bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Probabilistic Modeling for Cementitious Materials Based on Data of Nanoindentation
Authors: Liu Hankun , Ren Xiaodan , Li Jie , Luo Linglong , Li Hongbing
Published: February 2023

By introducing probabilistic modeling approaches, the interface transition zone (ITZ) and the bulk paste (BP) of concrete are investigated on the basis of the nanoindentation results, especially with respect to the relationship between the microstructure and mechanical properties of cementitious materials. The investigation of the probability density function (PDF) of the random field for nanoindentation properties revealed that the same properties of the ITZ and the BP usually yield the same PDF, which was elaborated from different points of view. Specifically, a log-normal distribution was best for nanoindentation hardness, whereas the Weibull distribution and gamma distribution were much more suitable for the nanoindentation modulus of both the ITZ and the BP. According to the comparative study of the correlation structure, both the ITZ and BP obeyed the exponential correlation structure associated with a first-order autoregressive process, and basically exhibited a similar scale of fluctuation. Furthermore, the scales of fluctuation were found to be directly related to the clinker size and the distance between clinkers. Our work provides a new approach to stochastically modeling cementitious materials, where the content of hydration products controls the mean values of nano-properties, the indentation property dominates the PDF, and the nano-topological structure governs the correlation structure.
Opportunity and Survival in the Urban Informal Food Sector of Namibia
Authors: Crush Jonathan S. , Kazembe Lawrence , Nickanor Ndeyapo
Published: February 2023

Literature on participation in the informal food sector in cities of the Global South is conventionally characterized by a survivalist or opportunistic perspective. The main difference is that opportunists, in contrast to survivalists, are motivated by entrepreneurial choice rather than necessity and see opportunities for economic and social advancement in the sector. Recent studies in Brazil and India conclude that research on informal sector participation requires a “both/and” rather than “either/or” approach. The main problem this paper addresses is whether the “both/and” model is also applicable in the African context. This is the first study to investigate the issue in the informal food sector of an African city; in this case, the capital city of Namibia, Windhoek. The paper evaluates five potential ways of distinguishing between survivalist and opportunistic food vendors and concludes that entrepreneurial motivation (EM) provides the most useful set of metrics. Selected EM responses are then used to construct four regression models—two survivalist and two opportunistic—in order to determine which individual and business characteristics are most strongly and consistently associated with survivalism and opportunism. Few vendors are both survivalist and opportunistic in orientation. There is a possibility of survivalists becoming more opportunistic over time but the models do not confirm this hypothesis. Apart from differences in EM, there are many similarities between the two groups and both would therefore benefit from a more enabling policy environment. The primary distinguishing business characteristic is the enterprise type with street food vendors most likely to be opportunistic. Ironically, it is street vendors who are seen as unsightly, unhealthy, and uncontrollable, and face the most difficult operating environment.
Traffic-Related Air Pollution and Breast Cancer Risk: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies
Authors: Praud Delphine , Deygas Floriane , Amadou Amina , Bouilly Maryline , Turati Federica , Bravi Francesca , Xu Tingting , Grassot Lény , Coudon Thomas , Fervers Béatrice
Published: February 2023

Current evidence of an association of breast cancer (BC) risk with air pollution exposure, in particular from traffic exhaust, remains inconclusive, and the exposure assessment methodologies are heterogeneous. This study aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis on the association between traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) and BC incidence (PROSPERO CRD42021286774). We systematically reviewed observational studies assessing exposure to TRAP and BC risk published until June 2022, available on Medline/PubMed and Web of Science databases. Studies using models for assessing exposure to traffic-related air pollutants or using exposure proxies (including traffic density, distance to road, etc.) were eligible for inclusion. A random-effects meta-analysis of studies investigating the association between NO2/NOx exposure and BC risk was conducted. Overall, 21 studies meeting the inclusion criteria were included (seven case–control, one nested case–control, 13 cohort studies); 13 studies (five case–control, eight cohort) provided data for inclusion in the meta-analyses. Individual studies provided little evidence of an association between TRAP and BC risk; exposure assessment methods and time periods of traffic emissions were different. The meta-estimate on NO2 exposure indicated a positive association (pooled relative risk per 10 µg/m3 of NO2: 1.015; 95% confidence interval, CI: 1.003; 1.028). No association between NOx exposure and BC was found (three studies). Although there was limited evidence of an association for TRAP estimated with proxies, the meta-analysis showed a significant association between NO2 exposure, a common TRAP pollutant marker, and BC risk, yet with a small effect size. Our findings provide additional support for air pollution carcinogenicity.
Add-On Effect of Hemagglutinating Virus of Japan Envelope Combined with Chemotherapy or Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor against Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma: An In Vivo Study
Authors: Sakura Kazuma , Sasai Masao , Funaki Soichiro , Shintani Yasushi , Okumura Meinoshin , Kaneda Yasufumi
Published: February 2023

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a refractory tumor because most of the lesions are already disseminated at diagnosis. Previously, the main treatment for MPM was combination chemotherapy. However, recently, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are also used. For better efficacy of MPM treatment, we focused on hemagglutinating virus of Japan envelope (HVJ-E), which activates antitumor immunity and induces tumor-specific cell death. In this paper, we aimed to determine whether HVJ-E as a single agent therapy or in combination with chemotherapy or ICIs is effective in MPM bearing mouse. We confirmed its antitumor efficacy in MPM-bearing mouse. HVJ-E significantly prolonged the survival of human MPM-bearing mouse compared to that of control mouse and when combined with CDDP. This efficacy was lost in NOD-SCID mouse, suggesting that activation of innate immunity by HVJ-E was related to the survival rate. HVJ-E also showed antitumor efficacy in murine MPM-bearing mouse. The combination of chemotherapy and HVJ-E caused a significant increase in cytotoxic T cells (CTLs) compared to chemotherapy alone, suggesting that not only innate immunity activated by HVJ-E but also the increase in CTLs contributed to improved survival. The combination of anti-PD-1 antibody and HVJ-E significantly prolonged the survival rate of murine MPM-bearing mouse. Further, HVJ-E might have exhibited antitumor effects by maintaining immunogenicity against tumors. We believe that HVJ-E may be a beneficial therapy to improve MPM treatment in the future.
Impact of Aggregation Methods for Texture Features on Their Robustness Performance: Application to Nasopharyngeal 18F-FDG PET/CT
Authors: Peng Lihong , Xu Hui , Lv Wenbing , Lu Lijun , Chen Wufan
Published: February 2023

Purpose: This study aims to investigate the impact of aggregation methods used for the generation of texture features on their robustness of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) based on 18F-FDG PET/CT images. Methods: 128 NPC patients were enrolled and 95 texture features were extracted for each patient including six feature families under different aggregation methods. For GLCM and GLRLM features, six aggregation methods were considered. For GLSZM, GLDZM, NGTDM and NGLDM features, three aggregation methods were considered. The robustness of the features affected by aggregation methods was assessed by the pair-wise intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC). Furthermore, the effects of discretization and partial volume correction (PVC) on the percent of ICC categories of all texture features were evaluated by overall ICC instead of the pair-wise ICC. Results: There were 12 features with excellent pair-wise ICCs varying aggregation methods, namely joint average, sum average, autocorrelation, long run emphasis, high grey level run emphasis, short run high grey level emphasis, long run high grey level emphasis, run length variance, SZM high grey level emphasis, DZM high grey level emphasis, high grey level count emphasis and dependence count percentage. For GLCM and GLRLM features, 19/25 and 14/16 features showed excellent pair-wise ICCs varying aggregation methods (averaged and merged) on the same dimensional features (2D, 2.5D or 3D). Different discretization levels and partial volume corrections lead to consistent robustness of textural features affected by aggregation methods. Conclusion: Different dimensional features with the same aggregation methods showed worse robustness compared with the same dimensional features with different aggregation methods. Different discretization levels and PVC algorithms had a negligible effect on the percent of ICC categories of all texture features.
Helper Innate Lymphoid Cells—Unappreciated Players in Melanoma Therapy
Authors: Garofalo Cinzia , Cerantonio Annamaria , Muscoli Carolina , Mollace Vincenzo , Viglietto Giuseppe , De Marco Carmela , Cristiani Costanza Maria
Published: February 2023

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and targeted therapy have dramatically changed the outcome of metastatic melanoma patients. Although immune checkpoints were developed based on the biology of adaptive T cells, they have subsequently been shown to be expressed by other subsets of immune cells. Similarly, the immunomodulatory properties of targeted therapy have been studied primarily with respect to T lymphocytes, but other subsets of immune cells could be affected. Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are considered the innate counterpart of T lymphocytes and include cytotoxic natural killer cells, as well as three helper subsets, ILC1, ILC2 and ILC3. Thanks to their tissue distribution and their ability to respond rapidly to environmental stimuli, ILCs play a central role in shaping immunity. While the role of NK cells in melanoma physiopathology and therapy is well established, little is known about the other helper ILC subsets. In this review, we summarize recent findings on the ability of the melanoma TME to influence the phenotype and functional plasticity of helper ILCs and highlight how this subset may in turn shape the TME. We also discuss changes in the melanoma TME induced by targeted therapy that could affect helper ILC functions, the expression of immune checkpoints on this subset and how their inhibition by ICIs may modulate helper ILC function and contribute to therapeutic efficacy.
A New Treatment Landscape for RCC: Association of the Human Microbiome with Improved Outcomes in RCC
Authors: Piao Xuan-Mei , Byun Young Joon , Zheng Chuang-Ming , Song Sun Jin , Kang Ho Won , Kim Won Tae , Yun Seok Joong
Published: February 2023

Microbes play different roles in metabolism, local or systemic inflammation, and immunity, and the human microbiome in tumor microenvironment (TME) is important for modulating the response to immunotherapy in cancer patients. Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is an immunogenic tumor, and immunotherapy is the backbone of its treatment. Correlations between the microbiome and responsiveness to immune checkpoint inhibitors have been reported. This review summarizes the recent therapeutic strategies for RCC and the effects of TME on the systemic therapy of RCC. The current understanding and advances in microbiome research and the relationship between the microbiome and the response to immunotherapy for RCC are also discussed. Improving our understanding of the role of the microbiome in RCC treatment will facilitate the development of microbiome targeting therapies to modify the tumor microbiome and improve treatment outcomes.
Correction: Pakuła et al. Deciphering the Molecular Mechanism of Spontaneous Senescence in Primary Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Cells. Cancers 2020, 12, 296
Authors: Pakuła Martyna , Mały Ewa , Uruski Paweł , Witucka Anna , Bogucka Małgorzata , Jaroszewska Natalia , Makowska Nicoletta , Niklas Arkadiusz , Moszyński Rafał , Sajdak Stefan , Tykarski Andrzej , Mikuła-Pietrasik Justyna , Książek Krzysztof
Published: February 2023

In the original publication [...]
Circulating Tumor Cells: From the Laboratory to the Cancer Clinic; A Closing Comment
Authors: Sawabata Noyiyoshi
Published: February 2023

Cancer recurrence not only shortens the life span of cancer patients, but also leads to a decrease in QOL, so it needs to be controlled [...]
Forecasting Molecular Features in IDH-Wildtype Gliomas: The State of the Art of Radiomics Applied to Neurosurgery
Authors: Gerardi Rosa Maria , Cannella Roberto , Bonosi Lapo , Vernuccio Federica , Ferini Gianluca , Viola Anna , Zagardo Valentina , Buscemi Felice , Costanzo Roberta , Porzio Massimiliano , Giovannini Evier Andrea , Paolini Federica , Brunasso Lara , Giammalva Giuseppe Roberto , Umana Giuseppe Emmanuele , Scarpitta Antonino , Iacopino Domenico Gerardo , Maugeri Rosario
Published: February 2023

Background: The fifth edition of the WHO Classification of Tumors of the Central Nervous System (CNS), published in 2021, marks a step forward the future diagnostic approach to these neoplasms. Alongside this, radiomics has experienced rapid evolution over the last several years, allowing us to correlate tumor imaging heterogeneity with a wide range of tumor molecular and subcellular features. Radiomics is a translational field focused on decoding conventional imaging data to extrapolate the molecular and prognostic features of tumors such as gliomas. We herein analyze the state-of-the-art of radiomics applied to glioblastoma, with the goal to estimate its current clinical impact and potential perspectives in relation to well-rounded patient management, including the end-of-life stage. Methods: A literature review was performed on the PubMed, MEDLINE and Scopus databases using the following search items: “radiomics and glioma”, “radiomics and glioblastoma”, “radiomics and glioma and IDH”, “radiomics and glioma and TERT promoter”, “radiomics and glioma and EGFR”, “radiomics and glioma and chromosome”. Results: A total of 719 articles were screened. Further quantitative and qualitative analysis allowed us to finally include 11 papers. This analysis shows that radiomics is rapidly evolving towards a reliable tool. Conclusions: Further studies are necessary to adjust radiomics’ potential to the newest molecular requirements pointed out by the 2021 WHO classification of CNS tumors. At a glance, its application in the clinical routine could be beneficial to achieve a timely diagnosis, especially for those patients not eligible for surgery and/or adjuvant therapies but still deserving palliative and supportive care.
Novel Candidate loci and Pathogenic Germline Variants Involved in Familial Hematological Malignancies Revealed by Whole-Exome Sequencing
Authors: Andrés-Zayas Cristina , Suárez-González Julia , Chicano-Lavilla María , Bastos Oreiro Mariana , Rodríguez-Macías Gabriela , Font López Patricia , Osorio Prendes Santiago , Oarbeascoa Royuela Gillen , García Ramírez Patricia , Nieves Salgado Rocío , Gómez-Centurión Ignacio , Carbonell Muñoz Diego , Muñiz Paula , Kwon Mi , Díez-Martín José Luis , Buño Ismael , Martínez-Laperche Carolina
Published: February 2023

The familial occurrence of hematological malignancies has been underappreciated. Recent studies suggest that up to 15% of adults with myeloid neoplasms carry germline pathogenic variants in cancer-predisposing genes. This study aimed to identify the underlying germline predisposition variant in patients with a strong family or personal onco-hematological history using whole exome sequencing on sixteen uncharacterized individuals. It was carried out in two groups of patients, one with samples available from two affected relatives (Cohort A) and one with available samples from the index case (Cohort B). In Cohort A, six families were characterized. Two families shared variants in genes associated with DNA damage response and involved in cancer development (CHEK2 and RAD54L). Pathogenic or likely pathogenic germline variants were also found in novel candidate genes (NFATC2 and TC2N). In two families, any relevant pathogenic or likely pathogenic genomic variants were identified. In Cohort B, four additional index cases were analyzed. Three of them harbor clinically relevant variants in genes with a probable role in the development of inherited forms of hematological malignancies (GATA1, MSH4 and PRF1). Overall, whole exome sequencing is a useful approach to achieve a further characterization of these patients and their mutational spectra. Moreover, further investigations may help improve optimization for disease management of affected patients and their families.
Genomic Prostate Score: A New Tool to Assess Prognosis and Optimize Radiation Therapy Volumes and ADT in Intermediate-Risk Prostate Cancer
Authors: Belkacemi Yazid , Debbi Kamel , Coraggio Gabriele , Bendavid Jérome , Nourieh Maya , To Nhu Hanh , Cherif Mohamed Aziz , Saldana Carolina , Ingels Alexandre , De La Taille Alexandre , Loganadane Gokoulakrichenane
Published: February 2023

Genomic classifiers such as the Genomic Prostate Score (GPS) could help to personalize treatment for men with intermediate-risk prostate cancer (I-PCa). In this study, we aimed to evaluate the ability of the GPS to change therapeutic decision making in I-PCa. Only patients in the intermediate NCCN risk group with Gleason score 3 + 4 were considered. The primary objective was to assess the impact of the GPS on risk stratification: NCCN clinical and genomic risk versus NCCN clinical risk stratification alone. We also analyzed the predictive role of the GPS for locally advanced disease (≥pT3+) and the potential change in treatment strategy. Thirty patients were tested for their GPS between November 2018 and March 2020, with the median age being 70 (45–79). Twenty-three patients had a clinical T1 stage. Eighteen patients were classified as favorable intermediate risk (FIR) based on the NCCN criteria. The median GPS score was 39 (17–70). Among the 23 patients who underwent a radical prostatectomy, Gleason score 3 + 4 was found in 18 patients. There was a significant correlation between the GPS and the percentage of a Gleason grade 4 or higher pattern in the surgical sample: correlation coefficient r = 0.56; 95% CI = 0.2–0.8; p = 0.005. In this study, the GPS combined with NCCN clinical risk factors resulted in significant changes in risk group.
Is There a Role of Warburg Effect in Prostate Cancer Aggressiveness? Analysis of Expression of Enzymes of Lipidic Metabolism by Immunohistochemistry in Prostate Cancer Patients (DIAMOND Study)
Authors: Russo Giorgio Ivan , Asmundo Maria Giovanna , Lo Giudice Arturo , Trefiletti Giuseppe , Cimino Sebastiano , Ferro Matteo , Lombardo Riccardo , De Nunzio Cosimo , Morgia Giuseppe , Piombino Eliana , Failla Maria , Caltabiano Rosario , Broggi Giuseppe
Published: February 2023

Prostate Cancer (PCa) is still ranked as the first cancer in the male population and evidences have suggested an alteration of glycemic and lipidic metabolism that are related to its progression and prognosis. The aim of the study is to investigate associations between enzymes’ expression, especially involved in the lipidic pathway, and PCa aggressiveness. We retrospectively analyzed data from 390 patients with PCa or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) at the Department of Urology, University of Catania. Immunohistochemical slides were evaluated for the expression of proteins related to glucose and lipidic metabolism. A total of 286 were affected by PCa while 104 by BPH. We demonstrated that ATP-lyase (odds ratio [OR]: 1.71; p < 0.01), fatty acid synthase (OR: 4.82; p < 0.01), carnitine palmitoyl transferase-1a (OR: 2.27; p < 0.05) were associated with androgen receptor (AR) expression. We found that steaoryl Co-A desaturase expression in PCa patients with total cholesterol ≥ 200 mg/dL was independently associated with ISUP ≥4 (OR: 4.22; p = 0.049). We found that CPT-1a+ was associated with biochemical recurrence (hazard ratio: 1.94; p = 0.03]). Our results support the evidence that the manipulation of lipidic metabolism could serve in the future to contrast PCa progression.
The Preparation of Photocatalytic Porous Magnesium Oxychloride Cement-Based Materials and Its De-NOx Performance
Authors: Zhu Lide , Yuan Liran , Xu Xingang , Chen Jing , Yang Lu
Published: February 2023

Porous magnesium oxychloride cement (PMOC) has a high specific surface area formed by interlocking whiskers, which can be used as a promising photocatalyst substrate for the photocatalytic removal of atmospheric pollutants. In this paper, magnesium oxychloride cement (MOC) was used as matrix and TiO2 as catalyst to prepare MOC blocks. Plant-based protein was used as a foaming agent to form the layered porous structure suitable for supporting TiO2 particles, which effectively increased the surface area of light radiation and TiO2 adhesion area in photocatalytic porous magnesium oxychloride cement (PPMOC). It was found that the addition of the foaming agent can increase the adsorption capacity of MOC to TiO2. The vacuum-immersion loading method can effectively support TiO2 on the surface of PMOC. The photocatalytic performance of PPMOC can be improved by multiple loading, while higher porosity of PMOC would reduce the loading surface of matrix to TiO2 particles, which might decrease the photocatalytic efficiency. As can be observed in PPMOC specimens, when the porosity of PPMOC is less than 60%, increasing the porosity can improve the photocatalytic efficiency, while when the porosity is higher than 60%, increasing the porosity decreased the photocatalytic efficiency due to the reduction of the loading surface. The excellent nitrate selectivity of PPMOC also shows good application potential in the field of catalytic degradation of nitrogen oxides.
Efficient Bias-Free Degradation of Sulfamethazine by TiO2 Nanoneedle Arrays Photoanode and Co3O4 Photocathode System under LED-Light Irradiation
Authors: Hu Zhongzheng , Liang Ruiheng , Song Xiangru , Wu Huizhong , Sun Jiangli , Liu Jingyang , Zhou Minghua , Arotiba Omotayo A.
Published: February 2023

Solving high electrical-energy input for pollutants degradation is one of the core requirements for the practical application of photoelectrocatalytic (PEC) technology. Herein, we developed a self-driven dual-photoelectrode PEC system (TiO2 NNs-Co3O4) composed of a TiO2 nanoneedle arrays (TiO2 NNs) photoanode and Co3O4 photocathode for the first time. Under light-emitting-diode (LED) illumination, the bias-free TiO2 NNs-Co3O4 PEC system exhibited excellent PEC performance, with an internal bias as high as 0.19 V, achieving near complete degradation (99.62%) of sulfamethazine (SMT) with a pseudo-first-order rate constant of 0.042 min−1. The influences of solution pH, typical inorganic anions, natural organic matter, and initial SMT concentration on the PEC performance were investigated. Moreover, the main reactive oxygen species (h+, •OH, •O2−) in the dual-photoelectrode PEC system for SMT decomposition were elaborated. The practical application feasibility for efficient water purification of this unbiased PEC system was evaluated. It was proved that the TiO2 NNs photoanode provided a negative bias while the Co3O4 photocathode provided a positive bias for the photoanode, which made this system operate without external bias. This work elucidated the cooperative mechanism of photoelectrodes, providing guidance to develop a sustainable, efficient, and energy-saving PEC system for wastewater treatment.
Peroxymonosulfate Activation by CuO-Fe2O3-Modified Ni Foam: A 1O2 Dominated Process for Efficient and Stable Degradation of Tetracycline
Authors: Ren Xueqing , Xu Peng , Tian Ke , Cao Menghan , Shi Fengyin , Zhang Guangshan
Published: February 2023

The post-separation of powder catalysts restricts the practical application of peroxymonosulfate (PMS)-based advanced oxidation technology. Hence, we fabricated CuO-Fe2O3-modified Ni foam (CFO-NF) using a facile hydrothermal method for an efficient PMS activation. The CFO-NF/PMS system could achieve a 97.9% tetracycline hydrochloride (TC) removal efficiency in 60 min with four pieces of CFO-NF and 0.4 mmol L−1 of PMS. The removal efficiency was maintained at ˃85% even after five cycles, indicating the excellent stability of CFO-NF composites. The conversion among Fe(III)/Fe(II), Cu(II)/Cu(I), and Ni(III)/Ni(II) accelerated the PMS decomposition, verifying the synergy between CuO-Fe2O3 and Ni foam. The trapping experiments and EPR detection confirmed that abundant active species (•OH, SO4•−, O2•−, and 1O2) were produced in the CFO-NF/PMS system, accounting for the existence of radical pathways and a non-radical pathway, in which 1O2 (non-radical pathway) was dominated. This study developed a novel CuO-Fe2O3-modified Ni foam with a superior PMS activation performance, a high stability, and a recoverability for eliminating refractory organic pollutants.
Carbon-Conjugated Co Complexes as Model Electrocatalysts for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Sun Qidi , Wang Qing , Li Fuzhi , Liu Yizhe , Li Xintong , Zhu Zonglong , Chen Jianlin , Peng Yung-Kang , Gu Jun
Published: February 2023

Single-atom catalysts are a family of heterogeneous electrocatalysts widely used in energy storage and conversion. The determination of the local structure of the active metal sites is challenging, which limits the establishment of the reliable structure-property relationship of single-atom catalysts. A carbon black-conjugated complex can be used as the model catalyst to probe the intrinsic activity of metal sites with certain local structures. In this work, we prepared carbon black-conjugated [Co(phenanthroline)Cl2], [Co(o-phenylenediamine)Cl2] and [Co(salophen)]. In these catalysts, the Co complexes with well-defined structures are anchored on the edge of carbon black by pyrazine moieties. The number of electrochemical accessible Co sites can be measured from the area of the redox peaks of pyrazine linkers in the cyclic voltammetry curve. Then, the intrinsic electrocatalytic activity of one Co site can be obtained. The catalytic performances of the three catalysts towards oxygen reduction reaction in alkaline conditions were measured. Carbon black-conjugated [Co(salophen)] showed the highest intrinsic activity with the turnover frequency of 0.72 s−1 at 0.75 V vs. the reversible hydrogen electrode. The strategy developed in this work can be used to explore and verify the possible local structure of active sites proposed for single-atom catalysts.
Unsupported Copper Nanoparticles in the Arylation of Amines
Authors: Fomenko Varvara I. , Murashkina Arina V. , Averin Alexei D. , Shesterkina Anastasiya A. , Beletskaya Irina P.
Published: February 2023

Commercially available copper and copper (II) oxide nanoparticles (CuNPs and CuO NPs) were characterized using TEM and electronography methods to elucidate their true average size and composition. The catalytic amine arylation using unsupported copper nanoparticles differing in their size and copper oxidation state was investigated. The reaction of the model iodobenzene with n-octylamine was shown to be successfully catalyzed by CuNPs of average size 25 and 10/80 nm in the presence of the ligands such as 2-isobutyrylcyclohexanone (L1) and rac-1,1′-bi-2-naphthol (BINOL, L2), giving high yields (up to 95%) of the target N-octylaniline. CuO in bulk and nano forms was shown to be almost equally efficient in this process. Studies on the Cu-catalyzed amination of substituted iodobenzenes and 2-iodopyridine, as well as the arylation of different aliphatic amines and NH-heterocycles, verified that CuNPs (25 or 10/80 nm) with L1 and L2 are the most versatile and efficient nanocatalysts for a variety of substrates. Investigation of copper leaching under different conditions was carried out.
Ultrasonic Preparation of PN for the Photodegradation of 17β-Estradiol in Water and Biotoxicity Assessment of 17β-Estradiol after Degradation
Authors: Meng Kun , Zhou Kefu , Chang Chang-Tang
Published: February 2023

This study prepares a novel phosphorene (PN) and loads it onto TiO2 to fabricate PN-TiO2 and effectively photodegrade the hydrophobic environmental hormone 17β-estradiol in aqueous solutions. The effect of the PN on degradation efficiency is systematically investigated. It is observed that the doping of TiO2 with PN significantly enhances its photocatalytic and adsorption properties compared with that in the absence of PN; that is, the addition improves the adsorption capability of the composite. The optimal PN weight content is found to be 0.5%. The performance of the PN-TiO2 photocatalyst in degrading E2 is around 67.5%. However, its photodegradation efficiency gradually decreases when the PN content is further increased. This optimal PN content directly suggests synergistic interactions affecting the photodegrading efficiency. Compared with other PN-based photocatalysts mentioned in the literature, this PN-based material possesses striking advantages, such as higher energy efficiency, greater removal capacity, and superior cost-effectiveness. Further, the decrease in the biotoxicity of the water after treatment is evident in observing the development of zebrafish embryos. The studies of the catalyst performed on the zebrafish show that it results in a higher mortality rate at 96 h with a superior hatching rate and healthy fish development. In summary, the prepared PN-based materials exhibited promising photocatalytic capabilities for the removal and biotoxicity reduction of 17β-estradiol in aqueous solutions.
The Prognostic Long-Term Impact of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Postoperative Mucostasis in Patients with Curatively Resected Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Lindenmann Joerg , Fediuk Melanie , Fink-Neuboeck Nicole , Mykoliuk Iurii , Taucher Elisabeth , Pichler Martin , Smolle Josef , Smolle-Juettner Freyja Maria
Published: February 2023

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) serves as risk factor for the development of lung cancer and seems to have a prognostic impact after surgery for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The aim was to investigate the impact of COPD and postoperative mucostasis on the long-term survival after resected NSCLC. We retrospectively reviewed the data from 342 patients with curatively resected NSCLC. The prognostic long-term impact of COPD and postoperative mucostasis on overall survival (OS), recurrence free survival (RFS) and cancer specific survival (CSS) was calculated using univariable and multivariable Cox regression analyses. We found that 52.3% suffered from COPD and 25.4% had postoperative mucostasis. COPD was significantly more common among smokers (59.9%) compared with non-smokers (21.3%), (p < 0.001). There was a significant relationship between COPD and postoperative mucostasis (p = 0.006) and between smoking and mucostasis (p = 0.023). Patients with postoperative mucostasis had a significantly worse OS (p < 0.001), RFS (p = 0.009) and CSS (p = 0.008). The present analysis demonstrated that postoperative mucostasis, but not COPD, was associated with both worse short- and long-term outcomes for OS, RFS and CSS in curatively resected NSCLC.
Continuous In Vitro Culture of Babesia duncani in a Serum-Free Medium
Authors: Jiang Weijun , Wang Sen , Li Dongfang , Zhang Yajun , Luo Wanxin , Zhao Junlong , He Lan
Published: February 2023

Human babesiosis is an emerging tick-borne disease, caused by haemoprotozoa genus of Babesia. Cases of transfusion-transmitted and naturally acquired Babesia infection have been reported worldwide in recent years and causing a serious public health problem. Babesia duncani is one of the important pathogens of human babesiosis, which seriously endangers human health. The in vitro culture systems of B. duncani have been previously established, and it requires fetal bovine serum (FBS) to support long-term proliferation. However, there are no studies on serum-free in vitro culture of B. duncani. In this study, we reported that B. duncani achieved long-term serum-free culture in VP-SFM AGTTM (VP-SFM) supplemented with AlbuMaxTM I. The effect of adding different dilutions of AlbuMaxTM I to VP-SFM showed that 2 mg/mL AlbuMaxTM I had the best B. duncani growth curve with a maximum percentage of parasitized erythrocytes (PPE) of over 40%, and it can be used for long-term in vitro culture of B. duncani. However, the commonly used 20% serum-supplemented medium only achieves 20% PPE. Clearly, VP-SFM with 2 mg/mL AlbuMaxTM I (VP-SFMA) is more suitable for the in vitro proliferation of B. duncani. VP-SFM supplemented with CD lipid mixture was also tested, and the results showed it could support the parasite growth at 1:100 dilution with the highest PPE of 40%, which is similar to that of 2 mg/mL AlbuMaxTM I. However, the CD lipid mixture was only able to support the in vitro culture of B. duncani for 8 generations, while VP-SFMA could be used for long-term culture. To test the pathogenicity, the VP-SFMA cultured B. duncani was also subjected to hamster infection. Results showed that the hamster developed dyspnea and chills on day 7 with 30% PPE before treatment, which is similar to the symptoms with un-cultured B. duncani. This study develops a unique and reliable basis for further understanding of the physiological mechanisms, growth characteristics, and pathogenesis of babesiosis, and provides good laboratory material for the development of drugs or vaccines for human babesiosis and possibly other parasitic diseases.
IQGAP1 Is a Phosphotyrosine-Regulated Scaffold for SH2-Containing Proteins
Authors: Thines Louise , Li Zhigang , Sacks David B.
Published: February 2023

The scaffold protein IQGAP1 associates with over 150 interactors to influence multiple biological processes. The molecular mechanisms that underly spatial and temporal regulation of these interactions, which are crucial for proper cell functions, remain poorly understood. The receptor tyrosine kinase MET phosphorylates IQGAP1 on Tyr1510. Separately, Src homology 2 (SH2) domains mediate protein–protein interactions by binding specific phosphotyrosine residues. Here, we investigate whether MET-catalyzed phosphorylation of Tyr1510 of IQGAP1 regulates the docking of SH2-containing proteins. Using a peptide array, we identified SH2 domains from several proteins, including the non-receptor tyrosine kinases Abl1 and Abl2, that bind to the Tyr1510 of IQGAP1 in a phosphorylation-dependent manner. Using pure proteins, we validated that full-length Abl1 and Abl2 bind directly to phosphorylated Tyr1510 of IQGAP1. In cells, MET inhibition decreases endogenous IQGAP1 phosphorylation and interaction with endogenous Abl1 and Abl2, indicating that binding is regulated by MET-catalyzed phosphorylation of IQGAP1. Functionally, IQGAP1 modulates basal and HGF-stimulated Abl signaling. Moreover, IQGAP1 binds directly to MET, inhibiting its activation and signaling. Collectively, our study demonstrates that IQGAP1 is a phosphotyrosine-regulated scaffold for SH2-containing proteins, thereby uncovering a previously unidentified mechanism by which IQGAP1 coordinates intracellular signaling.
Red CdSe/ZnS QDs’ Intracellular Trafficking and Its Impact on Yeast Polarization and Actin Filament
Authors: Le Nhi , Routh Jonathan , Kirk Cameron , Wu Qihua , Patel Rishi , Keyes Chloe , Kim Kyoungtae
Published: February 2023

Quantum dots are nanoparticles (2–10 nm) that emit strong and tunable fluorescence. Quantum dots have been heavily used in high-demand commercialized products, research, and for medical purposes. Emerging concerns have demonstrated the negative impact of quantum dots on living cells; however, the intracellular trafficking of QDs in yeast cells and the effect of this interaction remains unclear. The primary goal of our research is to investigate the trafficking path of red cadmium selenide zinc sulfide quantum dots (CdSe/ZnS QDs) in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and the impact QDs have on yeast cellular dynamics. Using cells with GFP-tagged reference organelle markers and confocal microscopy, we were able to track the internalization of QDs. We found that QDs initially aggregate at the exterior of yeast cells, enter the cell using clathrin-receptor-mediated endocytosis, and distribute at the late Golgi/trans-Golgi network. We also found that the treatment of red CdSe/ZnS QDs resulted in growth rate reduction and loss of polarized growth in yeast cells. Our RNA sequence analysis revealed many altered genes. Particularly, we found an upregulation of DID2, which has previously been associated with cell cycle arrest when overexpressed, and a downregulation of APS2, a gene that codes for a subunit of AP2 protein important for the recruitment of proteins to clathrin-mediated endocytosis vesicle. Furthermore, CdSe/ZnS QDs treatment resulted in a slightly delayed endocytosis and altered the actin dynamics in yeast cells. We found that QDs caused an increased level of F-actin and a significant reduction in profilin protein expression. In addition, there was a significant elevation in the amount of coronin protein expressed, while the level of cofilin was unchanged. Altogether, this suggests that QDs favor the assembly of actin filaments. Overall, this study provides a novel toxicity mechanism of red CdSe/ZnS QDs on yeast actin dynamics and cellular processes, including endocytosis.
Metabolic Hijacking of Hexose Metabolism to Ascorbate Synthesis Is the Unifying Biochemical Basis of Murine Liver Fibrosis
Authors: Beyoğlu Diren , Huang Pinzhu , Skelton-Badlani Disha , Zong Christine , Popov Yury V. , Idle Jeffrey R.
Published: February 2023

We wished to understand the metabolic reprogramming underlying liver fibrosis progression in mice. Administration to male C57BL/6J mice of the hepatotoxins carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), thioacetamide (TAA), or a 60% high-fat diet, choline-deficient, amino-acid-defined diet (HF-CDAA) was conducted using standard protocols. Livers collected at different times were analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry-based metabolomics. RNA was extracted from liver and assayed by qRT-PCR for mRNA expression of 11 genes potentially involved in the synthesis of ascorbic acid from hexoses, Gck, Adpgk, Hk1, Hk2, Ugp2, Ugdh, Ugt1a1, Akr1a4, Akr1b3, Rgn and Gulo. All hepatotoxins resulted in similar metabolic changes during active fibrogenesis, despite different etiology and resultant scarring pattern. Diminished hepatic glucose, galactose, fructose, pentose phosphate pathway intermediates, glucuronic acid and long-chain fatty acids were compensated by elevated ascorbate and the product of collagen prolyl 4-hydroxylase, succinate and its downstream metabolites fumarate and malate. Recovery from the HF-CDAA diet challenge (F2 stage fibrosis) after switching to normal chow was accompanied by increased glucose, galactose, fructose, ribulose 5-phosphate, glucuronic acid, the ascorbate metabolite threonate and diminished ascorbate. During the administration of CCl4, TAA and HF-CDAA, aldose reductase Akr1b3 transcription was induced six- to eightfold, indicating increased conversion of glucuronic acid to gulonic acid, a precursor of ascorbate synthesis. Triggering hepatic fibrosis by three independent mechanisms led to the hijacking of glucose and galactose metabolism towards ascorbate synthesis, to satisfy the increased demand for ascorbate as a cofactor for prolyl 4-hydroxylase for mature collagen production. This metabolic reprogramming and causal gene expression changes were reversible. The increased flux in this pathway was mediated predominantly by increased transcription of aldose reductase Akr1b3.
Effect of the Ketone Body, D-β-Hydroxybutyrate, on Sirtuin2-Mediated Regulation of Mitochondrial Quality Control and the Autophagy–Lysosomal Pathway
Authors: Gómora-García Juan Carlos , Montiel Teresa , Hüttenrauch Melanie , Salcido-Gómez Ashley , García-Velázquez Lizbeth , Ramiro-Cortés Yazmin , Gomora Juan Carlos , Castro-Obregón Susana , Massieu Lourdes
Published: February 2023

Mitochondrial activity and quality control are essential for neuronal homeostasis as neurons rely on glucose oxidative metabolism. The ketone body, D-β-hydroxybutyrate (D-BHB), is metabolized to acetyl-CoA in brain mitochondria and used as an energy fuel alternative to glucose. We have previously reported that D-BHB sustains ATP production and stimulates the autophagic flux under glucose deprivation in neurons; however, the effects of D-BHB on mitochondrial turnover under physiological conditions are still unknown. Sirtuins (SIRTs) are NAD+-activated protein deacetylases involved in the regulation of mitochondrial biogenesis and mitophagy through the activation of transcription factors FOXO1, FOXO3a, TFEB and PGC1α coactivator. Here, we aimed to investigate the effect of D-BHB on mitochondrial turnover in cultured neurons and the mechanisms involved. Results show that D-BHB increased mitochondrial membrane potential and regulated the NAD+/NADH ratio. D-BHB enhanced FOXO1, FOXO3a and PGC1α nuclear levels in an SIRT2-dependent manner and stimulated autophagy, mitophagy and mitochondrial biogenesis. These effects increased neuronal resistance to energy stress. D-BHB also stimulated the autophagic–lysosomal pathway through AMPK activation and TFEB-mediated lysosomal biogenesis. Upregulation of SIRT2, FOXOs, PGC1α and TFEB was confirmed in the brain of ketogenic diet (KD)-treated mice. Altogether, the results identify SIRT2, for the first time, as a target of D-BHB in neurons, which is involved in the regulation of autophagy/mitophagy and mitochondrial quality control.
Nanocomposite-Based Electrochemical Sensors for Neurotransmitters Detection in Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Rajarathinam Thenmozhi , Kang Mijeong , Hong Sungmoo , Chang Seung-Cheol
Published: February 2023

Neurotransmitters (NTs) are crucial regulatory molecules responsible for maintaining the neurophysiological functioning of the brain. Dysregulated levels of certain NTs, such as dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine, epinephrine, glutamate, and gamma-aminobutyric acid, are often correlated with the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases that involve the progressive and selective loss of structure or function of neuronal systems. Therefore, the identification and validation of relevant biomarkers are essential to diagnose these diseases much earlier. However, the quantitative analysis of NTs is challenging because of their dynamic release and presence of low concentrations. Accordingly, nanocomposite (NC)-based electrochemical sensors have been studied extensively and are gaining tremendous interest due to their high sensitivity, response rate, stability, portability, ease of use in point-of-care diagnostics, amenability to microprocessing, and low cost. In this review, we first briefly discuss the potential biomarkers of neurodegenerative diseases, NC-based electrochemical sensors and their advantages and disadvantages, and the properties of the NCs, which further increase the sensor performance. Finally, we summarized the future perspectives of NC-based electrochemical sensors in the clinical set-up for NTs detection to identify research gaps.
New Insights on the Raman and SERS Spectra of Luteolin under Different Excitation Conditions: Experiments and DFT Calculations
Authors: Ricci Marilena , Castellucci Emilio Mario , Innocenti Silvia , Becucci Maurizio
Published: February 2023

We have studied, by density functional theory, the interaction between luteolin and Ag, devising two complexes where an Ag14 cluster faces two different sites of the molecule. The two sites are identified as quinoid-like and cathecol-like, and the complexes are CPLX1 and CPLX2, respectively. Raman and SERS spectra of luteolin were measured at different excitation wavelengths. Luteolin solid samples from different suppliers have different Raman spectra, possibly associated with different arrangements in the solids. These spectra are well reproduced by our DFT calculations. Assignment of the vibrational modes of luteolin and of the two luteolin–Ag14 complexes is obtained thanks to decomposition of the normal coordinates in terms of internal coordinates. The calculated Raman spectrum for CPLX1 seems to better reproduce the experimental SERS spectra. CPLX2 furnishes a spectrum still resembling that of luteolin in the high frequency region and is possibly responsible for some weak bands in the 1400–1700 cm−1 range that cannot be accounted by the CPLX1 system. SERS spectra are dependent on the Raman excitation wavelength. The calculation of the electronic spectrum suggests the presence of charge-transfer states, which might be responsible for the changes in the SERS spectra.
An Alternative Approach for the Synthesis of Zinc Aluminate Nanoparticles for CO and Propane Sensing Applications
Authors: Gildo-Ortiz Lorenzo , Rodríguez-Betancourtt Verónica-María , Ramírez Ortega Jorge Alberto , Blanco-Alonso Oscar
Published: February 2023

We implemented a simple and inexpensive aqueous sol-gel process to synthesize ZnAl2O4 nanoparticles to study its potential application as a gas sensor. Compared to traditional ceramic methods, the synthesis was conducted at lower temperatures and reaction times (5 h from 200 °C). The crystalline evolution of the oxide was investigated. The effect of the calcination temperature (200–1000 °C) on the crystallites’ size (16–29 nm) and the ZnAl2O4 powder’s surface morphology was also analyzed. Measurements confirmed the formation of bar-shaped granules (~0.35 μm) made up of nanoparticles (~23 nm). The surface area of the powders was 60 m2/g. Pellets were made from the powders and tested in sensing carbon monoxide and propane gases, showing a high sensitivity to such gases. The sensor’s response increased with increasing temperature (25–300 °C) and gas concentration (0–300 ppm). The oxide showed a higher response in propane than in carbon monoxide. We concluded that the ZnAl2O4 is a good candidate for gas sensing applications.
Cardiopulmonary Ultrasound Patterns of Transient Acute Respiratory Distress of the Newborn: A Retrospective Pilot Study
Authors: Pierro Maria , Chioma Roberto , Benincasa Consuelo , Gagliardi Giacomo , Amabili Lorenzo , Lelli Francesca , De Luca Giovanni , Storti Enrico
Published: February 2023

Acute transient respiratory distress in the first hours of life is usually defined as transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN). TTN is a respiratory self-limiting disorder consequent to delayed lung fluid clearance at birth. While TTN is the most common etiology of respiratory distress near term, its pathogenesis and diagnostic criteria are not well-defined. Lung ultrasound and targeted neonatal echocardiography are increasingly being used to assess critically ill infants, although their combined use to improve diagnostic precision in neonatal intensive care units has not yet been described. This retrospective pilot analysis aimed to identify possible cardiopulmonary ultrasound (CPUS) patterns in term and late preterm infants suffering from transient respiratory distress and requiring non-invasive respiratory support. After retrospectively revising CPUS images, we found seven potential sonographic phenotypes of acute neonatal respiratory distress. Up to 50% of the patients presented with signs of increased pulmonary vascular resistance, suggesting that those patients may be diagnosed with mild forms of persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn. Approximately 80% of the infants with a history of meconium-stained amniotic fluid displayed irregular atelectasis, indicating that they may have suffered from mild meconium aspiration syndrome. CPUS evaluation may improve accuracy in the approach to the infants presenting with transient acute respiratory distress, supporting communication with the parents and carrying important epidemiological consequences.