bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Machine Learning Methods to Improve the Performance of Ultrasound in Head and Neck Oncology: A Literature Review
Authors: DeJohn Celia R. , Grant Sydney R. , Seshadri Mukund
Published: January 2022

Radiomics is a rapidly growing area of research within radiology that involves the extraction and modeling of high-dimensional quantitative imaging features using machine learning/artificial intelligence (ML/AI) methods. In this review, we describe the published clinical evidence on the application of ML methods to improve the performance of ultrasound (US) in head and neck oncology. A systematic search of electronic databases (MEDLINE, PubMed, clinicaltrials.gov) was conducted according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Of 15,080 initial articles identified, 34 studies were selected for in-depth analysis. Twenty-five out of 34 studies (74%) focused on the diagnostic application of US radiomics while 6 (18%) studies focused on response assessment and 3 (8%) studies utilized US radiomics for modeling normal tissue toxicity. Support vector machine (SVM) was the most commonly employed ML method (47%) followed by multivariate logistic regression (24%) and k-nearest neighbor analysis (21%). Only 11/34 (~32%) of the studies included an independent validation set. A majority of studies were retrospective in nature (76%) and based on single-center evaluation (85%) with variable numbers of patients (12–1609) and imaging datasets (32–1624). Despite these limitations, the application of ML methods resulted in improved diagnostic and prognostic performance of US highlighting the potential clinical utility of this approach.
Atypical Teratoid/Rhabdoid Tumor in Taiwan: A Nationwide, Population-Based Study
Authors: Liu Yen-Lin , Tsai Min-Lan , Chen Chang-I , Yar Noi , Tsai Ching-Wen , Lee Hsin-Lun , Kuo Chia-Chun , Ho Wan-Ling , Hsieh Kevin Li-Chun , Tseng Sung-Hui , Miser James S. , Chang Chia-Yau , Chang Hsi , Huang Wen-Chang , Wong Tai-Tong , Wu Alexander T. H. , Yen Yu-Chun
Published: January 2022

Background: Atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor (AT/RT) is a rare, highly aggressive embryonal brain tumor most commonly presenting in young children. Methods: We performed a nationwide, population-based study of AT/RT (ICD-O-3 code: 9508/3) in Taiwan using the Taiwan Cancer Registry Database and the National Death Certificate Database. Results: A total of 47 cases (male/female = 29:18; median age at diagnosis, 23.3 months (IQR: 12.5–87.9)) were diagnosed with AT/RT between 1999 and 2014. AT/RT had higher prevalence in males (61.70%), in children < 36 months (55.32%), and at infratentorial or spinal locations (46.81%). Survival analyses demonstrated that patients ≥ 3 years of age (n = 21 (45%)) had a 5y-OS of 41% (p < 0.0001), treatment with radiotherapy only (n = 5 (11%)) led to a 5y-OS of 60%, treatment with chemotherapy with or without radiotherapy (n = 27 (62%)) was associated with a 5y-OS of 45% (p < 0.0001), and patients with a supratentorial tumor (n = 11 (23%)) had a 5y-OS of 51.95%. Predictors of better survival on univariate Cox proportional hazard modeling and confirmed with multivariate analysis included older age (≥1 year), supratentorial sites, and the administration of radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or both. Gender had no effect on survival. Conclusion: Older age, supratentorial site, and treatment with radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or both significantly improves the survival of patients with AT/RT.
Type of Recurrence, Cause of Death and Second Neoplasms among 737 Patients with Ductal Carcinoma In Situ of the Breast—15-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Niwińska Anna , Kunkiel Michał
Published: January 2022

Aim: To assess the outcomes of 737 consecutive patients with DCIS, with particular attention to the type of recurrences, other malignancies and causes of deaths. Material and Methods: A retrospective analysis of 737 consecutive DCIS patients treated in one institution in the years 1996–2011 was carried out. The cumulative recurrence risk, DFS, OS depending on the method of treatment (mastectomy, breast-conserving treatment (BCT), breast-conserving surgery (BCS)) and cause of death were assessed. Results: Sixty-six recurrences (42% DCIS, 58% invasive) were reported: 61 in the breast and 5 outside the breast. The cumulative recurrence risk after a 15-year observation after mastectomy, BCT and BCS was 3.2%, 19.5% and 31.2%, respectively (p < 0.001). The 15-year DFS after mastectomy, BCT and BCS was 72%, 65% and 48%, respectively (p < 0.001). The 15-year OS after mastectomy, BCT and BCS was 75%, 83% and 70%, respectively (p = 0.329). Deaths due to DCIS progression were reported in four (0.5%) of the overall patients and in 10.5% of patients with invasive recurrences. The majority of deaths were linked to the age of the patients or other diseases, including other neoplasms, but not DCIS. Conclusions: The highest number of recurrences was reported in patients after BCS, despite the fact that it was the lowest-risk group. In total, 79% of local recurrences were true recurrences and 58% were invasive recurrences. Local recurrences were effectively treated without an influence on the OS. The percentage of deaths due to DCIS was low and mainly concerned patients with locoregional and distant failure.
Dual Inhibition of Myc Transcription and PI3K Activity Effectively Targets Colorectal Cancer Stem Cells
Authors: Gaggianesi Miriam , Mangiapane Laura Rosa , Modica Chiara , Pantina Vincenzo Davide , Porcelli Gaetana , Di Franco Simone , Lo Iacono Melania , D’Accardo Caterina , Verona Francesco , Pillitteri Irene , Turdo Alice , Veschi Veronica , Brancato Ornella Roberta , Muratore Giampaolo , Pistone Giuseppe , Bongiorno Maria Rita , Todaro Matilde , De Maria Ruggero , Stassi Giorgio
Published: January 2022

Despite advances in the curative approach, the survival rate of advanced colorectal cancer (CRC) patients is still poor, which is likely due to the emergence of cancer cell clones resistant to the available therapeutic options. We have already shown that CD44v6-positive CRC stem cells (CR-CSCs) are refractory toward standard anti-tumor therapeutic agents due to the activation of the PI3K pathway together with high HER2 expression levels. Tumor microenvironmental cytokines confer resistance to CR-CSCs against HER2/PI3K targeting by enhancing activation of the MAPK pathway. Here, we show that the CSC compartment, spared by BRAF inhibitor-based targeted therapy, is associated with increased expression levels of CD44v6 and Myc and retains boosted clonogenic activity along with residual tumorigenic potential. Inhibition of Myc transcription, downstream of the MAPK cascade components, and PI3K pathway activity was able to overcome the protective effects of microenvironmental cytokines, affecting the survival and the clonogenic activity of CR-CSCs, regardless of their mutational background. Likewise, the double targeting induced stabilization of mouse tumor avatars. Altogether, these data outline the rationale for dual kinase targeting of CR-CSCs to prevent their adaptive response, which would lead to disease progression.
Chrysanthemum morifolium Extract Ameliorates Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity by Decreasing Apoptosis
Authors: Ono Masaya , Sunagawa Yoichi , Mochizuki Saho , Katagiri Takahiro , Takai Hidemichi , Iwashimizu Sonoka , Inai Kyoko , Funamoto Masafumi , Shimizu Kana , Shimizu Satoshi , Katanasaka Yasufumi , Komiyama Maki , Hawke Philip , Hara Hideo , Arakawa Yoshiki , Mori Kiyoshi , Asai Akira , Hasegawa Koji , Morimoto Tatsuya
Published: January 2022

It is well known that the anthracycline anticancer drug doxorubicin (DOX) induces cardiotoxicity. Recently, Chrysanthemum morifolium extract (CME), an extract of the purple chrysanthemum flower, has been reported to possess various physiological activities such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. However, its effect on DOX-induced cardiotoxicity is still unknown. An 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide (MTT)assay revealed that 1 mg/mL of CME reduced DOX-induced cytotoxicity in H9C2 cells but not in MDA-MB-231 cells. A TUNEL assay indicated that CME treatment improved DOX-induced apoptosis in H9C2 cells. Moreover, DOX-induced increases in the expression levels of p53, phosphorylated p53, and cleaved caspase-3,9 were significantly suppressed by CME treatment. Next, we investigated the effect of CME in vivo. The results showed that CME treatment substantially reversed the DOX-induced decrease in survival rate. Echocardiography indicated that CME treatment also reduced DOX-induced left ventricular systolic dysfunction, and a TUNEL assay showed that CME treatment also suppressed apoptosis in the mouse heart. These results reveal that CME treatment ameliorated DOX-induced cardiotoxicity by suppressing apoptosis. Further study is needed to clarify the effect of CME on DOX-induced heart failure in humans.
Whole Blood Transcriptional Fingerprints of High-Grade Glioma and Longitudinal Tumor Evolution under Carbon Ion Radiotherapy
Authors: Knoll Maximilian , Waltenberger Maria , Furkel Jennifer , Wirkner Ute , Gahlawat Aoife Ward , Dokic Ivana , Schwager Christian , Adeberg Sebastian , Rieken Stefan , Kessler Tobias , Sahm Felix , König Laila , Herold-Mende Christel , Combs Stephanie E. , Debus Jürgen , Abdollahi Amir
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To assess the value of whole blood transcriptome data from liquid biopsy (lbx) in recurrent high-grade glioma (rHGG) patients for longitudinal molecular monitoring of tumor evolution under carbon ion irradiation (CIR). Methods: Whole blood transcriptome (WBT) analysis (Illumina HumanHT-12 Expression BeadChips) was performed in 14 patients with rHGG pre re-irradiation (reRT) with CIR and 3, 6 and 9 weeks post-CIR (reRT grade III:5, 36%, IV:9, 64%). Patients were irradiated with 30, 33, 36 GyRBE (n = 5, 6, 3) in 3GyRBE per fraction. Results: WTB analysis showed stable correlation with treatment characteristics and patients tumor grade, indicating a preserved tumor origin specific as well as dynamic transcriptional fingerprints of peripheral blood cells. Initial histopathologic tumor grade was indirectly associated with TMEM173 (STING), DNA-repair (ATM, POLD4) and hypoxia related genes. DNA-repair, chromatin remodeling (LIG1, SMARCD1) and immune response (FLT3LG) pathways were affected post-CIR. Longitudinal WTB fingerprints identified two distinct trajectories of rHGG evolution, characterized by differential and prognostic CRISPLD2 expression pre-CIR. Conclusions: Lbx based WTB analysis holds the potential for molecular stratification of rHGG patients and therapy monitoring. We demonstrate the feasibility of the peripheral blood transcriptome as a sentinel organ for identification of patient, tumor characteristics and CIR specific fingerprints in rHGG.
Iridium- and Palladium-Based Catalysts in the Pharmaceutical Industry
Authors: López Óscar , Padrón José M.
Published: January 2022

Transition metal catalysts play a vital role in a wide range of industrial organic processes. The large-scale production of chemicals relying on catalyzed organic reactions represents a sustainable approach to supply society with end products for many daily life applications. Homogeneous (mainly for academic uses) and heterogeneous (crucial in industrial processes) metal-based catalysts have been developed for a plethora of organic reactions. The search for more sustainable strategies has led to the development of a countless number of metal-supported catalysts, nanosystems, and electrochemical and photochemical catalysts. In this work, although a vast number of transition metals can be used in this context, special attention is devoted to Ir- and Pd-based catalysts in the industrial manufacture of pharmaceutical drugs. Pd is by far the most widely used and versatile catalyst not only in academia but also in industry. Moreover, Ir-based complexes have emerged as attractive catalysts, particularly in asymmetric hydrogenation reactions. Ir- and Pd-based asymmetric reductions, aminations, cross-coupling reactions, and C–H activation are covered herein in the production of biologically active compounds or precursors; adaptation to bulk conditions is particularly highlighted.
Engineered Nanostructured Photocatalysts for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Bonet-Aleta Javier , Garcia-Peiro Jose I. , Hueso Jose L.
Published: January 2022

The present review aims at highlighting recent advances in the development of photocatalysts devoted to cancer therapy applications. We pay especial attention to the engineering aspects of different nanomaterials including inorganic semiconductors, organic-based nanostructures, noble metal-based systems or synergistic hybrid heterostructures. Furthermore, we also explore and correlate structural and optical properties with their photocatalytic capability to successfully performing in cancer-related therapies. We have made an especial emphasis to introduce current alternatives to organic photosensitizers (PSs) in photodynamic therapy (PDT), where the effective generation of reactive oxidative species (ROS) is pivotal to boost the efficacy of the treatment. We also overview current efforts in other photocatalytic strategies to tackle cancer based on photothermal treatment, starvation therapy, oxidative stress unbalance via glutathione (GSH) depletion, biorthogonal catalysis or local relief of hypoxic conditions in tumor microenvironments (TME).
Approach to the Characterization of Monolithic Catalysts Based on La Perovskite-like Oxides and Their Application for VOC Oxidation under Simulated Indoor Environment Conditions
Authors: Padilla Ornel , Munera Jessica , Gallego Jaime , Santamaria Alexander
Published: January 2022

Catalysts are very important in controlling the pollutant emissions and are used for hundreds of chemical processes. Currently, noble metal-based catalysts are being replaced for other kinds of materials. In this study, three lanthanum-based perovskite-like oxides were synthesized (LaCo, LaCoMn, and LaMn) by the glycine-combustion method. The powder catalysts obtained were supported onto cordierite ceramic monoliths using an optimized washcoating methodology to obtain the subsequent monolithic catalysts (LaCo-S, LaCoMn-S, and LaMn-S). Sample characterization confirmed the formation of the perovskite-like phase in the powder materials as well as the presence of the perovskite phase after supporting it onto the monolithic structure. The XPS analysis showed a general decrease in lattice oxygen species for monolithic catalysts, mainly caused by the colloidal silica used as a binder agent during the washcoating process. Additionally, some variations in the oxidation state distribution for elements in Co-containing systems suggest a stronger interaction between cordierite and such catalysts. The catalytic activity results indicated that powder and monolithic catalysts were active for single-component VOC oxidation in the following order: 2-propanol > n-hexane ≅ mixture > toluene, and there was no evidence of loss of catalytic activity after supporting the catalysts. However, LaMn-S had a better catalytic performance for all VOC tested under dry conditions, achieving oxidation temperatures between 230–420 °C. The oxidation efficiency for the VOC mixture was strongly affected by the presence of moisture linking the oxidation efficiency at wet conditions to the VOC chemical nature. Additionally, for higher VOC concentrations, the catalyst efficiency decreased due to the limited number of active sites.
Low Temperature Catalytic Oxidation of Ethanol Using Ozone over Manganese Oxide-Based Catalysts in Powdered and Monolithic Forms
Authors: Touati Houcine , Valange Sabine , Reinholdt Marc , Batiot-Dupeyrat Catherine , Clacens Jean-Marc , Tatibouët Jean-Michel
Published: January 2022

Catalytic oxidation of low concentrations of ethanol was investigated in dry and humid air streams at low temperature (60 °C) over manganese oxide-based catalysts supported on a meso–macrostructured TiO2 using ozone as the oxidant. Ethanol was selected as a representative model VOC present in indoor air, and its concentration was fixed to 10 ppm. For that purpose, a series of Mn/TiO2 powder and monolithic catalysts was prepared, some doped with 0.5 wt% Pd. Whatever the catalyst, the presence of water vapor in the gas phase had a beneficial effect on the conversion of ethanol and ozone. The Pd–Mn/TiO2 catalyst containing 0.5 wt% Pd and 5 wt% Mn exhibited superior oxidation efficiency to the Mn/TiO2 counterparts by increasing ozone decomposition (77%) while simultaneously increasing the selectivity to CO2 (85%). The selectivity to CO2 approached nearly 100% by increasing the amount of catalyst from 20 to 80 mg. In a further step, alumina wash-coated cordierite honeycomb monoliths were coated with the 0.5Pd–5Mn/TiO2 catalyst. Full conversion of ethanol to CO2 without residual O3 emitted (less than 10 ppb) could be attained, thereby demonstrating that the proposed Pd–Mn/TiO2 monolithic catalyst fulfills the specifications required for onboard systems.
Semi-Rational Design of Proteus mirabilis l-Amino Acid Deaminase for Expanding Its Substrate Specificity in α-Keto Acid Synthesis from l-Amino Acids
Authors: Fan Anwen , Wang Ziyao , Qu Haojie , Nie Yao , Xu Yan
Published: January 2022

l-amino acid deaminases (LAADs) are flavoenzymes that catalyze the stereospecific oxidative deamination of l-amino acids into α-keto acids, which are widely used in the pharmaceutical, food, chemical, and cosmetic industries. However, the substrate specificity of available LAADs is limited, and most substrates are concentrated on several bulky or basic l-amino acids. In this study, we employed a LAAD from Proteus mirabilis (PmiLAAD) and broadened its substrate specificity using a semi-rational design strategy. Molecular docking and alanine scanning identified F96, Q278, and E417 as key residues around the substrate-binding pocket of PmiLAAD. Site-directed saturation mutagenesis identified E417 as the key site for substrate specificity expansion. Expansion of the substrate channel with mutations of E417 (E417L, E417A) improved activity toward the bulky substrate l-Trp, and mutation of E417 to basic amino acids (E417K, E417H, E417R) enhanced the universal activity toward various l-amino acid substrates. The variant PmiLAADE417K showed remarkable catalytic activity improvement on seven substrates (l-Ala, l-Asp, l-Ile, l-Leu, l-Phe, l-Trp, and l-Val). The catalytic efficiency improvement obtained by E417 mutation may be attributed to the expansion of the entrance channel and its electrostatic interactions. These PmiLAAD variants with a broadened substrate spectrum can extend the application potential of LAADs.
TRIM32 Deficiency Impairs the Generation of Pyramidal Neurons in Developing Cerebral Cortex
Authors: Sun Yan-Yun , Chen Wen-Jin , Huang Ze-Ping , Yang Gang , Wu Ming-Lei , Xu De-En , Yang Wu-Lin , Luo Yong-Chun , Xiao Zhi-Cheng , Xu Ru-Xiang , Ma Quan-Hong
Published: January 2022

Excitatory-inhibitory imbalance (E/I) is a fundamental mechanism underlying autism spectrum disorders (ASD). TRIM32 is a risk gene genetically associated with ASD. The absence of TRIM32 causes impaired generation of inhibitory GABAergic interneurons, neural network hyperexcitability, and autism-like behavior in mice, emphasizing the role of TRIM32 in maintaining E/I balance, but despite the description of TRIM32 in regulating proliferation and differentiation of cultured mouse neural progenitor cells (NPCs), the role of TRIM32 in cerebral cortical development, particularly in the production of excitatory pyramidal neurons, remains unknown. The present study observed that TRIM32 deficiency resulted in decreased numbers of distinct layer-specific cortical neurons and decreased radial glial cell (RGC) and intermediate progenitor cell (IPC) pool size. We further demonstrated that TRIM32 deficiency impairs self-renewal of RGCs and IPCs as indicated by decreased proliferation and mitosis. A TRIM32 deficiency also affects or influences the formation of cortical neurons. As a result, TRIM32-deficient mice showed smaller brain size. At the molecular level, RNAseq analysis indicated reduced Notch signalling in TRIM32-deficient mice. Therefore, the present study indicates a role for TRIM32 in pyramidal neuron generation. Impaired generation of excitatory pyramidal neurons may explain the hyperexcitability observed in TRIM32-deficient mice.
Thyroid Hormone Signaling and Function: News from Classical and Emerging Models
Authors: Sirakov Maria , Plateroti Michelina
Published: January 2022

According to Brown and Cai, Thyroid hormones (THs) have been considered “the first developmental morphogen ever discovered” [...]
Genetic and Functional Differences between Duplicated Zebrafish Genes for Human SCN1A
Authors: Weuring Wout J. , Hoekman Jos W. , Braun Kees P. J. , Koeleman Bobby P. C.
Published: January 2022

There are currently seven different zebrafish strains that model Dravet Syndrome, a severe childhood form of epilepsy. These models are based on a set of duplicated genes, scn1laa and scn1lab, which are the homologs for human SCN1A. Disrupting one of the genes would mimic a heterozygous disease state in humans, as the paralog gene is still present. While this ‘disease-state model’ is widely accepted, there is also evidence that the function of these genes might not be completely the same. By analyzing the functional domains, we discovered several hotspots in the protein that are not conserved, indicating a functional difference. Based on this, we generated scn1Laa knockout zebrafish and compared their phenotype to scn1lab knockouts. The genetic and functional differences we discovered can have implications for the use of zebrafish as a model for Dravet Syndrome.
Attenuated Total Reflectance-Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) Spectroscopy Discriminates the Elderly with a Low and High Percentage of Pathogenic CD4+ T Cells
Authors: Praja Rian Ka , Wongwattanakul Molin , Tippayawat Patcharaporn , Phoksawat Wisitsak , Jumnainsong Amonrat , Sornkayasit Kanda , Leelayuwat Chanvit
Published: January 2022

In the aging process, the presence of interleukin (IL)-17-producing CD4+CD28-NKG2D+T cells (called pathogenic CD4+ T cells) is strongly associated with inflammation and the development of various diseases. Thus, their presence needs to be monitored. The emergence of attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy empowered with machine learning is a breakthrough in the field of medical diagnostics. This study aimed to discriminate between the elderly with a low percentage (LP; ≤3%) and a high percentage (HP; ≥6%) of pathogenic CD4+CD28-NKG2D+IL17+ T cells by utilizing ATR-FTIR coupled with machine learning algorithms. ATR spectra of serum, exosome, and HDL from both groups were explored in this study. Only exosome spectra in the 1700–1500 cm−1 region exhibited possible discrimination for the LP and HP groups based on principal component analysis (PCA). Furthermore, partial least square-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) could differentiate both groups using the 1700–1500 cm−1 region of exosome ATR spectra with 64% accuracy, 69% sensitivity, and 61% specificity. To obtain better classification performance, several spectral models were then established using advanced machine learning algorithms, including J48 decision tree, support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF), and neural network (NN). Herein, NN was considered to be the best model with an accuracy of 100%, sensitivity of 100%, and specificity of 100% using serum spectra in the region of 1800–900 cm−1. Exosome spectra in the 1700–1500 and combined 3000–2800 and 1800–900 cm−1 regions using the NN algorithm gave the same accuracy performance of 95% with a variation in sensitivity and specificity. HDL spectra with the NN algorithm also showed excellent test performance in the 1800–900 cm−1 region with 97% accuracy, 100% sensitivity, and 95% specificity. This study demonstrates that ATR-FTIR coupled with machine learning algorithms can be used to study immunosenescence. Furthermore, this approach can possibly be applied to monitor the presence of pathogenic CD4+ T cells in the elderly. Due to the limited number of samples used in this study, it is necessary to conduct a large-scale study to obtain more robust classification models and to assess the true clinical diagnostic performance.
Dictyostelium discoideum: A Model System for Neurological Disorders
Authors: Storey Claire Louise , Williams Robin Simon Brooke , Fisher Paul Robert , Annesley Sarah Jane
Published: January 2022

Background: The incidence of neurological disorders is increasing due to population growth and extended life expectancy. Despite advances in the understanding of these disorders, curative strategies for treatment have not yet eventuated. In part, this is due to the complexities of the disorders and a lack of identification of their specific underlying pathologies. Dictyostelium discoideum has provided a useful, simple model to aid in unraveling the complex pathological characteristics of neurological disorders including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses and lissencephaly. In addition, D. discoideum has proven to be an innovative model for pharmaceutical research in the neurological field. Scope of review: This review describes the contributions of D. discoideum in the field of neurological research. The continued exploration of proteins implicated in neurological disorders in D. discoideum may elucidate their pathological roles and fast-track curative therapeutics.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Challenges in 2021
Authors:   Challenges Editorial Office
Published: January 2022

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]
Comparison of Various Signal Processing Techniques and Spectral Regions for the Direct Determination of Syrup Adulterants in Honey Using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and Chemometrics
Authors: Dumancas Gerard , Ellis Helena , Neumann Jossie , Smith Khalil
Published: January 2022

Honey consumption has become increasingly popular worldwide. However, the increase in demand for honey has also caused an increase in its adulteration, a deliberate fraud which involves adding of other substances to pure honey for economic purposes. This process not only lowers the quality of honey, but also has potential health risks, including high blood sugar, increased risk of diabetes, and weight gain. Herein, we develop an easy-to-use and direct method of quantifying corn, cane, beet, and rice syrup adulterants in honey using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and chemometrics. Various signal processing techniques, including derivatives, moving average, binning, Savitzky–Golay, and standard normal variate using the entire spectral region (3996–650 cm−1) and specific spectral region (1501–799 cm−1), were compared. Optimum results were obtained using first derivative signal processing for both the entire and specific spectral regions. The first derivative signal processing technique garnered the most optimum results using the specific spectral range (1501–799 cm−1) (RMSECVaverage = 0.021, RMSEPaverage = 0.014, R2average = 0.859) across all syrup adulterants. An exploratory analysis to assess the utility of this specific spectral region in pattern recognition of samples based on their adulterant content show that this region is effective in discriminating samples according to the presence or absence of honey syrup adulterants.
Atypical Presentation of Enlarged Vestibular Aqueducts Caused by SLC26A4 Variants
Authors: Byun Jun Chul , Lee Kyu-Yup , Hwang Su-Kyeong
Published: January 2022

Enlarged vestibular aqueduct is the most common inner ear malformation in pediatric patients with sensorineural hearing loss. Here, we report a new presentation of enlarged vestibular aqueduct in a Korean family. The family consists of two parents and five daughters, and the first and second daughters were diagnosed with bilateral enlarged vestibular aqueducts. The third daughter, who showed no signs of hearing deterioration, came to medical attention with incomplete Horner syndrome. Evaluations for localization of Horner syndrome on the patient and Sanger sequencing of SLC26A4 on the family members were performed. Although auditory brainstem response and pure tone audiometry of the third daughter were normal, temporal bone computed tomography demonstrated bilateral enlarged vestibular aqueducts. Sanger sequencing of SLC26A4 revealed compound heterozygous variants c.2168A>G and c.919-2A>G in the first, second, and third daughters. Diagnosis of enlarged vestibular aqueduct is often delayed because the degree of hearing loss can vary, and a considerable phenotypic variability can be shown even in family members with the same SLC26A4 variations. Fluctuations of CSF pressure into the cochlear duct and recurrent microruptures of the endolymphatic membrane could result in damage of sympathetic nerve supplying to the inner ear, which could explain the mechanism of Horner syndrome associated with enlarged vestibular aqueduct.
Generalization Task for Developing Social Problem-Solving Skills among Young People with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Bonete Saray , Molinero Clara , Garrido-Zurita Adrián
Published: January 2022

This study aims to examine the usefulness of an ad hoc worksheet for an Interpersonal Problem-Solving Skills Program (SCI-Labour) the effectiveness of which was tested by Bonete, Calero, and Fernández-Parra (2015). Data were taken from 44 adolescents and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) (age M = 19.73; SD = 3.53; 39 men and 5 women; IQ M = 96.27, SD = 15.98), compared to a matched group (in age, sex, and nonverbal IQ) of 48 neurotypical participants. The task was conceived to promote the generalization of interpersonal problem-solving skills by thinking on different possible scenarios in the workplace after the training sessions. The results show lower scores in the worksheet delivered for homework (ESCI-Generalization Task) in the ASD Group compared to neurotypicals in total scores and all domains (Problem Definition, Quality of Causes, and Solution Suitability) prior to program participation. In addition, after treatment, improvement of the ASD Group was observed in the Total Score ESCI-Generalization Task and in the domains of Problem Definition, Quality of Causes, Number or Alternatives and Consequences, Time, and Solution Suitability. This is a valuable task in furthering learning within the SCI-Labour Program and may be a supplementary material in addressing the difficulties of interpersonal skills within this population, both in the workplace and in daily life. In conclusion, this task may provide useful information for identifying key difficulties among this population and could be implemented in a clinical setting as a complement to the SCI-Labour Program.
Individual Circadian Preference, Eating Disorders and Obesity in Children and Adolescents: A Dangerous Liaison? A Systematic Review and a Meta-Analysis
Authors: Rodríguez-Cortés Francisco José , Morales-Cané Ignacio , Rodríguez-Muñoz Pedro Manuel , Cappadona Rosaria , De Giorgi Alfredo , Manfredini Roberto , Rodríguez-Borrego María Aurora , Fabbian Fabio , López-Soto Pablo Jesús
Published: January 2022

Background: Obesity and other eating disorders are an actual public health problem, especially in childhood and adolescents, and could be also related with chronotype. The aim of this systematic review was to determine the relationship between eating disorders, obesity and the different chronotypes in children and adolescents. Methods: A systematic review of observational studies evaluating young populations dealing with and evaluating chronotype was conducted. Electronic searches were performed in six international databases. A qualitative thematic-categorical analysis was carried out and a random-effects model was used for the quantitative analysis (meta-analysis). Results: Fifteen studies were included, but quantitative analysis was only carried out in three of them. Children and adolescents with an evening chronotype had higher body mass index, consumed more junk food or were more predisposed to suffer from food addiction and night eating syndrome. Conclusions: Children and adolescents with evening chronotype had higher tendency to incorrect eating behaviors and were suffering from overweight/obesity. Environment but also lifestyle factors should be considered in the association between chronotype and eating disorders and obesity.
Analysis of Non-Relapsed and Relapsed Adult Type Granulosa Cell Tumors Suggests Stable Transcriptomes during Tumor Progression
Authors: Andersson Noora , Haltia Ulla-Maija , Färkkilä Anniina , Wong Swee Chong , Eloranta Katja , Wilson David B. , Unkila-Kallio Leila , Pihlajoki Marjut , Kyrönlahti Antti , Heikinheimo Markku
Published: January 2022

Adult-type granulosa cell tumor (AGCT) is a rare ovarian malignancy characterized by slow growth and hormonal activity. The prognosis of AGCT is generally favorable, but one-third of patients with low-stage disease experience a late relapse, and over half of them die of AGCT. To identify markers that would distinguish patients at risk for relapse, we performed Lexogen QuantSeq 3′ mRNA sequencing on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded, archival AGCT tissue samples tested positive for the pathognomonic Forkhead Box L2 (FOXL2) mutation. We compared the transcriptomic profiles of 14 non-relapsed archival primary AGCTs (follow-up time 17–26 years after diagnosis) with 13 relapsed primary AGCTs (follow-up time 1.7–18 years) and eight relapsed tumors (follow-up time 2.8–18.9 years). Non-relapsed and relapsed primary AGCTs had similar transcriptomic profiles. In relapsed tumors three genes were differentially expressed: plasmalemma vesicle associated protein (PLVAP) was upregulated (p = 0.01), whereas argininosuccinate synthase 1 (ASS1) (p = 0.01) and perilipin 4 (PLIN4) (p = 0.02) were downregulated. PLVAP upregulation was validated using tissue microarray RNA in situ hybridization. In our patient cohort with extremely long follow-up, we observed similar gene expression patterns in both primary AGCT groups, suggesting that relapse is not driven by transcriptomic changes. These results reinforce earlier findings that molecular markers do not predict AGCT behavior or risk of relapse.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of CivilEng in 2021
Authors:   CivilEng Editorial Office
Published: January 2022

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]
The Potential Global Climate Suitability of Kiwifruit Bacterial Canker Disease (Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae (Psa)) Using Three Modelling Approaches: CLIMEX, Maxent and Multimodel Framework
Authors: Narouei-Khandan Hossein A. , Worner Susan P. , Viljanen Suvi L. H. , van Bruggen Ariena H. C. , Balestra Giorgio M. , Jones Eirian
Published: January 2022

In recent years, outbreaks of kiwifruit bacterial canker (Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae, Psa) have caused huge economic losses to two major global kiwifruit producers, Italy and New Zealand. To evaluate the potential global risk areas of Psa, three modelling methods (MaxEnt, CLIMEX and a Multi-Model Framework, including Support Vector Machine or SVM) were used. Current global occurrence data for Psa were collected from different sources. The long-term climate data were sourced from WorldClim and CliMond websites. The model results were combined into a consensus model to identify the hotspots. The consensus model highlighted the areas where two or three models agreed on climate suitability for Psa. All three models agreed with respect to the climate suitability of areas where Psa is currently present and identified novel areas where Psa has not established yet. The SVM model predicted large areas in Central Asia, Australia, and Europe as more highly suitable compared to MaxEnt and CLIMEX. Annual mean temperature and annual precipitation contributed most to the MaxEnt prediction. Both MaxEnt and CLIMEX showed the probability of Psa establishment increased above 5 °C and decreased above 20 °C. The annual precipitation response curve showed that excessive rain (>1200 mm/y) constrains Psa establishment. Our modelling results will provide useful information for Psa management by highlighting the climatically susceptible areas where Psa has not established, such as the USA, Iran, Denmark, Belgium and especially South Africa, where kiwifruit has been planted commercially in recent years.
Challenges in Geriatric Oncology—A Surgeon’s Perspective
Authors: Parks Ruth , Cheung Kwok-Leung
Published: January 2022

As our global population ages, we will see more cancer diagnoses in older adults. Surgery is an important treatment modality for solid tumours, forming the majority of all cancers. However, the management of older adults with cancer can be more complex compared to their younger counterparts. This narrative review will outline the current challenges facing older adults with cancer and potential solutions. The challenges facing older adults with cancer are complex and include lack of high-level clinical trials targeting older adults and selection of the right patient for surgery. This may be standard surgical treatment, minimally invasive surgery or alternative therapies (no surgery) which can be local or systemic. The next challenge is to identify the individual patient’s vulnerabilities to allow them to be maximally optimised for treatment. Prehabilitation has been shown to be of benefit in some cancer settings but uniform guidance across all surgical specialties is required. Greater awareness of geriatric conditions amongst surgical oncologists and integration of geriatric assessment into a surgical clinic are potential solutions. Enhanced recovery programmes tailored to older adults could reduce postoperative functional decline. Ultimately, the greatest challenge an older adult with cancer may face is the mindset of their treating clinicians—a shared care approach between surgical oncologists and geriatricians is required.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Diversity in 2021
Authors:   Diversity Editorial Office
Published: January 2022

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]
Evaluating the Effectiveness of a Conservation Project on Two Threatened Birds: Applying Expert-Based Threat Analysis and Threat Reduction Assessment in a Mediterranean Wetland
Authors: Giovacchini Pietro , Battisti Corrado , Marsili Letizia
Published: January 2022

We applied two recent approaches largely used in biological conservation: Threat Analysis (TAN) and Threat Reduction Assessments (TRAs), assessing the effectiveness of a project focused on two water-related bird species (common tern, Sterna hirundo and little tern, Sternula albifrons), commonly breeding in some wetlands of Italy. We used the IUCN standardized lexicon for the classification of threats, utilizing a panel of experts to assess a set of regime attributes (extent, severity and magnitude) of each human-induced disturbance. Our aims were: (i) through the TAN approach, to carry out an arrangement and quantification of the main threats acting on our focal species and select the priority ones; (ii) through the TRA approach, to test the effectiveness of an operational project focused on mitigating the threats and improving the breeding success of species (i.e., building rafts and floating islands to encourage their nesting). Using the TAN approach, experts identified the following human-induced threats (IUCN code): 6.1—Generic disturbance; 7.2—Water stress; 7.3—Salinization; 8.8—Vagrant dogs; 8.8—Mediterranean gulls; 8.8—Wild boars, all significantly different in their magnitude. Among them, wild boars and Mediterranean gulls appeared the priority threats with the greatest extent, intensity and magnitude. Using the TRA approach, after the project, we assessed an overall decrease in the threat magnitude of 23.08% (21.42% when considering only the threats directly affected by our project). These data suggest that further efforts should be devoted to achieving greater effectiveness of conservation actions focused on our target species. With limited time and resources to quantify threats, expert-based approaches could be useful for rapidly assessing the effectiveness of small conservation projects by providing a range of scores obtained following an analytical procedure. In this regard, Threat Analysis and Threat Reduction Assessment could be considered useful tools to support adaptive management in project management cycles.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Data in 2021
Authors:   Data Editorial Office
Published: January 2022

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]
Collaborative Data Use between Private and Public Stakeholders—A Regional Case Study
Authors: Jean-Quartier Claire , Rey Mazón Miguel , Lovrić Mario , Stryeck Sarah
Published: January 2022

Research and development are facilitated by sharing knowledge bases, and the innovation process benefits from collaborative efforts that involve the collective utilization of data. Until now, most companies and organizations have produced and collected various types of data, and stored them in data silos that still have to be integrated with one another in order to enable knowledge creation. For this to happen, both public and private actors must adopt a flexible approach to achieve the necessary transition to break data silos and create collaborative data sharing between data producers and users. In this paper, we investigate several factors influencing cooperative data usage and explore the challenges posed by the participation in cross-organizational data ecosystems by performing an interview study among stakeholders from private and public organizations in the context of the project IDE@S, which aims at fostering the cooperation in data science in the Austrian federal state of Styria. We highlight technological and organizational requirements of data infrastructure, expertise, and practises towards collaborative data usage.
Dermal Duct Tumor: A Diagnostic Dilemma
Authors: Miller Austinn C. , Adjei Susuana , Temiz Laurie A. , Gill Pavandeep , Siller Alfredo , Tyring Stephen K.
Published: January 2022

Poromas or poroid tumors are a group of rare, benign cutaneous neoplasms derived from the terminal eccrine or apocrine sweat gland duct. There are four poroma variants with overlapping features: dermal duct tumor (DDT), eccrine poroma, hidroacanthoma simplex, and poroid hidradenoma, of which DDT is the least common. Clinically, the variants have a nonspecific appearance and present as solitary dome-shaped papules, plaques, or nodules. They can be indistinguishable from each other and a multitude of differential diagnoses, necessitating a better understanding of the characteristics that make the diagnosis of poroid neoplasms. However, there remains a paucity of information on these lesions, especially DDTs, given their infrequent occurrence. Herein, we review the literature on DDTs with an emphasis on epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical features, diagnosis, and management.
Soluble Levels of CD163, PD-L1, and IL-10 in Renal Cell Carcinoma Patients
Authors: Davidsson Sabina , Huotilainen Sofia , Carlsson Jessica , Sundqvist Pernilla
Published: January 2022

CD163+ M2 macrophages have been suggested to counteract tumor immunity by increasing immunosuppressive mechanisms including PD-L1 and IL-10 expression. Soluble levels of PD-L1, IL-10, and CD163 have been reported as potential biomarkers in various cancers, although the prognostic value in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) has to be further elucidated. In the present study, we measured the levels of sPD-L1, sIL-10, and sCD163 in 144 blood samples from patients with RCC. The levels were determined by using enzyme linked immunosorbent assays. Soluble PD-L1 and CD163 were detectable in 100% of the serum samples, and sCD163 in 22% of the urine samples, while only a minority of the samples had detectable sIL-10. Significantly higher serum levels of sPD-L1 and sCD163 were observed in patients with metastatic disease (p < 0.05). The results also showed that patients with high levels of sPD-L1 in serum had shorter cancer-specific survival compared with patients with low levels (p = 0.002). The results indicate that sPD-L1 most significantly reflects tumor progression in RCC.
N-OH-AABP Modifications in Human DNA May Lead to Auto-Antibodies in Bladder Cancer Subjects
Authors: Shahab Uzma , Habib Safia , Alsulimani Ahmad , Alshammari Qurain Turki , Alatar Abdulrahman A. , Haque Shafiul , Uddin Moin , Ahmad Saheem
Published: January 2022

4-Aminobiphenyl (4-ABP) and other related arylamines have emerged to be responsible for human urinary bladder tumors and cancers. Hemoglobin-ABP adducts have been recognized in the blood of smokers, and it builds up in the circulatory system over the period of years that might lead to a bladder tumor. N-hydroxy-Acetyl 4-Aminobiphenyl (N-OH-AABP) is one of the reactive forms of 4-ABP which has a potential to initiate tumor growth and causes cancer rapidly. In the present study, commercially available human DNA was modified by N-OH-AABP, and its modifications were analyzed biophysically from fluorescence spectroscopy and thermal denaturation studies. Further, Sera and IgG from bladder cancer patients’ blood were assessed for affinity to native and N-OH-AABP modified human DNA using ELISA. The study showed N-OH-AABP caused damage in the structure of the DNA macromolecule and the perturbations resulting from damage leads to change in the Tm of the DNA molecule. Bladder cancer auto-antibodies, particularly in smoker group, showed preferential binding to N-OH-AABP modified human DNA. This study shows that N-OH-AABP modified DNA could be an antigenic stimulus for the generation of autoantibodies in the sera of bladder cancer patients.
Diffuse Leptomeningeal Glioneuronal Tumour with 9-Year Follow-Up: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Sarkinaite Milda , Devyziene Indre , Makstiene Jurgita , Matukevicius Algimantas , Gleizniene Rymante
Published: January 2022

In 2016, the World Health Organisation Classification (WHO) of Tumours was updated with diffuse leptomeningeal glioneuronal tumour (DLGNT) as a provisional unit of mixed neuronal and glial tumours. Here, we report a DLGNT that has been re-diagnosed with the updated WHO classification, with clinical features, imaging, and histopathological findings and a 9-year follow-up. A 16-year-old girl presented with headache, vomiting, and vertigo. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated a hyperintense mass with heterogenous enhancement in the right cerebellopontine angle and internal auditory canal. No leptomeningeal involvement was seen. The histological examination revealed neoplastic tissue of moderate cellularity formed mostly by oligodendrocyte-like cells. Follow-up MRI scans demonstrated cystic lesions in the subarachnoid spaces in the brain with vivid leptomeningeal enhancement. Later spread of the tumour was found in the spinal canal. On demand biopsy samples were re-examined, and pathological diagnosis was identified as DLGNT. In contrast to most reported DLGNTs, the tumour described in this manuscript did not present with diffuse leptomeningeal spread, but later presented with leptomeningeal involvement in the brain and spinal cord. Our case expands the spectrum of radiological features, provides a long-term clinical and radiological follow-up, and highlights the major role of molecular genetic testing in unusual cases.
Revisiting Born’s Rule through Uhlhorn’s and Gleason’s Theorems
Authors: Auffèves Alexia , Grangier Philippe
Published: January 2022

In a previous article we presented an argument to obtain (or rather infer) Born’s rule, based on a simple set of axioms named “Contexts, Systems and Modalities" (CSM). In this approach, there is no “emergence”, but the structure of quantum mechanics can be attributed to an interplay between the quantized number of modalities that is accessible to a quantum system and the continuum of contexts that are required to define these modalities. The strong link of this derivation with Gleason’s theorem was emphasized, with the argument that CSM provides a physical justification for Gleason’s hypotheses. Here, we extend this result by showing that an essential one among these hypotheses—the need of unitary transforms to relate different contexts—can be removed and is better seen as a necessary consequence of Uhlhorn’s theorem.