bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunohistochemical Detection of Estrogen Receptor-Beta (ERβ) with PPZ0506 Antibody in Murine Tissue: From Pitfalls to Optimization
Authors: Schröder Sarah K. , Tag Carmen G. , Kessel Jan C. , Antonson Per , Weiskirchen Ralf
Published: December 2022

The estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) is physiologically essential for reproductive biology and is implicated in various diseases. However, despite more than 20 years of intensive research on ERβ, there are still uncertainties about its distribution in tissues and cellular expression. Several studies show contrasts between mRNA and protein levels, and the use of knockout strategies revealed that many commercially available antibodies gave false-positive expression results. Recently, a specific monoclonal antibody against human ERβ (PPZ0506) showed cross-reactivity with rodents and was optimized for the detection of rat ERβ. Herein, we established an immunohistochemical detection protocol for ERβ protein in mouse tissue. Staining was optimized on murine ovaries, as granulosa cells are known to strongly express ERβ. The staining results were confirmed by western blot analysis and RT-PCR. To obtain accurate and reliable staining results, different staining conditions were tested in paraffin-embedded tissues. Different pitfalls were encountered in immunohistochemical detection. Strong heat-induced epitope retrieval (HIER) and appropriate antibody dilution were required to visualize specific nuclear expression of ERβ. Finally, the specificity of the antibody was confirmed by using ovaries from Esr2-depleted mice. However, in some animals, strong (non-specific) background staining appeared. These signals could not be significantly alleviated with commercially available additional blocking solutions and are most likely due to estrus-dependent expression of endogenous immunoglobulins. In summary, our study showed that the antibody PPZ0506, originally directed against human ERβ, is also suitable for reliable detection of murine ERβ. An established staining protocol mitigated ambiguities regarding the expression and distribution of ERβ in different tissues and will contribute to an improved understanding of its role and functions in murine tissues in the future.
Microglia and Cholesterol Handling: Implications for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Muñoz Herrera Oscar M. , Zivkovic Angela M.
Published: December 2022

Cholesterol is essential for brain function and structure, however altered cholesterol metabolism and transport are hallmarks of multiple neurodegenerative conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The well-established link between apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotype and increased AD risk highlights the importance of cholesterol and lipid transport in AD etiology. Whereas more is known about the regulation and dysregulation of cholesterol metabolism and transport in neurons and astrocytes, less is known about how microglia, the immune cells of the brain, handle cholesterol, and the subsequent implications for the ability of microglia to perform their essential functions. Evidence is emerging that a high-cholesterol environment, particularly in the context of defects in the ability to transport cholesterol (e.g., expression of the high-risk APOE4 isoform), can lead to chronic activation, increased inflammatory signaling, and reduced phagocytic capacity, which have been associated with AD pathology. In this narrative review we describe how cholesterol regulates microglia phenotype and function, and discuss what is known about the effects of statins on microglia, as well as highlighting areas of future research to advance knowledge that can lead to the development of novel therapies for the prevention and treatment of AD.
Detection of Trace Amounts of Water in Organic Solvents by DNA-Based Nanomechanical Sensors
Authors: Murata Tomohiro , Minami Kosuke , Yamazaki Tomohiko , Yoshikawa Genki , Ariga Katsuhiko
Published: December 2022

The detection of trace amounts of water in organic solvents is of great importance in the field of chemistry and in the industry. Karl Fischer titration is known as a classic method and is widely used for detecting trace amounts of water; however, it has some limitations in terms of rapid and direct detection because of its time-consuming sample preparation and specific equipment requirements. Here, we found that a DNA-based nanomechanical sensor exhibits high sensitivity and selectivity to water vapor, leading to the detection and quantification of trace amounts of water in organic solvents as low as 12 ppm in THF, with a ppb level of LoD through their vapors. Since the present method is simple and rapid, it can be an alternative technique to the conventional Karl Fischer titration.
Optimal Contact Position of Subthalamic Nucleus Deep Brain Stimulation for Reducing Restless Legs Syndrome in Parkinson’s Disease Patients: One-Year Follow-Up with 33 Patients
Authors: Lei Hongbing , Yang Chunhui , Zhang Mingyang , Qiu Yiqing , Wang Jiali , Xu Jinyu , Hu Xiaowu , Wu Xi
Published: December 2022

Objectives: To determine the short- and medium-term therapeutic effects of subthalamic nucleus (STN) deep brain stimulation (DBS) on restless legs syndrome (RLS) in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and to study the optimal position of activated contacts for RLS symptoms. Methods: We preoperatively and postoperatively assessed PD Patients with RLS undergoing STN-DBS. Additionally, we recorded the stimulation parameters that induced RLS or relieved RLS symptoms during a follow-up. Finally, we reconstructed the activated contacts’ position that reduced or induced RLS symptoms. Results: 363 PD patients were enrolled. At the 1-year follow-up, we found that the IRLS sum significantly decreased in the RLS group (preoperative 18.758 ± 7.706, postoperative 8.121 ± 7.083, p < 0.05). The results of the CGI score, MOS sleep, and RLS QLQ all showed that the STN-DBS improved RLS symptoms after one year. Furthermore, the activated contacts that relieved RLS were mainly located in the central sensorimotor region of the STN. Activated contacts in the inferior sensorimotor part of the STN or in the substantia nigra might have induced RLS symptoms. Conclusions: STN-DBS improved RLS in patients with PD in one year, which reduced their sleep disorders and increased their quality of life. Furthermore, the central sensorimotor region part of the STN is the optimal stimulation site.
Online Interactions: Mobile Text-Chat as an Educational Pedagogic Tool
Authors: Huang Pingping , Yu Qianyun
Published: December 2022

The reactions of education systems to the global lockdowns implemented during the COVID-19 epidemic highlighted that there remain questions regarding how everyday technologies might be used to support mass education. This paper draws on Conversation Analysis in online textual communication to study key features of mobile text communication by analysing book discussions among adult students of an online reading programme. We captured and analysed three patterns of interaction (i.e., single linear conversations; intertwined conversations; trunk-branch conversations) as to their affordances for educational communication. This study shows that synchronous text has distinctive communicative features, including short text exchanges and various turn-taking patterns, which are different to the elaborated forms of discourse expected in schools. Though “disorder” and “messiness” accompanied the interactions, we take them as opportunities rather than challenges of education and suggest that appropriate pedagogic design may enable teachers to utilise this distinctiveness to develop various learning environments.
The COVID-19 Sentiment and Office Markets: Evidence from China
Authors: Wang Shizhen , Lee Chyi Lin , Song Yan
Published: December 2022

This study examines the impact of COVID-19 sentiment on office building rents and vacancy rates in China with a COVID-19 sentiment index constructed based on Baidu search queries on COVID-19-related keywords. We analyzed the data of office buildings and economic data from 2013 Q3 to 2022 Q2 in seven major Chinese cities with a two-stage Error Correction Model framework. We found that a heightened level of COVID-19 sentiment significantly and adversely affects the Chinese office buildings market. Specifically, office building rents decrease more than 8% if a city is exposed to an increase of one unit of COVID-19 sentiment for an entire quarter. The interaction terms model further reveals that the COVID-19 sentiment has a more substantial impact on office building rents where office vacancy is higher, reflecting an asymmetric effect. The findings here support the fear sentiment hypothesis. The findings suggest that a heightened level of investors’ COVID-19 sentiment resulted in a deterioration of office rents, reinforcing the role of investors’ sentiment in the pricing of office buildings. The findings suggest that investors should consider investor sentiment, particularly COVID-19 sentiment, in their decision-making.
Numerical Test and Strength Prediction of Concrete Failure Process Based on RVM Algorithm
Authors: Xia Chunyang , Guo Xuedong , Dai Wenting
Published: December 2022

Recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) based on the machine learning (ML) method predicts the nonlinear uncertainty relationship between various mixing ratios and strength. Uniaxial compressive strength is one of the important indices to evaluate its performance. Machine learning is one of the essential methods for solving this nonlinear uncertainty relationship. To realize the selection of concrete raw materials and the learning and application of other influencing factors and provide guidance for engineering construction and application, this paper establishes a database of concrete uniaxial compressive strength based on Abaqus simulation software. The simulation results are highly consistent with the actual values. Based on the simulation database, with different water-cement ratios, different curing days, and recycled aggregate replacement rates as the input data set, the uniaxial compressive strength of concrete is the output data set. The data set is divided into a training set and a test set. A prediction model of the uniaxial compressive strength of concrete based on a relevance vector machine (RVM) algorithm is established. The results show that the maximum error between the simulated and experimental uniaxial compressive strength values is only 0.2 MPa. The correlation coefficient R between the predicted and simulated values of the concrete uniaxial compressive strength prediction model based on the RVM algorithm is 0.975. The model can effectively predict the compressive strength of RAC to meet the engineering requirements.
Effect of Fiber Type and Volume Fraction on Fiber Reinforced Concrete and Engineered Cementitious Composite Mechanical Properties
Authors: Abd Elmoaty Abd Elmoaty M. , Morsy Alaa M. , Harraz Abdelrhman B.
Published: December 2022

Engineered cementitious composites (ECC) are an ultra-ductile cement-based composite material reinforced with short randomly distributed fibers. It differs from fiber reinforced concrete (FRC) in that it has a distinct ductile behavior. The study aims to assign mechanical properties, such as tensile, flexural, and compressive strength using locally available fiber rather than polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fiber, which is not widely available in many countries, to ECC. PVA fiber is also very expensive. Instead of PVA, lightweight fibers, such as polypropylene, polyolefin, and glass fiber, as well as heavyweight fibers, such as steel fiber, were used. To assess the mechanical properties, the influences of curing, fiber volume fraction (2%, 4%, and 6%), fiber type, and fiber hybridization were adjusted in this study. The formation of multiple cracks along the specimen is the governing factor in ECC formation. The test results show that increasing the fiber volume fraction improves flexural and tensile strength. Water curing increased compressive, tensile, and flexural strength. Lightweight fiber hybridization has no effect on compressive strength, whereas heavyweight fiber hybridization improves compressive strength. For tensile and flexural strength, hybridization was associated with an improvement in all mechanical properties. The hybridization of lightweight fiber achieved ECC behavior at a lower volume fraction than the use of a single fiber volume. Relationships between tensile strength and flexural strength depending on the compressive strength of ECC were driven by demonstrating high performance.
Gastric Cancer and the Immune System: The Key to Improving Outcomes?
Authors: Keshavjee Sara H. , Moy Ryan H. , Reiner Steven L. , Ryeom Sandra W. , Yoon Sam S.
Published: December 2022

Gastric adenocarcinoma is by far the most common form of gastric cancer (GC) and is a highly lethal form of cancer arising from the gastric epithelium. GC is an important area of focus of the medical community, given its often late-stage of diagnosis and associated high mortality rate. While surgery and chemotherapy remain the primary treatments, attention has been drawn to the use of immunologic therapies, which have shown promise in the treatment of other malignancies. The role for immune-based therapies has become clearer as we obtain a greater understanding of the role of the immune system in gastric cancer formation and growth. A variety treatment to augment the immune system are under evaluation in clinical trials, and these include immune checkpoint inhibitors, antibody-drug conjugates, and immune cell-based therapies. Here, we review the immune landscape and immune-based therapies for GC.
Glucose and Cell Context-Dependent Impact of BMI-1 Inhibitor PTC-209 on AKT Pathway in Endometrial Cancer Cells
Authors: Zaczek Agnieszka , Szustka Aleksandra , Krześlak Anna
Published: December 2022

Purpose: In our study, the glucose and cell context-dependent impact of the BMI-1 inhibitor PTC-209 on the AKT pathway in endometrial cancer cells was determined. Methods: The expression of BMI-1 was inhibited by PTC-209 in endometrial cancer cells HEC-1A and Ishikawa stimulated with insulin and grown in different glucose concentrations. The migration, invasion, viability, and proliferative potential after PTC-209 treatment was assessed using wound-healing, Transwell assay, Matrigel-coated inserts, and MTT tests. Chromatin immunoprecipitation was used to determine the localization of BMI-1 protein at promoter sites of the genes tested. Results: BMI-1 inhibition caused an increase in PHLPP1/2 expression and a decrease in phospho-AKT level in both cell lines. The glucose concentration and insulin stimulation differentially impact the AKT pathway through BMI-1 in cells differing in PTEN statuses. The expression of BMI-1 is dependent on the glucose concentration and insulin stimulation mostly in PTEN positive HEC-1A cells. In high glucose concentrations, BMI-1 affects AKT activity through PHLPPs and in hypoglycemia mostly through PTEN. BMI-1 inhibition impacts on genes involved in SNAIL, SLUG, and CDH1 and reduces endometrial cancer cells’ migratory and invasive potential. Conclusions: Our results indicate that the relationship between BMI-1 and phosphatases involved in AKT regulation depends on the glucose concentration and insulin stimulation.
Comprehensive Pan-Cancer Analyses of Immunogenic Cell Death as a Biomarker in Predicting Prognosis and Therapeutic Response
Authors: Wang Yuan , Huang Yongbiao , Yang Mu , Yu Yulong , Chen Xinyi , Ma Li , Xiao Lingyan , Liu Chaofan , Liu Bo , Yuan Xianglin
Published: December 2022

Immunogenic cell death (ICD), a form of regulated cell death, is related to anticancer therapy. Due to the absence of widely accepted markers, characterizing ICD-related phenotypes across cancer types remained unexplored. Here, we defined the ICD score to delineate the ICD landscape across 33 cancerous types and 31 normal tissue types based on transcriptomic, proteomic and epigenetics data from multiple databases. We found that ICD score showed cancer type-specific association with genomic and immune features. Importantly, the ICD score had the potential to predict therapy response and patient prognosis in multiple cancer types. We also developed an ICD-related prognostic model by machine learning and cox regression analysis. Single-cell level analysis revealed intra-tumor ICD state heterogeneity and communication between ICD-based clusters of T cells and other immune cells in the tumor microenvironment in colon cancer. For the first time, we identified IGF2BP3 as a potential ICD regulator in colon cancer. In conclusion, our study provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating the relation between ICD and clinical relevance, gaining insights into identification of ICD as a potential cancer-related biomarker and therapeutic target.
Enhanced Photocatalytic Degradation of P-Chlorophenol by ZnIn2S4 Nanoflowers Modified with Carbon Quantum Dots
Authors: Qiu Jinli , Liu Quan , Qiu Yixing , Liu Fuqiang , Wang Fenghe
Published: December 2022

The removal of chlorophenol (CP) contaminants from water is a great challenge owing to their natural robustness and the toxic chlorinated by-products generated in degradation processes. In this work, a series of three-dimensional nanoflower-like structured photocatalysts (CQDs/ZnIn2S4-x, x = 1, 2, or 3 wt%) were fabricated via a facile hydrothermal approach. Excellent photocatalytic abilities toward 4-CP degradation under Xe lamp irradiation were achieved over the as-prepared composites. The removal efficiency of total organic carbon for 4-CP on the optimized CQDs/ZnIn2S4-2 was 49.1%, which was 16.0% higher than that of ZnIn2S4. The presence of CQDs could not only be used to adjust controllable band structures for enhancing light absorption, but it could also serve as an electron acceptor to promote the transition of electron–hole pairs. Moreover, a possible degradation mechanism of 4-CP was also proposed according to the analyses of active species, electron paramagnetic resonance characterization, degradation products, and attacked sites. Overall, this work unveils a superior function of an efficient photocatalyst for refractory organic pollutants.
Synthesis, Characterization and Photocatalytic Activity of Spherulite-like r-TiO2 in Hydrogen Evolution Reaction and Methyl Violet Photodegradation
Authors: Bachina Anastasia K. , Popkov Vadim I. , Seroglazova Anna S. , Enikeeva Maria O. , Kurenkova Anna Yu. , Kozlova Ekaterina A. , Gerasimov Evgeny Y. , Valeeva Albina A. , Rempel Andrey A.
Published: December 2022

Synthesis and characterization of spherulite-like nanocrystalline titania with rutile structure (r-TiO2) are described herein. The r-TiO2 particles were synthesized via the convenient and low-cost hydrothermal treatment of TiO(C6H6O7) titanyl citrate. The r-TiO2 spherulites are micron-sized agglomerates of rod-shaped nanocrystals with characteristic sizes of 7(±2) × 43(±10) nm, oriented along (101) crystallographic direction, and separated by micropores, as revealed by SEM and TEM. PXRD and Raman spectroscopy confirmed the nanocrystalline nature of r-TiO2 crystallites. BET analysis showed a high specific surface area of 102.6 m2/g and a pore volume of 6.22 mm3/g. Photocatalytic performances of the r-TiO2 spherulites were investigated for the processes of methyl violet (MV) degradation in water and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in aqueous solutions of ethanol. The (MV) degradation kinetics was found to be first-order and the degradation rate coefficient is 2.38 × 10−2 min−1. The HER was performed using pure r-TiO2 spherulites and nanocomposite r-TiO2 spherulites with platinum deposited on the surface (r-TiO2/Pt). It was discovered that the r-TiO2/Pt nanocomposite has a 15-fold higher hydrogen evolution rate than pure r-TiO2; their rates are 161 and 11 nmol/min, respectively. Thus, the facile synthesis route and the high photocatalytic performances of the obtained nanomaterials make them promising for commercial use in such photocatalytic processes as organic contamination degradation and hydrogen evolution.
Synthesis and Visible Light Catalytic Performance of BiOI/Carbon Nanofibers Heterojunction
Authors: Wang Kexin , Liu Lina , Zhang Yongsheng , Su Jianfeng , Sun Ruirui , Zhang Jiao , Wang Yajie , Zhang Mingyi
Published: December 2022

Semiconductor materials as photocatalysts hold great prospects for renewable energy substitutes and environmental protection. Nanostructured BiOX (X=Cl, Br, I) with favorable features of a unique layered crystal structure and suitable band gaps has been demonstrated to be a promising photocatalytic material. In this paper, a two-step synthesis route combining an electrospinning technique and SILAR reaction has been accepted as a straightforward protocol for the exploitation of BiOI/carbon nanofibers’ (CNFs) hierarchical heterostructures. As expected, the BiOI/CNFs presented a much higher degradation rate of methyl orange than that of the pure BiOI under visible light. The degradation rate of methyl orange reaches 85% within 210 min. The enhanced photocatalytic activity could be attributed to the fact that conductive CNFs as substrate could effectively improve the separation and transformation of photogenerated charges. Moreover, the fabricated BiOI/CNFs after five cycles could be easily recycled without a decrease in photocatalytic activity due to their ultra-long one-dimensional nano-structural property.
High-Content RNAi Phenotypic Screening Unveils the Involvement of Human Ubiquitin-Related Enzymes in Late Cytokinesis
Authors: Boullé Mikaël , Davignon Laurianne , Nabhane Saïd Halidi Keïs , Guez Salomé , Giraud Emilie , Hollenstein Marcel , Agou Fabrice
Published: December 2022

CEP55 is a central regulator of late cytokinesis and is overexpressed in numerous cancers. Its post-translationally controlled recruitment to the midbody is crucial to the structural coordination of the abscission sequence. Our recent evidence that CEP55 contains two ubiquitin-binding domains was the first structural and functional link between ubiquitin signaling and ESCRT-mediated severing of the intercellular bridge. So far, high-content screens focusing on cytokinesis have used multinucleation as the endpoint readout. Here, we report an automated image-based detection method of intercellular bridges, which we applied to further our understanding of late cytokinetic signaling by performing an RNAi screen of ubiquitin ligases and deubiquitinases. A secondary validation confirmed four candidate genes, i.e., LNX2, NEURL, UCHL1 and RNF157, whose downregulation variably affects interconnected phenotypes related to CEP55 and its UBDs, as follows: decreased recruitment of CEP55 to the midbody, increased number of midbody remnants per cell, and increased frequency of intercellular bridges or multinucleation events. This brings into question the Notch-dependent or independent contributions of LNX2 and NEURL proteins to late cytokinesis. Similarly, the role of UCHL1 in autophagy could link its function with the fate of midbody remnants. Beyond the biological interest, this high-content screening approach could also be used to isolate anticancer drugs that act by impairing cytokinesis and CEP55 functions.
Differentially Expressed Cell Cycle Genes and STAT1/3-Driven Multiple Cancer Entanglement in Psoriasis, Coupled with Other Comorbidities
Authors: Dorai Subhashini , Alex Anand Daniel
Published: December 2022

Psoriasis is a persistent T-cell-supported inflammatory cutaneous disorder, which is defined by a significant expansion of basal cells in the epidermis. Cell cycle and STAT genes that control cell cycle progression and viral infection have been revealed to be comorbid with the development of certain cancers and other disorders, due to their abnormal or scanty expression. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the expression of certain cell cycle and STAT1/3 genes in psoriasis patients and to determine the types of comorbidities associated with these genes. To do so, we opted to adopt the in silico methodology, since it is a quick and easy way to discover any potential comorbidity risks that may exist in psoriasis patients. With the genes collected from early research groups, protein networks were created in this work using the NetworkAnalyst program. The crucial hub genes were identified by setting the degree parameter, and they were then used in gene ontology and pathway assessments. The transcription factors that control the hub genes were detected by exploring TRRUST, and DGIdb was probed for remedies that target transcription factors and hubs. Using the degree filter, the first protein subnetwork produced seven hub genes, including STAT3, CCNB1, STAT1, CCND1, CDC20, HSPA4, and MAD2L1. The hub genes were shown to be implicated in cell cycle pathways by the gene ontology and Reactome annotations. The former four hubs were found in signaling pathways, including prolactin, FoxO, JAK/STAT, and p53, according to the KEGG annotation. Furthermore, they enhanced several malignancies, including pancreatic cancer, Kaposi’s sarcoma, non-small cell lung cancer, and acute myeloid leukemia. Viral infections, including measles, hepatitis C, Epstein–Barr virus, and HTLV-1 and viral carcinogenesis were among the other susceptible diseases. Diabetes and inflammatory bowel disease were conjointly annotated. In total, 129 medicines were discovered in DGIdb to be effective against the transcription factors BRCA1, RELA, TP53, and MYC, as opposed to 10 medications against the hubs, STAT3 and CCND1, in tandem with 8 common medicines. The study suggests that the annotated medications should be tested in suitable psoriatic cell lines and animal models to optimize the drugs used based on the kind, severity, and related comorbidities of psoriasis. Furthermore, a personalized medicine protocol must be designed for each psoriasis patient that displays different comorbidities.
The Autocrine Role of Placental Extracellular Vesicles from Missed Miscarriage in Causing Senescence: Possible Pathogenesis of Missed Miscarriage
Authors: Zhang Yi , Tang Yunhui , Liu Yang , Wang Jiayi , Shen Ye , Sun Xinyi , Kang Matthew , Zhao Min , Chen Qi
Published: December 2022

Placental dysfunction, including senescent changes, is associated with the pathogenesis of missed miscarriage, although the underlying mechanism is unclear. Increasing evidence indicates that placenta-specific miRNAs are packaged in extracellular vesicles (EVs) from placental syncytiotrophoblasts and are released into the maternal circulation. Aberrant cargos including miRNAs in placental EVs have been reported to be associated with the pathogenesis of complicated pregnancies. In this study, we compared the miRNA profiles in EVs derived from missed miscarriage and healthy placentae and investigated possible biological pathways which may be involved in senescence, one cause of missed miscarriage. The total concentration of RNA in placental EVs was not different between the two groups. However, there were 54 and 94 differentially expressed miRNAs in placental large and small EVs from missed miscarriage compared to EVs from healthy controls. The aberrantly expressed miRNAs seen in placental EVs were also observed in missed miscarriage placentae. Gene enrichment analysis showed that some of those differentially expressed miRNAs are involved in cellular senescence, endocytosis, cell cycle and endocrine resistance. Furthermore, transfection of trophoblasts by a single senescence-associated miRNA that was differentially expressed in placental EVs derived from missed miscarriage did not cause trophoblast dysfunction. In contrast, EVs derived from missed miscarriage placenta induced senescent changes in the healthy placenta. Our data suggested that a complex of placental EVs, rather than a few differentially expressed miRNAs in placental EVs derived from missed miscarriage placentae could contribute in an autocrine manner to placental senescence, one of the causes of missed miscarriage.
The BRCAness Landscape of Cancer
Authors: Guo Maoni , Wang San Ming
Published: December 2022

BRCAness refers to the damaged homologous recombination (HR) function due to the defects in HR-involved non-BRCA1/2 genes. BRCAness is the important marker for the use of synthetic lethal-based PARP inhibitor therapy in breast and ovarian cancer treatment. The success provides an opportunity of applying PARP inhibitor therapy to treat other cancer types with BRCAness features. However, systematic knowledge is lack for BRCAness in different cancer types beyond breast and ovarian cancer. We performed a comprehensive characterization for 40 BRCAness-related genes in 33 cancer types with over 10,000 cancer cases, including pathogenic variation, homozygotic deletion, promoter hypermethylation, gene expression, and clinical correlation of BRCAness in each cancer type. Using BRCA1/BRCA2 mutated breast and ovarian cancer as the control, we observed that BRCAness is widely present in multiple cancer types. Based on the sum of the BRCAneass features in each cancer type, we identified the following 21 cancer types as the potential targets for PARPi therapy: adrenocortical carcinoma, bladder urothelial carcinoma, brain lower grade glioma, colon adenocarcinoma, esophageal carcinoma, head and neck squamous carcinoma, kidney chromophobe, kidney renal clear cell carcinoma, kidney renal papillary cell carcinoma, liver hepatocellular carcinoma, lung adenocarcinoma, lung squamous cell carcinoma, mesothelioma, rectum adenocarcinoma, pancreatic adenocarcinoma, prostate adenocarcinoma, sarcoma, skin cutaneous melanoma, stomach adenocarcinoma, uterine carcinosarcoma, and uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma.
Fabrication of NiO/YSZ-Based Anodes for Solid Oxide Fuel Cells by Hybrid 3D Inkjet Printing and Laser Treatment
Authors: Malbakhova Inna , Bagishev Artem , Vorobyev Alexander , Borisenko Tatiana , Logutenko Olga , Titkov Alexander
Published: December 2022

An anode for solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) was fabricated using 3D inkjet printing and layer-by-layer laser treatment of compositions based on the NiO/YSZ system followed by thermal sintering. The samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray phase analysis. The study of the morphology of the as-prepared samples revealed the presence of both interlayer macroporosity and intralayer microporosity, which depends on the laser exposure during laser treatment. The use of graphite directly added to the printing composition as the pore former increased the intralayer porosity. The morphology and size of the pores were shown to be similar to those of the pore former. The microstructure and porosity of the anode support can be controlled by varying the laser exposure values and the graphite content of the ceramic composite, which in turn opens up great prospects for using these paste compositions and printing techniques for the manufacture of SOFC anode supports.
Ultrasensitive Fluorescent “ON-OFF” Label-Free Immunosensor for Detection of Vitellogenin of Marine Medaka
Authors: Qi Chong , Yang Ailing , Wang Huaidong , Zhang Zhenzhong , Wang Jun
Published: December 2022

The negative effects of environmental estrogens on wildlife and human beings are gaining increasing attention. Research on the highly sensitive detection method for Vitellogenin (Vtg), one of the biomarkers of environmental estrogens (EEs), is expected to detect weak estrogens in complex environments. This study aimed to develop a label-free immunosensor with high specificity and sensitivity for testing Vtg. Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) with high fluorescence and excellent stability were synthesized, and antilipovitellin monoclonal antibody (Anti-Lv-mAb) was prepared. Based on the fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) between CQDs-conjugated Anti-Lv-mAb and reduced graphene oxide (RGO), an ultrasensitive fluorescent “ON-OFF” label-free immunosensor for detection of Vtg of marine medaka was established. By modification of RGO with poly dimethyl diallyl ammonium chloride (PDDA), the Zeta potential of RGO was changed and the FRET efficiency was improved. The immunosensor displayed a wide linear response to Vtg of marine medaka from 0.1 to 3000 ng/mL, a low limit of detection (LOD) of 0.04 ng/mL, and excellent sensitivity (28,833.63 CPS/(ng/mL)), selectivity, and reproducibility. The results demonstrated that the fluorescent “ON-OFF” immunosensor is an easy-to-use, relatively fast, ultrasensitive, and accurate detection method for weak estrogenic activity.
MOF-Based Materials with Sensing Potential: Pyrrolidine-Fused Chlorin at UiO-66(Hf) for Enhanced NO2 Detection
Authors: Queirós Carla , Moscoso Francisco G. , Almeida José , Silva Ana M. G. , Sousaraei Ahmad , Cabanillas-González Juan , Ribeiro Carrott Manuela , Lopes-Costa Tânia , Pedrosa José M. , Cunha-Silva Luís
Published: December 2022

An efficient strategy to develop porous materials with potential for NO2 sensing was based in the preparation of a metal-organic framework (MOF), UiO-66(Hf), modified with a very small amount of meso-tetrakis(4-carboxyphenyl) N-methylpyrrolidine-fused chlorin (TCPC), TCPC@MOF. Chlorin’s incorporation into the UiO-66(Hf) framework was verified by several characterization methods and revealed that the as-synthesized TCPC@MOF brings together the chemical stability of UiO-66(Hf) and the photophysical properties of the pyrrolidine-fused chlorin which is about five times more emissive than the porphyrin counterpart. TCPC@MOF was further incorporated into polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and the resulting TCPC@MOF@PDMS film was tested in NO2 gas sensing. It showed notable sensitivity as well as a fast response in the range between 0.5 and 500 ppm where an emission intensity quenching is observed up to 96% for 500 ppm. This is a rare example of a chlorin-derivative used for gas-sensing applications through emission changes, and an unusual case of this type of optical-sensing composites of NO2.
Correction: Nasri et al. A Novel Data-Driven Approach to Examine Children’s Movements and Social Behaviour in Schoolyard Environments. Children 2022, 9, 1177
Authors: Nasri Maedeh , Tsou Yung-Ting , Koutamanis Alexander , Baratchi Mitra , Giest Sarah , Reidsma Dennis , Rieffe Carolien
Published: December 2022

The authors request the following corrections because the changes made according to the second round of the review process were not included in the original publication [...]
How Compounding Pharmacies Fill Critical Gaps in Pediatric Drug Development Processes: Suggested Regulatory Changes to Meet Future Challenges
Authors: MacArthur Robert B. , Ashworth Lisa D. , Zhan Keming , Parrish Richard H.
Published: December 2022

Drugs administered to children in the United States fall into two broad categories: (1) those that have followed the US Food and Drug Administration (US-FDA) pediatric drug approval process and are marketed as finished dosage forms with pediatric labeling; and (2) all others, many of which are used “off-label”. The use of most drug products in pediatrics is still off label, often requiring special preparation, packaging, and, in some cases, compounding into preparations. The latter category includes compounded preparations that incorporate either a US-FDA approved finished dosage form (e.g., a sterile solution, sterile powder, nonsterile capsules, oral solution, crushed tablets, etc.), or rely on bulk active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Compounded preparations are prepared for individual patients in 503A pharmacies, or on a larger scale and not just for specific patients, in licensed 503B establishments. Critical gaps in the current drug approval process for finished dosage forms have created a proverbial “Gordian knot” that needs to be untangled thoughtfully to facilitate increased production and approval of vitally needed medications for pediatric patients. This opinion will describe current regulatory processes pertaining to pediatrics-only drug approval in the United States. Additionally, discussed are steps required for a product to acquire pediatric labeling. Gaps in regulatory approval pathways for both manufactured and compounded pediatric drugs will be identified, especially those that complicate and slow development and availability to patients. Finally, suggestions for regulatory modifications that may enhance pediatric product development strategies for both manufacturers and compounders are suggested.
Diagnostic Process for Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Meta-Analysis of Worldwide Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Initial Somatic Assessment
Authors: Dauchez Tom , Camelot Guillaume , Levy Charlotte , Rajerison Toky , Briot Kellen , Pizano Adrien , Geoffray Marie-Maude , Landrieu Loic , Bouvard Manuel , Amestoy Anouck
Published: December 2022

(1) Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is highly associated with various somatic conditions that can be masked by the core symptoms of ASD and thus complicate the diagnosis. Identifying co-occurring somatic disorders is critical for providing effective healthcare and social services for ASD populations and influences their long-term outcomes. A systematic assessment of co-occurring somatic conditions is essential during this ASD diagnostic process. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the organization and content of the initial somatic assessment (ISA). (2) Methods: We conducted a systematic review of the clinical practice guidelines (CPG) for the ASD diagnostic process published between January 2005 and December 2019 in English and French and performed an appraisal following the Appraisal of Guidelines Research and Evaluation, second edition (AGREE-II). (3) Results: We selected 14 CPGs that were heterogeneous in quality, with methodological scores between 32.3 and 91.9. Clinical examinations are the first step in the ISA, and the participation of pediatric, neuropediatric, and genetic specialists was highly recommended by the majority of the CPGs. The recommendations included hearing screening tests (10/14), visual examinations (8/14), and systematic genetic investigations (4/14). The CPGs also described additional investigations that should be conducted based on numerous warning signs. (4) Conclusions: Screening for consensual international warning signs is necessary to perform a comprehensive and systematic ISA during the ASD diagnostic process. A “referral form” could be used to guide clinicians and improve the coordination process. This tool may reinforce epidemiological data on co-occurring somatic disorders in patients with ASD.
Palliative Sedation Therapy in Pediatrics: An Algorithm and Clinical Practice Update
Authors: Cuviello Andrea , Johnson Liza-Marie , Morgan Kyle J. , Anghelescu Doralina L. , Baker Justin N.
Published: December 2022

Palliative sedation therapy (PST) is an important clinical intervention for pediatric patients with refractory symptoms and suffering during the end-of-life (EOL) period. Variations in PST implementation including medication selection, limited literature regarding feasibility in various clinical settings, particularly non-intensive care units, and lack of education on evolving definitions and ideal practices may all contribute to the current underutilization of this valuable resource. We therefore offer a clinical algorithm for identifying appropriate patients for PST, ensuring all other modalities for symptom management have been considered and/or optimized, and present a guideline for PST implementation that can be adapted and individualized based on institutional experience and resource availability. Furthermore, through case-based clinical scenarios, we demonstrate how to incorporate this algorithm into EOL practice.
Climate Change Impacts on Streamflow in the Krishna River Basin, India: Uncertainty and Multi-Site Analysis
Authors: Naga Sowjanya Ponguru , Keesara Venkata Reddy , Mesapam Shashi , Das Jew , Sridhar Venkataramana
Published: December 2022

In Peninsular India, the Krishna River basin is the second largest river basin that is overutilized and more vulnerable to climate change. The main aim of this study is to determine the future projection of monthly streamflows in the Krishna River basin for Historic (1980–2004) and Future (2020–2044, 2045–2069, 2070–2094) climate scenarios (RCP 4.5 and 8.5, respectively), with the help of the Soil Water and Assessment Tool (SWAT). SWAT model parameters are optimized using SWAT-CUP during calibration (1975 to 1990) and validation (1991–2003) periods using observed discharge data at 5 gauging stations. The Cordinated Regional Downscaling EXperiment (CORDEX) provides the future projections for meteorological variables with different high-resolution Global Climate Models (GCM). Reliability Ensemble Averaging (REA) is used to analyze the uncertainty of meteorological variables associated within the multiple GCMs for simulating streamflow. REA-projected climate parameters are validated with IMD-simulated data. The results indicate that REA performs well throughout the basin, with the exception of the area near the Krishna River’s headwaters. For the RCP 4.5 scenario, the simulated monsoon streamflow values at Mantralayam gauge station are 716.3 m3/s per month for the historic period (1980–2004), 615.6 m3/s per month for the future1 period (2020–2044), 658.4 m3/s per month for the future2 period (2045–2069), and 748.9 m3/s per month for the future3 period (2070–2094). Under the RCP 4.5 scenario, lower values of about 50% are simulated during the winter. Future streamflow projections at Mantralayam and Pondhugala gauge stations are lower by 30 to 50% when compared to historic streamflow under RCP 4.5. When compared to the other two future periods, trends in streamflow throughout the basin show a decreasing trend in the first future period. Water managers in developing water management can use the recommendations made in this study as preliminary information and adaptation practices for the Krishna River basin.
Splitting an Impacting Droplet by a Superhydrophobic Wire
Authors: Song Dong , Xu Changsheng , Song Baowei , Pan Guang , Hu Haibao , Choi Chang-Hwan
Published: December 2022

Splitting a droplet into several segments is of great significance in many applications such as the detection of tiny liquid samples, whereas the surface tension tends to hold liquid to remain as one drop, causing difficulty in separating the droplet into pieces. In this work, a method is proposed to split an impacting droplet with a relatively high velocity or Weber number into two halves by a superhydrophobic wire. The effects of the wire wettability and the impact velocity of the droplet on the splitting phenomena and the efficacy to an anti-icing application are investigated. Compared to a hydrophilic wire, a superhydrophobic wire splits an impacting droplet at a relatively high speed of the Weber number greater than 3.1 and inhibits ice accretion at the temperature as low as −20 °C. The results suggest that a superhydrophobic wire can be utilized in the droplet manipulation and anti-icing applications such as power lines in high latitude areas.
On Alternative Algorithms for Computing Dynamic Mode Decomposition
Authors: Nedzhibov Gyurhan
Published: December 2022

Dynamic mode decomposition (DMD) is a data-driven, modal decomposition technique that describes spatiotemporal features of high-dimensional dynamic data. The method is equation-free in the sense that it does not require knowledge of the underlying governing equations. The main purpose of this article is to introduce new alternatives to the currently accepted algorithm for calculating the dynamic mode decomposition. We present two new algorithms which are more economical from a computational point of view, which is an advantage when working with large data. With a few illustrative examples, we demonstrate the applicability of the introduced algorithms.
Soothing Effect of a Cosmetic Product on Skin Discomforts Induced by a Chemical Irritant (Capsaicin) and UV-Radiation, and after Mosquito Bites and Sunburn in a Real-World Setting
Authors: Nobile Vincenzo , Zanoletti Valentina , Manzoni Viviana , Romagnoli Silvia , Cestone Enza
Published: December 2022

Irritated and itchy skin is a common skin condition. Consumers tend to opt for natural ingredients for irritated skin (e.g., after insect bites or sun exposure). We tested a cosmetic product with 94% of its ingredients being of natural origin, each with its beneficial properties, e.g., nourishing shea butter, cooling menthol, and soothing bisabolol. Skin discomfort was induced either by a chemical irritant (capsaicin) or UV radiation by a solar simulator. In this clinical, prospective, and controlled experimental study, we investigated the soothing effect of the tested product. We observed a soothing effect on the capsaicin-induced itching and stinging sensation with a statistically significant decrease in the discomfort sensations one minute after a single application. The tested product also showed a significant reduction in the UV-induced skin erythema (UVA+B exposure). In a real-world study, these results can be correlated with a decrease of itching and irritation after sunburn or after insect bites.
Performance Improvement of InGaN-Based LEDs via a Current-Blocking Region Prepared via Hydrogen Passivation
Authors: Kirilenko Pavel , Altinkaya Cesur , Iida Daisuke , Ohkawa Kazuhiro
Published: December 2022

We report p-GaN passivation via hydrogen plasma used to create current blocking regions (CBRs) in InGaN-based green LEDs with standard dimensions of 280 × 650 μm2. The CBRs are created before mesa etching in two variants: underneath the opaque metal p-pad and both underneath the p-pad and along the device’s mesa perimeter. The peak EQE increased by 13% and 23% in the first and the second cases, respectively, in comparison to the reference LED with no CBR. With a high injection current of 50 A/cm2, the EQE value increased by 2% in the case of CBRs underneath the p-pad as well as by 14% in the case of CBRs both underneath the p-pad and along the mesa perimeter (relative to the reference sample with no CBR).
The Role of Radiomics in Salivary Gland Imaging: A Systematic Review and Radiomics Quality Assessment
Authors: Aringhieri Giacomo , Fanni Salvatore Claudio , Febi Maria , Colligiani Leonardo , Cioni Dania , Neri Emanuele
Published: December 2022

Background: Radiomics of salivary gland imaging can support clinical decisions in different clinical scenarios, such as tumors, radiation-induced xerostomia and sialadenitis. This review aims to evaluate the methodological quality of radiomics studies on salivary gland imaging. Material and Methods: A systematic search was performed, and the methodological quality was evaluated using the radiomics quality score (RQS). Subgroup analyses according to the first author’s professional role (medical or not medical), journal type (radiological journal or other) and the year of publication (2021 or before) were performed. The correlation of RQS with the number of patients was calculated. Results: Twenty-three articles were included (mean RQS 11.34 ± 3.68). Most studies well-documented the imaging protocol (87%), while neither prospective validations nor cost-effectiveness analyses were performed. None of the included studies provided open-source data. A statistically significant difference in RQS according to the year of publication was found (p = 0.009), with papers published in 2021 having slightly higher RQSs than older ones. No differences according to journal type or the first author’s professional role were demonstrated. A moderate relationship between the overall RQS and the number of patients was found. Conclusions: Radiomics application in salivary gland imaging is increasing. Although its current clinical applicability can be affected by the somewhat inadequate quality of the papers, a significant improvement in radiomics methodologies has been demonstrated in the last year.