bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Investigation of Multilingual Domestic University Student Perceptions of English for Academic Purposes
Authors: Bo Wenjin Vikki , Lim Lyndon , Lin Yuna
Published: September 2022

It is well-established that English for academic purposes (EAP) programmes are critical for academic success in English-medium universities. Nonetheless, there is significantly less research on how EAP programmes impact multilingual domestic university students, compared to that of international students who speak English as a foreign language. While an earlier study on a university in Singapore found that an EAP programme had a statistically significant and positive intervention effect on students’ grade point average of the first semester upon matriculation, this study sought to investigate the perceptions of students from the same university, as this would contribute to how EAP programmes could be refined to better support learning. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 50 students invited based on a maximum variation strategy. Based on the thematic analyses undertaken, four themes (i.e., programme delivery, linguistic improvement, learning transfer and change in self-efficacy) were identified and discussed. These themes contributed to the formulation of SILVER, an innovative framework of components for consideration in EAP course design and delivery within higher education.
Behavior of Scaled Infilled Masonry, Confined Masonry & Reinforced Concrete Structures under Dynamic Excitations
Authors: Qazi Asad Ullah , Rasool Ali Murtaza , Ibrahim Yasser E. , Hameed Asif , Ali Muhammad Faizan
Published: September 2022

This research investigates the nonlinear behavior of scaled infilled masonry (IFM), confined masonry (CM), and reinforced concrete (RC) structures by utilizing and validating two tests from the literature as benchmarks. The validation was based on a comparison with the pushover results of small-scaled physical tests and their numerical modeling. Numerical modeling of small-scale (1:4 and 1:3) IFM, CM, and RC models has been carried out with Finite Element Modelling (FEM) and Applied Element Modelling (AEM) techniques using SAP2000 and the Extreme Loading for Structures (ELS) software, respectively. The behavior of the structure under lateral loads and excitations was investigated using nonlinear static (pushover) and nonlinear time history (dynamic) analysis. The evaluation of the pushover analysis results revealed that for IFM, the %age difference of tangent stiffness was 4.2% and 13.5% for FEMA Strut and AEM, respectively, and the %age difference for strength was 31.2% and 2.8% for FEMA Strut and AEM, respectively. Similarly, it was also calculated for other wall types. Dynamic analysis results from FEM and AEM techniques were found in the fairly acceptable range before yield; however, beyond yield, AEM proved more stable. Finally, the results also showed that the numerical study can be utilized for the evaluation of small-scale models before performing the physical test.
Determining Concrete Structure Condition Rating Based on Concrete Compressive Strength
Authors: Wiyanto Henny , Makarim Chaidir Anwar , Gondokusumo Onnyxiforus , Siregar Januar Parlaungan , Irawan Agustinus Purna , Cionita Tezara , Najid Najid
Published: September 2022

The need for concrete condition assessment for existing buildings increases because of high disaster vulnerability levels, as well as a large number of buildings that have reached their age of use. Currently, there is not any standard reference for assessing concrete condition rating yet, so a concrete condition assessment method that can be measured quantitatively needs to be developed. The developed concrete condition assessment method combines concrete condition assessment based on visual inspection and testing. Assessment measures start with an assessment of visual inspection results, which is continued with concrete compressive strength testing. This article contains a concrete condition assessment based on concrete compressive strength testing. This method determines the concrete condition rating scale using five condition ratings as a reference for building condition assessment. The limit value of each condition rating is taken from concrete compressive strength values that are structurally sufficient, according to the structural concrete requirement code for buildings. Concrete compressive strength values have resulted from non-destructive tests and destructive or loading tests. Building condition rating (BCR) value determination factors in the effect of structure element damage towards building structure and concrete testing result accuracy rating, and also can decrease inaccuracy towards concrete quality condition rating determination on scale limit values, and minimize error risks in determining damage condition rating. The resulting method has the advantage of assessing structure element condition rating and building condition rating (BCR) that can be measured quantitatively, has five assessment scale ratings that can portray building conditions having to be demolished, and calculates structure element critical weight.
Barriers, Opportunities and Recommendations to Enhance the Adoption of Timber within Multi-Storey Buildings in Austria
Authors: Santana-Sosa Aída , Kovacic Iva
Published: September 2022

Timber construction is considered a main strategy towards a more sustainable built environment. Industrialized manufacturing methods have advanced the realization of multi-storey timber buildings generating enthusiasm about their implementation in urban areas, and the expectation of their further completion. These are still pilot projects, so there is a lack of specific literature and guidelines, including common understanding, standard procedures and holistic considerations. This paper aims to assess the current situation of design and construction processes of timber buildings in Austria, highlighting barriers and opportunities and formulating recommendations for its further adoption. The methodology used is based on an extended literature review and a qualitative analysis from expert interviews. Different disciplines were involved to approach the topic holistically. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and inductive coded within several iterative rounds. Excerpts were organized into codes, sub-codes and categories to identify and classify themes and patterns and build the case. The findings are structured into the categories of Acquisition, Design and Production and Assembly, and further identified as Barriers and Opportunities. Upon the analysis of results, a selective range of recommendations are formulated and summarized in a catalogue, serving as a guide for further research and actions to widespread the adoption of timber.
Thermal Performance Investigation at Different Temperature and Airflow Settings in a Conference Hall of Expo Building
Authors: Permana Indra , Wang Fujen , Lin Hungwen , Siew Johnwin
Published: September 2022

The airflow distribution for a large space, such as a conference hall, is quite challenging to achieve a good and uniform thermal distribution. In the recent study, insufficient quantitative knowledge has been provided, notably for the appropriate supply air temperature and air velocity for the conference hall environment. In this study, a full-scale conference hall was simulated extensively for an expo building in Taiwan. A total of nine experiment numbers were carried out with various supply air temperature and air velocity settings. Through the use of a CFD approach, this study seeks to identify the ideal parameters for a comfortable and acceptable airflow distribution and temperature, with an eye toward potential compromises with an energy-efficient approach. The results demonstrate that the temperature distribution ranges from 18 to 26 °C, indicating an acceptable indoor thermal environment, depending on the parameter settings. The best settings for providing a pleasant indoor thermal environment are with a supply air temperature and air velocity of 15 °C and 1 m/s, which can keep the PMV index between −0.5 and 0.5. Utilizing a greater temperature setting may save energy, but sufficient air velocity must be addressed in order to meet the indoor thermal conditions. Furthermore, a greater air velocity may generate more noise and disrupt the situation in the conference hall, so it must be selected specifically.
Mechanical Characterization of Masonry Built with iCEBs of Granite Residual Soils with Cement–Lime Stabilization
Authors: Briga-Sá Ana , Silva Rui A. , Gaibor Norma , Neiva Vânia , Leitão Dinis , Miranda Tiago
Published: September 2022

The environmental impact due to the overexploitation of nonrenewable resources, the processing and transportation of materials, and waste production is a global concern that the construction industry must urgently address, since it is among the greatest contributors. Earth construction can be seen as an alternative building solution, enhancing sustainability, despite traditional techniques being nowadays in disuse in most developed countries. Construction with interlocking compressed earth blocks (iCEBs) is a recently developed technique, put in evidence in the last few decades, for overcoming many earth construction limitations. Here, this technique is studied as a sustainable building solution for Northern Portugal, where the typical soils are sandy, granitic residual soils with low clay content. These soils typically demand cement stabilization to produce earthen materials, which compromise the sustainability of the construction solution. In order to improve sustainability, stabilization with hydraulic lime is proposed as a partial replacement of cement. For this purpose, the properties of the selected soil were characterized through a set of geotechnical tests, with different percentages of cement and lime in the mixture composition tested, concerning the compressive strength of the specimens. A mixture composed of 87.5% of soil, 7.5% of cement, and 5% of lime was shown to be the most suitable for producing iCEBs with adequate mechanical performance. The compressive behavior of the iCEBs masonry was characterized by testing prisms and wallettes, considering both dry stack and mortar joints cases. The obtained results showed that using mortar in the bed joints allows for the improvement of the compressive strength (a 5%–18% increase) and Young’s modulus (a 65%–92% increase) of the masonry. Thus, it can be concluded that masonry built with locally produced iCEBs and stabilized with cement and lime is a feasible building solution, for a sustainable earth masonry built from sandy granitic residual soils, where the mechanical behavior is substantially enhanced by using bed-joint mortar.
Nonlinear Response of RC Columns Subjected to Equal Energy-Double Impact Loads
Authors: Tantrapongsaton Warakorn , Hansapinyo Chayanon , Limkatanyu Suchart , Zhang Hexin , Vimonsatit Vanissorn
Published: September 2022

Defining the damage and deflection from impact by using only the impact energy could be misleading due to the effect of impact momentum. In addition, reinforced concrete columns might be subjected to repeated impact loading. Hence, this study presents the numerical simulation of 16 RC columns with identical sizing and reinforcement details, subjected to equal energy-double impact loadings using a free-falling mass at midspan. The impact energy was kept constant for both impacts. For each analysis, the impact momentum was varied by varying the velocity and mass of the impactor. The axial load ratios of the columns are between 0.0 to 0.3 of the compressive strength of the concrete cross-section. The results clearly addressed the momentum effect on the impact responses. The momentum level affected the specimens’ damage behavior under the same input impact energy. A high momentum impact yielded more global flexural damage with large deflection, and a low momentum impact produced more local damage with a slight deflection. The axial load helps maintain the impact resistance capacity. However, the failure determined by the flexural damage pattern under the first impact was changed when subjected to the second impact to the shear mode with the presence of axial load. Further, the colliding index considering the momentum was used in the deflection prediction equation. The proposed equation improved the deflection calculation accuracy of reinforced concrete beams under equal energy but different momentum impact.
Parametric Stock Flow Modelling of Historical Building Typologies
Authors: Negendahl Kristoffer , Barholm-Hansen Alexander , Andersen Rune
Published: September 2022

While the construction sector is a major consumer of new raw materials, it also contributes largely to waste generation. Therefore, improved estimates of demolition waste and the identification of components and materials for reuse or recycling are an important prerequisite for better waste management in the construction sector. The aim of this study is to investigate the differences and possibilities between static bottom-up models and parametric BIM-integrated bottom-up models for material flow analyses to predict the building material composition of historical building typologies. Findings are, when comparing the predictive capabilities of the pre-audit model with a novel implementation of a generative parametric model, that we see a drastic improvement in the error-reduction. The test models and test cases are based on limited data but given the significance of the magnitude of variance between the two models, there is a strong indication that the most precise modelling approach is obtained when utilizing a parametric model based on historical building traditions. In contrast, the use of normal static prediction-based modelling is hard to justify since data on demolition waste is of poor quality. Combining the two modelling approaches might present a new alternative to reduce factor errors in predictions of demolition waste and create a foundation for better pre-demolition audits and BIM models for material passports.
Bond Performance of Hook-End Steel Fiber to the Mortars Cured for 360 Days
Authors: Ding Xinxin , Li Changyong , Zhao Mingshuang , Wang Hui , Dang Juntao , Zhao Shunbo
Published: September 2022

The reliable bond of steel fibers to concrete matrix is fundamental to ensure they work together under internal and external actions throughout their service life. Due to the lack of research on the long-term bond property, this paper conducted an experimental study on the bond of hook-end steel fiber in the manufactured sand mortars with different water to binder ratios cured for different ages from 7 days to 360 days. The characteristic pull-out load-slip curves are measured, and bond performance indexes at different curing ages are analyzed by using the multi-index synthetical evaluation method. The results show that the bond strengths, the fiber strength use efficiency, the debonding work and the pull-out work increased with the increase in curing age up to to 90 days, which became stable with little variation with the follow-up curing age. The variations are closely associated with the development of mortar strength. Steel fibers embedded in high-strength mortar presented a higher debonding ductility and a lower slipping ductility. In addition, the prediction formulas of long-term debonding strength, bond strength and residual bond strength are proposed.
Undrained Stability of Unsupported Rectangular Excavations: Anisotropy and Non-Homogeneity in 3D
Authors: Lai Van , Shiau Jim , Keawsawasvong Suraparb , Seehavong Sorawit , Cabangon Lowell
Published: September 2022

The stability of unsupported rectangular excavations in undrained clay is examined under the influence of anisotropy and heterogeneity using the three-dimensional finite element upper and lower bound limit analysis with the Anisotropic Undrained Shear (AUS) failure criterion. Three anisotropic undrained shear strengths are considered in the study, namely triaxial compression, triaxial extension, and direct simple shear. Special considerations are given to the study of the linearly-increased anisotropic shear strengths with depth. The numerical solutions are presented by an undrained stability number that is a function of four dimensionless parameters, i.e., the excavated depth ratio, the aspect ratio of the excavated site, the shear strength gradient ratio, and the anisotropic strength ratio. To the authors’ best knowledge, this is the first of its kind to present the stability solutions of 3D excavation considering soil anisotropy and heterogeneity. As such, this paper introduces a novel approach for predicting the stability of unsupported rectangular excavation in undrained clays in 3D space, accounting for soil anisotropy and non-homogeneity. Notably, it develops a basis to formulate a mathematical equation and design charts for estimating the stability factor of such type of excavation, which should be of great interest to engineering practitioners.
On the Seismic Evaluation of Steel Frames Laterally Braced with Perforated Steel Plate Shear Walls Considering Semi-Rigid Connections
Authors: Majlesi Arsalan , Asadi-Ghoozhdi Hamid , Bamshad Omid , Attarnejad Reza , Masoodi Amir R. , Ghassemieh Mehdi
Published: September 2022

Steel plate shear walls usually do not satisfy the strong-column weak-beam design criteria, leading to larger column sections. On the other hand, rigid frame structures are typically constructed in low-rise to mid-rise buildings built in locations prone to strong earthquakes due to their high flexibility and cost-effective solutions. Overcoming these restrictions to the SPSW system, this paper is dedicated to employing a semi-rigid connection that dissipates energy well and reduces the forces applied to the structure. By using a semi-rigid connection in an adjacent span to the SPSW, the actual flexural capacity of the beam end decreases and, subsequently, improves the performance of the structure in terms of the of the strong-column weak-beam criteria. Thereupon, the impact of the semi-rigid connections on steel frames with SPSWs as a sideway resisting system can be assessed by implementing a numerical study. In this paper, a new methodology for modelling semi-rigid joints is used considering five connections with different moment capacities. Moreover, the influence of three different circular diameters on the behavior of the perforated SPSWs was investigated. To fulfil these purposes, nonlinear dynamic analysis was conducted to assess the reliability of 5-, 10-, and 15-story frames resisted with SPSWs and semi-rigid connections subjected to actual ground motion records. A total of 45 frames were modelled and the obtained results were compared with reference benchmarks. The outcomes of the studies show good agreement with design building code requirements. In addition, the reliable performance of the structure under seismic loads is evaluated. According to the results of the parametric study, the presumed allowable drift leads to obtaining the optimum moment capacity of connection for each model and illustrates the applicability of a new structural system consisting of SPSWs and semi-rigid connections simultaneously.
Research on Wind Load Characteristics on the Surface of a Towering Precast Television Tower with a Grid Structure Based on Large Eddy Simulation
Authors: Wu Peng , Chen Gang , Feng Ruoqiang , He Fujiangshan
Published: September 2022

Local wind pressures on tiny rods of complex grid structures are difficult to obtain through wind tunnel tests due to their small sizes after scaling down, resulting in a lack of data support in wind load calculations for similar structures. However, local wind pressures on tiny rods can be obtained through numerical wind tunnel simulation using full-sized models. In order to investigate the wind pressure distribution of a grid structure and the influence of grid structures on the wind load of core tubes, three different television tower models are established based on an engineering example for large eddy simulations. A turbulence inlet generator (NSRFG) is adopted in the simulations while reproducing a portion of the wind tunnel test section including the mean and fluctuating pressures for validation. The results indicate that the mean wind pressures on the intersection of rods in the windward zone of the grid structure are higher than those on adjacent rods. Distinct reductions in the mean and fluctuating wind pressure of the grid structure are found in different zones. Moreover, resultant wind load forces and bending moments in the X and Y direction of the grid structure generally exceed 70% of the total wind loads. Based on simulation results, extreme net wind pressures of the grid structure and shape coefficients of enclosed regular octagonal cross-section buildings with the grid structure are provided for reference.
Evaluating Modular Healthcare Facilities for COVID-19 Emergency Response—A Case of Hong Kong
Authors: Pan Wei , Zhang Zhiqian
Published: September 2022

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, modular construction has been adopted for rapidly delivering healthcare facilities, but few have systematically explored the impacts of the pandemic and the contributions of modular construction. This paper aims to evaluate modular construction for delivering healthcare facilities in response to COVID-19, through the exploration of the challenges, strategies, and performance of using modular construction for emergency healthcare building project delivery. The study was conducted using 12 real-life healthcare building projects in Hong Kong with both within- and cross-case analyses. The results of the within-case study reveal critical challenges such as tight program but limited resources available and the corresponding strategies such as implementation of smart technologies. The results of the cross-case analysis indicate 106% improved time efficiency and 203% enhanced cost efficiency of using modular construction compared with conventional practices. Based on the multi-case studies, the paper develops an innovative framework which illustrates the roles of stakeholders, goals, engineering challenges, and management principles of using modular construction. Practically, the paper should assist both policymakers and industry stakeholders in addressing the critical challenges of delivering healthcare facilities under COVID-19 in an efficient and collaborative manner. Theoretically, it should set an exemplar of linking the building construction industry with emergency management and healthcare service systems to facilitate efficient response to pandemics.
Strength Relationship Equation for Artificially Stabilized Rammed Sedimentary Soils
Authors: Baldovino Jair A. , Izzo Ronaldo , Ekinci Abdullah
Published: September 2022

Soils from the superficial layers of the Guabirotuba formation (in Brazil) are problematic due to their expansive and low-bearing capacity. Stabilizing these soils with a calcium-based binder is a technique that must be explored. Therefore, this study aims to determine the mechanical behavior of stabilized sedimentary silts with cement and binder in various conditions. Four types of fine soils were used in deformed conditions. These soils were mixed with cement and compacted to measure their mechanical behavior. The specimens were tested in unconfined compressive and split tensile tests prepared with respect to several molding conditions: the moisture content, the curing period, durability cycles, the dry unit weight, the cement content, the cement type, and the soil type. This study was also carried out to develop a simplified approach to estimating the unconfined compressive strength (qu or UCS) and split tensile strength (qt or STS) of soil-cement or soil-cement–binder mixes. The results further demonstrate the influence of the porosity/volumetric cement index (η/Civ) on the qu- and qt-adjusted two new parameters—bo = 0.174 (dependent on cement) and k = 2.565 (dependent on the type of soil)—proposed herein for all mixtures studied. Using the proposed new parameters, a unique equation was developed to estimate the strength of the compacted blends as a function of the porosity and binder content, with an acceptance of 93% and an error close to 6%.
Pathological Evaluation of Resected Colorectal Liver Metastases: mFOLFOX6 Plus Bevacizumab versus mFOLFOX6 Plus Cetuximab in the Phase II ATOM Trial
Authors: Takahashi Takao , Ishida Kazuyuki , Emi Yasunori , Sakamoto Michiie , Imura Johji , Aishima Shinichi , Muro Kei , Uetake Hiroyuki , Oki Eiji , Katayose Yu , Yoshida Kazuhiro , Unno Michiaki , Hyodo Ichinosuke , Tomita Naohiro , Sugihara Kenichi , Maehara Yoshihiko
Published: September 2022

We compared the preplanned histopathological responses of resected liver metastases from patients who received modified FOLFOX6 plus bevacizumab or modified FOLFOX6 plus cetuximab for liver-limited colorectal metastases in the ATOM trial. Fibrosis and viable tumor cells in tumor regression grade (TRG), infarct-like necrosis in modified TRG (mTRG), and dangerous halo (DH) were assessed. Fifty-five patients (28 and 27 patients in the bevacizumab and cetuximab arms, respectively) were divided into the low (viable tumor cells ≤ 50%) and high (>50%) TRG or mTRG groups. DH was characterized as absent/rare or focal/diffuse. Compared to the bevacizumab arm, the cetuximab arm was more effective, with respect to low TRG (13 vs. 23 patients) and absent/rare DH (14 vs. 19 patients), respectively. Low mTRG was similarly observed in both arms. Low TRG/mTRG and absent/rare DH showed better relapse-free survival (RFS) than high TRG/mTRG and focal/diffuse DH. In the bevacizumab arm, a significant difference in RFS existed between the low and high TRG groups, while in the cetuximab arm, for TRG, mTRG, and DH, the low and absent/rare groups demonstrated significantly longer RFS than the high and focal/diffuse groups, respectively. TRG could estimate RFS in patients who underwent liver metastasectomy after bevacizumab or cetuximab chemotherapy.
A Panax quinquefolius-Based Preparation Prevents the Impact of 5-FU on Activity/Exploration Behaviors and Not on Cognitive Functions Mitigating Gut Microbiota and Inflammation in Mice
Authors: Parment Renaud , Dubois Martine , Desrues Laurence , Mutel Alexandre , Dembélé Kléouforo-Paul , Belin Nicolas , Tron Laure , Guérin Charlène , Coëffier Moïse , Compère Vincent , Féger Céline , Joly Florence , Hilber Pascal , Ribet David , Castel Hélène
Published: September 2022

Chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) and fatigue constitute common complaints among cancer patient survivors. Panax quinquefolius has been shown to be effective against fatigue in treated cancer patients. We developed a behavioral C57Bl/6j mouse model to study the role of a Panax quinquefolius-based solution containing vitamin C (Qiseng®) or vitamin C alone in activity/fatigue, emotional reactivity and cognitive functions impacted by 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) chemotherapy. 5-FU significantly reduces the locomotor/exploration activity potentially associated with fatigue, evokes spatial cognitive impairments and leads to a decreased neurogenesis within the hippocampus (Hp). Qiseng® fully prevents the impact of chemotherapy on activity/fatigue and on neurogenesis, specifically in the ventral Hp. We observed that the chemotherapy treatment induces intestinal damage and inflammation associated with increased levels of Lactobacilli in mouse gut microbiota and increased expression of plasma pro-inflammatory cytokines, notably IL-6 and MCP-1. We demonstrated that Qiseng® prevents the 5-FU-induced increase in Lactobacilli levels and further compensates the 5-FU-induced cytokine release. Concomitantly, in the brains of 5-FU-treated mice, Qiseng® partially attenuates the IL-6 receptor gp130 expression associated with a decreased proliferation of neural stem cells in the Hp. In conclusion, Qiseng® prevents the symptoms of fatigue, reduced chemotherapy-induced neuroinflammation and altered neurogenesis, while regulating the mouse gut microbiota composition, thus protecting against intestinal and systemic inflammation.
Expression of Nectin-4 in Variant Histologies of Bladder Cancer and Its Prognostic Value—Need for Biomarker Testing in High-Risk Patients?
Authors: Rodler Severin , Eismann Lennert , Schlenker Boris , Casuscelli Jozefina , Brinkmann Isabel , Sendelhofert Andrea , Waidelich Raphaela , Buchner Alexander , Stief Christian , Schulz Gerald Bastian , Ledderose Stephan
Published: September 2022

Variant histologies of bladder cancer (BC) often present with advanced tumor stage and the status of perioperative therapy is unclear. Thereby, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), adenocarcinoma (ADENO), and sarcomatoid urothelial carcinoma (SARCO) are the most frequent variants. Nectin-4 has emerged as a highly interesting target in BC and might guide therapeutic application of antibody–drug conjugates (ADC). We therefore aimed to investigate expression patterns and prognostic value of Nectin-4 in variant histologies of BC. A single-center retrospective analysis was conducted of patients who underwent radical cystectomy (RC) for BC and revealed variant histologies of BC in the final specimens. Immunohistochemical staining for Nectin-4 was performed on tissue microarrays with 59 SCC, 22 ADENO, and 24 SARCO, and Nectin-4 expression was scored using the histochemical scoring system (H-score). Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) was calculated by Kaplan–Meier method. Median expression of Nectin-4 was 150 (range 0–250) in SCC, 140.5 (range 30–275) in ADENO, and 10 (0–185) in SARCO, with significantly lower levels for SARCO compared to SCC or ADENO (p < 0.001). For SCC, ADENO or SARCO no differences regarding OS or PFS were observed based on Nectin-4 expression levels (p > 0.05). Multivariate analysis revealed nodal stage as an independent prognostic factor for OS and PFS and metastases for PFS but not Nectin-4 expression. In conclusion, Nectin-4 was not prognostic in histological subtypes of BC in our study cohort. However, the high expression of Nectin-4 in SCC and ADENO might guide future treatment with novel Nectin-4-directed ADCs and provide this high-risk patient collective with a new promising therapeutic option. Testing Nectin-4 expression as a biomarker should be considered in trials with SARCO, where low Nectin-4 expression has been observed.
Prostate Cancer Tumor Stroma: Responsibility in Tumor Biology, Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: González Luis O. , Eiro Noemi , Fraile Maria , Beridze Nana , Escaf Andres R. , Escaf Safwan , Fernández-Gómez Jesús M. , Vizoso Francisco J.
Published: September 2022

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a common cancer among males globally, and its occurrence is growing worldwide. Clinical decisions about the combination of therapies are becoming highly relevant. However, this is a heterogeneous disease, ranging widely in prognosis. Therefore, new approaches are needed based on tumor biology, from which further prognostic assessments can be established and complementary strategies can be identified. The knowledge of both the morphological structure and functional biology of the PCa stroma compartment can provide new diagnostic, prognostic or therapeutic possibilities. In the present review, we analyzed the aspects related to the tumor stromal component (both acellular and cellular) in PCa, their influence on tumor behavior and the therapeutic response and their consideration as a new therapeutic target.
Vestibular Schwannoma Volume and Tumor Growth Correlates with Macrophage Marker Expression
Authors: Leisz Sandra , Klause Clara Helene , Vital Dos Santos Tania , Haenel Pia , Scheer Maximilian , Simmermacher Sebastian , Mawrin Christian , Strauss Christian , Scheller Christian , Rampp Stefan
Published: September 2022

Vestibular schwannoma is the most common benign tumor of the cerebellopontine angle and originates from Schwann cells surrounding the vestibulocochlear nerve. Since the size of the VS varies widely, affected patients suffer from symptoms of varying severity. It is often difficult to determine the optimal time for therapy, due to the unpredictability of the growth rate. Despite many investigations on influencing factors, no mechanism responsible for the increase in the growth rate of certain VS has been identified so far. Therefore, the present study investigates the influence of the seven markers: Ki-67, cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), CD163, and CD68 on tumor progression and tumor size in a cohort of 173 VS. The markers were determined by quantitative PCR and correlated with tumor volume and VS growth rate. The analysis showed a significantly negative correlation of the Ki-67, COX2, and VEGF on tumor volume. Moreover, with a higher volume of VS, the expression of the macrophage markers CD68, CD163, and GM-CSF increased significantly. Our results suggest that the increase in VS size is not primarily due to Schwann cell growth but to an infiltration of macrophages. This may have an impact on non-invasive therapy to preserve the hearing function of affected patients.
Iron Carbide Nanoparticles Embedded in Edge-Rich, N and F Codoped Graphene/Carbon Nanotubes Hybrid for Oxygen Electrocatalysis
Authors: Qiao Xiaochang , Deng Yijie , Cao Xiaochang , Wu Jiafeng , Guo Hui , Xiao Wenhuang , Liao Shijun
Published: September 2022

Rational design of cost-effective and efficient bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts for sluggish oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is urgently desired for rechargeable metal–air batteries and regenerative fuel cells. Here, the Fe3C nanoparticles encapsulated in N and F codoped and simultaneously etched graphene/CNTs architecture catalyst (Fe3C@N-F-GCNTs) was synthesized by a simple yet cost-effective strategy. The as-prepared Fe3C@N-F-GCNTs exhibited excellent ORR and OER performances, with the ORR half-wave potential positive than that of Pt/C by 14 mV, and the OER overpotential lowered to 432 mV at the current density of 10 mA·cm−2. In addition, the ΔE value (oxygen electrode activity parameter) increased to 0.827 V, which is comparable to the performance of the best nonprecious metal catalysts reported to date. When it was applied in a Zn–air battery as a cathode, it achieved a peak power density of 130 mW·cm−2, exhibiting the potential for large-scale applications.
Heterogeneous Metal-Activated Persulfate and Electrochemically Activated Persulfate: A Review
Authors: Li Junjing , Liang Yiqi , Jin Pengliang , Zhao Bin , Zhang Zhaohui , He Xiaojia , Tan Zilin , Wang Liang , Cheng Xiuwen
Published: September 2022

The problem of organic pollution in wastewater is an important challenge due to its negative impact on the aquatic environment and human health. This review provides an outline of the research status for a sulfate-based advanced oxidation process in the removal of organic pollutants from water. The progress for metal catalyst activation and electrochemical activation is summarized including the use of catalyst-activated peroxymonosulfate (PMS) and peroxydisulfate (PDS) to generate hydroxyl radicals and sulfate radicals to degrade pollutants in water. This review covers mainly single metal (e.g., cobalt, copper, iron and manganese) and mixed metal catalyst activation as well as electrochemical activation in recent years. The leaching of metal ions in transition metal catalysts, the application of mixed metals, and the combination with the electrochemical process are summarized. The research and development process of the electrochemical activation process for the degradation of the main pollutants is also described in detail.
Antibacterial Activity Assessment of Bi2WO6/Ag3PO4/Ag Photocatalyst and Persian Oak fruit Phytobiotic
Authors: Azizi Mohsen , Dashtian Kheibar , Amourizi Fereshteh , Sharifi Asghar , Ghaedi Mehrorang , Pezeshkpour Vahid , Azizi Arsalan , Aghaee Shapor , Khosravani Seyed Abdolmajid , Yasin Ghulam
Published: September 2022

The antibacterial effect of the previously reported Bi2WO6/Ag3PO4/Ag Z-scheme heterojunction photocatalyst compared with a phytobiotics named, aqueous extract of Persian Oak fruit. The impact of both materials on the expression of the urease gene was checked in two kinds of samples such as clinical and standard Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). The gene expression differences were collected by real-time PCR from clinical strains and the standard of H. pylori as well as the MIC and MBC were found to be 3.1 and 0.8 mg/mL, and 6.2 and 1.6 mg/mL, for Bi2WO6/Ag3PO4/Ag photocatalyst and Oak fruit Phytobiotics, respectively. Due to the impact of Oak fruit extract on the urease gene of H. pylori, it is possible to use it as a disinfector against this bacterium and the proposed photocatalyst, for efficiently purifying H. pylori bacteria from contaminated environment.
Xylene and n-Hexane Adsorption Performance of a Waste Methanol-to-Propylene Catalyst under Acid-Base Treatment
Authors: Yong Xiaojing , Su Hui , Zhao Nana , Jin Zhengwei , Yao Min , Ma Yulong
Published: September 2022

Spent methanol-to-propylene (MTP) catalysts have a large specific surface area and high porosity but are usually directly disposed of in landfills, and recycling is rare. In this study, spent MTP catalyst was moderately dealuminized with acids and etched with an alkali solvent to increase its specific surface area. A novel adsorbent was obtained. XRD, SEM, FT-IR, XRD, XRF, and MAS-NMR characterization shows that the adsorbent maintains a typical ZSM-5 zeolite structure, and the dealumination effect of H2C2O4 is better than that of HCl. HCl mainly removes the framework aluminum of the molecular sieve; H2C2O4 not only removes the framework aluminum but also dissolves some of the nonframework aluminum, which increases the BET-specific surface area and pore diameter. The spent catalyst maintains an irregular ellipsoidal shape. After alkali treatment, the surface of the spherical particles becomes rough. With increasing alkali concentration, the damage degree increases. After treatment with 4 mol/L H2C2O4 and 0.1 mol/L NaOH, the p-xylene and n-hexane adsorption capacities reach the maximum, with values of 141.04 mg/g and 106.87 mg/g, respectively, 20.7% and 16.2% greater than those before treatment. These findings indicate that modified spent MTP catalyst has the potential for application in the removal of VOCs from the air.
Cu2O/CuS/ZnS Nanocomposite Boosts Blue LED-Light-Driven Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Chang Yu-Cheng , Chiao Yung-Chang , Fun Ya-Xiu
Published: September 2022

In the present work, we described the synthesis and characterization of the ternary Cu2O/CuS/ZnS nanocomposite using a facile two-step wet chemical method for blue LED-light-induced photocatalytic hydrogen production. The concentrations of the ZnS precursor and reaction time were essential in controlling the photocatalytic hydrogen production efficiency of the Cu2O/CuS/ZnS nanocomposite under blue LED light irradiation. The optimized Cu2O/CuS/ZnS nanocomposite exhibited a maximum photocatalytic hydrogen evolution rate of 1109 µmolh−1g−1, which was remarkably higher than Cu2O nanostructures. Through the cycle stability it can be observed that the hydrogen production rate of the Cu2O/CuS/ZnS nanocomposite decreased after 4 cycles (1 cycle = 3 h), but it remained at 82.2% of the initial performance under blue LED light irradiation. These reasons are mainly attributed to the introduction of CuS and ZnS to construct a rationally coupled reaction system, which enables the synergistic utilization of photogenerated carriers and the increased absorption of visible light for boosting blue LED-light-driven photocatalytic hydrogen evolution.
Fenton-like Remediation for Industrial Oily Wastewater Using Fe78Si9B13 Metallic Glasses
Authors: Liu Yulong , Zhao Bowen , Ma Guofeng , Zhang Shiming , Zhang Haifeng , Zhu Zhengwang
Published: September 2022

Metallic glasses (MGs) with a unique atomic structure have been widely used in the catalytic degradation of organic pollutants in the recent years. Fe78Si9B13 MGs exhibited excellent catalytic performance for the degradation of oily wastewater in a Fenton-like system for the first time. The oil removal and chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal from the oily wastewater were 72.67% and 70.18% within 60 min, respectively. Quenching experiments were performed to verify the production of active hydroxyl radicals (·OH) by activating hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The formation of ·OH species can significantly contribute to the degradation reaction of oily wastewater. Fe78Si9B13 MG ribbons were highly efficient materials that exhibited superior reactivity towards H2O2 activation in oily wastewater treatment. The study revealed the catalytic capability of metallic glasses, presenting extensive prospects of their applications in oily wastewater treatment.
Decreased Expression of Sam68 Is Associated with Insulin Resistance in Granulosa Cells from PCOS Patients
Authors: Vilariño-García Teresa , Guadix Pilar , Dorado-Silva Mónica , Sánchez-Martín Pascual , Pérez-Pérez Antonio , Sánchez-Margalet Víctor
Published: September 2022

Background and objective: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex metabolic disorder associated with ovulatory dysfunction, hyperandrogenism, obesity, and insulin resistance, which leads to subfertility. PCOS is the most frequent metabolic disorder in women and the major cause of infertility. Susceptibility to developing PCOS is determined by a complex interaction between environmental and genetic factors. Although different mechanisms have been proposed to explain PCOS manifestations, defects in insulin actions or in the insulin signaling pathways are central in the pathogenesis of the syndrome. However, the mechanisms (molecular players and signaling pathways) underlying its primary origin still remain an unsolved issue. Current research is increasingly focusing on the discovery of novel biomarkers to further elucidate the complex pathophysiology of PCOS. Sam68, an RNA-binding protein, is recruited to insulin signaling, mediating different insulin actions. We aimed to investigate the role of Sam68 in insulin signaling and the possible implications of Sam68 in the insulin resistance in PCOS. Materials and methods: Granulosa cells were taken from women with PCOS (n = 25) and healthy donors (n = 25) and, within the age range of 20 to 42 years, from GINEMED, Assisted Reproduction Centre, Seville, Spain. The Sam68 expression level was analyzed both by qPCR and immunoblot. Statistical significance was assessed by one-way ANOVA, followed by a post-hoc test. A p value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: We found that insulin stimulation increases the phosphorylation and expression level of Sam68 in granulosa cells from normal donors. The downregulation of Sam68 expression resulted in a lower activation of both the MAPK and the PI3K pathways in response to insulin. Moreover, the granulosa cells from the women with PCOS presented a lower expression of Sam68, as well as insulin receptor and insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1). In these cells, the overexpression of Sam68 resulted in an increased activation of both the MAPK and the PI3K pathways in response to insulin. Conclusions: These results suggest the participation of Sam68 in insulin receptor signaling, mediating the insulin effect in granulosa cells, and they suggest the possible role of Sam68 in the insulin resistance of PCOS.
β2-Integrin Adhesive Bond Tension under Shear Stress Modulates Cytosolic Calcium Flux and Neutrophil Inflammatory Response
Authors: Morikis Vasilios Aris , Chen Szu Jung , Madigan Julianna , Jo Myung Hyun , Werba Lisette Caroline , Ha Taekjip , Simon Scott Irwin
Published: September 2022

On arrested neutrophils a focal adhesive cluster of ~200 high affinity (HA) β2-integrin bonds under tension is sufficient to trigger Ca2+ flux that signals an increase in activation in direct proportion to increments in shear stress. We reasoned that a threshold tension acting on individual β2-integrin bonds provides a mechanical means of transducing the magnitude of fluid drag force into signals that enhance the efficiency of neutrophil recruitment and effector function. Tension gauge tethers (TGT) are a duplex of DNA nucleotides that rupture at a precise shear force, which increases with the extent of nucleotide overlap, ranging from a tolerance of 54pN to 12pN. TGT annealed to a substrate captures neutrophils via allosteric antibodies that stabilize LFA-1 in a high- or low-affinity conformation. Neutrophils sheared on TGT substrates were recorded in real time to form HA β2-integrin bonds and flux cytosolic Ca2+, which elicited shape change and downstream production of reactive oxygen species. A threshold force of 33pN triggered consolidation of HA β2-integrin bonds and triggered membrane influx of Ca2+, whereas an optimum tension of 54pN efficiently transduced activation at a level equivalent to chemotactic stimulation on ICAM-1. We conclude that neutrophils sense the level of fluid drag transduced through individual β2-integrin bonds, providing an intrinsic means to modulate inflammatory response in the microcirculation.
Combined Effects of Polydopamine-Assisted Copper Immobilization on 3D-Printed Porous Ti6Al4V Scaffold for Angiogenic and Osteogenic Bone Regeneration
Authors: Wu Hsi-Yao , Lin Yen-Hong , Lee Alvin Kai-Xing , Kuo Ting-You , Tsai Chun-Hao , Shie Ming-You
Published: September 2022

Numerous studies have demonstrated that biological compounds and trace elements such as dopamine (DA) and copper ions (Cu) could be modified onto the surfaces of scaffolds using a one-step immersion process which is simple, inexpensive and, most importantly, non-cytotoxic. The development and emergence of 3D printing technologies such as selective laser melting (SLM) have also made it possible for us to fabricate bone scaffolds with precise structural designs using metallic compounds. In this study, we fabricated porous titanium scaffolds (Ti) using SLM and modified the surface of Ti with polydopamine (PDA) and Cu. There are currently no other reported studies with such a combination for osteogenic and angiogenic-related applications. Results showed that such modifications did not affect general appearances and microstructural characteristics of the porous Ti scaffolds. This one-step immersion modification allowed us to modify the surfaces of Ti with different concentrations of Cu ions, thus allowing us to fabricate individualized scaffolds for different clinical scenarios. The modification improved the hydrophilicity and surface roughness of the scaffolds, which in turn led to promote cell behaviors of Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells. Ti itself has high mechanical strength, therefore making it suitable for surgical handling and clinical applications. Furthermore, the scaffolds were able to release ions in a sustained manner which led to an upregulation of osteogenic-related proteins (bone alkaline phosphatase, bone sialoprotein and osteocalcin) and angiogenic-related proteins (vascular endothelial growth factor and angiopoietin-1). By combining additive manufacturing, Ti6Al4V scaffolds, surface modification and Cu ions, the novel hybrid 3D-printed porous scaffold could be fabricated with ease and specifically benefited future bone regeneration in the clinic.