bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impacts of Transition Approach of Water Vapor-Related Microphysical Processes on Quantitative Precipitation Forecasting
Authors: Ma Zhanshan , Liu Qijun , Zhao Chuanfeng , Li Zhe , Wu Xiaolin , Chen Jiong , Yu Fei , Sun Jian , Shen Xueshun
Published: July 2022

The water vapor-related microphysical processes (WVRMPs) in cloud microphysics schemes are crucial to the formation and dissipation of clouds, which have a significant impact on the quantitative precipitation forecasting of numerical weather prediction models. In this study, a well physics-based parallel-split transition approach (PSTA) to compute the WVRMPs from the same temperature and humidity state is developed and compared with the original sequential-update transition approach (SUTA) in a double-moment cloud microphysics scheme. Case study and batch experiments were carried out to investigate their different impacts on the clouds and precipitation simulated by the Global/Regional Assimilation and Prediction System (GRAPES) regional 3 km high-resolution model of the China Meteorological Administration (CMA), named CMA-MESO. The results show that the PSTA experiment tends to simulate a narrower and more concentrated precipitation area with a higher-intensity center compared to those of the SUTA experiment, which is more consistent with the observations. In the cold region, the net transition rates of WVRMPs from the PSTA experiment with more ice-phase hydrometeors are higher than those from the SUTA experiment. While in the warm region, the condensation and evaporation rates with violent fluctuation simulated by the SUTA are significantly larger than those from the PSTA experiment, resulting in less precipitation. The batch experiments indicate that the equitable threat scores (ETSs) of 24-h precipitation simulated by the PSTA are just slightly better than those of the SUTA, yet its ETSs of 48-h precipitation have been systematically improved for all magnitude levels against the SUTA. It is demonstrated that more attention should be paid to the reasonable treatments of the WVRMPs in developing cloud microphysics schemes.
Impact of AIS Data Thinning on Ship Air Pollutant Emissions Inventories
Authors: Tian Yujun , Ren Lili , Wang Hongyan , Li Tao , Yuan Yupeng , Zhang Yan
Published: July 2022

This article examines the impact of automatic identification system (AIS) data thinning on ship emissions inventory results. AIS data thinning is theoretically proven to lead to a smaller result for a ship’s air pollutant emissions inventory. The AIS dynamic data of six sampled ships for 1 day and for 1 year were thinned at 1 min, 3 min, 10 min, 30 min, and 1 h time intervals, and then CO2, NOX, CH, PM, SO2, and other air pollutant emissions were estimated both with and without AIS data thinning in the different time intervals. The results show that AIS data thinning affects the air pollutant emissions inventory results of the ships, and the impact is greater as the thinning interval increases. When the thinning interval is less than 10 min, the impact is less than 10%, but the impact increases to about 10–15% at a 30 min interval and about 15–20% at a 60 min interval. The impacts of thinning on the emissions of ships with acutely fluctuating speeds are more significant because the constantly changing speed is the main reason why data thinning affects the ship emissions inventory. Therefore, these data suggest that the AIS data can be thinned at intervals of 5 or 10 min when establishing a coastal or national ship air pollutant emissions inventory, the AIS data should be thinned at intervals of less than 3 min when establishing the air pollutant emissions inventory of inland river ships, and data thinning is not recommended when establishing a port or smaller-scale ship air pollutant emissions inventory.
Study on Transpiration Water Consumption and Photosynthetic Characteristics of Landscape Tree Species under Ozone Stress
Authors: Chen Bo , Song Qingfeng , Pan Qinghua
Published: July 2022

Using Pinus bungeana, Platycladus orientalis, Koelreuteria paniculata and Ginkgo biloba as research objects, three open-top chambers with different ozone-concentration gradients were set up (NF, NF40 and NF80) based on trunk sap-flow technology to study the difference in ozone absorption by trees under different ozone concentrations. The results showed that the monthly and diurnal variations of sap-flow density of different tree species decreased with the increase in ozone concentration, and the increase in ozone concentration reduced the water consumption, ozone uptake rate (FO3), net photosynthetic rate (Pn) and water-use efficiency (WUE) of different tree species. The sap-flow density, water consumption, FO3 and WUE of Koelreuteria paniculata and Ginkgo biloba were higher than those of Pinus bungeana and Platycladus orientalis under different ozone concentrations. The sap-flow density, water consumption, FO3 and WUE of Koelreuteria paniculata and Ginkgo biloba decreased significantly at the ozone concentrations of NF40 and NF80; compared with the ozone concentration of NF, the sap flow density of Koelreuteria paniculata and Ginkgo biloba decreased by 1.04 and 1.03 times as much as that of Pinus bungeana and Platycladus orientalis, respectively; the water consumption of Koelreuteria paniculata and Ginkgo biloba decreased by 1.82 and 1.56 times that of Pinus bungeana and Platycladus orientalis, respectively; the decline rate of FO3 in Koelreuteria paniculata and Ginkgo biloba was 1.30 and 1.04 times that of Pinus bungeana and Platycladus orientalis, respectively; and the decline rate of WUE of Koelreuteria paniculata and Ginkgo biloba was 1.52 and 1.64 times that of Pinus bungeana and Platycladus orientalis, respectively. Pinus bungeana and Platycladus orientalis have stronger tolerance to ozone, while Koelreuteria paniculata and Ginkgo biloba were weak. A variety of conifers can be planted in areas with serious ozone pollution.
Summer Precipitation Extremes over the Yellow River Loop Valley and Its link to European Blocking
Authors: Xu Kan , Diao Yina , Huang Peng
Published: July 2022

Characteristics of extreme precipitation over Yellow River Loop Valley (YRLV) and links to European blocking are investigated in this study. Spatial and temporal analysis of extreme precipitation shows that it contributes more than 30% of the total summer precipitation in the YRLV and is characterized by a strong and short period of local rainfall. Most of the extreme rains in the YRLV occur in July and August. Two typical circulation patterns were identified using a k-means clustering method. The extreme precipitation results from the combined actions of intensified high pressure over northeast China (NECH) and the westward extension of the western Pacific subtropical high (WPSH). The intensified southerly flow of the amplified NECH strengthens the water vapor transport induced by the westward extension of the WPSH from the northwest Pacific or Bay of Bengal into the YRLV. The NECH is amplified by the wave energy propagating from European blocking via the Silk Road pattern (SRP). This is the subseasonal cause of extreme precipitation over the YRLV. The composited July and August mean 500 hPa geopotential anomaly pattern for extreme precipitation years shows a high-pressure anomaly over the European continent and a negative phase of the SRP. The former provides a background for the occurrence of European blocking, and the latter explains the preexistence of the NECH and provides a linkage between the activity of European blocking and the subseasonal evolution of the NECH. Thus, the interannual variation in the extreme precipitation over the YRLV is mainly reflected by the phase of the SRP and the stationary waves over Europe.
On Producing Long-Lived Spin Polarized Metastable Atoms—Feasibility of Storing Electric Energy
Authors: Schmidt-Böcking Horst , Gruber Gernot
Published: July 2022

We describe a method of producing long-lived multiply excited spin polarized atoms or ions, the decay of which is strongly delayed or even blocked by intra-ionic magnetic stabilization. Special configurations with huge internal magnetic fields capture only spin polarized electrons in collisions with spin aligned atomic hydrogen gas targets. It is expected that the spin aligned configuration yields an extremely high internal magnetic field which will effectively block spin flip transitions. By this the lifetime of inner shell vacancies is expected to strongly increase.
Electroencephalogram-Based Motor Imagery Signals Classification Using a Multi-Branch Convolutional Neural Network Model with Attention Blocks
Authors: Altuwaijri Ghadir Ali , Muhammad Ghulam
Published: July 2022

Brain signals can be captured via electroencephalogram (EEG) and be used in various brain–computer interface (BCI) applications. Classifying motor imagery (MI) using EEG signals is one of the important applications that can help a stroke patient to rehabilitate or perform certain tasks. Dealing with EEG-MI signals is challenging because the signals are weak, may contain artefacts, are dependent on the patient’s mood and posture, and have low signal-to-noise ratio. This paper proposes a multi-branch convolutional neural network model called the Multi-Branch EEGNet with Convolutional Block Attention Module (MBEEGCBAM) using attention mechanism and fusion techniques to classify EEG-MI signals. The attention mechanism is applied both channel-wise and spatial-wise. The proposed model is a lightweight model that has fewer parameters and higher accuracy compared to other state-of-the-art models. The accuracy of the proposed model is 82.85% and 95.45% using the BCI-IV2a motor imagery dataset and the high gamma dataset, respectively. Additionally, when using the fusion approach (FMBEEGCBAM), it achieves 83.68% and 95.74% accuracy, respectively.
Cell Viability Assay and Surface Morphology Analysis of Carbonated Hydroxyapatite/Honeycomb/Titanium Alloy Coatings for Bone Implant Applications
Authors: Sari Mona , Chotimah  , Ana Ika Dewi , Yusuf Yusril
Published: July 2022

In this work, carbonated hydroxyapatite/titanium alloy (CHA/Ti) and carbonated hydroxyapatite/honeycomb/titanium alloy (CHA/HCB/Ti) plates were coated using the electrophoretic deposition dip coating (EP2D) method. Analysis of cell viability and surface morphology of CHA/Ti and CHA/HCB/Ti coatings were carried out using the MTT (3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. In a previous study, the thickness and average compressive strength values for the CHA/Ti and CHA/HCB/Ti plates were about 63–89 μm and 54–75 MPa, respectively. The result for thickness and compressive strength in this research followed the thickness and compressive strength parameters for coating in bone implants. In this work, the cell viability for incubation times during 24 h and 48 h of CHA/Ti plates is demonstrably superior to that of CHA/HCB/Ti plates, respectively, where the cell viability for CHA/Ti plates increased to ((67 ± 2)%) after incubation for 48 h. According to the one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), the p-value was <0.05, indicating a significant difference in the average cell viability value across the three groups. Furthermore, the surface of CHA/Ti is not changed after the coating process. These results will yield many positive biomedical applications, especially in bone implants. Overall, CHA/Ti and CHA/HCB/Ti plates can be considered candidates for biomedical applications based on an analysis of surface morphology and cell viability.
Integrated Polarization-Splitting Grating Coupler for Chip-Scale Atomic Magnetometer
Authors: Hu Jinsheng , Lu Jixi , Liang Zihua , Liu Lu , Wang Weiyi , Zhou Peng , Ye Mao
Published: July 2022

Atomic magnetometers (AMs) are widely acknowledged as one of the most sensitive kind of instruments for bio-magnetic field measurement. Recently, there has been growing interest in developing chip-scale AMs through nanophotonics and current CMOS-compatible nanofabrication technology, in pursuit of substantial reduction in volume and cost. In this study, an integrated polarization-splitting grating coupler is demonstrated to achieve both efficient coupling and polarization splitting at the D1 transition wavelength of rubidium (795 nm). With this device, linearly polarized probe light that experienced optical rotation due to magnetically induced circular birefringence (of alkali medium) can be coupled and split into individual output ports. This is especially advantageous for emerging chip-scale AMs in that differential detection of ultra-weak magnetic field can be achieved through compact planar optical components. In addition, the device is designed with silicon nitride material on silicon dioxide that is deposited on a silicon substrate, being compatible with the current CMOS nanofabrication industry. Our study paves the way for the development of on-chip AMs that are the foundation for future multi-channel high-spatial resolution bio-magnetic imaging instruments.
Closing the Door with CRISPR: Genome Editing of CCR5 and CXCR4 as a Potential Curative Solution for HIV
Authors: Freen-van Heeren Julian J.
Published: July 2022

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection can be controlled by anti-retroviral therapy. Suppressing viral replication relies on life-long medication, but anti-retroviral therapy is not without risks to the patient. Therefore, it is important that permanent cures for HIV infection are developed. Three patients have been described to be completely cured from HIV infection in recent years. In all cases, patients received a hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplantation due to a hematological malignancy. The HSCs were sourced from autologous donors that expressed a homozygous mutation in the CCR5 gene. This mutation results in a non-functional receptor, and confers resistance to CCR5-tropic HIV strains that rely on CCR5 to enter host cells. The Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated (Cas) system is one of the methods of choice for gene editing, and the CRISPR/Cas system has been employed to target loci of interest in the context of HIV. Here, the current literature regarding CRISPR-mediated genome editing to render cells resistant to HIV (re)-infection by knocking out the co-receptors CCR5 and CXCR4 is summarized, and an outlook is provided regarding future (research) directions.
Correction: Hom et al. Cognitive Function during the Prodromal Stage of Alzheimer’s Disease in Down Syndrome: Comparing Models. Brain Sci. 2021, 11, 1220
Authors: Hom Christy L. , Kirby Katharine A. , Ricks-Oddie Joni , Keator David B. , Krinsky-McHale Sharon J. , Pulsifer Margaret B. , Rosas Herminia Diana , Lai Florence , Schupf Nicole , Lott Ira T. , Silverman Wayne
Published: July 2022

We would like to submit the following correction to our recently published paper [...]
Identification and Validation of Novel Potential Pathogenesis and Biomarkers to Predict the Neurological Outcome after Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Zhang Chenyu , Liu Cong , Zhan Haohong , Li Bo , Lu Yuanzhen , Wei Hongyan , Cheng Jingge , Li Shuhao , Wang Chuyue , Hu Chunlin , Liao Xiaoxing
Published: July 2022

Predicting neurological outcomes after cardiac arrest remains a major issue. This study aimed to identify novel biomarkers capable of predicting neurological prognosis after cardiac arrest. Expression profiles of GSE29540 and GSE92696 were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database to obtain differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between high and low brain performance category (CPC) scoring subgroups. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was used to screen key gene modules and crossover genes in these datasets. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of crossover genes was constructed from the STRING database. Based on the PPI network, the most important hub genes were identified by the cytoHubba plugin of Cytoscape software. Eight hub genes (RPL27, EEF1B2, PFDN5, RBX1, PSMD14, HINT1, SNRPD2, and RPL26) were finally screened and validated, which were downregulated in the group with poor neurological prognosis. In addition, GSEA identified critical pathways associated with these genes. Finally, a Pearson correlation analysis showed that the mRNA expression of hub genes EEF1B2, PSMD14, RPFDN5, RBX1, and SNRPD2 were significantly and positively correlated with NDS scores in rats. Our work could provide comprehensive insights into understanding pathogenesis and potential new biomarkers for predicting neurological outcomes after cardiac arrest.
Gaze-Contingent Eye-Tracking Training in Brain Disorders: A Systematic Review
Authors: Carelli Laura , Solca Federica , Tagini Sofia , Torre Silvia , Verde Federico , Ticozzi Nicola , Ferrucci Roberta , Pravettoni Gabriella , Aiello Edoardo Nicolò , Silani Vincenzo , Poletti Barbara
Published: July 2022

Eye movement abnormalities in association with cognitive and emotional deficits have been described in neurological, neurodevelopmental, and psychiatric disorders. Eye-Tracking (ET) techniques could therefore enhance cognitive interventions by contingently providing feedback to patients. Since no consensus has been reached thus far on this approach, this study aimed at systematically reviewing the current evidence. This review was performed and reported according to PRISMA guidelines. Records were searched for in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus (1990–2021) through the following string: (‘Eye Tracking’ OR ‘Eye-Tracking’ OR ‘Oculomotor’) AND (‘Neuropsychol*’ OR ‘Cognitive’) AND (‘Rehabilitation’ OR ‘Training’ OR ‘Stimulation’). Study outcomes were thematically classified and qualitatively synthesized. A structured quality assessment was performed. A total of 24 articles were included, addressing neurodevelopmental (preterm infants and children with autism spectrum disorder, Rett syndrome, or ADHD; N = 14), psychiatric (mood and anxiety disorders or alcohol dependence; N = 7), and neurological conditions (stroke; N = 3). Overall, ET gaze-contingent training proved to be effective in improving cognitive and emotional alterations. However, population heterogeneity limits the generalizability of results. ET gaze-contingent protocols allow researchers to directly and dynamically train attentional functions; together with the recruitment of implicit, “bottom-up” strategies, these protocols are promising and possibly integrable with traditional cognitive approaches.
The Efficacy and Safety of Deep Brain Stimulation of Combined Anterior Limb of Internal Capsule and Nucleus Accumbens (ALIC/NAcc-DBS) for Treatment-Refractory Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Protocol of a Multicenter, Randomized, and Double-Blinded Study
Authors: Xu Tingting , Gao Yuan , Li Bin , Jiang Jiaxin , Guo Huirong , Liu Xianzhi , Huang Hongxing , Cheng Yuqi , Yu Hualin , Hu Jie , Wu Xi , Wang Wei , Wang Zhen
Published: July 2022

Backgrounds: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an emerging and promising therapeutic approach for treatment-refractory obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The most common DBS targets include the anterior limb of internal capsule (ALIC) and nucleus accumbens (NAcc). This protocol aims to explore the efficacy and safety of the combined ALIC- and NAcc-DBS for treatment-refractory OCD. Methods: We will recruit 64 patients with refractory OCD from six centers, randomly allocate them to active and sham-stimulation groups through a three-month double-blind phase, then enter a three-month open-label phase. In the open-label stage, both groups experience real stimulation. Outcome measures: The primary outcome will be the efficacy and safety of combined ALIC- and NAcc-DBS, determined by treatment response rate between the active and sham-stimulation groups at the double-blind stage and spontaneously reported adverse events. The secondary outcomes are comparisons of change in Y–BOCS, CGI, HAMD, and HAMA scores at the third and sixth months compared to baseline between the active and sham-control groups, as well as the scores of the third month minus the sixth month between the two groups.
Real-World Implementation of Precision Psychiatry: A Systematic Review of Barriers and Facilitators
Authors: Baldwin Helen , Loebel-Davidsohn Lion , Oliver Dominic , Salazar de Pablo Gonzalo , Stahl Daniel , Riper Heleen , Fusar-Poli Paolo
Published: July 2022

Background: Despite significant research progress surrounding precision medicine in psychiatry, there has been little tangible impact upon real-world clinical care. Objective: To identify barriers and facilitators affecting the real-world implementation of precision psychiatry. Method: A PRISMA-compliant systematic literature search of primary research studies, conducted in the Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PsycINFO and OpenGrey databases. We included a qualitative data synthesis structured according to the ‘Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research’ (CFIR) key constructs. Results: Of 93,886 records screened, 28 studies were suitable for inclusion. The included studies reported 38 barriers and facilitators attributed to the CFIR constructs. Commonly reported barriers included: potential psychological harm to the service user (n = 11), cost and time investments (n = 9), potential economic and occupational harm to the service user (n = 8), poor accuracy and utility of the model (n = 8), and poor perceived competence in precision medicine amongst staff (n = 7). The most highly reported facilitator was the availability of adequate competence and skills training for staff (n = 7). Conclusions: Psychiatry faces widespread challenges in the implementation of precision medicine methods. Innovative solutions are required at the level of the individual and the wider system to fulfil the translational gap and impact real-world care.
A Systematic Review of Treatment Outcome Predictors in Deep Brain Stimulation for Refractory Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Authors: Ruan Hanyang , Wang Yang , Li Zheqin , Tong Geya , Wang Zhen
Published: July 2022

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic and debilitating mental disorder. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a promising approach for refractory OCD patients. Research aiming at treatment outcome prediction is vital to provide optimized treatments for different patients. The primary purpose of this systematic review was to collect and synthesize studies on outcome prediction of OCD patients with DBS implantations in recent years. This systematic review (PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022335585) followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis) guidelines. The search was conducted using three different databases with the following search terms related to OCD and DBS. We identified a total of 3814 articles, and 17 studies were included in our review. A specific tract confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was predictable for DBS outcome regardless of implant targets, but inconsistencies still exist. Current studies showed various ways of successful treatment prediction. However, considering the heterogeneous results, we hope that future studies will use larger cohorts and more precise approaches for predictors and establish more personalized ways of DBS surgeries.
Prognostic Significance of Blood-Based Baseline Biomarkers in Treatment-Resistant Depression: A Literature Review of Available Studies on Treatment Response
Authors: Gkesoglou Theano , Bargiota Stavroula I. , Iordanidou Eleni , Vasiliadis Miltiadis , Bozikas Vasilios-Panteleimon , Agorastos Agorastos
Published: July 2022

Major depressive disorder is a leading cause of disability worldwide and a major contributor to the overall global burden of disease. While there are several options for antidepressant treatment, only about 40–60% of patients respond to initial monotherapy, while 30–40% of patients may even show resistance to treatment. This article offers a narrative review of those studies evaluating the predictive properties of various blood-based baseline biomarkers regarding treatment responses to the pharmacological, stimulation, or behavioral treatment of patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Our results show that overall, there is only a very limited number of studies assessing baseline peripheral biomarkers regarding treatment response in TRD. Although there is some evidence for the predictive significance of particular biomarkers (e.g., IL-6, CRP, BDNF), the majority of the results are either single-study reports or studies with conflicting results. This may contribute to the wide variety of treatment protocols and different TRD definition criteria, the small number of patients included, and the existence of different biological phenotypes of the disorder used within the various studies. Taken together, there does not yet appear to be any specific baseline peripheral biomarker with sufficient discriminative predictive validity that can be used in the routine clinical practice of TRD. The discovery of new biomarkers and the better clinical characterization of known biomarkers could support the better classification and staging of TRD, the development of personalized treatment algorithms with higher rates of remission and fewer side effects, and the development of new precision drugs for specific subgroups of patients.
Distribution Indices of Magnetic Susceptibility Values in the Primary Motor Cortex Enable to Classify Patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Costagli Mauro , Donatelli Graziella , Cecchi Paolo , Bosco Paolo , Migaleddu Gianmichele , Siciliano Gabriele , Cosottini Mirco
Published: July 2022

Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping (QSM) can measure iron concentration increase in the primary motor cortex (M1) of patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). However, such alteration is confined to only specific regions interested by upper motor neuron pathology; therefore, mean QSM values in the entire M1 have limited diagnostic accuracy in discriminating between ALS patients and control subjects. This study investigates the diagnostic accuracy of a broader set of M1 QSM distribution indices in classifying ALS patients and controls. Mean, standard deviation, skewness and kurtosis of M1 QSM values were used either individually or as combined predictors in support vector machines. The classification performance was compared to that obtained by the radiological assessment of T2* signal hypo-intensity of M1 in susceptibility-weighted MRI. The least informative index for the classification of ALS patients and controls was the subject’s mean QSM value in M1. The highest diagnostic performance was obtained when all the distribution indices of positive QSM values in M1 were considered, which yielded a diagnostic accuracy of 0.90, with sensitivity = 0.89 and specificity = 1. The radiological assessment of M1 yielded a diagnostic accuracy of 0.79, with sensitivity = 0.76 and specificity = 0.90. The joint evaluation of QSM distribution indices could support the clinical examination in ALS diagnosis and patient monitoring.
Thermal Optimization of Additively Manufactured Lightweight Concrete Wall Elements with Internal Cellular Structure through Simulations and Measurements
Authors: Briels David , Kollmannsberger Stefan , Leithner Felicitas , Matthäus Carla , Nouman Ahmad Saleem , Oztoprak Oguz , Rank Ernst
Published: July 2022

Combining the additive manufacturing (AM) process of extrusion with lightweight concrete, mono-material but multi-functional elements with an internal cellular structure can be created to achieve good thermal performance of a wall at low resource consumption. The aim of this paper is to analyze and optimize the actual thermal performance of such a component. A sensitivity analysis and a parametric optimization were conducted based on a mathematical description of heat transfer in cellular structures. To investigate the thermal performance, 2D and 3D heat transfer simulations were used and validated by heat flux measurements on an existing prototype. A geometric optimization led to a further reduction of the U-value by up to 24%, reaching 0.58 W/m2 K. The ratio of solid material to air inside the cells (relative density) was identified as the main driver, in addition to cell diameter, cell height, and cell wall thickness. The comparison of analytical and numerical results showed high correspondence with deviations of 3–10%, and for the experimental results 25%. These remaining deviations can be traced back to simplifications of the theoretical models and discrepancies between as designed and as built. The presented approach provides a good basis for optimizing the thermal design of complex AM components by investigating practical thermal problems with the help of 2D and 3D simulations, and thus offers a great potential for further applications.
Research on Frost Heaving Characteristics of Hydraulic Tunnels’ Wall Rock in Cold Regions Based on Phase Transition and Water-Heat-Stress Coupling
Authors: Jiang Haibo , Zhai Dongsen , Xiang Pengfei , Wei Gang
Published: July 2022

In order to study the problem of frost damage to wall rock caused by hydraulic tunnels’ phase transition between water and ice at low temperatures in cold regions, a three-field coupling governing equation considering temperature, seepage and stress was deduced. Taking a water conveyance tunnel in Xinjiang as the research object, a three-dimensional frost heaving finite element model was established based on the deduced coupling equations using finite element software. By numerically simulating the process of frost heaving, the spatial distribution and variation law of the frozen area and frost heaving force were obtained. The present study showed that the frozen area of wall rock at the tunnel entrance is spatially distributed in a long-necked funnel shape, and the frost depth of the section gradually decreases along the depth of the tunnel. Due to the hysteresis of heat conduction, the peak point of the maximum freezing depth of wall rock appears after the minimum ambient temperature. The circumferential distribution law of frost heaving force in wall rock remains consistent with the depth, that is, the maximum frost heaving tension occurs at the arch top and arch bottom and decreases to zero in the circumferential direction, and then it turns into the frost heaving pressure which gradually increases to the maximum at the arch waist. Along the depth, at 20 m away from the tunnel entrance, the frost heaving force at the arch top, arch waist and arch bottom is divided into a steep decline zone and a slow decline zone. After being frozen for 30 to 150 days, the growth rate of the absolute value of the maximum frost heaving force at the arch top and arch bottom is about 1.5 times that of the arch waist. The frost heaving force has greater influence on the arch top and arch bottom than on the arch waist.
Non-Destructive Testing for Building Evaluation
Authors: Sadowski Łukasz
Published: July 2022

As of recent, non-destructive testing (NDT) has been used more frequently to evaluate and assess the condition of buildings [...]
Parametric Study of Lightweight Wooden Wall Assemblies for Cold and Subarctic Climates Using External Insulation
Authors: Caron-Rousseau Alexis , Blanchet Pierre , Gosselin Louis
Published: July 2022

While externally insulated wall assemblies are widely recognized for their hygrothermal performance, few research projects have focused on the impact of shifting the entire wall insulation to the exterior side of a structural cavity in cold or subarctic climates or its effectiveness in terms of acoustic performance and airtightness. The objective of this study was to propose fully externally insulated assemblies that could be used in cold and subarctic climates by assessing the benefits of the hygrothermal performance of these assemblies and by achieving a comparable airtightness and sound transmission performance to the modern assemblies that are currently built in North America. The results suggested that the externally insulated assemblies limited the risk of condensation occurring inside structural cavities and allowed for faster drying than the modern assemblies when exposed to water infiltration or high water contents in all climates that were tested. The assemblies with external airtight insulation boards were more airtight than assemblies with air barrier membranes and, in addition, assemblies with external soundproof insulation were shown to be necessary to achieve a comparable sound transmission loss to that of a modern assembly.
Automated Computer Vision-Based Construction Progress Monitoring: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sami Ur Rehman Muhammad , Shafiq Muhammad Tariq , Ullah Fahim
Published: July 2022

The progress monitoring (PM) of construction projects is an essential aspect of project control that enables the stakeholders to make timely decisions to ensure successful project delivery, but ongoing practices are largely manual and document-centric. However, the integration of technologically advanced tools into construction practices has shown the potential to automate construction PM (CPM) using real-time data collection, analysis, and visualization for effective and timely decision making. In this study, we assess the level of automation achieved through various methods that enable automated computer vision (CV)-based CPM. A detailed literature review is presented, discussing the complete process of CV-based CPM based on the research conducted between 2011 and 2021. The CV-based CPM process comprises four sub-processes: data acquisition, information retrieval, progress estimation, and output visualization. Most techniques encompassing these sub-processes require human intervention to perform the desired tasks, and the inter-connectivity among them is absent. We conclude that CV-based CPM research is centric on resolving technical feasibility studies using image-based processing of site data, which are still experimental and lack connectivity to its applications for construction management. This review highlighted the most efficient techniques involved in the CV-based CPM and accentuated the need for the inter-connectivity between sub-processes for an effective alternative to traditional practices.
Association between Nutritional Status and Treatment Response and Survival in Patients Treated with Immunotherapy for Lung Cancer: A Retrospective French Study
Authors: Gouez Manon , Delrieu Lidia , Bouleuc Carole , Girard Nicolas , Raynard Bruno , Marchal Timothée
Published: July 2022

Malnutrition is associated with a greater risk of morbidity and mortality and lower tolerance to chemotherapy. Our purpose was to study the association between nutritional status and the efficiency and tolerance of immunotherapy in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Nutritional and oncological data were reported at 2 months (M2) and 4 months (M4) after the initiation of immunotherapy (M0). The influence of nutritional status at M0 was estimated with the efficacy and toxicity of immunotherapy at M2 to M4. In total, 127 patients were included in the study, and nutritional status was estimated at M0 for 120 patients: 67% were not malnourished, 20% presented with moderate malnutrition, and 13% presented with severe malnutrition. There was no significant link between the nutritional status at M0 and the toxicity of immunotherapy at M2 and M4. However, severe malnutrition was significantly associated with treatment efficacy at M2 (p = 0.04) and with a lower survival rate with an HR (Hazard Ratio) = 2.32–95% C.I: 1.13–4.75 (p = 0.02). Furthermore, a monthly decrease of 1% of the weight had an HR = 1.17–95% C.I: 1.13–1.21 (p = 0.0001). Severe malnutrition and weight loss are independent factors associated with lower survival. Studies integrating the systemic detection of sarcopenia with a closer nutritional follow-up could highlight an improvement in survival.
Diagnostic Strategies for Breast Cancer Detection: From Image Generation to Classification Strategies Using Artificial Intelligence Algorithms
Authors: Basurto-Hurtado Jesus A. , Cruz-Albarran Irving A. , Toledano-Ayala Manuel , Ibarra-Manzano Mario Alberto , Morales-Hernandez Luis A. , Perez-Ramirez Carlos A.
Published: July 2022

Breast cancer is one the main death causes for women worldwide, as 16% of the diagnosed malignant lesions worldwide are its consequence. In this sense, it is of paramount importance to diagnose these lesions in the earliest stage possible, in order to have the highest chances of survival. While there are several works that present selected topics in this area, none of them present a complete panorama, that is, from the image generation to its interpretation. This work presents a comprehensive state-of-the-art review of the image generation and processing techniques to detect Breast Cancer, where potential candidates for the image generation and processing are presented and discussed. Novel methodologies should consider the adroit integration of artificial intelligence-concepts and the categorical data to generate modern alternatives that can have the accuracy, precision and reliability expected to mitigate the misclassifications.
Responses to the Tepotinib in Gastric Cancers with MET Amplification or MET Exon 14 Skipping Mutations and High Expression of Both PD-L1 and CD44
Authors: Sohn Sung-Hwa , Sul Hee Jung , Kim Bum Jun , Zang Dae Young
Published: July 2022

Both MET exon 14 skipping mutation (METex14SM) and high copy-number variation (CNV) lead to enhanced carcinogenesis; additionally, programmed-death ligand 1 (PD-L1) is often upregulated in cancers. In this study, we characterized the expression of MET (including METex14SM), PD-L1, and CD44 in human gastric cancer (GC) cells as well as the differential susceptibility of these cells to tepotinib. Tepotinib treatments inhibited the growth of five GC cells in a dose-dependent manner with a concomitant induction of cell death. Tepotinib treatments also significantly reduced the expression of phospho-MET, total MET, c-Myc, VEGFR2, and Snail protein in SNU620, MKN45, and Hs746T cells. Notably, tepotinib significantly reduced the expression of CD44 and PD-L1 in METex14SM Hs746T cells. By contrast, tepotinib was only slightly active against SNU638 and KATO III cells. Migration was reduced to a greater extent in the tepotinib-treated group than in the control group. Tepotinib may have therapeutic effects on c-MET-amplified GC, a high expression of both PD-L1 and CD44, and METex14SM. Clinical studies are needed to confirm these therapeutic effects.
Is Cell-Free DNA Testing in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Ready for Prime Time?
Authors: Sheel Ankur , Addison Sarah , Nuguru Surya Pratik , Manne Ashish
Published: July 2022

Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) testing currently does not have a significant role in PDA management: it is insufficient to diagnose PDA, and its use is primarily restricted to identifying targetable mutations (if tissue is insufficient or unavailable). cfDNA testing has the potential to address critical needs in PDA management, such as pre-operative risk stratification (POR), prognostication, and predicting (and monitoring) treatment response. Prior studies have focused primarily on somatic mutations, specifically KRAS variants, and have shown limited success in addressing prognosis and POR. Recent studies have demonstrated the importance of other less prevalent mutations (ERBB2 and TP53), but no studies have provided reliable mutation panels for clinical use. Methylation aberrations in cfDNA (epigenetic markers) in PDA have been relatively less explored. However, early evidence has suggested they offer diagnostic and, to some extent, prognostic value. The inclusion of epigenetic markers of cfDNA adds another dimension to genomic testing and may open new therapeutic avenues beyond addressing critical areas of need in PDA treatment. For cfDNA to substantially influence PDA management, concerted efforts are required to include less frequent mutations and epigenetic markers. Furthermore, relying on KRAS mutations for PDA management will always be inadequate.
Limited Benefit from the Addition of Immunotherapy to Chemotherapy in TKI-Refractory EGFR-Mutant Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Hong Lingzhi , Lewis Whitney E. , Nilsson Monique , Patel Sonia , Varghese Susan , Rivera Melvin J. , Du Robyn R. , Chen Pingjun , Kemp Haley N. , Rinsurongkawong Waree , Heeke Simon , Spelman Amy R. , Elamin Yasir Y. , Negrao Marcelo V. , Sepesi Boris , Gibbons Don L. , Lee J. Jack , Wu Jia , Vokes Natalie I. , Heymach John V. , Zhang Jianjun , Le Xiuning
Published: July 2022

Background: The benefit of chemotherapy combined with immunotherapy in EGFR-mutant lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) patients whose tumor developed resistance to EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) is not thoroughly investigated. The goal of this retrospective cohort study is to assess the clinical efficiency of immunotherapy alone or in combination with chemotherapy in a real-world setting. Methods: This retrospective cohort study enrolled LUAD patients with EGFR sensitive mutations whose tumor had acquired resistance to EGFR TKIs and received systemic treatment with chemotherapy (chemo; n = 84), chemotherapy combined with immunotherapy (chemoIO; n = 30), chemotherapy plus bevacizumab with or without IO (withBev; n = 42), and IO monotherapy (IO-mono; n = 22). Clinical progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated. Associations of clinical characteristics with outcomes were assessed using univariable and multi-covariate Cox Proportional Hazards regression models. Results: A total of 178 patients (median age = 63.3; 57.9% females) with a median follow-up time of 42.0 (Interquartile range: 22.9–67.8) months were enrolled. There was no significant difference in PFS between chemoIO vs. chemo groups (5.3 vs. 4.8 months, p = 0.8). Compared to the chemo group, patients who received withBev therapy trended towards better PFS (6.1 months vs. 4.8; p = 0.3; HR 0.79; 95% CI: 0.52–1.20), while patients treated with IO-mono had inferior PFS (2.2 months; p = 0.001; HR 2.22; 95% CI: 1.37–3.59). Furthermore, PD-L1 level was not associated with PFS benefit in the chemoIO group. Patients with EGFR-mutant LUAD with high PD-L1 (≥50%) had shorter PFS (5.8 months) than non-EGFR/ALK LUAD patients who received chemoIO (12.8 months, p = 0.002; HR 0.22; 95% CI: 0.08–0.56) as first-line treatment. Chemotherapy-based therapy rendered similar benefit to patients with either EGFR exon19 deletion vs. L858R in the LUAD. Conclusions: This retrospective analysis revealed that immunotherapy provided limited additional benefit to chemotherapy in TKI-refractory EGFR-mutant LUAD. Chemotherapy alone or combined with bevacizumab remain good choices for patients with actionable EGFR mutations.
Comprehensive Genomic Profiling Reveals Clinical Associations in Response to Immune Therapy in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Noji Rika , Tohyama Kohki , Kugimoto Takuma , Kuroshima Takeshi , Hirai Hideaki , Tomioka Hirofumi , Michi Yasuyuki , Tasaki Akihisa , Ohno Kazuchika , Ariizumi Yosuke , Onishi Iichiroh , Suenaga Mitsukuni , Mori Takehiko , Okamoto Ryuichi , Yoshimura Ryoichi , Miura Masahiko , Asakage Takahiro , Miyake Satoshi , Ikeda Sadakatsu , Harada Hiroyuki , Kano Yoshihito
Published: July 2022

Comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) provides information regarding cancer-related genetic aberrations. However, its clinical utility in recurrent/metastatic head and neck cancer (R/M HNC) remains unknown. Additionally, predictive biomarkers for immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) should be fully elucidated because of their low response rate. Here, we analyzed the clinical utility of CGP and identified predictive biomarkers that respond to ICIs in R/M HNC. We evaluated over 1100 cases of HNC using the nationwide genetic clinical database established by the Center for Cancer Genomics and Advanced Therapeutics (C-CAT) and 54 cases in an institution-based study. The C-CAT database revealed that 23% of the cases were candidates for clinical trials, and 5% received biomarker-matched therapy, including NTRK fusion. Our institution-based study showed that 9% of SCC cases and 25% of salivary gland cancer cases received targeted agents. In SCC cases, the tumor mutational burden (TMB) high (≥10 Mut/Mb) group showed long-term survival (>2 years) in response to ICI therapy, whereas the PD-L1 combined positive score showed no significant difference in progression-free survival. In multivariate analysis, CCND1 amplification was associated with a lower response to ICIs. Our results indicate that CGP may be useful in identifying prognostic biomarkers for immunotherapy in patients with HNC.
Holistic Approach to the Diagnosis and Treatment of Patients with Tumor Metastases to the Spine
Authors: Nowak Hanna , Szwacka Dominika Maria , Pater Monika , Mrugalski Wojciech Krzysztof , Milczarek Michał Grzegorz , Staniszewska Magdalena , Jankowski Roman , Barciszewska Anna-Maria
Published: July 2022

The treatment of neoplastic spine metastases requires multi-faceted assessment and an interdisciplinary approach to patients. The metastases do not show specific symptoms but are often the first confirmation of the presence of a primary tumor in a patient. The diagnostic process includes imaging and invasive procedures, e.g., biopsy. It is essential to qualify the patient for an appropriate treatment using dedicated scales. Decompression of the spinal cord is a critical issue to save or restore neurological function in a patient with spine metastases. Surgical treatment ought to meet three criteria: release spinal cord and nerve roots, restore the spine’s anatomical relations, and ensure the internal stabilization of the spine. A good result from surgical treatment enables the continuation of radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted molecular therapy. Stereotactic radiosurgery and stereotactic body radiotherapy are more effective ways of treating spine metastases than conventional external beam radiotherapy. They allow higher doses of radiation, concentrated precisely at the tumor site. Our review summarizes the established and emerging concepts in the treatment of spine metastases. A holistic approach to the patient enables the selection of the appropriate therapy.