The research results presented in this article were obtained by joint scientific research on creatingcement materials with reduced impedance. It is known that functional additives added to impart electrically conductive properties have a negative impact on physical and mechanical characteristics of the material. This study suggests using the multiwall carbon nanotubes in the amount of 7% from binder mass as a functional additive. The results obtained prove that the addition of this amount of the modifier does not lead to a significant decrease of strength characteristics. Calcium nitrate in the amount of 1–7% was added in order to level the strength loss and to ensure the effective stable electrical conductivity. The multifunctionality of using this salt has been proven, which is manifested in the anti-frost and anticorrosive effects as well in enhancement of electrical conductivity. The optimal composition of the additive with 7% of carbon nanotubes and 3% of calcium nitrate ensures a reduced electrical impedance of cement matrix. The electrical conductivity was 2440 Ohm, while the decrease of strength properties was within 10% in comparison tothe control sample. The nature of changes in the microstructure were studied to determine the influence of complex modifications that showed significant changes in the morphology of the hydration products. The optimum electrical characteristics of cementitious materials are provided due to the uniform distribution of carbon nanotubes and the formation of a network of interconnected micropores filled with the solution of calcium nitrate that provides additional and stable electrical conductivity over time. Research on technological methods of imparting electrical conductivity to cementitious concretes is carried out to expand the functional properties of conventional building materials ,2. TodayElectrically conductive cement materials are used to prevent icing and snow accumulation in the structures of road surfaces, automobile bridges, parking lots, sidewalks and runways due to heat emission ,7. ElectIn addition, electrically conductive cement materials are used in the production of antistatic floors and as electromagnetic reflectors to protect against electromagnetic interference . At the The production of functional cement concrete is possible by mixing the traditional components  with electrically conductive components providing stable electrical properties .Today, composite materials based on Portland cement are widely used ,4,11. FuAs noted in studies ,12, the In view of this, it can be said that the minerals of Portland cement clinker have a disordered crystal structure with vacant sites in the lattice points and also contain a variety of ions with significantly weaker bonds located in the interstices. The presented features of structure of cement minerals influence the physical and chemical properties of the material including the ability to transmit electrical current. The joint motion of the thermal and electric field can lead to the fact that one field can become a current carrier, which determines predominantly ionic conductivity of cement matrices. The value of this type of electrical conductivity depends on the degree of orderliness of ions in the crystal lattice .Factors such as the water-to-cement ratio , the volIn particular, the relationship between the conductivity of cement gel as a colloidal system and the presence of moisture in it was stated in studies ,5,11. ThThe effect of the crystallization degree on the increase of resistivity was also confirmed by studies of low-basic calcium hydrosilicates ,5,11 andTraditional cement materials based on Portland cement have increased resistivity, the values of which vary from 6.54 to 11 kOhm ,3,10,16.Along with this, it is necessary to take into account that the amount of conductive components should not exceed certain limits to provide the percolation effect for improving the electrical properties of cement material ,18 as weAccording to paper , the useThe mechanism of reduction of electrical resistance of a material is considered from the standpoint of optimal structure formation in which the electrically conductive particles forms cluster bonds  contribuHowever, there are factors that determine the instability of electrical properties. They are associated with increased humidity due to operating conditions, with the blocking of electrically conductive ions by hydration products as well as with the issues of ensuring high initial strength and density of materials based on cement binders. This significantly limits the development of an efficient electrically conductive material due to the use of one functional modifier .A decrease of crystallization degree of structure of cement matrix is possible due to the use of various salts, in particular calcium nitrate, as shown by laboratory studies  and the Today, calcium nitrate is used as an accelerator of the setting time of hardening cement paste and an inhibitor of electrochemical corrosion. The use of calcium nitrate solves the problem of decreasing strength, both at the initial hardening stage and when gaining strength within the project time. It should also be noted that calcium nitrate exclusively effects the morphology of secondary crystalline hydrates of the cement matrix ,32. BaseThe aim of the paper is to determine the effect of complex modification including multiwall carbon nanotubes and sodium nitrate on electrical properties of materials based on Portland cement.3S-64.6, dicalcium silicate C2S-10.7, tricalcium aluminate C3А-7.0, tetracalciumaluminoferrite C4AF-14.7, MgO-1.4. Chemical and mineralogical compositions of cement have been confirmed by manufacturer’s product bulletin provided by Eurocement Group. Portland cement CEM I 42.5 N was used as the main binder. The chemical and mineralogical composition of the clinker is represented by the following minerals, %: tricalcium silicate CPolyfractional natural quartz sand conforming to EN 196-1 was used as fine aggregate. The sand grains were predominantly rounded. The silica dioxide amount in sand was more than 98%.Control mortar (CSM) had the ratio of cement-to-sand equal to 1:3 by mass. Modification of the mortar was done by adding Fulvek 100 multiwall carbon nanotubes in the amount of 7% by cement mass . The particular amount of multiwall carbon nanotubes had been defined by previous studies ,34. FresCarbon nanotubes (CNTs) were added into 150 mLof water to obtain an aqueous modifying suspension, which was then treated with a HielscherUP200 ultrasonic homogenizer  for 5 min at 150 W, the frequency of 26 kHz and the maximum amplitude of 70 μm. Additionally, calcium nitrate in the amount from 1% to 7% by cement mass was added into the mixing water with the step of 1%.At the age of 7, 14 and 28 daysthe flexural strength and compressive strength tests were performed for control and modified samples by using standard beam-shaped samples and hydraulic press. Coefficient of variation was 13.5%.The measuring diagram shown in The MNIPI E7-20 device was used to determine changes in the electrical conductivity of layers and resistivity. The operating principle of the device is based on the voltmeter-ammeter method. The voltage of the operating frequency from the generator is fed through the measured object to the converter that forms two sinusoidal voltages . Voltages are converted into digital form.−1 in transmitted light was used to analyze the samples by infrared spectroscopy.IR Fourier spectrometer  “IRAffinity-1” in the frequency range 4000 ÷ 400 cmThe analysis of the microstructure of the samples was conducted using scanning electron microscopes  ThermoFisher Scientific Quattro S. The shooting was carried out in the low vacuum mode at 20 kV, without deposition, at a pressure of 50 Pa.The physical and mechanical properties of the compositions were determined to assess the effect of modifying additives. The flexural strength at the age of 28 days of the modified sample exceeds the corresponding parameter of the control sample by 7% and the compressive strength decreases slightly within 10% . At the Determination of electrical characteristics and comparison of control and modified samples showed that the use of the optimal amount of carbon nanotubes in the amount of 7% by cement mass has a positive effect on electrical capacity and resistance. Thus, the electrical capacity of the modified sample exceeds the electrical capacity of the control one by 2 times, while the resistance of the modified sample at the age of 28 days decreases up to 12% . The addThe changes of electrical characteristics over time can be justified by the process of structure formation and the formation of the matrix framework that is gradually filled with calcium hydrosilicates. The volume of the liquid phase is significantly reduced contributing to the resistance increase. Multiwall carbon nanotubes also contribute to the processes of structure formation. During hardening they are gradually covered with hydration products that block charge transfer which leads to an insignificant difference in the resistance values of the control and modified samples at the age of 28 days.IR spectral analysis and microstructure analysis were performed to determine the mechanism of the influence of carbon particles on the structure and composition of cement matrix.Several characteristic groups should be distinguished when comparing the obtained spectra in The morphology of hydration products is changed byadding the carbon modifiers; namely crystalline hydration products, including calcium hydroxide, are formed in much larger amounts . The cryThe functional role of carbon nanotubes in the cement matrix can be assumed based on the localization of hydration products . The funIt is known  that calThus, calcium nitrate, depending on the amount, added provides the increase of compressive strength up to 20–30% as shown in It is known  that theUniform distribution of multiwall carbon nanotubes in the material  providesThe creation of a network of connected micropores that are filled with salt solutions is proposed in paper  in orderThe role of carbon nanotubes in the formation of the structure of hydration products can be defined by analysis of the microstructure of a calcium hydroxide crystal with carbon nanotubes . Under tThe noted structural features of the modified cement matrix make it possible to explain the increase of its electrical conductivity by the presence of uniformly distributed carbon nanotubes in hydration products that provide a decrease of electrical resistance. At the same time the electrical conductivity of the cement matrix continues to decrease in period from 3 to 28 days due to the formation of new hydration products that screen the surface of nanotubes as well as due to the transition of calcium nitrate from the liquid phase to the structure of secondary hydration products. Secondary hydration products are formed on free surface of pores with the formation of lamellar aggregates including calcium hydroxide .The morphology of the cement matrix with the combined addition of carbon nanotubes and calcium nitrate is compacted with the formation of lamellar crystalline hydrates. The modified structure of the cement matrix provides the conductivity of charged particles and a decrease of electrical resistance of the material while the strength characteristics increase in comparison to the control composition.-the slight decrease of compressive strength is observed when using multilayer carbon nanotubes in the amount of 7% as an impedance-reducing modifier; at the same time the decrease of electrical resistance of samples was 12% at the age of 28 days of hardening compared to the control additive-free sample;-the increase of the electrical conductivity of the composition with 7% of carbon nanotubes should be noted in the period of structure formation from 3 to 28 days due to changes in the morphology of hydration products. The influence of microstructure features on the electrical conductivity of the cement matrix should be indicated since amorphous hydration products in the control sample determine the unsatisfactory electrical properties;-the positive effect of the complex modification with calcium nitrate and carbon nanotubes has been determined. It consists of sufficient strength characteristics while reducing the electrical resistance. The composition with the content of 7% carbon nanotubes in combination with 3% calcium nitrate ensures the compressive strength of 28 MPa and the electrical conductivity of 2440 Ohm.The following conclusions can be drawn by analyzing the results obtained:


Traumatic brain injury remains a growing public health concern and represents the greatest contributor to death and disability globally among all trauma-related injuries. There are limited clinical data regarding biomarkers in the diagnosis and outcome prediction of TBI. The lack of real effective treatment for recovery calls for research of TBI to be shifted into the area of prevention, treatment of secondary brain injury and neurorehabilitation. The neuropeptide pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) has been reported to act as a hormone, a neuromodulator, a neurotransmitter and a trophic factor, and has been implicated in a variety of developmental and regenerative processes. The importance of PACAP in neuronal regeneration lies in the upregulation of endogenous PACAP and its receptors and the protective effect of exogenous PACAP after different central nervous system injury. The aim of this minireview is to summarize both the therapeutic and biomarker potential of the neuropeptide PACAP, as a novel possible target molecule presently being investigated in several human conditions including TBI, and with encouraging results in animal models of TBI. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is caused by an external force  and is oAnother clinically challenging aspect of TBI is the poor outcome and limited therapeutic possibilities. Based on animal studies hundreds of candidates have emerged as potential treatment option to reduce the brain damage. However, only a few have real translational value. The aim of this review is to summarize both the therapeutic and biomarker potential of the neuropeptide PACAP (pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide), as a novel possible target molecule presently being investigated in several human conditions including TBI, and with encouraging results in animal models of TBI .PACAP is a neuropeptide that was first isolated in 1989 from ovine hypothalamic extract . After iRegarding the biomarker value of PACAP, dozens of recent studies have investigated presence and changes of the neuropeptide in various human conditions. The presence of PACAP has been described in several human tissue samples and biological fluids . Among tThe first proof of PACAP being protective in traumatic brain injury came from observations by Farkas et al. . They ex+T cells and decreased CD8+. The authors concluded that possibly PACAP inhibits the expression of IL-12 thereby preventing T cell proliferation, and PACAP inhibited FasL expression suppressing the apoptosis of CD4+T cells [Another model that is often used to mimic diffuse TBI is the central fluid percussion head injury model. In this rat model, Kövesdi et al. examined the axonoprotective effect of PACAP in the brainstem . They ad+T cells .Soon after the discovery of PACAP, it was shown by RIA measurements that PACAP occurs at highest concentrations in the brain . SeveralThese results are in accordance with several other observations showing upregulated PACAP levels after traumatic nerve injuries . In a moHuman brain tissues were investigated from medico-legal autopsy cases by van Landeghem et al.  in humanIn the acute management for TBI patients the standard medical and surgical interventions play a significant role. There is a lack of real effective treatment for recovery, this calls for research of TBI to be shifted into the area of prevention, treatment of secondary brain injury and neurorehabilitation. The importance of PACAP in the neuronal regeneration lies in the upregulation of endogenous PACAP and its receptors and the protective effect of exogenous PACAP after different central nervous system injury. The animal models not only can help us understand the pathophysiology of TBI, but allow us to develop interventions for preventing secondary injury, enhancing brain repair and improving recovery after TBI . The resRegarding the biomarker value of PACAP, an increasing amount of evidence suggests the high translational potential of PACAP as a diagnostic and/or prognostic biomarker, especially in subprocesses like extent of the blood-brain barrier disruption, or the state of the systemic inflammatory response syndrome. The expanding number of publications in the last few years dealing with the role of PACAP as a novel biomarker showing that it is a rapidly developing, hot and promising topic. We believe that future studies will contribute to a better understanding of the possible role(s) of PACAP in human TBI and could serve as a good source for multi-center clinical trials which involve this topic.


Digital technologies help to improve the work of psychiatric services through the use of modern approaches.The use of telepsychiatry (TP) during war allows people with psychiatric disorders to receive quality treatment that would otherwise be unavailable.TP and other digital technologies are an important resource for providing psychiatric care to internally and externally displaced persons affected by war.As our experience shows, the conditions for effective use of TP are availability of legislative, technical and staff base. The services are implemented according to the protocol, which defines the methods of treatment’s effectiveness evaluation.The presentation will provide methodological approaches to the use of TP and other digital tools.None Declared


We read with great interest the recently published SuDDICU trial  and the After reading the articles, the Sepsis Group of the Department of Medicine, Surgery, Dentistry of the University of Salerno  met to discuss how to implement SDD in our clinical practice. We wanted to share our thoughts on translating the results of the SuDDICU trial into efficacious real-life interventions. However, further relevant information regarding the study should be considered prior to applying the results of the study to our patients. The discussion led us to recognize that we missed but needed to include some information. The first is how to relate the SuDDICU trial low levels of antimicrobial resistance  with our academic ICU higher rate of prevalence of antimicrobial resistance. Moreover, we noted the different percentages of surgical patients, which in our ICU will be greater than the 27,6% of the SuDDICU trial series, and our different rates of cardiac surgery patients, which represent only 3% of the whole population of the SuDDICU. Differences may be relevant, as a previous retrospective study showed that cardiosurgical patients preoperatively receiving tobramycin and polymyxin orally did not show beneficial effects on the clinical outcomes [Even if the possibility of the emergence of anti-microbial-resistant organisms is very unclear in our setting and undoubtedly scary, the chance that the use of SDD in patients receiving mechanical ventilation in the ICU may reduce the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia and new positive blood cultures is still very appealing. Our analysis is ongoing, and we look for hints and suggestions to understand how to apply this relevant research to our everyday practice.


The architecture of retrorectal fasciae is complex, as determined by different anatomical concepts. The aim of this study was to examine the anatomical characteristics of the inferomedial extension of the urogenital fascia (UGF) involving the pelvis to explore its relationship with the adjacent fasciae. Furthermore, we have expounded on the clinical application of UGF.For our study, we examined 20 adult male pelvic specimens fixed in formalin, including 2 entire pelvic specimens and 18 semipelvic specimens. Our department has performed 466 laparoscopic rectal cancer procedures since January 2020. We reviewed the surgical videos involving UGF preservation and analyzed the anatomy of the UGF.The bilateral hypogastric nerves ran between the visceral and parietal layers of the UGF. The visceral fascia migrated ventrally at the fourth sacral vertebra, which formed the rectosacral fascia together with the fascia propria of the rectum; the parietal layer continually extended to the pelvic diaphragm, terminating at the levator ani muscle. At the third to fourth sacral vertebra level, the two layers constituted the lateral ligaments.The double layers of the UGF are vital structures for comprehending the posterior fascia relationship of the rectum. The upper segment between the fascia propria of the rectum and the visceral layer has no evident nerves or blood vessels and is regarded as the " holy plane” for the operation. Colorectal surgeons must understand the anatomical characteristics of the related fascia surrounding the rectum during rectal cancer surgery. Moreover, anal, urinary, and sexual functions may be preserved if surgery is performed on the correct planes –3. In miAn increasing number of studies have suggested that the fascia covers the hypogastric nerves (HGNs). Researchers have conducted studies on large histological slices and suggested the term “prehypogastric nerve fascia” (pre-HGN fascia) for the fascia overlying the HGN . SimilarUnderstanding the anatomy of the UGF has specific clinical guiding significance in colorectal cancer surgery. In our previous anatomy study, we also proposed that the UGF derives from the renal fascia and includes the visceral and parietal layers,  namely pTherefore, we conducted an in-depth study of the anatomy of the UGF in the pelvis and explored its anatomical relationships with surrounding fasciae, nerves, and organs in male formalin-fixed cadavers. We also described the clinical relevance of the UGF while performing mid-low laparoscopic TME.The study was conducted in strict accordance with protocols approved by the Biomedical Ethics Committee of Xi’an Jiaotong University (Ethics Permit Number: 2014 − 0303). The format of the informed consent form was in line with the guidelines of the China Organ Donation Administrative Center. Furthermore, this anatomical study followed the CACTUS guidelines . The incThe pelvis was dissected along the midsagittal plane in 18 cadavers to observe the hemipelvis, and the whole pelvis was examined in the remaining cadavers. The dissections were conducted by two experienced colorectal surgeons from our department utilizing standard surgical instruments  to avoid complicated visualization techniques.Observing the whole pelvis: The cadavers were cut transversely along the plane of the fourth lumbar vertebra and the perineal plane to observe the entire pelvis.According to the laparoscopic TME procedure, dissection was performed in the retrorectal space and reached the level of the levator ani muscle. Next, after identifying the peritoneal reflection, Denonvilliers’ fascia was dissected, and its anterior space was observed. Then, dissection extended toward the lateral ligaments with special consideration to maintain the integrity of the fascial continuity.2.Preparation of the hemipelvis: A hacksaw was used to dissect 18 cadavers along the midline of the sagittal plane from the lower lumbar vertebral spinous process to the coccyx tip to obtain the hemipelvis.The operation was performed in the sacral promontory between the fascia propria of the rectum and the visceral layer of the UGF. Next, dissection continued between the parietal layer of the UGF and the sacrum.The main observations are summarized below: (1) the distribution of the UGF in the pelvic cavity and its relationship with surrounding fasciae and (2) the distribution of the UGF with HGNs, ureters, and pelvic plexus.Originating from the renal fascia, the visceral and parietal layers of the UGF extended along the sacrum to the pelvic floor, constituting the presacral fascia. The ureter and the bilateral HGNs ran between the two layers of the UGF Fig.  13]. Th. Th13]. Presacral venous were exposed when the parietal pelvic fascia was lifted from the sacrum Fig. . LateralOur study provides a comprehensive description of the UGF and its features. The UGF, originating from the renal fascia, comprises the visceral and parietal layers and extends downward to the pelvic floor along the sacrum. The UGF envelops the bilateral HGNs and ureters and extends to the pelvis. At the level of the fourth sacral vertebra, the visceral fascia inverts ventrally and forms the rectosacral fascia. However, the parietal layer continues along the sacrum and ends at the levator ani muscle. The parietal pelvic fascia is located on the surface of the sacrum.The UGF is known to originate from the renal fascia and envelop the ureters and HGNs. However, there are distinct discrepancies in opinions on the composition of the UGF. In a previous study, the ureters and genital vessels were found to be located in the two layers of the UGF, whereas the HGNs were not mentioned . NeverthUnderstanding the UGF may be instrumental in comprehensively understanding the terminology used for different anatomical regions located posterior to the rectum, as it comprises visceral and parietal layers. For example, different designations exist for the fascia covering the HGNs –21. ThesIn other studies, researchers have shown multiple layers of fasciae in the posterior rectum. Based on macroscopic dissection and histology, a previous study detailed that the parietal pelvic fascia comprises 2 lamellae ensheathing the autonomic pelvic nerves . NotablyThe mesentery-like structures formed by the UGF and the pelvic plexus in the lateral wall help us to comprehend the lateral rectal ligament Fig. . PreviouAccording to the UGF’s characteristics, we propose that the retrorectal space is divided into upper and lower segments by the visceral layer of the UGF. On the cranial side of the fourth sacral vertebra, the space between the fascia propria of the rectum and the visceral layer may be called the upper segment of the retrorectal space. Correspondingly, the lower segment of the retrorectal space lies between the visceral and parietal layers on the caudal side of the fourth sacral vertebra. The presacral space is located between the parietal layer of the UGF and the piriformis fascia . Based oBased on the above perspectives, the optimal operation plane of the retrorectal space is the upper segment of the retrorectal space between the fascia propria of the rectum and the visceral layer. This plane corresponds to the “holy plane” of TME. Notably, after the operation reaches or crosses the rectosacral fascia, separation is performed in the lower segment of the retrorectal space Fig. . HoweverThis study is the first to propose the double layers UGF as a theoretical guide in TME and expound on the relevant noteworthy details. Comprehending the characteristics of UGF and discerning the relevant, distinct fasciae are fundamental for colorectal surgeons to distinguish the surgical-related plane better, avoid nerve injury or bleeding, and conduct TME faster at the criteria plane. Establishing the retrorectal space based on the characteristics of UGF also provides a guide for separating the lateral rectal mesentery  and discerning Denonvilliers’ fascia adjacent to the UGF . MoreoveThis study has two limitations. The study of formalin-fixed cadavers instead of fresh cadavers is an inherent limitation, as findings could be ascribed to postmortem degenerative changes. In addition, we did not perform histological examinations in the present study. Such examinations will be conducted in future anatomical studies.The double layers of the UGF are vital structures for understanding the posterior fascial relationship of the rectum. The parietal and visceral layers of the UGF divide the retrorectal space into upper and lower segments. Furthermore, the upper segment between the fascia propria of the rectum and the visceral layer has no evident nerves or blood vessels and is the “holy plane” for conducting the operation.


Extrahepatic biliary tract and gallbladder neoplastic lesions are relatively rare and hence are often underrepresented in the general clinical recommendations for the routine use of ultrasound (US). Dictated by the necessity of updated summarized review of current literature to guide clinicians, this paper represents an updated position of the Italian Society of Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology (SIUMB) on the use of US and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in extrahepatic biliary tract and gallbladder neoplastic lesions such as extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, gallbladder adenocarcinoma, gallbladder adenomyomatosis, dense bile with polypoid-like appearance and gallbladder polyps. This document represents the results of the Italian Society of Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology (SIUMB) guideline committee’s research concerning the use of conventional and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in neoplastic lesions of the gallbladder and extrahepatic biliary tract.In 2016, we started collecting data from the literature  published over the past 10 years about the role of ultrasound (US) and CEUS in neoplastic lesions of the gallbladder and extrahepatic biliary tract. Recommendations were formulated on the basis of the analyzed data. Further, they were assessed by a panel of Italian physicians, experts in the use of ultrasound in neoplastic lesions of the gallbladder and extrahepatic biliary tract at the “Consensus” that took place in Rome, on 16 November 2021, during the last national conference.The results of the expert committee’s work were presented to SIUMB members on 17 November 2021, and the text, including recommendations, was then approved by the SIUMB executive bureau on 20 January 2022.This paper is the summary of the SIUMB’s position concerning the use of US and CEUS in neoplastic lesions of the gallbladder and extrahepatic biliary tract. The aim is to present recommendation to define the cases in which it is proper to apply a more sophisticated ultrasound imaging technique, such as CEUS, and when other imaging techniques need to be used.The importance of ultrasound, and in particular the use of ultrasound contrast agents (UCAs), is well recognized in Italy, however a guideline document has not been developed by SIUMB. In the light of this lack, and on the strength of 2 decades’ experience using CEUS, SIUMB set up a guidelines committee.In the first meeting, held in Rome in September 2016, the authors carried out an analysis and selection of the already published guidelines concerning the contributions of unenhanced and enhanced ultrasound to the diagnosis of neoplastic lesions of the gallbladder and extrahepatic biliary tract.After the analysis of international and national guidelines, the second step was to evaluate the most important papers on the role of conventional and contrast-enhanced ultrasound in the management of patients with neoplastic lesions of the gallbladder and biliary tree.To do that, we carried out a bibliographic search by entering the following terms in PubMed: “biliary tree and cancer and contrast enhanced ultrasound “and “gallbladder and neoplasm or cancer and contrast enhanced ultrasound “.The research was limited to the period between 2016 and 2019, and led to the identification of 261 full papers for the item biliary tree cancer and 217 full papers for the item gallbladder neoplasm.By activating filters for clinical trials, review and meta-analyses, we reduced the search result items to 76 full papers for biliary tree cancer and 45 full papers for gallbladder neoplasm.We proceeded to filter these documents, only including: studies conducted on humans; studies in which the use of CEUS has been evaluated in terms of the identification and characterization of neoplastic lesions of the gallbladder and biliary tree, and the reporting data in terms of sensitivity/specificity or positive and negative predictive value (PPV-NPV); studies in which Sonovue  was the only UCA employed ; studies in which a qualitative evaluation of contrast medium has been performed ; studies in which there were at least 30 patients ; studies published in English; and studies in which the gold standard was the histological result, the computed tomography (CT) and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) diagnosis, or the clinical and radiological follow-up.Finally, 12 full papers were chosen for biliary tree cancer and 9 full papers for gallbladder cancer  guidelines dated 2017 on the management and follow-up of gallbladder polyps as well as two meta-analysis articles).In this document, the SIUMB’s guidelines committee decided to focus mainly on the US diagnostic aspects of gallbladder and biliary tree lesions, with no recommendations regarding the evaluation of tumor response after loco-regional treatment and systemic therapy.In drafting the final document, we decided to report the conclusions of the existing literature as recommendations, and to include the experts’ opinions on all the gallbladder and biliary tree neoplastic lesions presented.The evidence for and strength of the recommendations is generally assessed according to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system .The strength of recommendations depends on the quality of the evidence. Each recommendation is graded as strong or weak; high-quality evidence corresponded to a strong recommendation, while a lack of or uncertain evidence resulted in a weaker recommendation.However, in the field of neoplastic lesions of the gallbladder and biliary tree current level of evidence present in the major part of the published studies is scarce with most of the available studies being retrospective and even monocentric –13. MoreThe SIUMB experts’ committee voted on each of the statements. Each member of the committee had the ability to approve, disapprove or abstain from voting on a particular statement. A strong consensus was reached when there was agreement in > 95%, while broad consensus was achieved when > 80% of the experts agreed.Extrahepatic biliary tracts include the right and left hepatic ducts, their confluence, the common hepatic duct, the cystic duct and the common bile duct.The most frequent neoplastic pathology of the extrahepatic biliary tract is represented by cholangiocarcinoma, glandular neoplasia (adenocarcinoma) originating from the cells of the ductal epithelium or from the periductal glands. Cholangiocarcinomas of the extrahepatic biliary tract are clinically characterized by jaundice/cholestasis , 14.Recommendation: Ultrasound examination represents the first level examination of such patients allowing clinicians to differentiate obstructive from non-obstructive forms of jaundice/ cholestasis (strong consensus).Extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma includes the perihilar form  and the distal form (originating from the common bile duct).Perihilar cholangiocarcinoma causes dilation of the upstream intrahepatic biliary tract, with normal extrahepatic biliary tract, while the neoplastic lesion may appear of variable echogenicity, but often is visualized as isoechoic comparing to the surrounding hepatic parenchyma and therefore poorly delineated and sometimes even invisible; in such cases, the dilation of the intrahepatic biliary tract and the lack of connection of the bile ducts to the hilum allows us to hypothesize the perihilar form of cholangiocarcinoma (strong consensus);CEUS helps to improve the visibility of the lesion, as well as to note the dilation of the intrahepatic biliary ducts , 7, 8  can become visible as an echogenic endoluminal lesion that cannot be differentiated from stones or echogenic material (dense bile-clots), but more frequently, in relation to the periductal infiltrating type growth , is not detectable by ultrasound. In such cases, therefore, US allows us only to identify the dilation of the intrahepatic biliary tract of the common bile duct and of the gallbladder (strong consensus);The common bile duct sometimes has a filiform or abruptly interrupted appearance in the tract affected by the neoplasm and the diagnosing requires the use of additional methods (MRI—Echoendoscopy—Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) (strong consensus);It is rarely possible to note an echogenic material, without posterior acoustic shadow, located within the common biliary tract, which can simulate the presence of biliary debris, stones in formation or clots. CEUS can show the nature of the obstruction by presenting an enhancement of the lesion in case of neoplasm , 7, 8.Distal cholangiocarcinoma recommendations:The extrahepatic biliary tract is rarely affected by secondary tumors of metastatic type, especially those of gastrointestinal origin (i.e. colon and stomach cancers) or melanoma and lymphoma.At US, the metastases appear as masses that interrupt the biliary tract with an upstream dilation of the biliary tract (strong consensus);At CEUS the metastases can present a diffuse or peripheral hyperenhancement in the arterial phase, followed by a hypoenhancement in the portal and late phase, with an image very similar to what can be observed in the primitive forms  ;In cases where these vascular signals are not detectable, CEUS can be used to differentiate solid lesions from the presence of biliary sludge. In particular, the absence of enhancement of the polypoid-like lesion is a sign of the presence of dense bile (sludge) (100% accuracy) , 16 . A diffuse variant and a focal variant  were described and are characterized by diffuse and focal thickening of the wall. Sometimes in patients with adenomyomatosis of the gallbladder, small echogenic spots with "comet tail artifact" related to the presence of parietal cholesterolosis can be observed in the Rokitansy-Ashoff sinuses.Ultrasound represents the imaging method of choice in its identification and characterization, with an accuracy ranging from 91.5 to 94.8% (strong consensus);CEUS increases the sensitivity of US in identifying RASs and in documenting the continuity of the gallbladder walls. Moreover, CEUS targeted at identifying the thickening area of the gallbladder wall shows the same degree of vascularization as the adjacent wall, although an area of hyperenhancement can occur in 15% of cases (strong consensus);Avascular spaces representing RASs should be explored at the internal part of the thickened wall of the gallbladder;RASs appear avascular at all stages of the dynamic study, regardless of their content. The identification of avascular spaces in the context of the thickened gallbladder wall points on the presence of focal adenomyomatosis –22 ;The criteria used in the therapeutic clinical management of polypoid lesions of the gallbladder, identified after ultrasound screening, take into account the size of the polyp and the presence of some risk factors of malignancy  , 26  with possible presence of a large vascular pole which is well visualized by color Doppler and especially by CEUS (strong consensus);Vascularization is characterized by regular vessels with a tree-like distribution. CEUS appearance is generally characterized by hyperenhancement in the arterial phase, followed by isoenhancement in the venous phase or, more rarely, by hypoenhancement. From the analysis of the literature data, there is currently no specific dynamic pattern that, following CEUS, would allow to distinguish adenoma from malignant tumor of the gallbladder  ;The use of CEUS is strongly debated in this scenario and in the latest European guidelines of 2017 its use is envisaged only in the differentiation between chronic cholecystitis and neoplasia (strong consensus);This caution is linked to the fact that the CEUS imaging and in particular hyperenhancement in the arterial phase do not allow us to differentiate between a malignant and a benign lesion  (strong consensus);According to the recent meta-analysis, the most accurate criteria in the identification and characterization of tumor pathology of the gallbladder by CEUS are represented by: (1) identification of the discontinuity of the gallbladder wall ; (2) infiltration of the adjacent liver parenchyma; (3) demonstration of tortuous and irregular vessels at the level of the tumor mass with thickening of the wall (strong consensus) , 28.Recommendations:During 2020–2021 other studies have been published in the field of differential diagnosis between adenomatous and cholesterol polyps –31, and Size: significantly greater mean diameter of adenomatous polyps vs cholesterol polyps (1.45–1.5 cm cut off);Gallbladder wall integrity: significantly more compromised wall integrity in adenomatous polyps;Vascular signs at color Doppler: greater vascular signals at color Doppler in adenomatous polyps;Mean polyp stalk diameter evaluated by CEUS: significantly larger in adenomatous polyps;Vascular pattern by CEUS (linear vs dotted): more frequent in adenomatous polyps.The literature must be evaluated with caution as it is manly from Eastern countries, however, the most important findings in the differential diagnosis between cholesterol and adenomatous polyps are:Size of the lesion (larger in neoplastic lesions);Gallbladder wall integrity: significantly more disrupted in malignant lesions;The irregularity and tortuosity of the vessels at CEUS ;Timing of wash out of the lesion (≤ 28 s): more frequent in malignant lesions;Although the studies on the wash in/out curves of the gallbladder lesion appear promising, it is believed that there is currently insufficient evidence for their use in clinical practice that raises a need for further studies –32.Although the literature data must be evaluated with caution as the published literature was based mainly on Eastern countries experience, the most important findings in the differential diagnosis between benign/malignant lesions of the gallbladder, are:


The outbreak of COVID-19 has long-term negative effects on mental health. This study shows the negative mental health effects of studying under pandemic limits involving distance learning and social isolation.The specialized studies carried out after the emergence of the Coronavirus revealed the impact of the measures implemented during the period of restrictions and after the outbreak of the pandemic, as well as the way in which these measures were felt by the general population.Qualitative analysis of students’ answers regarding the stress felt after the outbreak of the pandemic.Social and individual anxiety remains a subject of investigation among female students, who are in the process of emotional maturation and professional training.Students remain a vulnerable population category, in the conditions in which society is in full post-pandemic adaptation process.None Declared


Objectives: We evaluated the effectiveness of using appropriate chemical(s) to treat the dental unit waterline (DUWL), and we recommended appropriate strategies to manage the DUWL system to maintain bacteria concentration below minimum recommended levels. Methods: Initial water samples were collected aseptically from the handpieces of the DUWL in dental clinics to assess the bacterial load prior to treatment of the dental unit. The dental staff were educated on the management and treatment of the DUWL. Appropriate chemicals were introduced to the DUWL system. Following the treatment, samples of water from the DUWLs were collected to assess the bacterial load. Results: The US CDC recommends a safe level of bacterial load of <500 CFU per mL of heterotrophic bacteria in the standard for drinking water by the US EPA. Initial results for the DUWL water showed unacceptably high levels of bacterial load between 1,930 and 35,000 CFU per mL prior to treatment. Subsequent sampling of DUWL water with treatment of appropriate chemicals showed vast reductions of the bacterial loads in all the dental units, with bacterial counts between <1 and 72 CFU per mL. Conclusions: It is important to ensure ongoing education and regular treatment with appropriate chemical and effective management and monitoring of all DUWLs from dental chairs to ensure that the water produced meets safe drinking standards.


The journal retracts the 2022 article cited above.Following publication, concerns were raised regarding the contributions of the authors of the article. Our investigation, conducted in accordance with Frontiers policies, confirmed a serious breach of our authorship policies and of publication ethics; the article is therefore retracted.This retraction was approved by the Chief Editors of Frontiers in Psychology and the Chief Executive Editor of Frontiers. The authors have not responded to correspondence regarding this retraction.


Postictal Psychosis of Epilepsy (PIPE), part of the group collectively known as Psychosis of Epilepsy, is characterized by an onset of confusion or psychotic symptoms within one week of apparent normal mental function. PIPE has been argued to be underdiagnosed in the clinical population, perhaps due to a failure to recognize the temporal relation between the seizure and the psychotic episode.To explore the concept and management of post ictal psychosis.We present a clinical case and a review of the literature concerning post ictal psychosis.We report the case of a 36 year old woman with focal refractory epilepsy after a likely episode of limbic encephalitis in 2015. Cognitive and psychiatric sequelae in the form of depressive symptoms, in treatment with neurology and psychiatry since 2021. One previous episode of psychotic symptoms during seizures. Worsening of seizure frequency since march of 2022 with apparent normalization (absence of seizures after dose reduction of eslicarbamazepine and introduction oflamotrigine) for about four days before being hospitalized in the neurology unit due tobehavioral abnormalities. During psychiatric exploration, the patient showed signs of partial clouding of consciousness with manierisms, ecopraxias and ecolalias; verbigerance in the form of the neurologist’s name and bizarre movements like looking behind suggestive of sensoroperceptive disturbances. The symptomatology resolved itself during the following week after treatment with diazepam.Finally, a narrative review concerning the case was also performed; with particular emphasis on antipsychotic drugs with low risk of lowering seizure threshold (such as risperidone or aripiprazole) as the recommended treatment.Our findings point to the relevance of Postictal Psychosis of Epilepsy as a clinical entity. Further studies on pathogenic mechanisms and therapeutic management are required.None Declared


The prolongation of life expectancy has considerably increased the prevalence of chronic diseases and therefore the concomitant presence of these, this usually predicts a more reserved prognosis for both conditions and can lead to greater complications, more complex treatments  and therefore more expensive and with considerable delays in recovery.(6)The comorbidity of physical and mental illnesses is common, as both are often interrelated.One of the ways to ensure handling comprehensive and personalized comorbidity should be detected especially at the first level of care for timely treatment, It is the inclusion of mental health topics in the curricula of doctors in training in a specialty.Establish which programs of the medical and surgical specialties include topics related to mental health in their academic training, in order to strengthen the recovery process of patientsWhat medical specialties contain mental health topics in their training program?A descriptive study of the academic programs of Medical specialization in 50 countries. The questions we asked ourselves were:How many medical specialties have included the following mental health topics in their regular graduate program: affective disorders, anxiety disorders, psychosomatic disorders, substance use disorders, violence and palliative care?What other mental health topics are included in the different medical specialties?The results obtained indicate the importance of mental health in different states of physical health and especially to be taken into account by decision makers in health policies. Comorbidity in current medicine should be taken into consideration more objectively and thus favor the reduction of the suffering of the sick person. We know that an associated mental and physical condition can give atypical presentations that hinder diagnosis, clinical severity, and response to treatment and therefore may lead to increased utilization of health services. However, the fragmentation of medicine into increasingly limited specialties restricts the ability to see the patient holistically and therefore the decrease in the quality of medical care, increase in costs and delay in the recovery process.None Declared


The journal retracts the 2022 article cited above.Following publication, concerns were raised regarding the contributions of the authors of the article. Our investigation, conducted in accordance with Frontiers policies, confirmed a serious breach of our authorship policies and of publication ethics; the article is therefore retracted.This retraction was approved by the Chief Editors of Frontiers in Genetics and the Chief Executive Editor of Frontiers. The authors have not responded to correspondence regarding this retraction.


Genetic variation is a well-known contributor to the onset and progression of cancer. The goal of this study is to provide a comprehensive examination of the nucleotide and chromosomal variation associated with the onset and progression of serous ovarian cancer. Using a variety of computational and statistical methods, we examine the exome sequence profiles of genetic variants present in the primary tumors of 432 ovarian cancer patient samples to compute: (1) the tumor mutational burden for all genes and (2) the chromosomal copy number alterations associated with the onset/progression of ovarian cancer. Tumor mutational burden is reduced in the late vs. early stages, with the highest levels being associated with loss-of-function mutations in DNA-repair genes. Nucleotide variation and copy number alterations associated with known cancer driver genes are selectively favored over ovarian cancer development. The results indicate that genetic variation is a significant contributor to the onset and progression of ovarian cancer. The measurement of the relative levels of genetic variation associated with individual ovarian cancer patient tumors may be a clinically valuable predictor of potential tumor aggressiveness and resistance to chemotherapy. Tumors found to be associated with high levels of genetic variation may help in the clinical identification of high-risk ovarian cancer patients who could benefit from more frequent monitoring. BRCA) )Detailed genomic-level analyses of cancer, such as those reported in this paper, have significant benefits and limitations. Among the benefits is the fact that the results often generate novel hypotheses about the processes underlying cancer onset and progression. The limitations are that these hypotheses often require further testing on a clinical level in order to be validated. It is our hope that the findings on OC reported in this paper will stimulate clinical studies leading to improved early diagnosis and treatment of this devastating disease.


The article describes a specific method of using innovative transverse systems of flat bar frames as structures forcing elastic shape transformations of nominally flat folded sheets into the forms of ruled shell roof coverings. An innovative method for parametric shaping these forms and arrangement of frames constituting structural systems of sheds with folded thin-walled roof coverings, taking account of the specificity of designing elastically transformed roof sheeting, was proposed. The proposed method for defining the loads of the considered frames supporting lower shelves of the folds of transformed roof sheeting, as loads distributed uniformly along the length of the upper chord of a roof frame girder, is also an innovative approach. The above unconventional premises result in the innovative topic of the research presented in terms of checking the impact of changing the shape of subsequent flat frames (intended for the construction of sheds roofed with the transformed sheeting) on the geometric and mechanical properties of the members of these frames. For the defined loads and the proposed parameterization of the frame forms, an innovative set of conditions was developed to optimize their performance, and then a theoretical analysis of the observed dependencies was carried out. This analysis was performed in an unconventional, novel way using section modules of the cross-sections of all members. The performed computer simulations confirmed the significance of changes in the inclination of girders and columns on the geometric and mechanical properties of the members. The obtained results are the basis and justification for simulations and tests in the scope of further modification of the form, loads, work, and methods of using various configurations of flat frames in constructions. Flat bar frames are very useful as structural systems supporting transversely thin-walled roof coverings ,2. DiverThe upper chords of roof girders of the frame systems are directrices supporting the lower flanges of all roof sheeting folds. Subsequent folds attached to the mutually skew directrices or poles change their shapes from folded flat into folded shell, so their bending, torsion or bending-torsion deformation is achieved  Figure . The arrInclination of girders or columns belonging to flat frames causes quantitative and qualitative changes in their structural work under the impact of the external loads. An intentional mutual inclination of adjacent directrices or columns belonging to subsequent frames changes the geometrical and mechanical properties of the thin-walled sheeting. By changing the shape of the subsequent transverse flat frames in a structural system, we can obtain an unconventional, interesting shell form of a roof or façade envelope ,6. HowevMetal frames are willingly used for building constructions due to their relatively low weight and freedom of shaping complex forms of roofs and facades. Many innovative methods for designing diversified unconventional building forms and their structural systems are presented in the monograph by Abdel et al. . EffectiGeometrical and mechanical properties of nominally flat thin-walled corrugated sheets allow them to undergo large torsional and transverse bending deformations. If we assume that freedom of fold’s deformations is assured while fixing them on roof directrices, it is possible to adjust the bottom flanges of the shell folds to the various shapes and mutual positions of the directrices shaped  Figure a,b.The orthotropic mechanical properties of the nominally flat thin-walled folded metal sheets resulting from their folded geometric shape significantly restrict the freedom in shaping curved free forms of façades and roofs shallow parabolic-hyperbolic sheeting to limited by closed spatial quadrangles . ReichhaA significant modification of Reichhart’s method was made by Abramczyk , who devIn general, the static-strength performance of the common spatial and planar structural systems is described by Zhang et al. , and MarThe structural performance of tubular bar structures is also presented by Marshal . SignifiAll permissible loads and their combinations must be taken into account in each design process of buildings and their structural systems. Various directions of loads, including vertical, horizontal, and normal to the wall or roof surfaces, affect the complex equilibrium conditions of joints and members Kurobane et al.  and PackThe aim of the research is to analyze the impact of changes in the inclination of a number of the selected elements of flat bar structural systems supporting various transformed thin-walled folded sheeting on the overall stability and the change in the strength properties of the elements belonging to these systems. A basic configuration of the simulated flat frame systems consists of a horizontal lattice girder and two vertical columns. Several planar lattice systems derived from the basic configuration have been created as the result of the inclination of their columns to the vertical or their girders to the horizontal. Computer models of the above derivative and basic rod systems were shaped to simulate their structural performance using the incremental non-linear Finite Element Method. The performed simulations allow one to observe a few major trends in changes in their strength work and ability to maintain overall stability.Each analyzed flat bar transverse system consists of a lattice girder with a height of 2 m and two single-branch columns. The upper and lower chords of the girder are connected to each other with V-diagonals spaced every 4 m. Its girder is horizontal. The two vertical columns are 12 m high, and their spacing is equal to 16 m. The following four frame shape types were considered: rectangular a, rectanIn the beginning, arbitrary cross-sections of all elements of an initial basic configuration Kb0 were adopted. A basic frame configuration Kb was obtained as the result of an optimizing process of Kb0 loaded with the above-mentioned four types of uniformly distributed load. Based on Kb, several derivative configurations were created as follows.The first type of derivative configurations are the Kg configurations characterized by girders tilted to a horizontal plane and vertical columns b. The seThe columns are fixed in the foundation. All rods of the same element of a respective frame configuration have identical cross-sections, except for the columns of each derivative combination Kg, where their poles vary in length.The research is related to the execution of several computer simulations modeling the mechanical performance of the basic and derivative frame configurations, accomplishing optimization of the cross-sections of their individual elements. The models were made in the Robot program . An elasThe incremental non-linear calculation method allows the discrete load values to be increased in subsequent calculation steps. The decrease in the stiffness of the entire frame and its individual bars caused by longitudinal eccentric compression forces acting in the bars and forces oriented laterally in relation to the vertical position of a flat frame was taken into account. The displacements of joints and bending of frame elements  were also taken into account.The research carried out was divided into four main steps. In the first step, a basic framework configuration, Kb0, was optimized to achieve Kb. The arbitrary optimization condition is composed of three restrictions: (1) the maximum allowable effort of all individual bars equal to 235 MPa +/− 3% for S235 steel, (2) the cross-section class not higher than 3, (3) the maximum low value of the critical load factor determined for each frame configuration, but not lower than 1.The results of the simulations accomplishing the initial concept adopted by the authors prior to the study and related to the optimization of only the Kbo basic rectangular frame configuration into Kb and then using the calculated cross-sections for the analogous elements of the subsequently simulated derivative configurations turned out to be impossible because of the very high stresses appearing in their columns and chords.Therefore, the optimization processes were also carried out for all derivative configurations. In addition, instead of analyzing the trends in changes in the stress levels appearing in all bars, the trends in changes in the section modules of the optimized cross-sections and the optimal critical load factor, resulting from the change in lattice girder or pole inclination to a horizontal plane or the vertical, were analyzed. The section modules were considered without taking the area and moment of inertia of the cross-sections into account due to the substantial share of bending moments appearing in the tilted columns of the derived configurations.i = 1 to 3). They were loaded and optimized in the same way as the basic Kb configuration.In the second step of the research, computer models of flat frames characterized by different inclinations of their girders to the horizontal were built. Three different discrete values of the h parameter belonging to the set {1.5, 3.0, 4.5 m} were adopted b. Three In the third step, several simulations of non-rectangular frame systems Kci and Kce derived from Kb were carried out. The specific property of these configurations consists in the inclination of their columns to the vertical at the same angle. Four different values of the d parameter were assumed for Kce c and fouIn the fourth last step of the research, several diagrams showing the effect of the inclination changes of each relevant frame element influencing the overall stability of the frame and the strength properties of its individual bars were developed.As stated at the beginning of this section, for each of the simulated basic and derivative frame configurations, four different types of loads were assumed. These loads were taken as characteristic of sheds covered with thin-walled, transformed folded sheeting. The nature of the load acting on each frame results from the way each fold was fixed to the roof directrices. The upper chords of the examined frame girders constitute the roof directrices.2 uniformly distributed over the length of the top chord of each frame , Kcer (r = 1–4), and Kcij (j = 1–4). The results obtained for Kgi are given in The results obtained for the inverted trapezial derivative configurations Kcij (j = 1–4) are presented in s1 and Ps2 columns and the bottom chord Pd, and the inclination ng of the Kgi’s lattice girders. The ng slope is the ratio of the frame height h by the distance of 16 m between the columns of the rectangular basic frame configuration.The analysis of the strength work and stability of the examined frames results in a comparison of section modules calculated for the optimal cross-sections of the most strengthened elements, such as the columns and bottom chords of the simulated basic and derivative configurations Kb and Kgi. Two diagrams shown in s1, Tend Ps2, and Tend Pd from The dotted lines: Tend PThe diagrams shown in In the above diagrams, the zero value of ng was assigned to the corresponding value of the elastic section modulus of the optimized cross-section calculated for each element of the basic rectangular frame configuration. The change in the course of any line from the above-mentioned diagrams illustrates the change in the section modulus of the corresponding element of the successively simulated derivative configurations. Significant changes in the course of the above-mentioned lines indicate a significant impact of the girder inclination on the mechanical properties of the examined frame.In order to accurately illustrate the above-mentioned changes (and the above-mentioned impact), a diagram showing the impact of the girder inclination ng on the relative (percentage) increments ΔSmod in the value of the Smod section modulus of the optimized frames in relation to basic configuration frame was built b. These cr, caused by the change in the lattice girder slope, start with the value 1.04 and increase very fast. This value obtained during the optimizing process of the cross-sections of the Kb’s elements limits the effort of the compressed columns of the rectangular configuration to σc = 207 MPa. This value makes it impossible to exploit the total bearing capacity of the columns. Therefore, the overall stability of the frame plays an important role in the optimization of the Kb basic configuration. In the case of the examined derivative configurations Kgi, the decisive role in shaping the optimal cross-sections of all elements is played by their effort.An important tendency to qualitative changes in the mechanical properties of the analyzed frame configurations is shown in cr  on the geometric and mechanical properties of the members of these frames. The performed computer simulations confirmed the significance of the changes in shapes of the flat frame configurations from rectangular to trapezial resulting from the inclination of the columns to the vertical or the girders to the horizontal, making a significant increase in the effort of their elements working under the adopted types of loads.For the defined loads and the adopted parameterization of the frame forms, an innovative set of conditions was developed to optimize their performance, and then a theoretical analysis of the observed dependencies was carried out. This analysis was performed in an unconventional, novel way using the section modules of the cross-sections of all members because the optimization of the cross-sections of the members of each analyzed base and derivative frame configuration had to be performed separately. The reason for such actions was the rapidly increasing effort of the elements with the increase in the inclination of the girder or columns when the arbitrary cross-sections of the initial derivative configurations were assumed to be identical to the optimized cross-sections of the base configuration calculated previously.In the case of lattice girder inclination, a significant increase in the values of the section modules calculated for the optimized cross-sections of the shorter columns occurs. It can reach even 1000% for the most inclined girders. The significant increase in the section modules of the optimized bar cross-sections is also observed in the case of the bottom chord, where it reaches 400%. In the remaining optimized elements, the increase in the section modules of their cross-sections is insignificant.In the case of the most tilted columns of the derivative frame configurations, the significant increase in the section modules of the optimized cross-sections is up to 200% for the trapezial configurations and 300% for the inverted trapezial configurations. In the case of other elements of these frames, the increase in effort is small.The selected mechanical changes of the examined frame configurations caused by the changes in the inclination of their girders to the horizontal or their columns to the vertical are quantitative and qualitative. This results from the fact that the calculated critical loads and the ability to maintain the overall stability of the frames are the limitations determining the optimal size of the column’s cross-sections of the rectangular configuration. However, in the case of the considered trapezial and inverted trapezial frames, the decisive condition limiting the optimal size of the cross-sections of all their elements is the maximum allowable effort resulting from the yielding of the steel used. In the case of the derivative frame configurations, the values of critical load factor increase fast up to five and even seven for the frames with the most tilted elements.


The ability of the cockroach to locate an odor source in still air suggests that the temporal dynamic of odor concentration in the slowly expanding stationary plume alone is used to infer odor source distance and location. This contradicts with the well-established view that insects use the wind direction as the principle directional cue. This contribution highlights the evidence for, and likely functional relevance of, the capacity of the cockroach’s olfactory receptor neurons to detect and process—from one moment to the next—not only a succession of odor concentrations but also the rates at which concentration changes. This presents a challenge for the olfactory system because it must detect and encode the temporal concentration dynamic in a manner that simultaneously allows invariant odor recognition. The challenge is met by a parallel representation of odor identity and concentration changes in a dual pathway that starts from olfactory receptor neurons located in two morphologically distinct types of olfactory sensilla. Parallel processing uses two types of gain control that simultaneously allocate different weight to the instantaneous odor concentration and its rate of change. Robust gain control provides a stable sensitivity for the instantaneous concentration by filtering the information on fluctuations in the rate of change. Variable gain control, in turn, enhances sensitivity for the concentration rate according to variations in the duration of the fluctuation period. This efficiently represents the fluctuation of concentration changes in the environmental context in which such changes occur. Panulirus argus, and the clawed lobster, Homarus americanus, revealed chemoreceptors that respond to a range of gradually increasing odor pulse concentrations  basiconic and trichoid sensilla located on the cockroach’s antenna which contain ORNs responsive to the odor of lemon oil . Schalle−1  has a slight (strong) effect on the gain of response for the variable plotted on the y axis (the instantaneous concentration). Similarly, a regression plane with a small (large) y slope indicates that the variable plotted on the y axis (the instantaneous concentration) has a slight (strong) effect on the gain of response for the variable plotted on the x axis (the rate of change).The phase of the oscillating impulse frequency was determined for different period durations by fitting each set of frequency data points with a sine wave curve . Then the z axis . The rese z axis . A regreThe ORNs of swA and swB basiconic sensilla simultaneously increased their activity with increasing odor concentration, though with different rates to different maxima , and theDuring oscillating concentration changes, the impulse frequency of the ORNs of both sensilla types oscillates regularly; the ratio of frequency oscillations to concentration oscillations was always 1:1. The frequency maxima of the ON ORNs of the basiconic sensilla were not in phase with the concentration maxima; they were intermediary, between the concentration maxima and the rate-of-change maxima  suggests that the ON and OFF ORNs use different types of olfactory receptors  are widely considered to play a crucial role in the transport of hydrophobic odor molecules through the hydrophilic fluid inside the sensilla from the wall pores to ORs. OBPs form a specific complex with a given odor that interacts with ORs, leading to the initiation of the olfactory transduction cascade. A type of basiconic sensillum (ab8) on the olecules . Insteadolecules . The ON olecules .Bombyx mori emphasize the onset and offset of rapid concentration changes by functioning as flux detectors and not concentration measures (The pheromone-ORNs of the trichoid sensilla on the antenna of the male moth measures . Flux demeasures  by adsormeasures . In concmeasures .Drosophila and was exemplary in showing that the responses of ORNs to rapid, pulse-like concentration changes are invariant to variations in the pulse flow rate (Drosophila to track along wind-borne odor plumes to their source. In a recent study we have shown that changing the level of the flow rate has no effect on the responses of the ON and OFF ORN responses to oscillating changes in odor concentration (Flux detectors adsorb the stimulus molecules depending on both the stimulus concentration within the external medium and the relative velocity of the flux detector and the airspeed . The grelow rate . Thus, pntration . FurtherIn conclusion, our findings suggest that key aspects of the odor stimulus are extracted and processed separately in two parallel systems of ORNs located in morphologically different types of sensilla on the cockroach’s antenna. The questions now are what mechanisms cause the two types of gain control and how does the brain determine what information is suitable at any given moment to guide the cockroach to the location of the odor source.


The registration of serial section electron microscope images is a critical step in reconstructing biological tissue volumes, and it aims to eliminate complex nonlinear deformations from sectioning and replicate the correct neurite structure. However, due to the inherent properties of biological structures and the challenges posed by section preparation of biological tissues, achieving an accurate registration of serial sections remains a significant challenge. Conventional nonlinear registration techniques, which are effective in eliminating nonlinear deformation, can also eliminate the natural morphological variation of neurites across sections. Additionally, accumulation of registration errors alters the neurite structure.This article proposes a novel method for serial section registration that utilizes an unsupervised optical flow network to measure feature similarity rather than pixel similarity to eliminate nonlinear deformation and achieve pairwise registration between sections. The optical flow network is then employed to estimate and compensate for cumulative registration error, thereby allowing for the reconstruction of the structure of biological tissues. Based on the novel serial section registration method, a serial split technique is proposed for long-serial sections. Experimental results demonstrate that the state-of-the-art method proposed here effectively improves the spatial continuity of serial sections, leading to more accurate registration and improved reconstruction of the structure of biological tissues.https://github.com/TongXin-CASIA/EFSR.The source code and data are available at  Serial section electron microscopy (ssEM) is a mainstream image-acquisition method for connectomics research. In ssEM, a biological tissue is cut into 30–50 nm thick sections and then imaged with a high-resolution electron microscope (EM) . This teOne major drawback of ssEM is the physical cutting of the tissue block into sections, which results in the loss of continuity between sections. In addition, the section cutting process also introduces nonlinear deformations  of neurites used in this article is only applicable to short series and may not be suitable for long series. Therefore, to enable the use of structural regression in long series, this article proposes a strategy of dividing the long series into multiple short series and performing registration on each of them separately. With this strategy, the proposed registration framework can be used for the registration of long series.This study proposes a serial section registration framework  that aimThe serial registration process involves multiple pairwise registrations, so the choice of pairwise registration model can significantly impact the results. Common parametric models may not be sufficient to accurately model the complex nonlinear deformations introduced during section preparation. To address this challenge, this article uses an optical flow approach to register pairs of sections. For each pair of sections, this registration process involves estimating the optical flow field between the sections using an optical flow network and warping them into the reference section. This approach improves on the state-of-the-art unsupervised optical flow method ARFlow  used in this study is acquired from the brain of an adult Drosophila using serial section transmission electron microscopy. The dataset consists of 125 successive EM images with a voxel resolution of The CREMI dataset  and the Dice coefficient of neurite labels to evaluate the accuracy of the registration results. The Dice coefficient is a measure of set similarity. In registration, the Dice coefficient of the label indicates the overlap degree of the same neuron after registration, and the Dice coefficient tends to 1, indicating that the higher the accuracy of the recovery of the same neuron structure after registration is. That is, the higher the accuracy of the registration result is. Furthermore, the Dice coefficient can measure the registration accuracy not affected by the image quality. To prevent the impact of labels representing intercellular spaces, this study uses the Dice coefficient of 50 neurites with the largest area on the first section to measure the accuracy of the registration results. This method was also used by ssEMNet to evaluate registration accuracy. For the FIB-mito dataset, this study only uses the NCC of sections to assess the registration results because unlike CREMI dataset, the dataset lacks dense labels of structures.This section evaluates the efficacy of the proposed pairwise registration and structural regression methods, as well as the entire framework including the long-serial splitting strategy. The optical flow method used in this study is an improved version of ARFlow. Thus, the original pre-trained ARFlow model  indicates the similarity between the warped result and the reference section, it cannot directly reflect the accuracy of the registration. In comparison, NCC (GT) represents the similarity between the result and the ground truth. The Dice coefficient reflects the degree of overlap between the registered neurites and this study uses the NCC and Dice coefficient to evaluate the registration results. The NCC measures the pixel similarity between images. While NCC (Reference) indicates the similarity between the warped result and the reference section, it cannot directly reflect the accuracy of the registration.In comparison, NCC (GT) represents the similarity between the result and the ground truth. The Dice coefficient reflects the degree of overlap between the registered neurites and the ground truth neurites. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method, the method is compared with baselines, Elastic  can suppress the influence of these factors during the training process to some extent. As demonstrated in However, it should be noted that the error accumulation assumption of the structural regression method is based on short serial sections, making it suitable only for short serial section registration. For long-serial section registration, a feasible strategy is to divide the long series into multiple short series for registration. This allows for the reconstruction of the spatial continuity of the entire block. While the short serial splitting strategy proposed in this article is simple, it may be worth considering other feasible schemes. Further study is needed to understand how to effectively connect the relationships between the short serials. In addition, this method cannot solve the registration accuracy problem caused by section fold and crack, which is also a problem that we need to further solve in the future.The experimental results show that the enhancements proposed in this study effectively improve the spatial continuity of serial sections, resulting in improved registration and accurate recovery of the spatial structure of biological tissues. This method represents a significant advancement in the field of serial section registration, as it addresses the challenges faced by current approaches and has the potential to greatly improve the accuracy of volume reconstruction in the connectomics research.


Application of the stent for treatment of the internal carotid artery (ICA) aneurysms has been extensively increased in recent decades. In the present work, stent-induced deformations of the parent vessel of ICA aneurysms are fully investigated. This study tries to visualize blood stream and calculated hemodynamic factors inside the four ICA aneurysms after deformations of parent vessel. For the simulation of the non-Newtonian blood stream, computational fluid dynamic is applied with one-way Fluid–Solid interaction (FSI) approach. Four ICA aneurysms with different ostium sizes and neck vessel angle are selected for this investigation. Wall shear stress on wall of aneurysm is analyzed in two angles of deformation due to application of the stent. Blood flow investigation shows that the deformation of the aneurysm limited blood entrance to the sac region and this decreases the blood velocity and consequently oscillatory shear index (OSI) on the sac wall. It is also observed that the stent-induced deformation is more effective on those cases with extraordinary OSI values on aneurysm wall. Late re-hemorrhage and a lower rate of thorough obliteration are two main challenges for usage of the endovascular coiling. These disadvantageous of endovascular coiling have been explained and resolved by new achievements3. The usage of stent is recognized as an important method for the reduction of the aneurysm rupture risk in patients with high sac section area. The main application of the stent usage is to avoid the main blood stream entering into aneurysm sac and consequently, the rupture risk of the aneurysm is reduced5.Usage of stent and coiling technique are the primary techniques for the treatment of the cerebral aneurysm since surgical clipping is high-risk approach for treatment specially patients with high ages. However, it is reported that recanalization may occur after endovascular embolization7. The decisions of medical team are done based on some limited factors and their experience of is more prominent in final decision. As mentioned before, use of stent along with endovascular coiling could-significantly decrease the risk of rupture9. Stent not only preserve the coil fibre inside the aneurysm but also reformed parent vessel to reduce blood flow rate inside the sac section10. This function of the stent has motivated surgeons to apply this for most cases. However, details of deformation on the risk of aneurysm rupture were not investigated in full details12.Although several investigations have been done to compare these endovascular techniques, the selection of efficient method for treatment of various cases is still challenging13. The evaluation of the stent performance could be done via analysis of the main hemodynamic aspects of blood in the sac section area15. Jeong et al.14 investigated arbitrary secular geometry of aneurysm while real model of aneurysm has different geometrical features. Ullery et al.15 quantified the geometry and respiration-induced deformation of abdominal branch vessels and stents after fenestrated (F-) and snorkel (Sn-) endovascular aneurysm repair. However, hemodynamic analyses is required for investigated deformations. Sabernaeemi et al.16 and Voss et al.17 investigated hemodynamic in real 3-D models but limited computational results are presented about angle of deformation on the hemodynamic of blood stream.The concept of aneurysm deformation is highly important for the treatment of the patientsIn this study, the computational fluid dynamic is employed for the visualization of the blood flow in four different ICA aneurysms. Blood pulsatile flow is considered for the simulation of the blood stream in the real geometry of the selected ICA aneurysms. Two deformation stages are chosen as the post-interventional models for aneurysms after usage of stent. Wall shear stress and OSI index are compared and analyzed.18.It is confirming that all methods were carried out in accordance with relevant guidelines and regulations. Besides, all experimental protocols were approved by of the Ca' Granda Niguarda Hospital and it is confirmed that informed consent was obtained from all subjects and/or their legal guardian(s). This study selected geometry of aneurysm from Aneurisk websiteThis research study has focused on the different stages of deformation by hemodynamic analysis of blood stream. Computational fluid dynamic is used for the investigation of the blood hemodynamic of four distinctive cases as illustrated in Fig. 28 Simulation of the transient blood stream inside the chosen ICA aneurysms is done via simple algorithm in ANSYS-FLUENT software. The interaction of the blood and vessel is model via One-way FSI in which the blood force influences on the aneurysm wall as an exterior force. One-Way FSI implies the effect of the fluid on to the solid and the solid deforms. In fact, pressure of blood near wall is considered as an exterior force in the solid part and it would results in deformation. Owing to pulsatile feature of blood flow inside the vessels, mass flow rate at inlet and pressure value at outlet is applied by displayed pattern in Fig. 29. We used a correlation for calculation of the viscosity (Casson model) in relation with Hematocrit value as follow:Computational and theoretical techniques are extensively used in various biology science and biomedical systems31.In this model, effect of Hematocrit (H) is also applied for the estimation of the viscosity35. The resolution of applied grid near the wall inside the aneurysms is higher than other sections due to its important on the archived results40. The close-up view of the applied grid is also displayed to demonstrate the resolution of the grids44. The grid study is also performed to ensure about the grid independency. Table Figure 2 in the chosen models. The presented results of OSI value are calculated at the end of 3rd blood cycles while the pressure, WSS and average blood velocity are reported on the peak systolic stage on the 3rd cycle where the blood stream is maximum46. Since these four hemodynamic factors  play critical role on the hemodynamic of blood stream and they could use to examine the risk of aneurysm rupture, they are chosen in our investigations48.The ICA aneurysms are sorted by the ostium section area and all selected cases are related to female patients in which blood hematocrit value is 0.4 as presented in Table The deformed aneurysms are displayed in Fig. In present work, the hemodynamic of the blood stream inside the original aneurysm and two deformed ones is investigated by comparison of the WSS, pressure and average blood velocity. The results of the mean WSS, OSI, mean wall pressure and mean velocity inside the aneurysms are presented in Table Figure Effects of 1st and 2nd deformation on mean OSI (early diastolic) and sac velocity (peak systolic) are presented in Figs. Figure Figure Figure The aim of this study is to analyze the impacts of stent-induced deformation on the hemodynamic of the blood stream inside the sac section of four different ICA aneurysm. Comprehensive hemodynamic investigations are done to reveal the main changes in the blood stream after two stages of deformations. Selected sacs are chosen based on different ostium sizes and neck vessel angles. Computational fluid dynamic is applied for the hemodynamic study of the blood within the ICA aneurysms. OSI, WSS and pressure variations on the sac surface are displayed and investigated. The main advantageous of stent-deformation is formation of clot which prevent the entrance of blood flow. In addition, blood flow streams are compared for selected models of ICA aneurysms in two steps of deformations. Achieved results indicates that stent-induced deformation of the ICA cases significantly decreases OSI on aneurysms with extremely high OSI values. Besides, the velocity of the blood is reduced substantially when aneurysm deformation happens.


The term and concept of physical literacy is increasing in popularity in both policy and practice and is increasingly applied in the fields such as sports, public health and education.Physical literacy is the ability to move with competence and confidence in a variety of physical activities. Although there is widespread consensus that physical literacy has the potential to act as the basis for a lifelong active life, there is little known about how it is assessed, operationlized, and applied.The aim of this symposium is to describe what is currently happening in the European context. Therefore, in this symposium we will bring together researchers and practitioners to discuss the asseessment, operationlization and application of the physical literacy concept across four European countries.Presentation 1) Process of developing a physical literacy consensus statement for England (UK)Presentation 2) Towards national monitoring of physical literacy in DenmarkPresentation 3) Application of the concept of physical literacy in the context of water: aquatic physical literacy (Belgium)Presentation 4) Developing an individual-based advice for sports participation and physical activity in children using the concept of Physical Literacy (the Netherlands).The discussant of the symposium who will lead the discussion after the individual presentations will ensure exchange of knowledge, expertise and experiences among audience and presenters.


Acute kidney injury was suggested. Computerized tomography of the sagittal section of the body showed multiple osteosclerotic lesions in the vertebrae .Informed consent was obtained from the patient for the publication of this article.


Editorial on the Research TopicDevelopmental anomalies in the lung and their impact on later lifeLung development is a complex process that begins prenatally and continues until young adulthood. The normal course of lung development can be affected by various parameters such as prematurity, congenital disorders and environmental factors which may have a long lasting effect on lung structure and function. The aim of this research topic was to describe new approaches in the assessment of lung development after birth, considering morphological and functional aspects. It also aimed to highlight recent advances in the monitoring of lung development in health and disease during childhood, and describe consequences of developmental defects on lung function in later life.Dassios et al. measured the slopes of volumetric capnography and the ventilation to perfusion ratio in 25 extremely preterm infants to test the hypothesis that gas exchange in ventilated preterm infants occurs both at the level of the alveoli and via mixing of fresh dead space gas in the airways. They concluded that abnormal gas exchange was associated with lung disease at the alveolar level and found no evidence of gas exchange impairment originating at the level of the airways. The authors confirmed that targeted tidal volumes at values below the physiological dead space cannot be associated with efficient gas exchange .Premature infants are often ventilated in the early postnatal period and an effort is made to minimize iatrogenic lung injury by using appropriate lung volumes, which are adequate for gas exchange but do not excessively large that could cause overdistention and lung damage. Di Filippo et al. aimed to assess the effect of mechanical ventilation on lung function in a group of very preterm-born children studied at 11 years of age. The authors performed a comprehensive respiratory evaluation in 55 children which included spirometry, measurement of lung volumes, lung diffusion capacity and measurement of the fractional exhaled nitric oxide. They reported that there was no difference in any of these outcomes between ventilated and unventilated children. Their cohort included children with a mean gestational age of 30.6 weeks and a mean duration of invasive ventilation of one day, suggesting that such a brief course of invasive ventilation in this population of relatively mature preterms was not associated with a long-lasting impairment in lung function .While the immediate impact of mechanical ventilation on lung function is undoubtedly injurious, the long term effect of invasive support is also an area of growing research interest in the recent years. O’Dea et al. reviewed the literature on the long-term cardiopulmonary outcomes following preterm birth during the current surfactant era, and aimed to outline the current knowledge of cardiopulmonary exercise testing in the assessment of children born preterm. They described that preterm-born children have increased respiratory symptoms and disrupted lung development with significant structural and functional lung sequelae. The authors highlighted that expiratory flow limitation and an altered ventilatory response consisting of rapid, shallow breathing were observed during exercise. The association, however, between exercise capacity and the traditional resting respiratory assessments was not clear. Some constraints such as the heterogeneity of study participants, treatments and exercise protocols, precluded our understanding of exercise capacity limitations in children born preterm. The authors suggested that the role of exercise interventions in mitigating the risk of chronic lung disease should be a focus of future randomised controlled trials .Lung function testing, however, might fail to capture the fine granularity of the spectrum of lung disease following premature birth, which might become apparent only under conditions of increased cardio-respiratory demand such as during moderate to intense aerobic exercise. Miseviciene et al. described a novel case of a rare combination of unilateral pulmonary artery agenesis and Kommerell's diverticulum which puts affected individuals at a high risk for pulmonary hypertension and rupture of the diverticulum. The authors described how a one-year old girl presented with prolonged cough and wheezing and a hypoplastic left lung in a chest radiograph. She later underwent echocardiography and chest computed tomography which confirmed an absence of the left pulmonary artery and right arch of the aorta and an anomaly of the subclavian arteries. She was referred for ongoing monitoring for possible development of pulmonary hypertension and compression from the vascular structures to the airways which might require surgical intervention .Other than prematurity, congenital defects can also impact on lung development with long lasting effects. Castillo et al. performed a mini-review which aimed to highlight the lack of standardized diagnostic and treatment guidelines for the disease in Latin America and compared North American and European diagnosis and management recommendations. They highlighted that certain diagnostic tools and treatment options are not universally accessible in Latin America and identified fifteen articles that provided recommendations on respiratory management, a minority of whom originated from Latin America. The authors commented on the relative absence of documentation, research, and recommendations regarding the prevalence of the disease in Latin America, likely due to unfavorable economic conditions. They suggested that in developing countries, the PICADAR score, which is based on clinical characteristics, can serve as an alternative method to identify patients who require further testing and have a higher probability of a diagnosis of the disease .Primary ciliary dyskinesia might affect lung development with severe lifelong implications but the disease is closely monitored epidemiologically predominantly in North America and Europe. The incidence of the disease can thus be underestimated particularly in developing countries, due to a lack of awareness and diagnostic facilities. In conclusion, prematurity, congenital disease and socioeconomic disparities can affect the provision of care in developmental respiratory disease. These conditions could be focused for enhanced surveillance and tailored care to optimize long term respiratory outcomes in childhood and beyond.


Prescription Drugs Marketed in the United States Should Be Approved by the FDA. Two events in the drug regulatory approval process in recent years warrant the attention of managed care pharmacists and should prompt reassessment of assumptions regarding drugs marketed in the United States. The first event, involving levothyroxine, received considerable public attention from 1999 through 2002. The second event involves an appellate court decision in May 1999 regarding combination product esterified estrogen and methyltestosterone . The circumstances of these events are noteworthy, and the social and market effects of each are sizable.


Editorial on the Research TopicAdvanced research on abdominal and thoracic aortic aneurysms: new insights into molecular mechanismsAbdominal and Thoracic aortic aneurysmal diseases are devastating with a high risk of rupture that frequently leads to death. Regardless of significant improvements in the comprehension of aortic aneurysmal disease development, a number of questions need to be addressed to clarify the conflicts in the research findings. This special research topic in Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine includes two original research articles, one review article, and one mini-review article aimed to highlight the molecular mechanisms of aortic aneurysms.Ladd et al. revealed that the administration of spironolactone attenuated the release of extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) from endothelial cells to mitigate the activation of macrophages, and smooth muscle cell-mediated remodeling. Several epidemiological observations have highlighted the possible role of diabetes mellitus in protection against AAA incidence and prevalence (3). In a review article, Picatoste et al. reviewed and summarized the available literature on the relationship between diabetes mellitus and AAA incidence and discussed the potential molecular pathways involved (4). Bontekoe and Liu offered a substantial review and assessment of the current literature utilizing Singel Cell RNA sequencing for the AAA inspection and discussed the upcoming usefulness of this technology (5).Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) are permanent dilations of the abdominal aorta and the most common aortic aneurysms in humans . In thisDeng et al. established a novel model of proximal TAAs in mice by peri-adventitial elastase application in the proximal thoracic aorta via a midline incision in the anterior neck of the mice (6). The currently available elastase animal models of TAA are distal descending TAAs, limiting the knowledge of understanding proximal TAA pathologies. This new minimally invasive proximal TAA model avoids thoracotomy and tracheal intubation by elastase application in the peri-adventitia of the proximal thoracic aorta via a midline incision in the mouse on the anterior neck.Thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAA) are the second most common and life-threatening aortic disease. In an original article, We appreciate all the authors of this Special Issue for their contributions. We hope the four articles published in this Special Issue will assist researchers in improving our understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms of aortic aneurysms and developing therapeutic targets for aortic aneurysms.