bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of Korea’s Diagonal Plane Restriction for Daylight: Focusing on South-North Direction Blocks within Seoul’s General Residential Districts
Authors: Liu Jingwen , Won ChungYeon
Published: December 2022

Since the beginning of the 20th century, daylight access-related regulations have been an integral part of urban development. The Diagonal Plane Restriction in South Korea is one such regulation. This paper evaluates the effectiveness of the policy by investigating buildings in General Residential Districts in Seoul and the factors that have influenced its success. First, selected buildings were analyzed based on their relative core locations, massing morphology, and the glazing proportions on the south elevations. The initial results showed that nearly 50% of the selected buildings had cores on the south side, thus limiting daylight infiltration to the habitable spaces with a glazing ratio under 30%. Secondly, binary logistic regression was performed between identified types and variables to identify the primary factors affecting the ineffective arrangement. The year of a building’s construction and its primary use can significantly predict the effective applicability of a restriction. Lastly, further descriptive analysis shows how policy changes directly contributed to the growth of low-performing types and commercial uses in residential districts. The results of this study point to the shortcomings of urban policy-making without considering the particulars of each urban context. Our findings could assist planners and policy-makers in redesigning regulations for ensuring optimal daylight access in residential districts.
Research on Vibration Control of Power Transmission Lines-TMDI Based on Colliding Bodies Optimization
Authors: Liu Xinpeng , Li Siyuan , Wu Chaoyue , Zhong Yongli , Bian Yongfei
Published: December 2022

To investigate the vibration control capability of a tuned mass damper inerter (TMDI) on a transmission line, the motion equations of the transmission line with TMDI under harmonic excitation were derived. Thus, the closed-form solutions of the displacement response spectrum were obtained by Fourier transform. Based on the colliding bodies optimization (CBO), one of the metaheuristic algorithms, the TMDI parameters, was optimized to minimize the displacement of the transmission line-TMDI system. The research results show that the response of the transmission line was reduced by at least half for different mass ratio and frequency ratio conditions, which indicates that the TMDI can effectively control the displacement response of the transmission line. In addition, the TMDI parameters were optimized by CBO, and the vibration control efficiency was significantly improved. The results of the study show that the data converge quickly with fewer iterations in collision body optimization. On the one hand, CBO avoids getting into local optimization compared to other metaheuristic algorithms. On the other hand, it is cheaper in terms of the cost of its calculations compared to the methods of mathematical derivation. It plays an active role in the optimization of complex structures. The vibration suppression performance of the TMDI after optimization reaches 56–96%.
Modeling and Optimizing the Effect of 3D Printed Origami Bubble Aggregate on the Mechanical and Deformation Properties of Rubberized ECC
Authors: Choo Joshua , Mohammed Bashar S. , Chen Pei-Shan , Abdulkadir Isyaka , Yan Xiangdong
Published: December 2022

A recent development in the production of lightweight concrete is the use of bubble or hollow aggregates. Due to its exceptional energy absorption and ductility properties, engineered cementitious composite (ECC) is increasingly recommended and used for structural applications, particularly in earthquake-prone regions. As a result, researchers have started looking into the benefits of lightweight ECC for such applications. However, the strength is considerably compromised due to the use of lightweight fillers such as perlite, cenospheres, glass microbubbles, and crumb rubber (CR). This study evaluates an origami-shaped bubble aggregate (OBA) novel application in rubberized ECC (RECC) to achieve density reduction at a relatively lower strength loss. The experiment is designed using response surface methodology (RSM) with the spacing of the OBA at 10, 15, and 20 mm and its quantity at 9, 15, and 21 as the input factors (independent variables). The dependent variables (responses) assessed are density, compressive strength, modulus of elasticity, and Poisson’s ratio. The results showed that adding the OBA lowered the density of the RECC by 20%. It was revealed that using up to 15 OBAs with spacings between 15 and 20 mm, a lightweight OBA-RECC with substantial strength could be produced. Similarly, utilizing 15 and 21 OBAs at 20 mm spacing, a lightweight OBA-RECC with a comparable modulus of elasticity as the control could be developed. Models for predicting the responses were developed and validated using analysis of variance (ANOVA) with high R2 values. The spacing and quantity of the OBA’s optimal input levels were determined using the RSM multi-objective optimization to be 20 and 9, respectively. These levels produced optimal responses of 1899 kg/m3, 45.3 MPa, 16.1 GPa, and 0.22 for the density, compressive strength, modulus of elasticity, and Poisson ratio, respectively.
Green Roofs as an Approach to Enhance Urban Sustainability: A Study of Public Perception in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alqahtany Ali
Published: December 2022

This study focuses on highlighting the major effects and challenges being faced in the implementation of the green roof technique in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Green roofs have proven to be energy efficient, environment friendly, and economical in a long run. Due to the increasing global environment temperature, it has become necessary to implement such sustainable methods that help in the achievement of urban sustainability. Saudi Arabia has seen some reluctance in the implementation of green roofs in buildings. The reasons for not adopting this system have not been reported as yet. To study the level of awareness among the public and the challenges they are facing regarding green roofs, this study was taken up. A survey questionnaire was designed with a high level of flexibility covering the key issues, including the related areas that are affected in the daily life of a resident and also the challenges faced by the general public in the installation of such systems in their existing or new buildings. An extensive literature review and a reconnaissance survey were performed before shortlisting the major factors and challenges to be included in the survey questionnaire. An overwhelming response was received from the people of Riyadh City. Almost 94% of people agreed to the fact that green roofs enhance the aesthetics of the building, and the same number of people agreed that they play a role in controlling the air quality. On the other hand, 91% of the respondents identified the climate of the area as the biggest challenge in implementing green roofs on the buildings. The study concludes with strong recommendations for the local authorities to plan quick actions. The study shall help the building owners, city planners, and policy makers in identifying the major hurdles being faced by the residents in adopting green roofs and will help them to provide solutions to these issues.
Flexo-Compressive Strength of Reinforced Concrete Frame Elements Considering Corrosion Process
Authors: Carpio Franco , Márquez-Domínguez Sergio , Carmona Andres , Salgado Rolando , Vargas Alejandro , Barradas José , Barrera Dariniel
Published: December 2022

Frame buildings are prone to cracking because of their deformation by normal and extreme events such as temperature and earthquakes. Even though the crack widths are limited in the structural design, a cracked cover reduces the corrosion protection of reinforcing steel. Therefore, the load capacity of structures can be compromised prematurely. This paper aims to evaluate the flexo-compressive strength of deteriorated reinforced concrete (RC) elements in the corrosion process. To that end, a methodology to calculate the residual strength capacity was proposed, considering the influences of crack widths and cover width on the corrosion level—structure age relation of RC elements. The strength deteriorations caused by the concrete cracking and the steel corrosion were incorporated according to structure age. The residual strength was studied using parametric analyses, whose variables were the crack width, the cover width, the rebar diameter, and the structure age. The results showed that the cracked frame elements reduced their serviceability life by up to 62%, although their crack widths were within range recommended by the design codes (lesser than 0.30 mm). In 25 years, the corrosion effects reduce the element strength by up to 44%. This is due to the corrosion protection provided by the cracked cover becomes insignificant, reducing the initiation time. Thus, considering the corrosion deterioration can prevent strength overestimations up to 1.46 times. Additionally, according to their current state, the proposed methodology provides a practical estimation of flexo-compressive strength in corroded RC elements.
A Calculation Model for Vibration Effect Induced by Resonance-Free Vibratory Hammer Method
Authors: Cheng Xinjun , Xu Xiang , Bai Wen , Hu Zhinan , Liang Haian , Cui Jie
Published: December 2022

Buildings close to the ground treated by the resonance- free vibratory hammer method are often vulnerable to excessive vibrations. An in situ test of an urban soft site was carried out to investigate the resonance-free vibratory hammer induced vibration effects during construction. Vibration pickups were set at the positions with distances of 15 m, 30 m, 50 m, and 100 m away from the vibration source. On the basis of the results obtained from this investigation, vibration effects of the resonance-free vibratory hammer and safe construction distances were systematically analyzed. The testing results indicate that the vibration in the vertical direction is stronger than that in the other two horizontal directions. The vertical vibration should be the main reference quantity for the foundation treatment by using the resonance-free vibratory hammer method. The predominant frequency of each measuring point in the same direction decreased with an increase of the distance from the vibration source (DFTVS). In terms of the measuring point with a DFTVS of 30 m, the peak values of velocity in all directions were within 5 mm/s, which meet the requirements of the allowable limit of building vibration. According to the in situ testing results, a model for calculating the acceleration exponent of the vibration caused by the resonance-free vibratory hammer technology was established by comprehensively considering the amplitude of acceleration, the attenuation coefficient of THE DFTVS, and the vibration correction factor. Finally, the reliability of the calculation model was verified through the comparison between the calculated results and field vibration experimental results, in which all the correlation coefficients of validation example were above 0.9.
Technology Innovation for Sustainability in the Building Construction Industry: An Analysis of Patents from the Yangtze River Delta, China
Authors: Li Lingyue , Wang Lie , Zhang Xiaohu
Published: December 2022

Advances in technology provides the potential to innovate sustainability in the building construction industry. Drawing on the literature and expert reviews, this research discloses the potential of 14 specific technologies in waste minimisation, energy saving, and efficiency improvement for sustainable building construction and develops a conceptual framework engaging the building life cycle (the planning, construction, use and operation, and demolition phases) and the actors for assessing technological innovation at a local level. This framework is used to identify how technologies were innovated for sustainable building construction through the selected 3017 patent invention applications from the Yangtze River Delta (YRD), one of the fastest urbanising areas and the largest market for the building industry in China. Findings unveiled that innovation is uneven amongst the 14 technologies and the degree of mixing was relatively low in the YRD. The contribution of the technological innovation to sustainability is mainly actualised through efficiency improvements in building construction (2265) and through directly reducing waste (1094) and energy consumption (642). Some general-purpose technologies (e.g., blockchain, cloud computing), which assume to fundamentally innovate the industry, are mostly absent with less than 10 records each, leaving the potential for future adaptive technological innovation. Furthermore, state-owned enterprises as the main sources of patent inventions amongst applicants in the YRD may suggest the dissimilar path of China towards technology innovation compared to its Anglo-American counterparts.
Construction 4.0 Technologies and Decision-Making: A Systematic Review and Gap Analysis
Authors: Shafei Hazwani , Radzi Afiqah R. , Algahtany Mohammed , Rahman Rahimi A.
Published: December 2022

Construction 4.0 involves implementing advanced technologies in construction projects to achieve higher productivity, safety, and sustainability. However, architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) professionals are reluctant to adopt Construction 4.0 technologies. Lack of information on Construction 4.0 technologies and poor decision-making lead to the issue being unresolved. As a result, the following research question emerged: What are the current trends and research gaps in the existing research on Construction 4.0 technologies and decision-making? This study aims to review the publication trends in Construction 4.0 technologies and decision-making and pinpoint the gaps in prior research. To achieve the aim, a systematic literature review (SLR) was conducted on published articles using the preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analyses (PRISMA) method. A total of 22 articles were carefully selected and reviewed. The findings disclosed four research trends: strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Also, the findings suggested that existing research still concentrates on adopting and implementing Construction 4.0 technologies. As a result, the existing research has low exploration in integrating Construction 4.0 technologies and decision-making processes. The study findings could guide researchers and AEC professionals to establish effective decisions in achieving Construction 4.0.
Experimental Analysis of Surface Application of Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composite on Shear Behavior of Masonry Walls Made of Autoclaved Concrete Blocks
Authors: Kałuża Marta
Published: December 2022

This paper presents the results of an experimental study of the shear behavior of masonry walls made of aero autoclaved concrete (AAC) blocks strengthened by externally bonded fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites. Fifteen small wall specimens were constructed and tested in a diagonal compression scheme. Two types of composite materials—carbon- and glass-reinforced polymers—were arranged in two configurations of vertical strips, adopted to the location of the unfilled head joints. The effect of the strengthening location and strengthening materials on changes in the strength and deformability parameters are discussed and the failure process of unstrengthened walls is also presented. The placement of the composite on unfilled head joints proved to be a better solution. Carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) strips provided a threefold increase in stiffness, a 48% increase in load-bearing capacity and a high level of ductility in the post-cracking phase. Glass-fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) strips offered a 56% increase in load-bearing capacity but did not change the stiffness of the masonry and provided relatively little ductility. Placing the composite between unfilled joints was only reasonable for CFRP composites, providing a 35% increase in load-bearing capacity but with negligible ductility of the masonry.
Incidence of Hereditary Gastric Cancer May Be Much Higher than Reported
Authors: de Assumpção Paula Baraúna , de Assumpção Paulo Pimentel , Moreira Fabiano Cordeiro , Ribeiro-dos-Santos Ândrea , Vidal Amanda F. , Magalhães Leandro , Khayat André Salim , Ribeiro-dos-Santos André Maurício , Cavalcante Giovanna C. , Pereira Adenilson Leão , Medeiros Inácio , de Souza Sandro José , Burbano Rommel Mario Rodríguez , de Souza Jorge Estefano Santana , Dos Santos Sidney Emanuel Batista
Published: December 2022

Hereditary gastric cancers (HGCs) are supposed to be rare and difficult to identify. Nonetheless, many cases of young patients with gastric cancer (GC) fulfill the clinical criteria for considering this diagnosis but do not present the defined pathogenic mutations necessary to meet a formal diagnosis of HGC. Moreover, GC in young people is a challenging medical situation due to the usual aggressiveness of such cases and the potential risk for their relatives when related to a germline variant. Aiming to identify additional germline alterations that might contribute to the early onset of GC, a complete exome sequence of blood samples from 95 GC patients under 50 and 94 blood samples from non-cancer patients was performed and compared in this study. The number of identified germline mutations in GC patients was found to be much higher than that from individuals without a cancer diagnosis. Specifically, the number of high functional impact mutations, including those affecting genes involved in medical diseases, cancer hallmark genes, and DNA replication and repair processes, was much higher, strengthening the hypothesis of the potential causal role of such mutations in hereditary cancers. Conversely, classically related HGC mutations were not found and the number of mutations in genes in the CDH1 pathway was not found to be relevant among the young GC patients, reinforcing the hypothesis that existing alternative germline contributions favor the early onset of GC. The LILRB1 gene variants, absent in the world’s cancer datasets but present in high frequencies among the studied GC patients, may represent essential cancer variants specific to the Amerindian ancestry’s contributions. Identifying non-reported GC variants, potentially originating from under-studied populations, may pave the way for additional discoveries and translations to clinical interventions for GC management. The newly proposed approaches may reduce the discrepancy between clinically suspected and molecularly proven hereditary GC and shed light on similar inconsistencies among other cancer types. Additionally, the results of this study may support the development of new blood tests for evaluating cancer risk that can be used in clinical practice, helping physicians make decisions about strategies for surveillance and risk-reduction interventions.
Distant Nodes Seen on PSMA PET-CT Staging Predicts Post-Treatment Progression in Men with Newly Diagnosed Prostate Cancer—A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Ong Sean , Pascoe Claire , Kelly Brian D. , Ballok Zita , Webb David , Bolton Damien , Murphy Declan , Sengupta Shomik , Bowden Patrick , Lawrentschuk Nathan
Published: December 2022

PSMA PET-CT scans are now recommended in international urological guidelines for primary staging and re-staging of prostate cancer. However, there is little published literature on the clinical outcomes for patients after treatment decisions made using PSMA PET-CT results. This is a multisite, prospective cohort study investigating the clinical outcomes of men who received treatment plans based on PSMA PET-CT results for primary staging. Men with biopsy proven prostate cancer received a PSMA PET-CT scan for primary staging. Treatment plans were recommended by multidisciplinary teams (MDT). After treatment, these men were followed with 6 monthly PSA tests and imaging or biopsies if recommended by MDT. The primary outcome was treatment progression defined as the addition or change of any treatment modalities such as androgen deprivation therapy, radiation therapy or chemotherapy. In total, 80% of men did not have any treatment progression after enactment of treatment based on PSMA PET-CT primary staging results at 29 months of follow up. Men who had distant nodes seen on PSMA PET-CT had a 5 times increased risk of treatment progression. Larger studies with longer follow up are needed to validate our results and optimise the way clinicians use PSMA PET-CT results to guide management.
Clinical Effect of Lenvatinib Re-Administration after Transcatheter Arterial Chemoembolization in Patients with Intermediate Stage Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Mawatari Seiichi , Tamai Tsutomu , Kumagai Kotaro , Saisyoji Akiko , Muromachi Kaori , Toyodome Ai , Taniyama Ohki , Sakae Haruka , Ijuin Sho , Tabu Kazuaki , Oda Kohei , Hiramine Yasunari , Moriuchi Akihiro , Sakurai Kazuhiro , Kanmura Shuji , Ido Akio
Published: December 2022

The present study clarified the prognosis of intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients who received lenvatinib (LEN) followed by transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) on demand. We retrospectively evaluated 88 intermediate-stage HCC patients who received LEN. The median age was 74 (range: 47–92) years old, 67 patients were male, and 82 were classified as Child-Pugh A. LEN was administered until disease progression or discontinuation due to adverse events (AEs). The mean duration of LEN treatment was 7.0 months. The response and disease control rates were 51.1% and 89.8%, respectively. The median progression-free survival and overall survival (OS) after the initiation of LEN were 6.8 months and 29.9 months, respectively. The OS in patients for whom LEN was re-administered after TACE (TACE-LEN) was better than that in patients who received other therapies (e.g., only TACE, TACE-other therapy, or only other therapy) even with propensity score matching (p = 0.008). A Cox proportional hazard analysis showed that TACE-LEN was most strongly associated with the OS (hazard ratio: 0.083, 95% confidence interval: 0.019–0.362, p = 0.001). LEN was administered for approximately 11.1 months after TACE. In intermediate-stage HCC patients who can tolerate LEN without discontinuation due to AEs, TACE-LEN may prolong the prognosis.
Postoperative Radiotherapy and the Role of Regional Lymph Node Irradiation in Localized Merkel Cell Carcinoma: A Single-Center Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Dinges Lisa-Antonia , Eichkorn Tanja , Regnery Sebastian , Hörner-Rieber Juliane , Debus Jürgen , Hassel Jessica C. , Lang Kristin
Published: December 2022

The aim of this study was to analyze the pattern of relapse of patients with Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) that underwent resection of the primary tumor site and postoperative radiotherapy at the Department of Radiation Oncology of Heidelberg University and to determine the role of the elective radiotherapy of regional lymph nodes with respect to SLNB results. A total of 57 patients were included in the present retrospective analysis. A total of 33 patients had additional lymph node irradiation (LNI); 24 had postoperative radiotherapy of the tumor bed only. Median follow-up was 43 months. Recurrence rate of the total cohort was 22.8%. Most relapses (69%) occurred in the regional nodes. Cumulative infield-tumor recurrence rate was low with 5.3%. Regional recurrence was more frequent in the cohort without LNI with 85.7% versus 37.5% with LNI. These results were similar for patients with negative sentinel lymph node (SLN) only with 80% regional relapses for those without LNI versus 33% with LNI. In conclusion, our data show that regional recurrence is the most frequent site of relapse in stage I-III MCC treated with curative intended postoperative radiotherapy and that elective irradiation of the regional lymph nodes reduces the risk of regional relapse even if the SLN was negative.
Improving the Hydrothermal Stability of ZSM-5 Zeolites in 1-Octene Aromatization by Sequential Alkali Treatment and Phosphorus Modification
Authors: Cao Jian , Xing Mengjiao , Han Yuanlong , Hao Kun , Zhang Ling , Wang Fei , Zheng Wentao , Tao Zhichao , Wen Xiaodong , Yang Yong , Li Yongwang
Published: December 2022

For the aromatization of olefins (in Fischer–Tropsch synthetic oil), especially for the fluidized bed reaction with steam as the fluidized medium, improving the catalytic and hydrothermal stabilities of ZSM-5 catalysts is a research focus because of both fundamental research interests and potential commercial applications. In this work, sequential alkali treatment and phosphorus modification were carried out for ZSM-5 samples. The results obtained from characterization and reaction evaluation show that the introduction of mesopores facilitates the dispersion of phosphorus species into the pores and improves the reaction stability for 1-octene aromatization. After the hydrothermal treatment, the P-0.5A-Z5-ST sample treated with an appropriate concentration of alkali retains the most acid sites and shows the highest aromatic selectivity (22.5%) at TOS = 660 min. Therefore, a moderate distribution of mesopores in a zeolite plays an important role in the diffusions of reactants and products, as well as in the distribution of phosphorus species.
Ni, Co and Ni-Co-Modified Tungsten Carbides Obtained by an Electric Arc Method as Dry Reforming Catalysts
Authors: Bolatova Zhanar , German Dmitrii , Pakrieva Ekaterina , Pak Alexander , Larionov Kirill , Carabineiro Sónia A. C. , Bogdanchikova Nina , Kolobova Ekaterina , Pestryakov Alexey
Published: December 2022

Dry reforming of methane (DRM), to produce synthesis gas, is one of the most important chemical reactions used for the industrial production of hydrogen and leads to the synthesis of hydrocarbons (liquid fuels) and other valuable products. A cost-effective alternative to active and stable noble metal DRM catalysts, with comparable catalytic performance, can be composite materials based on nickel, cobalt and transition metal carbides. In this line, the present work proposes a non-standard way to obtain dry reforming catalysts of Ni, Co and Ni-Co-modified tungsten carbide (WC) produced by an electric arc method. Different amounts of nickel, cobalt and their mixtures were deposited on tungsten carbide by deposition-precipitation with NaOH (DP) and incipient wetness impregnation (IWI) methods. The resulting materials were characterized by N2 adsorption-desorption, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and their performance was evaluated in DRM. The composition and preparation method of catalysts predetermined their structural, textural and electronic properties, playing a decisive role in their activity for DRM. DP-prepared 20%Ni/WC material remained resistant to oxidation, both that of the active metal (nickel) and of the tungsten carbide, as well as to coking during DRM. This sample proved to be the most active and stable among all studied materials. Possibly, the resistance to oxidation and coking was due to a more efficient implementation of the oxidation/(re)carbonization cycle on the surface of this catalyst.
Catalytic Combustion of Propane over Ce-Doped Lanthanum Borate Loaded with Various 3d Transition Metals
Authors: Wang Weilu , Gong Xudong , Wang Fang , Wei Xinyi , Dang Yanliu , Wu Yun , Zhang Xianming
Published: December 2022

Ce-doped LaBO3 (Ce0.05La0.95BO3) and a corresponding incorporation with 3d transition metals (TMs) were prepared and evaluated for eliminating propane. Our results showed the catalytic activity toward propane combustion has a close relationship with the loaded TMs, which promoted oxygen vacancies density and further enhanced the reduction and acidity of this material. This eventually led to 90% propane conversion at 718 K for a Cu-loaded Ce0.05La0.95BO3 catalyst. During 10 h of catalytic propane oxidation, the propane-elimination rate was maintained very well, with no degradation of the catalyst.
Tumor Cell-Intrinsic BTLA Receptor Inhibits the Proliferation of Tumor Cells via ERK1/2
Authors: Cheng Tian-You , Liu Ya-Juan , Yan Hong , Xi Yi-Bo , Duan Li-Qiang , Wang Yang , Zhang Tian-Tian , Gu Yin-Min , Wang Xiao-Dong , Wu Chang-Xin , Gao Shan
Published: December 2022

B and T lymphocyte attenuator (BTLA) is an immune checkpoint molecule that mediates the escape of tumor cells from immunosurveillance. Consequently, BTLA and its ligand herpesvirus entry mediator (HVEM) are potentially immunotherapeutic targets. However, the potential effects of BTLA on tumor cells remain incompletely unknown. Here, we show that BTLA is expressed across a broad range of tumor cells. The depletion of BTLA or HVEM promotes cell proliferation and colony formation, which is reversed by the overexpression of BTLA in BTLA knockout cells. In contrast, overexpression of BTLA or HVEM inhibits tumor cell proliferation and colony formation. Furthermore, the proliferation of a subpopulation with high BTLA was also significantly slower than that of the low BTLA subpopulation. Mechanistically, the coordination of BTLA and HVEM inhibits its major downstream extracellular regulated protein kinase (ERK1/2) signaling pathway, thus preventing tumor cell growth. This study demonstrates that tumor cell-intrinsic BTLA/HVEM is a potential tumor suppressor and is likely to have a potential antagonist for immunotherapy, thus representing a potential biomarker for the optimal cancer immunotherapeutic treatment.
Comparison of the Single-Cell Immune Landscape of Testudines from Different Habitats
Authors: Guo Rui , Ma Guangwei , Zhai Xiaofei , Shi Haitao , Wang Jichao
Published: December 2022

Testudines, also known as living fossils, have evolved diversely and comprise many species that occupy a variety of ecological niches. However, the immune adaptation of testudines to the different ecological niches remains poorly understood. This study compared the composition, function, and differentiation trajectories of peripheral immune cells in testudines (Chelonia mydas, Trachemys scripta elegans, Chelonoidis carbonaria, and Pelodiscus sinensis) from different habitats using the single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technique. The results showed that T. scripta elegans, which inhabits freshwater and brackish environments, had the most complex composition of peripheral immune cells, with 11 distinct immune cell subsets identified in total. The sea turtle C. mydas, had the simplest composition of peripheral immune cells, with only 5 distinct immune cell clusters. Surprisingly, neither basophils were found in C. mydas nor T cells in C. carbonaria. Basophil subsets in peripheral blood were identified for the first time; two basophil subtypes (GATA2-high-basophils and GATA2-low-basophils) were observed in the peripheral blood of T. scripta elegans. In addition, ACKR4 cells, CD4 T cells, CD7 T cells, serotriflin cells, and ficolin cells were specifically identified in the peripheral blood of T. scripta elegans. Furthermore, LY6G6C cells, SPC24 cells, and NKT cells were specifically observed in C. carbonaria. Moreover, there were differences in the functional status and developmental trajectory of peripheral immune cells among the testudine species. The identification of specific features of peripheral immune cells in testudines from different habitats may enable elucidation of the adaptation mechanism of testudines to various ecological niches.
Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Alleviate Hypertrophic Scar by Inhibiting Bioactivity and Inducing Apoptosis in Hypertrophic Scar Fibroblasts
Authors: Li Shiyi , Yang Jinxiu , Sun Jiachen , Chen Minliang
Published: December 2022

Background: As a fibrotic disease with a high incidence, the pathogenesis of hypertrophic scarring is still not fully understood, and the treatment of this disease is also challenging. In recent years, human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs) have been considered an effective treatment for hypertrophic scars. This study mainly explored whether the therapeutic effect of AD-MSCs on hypertrophic scars is associated with oxidative-stress-related proteins. Methods: AD-MSCs were isolated from adipose tissues and characterized through flow cytometry and a differentiation test. Afterwards, coculture, cell proliferation, apoptosis, and migration were detected. Western blotting and a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT–PCR) were used to detect oxidative stress-related genes and protein expression in hypertrophic scar fibroblasts (HSFs). Flow cytometry was used to detect reactive oxygen species (ROS). A nude mouse animal model was established; the effect of AD-MSCs on hypertrophic scars was observed; and hematoxylin and eosin staining, Masson’s staining, and immunofluorescence staining were performed. Furthermore, the content of oxidative-stress-related proteins, including nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1), B-cell lymphoma 2(Bcl2), Bcl2-associated X(BAX) and caspase 3, was detected. Results: Our results showed that AD-MSCs inhibited HSFs’ proliferation and migration and promoted apoptosis. Moreover, after coculture, the expression of antioxidant enzymes, including HO-1, in HSFs decreased; the content of reactive oxygen species increased; and the expression of Nrf2 decreased significantly. In animal experiments, we found that, at 14 days after injection of AD-MSCs into human hypertrophic scar tissue blocks that were transplanted onto the dorsum of nude mice, the weight of the tissue blocks decreased significantly. Hematoxylin and eosin staining and Masson’s staining demonstrated a rearrangement of collagen fibers. We also found that Nrf2 and antioxidant enzymes decreased significantly, while apoptotic cells increased after AD-MSC treatment. Conclusions: Our results demonstrated that AD-MSCs efficiently cured hypertrophic scars by promoting the apoptosis of HSFs and by inhibiting their proliferation and migration, which may be related to the inhibition of Nrf2 expression in HSFs, suggesting that AD-MSCs may provide an alternative therapeutic approach for the treatment of hypertrophic scars.
B Cells at the Cross-Roads of Autoimmune Diseases and Auto-Inflammatory Syndromes
Authors: Zouali Moncef
Published: December 2022

Whereas autoimmune diseases are mediated primarily by T and B cells, auto-inflammatory syndromes (AIFS) involve natural killer cells, macrophages, mast cells, dendritic cells, different granulocyte subsets and complement components. In contrast to autoimmune diseases, the immune response of patients with AIFS is not associated with a breakdown of immune tolerance to self-antigens. Focusing on B lymphocyte subsets, this article offers a fresh perspective on the multiple cross-talks between both branches of innate and adaptive immunity in mounting coordinated signals that lead to AIFS. By virtue of their potential to play a role in adaptive immunity and to exert innate-like functions, B cells can be involved in both promoting inflammation and mitigating auto-inflammation in disorders that include mevalonate kinase deficiency syndrome, Kawasaki syndrome, inflammatory bone disorders, Schnitzler syndrome, Neuro-Behçet’s disease, and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. Since there is a significant overlap between the pathogenic trajectories that culminate in autoimmune diseases, or AIFS, a more detailed understanding of their respective roles in the development of inflammation could lead to designing novel therapeutic avenues.
Pharmacological Profile of MP-101, a Novel Non-racemic Mixture of R- and S-dimiracetam with Increased Potency in Rat Models of Cognition, Depression and Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Bonifacino Tiziana , Micheli Laura , Torazza Carola , Ghelardini Carla , Farina Carlo , Bonanno Giambattista , Milanese Marco , Di Cesare Mannelli Lorenzo , Scherz Michael W.
Published: December 2022

The racemic mixture dimiracetam negatively modulates NMDA-induced glutamate release in rat spinal cord synaptosomal preparations and is orally effective in models of neuropathic pain. In this study, we compared the effects of dimiracetam, its R- or S-enantiomers, and the R:S 3:1 non-racemic mixture (MP-101). In vitro, dimiracetam was more potent than its R- or S-enantiomers in reducing the NMDA-induced [3H]D-aspartate release in rat spinal cord synaptosomes. Similarly, acute oral administration of dimiracetam was more effective than a single enantiomer in the sodium monoiodoacetate (MIA) paradigm of painful osteoarthritis. Then, we compared the in vitro effects of a broad range of non-racemic enantiomeric mixtures on the NMDA-induced [3H]D-aspartate release. Dimiracetam was a more potent blocker than each isolated enantiomer but the R:S 3:1 non-racemic mixture (MP-101) was even more potent than dimiracetam, with an IC50 in the picomolar range. In the chronic oxaliplatin-induced neuropathic pain model, MP-101 showed a significantly improved anti-neuropathic profile, and its effect continued one week after treatment suspension. MP-101 also performed better than dimiracetam in animal models of cognition and depression. Based on the benign safety and tolerability profile previously observed with racemic dimiracetam, MP-101 appears to be a novel, promising clinical candidate for the prevention and treatment of several neuropathic and neurological disorders.
Target and Suspect Analysis with High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry for the Exhaustive Monitoring of PCBs and Pesticides in Posidonia oceanica Meadows and Sediments
Authors: Astudillo-Pascual Marina , Aguilera Pedro A. , Garrido Frenich Antonia , Domínguez Irene
Published: December 2022

This study enables the simultaneous monitoring of persistent organics pollutants (POPs) in the relevant marine seagrass Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile (P. oceanica), without causing damage and preserving their ecological integrity and their key ecosystem services, and in marine sediments. Two classes of POPs that suppose a current threat to the environmental health status are investigated: polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and pesticides. Comparisons between tissues and sediment compartmentation are studied for the first time. For these purposes, the sediments, P. oceanica leaves and, as a novelty, rhizomes, were studied. Samples were analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry (GC-Q-Orbitrap MS) for a comprehensive study. Eco-friendly methods were developed and validated for the determination of 38 POPs, 25 PCBs and 13 priority pesticides. The results showed that, when detected, regulated contaminants were localized mainly in the long-lived rhizomes, and 7 PCBs (the most abundant being PCB 44) and 4 priority pesticides (trifluralin, chlorpyrifos, isodrin and o,p’-DDT) were seen. Additionally, a retrospective analysis (suspect screening) was conducted, exhibiting up to 13 current-use pesticide residues in leaves and rhizomes alike. The results suggest that P. oceanica might be acting as a sink to contaminants in coastal areas and that rhizomes, due to their longer lifespan, reflect past and legacy contamination.
Sex and Rural/Urban Centre Location as Determinants of Body Image Self-Perception in Preschoolers
Authors: Rojo-Ramos Jorge , Gomez-Paniagua Santiago , Adsuar José Carmelo , Denche-Zamorano Ángel , Mendoza-Muñoz María , Barrios-Fernandez Sabina
Published: December 2022

Body image and self-perception are highly related to psychological health and social well-being throughout the lifespan. Body image problems can lead to pathologies affecting the quality of life. Thus, it is essential to analyse perceived self-image from an early stage. This study aimed to assess body image and dissatisfaction in preschoolers, analyzing possible differences depending on sex (boy/girl) and school location (rural/urban). The sample consisted of 304 preschoolers from Extremadura (Spain) between three and six years of age. The Mann–Whitney U test was used to evaluate the differences in scores according to sex and centre location. The results showed significant differences in the body shape perception depending on the student’s sex, with females showing higher scores in their Body Mass Index (BMI). However, females showed greater body dissatisfaction than their male counterparts, with greater disagreement between their perceived and desired figures. Actions and programmes to promote children’s healthy body image need to be implemented with consideration for differences between the sexes.
Hepatitis A Immunity and Paediatric Liver Transplantation—A Single-Centre Analysis
Authors: Laue Tobias , Ohlendorf Johanna , Leiskau Christoph , Baumann Ulrich
Published: December 2022

Following paediatric solid organ liver transplantation, risk of infection is high, both in the short and long term. Even though an infection with hepatitis A virus (HAV) is often asymptomatic and self-limited in children, some case studies describe severe cases leading to death. Vaccinations offer simple, safe and cheap protection. However, data on vaccination rates against hepatitis A in children with liver disease are scarce. Moreover, the vaccine is only approved from the age of one year old. At the same time, up to 30% of children with liver disease are transplanted within the first year of life, so the window of opportunity for vaccination is limited. This retrospective, observational, single-centre study examines the HAV immunity in paediatric liver transplant recipients before and after the first year of transplantation. Vaccination records of 229 of 279 (82.1%) children transplanted between January 2003 and June 2021 were analysed. Of 139 eligible children aged ≥ 1 year old, only 58 (41.7%) were vaccinated at least with one HAV dose prior to transplantation. In addition, seven patients received the vaccine below one year of age. After one or two doses, 38.5% or 90.6% of 65 patients were anti-HAV-IgG positive, respectively. This percentage remained stable up to the first annual check-up. For children vaccinated only once, a shorter interval from vaccination to transplantation is a risk factor for lack of immunity. Thus, HAV immunisation should be started earlier in liver transplant candidates to improve immunity in this high-risk group.
Diagnosing Single and Multiple Drug Hypersensitivity in Children: A Tertiary Care Center Retrospective Study
Authors: Milosevic Katarina , Malinic Marija , Plavec Davor , Lekovic Zoran , Lekovic Aleksa , Cobeljic Mina , Rsovac Snezana
Published: December 2022

Drug hypersensitivity reactions (DHRs) are a type of adverse drug reactions with heterogeneous pathophysiological mechanisms and a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations. Since over-diagnosing is common in children, a complete allergy work-up is needed. A cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care institution, covering the five-year period. Five hundred and four patients of both sexes, mean age 7.5 and with a medical history suggestive of DHR were evaluated. ENDA/EAACI guidelines were used for a diagnostic algorithm. Single drug hypersensitivity was registered in 375 patients and multiple drug hypersensitivity in 129. The main culprits in medical history were antibiotics (83%), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (8.4%) and analgoantipyretics (3.8%). Skin involvement was registered in 96.2%. DHRs were confirmed in 4.4% patients—six patients had positive skin tests and 13 had a positive drug provocation test. In the proven DHRs group, the main agents were antibiotics (72.7%), followed by NSAIDs (8.3%), and of all the skin manifestations, urticaria was most common (78.2%), followed by exanthema (10.5%) and angioedema (5.3%). Considering the above, anticipating DHRs and a proper referral of children to an allergologist is a key step in the assessment of drug hypersensitivity. A complete allergy work-up prevents unnecessary drug exclusion and allows most children to safely continue the use of first-line medications when needed.
Aligning with Patients and Families: Exploring Youth and Caregiver Openness to Pediatric Headache Interventions
Authors: Smith Allison M. , Schefter Zoë J. , Rogan Hannah
Published: December 2022

Primary headache disorders are common yet underestimated in youth, resulting in functional disability, decreased quality of life, and caregiver burden. Despite the ubiquity of options, adherence remains challenging for families. One potential factor impacting willingness to engage in recommended treatments is openness. This study explored openness to multidisciplinary headache interventions and the relationships with demographic, pain-related, and psychological variables, among youth and their caregivers. Participants (n = 1087) were youth/caregiver dyads presenting for initial headache evaluation. They completed assessments of openness to headache treatments, medical information, functional disability, and pain-related distress. Overall openness was moderately high for youth and caregivers, and highly correlated between them (r = 0.70). Relationships between youth/caregiver openness to specific interventions were moderate–high (r = 0.42–0.73). These were stronger for interventional techniques but weaker for lifestyle changes. In hierarchical regression models predicting youth and caregiver openness, we found that counterpart openness accounted for the largest portion of variance in their own openness (31–32%), beyond demographic (3%), pain-related (10%), and psychological variables (2–3%). Our findings highlight the importance of involving caregivers in pediatric headache management, given their influence on youth openness and potential involvement in adherence. Awareness of youth/caregiver openness may guide clinicians providing recommendations.
Accuracy of Three Types of Apex Locators versus Digital Periapical Radiography for Working Length Determination in Maxillary Premolars: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Ramezani Masoumeh , Bolbolian Marjan , Aliakbari Mohaddeseh , Alizadeh Ahad , Tofangchiha Maryam , Faegh Seyed Mohammad , Patini Romeo , D’Amato Giuseppe
Published: December 2022

This study aimed to compare the accuracy of three types of apex locators versus digital radiography for working length (WL) determination. This experimental study was conducted on 58 extracted maxillary premolars. The teeth were decoronated, the access cavity was prepared, and WL was determined using a #15 K-file to serve as reference. The WL was then measured by Woodpex V, Woodpex III, and Root ZX apex locators in the presence of 0.9% saline, and also on a photostimulable phosphor plate (PSP) digital radiograph taken by the parallel technique. The values were compared with the actual WL using the paired t-test (alpha = 0.05). Digital radiography, Root ZX, Woodpex V, and Woodpex III determined the WL within ±0.5 mm from the actual value in 84.48%, 100%, 89.66%, and 87.93% of the cases, respectively. Woodpex V (p = 0.039), Woodpex III (p = 0.001), and Root ZX (p = 0.001) significantly over-estimated the WL. The WL measured on digital radiographs was not significantly different from the actual WL (p = 0.213). The position of the apical foramen (central/lateral) had no significant effect on the accuracy of WL determination by different techniques (p >0.05). Within the limitations of this in vitro study, all the tested modalities showed acceptable accuracy for WL determination in maxillary premolars.