bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computed Tomography-Guided Radiofrequency Ablation of Nasal Carcinomas in Dogs
Authors: Alférez María Dolores , Corda Andrea , de Blas Ignacio , Gago Lucas , Fernandes Telmo , Rodríguez-Piza Ignacio , Balañá Beatriz , Pentcheva Plamena , Caruncho Javier , Barbero-Fernández Alicia , Llinás Jorge , Rivas David , Escudero Amaia , Gómez-Ochoa Pablo
Published: December 2024

Nasal carcinomas in dogs are locally invasive neoplasms with a low metastatic rate that pose significant treatment challenges due to their location and aggressiveness. This study evaluates the safety, feasibility, and therapeutic outcomes of computed tomography-guided radiofrequency ablation (CT-guided RFA) in 15 dogs diagnosed with nasal adenocarcinoma. All patients underwent staging and histopathological diagnosis before treatment. CT-guided RFA achieved a significant tumor volume reduction (82.8%) and improvement in clinical signs such as nasal discharge, epistaxis, and respiratory distress, without complications. Post-RFA CT examinations demonstrated a significant decrease in Hounsfield units and tumor volume. This study has shown that CT-guided RFA is an effective cytoreductive option for minimally invasive management of nasal adenocarcinomas in dogs, particularly when traditional therapies like radiation therapy or surgery are not feasible.
Cytotoxicity and Immunomodulatory Effects of Cannabidiol on Canine PBMCs: A Study in LPS-Stimulated and Epileptic Dogs
Authors: Kosukwatthana Phannicha , Rungsuriyawiboon Oumaporn , Rattanasrisomporn Jatuporn , Kimram Kanogwan , Tansakul Natthasit
Published: December 2024

Cannabidiol, the primary non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid found in cannabis, has generated significant research interest due to its potential for biological effects, such as anti-inflammatory, analgesic, immunomodulatory, and anticonvulsant properties. Several studies have demonstrated the potential of CBD to alter inflammatory cytokines; however, data on CBD’s effects on cell viability and pro-inflammatory cytokines in target animals, such as dogs, are limited. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the effects of CBD on the cell viability and modulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), in canine PBMCs stimulated with LPS. To evaluate the effect of CBD on neuroinflammation in epilepsy pathology, an independent study of five refractory epileptic dogs co-treated with CBD for 30 days was conducted. The current findings revealed that CBD concentrations of 16 µg/mL had a statistically significant effect on the viability of canine PBMCs with a calculated IC50 of 15.54 µg/mL. The effect of CBD on inflammatory cytokines in LPS-stimulated PBMCs tended to be dose-dependent, with CBD concentrations of 5–30 μg/mL resulting in decreased production of the tested pro-inflammatory cytokines. Considering the effect of CBD on cytokine production by PBMCs from epileptic dogs, CBD has the potential to modulate immune responses and provide benefits when used in combination with antiepileptic drugs. The findings provided evidence of CBD cytotoxicity and its effect on the alteration of pro-inflammatory cytokines in canine PBMCs.
Antihypertensive Effects of a Sodium Thiosulfate-Loaded Nanoparticle in a Juvenile Chronic Kidney Disease Rat Model
Authors: Tain You-Lin , Hsu Chien-Ning , Hou Chih-Yao , Chen Chih-Kuang
Published: December 2024

Sodium thiosulfate (STS), a precursor of hydrogen sulfide (H2S), has demonstrated antihypertensive properties. Previous studies have suggested that H2S-based interventions can prevent hypertension in pediatric chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, the clinical application of STS is limited by its rapid release and intravenous administration. To address this, we developed a poly-lactic acid (PLA)-based nanoparticle system for sustained STS delivery and investigated whether weekly treatment with STS-loaded nanoparticles (NPs) could protect against hypertension in a juvenile CKD rat model. Male Sprague Dawley rats, aged three weeks, were fed a diet containing 0.5% adenine for three weeks to induce a model of pediatric CKD. STS-loaded NPs (25 mg/kg) were administered intravenously during weeks 6, 7, and 8, and at week 9, all rats were sacrificed. Treatment with STS-loaded NPs reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure by 10 mm Hg and 8 mm Hg, respectively, in juvenile CKD rats. The protective effect of STS-loaded NPs was linked to increased renal expression of H2S-producing enzymes, including cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE) and D-amino acid oxidase (DAO). Additionally, STS-loaded NP therapy restored nitric oxide (NO) signaling, increasing L-arginine levels, which were disrupted in CKD. Furthermore, the beneficial effects of STS-loaded NPs were associated with inhibition of the renin–angiotensin system (RAS) and the enhancement of the NO signaling pathway. Our findings suggest that STS-loaded NP treatment provides sustained STS delivery and effectively reduces hypertension in a juvenile CKD rat model, bringing us closer to the clinical translation of STS-based therapy for pediatric CKD-induced hypertension.
Transcriptomic Characterization Reveals Mitochondrial Involvement in Nrf2/Keap1-Mediated Osteoclastogenesis
Authors: Sakai Eiko , Tsukuba Takayuki
Published: December 2024

Although osteoclasts play crucial roles in the skeletal system, the mechanisms that underlie oxidative stress during osteoclastogenesis remain unclear. The transcription factor Nrf2 and its suppressor, Keap1, function as central mediators of oxidative stress. To further elucidate the function of Nrf2/Keap1-mediated oxidative stress regulation in osteoclastogenesis, DNA microarray analysis was conducted in this study using wild-type (WT), Keap1 knockout (Keap1 KO), and Nrf2 knockout (Nrf2 KO) osteoclasts. Principal component analysis showed that 403 genes, including Nqo1, Il1f9, and Mmp12, were upregulated in Keap1 KO compared with WT osteoclasts, whereas 24 genes, including Snhg6, Ccdc109b, and Wfdc17, were upregulated in Nrf2 KO compared with WT osteoclasts. Moreover, 683 genes, including Car2, Calcr, and Pate4, were upregulated in Nrf2 KO cells compared to Keap1 KO cells. Functional analysis by Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis showed upregulated genes in Nrf2 KO osteoclasts were mostly enriched in oxidative phosphorylation. Furthermore, GeneMANIA predicted the protein–protein interaction network of novel molecules such as Rufy4 from genes upregulated in Nrf2 KO osteoclasts. Understanding the complex interactions between these molecules may pave the way for developing promising therapeutic strategies against bone metabolic diseases caused by increased osteoclast differentiation under oxidative stress.
Spatiotemporal Prediction and Proactive Control Method for Excavation-Induced Wall Deflection
Authors: Liu Weiwei , Zeng Shaoxiang , Chen Kaiyue , Pan Xiaodong
Published: December 2024

The advancement of urbanization has led to stricter requirements for the prediction and control of excavation-induced deformations. To achieve this goal, this study proposes a novel method that integrates a spatiotemporal graph attention network (ST-GAT) with a proportional–integral–derivative (PID) controller to proactively control wall deflections caused by excavation. The ST-GAT model improves wall deflection prediction by capturing spatial relationships between monitoring points near steel struts and dynamically assigning weights based on their importance. The interpretability of the model is greatly improved by generating a feature attribution map across various input features and visualizing the weight distribution between nodes in the GAT network. A proactive control method of wall deflections is proposed by replacing current monitoring values in the PID control system with predicted values for multiple steel struts using the ST-GAT model. Compared to the standard PID method, this approach can control wall deflections before significant deformations occur. A real excavation project equipped with a servo support system is used to validate the effectiveness of the proposed method. The results show that the ST-GAT model significantly outperforms other models, and its performance improves when utilizing spatial relationships from more monitoring points. With a reasonable combination of PID hyperparameters, the proposed ST-GAT-based PID controller can control wall deflections close to a target value.
Advancing Smart Zero-Carbon Cities: High-Resolution Wind Energy Forecasting to 36 Hours Ahead
Authors: Elmousalami Haytham , Alnaser Aljawharah A. , Kin Peng Hui Felix
Published: December 2024

Accurate wind speed and power forecasting are key to optimizing renewable wind station management, which is essential for smart and zero-energy cities. This paper presents a novel integrated wind speed–power forecasting system (WSPFS) that operates across various time horizons, demonstrated through a case study in a high-wind area within the Middle East. The WSPFS leverages 12 AI algorithms both individual and ensemble models to forecast wind speed (WSF) and wind power (WPF) at intervals of 10 min to 36 h. A multi-horizon prediction approach is proposed, using WSF model outputs as inputs for WPF modeling. Predictive accuracy was evaluated using mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) and mean square error (MSE). Additionally, WSPFS advances the smart wind energy deep decarbonization (SWEDD) framework by calculating the carbon city index (CCI) to define the carbon-city transformation curve (CCTC). Findings from this study have broad implications, from enabling zero-energy urban projects and mega-developments like NEOM and the Suez Canal to advancing global energy trading and supply management.
Investigation of VOC Series Collected in a Refinery and Their Classification Based on Statistical Features
Authors: Bărbulescu Alina , Barbeş Sebastian-Barbu , Barbeş Lucica , Dumitriu Cristian Ștefan
Published: December 2024

In the context of the increased pollution from different sources and its significant negative effect on the population’s health and environment, the article presents a comprehensive analysis of the data series formed by the concentrations of the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) collected in three zones—storage areas in the reservoir park—of a refinery complex in Romania during the maintenance period. Statistical analyses, including parametric and nonparametric tests, were performed to assess the correlation between the studied series and to group them based on some common features. The series were clustered using the raw data, and the series features were extracted after the statistical analysis. The results indicate that the series are not correlated and do not follow the same distribution even though the study zone is not large. The sites’ classification based on statistical features is shown to be more relevant from the viewpoint of the emissions level than that provided using the raw series. The Principal Component Analysis (PCA) indicates that the features with the highest contribution on the first two components are maximum, standard deviation, autocorrelation, and partial autocorrelation for Zone 1; average, maximum, minimum, and partial autocorrelation for Zone 2; and skewness, average, maximum, and standard deviation for Zone 3. The study’s novelty is two-fold. First, it provides the results of the study performed during the maintenance period of the storage tanks, which was insufficiently investigated in the literature. Secondly, since complete data series are not generally available to the large public, clustering them based on their features provides a clear image of pollution levels and the sites where actions should be taken to reduce it. This investigation offers essential insights that can serve as a background for developing effective air pollutant monitoring strategies and mitigation measures by understanding the emission patterns and identifying the factors that influence VOC levels during the maintenance of storage tanks for highly volatile petroleum products.
Myopia Detection from Eye Fundus Images: New Screening Method Based on You Only Look Once Version 8
Authors: Rizzieri Nicola , Dall’Asta Luca , Ozoliņš Maris
Published: December 2024

Myopia is an eye disorder of global concern due to its increasing prevalence worldwide and its potential to cause sight-threatening conditions. Diagnosis is based on clinical tests such as objective cycloplegic refraction, distance visual acuity, and axial length measurements. Population-based screening is an early detection method that helps prevent uncorrected vision disorders. Advancements in technology and artificial intelligence (AI) applications in the medical field are improving the speed and efficiency of patient care programs. In an effort to provide a new, objective AI-based method for early myopia detection, we developed an algorithm based on the YOLOv8 convolutional neural network, capable of classifying eye fundus images from myopic and non-myopic patients. Preliminary results from an image set obtained from an Italian optometric practice show an overall accuracy of 85.00% and a precision and recall of 88.7% and 91.7%, respectively, in the internal validation dataset. This represents the beginning of a new paradigm, where AI is central to large screening programs aimed at preventing myopia and other avoidable blinding conditions and enabling early diagnosis and management.
Artificial Intelligence and Smart Technologies in Safety Management: A Comprehensive Analysis Across Multiple Industries
Authors: Park Jiyoung , Kang Dongheon
Published: December 2024

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and smart technologies into safety management is a pivotal aspect of the Fourth Industrial Revolution or Industry 4.0. This study conducts a systematic literature review to identify and analyze how AI and smart technologies enhance safety management across various sectors within the Safety 4.0 paradigm. Focusing on peer-reviewed journal articles that explicitly mention “Smart”, “AI”, or “Artificial Intelligence” in their titles, the research examines key safety management factors, such as accident prevention, risk management, real-time monitoring, and ethical implementation, across sectors, including construction, industrial safety, disaster and public safety, transport and logistics, energy and power, health, smart home and living, and other diverse industries. AI-driven solutions, such as predictive analytics, machine learning algorithms, IoT sensor integration, and digital twin models, are shown to proactively identify and mitigate potential hazards, optimize energy consumption, and enhance operational efficiency. For instance, in the energy and power sector, intelligent gas meters and automated fire suppression systems manage gas-related risks effectively, while in the health sector, AI-powered health monitoring devices and mental health support applications improve patient and worker safety. The analysis reveals a significant trend towards shifting from reactive to proactive safety management, facilitated by the convergence of AI with IoT and Big Data analytics. Additionally, ethical considerations and data privacy emerge as critical challenges in the adoption of AI technologies. The study highlights the transformative role of AI in enhancing safety protocols, reducing accident rates, and improving overall safety outcomes across industries. It underscores the need for standardized protocols, robust AI governance frameworks, and interdisciplinary research to address existing challenges and maximize the benefits of AI in safety management. Future research directions include developing explainable AI models, enhancing human–AI collaboration, and fostering global standardization to ensure the responsible and effective implementation of AI-driven safety solutions.
Depth Segmentation Approach for Egocentric 3D Human Pose Estimation with a Fisheye Camera
Authors: Shin Hyeonghwan , Kim Seungwon
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we propose a novel approach for egocentric 3D human pose estimation using fisheye images captured by a head-mounted display (HMD). Most studies on 3D pose estimation focused on heatmap regression and lifting 2D information to 3D space. This paper addresses the issue of depth ambiguity with highly distorted 2D fisheye images by proposing the SegDepth module, which jointly regresses segmentation and depth maps from the image. The SegDepth module distinguishes the human silhouette, which is directly related to pose estimation through segmentation, and simultaneously estimates depth to resolve the depth ambiguity. The extracted segmentation and depth information are transformed into embeddings and used for 3D joint estimation. In the evaluation, the SegDepth module improves the performance of existing methods, demonstrating its effectiveness and general applicability in improving 3D pose estimation. This suggests that the SegDepth module can be integrated into well-established methods such as Mo2Cap2 and xR-EgoPose to improve 3D pose estimation and provide a general performance improvement.
Vortex-Induced Vibration of Deep-Sea Mining Pipes: Analysis Using the Slicing Method
Authors: Wu Xiangzhao , Sang Song , Du Youwei , Liu Fugang , Zhang Jintao
Published: December 2024

Deep-sea mining pipes are different from traditional ocean risers articulated at both ends: they are free-suspended, weakly constrained at the bottom, and have an intermediate silo at the end, compared to which relatively little research has been carried out on vortex-induced vibration in mining pipes. In this study, a sophisticated quasi-3D numerical model with two degrees of freedom for the flow field domain and structural dynamics of a deep-sea mining pipe is developed through a novel slicing method. The investigation explores how the vortex-induced vibrations of the mining pipe behave in various scenarios, including uniform and oscillating flows, as well as changes in the mass of the relay bin. The findings indicate that the displacement of the deep-sea mining pipe increases continuously as it moves from top to bottom along its axial direction. The upper motion track appears chaotic, while the middle and lower tracks exhibit a stable “8” shape capture, with the tail capturing a “C” shape track. Furthermore, with an increase in flow velocity, both transverse vibration frequency and vibration modes of the mining pipe progressively rise. Under oscillating flow conditions, there exists a “delay effect” between vibration amplitude and velocity. Additionally, an increase in oscillation frequency leads to gradual sparsity in the vibration envelope of the mining pipe in transverse flow direction without affecting its overall vibration frequency. Under the same flow velocity and different bottom effects, the main control frequency of the deep-sea mining pipe is basically unchanged, but the vibration mode of the mining pipe is changed.
Seismic Vulnerability Assessment of Existing Ground-Supported Liquid Storage Tanks with Deformed Shells
Authors: Rahmat Rabi Raihan , Monti Giorgio
Published: December 2024

This study presents a novel methodology for the seismic vulnerability assessment of ground-supported liquid storage tanks, with a particular emphasis on tanks exhibiting deformed shells. The framework is built around the development of a simplified two-degree-of-freedom (2DoF) system, specifically designed to enable efficient probabilistic analysis through incremental dynamic analysis. The 2DoF model is calibrated using detailed nonlinear finite element simulations, which account for fluid–structure interaction and complex geometric effects. This approach allows for a significant reduction in computational effort while maintaining a high level of accuracy in predicting seismic fragility. A key feature of the proposed methodology is the explicit inclusion of deformed tank geometries, which are often encountered in real cases and can critically impact seismic performance. The study identifies and quantifies the effects of these deformations on various damage states, such as local buckling, overturning, and liquid overspill. Fragility curves are developed to characterize the probability of exceeding these damage states under different levels of seismic intensity. The proposed methodology is validated through a representative case study, demonstrating its ability to capture the key features of tank behavior and provide robust fragility estimates. The results highlight the potential of the 2DoF system to serve as a practical tool for seismic risk assessment, enabling engineers and researchers to evaluate tank vulnerabilities more efficiently.
Mining-Induced Earthquake Risk Assessment and Control Strategy Based on Microseismic and Stress Monitoring: A Case Study of Chengyang Coal Mine
Authors: Sun Weichen , Wang Enyuan , Li Jingye , Liu Zhe , Zhang Yunpeng , Qiu Jincheng
Published: December 2024

As large-scale depletion of shallow coal seams and increasing mining depths intensify, the frequency and intensity of mining-induced earthquake events have significantly risen. Due to the complex formation mechanisms of high-energy mining-induced earthquakes, precise identification and early warning cannot be achieved with a single monitoring method, posing severe challenges to coal mine safety. Therefore, this study conducts an in-depth risk analysis of two high-energy mining-induced earthquake events at the 3308 working face of Yangcheng Coal Mine, integrating microseismic monitoring, stress monitoring, and seismic source mechanism analysis. The results show that, by combining microseismic monitoring, seismic source mechanism inversion, and dynamic stress analysis, critical disaster-inducing factors such as fault activation, high-stress concentration zones, and remnant coal pillars were successfully identified, further revealing the roles these factors play in triggering mining-induced earthquakes. Through multi-dimensional data integration, especially the effective detection of the microseismic “silent period” as a key precursor signal before high-energy mining-induced earthquake events, a critical basis for early warning is provided. Additionally, by analyzing the spatiotemporal distribution patterns of different risk factors, high-risk areas within the mining region were identified and delineated, laying a foundation for formulating precise prevention and control strategies. The findings of this study are of significant importance for mining-induced earthquake risk management, providing effective assurance for safe production in coal mines and other mining environments with high seismic risks. The proposed analysis methods and control strategies also offer valuable insights for seismic risk management in other mining industries, ensuring safe operations and minimizing potential losses.
Spatial Performance Indicators for Traffic Flow Prediction
Authors: Fathurrahman Muhammad Farhan , Gautama Sidharta
Published: December 2024

Traffic flow prediction, crucial for traffic management, relies on spatial and temporal data to achieve high accuracy. However, standard performance metrics only measure the average prediction errors and overlook the spatiotemporal aspects. To address this gap, this study introduces three simple spatial key performance indicators (KPIs): Global Moran’s I, Getis-Ord General G, and Adapted PageRank Algorithm Modified (APAM). We evaluated the traffic prediction results for synthetic clustering scenarios and four different prediction methods applied to the PeMSD8 dataset using spatial KPIs. Spatial KPIs are calculated based on traffic prediction errors and the adjacency matrix of the traffic network. Our results demonstrate that spatial KPIs can effectively differentiate between synthetic clustering scenarios. Global Moran’s I measures the spatial autocorrelation, Getis-Ord General G measures the spatial clustering of high/low values, and the univariate analysis of APAM deduces the distribution of node importance by considering node centrality and node values. Getis-Ord General G showed the highest sensitivity, being capable of distinguishing between methods with similar average RMSE, whereas Global Moran’s I and APAM univariate analysis revealed subtle differences between methods. Spatial KPIs serve as important complementary metrics for performance evaluation in the design of robust traffic management systems.
The Effects of Red–Blue Light on the Growth and Astaxanthin Production of a Haematococcus pluvialis Strain Isolated from Southern Thailand
Authors: Wongsnansilp Tassnapa , Khamcharoen Manoch
Published: December 2024

Light is a crucial factor that influences algal production. Red and blue light have been widely utilized in two-stage cultivation approaches due to their significant roles in promoting algal growth and pigment accumulation. To investigate the effects of light on the growth of an isolated wild strain of Haematococcus pluvialis (H. pluvialis) and its astaxanthin production, white light (30 μmol photons m−2 s−1) mixed with various light intensities of red or blue light were applied to the algal culture during the stationary phase. The results indicate that white light combined with low-intensity red light (5 μmol photons m−2 s−1) significantly enhanced algal growth, achieving a maximum biomass of 0.43 g/L. The pH values in cultures exposed to all treatments involving red-light intensities were lower than those under solely white light conditions. Furthermore, the combination of white light and low-intensity red light improved photosynthetic efficiency, carbonic anhydrase (CA) activity, and the rate of CO2 fixation. In contrast, the mixture of white light with blue light at 15 μmol photons m−2 s−1 facilitated astaxanthin production, resulting in a maximum astaxanthin content of 6.75 mg/L. Blue light was found to increase reactive oxygen species levels, leading to elevated malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations and enhanced catalase (CAT) activity. These findings suggest that red light plays a crucial role in activating CA activity and promoting cellular CO2 fixation, which helps maintain the stability of the culture medium pH and ultimately supports algal growth. Conversely, blue light contributes to photoprotective processes by accumulating protective pigments and enhancing the activity of protective enzymes; together, these mechanisms mitigate reactive oxygen species generated by blue light exposure. Our experimental results provide valuable insights for optimizing two-stage cultivation practices for isolated strains of H. pluvialis.
Struggle as Image and Symbol in Spanish Romanesque Parish Porticoes
Authors: Salgado Pantoja José Arturo
Published: December 2024

The extensive bibliography on medieval architecture highlights that parish church porticoes are one of the most singular features of the Spanish Romanesque tradition. These structures, which regulated the transition to the Aula Dei, provided villagers with a safe space for conducting liturgical ceremonies and rituals, administering sacraments, and burying the dead. However, parish porticoes soon took on other uses of a secular nature. Thanks to their social role and privileged location, they became ideal spaces for admonishing and instructing the faithful through well-chosen visual repertoires. This article explores these functional and iconographic aspects through the lens of struggle: on the one hand, the earthly confrontation between ecclesiastical authorities and village communities as to the functions of the porticoes, and on the other, the allegorical struggle depicted in their reliefs, whose admonitory motives can be linked to the attributes and meaning of the architectural framework.
A Review of Typhoon Inner Core Characteristics and Their Relationship with Intensity Changes
Authors: Chen Shumin , Li Weibiao
Published: December 2024

The inner core of a typhoon plays a crucial role in storm intensification and is especially critical for rapid increases in storm intensity. Most of the energy exchange occurs in the inner core, including the eyewall. Moist air rising from the warm ocean releases latent heat, increasing wind speeds and sustaining the warm-core structure through secondary circulations. A deeper understanding of the physical processes in the inner core is essential for improving intensity forecasts and disaster preparedness and mitigation. This paper reviews key studies on the inner core. We focus on lead–lag relationships, eyewall replacement cycles, and waves and oscillations, which are topics that can greatly enhance forecasting capabilities. We highlight limitations of current research and propose key scientific questions that would provide essential insights to improve forecasts and support disaster reduction strategies. These include: (1) what are the physical processes that drive the lead–lag relationship between eyewall convection and intensity changes, and how does the time lag vary across typhoons? (2) What conditions favor merging of the inner and outer eyewalls and completion of the eyewall replacement cycle, potentially leading to rapid intensification before landfall? (3) How do waves and oscillations in the eyewall influence typhoon intensity variations?
In Vivo Evaluation of Two Hemorrhagic Shock Resuscitation Controllers with Non-Invasive, Intermittent Sensors
Authors: Rodgers Tina M. , Berard David , Gonzalez Jose M. , Vega Saul J. , Gathright Rachel , Bedolla Carlos , Ross Evan , Snider Eric J.
Published: December 2024

Hemorrhage is a leading cause of preventable death in military and civilian trauma medicine. Fluid resuscitation is the primary treatment option, which can be difficult to manage when multiple patients are involved. Traditional vital signs needed to drive resuscitation therapy being unavailable without invasive catheter placement is a challenge. To overcome these obstacles, we propose using closed-loop fluid resuscitation controllers managed by non-invasive, intermittent signal sensor inputs to simplify their use in far-forward environments. Using non-invasive, intermittent sensor controllers will allow quicker medical intervention due to negating the need for an arterial catheter to be placed for pressure-guided fluid resuscitation. Two controller designs were evaluated in a swine hemorrhagic shock injury model, with each controller only receiving non-invasive blood pressure (NIBP) measurements simulated from invasive input signals every 60 s. We found that both physiological closed-loop controllers were able to effectively resuscitate subjects out of life-threatening hemorrhagic shock using only intermittent data inputs with a resuscitation effectiveness of at least 95% for each respective controller. We also compared this intermittent signal input to a NIBP cuff and to a deep learning model that predicts blood pressure from a photoplethysmography waveform. Each approach showed evidence of tracking blood pressure, but more effort is needed to refine these non-invasive input approaches. We conclude that resuscitation controllers hold promise to one day be capable of non-invasive sensor input while retaining their effectiveness, expanding their utility for managing patients during mass casualty or battlefield conditions.
Bioactive Molecules from the Exoskeleton of Procambarus clarkii: Reducing Capacity, Radical Scavenger, and Antitumor and Anti-Inflammatory Activities
Authors: Longo Francesco , Di Gaudio Francesca , Attanzio Alessandro , Marretta Laura , Luparello Claudio , Indelicato Serena , Bongiorno David , Barone Giampaolo , Tesoriere Luisa , Giardina Ilenia Concetta , Abruscato Giulia , Perlotti Manuela , Hornsby Lucie Branwen , Arizza Vincenzo , Vazzana Mirella , Marrone Federico , Vizzini Aiti , Martino Chiara , Savoca Dario , Queiroz Vinicius , Fabbrizio Antonio , Mauro Manuela
Published: December 2024

This study evaluates, for the first time, the reducing capacity, radical scavenger activity, and in vitro antitumor and anti-inflammatory effects of chitosan, astaxanthin, and bio-phenols extracted from the exoskeleton of Sicilian Procambarus clarkii, the most widespread species of invasive crayfish in the Mediterranean region. Among the extracted compounds, astaxanthin exhibited the highest antioxidant activity in all assays. Chitosan and polyphenols demonstrated reducing and radical scavenging activity; chitosan showed significant ferric ion reducing capacity in the FRAP test, while bio-phenolic compounds displayed notable radical scavenging activity in the DPPH and ABTS assays. Both astaxanthin and polyphenols showed dose-dependent cytotoxicity on two different cancer cell lines, with IC50 values of 1.45 µg/mL (phenolic extract) and 4.28 µg/mL (astaxanthin extract) for HepG2 cells and 2.45 µg/mL (phenolic extract) and 4.57 µg/mL (astaxanthin extract) for CaCo-2 cells. The bio-phenolic extract also showed potential anti-inflammatory effects in vitro by inhibiting nitric oxide production in inflamed RAW 264.7 macrophages, reducing the treated/control NO ratio to 77% and 74% at concentrations of 1.25 and 1.5 μg/mL, respectively. These results suggest that P. clarkii exoskeletons could be a valuable source of bioactive molecules for biomedical, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical application while contributing to the sustainable management of this invasive species.
The Effects of Beta-Blockers on Leukocytes and the Leukocyte Subpopulation in Heart Failure Patients
Authors: Farcaş Anca Daniela , Stoia Mirela Anca , Mocan-Hognogi Diana Larisa , Goidescu Cerasela Mihaela , Cocoi Alexandra Florina , Anton Florin Petru
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Some specific types of white blood cells (WBCs) and the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) are independent predictors of outcome for heart failure (HF) patients. WBC redistribution is induced by catecholamines, and therefore we evaluate how different types of beta-blockers (BBs) influence it. Methods: The HF patients were clinically evaluated, and blood was drawn to measure N-Terminal pro–B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), WBC-differential formula, etc. Results: On admission, 61.16% of patients who used a BB had no significant difference in the number of lymphocytes (Lym) and neutrophils (Neu), but NLR and NT- proBNP were significantly lower compared with those without BB. NT-proBNP correlated with BB dose on admission and was significantly lower in patients treated with Metoprolol (Met) as compared with Carvedilol (Car). The type and dose of BB used was responsible for 6.1% and 5.9% of the variability in the number of Lym and Neu, respectively. Patients treated with ≥100 mg Met/day had a higher Lym number, but not of Neu, with reduced NLR, compared with lower doses. Patients treated with ≥25 mg Car/day had a lower Lym number and a greater Neu number, compared with lower doses, with increased NLR. Conclusions: However, both BBs had the same rehospitalization rate during the 12 month follow-up and had an improved outcome.
A Worm-like Soft Robot Based on Adhesion-Controlled Electrohydraulic Actuators
Authors: Wu Yangzhuo , Sun Zhe , Xiang Yu , Zhao Jieliang
Published: December 2024

Worms are organisms characterized by simple structures, low energy consumption, and stable movement. Inspired by these characteristics, worm-like soft robots demonstrate exceptional adaptability to unstructured environments, attracting considerable interest in the field of biomimetic engineering. The primary challenge currently involves improving the motion performance of worm-like robots from the perspectives of actuation and anchoring. In this study, a single segment worm-like soft robot driven by electrohydraulic actuators is proposed. The robot consists of a soft actuation module and two symmetrical anchoring modules. The actuation modules enable multi-degree-of-freedom motion of the robot using symmetric dual-electrode electrohydraulic actuators, while the anchoring modules provide active friction control through bistable electrohydraulic actuators. A hierarchical microstructure design is used for the biomimetic adhesive surface, enabling rapid, reversible, and stable attachment to and detachment from different surfaces, thereby improving the robot’s surface anchoring performance. Experimental results show that the designed robot can perform peristaltic and bending motions similar to a worm. It achieves rapid bidirectional propulsion on both dry and wet surfaces, with a maximum speed of 10.36 mm/s (over 6 velocity/length ratio (min−1)).
A Novel K+ Slow-Release Cementitious Material Developed from Subway Tunnel Muck for Ecological Concrete Applications
Authors: Yang Daien , Zhang Fushen , Lv Leyang , Zhang Zhiyuan , Liu Ziyang , Liu Qianqian , Liu Yanjun
Published: December 2024

This study explored a novel cementitious material developed from subway tunnel muck (STM) intended for ecological concrete (EC) preparation. The effects of three alkaline activators (NaOH, KOH, and CaO) on the properties of the cementitious materials were systematically examined. The results indicated that NaOH exhibited the most effective activation performance, followed by KOH, with CaO being the least effective. The NaOH-activated materials exhibited the highest compressive strength (reaching up to 12.15 MPa), the densest microstructure (characterized by the lowest porosity and smallest average pore size), the most substantial gel formation (evidenced by the highest mass loss in thermogravimetric analysis), and the optimal gel structure (indicated by the pronounced peak sharpening in Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) after a 28-day curing period. Moreover, the crystallization of potassium salts under KOH activation detrimentally impacted the microstructure of KOH-activated materials. To balance the need for structural strength and nutrient provision, NaOH + KOH-activated materials were selected for the preparation of EC. Notably, the application of NaOH + KOH-activated materials resulted in a significant increase in K+ concentration in the soil layer, compared to common soil. Furthermore, NaOH + KOH-activated materials exhibited a slow-release effect, thereby offering sustained nutrient support conducive to plant development.
Determinants of Overall and Readmission-Free Survival in Patients with Metastatic Epidural Spinal Cord Compression
Authors: Pojskić Mirza , Saß Benjamin , Bopp Miriam H. A. , Wilke Sebastian , Nimsky Christopher
Published: December 2024

Background. The aim of this study was to assess the surgical outcomes and survival of patients surgically treated for metastatic epidural spinal cord compression (MESCC), with a specific focus on identifying factors that influence overall survival and readmission-free survival. Methods. All patients who underwent surgery for spine metastases at our department in the period 2018–2022 were included in the study. Results. A total of 175 patients (n = 71 females, median age 67.15 years) were included. The most common primary tumors were lung carcinoma (n = 31), prostate carcinoma (n = 31), breast carcinoma (n = 28), multiple myeloma (n = 25), and renal cell carcinoma (n = 11). ECOG performance status was 0 (n = 7), 1 (n = 97), 2 (n = 27), 3 (n = 17), and 4 (n = 27). Pathological fractures were present in n = 108 patients. Decompression only was performed in n = 42, additional instrumentation in n = 133, and vertebral body replacement in n = 23. The most common complications were wound healing deficits and hardware failure. Preoperative motor deficits were present in n = 89 patients. Postoperatively, n = 122 improved, n = 43 was unchanged, and n = 10 deteriorated. Mean overall survival (OS) was 239.2 days, with a 30-day mortality rate of 18.3%. Favorable prognostic factors included Tomita score < 7, Frankel score A–C, ECOG 0–1, and Modified Tokuhashi score > 10 (p < 0.01). Factors affecting OS and readmission-free survival (RFS) included prognostic scores, adjuvant therapy, ASA classification, surgical complications, metastasis number, and postoperative improvement. Better prognostic scores, adjuvant therapy, and clinical improvement were associated with longer OS and RFS, while complications or deterioration resulted in worse outcomes. Conclusions. Patients undergoing decompression and/or stabilization for metastatic spinal tumors showed improved outcomes, with favorable prognosis linked to Tomita score < 7, Frankel score A–C, ECOG 0–1, and Modified Tokuhashi score > 10.
Nuclear Factor-κB Signaling Regulates the Nociceptin Receptor but Not Nociceptin Itself
Authors: Zhang Lan , Stamer Ulrike M. , Moolan-Vadackumchery Robin , Stüber Frank
Published: December 2024

The nociceptin receptor (NOP) and nociceptin are involved in the pathways of pain and inflammation. The potent role of nuclear factor-κB (NFκB) in the modulation of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin (IL)-1β on the nociceptin system in human THP-1 cells under inflammatory conditions were investigated. Cells were stimulated without/with phorbol-myristate-acetate (PMA), TNF-α, IL-1β, or PMA combined with individual cytokines. To examine NFκB’s contribution to the regulation of the nociceptin system, PMA-stimulated cells were treated with NFκB inhibitor BAY 11-7082, JSH-23, or anacardic acid before culturing with TNF-α or IL-1β. NOP and prepronociceptin (ppNOC) mRNA were quantified by RT-qPCR; cell membrane NOP and intracellular nociceptin protein levels were measured by flow cytometry. Phosphorylation and localization of NFκB/p65 were determined using ImageStream. PMA + TNF-α decreased NOP mRNA compared to stimulation with PMA alone, while PMA + IL-1β did not. BAY 11-7082 and JSH-23 reversed the repression of NOP by PMA + TNF-α. TNF-α and IL-1β attenuated PMA’s upregulating effects on ppNOC. None of the inhibitors preserved the upregulation of ppNOC in PMA + TNF-α and PMA + IL-1β cultures. TNF-α strongly mediated the nuclear translocation of NFκB/p65 in PMA-treated cells, while IL-1β did not. Proinflammatory cytokines suppressed NOP and ppNOC mRNA in PMA-induced human THP-1 cells. NFκB signaling seems to be an important regulator controlling the transcription of NOP. These findings suggest that the nociceptin system may play an anti-inflammatory role during immune responses.
Childhood Asthma in Saudi Arabia: Insights from a Meta-Analysis on Its Prevalence
Authors: Alzayed Abdullah
Published: December 2024

A comprehensive review and meta-analysis were conducted with the purpose of determining the extent to which asthma is prevalent among children in Saudi Arabia. This was done with the intention of addressing the dearth of data at the national level regarding this significant health concern. The study included data from PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar for the period 2015–2024, focusing on studies that reported the prevalence of asthma among children in the country. The primary outcome was the pooled prevalence of physician-diagnosed asthma among children. Eight studies, comprising a total of 9454 children, were included in the analysis. The estimated pooled prevalence of asthma was 28.9%, with a higher prevalence observed among boys compared to girls. A random-effects model was used to account for heterogeneity among studies, which was notably high (I2 = 99%). Factors contributing to the high prevalence included increasing urbanization, air pollution, and specific environmental exposures, particularly in regions like Jazan. Limitations of the analysis included reliance on self-reported data without spirometric confirmation and potential publication bias. Despite these challenges, the findings emphasize the urgent need for public health interventions to reduce asthma prevalence and improve outcomes. Future research should incorporate standardized diagnostic methods and objective measurements to provide more accurate estimates and to develop effective management strategies.
Integration of Genomic Tests in Prostate Cancer Care: Implications for Clinical Practice and Patient Outcomes
Authors: Roidos Christos , Anastasiadis Anastasios , Tsiakaras Stavros , Loutradis Charalampos , Baniotis Panagiotis , Memmos Dimitrios , Dimitriadis Georgios , Papaioannou Maria
Published: December 2024

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a common malignancy in men and is among the leading causes of cancer-related death worldwide. Genomic tests assess disease aggressiveness and guide treatment, particularly in low- and intermediate-risk PCa. We reviewed the literature on the use of four genomic tests (Prolaris®, Promark®, Oncotype DX®, and Decipher®) in assessing the prognosis of PCa and their use in treatment decision-making. Most of the studies showed that Prolaris® has a strong correlation with biochemical recurrence, metastasis risk, PCa-specific mortality (PCSM), and pathological features. Similarly, three studies on Promark® indicated a connection between results and pathological features in the subsequent prostatectomy, time to metastasis, and biochemical recurrence. Fourteen studies on Oncotype DX® showed a clear correlation between high scores, death, and PCSM. One study found that routine biopsy pathology reports, combined with serum PSA levels, provide a risk assessment comparable to Oncotype DX® testing. Results from 22 studies on Decipher® were controversial. The test was associated with conservative management, suggesting that patients with a high GC score are more likely to need radiation after surgery. Comparative studies indicated that Oncotype DX® is preferable for assessing PCSM, Decipher® for predicting metastasis, and Prolaris® for predicting recurrence. With the incidence rate of PCa dramatically increasing, genomic tests appear to be useful adjunctive precision medicine tools with significant potential in improving prognostic discrimination, facilitating better risk stratification, and guiding personalized treatment, especially in the intermediate-risk patient group. Large-scale, prospective, multi-sectional studies are required to validate the utility of these tests prior to their integration into clinical practice.
Long-Term Return to Work After Mild and Moderate Traumatic Brain Injury: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Westarp Emilia , Hallenberger Tim Jonas , Lövblad Karl-Olof , Mokrusch Thomas , Bassetti Claudio , Guzman Raphael
Published: December 2024

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is referred to as a “silent epidemic” due to its limited awareness in the general public. Nevertheless, it can cause chronic, lifelong physical and cognitive impairments with severe impact on quality of life, resulting in high healthcare costs and loss of employment. To evaluate the outcome after mild and moderate TBI, “return to work (RTW)” is a relevant parameter, reflecting the socio-economic consequences of TBI. Our study aims to summarize RTW-rates to raise awareness on the impact of non-severe TBI. Methods: We performed a systematic literature review screening the databases Medline, Embase and Web of Science for studies reporting RTW in mild to moderate TBI. Studies that reported on RTW after mild or moderate TBI (defined by GCS > 9) in adults, with a minimum follow-up of six months were included. Risk of bias was assessed using the QUIPS tool. Results: We included 13 studies with a total 22,550 patients. The overall RTW rate after at least six months, varies between 37% and 98%. Full RTW is reported in six of the included 13 studies and varies between 12% and 67%. In six studies (46%) the RTW-rate by the end of follow-up was ≤60%, with four studies being from high-income countries. Conclusion: Mild and moderate TBI have a high impact on employment rates with diverging rates for RTW even between high-income countries. Increasing the societal awareness of this silent epidemic is of utmost importance and is one of the missions of the Swiss Brain Health Plan.