bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IL6 and IL6R as Prognostic Biomarkers in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Pennel Kathryn A. F. , Kurniawan Ahmad , Samir Foad Al-Badran Sara , Schubert Santana Leonor , Quinn Jean , Nixon Colin , Hatthakarnkul Phimmada , Maka Noori , Roxburgh Campbell , McMillan Donald , Edwards Joanne
Published: December 2024

Colorectal cancer is the third most diagnosed malignancy worldwide and survival outcomes remain poor. Research is focused on the identification of novel prognostic and predictive biomarkers to improve clinical practice. There is robust evidence in the literature that inflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 (IL6) is elevated systemically in CRC patients and that this phenomenon is a predictor of poor survival outcome. However, evidence is more limited for the role of IL6 and its cognate receptor, IL6R, within the tumour epithelium and microenvironment. This study aimed to investigate IL6 and IL6R expression in a large cohort of retrospectively collected patient tumour specimens and determine association with clinical outcomes and characteristics. High expression of IL6R in the tumour epithelium was associated with reduced cancer-specific survival in patients with right-sided colon cancer. In these patients, high IL6R expression was also associated with an increased systemic neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio. A high number of copies of IL6 mRNA within the tumour-associated stroma, but not epithelium, was associated with reduced cancer-specific survival. The results from this study have validated IL6R as a marker of poor prognosis in a subgroup of CRC patients and identified the spatially resolved prognostic nature of intra-tumoural IL6 expression. This study has also highlighted the need for investigation of IL6/IL6R-targeted therapies as novel treatment strategies for patients with colon cancer.
The Role of Cardiac Troponin and Other Emerging Biomarkers Among Athletes and Beyond: Underlying Mechanisms, Differential Diagnosis, and Guide for Interpretation
Authors: Celeski Mihail , Segreti Andrea , Crisci Filippo , Cricco Riccardo , Piscione Mariagrazia , Di Gioia Giuseppe , Nusca Annunziata , Fossati Chiara , Pigozzi Fabio , Ussia Gian Paolo , Solaro Ross John , Grigioni Francesco
Published: December 2024

Cardiovascular (CV) disease remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, highlighting the necessity of understanding its underlying molecular and pathophysiological pathways. Conversely, physical activity (PA) and exercise are key strategies in reducing CV event risks. Detecting latent CV conditions in apparently healthy individuals, such as athletes, presents a unique challenge. The early identification and treatment of CV disorders are vital for long-term health and patient survival. Cardiac troponin is currently the most commonly used biomarker for assessing CV changes in both athletes and the general population. However, there remains considerable debate surrounding the mechanisms underlying exercise-induced troponin elevations and its release in non-ischemic contexts. Thus, there is a pressing need to identify and implement more sensitive and specific biomarkers for CV disorders in clinical practice. Indeed, research continues to explore reliable biomarkers for evaluating the health of athletes and the effectiveness of physical exercise. It is essential to analyze current evidence on troponin release in non-ischemic conditions, post-strenuous exercise, and the complex biological pathways that influence its detection. Furthermore, this study summarizes current research on cytokines and exosomes, including their physiological roles and their relevance in various CV conditions, especially in athletes. In addition, this paper gives special attention to underlying mechanisms, potential biomarkers, and future perspectives.
The Intersection of Trauma and Immunity: Immune Dysfunction Following Hemorrhage
Authors: Salvo Nicholas , Charles Angel M. , Mohr Alicia M.
Published: December 2024

Hemorrhagic shock is caused by rapid loss of a significant blood volume, which leads to insufficient blood flow and oxygen delivery to organs and tissues, resulting in severe physiological derangements, organ failure, and death. Physiologic derangements after hemorrhage are due in a large part to the body’s strong inflammatory response, which leads to severe immune dysfunction, and secondary complications such as chronic immunosuppression, increased susceptibility to infection, coagulopathy, multiple organ failure, and unregulated inflammation. Immediate management of hemorrhagic shock includes timely control of the source of bleeding, restoring intravascular volume, preferably with whole blood, and prevention of ischemia and organ failure by optimizing tissue oxygenation. However, currently, there are no clinically effective treatments available that can stabilize the immune response to hemorrhage and reinstate homeostatic conditions. In this review, we will discuss what is known about immunologic dysfunction following hemorrhage and potential therapeutic strategies.
Development and Application of an In Vitro Drug Screening Assay for Schistosoma mansoni Schistosomula Using YOLOv5
Authors: Villamizar-Monsalve María Alejandra , Sánchez-Montejo Javier , López-Abán Julio , Vicente Belén , Marín Miguel , Fernández-Ceballos Noelia , Peláez Rafael , Muro Antonio
Published: December 2024

Background: Schistosomiasis impacts over 230 million people globally, with 251.4 million needing treatment. The disease causes intestinal and urinary symptoms, such as hepatic fibrosis, hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, and bladder calcifications. While praziquantel (PZQ) is the primary treatment, its effectiveness against juvenile stages (schistosomula) is limited, highlighting the need for new therapeutic agents, repurposed drugs, or reformulated compounds. Existing microscopy methods for assessing schistosomula viability are labor-intensive, subjective, and time-consuming. Methods: An artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted culture system using YOLOv5 was developed to evaluate compounds against Schistosoma mansoni schistosomula. The AI model, based on object detection, was trained on 4390 images distinguishing between healthy and damaged schistosomula. The system was externally validated against human counters, and a small-scale assay was performed to demonstrate its potential for larger-scale assays in the future. Results: The AI model exhibited high accuracy, achieving a mean average precision (mAP) of 0.966 (96.6%) and effectively differentiating between healthy and damaged schistosomula. External validation demonstrated significantly improved accuracy and counting time compared to human counters. A small-scale assay was conducted to validate the system, identifying 28 potential compounds with schistosomicidal activity against schistosomula in vitro and providing their preliminary LC50 values. Conclusions: This AI-powered method significantly improves accuracy and time efficiency compared to traditional microscopy. It enables the evaluation of compounds for potential schistosomiasis drugs without the need for dyes or specialized equipment, facilitating more efficient drug assessment.
PPP3R1 Promoter Polymorphism (Allelic Variation) Affects Tacrolimus Treatment Efficacy by Modulating E2F6 Binding Affinity
Authors: Zheng Xinyi , Qin Shengying , Zhong Mingkang , Xu Qinxia , Huai Cong , Qiu Xiaoyan
Published: December 2024

Background: Tacrolimus is widely used as a first-line immunosuppressant in transplant immunology; however, its clinical application is constrained by the narrow therapeutic index and considerable interindividual variability. In this study, we identified the potential regulatory role of a novel PPP3R1 promoter polymorphism, rs4519508 C > T, in the tacrolimus pharmacodynamic pathway. Methods: Dual-luciferase reporter assays and bioinformatic analysis were applied to assess the impact of allelic variation. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA) validated the altered binding of transcription factors. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Western blots were used to determine the immunosuppressive effect of tacrolimus. Results: Assays revealed that rs4519508 C > T markedly enhanced PPP3R1 promoter activity. EMSA assays validated the binding of E2F6 to rs4519508 C (wild-type) and the binding was significantly weaker to the rs4519508 T (mutant-type). The overexpression of E2F6 significantly reduced the transcriptional activity and expression of PPP3R1 when the rs4519508 site presented as major C allele, an effect that was not observed with the rs4519508 T allele. Furthermore, the downregulation of E2F6 raises the level of downstream immune cytokines inhibited by TAC. Conclusions: This study proposed that E2F6 suppresses the expression of PPP3R1, while rs4519508 C > T impairs the binding of E2F6, and thus elevates the level of PPP3R1, so that the inhibition of the downstream immune cytokines by TAC is attenuated. Our findings reported the potential regulatory role of a novel polymorphism, PPP3R1 rs4519508 C > T, which may serve as pharmacodynamic-associated pharmacogenetic biomarker indicating individual response variability of tacrolimus, and thus aid the clinical management of transplant immunology.
A Study on the Function of Arginine in the Growth, Immunity, Antioxidant Activity, and Oxygen Carrying-Capacity of Juvenile Gibel Carp (Carassius auratus gibelio)
Authors: Li Yuqun , Zhang Lu , Ren Mingchun , Liang Hualiang , Mi Haifeng , Huang Dongyu
Published: December 2024

An eight-week trial was designed to study the effects of arginine (Arg) supplemented diets on the growth, immunity, antioxidant activity, and oxygen-carrying capacity of juvenile Gibel carp (Carassius auratus gibelio). A total of 300 fish (27.53 ± 0.03 g) were randomized into 15 equal groups and fed on diets with graded Arg levels: 0 (control), 0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6%, and 0.8% (w/w). The results showed that final body weight (FBW), weight gain rate (WGR), and specific growth rate (SGR) all increased and then declined with increasing levels of Arg supplementation, while feed conversion ratio (FCR) showed the opposite trend. In addition, the fish’s whole-body crude protein and ash content had no remarkable difference at different levels of Arg addition (p > 0.05). Supplementation with 0.6% and 0.8% Arg significantly increased plasma alanine transaminase (ALT) activity (p < 0.05). The malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities of the liver were not significantly different between the different levels of Arg supplementation (p > 0.05), while catalase (CAT) activity was significantly increased with 0.4% Arg supplementation levels (p < 0.05). The 0.8% Arg supplementation greatly increased the expression of hepatic-related genes to the Nrf2 signaling pathway, including sod and gpx (p < 0.05). However, the 0.8% Arg supplementation did not significantly increase the relative expression of genes related to the NF-κB signaling pathway, including il-1β, il-8, and tnf-α (p > 0.05). Similarly, the relative expression of hif-1 signaling pathway-related genes at 0.8% Arg supplementation was significantly elevated, including hif-1α, epo, and vegf (p < 0.05). Hence, Arg supplementation could promote growth and improve immune, antioxidant, and oxygen-carrying capacity in juvenile Gibel carp.
Effectiveness and Components of Health Behavior Interventions on Increasing Physical Activity Among Healthy Young and Middle-Aged Adults: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analyses
Authors: Wan Jiawei , Kim Jihoon , Tsujimoto Takehiko , Mizushima Ryoko , Shi Yutong , Kiyohara Kosuke , Nakata Yoshio
Published: December 2024

Physical inactivity contributes to various health risks; however, approximately one-third of the global population remains insufficiently active. Many researchers have attempted to increase physical activity levels; however, the effectiveness and the specific components of these interventions remain unclear. This systematic review with meta-analyses utilized a behavior change technique taxonomy to identify and extract effective intervention components, aiming to develop more efficient programs to promote physical activity. We searched the PubMed and Ichu-shi Web databases for studies targeting healthy young and middle-aged adults with data on physical activity changes and extracted the intervention components. A random-effects model was used for the primary meta-analysis, and a meta-regression was conducted for the selected outcomes. Overall, 116 studies were included, with 102 used for the primary analysis. The interventions showed a small effect on overall physical activity promotion. Subsequent meta-regressions identified 1.5 Review behavior goal(s) as a significant positive intervention component, as well as four and three potential positive and negative components, respectively. This systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrated the effectiveness of physical activity interventions and highlighted effective and negative components. These findings may inform the design of future programs aimed at promoting physical activity.
Exploring the Potential of Emerging Digitainability—GPT Reasoning in Energy Management of Kindergartens
Authors: Jurišević Nebojša , Gordić Dušan , Nikolić Danijela , Nešović Aleksandar , Kowalik Robert
Published: December 2024

One of the barriers to the rapid transition of societies toward a more sustainable future is a scarcity of field experts. Members of scientific and professional communities believe that this obstacle could be overcome by supplementing the decisions of non-experts with artificial intelligence. To examine this opportunity, this study examines the viability of GPT-3.5 as an expert adviser in the energy management of kindergartens. Thus, field experts investigated the deductive and inductive reasoning potential of GPT-LLM (Large Language Model). The first task was conducted on a sample of kindergartens in the Western Balkans. The LLM was instructed to provide the buildings’ specific heat consumption (SHC) by relatively detailed building descriptions and building occupancy. The second task involved kindergartens in various European locations, and the LLM was tasked with estimating energy savings using limited data about the renovation process. The study found deductive reasoning to be insufficient for estimating SHC from the building envelope details, with average accuracy below the least predictive model (R2 = 0.56; MAPE = 48%). Including the factor of occupancy, the SHC estimates were relatively accurate, wherein the first deductive test proved precise (MAPE = 27%), but it was less so in the opposite case (MAPE = 67%). In terms of inductive reasoning, the LLM assumptions were relatively consistent with practice.
Numerical Simulation of Earthquake Impacts on Marine Structures: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Kabi Adel , Leon-Medina Jersson X. , Pozo Francesc
Published: December 2024

Marine and underwater structures, such as seawalls, piers, breakwaters, and pipelines, are particularly susceptible to seismic events. These events can directly damage the structures or destabilize their supporting soil through phenomena like liquefaction. This review examines advanced numerical modeling approaches, including CFD, FEM, DEM, FVM, and BEM, to assess the impacts of earthquakes on these structures. These methods provide cost-effective and reliable simulations, demonstrating strong alignment with experimental and theoretical data. However, challenges persist in areas such as computational efficiency and algorithmic limitations. Key findings highlight the ability of these models to accurately simulate primary forces during seismic events and secondary effects, such as wave-induced loads. Nonetheless, discrepancies remain, particularly in capturing energy dissipation processes in existing models. Future advancements in computational capabilities and techniques, such as high-resolution DNS for wave–structure interactions and improved near-field seismoacoustic modeling show potential for enhancing simulation accuracy. Furthermore, integrating laboratory and field data into unified frameworks will significantly improve the precision and practicality of these models, offering robust tools for predicting earthquake and wave impacts on marine environments.
Efficacy and Insights from an Extensive Series of Cytoreductive Surgery for Peritoneal Neoplasms: A High-Volume Single-Center Experience
Authors: Aulicino Matteo , Santullo Francesco , D’Annibale Giorgio , Abatini Carlo , Attalla El Halabieh Miriam , Orsini Cecilia , Barberis Lorenzo , D’Agostino Luca , Tersigni Ilaria , Pacelli Fiammetta , Lodoli Claudio , Di Giorgio Andrea , Ferracci Federica , Pacelli Fabio
Published: December 2024

Background: Advances in cytoreductive surgery (CRS) combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) and pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC) have improved outcomes for selected patients with peritoneal surface malignancies (PSMs). Methods: This retrospective study analyzed 743 PSM patients treated at Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli from January 2016 to February 2024. The primary aim was to assess median overall survival (mOS), median disease-free survival (mDFS), and median progression-free survival (mPFS) stratified by tumor origin. Secondary outcomes examined the role of diagnostic laparoscopy in the management of PSMs and intra- and postoperative complications’ rates. Results: A total of 1113 procedures were performed: 389 CRS, 370 PIPAC, and 354 diagnostic laparoscopies. Colorectal cancer was the predominant indication for CRS (52.4%), with a mOS of 52 months and mDFS of 22 months. Patients affected by gastric cancer undergoing CRS had a mOS of 18 months and a mDFS of 13 months, while PIPAC yielded a mOS of 9 months and a mPFS of 4 months. Among patients with pseudomyxoma peritonei undergoing CRS, the 5-year DFS rate was 64.1%, and OS rate was 89%. Patients affected by mesothelioma and treated with CRS exhibited a median OS of 43 months and a DFS of 26 months. Pancreatic and hepatobiliary cancers were treated with PIPAC, with a respective mOS of 12 and 8 months. Postoperative complications occurred in 12.6% of CRS, 3.2% of PIPAC, and 1.7% of diagnostic laparoscopies. High peritoneal cancer index (PCI), gastric resection, and blood loss over 500 mL were identified as risk factors for major complications in a multivariate analysis. Conclusions: Developing a highly experienced multidisciplinary team is crucial for delivering tailored treatment strategies which aim to achieve optimal oncological outcomes while preserving patients’ quality of life.
The Proteomics of T-Cell and Early T-Cell Precursor (ETP) Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia: Prognostic Patterns in Adult and Pediatric-ETP ALL
Authors: Hoff Fieke W. , Sriraja Lourdes , Qiu Yihua , Jenkins Gaye N. , Teachey David T. , Wood Brent , Devidas Meenakshi , Shockley Shaina , Loh Mignon L. , Petsalaki Evangelia , Kornblau Steven M. , Horton Terzah M.
Published: December 2024

Background. The 5-year overall survival (OS) rates of T-cell lymphocytic leukemia (T-ALL) are better for children (>90%) compared to adults (~57%). The early T-cell precursor (ETP) T-ALL subtype is prognostically unfavorable in adults, but less significant in pediatric T-ALL, and the diagnosis and prognosis of “near”-ETP is controversial. We compared protein and RNA expression patterns in pediatric and adult T-ALL to identify prognostic subgroups, and to further characterize ETP and near-ETP T-ALL in both age groups. Methods. Protein expression was assessed using RPPA methodology for 321 target proteins in 361 T-ALL patient samples from 292 pediatrics and 69 adults, including 103 ETP-ALL. RNA-sequencing was performed on 81 pediatric T-ALL samples. Results. We identified recurrent protein expression patterns that classified patients into ten protein expression signatures using the “MetaGalaxy” analysis. In adults, Cox regression analysis identified two risk-groups associated with OS (p = 0.0002) and complete remission duration (p < 0.001). Cluster analysis of adults and pediatric-ETP patients identified three ETP-clusters strongly associated with age. Pediatric ETP-patients with a pediatric-dominant expression profile were associated with a shorter OS (p = 0.04) and event-free survival (p = 0.05) compared to pediatric ETP-patients with an ETP expression profile that was also identified in adults. Conclusion. Our study demonstrates that proteomics are predictive of outcome in adult T-ALL and that we can identify a small subset of pediatric ETP with an inferior outcome. The observation that there are age-specific patterns supports the idea that the origin of T-ALL in most pediatric and adult patients is different, while overlapping patterns suggests that there are some with a common pathophysiology. Proteomics could enhance risk stratification in both pediatric and adults with T-ALL.
The Invertebrate Immunocyte: A Complex and Versatile Model for Immunological, Developmental, and Environmental Research
Authors: Sacchi Sandro , Malagoli Davide , Franchi Nicola
Published: December 2024

The knowledge of comparative and developmental immunobiology has grown over the years and has been strengthened by the contributions of multi-omics research. High-performance microscopy, flow cytometry, scRNA sequencing, and the increased capacity to handle complex data introduced by machine learning have allowed the uncovering of aspects of great complexity and diversity in invertebrate immunocytes, i.e., immune-related circulating cells, which until a few years ago could only be described in terms of morphology and basic cellular functions, such as phagocytosis or enzymatic activity. Today, invertebrate immunocytes are recognized as sophisticated biological entities, involved in host defense, stress response, wound healing, organ regeneration, but also in numerous functional aspects of organismal life not directly related to host defense, such as embryonic development, metamorphosis, and tissue homeostasis. The multiple functions of immunocytes do not always fit the description of invertebrate organisms as simplified biological systems compared to those represented by vertebrates. However, precisely the increasing complexity revealed by immunocytes makes invertebrate organisms increasingly suitable models for addressing biologically significant and specific questions, while continuing to present the undeniable advantages associated with their ethical and economic sustainability.
Novel Sequential Detection of NO2 and C2H5OH in SnO2 MEMS Arrays for Enhanced Selectivity in E-Nose Applications
Authors: Aleem Mahaboobbatcha , Zhou Yilu , Deswal Swati , Lee Bongmook , Misra Veena
Published: December 2024

This study explores the surface chemistry and electrical responses of ultra-high-sensitivity SnO2 MEMS arrays to enable a novel sequential detection methodology for detecting nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and ethanol (C2H5OH) as a route to achieve selective gas sensing in electronic nose (E-nose) applications. Utilizing tin oxide (SnO2) thin films deposited via atomic layer deposition (ALD), the array achieves the lowest reported detection limits of 8 parts per billion (ppb) for NO2. The research delves into the detection mechanisms of NO2 and C2H5OH, both individually and in subsequent exposures, assessing the sensor’s dynamic response across various operating temperatures. It demonstrates rapid response and recovery times, with averages of 48 s and 277 s for NO2 and 40 and 48 for C2H5OH. Understanding the role of individual gases on the SnO2 surface chemistry is paramount in discerning subsequent gas exposure behavior. The oxidizing behavior of C2H5OH following NO2 exposure is attributed to interactions between NO2 and oxygen vacancies on the SnO2 surface, which leads to the formation of nitrate or nitrite species. These species subsequently influence interactions with C2H5OH, inducing oxidizing properties, and need to be carefully considered. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to further improve the sensor’s capability to precisely identify and quantify gas mixtures, improving its applicability for real-time monitoring in complex scenarios.
Sitting Acquisition and Early Communication Development: Are There Associations in Very Preterm Infants at Six Months of Corrected Age?
Authors: Graziosi Valentina , Suttora Chiara , Gorini Cecilia , Zuccarini Mariagrazia , Verganti Caterina , Aceti Arianna , Beghetti Isadora , Corvaglia Luigi , Guarini Annalisa , Sansavini Alessandra
Published: December 2024

Background: Research in typically and some atypically developing populations showed associations between early motor and communication development, documenting how postural development can support communicative advancements. However, these relations have scarcely been investigated in the preterm population. Aims: The present study aimed to describe motor (gross and fine motor) and communication (receptive and expressive) skills of very preterm infants at six months of corrected age and their associations, focusing on sitting posture achievement and early vocal production. Methods: Seventy very preterm infants (≤32 weeks) with no major brain injuries were assessed with the BSID-III for gross and fine motor skills, receptive and expressive language skills, and cognitive skills and were categorized as mastering (sitters), partially mastering (emerging sitters), or not mastering (non sitters) unsupported sitting. The proportional duration of sitting postures (caregiver supported, arms supported, and unsupported) in an observative section was coded with the Interact software (version 20.8.3.0). Frequency per minute of vocal utterances (vocalizations, babbling, and total) during a parent–infant play interaction was coded with the CHILDES software v11. Results: Correlational analyses showed significant positive associations between motor composite score and language scores (composite and expressive scaled) and between gross motor and expressive language scaled scores but a negative association between arms supported sitting duration and vocal utterances. In addition, ANCOVAs showed that sitters had significantly higher BSID-III expressive language scaled scores and vocal utterances than non sitters and emerging sitters. Conclusions: These findings brought new evidence linking early motor and vocal development in very preterm infants, emphasizing the importance of using observational tools alongside standardized ones to identify developmental delays and plan tailored intervention programmes.
Infant Crying, Sleeping, and Feeding Problems in Times of Societal Crises: The Mediating Role of Parenting Stress on Parenting Behavior in Fathers and Mothers
Authors: Richter Katharina , Friedmann Anna , Mall Volker , Augustin Michaela
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Infant regulatory problems (RPs), i.e., crying, sleeping, and feeding problems, are associated with unfavorable outcomes in later childhood. RPs increased during the pandemic; however, their occurrence in the face of today’s societal challenges remains unclear. RPs are strongly linked to parenting stress and less positive parenting behaviors, but their interplay is less investigated. Methods: In this cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study (ntotal = 7039), we compared the incidences of crying, sleeping, and feeding problems in infants (0–2 years) in pandemic (npandemic = 1391) versus post-pandemic (npost-pandemic = 5648) samples in Germany. We also investigated the relationship between post-pandemic infant RPs and parenting behaviors with parenting stress as a potential mediator for fathers and mothers. Results: Crying/whining/sleeping problems (34.8%) and excessive crying (6.3%) were significantly more prevalent in the post-pandemic sample. In both mothers and fathers, infant RPs were significantly associated with less positive parenting behaviors. Parenting stress partially mediated this relationship. Conclusions: RPs in the post-pandemic era are even more prevalent than during the pandemic, highlighting the imperative for health care professionals to focus on infant mental health. Parenting stress emerges as an entry point for addressing the cycle of infant RPs and maladaptive behaviors in both fathers and mothers.
Rheological Performance and UV Aging Resistance of Buton Rock Asphalt and Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene Composite Modified Asphalt Under High Temperature
Authors: Li Lian , Huang Chunxiang , Zeng Xu , Yang Jinfeng , Gao Wei , Chen Yaping , Yang Haibo
Published: December 2024

This study aims to investigate the high-temperature rheological properties and ultraviolet (UV) aging resistance of Buton rock asphalt (BRA) and styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) composite modified asphalt. Initially, the surface morphology of BRA and SBS was examined using scanning electron microscopy. The high-temperature rheological properties and chemical characteristics of BRA modified asphalt, SBS modified asphalt, and BRA/SBS composite modified asphalt before and after UV aging were investigated. The results reveal that numerous pores and folds on the surface of BRA form a distinctive honeycomb-like structure that offers a large surface area, enhancing asphalt adsorption and thereby improving the high-temperature properties of asphalt. The addition of SBS enhances the elastic response of Buton rock asphalt modified asphalt (BRAMA). The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra indicate that BRA effectively reduces the carbonyl and sulfoxide index of asphalt, and the complex modulus aging index (CMAI) and phase angle aging index (PAI) suggest that the BRA/SBS composite modified asphalt exhibits better resistance to ultraviolet aging.
Effect of Welding Current on the Dilution and Mechanical Properties of Co–Cr Alloy Stellite-6 Coatings Applied to AISI 4130 Steel
Authors: Gonçalves Júnior Elias Rocha , de Oliveira Bárbara Ferreira , Terrones Luis Augusto Hernandez , Simonassi Noan Tonini , Monteiro Sergio Neves
Published: December 2024

Coating welding with cobalt alloys on pipelines is crucial for the offshore industry due to its exceptional resistance to corrosion and wear. In this paper, two welding conditions with different currents were proposed to observe the behavior of the dissimilar joint. The microstructure, mechanical properties, and dilution of a dissimilar material consisting of AISI 4130 steel substrate coated with Stellite 6 alloy were analyzed. Firstly, samples were metallographically prepared for the evaluation of the weld bead and the coating phases using SEM, EDS, and XRD analyses. Then, microstructural characterization was performed qualitatively using confocal microscopy and quantitatively to determine the phase fraction volumes in the dendritic and interdendritic regions, as well as the resulting dilution. Results revealed that varying welding conditions did not significantly affect the hardness of the coatings, which remained within the alloy standard of 36-45 HRC, with microhardness varying by 3%–5% from one condition to another and phase fraction volume showing a variation of 5.6% between welding conditions. On the other hand, experimental results indicated a clear effect of welding current variation on dilution values, with 4.6% for condition 1 and 16.7% for condition 2, allowing for direct proportional relationships to be established, i.e., higher deposition current results in greater dilution.
Detection and Identification of Coating Defects in Lithium Battery Electrodes Based on Improved BT-SVM
Authors: Wang Xianju , Liu Shanhui , Kou Xuyang , Jiao Yu , Li Yinfeng
Published: December 2024

Aiming to address the problems of uneven brightness and small defects of low contrast on the surface of lithium battery electrode (LBE) coatings, this study proposes a method for detection and identification of coatings defects in LBEs based on an improved Binary Tree Support Vector Machine (BT-SVM). Firstly, adaptive Gamma correction is applied to enhance an image, and an improved Canny algorithm combined with morphological processing is used to accurately detect the defect regions. Secondly, the shape and grayscale features of the defects are extracted from the connected defect areas, and these features are then fused and normalized. Finally, a BT-SVM multi-class classification model is constructed, with the Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA) employed to assist in hyperparameter tuning. The experimental results show that the proposed method can effectively detect and identify five common types of defects in the coating of LBEs, including scratches, bubbles, metal leakage, particles, and decarbonization, with an average detection accuracy of 94.4% and an average detection time of less than 0.2 s, meeting the real-time detection requirements for online defect inspection. After Whale Optimization, the BT-SVM defect recognition model achieves an average recognition accuracy of 98.7%, significantly enhancing the performance of current defect detection technologies for LBE coatings.
Optical Parameters of Deuterated Triglycine Sulfate in Terahertz Range
Authors: Brekhov Kirill , Gorbatova Anastasia , Lebedeva Ekaterina , Avdeev Pavel , Kudryavtsev Andrey , Chefonov Oleg , Zhukov Sergey , Mishina Elena
Published: December 2024

In this work, the optical parameters of a 550 μm thick deuterated triglycine sulfate (DTGS) crystal in the range of 0.3–1.5 THz were investigated in low and high fields by time-domain spectroscopy. The X and Z axes of the refractive index ellipsoid were identified, and the refractive indices and extinction coefficients were determined. In addition, it was shown that, in strong THz fields, a phonon A-mode with a frequency of about 40 cm−1 can be excited in the DTGS crystal when the THz wave vector coincides with the polar axis of the crystal and the polarization of the THz radiation coincides with the X-axis of the crystal. The use of the observed effect and the determination of the mode excitation parameters can be twofold. First, they show the limits of the THz field for non-invasive action on the crystal. Second, they present the mode excitation conditions that can be used, for example, in controllable absorbers.
Crystallographic and NMR Study of Streptococcus pneumonia LCP Protein PsrSp Indicate the Importance of Dynamics in Four Long Loops for Ligand Specificity
Authors: Sandalova Tatyana , Sala Benedetta Maria , Moche Martin , Ljunggren Hans-Gustaf , Alici Evren , Henriques-Normark Birgitta , Agback Tatiana , Lesovoy Dmitry , Agback Peter , Achour Adnane
Published: December 2024

The crystal structure of the extracellular region of the second pneumococcal LCP, a polyisoprenyl-teichoic acid-peptidoglycan teichoic acid transferase PsrSp, was determined and refined to 2.15 Å resolution. Despite the low sequence homology with other LCP proteins, the PsrSp maintains the fold of the LCP domain, and the positions of the residues suggested to participate in the transferase function are conserved. The tunnel found in the PsrSp between the central β-sheet and three α-helices is wide enough to accommodate polyisoprenyl-teichoic acid. Comparison of the crystallographic temperature factors of LCP from distinct bacteria demonstrated that the four long loops located close to the teichoic acid and peptidoglycan binding sites have different relative mobilities. To compare the dynamics of the PsrSp in crystalline state and in solution, NMR spectra were recorded, and 88% of the residues were assigned in the 1H-15N TROSY HSQC spectra. Perfect accordance in the secondary structure of the crystal structure of PsrSp with NMR data demonstrated correct assignment. Moreover, the relative mobility of the essential loops estimated from the crystallographic B-factor is in good agreement with order parameter S2, predicted from chemical shift. We hypothesize that the dynamics of these loops are important for the substrate promiscuity of LCP proteins.
Minimum and Stable Coefficient of Thermal Expansion by Three-Step Heat Treatment of Invar 36
Authors: Kul Mehmet , Akgül Bekir , Karabay Yusuf Ziya , Hitzler Leonhard , Sert Enes , Merkel Markus
Published: December 2024

The low coefficient of thermal expansion of Invar 36 represents a significant consideration in light of its potential effects, particularly in industrial applications where thermal stability is of paramount importance. In light of this, a three-step heat treatment was employed, to reduce the thermal expansion coefficient, and enhance the thermal dimensional stability. The ingots produced by vacuum induction melting were subjected to a warm-rolling process at 900 °C, followed by a three-step heat treatment consisting of water quenching at 850 °C, tempering at 350 °C with a holding time of 1 h, and aging at 100 °C for 24 h. This process enabled the coefficient of thermal expansion to remain almost unchanged, exhibiting values between 0.5 and 0.6 × 10−6/°C up to 150 °C. Following the heat treatment, the total elongation increased up to 40% as a natural consequence of the reduction of residual stresses, while a slight decrease in tensile strength was observed. The implementation of a three-step heat treatment process has facilitated an enhancement of the soft magnetic property, which has exhibited a decline in coercivity and an increase in saturation magnetization. As a consequence, three-step heat-treated Invar 36 alloys are emerging as a potential candidate for utilization in the aerospace and precision electronics industries, given their satisfactory physical and mechanical characteristics.
Investigating Skin Cancer Risk and Sun Safety Practices Among LGBTQ+ Communities in Canada
Authors: Lagacé François , Mahmood Farhan , Conte Santina , Mija Lorena A. , Moustaqim-Barrette Amina , LeBeau Jonathan , McKenna Alyson , Maazi Mahan , Hanna Johnny , Kelly Alexandra Sarah Victoria , Lazarowitz Raquel , Rahme Elham , Hrubeniuk Travis J. , Sweeney Ellen , Litvinov Ivan V.
Published: December 2024

Background: Skin cancer prevention relies on effective sun safety practices. Previous studies have shown that LGBTQ+ individuals exhibit lower sunscreen use and higher tanning bed usage compared to their non-LGBTQ+ counterparts. This study is the first to assess skin cancer risk factors, sun-protective behaviors, and skin cancer concerns among LGBTQ+ individuals across Canada. Methods: A national survey study was conducted between July 2020 and March 2024 and included LGBTQ+ respondents aged ≥ 16 years who had completed the survey. Responses were summarized using frequency counts/percentages for categorical variables and means/standard deviations for continuous variables. Logistic regression models were used to calculate age- and gender-adjusted odds ratios for subgroup analyses. Results: Of the 700 LGBTQ+ participants included (59.3% women; median age 38 years), the majority had a Fitzpatrick skin phototype (FSP) I–III (76.4%). Concerningly, 60% reported >10 lifetime sunburns, 58% reported ≥1 blistering sunburn, 34% had used a tanning bed ≥1 time in their lifetime, and 69% reported having a tan in the last 12 months. Sunscreen was worn regularly by only half of the respondents, and half of the participants agreed or strongly agreed with “I look better and/or healthier with a tan”. Additional comparisons are presented based on gender, FSP, education, and income. Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight the need for public health campaigns tailored to the LGBTQ+ community, emphasizing culturally sensitive sun safety education, particularly for LGBTQ+ men, individuals with FSP IV–VI, and those with lower education levels, to help reduce future skin cancer risk.
The Herpetofauna of the Chihuahuan Desert Biogeographic Province of Mexico: Diversity, Similarity to Other Provinces, and Conservation Status
Authors: Lemos-Espinal Julio A. , Smith Geoffrey R. , McCain Christy M.
Published: December 2024

The Chihuahuan Desert biogeographic province in Mexico is the largest of the fourteen biogeographic provinces of the country. This biogeographic province hosts a diverse array of amphibian and reptile species, with 262 native species, including 53 amphibians and 209 reptiles, accounting for a significant portion of Mexico’s total amphibian (~12%) and reptile diversity (~21%). The Zacatecana subprovince exhibits the highest concentration of species for both groups (89% and 50% of Chihuahuan Desert amphibians and reptiles, respectively), indicating its importance for biodiversity within the Chihuahuan Desert. Comparative analyses with neighboring biogeographic provinces reveal substantial species overlap (48–55%), particularly with the Sierra Madre Oriental, the Transvolcanic Belt, and the Sierra Madre Occidental. These findings suggest strong ecological connections and corridors facilitating species exchange among these regions. Conservation assessments highlight the vulnerability of many species in the Chihuahuan Desert, with a notable percentage listed in the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List (~12%) and higher percentages categorized by the Mexican government as at risk according to their conservation status and the Environmental Vulnerability Score (~40%). Threats primarily stem from habitat loss, pollution, and other anthropogenic factors. In conclusion, the Chihuahua Desert emerges as a biogeographic province of significant biological richness and valuable evolutionary history for amphibians and reptiles. Its conservation is imperative for safeguarding the distinctive species and ecosystems that characterize this desert biome.
Brolucizumab for the Treatment of Diabetic Macular Edema: An Optical Coherence Tomography-Based Analysis
Authors: Pastore Marco R. , Milan Serena , Gouigoux Stefano , Colombo Olimpia , Rinaldi Silvia , Cirigliano Gabriella , Tognetto Daniele
Published: December 2024

Objectives: The objectives of this study were to evaluate the structural and functional outcomes after the loading phase with brolucizumab in switched patients with diabetic macular edema (DME) and to identify potential predictive biomarkers of treatment response. Methods: A total of 28 eyes with DME, switched to brolucizumab, were retrospectively reviewed. Main outcomes during the follow-up period, up to 6 weeks after the fifth injection, included changes in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central subfield thickness (CST), macular volume, subfoveal choroidal thickness, intraretinal and subretinal fluid (IRF and SRF), cyst dimension including maximal horizontal cyst diameter (MHCD), maximal vertical cyst diameter (MVCD), width-to-height ratio (WHR), foveal avascular zone (FAZ) dimension, and vessel density (VD). Results: At the last follow-up, BCVA was significantly improved (p = 0.003). Significant reduction of CST was demonstrated after each injection time point (p < 0.05), and a dry macula was detected in 64.3% of patients at the last follow-up. The WHR was 1.23 ± 0.46, and a negative correlation to final CST (p < 0.0001) was found. In FAZ and VD analysis, no significant variation was detected. At the last disease activity assessment, the treatment regimen was q12 in 64% of patients. Conclusions: Brolucizumab leads to anatomical and functional improvements in switched eyes affected by DME. WHR may represent a predictive biomarker of treatment response.
Sex Differences in Sleep Profiles and the Effect of Elexacaftor/Tezacaftor/Ivacaftor on Sleep Quality in Adult People with Cystic Fibrosis: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Dietz-Terjung Sarah , Straßburg Svenja , Schulte Tim , Dietz Paul , Weinreich Gerhard , Taube Christian , Schöbel Christoph , Welsner Matthias , Sutharsan Sivagurunathan
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Recent studies indicate that sleep and sleep disorders differ between men and women, but corresponding data in people with chronic lung diseases are lacking. This study aims to answer the question of what the sex-specific differences in sleep profiles and responses to elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor (ETI) therapy in people with cystic fibrosis (pwCF) are. Methods: Adult pwCF and a matched control group (adults with suspected sleep-disordered breathing undergoing in-laboratory polysomnography (PSG)) were included. PSG data at baseline and after 6 months’ ETI therapy were compared between men (mwCF) and women (wwCF) with cystic fibrosis. PSG data at baseline and 6-month follow-up for mwCF/wwCF were compared with baseline PSG data for men/women in the control group. Daytime sleepiness was evaluated using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Correlations between change in percentage predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 s from baseline to 6 months were correlated with corresponding changes in key sleep parameters. Changes in transferrin during ETI therapy were also documented. Results: Twenty-eight pwCF (12 wwCF, 16 mwCF) and 28 matched controls were included. Both mwCF (4 ± 5 vs. 9 ± 20 events/h, p = 0.028) and wwCF (3 ± 3 vs. 8 ± 9 events/h, p = 0.004) had fewer respiratory events during sleep versus male and female controls, but worse sleep efficiency (75 ± 11% vs. 84 ± 11%; p = 0.004 and 76 ± 10% vs. 83 ± 11%; p = 0.011. The baseline ESS score was significantly higher in wwCF versus female controls (8 ± 4 vs. 14 ± 8; p = 0.040). Although some sleep parameters normalized during ETI therapy in pwCF, sleep quality remained poor. The transferrin levels at baseline (2.7 ± 0.4 vs. 2.2 ± 0.5; p = 0.049) and 6 months (3.8 ± 0.4 vs. 2.6 ± 0.5; p < 0.001) were significantly higher in the wwCF versus the mwCF, and the change from baseline during ETI therapy was significantly greater in women versus men (1.1 ± 0.6 vs. 0.4 ± 0.4; p < 0.001). Conclusions: These data suggest that wwCF and mwCF should be managed differently with respect to their sleep.
It Looks Like a Zebra but Is Not: [18F]FDG PET/CT in a Giant Cutaneous Malignant Melanoma Mimicking Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Proietti Ilaria , Azzella Giulia , Dirzu Diana , Di Cristofano Claudio , Bagni Oreste , Potenza Concetta , Filippi Luca
Published: December 2024

Cutaneous malignant melanoma (MM) is the most aggressive form of skin cancer, associated with high mortality and rising incidence rates in Europe despite prevention efforts. Nodular MM, the most aggressive subtype, often mimics other skin tumors, complicating diagnosis. We present the case of a 66-year-old woman with a large, ulcerated tumor beneath the left scapula, along with multiple nodular lesions on the left arm and chest. Initially suspected to be an aggressive squamous cell carcinoma, the diagnosis was confirmed as invasive cutaneous MM with a BRAF(V600) mutation via biopsy. Staging with PET/CT revealed extensive glucose metabolism in the tumors and surrounding tissues, as well as metastatic lymphadenopathy. The disease was classified as stage IV (T4bN3cM1a0). Neoadjuvant systemic therapy with BRAF and MEK inhibitors (Dabrafenib and Trametinib) was initiated to reduce tumor size. Remarkable regression was observed within a week, with further reduction in tumor size after one month. A follow-up PET/CT after 3 months showed significant decreases in tracer uptake and lesion size, with a ΔSUVmax of 51.9%, a ΔMTV of 74.5%, and a ΔTLG of 83.5%, indicating an excellent response to targeted therapy.