bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Entomopathogenic Nematodes and Their Symbiotic Bacteria from the National Parks of Thailand and Larvicidal Property of Symbiotic Bacteria against Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus
Authors: Thanwisai Aunchalee , Muangpat Paramaporn , Meesil Wipanee , Janthu Pichamon , Dumidae Abdulhakam , Subkrasae Chanakan , Ardpairin Jiranun , Tandhavanant Sarunporn , Yoshino Timothy P. , Vitta Apichat
Published: November 2022

Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) are insect parasitic nematodes of the genera Het-erorhabditis and Steinernema. These nematodes are symbiotically associated with the bacteria, Photorhabdus and Xenorhabdus, respectively. National parks in Thailand are a potentially rich resource for recovering native EPNs and their symbiotic bacteria. The objectives of this study are to isolate and identify EPNs and their bacterial flora from soil samples in four national parks in Thailand and to evaluate their efficacy for controlling mosquito larvae. Using a baiting method with a Galleria mellonella moth larvae and a White trap technique, 80 out of 840 soil samples (9.5%) from 168 field sites were positive for EPNs. Sequencing of an internal transcribed spacer resulted in the molecular identification of Heterorhabditis nematode isolates as H. indica, H. baujardi and Heterorhabditis SGmg3, while using 28S rDNA sequencing, Steinernema nematode species were identified as S. guang-dongense, S. surkhetense, S. minutum, S. longicaudum and one closely related to S. yirgalemense. For the symbiotic bacterial isolates, based on recA sequencing, the Photorhabdus spp. were identified as P. luminescens subsp. akhurstii, P. luminescens subsp. hainanensis and P. luminescens subsp. australis. Xenorhabdus isolates were identified as X. stockiae, X. indica, X. griffiniae, X. japonica and X. hominickii. Results of bioassays demonstrate that Photorhabdus isolates were effective on both Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus. Therefore, we conclude that soil from Thailand’s national parks contain a high diversity of entomopathogenic nematodes and their symbiotic bacteria. Photorhabdus bacteria are larvicidal against culicine mosquitoes and may serve as effective biocontrol agents.
Red Blood Cells Oligosaccharides as Targets for Plasmodium Invasion
Authors: Burzyńska Patrycja , Jodłowska Marlena , Zerka Agata , Czujkowski Jan , Jaśkiewicz Ewa
Published: November 2022

The key element in developing a successful malaria treatment is a good understanding of molecular mechanisms engaged in human host infection. It is assumed that oligosaccharides play a significant role in Plasmodium parasites binding to RBCs at different steps of host infection. The formation of a tight junction between EBL merozoite ligands and glycophorin receptors is the crucial interaction in ensuring merozoite entry into RBCs. It was proposed that sialic acid residues of O/N-linked glycans form clusters on a human glycophorins polypeptide chain, which facilitates the binding. Therefore, specific carbohydrate drugs have been suggested as possible malaria treatments. It was shown that the sugar moieties of N-acetylneuraminyl-N-acetate-lactosamine and 2,3-didehydro-2-deoxy-N-acetylneuraminic acid (DANA), which is its structural analog, can inhibit P. falciparum EBA-175-GPA interaction. Moreover, heparin-like molecules might be used as antimalarial drugs with some modifications to overcome their anticoagulant properties. Assuming that the principal interactions of Plasmodium merozoites and host cells are mediated by carbohydrates or glycan moieties, glycobiology-based approaches may lead to new malaria therapeutic targets.
Identification of Immune-Related Subtypes and Construction of a Novel Prognostic Model for Bladder Urothelial Cancer
Authors: Zhang Jiange , Huang Caisheng , Yang Rirong , Wang Xiang , Fang Bo , Mi Junhao , Yuan Hao , Mo Zengnan , Sun Yihai
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between bladder urothelial cancer (BLCA) and immunity, to screen prognosis-related immune genes (PIGs), and to construct an immune-related prognosis model (IRPM). We processed the relevant data of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA-BLCA) and GSE13507 using R software and Perl. We divided BLCA into high-immunity and low-immunity subtypes. There were significant differences in the two subtypes. In addition, we identified 13 PIGs of BLCA by jointly analyzing the gene expression data and survival information of GSE13507 and TCGA-BLCA, and constructed IRPM through nine of them. The low-risk group had better survival outcome than the high-risk group. We also constructed a nomogram based on clinicopathological information and risk scores of the patients. Moreover, the prognosis of BLCA patients was significantly impacted by the expression of almost every gene used to calculate the risk score. The result of real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction revealed that all the genes used to calculate the risk score were differentially expressed between BLCA and adjacent normal tissues, except PDGFRA. Our research provided potential targets for the treatment of BLCA and a reference for judging the prognosis of BLCA.
Inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 Viral Channel Activity Using FDA-Approved Channel Modulators Independent of Variants
Authors: Yu Han-Gang , Sizemore Gina , Martinez Ivan , Perrotta Peter
Published: November 2022

Background: SARS-CoV-2 has undergone mutations, yielding clinically relevant variants. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that in SARS-CoV-2, two highly conserved Orf3a and E channels directly related to the virus replication were a target for the detection and inhibition of the viral replication, independent of the variant, using FDA-approved ion channel modulators. Methods: A combination of a fluorescence potassium ion assay with channel modulators was developed to detect SARS-CoV-2 Orf3a/E channel activity. Two FDA-approved drugs, amantadine (an antiviral) and amitriptyline (an antidepressant), which are ion channel blockers, were tested as to whether they inhibited Orf3a/E channel activity in isolated virus variants and in nasal swab samples from COVID-19 patients. The variants were confirmed by PCR sequencing. Results: In isolated SARS-CoV-2 Alpha, Beta, and Delta variants, the channel activity of Orf3a/E was detected and inhibited by emodin and gliclazide (IC50 = 0.42 mM). In the Delta swab samples, amitriptyline and amantadine inhibited the channel activity of viral proteins, with IC50 values of 0.73 mM and 1.11 mM, respectively. In the Omicron swab samples, amitriptyline inhibited the channel activity, with an IC50 of 0.76 mM. Conclusions: We developed an efficient method to screen FDA-approved ion channel modulators that could be repurposed to detect and inhibit SARS-CoV-2 viral replication, independent of variants.
Linking the Amyloid, Tau, and Mitochondrial Hypotheses of Alzheimer’s Disease and Identifying Promising Drug Targets
Authors: Fišar Zdeněk
Published: November 2022

Damage or loss of brain cells and impaired neurochemistry, neurogenesis, and synaptic and nonsynaptic plasticity of the brain lead to dementia in neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Injury to synapses and neurons and accumulation of extracellular amyloid plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles are considered the main morphological and neuropathological features of AD. Age, genetic and epigenetic factors, environmental stressors, and lifestyle contribute to the risk of AD onset and progression. These risk factors are associated with structural and functional changes in the brain, leading to cognitive decline. Biomarkers of AD reflect or cause specific changes in brain function, especially changes in pathways associated with neurotransmission, neuroinflammation, bioenergetics, apoptosis, and oxidative and nitrosative stress. Even in the initial stages, AD is associated with Aβ neurotoxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction, and tau neurotoxicity. The integrative amyloid-tau-mitochondrial hypothesis assumes that the primary cause of AD is the neurotoxicity of Aβ oligomers and tau oligomers, mitochondrial dysfunction, and their mutual synergy. For the development of new efficient AD drugs, targeting the elimination of neurotoxicity, mutual potentiation of effects, and unwanted protein interactions of risk factors and biomarkers (mainly Aβ oligomers, tau oligomers, and mitochondrial dysfunction) in the early stage of the disease seems promising.
Structure/Function Studies on the Activation Motif of Two Non-Mammalian Mrap1 Orthologs, and Observations on the Phylogeny of Mrap1, Including a Novel Characterization of an Mrap1 from the Chondrostean Fish, Polyodon spathula
Authors: Dores Robert M. , McKinley Greer , Meyers Audrey , Martin Morgan , Shaughnessy Ciaran A.
Published: November 2022

In derived bony vertebrates, activation of the melanocortin-2 receptor (Mc2r) by its ACTH ligand requires chaperoning by the Mc2r accessory protein (Mrap1). The N-terminal domain of the non-mammalian tetrapod MRAP1 from chicken (c; Gallus gallus) has the putative activation motif, W18D19Y20I21, and the N-terminal domain in the neopterygian ray-finned fish Mrap1 from bowfin (bf; Amia calva) has the putative activation motif, Y18D19Y20I21. The current study used an alanine-substitution paradigm to test the hypothesis that only the Y20 position in the Mrap1 ortholog of these non-mammalian vertebrates is required for activation of the respective Mc2r ortholog. Instead, we found that for cMRAP1, single alanine-substitution resulted in a gradient of inhibition of activation (Y20 >> D19 = W18 > I21). For bfMrap1, single alanine-substitution also resulted in a gradient of inhibition of activation (Y20 >> D19 > I21 > Y18). This study also included an analysis of Mc2r activation in an older lineage of ray-finned fish, the paddlefish (p), Polyodon spathula (subclass Chondronstei). Currently no mrap1 gene has been found in the paddlefish genome. When pmc2r was expressed alone in our CHO cell/cAMP reporter gene assay, no activation was observed following stimulation with ACTH. However, when pmc2r was co-expressed with either cmrap1 or bfmrap1 robust dose response curves were generated. These results indicate that the formation of an Mc2r/Mrap1 heterodimer emerged early in the radiation of the bony vertebrates.
Characteristics of Collagen Changes in Small Intestine Anastomoses Induced by High-Frequency Electric Field Welding
Authors: Zhu Caihui , Yin Li , Xu Jianzhi , Yang Xingjian , Wang Hao , Xiang Xiaowei , Liu Haotian , Liu Kefu
Published: November 2022

High-frequency electric field welding-induced tissue fusion has been explored as an advanced surgical method for intestinal anastomoses; however, intrinsic mechanisms remain unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate microcosmic changes of collagen within the fusion area, with various parameters. Ex vivo small intestine was fused with mucosa–mucosa. Four levels of compressive pressure (100 kPa, 150 kPa, 200 kPa, 250 kPa) were applied for 10 s in order to fuse the colons under a power level of 140 W. Then, collagen fibers of the fusion area were examined by fibrillar collagen alignment and TEM. Three levels of power (90 W, 110 W, 140 W) and three levels of time (5 s, 10 s, 20 s) were applied in order to fuse colons at 250 kPa, and then collagen within the fusion area was examined by Raman spectroscopy. Fibrillar collagen alignment analysis showed that with the increase in compression pressure, alignment of the collagen in the fusion area gradually increased, and the arrangement of collagen fibers tended to be consistent, which was conducive to the adhesion of collagen fibers. TEM showed that pressure changed the distribution and morphology of collagen fibers. Raman spectroscopy showed that increased power and time within a certain range contributed to collagen cross linking. Peak positions of amide I band and amide III band changed. These results suggested that higher power and a longer amount of time resulted in a decrease in non-reducible cross links and an increase in reducible cross links. Compression pressure, power, and time can affect the state of collagen, but the mechanisms are different. Compressive pressure affected the state of collagen by changing its orientation; power and time denatured collagen by increasing temperature and improved the reducible cross linking of collagen to promote tissue fusion.
A Highly Sensitive Immunoassay for Determination of Immune Response to SARS-CoV-2 in Capillary Blood Samples
Authors: Sánchez Belén G. , Bort Alicia , Mora-Rodríguez José María , Díaz-Yuste Alba , Gasalla José Manuel , Sánchez-Chapado Manuel , Sebastián-Martín Alba , Díaz-Laviada Inés
Published: November 2022

Throughout the pandemic, serological assays have been revealed as crucial for detecting previous exposures to the virus and determining the timing of antibody maintenance after vaccination or natural infection. This study aimed to develop an optimized enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)-based serology, which could be used in case of reagent shortages, such as that occurred in the beginning of this health emergency. As a result, we present a high-sensitive immunoassay for the determination of IgG levels in venous serum samples, using 2 μg/mL antigen (receptor-binding domain of the spike protein S1) for coating the plate and utilizing human samples at a dilution 1:1000. This method showed non-inferiority features versus a commercial kit, is less expensive, and has a higher spectrophotometric range that allows for a better quantification of the antibody titers. The optical density values before and after heating venous serum samples at 56 °C during 30 min was quite similar, showing that heat inactivation can be used to reduce the biohazardous risks while handling samples. Furthermore, we show that finger-stick capillary blood samples can also serve as a suitable source for IgG detection, bypassing the need for serum isolation and being suitable for point-of-care application (Pearson’s coefficient correlation with capillary serum was 0.95, being statistically significant).
The Use of Biological Sensors and Instrumental Analysis to Discriminate COVID-19 Odor Signatures
Authors: Gokool Vidia A. , Crespo-Cajigas Janet , Mallikarjun Amritha , Collins Amanda , Kane Sarah A. , Plymouth Victoria , Nguyen Elizabeth , Abella Benjamin S. , Holness Howard K. , Furton Kenneth G. , Johnson Alan T. Charlie , Otto Cynthia M.
Published: November 2022

The spread of SARS-CoV-2, which causes the disease COVID-19, is difficult to control as some positive individuals, capable of transmitting the disease, can be asymptomatic. Thus, it remains critical to generate noninvasive, inexpensive COVID-19 screening systems. Two such methods include detection canines and analytical instrumentation, both of which detect volatile organic compounds associated with SARS-CoV-2. In this study, the performance of trained detection dogs is compared to a noninvasive headspace-solid phase microextraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) approach to identifying COVID-19 positive individuals. Five dogs were trained to detect the odor signature associated with COVID-19. They varied in performance, with the two highest-performing dogs averaging 88% sensitivity and 95% specificity over five double-blind tests. The three lowest-performing dogs averaged 46% sensitivity and 87% specificity. The optimized linear discriminant analysis (LDA) model, developed using HS-SPME-GC-MS, displayed a 100% true positive rate and a 100% true negative rate using leave-one-out cross-validation. However, the non-optimized LDA model displayed difficulty in categorizing animal hair-contaminated samples, while animal hair did not impact the dogs’ performance. In conclusion, the HS-SPME-GC-MS approach for noninvasive COVID-19 detection more accurately discriminated between COVID-19 positive and COVID-19 negative samples; however, dogs performed better than the computational model when non-ideal samples were presented.
A Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW)-Based Lab-on-Chip for the Detection of Active α-Glycosidase
Authors: Gagliardi Mariacristina , Agostini Matteo , Lunardelli Francesco , Miranda Alessio , Luminare Antonella Giuliana , Cervelli Fabrizio , Gambineri Francesca , Cecchini Marco
Published: November 2022

Enzyme detection in liquid samples is a complex laboratory procedure, based on assays that are generally time- and cost-consuming, and require specialized personnel. Surface acoustic wave sensors can be used for this application, overcoming the cited limitations. To give our contribution, in this work we present the bottom-up development of a surface acoustic wave biosensor to detect active α-glycosidase in aqueous solutions. Our device, optimized to work at an ultra-high frequency (around 740 MHz), is functionalized with a newly synthesized probe 7-mercapto-1-eptyl-D-maltoside, bringing one maltoside terminal moiety. The probe is designed ad hoc for this application and tested in-cuvette to analyze the enzymatic conversion kinetics at different times, temperatures and enzyme concentrations. Preliminary data are used to optimize the detection protocol with the SAW device. In around 60 min, the SAW device is able to detect the enzymatic conversion of the maltoside unit into glucose in the presence of the active enzyme. We obtained successful α-glycosidase detection in the concentration range 0.15–150 U/mL, with an increasing signal in the range up to 15 U/mL. We also checked the sensor performance in the presence of an enzyme inhibitor as a control test, with a signal decrease of 80% in the presence of the inhibitor. The results demonstrate the synergic effect of our SAW Lab-on-a-Chip and probe design as a valid alternative to conventional laboratory tests.
Colorimetric Detection of DNase Type I 3′OH DNA Ends Using an Isothermal Amplification-Assisted Paper-Based Analytical Device
Authors: Xue Wei , Song Kaiyun , Chang Yangyang , Liu Meng
Published: November 2022

The generation of DNase type I 3′OH DNA ends is closely related to the harm of endogenous reactive oxygen species (ROS) and environmental genotoxic agents. The evaluation of this type of DNA damage plays an important role in clinical intervention and environmental toxicity assessment. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT)-assisted isothermal amplification (TAIA) offers a facile and versatile way to detect DNase type I 3′OH DNA ends. Its ability of templated-independent isothermal amplification is one unique feature. Here, we reported a paper-based analytical device (PAD) coupled with a smartphone for the detection of DNase type I 3′OH DNA ends using TAIA and colorimetric signal readout. We achieved the integration of cell lysis, DNA extraction, TAIA, horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-enabled colorimetric reaction, and signal readout. This device could achieve a limit of detection of 264 cells with a total assay time of less than 45 min. By combining PAD with a smartphone, the integrated platform could be used for the visual and quantitative analysis of DNA damages with the advantages of ease-to-use, fast response, inexpensive, and instrument free. Furthermore, successful assessment of the genotoxicity in wastewater effluents suggested the great promise of the integrated platform for on-site testing in practical applications.
Au-Ag Alloy Nanoshuttle Mediated Surface Plasmon Coupling for Enhanced Fluorescence Imaging
Authors: Xie Kai-Xin , Li Zhao , Fang Jia-Hua , Cao Shuo-Hui , Li Yao-Qun
Published: November 2022

Surface plasmon-coupled emission (SPCE), a novel signal enhancement technology generated by the interactions between surface plasmons and excited fluorophores in close vicinity to metallic film, has shown excellent performance in bioimaging. Variable-angle nanoplasmonic fluorescence microscopy (VANFM), based on an SPCE imaging system, can selectively modulate the imaging depth by controlling the excitation angles. In order to further improve the imaging performance, Au-Ag alloy nanoshuttles were introduced into an Au substrate to mediate the plasmonic properties. Benefiting from the strong localized plasmon effect of the modified SPCE chip, better imaging brightness, signal-to-background ratio and axial resolution for imaging of the cell membrane region were obtained, which fully displays the imaging advantages of SPCE system. Meanwhile, the imaging signal obtained from the critical angle excitation mode was also amplified, which helps to acquire a more visible image of the cell both from near- and far-field in order to comprehensively investigate the cellular interactions.
Vigilant Attention, Cerebral Blood Flow and Grey Matter Volume Change after 36 h of Acute Sleep Deprivation in Healthy Male Adults: A Pilot Study
Authors: Zeng Han-Rui , Xu Fan , Zhang Jing , Cao Qiong-Fang , Wang Yu-Han , Zhang Peng , Shao Yong-Cong , Wu Shao-Ping , Weng Xie-Chuan
Published: November 2022

It is commonly believed that alertness and attention decrease after sleep deprivation (SD). However, there are not enough studies on the changes in psychomotor vigilance testing (PVT) during SD and the corresponding changes in brain function and brain structure after SD. Therefore, we recruited 30 healthy adult men to perform a 36 h acute SD experiment, including the measurement of five indicators of PVT every 2 h, and analysis of cerebral blood flow (CBF) and grey matter volume (GMV) changes, before and after SD by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The PVT measurement found that the mean reaction time (RT), fastest 10% RT, minor lapses, and false starts all increased progressively within 20 h of SD, except for major lapses. Subsequently, all indexes showed a significant lengthening or increasing trend, and the peak value was in the range of 24 h-32 h and decreased at 36 h, in which the number of major lapses returned to normal. MRI showed that CBF decreased in the left orbital part of the superior frontal gyrus, the left of the rolandic operculum, the left triangular part, and the right opercular part of the inferior frontal gyrus, and CBF increased in the left lingual gyrus and the right superior gyrus after 36 h SD. The left lingual gyrus was negatively correlated with the major lapses, and both the inferior frontal gyrus and the superior frontal gyrus were positively correlated with the false starts. Still, there was no significant change in GMV. Therefore, we believe that 36 h of acute SD causes alterations in brain function and reduces alert attention, whereas short-term acute SD does not cause changes in brain structure.
Corticomotor Plasticity Underlying Priming Effects of Motor Imagery on Force Performance
Authors: Dos Anjos Typhanie , Guillot Aymeric , Kerautret Yann , Daligault Sébastien , Di Rienzo Franck
Published: November 2022

The neurophysiological processes underlying the priming effects of motor imagery (MI) on force performance remain poorly understood. Here, we tested whether the priming effects of embedded MI practice involved short-term changes in corticomotor connectivity. In a within-subjects counterbalanced experimental design, participants (n = 20) underwent a series of experimental sessions consisting of successive maximal isometric contractions of elbow flexor muscles. During inter-trial rest periods, we administered MI, action observation (AO), and a control passive recovery condition. We collected electromyograms (EMG) from both agonists and antagonists of the force task, in addition to electroencephalographic (EEG) brain potentials during force trials. Force output was higher during MI compared to AO and control conditions (both p < 0.01), although fatigability was similar across experimental conditions. We also found a weaker relationship between triceps brachii activation and force output during MI and AO compared to the control condition. Imaginary coherence topographies of alpha (8–12 Hz) oscillations revealed increased connectivity between EEG sensors from central scalp regions and EMG signals from agonists during MI, compared to AO and control. Present results suggest that the priming effects of MI on force performance are mediated by a more efficient cortical drive to motor units yielding reduced agonist/antagonist coactivation.
Alterations of Thalamic Nuclei Volumes and the Intrinsic Thalamic Structural Network in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis-Related Fatigue
Authors: Li Yujing , Wang Jun , Yang Tingli , Zhang Pengfei , Ai Kai , Li Min , Wang Rui , Ren Xinying , Xiong Diaohan , Liu Guangyao , Han Na , Gan Tiejun , Zhang Jing
Published: November 2022

Fatigue is a debilitating and prevalent symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS). The thalamus is atrophied at an earlier stage of MS and although the role of the thalamus in the pathophysiology of MS-related fatigue has been reported, there have been few studies on intra-thalamic changes. We investigated the alterations of thalamic nuclei volumes and the intrinsic thalamic network in people with MS presenting fatigue (F-MS). The network metrics comprised the clustering coefficient (Cp), characteristic path length (Lp), small-world index (σ), local efficiency (Eloc), global efficiency (Eglob), and nodal metrics. Volumetric analysis revealed that the right anteroventral, right central lateral, right lateral geniculate, right pulvinar anterior, left pulvinar medial, and left pulvinar inferior nuclei were atrophied only in the F-MS group. Furthermore, the F-MS group had significantly increased Lp compared to people with MS not presenting fatigue (NF-MS) (2.9674 vs. 2.4411, PAUC = 0.038). The F-MS group had significantly decreased nodal efficiency and betweenness centrality of the right mediodorsal medial magnocellular nucleus than the NF-MS group (false discovery rate corrected p < 0.05). The F-MS patients exhibited more atrophied thalamic nuclei, poorer network global functional integration, and disrupted right mediodorsal medial magnocellular nuclei interconnectivity with other nuclei. These findings might aid the elucidation of the underlying pathogenesis of MS-related fatigue.
Increased Inertia Triggers Linear Responses in Motor Cortices during Large-Extent Movements—A fNIRS Study
Authors: Chen Zhi , Song Xiaohui , Qiao Yongjun , Yan Jin , Zhu Chaozhe , Xie Qing , Niu Chuanxin M.
Published: November 2022

Activities of daily living consist of accurate, coordinated movements, which require the upper limbs to constantly interact with environmental loads. The magnitude of the load was shown to affect kinematic outcomes in healthy subjects. Moreover, the increase in load facilitates the recovery of motor function in patients with neurological disorders. Although Brodmann Areas 4 and 6 were found to be active during loaded movements, it remains unclear whether stronger activation can be triggered simply by increasing the load magnitude. If such a linear relationship exists, it may provide a basis for the closed-loop adjustment of treatment plans in neurorehabilitation. Fourteen healthy participants were instructed to lift their hands to their armpits. The movements were grouped in blocks of 25 s. Each block was assigned a magnitude of inertial loads, either 0 pounds (bare hand), 3 pounds, or 15 pounds. Hemodynamic fNIRS signals were recorded throughout the experiment. Both channel-wise and ROI-wise analyses found significant activations against all three magnitudes of inertia. The generalized linear model revealed significant increases in the beta coefficient of 0.001673/pound in BA4 and 0.001338/pound in BA6. The linear trend was stronger in BA6 (conditional r2 = 0.9218) than in BA4 (conditional r2 = 0.8323).
Readiness to Change: A Pathway to the Adoption of Trauma-Sensitive Teaching
Authors: Blanton Megan A. , Richie Fallon J. , Langhinrichsen-Rohling Jennifer
Published: November 2022

Creating a trauma-sensitive classroom requires a shift in perspective from viewing a student’s problematic behavior as a function of poor character to considering it contextually. However, a trauma-sensitive perspective may be insufficient for school staff to implement trauma-sensitive practices. Theoretically, motivation, or readiness to change (R2C), is needed to adopt any new behavior. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the role of R2C in the relation between attitudes related to trauma-informed care (ARTIC) and the adoption of trauma-sensitive practices in a school setting. The targeted elementary school primarily serves Black students (83%), living below the federal poverty line. All staff attended an in-service training about trauma-sensitive schools (TSS), in which trauma-sensitive strategies were modeled, and student-friendly, emotional regulation materials were provided. Teachers and staff (n = 40) were assessed one year after receiving the TSS training. Participants reported their ARTIC, R2C, and trauma-informed strategy adoption. Using PROCESS Model 4, R2C fully mediated the relation between ARTIC and reported use of specific trauma-sensitive classroom strategies (β = 0.19, bootstrapped SE = 0.12, 95% LLCI = 0.04, 95% ULCI = 0.49). Facilitating R2C is essential when implementing trauma-sensitive school strategies. System-wide policies that may help promote the uptake of trauma-sensitive practices are described.
A Review on Failure Modes and Cracking Behaviors of Polypropylene Fibers Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Ahmad Jawad , Burduhos-Nergis Dumitru Doru , Arbili Mohamed Moafak , Alogla Saleh M. , Majdi Ali , Deifalla Ahmed Farouk
Published: November 2022

Despite being strong under compression, concrete is rather weak when subjected to tensile stress. Concrete has been reinforced with a variety of materials over time in order to resist tensile stresses. Among various types of fibers, polypropylene fiber, which is available in a range of sizes, is being used to strengthen concrete. The fiber also increases the concrete’s toughness, durability, and low permeability. Polypropylene fibers may be utilized in place of conventional reinforcement, according to a number of researchers. The aim of this study is to collect information from already carried out research on polypropylene fibers. Important characteristics of concrete, such as workability, compressive, tensile, and flexural strength, are reviewed. The review also explores cracking behavior and failure modes of polypropylene fiber reinforced concrete. Furthermore, durability aspects, such as water absorption, porosity, dry shrinkage, and microstructure study (scan electronic microscopy), were also reviewed. Results indicate that polypropylene fiber improved the mechanical strength and durability of concrete (particularly tensile capacity) but decreased the flowability of concrete. The optimum dose is important, as a higher dose adversely affects strength and durability due to a lack of flowability. Scanning electronic microscopy results indicate that the polypropylene fibers restrict the propagation of cracks, which improves the strength and durability of concrete. The review also indicates that shrinkage cracks are considerably reduced with the addition of polypropylene fibers. Finally, the review also provides future research guidelines for upcoming generations to further improve the performance of polypropylene fibers that reinforce concrete.
Long-Term Performance of a Deep Excavation in Silty Clay in Xi’an—A Case Study
Authors: Yu Piyong , Shen Yinlan , Ren Yangzhi
Published: November 2022

The long-term deformation of a 17.5 m deep excavation constructed with the bottom-up technique in silty clay in Xi’an was monitored in this study. The retaining wall was built with one or two rows of contiguous bored concrete piles and tie-back prestressing tendons. The monitoring of settlement and lateral deflection at the top of the retaining structure, and the settlement of the ground surface and of the adjacent building lasted for more than 4 years. After the final depth was reached, the excavation was surveyed for more than 3.1 years. It was observed that the deformation of the excavation increased with the increase in the excavation depth, and a significant increase in displacement was recorded after the excavation reached the final depth. The averaged time-dependent rates of the deflection of the retaining wall, and the settlement of the ground surface and of the adjacent building when the excavation remained partially unfilled were around 0.23–0.25 mm/month in this study. The time-dependent behavior of the excavation could lead to excessive deformation and cause severe safety risks to the retaining system. The recorded data, together with a comparison with cases reported in the open literature, are presented in this paper.
Interaction Aspects of Value Co-Creation Process toward Shared Vision in Megaprojects
Authors: Xu Yongshun , Chi Ming , Chong Heap-yih
Published: November 2022

Shared vision is deemed a crucial success factor in defining complex relationships among various stakeholders and their multidimensional objectives in megaprojects. However, the current research development and literature on shared vision in megaprojects remain unclear. In particular, the prerequisites of shared vision among stakeholders are infrequently investigated. This work demonstrates that the value co-creation process is an essential prerequisite for promoting shared vision between clients and contractors in megaprojects. Furthermore, it aims to explore the influences of the value co-creation process on shared vision in such megaprojects. Two hundred and eighty-two valid questionnaires were collected from respondents involved in megaprojects in China. The responses were analyzed using the partial least squares structural equation model. The results indicate that two of the four interaction aspects of the value co-creation process, namely dialogue and access, can positively improve shared vision in megaprojects, whereas risk assessment and transparency cannot. However, from the individual perspectives of clients and contractors, only dialogue has a positive effect on the shared vision of clients with contractors. In contrast, access is the only variable that exerts a positive influence on the shared vision of contractors with clients. These findings reveal a unique causal relationship between the value co-creation process and shared vision in megaprojects. This affords new insight on improving cooperation between clients and contractors in megaprojects by synchronizing their perceptions and interactions via the value co-creation process.
Study of Cost and Construction Speed of Cladding Wall for Lightweight Steel Frame (LSF)
Authors: Ramadhan Try , Paramita Beta , Srinivasan Ravi Shankar
Published: November 2022

The strategic issue faced by the Ministry of Public Works and Housing, Republic of Indonesia (PUPR) is the large housing backlog, especially in the urban areas. Low-income communities earning less than 2 USD/day are found as the most vulnerable to lack of access to affordable housing. This experiment aims to find an alternative solution on building construction material in accordance with the Ministry of Public Housing regulation No. 11 of 2011 about affordable housing guidelines. The experiment was carried out on an LSF to compare four different wall cladding materials. The building area was 36 m2 and the total wall cladding area was 95 m2. The wall cladding materials used were metal sheet, lightweight concrete brick, gypsum reinforced cement (GRC) board, and unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (uPVC) fiber. The experiment collected data on purchases of materials to develop the S-curve and measure construction progress. Then, the work unit price analysis (WUPA) approach was carried out to simulate the labor coefficient of construction speed and its comparison to the material costs of the four wall cladding materials. The experiment on this 36 m2 house found that metal sheet is the most efficient material, which took 22.7 h to cover a 95 m2 wall. Later, it was followed by uPVC fiber with 46.6 h, GRC board with 59.7 h, and finally lightweight con-bricks with 85.7 h. Apparently, the metal sheet not only presented the most efficient construction time, but also provided the lowest construction cost with 115.960 IDR/m2 (8.24 USD/m2). It was followed by uPVC fiber at 133.37 IDR/m2 (9.48 USD/m2); GRC board at 146.91 IDR/m2 (10.44 USD/m2) and finally lightweight con-bricks at 156.88 IDR/m2 (11.15 USD/m2). Through WUPA, this study also found that efficient workmanship (construction speed) of the labor greatly affects construction costs.
Modelling of Strengthened Steel Connections under Static and Cyclic Loading
Authors: Khelifa Mourad , Khennane Amar , Oudjene Marc
Published: November 2022

The rehabilitation of steel structures with Fibre Reinforced Polymers (FRP’s) may appear less effective because they can be bolted or welded with steel plates that display the same mechanical properties. However, this technique has some unwanted consequences such as additional dead weight and an increased risk of corrosion. The aim of the proposed study, therefore, is to present a technique for modelling steel connections strengthened with FRP’s. Two types of composites: Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) and Glass Fibre Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) are considered. They are used to strengthen welded steel connections. The main objective consists in evaluating the effect of the reinforcement on the load-carrying capacity of these connections under monotonic and cyclic loadings. The steel is considered to behave in a linear elastic perfectly plastic fashion with isotropic strain hardening, and the FRP’s are assumed to behave linearly up to failure. The behaviour of the adhesive is modelled with the Cohesive Zone Model (CZM) available in Abaqus. Lastly, a parametric study is carried out to investigate the eventuality of strengthening connections made with I-sections, which are very common in practice.
Effect of Column Flexural Stiffnesses on the Seismic Performance of Stiffened Steel Plate Shear Walls
Authors: He Jianian , Li Yicheng , Lin Shuhong , Dong Xian , Chen Shizhe
Published: November 2022

Two types of lateral resistance structural systems, namely unstiffened steel plate shear walls (USPSWs) and stiffened steel plate shear walls (SSPSWs), are typically used in high-rise structures. Numerous experimental and numerical studies have been conducted on the structural performance of SSPSWs. However, few studies have been conducted to investigate the effect of column flexural stiffness on SSPSW systems. In this study, an analysis and numerical investigation of SSPSWs with variable column flexural stiffnesses was performed. The hysteretic performance, secant stiffness reduction and energy dissipation of SSPSWs with four column flexural stiffnesses were investigated. The column flexural stiffness reduction in the USPSWs and SSPSWs did not negatively influence the overall performance of drift ratios up to 2.5%. Moreover, the infill plates of the USPSWs and SSPSWs could achieve the ultimate strengths similar to the theoretical values despite the column not satisfying the minimum flexural stiffness requirements from CSA S16-09 and PEER/ATC72-1, which indicated that these requirements could be conservative.
A Parametric Framework to Assess Generative Urban Design Proposals for Transit-Oriented Development
Authors: Huang Xiaoran , Yuan Wei , White Marcus , Langenheim Nano
Published: November 2022

Urban design has been valuable in bringing the principles of transit-oriented development (TOD) into reality. However, a majority of recommendations summarized by scholars for promoting TODs through urban design have failed to promote the progress of the urban design. The main reason for this issue is the long-standing tradition of design decision-making based on designers’ experience and the lack of quantitative assessment feedback on design schemes. With the development of big data and artificial intelligence, optimisation-based generative design has been explored to overcome the limitations of experience-based urban design approaches. However, the techniques and workflows are still not mature enough for designers to adopt. In response to these challenges, this study proposes a framework that integrates the generative design method and data-driven decision-making approach for urban design solutions that better implement the basic principles of TODs. Based on the urban design intelligence for TODs, this framework uses parametric tools and models to evaluate the generative urban design proposals, providing timely feedback to support the design decisions. The framework is applied to a case study to examine the feasibility. It is demonstrated that this approach succeeds in selecting optimal TOD design solutions. The role of designers’ decision-making in generative urban design, as well as the importance of quantitative and qualitative assessment in experience-based decision-making, are highlighted.
The Role of Surgery in the Management of Gastric Cancer: State of the Art
Authors: Rosa Fausto , Schena Carlo Alberto , Laterza Vito , Quero Giuseppe , Fiorillo Claudio , Strippoli Antonia , Pozzo Carmelo , Papa Valerio , Alfieri Sergio
Published: November 2022

Surgery still represents the mainstay of treatment of all stages of gastric cancer (GC). Surgical resections represent potentially curative options in the case of early GC with a low risk of node metastasis. Sentinel lymph node biopsy and indocyanine green fluorescence are novel techniques which may improve the employment of stomach-sparing procedures, ameliorating quality of life without compromising oncological radicality. Nonetheless, the diffusion of these techniques is limited in Western countries. Conversely, radical gastrectomy with extensive lymphadenectomy and multimodal treatment represents a valid option in the case of advanced GC. Differences between Eastern and Western recommendations still exist, and the optimal multimodal strategy is still a matter of investigation. Recent chemotherapy protocols have made surgery available for patients with oligometastatic disease. In this context, intraperitoneal administration of chemotherapy via HIPEC or PIPAC has emerged as an alternative weapon for patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis. In conclusion, the surgical management of GC is still evolving together with the multimodal strategy. It is mandatory for surgeons to be conscious of the current evolution of the surgical management of GC in the era of multidisciplinary and tailored medicine.
Response to First-Line Treatment with Immune-Checkpoint Inhibitors in Patients with Advanced Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Multicenter, Retrospective Analysis from the German ADOReg Registry
Authors: Haist Maximilian , Stege Henner , Lang Berenice Mareen , Tsochataridou Aikaterini , Salzmann Martin , Mohr Peter , Schadendorf Dirk , Ugurel Selma , Placke Jan-Malte , Weichenthal Michael , Gutzmer Ralf , Leiter Ulrike , Kaatz Martin , Haferkamp Sebastian , Berking Carola , Heppt Markus , Tschechne Barbara , Schummer Patrick , Gebhardt Christoffer , Grabbe Stephan , Loquai Carmen
Published: November 2022

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is a common malignancy of the skin and has an overall favorable outcome, except for patients with an advanced stage of the disease. The efficacy of checkpoint inhibitors (CPI) for advanced cSCC has been demonstrated in recent clinical studies, but data from real-world cohorts and trial-ineligible cSCC patients are limited. We retrospectively investigated patients with advanced cSCC who have been treated with CPI in a first-line setting at eight German skin cancer centers registered within the multicenter registry ADOReg. Clinical outcome parameters including response, progression-free (PFS) and overall survival (OS), time-to-next-treatment (TTNT), and toxicity were analyzed and have been stratified by the individual immune status. Among 39 evaluable patients, the tumor response rate (rwTRR) was 48.6%, the median PFS was 29.0 months, and the median OS was not reached. In addition, 9 patients showed an impaired immune status due to immunosuppressive medication or hematological diseases. Our data demonstrated that CPI also evoked tumor responses among immunocompromised patients (rwTRR: 48.1 vs. 50.0%), although these responses less often resulted in durable remissions. In line with this, the median PFS (11 vs. 40 months, p = 0.059), TTNT (12 months vs. NR, p = 0.016), and OS (29 months vs. NR, p < 0.001) were significantly shorter for this patient cohort. CPI therapy was well tolerated in both subcohorts with 15% discontinuing therapy due to toxicity. Our real-world data show that first-line CPI therapy produced strong and durable responses among patients with advanced cSCC. Immunocompromised patients were less likely to achieve long-term benefit from anti-PD1 treatment, despite similar tumor response rates.
Multi-Omics Approaches in Colorectal Cancer Screening and Diagnosis, Recent Updates and Future Perspectives
Authors: Ullah Ihsan , Yang Le , Yin Feng-Ting , Sun Ye , Li Xing-Hua , Li Jing , Wang Xi-Jun
Published: November 2022

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is common Cancer as well as the third leading cause of mortality around the world; its exact molecular mechanism remains elusive. Although CRC risk is significantly correlated with genetic factors, the pathophysiology of CRC is also influenced by external and internal exposures and their interactions with genetic factors. The field of CRC research has recently benefited from significant advances through Omics technologies for screening biomarkers, including genes, transcripts, proteins, metabolites, microbiome, and lipidome unbiasedly. A promising application of omics technologies could enable new biomarkers to be found for the screening and diagnosis of CRC. Single-omics technologies cannot fully understand the molecular mechanisms of CRC. Therefore, this review article aims to summarize the multi-omics studies of Colorectal cancer, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, microbiomics, metabolomics, and lipidomics that may shed new light on the discovery of novel biomarkers. It can contribute to identifying and validating new CRC biomarkers and better understanding colorectal carcinogenesis. Discovering biomarkers through multi-omics technologies could be difficult but valuable for disease genotyping and phenotyping. That can provide a better knowledge of CRC prognosis, diagnosis, and treatments.
COVID-19 Vaccination Campaign in Cancer Patients and Healthcare Workers-Results from a French Prospective Multicenter Cohort (PAPESCO-19)
Authors: Seegers Valérie , Rousseau Guillaume , Zhou Ke , Blanc-Lapierre Audrey , Bigot Frédéric , Mahammedi Hakim , Lambert Aurélien , Moreau-Bachelard Camille , Campone Mario , Conroy Thierry , Penault-Llorca Frédérique , Boisdron-Celle Michèle , Bellanger Martine , Raoul Jean-Luc
Published: November 2022

In this prospective, real-life cohort study, we followed 523 cancer patients (CP) and 579 healthcare workers (HCW) from two cancer centers to evaluate the biological and clinical results of the COVID-19 vaccination campaign. Seventy percent of the CP and 90% of the HCW received an mRNA vaccine or the AZD1222 vaccine. Seropositivity was high after the first vaccine among HCW and poor among CP. The second dose resulted in almost 100% seropositivity in both cohorts. Antibody response was higher after the second injection than the first in both populations. Despite at least two doses, 8 CP (1.5%) and 14 HCW (2.4%) were infected, corresponding either to a weak level of antibody or a new strain of virus (particularly the Omicron variant of concern). Sixteen CP and three HCW were hospitalized but none of them died from COVID-19. To conclude, this study showed that two doses of COVID-19 vaccines were crucially necessary to attain sufficient seropositivity. However, the post-vaccination antibody level declines in individuals from the two cohorts and could not totally prevent new SARS-CoV-2 infections.