bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunoglobulin Gene Sequence as an Inherited and Acquired Risk Factor for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Datta Moumita , Jumaa Hassan
Published: June 2022

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a lymphoproliferative disease characterized by the accumulation of CD5+ CD19+ malignant B cells. Autonomous ligand-independent B-cell signaling is a key process involved in the development of CLL pathogenesis. Together with other cytogenetic alterations, mutations in the immunoglobulin heavy chain variable (IGHV) gene act as a prognostic marker for CLL, with mutated CLL (M-CLL) being far more indolent than unmutated CLL (U-CLL). Recent studies highlight the role of a specific light chain mutation, namely, IGLV3-21R110G, in the development and prognosis of CLL. Such a mutation increases the propensity of homotypic BCR–BCR interaction, leading to cell autonomous signaling. In this article, we review the current findings on immunoglobulin gene sequence mutations as a potential risk factor for developing CLL.
Breast Cancer Genomics: Primary and Most Common Metastases
Authors: Bennett Caroline , Carroll Caleb , Wright Cooper , Awad Barbara , Park Jeong Mi , Farmer Meagan , Brown Elizabeth (Bryce) , Heatherly Alexis , Woodard Stefanie
Published: June 2022

Specific genomic alterations have been found in primary breast cancer involving driver mutations that result in tumorigenesis. Metastatic breast cancer, which is uncommon at the time of disease onset, variably impacts patients throughout the course of their disease. Both the molecular profiles and diverse genomic pathways vary in the development and progression of metastatic breast cancer. From the most common metastatic site (bone), to the rare sites such as orbital, gynecologic, or pancreatic metastases, different levels of gene expression indicate the potential involvement of numerous genes in the development and spread of breast cancer. Knowledge of these alterations can, not only help predict future disease, but also lead to advancement in breast cancer treatments. This review discusses the somatic landscape of breast primary and metastatic tumors.
Endogenous Pancreatic Cancer Cell PD-1 Activates MET and Induces Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition to Promote Cancer Progression
Authors: Harper Megan M. , Lin Miranda , Qasem Shadi A. , Patel Reema A. , Cavnar Michael J. , Pandalai Prakash K. , Gao Mei , Kim Joseph
Published: June 2022

We recently demonstrated that immune checkpoint PD-1 was endogenously expressed in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cells. Our data indicated that PD-1 proteins are not exclusive to immune cells and have unrecognized signal transduction cascades intrinsic to cancer cells. Building on this paradigm shift, we sought to further characterize PD-1 expression in PDAC. We utilized a phospho-explorer array to identify pathways upregulated by PD-1 signaling. We discovered PD-1-mediated activation of the proto-oncogene MET in PDAC cells, which was dependent on hepatocyte growth factor (MET ligand) and not secondary to direct protein interaction. We then discovered that the PD-1/MET axis in PDAC cells regulated growth, migration, and invasion. Importantly, the PD-1/MET axis induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a well-established early oncogenic process in PDAC. We observed that combined targeting of PDAC cell PD-1 and MET resulted in substantial direct tumor cell cytotoxicity and growth inhibition in PDAC cell lines, patient-derived organoids, and patient-derived xenografts independent of cytotoxic immune responses. This is the first report of PDAC-endogenous PD-1 expression regulating MET signaling, which builds upon our growing body of work showing the oncogenic phenotype of PD-1 expression in PDAC cells is distinct from its immunogenic role. These results highlight a paradigm shift that the tumor-specific PD-1 axis is a novel target to effectively kill PDAC cells by antagonizing previously unrecognized PD-1-dependent oncogenic pathways.
Basal VEGF-A and ACE Plasma Levels of Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Patients Have Prognostic Value for First-Line Treatment with Chemotherapy Plus Bevacizumab
Authors: Ortiz-Morales M. José , Toledano-Fonseca Marta , Mena-Osuna Rafael , Cano M. Teresa , Gómez-España Auxiliadora , Haba-Rodríguez Juan R. De la , Rodríguez-Ariza Antonio , Aranda Enrique
Published: June 2022

The identification of factors that respond to anti-angiogenic therapy would represent a significant advance in the therapeutic management of metastatic-colorectal-cancer (mCRC) patients. We previously reported the relevance of VEGF-A and some components of the renin–angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) in the response to anti-angiogenic therapy in cancer patients. Therefore, this prospective study aims to evaluate the prognostic value of basal plasma levels of VEGF-A and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) in 73 mCRC patients who were to receive bevacizumab-based therapies as a first-line treatment. We found that high basal VEGF-A plasma levels were significantly associated with worse overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (FPS). On the other hand, low ACE levels were significantly associated with poor OS. Importantly, a simple scoring system combining the basal plasma levels of VEGF-A and ACE efficiently stratified mCRC patients, according to OS, into high-risk or low-risk groups, prior to their treatment with bevacizumab. In conclusion, our study supports that VEGF-A and ACE may be potential biomarkers for selecting those mCRC patients who will most benefit from receiving chemotherapy plus bevacizumab treatment in first-line therapy. Additionally, our data reinforce the notion of a close association between the RAAS and the anti-angiogenic response in cancer.
Metastasectomy in Leiomyosarcoma: A Systematic Review and Pooled Survival Analysis
Authors: Delisle Megan , Alshamsan Bader , Nagaratnam Kalki , Smith Denise , Wang Ying , Srikanthan Amirrtha
Published: June 2022

This study assesses the survival in patients undergoing metastasectomy for leiomyosarcoma (LMS) and compares the outcomes by the site of metastasectomy. We conducted a systematic review and pooled survival analysis of patients undergoing metastasectomy for LMS. Survival was compared between sites of metastasectomy. We identified 23 studies including 573 patients undergoing metastasectomy for LMS. The pooled median survival was 59.6 months (95% CI 33.3 to 66.0). The pooled median survival was longest for lung metastasectomy (72.8 months 95% CI 63.0 to 82.5), followed by liver (34.8 months 95% CI 22.3 to 47.2), spine (14.1 months 95% CI 8.6 to 19.7), and brain (14 months 95% CI 6.7 to 21.3). Two studies compared the survival outcomes between patients who did, versus who did not undergo metastasectomy; both demonstrated a significantly improved survival with metastasectomy. We conclude that surgery is currently being utilized for LMS metastases to the lung, liver, spine, and brain with acceptable survival. Although low quality, comparative studies support a survival benefit with metastasectomy. In the absence of randomized studies, it is impossible to determine whether the survival benefit associated with metastasectomy is due to careful patient selection rather than a surgical advantage; limited data were included about patient selection.
Synthesis of a Novel Adsorbent Based on Chitosan Magnetite Nanoparticles for the High Sorption of Cr (VI) Ions: A Study of Photocatalysis and Recovery on Tannery Effluents
Authors: Zahra Maram H. , Hamza Mohammed F. , El-Habibi Gehan , Abdel-Rahman Adel A.-H. , Mira Hamed I. , Wei Yuezhou , Alotaibi Saad H. , Amer Hamada H. , Goda Adel E.-S. , Hamad Nora A.
Published: June 2022

This study aims to evaluate the functionalization of chitosan biopolymer with heterocyclic moieties of 2-thioxodihydropyrimidine-4,6(1H,5H)-dione used for enhancing the sorption of Cr ions from aqueous solution. A synthesized sorbent is a nanoscale particle (around 5–7 nm), which explains the fast kinetics of sorption. The sorbent is specified using elemental analysis (EA), FTIR, BET (nitrogen sorption desorption isotherms), TGA, and SEM-EDX analyses. Sorption properties are investigated using ultraviolet emission (UV) but also using visible light (L). In the sorption diagram, the high sorption uptake and fast kinetics observed using ultraviolet conditions are shown. This work is conducted by removing Cr ions from highly contaminated tannery effluents, which have a high concentration of Cr associated with other poisonous elements such as Cd(II) and Pb(II). Under the selected conditions, complete sorption is performed during the first 60 and 45 min with a capacity of 2.05 and 2.5 mmol Cr g−1 for the crosslinked chitosan (without functionalization) in L and UV, respectively. This sorption is enhanced by functionalizing to 5.7 and 6.8 mmol Cr g−1 at the L and UV, respectively, as well as improving the sorption kinetics to 35 and 30 min for both techniques, respectively. The PFORE, and (Langmuir and Sips equations) fit the kinetics and isotherms, respectively.
The Role of MicroRNA in the Regulation of Tumor Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Feng Jing , Hu Shaofan , Liu Keli , Sun Guiyin , Zhang Yiguo
Published: June 2022

Consistently, the high metastasis of cancer cells is the bottleneck in the process of tumor treatment. In this process of metastasis, a pivotal role is executed by epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transformation was first proposed to occur during embryonic development. Later, its important role in explaining embryonic developmental processes was widely reported. Recently, EMT and its intermediate state were also identified as crucial drivers in tumor progression with the gradual deepening of research. To gain insights into the potential mechanism, increasing attention has been focused on the EMT-related transcription factors. Correspondingly, miRNAs target transcription factors to control the EMT process of tumor cells in different types of cancers, while there are still many exciting and challenging questions about the phenomenon of microRNA regulation of cancer EMT. We describe the relevant mechanisms of miRNAs regulating EMT, and trace the regulatory roles and functions of major EMT-related transcription factors, including Snail, Twist, zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox (ZEB), and other families. In addition, on the basis of the complex regulatory network, we hope that the exploration of the regulatory relationship of non-transcription factors will provide a better understanding of EMT and cancer metastasis. The identification of the mechanism leading to the activation of EMT programs during diverse disease processes also provides a new protocol for the plasticity of distinct cellular phenotypes and possible therapeutic interventions. Here, we summarize the recent progress in this direction, with a promising path for further insight into this fast-moving field.
Mutant KRAS-Associated Proteome Is Mainly Controlled by Exogenous Factors
Authors: Dias Carvalho Patrícia , Martins Flávia , Carvalho Joana , Oliveira Maria José , Velho Sérgia
Published: June 2022

Understanding how mutant KRAS signaling is modulated by exogenous stimuli is of utmost importance to elucidate resistance mechanisms underlying pathway inhibition failure, and to uncover novel therapeutic targets for mutant KRAS patients. Hence, aiming at perceiving KRAS-autonomous versus -non autonomous mechanisms, we studied the response of two mutant KRAS colorectal cancer cell lines (HCT116 and LS174T) upon KRAS silencing and treatment with rhTGFβ1-activated fibroblasts secretome. A proteomic analysis revealed that rhTGFβ1-activated fibroblast-secreted factors triggered cell line-specific proteome alterations and that mutant KRAS governs 43% and 38% of these alterations in HCT116 and LS174T cells, respectively. These KRAS-dependent proteins were localized and displayed molecular functions that were common to both cell lines (e.g., extracellular exosome, RNA binding functions). Moreover, 67% and 78% of the KRAS-associated proteome of HCT116 and LS174T cells, respectively, was controlled in a KRAS-non-autonomous manner, being dependent on fibroblast-secreted factors. In HCT116 cells, KRAS-non-autonomously controlled proteins were mainly involved in proteoglycans in cancer, p53, and Rap1 signaling pathways; whereas in LS174T cells, they were associated with substrate adhesion-dependent cell-spreading and involved in metabolic processes. This work highlights the context-dependency of KRAS-associated signaling and reinforces the importance of integrating the tumor microenvironment in the study of KRAS-associated effects.
EA.hy926 Cells and HUVECs Share Similar Senescence Phenotypes but Respond Differently to the Senolytic Drug ABT-263
Authors: Abdelgawad Ibrahim Y. , Agostinucci Kevin , Ismail Somia G. , Grant Marianne K. O. , Zordoky Beshay N.
Published: June 2022

Doxorubicin (DOX) induces endothelial cell (EC) senescence, which contributes to endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular complications. Senolytic drugs selectively eliminate senescent cells to ameliorate senescence-mediated pathologies. Previous studies have demonstrated differences between immortalized and primary EC models in some characteristics. However, the response of DOX-induced senescent ECs to senolytics has not been determined across these two models. In the present work, we first established a comparative characterization of DOX-induced senescence phenotypes in immortalized EA.hy926 endothelial-derived cells and primary human umbilical vein EC (HUVECs). Thereafter, we evaluated the senolytic activity of four senolytics across both ECs. Following the DOX treatment, both EA.hy926 and HUVECs shared similar senescence phenotypes characterized by upregulated senescence markers, increased SA-β-gal activity, cell cycle arrest, and elevated expression of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). The potentially senolytic drugs dasatinib, quercetin, and fisetin demonstrated a lack of selectivity against DOX-induced senescent EA.hy926 cells and HUVECs. However, ABT-263 (Navitoclax) selectively induced the apoptosis of DOX-induced senescent HUVECs but not EA.hy926 cells. Mechanistically, DOX-treated EA.hy926 cells and HUVECs demonstrated differential expression levels of the BCL-2 family proteins. In conclusion, both EA.hy926 cells and HUVECs demonstrate similar DOX-induced senescence phenotypes but they respond differently to ABT-263, presumably due to the different expression levels of BCL-2 family proteins.
Ca2+ Sensors Assemble: Function of the MCU Complex in the Pancreatic Beta Cell
Authors: Allen Jack G. , Tessem Jeffery S.
Published: June 2022

The Mitochondrial Calcium Uniporter Complex (MCU Complex) is essential for β-cell function due to its role in sustaining insulin secretion. The MCU complex regulates mitochondrial Ca2+ influx, which is necessary for increased ATP production following cellular glucose uptake, keeps the cell membrane K+ channels closed following initial insulin release, and ultimately results in sustained insulin granule exocytosis. Dysfunction in Ca2+ regulation results in an inability to sustain insulin secretion. This review defines the functions, structure, and mutations associated with the MCU complex members mitochondrial calcium uniporter protein (MCU), essential MCU regulator (EMRE), mitochondrial calcium uptake 1 (MICU1), mitochondrial calcium uptake 2 (MICU2), and mitochondrial calcium uptake 3 (MICU3) in the pancreatic β-cell. This review provides a framework for further evaluation of the MCU complex in β-cell function and insulin secretion.
Smart Self-Sensing Piezoresistive Composite Materials for Structural Health Monitoring
Authors: Qhobosheane Relebohile George , Rabby Monjur Morshed , Vadlamudi Vamsee , Reifsnider Kenneth , Raihan Rassel
Published: June 2022

The use of fiber-reinforced composite materials has widely spread in various sectors, including aerospace, defense, and civil industry. The assessment of these heterogeneous material systems is important for safer and risk-free applications and has contributed to the need for self-sensing composites. This work is focused on the development of piezoresistive composites, the prediction of their performance and structural health monitoring (SHM). Additionally, this work unpacks the complexity of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) micro-fabrication and the development of piezoresistive and electromagnetic (EM) waves detection electrodes. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to characterize the CNTs structure and morphologies. The manufactured CNTs were incorporated in epoxy systems to fabricate glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP)-CNTs smart composites with piezoresistive properties. The detection of micro-damage onset and its progression was carried out in mode I, to evaluate the sensitivity of the smart composites to damage development. The change in electrical conductivity of the nanotubes-reinforced composite systems due to localized mechanical strains enabled crack propagation detection. The relationship between crack propagation, fracture toughness, and electrical resistivity of the smart composite was analyzed.
Quantification of a COVID-19 Antibody Assay Using a Lateral Flow Test and a Cell Phone
Authors: Thompson Pearl , Bovolato Ana Lívia de Carvalho , Ibáñez-Redín Gisela , Brolo Alexandre G.
Published: June 2022

Although several biomedical assays have been developed to screen for antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, very few can be completed without drawing blood. We developed a rapid lateral flow screening tool that used saliva samples and yielded rapid results that could be quantified using a cell phone. This assay provided the sensitive detection of IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 within 10 min. We started by synthesising, modifying, and characterising gold nanoparticles. Using these particles as a coloured label, we developed a lateral flow strip made of nitrocellulose, glass fibre, and cellulose material. We quantified our visual results using pictures acquired with a cell phone and calculated a limit of detection of 4 ng/mL of antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein.
YAP/TAZ Promote Fibrotic Activity in Human Trabecular Meshwork Cells by Sensing Cytoskeleton Structure Alternation
Authors: Huang Shan , Liu Zhicheng , Qian Xiuqing , Li Lin , Zhang Haixia , Li Shanshan , Liu Zhicheng
Published: June 2022

Trabecular meshwork (TM) is the main channel of aqueous humor (AH) outflow and the crucial tissue responsible for intraocular pressure (IOP) regulation. The aberrant fibrotic activity of human TM (HTM) cells is thought to be partially responsible for the increased resistance to AH outflow and elevated IOP. This study aimed to identify the TM cell fibrotic activity biomarker and illustrate the mechanisms of fibrotic activity regulation in HTM cells. We used TGFβ2-treated HTM cells and detected the changes in the cytoskeletal structure, the Yes-associated protein (YAP) and its transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding domain (TAZ) activation, and the expression levels of the fibrosis-related proteins Collagen I and α-SMA in HTM cells by immunofluorescence staining or western bolt analyses. The expression of YAP was inhibited using siRNA transfection. The results showed that the expression levels of YAP/TAZ and the fibrosis-related proteins Collagen I and α-SMA in HTM cells were elevated under TGF-β2 treatment, which was correlated with the structural change of the cellular F-actin cytoskeleton. Furthermore, the inhibition of YAP decreased the expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), Collagen I, and α-SMA in HTM cells. These findings demonstrate that YAP/TAZ are potential biomarkers in evaluating the TM cell fibrotic activity, and it could sense cytoskeletal structure cues and regulate the fibrotic activity of TM cells.
Weight Status and Associated Risk Factors of Mealtime Behaviours among Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Zulkifli Maizatul Naqiah , Kadar Masne , Hamzaid Nur Hana
Published: June 2022

Atypical mealtime behaviours in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have been linked with oral sensory hypersensitivity that may contribute to food selectivity and weight issues. This cross-sectional study aims to determine the association between atypical mealtime behaviours and associated risk factors besides exploring the prevalence of overweight and obesity among Malaysian children with ASD in community settings. A total of 150 children with ASD aged 3–11 years participated in this study. A self-administered questionnaire on sociodemographic variables, mealtime behaviours and oral sensory processing was completed by the caregivers. The prevalence of overweight in the study samples was 18.5%, whereas obesity was 20.0%. In a multivariate analysis model, oral sensory processing (B = 0.608, 95% CI = 0.493, 0.722, p < 0.001), severity of autism symptoms (moderate and severe) (B = 2.585, 95% CI = 0.722, 4.448, p = 0.007) and younger children with ASD (B = −0.694, 95% CI = −1.189, −0.199, p = 0.006) were found as independent predictors of atypical mealtime behaviours. Children with ASD aged 3–11 years old have a higher prevalence of being overweight and obese, thus requiring regular anthropometric screening in community settings by relevant healthcare professionals. Furthermore, a relationship was found between oral sensory difficulties and atypical mealtime behaviours in children with ASD. A multidisciplinary approach is crucial in the overall management of food selectivity in this population.
Does Long-Term Enrollment in Day-Care Maintain or Increase Early Developmental Gains—Findings from an Intervention Study in Rural Bangladesh
Authors: Agrawal Priyanka , Nair Divya , Salam Shumona Sharmin , Islam Md Irteja , Hamadani Jena Derakhshani , Alonge Olakunle
Published: June 2022

Objective: Community day-care centers (or crèches) are gaining popularity; access to these centers can reduce cognitive gaps. This paper describes the sustained impact of enrollment in day-cares on cognitive gains. Methods: As part of a larger study, a census of all children was conducted in 2012–2013 to identify children between 9 and 17 months of age in rural Bangladesh. A sub-sample of children (n = ~1000) were assigned to receive either a day-care or playpen. Children from two sub-districts were randomly selected and assessed at 9–17 months of age for cognitive and behavioral domains using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire-III. The same children were then followed-up with after one year to see if the scores obtained by the children in the day-care intervention were different from those enrolled in the playpen intervention using a difference-in-difference estimator. Results: Children enrolled in the day-care intervention performed better (in communication, gross-motor, personal-social, and problem-solving domains) than children enrolled in the playpens when followed up with after a one-year period. Total scores were 0.31 (95% CI 0.141–0.472) higher (p value < 0.001) among children in the day-cares. Family care indicators as well as the child’s and mother’s weight were significantly associated with sustained and increased cognitive gains. Conclusion and relevance: The cognitive and psychosocial improvements seen with short-term exposure to structured ECD programs (day-care) were observed to be sustained over time with continued exposure. Home stimulation and parental involvement add to the long-term benefits of ECD.
The Etiology and Epidemiology of Pediatric Facial Fractures in North-Western Romania: A 10-Year Retrospective Study
Authors: Țenț Paul Andrei , Juncar Raluca Iulia , Moca Abel Emanuel , Moca Rahela Tabita , Juncar Mihai
Published: June 2022

Pediatric facial fractures are not as common as facial fractures occurring in the adult population. Their therapeutic approach is different because they affect patients with active growth, and have an etiology and epidemiology that vary depending on different cultural, religious and demographic factors. This research aimed to identify the main factors involved in the etiology of pediatric facial fractures, as well as the epidemiology of pediatric facial fractures in a sample of children and adolescents from North-Western Romania. This 10-year retrospective study was performed in a tertiary center for oral and maxillofacial surgery in North-Western Romania. Medical files of patients that were admitted between 1 January 2002 and 31 December 2022 were analyzed. Pediatric patients aged 0 to 18 years were included in this study. The final sample consisted of 142 children and adolescents diagnosed with facial fractures, with this number representing 14.1% of all patients affected by facial fractures. Most frequently, fractures were identified in the 13–18 age group (78.9%, n = 112), which were more often associated with fractures caused by interpersonal violence than caused by road traffic accidents, falls or animal attacks. Boys were more affected (88%, n = 125), and were more frequently associated with fractures caused by interpersonal violence. The most frequently identified etiological factors included interpersonal violence (50%, n = 71), falls (18.3%, n = 26) and road traffic accidents (11.3%, n = 16). In terms of location, the mandible was the most affected facial bone structure (66.2%, n = 94), and patients with mandibular fractures were more frequently associated with fractures caused by interpersonal violence. The incidence of pediatric facial fractures should be lowered because they may interfere with the proper development of the facial skeleton. Establishing measures aimed at preventing interpersonal violence, as well as other causes involved in the etiology of facial fractures is imperative.
Making Climate Risks Governable in Swedish Municipalities: Crisis Preparedness, Technical Measures, and Public Involvement
Authors: Lidskog Rolf , Rabe Linn
Published: June 2022

Creating preparedness for climate change has become an increasingly important task for society. In Sweden, the responsibility for crisis preparedness rests to a large extent on the municipalities. Through an interview study of municipal officials, this paper examines municipalities’ crisis preparedness for climate change and the role they assign to citizens. The theoretical approach is that of risk governance, which adopts an inclusive approach to risk management, and that of risk sociology, which states that how a problem is defined determines how it should be handled and by whom. The empirical results show that the municipal officials mainly discuss technically defined risks, such as certain kinds of climate-related extreme events, the handling of which does not require any substantial involvement of citizens. Citizens’ responsibility is only to be individually prepared, and thereby they do not require municipal resources to protect their own properties in the case of an extreme event. The municipalities, however, feel that their citizens have not developed this individual preparedness and therefore they try to better inform them. This analysis finds five different views of citizens, all with their own problems, and to which the municipalities respond with different communicative measures. By way of conclusion, three crucial aspects are raised regarding the task of making societies better prepared for climate change.
Microstructure and Tribological Properties of Lubricating-Reinforcing Laser Cladding Composite Coating with the Ti2SC-Ti2Ni Mosaic Structure Phase
Authors: Zhang Tiangang , Zhen Hao , Liu Tianxiang , Hou Xiaoyun , Zhang Zhiqiang
Published: June 2022

Lubricating-reinforcing composite coatings were successfully prepared on Ti6Al4V using laser-clad Ti6Al4V/Ni60/Ni-MoS2 mixed powders with different Ni-MoS2 contents (25, 35, and 45 wt.%), and their microstructure and tribological properties were studied. The reinforcing phase TiC, Ti2Ni, and the lubricating phase Ti2SC were in situ precipitated while Ti2SC and Ti2Ni formed a mosaic coherent structure within the above three coatings. In the 25 and 45 wt.% Ni-MoS2 coatings, the microstructure distribution uniformity of the coatings was not effectively improved by the Ti2SC-Ti2Ni mosaic structure phase due to the lower or higher content of Ti2SC. In the 35 wt.% Ni-MoS2 coating, the forming quality of the coating was the best due to an appropriate amount of the uniformly distributed Ti2SC-Ti2Ni mosaic structure phase. Furthermore, the microhardness of the coatings gradually decreased as the amount of Ni-MoS2 increased. In the 35 wt.% Ni-MoS2 coating, due to the uniformly and diffusely distributed Ti2SC-Ti2Ni mosaic structure phase, the stable lubricating-reinforcing mosaic structure transfer composite films were formed during the progress of the friction and wear tests, which led to the optimal worn surface evenness and quality, the anti-friction and the wear resistance properties compared with the Ti6Al4V, 25 and 45 wt.% Ni-MoS2 coating.
Biochip Surfaces Containing Recombinant Cell-Binding Domains of Fibronectin
Authors: Gavutis Martynas , Stankevičienė Gintarė , Mazėtytė-Godienė Airina , Jelinskas Tadas , Vinskienė Jurgita , Haimi Perttu , Baniulis Danas , Valiokas Ramūnas
Published: June 2022

Surface immobilization and characterization of the functional activity of fibronectin (Fn) type-III domains are reported. The domains FnIII9-10 or FnIII10 containing the RGD loop and PHSRN synergy site were recombinantly produced and covalently bound to chemically activated PEG methacrylate (MA) hydrogel coatings by microcontact printing. Such fabricated biochip surfaces were 6 mm in diameter and consisted of 190 µm wide protein stripes separated by 200 µm spacing. They were analyzed by imaging null ellipsometry, atomic force microscopy and fluorescence microscopy. Also, the coatings were tested in human foreskin fibroblast and HeLa cultures for at least 96 h, thus evaluating their suitability for controlled cell adhesion and proliferation. However, while HeLa cultures were equally well responsive to the FnIII9-10, FnIII10 and Fn surfaces, the fibroblasts displayed lower cell and lower focal adhesion areas, as well as lower proliferation rates on the Fn fragment surfaces as compared to Fn. Nevertheless, full functional activity of the fibroblasts was confirmed by immunostaining of Fn produced by the cells adherent on the biochip surfaces. The observed interaction differences that were either cell type or surface composition-dependent demonstrate the potential use of specifically engineered Fn and other ECM protein-derived domains in biochip architectures.
Through Diffusion Measurements of Molecules to a Numerical Model for Protein Crystallization in Viscous Polyethylene Glycol Solution
Authors: Tanaka Hiroaki , Utata Rei , Tsuganezawa Keiko , Takahashi Sachiko , Tanaka Akiko
Published: June 2022

Protein crystallography has become a popular method for biochemists, but obtaining high-quality protein crystals for precise structural analysis and larger ones for neutron analysis requires further technical progress. Many studies have noted the importance of solvent viscosity for the probability of crystal nucleation and for mass transportation; therefore, in this paper, we have reported on experimental results and simulation studies regarding the use of viscous polyethylene glycol (PEG) solvents for protein crystals. We investigated the diffusion rates of proteins, peptides, and small molecules in viscous PEG solvents using fluorescence correlation spectroscopy. In high-molecular-weight PEG solutions (molecular weights: 10,000 and 20,000), solute diffusion showed deviations, with a faster diffusion than that estimated by the Stokes–Einstein equation. We showed that the extent of the deviation depends on the difference between the molecular sizes of the solute and PEG solvent, and succeeded in creating equations to predict diffusion coefficients in viscous PEG solutions. Using these equations, we have developed a new numerical model of 1D diffusion processes of proteins and precipitants in a counter-diffusion chamber during crystallization processes. Examples of the application of anomalous diffusion in counter-diffusion crystallization are shown by the growth of lysozyme crystals.
The Electronic Properties of g−ZnO Modulated by Organic Molecules Adsorption
Authors: Shen Yang , Yuan Zhihao , Cui Zhen , Ma Deming , Yuan Pei , Yang Kunqi , Dong Yanbo , Wang Fangping , Li Enling
Published: June 2022

Molecular doping is an excellent instrument to modify the electronic properties of two−dimensional materials. In our work, the structure and electronic properties of the adsorption systems of g−ZnO adsorbed by organic molecules (including Tetracyanoethylene (TCNE), Tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ), and Tetrahydrofulvalene (TTF)) were investigated computationally using Density Functional Theory (DFT). The results showed that the TCNE and TCNQ, as electron receptors, doped the LUMO energy level above the valence band maximum (VBM) of the g−ZnO band structure, demonstrating effective p−type doping. The n−type doping of g−ZnO was obtained that the TTF molecules, as electron donors, doped the HOMO energy level below the conduction band minimum (CBM) of the band structure for g−ZnO. In addition, the TCNE, TCNQ, and TTF breathed additional holes or electrons into the monolayer g−ZnO, creating surface dipole moments between the g−ZnO and organic molecules, which caused work function to be adjustable, ranging from 3.871 eV to 5.260 eV. Our results prove that organic molecular doping was instrumental in improving the performance of g−ZnO−based nano−electronic devices, providing theoretical support for the fabrication of p−doping or n−doping nano−semiconductor components. The tunable range of field emission capability of g−ZnO−based electronic devices was also extended.
Isolated Peritoneal Metastasis of Prostate Cancer Presenting with Massive Ascites: A Case Report
Authors: Jang Hee Ryeong , Lee Kyoungyul , Lim Kyu-Hyoung
Published: June 2022

The peritoneal carcinomatosis of prostate cancer without bone or other visceral organ involvement is extremely rare. We report a case of an isolated peritoneal metastasis of prostate cancer in a patient without other metastatic sites and a history of prostate surgery. A 63-year-old male with locally advanced prostate cancer without known distant metastasis on androgen deprivation therapy presented with abdominal distension that had persisted for a month. Abdominopelvic computed tomography (CT) showed gastric wall thickening and a moderate amount of ascites. The gastroscopy showed hyperemic mucosal patches on the antrum body. A cytological examination of the ascites fluid was negative for malignant cells. Diagnostic laparoscopy showed multiple nodules in the peritoneum. A biopsy was performed. Histological findings were compatible with metastatic carcinoma of the prostate, which was immunohistochemically positive for pan-cytokeratin, the androgen receptor, and prostate-specific antigen (PSA). The patient was then treated with abiraterone acetate. After 1 month of treatment, both ascites and the PSA value decreased. We describe an extremely rare case of isolated peritoneal carcinomatosis from prostate cancer without any organ metastasis or history of surgery. Clinicians should be aware of these very rare metastases of prostate cancer. Hormonal therapy may be helpful for such cases.
Gender Inequality and Well-Being of Healthcare Workers in Diabetology: A Pilot Study
Authors: Lai Tatiana , Cincotti Sofia , Pisu Cristian
Published: June 2022

Several factors affect the relationship between a diabetic patient and a healthcare worker. Among these, there is the well-being of healthcare workers and how they perceive their work environment, especially in the context of the presence or absence of gender inequality. To show the importance of these aspects, a selected sample of healthcare workers who were exposed daily to people (mainly diabetic patients) within the working environment were interviewed. The different opinions of the interviewees show that in an environment where factors that negatively affected their work and personal well-being were minimized, healthcare workers were able to fully express their potential. They expressed great satisfaction with their work involving daily contact with patients, while achieving the type of patient–healthcare worker relationship model desired for a better management of diabetic patients’ care.
No Danger for Medical Interest and Awareness towards Celiac Disease. Reply to Greenaway et al. Why Is There Medical Inertia and Nihilism to Celiac Disease? Comment on “Pivetta et al. In Elderly Anemic Patients without Endoscopic Signs of Bleeding Are Duodenal Biopsies Always Necessary to Rule Out Celiac Disease? Diagnostics 2022, 12, 678”
Authors: Pivetta Giulia , Dilaghi Emanuele , Lahner Edith
Published: June 2022

We would like to thank Greenaway et al. [...]
Arrhythmic Mitral Valve Prolapse in the Young: A Rare but Concerning Entity
Authors: Martini Nicolò , Cipriani Alberto , Martini Bortolo , Bauce Barbara , Perazzolo Marra Martina , Iliceto Sabino , Corrado Domenico
Published: June 2022

Arrhythmic mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is an increasingly recognized clinical entity, characterized by the association of myxomatous mitral valve, ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) and sudden cardiac death (SCD). Prevalence of MVP is reported ranging between 2% and 5% of the general population, and risk of SCD is estimated approximately 0.3% per year. Diagnosis of MVP and the occurrence of fatal events involve generally adults aged 30 to 50 years, whereas in younger and even pediatric individuals has rarely been described. Herein, we report two clinical cases of malignant MVP in young patients, with the aim to point out the clinical features and the challenge of clinical management and risk stratification.
An Exploratory Study of Online Job Portal Data of the ICT Sector in Bangladesh: Analysis, Recommendations and Preliminary Implications for ICT Curriculum Reform
Authors: Jony Sheikh Saifur Rahman , Kano Tsuyoshi , Hayashi Ryotaro , Matsuda Norihiko , Rahman M. Sohel
Published: June 2022

Many countries wish to achieve digital transformation, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The digital skills demand is changing fast. The time-series online job portal data for the ICT industry in Bangladesh provides an opportunity to analyze high demand job titles and skills over time. These time-series data address the question of the speed of changes in job titles and skills and responsiveness of computer science and engineering (CSE) curricula. This study gathers online job portal data of the ICT industry in Bangladesh from 2016 to 2021. Natural language processing is used to group similar skills and job titles following the O*NET Online taxonomy. In addition to the descriptive statistics, the statistical significance test and correlation analysis are conducted. The analysis could identify high demand ICT job titles (Software Developers, Computer System Engineers/Architects, Web Developers, Project Management Specialists) and skills (API, Database, JavaScript) but Computer System Engineer/Architect job titles and API skills are increasing fast. The shift from networking to JavaScript and UI Design is also noteworthy after COVID-19. The preliminary curricula analysis suggests the responsiveness of the CSE program, but online job portal data analysis might provide opportunities for developing unique CSE specialization, courses and curricula.
Pre-Emphasis Pulse Design for Reducing Bit-Line Access Time in NAND Flash Memory
Authors: Kondo Junnosuke , Tanzawa Toru
Published: June 2022

This paper describes pre-emphasis (PE) pulses to reduce bit-line (BL) access time in NAND flash memory. Optimum PE pulse widths and resultant minimum BL delay times are investigated, where the BL delay is determined by the sense current at the input terminal of a sensing circuit in contrast with the word-line (WL) delay that is determined by the WL voltage at the gate of a selected memory cell. Two BL models are used, namely, a single-line model (SLM) for the shielded BL read operation and a three-line model (TLM) for the all-BL read operation. Under the condition that the sense current delay is defined by the time when the sense current becomes stable between 110% and 90% of the cell current and the BL voltage delay is defined by the time when the BL voltage at the selected cell reaches a window between 110% and 90%, SPICE simulation results show that the sensed current delay and the BL voltage delay are reduced by 43% and 36% in the case of SLM and by 16% and 28% in the case of TLM, respectively. Thus, the key results are the following: (1) PE pulses are effective to reduce the sense current delay time for BL access, as well as the BL voltage delay time for both SLM and TLM; (2) the sensitivity of the PE pulse on the delay time is much larger for the sensed current delay than the BL voltage delay due to the absence of filtering with the RC delay element in BL delay; and (3) address-dependent PE pulse control can reduce the sense current delay significantly, especially for access to cells closely located to the sensing circuit.
Big Data Analysis Framework for Water Quality Indicators with Assimilation of IoT and ML
Authors: Kimothi Sanjeev , Thapliyal Asha , Akram Shaik Vaseem , Singh Rajesh , Gehlot Anita , Mohamed Heba G. , Anand Divya , Ibrahim Muhammad , Noya Irene Delgado
Published: June 2022

According to the United Nations, the Sustainable Development Goal ‘6’ seeks to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water for all. Digital technologies, such as big data, Internet of Things (IoT), and machine learning (ML) have a significant role and capability to meet the goal. Water quality analysis in any region is critical to identify and understand the standard of water quality and the quality of water is analyzed based on water quality parameters (WQP). Currently, water pollution and the scarcity of water are two major concerns in the region of Uttarakhand, and the analysis of water before it is supplied for human consumption has gained attention. In this study, a big data analytics framework is proposed to analyze the water quality parameters of 13 districts of Uttarakhand and find the correlation among the parameters with the assimilation of IoT and ML. During the analysis, statistical and fractal methods are implemented to understand the anomalies between the water quality parameters in 13 districts of Uttarakhand. The variation in WQP is analyzed using a random forest (RF) model, and the dataset is segmented location wise and the mean, mode, standard deviation, median, kurtosis, and skewness of time series datasets are examined. The mean of the parameters is adjusted with the coefficient of variation based on the standard values of each parameter. The turbidity in almost all the experimental sites has a normal distribution, with the lowest mean value (0.352 mg/L) and highest (11.9 mg/L) in the Pauri Garhwal and Almora districts, respectively. The pH of the water samples is observed to be in the standard range in all the experimental sites, with average and median values being nearly identical, at 7.189 and 7.20, respectively. However, the pH mode is 0.25. The Cl− concentration varies with mean values from the lowest (0.46 mg/L) to the highest (35.2 mg/L) over the experimental sites, i.e., the Bageshwar and Rudraprayag districts, respectively. Based on the analysis, it was concluded that the water samples were found to be safe to drink and in healthy condition in almost all the districts of the state Uttarakhand, except for the Haridwar district, where some increase in contaminants was observed.
The Hemodynamic Effect of Modified Blalock–Taussig Shunt Morphologies: A Computational Analysis Based on Reduced Order Modeling
Authors: Kardampiki Eirini , Vignali Emanuele , Haxhiademi Dorela , Federici Duccio , Ferrante Edoardo , Porziani Stefano , Chiappa Andrea , Groth Corrado , Cioffi Margherita , Biancolini Marco Evangelos , Costa Emiliano , Celi Simona
Published: June 2022

The Modified Blalock Taussig Shunt (MBTS) is one of the most common palliative operations in case of cyanotic heart diseases. Thus far, the decision on the position, size, and geometry of the implant relies on clinicians’ experience. In this paper, a Medical Digital Twin pipeline based on reduced order modeling is presented for fast and interactive evaluation of the hemodynamic parameters of MBTS. An infant case affected by complete pulmonary atresia was selected for this study. A three-dimensional digital model of the infant’s MBTS morphology was generated. A wide spectrum of MBTS geometries was explored by introducing twelve Radial Basis Function mesh modifiers. The combination of these modifiers allowed for analysis of various MBTS shapes. The final results proved the potential of the proposed approach for the investigation of significant hemodynamic features such as velocity, pressure, and wall shear stress as a function of the shunt’s morphology in real-time. In particular, it was demonstrated that the modifications of the MBTS morphology had a profound effect on the hemodynamic indices. The adoption of reduced models turned out to be a promising path to follow for MBTS numerical evaluation, with the potential to support patient-specific preoperative planning.
Design of an Efficient 24–30 GHz GaN MMIC Power Amplifier Using Filter-Based Matching Networks
Authors: Peng Lin , Chen Jianqiang , Zhang Zhihao , Zhang Gary
Published: June 2022

A broadband GaN MMIC power amplifier (PA) with compact dimensions of 1.94 × 0.83 mm2 is presented for 5G millimeter-wave communication. To guarantee output capability at the operating band edges where serious performance degradation is likely to occur, the appropriate large-signal matching model and optimal impedance domain need to be carefully determined through load-pull analysis. Broadband matching networks (MNs) in the lowpass form are thereafter developed based on the Chebyshev filter synthesis theory. Using high-pass interstage MN in conjunction with parallel RC lossy circuits to compensate for the transistor’s negative gain roll-off slope ensures a flat frequency response. The input MN is designed as a band-pass filter due to the reactance extracted from the input side of the stabilized device exhibiting series LC resonance characteristics. Measured on-wafer pulsed results for the proposed three-stage PA demonstrate up to 30.9 dBm of output power, more than 28.6 dB of small-signal gain, and a peak power-added efficiency (PAE) of 35.6% at 27 GHz. Both uniform gain and saturated output power (Psat) are achieved across 24–30 GHz with fluctuations of less than 0.8 dB.
Research on the Mechanical Mechanism of the Shuffle Problem of Electric Vehicles and the Sensitivity to Clearances
Authors: Deng Chenghao , Deng Qingpeng , Yu Cheng , Zhou Liqun , Zhou Yuhong , Hu Jianjun
Published: June 2022

In order to address the shuffle problem of the electric powertrain system that occurs at the moment of torque reversing, a multibody dynamics model of the powertrain system, with the measured motor torque applied as the input loading, has been established to analyze the generating mechanism of the rotating speed ripple of the drive system which is regarded the root of shuffle. The influence on speed ripple from cumulative gap size and motor torque has been investigated. The model was validated by showing good agreement between the simulated speed response and the measured data. Perturbance on each backlash was performed in the simulation to reveal the sensitivity of the speed ripple on the size of the backlash. Much higher speed-to-gap sensitivities have been observed for the low-speed engagement pairs than the high-speed engagement pairs, indicating that compressing the backlashes of the former could achieve more NVH (noise, vibration, harshness, i.e., NVH) performance improvement.