bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Advances of Immersive Virtual Reality Interventions for the Enhancement of Stress Management and Relaxation among Healthy Adults: A Systematic Review
Authors: Velana Maria , Sobieraj Sabrina , Digutsch Jan , Rinkenauer Gerhard
Published: July 2022

The rapid changes in human contacts due to the COVID-19 crisis have not only posed a huge burden on the population’s health but may have also increased the demand for evidence-based psychological programs delivered through digital technology. A systematic review, following the “Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA)” guidelines, was therefore conducted to explore the advances in stress management interventions utilizing VR and suggest up-to-date directions for future practice. The relevant literature was screened and the search resulted in 22,312 records, of which 16 studies were considered for analysis. The Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) was also employed to assess the quality of the included studies. The results suggest that VR-based interventions can facilitate positive changes in subjective stress levels and stress-related biomarkers. However, special attention should be paid to the development of rigorous VR protocols that embrace natural elements and concepts deriving from traditional treatment approaches, such as cognitive behavioral therapy techniques. Overall, this review aims to empower future researchers to grasp the opportunity that the COVID-19 pandemic generated and utilize digital technologies for strengthening individuals’ mental health. Future projects need to conduct large-scale VR studies to evaluate their effectiveness compared to other mental health interventions.
Skeletal Muscles of Patients Infected with SARS-CoV-2 Develop Severe Myofiber Damage upon One Week of Admission on the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Stevens Sjoerd , Hendrickx Paul , Snijders Tim , Lambrichts Ivo , Stessel Björn , Dubois Jasperina , van Loon Luc J. C. , Vandenabeele Frank , Agten Anouk
Published: July 2022

Many critically ill patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 have been submitted to an intensive care unit (ICU). Patients with a SARS-CoV-2 infection that survive critical illness are confronted with months of physical impairments. To maximize recovery, it is important to understand the musculoskeletal involvement in critically ill patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. The aim of the present study was to assess the myocellular changes in SARS-CoV-2 patients that occur throughout the first week of ICU admission. In n = 22 critically ill patients infected with SARS-CoV-2, a biopsy sample from the vastus lateralis muscle was obtained at day 1–3 and day 5–8 following ICU admission. Fluorescence microscopy was used to assess type I and type II muscle fiber size and distribution, myonuclear content, and muscle tissue capillarization. Transmission electron microscopy was used to support quantitative data at an ultrastructural level. Changes in type I and type II muscle fiber size showed large inter-individual variation. The average change in type I fiber size was +309 ± 1834 µm2, ranging from −2129 µm2 (−31%) to +3375 µm2 (+73%). The average change in type II fiber size was −224 ± 1256 µm2, ranging from −1410 µm2 (−36%) to +2592 µm2 (+48%). Ultrastructural observations showed myofibrillar and hydropic degeneration, and fiber necrosis. This study shows that ICU patients admitted with SARS-CoV-2 suffer from substantial muscle fiber damage during ICU admission. These results are a call for action towards more specialized rehabilitation programs for patients admitted to the ICU with SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Model for Wall Shear Stress from Obliquely Impinging Planar Underexpanded Jets
Authors: Fillingham Patrick , Viswanathan Arjun , Novosselov Igor V.
Published: July 2022

Though inclined under-expanded planar jets are used in many practical applications, the wall stress resulting from their impingement has not been adequately characterized. Reduced-order models for wall shear as a function of jet parameters have not been reported. This work uses computational fluid dynamics to determine wall shear stress as a function of the nozzle parameters and jet angle. The simulations of the impinging jet are validated against the experimental data and direct numerical simulation; then, the jet parameters are varied to formulate an empirical relationship for maximum wall shear stress as a function of a nozzle pressure ratio, standoff distance, jet Reynolds number, and impingement angle. The global expression for shear stress agrees with the numerical results within a mean deviation of 3%. The relationship can be used for applications where shear stress information is required to design or assess the performance of practical systems, such as surface cleaning, particle resuspension from the surface, and surface cooling.
Special Issue on Advanced Wireless Sensor Networks for Emerging Applications
Authors: Jin Hojun , Nengroo Sarvar Hussain , Kim Inhwan , Har Dongsoo
Published: July 2022

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) have been widely used due to their extensive range of applications [...]
Cluster Thinning Improves Aroma Complexity of White Maraština (Vitis vinifera L.) Wines Compared to Defoliation under Mediterranean Climate
Authors: Mucalo Ana , Lukšić Katarina , Budić-Leto Irena , Zdunić Goran
Published: July 2022

Defoliation and cluster thinning are useful canopy management techniques to modulate grapevine carbon distribution and microclimate. Both techniques are directed to achieve the proper balance between fruit and foliage, and to maximize production of well-ripened fruits and quality wines. We performed five canopy treatments on Maraština grapevine grown at a commercial vineyard in the Vrgorac Valley region of Croatia: three different times of basal defoliation, cluster thinning at the veraison, and an untreated control. The effects of the canopy changes on the chemical composition of grapes and wines were studied. The treatments had variable impacts on yield components and basic wine composition. Volatile aroma compounds in produced wines were analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry coupled with a mass-selective detector. The concentrations of 70 of the 96 individual volatile compounds were significantly influenced by the canopy technique used. The concentrations of 58 of these compounds were different according the timing of defoliation. Cluster thinning at an intensity of 35% produced wines with more terpenes, esters, higher alcohols, other alcohols, volatile phenolic compounds, lactones, and other compounds than other treatments. Among terpenes, cluster thinning increased terpinen-4-ol, linalool, trans-β-farnesen, and geraniol. Odor activity value analysis revealed 16 volatile compounds that contributed to the aroma of cluster-thinned wines.
In Vitro and In Silico Studies to Assess Edible Flowers’ Antioxidant Activities
Authors: Kritsi Eftichia , Tsiaka Thalia , Ioannou Alexandros-George , Mantanika Vassiliki , Strati Irini F. , Panderi Irene , Zoumpoulakis Panagiotis , Sinanoglou Vassilia J.
Published: July 2022

The incorporation of edible flowers in the human diet and culinary preparations dates back to ancient times. Nowadays, edible flowers have gained great attention due to their health-promoting and nutritive effects and their widespread acceptance by consumers. Therefore, edible flowers are ideal candidates for use in the design and development of functional foods and dietary supplements, representing a new and promising trend in the food industry. Thus, the present study attempts to assess the potential of various edible flowers against oxidative stress by applying a combination of in vitro, in silico and spectroscopic techniques. Specifically, the spectroscopic profiles of edible flower extracts were evaluated using ATR-FTIR spectroscopy, while their total phenolic contents and antioxidant/antiradical activities were determined spectrophotometrically. The most abundant phytochemicals in the studied flowers were examined as enzyme inhibitors through molecular docking studies over targets that mediate antioxidant mechanisms in vivo. Based on the results, the red China rose followed by the orange Mexican marigold exhibited the highest TPCs and antioxidant activities. All samples showed the characteristic FTIR band of the skeletal vibration of phenolic aromatic rings. Phenolic compounds seem to exhibit antioxidant activity with respect to NADPH oxidase, myeloperoxidase (MP), cytochrome P450 and, to a lesser extent, xanthine oxidase (XO) enzymes.
3D JPS Path Optimization Algorithm and Dynamic-Obstacle Avoidance Design Based on Near-Ground Search Drone
Authors: Luo Yuan , Lu Jiakai , Zhang Yi , Qin Qiong , Liu Yanyu
Published: July 2022

As various fields and industries have progressed, the use of drones has grown tremendously. The problem of path planning for drones flying at low altitude in urban as well as mountainous areas will be crucial for drones performing search-and-rescue missions. In this paper, we propose a convergent approach to ensure autonomous collision-free path planning for drones in the presence of both static obstacles and dynamic threats. Firstly, this paper extends the jump point search algorithm (JPS) in three dimensions for the drone to generate collision-free paths based on static environments. Next, a parent node transfer law is proposed and used to implement the JPS algorithm for any-angle path planning, which further shortens the planning path of the drones. Furthermore, the optimized paths are smoothed by seventh-order polynomial interpolation based on minimum snap to ensure the continuity at the path nodes. Finally, this paper improves the artificial potential field (APF) method by a virtual gravitational field and 3D Bresenham’s line algorithm to achieve the autonomous obstacle avoidance of drones in a dynamic-threat conflict environment. In this paper, the performance of this convergent approach is verified by simulation experiments. The simulation results show that the proposed approach can effectively solve the path planning and autonomous-obstacle-avoidance problems of drones in low-altitude flight missions.
Screening Additives for Amending Compacted Clay Covers to Enhance Diffusion Barrier Properties and Moisture Retention Performance
Authors: Wang Min , Wen Jiaming , Zhuang Heng , Xia Weiyi , Jiang Ningjun , Du Yanjun
Published: July 2022

The cover systems in contaminated sites have some problems, including desiccation cracks, which would lead to degradation of the barrier performance. This study presented a systemic laboratory experimental investigation on the liquid–plastic limit, moisture retention, hydraulic conductivity (k), and gas diffusion barrier properties of amended compacted clay by attapulgite and diatomite for controlling desiccation cracks and migration of water and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The results showed that the attapulgite could enhance the moisture retention and liquid limit of amended compacted clay. Diatomite could reduce the gas diffusion coefficient (Dθ) significantly. The compacted clay amended by the dual-additives component of attapulgite and diatomite could enhance the liquid limit, moisture retention percent, gas barrier property, and hydraulic performance compared with the unamended clay. Based on the experimental data obtained, the dosage of additives was targeted to be 5%. The moisture retention percent of dual-additives (attapulgite 4% and diatomite 1%) amended clay increased by 82%, the k decreased by 25%, and the Dθ decreased by 42% compared with unamended clay. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), BET-specific surface area test method (BET), Mercury Intrusion Porosimetry (MIP), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) indicated the enhancement mechanism of additives-amended compacted clay.
Combining Spatial and Temporal Data to Create a Fine-Resolution Daily Urban Air Temperature Product from Remote Sensing Land Surface Temperature (LST) Data
Authors: Bird David Neil , Banzhaf Ellen , Knopp Julius , Wu Wanben , Jones Laurence
Published: July 2022

Remotely sensed land surface temperature (LST) is often used as a proxy for air temperature in urban heat island studies, particularly to illustrate relative temperature differences between locations. Two sensors are used predominantly in the literature, Landsat and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS). However, each has shortcomings that currently limit its utility for many urban applications. Landsat has high spatial resolution but low temporal resolution, and may miss hot days, while MODIS has high temporal resolution but low spatial resolution, which is inadequate to represent the fine grain heterogeneity in cities. In this paper, we overcome this inadequacy by combining high spatial frequency Environmental Services (ES), Landsat-driven Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), and MODIS low spatial frequency background LST at different spatial frequency bands (spatial spectral composition). The method is able to provide fine scale LST four times daily on any day of the year. Using data from Paris in 2019 we show that (1) daytime cooling by vegetation reaches a maximum of 30 °C, above which there is no further increase in cooling. In addition, (2) the cooling is relatively local and does not extend further than 200 m beyond the boundary of the NBS. This model can be used to quantify the benefits of NBS in providing cooling in cities.
Light Modulation for Bioactive Pigment Production in Synechocystis salina
Authors: Assunção Joana , Pagels Fernando , Tavares Tânia , Malcata F. Xavier , Guedes A. Catarina
Published: July 2022

Cyanobacteria are microorganisms that are well-adapted to sudden changes in their environment, namely to light conditions. This has allowed them to develop mechanisms for photoprotection, which encompass alteration in pigment composition. Therefore, light modulation appears to be a suitable strategy to enhance the synthesis of specific pigments (e.g., phycocyanin) with commercial interest, in addition to conveying a more fundamental perspective on the mechanisms of acclimatization of cyanobacterium species. In this study, Synechocystis salina was accordingly cultivated in two light phase stages: (i) white LED, and (ii) shift to distinct light treatments, including white, green, and red LEDs. The type of LED lighting was combined with two intensities (50 and 150 µmolphotons·m−2·s−1). The effects on biomass production, photosynthetic efficiency, chlorophyll a (chl a) content, total carotenoids (and profile thereof), and phycobiliproteins (including phycocyanin, allophycocyanin, and phycoerythrin) were assessed. White light (under high intensity) led to higher biomass production, growth, and productivity; this is consistent with higher photosynthetic efficiency. However, chl a underwent a deeper impact under green light (high intensity); total carotenoids were influenced by white light (high intensity); whilst red treatment had a higher effect upon total and individual phycobiliproteins. Enhanced PC productivities were found under modulation with red light (low intensities), and could be achieved 7 days earlier than in white LED (over 22 days); this finding is quite interesting from a sustainability and economic point of view. Light modulation accordingly appears to be a useful tool for supplementary studies pertaining to optimization of pigment production with biotechnological interest.
Rodents Prefer Going Downhill All the Way (Gravitaxis) Instead of Taking an Uphill Task
Authors: Ben-Shaul Yehonatan , Hagbi Zohar , Dorfman Alex , Zadicario Pazit , Eilam David
Published: July 2022

We directly tested whether, when given the choice to ascend or descend, rodents would favor traveling downwards or upwards. The test incorporated different rodent species that dwell in different habitats and display different life and motor styles. Testing was performed in a three-dimensional Y-maze in which the basis was horizontal and, by rotating it, one arm of the maze could be pointing upwards at a certain angle and the other arm pointed downwards at the same angle. All the tested species displayed a general preference for descent, with rodents from complex habitats being less affected by inclination compared with rodents from flatlands. Unlike laboratory rats, wild species traveled greater distances along the lower compared to the upper maze arm. All the rodents initially tended to travel the entire length of the inclined maze arms, but such complete trips decreased with the increase in inclination. When introduced into the maze from top or bottom, flatland dwellers traveled mainly in the entry arm. Overall, when given the choice to ascend or descend, all the tested species displayed a preference to descend, perhaps as attraction to the ground, where they usually have their burrows.
A Quantitative Digital Analysis of Tissue Immune Components Reveals an Immunosuppressive and Anergic Immune Response with Relevant Prognostic Significance in Glioblastoma
Authors: Idoate Gastearena Miguel A. , López-Janeiro Álvaro , Lecumberri Aznarez Arturo , Arana-Iñiguez Iñigo , Guillén-Grima Francisco
Published: July 2022

Objectives: Immunostimulatory therapies using immune checkpoint blockers show clinical activity in a subset of glioblastoma (GBM) patients. Several inhibitory mechanisms play a relevant role in the immune response to GBM. With the objective of analyzing the tumor immune microenvironment and its clinical significance, we quantified several relevant immune biomarkers. Design: We studied 76 primary (non-recurrent) GBMs with sufficient clinical follow-up, including a subgroup of patients treated with a dendritic cell vaccine. The IDH-mutation, EGFR-amplification, and MGMT methylation statuses were determined. Several relevant immune biomarkers, including CD163, CD8, PD1, and PDL1, were quantified in representative selected areas by digital image analysis and semiquantitative evaluation. The percentage of each immune expression was calculated with respect to the total number of tumor cells. Results: All GBMs were wild-type IDH, with a subgroup of classical GBMs according to the EGFR amplification (44%). Morphologically, CD163 immunostained microglia and intratumor clusters of macrophages were observed. A significant direct correlation was found between the expression of CD8 and the mechanisms of lymphocyte immunosuppression, in such a way that higher values of CD8 were directly associated with higher values of CD163 (p < 0.001), PDL1 (0.026), and PD1 (0.007). In a multivariate analysis, high expressions of CD8+ (HR = 2.05, 95%CI (1.02–4.13), p = 0.034) and CD163+ cells (HR 2.50, 95%CI (1.29–4.85), p = 0.007), were associated with shorter survival durations. The expression of immune biomarkers was higher in the non-classical (non-EGFR amplified tumors) GBMs. Other relevant prognostic factors were age, receipt of the dendritic cell vaccine, and MGMT methylation status. Conclusions: In accordance with the inverse correlation between CD8 and survival and the direct correlation between effector cells and CD163 macrophages and immune-checkpoint expression, we postulate that CD8 infiltration could be placed in a state of anergy or lymphocytic inefficient activity. Furthermore, the significant inverse correlation between CD163 tissue concentration and survival explains the relevance of this type of immune cell when creating a strong immunosuppressive environment. This information may potentially be used to support the selection of patients for immunotherapy.
RhB@MOF-5 Composite Film as a Fluorescence Sensor for Detection of Chilled Pork Freshness
Authors: Li Jingyi , Zhang Ning , Yang Xin , Yang Xinting , Wang Zengli , Liu Huan
Published: July 2022

This study presents a novel composite thin film based on rhodamine B encapsulated into MOF-5 (Metal Organic Frameworks) as a fluorescence sensor for the real-time detection of the freshness of chilled pork. The composite film can adsorb and respond to the volatile amines produced by the quality deterioration of pork during storage at 4 °C, with the fluorescence intensity of RhB decreasing over time. The quantitative model used for predicting the freshness indicator (total volatile base nitrogen) of pork was built using the fluorescence spectra (excited at 340 nm) of the RhB@MOF-5 composite film combined with the partial least squares (PLS) algorithm, providing Rc2 and Rp2 values of 0.908 and 0.821 and RMSEC (root mean square error of calibration) and RMSEP (root mean square error of prediction) values of 3.435 mg/100 g and 3.647 mg/100 g, respectively. The qualitative model established by the partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) algorithm was able to accurately classify pork samples as fresh, acceptable or spoiled, and the accuracy was 86.67%.
Plasmonic Approaches for the Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Viral Particles
Authors: Szunerits Sabine , Saada Hiba , Pagneux Quentin , Boukherroub Rabah
Published: July 2022

The ongoing highly contagious Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), underlines the fundamental position of diagnostic testing in outbreak control by allowing a distinction of the infected from the non-infected people. Diagnosis of COVID-19 remains largely based on reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR), identifying the genetic material of the virus. Molecular testing approaches have been largely proposed in addition to infectivity testing of patients via sensing the presence of viral particles of SARS-CoV-2 specific structural proteins, such as the spike glycoproteins (S1, S2) and the nucleocapsid (N) protein. While the S1 protein remains the main target for neutralizing antibody treatment upon infection and the focus of vaccine and therapeutic design, it has also become a major target for the development of point-of care testing (POCT) devices. This review will focus on the possibility of surface plasmon resonance (SPR)-based sensing platforms to convert the receptor-binding event of SARS-CoV-2 viral particles into measurable signals. The state-of-the-art SPR-based SARS-CoV-2 sensing devices will be provided, and highlights about the applicability of plasmonic sensors as POCT for virus particle as well as viral protein sensing will be discussed.
Recent Advancements in Electrochemical Biosensors for Monitoring the Water Quality
Authors: Hui Yun , Huang Zhaoling , Alahi Md Eshrat E. , Nag Anindya , Feng Shilun , Mukhopadhyay Subhas Chandra
Published: July 2022

The release of chemicals and microorganisms from various sources, such as industry, agriculture, animal farming, wastewater treatment plants, and flooding, into water systems have caused water pollution in several parts of our world, endangering aquatic ecosystems and individual health. World Health Organization (WHO) has introduced strict standards for the maximum concentration limits for nutrients and chemicals in drinking water, surface water, and groundwater. It is crucial to have rapid, sensitive, and reliable analytical detection systems to monitor the pollution level regularly and meet the standard limit. Electrochemical biosensors are advantageous analytical devices or tools that convert a bio-signal by biorecognition elements into a significant electrical response. Thanks to the micro/nano fabrication techniques, electrochemical biosensors for sensitive, continuous, and real-time detection have attracted increasing attention among researchers and users worldwide. These devices take advantage of easy operation, portability, and rapid response. They can also be miniaturized, have a long-life span and a quick response time, and possess high sensitivity and selectivity and can be considered as portable biosensing assays. They are of special importance due to their great advantages such as affordability, simplicity, portability, and ability to detect at on-site. This review paper is concerned with the basic concepts of electrochemical biosensors and their applications in various water quality monitoring, such as inorganic chemicals, nutrients, microorganisms’ pollution, and organic pollutants, especially for developing real-time/online detection systems. The basic concepts of electrochemical biosensors, different surface modification techniques, bio-recognition elements (BRE), detection methods, and specific real-time water quality monitoring applications are reviewed thoroughly in this article.
Assessment of Vestibular-Evoked Myogenic Potentials in Parkinson’s Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Cui Wenqi , Duan Zhenghao , Feng Juan
Published: July 2022

(1) Background: The brainstem plays an essential role in the early stage of Parkinson’s disease (PD), but it is not widely tested in clinical examinations of PD. Vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials (VEMPs) are recognized as fundamental tools in the assessment of brainstem function. The aim of our meta-analysis was to assess the abnormal findings of VEMPs in patients with PD. (2) Methods: Up to 14 February 2022, PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science were searched to evaluate VEMPs in patients with PD in comparison with respective controls. The study protocol was registered at PROSPERO (CRD42022311103). (3) Results: A total of 15 studies were finally included in our meta-analysis. The absence rates of VEMPs in patients with PD were significantly higher than those of control groups (cVEMP: OR = 6.77; oVEMP: OR = 13.9; mVEMP: OR = 7.52). A delayed P13 latency, a decreased peak-to-peak amplitude, and an increased AAR of cVEMP, and a delayed oVEMP P15 latency were also found in patients with PD. (4) Conclusions: Our meta-analysis indicates abnormal VEMP findings in patients with PD, revealing the dysfunction of the brainstem in PD. VEMP tests, especially cVEMP tests, could be a helpful method for the early detection of PD.
Investigation on Dynamic Mechanical Properties of Recycled Concrete Aggregate under Split-Hopkinson Pressure Bar Impact Test
Authors: Du Wenping , Yang Caiqian , De Backer Hans , Li Chen , Ming Kai , Zhang Honglei , Pan Yong
Published: July 2022

The dynamic mechanical properties of recycled concrete (RC) and natural concrete (NC) were studied by impact tests and numerical simulation. The quasi-static tests were conducted by a servo-hydraulic machine, while the impact test used a 50 mm diameter split-Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB). The ANSYS/LS-DYNA software simulation was selected to validate the experimental results. The recycled coarse aggregates (RCAs) came from the housing demolition and were conducted with the microwave-assisted beneficiation method. The stress–strain curves, compressive strength, dynamic increase factor (DIF), initial elastic modulus and failure modes were analyzed and discussed. The results showed that the quasi-static compressive strengths of the RC were lower than that of the NC by 5.0%. The maximum dynamic compressive strengths of the NC increased by 105.9% when the strain rates varied from 46–108, while the RC increased by 102.2% when the strain rates varied from 42 to 103. The stress–strain curves of the RC and NC demonstrated a similar pattern. The DIF showed an increasing tendency with the increasing of strain rates, while the initial elastic modulus showed a decreasing tendency. The failure modes first initiated from the edge of specimens and then propagated to the center of specimens. An empirical equation was proposed for the estimation of the DIF of the RC which was obtained from the microwave-assisted beneficiation. The simulation results for the prediction of stress–strain curves of the RC showed good agreement with the experimental results. In addition, these results suggested that the RCAs were obtained by the microwave-assisted beneficiation can be recycled and may be used in some actual engineering.
Effect of Hot Mixing Duration on Blending, Performance, and Environmental Impact of Central Plant Recycled Asphalt Mixture
Authors: Gao Jie , Yao Yuquan , Huang Jinhua , Yang Jiangang , Song Liang , Xu Jing , Lu Xinhu
Published: July 2022

When using a high concentration of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) in a recycled hot-mix asphalt mixture (RHMA), the degree of blending of the reclaimed asphalt binder significantly affects the performance of the RHMA. Hence, it is essential to know the degree of blending of the RAP and its effect on the performance and the environmental impact of RHMA in order to determine the optimal mixing duration. To this end, the dispersion of reclaimed asphalt was observed using artificial RAP and the image analysis method, and the blending of reclaimed asphalt in RHMA with different mixing durations was also evaluated using physical properties tests, a rheometer test, a Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) test, a gel permeation chromatography (GPC) test, and an atomic force microscope (AFM) test. The performance of RHMA with the different mixing durations in the plant and in the laboratory was tested using a Marshall stability test, rutting resistance test, freeze–thaw splitting test, and low-temperature bending beam test. In addition, the environmental impact of RHMA at different mixing durations was evaluated, and the optimal mixing duration was determined. The results showed that the mixing duration had a significant influence on the dispersion and blending of reclaimed asphalt in RHMA. The longer the mixing duration was, the higher the dispersion and the degree of blending of the reclaimed asphalt in the RHMA were. With the increase in the mixing duration, the properties, chemical composition, and micromorphology of the blended asphalt binder tended to become similar to those of reclaimed asphalt. The performance of RHMA was improved with the increase in mixing duration; however, the energy consumption and CO2 emissions for the RHMA increase significantly with the increase in mixing time. The recommended optimal mixing durations in the mixing plant and in the laboratory were found to be 60 s and 90 s, respectively, considering the environmental impact, the RHMA production efficiency, and the performance of the RHMA.
Intelligent Novel IMF D-SWARA—Rough MARCOS Algorithm for Selection Construction Machinery for Sustainable Construction of Road Infrastructure
Authors: Matić Bojan , Marinković Milan , Jovanović Stanislav , Sremac Siniša , Stević Željko
Published: July 2022

The quality of road infrastructure largely depends on the quality of road construction and adequate construction machinery. In order to reduce uncertainties and improve the performance of road infrastructure, it is necessary to apply modern and appropriate construction machinery. The aim of this study was to create a novel integrated multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) model for the selection of pavers for the middle category of roads. A total of 16 criteria were defined and then divided into four main groups, on the basis of which the performance of 12 pavers was evaluated. Improved Fuzzy Stepwise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (IMF SWARA) with D numbers (IMF D-SWARA) was extended to determine the significance of the criteria for the selection of construction machinery based on two groups of experts. Rough measurement of choices and their ranking as a compromise solution (R-MARCOS) was used to evaluate and rank the performance of construction machinery. The results show that three alternatives out of the set considered can satisfy defined requirements. After that, we performed a multi-phase validity test in which different values of criterion weights were simulated. A comparative analysis with seven other Rough MCDM methods was also created, and the Spearman’s correlation coefficient (SCC) and WS coefficient were calculated to determine the correlation of ranks for sensitivity analysis and comparative analysis. Thus, the obtained results were verified.
A Grasshopper Optimization Algorithm-Based Response Surface Method for Non-Probabilistic Structural Reliability Analysis with an Implicit Performance Function
Authors: Li Qi , Wang Junmu , Su Guoshao
Published: July 2022

Non-probabilistic reliability analysis has great developmental potential in the field of structural reliability analysis, as it is often difficult to obtain enough samples to construct an accurate probability distribution function of random variables based on probabilistic theory. In practical engineering cases, the performance function (PF) is commonly implicit. Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) is commonly used for structural reliability analysis with implicit PFs. However, MCS requires the calculation of thousands of PF values. Such calculation could be time-consuming when the structural systems are complicated, and numerical analysis procedures such as the finite element method have to be adopted to obtain the PF values. To address this issue, this paper presents a grasshopper optimization algorithm-based response surface method (RSM). First, the method employs a quadratic polynomial to approximate the implicit PF with a small set of the actual values of the implicit PF. Second, the grasshopper optimization algorithm (GOA) is used to search for the global optimal solution of the scaling factor of the convex set since the problem of solving the reliability index is transformed into an unconstrained optimal problem. During the search process in the GOA, a dynamic response surface updating strategy is used to improve the approximate accuracy near the current optimal point to improve the computing efficiency. Two mathematical examples and two engineering structure examples that use the proposed method are given to verify its feasibility. The results compare favorably with those of MCS. The proposed method can be non-invasively combined with finite element analysis software to solve non-probabilistic reliability analysis problems of structures with implicit PF with high efficiency and high accuracy.
Endometrial Carcinoma: Molecular Cytogenetics and Transcriptomic Profile
Authors: Brunetti Marta , Panagopoulos Ioannis , Vitelli Valeria , Andersen Kristin , Hveem Tarjei S. , Davidson Ben , Eriksson Ane Gerda Z. , Trent Pernille Kristina Bjerre , Heim Sverre , Micci Francesca
Published: July 2022

Endometrial carcinomas (ECs) are histologically classified as endometrioid and nonendometrioid tumors, with each subgroup displaying different molecular profiles and clinical outcomes. Considerable biological and clinical heterogeneity exists within this scheme, however, reflecting its imperfection. We aimed to gather additional data that might help clarify the tumors’ pathogenesis and contribute toward a more meaningful classification scheme. In total, 33 ECs were examined for the presence of chromosomal aberrations, genomic imbalances, pathogenic variants, microsatellite instability, and expression profiles at both gene and miRNA levels. Chromosome 1 was the most frequently rearranged chromosome, showing a gain of all or part of the long arm. Pathogenic variants were found for PTEN (53%), PDGFRA (37%), PIK3CA (34%), and KIT (31%). High microsatellite instability was identified in 15 ECs. Comparing tumors and controls, we identified 23 differentially expressed genes of known importance in carcinogenesis, 15 genes involved in innate and adaptative immune responses, and altered expression of 7 miRNAs. miR-32-5p was the most upregulated. Our series showed a high degree of heterogeneity. Tumors were well-separated from controls, but there was no clear-cut separation between endometrioid and nonendometrioid ECs. Whether this means that the current phenotypic classification is of little relevance or if one still has not detected which genomic parameters to enter into correlation analyses remains unknown.
Brassinin Promotes the Degradation of Tie2 and FGFR1 in Endothelial Cells and Inhibits Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Angiogenesis
Authors: Gu Yuan , Becker Vivien , Qiu Moqin , Tang Tianci , Ampofo Emmanuel , Menger Michael D. , Laschke Matthias W.
Published: July 2022

Brassinin, a phytoalexin derived from cruciferous vegetables, has been reported to exhibit anti-cancer activity in multiple cancer types. However, its effects on triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) development and the underlying mechanisms have not been elucidated so far. In this study, we demonstrated in vitro that brassinin preferentially reduces the viability of endothelial cells (ECs) when compared to other cell types of the tumor microenvironment, including TNBC cells, pericytes, and fibroblasts. Moreover, brassinin at non-cytotoxic doses significantly suppressed the proliferation, migration, tube formation, and spheroid sprouting of ECs. It also efficiently inhibited angiogenesis in an ex-vivo aortic ring assay and an in-vivo Matrigel plug assay. Daily intraperitoneal injection of brassinin significantly reduced tumor size, microvessel density, as well as the perfusion of tumor microvessels in a dorsal skinfold chamber model of TNBC. Mechanistic analyses showed that brassinin selectively stimulates the degradation of Tie2 and fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 in ECs, leading to the down-regulation of the AKT and extracellular signal-regulated kinase pathways. These findings demonstrate a preferential and potent anti-angiogenic activity of brassinin, which may be the main mechanism of its anti-tumor action. Accordingly, this phytochemical represents a promising candidate for the future anti-angiogenic treatment of TNBC.
NPC1 Confers Metabolic Flexibility in Triple Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: O’Neill Kathleen I. , Kuo Li-Wei , Williams Michelle M. , Lind Hanne , Crump Lyndsey S. , Hammond Nia G. , Spoelstra Nicole S. , Caino M. Cecilia , Richer Jennifer K.
Published: July 2022

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) often undergoes at least partial epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) to facilitate metastasis. Identifying EMT-associated characteristics can reveal novel dependencies that may serve as therapeutic vulnerabilities in this aggressive breast cancer subtype. We found that NPC1, which encodes the lysosomal cholesterol transporter Niemann–Pick type C1 is highly expressed in TNBC as compared to estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer, and is significantly elevated in high-grade disease. We demonstrated that NPC1 is directly targeted by microRNA-200c (miR-200c), a potent suppressor of EMT, providing a mechanism for its differential expression in breast cancer subtypes. The silencing of NPC1 in TNBC causes an accumulation of cholesterol-filled lysosomes, and drives decreased growth in soft agar and invasive capacity. Conversely, overexpression of NPC1 in an ER+ cell line increases invasion and growth in soft agar. We further identified TNBC cell lines as cholesterol auxotrophs, however, they do not solely depend on NPC1 for adequate cholesterol supply. The silencing of NPC1 in TNBC cell lines led to altered mitochondrial function and morphology, suppression of mTOR signaling, and accumulation of autophagosomes. A small molecule inhibitor of NPC1, U18666A, decreased TNBC proliferation and synergized with the chemotherapeutic drug, paclitaxel. This work suggests that NPC1 promotes aggressive characteristics in TNBC, and identifies NPC1 as a potential therapeutic target.
Tumor Location in the Head/Uncinate Process and Presence of Fibrosis Impair the Adequacy of Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Tissue Acquisition of Solid Pancreatic Tumors
Authors: Togliani Thomas , Lisotti Andrea , Rinaldi Rosa , Fornelli Adele , Pilati Stefano , Passigato Nicola , Fusaroli Pietro
Published: July 2022

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided tissue acquisition (EUS-TA) of solid pancreatic tumors shows optimal specificity despite fair sensitivity, with an overall suboptimal diagnostic yield. We aim to quantify the adequacy and accuracy of EUS-TA and assess predictive factors for success, focusing on the presence and degree of specimen fibrosis. All consecutive EUS-TA procedures were retrieved, and the specimens were graded for sample adequacy and fibrosis. The results were evaluated according to patients’ and tumor characteristics and the EUS-TA technique. In total, 407 patients (59% male, 70 [63–77] year old) were included; sample adequacy and diagnostic accuracy were 90.2% and 94.7%, respectively. Fibrosis was significantly more represented in tumors located in the head/uncinate process (p = 0.001). Tumor location in the head/uncinate (OR 0.37 [0.14–0.99]), number of needle passes ≥ 3 (OR 4.53 [2.22–9.28]), and the use of cell block (OR 8.82 [3.23–23.8]) were independently related to adequacy. Severe fibrosis was independently related to false negative results (OR 8.37 [2.33–30.0]). Pancreatic tumors located in the head/uncinate process showed higher fibrosis, resulting in EUS-TA with lower sample adequacy and diagnostic accuracy. We maintain that three or more needle passes and cell block should be done to increase the diagnostic yield.
Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells, a Novel Target in Myeloid Neoplasms
Authors: Roussel Xavier , Garnache Ottou Francine , Renosi Florian
Published: July 2022

Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC) are the main type I interferon producing cells in humans and are able to modulate innate and adaptive immune responses. Tumor infiltration by plasmacytoid dendritic cells is already well described and is associated with poor outcomes in cancers due to the tolerogenic activity of pDC. In hematological diseases, Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells Neoplasm (BPDCN), aggressive leukemia derived from pDCs, is well described, but little is known about tumor infiltration by mature pDC described in Myeloid Neoplasms (MN). Recently, mature pDC proliferation (MPDCP) has been described as a differential diagnosis of BPDCN associated with acute myeloid leukemia (pDC-AML), myelodysplastic syndrome (pDC-MDS) and chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (pDC-CMML). Tumor cells are myeloid blasts and/or mature myeloid cells from related myeloid disorders and pDC derived from a clonal proliferation. The poor prognosis associated with MPDCP requires a better understanding of pDC biology, MN oncogenesis and immune response. This review provides a comprehensive overview about the biological aspects of pDCs, the description of pDC proliferation in MN, and an insight into putative therapies in pDC-AML regarding personalized medicine.
Dynamic CD8+ T Cell Cooperation with Macrophages and Monocytes for Successful Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Vermare Anaïs , Guérin Marion V. , Peranzoni Elisa , Bercovici Nadège
Published: July 2022

The essential roles endorsed by macrophages and monocytes are well established in response to infections, where they contribute to launching the differentiation of specific T-lymphocytes for long-term protection. This knowledge is the result of dynamic studies that can inspire the cancer field, particularly now that cancer immunotherapies elicit some tumor regression. Indeed, immune responses to cancer have mainly been studied after tumors have escaped immune attacks. In particular, the suppressive functions of macrophages were revealed in this context, introducing an obvious bias across the literature. In this review, we will focus on the ways inwhich monocytes and macrophages cooperate with T-lymphocytes, leading to successful immune responses. We will bring together the preclinical studies that have revealed the existence of such positive cooperation in the cancer field, and we will place particular emphasis on proposing the underlying mechanisms. Finally, we will give some perspectives to decipher the functional roles of such T-cell and myeloid cell interactions in the frame of human cancer immunotherapy.
Deubiquitinases in Cancers: Aspects of Proliferation, Metastasis, and Apoptosis
Authors: LIU Jiaqi , LEUNG Chi Tim , LIANG Luyun , WANG Yuqin , CHEN Jian , LAI Keng Po , TSE William Ka Fai
Published: July 2022

Deubiquitinases (DUBs) deconjugate ubiquitin (UBQ) from ubiquitylated substrates to regulate its activity and stability. They are involved in several cellular functions. In addition to the general biological regulation of normal cells, studies have demonstrated their critical roles in various cancers. In this review, we evaluated and grouped the biological roles of DUBs, including proliferation, metastasis, and apoptosis, in the most common cancers in the world (liver, breast, prostate, colorectal, pancreatic, and lung cancers). The current findings in these cancers are summarized, and the relevant mechanisms and relationship between DUBs and cancers are discussed. In addition to highlighting the importance of DUBs in cancer biology, this study also provides updated information on the roles of DUBs in different types of cancers.
3D Disease Modelling of Hard and Soft Cancer Using PHA-Based Scaffolds
Authors: Tomar Akanksha , Uysal-Onganer Pinar , Basnett Pooja , Pati Uttam , Roy Ipsita
Published: July 2022

Tumour cells are shown to change shape and lose polarity when they are cultured in 3D, a feature typically associated with tumour progression in vivo, thus making it significant to study cancer cells in an environment that mimics the in vivo milieu. In this study we established hard (MCF7 and MDA-MB-231, breast cancer) and soft (HCT116, colon cancer) 3D cancer tumour models utilizing a blend of P(3HO-co-3HD) and P(3HB). P(3HO-co-3HD) and P(3HB) belong to a group of natural biodegradable polyesters, PHAs, that are synthesised by microorganisms. The 3D PHA scaffolds produced, with a pore size of 30 to 300 µm, allow for nutrients to diffuse within the scaffold and provide the cells with the flexibility to distribute evenly within the scaffold and grow within the pores. Interestingly, by Day 5, MDA-MB-231 showed dispersed growth in clusters, and MCF7 cells formed an evenly dispersed dense layer, while HCT116 formed large colonies within the pockets of the 3D PHA scaffolds. Our results show Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) marker gene expression profiles in the hard tumour cancer models. In the 3D-based PHA scaffolds, MDA-MB-231 cells expressed higher levels of Wnt-11 and mesenchymal markers, such as Snail and its downstream gene Vim mRNAs, while MCF7 cells exhibited no change in their expression. On the other hand, MCF7 cells exhibited a significantly increased E-Cadherin expression as compared to MDA-MB-231 cells. The expression levels of EMT markers were comparative to their expression reported in the tumour samples, making them good representative of cancer models. In future these models will be helpful in mimicking hypoxic tumours, in studying gene expression, cellular signalling, angiogenesis and drug response more accurately than 2D and perhaps other 3D models.
Integrated Clinical and Genomic Models to Predict Optimal Cytoreduction in High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Cardillo Nicholas , Devor Eric J. , Pedra Nobre Silvana , Newtson Andreea , Leslie Kimberly , Bender David P. , Smith Brian J. , Goodheart Michael J. , Gonzalez-Bosquet Jesus
Published: July 2022

Advanced high-grade serous (HGSC) ovarian cancer is treated with either primary surgery followed by chemotherapy or neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by interval surgery. The decision to proceed with surgery primarily or after chemotherapy is based on a surgeon’s clinical assessment and prediction of an optimal outcome. Optimal and complete cytoreductive surgery are correlated with improved overall survival. This clinical assessment results in an optimal surgery approximately 70% of the time. We hypothesize that this prediction can be improved by using biological tumor data to predict optimal cytoreduction. With access to a large biobank of ovarian cancer tumors, we obtained genomic data on 83 patients encompassing gene expression, exon expression, long non-coding RNA, micro RNA, single nucleotide variants, copy number variation, DNA methylation, and fusion transcripts. We then used statistical learning methods (lasso regression) to integrate these data with pre-operative clinical information to create predictive models to discriminate which patient would have an optimal or complete cytoreductive outcome. These models were then validated within The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) HGSC database and using machine learning methods (TensorFlow). Of the 124 models created and validated for optimal cytoreduction, 21 performed at least equal to, if not better than, our historical clinical rate of optimal debulking in advanced-stage HGSC as a control. Of the 89 models created to predict complete cytoreduction, 37 have the potential to outperform clinical decision-making. Prospective validation of these models could result in improving our ability to objectively predict which patients will undergo optimal cytoreduction and, therefore, improve our ovarian cancer outcomes.