bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Results of Flow Diverter Treatments for Cerebral Aneurysms under Local Anesthesia
Authors: Rajbhandari Saujanya , Matsukawa Hidetoshi , Uchida Kazutaka , Shirakawa Manabu , Yoshimura Shinichi
Published: August 2022

Flow diverters (FD) have become the mainstay for the endovascular treatment of unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIA). Most FD procedures are performed under general anesthesia, and the influence of local anesthesia (LA) on outcomes remains unknown. This study evaluated the results of FD placement under LA. Data of patients treated for FD under LA between August 2016 and January 2022 were analyzed retrospectively. A good outcome was defined as a modified Rankin scale score of 0–2. Major stroke, steno-occlusive events of FD, mortality, and satisfactory aneurysm occlusion were also evaluated. In total, 169 patients undertook 182 treatments (139 [82%) female, mean age 61 ± 11 years). The median maximum aneurysm size was 9.5 mm (interquartile range 6.1-14 mm). A flow re-directed endoluminal device and pipeline embolization device were used in 103 (57%) and 78 (43%) treatments. One patient (0.59%) experienced major stroke, and steno-occlusive events were observed in four patients (2.4%). A good outcome at 90 days was obtained in 164 patients (98%), and one patient died (0.59% mortality). During the median follow-up period of 345 days (interquartile range 176–366 days), satisfactory aneurysm occlusion was observed in 126 of 160 aneurysms (79%). Our results suggest that FD placement under LA is a safe and effective treatment for UIA.
The Effect of Ticagrelor for Endovascular Intervention of Intracranial Aneurysm Patients with or without Clopidogrel Resistant: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Xia Pengfei , Huang Yimin , Chen Gang
Published: August 2022

Endovascular interventional is an important treatment method for intracranial aneurysms. However, due to the risk of intracranial thrombosis, prophylactic use of antiplatelet drugs is generally required. Clinically, the most commonly used drugs are aspirin and clopidogrel; although the latter can significantly reduce the incidence of thromboembolic complications, there are still some patients with clopidogrel resistance who have ischemic adverse events during antiplatelet therapy. In this study, cohort studies of PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library Databases were retrieved to compare the efficacy and safety of ticagrelor and clopidogrel in endovascular interventional treatment of intracranial aneurysms. A total of 10 cohort studies involving 1377 patients were included in this study. All patients had intracranial aneurysms and underwent endovascular intervention. Platelet function was measured in four of the studies and switched the patients with clopidogrel resistance to ticagrelor, while the remaining six studies did not test platelet function, but were also treated with ticagrelor or clopidogrel. The results of the study showed that ticagrelor, like clopidogrel, can effectively control thrombotic complications in endovascular interventional patients, and also control the occurrence of ischemic complications in clopidogrel-resistant patients. Ticagrelor, as a novel platelet aggregation inhibitor that can reversibly bind to P2Y12 receptor, can effectively control thromboembolic complications without increasing hemorrhagic complications, and is also effective in patients with clopidogrel resistance.
Exposure Assessment of Traffic-Related Air Pollution Based on CFD and BP Neural Network and Artificial Intelligence Prediction of Optimal Route in an Urban Area
Authors: Ren Lulu , An Farun , Su Meng , Liu Jiying
Published: August 2022

Due to rapid global economic development, the number of motor vehicles has increased sharply, causing significant traffic pollution and posing a threat to people’s health. People’s exposure to traffic-related particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter less than 2.5 μm (PM2.5) primarily occurs during commuting. Many studies have used exposure risk assessment models to assess the possible adverse effects of PM2.5, but few have used them to plan low-risk pathways for commuters. This study simulated the pollutant concentration distribution in an idealized urban area in different scenarios. We then used a back propagation (BP) neural network to predict the pollutant concentration. The commuter respiratory deposition dose was calculated based on the BP prediction results, and the respiratory deposition dose was converted into obstacles on the commuting map. Finally, the rapidly exploring random tree star (RRT*) algorithm was used to plan low-risk paths for commuters. The results indicate that pollutants discharged by cars and tree planting can significantly affect the pollutant concentration. A 30.25 μg/m3 increase in the pollutant concentration discharged by cars resulted in a 7~13 μg/m3 increase in the traffic-related air pollution concentration on sidewalks. Combining a computational fluid dynamics simulation, a BP neural network model, and the RRT* algorithm provides a system to plan low-risk paths for commuters. This work proposes artificial-intelligence-based models for calculating the exposure risk to traffic-related pollutants (PM2.5) and choosing a low-risk commuting path to ensure healthy travel.
Predictive Maintenance 4.0 for Chilled Water System at Commercial Buildings: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Almobarek Malek , Mendibil Kepa , Alrashdan Abdalla
Published: August 2022

Predictive maintenance plays an important role in managing commercial buildings. This article provides a systematic review of the literature on predictive maintenance applications of chilled water systems that are in line with Industry 4.0/Quality 4.0. The review is based on answering two research questions about understanding the mechanism of identifying the system’s faults during its operation and exploring the methods that were used to predict these faults. The research gaps are explained in this article and are related to three parts, which are faults description and handling, data collection and frequency, and the coverage of the proposed maintenance programs. This article suggests performing a mixed method study to try to fill in the aforementioned gaps.
Subarea Description and Breakage Constitutive Model of Rock Mass Based on CT Test
Authors: Zhang Yao , Chen Chenghao , Yin Xiaotao , Chen Jiadong
Published: August 2022

Based on CT experiments of the mechanical behavior of a certain sandstone, the safety zone, the damaging zone, and the fracture zone of geotechnical materials were defined, and the CT threshold standard of this zone was discussed and empirically selected. Mathematical morphological image measurement technology was used to analyze the CT information of each section, and the variation law of the sandstone CT number with the loading process and the conditions of the damaging zone was studied. According to the statistical results of the CT number of the safety zone, the damaging zone, and the fracture zone obtained at each loading stage, a statistical-damage variable based on the CT number was defined, and the equation of the damage evolution pertinent to this damage variable was established. On the basis of all these data, a constitutive model that can reflect the divisional damage-fracture of sandstone was constructed. The theoretical stress–strain curve and the measured curve were well fitted, demonstrating that the improved constitutive model could accurately reflect the failure of sandstone partitions. A qualitative analysis of CT scans and a quantitative analysis of the constitutive model were combined in this experiment, which has a certain reference value for the development of geotechnical engineering experiments.
Investigation of Mineral Admixtures on Mechanical Properties of Alkali-Activated Recycled Concrete Powders Cement
Authors: Wang Xin , Yan Yurong , Tong Xiaofang , Gong Yongfan
Published: August 2022

Recycled concrete powders (RCPs) are collected during the treatment of recycled aggregates using devices that suction dust. However, RCPs have not been effectively utilized as mineral admixtures in concrete due to their low activity and high capacity for water absorption. In this study, alkali-activated recycled concrete powders cement (AARCPC) was prepared using chemical activation, and then the composition, fluidity, setting time, strength and micro-structure of hydration products in AARCPC were studied. We found that the addition of mineral admixtures significantly improved the strength of hardened paste at various ages, and that the effect of slag powders on the mechanical properties was significantly better than that of fly ash. Replacing AARCPC with 50% slag caused the 28 d and 90 d compressive strength of pastes to reach 79.5 and 84.4 MPa, respectively. The optimal ratio of the various minerals that make up AARCPC was 60% recycled concrete powder, 20% slag powder and 20% fly ash. In particular, hydration with fly ash and slag of AARCPC promotes better fluidity and compactness. AARCPC showed higher strength and has the potential to replace Portland cement and be applied to concrete.
Assessment of a Full-Scale Unreinforced Stone Masonry Building Tested on a Shaking Table by Inverse Engineering
Authors: Kouris Leonidas Alexandros S. , Penna Andrea , Magenes Guido
Published: August 2022

The material deterioration of an unreinforced stone masonry (URSM) building, due to subsequent dynamic loadings of increasing intensity on a shaking table, is investigated by means of inverse engineering, i.e. calibrating a finite element (FE) model to the experimental response data. The mechanical properties of the structure were initially estimated by preliminary characterisation tests. A two-storey full scale URSM building was tested on a shaking table using a sequential testing procedure of stationary and strong motion vibrations. The building was submitted to five uniaxial time-histories with gradually increasing intensity on a shaking table at the EUCENTRE laboratory (Pavia, Italy) up to a near collapse damage state, each one followed by a stationary vibration test. A frequency domain calibration was carried out to extract the mechanical properties of the equivalent elastic model. To this end, the stationary measurements were used to build up the state-space model. On the other hand, a recognition model was employed using the finite element method (FEM), whose stiffness and mass matrices were used to derive the corresponding analytical state-space model, which was compared to the experimental one. The calibration of the model against the experimental dynamic results includes increased complexity and high computational effort. Through an iterative optimisation trial and error procedure, the mechanical properties of masonry and the shear modulus of the flexible diaphragm of the structure for each test phase were derived. It is shown that the deterioration is more intense for the shear modulus of the walls compared to their elastic modulus. The ratio of the in-plane shear to the elastic modulus decreases substantially. The deterioration of the shear modulus of the timber floors is comparable with those of masonry walls.
Strength Laws and Crack Evolution Mechanism of Slurry Grouting under High-Permeability and High-Stress Curing Conditions
Authors: Chen Xinming , Rong Yangyang , Jiao Huazhe , Yang Liuhua , Zhang Haowen , Zhang Wenxiang
Published: August 2022

The grouting method is often used to strengthen the bearing capacity of building foundations. In the process of grouting, the stress structure of slurry and rock and the soil mass under the condition of high permeability and high stress (“double height”) is complex, and the strength mechanism of slurry stone under different double-height conditions is not clear. Therefore, stone samples of grout under the curing pressures of 2 MPa, 4 MPa, 6 MPa, 8 MPa and 10 MPa were prepared for the uniaxial compression test to analyze the influence of curing pressure on compressive strength. The microstructure of the slurry stone was observed by scanning electron microscope, and the development law of microcracks was further studied using the particle flow program. The research shows that the strength of the slurry stone body increases with the increase of curing pressure. When the curing pressure increases from 2 MPa to 10 MPa, the compressive strength of the stone powder-cement slurry stone body increases from 8.3 MPa to 22.7 MPa, an increase of nearly 2.7 times, and the compressive strength of the clay-cement slurry stone body increases from 5.7 MPa to 16.8 MPa, an increase of 2.9 times. According to the axial compressive stress-strain curve of the specimen, the failure process goes through three continuous stages: continuous elasticity, crack propagation, and strength failure. When the stress peak is reached, the number of cracks increases slowly; when the stress peak is reached, the cracks expand rapidly, the number increases exponentially, and a penetrating main crack is finally formed, which destroys the specimen. This study provides a reliable basis for the selection of grouting parameters and grouting materials in stratum-grouting engineering.
Experimental and Numerical Performance Evaluation of Bio-Based and Recycled Thermal Break Strips in LSF Partition Walls
Authors: Santos Paulo , Abrantes David , Lopes Paulo , Mateus Diogo
Published: August 2022

The thermal performance of Lightweight Steel Framed (LSF) walls could be strongly compromised due to steel’s high thermal conductivity and their related thermal bridges. In this paper, the performance of bio-based (pine wood) and recycled (rubber–cork composite) Thermal Break Strip (TBS) materials, to mitigate the thermal bridge effect originated by steel profiles in LSF partition walls, is evaluated. This assessment was achieved by measurements under controlled laboratory conditions and by predictions using some numerical simulation models. Regarding the measurements, two climatic chambers (cold and hot) were used to impose a nearly constant temperature difference (around 35 °C), between the LSF partition test samples’ surfaces. To measure the overall surface-to-surface thermal resistance (R-value) of the evaluated LSF wall configurations, the Heat Flow Meter (HFM) method was used. Moreover, the measured values were compared with the calculations by 2D (THERM models) and 3D (ANSYS models) numerical simulations, exhibiting an excellent agreement (less than ±2% difference). Three TBS locations and three materials are evaluated, with their thermal performance improvement compared with a reference interior partition LSF wall, having no TBS. The top performance was accomplished by the aerogel super-insulating TBS material. The bio-based material (pine wood) and the recycled rubber–cork composite present quite similar results, with a slight advantage for the pine wood TBSs, given their higher thickness. Considering the TBS location, the inner and outer side present comparable performances. When using TBSs on both sides of steel profile flanges, there is a relevant thermal performance improvement, as expected. The thickness of the TBS also presents a noteworthy influence on the LSF partition thermal resistance.
A Three-Dimensional Investigation of Spatial Relationship between Building Composition and Surface Urban Heat Island
Authors: Wang Ruci , Hou Hao , Murayama Yuji , Morimoto Takehiro
Published: August 2022

Urban heat island (UHI) phenomena are on the increase and are responsible for excessive energy use, environmental harm, and detrimental effects on human health in many parts of the world. Case studies of individual cities imply that wise planning and policymaking might lessen the consequences of UHI by altering aspects of urban settings such as land use/cover (LULC). Determining the influence of LULC planning on UHIs has proven difficult due to the diversity of elements that can alter urban surroundings. This study evaluated building functions and the three-dimensional distribution of structures on land surface temperatures (LSTs) in Tsukuba, a science city in Japan, to estimate the influence of landscape composition on UHIs. We used multiple regression analysis to examine the relationship between LST and LULC, building height, building function, and other variables (e.g., distance to/from roads). Our results showed that management and control of the distribution of buildings, population density, and energy consumption could significantly reduce LSTs, realize sustainable development, and ensure a healthy environment in a planned city. Furthermore, a better theoretical understanding of what makes cities sustainable can enhance the ecological awareness of urbanites and help cities evolve in a sustainable way.
The Overall Survival and Progression-Free Survival in Patients with Advanced Adrenocortical Cancer Is Increased after the Multidisciplinary Team Evaluation
Authors: Tizianel Irene , Caccese Mario , Torresan Francesca , Lombardi Giuseppe , Evangelista Laura , Crimì Filippo , Sepulcri Matteo , Iacobone Maurizio , Padovan Marta , Galuppini Francesca , Zagonel Vittorina , Scaroni Carla , Ceccato Filippo
Published: August 2022

We aimed to evaluate the role of adrenal multidisciplinary team evaluation (MTE) in affecting the overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC). We included in a retrospective monocentric study 47 patients with ACC. We divided our cohort into group 1 (without adrenal-MTE discussion, ACC diagnosis from 2004 to 2012, n = 14) and group 2 (diagnosis and beginning of treatments after 2013, all discussed in the adrenal MTE, n = 33). OS was defined by the survival between the first and the last visit, while PFS as the time from the first visit to the progression of the disease. Kaplan–Meier curves were used to compare OS and PFS between Group 1 and Group 2. Group 1stages III–IV (n = 10) presented a shorter median OS than Group 2stages III–IV (25 patients, 4 vs. 31 months, p = 0.023). Likewise, the median PFS was lower in Group 1 as compared to Group 2 (2.9 vs. 17.2 months, p < 0.001). The gain in PFS (6 months) was also confirmed in stage III-IV patients (2.9 vs. 8.7 months, respectively, for Group 1 and Group 2, p = 0.02). Group 1 presented a median PFS of 4 months, while the median PFS of Group 2 was 14.7 months (p = 0.128). In conclusion, we found a significant gain in terms of survival in patients after the MTE discussion in 2013. Therefore, ACC patients should be referred to a tertiary center, ideally from the time of diagnosis, to promptly apply all available treatments, according to the single patient’s clinical history and based on multidisciplinary management.
Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts: Tumorigenicity and Targeting for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Glabman Raisa A. , Choyke Peter L. , Sato Noriko
Published: August 2022

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a heterogenous group of activated fibroblasts and a major component of the tumor stroma. CAFs may be derived from fibroblasts, epithelial cells, endothelial cells, cancer stem cells, adipocytes, pericytes, or stellate cells. These complex origins may underlie their functional diversity, which includes pro-tumorigenic roles in extracellular matrix remodeling, the suppression of anti-tumor immunity, and resistance to cancer therapy. Several methods for targeting CAFs to inhibit tumor progression and enhance anti-tumor immunity have recently been reported. While preclinical studies have shown promise, to date they have been unsuccessful in human clinical trials against melanoma, breast cancer, pancreas cancer, and colorectal cancers. This review summarizes recent and major advances in CAF-targeting therapies, including DNA-based vaccines, anti-CAF CAR-T cells, and modifying and reprogramming CAF functions. The challenges in developing effective anti-CAF treatment are highlighted, which include CAF heterogeneity and plasticity, the lack of specific target markers for CAFs, the limitations in animal models recapitulating the human cancer microenvironment, and the undesirable off-target and systemic side effects. Overcoming these challenges and expanding our understanding of the basic biology of CAFs is necessary for making progress towards safe and effective therapeutic strategies against cancers in human patients.
Impressive Results after “Metabolism-Guided” Lattice Irradiation in Patients Submitted to Palliative Radiation Therapy: Preliminary Results of LATTICE_01 Multicenter Study
Authors: Ferini Gianluca , Parisi Silvana , Lillo Sara , Viola Anna , Minutoli Fabio , Critelli Paola , Valenti Vito , Illari Salvatore Ivan , Brogna Anna , Umana Giuseppe Emmanuele , Ferrantelli Giacomo , Lo Giudice Gabriele , Carrubba Chiara , Zagardo Valentina , Santacaterina Anna , Leotta Salvatore , Cacciola Alberto , Pontoriero Antonio , Pergolizzi Stefano
Published: August 2022

Purpose: To evaluate feasibility, toxicities, and clinical response in Stage IV patients treated with palliative “metabolism-guided” lattice technique. Patients and Methods: From June 2020 to December 2021, 30 consecutive clinical stage IV patients with 31 bulky lesions were included in this study. All patients received palliative irradiation consisting of a spatially fractionated high radiation dose delivered in spherical deposits (vertices, Vs) within the bulky disease. The Vs were placed at the edges of tumor areas with different metabolisms at the PET exam following a non-geometric arrangement. Precisely, the Vs overlapped the interfaces between the tumor areas of higher 18F-FDG uptake (>75% SUV max) and areas with lower 18F-FDG uptake. A median dose of 15 Gy/1 fraction (range 10–27 Gy in 1/3 fractions) was delivered to the Vs. Within 7 days after the Vs boost, all the gross tumor volume (GTV) was homogeneously treated with hypo-fractionated radiation therapy (RT). Results: The rate of symptomatic response was 100%, and it was observed immediately after lattice RT delivery in 3/30 patients, while 27/30 patients had a symptomatic response within 8 days from the end of GTV irradiation. Radiation-related acute grade ≥1 toxicities were observed in 6/30 (20%) patients. The rate of overall clinical response was 89%, including 23% of complete remission. The 1-year overall survival rate was 86.4%. Conclusions: “Metabolism-guided” lattice radiotherapy is feasible and well-tolerated, being able to yield very impressive results both in terms of symptom relief and overall clinical response rate in stage IV bulky disease patients. These preliminary results seem to indicate that this kind of therapy could emerge as the best therapeutic option for this patient setting.
An Overview of the Role of Multiparametric MRI in the Investigation of Testicular Tumors
Authors: Tsili Athina C. , Sofikitis Nikolaos , Pappa Ourania , Bougia Christina K. , Argyropoulou Maria I.
Published: August 2022

Conventional ultrasonography represents the mainstay of testis imaging. In cases in which ultrasonography is inconclusive, scrotal MRI using a multiparametric protocol may be used as a useful problem-solving tool. MRI of the scrotum is primarily recommended for differentiating between benign and malignant testicular masses when sonographic findings are ambiguous. This technique is also accurate in the preoperative local staging of testicular tumors and, therefore, is recommended in patients scheduled for testis-sparing surgery. In addition, MRI may provide valuable information regarding the histological characterization of testicular germ-cell tumors, in selected cases. Scrotal MRI may also help in the differentiation between testicular germ-cell neoplasms and non-germ-cell neoplasms. Axial T1-weighted imaging, axial and coronal T2-weighted imaging, axial diffusion-weighted imaging, and coronal subtracted dynamic contrast-enhanced imaging are the minimum requirements for scrotal MRI. A variety of MRI techniques—including diffusion tensor imaging, magnetization transfer imaging, proton MR spectroscopy, volumetric apparent diffusion coefficient histogram analysis, and MRI-based radiomics—are being investigated for testicular mass characterization, providing valuable supplementary diagnostic information. In the present review, we aim to discuss clinical indications for scrotal MRI in cases of testicular tumors, along with MRI findings of common testicular malignancies.
FAM107A Inactivation Associated with Promoter Methylation Affects Prostate Cancer Progression through the FAK/PI3K/AKT Pathway
Authors: Ke Shuai , Liu Zelin , Wang Qinghua , Zhai Guanzhong , Shao Haoren , Yu Xi , Guo Jia
Published: August 2022

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common cancers and is the second leading cause of mortality in men. Studies exploring novel therapeutic methods are urgently needed. FAM107A, a coding gene located in the short arm of chromosome3, is generally downregulated in PCa and is associated with a poor prognosis. However, the downregulation of FAM107A in PCa and the mechanism of its action remain challenging to determine. This investigation found that downregulation of FAM107A expression in PCa was caused by hypermethylation of CpG islands. Furthermore, DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) was involved in maintaining hypermethylation. Mechanistically, overexpression of FAM107A inhibits tumor cell proliferation, migration, invasion and promotes apoptosis through the FAK/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, indicating that FAM107A may be a molecular brake of FAK/PI3K/AKT signaling, thus limiting the active state of the FAK/PI3K/AKT pathway. These findings will contribute to a better understanding of the effect of FAM107A in PCa, and FAM107A may represent a new therapeutic target for PCa.
Dissecting Molecular Heterogeneity of Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs) from Metastatic Breast Cancer Patients through Copy Number Aberration (CNA) and Single Nucleotide Variant (SNV) Single Cell Analysis
Authors: Rossi Tania , Angeli Davide , Tebaldi Michela , Fici Pietro , Rossi Elisabetta , Rocca Andrea , Palleschi Michela , Maltoni Roberta , Martinelli Giovanni , Fabbri Francesco , Gallerani Giulia
Published: August 2022

Circulating tumor cells’ (CTCs) heterogeneity contributes to counteract their introduction in clinical practice. Through single-cell sequencing we aim at exploring CTC heterogeneity in metastatic breast cancer (MBC) patients. Single CTCs were isolated using DEPArray NxT. After whole genome amplification, libraries were prepared for copy number aberration (CNA) and single nucleotide variant (SNV) analysis and sequenced using Ion GeneStudio S5 and Illumina MiSeq, respectively. CTCs demonstrate distinctive mutational signatures but retain molecular traces of their common origin. CNA profiling identifies frequent aberrations involving critical genes in pathogenesis: gains of 1q (CCND1) and 11q (WNT3A), loss of 22q (CHEK2). The longitudinal single-CTC analysis allows tracking of clonal selection and the emergence of resistance-associated aberrations, such as gain of a region in 12q (CDK4). A group composed of CTCs from different patients sharing common traits emerges. Further analyses identify losses of 15q and enrichment of terms associated with pseudopodium formation as frequent and exclusive events. CTCs from MBC patients are heterogeneous, especially concerning their mutational status. The single-cell analysis allows the identification of aberrations associated with resistance, and is a candidate tool to better address treatment strategy. The translational significance of the group populated by similar CTCs should be elucidated.
L-asparagine Assisted Synthesis of Pt/CeO2 Nanospheres for Toluene Combustion
Authors: Hao Yu , Chen Shaohua , Zhang Xueyin , Chen Tiehong
Published: August 2022

Pt1/CeO2 nanospheres (Pt/CeO2-NS) were synthesized by the bath oiling method with L-asparagine as a necessary additive. Owing to the morphology control effect and coordination interaction of L-asparagine, CeO2 nanospheres can retain their nanosphere structure and show stronger electronic metal-support interaction with highly dispersed Pt. Moreover, the toluene catalytic combustion performance of Pt/CeO2-NS was investigated. The structure-performance relationship is analyzed according to the coordination state of Pt. The Pt/CeO2-NS catalyst exhibited superior catalytic activity than the commercial CeO2-supported Pt catalyst, which is attributed to its higher oxygen vacancy and Pt4+.
Simple Detection of Unstained Live Senescent Cells with Imaging Flow Cytometry
Authors: Malavolta Marco , Giacconi Robertina , Piacenza Francesco , Strizzi Sergio , Cardelli Maurizio , Bigossi Giorgia , Marcozzi Serena , Tiano Luca , Marcheggiani Fabio , Matacchione Giulia , Giuliani Angelica , Olivieri Fabiola , Crivellari Ilaria , Beltrami Antonio Paolo , Serra Alessandro , Demaria Marco , Provinciali Mauro
Published: August 2022

Cellular senescence is a hallmark of aging and a promising target for therapeutic approaches. The identification of senescent cells requires multiple biomarkers and complex experimental procedures, resulting in increased variability and reduced sensitivity. Here, we propose a simple and broadly applicable imaging flow cytometry (IFC) method. This method is based on measuring autofluorescence and morphological parameters and on applying recent artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) tools. We show that the results of this method are superior to those obtained measuring the classical senescence marker, senescence-associated beta-galactosidase (SA-β-Gal). We provide evidence that this method has the potential for diagnostic or prognostic applications as it was able to detect senescence in cardiac pericytes isolated from the hearts of patients affected by end-stage heart failure. We additionally demonstrate that it can be used to quantify senescence “in vivo” and can be used to evaluate the effects of senolytic compounds. We conclude that this method can be used as a simple and fast senescence assay independently of the origin of the cells and the procedure to induce senescence.
Queuine Salvaging in the Human Parasite Entamoeba histolytica
Authors: Sarid Lotem , Sun Jingjing , Chittrakanwong Jurairat , Trebicz-Geffen Meirav , Ye Jun , Dedon Peter C. , Ankri Serge
Published: August 2022

Queuosine (Q) is a naturally occurring modified nucleoside that occurs in the first position of transfer RNA anticodons such as Asp, Asn, His, and Tyr. As eukaryotes lack pathways to synthesize queuine, the Q nucleobase, they must obtain it from their diet or gut microbiota. Previously, we described the effects of queuine on the physiology of the eukaryotic parasite Entamoeba histolytica and characterized the enzyme EhTGT responsible for queuine incorporation into tRNA. At present, it is unknown how E. histolytica salvages queuine from gut bacteria. We used liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) and N-acryloyl-3-aminophenylboronic acid (APB) PAGE analysis to demonstrate that E. histolytica trophozoites can salvage queuine from Q or E. coli K12 but not from the modified E. coli QueC strain, which cannot produce queuine. We then examined the role of EhDUF2419, a protein with homology to DNA glycosylase, as a queuine salvage enzyme in E. histolytica. We found that glutathione S-transferase (GST)-EhDUF2419 catalyzed the conversion of Q into queuine. Trophozoites silenced for EhDUF2419 expression are impaired in their ability to form Q-tRNA from Q or from E. coli. We also observed that Q or E. coli K12 partially protects control trophozoites from oxidative stress (OS), but not siEhDUF2419 trophozoites. Overall, our data reveal that EhDUF2419 is central for the direct salvaging of queuine from bacteria and for the resistance of the parasite to OS.
Cell Cycle Regulation by Integrin-Mediated Adhesion
Authors: Kamranvar Siamak A. , Rani Bhavna , Johansson Staffan
Published: August 2022

Cell cycle and cell adhesion are two interdependent cellular processes regulating each other, reciprocally, in every cell cycle phase. The cell adhesion to the extracellular matrix (ECM) via integrin receptors triggers signaling pathways required for the cell cycle progression; the passage from the G1 to S phase and the completion of cytokinesis are the best-understood events. Growing evidence, however, suggests more adhesion-dependent regulatory aspects of the cell cycle, particularly during G2 to M transition and early mitosis. Conversely, the cell cycle machinery regulates cell adhesion in manners recently shown driven mainly by cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1). This review summarizes the recent findings regarding the role of integrin-mediated cell adhesion and its downstream signaling components in regulating the cell cycle, emphasizing the cell cycle progression through the G2 and early M phases. Further investigations are required to raise our knowledge about the molecular mechanisms of crosstalk between cell adhesion and the cell cycle in detail.
Canonical Hedgehog Pathway and Noncanonical GLI Transcription Factor Activation in Cancer
Authors: Suchors Chamey , Kim James
Published: August 2022

The Hedgehog signaling pathway is one of the fundamental pathways required for development and regulation of postnatal regeneration in a variety of tissues. The pathway has also been associated with cancers since the identification of a mutation in one of its components, PTCH, as the cause of Basal Cell Nevus Syndrome, which is associated with several cancers. Our understanding of the pathway in tumorigenesis has expanded greatly since that initial discovery over two decades ago. The pathway has tumor-suppressive and oncogenic functions depending on the context of the cancer. Furthermore, noncanonical activation of GLI transcription factors has been reported in a number of tumor types. Here, we review the roles of canonical Hedgehog signaling pathway and noncanonical GLI activation in cancers, particularly epithelial cancers, and discuss an emerging concept of the distinct outcomes that these modes have on cancer initiation and progression.
What Do Mothers (or Caregivers) Know about Their Children’s Oral Hygiene? An Update of the Current Evidence
Authors: Aiuto Riccardo , Dioguardi Mario , Caruso Silvia , Lipani Erica , Re Dino , Gatto Roberto , Garcovich Daniele
Published: August 2022

Tooth decay remains one of the most common diseases in children, although it is a preventable injury and despite significant advances that has been made in terms of attention and care for oral hygiene. Several studies have shown the association between prevalence of tooth decay in children and parents’ incorrect oral care habits, with a low educational level and a low socioeconomic background. The question that arises concerns the actual oral hygiene knowledge of mothers, fathers, family members or caregivers of young patients; therefore, the aim of this review is to investigate the genesis of gaps in the topic. A literature search was conducted through the Scopus and PubMed search engine and ended in May 2022; only studies from the past 20 years were included. Current evidence suggests that parents and caregivers still have little knowledge about their children’s oral health: there is not enough awareness about the importance of preventing oral diseases, due to poor attention to good oral hygiene but also lack of information from health professionals and institutions. In the future, all the professionals involved in the pregnant woman’s care should increase parents’ knowledge, solve their doubts, collect and compare data in order to design effective intervention programs.
Same-Day Discharge after Laparoscopic Appendectomy for Simple Appendicitis in Pediatric Patients—Is It Possible?
Authors: Jukić Miro , Tesch Alexander , Todorić Jakov , Šušnjar Tomislav , Milunović Klaudio Pjer , Barić Tomislav , Pogorelić Zenon
Published: August 2022

(1) Background: One-day surgery has been widely adopted for many elective laparoscopic procedures in pediatric patients. Recently, the same protocol has been investigated for some emergency procedures, such as laparoscopic appendectomy. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of discharge from hospital within 24 h in pediatric patients who received laparoscopic appendectomy for uncomplicated acute appendicitis. (2) Methods: From 1 March 2021 to 1 May 2022, a total of 180 pediatric patients who were discharged from hospital within 24 h after laparoscopic appendectomy for uncomplicated appendicitis were included in this prospective single-center study. The primary outcome of this study was the safety of discharge from hospital within 24 h after laparoscopic appendectomy for uncomplicated appendicitis, as well as the parental satisfaction with this protocol. Secondary outcomes included the rate of readmission or unplanned return to the operating room, the complication rate and a cost-effectiveness analysis. For each patient, demographic data, preoperative evaluation (physical examination, laboratory data, imaging), duration of surgery, intraoperative and postoperative complications, length of hospital stay and pain levels, as well as parental satisfaction with this protocol, were recorded. (3) Results: The median age was 11 years (interquartile range (IQR) 10, 14). The majority of the patients (63.8%) were males. The median length of hospital stay after surgery was 15 h (IQR 12, 19). The highest level of satisfaction, at discharge, was recorded in most of the respondents (n = 155, 86.1%), while the remaining 25 (13.9%) expressed moderate levels of satisfaction. The median pain levels according to a visual analogue scale for all postoperative days were low (range 0–4). In four patients (2.2%), unplanned readmission before the seventh postoperative day because of postoperative intraabdominal abscess was recorded. All patients with abscess formation were treated conservatively. The majority of the parents (n = 175; 97.2%) expressed the highest level of satisfaction during the outpatient follow-up examination on the seventh postoperative day. (4) Conclusions: Same-day discharge after laparoscopic appendectomy for simple appendicitis in pediatric patients was safe and feasible. Parental satisfaction with this protocol was very high. With the right protocol and parent education, pediatric patients who underwent laparoscopic appendectomy because of non-complicated acute appendicitis may be successfully treated in this way.
Diagnostic Stewardship—The Impact of Rapid Diagnostic Testing for Paediatric Respiratory Presentations in the Emergency Setting: A Systematic Review
Authors: Weragama Keshani , Mudgil Poonam , Whitehall John
Published: August 2022

Antimicrobial resistance is a growing public health crisis, propelled by inappropriate antibiotic prescription, in particular the over-prescription of antibiotics, prolonged duration of antibiotic therapy and the overuse of broad-spectrum antibiotics. The paediatric population, in particular, those presenting to emergency settings with respiratory symptoms, have been associated with a high rate of antibiotic prescription rates. Further research has now shown that many of these antibiotic prescriptions may have been avoided, with more targeted diagnostic methods to identify underlying aetiologies. The purpose of this systematic review was to assess the impact of rapid diagnostic testing, for paediatric respiratory presentations in the emergency setting, on antibiotic prescription rates. To review the relevant history, a comprehensive search of Medline, EMBASE and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews was performed. Eighteen studies were included in the review, and these studies assessed a variety of rapid diagnostic testing tools and outcome measures. Overall, rapid diagnostic testing was found to be an effective method of diagnostic antibiotic stewardship with great promise in improving antibiotic prescribing behaviours. Further studies are required to evaluate the use of rapid diagnostic testing with other methods of antibiotics stewardship, including clinical decisions aids and to increase the specificity of interventions following diagnosis to further reduce rates of antibiotic prescription.
Integrated Sensor Electronic Front-Ends with Self-X Capabilities
Authors: Alraho Senan , Zaman Qummar , Abd Hamam , König Andreas
Published: August 2022

The ongoing vivid advance in integration technologies is giving leverage both to computing systems as well as to sensors and sensor systems. Both conventional computing systems as well as innovative computing systems, e.g., following bio-inspiration from nervous systems or neural networks, require efficient interfacing to an increasing diversity of sensors under the constraints of metrology. The realization of sufficiently accurate, robust, and flexible analog front-ends (AFE) is decisive for the overall application system and quality and requires substantial design expertise both for cells in System-on-Chip (SoC) or chips in System-in-Package (SiP) realizations. Adding robustness and flexibility to sensory systems, e.g., for Industry 4.0., by self-X or self-* features, e.g., self-monitoring, -trimming, or -healing (AFEX) approaches the capabilities met in living beings and is pursued in our research. This paper summarizes on two chips, denoted as Universal-Sensor-Interface-with-self-X-properties (USIX) based on amplitude representation and reports on recently identified challenges and corresponding advanced solutions, e.g., on circuit assessment as well as observer robustness for classic amplitude-based AFE, and transition activities to spike domain representation spiking-analog-front-ends with self-X properties (SAFEX) based on adaptive spiking electronics as the next evolutionary step in AFE development. Key cells for AFEX and SAFEX have been designed in XFAB xh035 CMOS technology and have been subject to extrinsic optimization and/or adaptation. The submitted chip features 62,921 transistors, a total area of 10.89 mm2 (74% analog, 26% digital), and 66 bytes of the configuration memory. The prepared demonstrator will allow intrinsic optimization and/or adaptation for the developed technology agnostic concepts and chip instances. In future work, confirmed cells will be moved to complete versatile and robust AFEs, which can serve both for conventional as well as innovative computing systems, e.g., spiking neurocomputers, as well as to leading-edge technologies to serve in SOCs.
The Transgene Expression of the Immature Form of the HCV Core Protein (C191) and the LncRNA MEG3 Increases Apoptosis in HepG2 Cells
Authors: Mofed Dina , Sabet Salwa , Baiomy Ahmed A. , Salem Tamer Z.
Published: August 2022

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are regulated in cancer cells, including lncRNA MEG3, which is downregulated in Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC). In addition, hepatitis C virus (HCV) core proteins are known to dysregulate important cellular pathways that are linked to HCC development. In this study, we were interested in evaluating the overexpression of lncRNA MEG3, either alone or in combination with two forms of HCV core protein (C173 and C191) in HepG2 cells. Cell viability was assessed by MTT assay. Transcripts’ levels of key genes known to be regulated in HCC, such as p53, DNMT1, miRNA152, TGF-b, and BCL-2, were measured by qRT-PCR. Protein expression levels of caspase-3 and MKI67 were determined by immunocytochemistry and apoptosis assays. The co-expression of lncRNA MEG3 and C191 resulted in a marked increase and accumulation of dead cells and a reduction in cell viability. In addition, a marked increase in the expression of tumor suppressor genes (p53 and miRNA152), as well as a marked decrease in the expression of oncogenes (DNMT1, BCL2, and TGF-b), were detected. Moreover, apoptosis assay results revealed a significant increase in total apoptosis (early and late). Finally, immunocytochemistry results detected a significant increase in apoptotic marker caspase-3 and a decrease in tumor marker MKI67. In this study, transgene expression of C191 and lncRNA MEG3 showed induction in apoptosis in HepG2 cells greater than the expression of each one alone. These results suggest potential anticancer characteristics.
Presence of Human Papillomavirus DNA in Malignant Neoplasia and Non-Malignant Breast Disease
Authors: Maldonado-Rodríguez Erika , Hernández-Barrales Marisa , Reyes-López Adrián , Godina-González Susana , Gallegos-Flores Perla I. , Esparza-Ibarra Edgar L. , González-Curiel Irma E. , Aguayo-Rojas Jesús , López-Saucedo Adrián , Mendoza-Almanza Gretel , Ayala-Luján Jorge L.
Published: August 2022

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among women worldwide. Multiple extrinsic and intrinsic factors are associated with this disease’s development. Various research groups worldwide have reported the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA in samples of malignant breast tumors. Although its role in mammary carcinogenesis is not fully understood, it is known that the HPV genome, once inserted into host cells, has oncogenic capabilities. The present study aimed to detect the presence of HPV DNA in 116 breast tissue biopsies and classify them according to their histology. It was found that 50.9% of the breast biopsies analyzed were malignant neoplasms, of which 74.6% were histologically classified as infiltrating ductal carcinoma. In biopsies with non-malignant breast disease, fibroadenoma was the most common benign neoplasm (39.1%). Detection of HPV DNA was performed through nested PCR using the external primer MY09/11 and the internal primer GP5+/6+. A hybridization assay genotyped HPV. HPV DNA was identified in 20.3% (12/59) of malignant neoplasms and 35% non-malignant breast disease (16/46). It was also detected in 27.3% (3/11) of breast tissue biopsies without alteration. However, there are no statistically significant differences between these groups and the existence of HPV DNA (p = 0.2521). Its presence was more frequent in non-malignant alterations than in malignant neoplasias. The most frequent genotypes in the HPV-positive samples were low-risk (LR) HPV-42 followed by high-risk (HR) HPV-31.
Influence of Electrostatic Field on Mixed Aqueous Solution of Calcium and Ferrous Ions: Insights from Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Han Yong , Wei Bingjia , Guo Xiaoqiang , Jiao Tifeng
Published: August 2022

In order to investigate the anti-scaling and anti-corrosion characteristics of an electrostatic anti-fouling system in the application process, the influence of an electrostatic field (EF) on the structure and dynamics of hydrated Ca2+ and hydrated Fe2+ in a mixed aqueous system was studied through the calculation and analysis of the radial distribution function (RDF), self-diffusion coefficients, viscosity, and hydrogen bond structure by using molecular dynamics simulation. The study results show that the EF can decrease the radius of the first water shell of hydrated Ca2+ but increase that of Fe2+, which will reduce the possibility of forming calcite. The EF can make water molecules and Fe2+ more active, which can hinder iron release and thus decrease iron corrosion products. In addition, the EF can enhance the hydrogen structure of water molecules in the aqueous solution.
Effect of Various Lubricating Strategies on Machining of Titanium Alloys: A State-of-the-Art Review
Authors: Kumari Soni , Shah Meet , Modi Yug , Bandhu Din , Zadafiya Kishan , Abhishek Kumar , Saxena Kuldeep K. , Msomi Velaphi , Mohammed Kahtan A.
Published: August 2022

In recent years, researchers have proposed a variety of sustainable ways of achieving maximal lubricant efficacy with the least amount of lubricant. As an alternative to traditional lubricating procedures, these planned solutions have been highly embraced by scientific groups. This paper provides a comprehensive review of modern cooling/lubrication technologies and their influence on titanium alloy milling, grinding, and turning. Selected studies on recent advances in the lubrication system, such as power consumption, cutting forces, surface finish, and so on, are examined. The effect of various cutting fluids on the machining of titanium alloys has also been investigated. According to the prior state of the art, lubricating techniques and lubrication types have a considerable influence on the machining efficiency of titanium alloys.