as helminth infection, compounded by resistance against medication, are being resolved through genetic selection. With respect to nutrition and stress, ‘fetal programming’ and the epigenetic mechanisms involved offer novel possibilities for improving productivity. Stress needs to be minimized, including stress caused by extreme weather events, and solutions are emerging through technology that reveals when animals are stressed, and through an understanding of the genes that control susceptibility to stress. Indeed, discoveries in the molecular biology of physiological processes will greatly accelerate genetic progress by contributing to genomic solutions. Overall, the global context is clear – animal-sourced food is an important contributor to the future of humanity, but the responses of livestock industries must involve local actions that are relevant to geographical and socio-economic constraints.
Analysis of HIF-1α expression and genetic polymorphisms in human clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Vargova Daniela , Kolková Zuzana , Dargaj Jan , Bris Lukas , Luptak Jan , Dankova Zuzana , Franova Sona , Svihra Jan , Slávik Pavol , Sutovska Martina
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is mostly diagnosed incidentally and has relatively high recurrence rates. Alterations in VHL/HIF and mTOR pathways are commonly present in ccRCC. The present study attempted to identify potential diagnostic markers at the biochemical and molecular level.

Methods: In total, 54 subjects (36 patients with ccRCC and 18 cancer-free controls) were enrolled. ELISA was used to measure the levels of HIF-1α in the tumor and healthy kidney tissue. The association between five selected SNPs (rs779805, rs11549465, rs2057482, rs2295080 and rs701848) located in genes of pathologically relevant pathways (VHL/HIF and mTOR) and the risk of ccRCC in the Slovak cohort was studied using real-time PCR.

Results: Significant differences in HIF-1α tissue levels were observed between the tumor and healthy kidney tissue (p < 0.001). In the majority (69%) of cases, the levels of HIF-1α were higher in the kidney than in the tumor. Furthermore, the concentration of HIF-1α in the tumor showed a significant positive correlation with CCL3 and IL-1β (p (R2) 0.007 (0.47); p (R2) 0.011 (0.38). No relationship between intratumoral levels of HIF-1α and clinical tumor characteristics was observed. Rs11549465, rs2057482 in the HIF1A gene did not correlate with the expression of HIF-1α either in the tumor or in the normal kidney. None of the selected SNPs has influenced the susceptibility to ccRCC.

Conclusion: More research is neccesary to elucidate the role of HIF-1α in the pathogenesis of ccRCC and the association between selected SNPs and susceptibility to this cancer.
Progress in the Management of Rice Blast Disease: The Role of Avirulence and Resistance Genes through Gene-for-Gene Interactions
Authors: Younas Muhammad Usama , Ahmad Irshad , Qasim Muhammad , Ijaz Zainab , Rajput Nimra , Parveen Memon Saima , UL Zaman Waqar , Jiang Xiaohong , Zhang Yi , Zuo Shimin
Published: January 2024

Rice is a vital component in the diets of many people worldwide, supplying necessary calories for subsistence. Nevertheless, the yield of this crucial agricultural crop is consistently hindered by a range of biotic stresses. Out of these, rice blast, claused mainly by the fungus Magnaporthe oryzae, poses a significant menace to worldwide rice cultivation as well as yield in recent years. The consequences are particularly crucial given the current climate change challenges. In recent decades, substantial progress has been achieved in the development of efficient ways to manage rice blast disease. These procedures entail using a variety of rice genetic resources to find, map, clone, and functionally validate individual resistance (R) genes and quantitative trait loci (QTLs) that provide long-lasting resistance to rice blast disease. Moreover, the replication and practical confirmation of homologous avirulence (Avr) genes in various M. oryzae strains have been crucial in comprehending the fundamental molecular mechanisms of host–pathogen interactions. This article offers a thorough examination of the cloning and functional verification of different R genes and QTLs linked to resistance against rice blast disease. The complex interplay between R–Avr pairings, which contributes to the development of resistance against rice blast throughout a wide range, is thoroughly explained. Finally, this study explores the most recent progress in next-generation sequencing (NGS) and genome editing technologies (GETs), examining their potential uses in improving the treatment of rice blast disease.
Construction Site Hazard Identification and Worker Adverse Reaction Monitoring Using Electroencephalograms: A Review
Authors: Wei Bo’an , Yang Bin , Zhang Weiling , Liu Pengju , Fu Hanliang , Lv Zhihan , Wang Faming
Published: January 2024

The construction process is a dynamic one, and the complexity of the working conditions and the high level of uncertainty make the construction industry the third most dangerous industry after mining and agriculture. And since the construction industry is vital to the development of a country, safety during construction is of particular importance. A great deal of research, studies and practices have been conducted to reduce potential risks and improve worker efficiency during the construction process. In recent years, with the rapid development of cognitive neuroscience and the integration of medical technology, various wearable monitoring devices have been widely used in the field of building construction for real-time monitoring of workers’ physical and mental conditions. Among them, the application of EEG (electroencephalogram) in the building construction process enables researchers to gain insight into the physical and mental state of construction workers while performing construction tasks. This paper introduces EEG technology and portable EEG monitoring equipment and summarizes its application in monitoring workers’ adverse reactions (emotion, fatigue, psychological burden, and vigilance) and construction hazard identification during the process of construction in recent years, which provides future EEG research in the field of building construction and construction site safety management.
Experimental Study on the Seismic Performance of Brick Walls Strengthened by Small-Spaced Reinforced-Concrete–Masonry Composite Columns
Authors: Xia Fengmin , Zhao Kaozhong , Zhao Jihui , Cui Xiangjin
Published: January 2024

Through low-cycle reciprocating tests on 11 masonry wall specimens strengthened using reinforced-concrete–masonry composite columns, the effects of the position of the composite column, height-to-width ratio, column reinforcement ratio, and axial load ratio on their load-carrying capacity, stiffness, ductility, and energy dissipation capacity were investigated. It was experimentally found that, by strengthening brick walls with RC–masonry composite columns, the concrete and masonry parts can work together effectively, the failure mode shifts from shear to flexural failure, and the strengthened walls exhibit improved bearing capacity, ductility, and energy dissipation performance compared to unstrengthened masonry walls. It is suggested the composite columns can be placed at the ends of the wall if a strengthening measure is required. For walls with height-to-width ratios greater than 1, placing composite columns in the middle of a wall has little effect on the bearing capacity and stiffness of the wall but can improve the ductility of the wall. The height-to-width ratio is a primary factor influencing the structural performance of masonry walls strengthened using composite columns. A smaller height-to-width ratio leads to higher load-carrying capacity and stiffness but may result in reduced ductility. In comparison, the impact of the column reinforcement ratio and axial load ratio is relatively weaker. The flexural capacity of the masonry wall after strengthening can be obtained using the calculation method for concrete members subjected to a combined action of flexure and compression, in which the compressive strength of the masonry is considered.
Investigation on Seismic Behavior of Prestressed Steel Strand Composite Reinforced High-Strength Concrete Column
Authors: Jin Zhenfen , Li Jun , Wang Liangzhao
Published: January 2024

To study the seismic performance of high-strength concrete columns reinforced with prestressed steel strands, five column specimens were designed and tested with varying parameters, such as axial compression ratio (0.2, 0.35, 0.5) and diameter of steel strands (9.5 mm, 11.1 mm, 12.7 mm), under low-cyclic reversed loading. The failure modes, hysteretic curves, stiffness degradation, ductility, and energy dissipation capacity of the prestressed steel strand-reinforced concrete columns were observed and recorded. The test results show that the failure mode of the prestressed steel strand-reinforced concrete columns is obvious bending failure. Within a certain range of axial compression ratio, the initial stiffness and load-bearing capacity of the specimens increase with the increase in axial compression ratio, but the plastic deformation capacity decreases. Within a certain range of steel strand diameter, the initial stiffness and load-bearing capacity of the specimens also increase with the increase in steel strand diameter, but the ductility coefficient first increases and then decreases. In addition, the seismic performance of prestressed steel strand-reinforced concrete columns was analyzed by the finite element method using DIANA software, and the results were compared with the test results. It was found that the hysteretic curve and stiffness degradation curve obtained from the finite element model are in good agreement with the test results, and the finite element model can accurately study the seismic performance of this type of column. Finally, based on the finite element model, the influence of different parameters on the mechanical properties of the column was discussed.
Study on Thermodynamic Properties of Spiral Tube-Encapsulated Phase-Change Material Energy Pile
Authors: Liu Ming , Zhang Peng , Yang Zhiyu , Zhu Zhen , Liu Xiaozheng , Ma Chuntang
Published: January 2024

Based on the research status of phase-change material (PCM) energy piles, this paper proposes a new type of PCM energy pile-spiral tube-encapsulated PCM energy pile. In order to study the related properties of the energy pile, this study designed and processed the relevant test equipment and built an indoor scale model experimental system. The thermodynamic performance of the spiral tube-encapsulated phase-change energy pile under summer conditions was studied by the test system. Through the indoor scale model test, it is found that compared with the traditional energy pile, the spiral tube-encapsulated PCM energy pile improves the heat exchange capacity of the unit pile body in the early and middle stages of operation, and reduces the surface temperature of the pile body and the heating rate of the surface temperature of the pile body. The upward displacement of the energy pile top is reduced. The heat exchange capacity of the unit pile depth is increased by 6.52 W/m, the maximum pile surface temperature difference is 0.62 °C, and the maximum pile top displacement difference is 0.005 mm. In addition, the total heat transfer of the spiral tube-encapsulated PCM energy pile during the whole operation period is 3.38% higher than that of the traditional energy pile. However, during the whole operation period, the surface stress value of the spiral tube encapsulated PCM energy pile is higher than that of the traditional energy pile. The maximum difference between the two is 9.84 kPa and the maximum difference is 10.8%. The difference between the two is finally stabilized at 1.4 kPa with an increase in time, and the final difference is only 8.8%.
Predicting the Compressive Strength of Environmentally Friendly Concrete Using Multiple Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Yang Yanhua , Liu Guiyong , Zhang Haihong , Zhang Yan , Yang Xiaolong
Published: January 2024

Machine learning (ML) algorithms have been widely used in big data prediction and analysis in terms of their excellent data regression ability. However, the prediction accuracy of different ML algorithms varies between different regression problems and data sets. In order to construct a prediction model with optimal accuracy for fly ash concrete (FAC), ML algorithms such as genetic programming (GP), support vector regression (SVR), random forest (RF), extremely gradient boost (XGBoost), backpropagation artificial neural network (BP-ANN) and adaptive network-based fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) were selected as regression and prediction algorithms in this study; the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm was also used to optimize the structure and hyperparameters of each algorithm. The statistical results show that the performance of the assembled algorithms is better than that of an NN-based algorithm. In addition, PSO can effectively improve the prediction accuracy of the ML algorithms. The comprehensive performance of each model is analyzed using a Taylor diagram, and the PSO-XGBoost model has the best comprehensive performance, with R2 and MSE equal to 0.9072 and 11.4546, respectively.
A Study on the Perception of Local Characteristics in Cultural Street Vending Spaces, Taking Xi’an Baxian Temple as an Example
Authors: Qi Yingtao , Yue Liping , Guo Tie , Zhou Dian , Ren Yulin , Wang Mengying , Liu Yujia , Yang Yujun
Published: January 2024

The mode of urban renewal in China has changed from incremental expansion to a value-added stage, and the development of cities has increasingly focused on the human experience and quality improvement. However, Cultural Street Vending and the unique street spaces in the historic districts that bear important connotations to the city have shown a trend of rapid decline and even disappearance. Therefore, how to identify the characteristics and connotations of such street vending spaces, grasp the relationship between perception of locality and built environment elements in different states and formulate targeted protection and renewal strategies is presently an urgent problem to be solved. Many studies have now discussed in detail the identification of elements, street perception and preservation strategies for historic districts. However, the Cultural Street Vending space, which carries special urban memory connotations, has been neglected, especially the characterisation of this type of space in different time dimensions. This paper takes the Cultural Street Vending space as a research object and focuses on the perceptual differences between its market day and non-market day, aiming at grasping the perceptual characteristics and constituent elements of this type of street space in different time states, as well as the patterns of changes they undergo. This paper took the Baxian Temple, a typical Cultural Street Vending space in a historic district of Xi’an, as the research object and took 30 architecture students as the evaluators to score 33 pairs of adjectives and recall the elements of nine streets. This paper compared and analysed the differences in the structure of people’s psychological perception of the street in the state of market day and non-market day by SD method. It was found that the activities of the vendors obviously promoted people’s positive emotions, and three commonality factors including impression, vitality and morphosis were extracted through the factor analysis. Moreover, through the element recall method to understand the change in element perception on the market day, we found that the range of people’s perception was smaller on the market day and summarised the element map of the space and the element components of high, medium and low characteristics. The correlation analysis between psychological quantities and environmental elements revealed that people’s positive psychology has a positive correlation with vendors, goods and street components and a negative correlation with greening, colour and texture. This study can provide an important research basis for the development of conservation and renewal strategies for this type of Cultural Street Vending space.
Advances in the Use of Deep Learning for the Analysis of Magnetic Resonance Image in Neuro-Oncology
Authors: Pitarch Carla , Ungan Gulnur , Julià-Sapé Margarida , Vellido Alfredo
Published: January 2024

Machine Learning is entering a phase of maturity, but its medical applications still lag behind in terms of practical use. The field of oncological radiology (and neuro-oncology in particular) is at the forefront of these developments, now boosted by the success of Deep-Learning methods for the analysis of medical images. This paper reviews in detail some of the most recent advances in the use of Deep Learning in this field, from the broader topic of the development of Machine-Learning-based analytical pipelines to specific instantiations of the use of Deep Learning in neuro-oncology; the latter including its use in the groundbreaking field of ultra-low field magnetic resonance imaging.
Risk Factors for Bleeding Events in Japanese Patients with Advanced Lung Cancer: Data from the Rising-VTE/NEJ037 Study
Authors: Kawakado Keita , Tsubata Yukari , Hotta Takamasa , Yamasaki Masahiro , Ishikawa Nobuhisa , Fujitaka Kazunori , Kubota Tetsuya , Kobayashi Kunihiko , Isobe Takeshi
Published: January 2024

Despite the occurrence of various hemorrhagic events during advanced lung cancer treatment, few researchers have reported on their risk factors. Moreover, the development of cancer-related thromboembolism indicates anticoagulant use. However, adverse events such as bleeding should be monitored. In this study, we aimed to identify factors that influence the onset of hemorrhagic events in patients with lung cancer. The Rising-VTE/NEJ037 study was a multicenter, prospective, observational study. A total of 1008 patients with lung cancer who were unsuitable for radical resection or radiation were enrolled and followed up for 2 years. Multivariate analysis using a Cox proportional hazard model was performed to compare the outcomes of the time to the onset of hemorrhagic events for 2 years after registration. Hemorrhagic events occurred in 115 patients (11.4%), with 35 (30.4%) experiencing major bleeding. Significant risk factors included venous thromboembolism (VTE) (hazard ratio [HR]: 4.003, p < 0.001) and an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status score of 1 (HR: 2.476, p < 0.001). Factors that significantly reduced hemorrhagic event risk were female sex (HR: 0.454, p = 0.002) and M1a status (HR: 0.542, p = 0.038). VTE is a risk factor for hemorrhagic events in patients with advanced lung cancer, and risks associated with anticoagulant therapy should be considered.
Association of COVID-19 and Lung Cancer: Short-Term and Long-Term Interactions
Authors: Peng Ying-Long , Wang Zi-Yan , Zhong Ri-Wei , Mei Shi-Qi , Liu Jia-Qi , Tang Li-Bo , Guo Zhi , Ren Zi-Rui , Wu Lv , Deng Yu , Chen Zhi-Hong , Zhou Qing , Xu Chong-Rui
Published: January 2024

Background: COVID-19 has been ravaging the globe for more than three years. Due to systemic immunosuppression of anti-tumor therapy, application of chemotherapy and adverse effects of surgery, the short- and long-term prognosis of cancer patients to COVID-19 are of significant concern. Method: This research included three parts of data. The first part of the data came from the public database that covered Veneto residents. The second part of the data included participants in Guangzhou. The third part of the data was used for MR analysis. We assessed the associations by logistic, linear or Cox regression when appropriate. Result: Lung cancer patients with COVID-19 had shorter progression-free survival (PFS) after COVID-19 (Model II: HR: 3.28, 95% CI: 1.6~6.72; Model III: HR: 3.39, 95% CI: 1.45~7.95), compared with lung cancer patients without COVID-19. Targeted therapy patients recovered from SARS-CoV-2 infection more quickly (Model I: β: −0.58, 95% CI: −0.75~−0.41; Model II: β: −0.59, 95% CI: −0.76~−0.41; Model III: β: −0.57; 95% CI: −0.75~−0.40). Conclusions: PFS in lung cancer patients is shortened by COVID-19. The outcome of COVID-19 in lung cancer patients was not significantly different from that of the healthy population. In lung cancer patients, targeted therapy patients had a better outcome of COVID-19, while chemotherapy patients had the worst.
Talking about Familial Breast and Ovarian Cancer Risk—Evaluation of a Psychosocial Training Module for Gynecologists in Germany
Authors: Kendel Friederike , Speiser Dorothee , Fechner Karen , Olbrich Christine , Stegen Stephanie , Rörig Alina , Feufel Markus A. , Haering Stephanie
Published: January 2024

Primary care gynecologists are increasingly integrated into the care of patients with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC) risks. These physicians should not only have basic genetic knowledge; they should also feel able to sensitively address an increased HBOC risk and deal with emotional, stressful situations in this context. Our project aimed at developing a training module, ‘iKNOWgynetics’, addressing psychosocial challenges in the context of HBOC care for primary care gynecologists. We developed the psychosocial training module in three phases: first, we conducted an online survey with n = 35 women with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer to assess patients’ experiences and needs. Second, based on the results of the needs assessment, we developed the training module. Third, we evaluated the training by assessing physicians’ (n = 109) self-efficacy with regard to communication skills in the context of HBOC before and after the training. In the needs assessment, seven psychosocial themes emerged. These themes, complementing a review of the literature, informed the training curriculum. The training was divided into two parts: (1) communicating with women before genetic testing and (2) care co-management for women with HBOC after genetic testing. After the training, participants reported a significant increase in self-efficacy in three domains: communicating empathetically, educating patients in a comprehensible way and dealing with emotionally challenging situations. Our results highlight the relevance of psychosocial issues for patients with HBOC. A genetic literacy training module that integrates aspects of psychosocial care increases physicians’ confidence in dealing with emotionally challenging situations before and after their patients’ genetic testing. Thus, such trainings may improve the care of women with hereditary cancer risks.
Cultivable Microbiome Approach Applied to Cervical Cancer Exploration
Authors: Mulato-Briones Irma Berenice , Rodriguez-Ildefonso Ismael Olan , Jiménez-Tenorio Julián Antonio , Cauich-Sánchez Patricia Isidra , Méndez-Tovar María del Socorro , Aparicio-Ozores Gerardo , Bautista-Hernández María Yicel , González-Parra Juan Francisco , Cruz-Hernández Jesús , López-Romero Ricardo , del Rosario Rojas-Sánchez Teresita María , García-Palacios Raúl , Garay-Villar Ónix , Apresa-García Teresa , López-Esparza Juan , Marrero Daniel , Castelán-Vega Juan Arturo , Jiménez-Alberto Alicia , Salcedo Mauricio , Ribas-Aparicio Rosa María
Published: January 2024

Traditional microbiological methodology is valuable and essential for microbiota composition description and microbe role assignations at different anatomical sites, including cervical and vaginal tissues; that, combined with molecular biology strategies and modern identification approaches, could give a better perspective of the microbiome under different circumstances. This pilot work aimed to describe the differences in microbiota composition in non-cancer women and women with cervical cancer through a culturomics approach combining culture techniques with Vitek mass spectrometry and 16S rDNA sequencing. To determine the possible differences, diverse statistical, diversity, and multivariate analyses were applied; the results indicated a different microbiota composition between non-cancer women and cervical cancer patients. The Firmicutes phylum dominated the non-cancer (NC) group, whereas the cervical cancer (CC) group was characterized by the predominance of Firmicutes and Proteobacteria phyla; there was a depletion of lactic acid bacteria, an increase in the diversity of anaerobes, and opportunistic and non-typical human microbiota isolates were present. In this context, we hypothesize and propose a model in which microbial composition and dynamics may be essential for maintaining the balance in the cervical microenvironment or can be pro-oncogenesis microenvironmental mediators in a process called Ying-Yang or have a protagonist/antagonist microbiota role.
How to Integrate Prostate Cancer Biomarkers in Urology Clinical Practice: An Update
Authors: Baston Catalin , Preda Adrian , Iordache Alexandru , Olaru Vlad , Surcel Cristian , Sinescu Ioanel , Gingu Constantin
Published: January 2024

Nowadays, the management of prostate cancer has become more and more challenging due to the increasing number of available treatment options, therapeutic agents, and our understanding of its carcinogenesis and disease progression. Moreover, currently available risk stratification systems used to facilitate clinical decision-making have limitations, particularly in providing a personalized and patient-centered management strategy. Although prognosis and prostate cancer-specific survival have improved in recent years, the heterogenous behavior of the disease among patients included in the same risk prognostic group negatively impacts not only our clinical decision-making but also oncological outcomes, irrespective of the treatment strategy. Several biomarkers, along with available tests, have been developed to help clinicians in difficult decision-making scenarios and guide management strategies. In this review article, we focus on the scientific evidence that supports the clinical use of several biomarkers considered by professional urological societies (and included in uro-oncological guidelines) in the diagnosis process and specific difficult management strategies for clinically localized or advanced prostate cancer.
Advancing Esophageal Cancer Treatment: Immunotherapy in Neoadjuvant and Adjuvant Settings
Authors: Park Daniel , Jeon Won Jin , Yang Chieh , Castillo Dani Ran
Published: January 2024

Locally advanced esophageal cancer (LAEC) poses a significant and persistent challenge in terms of effective treatment. Traditionally, the primary strategy for managing LAEC has involved concurrent neoadjuvant chemoradiation followed by surgery. However, achieving a pathologic complete response (pCR) has proven to be inconsistent, and despite treatment, roughly half of patients experience locoregional recurrence or metastasis. Consequently, there has been a paradigm shift towards exploring the potential of immunotherapy in reshaping the landscape of LAEC management. Recent research has particularly focused on immune checkpoint inhibitors, investigating their application in both neoadjuvant and adjuvant settings. These inhibitors, designed to block specific proteins in immune cells, are meant to enhance the immune system’s ability to target and combat cancer cells. Emerging evidence from these studies suggests the possibility of a mortality benefit, indicating that immunotherapy may contribute to improved overall survival rates for individuals grappling with esophageal cancer. This manuscript aims to meticulously review the existing literature surrounding neoadjuvant and adjuvant immunotherapy in the context of LAEC management. The intention is to thoroughly examine the methodologies and findings of relevant studies, providing a comprehensive synthesis of the current understanding of the impact of immunotherapy on esophageal cancer.
Outcomes of Multimodal Treatment in Elderly Patients with Localized Non-Small Lung Cancer from a Radiation Oncology Point of View: Special Focus on Low-Dose Cisplatin
Authors: Alt Niklas Josua , Muster Julian , Ziegler David Alexander , Bendrich Stephanie , Donath Sandra , Hille Andrea , Anczykowski Mahalia Zoe , Zwerenz Carla Marie , Braulke Friederike , von Hammerstein-Equord Alexander , Overbeck Tobias Raphael , Treiber Hannes , Guhlich Manuel , El Shafie Rami , Rieken Stefan , Leu Martin , Dröge Leif Hendrik
Published: January 2024

Identification of the optimal treatment strategy is challenging in elderly with localized non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Concurrent chemotherapy with low-dose cisplatin represents an option for elderly. Outcomes (1) in elderly (≥70 years, n = 158) vs. younger patients (n = 188) and (2), independently of age, in definitive radiochemotherapy, with low-dose cisplatin (n = 125) vs. cisplatin/vinorelbine (n = 76) were studied. Elderly included more males, had a lower Karnofsky index, more comorbidities, and lower stages. Low-dose cisplatin patients (vs. cisplatin/vinorelbine) had higher age, more comorbidities, and lower stages. We observed reduced dermatitis and dysphagia and increased anemia and thrombocytopenia in elderly vs. younger patients, without increased ≥grade 3 toxicities. Low-dose cisplatin was less toxic than cisplatin/vinorelbine. Survival outcomes were lower in elderly vs. younger and comparable between low-dose cisplatin and cisplatin/vinorelbine. In elderly, gender, Karnofsky index, stage, and multimodal treatment (including additional surgery/systemic therapy) were identified as prognostic factors. In conclusion, we found evidence for an acceptable toxicity profile and the need for improvement of outcomes in elderly with localized NSCLC. Multimodal strategies (including additional surgery/systemic treatment) showed favorable outcomes and should be reasonably considered in elderly who are deemed fit enough. Low-dose cisplatin should be discussed on an individual basis due to favorable toxicity and outcomes.