bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ouabain Effects on Human Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma 8505C Cells
Authors: Teixeira Mariana Pires , Haddad Natalia Ferreira , Passos Eliza Freitas , Andrade Marcelle Novaes , Campos Maria Luisa Arantes , da Silva Joyle Moreira Carvalho , de Figueiredo Camila Saggioro , Giestal-de-Araujo Elizabeth , de Carvalho Denise Pires , Miranda-Alves Leandro , de Paiva Luciana Souza
Published: December 2022

Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) is a rare, but aggressive, carcinoma derived from follicular cells. While conventional treatments may improve patients’ survival, the lethality remains high. Therefore, there is an urgent need for more effective ATC treatments. Cardiotonic steroids, such as ouabain, have been shown to have therapeutic potential in cancer treatment. Thus, we aimed to evaluate ouabain’s effects in human anaplastic thyroid cells. For this, 8505C cells were cultured in the presence or absence of ouabain. Viability, cell death, cell cycle, colony formation and migratory ability were evaluated in ouabain-treated and control 8505C cells. The expression of differentiation and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers, as well as IL-6, TGFb1 and their respective receptors were also quantified in these same cells. Our results showed that ouabain in vitro decreased the number of viable 8505C cells, possibly due to an inhibition of proliferation. A reduction in migration was also observed in ouabain-treated 8505C cells. In contrast, decreased mRNA levels of PAX8 and TTF1 differentiation markers and increased levels of the N-cadherin EMT marker, as well as IL-6 and TGFb1, were found in ouabain-treated 8505C cells. In short, ouabain may have anti-proliferative and anti-migratory effect on 8505C cells, but maintains an aggressive and undifferentiated profile.
The Interplay between Age and Viral Status in EBV-Related Nasopharyngeal and HPV-Related Oropharyngeal Carcinoma Patients
Authors: Cavalieri Stefano , Bossi Paolo , Infante Gabriele , Miceli Rosalba , Iacovelli Nicola Alessandro , Ivaldi Eliana , Locati Laura Deborah , Bergamini Cristiana , Resteghini Carlo , Nuzzolese Imperia , Alfieri Salvatore , Colombo Elena , Ingargiola Rossana , Franceschini Marzia , Calareso Giuseppina , Licitra Lisa , Orlandi Ester
Published: December 2022

Background. The aim of this work was to analyze the interplay between age and viral status on the outcomes in loco-regionally advanced oropharyngeal and nasopharyngeal cancer patients treated with radiotherapy and different chemotherapy combinations. Methods. A retrospective (2006–2017) analysis was performed on non-metastatic loco-regionally advanced oropharyngeal (both HPV+ and HPV−) and EBV+ nasopharyngeal cancer patients (young: <65 years vs. elderly: ≥65 years) treated with radiotherapy with or without chemotherapy. The impact of age and viral status on overall (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were studied with multivariable models, which were adjusted for smoking, stage, comorbidities, chemotherapy dose intensity and treatment strategy. Results. We analyzed 324 patients (146 HPV+ oropharynx, 63 HPV−, 115 nasopharynx). Elderly patients had more comorbidities, and received less intensive treatments when compared to younger subjects. Although OS and DFS were shorter in older patients, after adjustment for stage, smoking, comorbidities, treatment strategy and dose intensity, no significant differences in terms of survival were observed according to age (65 vs. 50 years of age: HR 1.89, 95% CI 0.45–7.84 for HPV+ OPC; HR 0.91, 95% CI 0.29–2.89 for HPV− OPC; HR 1.99, 95% CI 0.9–4.39 for NPC; p = 0.395). Conclusions. Several potential age-related (comorbidities, treatment intensity) and disease-related (stage) confounding factors play a prognostic role with differential impacts on both virus and non-virus-related tumors. In HPV+ oropharyngeal cancer and in EBV+ nasopharyngeal cancer patients, age should be considered as the expression of an array of host- and tumor-related features rather than an independent prognostic factor.
The Role of Tumor-Associated Antigen HER2/neu in Tumor Development and the Different Approaches for Using It in Treatment: Many Choices and Future Directions
Authors: Alrhmoun Saleh , Sennikov Sergey
Published: December 2022

The treatment of HER2-positive cancers has changed significantly over the past ten years thanks to a significant number of promising new approaches that have been added to our arsenal in the fight against cancer, including monoclonal antibodies, inhibitors of tyrosine kinase, antibody–drug conjugates, vaccination, and particularly, adoptive-T-cell therapy after its great success in hematological malignancies. Equally important is the new methodology for determining patients eligible for targeted HER2 therapy, which has doubled the number of patients who can benefit from these treatments. However, despite the initial enthusiasm, there are still several problems in this field represented by drug resistance and tumor recurrence that require the further development of new more efficient drugs. In this review, we discuss various approaches for targeting the HER2 molecule in cancer treatment, highlighting their benefits and drawbacks, along with the different mechanisms responsible for resistance to HER2-targeted therapies and how to overcome them.
Regression of Human Breast Carcinoma in Nude Mice after Adsflt Gene Therapy Is Mediated by Tumor Vascular Endothelial Cell Apoptosis
Authors: Felici Angelina , Bottaro Donald P. , Mangoni Antonella , Reusch Petra , Marmé Dieter , Kovesdi Imre , De Silva Dinuka M. , Lee Young H. , Capogrossi Maurizio C. , Mühlhauser Judith
Published: December 2022

Two vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptors, FLT-1 and KDR, are expressed preferentially in proliferating endothelium. There is increasing evidence that recombinant, soluble VEGF receptor domains interfering with VEGF signaling may inhibit in vivo neoangiogenesis, tumor growth and metastatic spread. We hypothesized that a soluble form of FLT-1 receptor (sFLT-1) could inhibit the growth of pre-established tumors via an anti-angiogenic mechanism. A replication-deficient adenovirus (Ad) vector carrying the sflt-1 cDNA (Adsflt) was used to overexpress the sFLT-1 receptor in a breast cancer animal model. MCF-7 cells, which produce VEGF, were used to establish solid tumors in the mammary fat pads of female nude mice. After six weeks, tumors were injected either with Adsflt or a negative control virus (AdCMV.βgal). After six months, average tumor volume in the Adsflt-infected group (33 ± 22 mm3) decreased by 91% relative to that of the negative control group (388 ± 94 mm3; p < 0.05). Moreover, 10 of 15 Adsflt-infected tumors exhibited complete regression. The vascular density of Adsflt-infected tumors was reduced by 50% relative to that of negative controls (p < 0.05), which is consistent with sFLT-1-mediated tumor regression through an anti-angiogenic mechanism. Moreover, cell necrosis and fibrosis associated with long-term regression of Adsflt–infected tumors were preceded by apoptosis of tumor vascular endothelial cells. Mice treated with Adsflt intratumorally showed no delay in the healing of cutaneous wounds, providing preliminary evidence that Ad-mediated sFLT-1 overexpression may be an effective anti-angiogenic therapy for cancer without the risk of systemic anti-angiogenic effects.
Impact of Sarcopenia on Patients with Localized Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Receiving FOLFIRINOX or Gemcitabine as Adjuvant Chemotherapy
Authors: Mortier Victor , Wei Felix , Pellat Anna , Marchese Ugo , Dohan Anthony , Brezault Catherine , Barat Maxime , Fuks David , Soyer Philippe , Coriat Romain
Published: December 2022

Background: Despite its toxicity, modified FOLFIRINOX is the main chemotherapy for localized, operable pancreatic adenocarcinomas. Sarcopenia is known as a factor in lower overall survival (OS). The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of sarcopenia on OS in patients with localized pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) who received modified FOLFIRINOX or gemcitabine as adjuvant chemotherapy. Methods: Patients with operated PDAC who received gemcitabine-based (GEM group) or oxaliplatin-based (OXA group) adjuvant chemotherapy between 2008 and 2021 were retrospectively included. Sarcopenia was estimated on a baseline computed tomography (CT) examination using the skeletal muscular index (SMI). The primary evaluation criterion was OS. Secondary evaluation criteria were disease-free survival (DFS) and toxicity. Results: Seventy patients treated with gemcitabine-based (n = 49) and oxaliplatin-based (n = 21) chemotherapy were included, with a total of fifteen sarcopenic patients (eight in the GEM group and seven in the OXA group). The median OS was shorter in sarcopenic patients (25 months) compared to non-sarcopenic patients (158 months) (p = 0.01). A longer OS was observed in GEM non-sarcopenic patients (158 months) compared to OXA sarcopenic patients (14.4 months) (p < 0.01). The median OS was 157.7 months in the GEM group vs. 34.1 months in the OXA group (p = 0.13). No differences in median DFS were found between the GEM group and OXA group. More toxicity events were observed in the OXA group (50%) than in the GEM group (10%), including vomiting (p = 0.02), mucositis (p = 0.01) and neuropathy (p = 0.01). Conclusion: Sarcopenia is associated with a worse prognosis in patients with localized operated PDAC whatever the delivered adjuvant chemotherapy.
Multimodal Lung Cancer Subtyping Using Deep Learning Neural Networks on Whole Slide Tissue Images and MALDI MSI
Authors: Janßen Charlotte , Boskamp Tobias , Le’Clerc Arrastia Jean , Otero Baguer Daniel , Hauberg-Lotte Lena , Kriegsmann Mark , Kriegsmann Katharina , Steinbuß Georg , Casadonte Rita , Kriegsmann Jörg , Maaß Peter
Published: December 2022

Artificial intelligence (AI) has shown potential for facilitating the detection and classification of tumors. In patients with non-small cell lung cancer, distinguishing between the most common subtypes, adenocarcinoma (ADC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SqCC), is crucial for the development of an effective treatment plan. This task, however, may still present challenges in clinical routine. We propose a two-modality, AI-based classification algorithm to detect and subtype tumor areas, which combines information from matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) data and digital microscopy whole slide images (WSIs) of lung tissue sections. The method consists of first detecting areas with high tumor cell content by performing a segmentation of the hematoxylin and eosin-stained (H&E-stained) WSIs, and subsequently classifying the tumor areas based on the corresponding MALDI MSI data. We trained the algorithm on six tissue microarrays (TMAs) with tumor samples from N = 232 patients and used 14 additional whole sections for validation and model selection. Classification accuracy was evaluated on a test dataset with another 16 whole sections. The algorithm accurately detected and classified tumor areas, yielding a test accuracy of 94.7% on spectrum level, and correctly classified 15 of 16 test sections. When an additional quality control criterion was introduced, a 100% test accuracy was achieved on sections that passed the quality control (14 of 16). The presented method provides a step further towards the inclusion of AI and MALDI MSI data into clinical routine and has the potential to reduce the pathologist’s work load. A careful analysis of the results revealed specific challenges to be considered when training neural networks on data from lung cancer tissue.
Aberrant Methylation of Somatostatin Receptor 2 Gene Is Initiated in Aged Gastric Mucosa Infected with Helicobacter pylori and Consequential Gene Silencing Is Associated with Establishment of Inflammatory Microenvironment In Vitro Study
Authors: Kim Hee-Jin , Park Jong-Lyul , Yoon Byoung-Ha , Haam Keeok , Heo Haejeong , Kim Jong-Hwan , Kim Seon-Young , Kim Mirang , Kim Woo-Ho , Lee Sang-Il , Song Kyu-Sang , Ahn Kwang-Sung , Kim Yong Sung
Published: December 2022

The loss-of-function variants are thought to be associated with inflammation in the stomach. We here aimed to evaluate the extent and role of methylation at the SSTR2 promoter in inflammation and gastric tumor formation. A whole-genome bisulfite sequencing analysis revealed that the SSTR2 promoter was significantly hypermethylated in gastric tumors, dysplasia, and intestinal metaplasia compared to non-tumor tissues from patients with gastric cancer. Using public data, we confirmed SSTR2 promoter methylation in primary gastric tumors and intestinal metaplasia, and even aged gastric mucosae infected with Helicobacter pylori, suggesting that aberrant methylation is initiated in normal gastric mucosa. The loss-of-function of SSTR2 in SNU638 cell-induced cell proliferation in vitro, while stable transfection of SSTR2 in AGS and MKN74 cells inhibited cell proliferation and tumorigenesis in vitro and in vivo. As revealed by a comparison of target genes differentially expressed in these cells with hallmark molecular signatures, inflammation-related pathways were distinctly induced in SSTR2-KO SNU638 cell. By contrast, inflammation-related pathways were inhibited in AGS and MKN74 cells ectopically expressing SSTR2. Collectively, we propose that SSTR2 silencing upon promoter methylation is initiated in aged gastric mucosae infected with H. pylori and promotes the establishment of an inflammatory microenvironment via the intrinsic pathway. These findings provide novel insights into the initiation of gastric carcinogenesis.
Modifiable Risk Factors, Health Profile and Well-Being of the Elderly Diagnosed with Cancer in Italy: Passi d’Argento Surveillance System 2016–2019 Results
Authors: Contoli Benedetta , Possenti Valentina , Minardi Valentina , Gori Stefania , Beretta Giordano , Masocco Maria
Published: December 2022

(1) Cases of cancer are expected to increase in the next years and the risk of cancer increases with age. Data 2016–2019 from the Italian population-based surveillance PASSI d’Argento (PdA) allow the description of the physical and psychosocial well-being of people aged ≥65 years diagnosed with cancer (Ca), and the comparison with elderly suffering from other chronic conditions (Ch) and healthy older individuals (H). (2) Data are collected by Local Health Units’ professionals using a standardized questionnaire during telephone interviews. (3) A total of 8051 out of the 56,352 interviewees reported a previous diagnosis of cancer: an annual average cancer prevalence of 12.8% (95% CI 12.4–13.3%) corresponding to 1.725 million elderly residing in Italy. In comparison to the H, Ca were more likely to refer bad health (aPR = 4.21; 95% CI: 3.70–4.79), suffer from depressive symptoms (aPR = 2.65; 95% CI: 2.35–2.99), disability (aPR = 2.50; 95% CI: 2.22–2.81) or sensory problems (aPR = 1.51; 95% CI: 1.40–1.63), be frail (aPR = 1.45; 95% CI: 1.30–1.61). Ca are often current smokers (aPR = 1.26; 95% CI: 1.11–1.45) and sedentary (aPR = 1.10; 95% CI: 1.03–1.18). (4) PdA provides valuable information to researchers and policy-makers by showing the difficulties for older people with cancer in contributing socially and accessing basic social and health services, which amplifies the risk of cognitive decline, isolation, and psychological deterioration.
Development of Monoclonal Antibodies Targeting Canine PD-L1 and PD-1 and Their Clinical Relevance in Canine Apocrine Gland Anal Sac Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Minoli Lucia , Licenziato Luca , Kocikowski Mikolaj , Cino Marzia , Dziubek Katarzyna , Iussich Selina , Fanelli Antonella , Morello Emanuela , Martano Marina , Hupp Ted , Vojtesek Borek , Parys Maciej , Aresu Luca
Published: December 2022

Canine apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma (AGASACA) is an aggressive canine tumor originating from the anal sac glands. Surgical resection, with or without adjuvant chemotherapy, represents the standard of care for this tumor, but the outcome is generally poor, particularly for tumors diagnosed at an advanced stage. For this reason, novel treatment options are warranted, and a few recent reports have suggested the activation of the immune checkpoint axis in canine AGASACA. In our study, we developed canine-specific monoclonal antibodies targeting PD-1 and PD-L1. A total of 41 AGASACAs with complete clinical and follow-up information were then analyzed by immunohistochemistry for the expression of the two checkpoint molecules (PD-L1 and PD-1) and the presence of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (CD3 and CD20), which were evaluated within the tumor bulk (intratumor) and in the surrounding stroma (peritumor). Seventeen AGASACAs (42%) expressed PD-L1 in a range between 5% and 95%. The intratumor lymphocytes were predominantly CD3+ T-cells and were positively correlated with the number of PD-1+ intratumor lymphocytes (ρ = 0.36; p = 0.02). The peritumor lymphocytes were a mixture of CD3+ and CD20+ cells with variable PD-1 expression (range 0–50%). PD-L1 expression negatively affected survival only in the subgroup of dogs treated with surgery alone (n = 14; 576 vs. 235 days). The presence of a heterogeneous lymphocytic infiltrate and the expression of PD-1 and PD-L1 molecules support the relevance of the immune microenvironment in canine AGASACAs and the potential value of immune checkpoints as promising therapeutic targets.
Effects of Human Papilloma Virus E6/E7 Oncoproteins on Genomic Structure in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Uzelac Matthew , Barakchi Armon , Beldona Varsha , John Daniel , Chakladar Jaideep , Li Wei Tse , Ongkeko Weg M.
Published: December 2022

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is highly prevalent within the U.S., with studies estimating that over 80% of individuals will contract the virus in their lifetime. HPV is considered a primary risk factor for the development and progression of oropharyngeal cancers. The impact of the HPV virus’s E6 and E7 oncoproteins on cellular signaling pathways and genomic integration has been extensively characterized. Indirect genomic effects; however, remain relatively unidentified. In this study, we analyzed 83 HPV+ Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) patients of varying HPV types. Expression counts of the HPV E6 and E7 oncogenes were estimated across samples and correlated with genomic mutational classes. High expression of E6 and E7 oncoproteins was associated with a greater number of total point mutations, especially on chromosomes 1, 11, and 17, which have been implicated in HPV-mediated cancers in previous studies. Samples with high E6 and E7 expression also exhibited more frequent non-clustered structural variation and a lack of clustered variation altogether. Copy number segments were present with fewer number of repeats in high E6 and E7 expression samples, which is known to correlate with decreased expression of affected genes. E6 and E7 expression was associated with increased activity of several cellular pathways associated in oncogenesis and telomere maintenance. In comprehensively characterizing the effects of the HPV oncoproteins on the human genome, potential mechanisms of HNSCC pathogenesis may be further elucidated.
Cognitive Performance in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Using the Ped-ANAM
Authors: de Amorim Jaqueline Cristina , Sepresse Samara Rosa , Vivaldo Jéssica Fernandes , Julio Paulo Rogério , Kishimoto Simone Thiemi , Marini Roberto , Fernandes Paula Teixeira , Costallat Lilian T. L. , Appenzeller Simone
Published: December 2022

Computerized batteries have been widely used to investigate cognitive impairment (CI) in patients with SLE. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cognitive performance of patients with SLE in relation to healthy controls using the Pediatric Automated Neuropsychological Assessment Metrics (Ped-ANAM) battery. In addition, we aimed to examine differences in Ped-ANAM scores according to age of disease onset, presence of disease activity, and disease damage. We included 201 consecutive adult-onset (aSLE) and childhood-onset SLE (cSLE) patients who were being followed at the hospital’s rheumatology outpatient clinic and 177 healthy controls. We applied the percentage of correct answers on the Ped-ANAM subtests and the Performance Validity Index (PVI) metric and correlated them with the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Damage Index (SDI). Then, we established their relationships with neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE). We observed CI in a total of 38 (18.9%) SLE patients and 8 (4.5%) healthy controls (p < 0.001). CI was observed in eight (19.5%) cSLE patients and 32 (20%) aSLE patients (p = 0.8175). Individual analysis of the aSLE subtests showed a significant difference in all subtests compared to healthy controls; the greatest differences were in matching to sample (p < 0.001) and memory search ( p < 0.001). In the cSLE group, we observed a difference in the code substitution subtests (p = 0.0065) compared to the healthy controls. In the evaluation of clinical outcomes, disease activity was significantly correlated with CI in cSLE (r = 0.33; p = 0.042) and aSLE (r = 0.40; p = 0.001). We also observed an association between disease activity and neuropsychiatric manifestations (p = 0.0012) in aSLE. In conclusion, we determined that cognitive dysfunction, mainly in memory and attention, was more prevalent in patients with SLE. In both the cSLE and aSLE groups, disease activity was associated with worse cognitive function. This is the first study to use the Ped-ANAM in Brazil. Longitudinal studies are necessary to determine how the Ped-ANAM will perform over time.
MST4: A Potential Oncogene and Therapeutic Target in Breast Cancer
Authors: Arora Ritu , Kim Jin-Hwan , Getu Ayechew A. , Angajala Anusha , Chen Yih-Lin , Wang Bin , Kahn Andrea G. , Chen Hong , Reshi Latif , Lu Jianrong , Zhang Wenling , Zhou Ming , Tan Ming
Published: December 2022

The mammalian STE 20-like protein kinase 4 (MST4) gene is highly expressed in several cancer types, but little is known about the role of MST4 in breast cancer, and the function of MST4 during epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has not been fully elucidated. Here we report that overexpression of MST4 in breast cancer results in enhanced cell growth, migration, and invasion, whereas inhibition of MST4 expression significantly attenuates these properties. Further study shows that MST4 promotes EMT by activating Akt and its downstream signaling molecules such as E-cadherin/N-cadherin, Snail, and Slug. MST4 also activates AKT and its downstream pro-survival pathway. Furthermore, by analyzing breast cancer patient tissue microarray and silicon datasets, we found that MST4 expression is much higher in breast tumor tissue compared to normal tissue, and significantly correlates with cancer stage, lymph node metastasis and a poor overall survival rate (p < 0.05). Taken together, our findings demonstrate the oncogenic potential of MST4 in breast cancer, highlighting its role in cancer cell proliferation, migration/invasion, survival, and EMT, suggesting a possibility that MST4 may serve as a novel therapeutic target for breast cancer.
Male DAT Val559 Mice Exhibit Compulsive Behavior under Devalued Reward Conditions Accompanied by Cellular and Pharmacological Changes
Authors: Stewart Adele , Davis Gwynne L. , Areal Lorena B. , Rabil Maximilian J. , Tran Vuong , Mayer Felix P. , Blakely Randy D.
Published: December 2022

Identified across multiple psychiatric disorders, the dopamine (DA) transporter (DAT) Ala559Val substitution triggers non-vesicular, anomalous DA efflux (ADE), perturbing DA neurotransmission and behavior. We have shown that DAT Val559 mice display a waiting impulsivity and changes in cognitive performance associated with enhanced reward motivation. Here, utilizing a within-subject, lever-pressing paradigm designed to bias the formation of goal-directed or habitual behavior, we demonstrate that DAT Val559 mice modulate their nose poke behavior appropriately to match context, but demonstrate a perseverative checking behavior. Although DAT Val559 mice display no issues with the cognitive flexibility required to acquire and re-learn a visual pairwise discrimination task, devaluation of reward evoked habitual reward seeking in DAT Val559 mutants in operant tasks regardless of reinforcement schedule. The direct DA agonist apomorphine also elicits locomotor stereotypies in DAT Val559, but not WT mice. Our observation that dendritic spine density is increased in the dorsal medial striatum (DMS) of DAT Val559 mice speaks to an imbalance in striatal circuitry that might underlie the propensity of DAT Val559 mutants to exhibit compulsive behaviors when reward is devalued. Thus, DAT Val559 mice represent a model for dissection of how altered DA signaling perturbs circuits that normally balance habitual and goal-directed behaviors.
Engineering SERS Properties of Silicon Nanotrees at the Nanoscale
Authors: Gebavi Hrvoje , Pál Petra , Csarnovics István , Gašparić Vlatko , Ivanda Mile
Published: December 2022

Large specific surface area nanostructures are desirable in a wide range of sensing applications due to their longer light-trapping path and increased absorption. Engineering of the specific nanotree structure which possesses a high branch density turned out to be challenging from the experimental point of view, and certainly not adequately explored. This paper shows how to design substrates with a silicon nanotree structure for surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) applications. Silicon nanotrees were synthesized by a Ag-Au nanocluster-catalyzed low-pressure chemical vapor deposition method (LPCVD). By the presented approaches, it is possible to manipulate branches’ number, length and thickness. The synthesized nanostructures are flexible after immersion in water which improves SERS performance. The amount of sputtered metal played a key role in preserving the flexibility of the nanotree structure. The obtained substrates with highly fractal nanostructure were tested on 4-mercaptophenylboronic acid (MPBA) to match the optimal SERS parameters. The silicon nanotrees fabrication, and particularly obtained SERS substrates plated with Ag and Au nanoparticles, demonstrated good features and a promising approach for further sensor development.
Learning from the Implementation of the Child Nutrition Program: A Mixed Methods Evaluation of Process
Authors: DeLacey Emily , Tann Cally , Smythe Tracey , Groce Nora , Quiring Michael , Allen Elizabeth , Gombo Maijargal , Demasu-ay Merzel , Ochirbat Batbayar , Kerac Marko
Published: December 2022

Nutrition and feeding interventions are important for children’s growth and development. Holt International’s Child Nutrition Program (CNP) is a child nutrition and feeding intervention. This study aims to describe and explore the implementation of CNP in Mongolia and the Philippines using mixed methods including qualitative and quantitative data analysis. The analysis framework was guided by the WHO’s Monitoring the Building Blocks of Health Systems. Key informant interviews (KIIs) were conducted, transcribed, translated and coded. Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Surveys (KAPS) and pre-/post-tests from routine program audit data were analyzed. Analysis of nutrition (Mongolia: 95% CI: 7.5-16.6 (p = < 0.0001), Philippines: 95% CI: 7.6-15.7 (p= < 0.0001)) and feeding (Mongolia: 95% CI: 11.7-23.9 (p = < 0.0001), Philippines: 95% CI: 6.6-16.9 (p = < 0.0001)) tests indicate improvement post-training in both countries. KAPS indicate changes in desired practices from pre-training to post-training. Thematic analysis of KIIs highlight essential components for program implementation and effectiveness, including strong leadership, buy-in, secure funding, reliable supply chains, training and adequate staffing. This evaluation of program implementation highlights successful strategies and challenges in implementing CNP to improve the health of children in Mongolia and the Philippines. Lessons learned from the implementation of CNP can inform growth of the program, scaling strategies and provide insights for similar interventions.
Early Regressive Development of the Subcommissural Organ of Two Human Fetuses with Non-Communicating Hydrocephalus
Authors: Carmona-Calero Emilia , González-Toledo Juan , Hernández-Abad Luis , Castañeyra-Perdomo Agustin , González-Marrero Ibrahim
Published: December 2022

Hydrocephalus is a central nervous system condition characterized by CSF buildup and ventricular hypertrophy. It is divided into two types: communicative and non-communicating hydrocephalus. Congenital hydrocephalus has been linked to several changes in the subcommissural organ (SCO). However, it is unclear whether these changes occur before or as a result of the hydrocephalic illness. This report presents three cases of human fetuses with hydrocephalus: one non-communicating case, two communicating cases, and two controls. Hematoxylin–Eosin (H&E) or cresyl violet and immunohistochemistry with anti-transthyretin were used to analyze SCO morphological and secretory changes. We conclude that in the cases presented here, there could be an early regression in the SCO of the communicating cases that is not present in the non-communicating case.
Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathy 76: Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Han Xiaodi , Deng Jie , Chen Chunhong , Wang Xiaohui , Fang Fang , Li Hua , Luo Jie , Wu Jie
Published: December 2022

Previous studies have suggested that the ACTL6B monoallelic variant is responsible for an autosomal dominant inherited intellectual developmental disorder with severe speech and ambulation deficits. The clinical phenotype of developmental and epileptic encephalopathy type 76 (DEE76) due to ACTL6B biallelic variants was first reported in 2019, with an autosomal recessive mode of inheritance. In this paper, we report on a child in China with DEE76 caused by a compound heterozygous variant of the ACTL6B gene, and we review the literature on ACTL6B gene variants causing DEE76 with complete clinical information. Including our case 1, the genotype and phenotypic characteristics of 18 children from 14 families are summarized. All 18 cases are autosomal recessive, including 12 with homozygous variants and six with compound heterozygous variants. A total of 17 variants have been reported so far, including 14 variants of the loss function. We summarize the clinical features using Human Phenotype Ontology (HPO) terms. We find that DEE76, caused by the ACTL6B biallelic variant, is an early-onset drug-refractory epilepsy with global developmental delayHP:0001263, hypertoniaHP:0001276, and microcephalyHP:0000252, and imaging is characterized by brain delayed myelinationHP:0012448. Our case of DEE76 had not been reported when the patient underwent genetic testing in 2018, and the diagnosis was clarified by the reanalysis of the data 2 years later, being the first reported Chinese patient and the only one in which the application of a ketogenic diet for antiepileptic treatment may have been effective.
Study on Size Effect in Indentation Tests
Authors: Li Xiaozhen , Zhang Weixu , Dong Zhelin , Wang Zhiguo , Li Dingjun , Zhang Jianpu
Published: December 2022

The depth dependence of the indentation hardness, i.e., the indentation size effect (ISE), was manifested as an increase or decrease in hardness when penetration depth decreases, which was observed by previous experiments. Most scholars believe it is generated by strain gradient. However, additional opinions argue that other factors, similar to the strain gradient, can also contribute to the ISE. Importantly, if such an ISE occurs in an experiment, one needs to distinguish its causes. In this study, two external factors were considered, i.e., the specimen surface defect and indenter tip irregularity, which can lead to the hardness–depth-dependent relationships of the ISE. Moreover, a theoretical model was established to interpret the two dependent relationships and validated via finite element simulations. The simulation results showed that both external factors lead to significant hardness–depth dependences, in great agreement with theoretical derivations. Moreover, the simulation results demonstrated that the surface defect and indenter tip irregularity have a unified influence on the ISE, which is attributed to a sole depth deviation δ. Lastly, the ISE based on both external factors was eliminated and the real hardness was obtained. Based on this, when an ISE appears, it can be distinguished whether it is caused by external factors or strain gradient.
Enhanced Electrochemical Performance of LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 at a High Cut-Off Voltage of 4.6 V by Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3 Coating
Authors: Zhang Ming , Zhang Peng , Wen Weidong , Wang Huanwen , He Beibei , Gong Yansheng , Jin Jun , Wang Rui
Published: December 2022

At present, LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 (NCM) is a widely used material in the commercial market due to the easy control of the preparation process and usage environment. However, its capacity keeps fading when the cut-off voltage increases. In this research, an Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3 (LATP) coating method is proposed to improve the cycle performance of LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 at a high cut-off voltage of 4.6 V. The battery prepared with LATP-modified NCM exhibits an increased discharge capacity retention of 92.37% after 100 cycles at 0.2C (1C = 200 mA g−1), while the bare NCM only presents 64.28%. Our results indicate that LATP-surface coating might be a useful method to increase the cycle stability of NCM and other high-capacity cathode materials.
Corrosion, Wear, and Antibacterial Behaviors of Hydroxyapatite/MgO Composite PEO Coatings on AZ31 Mg Alloy by Incorporation of TiO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Mozafarnia Hanane , Fattah-Alhosseini Arash , Chaharmahali Razieh , Nouri Meisam , Keshavarz Mohsen K. , Kaseem Mosab
Published: December 2022

Plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) is a promising surface treatment for generating a thick, adherent coating on valve metals using an environmentally friendly alkaline electrolyte. In this study, the PEO method was used to modify the surface of AZ31 Mg alloy. The composite coatings were formed in a phosphate-based electrolyte containing hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (NPs) and different concentrations (1, 2, 3, and 4 g/L) of TiO2 NPs. The results showed that the incorporation of TiO2 NPs in the composite coatings increased the porosity, coating thickness, surface roughness, and surface wettability of the coatings. The corrosion-resistance results of coatings in simulated body fluid (SBF) were tested for up to 72 h and all coatings showed superior corrosion resistance compared to the bare substrate. Among samples containing TiO2, the sample containing 1 g/L TiO2 had the highest inner layer resistance (0.51 kΩ·cm2) and outer resistance (285 kΩ·cm2) and the lowest average friction coefficient (395.5), so it had the best wear and corrosion resistance performance. The antibacterial tests showed that the higher the concentration of TiO2 NPs, the lower the adhesion of bacteria, resulting in enhanced antibacterial properties against S. aureus. The addition of 4 g/L of TiO2 NPs to the electrolyte provided an antibacterial rate of 97.65% for the coating.
Organizational Evolution during Performance Meritocracy of AlSi0.5CrxCo0.2Ni Lightweight High Entropy Alloys
Authors: Tan Mingtian , Meng Long , Fang Sheng , Lin Chun , Ke Lingsheng , Yu Zhihui , Qu Jingkui , Qi Tao
Published: December 2022

The Al-Si-Cr-Co-Ni High Entropy Alloy (HEA) with low density (about 5.4 g/cm3) and excellent performance had significant potential in the lightweight engineering material field. To further research and optimize the Al-Si-Cr-Co-Ni system HEA, the influences of element Cr on the microstructures and performances of lightweight AlSi0.5CrxCo0.2Ni (in mole ratio, x = 1.0, 1.2, 1.4, 1.6, and 1.8) HEAs were investigated. The experiment results manifested that AlSi0.5CrxCo0.2Ni HEAs were composed of A2 (Cr-rich), B2 (Ni-Al), and Cr3Si phases, indicating that the addition of Cr did not result in the formation of a new phase. However, ample Cr increased the Cr3Si phase composition, further ensuring the high hardness (average HV 981.2) of HEAs. Electrochemical tests demonstrated that HEAs with elevated Cr3Si and A2 phases afforded greater corrosion resistance, and the improvement in corrosion was more pronounced when x > 1.6. This work is crucial in the development of lightweight engineering HEAs, which are of tremendous practical utility in the fields of cutting tools, hard coating, etc.
Modulating Directional Movement of Graphene Nanoflake Using a Channel
Authors: Li Rui , An Ben , Liu Jiahao , Peng Qing
Published: December 2022

The graphene-based nano-mechanical systems have attracted a lot of attention due to their unique properties. Owing to its planar shape, it is hard to control the direction of motion of graphene. In this study, a directional system based on graphene with a channel driven by a thermal gradient was examined by means of molecular dynamics simulations. The results showed that the channel could direct the motion and correct the rotation of graphene nanoflakes. The movement of graphene nanoflake not only depended on the interaction between the nanoflake and the substrate, but also the configuration of the graphene in the channel. A larger thermal gradient was needed to drive a hydrogen-passivated graphene nanoflake. However, the movement of a passivated nanoflake was more stable. Our results showed that a passivated graphene nanoflake could move steadily along a direction in a channel, which might shed light on the design of nano-mechanical systems based on graphene.
Effects of Cr Concentration on the Structure and the Electrical and Optical Properties of Ti-Al-Cr-N Thin Films Prepared by Means of Reactive Co-Sputtering
Authors: Prieto-Novoa Gina , Vallejo Fabio , Piamba Oscar , Olaya Jhon , Pineda Yaneth
Published: December 2022

Thin films of Ti-Al-Cr-N were deposited onto glass substrates by means of the reactive magnetron co-sputtering of pure Cr and TiAl alloy targets in an atmosphere of Ar and N2. This investigation was carried out by adjusting the Cr-target power in order to increase the Cr amount in the films. The crystal structure of the films was investigated via X-ray diffraction (XRD). The elemental composition of the coatings was determined using Auger electron spectroscopy (AES). The electrical resistivity was measured using the four-point probe method, and the optical properties were characterized via ultraviolet/visible (UV/Vis) spectroscopy. The experimental results showed that, with a Cr concentration between 0 at% and 11.6 at%, a transition between phases from a single-phase hexagonal wurtzite-type structure to a single-phase cubic NaCl-type structure took place. The addition of Cr increased the crystallite size and, with it, the roughness of the coatings. All of the coatings exhibited an ohmic behavior at room temperature, and their surface electrical resistivity decreased from 490.1 ± 43.4 Ωcm to 1.5 ± 0.1 Ωcm as the chromium concentration increased. The transmittance of the coatings decreased, and the optical band gap (Egap) went from 3.5 eV to 2.3 eV with the addition of Cr. These electrical and optical properties have not been previously reported for these films.
Efficient Optical Waveguiding Enabled by Focused Proton Beam Writing in Nd:YCOB Crystal
Authors: Zhao Xingjuan , Yao Yicun , Liu Fengqin , Guan Jing , Lu Qingming , Jia Yuechen
Published: December 2022

We report on microfabrication and optical characterization of buried channel waveguides defined in Nd:YCOB crystal by focused proton beam writing (PBW). In the fabrication process, the focused proton beam irradiation creates a local material modification region with geometrically symmetric positive index changes at the end of the proton trajectory, where efficient optical waveguiding can be locally supported within a fiber-like channel structure. The impact of the proton fluence (with different values ranging from 1015 to 1016 cm−2) on the optical waveguiding performance is well studied. The experimental results of the optical waveguide properties are in fairly good agreement with the simulation results.
Opportunistic Macroalgae as a Component in Assessment of Eutrophication
Authors: Gubelit Yulia I.
Published: December 2022

For the last few decades, coastal eutrophication with the associated mass development of opportunistic macroalgae has increased on a global scale. Since the end of the 2000’s, the number of studies of macroalgal blooms also increased many times. Mass occurrences of such species as Cladophora spp., Ulva spp., and Spirogyra spp. caused a necessity to improve existing methods of ecological assessment and develop new ones. There are many indices based on macroalgae and developed for marine and estuarine ecosystems. However, for correct evaluation, they demand a presence of a number of species, including perennial species from the order Fucales. This requirement cannot be satisfied in fresh or brackish waters, including some estuaries, because often, the freshwater communities are dominated by only one or two opportunistic species. The present paper defines the most relevant topics in studies of macroalgal blooms and reviews indices and metrics which can be recommended for the ecological assessment in diverse habitats influenced or dominated by opportunistic macroalgae species. For ecological assessment of opportunistic communities, according to their seasonal peculiarities, the author recommends, besides biomass, involving evaluation of algal mats (thickness, coverage) and signs of hypoxia.
Aquatic Plant Invasion and Management in Riverine Reservoirs: Proactive Management via a Priori Simulation of Management Alternatives
Authors: Edgerton Elizabeth , Wang Hsiao-Hsuan , Grant William E. , Masser Michael
Published: December 2022

Negative impacts from aquatic invasive plants in the United States include economic costs, loss of commercial and recreational use, and environmental damage. Simulation models are valuable tools for predicting the invasion potentials of species and for the management of existing infestations. We developed a spatially explicit, agent-based model representing the invasion, growth, and senescence of aquatic weeds as functions of day length, water temperature, water depth, and the response of aquatic weeds to biological control. As a case study to evaluate its potential utility, we parameterized the model to represent two historical invasions (1975–1983 and 2004–2007) of Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata (L. fil.) Royle) in Lake Conroe, Texas, USA, and their subsequent biological control using grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella). Results of several hypothetical alternative management schemes indicated that grass carp stocking densities needed to control Hydrilla infestation increased exponentially as the lag time between initial invasion and initial stocking increased, whereas stocking densities needed to control infestation decreased as the amount of time allowed to control the infestation increased. Predictions such as those produced by our model aid managers in developing proactive management plans for areas most likely to be invaded.
Preliminary Stages for COVID-19 Detection Using Image Processing
Authors: Alhaj Taqwa Ahmed , Idris Inshirah , Elhaj Fatin A. , Elhassan Tusneem A. , Remli Muhammad Akmal , Siraj Maheyzah Md , Mohd Rahim Mohd Shafry
Published: December 2022

COVID-19 was first discovered in December 2019 in Wuhan. There have been reports of thousands of illnesses and hundreds of deaths in almost every region of the world. Medical images, when combined with cutting-edge technology such as artificial intelligence, have the potential to improve the efficiency of the public health system and deliver faster and more reliable findings in the detection of COVID-19. The process of developing the COVID-19 diagnostic system begins with image accusation and proceeds via preprocessing, feature extraction, and classification. According to literature review, several attempts to develop taxonomies for COVID-19 detection using image processing methods have been introduced. However, most of these adhere to a standard category that exclusively considers classification methods. Therefore, in this study a new taxonomy for the early stages of COVID-19 detection is proposed. It attempts to offer a full grasp of image processing in COVID-19 while considering all phases required prior to classification. The survey concludes with a discussion of outstanding concerns and future directions.
Economic and Ecological Impacts of Adjusting the Age-Class Structure in Korean Forests: Application of Constraint on the Period-to-Period Variation in Timber Production for Long-Term Forest Management
Authors: Kim Dayoung , Han Hee , Shin Joonghoon , Kim Younghwan , Chang Yoonseong
Published: December 2022

South Korea’s successful reforestation efforts over the past 50 years have led to abundant forest resources. However, intensive reforestation during the 1970s and 1980s skewed the forests’ age distribution towards forest stands aged 30 years or older, which results in an unbalanced distribution of age-class, requiring redistribution with harvest and effective regeneration plans to produce a sustained yield of timber as well as long term ecological benefits. During this conversion process, variations in timber production can occur, causing economic and ecological risks if excessive. To prevent these likely risks, permissible levels of increase and decrease in timber production can be restricted in the planning phase. In determining the appropriate variation rate in timber production, it is necessary to understand the impacts of variation in timber production on forest management. This study performed a sensitivity analysis to evaluate the economic and ecological impacts of constraining the period-to-period variation in timber production. A multi-objective linear programming (MOLP) forest management planning model was utilized to study forests in Mt. Gari, South Korea. Nine management alternatives were set with different levels of variation rate in timber production and further constraints. The total volume and net present value (NPV) of timber production, carbon storage, and water storage were analyzed for each alternative. As timber production variation rates decreased, the amount of timber production increased and forest carbon storage decreased; furthermore, NPV diminished as variation constraints strengthened. These differences were mainly caused by selection of regeneration species according to the constraint on variation in timber production. If the variation rate was strictly restricted, the area of timber species with short rotation age increased during conversion period, in order to reduce the gap of timber production between periods. At the latter part of planning horizon, the area of broad-leaved trees was enlarged as the burden of adjusting age-class structure reduced. The appropriate variation rate in timber production was determined to be 30%, based on considerations regarding the economic and ecological impact of the variation on the forest.