bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanism of Action and Therapeutic Implications of Nrf2/HO-1 in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Yuan Lingling , Wang Yingyi , Li Na , Yang Xuli , Sun Xuhui , Tian Huai’e , Zhang Yi
Published: August 2024

Oxidative stress (OS) is a key factor in the generation of various pathophysiological conditions. Nuclear factor erythroid 2 (NF-E2)-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a major transcriptional regulator of antioxidant reactions. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), a gene regulated by Nrf2, is one of the most critical cytoprotective molecules. In recent years, Nrf2/HO-1 has received widespread attention as a major regulatory pathway for intracellular defense against oxidative stress. It is considered as a potential target for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This review highlights the mechanism of action and therapeutic significance of Nrf2/HO-1 in IBD and IBD complications (intestinal fibrosis and colorectal cancer (CRC)), as well as the potential of phytochemicals targeting Nrf2/HO-1 in the treatment of IBD. The results suggest that the therapeutic effects of Nrf2/HO-1 on IBD mainly involve the following aspects: (1) Controlling of oxidative stress to reduce intestinal inflammation and injury; (2) Regulation of intestinal flora to repair the intestinal mucosal barrier; and (3) Prevention of ferroptosis in intestinal epithelial cells. However, due to the complex role of Nrf2/HO-1, a more nuanced understanding of the exact mechanisms involved in Nrf2/HO-1 is the way forward for the treatment of IBD in the future.
BVTED: A Specialized Bilingual (Chinese–English) Dataset for Vulnerability Triple Extraction Tasks
Authors: Liu Kai , Wang Yi , Ding Zhaoyun , Li Aiping , Zhang Weiming
Published: August 2024

Extracting knowledge from cyber threat intelligence is essential for understanding cyber threats and implementing proactive defense measures. However, there is a lack of open datasets in the Chinese cybersecurity field that support both entity and relation extraction tasks. This paper addresses this gap by analyzing vulnerability description texts, which are standardized and knowledge-dense, to create a vulnerability knowledge ontology comprising 13 entities and 15 relations. We annotated 27,311 unique vulnerability description sentences from the China National Vulnerability Database, resulting in a dataset named BVTED for cybersecurity knowledge triple extraction tasks. BVTED contains 97,391 entities and 69,614 relations, with entities expressed in a mix of Chinese and English. To evaluate the dataset’s value, we trained five deep learning-based named entity recognition models, two relation extraction models, and two joint entity–relation extraction models on BVTED. Experimental results demonstrate that models trained on this dataset achieve excellent performance in vulnerability knowledge extraction tasks. This work enhances the extraction of cybersecurity knowledge triples from mixed Chinese and English threat intelligence corpora by providing a comprehensive ontology and a new dataset, significantly aiding in the mining, analysis and utilization of the knowledge embedded in cyber threat intelligence.
Quantifying Quantum Coherence Using Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Zhang Lin , Chen Liang , He Qiliang , Zhang Yeqi
Published: August 2024

Quantum coherence is a crucial resource in numerous quantum processing tasks. The robustness of coherence provides an operational measure of quantum coherence, which can be calculated for various states using semidefinite programming. However, this method depends on convex optimization and can be time-intensive, especially as the dimensionality of the space increases. In this study, we employ machine learning techniques to quantify quantum coherence, focusing on the robustness of coherence. By leveraging artificial neural networks, we developed and trained models for systems with different dimensionalities. Testing on data samples shows that our approach substantially reduces computation time while maintaining strong generalizability.
Developing a Dynamic Feature Selection System (DFSS) for Stock Market Prediction: Application to the Korean Industry Sectors
Authors: Kim Woojung , Jeon Jiyoung , Jang Minwoo , Kim Sanghoe , Lee Heesoo , Yoo Sanghyuk , Ahn Jaejoon
Published: August 2024

For several years, a growing interest among numerous researchers and investors in predicting stock price movements has spurred extensive exploration into employing advanced deep learning models. These models aim to develop systems capable of comprehending the stock market’s complex nature. Despite the immense challenge posed by the diverse factors influencing stock price forecasting, there remains a notable lack of research focused on identifying the essential feature set for accurate predictions. In this study, we propose a Dynamic Feature Selection System (DFSS) to predict stock prices across the 10 major industries, as classified by the FnGuide Industry Classification Standard (FICS) in South Korea. We apply 16 feature selection algorithms from filter, wrapper, embedded, and ensemble categories. Subsequently, we adjust the settings of industry-specific index data to evaluate the model’s performance and robustness over time. Our comprehensive results identify the optimal feature sets that significantly impact stock prices within each sector at specific points in time. By analyzing the inclusion ratios and significance of the optimal feature set by category, we gain insights into the proportion of feature classes and their importance. This analysis ensures the interpretability and reliability of our model. The proposed methodology complements existing methods that do not consider changes in the types of variables significantly affecting stock prices over time by dynamically adjusting the input variables used for learning. The primary goal of this study is to enhance active investment strategies by facilitating the creation of diversified portfolios for individual stocks across various sectors, offering robust models and feature sets that consistently demonstrate high performance across industries over time.
Formation and Texture Analysis of Extrusion-Based 3D Printed Foods Using Nixtamalized Corn and Chickpea Flours: Effect of Cooking Process
Authors: Rodríguez-Herrera Verónica Valeria , Umeda Takumi , Kozu Hiroyuki , Kobayashi Isao
Published: August 2024

Extrusion-based three-dimensional (3D) food printing (3DFP) enhances the customization of 3D-printed foods by using multiple food pastes. Post-printing processes like baking are usually necessary and significantly impact the stability of the 3D-printed foods. This study aimed to produce multi-material 3D-printed foods using nixtamalized corn dough and chickpea paste (CP) in extrusion-based 3DFP and to study the effect of post-printing processes (water oven cooking and steam cooking) and the type of material used (single- or multi-material) on the final appearance, weight, size, and texture of the 3D-printed foods. Multi-material 3D-printed foods were successfully produced using extrusion-based 3DFP. Steam-cooked 3D-printed foods cooked uniformly and had a better appearance, as they did not develop surface cracks compared to water oven-cooked foods. Water-oven cooked foods experienced a greater weight loss of 35.6%, and higher height and length reduction of 1.5% and 8.4%, respectively. Steam-cooked multi-material 3D-printed foods were harder at 40% of strain, with force values of 66.9 and 46.3 N for water-oven cooked foods. Post-printing processes, as well as the presence of CP in the middle of the 3D-printed foods, influenced their final appearance, weight, size, and texture. This study offers interesting findings for the innovative design of chickpea- and corn-based multi-material 3D-printed foods.
Fuelling a Clean Future: A Systematic Review of Techno-Economic and Life Cycle Assessments in E-Fuel Development
Authors: Uddin M. N. , Wang Feng
Published: August 2024

The transition to sustainable energy has ushered in the era of electrofuels (e-fuels), which are synthesised using electricity from renewable sources, water, and CO2 as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. This paper presents a systematic review of the techno-economic (TEA) and life cycle assessments (LCAs) of e-fuel production. We critically evaluate advancements in production technologies, economic feasibility, environmental implications, and potential societal impacts. Our findings indicate that while e-fuels offer a promising solution to reduce carbon emissions, their economic viability depends on optimising production processes and reducing input material costs. The LCA highlights the necessity of using renewable energy for hydrogen production to ensure the genuine sustainability of e-fuels. This review also identifies knowledge gaps, suggesting areas for future research and policy intervention. As the world moves toward a greener future, understanding the holistic implications of e-fuels becomes paramount. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview to guide stakeholders in their decision-making processes.
Assessing the Suitability of CCME WQI as a Groundwater Quality Monitoring Tool: An Environmental Ergonomics Case Analysis
Authors: Ansari Zeba Zarin , Vorina Anton , Kojić Dejan , Dupláková Darina , Duplák Ján
Published: August 2024

This study was conducted with the aim of protecting groundwater, which plays a crucial role in ensuring food quality in the market, preserving public health, and safeguarding the ecosystem, as many regions rely on clean natural groundwater for their population’s survival. The objective of this study was to use the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment Water Quality Index (CCME WQI) for groundwater at 12 stations in the Okhla Industrial Area, Nangloi, and Karol Bagh in the Delhi Region. CCME WQI is an effective tool for assessing groundwater quality and communicating water conditions to various users. The research methodology involved fieldwork from June to October 2020 for three different periods in the year: pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon, to observe variations in water quality and differences in various physicochemical properties of water. The CCME WQI was applied using sixteen water quality parameters, fourteen of which were physicochemical parameters and two of which were microbiological parameters. Among the physicochemical parameters were color, odor, pH, turbidity, nitrate, total hardness, iron, chloride, fluoride, total dissolved solids, calcium, magnesium, sulfate, and alkalinity, while the microbiological parameters included the total coliform and Escherichia coli counts. Based on the results obtained from the water quality index, station A9 scored between 0 and 44, indicating the lowest water quality index due to wastewater discharges and industrial contamination. The water quality at other stations also requires attention to achieve excellent ratings. The study concludes that serious measures should be taken for proper management of the area to protect the population from hazardous diseases. The research results show that stations 1, 2, and 10 were rated as excellent, station 12 as good, stations 4, 5, and 8 as moderate, stations 3, 6, and 11 as marginal, and station 9 as the poorest in terms of water quality in the year 2020 during the pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon periods. To improve the parameters and groundwater quality, it would be necessary to reduce the impact of industry, anthropogenic–geogenic activities, and domestic activities.
Tensile Specimen Circular Grid Pattern and AI-Based Strain Calculation Method
Authors: Yi Sarang , Hyun Daeil , Hong Seokmoo
Published: August 2024

During tensile testing of materials, strain measurement is conducted using either contact or non-contact methods. Contact methods offer high accuracy and precision but are limited by the specimen’s thickness and dimensions, whereas non-contact methods minimize damage to thin specimens and allow measurements in various environments, though they require longer preparation and calculation times. This paper proposes a circular grid marking pattern and a strain prediction algorithm using artificial intelligence (AI), which simplifies the preparation process and allows strain prediction without additional equipment. The circular grid pattern can be arranged in various configurations from 1 × 5 to 5 × 7, and a laser marker, which requires minimal time, was used to engrave the pattern on the specimen to shorten the preparation time. The AI model, trained on image-based data, enables strain calculation regardless of the specimen’s gauge length and size, and allows measurement of local strain as well as gauge-length strain. The reliability of this concept was verified by applying it to tensile testing.
A Method for Estimating the Resultant Expanded Uncertainty Value Based on Interval Arithmetic
Authors: Kampik Marian , Roj Jerzy , Dróżdż Łukasz
Published: August 2024

The article describes a method for determining the resultant expanded uncertainty value in the case of analyzing an uncertainty budget with many components. It employs interval arithmetic, known for its low calculation complexity compared to other methods in the literature. The article includes a detailed explanation of the proposed method and showcases its applications. Results are compared with those from the Monte Carlo method and assumptions based on the central limit theorem. The relative error in estimating the resulting expanded uncertainty value typically stays within ±5% of the Monte Carlo method’s result.
Architectural Experimentations: New Meanings for Ancient Ruins
Authors: Cervesato Alberto , Antiga Tommaso , Proca Elizaveta
Published: August 2024

Starting from the critical premises that underpin the debate between archeology and architecture, some evidence emerges: sometimes, the musealization of buildings, “urban carcasses” and historical ruins—which are our legacy from the past—is even more harmful than that of any other artefact, for the purposes of their real understanding. In a country like Italy, which has archeological presences more than any other, architecture must contribute to overcoming the consolidated aporia that the Contemporary, conceived not only as a period but also and above all as its “forms and functions”, is structurally in opposition to the conservation of archeological heritage. Spatium ad Omnes, the project presented in this article, is an attempted exercise at “inhabiting archaeology”, that is, trying to re-grant inclusive usability to a historical fragment, which has lost the elements necessary for its liveability, paying attention to the reversibility of the project itself. The set of questions, doubts and steps preliminary for the design have been highlighted more than the final “figure” of the project: an essential form directly connected with the primordial principles of its constitution. Spatium ad Omnes protects and encourages visiting the complex, trying to offer new perspectives, new narratives and new connections that translate into the possibility of being—for those who visit this place—the protagonists of a unique experience made of history, memory and continuous discoveries.
Sun Declination and Distribution of Natural Beam Irradiance on Earth
Authors: Rueda José A. , Ramírez Sergio , Sánchez Miguel A. , Guerrero Juan de Dios
Published: August 2024

The daily path of the Sun across longitude yields night and day, but the Sun also travels across latitude on a belt 47° wide. The solar meridian declination explains the latitudinal budget of natural beam irradiance (NBI), which is defined as the irradiance delivered to the Earth’s surface as a normal projection from the Sun. Data for the Sun meridian declination were obtained from the Spencer model, known as the geometric model. The distribution of NBI was weighed for the latitudinal belt between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn. The variation in the parameters of solar meridian declination were found to be analogous to that of pendular motion. The joint distributions of the solar meridian declination against its own velocity, or that of the velocity against the acceleration of solar meridian declination, displayed circular functions. The NBI budget that a particular latitude gathers, fluctuates in inverse proportion to the velocity of solar meridian declination, yielding 18 sun-paths per degree for latitudes above 20°, or 6 sun-paths per degree of latitude for latitudes under 20°. At an average Sun–Earth distance of 1 AU, all sites of the planet, whose latitude coincides, whether within or between hemispheres, accumulate an equivalent budget of NBI.
Probability Bracket Notation for Probability Modeling
Authors: Wang Xing M. , Scott Tony C.
Published: August 2024

Following Dirac’s notation in Quantum Mechanics (QM), we propose the Probability Bracket Notation (PBN), by defining a probability-bra (P-bra), P-ket, P-bracket, P-identity, etc. Using the PBN, many formulae, such as normalizations and expectations in systems of one or more random variables, can now be written in abstract basis-independent expressions, which are easy to expand by inserting a proper P-identity. The time evolution of homogeneous Markov processes can also be formatted in such a way. Our system P-kets are identified with probability vectors and our P-bra system is comparable with Doi’s state function or Peliti’s standard bra. In the Heisenberg picture of the PBN, a random variable becomes a stochastic process, and the Chapman–Kolmogorov equations are obtained by inserting a time-dependent P-identity. Also, some QM expressions in Dirac notation are naturally transformed to probability expressions in PBN by a special Wick rotation. Potential applications show the usefulness of the PBN beyond the constrained domain and range of Hermitian operators on Hilbert Spaces in QM all the way to IT.
Maximizing the Index of Signed Complete Graphs Containing a Spanning Tree with k Pendant Vertices
Authors: Li Dan , Yan Minghui , Teng Zhaolin
Published: August 2024

A signed graph Σ=(G,σ) consists of an underlying graph G=(V,E) with a sign function σ:E→{−1,1}. Let A(Σ) be the adjacency matrix of Σ and λ1(Σ) denote the largest eigenvalue (index) of Σ. Define (Kn,H−) as a signed complete graph whose negative edges induce a subgraph H. In this paper, we focus on the following question: which spanning tree T with a given number of pendant vertices makes the λ1(A(Σ)) of the unbalanced (Kn,T−) as large as possible? To answer the question, we characterize the extremal signed graph with maximum λ1(A(Σ)) among graphs of type (Kn,T−).
The Synergic Effect of Tubal Endometriosis and Women’s Aging on Fallopian Tube Function: Insights from a 3D Mechanical Model
Authors: Nassir Mayssam , Levi Mattan , Shaked Natan T.
Published: August 2024

The fallopian tubes are essential for human fertility, facilitating the movement of sperm and oocytes to the fertilization site and transporting fertilized oocytes to the uterus. Infertility can result from changes in the fallopian tubes due to tubal endometriosis and women’s aging. In this study, we modeled human fallopian tubes with and without endometriosis for different women’s age groups to evaluate the chances of normal sperm cells reaching the fertilization site and oocytes arriving at the uterine cavity. For this purpose, we employed a distinctive combination of simulation tools to develop a dynamic three-dimensional (3D) model of normal human sperm cells and oocytes swimming inside normal and endometriosis-affected human fallopian tubes for different women’s group ages. We observed that in tubal endometriosis cases, fewer sperm cells reach the fertilization site and more oocytes become trapped in the tube walls compared to normal tubes. Additionally, aging decreases the number of sperm cells and oocytes reaching the fertilization site in normal and endometriosis-affected tubes. Our model evaluates the mechanisms of sperm and oocyte behaviors due to women’s aging and fallopian tube issues caused by endometriosis, presenting new avenues for developing diagnostic and treatment tools for tubal endometriosis and age-related infertility issues.
CAR-NK Cell Therapy: A Transformative Approach to Overcoming Oncological Challenges
Authors: Li Wangshu , Wang Xiuying , Zhang Xu , Aziz Aziz ur Rehman , Wang Daqing
Published: August 2024

The use of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) in natural killer (NK) cells for cancer therapy is gaining momentum, marking a significant shift in cancer treatment. This review aims to explore the potential of CAR-NK cell therapy in cancer immunotherapy, providing a fresh perspective. It discusses the innovative approaches in CAR-NK cell design and engineering, particularly targeting refractory or recurrent cancers. By comparing CAR-NK cells with traditional therapies, the review highlights their unique ability to tackle tumor heterogeneity and immune system suppression. Additionally, it explains how novel cytokines and receptors can enhance CAR-NK cell efficacy, specificity, and functionality. This review underscores the advantages of CAR-NK cells, including reduced toxicity, lower cost, and broader accessibility compared to CAR-T cells, along with their potential in treating both blood cancers and solid tumors.
Glut1 Functions in Insulin-Producing Neurons to Regulate Lipid and Carbohydrate Storage in Drosophila
Authors: Kauffman Matthew R. , DiAngelo Justin R.
Published: August 2024

Obesity remains one of the largest health problems in the world, arising from the excess storage of triglycerides (TAGs). However, the full complement of genes that are important for regulating TAG storage is not known. The Glut1 gene encodes a Drosophila glucose transporter that has been identified as a potential obesity gene through genetic screening. Yet, the tissue-specific metabolic functions of Glut1 are not fully understood. Here, we characterized the role of Glut1 in the fly brain by decreasing neuronal Glut1 levels with RNAi and measuring glycogen and TAGs. Glut1RNAi flies had decreased TAG and glycogen levels, suggesting a nonautonomous role of Glut1 in the fly brain to regulate nutrient storage. A group of hormones that regulate metabolism and are expressed in the fly brain are Drosophila insulin-like peptides (Ilps) 2, 3, and 5. Interestingly, we observed blunted Ilp3 and Ilp5 expression in neuronal Glut1RNAi flies, suggesting Glut1 functions in insulin-producing neurons (IPCs) to regulate whole-organism TAG and glycogen storage. Consistent with this hypothesis, we also saw fewer TAGs and glycogens and decreased expression of Ilp3 and Ilp5 in flies with IPC-specific Glut1RNAi. Together, these data suggest Glut1 functions as a nutrient sensor in IPCs, controlling TAG and glycogen storage and regulating systemic energy homeostasis.
Precise Definition of Porcine Hippocampal Cornu Ammonis 2: High Histoarchitectural Similarity to Humans but Unequal Sensitivity to Hypoxia
Authors: Renz Miriam , Siegert Pascal , Mohnke Katja , Ruemmler Robert , Frauenknecht Katrin , Sommer Clemens , Harder Anja
Published: August 2024

Experimental animal studies of hypoxic–ischemic injury of the hippocampus of pigs are limited due to the unprecise definition of hippocampal subfields, cornu ammonis 1 to 4, compared to humans. Given that the pig model closely mirrors human physiology and serves as an important model for critical care research, a more precise description is necessary to draw valid conclusions applicable to human diseases. In our study, we were able to precisely define the CA2 and its adjacent regions in a domestic pig model by arginine vasopressin receptor 1B (AVPR1B) and calbindin-D28K like (CaBP-Li) expression patterns. Our findings demonstrate that the histoarchitecture of the porcine cornu ammonis subfields closely resembles that of the human hippocampus. Notably, we identified unusually strong neuronal damage in regions of the pig hippocampus following global ischemia, which are typically not susceptible to hypoxic–ischemic damage in humans.
The Interplay between Mitochondrial Metabolism and Nasal Mucociliary Function as a Surrogate Method to Diagnose Thyroid Dysfunction: Insights from a Population-Based Study
Authors: Farhadi Mohammad , Ghanbari Hadi , Salehi Ali , Ashique Sumel , Taghizadeh-Hesary Farzad
Published: August 2024

Aim and Background. This study aims to explore alternative diagnostic methods to assess thyroid function in patients unable to undergo blood tests for thyroid-stimulating hormones (TSH) and thyroxine (T4), such as individuals with trypanophobia, severe medical conditions, or coagulopathy. Considering the impact of thyroid dysfunction on mitochondrial metabolism and the essential role of proper mitochondrial function in ciliary motility, we postulate that assessing nasal ciliary function could serve as a surrogate diagnostic approach for thyroid dysfunction. Methods. This cross-sectional study was performed on individuals with no history of thyroid diseases. The primary endpoint was the diagnostic value of the nasal mucociliary (NMC) test using Iranica Picris (Asteraceae) aqueous extract in differentiating hypo- or hyperthyroidism cases from euthyroid cases. Results. 232 individuals were recruited (71% females, 86% euthyroid). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis showed a good diagnostic value for the NMC test in differentiating overt hypothyroidism (area under the ROC curve [AUROC] = 0.82, p = 0.004) and its fair value in diagnosing subclinical hyperthyroidism (AUROC = 0.78, p = 0.01) from the euthyroid condition. The NMC test had a significant positive correlation with TSH (r = 0.47, p < 0.001) and a significant negative correlation with T4 (r = −0.32, p < 0.001). The NMC rate was significantly different in distinct thyroid function groups (p < 0.001). Compared with euthyroid cases, the post-hoc analysis showed that the NMC test is significantly higher in overt hypothyroidism (15.06 vs. 21.07 min, p = 0.003) and significantly lower in subclinical hyperthyroidism (15.05 vs. 10.9 min, p = 0.02). Conclusions. The Iranica Picris-based NMC test might serve as a diagnostic method to distinguish overt hypothyroidism and subclinical hyperthyroidism.
Effectiveness of the Life Enhancement and Advancement Program for Weight Management in Overweight and Obese Females
Authors: Shourche Raheleh Maddah , Nematy Mohsen , Cox W. Miles , Fadardi Javad S.
Published: August 2024

Background: Obesity has been shown to have many deleterious physical and psychological consequences. Objective: This study examined the effectiveness of adding the Life Enhancement and Advancement Program (LEAP) to a weight management program. Design: To evaluate the different components of a weight loss program, this study included four groups: (1) dieting, exercise, and LEAP; (2) dieting, exercise, and sham training; (3) dieting and exercise; and (4) exercise only. An assessment was administered at baseline, post-intervention, and a three-month follow-up. Participants: Forty female participants with a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25 were recruited from a local sports center. They provided informed consent and were randomly assigned to one of the four groups. Measures: Participants’ heights were recorded at baseline, and their weight, waist circumference (WC), and BMI were measured at each of the three assessments. Participants completed the Personal Concerns Inventory (PCI) to assess their adaptive motivation at all three assessments. Results: A MANCOVA indicated that participants who received LEAP along with dieting and exercise had a greater reduction in BMI and WC and improved more in adaptive motivation than the other groups. Conclusions: The results suggest that adding LEAP to a weight management program enhanced participants’ ability to achieve and maintain weight loss. LEAP enabled participants to pursue and achieve their important goals successfully.
Effect of Self-Filtering Layer on Tailings–Steel Wire Mesh Interfacial Shearing Properties and Bearing Behavior of Drain Pipes
Authors: Li Dongdong , Wang Yuan , Cui Xuan , Huang Jingqi
Published: August 2024

The drain pipe wrapped in steel wire mesh serves a dual purpose of drainage and reinforcement in tailings pond projects. The self-filtering layer that develops upstream of the steel wire mesh influences the reinforcement characteristics of the drainage pipe. This study first conducts interfacial shearing experiments to explore the impact of the self-filtering layer on the shearing properties between tailings and the steel wire mesh. An exponential interface constitutive model is then proposed to delineate the shear stress–displacement relationship. Finally, through finite element simulations, the study assesses the effect of the self-filtering layer on the load-bearing behavior of the drain pipe, considering the interactive dynamics between the tailings and the steel wire mesh. The results reveal that the interfacial shear strength, across varying median particle sizes of the self-filtering layer, adheres to Mohr–Coulomb strength theory. Specifically, as the median particle size of the self-filtering layer increases, interfacial cohesion diminishes while the friction coefficient rises. The initial shear stiffness demonstrates a linear increase with the median particle size. With the presence of the self-filtering layer, the pull-out resistance of the drainage pipe can be enhanced by up to 26%. Moreover, the self-filtering layer significantly affects the distribution of negative skin friction. This research enhances the safety assessment of tailings ponds by providing crucial insights and solutions, emphasizing the influence of the self-filtering layer on the bearing behavior of the drain pipe.
Comparison and Optimization of Bearing Capacity of Three Kinds of Photovoltaic Support Piles in Desert Sand and Gravel Areas
Authors: Su Xiaojun , Li Zhanhai , Wang Qi , Li Jinxiao , Xie Xinyu , Mao Xiang , Ren Zhifeng , Liu Jiankun
Published: August 2024

In recent years, the advancement of photovoltaic power generation technology has led to a surge in the construction of photovoltaic power stations in desert gravel areas. However, traditional equal cross-section photovoltaic bracket pile foundations require improvements to adapt to the unique challenges of these environments. This paper introduces a new type of photovoltaic bracket pile foundation named the “serpentine pile foundation” based on the principle of biomimicry. Utilizing experimental data, numerical simulation technology was employed to comprehensively investigate the pullout resistance, compressive resistance, and horizontal bearing performance of the serpentine pile foundation. Comparative analysis with traditional square and circular pile foundations revealed the serpentine pile foundation’s significant advantages in all performance indexes. The serpentine pile exhibits a significantly higher ultimate uplift bearing capacity of 70.25 kN, which is 8.56 times that of the square pile and 10.94 times that of the circular pile. This study not only offers valuable technical support for the construction of photovoltaic power plants in desert gravel areas but also holds great significance in advancing the sustainable development of the global photovoltaic industry.
Research on Urban Resilience from the Perspective of Land Intensive Use: Indicator Measurement, Impact and Policy Implications
Authors: Pan Yue , Liu Jie , Cheng Chao
Published: August 2024

Land intensive use reflects the spatial structure, agglomeration characteristics, and internal mechanisms of urban economic, social, and ecological system development, significantly impacting urban resilience. Based on panel data from 287 cities in China from 2010 to 2020, this paper measures the levels of land intensive use and urban resilience, and empirically examines the impact mechanism of land intensive use on urban resilience through baseline regression and panel quantile regression. The results reveal that: (1) During the study period, China’s urban land intensive use level has significantly improved. The land intensive use level shows a trend of “the strong become stronger, and the weak are always weak” and “high in the east and low in the west” spatial differentiation, while the urban resilience level showed a trend of accelerated “catching up” of low-resilience cities towards high-resilience cities and “high in the east and low in the west” spatial differentiation as well. (2) Land intensive use significantly promotes effect on urban resilience, and the effect depends on different conditions. (3) Among all dimensions of land intensive use, both land input intensity and land use benefits significantly promote urban resilience, while land use intensity shows an insignificant effect. (4) The impact of land intensive use on urban resilience demonstrates significant scale heterogeneity and geographic regional heterogeneity. Based on these findings, the paper proposes relevant policy suggestions for land intensive use aimed at improving urban resilience, offering guidance for promoting high-quality land use and sustainable urban resilience development.
Optimization of Cold-Formed Thin-Walled Cross-Sections in Portal Frames
Authors: Stulpinas Mantas , Daniūnas Alfonsas
Published: August 2024

Portal frames with built-up cold-formed cross-sections hold significant potential; however, there is a notable gap in the analysis of cross-section types and connections. In this study, an optimization algorithm was developed for the closed cross-sections of portal frame members. An optimization algorithm was tested against optimized open cold-formed cross-sections. The results indicated a portal frame volume up to 38% lower where members were assembled of optimal closed cross-sections when compared to frames with optimal open cross-sections. Parametric analysis was carried out, where two types of cross-sections were examined: Type A, with four web stiffeners bent inwards, and Type B, with four web stiffeners bent outwards. The optimization was conducted using a Genetic Algorithm in MATLAB R2022b. Portal frames with optimal Type B cross-sections had a volume that was up to 22% lower when compared to frames with optimal Type A cross-sections. Significant differences were noted between the optimal beam and column cross-sections, with the optimal column cross-section thickness being on average 74% greater, but the optimal beam cross-section height being on average 81% greater than those of the respective counterparts. In this article, a practical assembly solution for the connection of the frame members was proposed for the optimized novel closed cross-section types in portal frames. However, the strength and stiffness of these connections were not analyzed in this research.
Enhanced Tetracycline Removal from Water through Synergistic Adsorption and Photodegradation Using Lignocellulose-Derived Hydrothermal Carbonation Carbon
Authors: Zhou Yanchi , Ma Xingdi , Chen Zhonglin , Chen Ruihang , Gong Yingxu , Cui Lei , Kang Jing , Shen Jimin , Zhao Shengxin , Li Chen
Published: August 2024

Hydrothermal carbonation carbon (HTCC) is emerging as a promising material for the adsorption and photodegradation of environmental contaminants. However, the chemical and structural properties of HTCC derived from different lignocellulose biomass have obvious impacts on adsorption and photodegradation. This work employed three different lignocellulose components, including cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin to synthesize HTCC within a hydrothermal temperature range of 210~290 °C. In comparison to HTCC derived from cellulose and hemicellulose, HTCC derived from lignin (HTCC-L) demonstrated the optimal synergistic adsorption and photodegradation ability for TC degradation, achieving a 63.5% removal efficiency within 120 min. Characterization highlighted the crucial involvement of oxygenated functional groups, especially carboxyl groups, presented on the surface of HTCC-L in TC adsorption. Moreover, the photodegradation of HTCC-L was found to follow a non-radical mechanism, characterized by the charge transformation occurring between the excited unpaired electrons of HTCC-L and TC adsorbed on its surface. This work clarified the differences in HTCC derived from different lignocellulose components on the adsorption and photodegradation of organic pollutants, and provided a novel perspective on the application of HTCC in water treatment.
Comment on Giraudo et al. The Use of Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 4/6 Inhibitors in Elderly Breast Cancer Patients: What Do We Know? Cancers 2024, 16, 1838
Authors: Sorscher Steven
Published: August 2024

In “The Use of Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 4/6 Inhibitors in Elderly Breast Cancer Patients: What Do We Know [...]
The Personalized Inherited Signature Predisposing to Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer in Non-Smokers
Authors: Serio Viola Bianca , Rosati Diletta , Maffeo Debora , Rina Angela , Ghisalberti Marco , Bellan Cristiana , Spiga Ottavia , Mari Francesca , Palmieri Maria , Frullanti Elisa
Published: August 2024

Lung cancer (LC) continues to be an important public health problem, being the most common form of cancer and a major cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Despite the great bulk of research to identify genetic susceptibility genes by genome-wide association studies, only few loci associated to nicotine dependence have been consistently replicated. Our previously published study in few phenotypically discordant sib-pairs identified a combination of germline truncating mutations in known cancer susceptibility genes in never-smoker early-onset LC patients, which does not present in their healthy sib. These results firstly demonstrated the presence of an oligogenic combination of disrupted cancer-predisposing genes in non-smokers patients, giving experimental support to a model of a “private genetic epidemiology”. Here, we used a combination of whole-exome and RNA sequencing coupled with a discordant sib’s model in a novel cohort of pairs of never-smokers early-onset LC patients and in their healthy sibs used as controls. We selected rare germline variants predicted as deleterious by CADD and SVM bioinformatics tools and absent in the healthy sib. Overall, we identified an average of 200 variants per patient, about 10 of which in cancer-predisposing genes. In most of them, RNA sequencing data reinforced the pathogenic role of the identified variants showing: (i) downregulation in LC tissue (indicating a “second hit” in tumor suppressor genes); (ii) upregulation in cancer tissue (likely oncogene); and (iii) downregulation in both normal and cancer tissue (indicating transcript instability). The combination of the two techniques demonstrates that each patient has an average of six (with a range from four to eight) private mutations with a functional effect in tumor-predisposing genes. The presence of a unique combination of disrupting events in the affected subjects may explain the absence of the familial clustering of non-small-cell lung cancer. In conclusion, these findings indicate that each patient has his/her own “predisposing signature” to cancer development and suggest the use of personalized therapeutic strategies in lung cancer.
Unveil Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma Heterogeneity through the Lens of Omics and Multi-Omics Approaches
Authors: Porreca Veronica , Barbagallo Cristina , Corbella Eleonora , Peres Marco , Stella Michele , Mignogna Giuseppina , Maras Bruno , Ragusa Marco , Mancone Carmine
Published: August 2024

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is recognized worldwide as the second leading cause of morbidity and mortality among primary liver cancers, showing a continuously increasing incidence rate in recent years. iCCA aggressiveness is revealed through its rapid and silent intrahepatic expansion and spread through the lymphatic system leading to late diagnosis and poor prognoses. Multi-omics studies have aggregated information derived from single-omics data, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the phenomena being studied. These approaches are gradually becoming powerful tools for investigating the intricate pathobiology of iCCA, facilitating the correlation between molecular signature and phenotypic manifestation. Consequently, preliminary stratifications of iCCA patients have been proposed according to their “omics” features opening the possibility of identifying potential biomarkers for early diagnosis and developing new therapies based on personalized medicine (PM). The focus of this review is to provide new and advanced insight into the molecular pathobiology of the iCCA, starting from single- to the latest multi-omics approaches, paving the way for translating new basic research into therapeutic practices.
Outcome of Endoprosthetic Hip Reconstruction Following Resection of Malignant Bone Tumors
Authors: Khakzad Thilo , Putzier Michael , Paksoy Alp , Rau Daniel , Thielscher Leonard , Taheri Nima , Wittenberg Silvan , Märdian Sven
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Over the past few decades, tumor arthroplasty has evolved into an established therapeutic approach for addressing bone defects following tumor resection in the extremities. As the diagnosis has a significant impact on patients’ lives, it is important to give clear expectations for functional recovery. Therefore, we investigated both the functional outcomes and the quality of life (QoL) after tumor arthroplasty for malignant hip tumors. Methods: This retrospective study included patients who had undergone resections of malignant hip tumors with consecutive modular hip arthroplasty between 2010 and 2018. Demographics, tumor entity, and complications stemming from both tumors and treatments were evaluated through the analysis of medical records and perioperative records. The assessment of functional outcomes was conducted with the following patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs): the Harris Hip Score (HHS), Musculoskeletal Tumor Society Score (MSTS), and the Short Form Survey 36 (SF-36). Furthermore, we performed subgroup analysis in two groups: one divided into survivors and non-survivors, as well as younger individuals (<57 years) and older individuals (>57 years). Results: A total of 30 patients were included in the study. At the time of follow-up, 19 patients were deceased. The average duration of follow-up was 3.2 (±2.51) years. The average age at the time of surgery was 60.3 (±15.20) years. Notably, there were no cases of amputation reported (0%). Five cases of implant failure were identified (16.67%). Among these, one was attributed to infection (3.3%), while four resulted from aseptic loosening (13.3%). In terms of functional outcomes, MSTS indicated good results (18 ± 7; range: 7–28; 60%), and the HHS demonstrated moderate outcomes (75.3%). Younger survivors (<57 years) exhibited notably superior results in terms of both the MSTS and physical functioning in the SF-36 (p = 0.03). Conclusion: In summary, this study shows declining tumor arthroplasty-related complications and satisfying functional outcomes as well as QoL. Noteworthy aspects include the relatively low rates of amputation and local tumor recurrences, which significantly favor the selection of appropriate therapeutic options. Moreover, the findings underscore the substantial impact of patients’ age on overall functionality and engagement in daily activities.
Dual-Enzyme-Cascade Catalysis for PET Biodegradation Based on a Variable-Temperature Program
Authors: Lu Dong , Wu Jinglong , Jin Shuming , Wu Qiuyang , Wang Fang , Deng Li , Nie Kaili
Published: August 2024

As an environmentally friendly technology, enzymatic degradation of waste polyethylene terephthalate (PET) has great application potential. Mono (hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (MHET), an intermediate product of PET degradation, accumulates during the degradation process. MHET reduces the activity of PETase and influences further enzymatic degradation. The combined catalysis of MHETase and PETase is an effective strategy to solve this problem. However, the difference in thermostability between MHETase and PETase limits their combination. In our previous study, a PETase of muEst1 exhibited acceptable PET-degradation ability, but the abundant MHET accumulation in its degradation products limited its further application. In this study, MHETases with good thermostability were screened for combination with muEst1 for the cascade reaction of PET degradation, and a two-stage variable-temperature program was developed. The results of this investigation show that this approach results in a PET-degradation rate of 92.71% with a terephthalic acid content above 85.9%. This investigation provides an alternative method for scaled-up enzymatic PET degradation.
Mononuclear Phagocytes, Cellular Immunity, and Nobel Prizes: A Historic Perspective
Authors: Gordon Siamon , Roberti Annabell , Kaufmann Stefan H. E.
Published: August 2024

The mononuclear phagocyte system includes monocytes, macrophages, some dendritic cells, and multinuclear giant cells. These cell populations display marked heterogeneity depending on their differentiation from embryonic and bone marrow hematopoietic progenitors, tissue location, and activation. They contribute to tissue homeostasis by interacting with local and systemic immune and non-immune cells through trophic, clearance, and cytocidal functions. During evolution, they contributed to the innate host defense before effector mechanisms of specific adaptive immunity emerged. Mouse macrophages appear at mid-gestation and are distributed throughout the embryo to facilitate organogenesis and clear cells undergoing programmed cell death. Yolk sac, AGM, and fetal liver-derived tissue-resident macrophages persist throughout postnatal and adult life, supplemented by bone marrow-derived blood monocytes, as required after injury and infection. Nobel awards to Elie Metchnikoff and Paul Ehrlich in 1908 drew attention to cellular phagocytic and humoral immunity, respectively. In 2011, prizes were awarded to Jules Hoffmann and Bruce Beutler for contributions to innate immunity and to Ralph Steinman for the discovery of dendritic cells and their role in antigen presentation to T lymphocytes. We trace milestones in the history of mononuclear phagocyte research from the perspective of Nobel awards bearing directly and indirectly on their role in cellular immunity.
Exploring the Benefits of Dog-Assisted Therapy for the Treatment of Complex Trauma in Children: A Systematic Review
Authors: Chapman Rebekah L. , Baselmans Caitlin , Howell Tiffani J. , Ronken Carol , Butler David
Published: August 2024

Background: The manifestation of complex trauma results from exposure to severe and repetitive stressors occurring within the caregiver system. Frequently associated with child maltreatment, complex trauma can lead to impairments in multiple domains, including attachment, affect and behavioural regulation, and cognition. Treatments, including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, have been shown to be efficacious, but high attrition rates point to the need for complementary methods that boost client retention and treatment efficacy. This systematic review examines whether dog-assisted therapy has beneficial impacts on the treatment of complex trauma and whether it can decrease treatment attrition among children presenting with complex trauma exposure. Methods: We followed PRISMA guidelines to locate relevant research reports. Seven published research reports matched the inclusion criteria. Results: Dog-assisted therapy may increase the efficacy of standard interventions for complex trauma, although only one study formally assessed treatment retention. Across most studies, there is an overall lack of detailed information on the nature of therapeutic activities involving the dog and how these activities may complement or enhance therapy as usual. Studies were of varying methodological quality, impacting the reliability of findings. Conclusions: Future studies should aim to better describe and justify dog-assisted therapy techniques and evaluate these in comparison with standard evidence-based approaches to the treatment of childhood complex trauma.