bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impedimetric Detection of Cancer Markers Based on Nanofiber Copolymers
Authors: Elnagar Noha , Elgiddawy Nada , El Rouby Waleed M. A. , Farghali Ahmed A. , Korri-Youssoufi Hafsa
Published: January 2024

The sensitive determination of folate receptors (FRs) in the early stages of cancer is of great significance for controlling the progression of cancerous cells. Many folic acid (FA)-based electrochemical biosensors have been utilized to detect FRs with promising performances, but most were complicated, non-reproducible, non-biocompatible, and time and cost consuming. Here, we developed an environmentally friendly and sensitive biosensor for FR detection. We proposed an electrochemical impedimetric biosensor formed by nanofibers (NFs) of bio-copolymers prepared by electrospinning. The biosensor combines the advantages of bio-friendly polymers, such as sodium alginate (SA) and polyethylene oxide (PEO) as an antifouling polymer, with FA as a biorecognition element. The NF nanocomposites were characterized using various techniques, including SEM, FTIR, zeta potential (ZP), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). We evaluated the performance of the NF biosensor using EIS and demonstrated FR detection in plasma with a limit of detection of 3 pM. Furthermore, the biosensor showed high selectivity, reliability, and good stability when stored for two months. This biosensor was constructed from ‘green credentials’ holding polymers that are highly needed in the new paradigm shift in the medical industry.
Gait Characteristics during Dual-Task Walking in Elderly Subjects of Different Ages
Authors: Nedović Nenad , Eminović Fadilj , Marković Vladana , Stanković Iva , Radovanović Saša
Published: January 2024

Background: In older age, walking ability gradually decreases due to factors including impaired balance, reduced muscle strength, and impaired vision and proprioception. Further, cognitive functions play a key role during walking and gradually decline with age. There is greater variability in gait parameters when the demands during walking increase, in dual- and multiple-task situations. The aim of this study was to analyze gait parameters while performing a demanding cognitive and motor dual task in three different age-related healthy elderly subject groups. Method: A total of 132 healthy individuals (54 males, 78 females) were divided into three groups—55 to 65, 66 to 75, and 76 to 85 years. The subjects performed a basic walking task, dual motor task, dual mental task, and combined motor and mental task while walking. The gait parameters cycle time, stride length, swing time, and double support time were noted, as well as the variability of those parameters. Results: Cycle time was longer and stride length was shorter in the >76-year-old group than in the 51–65-year-old group in all test conditions. A comparison of all three groups did not show a significant difference in swing time, while double support time was increased in the same group. Conclusions: Changes are observed when gait is performed simultaneously with an additional motor or cognitive task. Early detection of gait disorders can help identify elderly people at increased risk of falls. Employing a dual-task paradigm during gait assessment in healthy elderly subjects may help identify cognitive impairment early in the course of the disturbance.
Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Intrinsic FTSJ1 Favors Tumor Progression and Attenuates CD8+ T Cell Infiltration
Authors: Sun Yangqing , Liu Qingqing , Zhong Shangwei , Wei Rui , Luo Jun-Li
Published: January 2024

FtsJ RNA 2′-O-methyltransferase 1 (FTSJ1) is a member of the methyltransferase superfamily and is involved in the processing and modification of ribosomal RNA. We herein demonstrate that FTSJ1 favors TNBC progression. The knockdown of FTSJ1 inhibits TNBC cell proliferation and development, induces apoptosis of cancer cells, and increases the sensitivity of TNBC cells to T-cell-mediated cytotoxicity. Furthermore, the high expression of FTSJ1 in TNBC attenuates CD8+T cell infiltration in the tumor microenvironment (TME) correlated with poorer prognosis for clinical TNBC patients. In this study, we establish that FTSJ1 acts as a tumor promotor, is involved in cancer immune evasion, and may serve as a potential immunotherapy target in TNBC.
How Did Breast Cancer Patients Fare during Different Phases of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Norway Compared to Age-Matched Controls?
Authors: Svendsen Karianne , Leithe Sigrid , Trewin-Nybråten Cassia B. , Balto Aina , Nes Lise Solberg , Meland Anders , Børøsund Elin , Kiserud Cecilie E. , Reinertsen Kristin Valborg , Eriksen Hege R. , Gjelsvik Ylva Maria , Ursin Giske
Published: January 2024

Little is known about how health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in breast cancer cases differed from that of controls during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. This study used data from an ongoing, nationwide HRQoL survey of 4279 newly diagnosed breast cancer cases and 2911 controls to investigate how breast cancer patients fared during different phases of the pandemic compared to controls. Responders during 2020–2022 were categorized into three COVID-19-related phases: the social restrictions phase, the high infection rate phase, and the post-pandemic phase. Across phases, breast cancer cases had significantly worse scores in most HRQoL domains compared to controls. Apart from slightly more insomnia in the high infection rate phase for both cases and controls, and better social functioning for young cases in the post-COVID-19 phase, the case-control differences in HRQoL remained consistent across phases. When the phases were assessed as one period, young women and those living with children <18 years of age fared the worst among breast cancer cases, while single women fared the worst among controls. In contrast, controls living with children <18 years of age exhibited better HRQoL than controls without children. In summary, women with breast cancer did not appear to fare differently than controls in terms of HRQoL across COVID-19 phases. However, breast cancer cases with young children fared worse in their HRQoL than other breast cancer cases.
MACC1 Regulates LGR5 to Promote Cancer Stem Cell Properties in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Erdem Müge , Lee Kyung Hwan , Hardt Markus , Regan Joseph L. , Kobelt Dennis , Walther Wolfgang , Mokrizkij Margarita , Regenbrecht Christian , Stein Ulrike
Published: January 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The high mortality is directly associated with metastatic disease, which is thought to be initiated by colon cancer stem cells, according to the cancer stem cell (CSC) model. Consequently, early identification of those patients who are at high risk for metastasis is crucial for improved treatment and patient outcomes. Metastasis-associated in colon cancer 1 (MACC1) is a novel prognostic biomarker for tumor progression and metastasis formation independent of tumor stage. We previously showed an involvement of MACC1 in cancer stemness in the mouse intestine of our MACC1 transgenic mouse models. However, the expression of MACC1 in human CSCs and possible implications remain elusive. Here, we explored the molecular mechanisms by which MACC1 regulates stemness and the CSC-associated invasive phenotype based on patient-derived tumor organoids (PDOs), patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) and human CRC cell lines. We showed that CD44-enriched CSCs from PDO models express significantly higher levels of MACC1 and LGR5 and display higher tumorigenicity in immunocompromised mice. Similarly, RNA sequencing performed on PDO and PDX models demonstrated significantly increased MACC1 expression in ALDH1(+) CSCs, highlighting its involvement in cancer stemness. We further showed the correlation of MACC1 with the CSC markers CD44, NANOG and LGR5 in PDO models as well as established cell lines. Additionally, MACC1 increased stem cell gene expression, clonogenicity and sphere formation. Strikingly, we showed that MACC1 binds as a transcription factor to the LGR5 gene promoter, uncovering the long-known CSC marker LGR5 as a novel essential signaling mediator employed by MACC1 to induce CSC-like properties in human CRC patients. Our in vitro findings were further substantiated by a significant positive correlation of MACC1 with LGR5 in CRC cell lines as well as CRC patient tumors. Taken together, this study indicates that the metastasis inducer MACC1 acts as a cancer stem cell-associated marker. Interventional approaches targeting MACC1 would potentially improve further targeted therapies for colorectal cancer patients to eradicate CSCs and prevent cancer recurrence and distant metastasis formation.
Lung Resection for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer following Bronchoscopic Lung Volume Reduction for Heterogenous Emphysema
Authors: Fiorelli Alfonso , Leonardi Beatrice , Messina Gaetana , Luzzi Luca , Paladini Piero , Catelli Chiara , Minervini Fabrizio , Kestenholz Peter , Teodonio Leonardo , D’Andrilli Antonio , Rendina Erino Angelo , Natale Giovanni
Published: January 2024

Bronchoscopic lung volume reduction (BLVR) is a minimally invasive treatment for emphysema. Lung cancer may be associated with emphysema due to common risk factors. Thus, a growing number of patients undergoing BLVR may develop lung cancer. Herein, we evaluated the effects of lung resection for non-small cell lung cancer in patients undergoing BLVR. The clinical data of patients undergoing BLVR followed by lung resection for NSCLC were retrospectively reviewed. For each patient, surgical and oncological outcomes were recorded to define the effects of this strategy. Eight patients were included in our series. In all cases but one, emphysema was localized within upper lobes; the tumor was detected during routine follow-up following BLVR and it did not involve the treated lobe. The comparison of pre- and post-BLVR data showed a significant improvement in FEV1 (29.7 ± 4.9 vs. 33.7 ± 6.7, p = 0.01); in FVC (28.5 ± 6.6 vs. 32.4 ± 6.1, p = 0.01); in DLCO (31.5 ± 4.9 vs. 38.7 ± 5.7, p = 0.02); in 6MWT (237 ± 14 m vs. 271 ± 15 m, p = 0.01); and a reduction in RV (198 ± 11 vs. 143 ± 9.8, p = 0.01). Surgical resection of lung cancer included wedge resection (n = 6); lobectomy (n = 1); and segmentectomy (n = 1). No major complications were observed and the comparison of pre- and post-operative data showed no significant reduction in FEV1% (33.7 ± 6.7 vs. 31.5 ± 5.3; p = 0.15) and in DLCO (38.7 ± 5.7 vs. 36.1 ± 5.4; p = 0.15). Median survival was 35 months and no cancer relapses were observed. The improved lung function obtained with BLVR allowed nonsurgical candidates to undergo lung resection for lung cancer.
An Evidence-Based Update on the Potential for Malignancy of Oral Lichen Planus and Related Conditions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: González-Moles Miguel Ángel , Ramos-García Pablo
Published: January 2024

A systematic review and a meta-analysis is presented on published articles on the malignant transformation of oral lichen planus (OLP) and related conditions, which, based on current evidence, updates an earlier systematic review published by our research group that included publications until November 2018. In this updated study (Nov-2023) we searched MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus. We evaluated the methodological quality of studies (QUIPS tool) and carried out meta-analyses. The inclusion criteria were met by 101 studies (38,083 patients), of which, 20 new primary-level studies (11,512 patients) were published in the last 5 years and were added to our updated study. The pooled malignant transformation ratio was 1.43% (95% CI = 1.09–1.80) for OLP; 1.38% (95% CI = 0.16–3.38) for oral lichenoid lesions; 1.20% (95% CI = 0.00–4.25) for lichenoid reactions; and 5.13% (95% CI = 1.90–9.43) for OLP with dysplasia. No significant differences were found between the OLL or LR groups and the OLP subgroup (p = 0.853 and p = 0.328, respectively), and the malignant transformation was significantly higher for the OLP with dysplasia group in comparison with the OLP group (p = 0.001). The factors that had a significant impact with a higher risk of malignant transformation were the presence of epithelial dysplasia, a higher methodological quality, the consumption of tobacco and alcohol, the location of lesions on the tongue, the presence of atrophic and erosive lesions, and infection by the hepatitis C virus. In conclusion, OLP behaves as an oral potentially malignant disorder (OPMD), whose malignancy ratio is probably underestimated as a consequence essentially of the use of inadequate diagnostic criteria and the low methodological quality of the studies on the subject.
TRPA1 Contributes to FGFR2c Signaling and to Its Oncogenic Outcomes in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma-Derived Cell Lines
Authors: Mancini Vanessa , Raffa Salvatore , Fiorio Pla Alessandra , French Deborah , Torrisi Maria Rosaria , Ranieri Danilo , Belleudi Francesca
Published: January 2024

Fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) signaling is a key modulator of cellular processes dysregulated in cancer. We recently found that the high expression of the mesenchymal FGFR2c variant in human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC)-derived cells triggers the PKCε-mediated improvement of EMT and of MCL-1/SRC-dependent cell invasion. Since other membrane proteins can affect the receptor tyrosine kinase signaling, including transient receptor potential channels (TRPs), in this work, we investigated the role of TRPs in the FGFR2c/PKCε oncogenic axis. Our results highlighted that either the FGFR2c/PKCε axis shut-off obtained by shRNA or its sustained activation via ligand stimulation induces TRPA1 downregulation, suggesting a channel/receptor dependence. Indeed, biochemical molecular and immunofluorescence approaches demonstrated that the transient depletion of TRPA1 by siRNA was sufficient to attenuate FGFR2c downstream signaling pathways, as well as the consequent enhancement of EMT. Moreover, the biochemical check of MCL1/SRC signaling and the in vitro assay of cellular motility suggested that TRPA1 also contributes to the FGFR2c-induced enhancement of PDAC cell invasiveness. Finally, the use of a selective channel antagonist indicated that the contribution of TRPA1 to the FGFR2c oncogenic potential is independent of its pore function. Thus, TRPA1 could represent a putative candidate for future target therapies in PDAC.
Emerging Therapies in Management of Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Speckart Jessica , Rasmusen Veronica , Talib Zohray , GnanaDev Dev A. , Rahnemai-Azar Amir A.
Published: January 2024

Cholangiocarcinoma is a heterogeneous group of biliary tract cancers that has a poor prognosis and globally increasing incidence and mortality. While surgical resection remains the only curative option for the treatment of cholangiocarcinoma, the majority of cancers are unresectable at the time of diagnosis. Additionally, the prognosis of cholangiocarcinoma remains poor even with the current first-line systemic therapy regimens, highlighting the difficulty of treating locally advanced, metastatic, or unresectable cholangiocarcinoma. Through recent developments, targetable oncogenic driver mutations have been identified in the pathogenesis of cholangiocarcinoma, leading to the utilization of molecular targeted therapeutics. In this review, we comprehensively discuss the latest molecular therapeutics for the treatment of cholangiocarcinoma, including emerging immunotherapies, highlighting promising developments and strategies.
Risk Prediction Models for Oral Cancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Espressivo Aufia , Pan Z. Sienna , Usher-Smith Juliet A. , Harrison Hannah
Published: January 2024

In the last 30 years, there has been an increasing incidence of oral cancer worldwide. Earlier detection of oral cancer has been shown to improve survival rates. However, given the relatively low prevalence of this disease, population-wide screening is likely to be inefficient. Risk prediction models could be used to target screening to those at highest risk or to select individuals for preventative interventions. This review (a) systematically identified published models that predict the development of oral cancer and are suitable for use in the general population and (b) described and compared the identified models, focusing on their development, including risk factors, performance and applicability to risk-stratified screening. A search was carried out in November 2022 in the Medline, Embase and Cochrane Library databases to identify primary research papers that report the development or validation of models predicting the risk of developing oral cancer (cancers of the oral cavity or oropharynx). The PROBAST tool was used to evaluate the risk of bias in the identified studies and the applicability of the models they describe. The search identified 11,222 articles, of which 14 studies (describing 23 models), satisfied the eligibility criteria of this review. The most commonly included risk factors were age (n = 20), alcohol consumption (n = 18) and smoking (n = 17). Six of the included models incorporated genetic information and three used biomarkers as predictors. Including information on human papillomavirus status was shown to improve model performance; however, this was only included in a small number of models. Most of the identified models (n = 13) showed good or excellent discrimination (AUROC > 0.7). Only fourteen models had been validated and only two of these validations were carried out in populations distinct from the model development population (external validation). Conclusions: Several risk prediction models have been identified that could be used to identify individuals at the highest risk of oral cancer within the context of screening programmes. However, external validation of these models in the target population is required, and, subsequently, an assessment of the feasibility of implementation with a risk-stratified screening programme for oral cancer.
An Ailment with Which I Will Contend: A Narrative Review of 5000 Years of Esophagogastric Cancers and Their Treatments, with Special Emphasis on Recent Advances in Immunotherapeutics
Authors: Hilton C. Beau , Lander Steven , Gibson Michael K.
Published: January 2024

Esophagogastric cancers are among the most common and deadly cancers worldwide. This review traces their chronology from 3000 BCE to the present. The first several thousand years were devoted to palliation, before advances in operative technique and technology led to the first curative surgery in 1913. Systemic therapies were introduced in 1910, and radiotherapy shortly thereafter. Operative technique improved massively over the 20th century, with operative mortality rates reducing from over 50% in 1933 to less than 5% by 1981. In addition to important roles in palliation, endoscopy became a key nonsurgical curative option for patients with limited-stage disease by the 1990s. The first nonrandomized studies on combination therapies (chemotherapy ± radiation ± surgery) were reported in the early 1980s, with survival benefit only for subsets of patients. Randomized trials over the next decades had similar overall results, with increasing nuance. Disparate conclusions led to regional variation in global practice. Starting with the first FDA approval in 2017, multiple immunotherapies now encompass more indications and earlier lines of therapy. As standards of care incorporate these effective yet expensive therapies, care must be given to disparities and methods for increasing access.
Oral SERD, a Novel Endocrine Therapy for Estrogen Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Neupane Niraj , Bawek Sawyer , Gurusinghe Sayuri , Ghaffary Elham Moases , Mirmosayyeb Omid , Thapa Sangharsha , Falkson Carla , O’Regan Ruth , Dhakal Ajay
Published: January 2024

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, and estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer accounts for a significant proportion of cases. While various treatments are available, endocrine therapies are often the first-line treatment for this type of breast cancer. However, the development of drug resistance poses a significant challenge in managing this disease. ESR1 mutations have been identified as a common mechanism of endocrine therapy resistance in ER+ breast cancer. The first-generation selective estrogen receptor degrader (SERD) fulvestrant has shown some activity against ESR1 mutant tumors. However, due to its poor bioavailability and need for intramuscular injection, it may not be the optimal therapy for patients. Second-generation SERDs were developed to overcome these limitations. These newer drugs have improved oral bioavailability and pharmacokinetics, making them more convenient and effective for patients. Several oral SERDs are now in phase III trials for early and advanced ER+ breast cancer. This review summarizes the background of oral SERD development, the current status, and future perspectives.
Stem Cell Theory of Cancer: Clinical Implications for Cellular Metabolism and Anti-Cancer Metabolomics
Authors: Tu Shi-Ming , Chen Jim Z. , Singh Sunny R. , Maraboyina Sanjay , Gokden Neriman , Hsu Ping-Ching , Langford Timothy
Published: January 2024

Although Otto Warburg may be right about the role of glycolysis versus OXPHOS in cancer metabolism, it remains unclear whether an altered metabolism is causative or correlative and is the main driver or a mere passenger in the pathogenesis of cancer. Currently, most of our successful treatments are designed to eliminate non-cancer stem cells (non-CSCs) such as differentiated cancer cells. When the treatments also happen to control CSCs or the stem-ness niche, it is often unintended, unexpected, or undetected for lack of a pertinent theory about the origin of cancer that clarifies whether cancer is a metabolic, genetic, or stem cell disease. Perhaps cellular context matters. After all, metabolic activity may be different in different cell types and their respective microenvironments—whether it is in a normal progenitor stem cell vs. progeny differentiated cell and whether it is in a malignant CSC vs. non-CSC. In this perspective, we re-examine different types of cellular metabolism, e.g., glycolytic vs. mitochondrial, of glucose, glutamine, arginine, and fatty acids in CSCs and non-CSCs. We revisit the Warburg effect, an obesity epidemic, the aspartame story, and a ketogenic diet. We propose that a pertinent scientific theory about the origin of cancer and of cancer metabolism influences the direction of cancer research as well as the design of drug versus therapy development in cancer care.
A Novel Polymer-Encapsulated Multi-Imaging Modality Fiducial Marker with Positive Signal Contrast for Image-Guided Radiation Therapy
Authors: Wang Li , Sanders Jeremiah , Ward John F. , Lee Stephen R. , Poenisch Falk , Swanson David Michael , Sahoo Narayan , Zhu Xiaorong Ronald , Ma Jingfei , Kudchadker Rajat J. , Choi Seungtaek L. , Nguyen Quynh-Nhu , Mayo Lauren L. , Shah Shalin J. , Frank Steven J.
Published: January 2024

Background: Current fiducial markers (FMs) in external-beam radiotherapy (EBRT) for prostate cancer (PCa) cannot be positively visualized on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and create dose perturbation and significant imaging artifacts on computed tomography (CT) and MRI. We report our initial experience with clinical imaging of a novel multimodality FM, NOVA. Methods: We tested Gold Anchor [G-FM], BiomarC [carbon, C-FM], and NOVA FMs in phantoms imaged with kilovoltage (kV) X-rays, transrectal ultrasound (TRUS), CT, and MRI. Artifacts of the FMs on CT were quantified by the relative streak artifacts level (rSAL) metric. Proton dose perturbations (PDPs) were measured with Gafchromic EBT3 film, with FMs oriented either perpendicular to or parallel with the beam axis. We also tested the performance of NOVA-FMs in a patient. Results: NOVA-FMs were positively visualized on all 4 imaging modalities tested. The rSAL on CT was 0.750 ± 0.335 for 2-mm reconstructed slices. In F-tests, PDP was associated with marker type and depth of measurement (p < 10−6); at 5-mm depth, PDP was significantly greater for the G-FM (12.9%, p = 10−6) and C-FM (6.0%, p = 0.011) than NOVA (4.5%). EBRT planning with MRI/CT image co-registration and daily alignments using NOVA-FMs in a patient was feasible and reproducible. Conclusions: NOVA-FMs were positively visible and produced less PDP than G-FMs or C-FMs. NOVA-FMs facilitated MRI/CT fusion and identification of regions of interest.
Early Periods of Low-Temperature Linear Antenna CVD Nucleation and Growth Study of Nanocrystalline Diamond Films
Authors: Mallik Awadesh Kumar , Shih Wen-Ching , Pobedinskas Paulius , Haenen Ken
Published: January 2024

Low-temperature growth of diamond films using the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method is not so widely reported and its initial periods of nucleation and growth phenomenon are of particular interest to the researchers. Four sets of substrates were selected for growing diamond films using linear antenna microwave plasma-enhanced CVD (LA-MPCVD). Among them, silicon and sapphire substrates were pre-treated with detonation nanodiamond (DND) seeds before diamond growth, for enhancement of its nucleation. Carbon nanotube (CNT) films on Si substrates were also used as another template for LA-MPCVD diamond growth. To enhance diamond nucleation during CVD growth, some of the CNT films were again pre-treated by the electrophoretic deposition (EPD) of diamond nanoparticles. All these substrates were then put inside the LA-MPCVD chamber to grow diamond films under variable processing conditions. Microwave input powers (1100–2800 W), input power modes (pulse or continuous), antenna-to-stage distances (5–6.5 cm), process gas recipes (with or without CO2), methane gas percentages (3%–5%), and deposition times (11–120 min) were altered to investigate their effect on the growth of diamond film on the pre-treated substrates. The substrate temperatures were found to vary from as low as 170 °C to a maximum of 307 °C during the alteration of the different processing parameters. Contrary to the conventional MPCVD, it was observed that during the first hour of LA-MPCVD diamond growth, DND seeds and the nucleating structures do not coalesce together to make a continuous film. Deposition time was the most critical factor in fully covering the substrate surfaces with diamond film, since the substrate temperature could not become stable during the first hour of LA-MPCVD. CNTs were found to be oxidized rapidly under LA-MPCVD plasma conditions; therefore, a CO2-free process gas recipe was used to reduce CNT burning. Moreover, EPD-coated CNTs were found to be less oxidized by the LACVD plasma during diamond growth.
Application of Immersive VR Serious Games in the Treatment of Schizophrenia Negative Symptoms
Authors: Miranda Beatriz , Rego Paula Alexandra , Romero Luís , Moreira Pedro Miguel
Published: January 2024

Schizophrenia is a mental illness that requires the use of cognitive treatments to decrease symptoms in which the use of medication is less effective. Innovative strategies such as the use of Virtual Reality (VR) are being tested, but there is still a long way into developing solutions as effective as the current conventional forms of treatment. To study more effective forms of developing these systems, an immersive VR game with a tutorial and two levels of difficulty was developed. Tests were performed in twenty-one healthy subjects, showing promising results, indicating VR’s potential as a complementary approach to conventional treatments for schizophrenia. When properly applied, the use of VR could lead to more efficient and accessible treatments, potentially reducing its costs and reaching a broader population.
London Dispersive and Lewis Acid-Base Surface Energy of 2D Single-Crystalline and Polycrystalline Covalent Organic Frameworks
Authors: Hamieh Tayssir
Published: January 2024

This paper is devoted to an accurate determination of the London dispersive, polar free energy of adsorption, Lewis acid γs+ and Lewis base γs− components of the polar surface energy γsAB of 2D single-crystalline and polycrystalline covalent organic frameworks such as TAPPy-TPA-COFs. The obtained results showed the highest values of polar and total surface energy of the polycrystalline COF relative to those of the single-crystalline COF. Inverse gas chromatography (IGC) at infinite dilution was used to quantify the various surface parameters of the different materials. The net retention times of the adsorption of n-alkanes and several polar solvents on single-crystalline and polycrystalline covalent organic frameworks were obtained from IGC measurements. The free surface Gibbs energy of adsorption was obtained for the various organic molecules at different temperatures from their net retention volume values. The separation between the London dispersive energy and the polar energy of adsorbed molecules was carried out by using a new thermodynamic parameter PSX chosen as new indicator variable and taking into account the deformation polarizability and the harmonic mean of the ionization energies of solvents and solid materials, derived from the London dispersion equation. The obtained results gave higher acidity (KA=0.22) for the 2D polycrystalline COF than that of the single-crystalline COF (KA=0.15) and an equivalent basicity of the two COFs. The obtained results are very promising for the accurate determination of the surface thermodynamic parameters of adsorption of organic solvents on solid surfaces.
Graphene-Derivative Coatings for the Prevention of Opacification Due to Calcification of Hydrophilic Intraocular Lenses
Authors: Natsi Panagiota D. , Kanakis Menelaos , Sygellou Labrini , Gartaganis Panos S. , Gartaganis Sotirios P. , Koutsoukos Petros G.
Published: January 2024

The widespread use of hydrophilic intraocular lenses (IOLs) in eye surgery, fabricated by poly-2-(hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (PHEMA), has highlighted their calcification as a serious problem, implying that their surgical explantation is a rather risky process. The field of biomaterials has been developing rapidly in recent years, with research interest turning to the development of novel materials which involve either copolymers of PHEMA or protective functional coatings. Graphene coatings are particularly attractive because of their respective unique properties. In the present work, we present the results of the investigation of the development of graphene coatings on hydrophilic IOLs and their subsequent performance with respect to calcification opacification. Hydrophilic IOLs with a water content of 18% by weight were coated with graphene oxide (GO) by equilibration with GO suspensions in water. The concentrations of the suspensions ranged from 1 × 10−4 to 20 × 10−4% w/v. The GO suspensions were equilibrated with the IOLs for 5 days at a constant temperature, 37 °C, and rotated in 30 mL tubes end over end. This treatment resulted in the formation of a uniform coating of GO on the IOLs verified by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and other physicochemical methods. The contact angle of the GO-coated IOLs decreased significantly in comparison with the uncoated IOLs. The GO-coated IOLs exhibited a higher tendency to calcify in supersaturated solutions simulating aqueous humor (SAH). The growth rate of hydroxyapatite (Ca5(PO4)3OH, HAP) on GO-coated IOLs was higher in comparison with the respective untreated IOLs. The conversion of the GO coating via a reduction with phenyl hydrazine resulted in the formation of a reduced-graphene (rGO) surface film, as identified by Raman and XPS spectroscopy. The rGO film was hydrophobic (contact angle 100°) and did not calcify in supersaturated calcium phosphate solutions.
Structural Characterization and Pharmaceutical Evaluation of Telmisartan Hydrochloride Salts
Authors: Nugraha Yuda Prasetya , Unique I Gusti Ayu Nadia Prasta , Miyake Tatsuki , Rahmah Ridha , Indra Indra , Soewandhi Sundani Nurono , Uekusa Hidehiro
Published: January 2024

Telmisartan is an anti-hypertensive drug that exhibits poor aqueous solubility. In this work, salt formation was utilized to address this issue. Three hydrochloride salts of telmisartan (TELHCl), a trihemihydrate hydrochloride salt (TELHCl-Hyd), and two anhydrate forms (TELHCl-A and TELHCl-B) were obtained. The crystal structures of TELHCl-Hyd and TELHCl-A were determined using single-crystal structure analysis. TELHCl-Hyd is a channel hydrate that has structural similarities with TELHCl-A. The structures of both crystals are mainly composed of chain structures formed by centrosymmetric dimers connected via carboxylic–benzimidazole hydrogen bonding. Despite their structural similarities, the dehydration of TELHCl-Hyd led to the formation of TELHCl-B. The solubility, intrinsic dissolution rate (IDR), powder flowability, and tabletability of TELHCl-Hyd and TELHCl-B were characterized and compared with those of the telmisartan free base form (TEL). The hydrochloride salts enhanced the solubility of telmisartan approximately 10 to 20 times and maintained the spring parachute effect up to 24 h. The IDR was also improved due to the existence of a hydrophilic channel that facilitates the dissolution of telmisartan cations. The resulting salts had a larger particle size and a more favorable crystal morphology that led to a better powder flowability. However, the tabletability was not improved by salt formation. The TEL exhibited a defined slip plane and a higher specific surface area that may assist the tableting process.
From the Fibonacci Icosagrid to E8 (Part I): The Fibonacci Icosagrid, an H3 Quasicrystal
Authors: Fang Fang , Irwin Klee
Published: January 2024

This paper introduces a new kind of quasicrystal by Fibonacci-spacing a multigrid of a certain symmetry, like H2, H3, T3, etc. Multigrids of a certain symmetry can be used to generate quasicrystals, but multigrid vertices are not a quasicrystal due to arbitrary closeness. By Fibonacci-spacing the grids, the structure transit into an aperiodic order becomes a quasicrystal itself. Unlike the quasicrystal generated by the dual-grid method, this kind of quasicrystal does not live in the dual space of the grid space. It is the grid space itself and possesses quasicrystal properties, except that its total number of vertex types are not finite and fixed for the infinite size of the quasicrystal but bounded by a slowly logarithmic growing number. A 2D example, the Fibonacci pentagrid, is given. A 3D example, the Fibonacci icosagrid (FIG), is also introduced, as well as its subsets, the Fibonacci tetragrid (FTG). The FIG can be thought of as a golden composition of five sets of FTGs. The golden composition procedure is another way to transit a random structure into aperiodic order, and the associated rotational angle is the same as the angle that resolves the geometric frustration for the H3 tetrahedral clusters. The FIG resembles another quasicrystal that is the same golden composition of five quasicrystals that are cut and projected and sliced from the E8 lattice. This leads to further exploration in mapping the FIG to the E8 lattice, and the results will be published following this paper.
{Ca, Eu, Yb}23Cu7Mg4 as a Step towards the Structural Generalization of Rare Earth-Rich Intermetallics
Authors: Solokha Pavlo , Freccero Riccardo , De Negri Serena
Published: January 2024

The R23Cu7Mg4 (R = Ca, Eu) intermetallics, studied by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, were found to be isostructural with the Yb23Cu7Mg4 prototype (hP68, k4h2fca, space group P63/mmc), forming a small group inside the bigger 23:7:4 family, otherwise adopting the hP68-Pr23Ir7Mg4 crystal structure. The observed structural peculiarity is connected with the divalent character of the R component and with a noticeable volume contraction, resulting in the clear clustering of title compounds inside the whole 23:7:4 family. The occurrence of fragments typical of similar compounds, particularly Cu-centered trigonal prisms and Mg-centered core–shell polyicosahedral clusters with R at vertices, induced the search of significant structural relationships. In this work, a description of the hexagonal crystal structure of the studied compounds is proposed as a linear intergrowth along the c-direction of the two types of slabs, R10CuMg3 (parent type: hP28-kh2ca, SG 194) and R13Cu6Mg (parent type: hR60-b6a2, SG 160). The ratio of these slabs in the studied structure is 2:2 per unit cell, corresponding to the simple equation, 2 × R10CuMg3 + 2 × R13Cu6Mg = 2 × R23Cu7Mg4. This description assimilates the studied compounds to the {Ca, Eu, Yb}4CuMg ones, where the same slabs (of p3m1 layer symmetry) are stacked in a different way/ratio and constitutes a further step towards a structural generalization of R-rich ternary intermetallics.
A Rare Case of Complete-Immunotherapy-Responsive Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer with Long Lasting Progression-Free Survival: A Case Report
Authors: De Intinis Claudia , Izzo Paolo , Codacci-Pisanelli Massimo , Izzo Luciano , Messineo Daniela , Sibio Simone , Campagnol Monica , Lai Silvia , Molle Marcello , Izzo Sara
Published: January 2024

Background and introduction: Lung cancer is a prevalent and deadly disease globally. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common subtype, comprising 85% of cases. Case report: A 65-year-old male ex-smoker presented to our facility with a nocturnal cough. Various investigations revealed that he had metastatic NSCLC, for which he underwent chemotherapy with cisplatin and gemcitabine, followed by immunotherapy with Nivolumab. He achieved a complete response to the therapy and has remained free from recurrence for over 7 years since the initial diagnosis. Discussion and Conclusions: The treatment of metastatic NSCLC remains a significant therapeutic challenge, but the implementation of new therapeutic techniques has expanded the possibilities of achieving complete and durable eradication of the disease.
Residents and Consultants Have Equal Outcomes When Performing Transrectal Fusion Biopsies: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Turchi Beatrice , Lombardo Riccardo , Franco Antonio , Tema Giorgia , Nacchia Antonio , Cicione Antonio , Pastore Antonio Luigi , Carbone Antonio , Fuschi Andrea , Franco Giorgio , Tubaro Andrea , De Nunzio Cosimo
Published: January 2024

The aim of our study was to compare the performance of residents vs. consultants in transrectal fusion prostate biopsies (FUS-PBs), as well as patient-reported comfort. Between January 2021 and October 2022, a consecutive series of patients undergoing FUS-PBs were randomized into two groups: (A) FUS-PBs performed by a consultant; (B) FUS-PBs performed by trained residents (>50 procedures). All patients underwent FUS-PBs with 12 systematic cores and 3/6 target cores. The detection rate and number of positive cores in the target lesion were compared between groups, and the patient’s discomfort after the procedure was evaluated using the VAS scale. Overall, 140 patients with a median age of 72 years were enrolled. Overall, 69/140 (49.3%) presented prostate cancer and 53/69 (76.8%) presented a clinically significant cancer (Grade Group ≥ 2). Consultants presented a detection rate of 37/70 (52.9%) and residents a detection rate of 32/70 (45.7%) (p > 0.2); the mean number of positive cores in the index lesion was similar in both groups (1.5 vs. 1.1; p > 0.10). In terms of the patients’ experiences, the procedure was well tolerated, with a median VAS score of 2 in both groups, with no statistically significant differences. Residents showed satisfactory outcomes in terms of detection rate, procedural time, and patient comfort when performing prostate biopsies. Residents, after adequate training, can safely perform prostate biopsies.
Time-Dependent Changes in Hematoma Expansion Rate after Supratentorial Intracerebral Hemorrhage and Its Relationship with Neurological Deterioration and Functional Outcome
Authors: Abou Karam Gaby , Chen Min-Chiun , Zeevi Dorin , Harms Bendix C. , Torres-Lopez Victor M. , Rivier Cyprien A. , Malhotra Ajay , de Havenon Adam , Falcone Guido J. , Sheth Kevin N. , Payabvash Seyedmehdi
Published: January 2024

Background: Hematoma expansion (HE) following an intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a modifiable risk factor and a treatment target. We examined the association of HE with neurological deterioration (ND), functional outcome, and mortality based on the time gap from onset to baseline CT. Methods: We included 567 consecutive patients with supratentorial ICH and baseline head CT within 24 h of onset. ND was defined as a ≥4-point increase on the NIH stroke scale (NIHSS) or a ≥2-point drop on the Glasgow coma scale. Poor outcome was defined as a modified Rankin score of 4 to 6 at 3-month follow-up. Results: The rate of HE was higher among those scanned within 3 h (124/304, 40.8%) versus 3 to 24 h post-ICH onset (53/263, 20.2%) (p < 0.001). However, HE was an independent predictor of ND (p < 0.001), poor outcome (p = 0.010), and mortality (p = 0.003) among those scanned within 3 h, as well as those scanned 3–24 h post-ICH (p = 0.043, p = 0.037, and p = 0.004, respectively). Also, in a subset of 180/567 (31.7%) patients presenting with mild symptoms (NIHSS ≤ 5), hematoma growth was an independent predictor of ND (p = 0.026), poor outcome (p = 0.037), and mortality (p = 0.027). Conclusion: Despite decreasing rates over time after ICH onset, HE remains an independent predictor of ND, functional outcome, and mortality among those presenting >3 h after onset or with mild symptoms.
From Spores to Solutions: A Comprehensive Narrative Review on Mucormycosis
Authors: Gullì Sara Palma , Hallur Vinaykumar , Kale Pratibha , Menezes Godfred Antony , Russo Alessandro , Singla Nidhi
Published: January 2024

Mucormycosis is an infrequent but fatal illness that mainly affects patients with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, diabetic ketoacidosis, solid and hematologic neoplasms, organ transplantation, chronic steroid intake, prolonged neutropenia, iron overload states, neonatal prematurity, severe malnutrition, and HIV. Many cases were reported across the world recently following the COVID-19 pandemic. Recent research has led to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of the disease, and global guidelines are now available for managing this serious infection. Herein, we comprehensively review the etiological agents, pathogenesis, clinical presentations, diagnosis, and management of mucormycosis.
Mapping the Landscape of the Digital Workflow of Esthetic Veneers from Design to Cementation: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ahmed Walaa Magdy , Azhari Amr Ahmed , Sedayo Lamer , Alhaid Alanod , Alhandar Reem , Almalki Amirah , Jahlan Aishah , Almutairi Afnan , Kheder Waad
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this systematic review was to map all the existing literature on digitally designed and fabricated esthetic veneers. We aimed to compare the accuracy of digitally designed preparation and cementation guides for esthetic indirect veneers with the conventional workflow. We evaluated studies comparing the accuracy and predictability of workflows between digitally fabricated indirect-esthetic veneers and conventional indirect veneers. Searches were performed in August 2023 across three databases, specifically Google Scholar, Cochrane, and PubMed, and were restricted to English-language publications. The search strategy was based on the PICO criteria. Reference lists of identified articles were manually checked to find further pertinent studies that were not discovered during the electronic search. The titles and abstracts were reviewed in the first stage, and then the full article texts were reviewed and cross-matched against the predetermined inclusion criteria. Following the search, 169 articles were identified: 41 from Google Scholar, 44 from Cochrane, and 71 from PubMed, with 13 added manually. Of these, 20 were chosen for a detailed quality assessment of the digital veneer workflow and the accuracy of digital preparations and cementation guides for laminate veneers. Based on our findings, the digitally fabricated laminate-veneer workflow demonstrated superior predictability and accuracy compared to the conventional workflow.
Navigation and Deployment of Solar-Powered Unmanned Aerial Vehicles for Civilian Applications: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Li Siyuan , Fang Zixuan , Verma Satish C. , Wei Jingwen , Savkin Andrey V.
Published: January 2024

Unmanned aerial systems and renewable energy are two research areas that have developed rapidly over the last few decades. Solar-powered unmanned aerial vehicles (SUAVs) are likely to become dominant in the near future. They have the advantage of low cost and safe operation features that mitigate the barriers to their use in various environments. Developing effective algorithms for navigating and deploying SUAVs is essential for implementing this technology in real-life applications. Effective navigation and deployment algorithms also ensure the safety and efficiency of SUAV operations. This comprehensive review paper summarizes some state-of-the-art SUAV applications and provides an overview of the navigation and deployment algorithms for SUAVs. Some commonly used energy-harvesting models are described as well. Finally, some interesting and promising directions for future SUAV research are suggested.
Directed Network Comparison Using Motifs
Authors: Xie Chenwei , Ke Qiao , Chen Haoyu , Liu Chuang , Zhan Xiu-Xiu
Published: January 2024

Analyzing and characterizing the differences between networks is a fundamental and challenging problem in network science. Most previous network comparison methods that rely on topological properties have been restricted to measuring differences between two undirected networks. However, many networks, such as biological networks, social networks, and transportation networks, exhibit inherent directionality and higher-order attributes that should not be ignored when comparing networks. Therefore, we propose a motif-based directed network comparison method that captures local, global, and higher-order differences between two directed networks. Specifically, we first construct a motif distribution vector for each node, which captures the information of a node’s involvement in different directed motifs. Then, the dissimilarity between two directed networks is defined on the basis of a matrix, which is composed of the motif distribution vector of every node and the Jensen–Shannon divergence. The performance of our method is evaluated via the comparison of six real directed networks with their null models, as well as their perturbed networks based on edge perturbation. Our method is superior to the state-of-the-art baselines and is robust with different parameter settings.
Content Analysis Using Specific Natural Language Processing Methods for Big Data
Authors: Pirnau Mironela , Botezatu Mihai Alexandru , Priescu Iustin , Hosszu Alexandra , Tabusca Alexandru , Coculescu Cristina , Oncioiu Ionica
Published: January 2024

Researchers from different fields have studied the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and published their results in peer-reviewed journals indexed in international databases such as Web of Science (WoS), Scopus, PubMed. Focusing on efficient methods for navigating the extensive literature on COVID-19 pandemic research, our study conducts a content analysis of the top 1000 cited papers in WoS that delve into the subject by using elements of natural language processing (NLP). Knowing that in WoS, a scientific paper is described by the group Paper = {Abstract, Keyword, Title}; we obtained via NLP methods the word dictionaries with their frequencies of use and the word cloud for the 100 most used words, and we investigated if there is a degree of similarity between the titles of the papers and their abstracts, respectively. Using the Python packages NLTK, TextBlob, VADER, we computed sentiment scores for paper titles and abstracts, analyzed the results, and then, using Azure Machine Learning-Sentiment analysis, extended the range of comparison of sentiment scores. Our proposed analysis method can be applied to any research topic or theme from papers, articles, or projects in various fields of specialization to create a minimal dictionary of terms based on frequency of use, with visual representation by word cloud. Complementing the content analysis in our research with sentiment and similarity analysis highlights the different or similar treatment of the topics addressed in the research, as well as the opinions and feelings conveyed by the authors in relation to the researched issue.