bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extracellular Compounds from Pathogenic Bacterium Pseudoalteromonas piscicida X-8 Cause Bleaching Disease, Triggering Active Defense Responses in Commercially Farmed Saccharina japonica
Authors: Chen Yao , Zhang Xiaoyang , Ma Mingyu , Zhuang Yingrui , Chang Lirong , Xiao Luyang , Wang Gaoge
Published: December 2022

Pathogenic bacteria can trigger active defense responses in higher plants, leading to hypersensitive programmed cell death (PCD) to against those bacteria. However, related research on seaweeds is very limited. Pseudoalteromonas piscicida X-8 (PpX-8) has been identified as the pathogen that causes bleaching disease in commercially farmed Saccharina japonica. In this study, using an inoculation assay and microscopic observations, we found that the proportion of bleaching tissue pieces inoculated with PpX-8 extracellular compounds was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that inoculated with heated extracellular compounds, indicating that the virulence factors of PpX-8 exist in extracellular compounds and they are heat-sensitive. Using TEM, we observed typical morphological characteristics of PCD after inoculation with extracellular compounds, including chloroplast shrinkage, cytoplasmic vacuolation, and intact mitochondrial structures. Moreover, we detected biochemical characteristics of PCD, such as 3′-OH ends resulting from DNA cleavage and caspase-3-like enzymatic activity, using a TUNEL assay and fluorescence staining. Therefore, PpX-8 extracellular compounds can induce PCD, thus triggering active defense responses in S. japonica. These results indicate that seaweeds and higher plants are conservative in their active defense responses against pathogenic bacteria. The results of this study lay the foundation for further investigation of the virulence mechanisms of PpX-8.
In Silico Drug Design and Discovery: Big Data for Small Molecule Design
Authors: Cerchia Carmen , Lavecchia Antonio
Published: December 2022

Across life sciences, the steadily and rapidly increasing amount of data provide new opportunities for advancing knowledge and represent a key driver of emerging technological advancements [...]
Morphometric Changes of Osteocyte Lacunar in Diabetic Pig Mandibular Cancellous Bone
Authors: Yao Sheng , Du Zhibin , Xiao Lan , Yan Fuhua , Ivanovski Saso , Xiao Yin
Published: December 2022

Osteocytes play an important role in bone metabolism. The interactions of osteocytes with the surrounding microenvironment can alter cellular and lacunar morphological changes. However, objective quantification of osteocyte lacunae is challenging due to their deep location in the bone matrix. This project established a novel method for the analytical study of osteocytes/lacunae, which was then used to evaluate the osteocyte morphological changes in diabetic pig mandibular bone. Eight miniature pigs were sourced, and diabetes was randomly induced in four animals using streptozotocin (STZ) administration. The mandibular tissues were collected and processed. The jawbone density was evaluated with micro-CT. Osteocyte lacunae were effectively acquired and identified using backscattered electron scanning microscopy (BSE). A significantly decreased osteocyte lacunae size was found in the diabetic group. Using the acid etching method, it was demonstrated that the area of osteocyte and lacunae, and the pericellular areas were both significantly reduced in the diabetes group. In conclusion, a standard and relatively reliable method for analyzing osteocyte/lacunae morphological changes under compromised conditions has been successfully established. This method demonstrates that diabetes can significantly decrease osteocyte/lacunae size in a pig’s mandibular cancellous bone.
Effects of Maternal Exposure to Decamethylcyclopentasiloxane on the Alternations in Offspring Behaviors in Mice
Authors: Yi Donglin , Kim Kangmin , Lee Minsu , Jung Eui-man , Jeung Eui-Bae
Published: December 2022

D5, a member of the cyclic siloxane family, is widely used in personal care products such as shampoo, cosmetics, and deodorant and as an industrial intermediate. D5 can mainly be absorbed orally or through inhalation. Through these routes, people are exposed to D5 daily. However, the risk of prenatal exposure to D5 has not been fully elucidated. In this study, the effect of D5 on neural development was established through behavioral tests on offspring mice. The result confirmed that the maternal administration of 12 mg/kg of D5 showed depression in tail suspension and decreased performance in the forced swimming test as well as an increase in repetitive activity in both the marble-burying test and grooming test compared to the vehicle group. Furthermore, the 12 mg/kg group showed a decrease in cognitive ability and social behavior in the three-chamber test. In the novel object recognition test, memory impairment and a lack of exploring ability were found in the 12 mg/kg group. In conclusion, it is suggested that maternal D5 exposure has developmental neurotoxicity and can cause behavioral disorders in the offspring of mice. Thus, the usage of D5 needs to be considered carefully.
The Emerging Role of Menstrual-Blood-Derived Stem Cells in Endometriosis
Authors: Cordeiro Mariana Robalo , Carvalhos Carlota Anjinho , Figueiredo-Dias Margarida
Published: December 2022

The human endometrium has a complex cellular composition that is capable of promoting cyclic regeneration, where endometrial stem cells play a critical role. Menstrual blood-derived stem cells (MenSC) were first discovered in 2007 and described as exhibiting mesenchymal stem cell properties, setting them in the spotlight for endometriosis research. The stem cell theory for endometriosis pathogenesis, supported by the consensual mechanism of retrograde menstruation, highlights the recognized importance that MenSC have gained by potentially being directly related to the genesis, development and maintenance of ectopic endometriotic lesions. Meanwhile, the differences observed between MenSC in patients with endometriosis and in healthy women underlines the applicability of these cells as a putative biomarker for the early diagnosis of endometriosis, as well as for the development of targeted therapies. It is expected that in the near future MenSC will have the potential to change the way we manage this complex disease, once their long-term safety and effectiveness are assessed.
The Use of Second-Generation Antipsychotics in Patients with Severe Schizophrenia in the Real World: The Role of the Route of Administration and Dosage—A 5-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Fernández-Miranda Juan J. , Díaz-Fernández Silvia , López-Muñoz Francisco
Published: December 2022

To assess the impact of the route of administration and doses of second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) on treatment adherence, hospital admissions, and suicidal behaviour in patients with severe schizophrenia (Clinical Global Impression–Severity–CGI-S ≥ 5), we implemented an observational 5-year follow-up study. A total of 37.5% of the patients on oral antipsychotics (Aps) and 11.5% of those on long-acting injectables (LAIs) abandoned the treatment (p < 0.001). There were no differences in treatment discontinuation between the LAI-AP standard and high-dose groups. A total of 28.1% of the patients on oral Aps had at least one hospitalisation, as well as 13.1% of patients on LAIs (p < 0.001). There were fewer hospitalisations of patients on LAIs in the high-dose group (p < 0.05). Suicide attempts were recorded for 18% of patients on oral Aps but only for 4.6% of patients on LAIs (p < 0.001). No differences were found between the dosage groups on LAIs. Tolerability was good for all Aps and somewhat better for LAIs than oral Aps in terms of side effects (p < 0.05). There were no differences between the standard and high-dose groups. More patients discontinued treatment due to side effects in the oral AP group (p < 0.01). LAI SGA treatment was more effective than oral AP in terms of adherence and treatment outcomes for managing people with severe schizophrenia. Moreover, significant improvements were found that favour high-dose LAI SGA treatment for some of these patients. This study highlights the need to consider LAI antipsychotics and high-dose strategies for patients with severe schizophrenia.
Prognostic Significance of BRAF V600E Mutation and CPSF2 Protein Expression in Papillary Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Ivković Irena , Limani Zgjim , Jakovčević Antonia , Gajović Srećko , Seiwerth Sven , Đanić Hadžibegović Ana , Prgomet Drago
Published: December 2022

The early-stage diagnosis of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) has significantly increased in incidence worldwide without any beneficial impact on survival. In order to improve the risk assessment in PTC, we have conducted a retrospective study in which we analyzed the BRAF V600E mutation and CPSF2 protein expression as prognostic markers on archival tissue samples of 49 patients without (control group) and 97 patients with (study group) PTC metastases in the cervical lymph nodes at the time of initial diagnosis. Our aim was to correlate the BRAF V600E mutation and the expression of CPSF2 protein with the clinical and pathological features of PTC. The expression of CPSF2 protein was evaluated via immunohistochemistry and graded semi-quantitatively. The presence of the BRAF V600E mutation was determined via real-time polymerase chain reac-tion (PCR). CPSF2 protein < 3+ intensity expression was correlated with more frequent recurrences (Fisher-Freeman-Halton exact test; p = 0.010; 95% CI: 1.26–22.03), and patients who presented with the BRAF V600E mutation and CPSF2 protein expression < 3+ intensity had shorter disease-free survival (log-rank test; 105.0 months vs. 146.6 months; p < 0.001; HR 8.32, 95% CI: 2.91–23.83), whereas patients with PTC who had CPSF2 expression 3+ had longer disease-free survival in correlation with other lower intensity expressions of CPSF2 protein (log-rank test; 139.7 months vs. 129.6 months; p = 0.008). The multivariate analysis showed that younger patients with CPSF2 protein expression <3+ and the BRAF V600E mutation are at an increased risk for recurrence and require more intensive monitoring (Cox proportional hazards regression model; X2 = 17.5, df = 10, p = 0.025). Our results correlate the BRAF V600E mutation and CPSF2 protein expression with recurrence and disease-free survival as relevant prognostic factors for PTC.
Utilization of Personalized Machine-Learning to Screen for Dysglycemia from Ambulatory ECG, toward Noninvasive Blood Glucose Monitoring
Authors: Chiu I-Min , Cheng Chi-Yung , Chang Po-Kai , Li Chao-Jui , Cheng Fu-Jen , Lin Chun-Hung Richard
Published: December 2022

Blood glucose (BG) monitoring is important for critically ill patients, as poor sugar control has been associated with increased mortality in hospitalized patients. However, constant BG monitoring can be resource-intensive and pose a healthcare burden in clinical practice. In this study, we aimed to develop a personalized machine-learning model to predict dysglycemia from electrocardiogram (ECG) data. We used the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care III database as our source of data and obtained more than 20 ECG records from each included patient during a single hospital admission. We focused on lead II recordings, along with corresponding blood sugar data. We processed the data and used ECG features from each heartbeat as inputs to develop a one-class support vector machine algorithm to predict dysglycemia. The model was able to predict dysglycemia using a single heartbeat with an AUC of 0.92 ± 0.09, a sensitivity of 0.92 ± 0.10, and specificity of 0.84 ± 0.04. After applying 10 s majority voting, the AUC of the model’s dysglycemia prediction increased to 0.97 ± 0.06. This study showed that a personalized machine-learning algorithm can accurately detect dysglycemia from a single-lead ECG.
A Synergistic Dual-Channel Sensor for Ultrasensitive Detection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa by DNA Nanostructure and G-Quadruplex
Authors: Yuan Wei , Wang Xinxia , Sun Zhilan , Liu Fang , Wang Daoying
Published: December 2022

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the foodborne pathogenic bacteria that greatly threatens human health. An ultrasensitive technology for P. aeruginosa detection is urgently demanded. Herein, based on the mechanism of aptamer-specific recognition, an electrochemical-colorimetric dual-mode ultrasensitive sensing strategy for P. aeruginosa is proposed. The vertices of DNA tetrahedral nanoprobes (DTNPs), that immobilized on the gold electrode were modified with P. aeruginosa aptamers. Furthermore, the G-quadruplex, which was conjugated with a P. aeruginosa aptamer, was synthesized via rolling circle amplification (RCA). Once P. aeruginosa is captured, a hemin/G-quadruplex, which possesses peroxidase-mimicking activity, will separate from the P. aeruginosa aptamer. Then, the exfoliated hemin/G-quadruplexes are collected for oxidation of the 3,3′,5′,5′-tetramethylbenzidine for colorimetric sensing. In the electrochemical mode, the hemin/G-quadruplex that is still bound to the aptamer catalyzes polyaniline (PANI) deposition and leads to a measurable electrochemical signal. The colorimetric and electrochemical channels demonstrated a good forward and reverse linear response for P. aeruginosa within the range of 1–108 CFU mL−1, respectively. Overall, compared with a traditional single-mode sensor for P. aeruginosa, the proposed dual-mode sensor featuring self-calibration not only avoids false positive results but also improves accuracy and sensitivity. Furthermore, the consistency of the electrochemical/colorimetric assay was verified in practical meat samples and showed great potential for applications in bioanalysis.
Raman Spectroscopy on Brain Disorders: Transition from Fundamental Research to Clinical Applications
Authors: Ranasinghe Jeewan C. , Wang Ziyang , Huang Shengxi
Published: December 2022

Brain disorders such as brain tumors and neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are accompanied by chemical alterations in the tissues. Early diagnosis of these diseases will provide key benefits for patients and opportunities for preventive treatments. To detect these sophisticated diseases, various imaging modalities have been developed such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET). However, they provide inadequate molecule-specific information. In comparison, Raman spectroscopy (RS) is an analytical tool that provides rich information about molecular fingerprints. It is also inexpensive and rapid compared to CT, MRI, and PET. While intrinsic RS suffers from low yield, in recent years, through the adoption of Raman enhancement technologies and advanced data analysis approaches, RS has undergone significant advancements in its ability to probe biological tissues, including the brain. This review discusses recent clinical and biomedical applications of RS and related techniques applicable to brain tumors and NDs.
Shape-Programmable Liquid Metal Fibers
Authors: Ma Biao , Zhang Jin , Chen Gangsheng , Chen Yi , Xu Chengtao , Lei Lanjie , Liu Hong
Published: December 2022

Conductive and stretchable fibers are the cornerstone of intelligent textiles and imperceptible electronics. Among existing fiber conductors, gallium-based liquid metals (LMs) featuring high conductivity, fluidity, and self-healing are excellent candidates for highly stretchable fibers with sensing, actuation, power generation, and interconnection functionalities. However, current LM fibers fabricated by direct injection or surface coating have a limitation in shape programmability. This hinders their applications in functional fibers with tunable electromechanical response and miniaturization. Here, we reported a simple and efficient method to create shape-programmable LM fibers using the phase transition of gallium. Gallium metal wires in the solid state can be easily shaped into a 3D helical structure, and the structure can be preserved after coating the wire with polyurethane and liquifying the metal. The 3D helical LM fiber offered enhanced stretchability with a high breaking strain of 1273% and showed invariable conductance over 283% strain. Moreover, we can reduce the fiber diameter by stretching the fiber during the solidification of polyurethane. We also demonstrated applications of the programmed fibers in self-powered strain sensing, heart rate monitoring, airflow, and humidity sensing. This work provided simple and facile ways toward functional LM fibers, which may facilitate the broad applications of LM fibers in e-skins, wearable computation, soft robots, and smart fabrics.
A Family Systems Perspective on Attachment Security and Dependency to Mother and Father in Preschool: Differential and Reciprocal Effects on Children’s Emotional and Behavioral Problems
Authors: Iwanski Alexandra , Lichtenstein Lucie , Forster Fabienne , Stadelmann Céline , Bodenmann Guy , Zimmermann Peter
Published: December 2022

Attachment security and dependency play a decisive role for children’s mental health. From a family systems perspective, reciprocal effects of dyadic attachment to each parent within the same family on child symptomatology may well offer additional insights in developmental processes as parents and children influence each other consistently. This study examined the influence of child-mother as well as child–father attachment security and dependency on maternal, paternal, and observed ratings of children’s emotional and behavioral problems. A total of 124 families with preschool children participated in this study. Attachment security, dependency, and symptomatology of the children were independently observed during home visits. Furthermore, mothers and fathers rated child symptoms. Results revealed promotive effects of attachment security to both parents on observed child symptoms. Furthermore, we found a significant actor effect of child-mother attachment security, as well as a significant partner effect of child–father dependency on maternal ratings of child symptomatology. Attachment security to both parents is promotive for child mental health. The family systems perspective clarifies the meaning of child–father relationships for maternal perception of the own child.
Value of Antibody Determinations in Chronic Dysimmune Neuropathies
Authors: Tozza Stefano , Spina Emanuele , Iovino Aniello , Iodice Rosa , Dubbioso Raffaele , Ruggiero Lucia , Nolano Maria , Manganelli Fiore
Published: December 2022

Chronic dysimmune neuropathies encompass a group of neuropathies that share immune-mediated pathomechanism. Chronic dysimmune antibody-related neuropathies include anti-MAG neuropathy, multifocal motor neuropathy, and neuropathies related to immune attack against paranodal antigens. Such neuropathies exhibit distinguishing pathomechanism, clinical and response to therapy features with respect to chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy and its variants, which represent the most frequent form of chronic dysimmune neuropathy. This narrative review provides an overview of pathomechanism; clinical, electrophysiological, and biochemical features; and treatment response of the antibody-mediated neuropathies, aiming to establish when and why to look for antibodies in chronic dysimmune neuropathies.
Decomposing Working Memory in Recurrent Major Depression: Impaired Encoding and Limited Maintenance Immune-to-Encoding Constraint
Authors: Chen Zhitang , Dou Zheng , Xu Hui , Wang Zhenghua , Zeng Suhua , Yang Xiangyu , Takahashi Eiki , Popovic Milos R. , Wang Lihui , Li Weidong
Published: December 2022

It is generally believed that working memory (WM) is dysfunctional in depression. However, whether this impaired performance originates from impaired encoding, maintenance or both stages is still unclear. Here, we aimed to decompose the abnormal characteristics of encoding and maintenance in patients with recurrent major depressive disorder (MDD). Thirty patients and thirty-nine healthy controls completed a spatial working memory task where the encoding time and the retention time could vary under different load levels. Encoding performance was assessed by comparing accuracies between short and long encoding times, and maintenance performance was assessed by comparing accuracies between short and long retention times. The results show a lower performance in depression than the controls. However, while the decreased accuracy by long retention (vs. short retention) was increased by a short encoding time in the control group, the retention performance of the depression group did not further suffer from the short encoding time. The generally impaired encoding, together with limited maintenance of immunity against the constrained encoding time, suggests a common bias for fixed internal processing over external processing in recurrent MDD. The paradigm provided in this study can be a convenient and efficient clinical test for assessing the WM encoding and maintenance function.
Neuroscience in Education: A Bridge Too Far or One That Has Yet to Be Built: Introduction to the “Brain Goes to School”
Authors: Leisman Gerry
Published: December 2022

There have been numerous detractors and supporters relating to attempts to merge the neurosciences and the knowledge base of related contributing disciplines with the field of education. Some have argued that this is a “bridge too far”. The predominant view is that the relationship between neuroscience and the classroom has been neither significantly examined, nor applied. What is needed is a specially trained class of professionals whose role it would be to guide the introduction of cognitive neuroscience into educational practice in a sensible and ethical manner. Neuroeducators would play a pivotal role in assessing the quality of evidence purporting to be relevant to education, assessing who is best placed to employ newly developed knowledge, as well as with what safeguards, in addition to investigating how to deal with unexpected consequences of implemented research findings. This special issue of the “The Brain Goes to School” aims to provide support for the development of training programs that truly integrate curriculum design and classroom instruction with the developmental cognitive neurosciences.
The First Year of the Psychiatric Diseases Section
Authors: Kelly Robert E.
Published: December 2022

Since its inception in May 2021, the Psychiatric Diseases Section of Brain Sciences has grown to include a staff of 28 academic editors with expertise related to clinical psychiatry, in addition to its supporting staff of managing and English-language editors [...]
Psychotic Episode and Schizophrenia in Slovakian Narcolepsy Database
Authors: Feketeová Eva , Dragašek Jozef , Klobučníková Katarína , Ďurdík Peter , Čarnakovič Simona , Slavkovská Miriam , Chylová Martina
Published: December 2022

Narcolepsy type 1 (NT1), a central disorder of hypersomnolence, is associated with mood, anxiety or hyperactivity mental disorders. Association with psychotic episode or schizophrenia is rare and could be the source of diagnostic and therapeutic difficulties. Their frequency in the national narcolepsy database has not been systematically studied. The aim of the presented study was to calculate the frequency of NT1 patients diagnosed with psychosis and/or schizophrenia, to identify clinical characteristics of these cases, and to look for narcoleptic and psychotic symptoms during re-evaluation years later. We identified three (4%) cases diagnosed with a psychotic episode in the course of NT1. They were diagnosed with NT1 by age ≤18 years. In the re-evaluation (mean follow-up 9.8 years), we identified one case with a dual diagnosis of NT1 and schizophrenia; two cases were diagnosed with a solitary psychotic episode in the course of NT1. NT1 patients diagnosed in the age ≤18 years are at higher risk of psychotic episode, and this may be related to higher vulnerability during the ongoing neurodevelopmental period. Comorbid schizophrenia with NT1 in the Slovakian Narcolepsy Database was within the prevalence expected in the general population. The solitary psychotic episode in the course of NT1 did not reduce the possibility of subsequent symptomatic treatment afterwards.
Functional Coherence in Intrinsic Frontal Executive Networks Predicts Cognitive Impairments in Alcohol Use Disorder
Authors: Canessa Nicola , Basso Gianpaolo , Manera Marina , Poggi Paolo , Gianelli Claudia
Published: December 2022

Growing evidence highlights the potential of innovative rehabilitative interventions such as cognitive remediation and neuromodulation, aimed at reducing relapses in Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). Enhancing their effectiveness requires a thorough description of the neural correlates of cognitive alterations in AUD. Past related attempts, however, were limited by the focus on selected neuro-cognitive variables. We aimed to fill this gap by combining, in 22 AUD patients and 18 controls, an extensive neuro-cognitive evaluation and metrics of intrinsic connectivity as highlighted by resting-state brain activity. We addressed an inherent property of intrinsic activity such as intra-network coherence, the temporal correlation of the slow synchronous fluctuations within resting-state networks, representing an early biomarker of alterations in the functional brain architecture underlying cognitive functioning. AUD patients displayed executive impairments involving working-memory, attention and visuomotor speed, reflecting abnormal coherence of activity and grey matter atrophy within default mode, in addition to the attentional and the executive networks. The stronger relationship between fronto-lateral coherent activity and executive performance in patients than controls highlighted possible compensatory mechanisms counterbalancing the decreased functionality of networks driving the switch from automatic to controlled behavior. These results provide novel insights into AUD patients’ cognitive impairments, their neural bases, and possible targets of rehabilitative interventions.
Distinct Thalamic and Frontal Neuroanatomical Substrates in Children with Familial vs. Non-Familial Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Authors: Baboli Rahman , Cao Meng , Halperin Jeffery M. , Li Xiaobo
Published: December 2022

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a highly prevalent, inheritable, and heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder. Children with a family history of ADHD are at elevated risk of having ADHD and persisting its symptoms into adulthood. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of having or not having positive family risk factor in the neuroanatomy of the brain in children with ADHD. Cortical thickness-, surface area-, and volume-based measures were extracted and compared in a total of 606 participants, including 132, 165, and 309 in groups of familial ADHD (ADHD-F), non-familial ADHD (ADHD-NF), and typically developed children, respectively. Compared to controls, ADHD probands showed significantly reduced gray matter surface area in the left cuneus. Among the ADHD subgroups, ADHD-F showed significantly increased gray matter volume in the right thalamus and significantly thinner cortical thickness in the right pars orbitalis. Among ADHD-F, an increased volume of the right thalamus was significantly correlated with a reduced DSM-oriented t-score for ADHD problems. The findings of this study may suggest that a positive family history of ADHD is associated with the structural abnormalities in the thalamus and inferior frontal gyrus; these anatomical abnormalities may significantly contribute to the emergence of ADHD symptoms.
Burden of Surgical Treatment for the Management of Cervical Myelopathy in Mucopolysaccharidoses: A Systematic Review
Authors: Costanzo Roberta , Bonosi Lapo , Porzio Massimiliano , Paolini Federica , Brunasso Lara , Giovannini Andrea Evier , Silven Manikon Poullay , Giammalva Giuseppe Roberto , Umana Giuseppe Emmanuele , Scalia Gianluca , Iacopino Domenico Gerardo , Maugeri Rosario
Published: December 2022

Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPSs) are a rare group of heterogeneous genetic and metabolic disorders, caused by loss of functions of several enzymes that are involved in glycosaminoglycan catabolism. Their progressive accumulations in cells, tissues, and consequently, organs lead to several clinical manifestations, such as musculoskeletal involvement. Indeed, the most common manifestation in the central nervous system is represented by cervical spinal stenosis due to bony alterations or dural thickening. Cervical involvement can commonly cause myelopathy and instability exerting severe symptoms. A prompt diagnosis and treatment of the aforementioned conditions is mandatory to ensure a better quality of life in patients with such debilitating disorders. Nevertheless, a clear consensus about their management (i.e., surgical or not) is still lacking, leading to an inevitable delay. This review aims to investigate and discuss the main causes of myelopathy in patients with mucopolysaccharidoses, available therapeutic strategies, and the impact and role of surgery on the neurological outcome.
Exploring the Impact of Online and Offline Channel Advantages on Brand Relationship Performance: The Mediating Role of Consumer Perceived Value
Authors: Zhao Yunyun , Zhao Xiaoyu , Liu Yanzhe
Published: December 2022

As omnichannel shopping behavior becomes increasingly popular among consumers, how to leverage the respective advantages and synergies of online and offline channels to retain customers for a long time is an urgent issue for retailers to solve. The purpose of this study is to explore the key advantages of online and offline channels influencing the omnichannel shopping experience in the decision-making process, and investigate their impact on consumer perceived value and brand relationship performance, as well as the interaction effect of online channel advantages and offline channel advantages. This study identifies the key advantages of online channels (search convenience, customer-generated information richness, and social connection) and offline channels (direct product experience, sales-staff assistance, and servicescape aesthetics) through a qualitative study and relevant literature review. Then, the proposed research framework was tested using the structural model equation in AMOS and hierarchical regression techniques in SPSS utilizing data from 347 shoppers. The results show that all variables except customer-generated information richness have positive impact on consumer perceived value. Other than search convenience and customer-generated information richness, consumer perceived value mediates the effect of other variables on brand relationship performance. Additionally, the interaction effect of online and offline channel advantages positively impacts consumer perceived value.
Determining the Core Competencies of a Coach: Design and Validation of a New Methodology
Authors: Birknerova Zuzana , Misko David , Zbihlejova Lucia
Published: December 2022

Coaching is a complex and diverse profession with a wide range of uses. Despite determining the approach to coaching, examining the core competencies of coaches is rarely explored. The aim of this study was to design and validate the CCC3 methodology (the three core competencies of a coach). The research sample consisted of 387 respondents for the exploratory factor analysis and 532 respondents for the confirmatory factor analysis. The confirmatory factor analysis proved the existence of three factors that cover a coach’s core competencies, namely, F1—effective communication and awareness creation, F2—relationship creation and active listening, and F3—laying the foundations. The study also provides an overview of the applicability of the CCC3 methodology in coaching practice. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis made it possible to create a 24-item model that describes the core competencies of a coach. The verified questionnaire can be used as a tool to assess the key, i.e., the core competencies of a coach, which represent the basis for the coaching approach, enriching the issue of coaching on a practical level. It is possible to use the methodology in management and education but also wherever it is necessary to evaluate the core competencies of a coach.
Relationship between Green Leaders’ Emotional Intelligence and Employees’ Green Behavior: A PLS-SEM Approach
Authors: Hu Xiao , Li Rita Yi Man , Kumari Kalpina , Ben Belgacem Samira , Fu Qinghua , Khan Mohammed Arshad , Alkhuraydili Abdulaziz A.
Published: December 2022

The green leadership (GL) concept has significantly gained popularity over the last decade. Consequently, more research has been conducted on this emerging leadership concept, emphasizing leadership styles that promote the green environment so that sustainable goals can be achieved. In the present research, leaders’ emotional intelligence (EI) is positioned as a mediating variable between GL and employees’ green organizational citizenship behavior (GOCB). The data of this research comprised managerial and non-managerial staff from the manufacturing and service industries. A PLS-SEM was used to evaluate the relationship between the various factors among 422 employees. The empirical findings indicated that GL and GOCB had a favorable and robust relationship. The results of the study also suggested that a leader’s EI mediates the influence of green leadership on their employees’ green organizational citizenship behavior. Green leadership is essential in creating sustainable environmental behaviors among employees. It can strengthen leaders’ EI, which successively helps them to garner positivity and foster an environment of mutual harmony and cooperation in the workplace to support pro-environmental policies. Overall, our study contributes to and advances previous studies and shows that green leadership plays a critical role in influencing a leader’s own EI which, in turn, predicts the green OCB of their employees in the workplace.
Nonlinear Behavior of Bonded and Unbonded Two-Way Post-Tensioned Slabs Pre-Strengthened with CFRP Laminates
Authors: Attia Mohammed M. , Khalil Ayman H. H. , Mohamed Ghada N. , Samaan Morcos F. , Katunský Dušan
Published: December 2022

In this study, hybrid nonlinear finite element models (FEM) were developed to examine the flexural performance and the ultimate load capacity of bonded and unbonded two-way reinforced concrete post-tensioned (PT) slabs that were pre-strengthened with external carbon-fiber reinforcement polymer (CFRP) laminates. Full 3D simulations, using ANSYS models, have been created for five different slab samples that were selected from a previously available experimental study. The model results were assessed to enable further numerical analysis. The result calibration included measurements of first crack loads, ultimate loads, deflections, strains in the extreme fiber of concrete, strains in CFRP laminates, and failure modes. The results proved a good correlation between FEM output and experimental ones. Based on this, the influencing parameters that affect plate stiffness, as well as the bending capacity of PT slabs, were examined by performing a detailed parametric study. The parameters included real-life load simulation, cable-to-CFRP strength contribution, and CFRP laminate location selection. The results demonstrated that strengthening using CFRP laminates have significantly increased the ductility index of both bonded and unbonded PT concrete slabs by 62.18% and 59.87%, respectively. In addition, strip strengthening locations near supports are much more effective than in the middle of slabs. Additionally, the CFRP strengthening contribution is very considerable in slabs with low PT ratios.
Shear Strength Models for Reinforced Concrete Slender Beams: Comparative Analysis and Parametric Evaluation
Authors: Ma Cailong , Guo Zheyi , Wang Wenhu , Qin Yongjun
Published: December 2022

Shear failure of reinforced concrete (RC) members belongs to brittle failure and has always been concerned. In this paper, 16 existing shear strength models of RC slender beams have been selected and comprehensively compared based on a set of 781 experimental test results. These formulas from eight national codes and eight published papers are mainly the semi-empirical models or the analytical models. These experimental test results were collected from 66 published papers, and the range of key parameters is relatively wide. The accuracy of these shear strength models is evaluated from overall prediction level and the effect of key parameters. These key parameters mainly contain concrete compressive strength, shear-span-to-depth ratio, effective depth, and stirrup ratio. According to the results of overall prediction and evaluation of key parameters, the prediction results of Zsutty’s, Gunawan’s, and Bazant–Kim’s models are more accurate than others for both beams with stirrups and without stirrups. The models of ACI and JSCE exhibit higher prediction accuracy and safety margin, and their average values are between 1.19 and 1.28. The results of this study may provide reference for the selection and/or improvement of the shear strength model for RC slender beams.
Feasibility of Planting Trees around Buildings as a Nature-Based Solution of Carbon Sequestration—An LCA Approach Using Two Case Studies
Authors: Grossi Felipe , Ge Hua , Zmeureanu Radu , Baba Fuad
Published: December 2022

In response to Canada’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and to making pathways to achieve carbon neutral buildings, this paper presents two real case studies. The paper first outlines the potential of trees to absorb CO2 emissions through photosynthesis, and the methods used for the estimation of their annual carbon sequestration rates. The net annual carbon sequestration rate of 0.575 kgCO2eq/m2 of tree cover area is considered in our study. Then, this paper presents the carbon life cycle assessment of an all-electric laboratory at Concordia University and of a single-detached house, both located in Montreal. The life cycle assessment (LCA) calculations were performed using two software tools, One Click LCA and Athena Impact Estimator for Buildings. The results in terms of Global Warming Potential (GWP) over 60 years for the laboratory were found to be 83,521 kgCO2eq using One Click LCA, and 82,666 kgCO2eq using Athena. For the single-detached house that uses natural gas for space heating and domestic hot water, the GWP was found to be 544,907 kgCO2eq using One Click LCA, and 566,856 kgCO2eq using Athena. For the all-electric laboratory, a garden fully covered with representative urban trees could offset around 17% of the total life cycle carbon emissions. For the natural gas-powered single-detached house, the sequestration by trees is around 3% of the total life cycle carbon emission. This paper presents limits for achieving carbon neutral buildings when only the emissions sequestration by trees is applied, and discusses the main findings regarding LCA calculations under different scenarios.
Influence of Mixing-Water Magnetization Method on the Performance of Silica Fume Concrete
Authors: Ahmed Ali S. , Elshikh Mohamed M. Yousry , Elemam Walid E. , Youssf Osama
Published: December 2022

The aim of this study is to experimentally investigate the mechanical characteristics of concrete combining silica fume (SF) and magnetized water (MW). A total of nine concrete mixes were prepared and tested for workability, compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, and flexural strength. Ordinary tap water (TW) and MW that was prepared with five proposed different methods were utilized in the concrete mixes. The MW was prepared by passing TW through a permanent magnetic field (having intensities of 1.4 Tesla and/or 1.6 Tesla) for a different number of cycles, namely 100, 150, and 250 cycles. Water characteristics were analyzed after being magnetized using the proposed different methods and compared with the TW characteristics. Non-destructive concrete testing (ultrasonic pulse velocity, and Schmidt hammer) was also conducted to determine the effect of MW on the prediction of concrete compressive strength. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis were carried out on the produced mixes. Regardless of the method utilized to prepare the MW, the results revealed a considerable improvement in concrete compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, and flexural strength by up to 80%, 98%, and 22%, respectively, when MW was prepared with 150 cycles. The best water magnetization method found in this study was the passing of water through magnetic fields of 1.6T then 1.4T intensities for 150 cycles. The ultrasonic pulse velocity test resulted in good prediction of the concrete compressive strength with overall error ranged between −12.6% and +5.8%. MW significantly improved the concrete microstructure and produced a denser structure in comparison to the control conventional concrete.
Fresh and Hardened Properties of Cementitious Composites Incorporating Firebrick Powder from Construction and Demolition Waste
Authors: Sevim Ozer , Alakara Erdinc H. , Guzelkucuk Selahattin
Published: December 2022

Firebricks are generally used in furnace basins where glass, ceramics, and cement are produced. Firebricks have an important place in construction and demolition waste (CDW). However, there is a limited understanding of the effects on fresh and hardened state properties of cementitious composites. This study investigates the mechanical, physical, and microstructural properties of cementitious composites incorporating firebrick powder (FBP) from CDW. In this regard, the FBP was used at 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25% replacement ratio by weight of cement to produce cementitious composites. The consistency, setting characteristics, and 3, 7, and 28 days compressive and flexural strength tests of produced cementitious composites were performed. In addition, ultrasonic pulse velocity, water absorption, porosity, unit weight, and microstructure analysis of cementitious composites were conducted. As a result, the 28-day compressive strength of the cementitious composite mortars containing up to 10% firebrick powder remained above 42.5 MPa. The flow diameters increased significantly with the increase of the FBP. Therefore, it has been determined that the FBP can be used up to 10% in cementitious composites that require load-bearing properties. However, FBP might be used up to 25% in some cases. Using waste FBP instead of cement would reduce the amount of cement used and lower the cost of producing cementitious composites.
Characterising Embodied Energy in Construction Activities Using Energy Inventory Life Cycle Assessment Method
Authors: Haddad Assed N. , Sedrez Michele M. , Najjar Mohammad K. , Hammad Ahmed W. A. , Soares Carlos A. P.
Published: December 2022

Energy consumption of buildings accounts for almost a third of total energy use worldwide, leading to greater efforts in the industry and academia to reduce energy consumption in the built environment. This paper proposes an inventory method integrated within a Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) framework to characterise the energy consumption in the building phase of construction projects early in the construction design process. The proposed approach relies on Data Quality Indicators (DQI) and a Pedigree Matrix to quantify the building’s Direct Component of Initial Embodied Energy (DCIEE). In addition, a real case study involving various construction technologies representative of contemporary practice is adopted for validation purposes. Results indicate that the DCIEE of the case study building is 0.481 GJ/m2, which is slightly higher than that of other studies in the literature that report energy consumption per m2 of the construction project, mostly due to material transportation being a major contributor in the case study analysed.
An Empirical Study of Carbon Emission Calculation in the Production and Construction Phase of A Prefabricated Office Building from Zhejiang, China
Authors: Mo Zhoujin , Gao Tianyu , Qu Jie , Cai Gangwei , Cao Zhenyu , Jiang Wen
Published: December 2022

This study analyzes an office building located in Hangzhou, Zhejiang region, with a high assembly rate of 96.8%. Based on whole-process records and first-hand factory data, using an original method, we empirically investigate the carbon emissions associated to the assembly production and construction phase by comparing the results collected in the field with the calculation results for the simulated non-prefabricated building. The calculation results show that the production and construction stage of the prefabricated office building is characterized by a large reduction in carbon emissions, where the total measured carbon emissions of the subject building were 2265.73 tCO2e, which is 22 kgCO2e/m2 less than that under the non-prefabricated method. In the future development of China’s construction industry, taking Zhejiang Province as an example, the implementation of prefabricated office buildings with a PEC structure system can effectively reduce carbon emissions, which can help China to achieve the carbon peak as soon as possible.
Axial Compressive Performance of Steel-Reinforced UHPC-Filled Square Stainless-Steel Tube
Authors: Cheng Zhan , Li Junhua , Wu Chuangchuang , Zhang Tianyi , Du Guofeng
Published: December 2022

To study the axial compression performance of a steel-reinforced ultra-high-performance concrete-filled square stainless-steel tube (SR-UHPCFSSST), eight specimens were designed with different length-to-diameter ratios and skeleton contents, and axial compression tests and numerical simulations were performed. Damage pattern, ultimate load capacity, and load–displacement curve data of the specimens were obtained. Finite element analysis was performed using ABAQUS software for parameter expansion. The damage mechanisms of the specimens and the influences of various parameters, such as the length-to-diameter ratio, skeleton content, diameter-to-thickness ratio, and concrete strength, on the damage processes and ultimate bearing capacities of the specimens were studied. The results showed that among the components of the test piece under the same axial load, the stress of the built-in steel skeleton was the first to approach its yield stress, and the steel pipe was the first to produce a bulging deformation. The ultimate bearing capacities of the specimens increased with the increase in the skeleton content and concrete strength and decreased with the increase in the length-to-diameter and diameter-to-thickness ratios. Based on the test and numerical simulation results, this paper puts forward a calculation formula of the axial compression bearing capacity of a square-stainless-steel-tube ultra-high-performance-concrete middle-length column with a steel skeleton, which provides a reference for engineering design and for compiling relevant codes.
Perceived Hospital Environment Quality Indicators: The Case of Healthcare Places for Terminal Patients
Authors: Manca Sara , Bonaiuto Marino , Fornara Ferdinando
Published: December 2022

The “user-centered” design perspective (Gifford, 2002) suggests that healthcare places should improve their environmental quality in order to both meet the users’ needs and become “more humane” care environments, facilitating a higher level of patients’ satisfaction, wellbeing, and quality of life. The hospice is a specific category of healthcare, given the specificity of its target population, i.e., the terminal patients. This research aimed (i) to verify the factorial structure of an adapted version of the Perceived Hospital Environment Quality Indicators (PHEQIs, Fornara et al., 2006) for the hospice environment; (ii) to test the reliability of such indicators; and (iii) to detect the association between each indicator and the global satisfaction toward the hospice. Participants (N = 135) were patients, their relatives, and staff of eleven Italian hospices. They had to fill in a questionnaire including items tapping three diverse hospice settings (i.e., external spaces, interior common spaces, and interior private spaces). The confirmatory factor analysis run for each scale produced six reliable Hospice PHEQIs. As expected, significant relationships between most of them and the overall users’ satisfaction toward the hospice environment emerged.