bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Wear of Interim Crowns in Accordance with the Build Angle of Digital Light Processing 3D Printing: A Preliminary In Vivo Study
Authors: Lee Hakjun , Son Keunbada , Lee Du-Hyeong , Kim So-Yeun , Lee Kyu-Bok
Published: August 2022

The aim of this study is to evaluate the wear volume of interim crowns fabricated using digital light processing 3D printing according to the printing angle. A total of five patients undergoing the placement of a single crown on the mandibular molar were included. Interim crowns were fabricated directly in the oral cavity using the conventional method. A digital light processing 3D printer was then used to fabricate crowns with build angles of 0, 45, and 90 degrees. Therefore, four fabricated interim crowns were randomly delivered to the patients, and each was used for one week. Before and after use, the intaglio surfaces of the interim crowns were scanned using a 3D scanner. The volume changes before and after use were measured, and changes in the height of the occlusal surface were evaluated using the root mean square value. Data normality was verified by statistical analysis, and the wear volume in each group was evaluated using a one-way analysis of variance and Tukey’s honestly significant difference test (α = 0.05). Compared with the RMS values of the conventional method (11.88 ± 2.69 µm) and the 3D-printing method at 0 degrees (12.14 ± 2.38 µm), the RMS values were significantly high at 90 degrees (16.46 ± 2.39 µm) (p < 0.05). Likewise, there was a significant difference in the change in volume between the groups (p = 0.002), with a significantly higher volume change value at 90 degrees (1.74 ± 0.41 mm3) than in the conventional method (0.70 ± 0.15 mm3) (p < 0.05). A printing angle of 90 degrees is not recommended when interim crowns are fabricated using digital light processing 3D printing.
Effect of Ethanol Consumption on the Placenta and Liver of Partially IGF-1-Deficient Mice: The Role of Metabolism via CYP2E1 and the Antioxidant Enzyme System
Authors: Martín-Estal Irene , Fajardo-Ramírez Óscar R. , Bermúdez de León Mario , Zertuche-Mery Carolina , Benavides-Guajardo Rodolfo , García-Cruz María Isabel , Rodríguez De Ita Julieta , Castilla-Cortázar Inma , Castorena-Torres Fabiola
Published: August 2022

Ethanol use during pregnancy is a risk factor for developing adverse outcomes. Its metabolism by cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) produces radical oxygen species (ROS), promoting cellular injury and apoptosis. To date, no studies have been conducted to elucidate the teratogenic effects due to both IGF-1 deficiency and ethanol consumption in mice placentas. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of ethanol consumption on the placenta and liver of partially IGF-1-deficient mice, the role of metabolism via CYP2E1, and the antioxidant enzyme system. Heterozygous (HZ, Igf1+/−) pregnant female mice were given water or 10% ethanol. Wild-type (WT, Igf1+/+) female mice were used as controls. At gestational day 19, pregnant dams were euthanized, and maternal liver and placentas were collected. Pregnant HZ dams were smaller than controls, and this effect was higher due to ethanol consumption. Cyp2e1 gene was overexpressed in the liver of HZ pregnant dams exposed to ethanol; at the protein level, CYP2E1 is reduced in placentas from all genotypes. The antioxidant enzymatic system was altered by ethanol consumption in both the maternal liver and placenta. The results in this work hint that IGF-1 is involved in intrauterine development because its deficiency exacerbates ethanol’s effects on both metabolism and the placenta.
Anti-Prion Systems Block Prion Transmission, Attenuate Prion Generation, Cure Most Prions as They Arise and Limit Prion-Induced Pathology in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Wickner Reed B. , Edskes Herman K. , Son Moonil , Wu Songsong
Published: August 2022

All variants of the yeast prions [PSI+] and [URE3] are detrimental to their hosts, as shown by the dramatic slowing of growth (or even lethality) of a majority, by the rare occurrence in wild isolates of even the mildest variants and by the absence of reproducible benefits of these prions. To deal with the prion problem, the host has evolved an array of anti-prion systems, acting in normal cells (without overproduction or deficiency of any component) to block prion transmission from other cells, to lower the rates of spontaneous prion generation, to cure most prions as they arise and to limit the damage caused by those variants that manage to elude these (necessarily) imperfect defenses. Here we review the properties of prion protein sequence polymorphisms Btn2, Cur1, Hsp104, Upf1,2,3, ribosome-associated chaperones, inositol polyphosphates, Sis1 and Lug1, which are responsible for these anti-prion effects. We recently showed that the combined action of ribosome-associated chaperones, nonsense-mediated decay factors and the Hsp104 disaggregase lower the frequency of [PSI+] appearance as much as 5000-fold. Moreover, while Btn2 and Cur1 are anti-prion factors against [URE3] and an unrelated artificial prion, they promote [PSI+] prion generation and propagation.
Social Rank or Social Bonds: Which one Facilitates Coalition Formation in Male Tibetan Macaques?
Authors: Tai Yi-Mei , Chen Meng-Meng , Zhang Yu-Heng , Ma An-Xiang , Wang Huan , Wang Xi
Published: August 2022

Previous studies have shown that fierce competition could promote male coalitions. There are two ways for males to choose their allies in the conflict. The first is that supporters choose high-ranking individuals, and the second is that supporters choose affiliated individuals. It is necessary to clarify the factors for forming a coalition and the process of cooperation in primates with complex relationships and strict hierarchies. Thus, we conducted a study on a group of free-ranging Tibetan macaques (Macaca thibetana) in Anhui, China, and recorded the whole process of male macaques forming coalitions once agonistic support occurred. The results showed that a higher intensity of the social bond between males was associated with more frequent coalitions. Dominance rank also significantly influenced male coalitions, showing that high-ranking individuals allied more frequently. Moreover, males with longer residence times formed more stable coalitions. We suggest that male Tibetan macaques form a stable social relationship, where social bond and social rank both promote the formation of a coalition. This study provided some insights into the mechanism by which social cooperation develops in multi-male and multi-female groups.
The Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Extremely Preterm Neonates Is More than a Hemodynamic Challenge: New Molecular Insights
Authors: Sellmer Anna , Henriksen Tine Brink , Palmfeldt Johan , Bech Bodil Hammer , Astono Julie , Bennike Tue Bjerg , Hjortdal Vibeke Elisabeth
Published: August 2022

Complications to preterm birth are numerous, including the presence of a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). The biological understanding of the PDA is sparse and treatment remains controversial. Herein, we speculate whether the PDA is more than a cardiovascular imbalance, and may be a marker in response to immature core molecular and physiological processes driven by biological systems, such as inflammation. To achieve a new biological understanding of the PDA, we performed echocardiography and collected plasma samples on day 3 of life in 53 consecutively born neonates with a gestational age at birth below 28 completed weeks. The proteome of these samples was analyzed by mass spectrometry (nanoLC-MS/MS) and immunoassay of 17 cytokines and chemokines. We found differences in 21 proteins and 8 cytokines between neonates with a large PDA (>1.5 mm) compared to neonates without a PDA. Amongst others, we found increased levels of angiotensinogen, periostin, pro-inflammatory associations, including interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-8, and anti-inflammatory associations, including IL-1RA and IL-10. Levels of complement factors C8 and carboxypeptidases were decreased. Our findings associate the PDA with the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and immune- and complement systems, indicating that PDA goes beyond the persistence of a fetal circulatory connection of the great vessels.
Reduced Expression of KRT17 Predicts Poor Prognosis in HER2high Breast Cancer
Authors: Tang Shasha , Liu Wenjing , Yong Liyun , Liu Dongyang , Lin Xiaoyan , Huang Yuan , Wang Hui , Cai Fengfeng
Published: August 2022

Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most common types of malignancies in women and greatly threatens female health. KRT17 is a member of the keratin (KRT) protein family that is abundant in the outer layer of the skin, where it protects epithelial cells from damage. Although KRT17 has been studied in many types of cancer, the expression of KRT17 in specific subtypes of BC remains to be determined. In our study, we explored the expression and prognostic implications of KRT17 in BC patients using mRNA transcriptome data and clinical BC data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and the chi-square test were used to assess the diagnostic value of KRT17 expression. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT−PCR) analysis of BC cells and tissues and immunohistochemistry (IHC) analysis of clinical tissues were used for external validation. Furthermore, the relationship between KRT17 and immune function was studied by using the CIBERSORT algorithm to predict the proportions of tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs). Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were performed to explore the potential mechanisms by which KRT17 expression influences patient survival. We found that KRT17 expression was significantly lower in BC tissues than in normal tissues, especially in the luminal-A, luminal-B and human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2)+ subtypes of BC. ROC analysis revealed that KRT17 expression had moderate diagnostic value. Interestingly, decreased expression of KRT17 was significantly correlated with poor prognosis in BC patients, especially in HER2high and ERhigh patients. This trend was also verified by tissue microarray (TMA) analysis. KRT17 was found to be involved in some antitumor immune pathways, especially the IL-17 signaling pathway, and associated with multiple immune cells, such as natural killer (NK) and CD4+ T cells. In conclusion, high expression of KRT17 predicted favorable prognosis in BC patients with higher HER2 expression. This result may indicate that KRT17 plays a different role depending on the level of HER2 expression and could serve as a promising and sensitive biomarker for the diagnosis and prognostication of HER2high BC.
Identification Markers of Carotid Vulnerable Plaques: An Update
Authors: Wang Yilin , Wang Tao , Luo Yumin , Jiao Liqun
Published: August 2022

Vulnerable plaques have been a hot topic in the field of stroke and carotid atherosclerosis. Currently, risk stratification and intervention of carotid plaques are guided by the degree of luminal stenosis. Recently, it has been recognized that the vulnerability of plaques may contribute to the risk of stroke. Some classical interventions, such as carotid endarterectomy, significantly reduce the risk of stroke in symptomatic patients with severe carotid stenosis, while for asymptomatic patients, clinically silent plaques with rupture tendency may expose them to the risk of cerebrovascular events. Early identification of vulnerable plaques contributes to lowering the risk of cerebrovascular events. Previously, the identification of vulnerable plaques was commonly based on imaging technologies at the macroscopic level. Recently, some microscopic molecules pertaining to vulnerable plaques have emerged, and could be potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets. This review aimed to update the previous summarization of vulnerable plaques and identify vulnerable plaques at the microscopic and macroscopic levels.
Head-to-Head Comparison of Different Blood Collecting Tubes for Quantification of Alzheimer’s Disease Biomarkers in Plasma
Authors: Jiang Lijun , Ding Xulong , Wang Wenxiao , Yang Xiaobin , Li Tao , Lei Peng
Published: August 2022

To examine whether the type of blood collection tubes affects the quantification of plasma biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease analyzed with a single-molecule array (Simoa), we recruited a healthy cohort (n = 34, 11 males, mean age = 28.7 ± 7.55) and collected plasma in the following tubes: dipotassium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (K2-EDTA), heparin lithium (Li-Hep), and heparin sodium (Na-Hep). Plasma tau, phosphorylated tau 181 (p-tau181), amyloid β (1–40) (Aβ40), and amyloid β (1–42) (Aβ42) were quantified using Simoa. We compared the value of plasma analytes, as well as the effects of sex on the measurements. We found that plasma collected in Li-Hep and Na-Hep tubes yielded significantly higher tau and p-tau181 levels compared to plasma collected in K2-EDTA tubes from the same person, but there was no difference in the measured values of the Aβ40, Aβ42, and Aβ42/40 ratio. Therefore, the type of blood collecting tubes should be considered when planning studies that measure plasma tau.
Adipocyte-Specific Laminin Alpha 4 Deletion Preserves Adipose Tissue Health despite Increasing Adiposity
Authors: Bailey Jennifer L. , Burk David H. , Burke Susan J. , Reed Scott D. , Ghosh Sujoy , Elks Carrie M.
Published: August 2022

Laminins are heterotrimeric glycoproteins with structural and functional roles in basement membranes. The predominant laminin alpha chain found in adipocyte basement membranes is laminin α4 (LAMA4). Global LAMA4 deletion in mice leads to reduced adiposity and increased energy expenditure, but also results in vascular defects that complicate the interpretation of metabolic data. Here, we describe the generation and initial phenotypic analysis of an adipocyte-specific LAMA4 knockout mouse (Lama4AKO). We first performed an in-silico analysis to determine the degree to which laminin α4 was expressed in human and murine adipocytes. Next, male Lama4AKO and control mice were fed chow or high-fat diets and glucose tolerance was assessed along with serum insulin and leptin levels. Adipocyte area was measured in both epididymal and inguinal white adipose tissue (eWAT and iWAT, respectively), and eWAT was used for RNA-sequencing. We found that laminin α4 was highly expressed in human and murine adipocytes. Further, chow-fed Lama4AKO mice are like control mice in terms of body weight, body composition, and glucose tolerance, although they have larger eWAT adipocytes and lower insulin levels. High-fat-fed Lama4AKO mice are fatter and more glucose tolerant when compared to control mice. Transcriptionally, the eWAT of high-fat fed Lama4AKO mice resembles that of chow-fed control mice. We conclude from these findings that adipocyte-specific LAMA4 deletion is protective in an obesogenic environment, even though overall adiposity is increased.
SARS-CoV-2 Variability in Patients and Wastewaters—Potential Immuno-Modulation during the Shift from Delta to Omicron
Authors: Chaqroun Ahlam , Hartard Cédric , Josse Thomas , Taverniers Audrey , Jeulin Hélène , Gantzer Christophe , Murray John M. ,   Obepine Consortium, Bertrand Isabelle , Schvoerer Evelyne
Published: August 2022

The continuous emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants favors potential co-infections and/or viral mutation events, leading to possible new biological properties. The aim of this work was to characterize SARS-CoV-2 genetic variability during the Delta–Omicron shift in patients and in a neighboring wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in the same urban area. The surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 was performed by routine screening of positive samples by single nucleotide polymorphism analysis within the S gene. Moreover, additionally to national systematic whole genome sequencing (WGS) once a week in SARS-CoV-2-positive patients, WGS was also applied when mutational profiles were difficult to interpret by routine screening. Thus, WGS was performed on 414 respiratory samples and on four wastewater samples, northeastern France. This allowed us to report (i) the temporally concordant Delta to Omicron viral shift in patients and wastewaters; (ii) the characterization of 21J (Delta) and 21K (Omicron)/BA.1-21L (Omicron)/BA.2-BA.4 mixtures from humans or environmental samples; (iii) the mapping of composite mutations and the predicted impact on immune properties in the viral Spike protein.
Is Dutasteride a Therapeutic Alternative for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis?
Authors: Proaño Belén , Casani-Cubel Julia , Benlloch María , Rodriguez-Mateos Ana , Navarro-Illana Esther , Lajara-Romance Jose María , de la Rubia Ortí Jose Enrique
Published: August 2022

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease that is characterized by the loss of upper and lower motor neurons (MNs) in the cerebral cortex, brainstem and spinal cord, with consequent weakness, atrophy and the progressive paralysis of all muscles. There is currently no medical cure, and riluzole and edaravone are the only two known approved drugs for treating this condition. However, they have limited efficacy, and hence there is a need to find new molecules. Dutasteride, a dual inhibitor of type 1 and type 2 5α-reductase (5AR) enzymes, the therapeutic purposes of which, to date, are the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia and androgenic alopecia, shows great anti-ALS properties by the molecular-topology methodology. Based on this evidence, this review aims to assess the effects of dutasteride on testosterone (T), progesterone (PROG) and 17β-estradiol (17BE) as a therapeutic alternative for the clinical improvement of ALS, based on the hormonal, metabolic and molecular pathways related to the pathogenesis of the disease. According to the evidence found, dutasteride shows great neuroprotective, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It also appears effective against glutamate toxicity, and it is capable of restoring altered dopamine activity (DA). These effects are achieved both directly and through steroid hormones. Therefore, dutasteride seems to be a promising molecule for the treatment of ALS, although clinical studies are required for confirmation.
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and COVID-19: A Narrative Review
Authors: Rey-Reñones Cristina , Martinez-Torres Sara , Martín-Luján Francisco M. , Pericas Carles , Redondo Ana , Vilaplana-Carnerero Carles , Dominguez Angela , Grau María
Published: August 2022

Type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder. The incidence and prevalence of patients with T2DM are increasing worldwide, even reaching epidemic values in most high- and middle-income countries. T2DM could be a risk factor of developing complications in other diseases. Indeed, some studies suggest a bidirectional interaction between T2DM and COVID-19. A growing body of evidence shows that COVID-19 prognosis in individuals with T2DM is worse compared with those without. Moreover, various studies have reported the emergence of newly diagnosed patients with T2DM after SARS-CoV-2 infection. The most common treatments for T2DM may influence SARS-CoV-2 and their implication in infection is briefly discussed in this review. A better understanding of the link between TD2M and COVID-19 could proactively identify risk factors and, as a result, develop strategies to improve the prognosis for these patients.
Role of CA 19.9 in the Management of Resectable Pancreatic Cancer: State of the Art and Future Perspectives
Authors: Coppola Alessandro , La Vaccara Vincenzo , Farolfi Tommaso , Fiore Michele , Cammarata Roberto , Ramella Sara , Coppola Roberto , Caputo Damiano
Published: August 2022

Background: Surgery still represents the gold standard of treatment for resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Neoadjuvant treatments (NAT), currently proposed for borderline and locally advanced PDACs, are gaining momentum even in resectable tumors due to the recent interesting concept of “biological resectability”. In this scenario, CA 19.9 is having increasing importance in preoperative staging and in the choice of therapeutic strategies. We aimed to assess the state of the art and to highlight the future perspectives of CA 19.9 use in the management of patients with resectable pancreatic cancer. Methods: A PubMed database search of articles published up to December 2021 has been carried out. Results: Elevated pre-operative levels of CA 19.9 have been associated with reduced overall survival, nodal involvement, and margin status positivity after surgery. These abilities of CA 19.9 increase when combined with radiological or different biological criteria. Unfortunately, due to strong limitations of previously published articles, CA 19.9 alone cannot be yet considered as a key player in resectable pancreatic cancer patient management. Conclusion: The potential of CA 19.9 must be fully explored in order to standardize its role in the “biological staging” of patients with resectable pancreatic cancer.
Real-Life Performance of F-18-FDG PET/CT in Patients with Cervical Lymph Node Metastasis of Unknown Primary Tumor
Authors: Eilsberger Friederike , Noltenius Friederike Elisabeth , Librizzi Damiano , Wessendorf Joel , Luster Markus , Hoch Stephan , Pfestroff Andreas
Published: August 2022

Background: Neoplasms in the head and neck region possess higher glycolytic activity than normal tissue, showing increased glucose metabolism. F-18-Flourodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) can identify an unknown primary tumor (CUP). Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the real-life performance of F-18-FDG-PET/CT in detecting primary sites in patients with cervical lymph node metastasis of CUP. Methods: A retrospective data analysis of 31 patients who received FDG-PET/CT between June 2009 and March 2015 in a CUP context with histologically confirmed cervical lymph node metastasis was included. Results: In 48% of the patients (15/31), PET/CT showed suspicious tracer accumulation. In 52% of the patients (16/31), there was no suspicious radiotracer uptake, which was confirmed by the lack of identification of any primary tumor in 10 cases until the end of follow-up. FDG-PET/CT had a sensitivity of 67%, specificity of 91%, PPV of 92%, and NPV of 63% in detecting the primary tumor. Additionally, PET/CT showed suspicious tracer accumulation according to further metastasis in 32% of the patients (10/31). Conclusion: FDG-PET/CT imaging is a useful technique for primary tumor detection in patients in a cervical CUP context. Furthermore, it provides information on the ulterior metastasis of the disease.
Multi-Functionalized Heteroduplex Antisense Oligonucleotides for Targeted Intracellular Delivery and Gene Silencing in HeLa Cells
Authors: Sousa de Almeida Mauro , Rothen-Rutishauser Barbara , Mayer Michael , Taskova Maria
Published: August 2022

Oligonucleotide therapeutics, antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) and short interfering RNA (siRNA) are short synthetic nucleic acid molecules with a promising potential to treat a wide range of diseases. Despite considerable progress in the field, the development of safe and effective delivery systems that target organs and tissues other than the liver is challenging. While keeping possible off-target oligonucleotide interactions and toxicity related to chemical modifications in mind, innovative solutions for targeted intracellular delivery are highly needed. Herein, we report on the design, synthesis and testing of a novel multi-modified and multi-functionalized heteroduplex oligonucleotide (HDO) with respect to its intracellular delivery and its ability to silence genes in HeLa cells. Simultaneously, folic acid- and peptide- labeled HDO show proficient silencing of the green fluorescent protein (GFP) gene with an 84% reduction in the GFP fluorescence. In addition, the Bcl2 HDO achieved effective Bcl2 gene knockdown in the cells. The data show the proficiency of the multi-functionalization strategy and provide an example for advancing the design of safe and efficient forthcoming oligonucleotide therapeutics, such as HDO.
Three-Dimensional Printing and Its Potential to Develop Sensors for Cancer with Improved Performance
Authors: Rocha Neto João B. M. , Soares Juliana Coatrini , Longhitano Guilherme A. , Coatrini-Soares Andrey , Carvalho Hernandes F. , Oliveira Osvaldo N. , Beppu Marisa M. , da Silva Jorge V. L.
Published: August 2022

Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally and early diagnosis is the best strategy to reduce mortality risk. Biosensors to detect cancer biomarkers are based on various principles of detection, including electrochemical, optical, electrical, and mechanical measurements. Despite the advances in the identification of biomarkers and the conventional 2D manufacturing processes, detection methods for cancers still require improvements in terms of selectivity and sensitivity, especially for point-of-care diagnosis. Three-dimensional printing may offer the features to produce complex geometries in the design of high-precision, low-cost sensors. Three-dimensional printing, also known as additive manufacturing, allows for the production of sensitive, user-friendly, and semi-automated sensors, whose composition, geometry, and functionality can be controlled. This paper reviews the recent use of 3D printing in biosensors for cancer diagnosis, highlighting the main advantages and advances achieved with this technology. Additionally, the challenges in 3D printing technology for the mass production of high-performance biosensors for cancer diagnosis are addressed.
Visualization of Polymer–Surfactant Interaction by Dual-Emissive Gold Nanocluster Labeling
Authors: Zheng Jiaojiao , Zhang Jing , Lu Fengniu , Du Yi , Cao Ding , Hu Shui , Yang Yang , Yuan Zhiqin
Published: August 2022

Polymer-surfactant interaction decides the performance of corresponding complexes, making its rapid and intuitionistic visualization important for enhancing the performance of products and/or processing in related fields. In this study, the fluorescence visualization of the interaction between cationic hyperbranched polyethyleneimine and anionic sodium dodecyl sulfonate surfactant was realized by dual-emissive gold nanocluster labeling. The sensing mechanism was due to the interaction-induced polymer conformation change, which regulated the molecular structure and subsequent photoradiation process of the gold nanoclusters. All three inflection points of the interactions between the polymers and the surfactants were obtained by the change in fluorescence emission ratio of the designed dual-emissive gold nanoclusters. Moreover, these inflection points are verified by the hydrodynamic diameter and zeta potential measurements.
Application of Janus Particles in Point-of-Care Testing
Authors: Wang Yuhan , Zhao Peixuan , Zhang Shihao , Zhu Kexiao , Shangguan Xiaoya , Liu Lishang , Zhang Shusheng
Published: August 2022

Janus particles (JPs), named after the two-faced Roman god, are asymmetric particles with different chemical properties or polarities. JPs have been widely used in the biomedical field in recent years, including as drug carriers for targeted controlled drug release and as biosensors for biological imaging and biomarker detection, which is crucial in the early detection and treatment of diseases. In this review, we highlight the most recent advancements made with regard to Janus particles in point-of-care testing (POCT). Firstly, we introduce several commonly used methods for preparing Janus particles. Secondly, we present biomarker detection using JPs based on various detection methods to achieve the goal of POCT. Finally, we discuss the challenges and opportunities for developing Janus particles in POCT. This review will facilitate the development of POCT biosensing devices based on the unique properties of Janus particles.
Optofluidic Particle Manipulation: Optical Trapping in a Thin-Membrane Microchannel
Authors: Walker Zachary J. , Wells Tanner , Belliston Ethan , Walker Seth B. , Zeller Carson , Sampad Mohammad Julker Neyen , Saiduzzaman S. M. , Schmidt Holger , Hawkins Aaron R.
Published: August 2022

We demonstrate an optofluidic device which utilizes the optical scattering and gradient forces for particle trapping in microchannels featuring 300 nm thick membranes. On-chip waveguides are used to direct light into microfluidic trapping channels. Radiation pressure is used to push particles into a protrusion cavity, isolating the particles from liquid flow. Two different designs are presented: the first exclusively uses the optical scattering force for particle manipulation, and the second uses both scattering and gradient forces. Trapping performance is modeled for both cases. The first design, referred to as the orthogonal force design, is shown to have a 80% capture efficiency under typical operating conditions. The second design, referred to as the gradient force design, is shown to have 98% efficiency under the same conditions.
Parietal Alpha Oscillations: Cognitive Load and Mental Toughness
Authors: Zhozhikashvili Natalia , Zakharov Ilya , Ismatullina Victoria , Feklicheva Inna , Malykh Sergey , Arsalidou Marie
Published: August 2022

Cognitive effort is intrinsically linked to task difficulty, intelligence, and mental toughness. Intelligence reflects an individual’s cognitive aptitude, whereas mental toughness (MT) reflects an individual’s resilience in pursuing success. Research shows that parietal alpha oscillations are associated with changes in task difficulty. Critically, it remains unclear whether parietal alpha oscillations are modulated by intelligence and MT as a personality trait. We examined event-related (de)synchronization (ERD/ERS) of alpha oscillations associated with encoding, retention, and recognition in the Sternberg task in relation to intelligence and mental toughness. Eighty participants completed the Sternberg task with 3, 4, 5 and 6 digits, Raven Standard Progressive Matrices test and an MT questionnaire. A positive dependence on difficulty was observed for all studied oscillatory effects (t = −8.497, p < 0.001; t = 2.806, p < 0.005; t = −2.103, p < 0.05). The influence of Raven intelligence was observed for encoding-related alpha ERD (t = −2.02, p = 0.049). The influence of MT was observed only for difficult conditions in recognition-related alpha ERD (t = −3.282, p < 0.005). Findings indicate that the modulation of alpha rhythm related to encoding, retention and recognition may be interpreted as correlates of cognitive effort modulation. Specifically, results suggest that effort related to encoding depends on intelligence, whereas recognition-related effort level depends on mental toughness.
RMTF-Net: Residual Mix Transformer Fusion Net for 2D Brain Tumor Segmentation
Authors: Gai Di , Zhang Jiqian , Xiao Yusong , Min Weidong , Zhong Yunfei , Zhong Yuling
Published: August 2022

Due to the complexity of medical imaging techniques and the high heterogeneity of glioma surfaces, image segmentation of human gliomas is one of the most challenging tasks in medical image analysis. Current methods based on convolutional neural networks concentrate on feature extraction while ignoring the correlation between local and global. In this paper, we propose a residual mix transformer fusion net, namely RMTF-Net, for brain tumor segmentation. In the feature encoder, a residual mix transformer encoder including a mix transformer and a residual convolutional neural network (RCNN) is proposed. The mix transformer gives an overlapping patch embedding mechanism to cope with the loss of patch boundary information. Moreover, a parallel fusion strategy based on RCNN is utilized to obtain local–global balanced information. In the feature decoder, a global feature integration (GFI) module is applied, which can enrich the context with the global attention feature. Extensive experiments on brain tumor segmentation from LGG, BraTS2019 and BraTS2020 demonstrated that our proposed RMTF-Net is superior to existing state-of-art methods in subjective visual performance and objective evaluation.
The Effects of Cortical Reorganization and Applications of Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy in Deaf People and Cochlear Implant Users
Authors: Zhou Xiaoqing , Feng Menglong , Hu Yaqin , Zhang Chanyuan , Zhang Qingling , Luo Xiaoqin , Yuan Wei
Published: August 2022

A cochlear implant (CI) is currently the only FDA-approved biomedical device that can restore hearing for the majority of patients with severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). While prelingually and postlingually deaf individuals benefit substantially from CI, the outcomes after implantation vary greatly. Numerous studies have attempted to study the variables that affect CI outcomes, including the personal characteristics of CI candidates, environmental variables, and device-related variables. Up to 80% of the results remained unexplainable because all these variables could only roughly predict auditory performance with a CI. Brain structure/function differences after hearing deprivation, that is, cortical reorganization, has gradually attracted the attention of neuroscientists. The cross-modal reorganization in the auditory cortex following deafness is thought to be a key factor in the success of CI. In recent years, the adaptive and maladaptive effects of this reorganization on CI rehabilitation have been argued because the neural mechanisms of how this reorganization impacts CI learning and rehabilitation have not been revealed. Due to the lack of brain processes describing how this plasticity affects CI learning and rehabilitation, the adaptive and deleterious consequences of this reorganization on CI outcomes have recently been the subject of debate. This review describes the evidence for different roles of cross-modal reorganization in CI performance and attempts to explore the possible reasons. Additionally, understanding the core influencing mechanism requires taking into account the cortical changes from deafness to hearing restoration. However, methodological issues have restricted longitudinal research on cortical function in CI. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) has been increasingly used for the study of brain function and language assessment in CI because of its unique advantages, which are considered to have great potential. Here, we review studies on auditory cortex reorganization in deaf patients and CI recipients, and then we try to illustrate the feasibility of fNIRS as a neuroimaging tool in predicting and assessing speech performance in CI recipients. Here, we review research on the cross-modal reorganization of the auditory cortex in deaf patients and CI recipients and seek to demonstrate the viability of using fNIRS as a neuroimaging technique to predict and evaluate speech function in CI recipients.
Impact of Gender on STEAM Education in Elementary School: From Individuals to Group Compositions
Authors: Ma Lin , Luo Heng , Liao Xiaofang , Li Jie
Published: August 2022

Gender differences are essential factors influencing collaborative learning at both individual and group levels. However, few studies have systematically investigated their impact on student performance in the innovative context of STEAM education, particularly in the elementary school setting. To address this research need, this study examined the learning behaviors of 91 sixth graders in a STEAM program, who were classified into three gender groupings, namely, boy-only, girl-only, and mixed-gender groups, and further compared their performance in terms of cognition, interaction, and emotion by both gender and gender group type. The results show that, compared to individual gender differences, the gender group type had a greater impact on students’ behavioral performance during STEAM education. While all gender groupings had specific advantages, mixed-gender groups proved to be the most preferable, with benefits such as enhanced higher-order thinking, interaction, and emotional expression. Moreover, the study revealed that both boys and girls acted differently when working with the opposite gender in mixed-gender groups. These research findings have several implications for facilitating STEAM learning in co-ed elementary schools.
The Risk of T2DM in College Women: The Predictive Power of Financial versus Residential Status in a Cross-Sectional Pilot Study in Turkey
Authors: Kristo Aleksandra S. , Pınarlı Çağla , Kelleher Anita H. , Kucuknil Stefanos L. , Sikalidis Angelos K.
Published: August 2022

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the relationships between dietary habits, income levels and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) risk in Turkish female university students who are living with their family or in the dormitory. Materials and Methods: This work was a cross-sectional pilot study conducted during December 2016–January 2017 in Istanbul Yeni Yuzyıl University. A survey was administered to 100 female students, 60 living with their family and 40 in dormitories. Income level was determined based on TURKSTAT 2015 percentiles. T2DM risk was determined using the Finnish Diabetes Association Type 2 Diabetes Risk Assessment Form (FINDRISC). Food frequency questionnaire and 24 h dietary recall results were analyzed by the diet analysis software Beslenme Bilgi Sistemi (BeBiS), specially developed for Turkey. Results: Results indicated inadequacies and imbalanced nutrition among female college students overall. Notably, there was a statistically significant higher diet quality for the students living with their families compared to those living in dormitories. Income level was consistently positively associated with better nutritional outcomes, while negatively associated with T2DM risk, but interestingly, only in the case of students living in the dormitory and not for those living with family. Conclusions: Our findings indicated that financial status, rather than living in the dormitory versus with family, is positively associated with increased T2DM risk as assessed via FINDRISC among Turkish female college students. This study’s results indicate a potential need for educational programs and nutritional support for students, particularly those living away from family.
Seismic Performance of Composite Shear Walls Filled with Demolished Concrete Lumps and Self-Compacting Concrete after Fire
Authors: Xiong Yan , Chen Aodong , Wu Di , Zhao Guowei
Published: August 2022

In order to provide a good solution for the treatment and utilization of construction waste, especially waste concrete and to promote the development of green construction to some extent, in this paper, a new composite shear wall filled with demolished concrete lumps (DCLs) and self-compacting concrete (SCC) was proposed, and its seismic performance after fire was investigated. Based on quasi-static tests of four composite shear walls filled with DCLs and SCC, three after a standard fire and one contrastive specimen without fire, the effects of fire exposure time, fire-retardant coating on the edge constraint steel pipe column, and the width-thickness ratio on seismic performance of composite shear walls after fire were studied. The failure patterns, bearing capacity, hysteretic loops, ductility, skeleton curves, rigidity degradation curves, and energy dissipation of shear walls were analyzed and compared. Test results indicate that the bearing capacity of the shear wall after 60 min of standard fire is slightly lower than the contrastive specimen without fire, but specimens still have good seismic performance. The interlayer displacement angle of the shear wall after a fire still meets the requirement of regulations. The fire-retardant coating on the edge of concealed steel pipe column has a limited effect on the seismic performance of specimens after a fire. The horizontal bearing capacity and energy dissipation capacity of shear walls after a fire can obviously be improved by properly increasing the width-thickness ratio.
Developing Urban Heat Mitigation Strategies for a Historic Area Using a High-Fidelity Parametric Numerical Simulation: A Case Study in Singapore
Authors: Zhu Wei , Zhang Liqing , Mei Shuo-Jun , Yuan Chao
Published: August 2022

The coexistence of developed areas and historic buildings is an important topic in urban planning. Our study focuses on this topic from the perspective of urban microclimate. A multi-physics CFD simulation is applied to model urban microclimate with anthropogenic heat and buoyancy effects. First, we clarified the impact of new development, i.e., high-rises on pedestrian-level air flow by comparing city structures in Case A (the past, 1960s) and Case B (the current, 2020s). The results showed an average wind speed decrease of 43% over time. Second, we assessed air temperature increments from anthropogenic heat emitted from Case C (high-rises), Case D (historic buildings), and Case E (both). We found that the mean air temperature increased by 0.16 °C for Case C, 0.52 °C for Case D, and 0.87 °C for Case E, respectively. Third, we developed heat mitigation strategies based on the assessment results in the previous steps. The integration of open spaces and building porosity, which create wind corridors together, can promote outdoor ventilation and heat dispersion in the study area. Compared with Case E, the three mitigation cases improve outdoor thermal environment, with mean temperature reductions of 33%, 25%, and 21%, respectively. Finally, we developed new mitigation strategies by considering the constraints in this special region, where modernity and history coexist. Our practical mitigation strategies will aid urban planning and support conservation efforts not only in Singapore, but also in other tropical and subtropical cities.
Study of the Failure Mechanism of Mortar Rubble Using Digital Image Correlation, Acoustic Emission and Scanning Electron Microscopy
Authors: Li Zhao-Qi , Chen Hongyun , Dong Jie , Yan Xin , Zhao Shi-Rong , Zheng Ying-Hao , Liu Yang
Published: August 2022

This paper describes an extensive experimental study of the compressive failure of different types of aggregates and the influence of aggregate type on the interfacial properties of mortars. Interfacial debonding was the main failure mode of mortar rubbles. The interlocking strength of aggregate and mortar strongly affected the compressive strength of materials. When basalt was used as the aggregate, I-II composite failure of the deflection crack occurred as well as interfacial debonding. The highest instantaneous AE energy of the granite mortar rubble was 1349 mV·ms, which was 4.1 times greater than that of the basalt mortar rubble (326 mV·ms). Acoustic emissions of mortar rubble were strongest in the 150–220 kHz range and gave an early warning of the damage load at high frequencies (160–320 kHz). The C-S-H gel formed by the hydration reaction adhered to the aggregate pores and exhibited a “root pile” effect that improved the bonding performance of the interfacial zone. The interfacial porosity of the basalt, granite and limestone mortar rubble was 21.29%, 18.70% and 30.0%, respectively. The limestone interface has a large porosity, the fractal cones was small (1.19), and there was an obvious sidewall effect, but the interfacial strength was weak. The pore structure had a significant effect on the interfacial bond strength. This multi-faceted analysis truly reflected the state and evolution of the damage of mortar rubbles, and the results were very effective for determining the mechanical mode of damage of mortar rubbles.
Numerical and Experimental Study on the Indoor Climate in a Classroom with Mixing and Displacement Air Distribution Methods
Authors: Zhao Weixin , Mustakallio Panu , Lestinen Sami , Kilpeläinen Simo , Jokisalo Juha , Kosonen Risto
Published: August 2022

One main challenge of air distribution in classrooms is to guarantee ventilation performance under different usage conditions. In this study, the indoor climate in summer and winter conditions with different occupancy densities in the classroom is presented. Thermal condition measurements of a half-size classroom were performed in a test room with four air suppliers: wall-grilles, ceiling diffusers, perforated duct diffusers, and displacement ventilation. Those measured data were used for CFD validation of the whole classroom. With CFD simulations, indoor climate parameters with different air diffusers are compared in summer and winter conditions. The results show that displacement ventilation gives the best performance in the occupied zone. The air change efficiency can be reached with displacement ventilation of 1.4 and of only 1 with the other three air diffusers. The air velocities were reasonably low (<0.3 m/s), and the indoor was quite uniform with ceiling diffusers, which is another well-performing solution for classrooms. Corridor wall-grilles give uniform thermal conditions but can have high velocities (0.4 m/s) on the perimeter side of the room space. The air distribution from the perforated duct diffuser is unstable, which causes high local draft (over 20%) in the occupied zone.
Damage Mechanism and Modeling of Concrete in Freeze–Thaw Cycles: A Review
Authors: Guo Jinjun , Sun Wenqi , Xu Yaoqun , Lin Weiqi , Jing Weidong
Published: August 2022

The deterioration of concrete microstructures in freeze–thaw (F–T) cycles is the primary reason for the reduction in the service life of concrete. This paper reviews recent progress in the theory of damage mechanisms and damage models of concrete in F–T cycles. It is a detailed review of the salt-freeze coupling condition, microstructure testing, and models for the evolution of concrete properties that are subjected to F–T damage. Summarized in this paper are the deterioration theory of water phase transition; the mechanism of chloride-F–T and sulfate-F–T damage; the microstructure testing of hydration products, pore structure, microcracks, and interfacial transition zones (ITZ). Furthermore, F–T damage models for the macrostructure are presented. Finally, the issues that are existing in the research and outlook of concrete F–T damage are highlighted and discussed. This paper is helpful in understanding the evolution of F–T damage, and also provides a comprehensive insight into possible future challenges for the sustainable design and specifications of concrete in cold environments.
Sustainable Concrete in the Construction Industry of Kurdistan-Iraq through Self-Curing
Authors: Herki Bengin M. A. , Khatib Jamal M. , Hamadamin Muhammad N. , Kareem Fakhir A.
Published: August 2022

The improper curing of concrete can seriously affect its hardened properties. However, a large quantity of water is required to cure concrete after casting. Water is a valuable resource and its availability is posing a particular challenge in the Middle East including the Kurdistan region of Iraq. Self-curing concrete may be considered a novel curing method in that the water inside the concrete mix is retained so that hydration can continue without the supply of additional water after casting. Therefore, the aim of this study was to include a self-curing agent, named Polyethylene glycol-400 (PEG-400), as one of the concrete mix constituents in order to save water that is normally required after casting. Six concrete mixes were cast with a constant W/C ratio of 0.5; two of them were ordinary concrete mixes whereas the other mixes contained 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, and 2% of PEG-400 by weight of cement. All concrete ingredients, except the PEG-400, were provided locally. Three different curing regimes were employed: air curing under ambient laboratory conditions, water curing, and self-curing using different dosages of PEG-400. Testing included compressive strength, ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV), and water absorption. The results showed that 1% of PEG-400 is the optimum dosage to be used for self-cured concrete.