bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pre- and Post-Transcriptional Control of HBV Gene Expression: The Road Traveled towards the New Paradigm of HBx, Its Isoforms, and Their Diverse Functions
Authors: Villanueva Rodrigo A. , Loyola Alejandra
Published: June 2023

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is an enveloped DNA human virus belonging to the Hepadnaviridae family. Perhaps its main distinguishable characteristic is the replication of its genome through a reverse transcription process. The HBV circular genome encodes only four overlapping reading frames, encoding for the main canonical proteins named core, P, surface, and X (or HBx protein). However, pre- and post-transcriptional gene regulation diversifies the full HBV proteome into diverse isoform proteins. In line with this, hepatitis B virus X protein (HBx) is a viral multifunctional and regulatory protein of 16.5 kDa, whose canonical reading frame presents two phylogenetically conserved internal in-frame translational initiation codons, and which results as well in the expression of two divergent N-terminal smaller isoforms of 8.6 and 5.8 kDa, during translation. The canonical HBx, as well as the smaller isoform proteins, displays different roles during viral replication and subcellular localizations. In this article, we reviewed the different mechanisms of pre- and post-transcriptional regulation of protein expression that take place during viral replication. We also investigated all the past and recent evidence about HBV HBx gene regulation and its divergent N-terminal isoform proteins. Evidence has been collected for over 30 years. The accumulated evidence simply strengthens the concept of a new paradigm of the canonical HBx, and its smaller divergent N-terminal isoform proteins, not only during viral replication, but also throughout cell pathogenesis.
MR-proADM as Prognostic Factor of Outcome in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Cameli Paolo , Pordon Elena , d’Alessandro Miriana , Marzi Maria Laura , Galasso Lucrezia , Biuzzi Cesare , Bergantini Laura , Bargagli Elena , Scolletta Sabino , Franchi Federico
Published: June 2023

Background: Serum mid-regional proadrenomedullin (MR-proADM) has emerged as a marker of organ failure (mainly lungs and kidneys) and poor prognosis in patients admitted to intensive care (IC); some reports also suggest it and other markers, such as Krebs von den Lungen-6 (KL-6) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), as a prognostic biomarker of COVID-19. The aim of the study was to evaluate the performance MR-proADM in hospitalized COVID-19 patients for predicting in-hospital mortality and need for non-invasive or invasive respiratory support. Methods: We enrolled 74 patients hospitalized in the COVID Unit of Siena Hospital from March to May 2020, for whom serum samples were available on admission for assay of MR-proADM, KL-6 and IL-6. Demographic data, comorbidities, medical history and clinical laboratory data on days 1–3 of admission and Simplified Acute Physiology Score and Simplified Organ Failure Assessment scores calculated at day 1 were collected retrospectively, as well as mortality and IC admission data. Results: 12 patients died in hospital (16%) and 14 patients were admitted to IC (19%). Serum concentrations of MR-proADM on admission and on day 1 were higher among non-survivors than among survivors (p = 0.015 and p = 0.045, respectively), while those on day 3 were not significantly different. Patients needing respiratory support had higher MR-proADM concentrations on admission than the others (p = 0.046), and those requiring invasive mechanical ventilation had higher MR-proADM on day 1 (p = 0.017). Serum concentrations of KL-6 and IL-6 were significantly higher in non-survivors (p = 0.03 and p = 0.004, respectively). ROC curve analysis showed that serum MR-proADM on day 1 had the best accuracy in predicting death and/or IC admission (AUC = 0.9583, p = 0.0006); the combination of all three biomarkers further improved the accuracy of prediction of death or IC admission (AUC = 0.9793; p = 0.00004). Conclusions: Our data sustain the potential of serum MR-proADM as a reliable prognostic biomarker of hospitalized COVID-19 patients and confirms the utility of the three markers in the management and risk stratification of hospitalized patients. The markers are collected mini-invasively and are quick to analyze and cost-effective.
Rational Fabrication of Ionic Covalent Organic Frameworks for Chemical Analysis Applications
Authors: Yu Jing , Luo Liuna , Shang Hong , Sun Bing
Published: June 2023

The rapid development of advanced material science boosts novel chemical analytical technologies for effective pretreatment and sensitive sensing applications in the fields of environmental monitoring, food security, biomedicines, and human health. Ionic covalent organic frameworks (iCOFs) emerge as a class of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) with electrically charged frames or pores as well as predesigned molecular and topological structures, large specific surface area, high crystallinity, and good stability. Benefiting from the pore size interception effect, electrostatic interaction, ion exchange, and recognizing group load, iCOFs exhibit the promising ability to extract specific analytes and enrich trace substances from samples for accurate analysis. On the other hand, the stimuli response of iCOFs and their composites to electrochemical, electric, or photo-irradiating sources endows them as potential transducers for biosensing, environmental analysis, surroundings monitoring, etc. In this review, we summarized the typical construction of iCOFs and focused on their rational structure design for analytical extraction/enrichment and sensing applications in recent years. The important role of iCOFs in the chemical analysis was fully highlighted. Finally, the opportunities and challenges of iCOF-based analytical technologies were also discussed, which may be beneficial to provide a solid foundation for further design and application of iCOFs.
Using a Smartphone-Based Colorimetric Device with Molecularly Imprinted Polymer for the Quantification of Tartrazine in Soda Drinks
Authors: Jacinto Christian , Maza Mejía Ily , Khan Sabir , López Rosario , Sotomayor Maria D. P. T. , Picasso Gino
Published: June 2023

The present study reports the development and application of a rapid, low-cost in-situ method for the quantification of tartrazine in carbonated beverages using a smartphone-based colorimetric device with molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP). The MIP was synthesized using the free radical precipitation method with acrylamide (AC) as the functional monomer, N,N′-methylenebisacrylamide (NMBA) as the cross linker, and potassium persulfate (KPS) as radical initiator. The smartphone (RadesPhone)-operated rapid analysis device proposed in this study has dimensions of 10 × 10 × 15 cm and is illuminated internally by light emitting diode (LED) lights with intensity of 170 lux. The analytical methodology involved the use of a smartphone camera to capture images of MIP at various tartrazine concentrations, and the subsequent application of the Image-J software to calculate the red, green, blue (RGB) color values and hue, saturation, value (HSV) values from these images. A multivariate calibration analysis of tartrazine in the range of 0 to 30 mg/L was performed, and the optimum working range was determined to be 0 to 20 mg/L using five principal components and a limit of detection (LOD) of 1.2 mg/L was obtained. Repeatability analysis of tartrazine solutions with concentrations of 4, 8, and 15 mg/L (n = 10) showed a coefficient of variation (% RSD) of less than 6%. The proposed technique was applied to the analysis of five Peruvian soda drinks and the results were compared with the UHPLC reference method. The proposed technique showed a relative error between 6% and 16% and % RSD lower than 6.3%. The results of this study demonstrate that the smartphone-based device is a suitable analytical tool that offers an on-site, cost-effective, and rapid alternative for the quantification of tartrazine in soda drinks. This color analysis device can be used in other molecularly imprinted polymer systems and offers a wide range of possibilities for the detection and quantification of compounds in various industrial and environmental matrices that generate a color change in the MIP matrix.
Neural Injury of the Dopaminergic Pathways in Patients with Middle Cerebral Artery Territory Infarct: A Diffusion Tensor Imaging Study
Authors: Seo Jeong Pyo , Ryu Heun Jae
Published: June 2023

The mesocortical tract (MCT) and mesolimbic tract (MLT), dopaminergic pathways originating from the ventral tegmental area in the midbrain to the ventral striatum (nucleus accumbens) and prefrontal cortex, play a crucial role in regulating incentive salience. This study aimed to investigate the potential changes in the MCT and MLT pathways following ischemic stroke, such as middle cerebral artery (MCA) infarction. We enrolled thirty-six patients with MCA infarction and forty healthy individuals with no history of psychiatric or neurological disorders. Using diffusion tensor tractography, we examined the injury to the affected and unaffected MCT and MLT pathways in patients with MCA infarction, comparing them to the control group. Our findings revealed a significant difference in the mean values of fractional anisotropy (FA) and tract volume (TV) of the MCT and MLT pathways between the patient and control groups (p < 0.05). Specifically, the mean FA of the MCT and MLT showed a decrease of 7.94% and 6.33%, respectively, in the affected side compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Similarly, the mean TV of the MCT and MLT showed a decrease of 73.22% and 78.79%, respectively, in the affected side compared to the control group (p < 0.05). These changes were significantly different from those of the unaffected MCT, MLT, and control groups (p < 0.05). Our study suggests that MCA infarction can cause significant damage to the affected MCT and MLT pathways, potentially contributing to our understanding of the pathophysiology of post-stroke depression.
Review of Plant Extracts and Active Components: Mechanisms of Action for the Treatment of Obesity-Induced Cognitive Impairment
Authors: de la Peña Ike , Afable Timothy , Dahilig-Talan Vina Rose , Cruz Philip
Published: June 2023

Obesity has been shown to negatively impact cognitive functions, but effective treatments for obesity-induced cognitive impairment are lacking. Natural dietary and plant products, functional foods, and plant-derived compounds have gained attention as potential remedies in part due to the nootropic properties of plants and certain plant-derived agents. This review discusses plant extracts and plant-derived substances that have been shown to ameliorate obesity-induced cognitive impairment in animal models. Mechanistic evaluations of their therapeutic effects are also summarized. A literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar databases, resulting in the review of 27 English language articles meeting the inclusion criteria. The nine plants (e.g., Ashwagandha, Adzuki bean, and olive) and 18 plant-derived substances (e.g., curcumin, Huperzine A, and Roxburgh’s jewel orchid polysaccharides) included in this review improved obesity-induced cognitive impairment through several mechanisms, including attenuation of neuroinflammation, improvement in both central and peripheral insulin resistance, enhancement of neuroprotection and neurogenesis, and modulation of the synthesis and release of cognition-associated neurotransmitters. Based on these findings, plants and plant-derived substances may hold promise for the prevention and treatment of obesity-induced cognitive impairment. Further research is warranted to explore the clinical potential of these plant-derived treatments and to elucidate their underlying molecular mechanisms.
Neuropsychological Evaluation and Quantitative EEG in Patients with Frontotemporal Dementia, Alzheimer’s Disease, and Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Tomasello Letteria , Carlucci Leonardo , Laganà Angelina , Galletta Santi , Marinelli Chiara Valeria , Raffaele Massimo , Zoccolotti Pierluigi
Published: June 2023

This study analyzed the efficacy of EEG resting state and neuropsychological performances in discriminating patients with different forms of dementia, or mild cognitive impairment (MCI), compared with control subjects. Forty-four patients with dementia (nineteen patients with AD, and seven with FTD), eighteen with MCI, and nineteen healthy subjects, matched for age and gender, underwent an extensive neuropsychological test battery and an EEG resting state recording. Results showed greater theta activation in posterior areas in the Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Fronto-Temporal Dementia (FTD) groups compared with the MCI and control groups. AD patients also showed more delta band activity in the temporal-occipital areas than controls and MCI patients. By contrast, the alpha and beta bands did not discriminate among groups. A hierarchical clustering analysis based on neuropsychological and EEG data yielded a three-factor solution. The clusters differed for several neuropsychological measures, as well as for beta and theta bands. Neuropsychological tests were most sensitive in capturing an initial cognitive decline, while increased theta activity was uniquely associated with a substantial worsening of the clinical picture, representing a negative prognostic factor. In line with the Research Domains Framework (RDoC) perspective, the joint use of cognitive and neurophysiological data may provide converging evidence to document the evolution of cognitive skills in at-risk individuals.
Behavioral and Electrocortical Response to a Sensorimotor Conflict in Individuals with Fibromyalgia
Authors: Augière Tania , Simoneau Martin , Brun Clémentine , Pinard Anne Marie , Blouin Jean , Mouchnino Laurence , Mercier Catherine
Published: June 2023

People with fibromyalgia have been shown to experience more somatosensory disturbances than pain-free controls during sensorimotor conflicts (i.e., incongruence between visual and somatosensory feedback). Sensorimotor conflicts are known to disturb the integration of sensory information. This study aimed to assess the cerebral response and motor performance during a sensorimotor conflict in people with fibromyalgia. Twenty participants with fibromyalgia and twenty-three pain-free controls performed a drawing task including visual feedback that was either congruent with actual movement (and thus with somatosensory information) or incongruent with actual movement (i.e., conflict). Motor performance was measured according to tracing error, and electrocortical activity was recorded using electroencephalography. Motor performance was degraded during conflict for all participants but did not differ between groups. Time–frequency analysis showed that the conflict was associated with an increase in theta power (4–8 Hz) at conflict onset over the left posterior parietal cortex in participants with fibromyalgia but not in controls. This increase in theta suggests a stronger detection of conflict in participants with fibromyalgia, which was not accompanied by differences in motor performance in comparison to controls. This points to dissociation in individuals with fibromyalgia between an altered perception of action and a seemingly unaltered control of action.
The Effect of Transcranial Electrical Stimulation on the Recovery of Sleep Quality after Sleep Deprivation Based on an EEG Analysis
Authors: Wang Yuhan , Cao Qiongfang , Wei Changyou , Xu Fan , Zhang Peng , Zeng Hanrui , Shao Yongcong , Weng Xiechuan , Meng Rong
Published: June 2023

Acute sleep deprivation can reduce the cognitive ability and change the emotional state in humans. However, little is known about how brain EEGs and facial expressions change during acute sleep deprivation (SD). Herein, we employed 34 healthy adult male subjects to undergo acute SD for 36 h, during which, their emotional states and brain EEG power were measured. The subjects were divided randomly into electronic stimulation and control groups. We performed TDCS on the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex for 2 mA and 30 min in the TDCS group. These results indicated that the proportion of disgusted expressions in the electrical stimulation group was significantly less than the controls after 36 h post-acute SD, while the proportion of neutral expressions was increased post-restorative sleep. Furthermore, the electrical stimulation group presented a more significant impact on slow wave power (theta and delta) than the controls. These findings indicated that emotional changes occurred in the subjects after 36 h post-acute SD, while electrical stimulation could effectively regulate the cortical excitability and excitation inhibition balance after acute SD.
Sensitivity and Specificity of the Brentano Illusion Test in the Detection of Visual Hemi-Field Deficits in Patients with Unilateral Spatial Neglect
Authors: De Luca Maria , Baroncini Matteo , Matano Alessandro , Di Lorenzo Concetta , Magnotti Luisa , Lucatello Susanna , Mulas Martina , Pollarini Virginia , Ciurli Maria Paola , Nardo Davide
Published: June 2023

Stroke survivors with right-brain damage (RBD) often present with attentional deficits such as left unilateral spatial neglect. Some patients also present with contralesional visual hemi-field deficits. A late detection of visual hemi-field deficits (VHFD) contributes to hampering neurorehabilitation and functional outcome of patients with neglect. The Brentano Illusion Test (BRIT) may be used for an early detection of VHFD during the neuropsychological assessment. In the present study, we determined the sensitivity and specificity of the BRIT for screening VHFD in patients with neglect. Sixty-four consecutive RBD patients were examined. Forty-five presented with neglect. Of these, 23 presented with VHFD (hemianopia or quadrantanopia) as detected by the Humphrey automated static visual field testing (reference standard). Consecutive patients also included 19 participants without neglect, who did not have any VHFD. The sensitivity and specificity of the BRIT for neglect patients were 78.3% (95% CI: 61.4–95.1) and 90.9 (95% CI: 78.9–100.0), respectively. Positive predictive value (PPV) was 89.6% (95% CI: 76.4–100.0); negative predictive value (NPV) 80.7% (95% CI: 65.2–96.2). No false positives in the group without neglect were identified. We conclude that the BRIT is an effective tool for clinical neuropsychologists to screen for possible VHFD in neglect patients during the neuropsychological assessment, allowing the refinement of the clinical picture in the neuropsychological report. An early detection of VHFD also allows referring the patient to standard diagnostics for a formal visual field examination, right from the first neuropsychological assessment.
Comparing and Correcting Spectral Sensitivities between Multispectral Microscopes: A Prerequisite to Clinical Implementation
Authors: Eminizer Margaret , Nagy Melinda , Engle Elizabeth L. , Soto-Diaz Sigfredo , Jorquera Andrew , Roskes Jeffrey S. , Green Benjamin F. , Wilton Richard , Taube Janis M. , Szalay Alexander S.
Published: June 2023

Multispectral, multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) microscopy has been used to great effect in research to identify cellular co-expression profiles and spatial relationships within tissue, providing a myriad of diagnostic advantages. As these technologies mature, it is essential that image data from mIF microscopes is reproducible and standardizable across devices. We sought to characterize and correct differences in illumination intensity and spectral sensitivity between three multispectral microscopes. We scanned eight melanoma tissue samples twice on each microscope and calculated their average tissue region flux intensities. We found a baseline average standard deviation of 29.9% across all microscopes, scans, and samples, which was reduced to 13.9% after applying sample-specific corrections accounting for differences in the tissue shown on each slide. We used a basic calibration model to correct sample- and microscope-specific effects on overall brightness and relative brightness as a function of the image layer. We tested the generalizability of the calibration procedure and found that applying corrections to independent validation subsets of the samples reduced the variation to 2.9 ± 0.03%. Variations in the unmixed marker expressions were reduced from 15.8% to 4.4% by correcting the raw images to a single reference microscope. Our findings show that mIF microscopes can be standardized for use in clinical pathology laboratories using a relatively simple correction model.
Sex Differences in Lung Cancer
Authors: May Lauren , Shows Kathryn , Nana-Sinkam Patrick , Li Howard , Landry Joseph W.
Published: June 2023

Sex disparities in the incidence and mortality of lung cancer have been observed since cancer statistics have been recorded. Social and economic differences contribute to sex disparities in lung cancer incidence and mortality, but evidence suggests that there are also underlying biological differences that contribute to the disparity. This review summarizes biological differences which could contribute to the sex disparity. Sex hormones and other biologically active molecules, tumor cell genetic differences, and differences in the immune system and its response to lung cancer are highlighted. How some of these differences contribute to disparities in the response to therapies, including cytotoxic, targeted, and immuno-therapies, is also discussed. We end the study with a discussion of our perceived future directions to identify the key biological differences which could contribute to sex disparities in lung cancer and how these differences could be therapeutically leveraged to personalize lung cancer treatment to the individual sexes.
Bone Marrow Microenvironment-Induced Chemoprotection in KMT2A Rearranged Pediatric AML Is Overcome by Azacitidine–Panobinostat Combination
Authors: Lehner Kara M. , Gopalakrishnapillai Anilkumar , Kolb Edward Anders , Barwe Sonali P.
Published: June 2023

Advances in therapies of pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML) have been minimal in recent decades. Although 82% of patients will have an initial remission after intensive therapy, approximately 40% will relapse. KMT2A is the most common chromosomal translocation in AML and has a poor prognosis resulting in high relapse rates and low chemotherapy efficacy. Novel targeted approaches are needed to increase sensitivity to chemotherapy. Recent studies have shown how interactions within the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment help AML cells evade chemotherapy and contribute to relapse by promoting leukemic blast survival. This study investigates how DNA hypomethylating agent azacitidine and histone deacetylase inhibitor panobinostat synergistically overcome BM niche-induced chemoprotection modulated by stromal, endothelial, and mesenchymal stem cells and the extracellular matrix (ECM). We show that direct contact between AML cells and BM components mediates chemoprotection. We demonstrate that azacitidine and panobinostat synergistically sensitize MV4;11 cells and KMT2A rearranged pediatric patient-derived xenograft lines to cytarabine in multicell coculture. Treatment with the epigenetic drug combination reduced leukemic cell association with multicell monolayer and ECM in vitro and increased mobilization of leukemic cells from the BM in vivo. Finally, we show that pretreatment with the epigenetic drug combination improves the efficacy of chemotherapy in vivo.
Insights into the Impact of Hesitancy on Cancer Care and COVID-19
Authors: Visweshwar Nathan , Rico Juan Felipe , Ayala Irmel , Jaglal Michael , Laber Damian A. , Ammad-ud-din Mohammad , Sokol Lubomir , Sotomayor Eduardo , Manoharan Arumugam
Published: June 2023

World Health Organization findings indicate that the COVID-19 pandemic adversely affected cancer diagnosis and management. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the optimal management of outpatient appointments, scheduled treatments, and hospitalizations for cancer patients because of hesitancy among patients and health-care providers. Travel restrictions and other factors likely affected medical, surgical, and radiation treatments during the COVID-19 pandemic. Cancer patients were more likely to be affected by severe illness and complications if they contracted COVID-19. A compromised immune system and comorbidities in cancer patients may have contributed to this increased risk. Hesitancy or reluctance to receive appropriate therapy or vaccination advice might have played a major role for cancer patients, resulting in health-care deficits. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on screening, entry into clinical trials, and hesitancy among patients and health-care professionals, limiting adjuvant and metastatic cancer treatment.
CXC ELR-Positive Chemokines as Diagnostic and Prognostic Markers for Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Motyka Joanna , Kicman Aleksandra , Kulesza Monika , Ławicki Sławomir
Published: June 2023

As the most common type of malignant lesison, breast cancer is a leading challenge for clinicians. Currently, diagnosis is based on self-examination and imaging studies that require confirmation by tissue biopsy. However, there are no easily accessible diagnostic tools that can serve as diagnostic and prognostic markers for breast cancer patients. One of the possible candidates for such markers is a group of chemokines that are closely implicated in each stage of tumorigenesis. Many researchers have noted the potential of this molecule group to become tumor markers and have tried to establish their clinical utility. In this work, we summarize the results obtained by scientists on the usefulness of the ELR-positive CXC group of chemokines in ancillary diagnosis of breast cancer.
Oncologic Outcomes of Lymph Node Dissection at Salvage Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Preisser Felix , Incesu Reha-Baris , Rajwa Pawel , Chlosta Marcin , Ahmed Mohamed , Abreu Andre Luis , Cacciamani Giovanni , Ribeiro Luis , Kretschmer Alexander , Westhofen Thilo , Smith Joseph A. , Graefen Markus , Calleris Giorgio , Raskin Yannic , Gontero Paolo , Joniau Steven , Sanchez-Salas Rafael , Shariat Shahrokh F. , Gill Inderbir , Karnes Robert Jeffrey , Cathcart Paul , Van Der Poel Henk , Marra Giancarlo , Tilki Derya
Published: June 2023

Background: Lymph node invasion (LNI) represents a poor prognostic factor after primary radical prostatectomy (RP) for prostate cancer (PCa). However, the impact of LNI on oncologic outcomes in salvage radical prostatectomy (SRP) patients is unknown. Objective: To investigate the impact of lymph node dissection (LND) and pathological lymph node status (pNX vs. pN0 vs. pN1) on long-term oncologic outcomes of SRP patients. Patients and methods: Patients who underwent SRP for recurrent PCa between 2000 and 2021 were identified from 12 high-volume centers. Kaplan–Meier analyses and multivariable Cox regression models were used. Endpoints were biochemical recurrence (BCR), overall survival (OS), and cancer-specific survival (CSS). Results: Of 853 SRP patients, 87% (n = 727) underwent LND, and 21% (n = 151) harbored LNI. The median follow-up was 27 months. The mean number of removed lymph nodes was 13 in the LND cohort. At 72 months after SRP, BCR-free survival was 54% vs. 47% vs. 7.2% for patients with pNX vs. pN0 vs. pN1 (p < 0.001), respectively. At 120 months after SRP, OS rates were 89% vs. 81% vs. 41% (p < 0.001), and CSS rates were 94% vs. 96% vs. 82% (p = 0.02) for patients with pNX vs. pN0 vs. pN1, respectively. In multivariable Cox regression analyses, pN1 status was independently associated with BCR (HR: 1.77, p < 0.001) and death (HR: 2.89, p < 0.001). Conclusions: In SRP patients, LNI represents an independent poor prognostic factor. However, the oncologic benefit of LND in SRP remains debatable. These findings underline the need for a cautious LND indication in SRP patients as well as strict postoperative monitoring of SRP patients with LNI.
Role of Syndecans in Ovarian Cancer: New Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarkers and Potential Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Oto Julia , Le Quang-Khoi , Schäfer Sebastian D. , Kiesel Ludwig , Marí-Alexandre Josep , Gilabert-Estellés Juan , Medina Pilar , Götte Martin
Published: June 2023

Ovarian cancer (OC) is the eighth cancer both in prevalence and mortality in women and represents the deadliest female reproductive cancer. Due to generally vague symptoms, OC is frequently diagnosed only at a late and advanced stage, resulting in high mortality. The tumor extracellular matrix and cellular matrix receptors play a key role in the pathogenesis of tumor progression. Syndecans are a family of four transmembrane heparan sulfate proteoglycans (PG), including syndecan-1, -2, -3, and -4, which are dysregulated in a myriad of cancers, including OC. Many clinicopathological studies suggest that these proteins are promising diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for OC. Furthermore, functions of the syndecan family in the regulation of cellular processes make it an interesting pharmacological target for anticancer therapies.
External-Beam-Accelerated Partial-Breast Irradiation Reduces Organ-at-Risk Doses Compared to Whole-Breast Irradiation after Breast-Conserving Surgery
Authors: Ott Oliver J. , Stillkrieg Wilhelm , Lambrecht Ulrike , Schweizer Claudia , Lamrani Allison , Sauer Tim-Oliver , Strnad Vratislav , Bert Christoph , Hack Carolin C. , Beckmann Matthias W. , Fietkau Rainer
Published: June 2023

In order to evaluate organ-at-risk (OAR) doses in external-beam-accelerated partial-breast irradiation (APBI) compared to standard whole-breast irradiation (WBI) after breast-conserving surgery. Between 2011 and 2021, 170 patients with early breast cancer received APBI within a prospective institutional single-arm trial. The prescribed dose to the planning treatment volume was 38 Gy in 10 fractions on 10 consecutive working days. OAR doses for the contralateral breast, the ipsilateral, contralateral, and whole lung, the whole heart, left ventricle (LV), and the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD), and for the spinal cord and the skin were assessed and compared to a control group with real-world data from 116 patients who underwent WBI. The trial was registered at the German Clinical Trials Registry, DRKS-ID: DRKS00004417. Compared to WBI, APBI led to reduced OAR doses for the contralateral breast (0.4 ± 0.6 vs. 0.8 ± 0.9 Gy, p = 0.000), the ipsilateral (4.3 ± 1.4 vs. 9.2 ± 2.5 Gy, p = 0.000) and whole mean lung dose (2.5 ± 0.8 vs. 4.9 ± 1.5 Gy, p = 0.000), the mean heart dose (1.6 ± 1.6 vs. 1.7 ± 1.4 Gy, p = 0.007), the LV V23 (0.1 ± 0.4 vs. 1.4 ± 2.6%, p < 0.001), the mean LAD dose (2.5 ± 3.4 vs. 4.8 ± 5.5 Gy, p < 0.001), the maximum spinal cord dose (1.5 ± 1.1 vs. 4.5 ± 5.7 Gy, p = 0.016), and the maximum skin dose (39.6 ± 1.8 vs. 49.1 ± 5.8 Gy, p = 0.000). APBI should be recommended to suitable patients to minimize the risk of secondary tumor induction and the incidence of consecutive major cardiac events.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease Treatment in Cancer Patients—A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Conceição Daniel , Saraiva Margarida R. , Rosa Isadora , Claro Isabel
Published: June 2023

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic disease for which medical treatment with immunomodulating drugs is increasingly used earlier to prevent disability. Additionally, cancer occurrence in IBD patients is increased for several reasons, either IBD-related or therapy-associated. Doctors are therefore facing the challenge of managing patients with IBD and a past or current malignancy and the need to balance the risk of cancer recurrence associated with immunosuppressive drugs with the potential worsening of IBD activity if they are withdrawn. This review aims to explore the features of different subtypes of cancer occurring in IBD patients to present current evidence on malignancy recurrence risk associated with IBD medical therapy along with the effects of cancer treatment in IBD and finally to discuss current recommendations on the management of these patients. Due to sparse data, a case-by-case multidisciplinary discussion is advised, including inputs from the gastroenterologist, oncologist, and patient.
Influence of the Severity of Osteogenesis Imperfecta on Cranial Measurements
Authors: De Nova-García Manuel Joaquín , Sola Rafael G. , Burgueño-Torres Laura
Published: June 2023

Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) is a disease that causes bone fragility and deformities, affecting both the cranial base and the craniocervical junction, and may lead to other neurological disorders. A retrospective cross-sectional study was carried out based on cephalometric analysis of the cranial base in a sample of patients with OI, in lateral skull radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), comparing them with a sample of age-matched controls. When the different variables of the craniocervical junction were analyzed, significance was found in comparisons with the different age groups. All measurements of the variables studied stabilized as growth progressed. For most of the variables, the severity of the disease influences the measurements of the skull base, with statistically significant differences. Both age and severity of the disease are factors that directly influence the anatomy of the craniocervical junction in these patients and may serve as indicators in the early detection and prevention of other derived alterations.
Lung Function in Childhood: Designing the Future Trajectories
Authors: Ghezzi Michele , Kantar Ahmad
Published: June 2023

Lung development is a highly regulated process that may be disrupted by both genetic and environmental factors beginning at an early age [...]
Physiological Responses and Fatigue during a Repeated Shuttle-Sprint Running Test in Adolescent Schoolchildren: A Comparison between Sexes and Fatigue Calculation Methods
Authors: Tsoukos Athanasios , Bogdanis Gregory C.
Published: June 2023

We examined physiological responses and fatigue in adolescent boys and girls during a repeated shuttle-sprint running test in a school setting. We also compared three calculation methods to assess fatigue during repeated sprints: the fatigue index (FI), the percent sprint decrement (Sdec), and the slope of performance decrement (SlopeD). Twenty-six adolescent students (10 girls and 16 boys, age: 15.3 ± 0.5 y) performed six 30 m sprints with a 180° change of direction at 15 m, interspersed with 10 s of recovery. Blood lactate (BL), heart rate (HR) and countermovement jump performance (CMJ) were measured before and after the sprint test. Boys achieved significantly faster sprint times (11.7% to 14.8% faster than girls in all sprints, p < 0.01), and had higher post-test BL compared with girls (14.0 ± 2.9 vs. 11.3 ± 3.2 mmol/L; p = 0.02; d = 0.93). However, all fatigue indices (FI, Sdec and SlopeD) were similar in boys and girls (FI = 11.5 ± 5.0 vs. 11.5 ± 5.0; SlopeD = 10.6 ± 4.8 vs. 14.5 ± 5.1; Sdec = 5.6 ± 2.2 vs. 7.3 ± 2.2, in boys and girls, respectively, p > 0.05 for all) and were highly correlated with each other (r = 0.86 to 0.97, p < 0.01). CMJ was higher in boys (p < 0.05), but CMJ performance dropped similarly from pre- to post-test in boys and girls (13.7 ± 7.0%, p < 0.01). In conclusion, neuromuscular fatigue during and after repeated shuttle-sprint running is similar in boys and girls, despite the faster sprint times, higher CMJ and higher BL in boys. SlopeD may be used as an alternative index to quantify fatigue during repeated shuttle-sprinting, as it takes into account performance in all sprints and may provide an average sprint-by-sprint performance drop.
Effect of Hot Spot within Combustion Liner on YSZ Crack Propagation Mode
Authors: Guo Wansen , Wang Jinshen , Shi Chao , Chen Jianhong , Zeng Wenhui , He Guoxiao , Ding Kunying
Published: June 2023

On the aero-engine combustor liner, a phenomenon of overheating resembling a hot spot exists, accompanied by a preferential peeling of the YSZ thermal barrier coating that will negatively affect the service life of the component. The hot spot temperatures will affect the ineffectiveness of YSZ, so in this paper, the morphological and property changes of YSZ sintering is investigated experimentally, and a coupled analysis of the YSZ crack propagation mode under the hot spot is performed using ABAQUS. The results show that the pore fractal size D of YSZ increases by 15%. Inside the hot spot region, the coating has a shear stress of 75 MPa. By inserting cohesive units globally in the FEM to simulate the random crack initiation and propagation, unlike the thinning of YSZ layered peeling caused by uniform superheating, the hot spot will cause the crack initiation at the tip of the pores inside the coating and the oblique propagation, eventually forming an oblique crack connection through the pores. When the temperature gradient reaches 30 K/mm, the crack propagation is 40% greater than in a uniform temperature field; consequently, the YSZ in the hot spot boundary region with a greater temperature gradient results in more severe bulk peeling.
Advances in Photovoltaic Materials and Devices
Authors: Lago Nicolò
Published: June 2023

Over the last few years, we have witnessed a formidable increase in the public sensitivity toward more sustainable lifestyle choices, with more and more people realizing the importance of preserving the Earth’s natural resources [...]
On the Influence from Pressing Agent (PEG) on the Elastic and Plastic Mechanical Behavior of Hard Metal Powder Compacts
Authors: Staf Hjalmar , Björklund Matilda , Fredriksson Daniel , Larsson Per-Lennart
Published: June 2023

During unloading, pressed hard metal powder compacts expand (spring back), leading to unwarranted tensile stresses and, subsequently, crack initiation in the green body. Here, the elastic spring back and the green strength are analyzed for different types and amounts of the pressing agent PEG (polyethylene glycol). The results show that the plastic behavior, but not the elastic behavior, is influenced by a change of the pressing agent PEG. In this context, it should be stated that the risk for the initiation of cracks is influenced by both the elastic and plastic behavior after compaction. The spring back after compaction and the green strength defines to a large extent the risk for cracks. In addition, it is concluded that a standard three-point bending test is sufficient to analyze the risk for the initiation of cracks when comparing different spray-dried powders.
The Enhanced Phase-Forming Capacity of (1–x)Mg0.95Co0.05TiO3-xCa0.6La0.8/3TiO3 Dielectric Ceramics Modified Using Multiple Sintering Aids
Authors: Pan Chung-Long , Shen Chun-Hsu , Lin Kuei-Chih
Published: June 2023

In this study, the phase-forming capacity of 0.9Mg0.95Co0.05TiO3-0.1Ca0.6La0.8/3TiO3 dielectric ceramics was improved by mixing multiple sintering aids (ZnO-B2O3) owing to their lower melting point. The mixed-phase systems of Ca0.6La0.8/3TiO3-modified Mg0.95Co0.05TiO3 dielectric ceramics were verified using XRD diffraction to ensure that the crystallites of different phases were present. The microstructures of the Ca0.6La0.8/3TiO3-modified Mg0.95Co0.05TiO3 dielectric ceramics were observed via SEM and EDS to investigate the relation between element ratios and grains. It was found that the phase-forming capacity of Ca0.6La0.8/3TiO3-modified Mg0.95Co0.05TiO3 was effectively enhanced, compared with the treatment that did not involve mixing multiple sintering aids (ZnO-B2O3). Additionally, the microwave dielectric performances of Ca0.6La0.8/3TiO3-modified Mg0.95Co0.05TiO3 dielectric ceramics with multiple sintering aids (ZnO-B2O3) strongly depended on the density and morphology of the specimens. When the compositions of 0.9Mg0.95Co0.05TiO3-0.1Ca0.6La0.8/3TiO3 with 1 wt% multiple sintering aids (ZnO-B2O3) showed an εr value of 22.6, a Qf value of 49,000 GHz, and a τf value of −12.8 ppm/°C, the sintering temperature was reduced from 1350 °C to 1150 °C (about 200 °C). When adding a larger amount of multiple sintering aids (ZnO-B2O3), the sintering temperature could be reduced by more than 200 °C. This study may promote the use of Ca0.6La0.8/3TiO3-modified Mg0.95Co0.05TiO3 dielectric ceramics.
Prediction of Disease Progression to Upfront Pembrolizumab Monotherapy in Advanced Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer with High PD-L1 Expression Using Baseline CT Disease Quantification and Smoking Pack Years
Authors: Silver Ali , Ho Cheryl , Ye Qian , Zhang Jianjun , Janzen Ian , Li Jessica , Martin Montgomery , Wu Lang , Wang Ying , Lam Stephen , MacAulay Calum , Melosky Barbara , Yuan Ren
Published: June 2023

Health Canada approved pembrolizumab in the first-line setting for advanced non-small-cell lung cancer with PD-L1 ≥ 50% and no EGFR/ALK aberration. The keynote 024 trial showed 55% of such patients progress with pembrolizumab monotherapy. We propose that the combination of baseline CT and clinical factors can help identify those patients who may progress. In 138 eligible patients from our institution, we retrospectively collected their baseline variables, including baseline CT findings (primary lung tumor size and metastatic site), smoking pack years, performance status, tumor pathology, and demographics. The treatment response was assessed via RECIST 1.1 using the baseline and first follow-up CT. Associations between the baseline variables and progressive disease (PD) were tested by logistic regression analyses. The results showed 46/138 patients had PD. The baseline CT “number of involved organs” by metastasis and smoking pack years were independently associated with PD (p < 0.05), and the ROC analysis showed a good performance of the model that integrated these variables in predicting PD (AUC: 0.79). This pilot study suggests that the combination of baseline CT disease and smoking PY can identify who may progress on pembrolizumab monotherapy and can potentially facilitate decision-making for the optimal first-line treatment in the high PD-L1 cohort.
Canadian Guideline on the Management of a Positive Human Papillomavirus Test and Guidance for Specific Populations
Authors: Zigras Tiffany , Mayrand Marie-Hélène , Bouchard Celine , Salvador Shannon , Eiriksson Lua , Almadin Chelsea , Kean Sarah , Dean Erin , Malhotra Unjali , Todd Nicole , Fontaine Daniel , Bentley James
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this paper is to provide evidence-based guidance on the management of a positive human papilloma virus (HPV) test and to provide guidance around screening and HPV testing for specific patient populations. The guideline was developed by a working group in collaboration with the Gynecologic Oncology Society of Canada (GOC), Society of Colposcopists of Canada (SCC), and the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer. The literature informing these guidelines was obtained through a systematic review of relevant literature by a multi-step search process led by an information specialist. The literature was reviewed up to July 2021 with manual searches of relevant national guidelines and more recent publications. The quality of the evidence and strength of recommendations were developed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) framework. The intended users of this guideline include primary care providers, gynecologists, colposcopists, screening programs, and healthcare facilities. The implementation of the recommendations will ensure an optimum implementation of HPV testing with a focus on the management of positive results. Recommendations for appropriate care for underserved and marginalized groups are made.
Inocybe istriaca sp. nov. from Brijuni National Park (Croatia) and Its Position within Inocybaceae Revealed by Multigene Phylogenetic Analysis
Authors: Pošta Ana , Bandini Ditte , Mešić Armin , Pole Lucia , Kušan Ivana , Matočec Neven , Malev Olga , Tkalčec Zdenko
Published: June 2023

Integrative taxonomic studies of macrofungal diversity in the Brijuni National Park (Istria County, Croatia) led to the discovery of a second species of Inocybe (Agaricales, Inocybaceae) new to science. Inocybe istriaca sp. nov. is described on the basis of morphological, ecological, and multigene phylogenetic analyses, and its placement within the family Inocybaceae is discussed. The combination of most important morphological characters that distinguish I. istriaca from the other similar Inocybe species are smooth, (sub)amygdaliform, (sub)phaseoliform, or ellipsoid basidiospores (ca. 8.5–12 × 5–7 μm), large basidia (36–45 × 9–15 μm), mostly (sub)fusiform and weakly thick-walled (up to 1.5 μm) metuloid pleurocystidia, and lamellar edge and stipe apex partially covered by a dark resinous substance. The species was collected on the edge of grassland and Mediterranean evergreen holm oak (Quercus ilex) forest. In this study, a total of 14 DNA sequences from four Inocybe species were generated. Two-gene (ITS, LSU) and four-gene (ITS, LSU, rpb2, tef1) phylogenetic analyses confirmed the status of I. istriaca as an independent species.
Biodiversity during Pre and Post Hula Valley (Israel) Drainage
Authors: Gophen Moshe
Published: June 2023

The natural ecosystem of the Hula Valley (Israel) comprising shallow old lake Hula, swamps and partly cultivated land was altered by drainage. The drained area was converted for agricultural development. The natural wetland–lake ecosystem was demolished. A reduction in biodiversity and a negative impact on the downstream Lake Kinneret water quality were predicted. Forty years later, a reclamation project was implemented aimed at renovation of the hydrological conditions, and agricultural development was improved. The recorded inventory of plants, birds and fish pre- and post-drainage and reclamation was comparatively evaluated resulting in an indication of Biodiversity Index (BDI) and Species Richness (SR) enhancement in the present. It is suggested that the resulting increase in ecological habitat varieties suitable for terrestrial, semi-aquatic and aquatic organisms enhanced the biodiversity. Nevertheless, it is not impossible that the newly created conditions which enhanced the biodiversity require a risk assessment to ensure the long-term sustainability of the integration of agriculture and nature.
Valuation of the Diversity of Native Plants and the Cultural-Archaeological Richness as an Integrative Approach for a Potential Use in Ecotourism in the Inter-Andean Valley of Cusco, Southern Peru
Authors: Huamantupa-Chuquimaco Isau , Martinez Trujillo Yohny Luz , Orosco Ucamayta Edilberto
Published: June 2023

In recent years, ecological tourism has become very important as it contributes significantly to sustainable development. In order to assess the potential for ecotourism and cultural-archaeological attributes, we studied the plant diversity of 10 traditionally visited natural routes of the valley of Cusco, Peru. Plant gamma diversity was represented by 384 species of vascular plants, with 220 genera, and 69 families; the most diverse were: Asteraceae with 93 species, Poaceae (36), and Fabaceae (15). The species with the highest frequency in the 10 routes are: Amaranthus caudatus, Escallonia resinosa, Stenomesson pearcei, and Baccharis buxifolia. Route 2 (Picol-Huaqoto) was the one with the greatest alpha diversity with 120 species. The CHAO-1 richness estimator estimates a gamma diversity of 570 species for all of the Cusco Valley. The Bray–Curtis beta diversity shows a high similarity (55%) and three floristic groups as determined by a non-metric multidimensional analysis (NMDS) and cluster analysis. The highest concentration of flowering plant species is grouped mainly during the rainy season (R2 = 0.19), and this relationship is significantly different from the dry season (p < 0.005). The integrative biological–cultural analysis identified routes R8, R10, R6, R7, and R2 as those with the greatest potential for ecotourism use in the Cusco Valley. The plant diversity and cultural–archaeological offerings along the tourist routes documented in this study present significant opportunities for the city of Cusco to attract both national and foreign tourists. Additionally, this study highlights the importance of prioritizing conservation and preservation efforts for these areas.