bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Robot and working tube-assisted invasion-controlled surgery for spinal metastases
Authors: Zhou Shangbin , Li Bo , Wang Pengru , Xu Meiling , Zhao Jian , Duan Shujie , Zhu Zhipeng , Xu Wei , Xiao Jianru
Published: February 2023

Objective

This study aims to highlight the use of robots in surgery and that of tube-assisted minimally invasive surgery for spinal metastases, as well as elaborate on the concept of invasion-controlled surgery (ICS).

Summary of background

Many patients with spinal metastasis cancer cannot afford serious complications when undergoing traditional open surgery because of their poor physical condition. Robots and minimally invasive technology have been introduced into the field of spine surgery and they have shown significant advantages.

Methods

Six patients who underwent robot and working tube-assisted ICS for spinal metastases. Relevant demographic, medical, surgical, and postoperative data were collected from medical records and analyzed.

Results

Mean operative time was 3.8 h and the mean length of the surgical incision was 4.9 cm. The mean estimated blood loss was 400 ml. The mean bedtime and hospital length of stay were 3.2 days and 6.5 days, respectively. No obvious complications were reported during treatment. The mean accuracy of screw placement was 98%. The mean time for further system treatment after surgery was 5.8 days. All patients experienced significant pain relief. The mean preoperative visual analog scale (VAS) was 7.83 points. The mean VAS at 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month after surgery were 2.83, 1.83, and 1.17 points, respectively. Frankel grade was improved in five of six patients. One patient preoperatively with Frankel grade D was the same postoperatively.

Conclusion

The concept of ICS is suitable for patients with spinal metastases. Robot and working tube-assisted ICS for spinal metastases is one of the safest and most effective treatment methods.
Impact of endoscopic thoracic R4 sympathicotomy combined with R3 ramicotomy for primary palmar hyperhidrosis
Authors: Huang Yunhe , Liu Yunkun , Zou Wei , Mao Na , Tang Jian , Jiang Lei , Zou Guowen , Yang Lun , Yu Bentong , Wei Guangxia
Published: February 2023

Background

Endoscopic thoracoscopic sympathectomy (ETS) is the preferred method for treating primary palmar hyperhidrosis (PPH) that bears the risk of compensatory hyperhidrosis (CH) following surgery. The current study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of an innovative surgical procedure of ETS.

Methods

A survey of the clinical data of 109 patients with PPH who underwent ETS in our department from May 2018 to August 2021 was retrospectively conducted. The patients were organized into two groups. Group A underwent R4 sympathicotomy combined with R3 ramicotomy. Group B underwent R3 sympathicotomy. Patients were followed up to evaluate the safety, effectiveness and the incidence of postoperative CH of the modified surgical approach.

Results

A total of 102 patients completed follow-up, and seven of the total enrolled patients were lost to follow-up, with a loss rate of 6% (7/109). Among these, Group A constitutes 54 cases, group B constitutes 48 cases, and the mean follow-up was 14 months (interquartile range 12–23 months). There was no statistically difference in surgical safety, postoperative efficacy, and postoperative quality of life (QoL) score between group A and group B (p > 0.05). The score of the psychological assessment was higher (p = 0.004) in group A (14.15 ± 2.06) compared to group B (13.30 ± 1.86). The incidence of CH in group A was lower than in group B (p = 0.019).

Conclusion

R4 sympathicotomy combined with R3 ramicotomy is safe and effective for PPH treatment, along with a reduced incidence of postoperative CH rate and improved postoperative psychological satisfaction.
The effects of NutraGen supplement on cattle growth performance, energetic efficiency, carcass characteristics, and characteristics of digestion in calf-fed Holstein steers
Authors: Carvalho Pedro H. V. , Latack Brooke C. , Ferraz Junior Marcos V. C. , Flores Ruben , Sanchez-Cruz Gerson , Montaño Martin F. , Zinn Richard A.
Published: February 2023

Evaluation of the effects of feeding NutraGen supplement (NutraGen, NTG; Phibro Animal Health, Teaneck, NJ, USA) on growth performance, energetic efficiency, carcass characteristcs, and characteristics of digestion in calf-fed Holstein steers fed a conventional growing-finishing diet. Trial 1 evaluated growth performance, dietary energetics and carcass characteristics. Two hundred Holstein steer calves (134 ± 5 kg) were blocked by initial body weight (BW) and randomly assigned to 40 pens (5 steers/pen). Dietary treatments consisted of a steam-flaked corn-based growing-finishing diet supplemented with 0, 0.2, 0.4, or 0.6% NTG (DM basis). In trial 2, four Holstein steers (170 ±6 kg) with cannulas in the rumen and proximal duodenum were used in a 4 × 4 Latin square experiment to evaluate digestibility and ruminal characteristics using the treatments from trial 1. Compared to non-supplemented cattle, NTG increased BW (2.0%, P = 0.02) and tended to increase ADG (3.6%, P = 0.07) during the initial 56 d period. However, there were no treatment effects on overall growth performance and efficiency of dietary energy utilization after the first 56 days (P > 0.10). Supplementation of NTG increased (linear effect; P ≤ 0.03) longissimus muscle area and kidney, pelvic, and heart fat. There was no effect (P ≥ 0.05) of NTG supplementation on other carcass characteristics, liver abscess incidence, or liver abscess scars. Supplementation decreased the molar proportion of ruminal propionate (P = 0.05) and tended to increase acetate:propionate molar ratio (P = 0.09). However, there was no effect of NTG supplementation on ruminal and total tract diet digestion. NTG increased performance of Holstein steers during the first 56 d on feed in the feedlot. In addition, the steers had an increase in KPH fat and LM area, indicating that the additive induced change in metabolism of the steers.
Hypoxia signaling in the equine small intestine: Expression and distribution of hypoxia inducible factors during experimental ischemia
Authors: Verhaar Nicole , de Buhr Nicole , von Köckritz-Blickwede Maren , Dümmer Katrin , Hewicker-Trautwein Marion , Pfarrer Christiane , Dengler Franziska , Kästner Sabine
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Hypoxia inducible factors (HIF) are widely researched in human medicine for their role in different disease processes. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression and distribution of HIF in experimental small intestinal ischemia in the horse.

Methods

In 14 horses under general anesthesia, segmental jejunal ischemia with 90% reduction in blood flow was induced. The horses were randomly divided into two groups of seven horses, one subjected to ischemic postconditioning (IPoC) by delayed reperfusion, and a control group (group C) undergoing undelayed reperfusion. Intestinal samples were taken pre-ischemia, after ischemia and after reperfusion. Following immunohistochemical staining for HIF1α and -2α, the immunoreactivity pattern in the small intestine was evaluated by light microscopy, and the mucosal enterocyte and muscularis staining were semi-quantitatively scored. Additionally, mucosal HIF1α protein levels were determined by an Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), and mRNA levels of HIF1α and its target genes by a two-step real-time Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction. Statistical comparison was performed between the groups and time points using parametric and non-parametric tests (p < 0.05).

Results

All cell types exhibited cytoplasmic and nuclear immunoreactivity for HIF1α. After reperfusion, the cytoplasmic staining of the crypt and villus enterocytes as well as the villus nuclear staining significantly increased, whereas the perinuclear granules in the crypts decreased. The protein levels showed a significant decrease in group C at reperfusion, with lower HIF1α levels in group C compared to group IPoC during ischemia and reperfusion. No other group differences could be detected. In the HIF2α stained slides, mild to moderate cytoplasmic staining yet no nuclear immunoreactivity of the enterocytes was observed, and no significant changes over time were noted.

Discussion

the changes in HIF1α immunoreactivity pattern and expression over time suggest that this transcription factor plays a role in the intestinal response to ischemia in horses. However, the current study could not identify an effect of IPoC on HIF distribution or expression.
Adherence to 24-h Movement Guidelines and Depressive Status During the Coronavirus Disease Outbreak: A Cross-Sectional Japanese Survey
Authors: Ohta Takahisa , Ogawa Madoka , Kikuchi Naoki , Sasai Hiroyuki , Okamoto Takanobu
Published: February 2023

Objectives: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has affected people’s physical activity, sedentary behavior, and sleep. This study aimed to clarify the association between combining these factors, integrated as adherence to 24-h movement guidelines, and depressive status during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods: At the end of October 2020, we sent self-administered questionnaires to 1,711 adults aged ≥18. We assessed physical activity, sedentary behavior, sleep duration, adherence to 24-h movement guidelines, depressive status, and confounding factors.

Results: Of the 640 valid responses, 90 (14.1%) reported a depressive status. Multivariable odds ratios (95% confidence interval) of depressive status were 0.22 (0.07, 0.71) for all three recommendations of the 24-h movement guidelines and those who met none of the recommendations as reference. The number of guidelines met was associated with depressive status in a dose-response fashion.

Conclusion: Meeting the 24-h movement guidelines was associated with a lower prevalence of depressive status during the COVID-19 pandemic. Adults should adhere to these guidelines to maintain their mental health during future quarantine life.
A Novel Classification Algorithm Based on Multidimensional F1 Fuzzy Transform and PCA Feature Extraction
Authors: Cardone Barbara , Martino Ferdinando Di
Published: February 2023

The bi-dimensional F1-Transform was applied in image analysis to improve the performances of the F-transform method; however, due to its high computational complexity, the multidimensional F1-transform cannot be used in data analysis problems, especially in the presence of a large number of features. In this research, we proposed a new classification method based on the multidimensional F1-Transform in which the Principal Component Analysis technique is applied to reduce the dataset size. We test our method on various well-known classification datasets, showing that it improves the performances of the F-transform classification method and of other well-known classification algorithms; furthermore, the execution times of the F1-Transform classification method is similar to the ones obtained executing F-transform and other classification algorithms.
A Method of Extracting Transmission Characteristics of Interconnects from Near-Field Emissions in PCBs
Authors: Peng Zhenzhen , Xu Hui , Su Donglin
Published: February 2023

This paper proposes a method for extracting transmission characteristics of interconnects in printed circuit boards (PCBs) from near-field emission. A wideband microstrip line electric probe is used to measure the near-field emission. There are two key technologies in the extraction principle, obtaining the transfer function and the input signal estimation, and they are explained in detail. To validate the method, one-trace structures, including a corner trace and a via trace, and a multi-trace structure were measured. The transmission characteristics extracted by the proposed method agrees well with the standard vector network analyzer (VNA) measurements up to frequency of 12 GHz. The error caused by the distance and the disturbance signal is investigated.
Intelligent Height Adjustment Method of Shearer Drum Based on Rough Set Significance Reduction and Fuzzy Rough Radial Basis Function Neural Network
Authors: Wang Weibing , Jing Zelin , Zhao Shuanfeng , Lu Zhengxiong , Xing Zhizhong , Guo Shuai
Published: February 2023

The intelligent adjustment method of the shearer drum is the key technology to improve the intelligent level and safety degree of fully mechanized mining face. This paper proposes a shearer drum intelligent height adjustment model based on rough set significance attribute reduction (AR) and fuzzy rough radial basis function neural network (FRRBFNN) optimized by adaptive immune genetic algorithm (AIGA). The model first selects the parameters of shearer process monitoring based on the importance attribute reduction algorithm of rough set, and establishes the attribute reduction set of shearer operation characteristic parameters and the drum height decision rule base. Next, a fuzzy rough radial basis function neural network determined by the decision rule space is proposed. By introducing the fuzzy rough membership function as the connection weight, the network can accurately describe the complex nonlinear relationship between the working characteristic parameters of the attribute shearer and the drum height, and measure the uncertainty of the coal seam distribution. Finally, to further optimize the performance of FRRBFNN, the adaptive immune genetic algorithm is introduced to optimize its parameters, to build a high-precision shearer drum height prediction system. For the evaluation method of the model, we use three indicators: mean absolute error, mean absolute percentage error, and root mean square error. Based on the measured data in Yujialiang area, Shaanxi Province, the experimental results show that—compared with the FRRBFNN and support vector regression (SVR) models, a gated current neural network (GRU), a radial basis function neural network (RBF), the memory strengthen long short-term memory (MSLSTM) model, and the adaptive fuzzy reasoning Petri net (AFRPN)—the MAE of the AR-AIGA-FRBFNN model for predicting the height of the left and right rollers are 18.3 mm and 17.2 mm, respectively; the MAPE is 0.96% and 0.93%, respectively; and the RMSE is 21.2 mm and 22.4 mm, respectively. The AR-AIGA-FRBFNN model is therefore more effective than the other considered methods.
Design Optimization Methodology for Diversion Structure with Concrete Cofferdam Using Risk-Based Least-Cost Design Method
Authors: Hong Wonpyo , Eum Taesoo , Song Chang Geun
Published: February 2023

The optimal size of a diversion structure should be carefully studied to ensure economic viability and safety during construction. In practice, to determine the size of a diversion structure, design flood frequency is selected as the suggested return period presented by the design standard, which is presented differently. This study proposes a methodology for the design of a diversion structure with a concrete cofferdam adopting risk analysis to reflect the more practical hazard and risk of diversion structure during dam construction. The proposed methodology is based on a risk-based least-cost design process and risk analysis. The optimization result is presented as the lowest expected monetary value, which accounts for construction cost, reconstruction cost, and delay liquidated damage with the failure probability and recovery cost with the overflow probability. This methodology was applied to the case study of the Gulpur hydropower project in Pakistan. The results showed that the optimal design flood frequency is 1 year for a recovery cost of USD 0.5 mil. and 1~2 years for a recovery cost of USD 1.0~2.0 mil. with 3, 4, and 5 years of the usage period of the diversion structure. Furthermore, 2~10 years is the optimal value for a recovery cost of USD 3.0~4.0 mil. These results indicated that the optimal design flood frequency increases as the recovery cost and usage period of the diversion structure increase. The results of the study reveal that the recovery cost and the period of use of the diversion structure affect the design flood frequency of the diversion structure. From a design perspective, the period of use is determined by the construction period of the project or the construction method, whereas the recovery cost depends on the countermeasure method. Therefore, after preparing a proactive plan and estimating the recovery cost, the design flood frequency for the diversion structure should be determined.
Diagnosing Lung Abnormalities Related to Heart Failure in Chest Radiogram, Lung Ultrasound and Thoracic Computed Tomography
Authors: Siwik Dominika , Apanasiewicz Wojciech , Żukowska Małgorzata , Jaczewski Grzegorz , Dąbrowska Marta
Published: February 2023

Heart failure (HF) is a multidisciplinary disease affecting almost 1–2% of the adult population worldwide. Symptoms most frequently reported by patients suffering from HF include dyspnoea, cough or exercise intolerance, which is equally often observed in many pulmonary diseases. The spectrum of lung changes related to HF is wide. The knowledge of different types of these abnormalities is essential to distinguish patients with HF from patients with lung diseases or both disorders and thus avoid unnecessary diagnostics or therapies. In this review, we aimed to summarise recent research concerning the spectrum of lung abnormalities related to HF in three frequently used lung imaging techniques: chest X-ray (CXR), lung ultrasound (LUS) and chest computed tomography (CT). We discussed the most prevalent abnormalities in the above-mentioned investigations in the context of consecutive pathophysiological stages identified in HF: (i) redistribution, (ii) interstitial oedema, and (iii) alveolar oedema. Finally, we compared the utility of these imaging tools in the clinical setting. In conclusion, we consider LUS the most useful and promising imaging technique due to its high sensitivity, repeatability and accessibility. However, the value of CXR and chest CT is their potential for establishing a differential diagnosis.
Word Structure Tunes Electrophysiological and Hemodynamic Responses in the Frontal Cortex
Authors: Gao Fei , Hua Lin , He Yuwen , Xu Jie , Li Defeng , Zhang Juan , Yuan Zhen
Published: February 2023

To date, it is still unclear how word structure might impact lexical processing in the brain for languages with an impoverished system of grammatical morphology such as Chinese. In this study, concurrent electroencephalogram (EEG) and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) recordings were performed to inspect the temporal and spatial brain activities that are related to Chinese word structure (compound vs. derivation vs. non-morphological) effects. A masked priming paradigm was utilized on three lexical conditions (compound constitute priming, derivation constitute priming, and non-morphological priming) to tap Chinese native speakers’ structural sensitivity to differing word structures. The compound vs. derivation structure effect was revealed by the behavioral data as well as the temporal and spatial brain activation patterns. In the masked priming task, Chinese derivations exhibited significantly enhanced brain activation in the frontal cortex and involved broader brain networks as compared with lexicalized compounds. The results were interpreted by the differing connection patterns between constitute morphemes within a given word structure from a spreading activation perspective. More importantly, we demonstrated that the Chinese word structure effect showed a distinct brain activation pattern from that of the dual-route mechanism in alphabetic languages. Therefore, this work paved a new avenue for comprehensively understanding the underlying cognitive neural mechanisms associated with Chinese derivations and coordinate compounds.
Larger Medial Contact Area and More Anterior Contact Position in Medial-Pivot than Posterior-Stabilized Total Knee Arthroplasty during In-Vivo Lunge Activity
Authors: Zou Diyang , Tan Jiaqi , Zheng Nan , Ling Zhi , Yu Wanxin , Liow Ming Han Lincoln , Chen Yunsu , Tsai Tsung-Yuan
Published: February 2023

This study aimed to compare the in-vivo kinematics and articular contact status between medial-pivot total knee arthroplasty (MP-TKA) and posterior stabilized (PS) TKA during weight-bearing single-leg lunge. 16 MP-TKA and 12 PS-TKA patients performed bilateral single-leg lunges under dual fluoroscopy surveillance to determine the in-vivo six degrees-of-freedom knee kinematics. The closest point between the surface models of the femoral condyle and the polyethylene insert was used to determine the contact position and area. The nonparametric statistics analysis was performed to test the symmetry of the kinematics between MP-TKA and PS-TKA. PS-TKA demonstrated a significantly greater range of AP translation than MP-TKA during high flexion (p = 0.0002). Both groups showed a significantly greater range of lateral compartment posterior translation with medial pivot rotation. The contact points of PS-TKA were located significantly more posterior than MP-TKA in both medial (10°–100°) and lateral (5°–40°, 55°–100°) compartments (p < 0.0500). MP-TKA had a significantly larger contact area in the medial compartment than in the lateral compartment. In contrast, no significant differences were observed in PS-TKA. The present study revealed no significant differences in clinical outcomes between the MP and PS groups. The PS-TKA demonstrated significantly more posterior translations than MP-TKA at high flexion. The contact points are located more posteriorly in PS-TKA compared with MP-TKA. A larger contact area and medial pivot pattern during high flexion in MP-TKA indicated that MP-TKA provides enhanced medial pivot rotation.
The Impact of YRNAs on HNSCC and HPV Infection
Authors: Guglas Kacper , Kolenda Tomasz , Kozłowska-Masłoń Joanna , Severino Patricia , Teresiak Anna , Bliźniak Renata , Lamperska Katarzyna
Published: February 2023

HPV infection is one of the most important risk factors for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma among younger patients. YRNAs are short non-coding RNAs involved in DNA replication. YRNAs have been found to be dysregulated in many cancers, including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). In this study, we investigated the role of YRNAs in HPV-positive HNSCC using publicly available gene expression datasets from HNSCC tissue, where expression patterns of YRNAs in HPV(+) and HPV(−) HNSCC samples significantly differed. Additionally, HNSCC cell lines were treated with YRNA1-overexpressing plasmid and RNA derived from these cell lines was used to perform a NGS analysis. Additionally, a deconvolution analysis was performed to determine YRNA1’s impact on immune cells. YRNA expression levels varied according to cancer pathological and clinical stages, and correlated with more aggressive subtypes. YRNAs were mostly associated with more advanced cancer stages in the HPV(+) group, and YRNA3 and YRNA1 expression levels were found to be correlated with more advanced clinical stages despite HPV infection status, showing that they may function as potential biomarkers of more advanced stages of the disease. YRNA5 was associated with less-advanced cancer stages in the HPV(−) group. Overall survival and progression-free survival analyses showed opposite results between the HPV groups. The expression of YRNAs, especially YRNA1, correlated with a vast number of proteins and cellular processes associated with viral infections and immunologic responses to viruses. HNSCC-derived cell lines overexpressing YRNA1 were then used to determine the correlation of YRNA1 and the expression of genes associated with HPV infections. Taken together, our results highlight the potential of YRNAs as possible HNSCC biomarkers and new molecular targets.
In Vitro Pharmacokinetic Behavior of Antiviral 3-Amidinophenylalanine Derivatives in Rat, Dog and Monkey Hepatocytes
Authors: Lányi Katalin , Monostory Katalin , Steinmetzer Torsten , Jerzsele Ákos , Pászti-Gere Erzsébet
Published: February 2023

Type II transmembrane serine proteases represent pharmacological targets for blocking entry and spread of influenza or coronaviruses. In this study, the depletion rates of the 3-amidinophenylalanine (3-APhA)-derived matriptase/TMPRSS2 inhibitors MI-463, MI-472, MI-485 or MI-1900 were determined by LC-MS/MS measurements over a period of 300 min using suspensions of rat, dog and cynomolgus monkey primary hepatocytes. From these in vitro pharmacokinetic (PK) experiments, intrinsic clearance values (Clint) were evaluated, and in vivo pharmacokinetic parameters (hepatic clearance, hepatic extraction ratio and bioavailability) were predicted. It was found that rat hepatocytes were the most active in the metabolism of 3-APhA derivatives (Clint 31.9–37.8 mL/min/kg), whereas dog and monkey cells displayed somewhat lower clearance of these compounds (Clint 6.6–26.7 mL/min/kg). These data support elucidation of important PK properties of anti-TMPRSS2/anti-matriptase 3-APhAs using mammalian hepatocyte models and thus contribute to the optimization of lead compounds.
Deciphering the Functions of Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Yeh Tsung-Jang , Luo Chi-Wen , Du Jeng-Shiun , Huang Chien-Tzu , Wang Min-Hung , Chuang Tzer-Ming , Gau Yuh-Ching , Cho Shih-Feng , Liu Yi-Chang , Hsiao Hui-Hua , Chen Li-Tzong , Pan Mei-Ren , Wang Hui-Ching , Moi Sin-Hua
Published: February 2023

Head and neck cancers (HNCs) are among the ten leading malignancies worldwide. Despite significant progress in all therapeutic modalities, predictive biomarkers, and targeted therapies for HNCs are limited and the survival rate is unsatisfactory. The importance of telomere maintenance via telomerase reactivation in carcinogenesis has been demonstrated in recent decades. Several mechanisms could activate telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT), the most common of which is promoter alternation. Two major hotspot TERT promoter mutations (C228T and C250T) have been reported in different malignancies such as melanoma, genitourinary cancers, CNS tumors, hepatocellular carcinoma, thyroid cancers, sarcomas, and HNCs. The frequencies of TERT promoter mutations vary widely across tumors and is quite high in HNCs (11.9–64.7%). These mutations have been reported to be more enriched in oral cavity SCCs and HPV-negative tumors. The association between TERT promoter mutations and poor survival has also been demonstrated. Till now, several therapeutic strategies targeting telomerase have been developed although only a few drugs have been used in clinical trials. Here, we briefly review and summarize our current understanding and evidence of TERT promoter mutations in HNC patients.
Meta-Research Perspectives on Verbal Lie Detection
Authors: Nahari Galit
Published: February 2023

Verbal lie detection (VLD) research, conducted mainly in the cognitive sciences, examines content-based indicators that differ between truth-tellers and lie-tellers. Following the meta-research approach (examination of the research itself), the current paper aimed to ascertain the current status of VLD research across three components: the search for VLD indicators, VLD coding, and VLD research tracks. It highlights several issues that challenge VLD research; these are discussed, along with suggestions for how to address them. This scrutiny may contribute to a further advancement of the field of VLD research and, as a result, an improvement of VLD practices.
Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase (PI3K) Inhibitors and Breast Cancer: An Overview of Current Achievements
Authors: Bertucci Alexandre , Bertucci François , Gonçalves Anthony
Published: February 2023

The phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway is one of the most altered pathways in human cancers, and it plays a central role in cellular growth, survival, metabolism, and cellular mobility, making it a particularly interesting therapeutic target. Recently, pan-inhibitors and then selective p110α subunit inhibitors of PI3K were developed. Breast cancer is the most frequent cancer in women and, despite therapeutic progress in recent years, advanced breast cancers remain incurable and early breast cancers are at risk of relapse. Breast cancer is divided in three molecular subtypes, each with its own molecular biology. However, PI3K mutations are found in all breast cancer subtypes in three main “hotspots”. In this review, we report the results of the most recent and main ongoing studies evaluating pan-PI3K inhibitors and selective PI3K inhibitors in each breast cancer subtype. In addition, we discuss the future of their development, the various potential mechanisms of resistance to these inhibitors and the ways to circumvent them.
Microbiota of Urine, Glans and Prostate Biopsies in Patients with Prostate Cancer Reveals a Dysbiosis in the Genitourinary System
Authors: Gonçalves Micael F. M. , Pina-Vaz Teresa , Fernandes Ângela Rita , Miranda Isabel M. , Silva Carlos Martins , Rodrigues Acácio Gonçalves , Lisboa Carmen
Published: February 2023

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most common malignant neoplasm with the highest worldwide incidence in men aged 50 years and older. Emerging evidence suggests that the microbial dysbiosis may promote chronic inflammation linked to the development of PCa. Therefore, this study aims to compare the microbiota composition and diversity in urine, glans swabs, and prostate biopsies between men with PCa and non-PCa men. Microbial communities profiling was assessed through 16S rRNA sequencing. The results indicated that α-diversity (number and abundance of genera) was lower in prostate and glans, and higher in urine from patients with PCa, compared to non-PCa patients. The different genera of the bacterial community found in urine was significantly different in PCa patients compared to non-PCa patients, but they did not differ in glans and prostate. Moreover, comparing the bacterial communities present in the three different samples, urine and glans show a similar genus composition. Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) effect size (LEfSe) analysis revealed significantly higher levels of the genera Streptococcus, Prevotella, Peptoniphilus, Negativicoccus, Actinomyces, Propionimicrobium, and Facklamia in urine of PCa patients, whereas Methylobacterium/Methylorubrum, Faecalibacterium, and Blautia were more abundant in the non-PCa patients. In glans, the genus Stenotrophomonas was enriched in PCa subjects, while Peptococcus was more abundant in non-PCa subjects. In prostate, Alishewanella, Paracoccus, Klebsiella, and Rothia were the overrepresented genera in the PCa group, while Actinomyces, Parabacteroides, Muribaculaceae sp., and Prevotella were overrepresented in the non-PCa group. These findings provide a strong background for the development of potential biomarkers with clinical interest.
Evolving Risk Classifications in AML in a Real-Life Scenario: After Changes upon Changes, Is It More and More Adverse?
Authors: Aparicio-Pérez Clara , Prados de la Torre Esther , Sanchez-Garcia Joaquin , Martín-Calvo Carmen , Martínez-Losada Carmen , Casaño-Sanchez Javier , Serrano-López Juana , Serrano Josefina
Published: February 2023

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous disease classified into three risk categories (favorable, intermediate and adverse) with significant differences in outcomes. Definitions of risk categories evolve overtime, incorporating advances in molecular knowledge of AML. In this study, we analyzed the impacts of evolving risk classifications in 130 consecutive AML patients in a single-center real-life experience. Complete cytogenetic and molecular data were collected using conventional qPCR and targeted Next Generation Sequencing (NGS). Five-year OS probabilities were consistent among all classification models (roughly 50–72%, 26–32% and 16–20% for favorable, intermediate and adverse risk groups, respectively). In the same way, the medians of survival months and prediction power were similar in all models. In each update, around 20% of patients were re-classified. The adverse category consistently increased over time (31% in MRC, 34% in ELN2010, 50% in ELN2017), reaching up to 56% in the recent ELN2022. Noteworthily, in multivariate models, only age and the presence of TP53 mutations remained statistically significant. With updates in risk-classification models, the percentage of patients assigned to the adverse group is increasing, and so will the indications for allogeneic stem cell transplantation.
Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors for Solid Tumors in the Adjuvant Setting: Current Progress, Future Directions, and Role in Transplant Oncology
Authors: Abboud Karen , Umoru Godsfavour , Esmail Abdullah , Abudayyeh Ala , Murakami Naoka , Al-Shamsi Humaid O. , Javle Milind , Saharia Ashish , Connor Ashton A. , Kodali Sudha , Ghobrial Rafik M. , Abdelrahim Maen
Published: February 2023

The rationale for administering immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in the adjuvant setting is to eradicate micro-metastases and, ultimately, prolong survival. Thus far, clinical trials have demonstrated that 1-year adjuvant courses of ICIs reduce the risk of recurrence in melanoma, urothelial cancer, renal cell carcinoma, non-small cell lung cancer, and esophageal and gastroesophageal junction cancers. Overall survival benefit has been shown in melanoma while survival data are still not mature in other malignancies. Emerging data also show the feasibility of utilizing ICIs in the peri-transplant setting for hepatobiliary malignancies. While ICIs are generally well-tolerated, the development of chronic immune-related adverse events, typically endocrinopathies or neurotoxicities, as well as delayed immune-related adverse events, warrants further scrutiny regarding the optimal duration of adjuvant therapy and requires a thorough risk–benefit determination. The advent of blood-based, dynamic biomarkers such as circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) can help detect minimal residual disease and identify the subset of patients who would likely benefit from adjuvant treatment. In addition, the characterization of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, and ctDNA-adjusted blood tumor mutation burden (bTMB) has also shown promise in predicting response to immunotherapy. Until additional, prospective studies delineate the magnitude of overall survival benefit and validate the use of predictive biomarkers, a tailored, patient-centered approach to adjuvant ICIs that includes extensive patient counseling on potentially irreversible adverse effects should be routinely incorporated into clinical practice.
HER2 Amplification in p53-Mutated Endometrial Carcinomas
Authors: Balestra Ambre , Larsimont Denis , Noël Jean-Christophe
Published: February 2023

p53-mutated endometrial carcinomas tend to recur and develop distant metastases. Therefore, the detection of new potential therapeutic targets such as HER2 is particularly interesting. In this retrospective study, which considered over 118 endometrial carcinomas, the p53 mutation was detected in 29.6% of cases. In these cases, the HER2 protein profile was studied via immunohistochemistry, and an overexpression of HER2 protein (++ or +++) was noted in 31.4%. The CISH technique was used in these cases to determine if gene amplification was present. In 18% of cases, the technique was not conclusive. Amplification of the HER2 gene was observed in 36.3% of cases and 36.3% of cases showed a polysomal-like aneusomy for centromere 17. Amplification was found in serous carcinomas, clear cell carcinomas and carcinosarcomas, highlighting the future potentiality of HER2-targeted therapies in these variants of aggressive carcinomas.
Chick Chorioallantoic Membrane as a Patient-Derived Xenograft Model for Uveal Melanoma: Imaging Modalities for Growth and Vascular Evaluation
Authors: Tsimpaki Theodora , Bechrakis Nikolaos E. , Seitz Berthold , Kraemer Miriam M. , Liu Hongtao , Dalbah Sami , Sokolenko Ekaterina , Berchner-Pfannschmidt Utta , Fiorentzis Miltiadis
Published: February 2023

Background: Patient-derived tumor xenografts (PDXs) have emerged as valuable preclinical in vivo models in oncology as they largely retain the polygenomic architecture of the human tumors from which they originate. Although animal models are accompanied by cost and time constraints and a low engraftment rate, PDXs have primarily been established in immunodeficient rodent models for the in vivo assessment of tumor characteristics and of novel therapeutic cancer targets. The chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay represents an attractive alternative in vivo model that has long been used in the research of tumor biology and angiogenesis, and can overcome some of these limitations. Methods: In this study, we reviewed different technical approaches for the establishment and monitoring of a CAM-based uveal melanoma PDX model. Forty-six fresh tumor grafts were acquired after enucleation from six uveal melanoma patients and were implanted onto the CAM on ED7 with Matrigel and a ring (group 1), with Matrigel (group 2), or natively without Matrigel or a ring (group 3). Real-time imaging techniques, such as various ultrasound modalities, optical coherence tomography, infrared imaging, and imaging analyses with Image J for tumor growth and extension, as well as color doppler, optical coherence angiography, and fluorescein angiography for angiogenesis, were performed on ED18 as alternative monitoring instruments. The tumor samples were excised on ED18 for histological assessment. Results: There were no significant differences between the three tested experimental groups regarding the length and width of the grafts during the development period. A statistically significant increase in volume (p = 0.0007) and weight (p = 0.0216) between ED7 and ED18 was only documented for tumor specimens of group 2. A significant correlation of the results for the cross-sectional area, largest basal diameter, and volume was documented between the different imaging and measurement techniques and the excised grafts. The formation of a vascular star around the tumor and of a vascular ring on the base of the tumor was observed for the majority of the viable developing grafts as a sign of successful engraftment. Conclusion: The establishment of a CAM-PDX uveal melanoma model could elucidate the biological growth patterns and the efficacy of new therapeutic options in vivo. The methodological novelty of this study, investigating different implanting techniques and exploiting advances in real-time imaging with multiple modalities, allows precise, quantitative assessment in the field of tumor experimentation, underlying the feasibility of CAM as an in vivo PDX model.
Efficiency and Safety of CyberKnife Robotic Radiosurgery in the Multimodal Management of Patients with Acromegaly
Authors: Romero-Gameros Carlos Alfonso , González-Virla Baldomero , Vargas-Ortega Guadalupe , Sosa-Eroza Ernesto , Rendón-Macías Mario Enrique , Balcázar-Hernández Lourdes Josefina , Mercado Moises , Velasco-Cortes Novelthys , Rodea-Ávila Carlos Aaron , Flores-Robles Luis , Lorenzana-Hernández José Armando , Vázquez-Rojas José , López-Palma Margarita
Published: February 2023

Objective: To analyze, in a cohort of acromegalic patients, the results of the efficiency and safety of radiosurgery (CyberKnife), as well as the prognostic factors associated with disease remission. Material and methods: Observational, retrospective, longitudinal, and analytical study that included acromegalic patients with persistent biochemical activity after initial medical–surgical treatment, who received treatment with CyberKnife radiosurgery. GH and IGF-1 levels at baseline after one year and at the end of follow-up were evaluated. Results: 57 patients were included, with a median follow-up of four years (IQR, 2–7.2 years). The biochemical remission rate was 45.6%, 33.33% achieved biochemical control, and 12.28% attained biochemical cure at the end of follow-up. A progressive and statistically significant decrease was observed in the comparison of the concentrations of IGF-1, IFG-1 x ULN, and baseline GH at one year and at the end of follow-up. Both cavernous sinus invasion and elevated baseline IGF-1 x ULN concentrations were associated with an increased risk of biochemical non-remission. Conclusion: Radiosurgery (CyberKnife) is a safe and effective technique in the adjuvant treatment of GH-producing tumors. Elevated levels of IGF x ULN before radiosurgery and invasion of the cavernous sinus by the tumor could be predictors of biochemical non-remission of acromegaly.
Correction: Costa et al. Glycerol and Catalysis by Waste/Low-Cost Materials—A Review. Catalysts 2022, 12, 570
Authors: Costa Ana Alice Farias da , de Oliveira Alex de Nazaré , Esposito Roberto , Len Christophe , Luque Rafael , Noronha Renata Coelho Rodrigues , Rocha Filho Geraldo Narciso da , Nascimento Luís Adriano Santos do
Published: February 2023

The authors wish to make the following correction to this paper [...]
RUNX3 Meets the Ubiquitin-Proteasome System in Cancer
Authors: Toska Albano , Modi Nikita , Chen Lin-Feng
Published: February 2023

RUNX3 is a transcription factor with regulatory roles in cell proliferation and development. While largely characterized as a tumor suppressor, RUNX3 can also be oncogenic in certain cancers. Many factors account for the tumor suppressor function of RUNX3, which is reflected by its ability to suppress cancer cell proliferation after expression-restoration, and its inactivation in cancer cells. Ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation represent a major mechanism for the inactivation of RUNX3 and the suppression of cancer cell proliferation. On the one hand, RUNX3 has been shown to facilitate the ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation of oncogenic proteins. On the other hand, RUNX3 can be inactivated through the ubiquitin–proteasome system. This review encapsulates two facets of RUNX3 in cancer: how RUNX3 suppresses cell proliferation by facilitating the ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation of oncogenic proteins, and how RUNX3 is degraded itself through interacting RNA-, protein-, and pathogen-mediated ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation.
Transparent Superhydrophobic Coatings with Mechanical and Chemical Stability Prepared by Modified Polyhedral Oligosilsesquioxanes via UV-Curable Method
Authors: Zhu Weibiao , Xu Yazhou , He Jinxin , Dong Xia
Published: February 2023

Superhydrophobic coating with applicable transmittance was synthesized by simple UV-curable method which was likely suitable for large-scale production. The super-hydrophobicity was derived from the component containing modified polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes which was chosen for low free energy and the potential to form hierarchical structure. The coating adhesion could reach the highest level by strip tape peel test. Compared to the UV-cured commercial coatings, the coating adhesion is enhanced by at least two levels. Super-hydrophobicity was preserved after long duration of water droplet impact, while water contact angle decreased slightly after sand impact due to partial damage of hierarchical structure. The coating can resist chemical corrosion by acid solution (HCl), base solution (NaOH) and salt solution (NaCl). The coating with water repellence function, adequate transmittance, and good mechanical and chemical stability is of great interest for practical outdoor applications.
Introducing Cyanodorina gen. nov. and Cyanodorina ovale sp. nov. (Microcystaceae, Chroococcales), a Novel Coccoid Cyanobacterium Isolated from Caohai Lake in China Based on a Polyphasic Approach
Authors: Chen Wei , Li Shuyin , Xu Yuanzhao , Geng Ruozhen , Song Gaofei , Ma Peiming
Published: February 2023

The Chroococcales is one of the least studied cyanobacterial orders comprising the non-baeocyte-producing coccoids cyanobacteria with stacked and fasciculated thylakoids. During a survey of aquatic biodiversity in Caohai Lake in Guizhou Province, China, a coccoid-like cyanobacterium was isolated. It was characterized using a polyphasic approach, based on morphology, electron microscopy, and molecular phylogenetic analyses. This species’ colonies exhibited morphological similarity to those of Microcystis species but differed in their larger colony sizes and widely oval cells. The 16S rRNA gene sequence of this species had the maximum homology, corresponding to 93.10%, to that of the genus Microcystis. The results of 16S rRNA gene threshold value and 16S rRNA phylogenetic analyses confirmed that the studied species belongs to the family Microcystaceae but is phylogenetically distinct from the other species of Microcystaceae. Furthermore, The D1–D1′, Box–B helix, and V3 helix of the 16S–23S ITS region were also different from those previously described in Microcystaceae taxa. Combining the morphological, ecological, and molecular features of the coccoid-like cyanobacterium, we here propose the establishment of the Cyanodorina gen. nov. and the Cyanodorina ovale sp. nov.
Canopy Composition and Spatial Configuration Influences Beta Diversity in Temperate Regrowth Forests of Southeastern Australia
Authors: Singh Anu , Wagner Benjamin , Kasel Sabine , Baker Patrick J. , Nitschke Craig R.
Published: February 2023

Structural features of the overstorey in managed and unmanaged forests can significantly influence plant community composition. Native Acacia species are common in temperate eucalypt forests in southeastern Australia. In these forests, intense disturbances, such as logging and wildfire, lead to high densities of regenerating trees, shrubs, and herbs. The tree layer is dominated by Acacia and Eucalyptus, that compete intensely for resources in the first decades after stand establishment. The relative abundance and size of Acacia and Eucalyptus varies widely due to stochastic factors such as dispersal, microsite variability, and weather and climatic conditions. This variability may influence the structure and composition of the herbaceous and shrub species. In the temperate forests of southeastern Australia, understorey plant diversity is assumed to be influenced by Acacia species density, rather than Eucalyptus density. To quantify the influence of Acacia and Eucalyptus density on plant community composition, we used remote sensing and machine learning methods to map canopy composition and then compare it to understorey composition. We combined unoccupied aerial vehicle (UAV or drone) imagery, supervised image classifications, and ground survey data of plant composition from post-logging regrowth forests in the Central Highlands of southeastern Australia. We found that aggregation and patch metrics of Eucalyptus and Acacia were strongly associated with understorey plant beta diversity. Increasing aggregation of Acacia and the number of Acacia patches had a significant negative effect on plant beta diversity, while the number of Eucalyptus patches had a positive influence. Our research demonstrates how accessible UAV remote sensing can be used to quantify variability in plant biodiversity in regrowth forests. This can help forest managers map patterns of plant diversity at the stand-scale and beyond to guide management activities across forested landscapes.
Correction: Seip and Zhang (2022). A High-Resolution Lead-Lag Analysis of US GDP, Employment, and Unemployment 1977–2021: Okun’s Law and the Puzzle of Jobless Recovery. Economies 10: 260
Authors: Seip Knut Lehre , Zhang Dan
Published: February 2023

The authors would like to make the following correction to the published paper (Seip and Zhang 2022) [...]