bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Ubiquitin–Proteasome System in Tumor Metabolism
Authors: Wang Jie , Xiang Yuandi , Fan Mengqi , Fang Shizhen , Hua Qingquan
Published: April 2023

Metabolic reprogramming, which is considered a hallmark of cancer, can maintain the homeostasis of the tumor environment and promote the proliferation, survival, and metastasis of cancer cells. For instance, increased glucose uptake and high glucose consumption, known as the “Warburg effect,” play an essential part in tumor metabolic reprogramming. In addition, fatty acids are harnessed to satisfy the increased requirement for the phospholipid components of biological membranes and energy. Moreover, the anabolism/catabolism of amino acids, such as glutamine, cystine, and serine, provides nitrogen donors for biosynthesis processes, development of the tumor inflammatory environment, and signal transduction. The ubiquitin–proteasome system (UPS) has been widely reported to be involved in various cellular biological activities. A potential role of UPS in the metabolic regulation of tumor cells has also been reported, but the specific regulatory mechanism has not been elucidated. Here, we review the role of ubiquitination and deubiquitination modification on major metabolic enzymes and important signaling pathways in tumor metabolism to inspire new strategies for the clinical treatment of cancer.
Methane Production from Biomass by Thermochemical Conversion: A Review
Authors: Wu Yuke , Ye Xinchen , Wang Yutong , Wang Lian
Published: April 2023

Methane, the main component of natural gas, is one of the primary sources of energy extensively employed worldwide. However, the utilization of natural gas is limited by reserves and geographical availability. Thus, a thermochemical method of converting biomass to methane is appealing, especially gasification. Important factors affecting methane production are discussed in the review including operating parameters, catalysts of methanation and gas conditioning effects. Low temperature and high pressure are beneficial to promote methanation reaction. Ni-based catalysts are widely used as methanation catalysts, but suffer from deactivation problems due to carbon deposition, sintering and poisoning. The methods of gas conditioning include using water gas shift reaction and adding hydrogen from electrolysis. In addition, environmental and economic views are discussed. Other thermochemical process including hydrothermal gasification, fast pyrolysis and direct methanation at low temperature are also introduced briefly. Based on the above discussion, potential research directions for optimizing methane production are proposed.
Sodium Silicates Modified Calcium Oxide as a High-Performance Solid Base Catalyst for Biodiesel Production
Authors: Zhang Shunpan , Fu Junying , Xing Shiyou , Li Ming , Liu Xiaochun , Yang Lingmei , Lv Pengmei
Published: April 2023

Under the energy crisis and with greenhouse gases causing an ecological imbalance, biofuel has attracted worldwide attention due to its sustainability and low net-carbon emission. For years, the traditional biodiesel industry has been demanding a high-performance solid base catalyst. Its poor reusability is the bottleneck for a promising calcium-based solid-base catalyst. In this work, we successfully adopted a new silicate-strength strategy to improve the stability while preserving the activity of the catalyst. The newly synthesized catalyst, NCSO, had two main catalytic phases, Na2CaSiO4 and CaO, and showed a 98.2% FAMEs yield in 60 min at 80 °C with a methanol/oil molar ratio of 9:1 and 5 wt.% catalyst loading. After 12 consecutive reuses, a 57.3% FAMEs yield could still be achieved. The effect of the reaction temperature, methanol ratio, catalyst loading, and reaction time on the FAMEs yield was also investigated. With a combined characterization of XRD, XPS, and SEM, etc., we confirmed that Na2CaSiO4 and CaO showed a synergistic effect in catalyzing the transesterification reaction: the addition of the Na2CaSiO4 phase in NCSO could significantly improve the activity of CaO, while the CaO phase, in turn, helps to stabilize the Na2CaSiO4 phase. This silicate-strength strategy provides a new route to synthesize stable and highly active solid base catalysts.
Improving Schwann Cell Differentiation from Human Adipose Stem Cells with Metabolic Glycoengineering
Authors: Du Jian , Wang Zihui , Liu Xiao , Hu Cecilia , Yarema Kevin J. , Jia Xiaofeng
Published: April 2023

Schwann cells (SCs) are myelinating cells that promote peripheral nerve regeneration. When nerve lesions form, SCs are destroyed, ultimately hindering nerve repair. The difficulty in treating nerve repair is exacerbated due to SC’s limited and slow expansion capacity. Therapeutic use of adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) is emerging in combating peripheral nerve injury due to these cells’ SC differentiation capability and can be harvested easily in large numbers. Despite ASC’s therapeutic potential, their transdifferentiation period typically takes more than two weeks. In this study, we demonstrate that metabolic glycoengineering (MGE) technology enhances ASC differentiation into SCs. Specifically, the sugar analog Ac5ManNTProp (TProp), which modulates cell surface sialylation, significantly improved ASC differentiation with upregulated SC protein S100β and p75NGFR expression and elevated the neurotrophic factors nerve growth factor beta (NGFβ) and glial cell-line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF). TProp treatment remarkably reduced the SC transdifferentiation period from about two weeks to two days in vitro, which has the potential to improve neuronal regeneration and facilitate future use of ASCs in regenerative medicine.
Experimental Validation and Prediction of Super-Enhancers: Advances and Challenges
Authors: Kravchuk Ekaterina V. , Ashniev German A. , Gladkova Marina G. , Orlov Alexey V. , Vasileva Anastasiia V. , Boldyreva Anna V. , Burenin Alexandr G. , Skirda Artemiy M. , Nikitin Petr I. , Orlova Natalia N.
Published: April 2023

Super-enhancers (SEs) are cis-regulatory elements of the human genome that have been widely discussed since the discovery and origin of the term. Super-enhancers have been shown to be strongly associated with the expression of genes crucial for cell differentiation, cell stability maintenance, and tumorigenesis. Our goal was to systematize research studies dedicated to the investigation of structure and functions of super-enhancers as well as to define further perspectives of the field in various applications, such as drug development and clinical use. We overviewed the fundamental studies which provided experimental data on various pathologies and their associations with particular super-enhancers. The analysis of mainstream approaches for SE search and prediction allowed us to accumulate existing data and propose directions for further algorithmic improvements of SEs’ reliability levels and efficiency. Thus, here we provide the description of the most robust algorithms such as ROSE, imPROSE, and DEEPSEN and suggest their further use for various research and development tasks. The most promising research direction, which is based on topic and number of published studies, are cancer-associated super-enhancers and prospective SE-targeted therapy strategies, most of which are discussed in this review.
The Therapeutic Potential of Non-Invasive and Invasive Cerebellar Stimulation Techniques in Hereditary Ataxias
Authors: Benussi Alberto , Batsikadze Giorgi , França Carina , Cury Rubens G. , Maas Roderick P. P. W. M.
Published: April 2023

The degenerative ataxias comprise a heterogeneous group of inherited and acquired disorders that are characterized by a progressive cerebellar syndrome, frequently in combination with one or more extracerebellar signs. Specific disease-modifying interventions are currently not available for many of these rare conditions, which underscores the necessity of finding effective symptomatic therapies. During the past five to ten years, an increasing number of randomized controlled trials have been conducted examining the potential of different non-invasive brain stimulation techniques to induce symptomatic improvement. In addition, a few smaller studies have explored deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the dentate nucleus as an invasive means to directly modulate cerebellar output, thereby aiming to alleviate ataxia severity. In this paper, we comprehensively review the clinical and neurophysiological effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), and dentate nucleus DBS in patients with hereditary ataxias, as well as the presumed underlying mechanisms at the cellular and network level and perspectives for future research.
Inducible MLL-AF9 Expression Drives an AML Program during Human Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Hematopoietic Differentiation
Authors: Heuts Branco M. H. , Arza-Apalategi Saioa , Alkema Sinne G. , Tijchon Esther , Jussen Laura , Bergevoet Saskia M. , van der Reijden Bert A. , Martens Joost H. A.
Published: April 2023

A t(9;11)(p22;q23) translocation produces the MLL-AF9 fusion protein, which is found in up to 25% of de novo AML cases in children. Despite major advances, obtaining a comprehensive understanding of context-dependent MLL-AF9-mediated gene programs during early hematopoiesis is challenging. Here, we generated a human inducible pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) model with a doxycycline dose-dependent MLL-AF9 expression. We exploited MLL-AF9 expression as an oncogenic hit to uncover epigenetic and transcriptomic effects on iPSC-derived hematopoietic development and the transformation into (pre-)leukemic states. In doing so, we observed a disruption in early myelomonocytic development. Accordingly, we identified gene profiles that were consistent with primary MLL-AF9 AML and uncovered high-confidence MLL-AF9-associated core genes that are faithfully represented in primary MLL-AF9 AML, including known and presently unknown factors. Using single-cell RNA-sequencing, we identified an increase of CD34 expressing early hematopoietic progenitor-like cell states as well as granulocyte-monocyte progenitor-like cells upon MLL-AF9 activation. Our system allows for careful chemically controlled and stepwise in vitro hiPSC-derived differentiation under serum-free and feeder-free conditions. For a disease that currently lacks effective precision medicine, our system provides a novel entry-point into exploring potential novel targets for personalized therapeutic strategies.
Perivascular Adipose Tissue and Vascular Smooth Muscle Tone: Friends or Foes?
Authors: Ahmed Amer , Bibi Aasia , Valoti Massimo , Fusi Fabio
Published: April 2023

Perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) is a specialized type of adipose tissue that surrounds most mammalian blood vessels. PVAT is a metabolically active, endocrine organ capable of regulating blood vessel tone, endothelium function, vascular smooth muscle cell growth and proliferation, and contributing critically to cardiovascular disease onset and progression. In the context of vascular tone regulation, under physiological conditions, PVAT exerts a potent anticontractile effect by releasing a plethora of vasoactive substances, including NO, H2S, H2O2, prostacyclin, palmitic acid methyl ester, angiotensin 1-7, adiponectin, leptin, and omentin. However, under certain pathophysiological conditions, PVAT exerts pro-contractile effects by decreasing the production of anticontractile and increasing that of pro-contractile factors, including superoxide anion, angiotensin II, catecholamines, prostaglandins, chemerin, resistin, and visfatin. The present review discusses the regulatory effect of PVAT on vascular tone and the factors involved. In this scenario, dissecting the precise role of PVAT is a prerequisite to the development of PVAT-targeted therapies.
Study on High and Low Temperature Performance of Mineral Powder Modified Rubber Asphalt Mortar
Authors: Liu Weichao , Zhang Ce , Li Lingyun , Wang Lianfang , Wang Lipeng , Pu Changyu , Yang Guangqing
Published: April 2023

With the increase of coal mining in China, a large amount of waste coal gangue is produced. How to reuse waste coal gangue is an important research direction. The research results showed that the improvement of base asphalt mortar by coal gangue powder could improve the performance of matrix asphalt, however, search of rubber asphalt mortar modified by coal gangue powder is rarely reported. High and low-temperature performance is the critical performance of asphalt mortar. So the limestone powder modified base asphalt mortar (LPMBAM), limestone powder modified rubber asphalt mortar (LPMRAM), and coal gangue powder modified rubber asphalt mortar (CGPMRAM) are prepared, the high and low-temperature performance of asphalt mortar are analyzed by cone penetration tests and bending beam rheological tests (BBR). The results show that the cone penetration of asphalt mortar decreases with the increase of the filler-asphalt ratio and the decrease of the temperature. The shear strength and the stiffness modulus increase with the rise in the filler-asphalt ratio and the decrease in temperature. At the same filler-asphalt ratio and temperature, the order of cone penetration is CGPMRAM < LPMRAM < LPMBAM, and the order of shear strength is CGPMRAM > LPMRAM > LPMBAM, so the high-temperature performance of CGPMRAM is better than that of LPMRAM, much better than LPMBAM, the order of stiffness modulus is LPMRAM < CGPMRAM < LPMBAM so the low-temperature performance of LPMRAM and CGPMRAM is better than that of LPMBAM. By the double linear model, the optimum filler-asphalt ratio is determined to be 0.44~0.46 for LPMRAM and 0.42~0.43 for CGPMRAM. Microscopic tests show that the surface of coal gangue powder is rougher than that of limestone powder. The content of active oxides such as SiO2 and Al2O3 in coal gangue is about 7.8 times that of limestone powder. These physical and chemical properties make coal gangue powder able to adsorb rubber asphalt better and improve the high-temperature performance of CGPMRAM while slightly worsening the low-temperature performance of CGPMRAM but still better than LPMBAM.
Quantification of Cyclo-di-BADGE and Identification of Several BADGE Derivatives in Canned Food Samples
Authors: Bustos Juana , Lestido-Cardama Antía , Santillana Mª Isabel , Sendón Raquel , Paseiro Losada Perfecto , Rodríguez Bernaldo de Quirós Ana
Published: April 2023

Most cans intended to come into contact with food require the application of an internal coating made from synthetic polymers. The most widely used type of coating are epoxy resins based on bisphenol A diglycidyl ether (BADGE). It has been found that some components like cyclo-di-BADGE (CdB) and other BADGE derivatives can migrate into food. In this study, the polymeric coating of forty-eight cans was assessed using an infrared spectrometer with attenuated total reflectance. The food samples were extracted, and a targeted analysis was carried out to quantify CdB using liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection (HPLC-FLD). The first estimation of the exposure of the adult population was estimated by combining the concentration of CdB in the samples and the Spanish consumption data. In addition, a non-targeted screening by LC-MS was performed in the food sample extracts for the identification of other BADGE derivatives. Twenty samples were positive for the presence of CdB reaching concentrations of 2623 µg/kg. However, the tolerable daily intake of 1.5 µg/kg bw/day recommended for chemical compounds with high toxicological risk was not exceeded. A total of 18 epoxy oligomers could be tentatively identified in the food extracts being BADGE.H2O.BuEtOH the derivative with the highest incidence.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation of the Incident Energy Effect on the Properties of TiN Films
Authors: Li Jiao , Lin Jun , Ma Qingyuan , Luan Hanxiao , Zhu Lihua , Bai Ruqing , Dong Guiwei , Wang Diangang , Guan Yanjin , Zhang Xiaocui
Published: April 2023

In this work, to investigate the physical vapor deposition (PVD)-deposited TiN coating on the TiN(001) substrate, the process was simulated using the molecular dynamics (MD) method with the 2NN-MEAM (nearest-neighbor modified embedded atom method) potential. The results revealed that the growth mode of TiN film is determined by incident energy. When the incident energy is low, the deposited atoms have weak mobility after momentum transfer with the substrate and cannot fill the vacancy in the TiN film, and thus the TiN film eventually grows in an island shape. When increasing the incident energy, the vibration of atoms on the deposited surface is intensified, and some atoms on the film surface jump. Therefore, the non-thermal diffusion occurs, resulting in defect reduction on the TiN film and forming a lamellar growth with a more continuous and complete film. The growing incident energy continuously reduces the surface roughness of the TiN film.
Influence of Active Packaging Covered with Coatings Containing Mixtures of Glycyrrhiza L. and Scutellaria baicalensis Extracts on the Microbial Purity and Texture of Sliced Chicken Sausages
Authors: Ordon Magdalena , Burdajewicz Weronika , Pitucha Joanna , Tarnowiecka-Kuca Alicja , Mizielińska Małgorzata
Published: April 2023

Sliced chicken sausages were packed into polyethylene (PE) bags (control samples) and PE bags were covered with active coatings. The sausage slices were separated into two categories: non-coated (control samples) spacers and spacers covered with the antimicrobial coating. The chicken sausage slices were stored at 5 °C and examined after 72 h and 144 h storage times. Results obtained in this work demonstrated that the springiness of the chicken sausage slices decreased after 72 h of storage for all of the analysed packaging bags/films. Different results were obtained after 144 h of storage. In contrast to the samples stored in uncoated bags, the springiness of sausage slices stored in the active packaging decreased. Textural parameters with regards to chewiness, gumminess and cohesiveness were found to be greater after 72 h of storage for samples stored in the uncoated bags than for the sausage stored in active packaging materials. Contradictory results were observed after 144 h of storage. It was found that water loss from the sliced chicken sausage in active bags was lower than in uncoated PE bags. Microbial analysis showed that the packaging material covered with a coating containing a mixture of Scutellaria baicalensis* and Glycyrrhiza L. extracts in the ratio of 1:2 was found to be more effective against mesophilic bacterial cells than a coating containing the mixture of these extracts in the ratio of 2*:1 after 72 h. The effect of active coatings on the number of bacterial cells was negligible after 144 h of storage.
Therapeutic Values of Exosomes in Cosmetics, Skin Care, Tissue Regeneration, and Dermatological Diseases
Authors: Thakur Abhimanyu , Shah Disheet , Rai Deepika , Parra Diana Carolina , Pathikonda Spoorthy , Kurilova Svetlana , Cili Alma
Published: April 2023

Exosomes are small extracellular nanovesicles that are released by cells, and their potential has been explored for use in cosmetics, skin care, tissue regeneration, and dermatological diseases. The therapeutic value of exosomes lies in their ability to modulate the microenvironment of cells, regulate gene expression, and induce cell differentiation, which can have a positive impact on skin health. In terms of cosmetics, exosomes have been used to reduce wrinkles, improve skin texture and hydration, and enhance skin elasticity, as well as to reduce inflammation and damage caused by UV radiation. Furthermore, exosomes have been used to promote tissue regeneration in skin wounds and to treat dermatological diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, systemic sclerosis, pigment regulation, vitiligo, and hair growth. In this review, the therapeutic value of exosomes in the field of cosmetics, skin care, tissue regeneration, and dermatological diseases, has been elaborated. The existing literature demonstrated that with further research, exosomes may become a viable therapeutic option for many skin conditions.
A Mediation Model of Self-Efficacy and Depression between Burnout and Alcohol Consumption among Health Workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Domínguez-Espinosa Alejandra del Carmen , Laborda Sánchez Fátima , Polo Velázquez Alma Mireya , Polanco Hernández Graciela
Published: April 2023

To verify the role played by burnout in the prediction of alcohol consumption, considering the integration of the theory of job demands-resources (JD-R) and sociocognitive theory (SCT), we developed an analytical model in which self-efficacy and depression act as mediators of this relationship. A cross-sectional online survey was taken by 3856 workers enrolled in various public agencies of the Mexican Health Ministry during the COVID-19 pandemic in Mexico. The results indicate that of the three dimensions of burnout, only depersonalization predicts alcohol consumption; however, self-efficacy regulates the effect of emotional exhaustion and achievement dissatisfaction on alcohol consumption. Similarly, the three components of burnout have indirect effects through depression, suggesting that depression and self-efficacy mediate the relationship between burnout and alcohol consumption. Burnout alone cannot explain alcohol consumption, but when depression is present, burnout increases the predisposition to consume alcohol; when self-efficacy is present, the probability of alcohol consumption decreases.
Angular Dependence of Guest–Host Liquid Crystal Devices with High Pretilt Angle Using Mixture of Vertical and Horizontal Alignment Materials
Authors: Ito Masahiro , Fukuda Eriko , Akimoto Mitsuhiro , Hoketsu Hikaru , Nakazono Yukitaka , Tohriyama Haruki , Takatoh Kohki
Published: April 2023

To date, devices exhibiting incidence-angle-dependent transmittance have been fabricated by imparting an angle to a bulk liquid crystal (LC) by aligning the LC in the vicinity of one substrate horizontally (with respect to the substrate) while aligning the LC in the vicinity of another substrate vertically. Another approach has been to control LC angles near substrates by blending or layering horizontal and vertical alignment films. In this study, we control LC angles near substrates by controlling the pretilt angles of blended alignment films; for specific angles, we use dichroic dyes to characterize the incidence angle dependence of these LC devices. Using a guest/host LC device with a pretilt angle near 45°, we successfully construct an LC element with a transmittance peak near a polar angle of 45°.
Developing the Fast Ionic Transport in the Semiconductor Ionic Heterostructure Composed of La0.8Sr0.2Co0.8Fe0.2-Gd0.1Ce0.9O2 for the Electrolyte Application in Ceramic Fuel Cells
Authors: Zhao Dan , Yan Rong , Mushtaq Naveed , Wu Jiaen , Yousaf Shah M. A. K. , Li Henghui , Lu Yuzheng , Wang Peng
Published: April 2023

The challenging research topic for developing low-temperature ceramic fuel cells (LT-CFCs) is to design electrolytes with sufficient ionic conductivity either via doping or composite semiconductors with ionic conductors. Following this challenging topic, we have developed and synthesized a novel semiconductor ionic heterostructure La0.8Sr0.2Co0.8Fe0.2O3-Gd0.1Ce0.9O2 (LSCF-GDC) with different compositions and deployed it as an electrolyte to realize the functionality of the fuel cell. The developed LSCF-GDC electrolyte with mixed conduction of ions and protons possesses high ionic conductivity with only 0.06 Ohm·cm2 of ohmic area-specific resistance for the electrolyte component. The fuel cell using 3LSCF-7GDC as the electrolyte exhibits the best fuel cell performance of 1060 mW·cm−2 and an open circuit voltage (OCV) of 1.11 V at a low operating temperature of 550 °C among individual GDC, LSCF, and different heterostructures of LSCF and GDC. The attained performance and ionic conductivity are specially accredited to constructing heterostructures and massively deficient structures at the interface of the LSCF and GDC. The advanced semiconductor ionic heterostructure of LSCF-GDC provides new insight into designing new electrolytes with high ionic conductivity for LT-CFC applications.
N-Polar Indium Nitride Quantum Dashes and Quantum Wire-like Structures: MOCVD Growth and Characterization
Authors: Muthuraj Vineeta R. , Liu Wenjian , Collins Henry , Li Weiyi , Hamwey Robert , DenBaars Steven P. , Mishra Umesh K. , Keller Stacia
Published: April 2023

The electrical properties of InN give it potential for applications in III-nitride electronic devices, and the use of lower-dimensional epitaxial structures could mitigate issues with the high lattice mismatch of InN to GaN (10%). N-polar MOCVD growth of InN was performed to explore the growth parameter space of the horizontal one-dimensional InN quantum wire-like structures on miscut substrates. The InN growth temperature, InN thickness, and NH3 flow during growth were varied to determine optimal quantum wire segment growth conditions. Quantum wire segment formation was observed through AFM images for N-polar InN samples with a low growth temperature of 540 °C and 1–2 nm of InN. Below 1 nm of InN, quantum dashes formed, and 2-D layers were formed above 2 nm of InN. One-dimensional anisotropy of the electrical conduction of N-polar InN wire-like samples was observed through TLM measurements. The sheet resistances of wire-like samples varied from 10–26 kΩ/□ in the longitudinal direction of the wire segments. The high sheet resistances were attributed to the close proximity of the treading dislocations at the InN/GaN interface and might be lowered by reducing the lattice mismatch of InN wire-like structures with the substrate using high lattice constant base layers such as relaxed InGaN.
Strain-Induced Band Gap Variation in InGaN/GaN Short Period Superlattices
Authors: Chatzopoulou Polyxeni , Vasileiadis Isaak G. , Komninou Philomela , Pontikis Vassilis , Karakostas Theodoros , Dimitrakopulos George P.
Published: April 2023

The use of strained substrates may overcome indium incorporation limits without inducing plastic relaxation in InGaN quantum wells, and this is particularly important for short-period InGaN/GaN superlattices. By incorporating elastic strain into these heterostructures, their optoelectronic behavior is modified. Our study employed density functional theory calculations to investigate the variation in the band-gap energy of short-period InGaN/GaN superlattices that comprise pseudomorphic quantum wells with a thickness of just one monolayer. Heterostructures with equibiaxially strained GaN barriers were compared with respective ones with relaxed barriers. The findings reveal a reduction of the band gap for lower indium contents, which is attributed to the influence of the highly strained nitrogen sublattice. However, above mid-range indium compositions, the situation is reversed, and the band gap increases with the indium content. This phenomenon is attributed to the reduction of the compressive strain in the quantum wells caused by the tensile strain of the barriers. Our study also considered local indium clustering induced by phase separation as another possible modifier of the band gap. However, unlike the substrate-controlled strain, this was not found to exert a significant influence on the band gap. Overall, this study provides important insights into the behavior of the band-gap energy of strained superlattices toward optimizing the performance of optoelectronic devices based on InGaN/GaN heterostructures.
An Attempt to Design Thermosalient Crystals by Co-Crystallization: The Twisted Angle between Aromatic Rings
Authors: Hu Xingchen , Xiao Yuntian , Qi Luguang , Bai Yunhe , Sun Ying , Ye Yang , Xie Chuang
Published: April 2023

Thermosalient (TS) crystals have gained considerable attention due to their potential applications in various fields, including in actuators, sensors, energy harvesting, and artificial muscles. Herein, co-crystallization was employed to construct TS crystals by forming a twisted angle between aromatic rings. Two multicomponent trimethoprim (TMP) TS cocrystals, TMP-25HBA and TMP-OA, were obtained. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and variable-temperature powder X-ray diffraction (VT-PXRD) revealed that TMP-OA undergoes a solid-to-solid phase transition, while TMP-25HBA does not exhibit any phase transition. To the best of our knowledge, TMP-25HBA is the first multicomponent TS crystal without phase transition. The TS effect of both crystals is a result of the unit cell’s anisotropic expansion.
Effect of Phosphorous Content on the Microstructure and Stress Rupture Properties of 15Cr–15Ni Titanium-Modified Austenitic Stainless Steel
Authors: Qiao Yufei , Liang Tian , Chen Sihan , Ren Yuanyuan , Liu Chunming , Qi Yue , Ma Yingche , Liu Kui
Published: April 2023

The microstructure of solution-annealed and aged tensile properties and the stress rupture properties of 15Cr–15Ni titanium-modified austenitic stainless steel with different phosphorus contents were investigated using OM, SEM and TEM. The results showed that two phosphide morphologies were observed after long-term isothermal aging at 850 °C for 1000 h. One was the needle-like M2P distributed within the grain. The other was the blocky M3P distributed at the grain boundaries and twins. The tensile properties of the alloy were unaffected by the phosphorus content, but the stress rupture properties were significantly impacted. With the increase in the phosphorus content from 70 ppm to 250 ppm, the stress rupture life increased from 148 to 269.7 h. Since the strengthening effect of phosphides within the grain or at the grain boundary has been shown to improve the stress rupture properties of alloys, many nanosized granular precipitates, such as the sigma phase, carbides and phosphides, have been observed at the grain boundary, capable of alleviating the stress concentration and limit the crack propagation between two phases, improving the strength of the grain boundary. Intragranular needle-like phosphides can hinder dislocation movements effectively, which improves the intragranular strength of alloys.
Microwave-Assisted Synthesis of Room Temperature Long Persistent Luminescent Materials and Their Imaging Applications
Authors: Shen Yong , Xia Yunfei , Li Ping , Zhang Shuo , Li Linlin , Hu Die , Shi Dongfang , Song Kai
Published: April 2023

In this study, we utilized a simple and efficient microwave heating method with polyethyleneimine (PEI) and phosphate as raw materials to synthesize room temperature persistent luminescence (RTPL) materials that emit phosphorescent light for up to 10 s. Our investigation revealed that the optimal synthesis conditions were a microwave radiation power of 560 W and a heating time of 5 min. The synthesized RTPL materials had an average particle size of 2 nm and exhibited excellent RTPL performance, with optimal excitation and emission wavelengths of 360 nm and 544 nm, respectively. Additionally, these materials displayed good water solubility. We conducted mapping experiments and in situ phosphorescent imaging of plants to showcase the potential applications of RTPL materials in the fields of biological imaging and anti-counterfeiting. Overall, our findings demonstrate the promising potential of these RTPL materials as versatile tools for various practical applications.
The Goal of Achieving High-Quality Surgical First-Line Therapy in Patients with Penile Cancer Is Important; However, Some Collective Efforts Are Still Required in Order to Reach It. Comment on Brassetti et al. Combined Reporting of Surgical Quality and Cancer Control after Surgical Treatment for Penile Tumors with Inguinal Lymph Node Dissection: The Tetrafecta Achievement. Curr. Oncol. 2023, 30, 1882–1892
Authors: May Matthias , Lebentrau Steffen , Ayres Ben , Albersen Maarten , Protzel Chris , Chahoud Jad , Brouwer Oscar R. , Pettaway Curtis A. , Pagliaro Lance C. , Necchi Andrea , Watkin Nick , Hakenberg Oliver W. , Spiess Philippe E.
Published: April 2023

We read with great interest the manuscript by Brassetti et al. recently published in your journal and hope it will encourage discussion and debate around the optimization of the surgical management of patients with penile cancer (PECa) [...]
The Effect of Contemporary Brachytherapy Practices on Prognosis in Women with Locally Advanced Cervical Cancer
Authors: Laan Janna J. , van Lonkhuijzen Luc R. C. W. , Stokking Jaap A. , Barten Danique L. J. , Hinnen Karel A. , Pieters Bradley R. , Stalpers Lukas J. A. , Westerveld Henrike
Published: April 2023

(1) Background: Over the past two decades use of new imaging modalities and the adaptation of applicators have allowed for advances in volumetric (3D) imaging-based brachytherapy practices for patients with locally advanced cervical cancer. The aim of this study was to compare the oncological outcome and toxicity for three consecutively introduced brachytherapy practices in a large single-center cohort; (2) Methods: Patients treated for cervical cancer with primary radiotherapy and curative intent were consecutively included in this retrospective, single-center cohort study from 2006 to 2019. This cohort was divided into three groups (CT, MRI, and MRI+needles) based on the timing of the introduction of a novel brachytherapy practice; 3D brachytherapy planning using CT- and MRI-guided adaptive brachytherapy and the use of parametrial interstitial needles, respectively. Actuarial estimates were compared between groups. Multivariable Cox regression analyses were performed to correct for other risk factors. Crude rates of severe (≥grade 3) late toxicity were reported; (3) Results: A total of 397 patients were included in this cohort. At a median follow-up of 40 months (interquartile range (IQR) 22–62), actuarial 3-year local control, pelvic control, disease-free survival, and overall survival for the entire cohort were 91% (95% (Confidence Interval (CI)) 88–94), 88% (95% CI 84–91), 69% (95% CI 64–74), and 75% (95% CI 70–79), respectively). Local control, disease-free survival, and overall survival were significantly improved in the MRI+needles group compared to the CT group (p = 0.040, p = 0.004, and p < 0.001, respectively). Independent risk factors for overall survival were treatment in either the CT or MRI group (vs. MRI+needles), older age at diagnosis, adeno (squamous) carcinoma, FIGO stage III/IV, and lymph node metastases. The crude rate of severe late toxicity was 27% in the CT, 26% in the MRI, and 20% in the MRI+needles group; (4) Conclusions: Prognosis in women with locally advanced cervical cancer treated with state-of-the-art MRI-guided adaptive brachytherapy combined with parametrial interstitial needles compares favorably to patients treated with more traditional CT only based brachytherapy.
Clinicopathological Characteristics, Treatment Patterns, and Outcomes in Patients with Laryngeal Cancer
Authors: Đokanović Dejan , Gajanin Radoslav , Gojković Zdenka , Marošević Goran , Sladojević Igor , Gajanin Vesna , Jović-Đokanović Olja , Amidžić Ljiljana
Published: April 2023

Background: Various factors can affect the survival of patients with laryngeal cancer (LC). In this retrospective study, we assessed clinicopathological features, their prognostic value, and treatment modalities for patients with confirmed squamous cell LC. Methods: We collected patient data on demographics, clinicopathological characteristics, treatment patterns, and outcomes. The primary endpoints were overall survival (OS), disease-specific survival (DSS), disease-free survival (DFS), and locoregional control (LRC). We assessed survival using the Kaplan–Meier method and Cox regression model analyses of potential prognostic parameters. Results: After a median follow-up of 76 months, 28 (33.3%) patients had a recurrence. The median OS was 78 months, with an event recorded in 50% of patients. The DSS median was not reached (NR) with a survival rate of 72.6%, the DFS survival rate was 66.7% with median NR, and the LRC survival rate was 72.6% with median NR. After conducting a multivariate analysis of significant variables, we found that only recurrence and lymphatic invasion had an independent effect on OS and recurrence in DSS, while subsite impacted DFS and LRC. Conclusions: Survival trends were consistent with other studies, except for OS. Recurrence, lymphatic invasion, and subsite location were significant factors that impacted patient survival.
Single-Port Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy: Where Do We Stand?
Authors: Franco Antonio , Pellegrino Antony A. , De Nunzio Cosimo , Salkowski Morgan , Jackson Jamal C. , Zukowski Lucas B. , Checcucci Enrico , Vourganti Srinivas , Chow Alexander K. , Porpiglia Francesco , Kaouk Jihad , Crivellaro Simone , Autorino Riccardo
Published: April 2023

In 2018, the da Vinci Single Port (SP) robotic system was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for urologic procedures. Available studies for the application of SP to prostate cancer surgery are limited. The aim of our study is to summarize the current evidence on the techniques and outcomes of SP robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (SP-RARLP) procedures. A narrative review of the literature was performed in January 2023. Preliminary results suggest that SP-RALP is safe and feasible, and it can offer comparable outcomes to the standard multiport RALP. Extraperitoneal and transvesical SP-RALP appear to be the two most promising approaches, as they offer decreased invasiveness, potentially shorter length of stay, and better pain control. Long-term, high-quality data are missing and further validation with prospective studies across different sites is required.
The Incidence and Prevalence of Primary Central Nervous System (CNS) Tumours in Canada (2010–2017), and the Survival of Patients Diagnosed with CNS Tumours (2008–2017)
Authors: Walker Emily V. , Zhou Yiling , Wu Yifan , Liu Jiaqi , Climans Seth A. , Davis Faith G. , Yuan Yan
Published: April 2023

Primary central nervous system (CNS) tumours are heterogeneous, with different treatment pathways and prognoses depending on their histological and molecular classification. Due to their anatomical location, all CNS tumours, regardless of malignancy, can be debilitating. We used vital statistics linked to Canadian Cancer Registry data to estimate the age-standardized incidence rates (ASIR), Kaplan–Meier survival rates (SR), and limited-duration prevalence proportions (PP) of 25 histology-specific CNS tumour groups that were classified based on site and histology. During 2010–2017, 45,115 patients were diagnosed with 47,085 primary CNS tumours, of which 19.0% were unclassified. The average annual ASIR was 21.48/100,000 person-years and did not vary by sex. The ASIR increased with age, particularly for meningioma, unclassified tumours, and glioblastoma. The eight-year PP was 102.1/100,000 persons (index date 1 January 2018). The most common histology was meningioma (ASIR: 5.19; PP: 31.6). The overall five-year SR among 51,310 patients diagnosed during 2008–2017 was 57.2% (95% CI: 56.8–57.7%). SRs varied by tumour behaviour, histology, and patient age, with the lowest SR among glioblastoma patients (5-year SRs ranged from 1.3–25.7%). For non-malignant tumours, the 5-year SRs ranged from 37.4–100%. We provide the most up-to-date histology-specific surveillance estimates for primary CNS tumours in Canada.
A Systematic Review Assessing the Impact of Vitamin D Levels on Adult Patients with Lymphoid Malignancies
Authors: Potre Cristina , Borsi Ema , Potre Ovidiu , Ionita Ioana , Samfireag Miruna , Costachescu Dan , Secosan Cristina , Lazar Sandra , Ristescu Anca Irina
Published: April 2023

Vitamin D deficiency has been correlated with various conditions, including the risk of developing lymphoid malignancies. This systematic review aimed to assess the association between vitamin D levels at diagnosis of lymphoid malignancies, patient outcomes, and survival. A systematic review was conducted, encompassing 15 studies published until January 2023, involving 4503 patients, examining the relationship between vitamin D and lymphoid cancers. The median age of the patients was 56.5 years, with a median follow-up duration of approximately 36 months across studies. The overall median vitamin D level at initial measurement was 20.4 ng/mL, while a <20 ng/mL threshold was used to define vitamin D insufficiency. The results demonstrated significant associations between vitamin D levels and patient outcomes in several lymphoid malignancies, with a pooled risk in disease progression of 1.93 and a pooled hazard ratio of 2.06 for overall survival in patients with 25-(OH)D levels below the normal threshold of 20 ng/mL. Among findings, it was demonstrated that supplemental vitamin D improves the chemosensitivity of tumors by reducing the rate of tumor growth compared with vitamin D or chemotherapy alone. Vitamin D had a protective effect for patients with DLBCL under R-CHOP treatment, while vitamin D insufficiency was associated with the impairment of rituximab treatment and showed worse clinical outcomes in chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) recipients. Although one study found no association between vitamin D deficiency and the cause of death, most associated vitamin D insufficiency with early clinical failure and lower survival probability. In conclusion, his systematic review highlights the importance of vitamin D levels in the prognosis and survival of patients with lymphoid malignancies. Further research is needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms and explore the potential benefits of vitamin D supplementation in managing these cancers.
Evaluation of Cardiac Function in Young Mdx Mice Using MRI with Feature Tracking and Self-Gated Magnetic Resonance Cine Imaging
Authors: Ueda Junpei , Saito Shigeyoshi
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to evaluate cardiac function in a young mouse model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (mdx) using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with feature tracking and self-gated magnetic resonance cine imaging. Cardiac function was evaluated in mdx and control mice (C57BL/6JJmsSlc mice) at 8 and 12 weeks of age. Preclinical 7-T MRI was used to capture short-axis, longitudinal two-chamber view and longitudinal four-chamber view cine images of mdx and control mice. Strain values were measured and evaluated from cine images acquired using the feature tracking method. The left ventricular ejection fraction was significantly less (p < 0.01 each) in the mdx group at both 8 (control, 56.6 ± 2.3% mdx, 47.2 ± 7.4%) and 12 weeks (control, 53.9 ± 3.3% mdx, 44.1 ± 2.7%). In the strain analysis, all strain value peaks were significantly less in mdx mice, except for the longitudinal strain of the four-chamber view at both 8 and 12 weeks of age. Strain analysis with feature tracking and self-gated magnetic resonance cine imaging is useful for assessing cardiac function in young mdx mice.
Analytical Performance of a Highly Sensitive System to Detect Gene Variants Using Next-Generation Sequencing for Lung Cancer Companion Diagnostics
Authors: Kato Kikuya , Okami Jiro , Nakamura Harumi , Honma Keiichiro , Sato Yoshiharu , Nakamura Seiji , Kukita Yoji , Nakatsuka Shin-ichi , Higashiyama Masahiko
Published: April 2023

The recent increase in the number of molecular targeted agents for lung cancer has led to the demand for the simultaneous testing of multiple genes. Although gene panels using next-generation sequencing (NGS) are ideal, conventional panels require a high tumor content, and biopsy samples often do not meet this requirement. We developed a new NGS panel, called compact panel, characterized by high sensitivity, with detection limits for mutations of 0.14%, 0.20%, 0.48%, 0.24%, and 0.20% for EGFR exon 19 deletion, L858R, T790M, BRAF V600E, and KRAS G12C, respectively. Mutation detection also had a high quantitative ability, with correlation coefficients ranging from 0.966 to 0.992. The threshold for fusion detection was 1%. The panel exhibited good concordance with the approved tests. The identity rates were as follows: EGFR positive, 100% (95% confidence interval, 95.5–100); EGFR negative, 90.9 (82.2–96.3); BRAF positive, 100 (59.0–100); BRAF negative, 100 (94.9–100); KRAS G12C positive, 100 (92.7–100); KRAS G12C negative, 100 (93.0–100); ALK positive, 96.7 (83.8–99.9); ALK negative, 98.4 (97.2–99.2); ROS1 positive, 100 (66.4–100); ROS1 negative, 99.0 (94.6–100); MET positive, 98.0 (89.0–99.9); MET negative 100 (92.8–100); RET positive, 93.8 (69.8–100); RET negative, 100 (94.9–100). The analytical performance showed that the panel could handle various types of biopsy samples obtained by routine clinical practice without requiring strict pathological monitoring, as in the case of conventional NGS panels.
Undersampled Diffusion-Weighted 129Xe MRI Morphometry of Airspace Enlargement: Feasibility in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Perron Samuel , McCormack David G. , Parraga Grace , Ouriadov Alexei
Published: April 2023

Multi-b diffusion-weighted hyperpolarized gas MRI measures pulmonary airspace enlargement using apparent diffusion coefficients (ADC) and mean linear intercepts (Lm). Rapid single-breath acquisitions may facilitate clinical translation, and, hence, we aimed to develop single-breath three-dimensional multi-b diffusion-weighted 129Xe MRI using k-space undersampling. We evaluated multi-b (0, 12, 20, 30 s/cm2) diffusion-weighted 129Xe ADC/morphometry estimates using a fully sampled and retrospectively undersampled k-space with two acceleration-factors (AF = 2 and 3) in never-smokers and ex-smokers with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or alpha-one anti-trypsin deficiency (AATD). For the three sampling cases, mean ADC/Lm values were not significantly different (all p > 0.5); ADC/Lm values were significantly different for the COPD subgroup (0.08 cm2s−1/580 µm, AF = 3; all p < 0.001) as compared to never-smokers (0.05 cm2s−1/300 µm, AF = 3). For never-smokers, mean differences of 7%/7% and 10%/7% were observed between fully sampled and retrospectively undersampled (AF = 2/AF = 3) ADC and Lm values, respectively. For the COPD subgroup, mean differences of 3%/4% and 11%/10% were observed between fully sampled and retrospectively undersampled (AF = 2/AF = 3) ADC and Lm, respectively. There was no relationship between acceleration factor with ADC or Lm (p = 0.9); voxel-wise ADC/Lm measured using AF = 2 and AF = 3 were significantly and strongly related to fully-sampled values (all p < 0.0001). Multi-b diffusion-weighted 129Xe MRI is feasible using two different acceleration methods to measure pulmonary airspace enlargement using Lm and ADC in COPD participants and never-smokers.
Neurofibromatosis Symptom-Lacking B-Cell Lineage Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia with Only an NF1 Gene Pathogenic Variant
Authors: Kim Zehwan , Lee Jong Ho
Published: April 2023

Next-generation sequencing technology has improved molecular genetic analysis, and many molecular genetic studies have been utilized for diagnostic classification, risk stratification, and prognosis prediction of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Inactivation of neurofibromin or Nf1, a protein derived from the NF1 gene, causes Ras pathway regulation failure, which is related to leukemogenesis. Pathogenic variants of the NF1 gene in B-cell lineage ALL are uncommon, and in this study, we reported a pathogenic variant that is not registered in any public database. The patient diagnosed with B-cell lineage ALL had no clinical symptoms of neurofibromatosis. Studies on the biology, diagnosis, and treatment of this uncommon disease, as well as other related hematologic neoplasms, such as acute myeloid leukemia and juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia, were reviewed. Biological studies included epidemiological differences among age intervals and pathways for leukemia, such as the Ras pathway. Diagnostic studies included cytogenetic, FISH, and molecular tests for leukemia-related genes and ALL classification, such as Ph-like ALL or BCR-ABL1-like ALL. Treatment studies included pathway inhibitors and chimeric antigen cell receptor T-cells. Resistance mechanisms related to leukemia drugs were also investigated. We believe that these literature reviews will enhance medical care for the uncommon diagnosis of B-cell lineage ALL.