bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time-Varying Meshing Stiffness and Dynamic Parameter Model of Spiral Bevel Gears with Different Surface Roughness
Authors: Cai Zhi-Jie , Zheng Xi-Qing , Lan Hui-Qing , Wang Liu-Na , Yang Si-Wei , Sheng Rui
Published: February 2024

In order to explore the time-varying mesh stiffness and dynamic parameters of bevel gears with different surface roughness, the fractal dimension and characteristic scale coefficient are calculated to determine the fractal dimension of tooth surfaces of spiral bevel gears with rough features. Spiral bevel gears with distinct surface roughness are obtained by simulating the gear-cutting process, and after analysis, a dynamic differential equation for spiral bevel gears considering the surface roughness is proposed. By combining the differential equation with finite element analysis (FEA), the time-varying mesh stiffness of spiral bevel gears with various surface roughness is determined. FEA analysis yields the time-varying mesh stiffness under different surface roughness. The vibration velocity and acceleration of spiral bevel gears with different surface roughness are revealed by combining the time-varying mesh stiffness with the dynamic equation. The intricate relationship between gear surface microstructure and its mechanical behavior during engagement is thoroughly analyzed. A comprehensive dynamic parameter model is proposed to capture the influence of microtopological changes on gear dynamics. The results can offer valuable insights for the design and optimization of bevel gears, aiming to enhance their performance and durability.
Context Transformer and Adaptive Method with Visual Transformer for Robust Facial Expression Recognition
Authors: Xiong Lingxin , Zhang Jicun , Zheng Xiaojia , Wang Yuxin
Published: February 2024

In real-world scenarios, the facial expression recognition task faces several challenges, including lighting variations, image noise, face occlusion, and other factors, which limit the performance of existing models in dealing with complex situations. To cope with these problems, we introduce the CoT module between the CNN and ViT frameworks, which improves the ability to perceive subtle differences by learning the correlations between local area features at a fine-grained level, helping to maintain the consistency between the local area features and the global expression, and making the model more adaptable to complex lighting conditions. Meanwhile, we adopt an adaptive learning method to effectively eliminate the interference of noise and occlusion by dynamically adjusting the parameters of the Transformer Encoder’s self-attention weight matrix. Experiments demonstrate the accuracy of our CoT_AdaViT model in the Oulu-CASIA dataset as (NIR: 87.94%, VL: strong: 89.47%, weak: 84.76%, dark: 82.28%). As well as, CK+, RAF-DB, and FERPlus datasets achieved 99.20%, 91.07%, and 90.57% recognition results, which achieved excellent performance and verified that the model has strong recognition accuracy and robustness in complex scenes.
Q-Analogues of Parallel Numerical Scheme Based on Neural Networks and Their Engineering Applications
Authors: Shams Mudassir , Carpentieri Bruno
Published: February 2024

Quantum calculus can provide new insights into the nonlinear behaviour of functions and equations, addressing problems that may be difficult to tackle by classical calculus due to high nonlinearity. Iterative methods for solving nonlinear equations can benefit greatly from the mathematical theory and tools provided by quantum calculus, e.g., using the concept of q-derivatives, which extends beyond classical derivatives. In this paper, we develop parallel numerical root-finding algorithms that approximate all distinct roots of nonlinear equations by utilizing q-analogies of the function derivative. Furthermore, we utilize neural networks to accelerate the convergence rate by providing accurate initial guesses for our parallel schemes. The global convergence of the q-parallel numerical techniques is demonstrated using random initial approximations on selected biomedical applications, and the efficiency, stability, and consistency of the proposed hybrid numerical schemes are analyzed.
Analytical Listening and Aesthetic Experience in Music Criticism
Authors: Teparić Srđan
Published: February 2024

In this article, I discuss the methodological and contextual aspects of writing music criticism, drawing cues from applied musicology and autoethnography. The challenge for any music critic is the question of the relationship between objective and subjective approaches. I analyze the relationship between analytical listening and aesthetic experience, using the examples of two music reviews of Ivo Pogorelić’s piano recitals that I wrote. The interpretations of this pianist are suitable for the analysis precisely because he is commonly seen as an unconventional, even controversial pianist, and his interpretations of romantic music are often regarded as examples of anti-academicism and even deconstruction of pianistic canons accumulated during the 20th century. Against that term, I will talk about liberation, which is perhaps a more suitable label for Pogorelić’s modernist approach to performance.
Prioritization of Volatile Organic Compound Reduction in the Tire Manufacturing Industry through Speciation of Volatile Organic Compounds Emitted at the Fenceline
Authors: Lee Hyo Eun , Kim Jeong Hun , Seo Daram , Yoon Seok J.
Published: February 2024

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), with their ubiquitous presence across numerous global industries, pose multifaceted challenges, influencing air pollution and health outcomes. In response, countries such as the United States and Canada have implemented fenceline monitoring systems, enabling real-time tracking of organic solvents, including benzene. Initially, this focus was predominantly placed on the petroleum refining industry, but it has gradually been broadening. This investigation seeks to identify and analyze the specific VOCs produced in the tire manufacturing sector by utilizing both active and passive monitoring methodologies. The findings of the present study aim to recommend prioritized reduction strategies for specific VOCs. Percentage means the ratio of VOCs detected at the research site. At research target facility A, active monitoring demonstrated the presence of Methylene chloride (20.7%) and Carbon tetrachloride (15.3%), whereas passive monitoring identified Carbon tetrachloride (43.4%) and m,p-Xylene (20.8%). After converting these substances to their equivalent concentrations, we found a noteworthy correlation between the active and passive methodologies. At research target facility B, active monitoring detected n-Pentane (45.5%) and Isoprene (11.4%), while passive monitoring revealed Toluene (21.3%) and iso-Hexane (15.8%). Interestingly, even at sites like warehouses and test tracks where VOC concentrations were projected to be low, we observed VOC levels comparable to those in process areas. This underlines the fact that the dispersal of VOCs is considerably influenced by wind direction and speed. Specifically, in the tire manufacturing industry, emissions of Xylene and 3-Methylhexane, both having high photochemical ozone creation potential (POCP), contribute significantly to air pollution. However, the overall detection concentration in the tire manufacturing industry was detected at a low concentration of less than 2 μg/m3. This is less than 9 μg/m3, which is the standard for benzene, which has strong carcinogenicity regulations. This suggests that additional research is needed on synthetic rubber manufacturing rather than tire manufacturing.
A Practical Approach for On-Road Measurements of Brake Wear Particles from a Light-Duty Vehicle
Authors: Andersson Jon , Kramer Louisa J. , Campbell Michael , Marshall Ian , Norris John , Southgate Jason , de Vries Simon , Waite Gary
Published: February 2024

Brake wear particles are generated through frictional contact between the brake disc or brake drum and the brake pads. Some of these particles may be released into the atmosphere, contributing to airborne fine particulate matter (PM2.5). In this study, an onboard system was developed and tested to measure brake wear particles emitted under real-world driving conditions. Brake wear particles were extracted from a fixed volume enclosure surrounding the pad and disc installed on the front wheel of a light-duty vehicle. Real-time data on size distribution, number concentration, PM2.5 mass, and the contribution of semi-volatiles were obtained via a suite of instruments sub-sampling from the constant volume sampler (CVS) dilution tunnel. Repeat measurements of brake particles were obtained from a 42 min bespoke drive cycle on a chassis dynamometer, from on-road tests in an urban area, and from braking events on a test track. The results showed that particle emissions coincided with braking events, with mass emissions around 1 mg/km/brake during on-road driving. Particle number emissions of low volatility particles were between 2 and 5 × 109 particles/km/brake. The highest emissions were observed under more aggressive braking. The project successfully developed a proof-of-principle measurement system for brake wear emissions from transient vehicle operation. The system shows good repeatability for stable particle metrics, such as non-volatile particle number (PN) from the solid particle counting system (SPCS), and allows for progression to a second phase of work where emissions differences between commercially available brake system components will be assessed.
Unlocking the Promise of Decellularized Pancreatic Tissue: A Novel Approach to Support Angiogenesis in Engineered Tissue
Authors: Hao Lei , Khajouei Fariba , Rodriguez Jaselin , Kim Soojin , Lee Eun Jung A.
Published: February 2024

Advancements in regenerative medicine have highlighted the potential of decellularized extracellular matrix (ECM) as a scaffold for organ bioengineering. Although the potential of ECM in major organ systems is well-recognized, studies focusing on the angiogenic effects of pancreatic ECM are limited. This study investigates the capabilities of pancreatic ECM, particularly its role in promoting angiogenesis. Using a Triton-X-100 solution, porcine pancreas was successfully decellularized, resulting in a significant reduction in DNA content (97.1% removal) while preserving key pancreatic ECM components. A three-dimensional ECM hydrogel was then created from this decellularized tissue and used for cell culture. Biocompatibility tests demonstrated enhanced adhesion and proliferation of mouse embryonic stem cell-derived endothelial cells (mES-ECs) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in this hydrogel compared to conventional scaffolds. The angiogenic potential was evaluated through tube formation assays, wherein the cells showed superior tube formation capabilities in ECM hydrogel compared to rat tail collagen. The RT-PCR analysis further confirmed the upregulation of pro-angiogenic genes in HUVECs cultured within the ECM hydrogel. Specifically, HUVECs cultured in the ECM hydrogel exhibited a significant upregulation in the expression of MMP2, VEGF and PAR-1, compared to those cultured in collagen hydrogel or in a monolayer condition. The identification of ECM proteins, specifically PRSS2 and Decorin, further supports the efficacy of pancreatic ECM hydrogel as an angiogenic scaffold. These findings highlight the therapeutic promise of pancreatic ECM hydrogel as a candidate for vascularized tissue engineering application.
The Diversity of Wolbachia across the Turtle Ants (Formicidae: Cephalotes spp.)
Authors: Reese Corey , Graber Leland C. , Ramalho Manuela O. , Moreau Corrie S.
Published: February 2024

Wolbachia is a widespread and well-known bacterium that can induce a wide range of changes within its host. Ants specifically harbor a great deal of Wolbachia diversity and are useful systems to study endosymbiosis. The turtle ants (Cephalotes) are a widespread group of tropical ants that rely on gut microbes to support their herbivorous diet for their survival, yet little is known of the extent of this diversity. Therefore, studying their endosymbionts and categorizing the diversity of bacteria within Cephalotes hosts could help to delimit species and identify new strains and can help lead to a further understanding of how the microbiome leads to survival and speciation in the wild. In our study, 116 individual samples were initially tested for positive infection with the wsp gene. Of the initial 116 samples, 9 samples were infected with only one strain of Wolbachia, and 7 were able to be used successfully for multilocus sequence typing (MLST). We used the new MLST data to infer a phylogeny with other Formicidae samples from the MLST online database to identify new Wolbachia strains and related genes, of which only one came back as an exact match. The 18 Wolbachia-positive samples ranged across 15 different species and 7 different countries, which we further test for species identity and geographic correlation. This study is the first comprehensive look into the diversity of Wolbachia in the turtle ants, providing insight into how endosymbionts are oriented in widespread species and providing a strong foundation for further research in host-microbe interactions.
Peripheral Lymphocytes in Primary Liver Cancers: Elevated NK and CD8+ T Cells and Dysregulated Selenium Metabolism
Authors: Zhou Cheng , Lu Zhufeng , Sun Baoye , Yi Yong , Zhang Boheng , Wang Zheng , Qiu Shuang-Jian
Published: February 2024

Peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs), which play a pivotal role in orchestrating the immune system, garner minimal attention in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). The impact of primary liver cancers on PBLs remains unexplored. In this study, flow cytometry facilitated the quantification of cell populations, while transcriptome of PBLs was executed utilizing 10× single-cell sequencing technology. Additionally, pertinent cases were curated from the GEO database. Subsequent bioinformatics and statistical analyses were conducted utilizing R (4.2.1) software. Elevated counts of NK cells and CD8+ T cells were observed in both ICC and HCC when compared to benign liver disease (BLD). In the multivariate Cox model, NK cells and CD8+ T cells emerged as independent risk factors for recurrence-free survival. Single-cell sequencing of PBLs uncovered the downregulation of TGFβ signaling in tumor-derived CD8+ T cells. Pathway enrichment analysis, based on differential expression profiling, highlighted aberrations in selenium metabolism. Proteomic analysis of preoperative and postoperative peripheral blood samples from patients undergoing tumor resection revealed a significant upregulation of SELENBP1 and a significant downregulation of SEPP1. Primary liver cancer has a definite impact on PBLs, manifested by alterations in cellular quantities and selenoprotein metabolism.
The Impact of Cytokines on Health-Related Quality of Life in Adolescents with Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Krsmanović Ljiljana , Arsović Nenad , Bokonjić Dejan , Nešić Vladimir , Dudvarski Zoran , Pavlović Dragana , Dubravac Tanasković Milena , Ristić Siniša , Elez-Burnjaković Nikolina , Balaban Radmila , Ćurčić Branislava , Ivanović Radenko , Vuković Nikolina , Vuković Maja , Milić Marija , Joksimović Bojan
Published: February 2024

Background: Frequent episodes of nasal symptoms are the usual clinical manifestations (CM) of allergic rhinitis (AR) and have a significant negative impact on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in adolescents. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to test the hypothesis that cytokines in nasal mucus may be associated with HRQoL in adolescents with AR. Methods: European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions 3 Level Version (EQ-5D-3L), “The Adolescent Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire” (AdolRQLQ) and the Total 4 Symptom Score (T4SS) scoring system were administered to 113 adolescents with AR, nonallergic rhinitis (NAR) and to healthy control subjects. Nasal secretions were sampled and tested for 13 cytokines using a multiplex flow cytometric bead assay. Results: The AR group had significantly lower EQ-5D-3L (0.661 ± 0.267 vs. 0.943 ± 0.088; p < 0.001) and higher AdolRQLQ total scores (2.76 ± 1.01 vs. 1.02 ± 0.10; p < 0.001) compared to the control group. The AR group had higher concentrations of IL-1β (p = 0.002), IL-6 (p = 0.031), IL-8 (p < 0.001), IL17-A (p = 0.013) and IL-18 (p = 0.014) compared to the control group, and IL-1β, IL-6, IL17-A and IL-18 were significantly (p < 0.050) increased with disease progression. Cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, as well as severe CM, were identified as significant predictors of lower HRQoL in adolescents with AR. Conclusions: This study identified IL-1β, IL-6, as well as severe CM, as predictors of lower HRQoL in adolescents with AR. However, these results should only serve as a starting point for additional confirmation research.
Whole Slide Image Understanding in Pathology: What Is the Salient Scale of Analysis?
Authors: Jenkinson Eleanor , Arandjelović Ognjen
Published: February 2024

Background: In recent years, there has been increasing research in the applications of Artificial Intelligence in the medical industry. Digital pathology has seen great success in introducing the use of technology in the digitisation and analysis of pathology slides to ease the burden of work on pathologists. Digitised pathology slides, otherwise known as whole slide images, can be analysed by pathologists with the same methods used to analyse traditional glass slides. Methods: The digitisation of pathology slides has also led to the possibility of using these whole slide images to train machine learning models to detect tumours. Patch-based methods are common in the analysis of whole slide images as these images are too large to be processed using normal machine learning methods. However, there is little work exploring the effect that the size of the patches has on the analysis. A patch-based whole slide image analysis method was implemented and then used to evaluate and compare the accuracy of the analysis using patches of different sizes. In addition, two different patch sampling methods are used to test if the optimal patch size is the same for both methods, as well as a downsampling method where whole slide images of low resolution images are used to train an analysis model. Results: It was discovered that the most successful method uses a patch size of 256 × 256 pixels with the informed sampling method, using the location of tumour regions to sample a balanced dataset. Conclusion: Future work on batch-based analysis of whole slide images in pathology should take into account our findings when designing new models.
Navigating Uncertainty: Teachers’ Insights on Their Preservice Training and Its Influence on Self-Efficacy during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Nissim Yonit , Simon Eitan
Published: February 2024

This quantitative study investigates teachers’ perceptions of self-efficacy during the COVID-19 pandemic and explores the correlation between these perceptions and the preservice training they received. The research addresses the cognitive connection between teachers’ current self-efficacy, particularly their satisfaction with and appreciation of preservice lecturers. The connection between self-efficacy and “cognitive connection” lies in the intricate interplay of cognitive processes, observational learning, and the formation of beliefs and perceptions. The way individuals cognitively process information, make connections between experiences, and interpret feedback significantly influences their self-efficacy beliefs and behaviors. Utilizing a retrospective lens, the study reveals a significant correlation between teachers’ evaluation of their preservice training, especially their appreciation of lecturers, and their present self-efficacy. The findings highlight that teachers, amidst the challenges of the pandemic, evaluated their self-efficacy at a remarkably high level. This underscores their resilience during a period of unprecedented uncertainty demanding substantial personal and professional adaptability. The nuanced interplay observed suggests that teachers’ sense of self-efficacy serves as a predictive variable of their mental and professional resilience when confronting uncertainty and navigating rapid and profound changes, as exemplified by the exigencies of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Analysis of Circumferential and Longitudinal Non-Uniformity of Steel Corrosion in Concrete Subjected to Mechanical Load
Authors: Wu Bingliu , Xu Ke , Yang Mingchang , Dong Zheng , Shao Jianwen , Fu Chuanqing , Ni Wenhao
Published: February 2024

Reinforcement corrosion significantly impacts the service life of reinforced concrete structures. The present study investigates the circumferential and longitudinal non-uniformity of steel corrosion in concrete subjected to mechanical load. Results indicate that, in the case of steel corrosion in concrete subjected to mechanical load, the distribution of rust layer thickness around the perimeter of the steel bar is fitted well with a Gaussian distribution. As the corrosion rate gradually increases, the uniform coefficient is linearly proportional to the minimum thickness of the rust layer. With respect to the longitudinal non-uniformity of steel corrosion, load-induced transverse cracks have a significant impact on the non-uniformity of corrosion, leading to the formation of rust peaks near the locations of transverse cracks. In the vicinity of each rust peak, the corrosion rate of the steel bar follows a Gaussian distribution. With respect to the non-uniformity of corrosion along the longitudinal rebar, a Gumbel distribution is identified to fit well, both in the cases of the non-stressed section and the pure bending section, although with dissimilar non-uniform parameters. Crack coefficients (α and β) are introduced to describe the influence of transverse cracks on the longitudinal non-uniformity of steel corrosion.
Developing a Holistic Approach for Constructing Rural Living Circles in the Loess Plateau—Taking Yongning Village as an Example
Authors: Wang Mengying , Zhang Mingzhi , Qi Yingtao , Zhang Dingqing , Wang Chenguang , Yao Wenying , Zhou Dian
Published: February 2024

Insufficient public service facilities in rural areas, which leads to failures in meeting the needs of villagers, has become a significant barrier to the high-quality development of rural regions. This issue is particularly acute in the Loess Plateau area, where the complex topography leads to scattered and independent village layouts, making it challenging to allocate service facilities based simply on distance and population. Aiming to arrange public service facilities efficiently and intensively from a “bottom-up” approach, this study, from the perspective of living circles, attempts to summarize the current usage and needs of villagers at the “village–town–county” levels, as well as to seek strategies for facility allocation in villages. This provides a scientific basis for optimizing the configuration of service facilities in the Loess Plateau area. Through field surveys based on questionnaires and interviews with over 60 households and more than 100 villagers, this study authentically reproduces a picture of their daily lives and summarizes their needs for well-configured services and facilities. The findings of this study include the following: (1) The village domain serves as a space of daily production and living for villagers, necessitating facilities for everyday purchases, activities, and elderly care; the town domain supplements the daily production and living needs of villagers, with a higher demand for production materials; the county domain, integrating urban and rural spaces, provides higher-level medical, educational, and other service facilities. (2) Within the village domain, villagers’ demands for facilities lean towards miniaturization and integration. With the increasingly aging population, the demand for elderly care and health facilities is becoming more urgent. Facilities such as activity rooms, fitness equipment, and stores with a wide range of products at reasonable prices can effectively improve levels of convenience and happiness in villagers’ lives. This study summarizes, from a “bottom-up” approach, the villagers’ facility layout needs within the rural living circle, providing a scientific basis for establishing a human-centered rural living circle and enhancing the quality of rural living environments.
Triangular Fuzzy QFD–MCDM Combination Approach for Green Building Design Scheme Evaluation
Authors: Zhou Hao , Tian Guangdong , Zhang Tongzhu , Zhang Xuesong , Pham Duc Truong , Xiu Xia , Feng Yixiong , Li Hongliang
Published: February 2024

The integration of green design into building construction is a necessary process in today’s world to address environmental issues and achieve sustainable development. However, when evaluating green building design schemes, various factors are intertwined with a high degree of complexity and uncertainty. To realise rational decision-making about green building design schemes, this paper first adopts the mixed techniques of triangular fuzzy numbers, quality function deployment, and Best–Worst Method. It aims to analyse the complex factor relationship between customer needs and green building design technical features and to solve the optimal green building design index weight allocation. Next, a hybrid fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) method integrating triangular fuzzy numbers, the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method, and Grey Correlation (GC) are proposed to evaluate green building design scheme performance. Finally, an example of a green design project for a hotel building is selected for application validation and analysis in comparison with the existing Complex Proportional Assessment, VlseKriterijuska Optimizacija I Komoromisno Resenje, and DEMATEL-ANP methods. These analyses demonstrate the stability and validity of the results, as well as the rationality and practicability of the proposed triangular fuzzy QFD–MCDM method. This research is a guide to the problem of evaluating green building design schemes.
RACK1 Promotes Meningioma Progression by Activation of NF-κB Pathway via Preventing CSNK2B from Ubiquitination Degradation
Authors: Maalim Ali Abdi , Wang Zihan , Huang Yimin , Lei Ting
Published: February 2024

Higher-grade meningiomas (WHO grade II and III) are characterized by aggressive invasiveness and high postoperative recurrence rates. The prognosis remains inadequate even with adjuvant radiotherapy and currently there is no definitive pharmacological treatment strategy and target for malignant meningiomas. This study aims to unveil the mechanisms driving the malignant progression of meningiomas and to identify potential inhibitory targets, with significant clinical implications. Implementing techniques such as protein immunoprecipitation, mass spectrometry, RNA interference, and transcriptome sequencing, we investigated the malignancy mechanisms in meningioma cell lines IOMM-LEE and CH157-MN. Additionally, in vivo experiments were carried out on nude mice. We discovered a positive correlation between meningioma malignancy and the levels of the receptor for activated C kinase 1 (RACK1), which interacts with CSNK2B, the β subunit of casein kinase 2 (CK2), inhibiting its ubiquitination and subsequent degradation. This inhibition allows CK2 to activate the NF-κb pathway, which increases the transcription of CDK4 and cyclin D3, resulting in the transition of the cell cycle into the G2/M phase. The RACK1 inhibitor, harringtonolide (HA), significantly suppressed the malignant tendencies of meningioma cells. Our study suggests that RACK1 may play a role in the malignant progression of meningiomas, and therefore, targeting RACK1 could emerge as an effective strategy for reducing the malignancy of these tumors.
Procalcitonin for Early Detection of Pharyngocutaneous Fistula after Total Laryngectomy: A Pilot Study
Authors: Mesolella Massimo , Allosso Salvatore , Petruzzi Gerardo , Evangelista Antonietta , Motta Giovanni , Motta Gaetano
Published: February 2024

Objectives. The aim of this prospective study was to investigate the role of procalcitonin as an early diagnostic marker of pharyngocutaneous fistula (PCF) in a cohort of head and neck patients treated with total laryngectomy for squamous cell carcinoma. Methods. This prospective study was conducted on a sample of patients enrolled from January 2019 to March 2022. All patients were subjected to a “protocol” of blood chemistry investigations, scheduled as follows: complete blood count with formula, ESR dosage, CPR, and PCT. PCT was also dosed by salivary sampling and a pharyngo-cutaneous swab in patients who presented with PCF. The dosage scheme was systematically repeated: the day before the intervention (t0); the 5th day postoperative (t1); the 20th day postoperative (t2); and at time X, the day of the eventual appearance of the pharyngocutaneous fistula. Results. A total of 36 patients met the inclusion criteria. The patients enrolled in the study were subsequently divided into two groups: 27 patients underwent total laryngectomy (TL) for laryngeal cancer without postoperative complications, and 9 patients were undergoing TL with postoperative PCF. Using the Cochran’s Q test, statistical significance was found for PCT among T0, T1, Tx, and T2 (p-value < 0.001) between the PCF and non-PCF groups. The Z test demonstrated that there is a difference in PCT levels at T1 and T2 and that this difference is statistically significant (p < 0.001). Conclusions. PCT could be considered an early marker of complications in open laryngeal surgery. According to our results, it could be useful in the precocious detection of pharyngocutaneous fistulas and in the management of antibiotic therapy.
Interval Cancer in Population-Based Colorectal Screening Programmes: Incidence and Characteristics of Tumours
Authors: Vanaclocha-Espí Mercedes , Pinto-Carbó Marina , Ibáñez Josefa , Valverde-Roig María José , Portillo Isabel , Pérez-Riquelme Francisco , de la Vega Mariola , Castán-Cameo Susana , Salas Dolores , Molina-Barceló Ana
Published: February 2024

The objective of this study is to evaluate interval cancer (IC) in colorectal cancer (CRC) screening, which is CRC diagnosed in an individual after having received a negative faecal occult blood test and before the next invitation to participate in screening. A follow-up study was conducted on a cohort of participants in the first three screening rounds of four colorectal cancer screening programmes in Spain, n = 664,993. A total of 321 ICs and 2120 screen-detected cancers (SCs) were found. The IC and SC rates were calculated for each guaiac (gFOBT) or immunochemical (FIT) test. A Cox regression model was used to estimate the hazard ratios (HR) of IC risk factors. A nested case–control study was carried out to compare IC and SC tumour characteristics. The IC rate was 1.16‰ with the gFOBT and 0.35‰ with the FIT. Men and people aged 60–69 showed an increased probability of IC (HR = 1.81 and HR = 1.95, respectively). There was a decreased probability of IC in individuals who regularly participated in screening, HR = 0.62 (0.47–0.82). IC risk gradually rose as the amount of Hb detected in the FIT increased. IC tumours were in more advanced stages and of a larger size than SC tumours, and they were mostly located in the cecum. These results may play a key role in future strategies for screening programmes, reducing IC incidence.
Recent Therapeutic Advances in Gynecologic Oncology: A Review
Authors: Wilson Elise M. , Eskander Ramez N. , Binder Pratibha S.
Published: February 2024

Gynecologic malignancies have high incidence rates both nationally and internationally, and cervical, endometrial, and ovarian cancers account for high mortality rates worldwide. Significant research is ongoing to develop targeted therapies to address unmet needs in the field and improve patient outcomes. As tumors mutate and progress through traditional lines of treatment, new therapies must be developed to overcome resistance and target cancer-specific receptors and mutations. Recent advances in the development of immunotherapy and antibody–drug conjugates have resulted in compelling and clinically meaningful results in cervical, endometrial, and ovarian cancers. In the last decade, several immunotherapy agents have received FDA approval or NCCN guideline recommendation for the treatment of gynecologic malignancies, including dostarlimab for advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer and pembrolizumab for advanced or recurrent cervical and endometrial cancers. Several other immunotherapeutic agents are under active investigation. Development of antibody–drug conjugates including tisotumab vedotin in cervical cancer, mirvetuximab soravtansine in ovarian cancer, and trastuzumab deruxtecan in multiple gynecologic cancers has translated into exciting efficacy signals, prompting full drug approvals and additional investigation. This article aims to review recent novel advances in targeted treatments for gynecologic malignancies, highlighting the trials and data underlying these novel interventions.
Promising Results of Associating Liver Partition and Portal Vein Ligation for Staged Hepatectomy for Perihilar Cholangiocarcinoma in a Systematic Review and Single-Arm Meta-Analysis
Authors: Golriz Mohammad , Ramouz Ali , Hammad Ahmed , Aminizadeh Ehsan , Sabetkish Nastaran , Khajeh Elias , Ghamarnejad Omid , Carvalho Carlos , Rio-Tinto Hugo , Chang De-Hua , Joao Ana Alagoa , Goncalves Gil , Mehrabi Arianeb
Published: February 2024

Background: ALPPS popularity is increasing among surgeons worldwide and its indications are expanding to cure patients with primarily unresectable liver tumors. Few reports recommended limitations or even contraindications of ALPPS in perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (phCC). Here, we discuss the results of ALPPS in patients with phCC in a systematic review as well as a pooled data analysis. Methods: MEDLINE and Web of Science databases were systematically searched for relevant literature up to December 2023. All studies reporting ALPPS in the management of phCC were included. A single-arm meta-analysis of proportions was carried out to estimate the overall rate of outcomes. Results: After obtaining 207 articles from the primary search, data of 18 studies containing 112 phCC patients were included in our systematic review. Rates of major morbidity and mortality were calculated to be 43% and 22%, respectively. The meta-analysis revealed a PHLF rate of 23%. One-year disease-free survival was 65% and one-year overall survival was 69%. Conclusions: ALPPS provides a good chance of cure for patients with phCC in comparison to alternative treatment options, but at the expense of debatable morbidity and mortality. With refinement of the surgical technique and better perioperative patient management, the results of ALPPS in patients with phCC were improved.
Prediction of a Multi-Gene Assay (Oncotype DX and Mammaprint) Recurrence Risk Group Using Machine Learning in Estrogen Receptor-Positive, HER2-Negative Breast Cancer—The BRAIN Study
Authors: Ji Jung-Hwan , Ahn Sung Gwe , Yoo Youngbum , Park Shin-Young , Kim Joo-Heung , Jeong Ji-Yeong , Park Seho , Lee Ilkyun
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to develop a machine learning-based prediction model for predicting multi-gene assay (MGA) risk categories. Patients with estrogen receptor-positive (ER+)/HER2− breast cancer who had undergone Oncotype DX (ODX) or MammaPrint (MMP) were used to develop the prediction model. The development cohort consisted of a total of 2565 patients including 2039 patients tested with ODX and 526 patients tested with MMP. The MMP risk prediction model utilized a single XGBoost model, and the ODX risk prediction model utilized combined LightGBM, CatBoost, and XGBoost models through soft voting. Additionally, the ensemble (MMP + ODX) model combining MMP and ODX utilized CatBoost and XGBoost through soft voting. Ten random samples, corresponding to 10% of the modeling dataset, were extracted, and cross-validation was performed to evaluate the accuracy on each validation set. The accuracy of our predictive models was 84.8% for MMP, 87.9% for ODX, and 86.8% for the ensemble model. In the ensemble cohort, the sensitivity, specificity, and precision for predicting the low-risk category were 0.91, 0.66, and 0.92, respectively. The prediction accuracy exceeded 90% in several subgroups, with the highest prediction accuracy of 95.7% in the subgroup that met Ki-67 <20 and HG 1~2 and premenopausal status. Our machine learning-based predictive model has the potential to complement existing MGAs in ER+/HER2− breast cancer.
The Role of Imaging in Cervical Cancer Staging: ESGO/ESTRO/ESP Guidelines (Update 2023)
Authors: Fischerova Daniela , Frühauf Filip , Burgetova Andrea , Haldorsen Ingfrid S. , Gatti Elena , Cibula David
Published: February 2024

Following the European Society of Gynaecological Oncology (ESGO), the European Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology (ESTRO), and the European Society of Pathology (ESP) joint guidelines (2018) for the management of patients with cervical cancer, treatment decisions should be guided by modern imaging techniques. After five years (2023), an update of the ESGO-ESTRO-ESP recommendations was performed, further confirming this statement. Transvaginal/transrectal ultrasound (TRS/TVS) or pelvic magnetic resonance (MRI) enables tumor delineation and precise assessment of its local extent, including the evaluation of the depth of infiltration in the bladder- or rectal wall. Additionally, both techniques have very high specificity to confirm the presence of metastatic pelvic lymph nodes but fail to exclude them due to insufficient sensitivity to detect small-volume metastases, as in any other currently available imaging modality. In early-stage disease (T1a to T2a1, except T1b3) with negative lymph nodes on TVS/TRS or MRI, surgicopathological staging should be performed. In all other situations, contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) or 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography combined with CT (PET-CT) is recommended to assess extrapelvic spread. This paper aims to review the evidence supporting the implementation of diagnostic imaging with a focus on ultrasound at primary diagnostic workup of cervical cancer.
Drug Response of Patient-Derived Lung Cancer Cells Predicts Clinical Outcomes of Targeted Therapy
Authors: Kim Sunshin , Lee Youngjoo , Song Bo Ram , Sim Hanna , Kang Eun Hye , Hwang Mihwa , Yu Namhee , Hong Sehwa , Park Charny , Ahn Beung-Chul , Lim Eun Jin , Hwang Kum Hui , Park Seog-Yun , Choi Jin-Ho , Lee Geon Kook , Han Ji-Youn
Published: February 2024

Intratumor heterogeneity leads to different responses to targeted therapies, even within patients whose tumors harbor identical driver oncogenes. This study examined clinical outcomes according to a patient-derived cell (PDC)-based drug sensitivity test in lung cancer patients treated with targeted therapies. From 487 lung cancers, 397 PDCs were established with a success rate of 82%. In 139 PDCs from advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients receiving targeted therapies, the standardized area under the curve (AUC) values for the drugs was significantly correlated with their tumor response (p = 0.002). Among 59 chemo-naive EGFR/ALK-positive NSCLC patients, the PDC non-responders showed a significantly inferior response rate (RR) and progression-free survival (PFS) for the targeted drugs than the PDC responders (RR, 25% vs. 78%, p = 0.011; median PFS, 3.4 months [95% confidence interval (CI), 2.8–4.1] vs. 11.8 months [95% CI, 6.5–17.0], p < 0.001). Of 25 EGFR-positive NSCLC patients re-challenged with EGFR inhibitors, the PDC responder showed a higher RR than the PDC non-responder (42% vs. 15%). Four patients with wild-type EGFR or uncommon EGFR-mutant NSCLC were treated with EGFR inhibitors based on their favorable PDC response to EGFR inhibitors, and two patients showed dramatic responses. Therefore, the PDC-based drug sensitivity test results were significantly associated with clinical outcomes in patients with EGFR- or ALK-positive NSCLC. It may be helpful for predicting individual heterogenous clinical outcomes beyond genomic alterations.
Ocular Motor Cranial Nerve Palsies and Increased Risk of Primary Malignant Brain Tumors: South Korean National Health Insurance Data
Authors: Lyu In Jeong , Han Kyungdo , Park Kyung-Ah , Oh Sei Yeul
Published: February 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between ocular motor cranial nerve palsies (OMCNP) and the occurrence of primary malignant brain tumors in a Korean population, using the national sample cohort database from Korea National Health Insurance Service (KNHIS). KNHIS data between 2010 and 2017 were analyzed. Our sample encompassed 118,686 participants, including 19,781 from a recently diagnosed OMCNP cohort and 98,905 from a matched control cohort through a 1:5 propensity score matching based on age and gender. To counteract the issue of reverse causation, we integrated a one-year time lag in our sensitivity analysis. Study participants were followed up until 31 December 2019. Cox proportional hazard regression analysis was used to compute the adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for primary malignant brain tumors according to the OMCNP diagnosis. Additionally, we performed a subgroup analysis to discern effects of various factors on the association between OMCNP and primary malignant brain tumors. HR for primary malignant brain tumors was 3.272 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.294 to 4.665) in the OMCNP cohort compared to the control cohort in a fully adjusted model for age, sex, socio-economic status, smoking, drinking, regular physical exercise, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, obesity, chronic kidney disease, and human immunodeficiency virus infection. Further subgroup analysis revealed that the risk of primary malignant brain tumors was significantly increased in women with OMCNP compared to men with OMCNP (HR: 5.118 in women vs. 2.441 in men, p = 0.0440), and in those aged <65 years than in those aged ≥65 years (HR: 6.951 in age < 65 years vs. 1.899 in age ≥ 65 years, p = 0.0006). Our population-based cohort study demonstrated a significantly increased risk of subsequent primary malignant brain tumors in patients with OMCNP. Particularly, OMCNP-afflicted women aged below 65 manifested a heightened probability of developing primary malignant brain tumors compared to those devoid of OMCNP.
The Green Synthesis of Biodiesel via Esterification in Water Catalyzed by the Phosphotungstic Acid–Functionalized Hydrophobic MCM–41 Catalyst
Authors: Li Dengke , Shi Qinghao , Liang Fengbing , Feng Dexin
Published: February 2024

Biodiesel is a non-toxic and environmentally friendly fuel that is made from renewable biological sources. It can replace petrochemical diesel and has very broad application prospects. However, the main raw materials in biodiesel are animal and plant oils, which present the problems of high costs and a lack of resources. The current research primarily emphasizes the transesterification process, with comparatively less focus on the esterification of fatty acids. In this paper, a series of phosphotungstic acid (PTA)-functionalized hydrophobic MCM–41 catalysts, OTS–PTA–MCM–41(Cx), were synthesized and used to catalyze the esterification of long-chain fatty acids with methanol in water. The experimental results show that the yield of esterification reached a maximum when catalyzed by OTS–PTA–MCM–41(Cx) and synthesized with a template agent with two carbon atoms less than the number of carbon atoms of a fatty acid. The effects of different reaction variables were investigated to optimize the reaction conditions for the maximum conversion. The stability of the catalyst was also verified. Finally, a mixed catalyst was used to catalyze in situ the esterification of fatty acids in a fermentation broth, which reached a high level (close to 90%). This paper provides references for the synthesis of a hydrophobic solid acid catalyst and green synthesis by esterification reactions in an aqueous solution and a fermentation broth system.
ICAMs in Immunity, Intercellular Adhesion and Communication
Authors: Guerra-Espinosa Claudia , Jiménez-Fernández María , Sánchez-Madrid Francisco , Serrador Juan M.
Published: February 2024

Interactions among leukocytes and leukocytes with immune-associated auxiliary cells represent an essential feature of the immune response that requires the involvement of cell adhesion molecules (CAMs). In the immune system, CAMs include a wide range of members pertaining to different structural and functional families involved in cell development, activation, differentiation and migration. Among them, β2 integrins (LFA-1, Mac-1, p150,95 and αDβ2) are predominantly involved in homotypic and heterotypic leukocyte adhesion. β2 integrins bind to intercellular (I)CAMs, actin cytoskeleton-linked receptors belonging to immunoglobulin superfamily (IgSF)-CAMs expressed by leukocytes and vascular endothelial cells, enabling leukocyte activation and transendothelial migration. β2 integrins have long been viewed as the most important ICAMs partners, propagating intracellular signalling from β2 integrin-ICAM adhesion receptor interaction. In this review, we present previous evidence from pioneering studies and more recent findings supporting an important role for ICAMs in signal transduction. We also discuss the contribution of immune ICAMs (ICAM-1, -2, and -3) to reciprocal cell signalling and function in processes in which β2 integrins supposedly take the lead, paying particular attention to T cell activation, differentiation and migration.
Exploring Interleukin Levels in Type 1 Diabetes and Periodontitis: A Review with a Focus on Childhood
Authors: D’Agostino Silvia , Valentini Giulia , Dolci Marco
Published: February 2024

Diabetes can trigger an increase in cytokine levels leading to the production of C-reactive protein and fibrinogen. These molecules promote subclinical inflammation, causing the expression of adhesive molecules and endothelial dysfunction. Despite the lack of a comprehensive panel for single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for interleukins associated with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), understanding the inflammatory role of SNPs is crucial because periodontitis, the sixth complication of diabetes, is influenced via these genetic variations. This review focuses on the interleukin levels in T1DM patients with and without periodontitis, with a particular focus on childhood and on SNPs when reported. A search of PubMed and Scopus identified 21 relevant studies from the past five years. Several ILs were analyzed, emphasizing that T1DM still needs to be thoroughly explored regarding an IL polymorphisms panel; however, the last five years have led to the increased independence of this condition, causing autonomous inflammatory effects, which require further investigation. The periodontitis and T1DM association in children and adolescents represents a severe gap in the literature that should be filled; this scarce presence of studies serves as motivation for further clinical research.