bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Survey on Datasets for Emotion Recognition from Vision: Limitations and In-the-Wild Applicability
Authors: Costa Willams , Talavera Estefanía , Oliveira Renato , Figueiredo Lucas , Teixeira João Marcelo , Lima João Paulo , Teichrieb Veronica
Published: May 2023

Emotion recognition is the task of identifying and understanding human emotions from data. In the field of computer vision, there is a growing interest due to the wide range of possible applications in smart cities, health, marketing, and surveillance, among others. To date, several datasets have been proposed to allow techniques to be trained, validated, and finally deployed to production. However, these techniques have several limitations related to the construction of these datasets. In this work, we survey the datasets currently employed in state-of-the-art emotion recognition, to list and discuss their applicability and limitations in real-world scenarios. We propose experiments on the data to extract essential insights related to the provided visual information in each dataset and discuss how they impact the training and validation of techniques. We also investigate the presence of nonverbal cues in the datasets and propose experiments regarding their representativeness, visibility, and data quality. Among other discussions, we show that EMOTIC has more diverse context representations than CAER, however, with conflicting annotations. Finally, we discuss application scenarios and how techniques to approach them could leverage these datasets, suggesting approaches based on findings from these datasets to help guide future research and deployment. With this work we expect to provide a roadmap for upcoming research and experimentation in emotion recognition under real-world conditions.
Research on Production Scheduling Technology in Knitting Workshop Based on Improved Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Sun Lei , Shi Weimin , Wang Junru , Mao Huimin , Tu Jiajia , Wang Luojun
Published: May 2023

Production scheduling in a knitting workshop is an important method to improve production efficiency, reduce costs and improve service. In order to achieve a reasonable allocation of parallel machines as well as cooperation between different machines within the workshop, thereby ensuring the optimal scheduling of production plans, this paper proposes a scheduling method using an improved genetic algorithm (IGA) based on tabu search. Firstly, the production scheduling model of a knitting workshop is established. Secondly, an IGA based on the minimum processing time rule, the priority idle machine rule and the production order ranking code is used to optimize the solution. Finally, an experiment platform for knitting workshop production is built to verify the proposed scheduling method. The experimental results show that the proposed IGA based on tabu search performs well in terms of preconvergence speed, global search capability and local search capability. The IGA converges faster than the traditional genetic algorithm by about 25%, reduces the redundancy time of scheduling, meets the production requirements of the knitting intelligent workshop and has a good reference value for promoting the intelligent development of knitting production.
Designing a Comprehensive and Flexible Architecture to Improve Energy Efficiency and Decision-Making in Managing Energy Consumption and Production in Panama
Authors: Nuñez Ivonne , Cano Elia Esther , Cruz Edmanuel , Rovetto Carlos
Published: May 2023

In recent years, the integration of new elements to the electric grid, such as electric vehicles and renewable energies, requires the evolution of the electric grid as we know it, making it necessary to optimize the processes of production, distribution, and storage of energy. This situation gives rise to introducing the so-called Smart Grids (SG), which would allow a balance between energy supply and demand, thus enabling a system in which the consumer will also become a producer of its surplus energy. Under this scenario, this work proposes an architecture whose technological components, such as the internet of things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and mobile applications, allow users to address the problem of consumption and production of electricity. In the experiments conducted, results were obtained from the components that support the functionality of the proposed platform.
Effects of Aerosol Number Concentration and Updraft Velocity on Relative Dispersion during the Collision–Coalescence Growth Stage of Warm Clouds
Authors: Yang Suying , Zhang Yanzhe , Yu Xinyang , Lu Chunsong , Li Yiyu
Published: May 2023

Relative dispersion (ɛ) is a key expression used to parameterize various cloud processes in global circulation models (GCMs) and meteorological mesoscale models. Aerosols, updraft velocity (w), and different growth stages of warm clouds are known to affect relative dispersion. A two-dimensional detailed bin microphysical cloud model is used to investigate the combined impacts of aerosol number concentration (Na) and updraft velocity on relative dispersion in the collision–coalescence stage. In addition, the causes potentially controlling the changes in ɛ with updraft velocity are explored. There are three main influence regimes: the updraft velocity main influence regime, the aerosol main influence regime, and the joint influence regime. The cause of the variations in ɛ with updraft velocity is found to be different in the three main influence regimes. In the updraft velocity main influence regime, vigorous collision–coalescence due to stronger w results in a shift in the cloud droplet number concentration spectrum toward larger droplets, and the average cloud droplet radius increases, but the spectral width is less variable, so ε decreases. In the joint influence regime, stronger cloud droplet evaporation due to the stronger dragging effect of large cloud droplets widens the spectrum, mainly by reducing the cloud droplet number concentration (Nc) of 4–30 μm, and ε increases with the reduction in w. In the aerosol main influence regime, the strongest dragging effect reduces Nc at all radii with decreasing w, and the cloud droplet number concentration spectrum (CDNCS) narrows, which becomes the formation mechanism of the positive correlation between ε and w. Evaporation mainly causes a negative correlation between ε and Nc, but weak evaporation causes the correlation to become positive under the background of high aerosol concentration. At low aerosol concentrations, a strong collision–coalescence effect leads to a negative correlation between Nc and ε, but at high aerosol concentrations, the correlation is the opposite due to a weak collision–coalescence effect.
Energetic Particle Precipitation Influence on Tidal Variations of Thermosphere Parameters in September 2017
Authors: Bessarab Fedor S. , Borchevkina Olga P. , Karpov Ivan V. , Klimenko Vladimir V. , Klimenko Maxim V. , Yakovchuk Olesya S. , Wissing Jan Maik , Rozanov Eugene V.
Published: May 2023

The role of energetic particle precipitation in the formation of thermospheric tides is investigated. Using the Global Self-consistent Model of the Thermosphere, Ionosphere, and Protonosphere (GSM TIP) and two models of energetic particle precipitation, APM (Auroral Precipitation Model) and AIMOS 2.0.-AISstorm (Atmospheric Ionization Module Osnabrück 2.0—Atmospheric Ionization during Substorms), we performed simulations for the period 3–12 September 2017. This period covers both geomagnetically quiet days and the storm of 7–8 September. The analysis shows that migrating tides diurnal wave (DW) and semidiurnal wave (SW) prevail on quiet days for both versions of the simulations. On the day of maximum storm development on 8 September and the day after—9 September, the nonmigrating components of tidal waves, mainly DW0 and SW0, are intensified. There are also increasing differences in the spatial structure of tides between the two versions of simulations, especially between diurnal and semidiurnal tides at 154 km. On the disturbance days, the amplitudes of diurnal and semidiurnal tides at 154 km in the APM version are markedly greater than the corresponding values in the AIMOS version. Thus, it should be noted that the integral characteristics of the ionization function from precipitations are more important for the formation of DW and SW than its spatial structure or the features of temporal variations. A comparison of the total electron content (TEC) maps for the two versions of the simulation showed that the AIMOS version nicely reproduces the experimental data for a quiet time. The APM version is less accurate for quiet time but simulates the quantitative increase to disturbed conditions at high and middle latitudes better. For model reproduction of observed TEC variations at low and equatorial latitudes, it is not enough to consider the thermospheric source of thermospheric tides. In this case, the role of atmosphere–ionosphere coupling is very important.
A System Coupled GIS and CFD for Atmospheric Pollution Dispersion Simulation in Urban Blocks
Authors: Wu Qunyong , Wang Yuhang , Sun Haoyu , Lin Han , Zhao Zhiyuan
Published: May 2023

Atmospheric pollution is a critical issue in public health systems. The simulation of atmospheric pollution dispersion in urban blocks, using CFD, faces several challenges, including the complexity and inefficiency of existing CFD software, time-consuming construction of CFD urban block geometry, and limited visualization and analysis capabilities of simulation outputs. To address these challenges, we have developed a prototype system that couples 3DGIS and CFD for simulating, visualizing, and analyzing atmospheric pollution dispersion. Specifically, a parallel algorithm for coordinate transformation was designed, and the relevant commands were encapsulated to automate the construction of geometry and meshing required for CFD simulations of urban blocks. Additionally, the Fluent-based command flow was parameterized and encapsulated, enabling the automatic generation of model calculation command flow files to simulate atmospheric pollution dispersion. Moreover, multi-angle spatial partitioning and spatiotemporal multidimensional visualization analysis were introduced to achieve an intuitive expression and analysis of CFD simulation results. The result shows that the constructed geometry is correct, and the mesh quality meets requirements with all values above 0.45. CPU and GPU parallel algorithms are 13.3× and 25× faster than serial. Furthermore, our case study demonstrates the developed system’s effectiveness in simulating, visualizing, and analyzing atmospheric pollution dispersion in urban blocks.
Trends in Automotive Battery Cell Design: A Statistical Analysis of Empirical Data
Authors: Link Steffen , Neef Christoph , Wicke Tim
Published: May 2023

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries have become the preferred power source for electric vehicles (EVs) due to their high energy density, low self-discharge rate, and long cycle life. Over the past decade, technological enhancements accompanied by massive cost reductions have enabled the growing market diffusion of EVs. This diffusion has resulted in customized and cost-effective Li-ion battery cell designs tailored to automotive requirements. This study describes design trends in Li-ion batteries from the pack to the electrode level based on empirical data, including pack energy, cell capacity, outer cell dimensions and formats, energy density, specific energy, and electrode properties, such as active material selection, porosities, and component thicknesses. Market share-weighted findings imply several trends, such as (1) increasing cell dimensions, with the longest cells reaching 500 mm (pouch) and almost 1000 mm (prismatic) in 2021, (2) increasing differentiation between either high-energy or low-cost cathode and anode materials, and (3) increasing cell energy, equivalent to gaining about 100% (energy density) and 70% (specific energy) compared to the 2010 and 2021 averages. Despite these improvements, this study finds that the widespread market diffusion of the latest cell technologies proceeds slower than industry announcements suggest and that several well-known, literature-proofed potentials are not yet fully exploited.
Recognizability of Demographically Altered Computerized Facial Approximations in an Automated Facial Recognition Context for Potential Application in Unidentified Persons Data Repositories
Authors: Parks Connie L. , Monson Keith L.
Published: May 2023

This study examined the recognizability of demographically altered facial approximations for potential utility in unidentified persons tracking systems. Five computer-generated approximations were generated for each of 26 African male participants using the following demographic parameters: (i) African male (true demographics), (ii) African female, (iii) Caucasian male, (iv) Asian male, and (v) Hispanic male. Overall, 62% of the true demographic facial approximations for the 26 African male participants examined were matched to a corresponding life photo within the top 50 images of a candidate list generated from an automated blind search of an optimally standardized gallery of 6159 photographs. When the African male participants were processed as African females, the identification rate was 50%. In contrast, less congruent identification rates were observed when the African male participants were processed as Caucasian (42%), Asian (35%), and Hispanic (27%) males. The observed results suggest that approximations generated using the opposite sex may be operationally informative if sex is unknown. The performance of approximations generated using alternative ancestry assignments, however, was less congruent with the performance of the true demographic approximation (African male) and may not yield as operationally constructive data as sex-altered approximations.
ROS Production by a Single Neutrophil Cell and Neutrophil Population upon Bacterial Stimulation
Authors: Pleskova Svetlana N. , Erofeev Alexander S. , Vaneev Alexander N. , Gorelkin Petr V. , Bobyk Sergey Z. , Kolmogorov Vasilii S. , Bezrukov Nikolay A. , Lazarenko Ekaterina V.
Published: May 2023

The reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by a single neutrophil after stimulation with S. aureus and E. coli was estimated by an electrochemical amperometric method with a high time resolution. This showed significant variability in the response of a single neutrophil to bacterial stimulation, from a “silent cell” to a pronounced response manifested by a series of chronoamperometric spikes. The amount of ROS produced by a single neutrophil under the influence of S. aureus was 5.5-fold greater than that produced under the influence of E. coli. The response of a neutrophil granulocyte population to bacterial stimulation was analyzed using luminol-dependent biochemiluminescence (BCL). The stimulation of neutrophils with S. aureus, as compared to stimulation with E. coli, caused a total response in terms of ROS production that was seven-fold greater in terms of the integral value of the light sum and 13-fold greater in terms of the maximum peak value. The method of ROS detection at the level of a single cell indicated the functional heterogeneity of the neutrophil population, but the specificity of the cellular response to different pathogens was the same at the cellular and population levels.
Effect of Semaglutide on Subclinical Atherosclerosis and Cardiometabolic Compensation: A Real-World Study in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Patti Angelo Maria , Giglio Rosaria Vincenza , Allotta Alberto , Bruno Andreina , Di Bella Tommaso , Pantea Stoian Anca , Ciaccio Marcello , Rizzo Manfredi
Published: May 2023

Background: Semaglutide is a recently approved glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist. Several trials reported the protective effect of injectable semaglutide on cardiovascular (CV) risk by reducing major adverse cardiovascular events in type 2 diabetes patients. Strong preclinical evidence supports the CV benefits of semaglutide through an effect on atherosclerosis. However, scant evidence is available about the protective mechanisms of semaglutide in clinical practice. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted among consecutive type 2 diabetes patients treated with injectable semaglutide in Italy between November 2019 and January 2021 when the drug was first available in the country. The primary aims were the assessment of the carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels. The secondary aims were the evaluation of anthropometric, glycemic, and hepatic parameters and plasma lipids, including the assessment of the triglyceride/high-density lipoprotein ratio as an indirect marker of atherogenic small, dense low-density lipoprotein particles. Results: Injectable semaglutide reduced HbA1c and cIMT. An improvement in CV risk factors and the triglyceride/high-density lipoprotein ratio was reported. Moreover, through correlation analyses, we found that hepatic fibrosis and steatosis indices and the anthropometric, hepatic, and glycemic parameters, as well as plasma lipids, were unrelated to the variations in cIMT and HbA1c. Conclusions: Our findings suggest the effect of injectable semaglutide on atherosclerosis as a key CV protective mechanism. Considering the favorable effects on atherogenic lipoproteins and hepatic steatosis indices, our results support the pleiotropic effect of semaglutide beyond glycemic control.
Review and Proposal for a Classification System of Soft Robots Inspired by Animal Morphology
Authors: López-González Alexandro , Tejada Juan , López-Romero Janet
Published: May 2023

The aim of this article is to propose a bio-inspired morphological classification for soft robots based on an extended review process. The morphology of living beings that inspire soft robotics was analyzed; we found coincidences between animal kingdom morphological structures and soft robot structures. A classification is proposed and depicted through experiments. Additionally, many soft robot platforms present in the literature are classified using it. This classification allows for order and coherence in the area of soft robotics and provides enough freedom to expand soft robotics research.
Study of Exercise Capacity and Quality of Life after SARS-CoV-2 Infection among the Elderly
Authors: Vrabie Diana , Abalașei Beatrice-Aurelia
Published: May 2023

COVID-19 significantly impacted the population by affecting physical health; social distancing and isolation influenced psychological health. This may have negative consequences, especially for older people. There is a lack of studies about the association between COVID-19 and exercise capacity among the elderly and improving quality of life after SARS-CoV-2 infection. This study aims to identify the potential sequelae of the COVID-19 disease regarding physical function and quality of life among people over 65 years old. This study recruited a total of 30 participants. A 6-minute walking test, somatic and functional measurements (including weight, height, HR, blood pressure and SpO2%) and the World Health Organisation Quality of Life—BREF Questionnaire were used to assess aerobic capacity and quality of life. Experiencing COVID-19 can negatively impact exercise capacity. The results suggest that men may have worse sequelae than women after experiencing COVID-19. The lower values of SpO2 in the COVID-19 group during the 6-MWT indicate a reduction in the gas diffusion capacity, which can be attributed to potential lung damage following having contracted the disease. Lockdown periods seem to have had a significant impact on the physical health, relationships and environment of the elderly people included in this study. We can conclude that physical effort may potentially impact exercise capacity and quality of life among post-COVID-19 elderly in a positive way, but further studies are needed to confirm its benefits.
Explainable Artificial Intelligence for Ancient Architecture and Lacquer Art
Authors: Jiang Xuejie , Harun Siti Norlizaiha , Liu Linyu
Published: May 2023

This research investigates the use of explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) in ancient architecture and lacquer art. The aim is to create accurate and interpretable models to reveal these cultural artefacts’ underlying design principles and techniques. To achieve this, machine learning and data-driven techniques are employed, which provide new insights into their construction and preservation. The study emphasises the importance of transparent and trustworthy AI systems, which can enhance the reliability and credibility of the results. The developed model outperforms CNN-based emotion recognition and random forest models in all four evaluation metrics, achieving an impressive accuracy of 92%. This research demonstrates the potential of XAI to support the study and conservation of ancient architecture and lacquer art, opening up new avenues for interdisciplinary research and collaboration.
Influence of Supports on the Low-Velocity Impact Response of Square RC Slab of Standard Concrete and Ultra-High Performance Concrete: FEM-Based Computational Analysis
Authors: Anas S. M. , Shariq Mohd , Alam Mehtab , Yosri Ahmed M. , Mohamed Ahmed , AbdelMongy Mohamed
Published: May 2023

Structural members with low-flexural stiffness, such as slabs, are more susceptible to impulsive loadings induced by falling machines/tools during construction and installation, and also from rolling boulders/rocks triggered by wind/earthquake, especially in mountainous areas. The impact resistance of reinforced concrete (RC) slabs supported on two opposite edges (often called the one-way slab) and on all four edges (i.e., two-way slab) has been adequately studied experimentally as well as computationally, and is available in the literature. However, the slabs supported on three edges have not been studied under low-velocity impact for their impact response. For this purpose, a computational study is performed through finite elements by implementing ABAQUS software on the validated model, resulting in the slab, which is supported on (i) three edges and (ii) two opposite edges, to be subjected to low-velocity impact, induced by dropping a 105 kg non-deformable steel mass from a height of 2500 mm onto the slab centroid. Furthermore, the role of the material strength of the concrete of the slab is investigated via replacing the ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) for standard or normal-strength concrete (NSC). The impact load is modeled by considering the explicit module of the software. Failure mechanism, stress/strain contour, displacement distribution, and crack pattern of the slabs are compared and discussed.
Occupational Exposures and Risks of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Francisco Luiza Flavia Veiga , da Silva Rogério Nunes , Oliveira Marco Antônio , dos Santos Neto Martins Fideles , Gonçalves Iara Zapparoli , Marques Márcia M. C. , Silveira Henrique C. S.
Published: May 2023

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is a heterogeneous group with different types of diseases. It remains unclear as to what has led to an increase in incidences of NHL, however, chemical substance exposure is known to be one of the risk factors for the disease. Therefore, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis including case-control, cohort, and cross-sectional observational epidemiological studies to verify the association between occupational exposure to carcinogens and NHL risk. Articles between the years 2000 and 2020 were collected. Two different reviewers performed a blind selection of the studies using the Rayyan QCRI web app. Post-completion, the selected articles were extracted and analyzed via the RedCap platform. Our review resulted in 2719 articles, of which 51 were included in the meta-analysis, resulting in an overall OR of 1.27 (95% CI 1.04–1.55). Furthermore, it was observed that the main occupation associated with the increased risk of NHL was that in which workers are exposed to pesticides. We therefore conclude that the evidence synthesis of the epidemiological literature supports an increased risk for NHL, regardless of subtype, considering occupational exposure to certain chemical compounds, mainly pesticides, benzene, and trichlorethylene, and certain classes of work, primarily in the field of agriculture.
Deep Immune Profiling of Multiple Myeloma at Diagnosis and under Lenalidomide Maintenance Therapy
Authors: Luoma Sini , Sergeev Philipp , Javarappa Komal Kumar , Öhman Tiina J. , Varjosalo Markku , Säily Marjaana , Anttila Pekka , Sankelo Marja , Partanen Anu , Nihtinen Anne , Heckman Caroline A. , Silvennoinen Raija
Published: May 2023

The bone marrow microenvironment interacts with malignant cells and regulates cancer survival and immune evasion in multiple myeloma (MM). We investigated the immune profiles of longitudinal bone marrow samples from patients with newly diagnosed MM (n = 18) using cytometry by time-of-flight. The results before and during treatment were compared between patients with good (GR, n = 11) and bad (BR, n = 7) responses to lenalidomide/bortezomib/dexamethasone-based treatment. Before treatment, the GR group had a lower tumor cell burden and a higher number of T cells with a phenotype shifted toward CD8+ T cells expressing markers attributed to cytotoxicity (CD45RA and CD57), a higher abundance of CD8+ terminal effector cells, and a lower abundance of CD8+ naïve T cells. On natural killer (NK) cells, increased expression of CD56 (NCAM), CD57, and CD16 was seen at baseline in the GR group, indicating their maturation and cytotoxic potential. During lenalidomide-based treatment, the GR patients showed an increase in effector memory CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell subsets. These findings support distinct immune patterns in different clinical contexts, suggesting that deep immune profiling could be used for treatment guidance and warrants further exploration.
Preoperative CA125 Significantly Improves Risk Stratification in High-Grade Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Lombaers Marike S. , Cornel Karlijn M. C. , Visser Nicole C. M. , Bulten Johan , Küsters-Vandevelde Heidi V. N. , Amant Frédéric , Boll Dorry , Bronsert Peter , Colas Eva , Geomini Peggy M. A. J. , Gil-Moreno Antonio , van Hamont Dennis , Huvila Jutta , Krakstad Camilla , Kraayenbrink Arjan A. , Koskas Martin , Mancebo Gemma , Matías-Guiu Xavier , Ngo Huy , Pijlman Brenda M. , Vos Maria Caroline , Weinberger Vit , Snijders Marc P. L. M. , van Koeverden Sebastiaan W. ,   ENITEC-Consortium, Haldorsen Ingfrid S. , Reijnen Casper , Pijnenborg Johanna M. A.
Published: May 2023

Patients with high-grade endometrial carcinoma (EC) have an increased risk of tumor spread and lymph node metastasis (LNM). Preoperative imaging and CA125 can be used in work-up. As data on cancer antigen 125 (CA125) in high-grade EC are limited, we aimed to study primarily the predictive value of CA125, and secondarily the contributive value of computed tomography (CT) for advanced stage and LNM. Patients with high-grade EC (n = 333) and available preoperative CA125 were included retrospectively. The association of CA125 and CT findings with LNM was analyzed by logistic regression. Elevated CA125 ((>35 U/mL), (35.2% (68/193)) was significantly associated with stage III-IV disease (60.3% (41/68)) compared with normal CA125 (20.8% (26/125), [p < 0.001]), and with reduced disease-specific—(DSS) (p < 0.001) and overall survival (OS) (p < 0.001). The overall accuracy of predicting LNM by CT resulted in an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.623 (p < 0.001) independent of CA125. Stratification by CA125 resulted in an AUC of 0.484 (normal), and 0.660 (elevated). In multivariate analysis elevated CA125, non-endometrioid histology, pathological deep myometrial invasion ≥50%, and cervical involvement were significant predictors of LNM, whereas suspected LNM on CT was not. This shows that elevated CA125 is a relevant independent predictor of advanced stage and outcome specifically in high-grade EC.
BRAF V600-Mutated Metastatic Melanoma and Targeted Therapy Resistance: An Update of the Current Knowledge
Authors: Florent Laetitia , Saby Charles , Slimano Florian , Morjani Hamid
Published: May 2023

Melanoma is the most common cause of death in skin cancer due to its high metastatic potential. While targeted therapies have improved the care of patients with metastatic melanoma harboring the BRAFV600E mutation, these treatments are associated with a high frequency of resistance. Resistance factors are related to cellular adaptation as well as to changes in the tumor microenvironment. At the cellular level, resistance involves mutations, overexpression, activation, or inhibition of effectors involved in cell signaling pathways such as MAPK, PI3K/AKT, MITF, and epigenetic factors (miRNAs). In addition, several components of the melanoma microenvironment, such as soluble factors, collagen, and stromal cells also play a crucial role in this resistance. In fact, extracellular matrix remodeling impacts the physical and chemical properties with changes in the stiffness and acidity, respectively of the microenvironment. The cellular and immune components of the stroma are also affected, including immune cells and CAF. The aim of this manuscript is to review the mechanisms responsible for resistance to targeted therapies in BRAFV600E-mutated metastatic melanoma.
Lymphovascular Space Invasion in Early-Stage Endometrial Cancer (LySEC): Patterns of Recurrence and Predictors. A Multicentre Retrospective Cohort Study of the Spain Gynecologic Oncology Group
Authors: Oliver-Perez M Reyes , Padilla-Iserte Pablo , Arencibia-Sanchez Octavio , Martin-Arriscado Cristina , Muruzabal Juan Carlos , Diaz-Feijóo Berta , Cabrera Silvia , Coronado Pluvio , Martín-Salamanca M Belen , Pantoja-Garrido Manuel , Marcos-Sanmartin Josefa , Cabezas-López Elena , Lorenzo Cristina , Beric Duska , Rodriguez-Hernandez Jose Ramon , Roldan-Rivas Fernando , Gilabert-Estelles Juan , Sanchez Lourdes , Laseca-Modrego Maria , Tauste-Rubio Carmen , Gil-Ibañez Blanca , Tejerizo-Garcia Alvaro ,   on behalf of the Spain-GOG Group
Published: May 2023

The main aim is to compare oncological outcomes and patterns of recurrence of patients with early-stage endometrioid endometrial cancer according to lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI) status. The secondary objective is to determine preoperative predictors of LVSI. We performed a multicenter retrospective cohort study. A total of 3546 women diagnosed with postoperative early-stage (FIGO I-II, 2009) endometrioid endometrial cancer were included. Co-primary endpoints were disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), and pattern of recurrence. Cox proportional hazard models were used for time-to-event analysis. Univariate and multivariate logistical regression models were employed. Positive LVSI was identified in 528 patients (14.6%) and was an independent prognostic factor for DFS (HR 1.8), OS (HR 2.1) and distant recurrences (HR 2.37). Distant recurrences were more frequent in patients with positive LVSI (78.2% vs. 61.3%, p < 0.01). Deep myometrial invasion (OR 3.04), high-grade tumors (OR 2.54), cervical stroma invasion (OR 2.01), and tumor diameter ≥ 2 cm (OR 2.03) were independent predictors of LVSI. In conclusion, in these patients, LVSI is an independent risk factor for shorter DFS and OS, and distant recurrence, but not for local recurrence. Deep myometrial invasion, cervical stroma invasion, high-grade tumors, and a tumor diameter ≥ 2 cm are independent predictors of LVSI.
A Quick Guide to CAF Subtypes in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Brichkina Anna , Polo Pierfrancesco , Sharma Shrey Dharamvir , Visestamkul Nico , Lauth Matthias
Published: May 2023

Pancreatic cancer represents one of the most desmoplastic malignancies and is characterized by an extensive deposition of extracellular matrix. The latter is provided by activated cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which are abundant cells in the pancreatic tumor microenvironment. Many recent studies have made it clear that CAFs are not a singular cellular entity but represent a multitude of potentially dynamic subgroups that affect tumor biology at several levels. As mentioned before, CAFs significantly contribute to the fibrotic reaction and the biomechanical properties of the tumor, but they can also modulate the local immune environment and the response to targeted, chemo or radiotherapy. As the number of known and emerging CAF subgroups is steadily increasing, it is becoming increasingly difficult to keep up with these developments and to clearly discriminate the cellular subsets identified so far. This review aims to provide a helpful overview that enables readers to quickly familiarize themselves with field of CAF heterogeneity and to grasp the phenotypic, functional and therapeutic distinctions of the various stromal subpopulations.
Biomolecules Involved in Both Metastasis and Placenta Accreta Spectrum—Does the Common Pathophysiological Pathway Exist?
Authors: Rekowska Anna K. , Obuchowska Karolina , Bartosik Magdalena , Kimber-Trojnar Żaneta , Słodzińska Magdalena , Wierzchowska-Opoka Magdalena , Leszczyńska-Gorzelak Bożena
Published: May 2023

The process of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is crucial in the implantation of the blastocyst and subsequent placental development. The trophoblast, consisting of villous and extravillous zones, plays different roles in these processes. Pathological states, such as placenta accreta spectrum (PAS), can arise due to dysfunction of the trophoblast or defective decidualization, leading to maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Studies have drawn parallels between placentation and carcinogenesis, with both processes involving EMT and the establishment of a microenvironment that facilitates invasion and infiltration. This article presents a review of molecular biomarkers involved in both the microenvironment of tumors and placental cells, including placental growth factor (PlGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), E-cadherin (CDH1), laminin γ2 (LAMC2), the zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox (ZEB) proteins, αVβ3 integrin, transforming growth factor β (TGF-β), β-catenin, cofilin-1 (CFL-1), and interleukin-35 (IL-35). Understanding the similarities and differences in these processes may provide insights into the development of therapeutic options for both PAS and metastatic cancer.
PET/CT in Patients with Breast Cancer Treated with Immunotherapy
Authors: Vaz Sofia C. , Graff Stephanie L. , Ferreira Arlindo R. , Debiasi Márcio , de Geus-Oei Lioe-Fee
Published: May 2023

Significant advances in breast cancer (BC) treatment have been made in the last decade, including the use of immunotherapy and, in particular, immune checkpoint inhibitors that have been shown to improve the survival of patients with triple negative BC. This narrative review summarizes the studies supporting the use of immunotherapy in BC. Furthermore, the usefulness of 2-deoxy-2-[18F]fluoro-D-glucose (2-[18F]FDG) positron emission/computerized tomography (PET/CT) to image the tumor heterogeneity and to assess treatment response is explored, including the different criteria to interpret 2-[18F]FDG PET/CT imaging. The concept of immuno-PET is also described, by explaining the advantages of mapping treatment targets with a non-invasive and whole-body tool. Several radiopharmaceuticals in the preclinical phase are referred too, and, considering their promising results, translation to human studies is needed to support their use in clinical practice. Overall, this is an evolving field in BC treatment, despite PET imaging developments, the future trends also include expanding immunotherapy to early-stage BC and using other biomarkers.
Density Functional Theory Study of the Hydrogenation of Carbon Monoxide over the Co (001) Surface: Implications for the Fischer–Tropsch Process
Authors: Torkashvand Mostafa , Sarabadani Tafreshi Saeedeh , de Leeuw Nora H.
Published: May 2023

The increasing demand for renewable fuels and sustainable products has encouraged growing interest in the development of active and selective catalysts for the conversion of carbon monoxide into desirable products. The Fischer–Tropsch process consists of the reaction of a synthesis gas mixture containing carbon monoxide and hydrogen (syngas), which are polymerized into liquid hydrocarbon chains, often using a cobalt catalyst. Here, first-principles calculations based on the density functional theory (DFT) are used to investigate the reaction mechanism of the Fischer–Tropsch synthesis over the Co (001) surface. The most energetically favorable adsorption configurations of the species involved in the carbon monoxide hydrogenation process are identified, and the possible elementary steps of hydrogenation and their related transition states are explored using the Vienna Ab initio simulation package (VASP). The results provide the mechanisms for the formation of CH4, CH3OH and C2H2 compounds, where the calculations suggest that CH4 is the dominant product. Findings from the reaction energies reveal that the preferred mechanism for the hydrogenation of carbon monoxide is through HCO and cis-HCOH, and the largest exothermic reaction energy in the CH4 formation pathway is released during the hydrogenation of cis-HCOH (−0.773 eV). An analysis of the kinetics of the hydrogenation reactions indicates that the CH production from cis-HCOH has the lowest energy barrier of just 0.066 eV, and the hydrogenation of CO to COH, with the largest energy barrier of 1.804 eV, is the least favored reaction kinetically.
Zinc Finger Proteins in the War on Gastric Cancer: Molecular Mechanism and Clinical Potential
Authors: Liu Shujie , Liu Xingzhu , Lin Xin , Chen Hongping
Published: May 2023

According to the 2020 global cancer data released by the World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) International, gastric cancer (GC) is the fifth most common cancer worldwide, with yearly increasing incidence and the second-highest fatality rate in malignancies. Despite the contemporary ambiguous molecular mechanisms in GC pathogenesis, numerous in-depth studies have demonstrated that zinc finger proteins (ZFPs) are essential for the development and progression of GC. ZFPs are a class of transcription factors with finger-like domains that bind to Zn2+ extensively and participate in gene replication, cell differentiation and tumor development. In this review, we briefly outline the roles, molecular mechanisms and the latest advances in ZFPs in GC, including eight principal aspects, such as cell proliferation, epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), invasion and metastasis, inflammation and immune infiltration, apoptosis, cell cycle, DNA methylation, cancer stem cells (CSCs) and drug resistance. Intriguingly, the myeloid zinc finger 1 (MZF1) possesses reversely dual roles in GC by promoting tumor proliferation or impeding cancer progression via apoptosis. Therefore, a thorough understanding of the molecular mechanism of ZFPs on GC progression will pave the solid way for screening the potentially effective diagnostic indicators, prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets of GC.
NET Proteome in Established Type 1 Diabetes Is Enriched in Metabolic Proteins
Authors: Bissenova Samal , Ellis Darcy , Callebaut Aïsha , Eelen Guy , Derua Rita , Buitinga Mijke , Mathieu Chantal , Gysemans Conny , Overbergh Lut
Published: May 2023

Background and aims: Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by a T-cell-mediated destruction of the pancreatic insulin-producing beta cells. A growing body of evidence suggests that abnormalities in neutrophils and neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation (NETosis) are associated with T1D pathophysiology. However, little information is available on whether these changes are primary neutrophil defects or related to the environmental signals encountered during active disease. Methods: In the present work, the NET proteome (NETome) of phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)- and ionomycin-stimulated neutrophils from people with established T1D compared to healthy controls (HC) was studied by proteomic analysis. Results: Levels of NETosis, in addition to plasma levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and NET markers, were comparable between T1D and HC subjects. However, the T1D NETome was distinct from that of HC in response to both stimuli. Quantitative analysis revealed that the T1D NETome was enriched in proteins belonging to metabolic pathways (i.e., phosphoglycerate kinase, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, and UTP-glucose-1-phosphate uridylyltransferase). Complementary metabolic profiling revealed that the rate of extracellular acidification, an approximate measure for glycolysis, and mitochondrial respiration were similar between T1D and HC neutrophils in response to both stimuli. Conclusion: The NETome of people with established T1D was enriched in metabolic proteins without an apparent alteration in the bio-energetic profile or dysregulated NETosis. This may reflect an adaptation mechanism employed by activated T1D neutrophils to avoid impaired glycolysis and consequently excessive or suboptimal NETosis, pivotal in innate immune defence and the resolution of inflammation.
Novel Filamin C Myofibrillar Myopathy Variants Cause Different Pathomechanisms and Alterations in Protein Quality Systems
Authors: Sellung Dominik , Heil Lorena , Daya Nassam , Jacobsen Frank , Mertens-Rill Janine , Zhuge Heidi , Döring Kristina , Piran Misagh , Milting Hendrik , Unger Andreas , Linke Wolfgang A. , Kley Rudi , Preusse Corinna , Roos Andreas , Fürst Dieter O. , Ven Peter F. M. van der , Vorgerd Matthias
Published: May 2023

Myofibrillar myopathies (MFM) are a group of chronic muscle diseases pathophysiologically characterized by accumulation of protein aggregates and structural failure of muscle fibers. A subtype of MFM is caused by heterozygous mutations in the filamin C (FLNC) gene, exhibiting progressive muscle weakness, muscle structural alterations and intracellular protein accumulations. Here, we characterize in depth the pathogenicity of two novel truncating FLNc variants (p.Q1662X and p.Y2704X) and assess their distinct effect on FLNc stability and distribution as well as their impact on protein quality system (PQS) pathways. Both variants cause a slowly progressive myopathy with disease onset in adulthood, chronic myopathic alterations in muscle biopsy including the presence of intracellular protein aggregates. Our analyses revealed that p.Q1662X results in FLNc haploinsufficiency and p.Y2704X in a dominant-negative FLNc accumulation. Moreover, both protein-truncating variants cause different PQS alterations: p.Q1662X leads to an increase in expression of several genes involved in the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) and the chaperone-assisted selective autophagy (CASA) system, whereas p.Y2704X results in increased abundance of proteins involved in UPS activation and autophagic buildup. We conclude that truncating FLNC variants might have different pathogenetic consequences and impair PQS function by diverse mechanisms and to varying extents. Further studies on a larger number of patients are necessary to confirm our observations.
Pericyte–Glioblastoma Cell Interaction: A Key Target to Prevent Glioblastoma Progression
Authors: Pombero Ana , Garcia-Lopez Raquel , Martínez Salvador
Published: May 2023

Multiple biological processes rely on direct intercellular interactions to regulate cell proliferation and migration in embryonic development and cancer processes. Tumor development and growth depends on close interactions between cancer cells and cells in the tumor microenvironment. During embryonic development, morphogenetic signals and direct cell contacts control cell proliferation, polarity, and morphogenesis. Cancer cells communicate with cells in the tumor niche through molecular signals and intercellular contacts, thereby modifying the vascular architecture and antitumor surveillance processes and consequently enabling tumor growth and survival. While looking for cell-to-cell signaling mechanisms that are common to both brain development and cancer progression, we have studied the infiltration process in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), which is the most malignant primary brain tumor and with the worst prognosis. Cell-to-cell contacts, by means of filopodia-like structures, between GBM cells and brain pericytes (PCs) are necessary for adequate cell signaling during cancer infiltration; similarly, contacts between embryonic regions, via cytonemes, are required for embryo regionalization and development. This GBM–PC interaction provokes two important changes in the physiological function of these perivascular cells, namely, (i) vascular co-option with changes in cell contractility and vascular malformation, and (ii) changes in the PC transcriptome, modifying the microvesicles and protein secretome, which leads to the development of an immunosuppressive phenotype that promotes tumor immune tolerance. Moreover, the GTPase Cdc42 regulates cell polarity across organisms, from yeast to humans, playing a central role in GBM cell–PC interaction and maintaining vascular co-option. As such, a review of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the development and maintenance of the physical interactions between cancer cells and PCs is of particular interest.
A Novel Rare Earth and Covalent Organic Framework Composite for Rapid and Highly Sensitive Electrochemical Analysis of Sulfadiazine in Fish Muscle
Authors: Han Jiajia , Liao Zicong , Chen Guosheng , Qiu Junlang , Zhu Fang
Published: May 2023

The misuse of sulfadiazine (SFZ) has led to great hazard to the environment and human safety; therefore, a simple, rapid, and sensitive method to detect sulfadiazine is urgently needed. Herein, we report a simple fabrication method for rare earth vanadate samarium (SmV)-doped covalent organic framework COFTDBA-TTL nanocomposites (SmV/COFTDBA-TTL), which were used to construct a sulfadiazine (SFZ) electrochemical sensor. The synergistic effect arising from the combination of SmV and COFTDBA-TTL accelerates the charge transfer kinetics, along with the creation of more surface-active sites that benefit effective detection. Compared with other electrochemical sensors, this electrochemical sensor exhibits low detection limit (2.40 nM), wide linear range (7.32–12.0 μM), good reproducibility (RSD = 0.823%), and stability (RSD = 3.60%). It provides a novel method and theoretical basis for the application of rare earth COF-based electrochemical sensors to detect environmentally destructive pollutants.
Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Quorum Sensing Effect of Camellia sinensis Callus Lysate for Treatment of Acne
Authors: Cañellas-Santos Mariona , Rosell-Vives Elisabet , Montell Laia , Bilbao Ainhoa , Goñi-de-Cerio Felipe , Fernandez-Campos Francisco
Published: May 2023

Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) is involved in the pathogenesis of acne by inducing inflammation and biofilm formation, along with other virulence factors. A Camellia sinensis (C. sinensis) callus lysate is proposed to reduce these effects. The aim of the present work is to study the anti-inflammatory properties of a callus extract from C. sinensis on C. acnes-stimulated human keratinocytes and the quorum-quenching activities. Keratinocytes were stimulated with thermo-inactivated pathogenic C. acnes and were treated with the herbal lysate (0.25% w/w) to evaluate its anti-inflammatory effect. C. acnes biofilm was developed in vitro and treated with 2.5 and 5% w/w of the lysate to evaluate quorum sensing and the lipase activity. The results showed that the lysate was able to reduce the production of interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 1 (CXCL1), and decrease the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB). The lysate did not show bactericidal activity but showed diminished biofilm formation, the lipase activity, and the production of autoinducer 2 (AI-2), a member of a family of signaling molecules used in quorum sensing. Therefore, the proposed callus lysate could have the potential to reduce acne-related symptoms without the eradication of C. acnes, which is part of the natural skin microbiome.