bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DSCNN-LSTMs: A Lightweight and Efficient Model for Epilepsy Recognition
Authors: Huang Zhentao , Ma Yahong , Wang Rongrong , Yuan Baoxi , Jiang Rui , Yang Qin , Li Weisu , Sun Jingbo
Published: December 2022

Epilepsy is the second most common disease of the nervous system. Because of its high disability rate and the long course of the disease, it is a worldwide medical problem and social public health problem. Therefore, the timely detection and treatment of epilepsy are very important. Currently, medical professionals use their own diagnostic experience to identify seizures by visual inspection of the electroencephalogram (EEG). Not only does it require a lot of time and effort, but the process is also very cumbersome. Machine learning-based methods have recently been proposed for epilepsy detection, which can help clinicians make rapid and correct diagnoses. However, these methods often require extracting the features of EEG signals before using the data. In addition, the selection of features often requires domain knowledge, and feature types also have a significant impact on the performance of the classifier. In this paper, a one-dimensional depthwise separable convolutional neural network and long short-term memory networks (1D DSCNN-LSTMs) model is proposed to identify epileptic seizures by autonomously extracting the features of raw EEG. On the UCI dataset, the performance of the proposed 1D DSCNN-LSTMs model is verified by cross-validation and time complexity comparison. Compared with other previous models, the experimental results show that the highest recognition rates of binary and quintuple classification are 99.57% and 81.30%, respectively. It can be concluded that the 1D DSCNN-LSTMs model proposed in this paper is an effective method to identify seizures based on EEG signals.
MRI-Based Personalized Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation to Enhance the Upper Limb Function in Patients with Stroke: Study Protocol for a Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Yoo Yeun Jie , Park Hye Jung , Kim Tae Yeong , Yoon Mi-Jeong , Oh Hyun-Mi , Lee Yoon Jung , Hong Bo Young , Kim Donghyeon , Kim Tae-Woo , Lim Seong Hoon
Published: December 2022

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has been shown to have the potential to improve the motor recovery of the affected upper limbs in patients with stroke, and recently, several optimized tDCS methods have been proposed to magnify its effectiveness. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of personalized tDCS using brain MRI-based electrical field simulation and optimization, to enhance motor recovery of the upper limbs in the patients. This trial is a double-blind, randomized controlled trial in the subacute to chronic rehabilitation phase. Forty-two adult stroke patients with unilateral upper limb involvement will be randomly allocated to three groups: (1) personalized tDCS with MRI-based electrical field simulation and optimized stimulation, (2) conventional tDCS with bihemispheric stimulation of the primary motor cortex, and (3) sham tDCS. All three groups will undergo 10 intervention sessions with 30 min of 2-mA intensity stimulation, during a regular upper limb rehabilitation program over two weeks. The primary outcome measure for the motor recovery of the upper limb impairment is the Fugl–Meyer assessment for the upper extremity score at the end of the intervention, and the secondary measures include changes in the motor evoked potentials, the frequency power and coherence of the electroencephalography, performance in activities of daily living, and adverse events with a 1-month follow-up assessment. The primary outcome will be analyzed on the intention-to-treat principle. There is a paucity of studies regarding the effectiveness of personalized and optimized tDCS that considers individual brain lesions and electrical field characteristics in the real world. No feasibility or pivotal studies have been performed in stroke patients using brain MRI, to determine a lesion-specific tDCS simulation and optimization that considers obstacles in the segmentation and analysis of the affected brain tissue, such as ischemic and hemorrhagic lesions. This trial will contribute to addressing the effectiveness and safety of personalized tDCS, using brain MRI-based electrical field simulation and optimization, to enhance the motor recovery of the upper limbs in patients with stroke.
Wall Crack Multiclass Classification: Expertise-Based Dataset Construction and Learning Algorithms Performance Comparison
Authors: Wibowo Andi Prasetiyo , Adha Augusta , Kurniawan Ibnu F. , Laory Irwanda
Published: December 2022

Wall crack detection is one of the primary tasks in determining the structural integrity of a building for both restorative and preventive attempts. Machine learning techniques, such as deep learning (DL) with computer vision capabilities, have gradually become more prevalent as they can provide expert assessments with an acceptable performance when the crack detection involves a considerable number of structures. Despite such a prospective application, classification on different types of wall cracks is relatively less common, possibly due to the absence of the professional-standard-to-dataset translation. In this work, we utilised a complete pipeline, starting from novel dataset construction, ground truth formulation based on civil engineering standards, and training and testing steps. Our work focused on multi-class classification with regard to the binary classification (i.e., determining only two categories) used in previous studies. We implemented transfer learning based on VGG16 and RestNET50 for feature extraction, combined them with an ANN and kNN for the classifier, and compared their prediction performances. Our results indicate that the developed models can distinguish images that contain wall cracks into three categories of features based on the degree of damage: light, medium, and severe. Furthermore, since greyscale images offer more precise readings and predictions, the use of augmentation in dataset generation is critical. Although ResNet50 is the most stable network in terms of accuracy, it performs better when paired with kNN.
Tertiary Lymphoid Structures: A Potential Biomarker for Anti-Cancer Therapy
Authors: Zou Ji’an , Zhang Yingzhe , Zeng Yue , Peng Yurong , Liu Junqi , Xiao Chaoyue , Wu Fang
Published: December 2022

A tertiary lymphoid structure (TLS) is a special component in the immune microenvironment that is mainly composed of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), including T cells, B cells, DC cells, and high endothelial venules (HEVs). For cancer patients, evaluation of the immune microenvironment has a predictive effect on tumor biological behavior, treatment methods, and prognosis. As a result, TLSs have begun to attract the attention of researchers as a new potential biomarker. However, the composition and mechanisms of TLSs are still unclear, and clinical detection methods are still being explored. Although some meaningful results have been obtained in clinical trials, there is still a long way to go before such methods can be applied in clinical practice. However, we believe that with the continuous progress of basic research and clinical trials, TLS detection and related treatment can benefit more and more patients. In this review, we generalize the definition and composition of TLSs, summarize clinical trials involving TLSs according to treatment methods, and describe possible methods of inducing TLS formation.
A Biomarker Panel Based upon AFP, Fucosylated Kininogen and PEG-Precipitated IgG Is Highly Accurate for the Early Detection Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients with Cirrhosis in Phase II and Phase III Biomarker Evaluation
Authors: Wang Mengjun , Singal Amit G. , Parikh Neehar , Kono Yuko , Marrero Jorge , Mehta Anand
Published: December 2022

We have previously identified alterations in glycosylation on serum proteins from patients with HCC and developed plate-based assays using lectins to detect the change in glycosylation. However, heterophilic antibodies, which increase with non-malignant liver disease, compromised these assays. To address this, we developed a method of polyethylene glycol (PEG) precipitation that removed the contaminating IgG and IgM but allowed for the lectin detection of the relevant glycoprotein. We found that this PEG-precipitated material itself could differentiate between cirrhosis and HCC. In the analysis of three training cohorts and one validation cohort, consisting of 571 patients, PEG-IgG had AUC values that ranged from 0.713 to 0.810. In the validation cohort, which contained samples from patients at a time of 1–6 months prior to HCC detection or 7+ months prior to detection, the AUC of this marker remained consistent (0.813 and 0.846, respectively). When this marker was incorporated into a biomarker algorithm that also consisted of AFP and fucosylated kininogen, the AUROC increased to 0.816–0.883 in the training cohort and was 0.909 in the external validation cohort. Biomarker performance was also examined though the analysis of partial ROC curves, at false positive values less than 10% (90-ROC), ≤20% (80-ROC) or ≤30% (70-ROC), which highlighted the algorithm’s improvement over the individual markers at clinically relevant specificity values.
Protein Phase Separation: New Insights into Carcinogenesis
Authors: Luo Yan , Xiang Shasha , Feng Jianbo
Published: December 2022

Phase separation is now acknowledged as an essential biologic mechanism wherein distinct activated molecules assemble into a different phase from the surrounding constituents of a cell. Condensates formed by phase separation play an essential role in the life activities of various organisms under normal physiological conditions, including the advanced structure and regulation of chromatin, autophagic degradation of incorrectly folded or unneeded proteins, and regulation of the actin cytoskeleton. During malignant transformation, abnormally altered condensate assemblies are often associated with the abnormal activation of oncogenes or inactivation of tumor suppressors, resulting in the promotion of the carcinogenic process. Thus, understanding the role of phase separation in various biological evolutionary processes will provide new ideas for the development of drugs targeting specific condensates, which is expected to be an effective cancer therapy strategy. However, the relationship between phase separation and cancer has not been fully elucidated. In this review, we mainly summarize the main processes and characteristics of phase separation and the main methods for detecting phase separation. In addition, we summarize the cancer proteins and signaling pathways involved in phase separation and discuss their promising future applications in addressing the unmet clinical therapeutic needs of people with cancer. Finally, we explain the means of targeted phase separation and cancer treatment.
In Vitro Setup for Determination of Nanoparticle-Mediated Magnetic Cell and Drug Accumulation in Tumor Spheroids under Flow Conditions
Authors: Behr Jessica , Carnell Lucas R. , Stein Rene , Pfister Felix , Friedrich Bernhard , Huber Christian , Lyer Stefan , Band Julia , Schreiber Eveline , Alexiou Christoph , Janko Christina
Published: December 2022

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) are used in nanomedicine as transporter systems for therapeutic cargos, or to magnetize cells to make them magnetically guidable. In cancer treatment, the site-directed delivery of chemotherapeutics or immune effector cells to the tumor can increase the therapeutic efficacy in the target region, and simultaneously reduce toxic side-effects in the rest of the body. To enable the transfer of new methods, such as the nanoparticle-mediated transport from bench to bedside, suitable experimental setups must be developed. In vivo, the SPIONs or SPION-loaded cells must be applied into the blood stream, to finally reach the tumor: consequently, targeting and treatment efficacy should be analyzed under conditions which are as close to in vivo as possible. Here, we established an in vitro method, including tumor spheroids placed in a chamber system under the influence of a magnetic field, and adapted to a peristaltic pump, to mimic the blood flow. This enabled us to analyze the magnetic capture and antitumor effects of magnetically targeted mitoxantrone and immune cells under dynamic conditions. We showed that the magnetic nanoparticle-mediated accumulation increased the anti-tumor effects, and reduced the unspecific distribution of both mitoxantrone and cells. Especially for nanomedical research, investigation of the site-specific targeting of particles, cells or drugs under circulation is important. We conclude that our in vitro setup improves the screening process of nanomedical candidates for cancer treatment.
A High Percentage of CD16+ Monocytes Correlates with the Extent of Bone Erosion in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Patients: The Impact of Leukemic B Cells in Monocyte Differentiation and Osteoclast Maturation
Authors: Giannoni Paolo , Marini Cecilia , Cutrona Giovanna , Todoerti Katia , Neri Antonino , Ibatici Adalberto , Sambuceti Gianmario , Pigozzi Simona , Mora Marco , Ferrarini Manlio , Fais Franco , de Totero Daniela
Published: December 2022

Significant skeletal alterations are present in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) patients; bone erosion, particularly evident in the long bone shaft, appeared increased in the progressive disease stage. Moreover, the partial colonization of the bone with reactive bone marrow we documented via PET-FDG imaging suggests that neoplastic cell overgrowth contributes to bone derangement. Indeed, cytokines released by leukemic B cells impair osteoblast differentiation and enhance osteoclast formation in vitro. CD16, Fcγ-RIIIa, has been previously indicated as a marker of osteoclast precursors. We demonstrate, here, that the percentage of circulating monocytes, CD16+, is significantly higher in CLL patients than in normal controls and directly correlated with the extent of bone erosion. When we assessed if healthy monocytes, treated with a CLL-conditioned medium, modulated RANK, RANKL and CD16, we observed that all these molecules were up-regulated and CD16 to a greater extent. Altogether, these findings suggest that leukemic cells facilitate osteoclast differentiation. Interestingly, the evidence that monocytes, polarized toward the M2 phenotype, were characterized by high CD16 expression and showed a striking propensity to differentiate toward osteoclasts may provide further explanations for the enhanced levels of bone erosion detected, in agreement with the high number of immunosuppressive-M2 cells present in these patients.
Efficacy, Safety, and Challenges of CAR T-Cells in the Treatment of Solid Tumors
Authors: Chen Qiuqiang , Lu Lingeng , Ma Wenxue
Published: December 2022

Immunotherapy has been the fifth pillar of cancer treatment in the past decade. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy is a newly designed adoptive immunotherapy that is able to target and further eliminate cancer cells by engaging with MHC-independent tumor-antigens. CAR T-cell therapy has exhibited conspicuous clinical efficacy in hematological malignancies, but more than half of patients will relapse. Of note, the efficacy of CAR T-cell therapy has been even more disappointing in solid tumors. These challenges mainly include (1) the failures of CAR T-cells to treat highly heterogeneous solid tumors due to the difficulty in identifying unique tumor antigen targets, (2) the expression of target antigens in non-cancer cells, (3) the inability of CAR T-cells to effectively infiltrate solid tumors, (4) the short lifespan and lack of persistence of CAR T-cells, and (5) cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity. In combination with these characteristics, the ideal CAR T-cell therapy for solid tumors should maintain adequate T-cell response over a long term while sparing healthy tissues. This article reviewed the status, clinical application, efficacy, safety, and challenges of CAR T-cell therapies, as well as the latest progress of CAR T-cell therapies for solid tumors. In addition, the potential strategies to improve the efficacy of CAR T-cells and prevent side effects in solid tumors were also explored.
Risk Assessment of Postoperative Pneumonia in Cancer Patients Using a Common Data Model
Authors: Lee Yong Hoon , Kim Do-Hoon , Kim Jisun , Lee Jaetae
Published: December 2022

The incidence of postoperative pneumonia (POP) in patients with cancer is high, but its incidence following major cancer surgeries is unclear. Therefore, we investigated the incidence and risk factors of POP after surgery in patients with the five most common cancers in Korea using a common data model (CDM). Patients aged >19 years who underwent gastric, colon, liver, lung, or breast cancer surgery between January 2011 and December 2020 were included, excluding patients who underwent chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Pneumonia was defined as a pneumonia diagnosis code in patients hospitalized postoperatively. Gastric, colon, lung, breast, and liver cancers were noted in 4004 (47.4%), 622 (7.4%), 2022 (24%), 958 (11.3%), and 839 (9.9%) of 8445 patients, respectively. The cumulative POP incidence was 3.1% (n = 262), with the highest incidence in lung cancer (n = 91, 4.5%), followed by gastric (n = 133, 3.3%), colon (n = 19, 3.1%), liver (n = 14, 1.7%), and breast (n = 5, 0.5%) cancers. In multivariable analysis, older age, male sex, history of chronic pulmonary disease, mood disorder, and cerebrovascular disease were POP predictors. The cumulative POP incidence in the five cancers using the CDM was approximately 3%. Older age, male sex, chronic pulmonary disease, mood disorder, and cerebrovascular disease were POP risk factors in patients with cancer.
An Optimal Artificial Intelligence System for Real-Time Endoscopic Prediction of Invasion Depth in Early Gastric Cancer
Authors: Kim Jie-Hyun , Oh Sang-Il , Han So-Young , Keum Ji-Soo , Kim Kyung-Nam , Chun Jae-Young , Youn Young-Hoon , Park Hyojin
Published: December 2022

We previously constructed a VGG-16 based artificial intelligence (AI) model (image classifier [IC]) to predict the invasion depth in early gastric cancer (EGC) using endoscopic static images. However, images cannot capture the spatio-temporal information available during real-time endoscopy—the AI trained on static images could not estimate invasion depth accurately and reliably. Thus, we constructed a video classifier [VC] using videos for real-time depth prediction in EGC. We built a VC by attaching sequential layers to the last convolutional layer of IC v2, using video clips. We computed the standard deviation (SD) of output probabilities for a video clip and the sensitivities in the manner of frame units to observe consistency. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of IC v2 for static images were 82.5%, 82.9%, and 82.7%, respectively. However, for video clips, the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of IC v2 were 33.6%, 85.5%, and 56.6%, respectively. The VC performed better analysis of the videos, with a sensitivity of 82.3%, a specificity of 85.8%, and an accuracy of 83.7%. Furthermore, the mean SD was lower for the VC than IC v2 (0.096 vs. 0.289). The AI model developed utilizing videos can predict invasion depth in EGC more precisely and consistently than image-trained models, and is more appropriate for real-world situations.
Resolution of Racemic Aryloxy-Propan-2-yl Acetates via Lipase-Catalyzed Hydrolysis: Preparation of Enantiomerically Pure/Enantioenriched Mexiletine Intermediates and Analogs
Authors: Carvalho Ana Caroline Lustosa de Melo , de Oliveira Bruna Rocha , Lima Gledson Vieira , Negreiro Jonatas Martins , Oliveira Maria Conceição Ferreira , de Lemos Telma Leda Gomes , da Silva Marcos Reinaldo , Fonseca Thiago de Sousa , Bezerra Rayanne Mendes , dos Santos Jose Cleiton Sousa , Gonçalves Luciana Rocha Barros , Rios Nathalia Saraiva , Zanatta Geancarlo , de Mattos Marcos Carlos
Published: December 2022

The lipase kinetic resolution (KR) of aryloxy-propan-2-yl acetates, via hydrolysis, produced enantiomerically pure/enantioenriched mexiletine intermediates and analogs. Racemic acetates rac-1-(2,6-dimethylphenoxy)propan-2-yl acetate (rac-5a), rac-1-(2,4-dimethylphenoxy)propan-2-yl acetate (rac-5b), rac-1-(o-tolyloxy)propan-2-yl acetate (rac-5c) and rac-1-(naphthalen-1-yloxy)propan-2-yl acetate (rac-5d) were used as substrates. A preliminary screening (24 h, phosphate buffer pH 7.0 with 20% acetonitrile as co-solvent, 30 °C and enzyme:substrate ratio of 2:1, m:m) was carried out with twelve lipases using acetate 5a as substrate. Two enzymes stood out in the KR of 5a, the Amano AK lipase from Pseudomonas fluorescens and lipase from Thermomyces lanuginosus (TLL) immobilized on Immobead 150. Under these conditions, both the (R)-1-(2,6-dimethylphenoxy)propan-2-ol [(R)-4a] and the remaining (S)-1-(2,6-dimethylphenoxy)propan-2-yl acetate [(S)-5a] were obtained with enantiomeric excess (ee) > 99%, 50% conversion and enantiomeric ratio (E) > 200. The KR study was expanded to racemic acetates 5b-d, leading to the corresponding chiral remaining acetates with ≥95% ee, and the alcohols 4b-d with ≥98% ee, and conversion values close to 50%. The best conditions for KRs of rac-5b-d involved the use of lipase from P. fluorescens or TLL immobilized on Immobead 150, 24 or 48 h and 30 °C. These intermediates had their absolute configurations determined using 1H NMR spectroscopy (Mosher’s method), showing that the KRs of these acetates obeyed the Kazlauskas’ rule. Molecular docking studies corroborated the experimental results, indicating a preference for the hydrolysis of (R)-5a-d.
Recent Advances in Ternary Metal Oxides Modified by N Atom for Photocatalysis
Authors: Wang Jingwen , Hasegawa Takuya , Asakura Yusuke , Yin Shu
Published: December 2022

Ternary metal oxides (TMOs) with flexible band structures are of significant potential in the field of photocatalysis. The efficient utilization of renewable and green solar energy is of great importance to developing photocatalysts. To date, a wide range of TMOs systems has been developed as photocatalysts for water and air purification, but their practical applications in visible light-assisted chemical reactions are hindered mainly by its poor visible light absorption capacity. Introduction of N atoms into TMOs can narrow the band-gap energy to a lower value, enhance the absorption of visible light and suppress the recombination rate of photogenerated electrons and holes, thus improving the photocatalytic performance. This review summarizes the recent research on N-modified TMOs, including the influence of N doping amounts, N doping sites, and N-induced phase transformation. The introduced N greatly tuned the optical properties, electronic structure, and photocatalytic activity of the TMOs. The optimal N concentration and the influence of N doping sites are investigated. The substitutional N and interstitial N contributed differently to the band gap and electron transport. The introduced N can tune the vacancies in TMOs due to the charge compensation, which is vital for inducing different activity and selectivity. The topochemical ammonolysis process can convert TMOs to oxynitride with visible light absorption. By altering the band structures, these oxynitride materials showed enhanced photocatalytic activity. This review provides an overview of recent advances in N-doped TMOs and oxynitrides derived from TMOs as photocatalysts for environmental applications, as well as some relevant pointers for future burgeoning research development.
Thermally Stable and Highly Efficient N,N,N-Cobalt Olefin Polymerization Catalysts Affixed with N-2,4-Bis(Dibenzosuberyl)-6-Fluorophenyl Groups
Authors: Zada Muhammad , Sage Desalegn Demise , Zhang Qiuyue , Ma Yanping , Solan Gregory A. , Sun Yang , Sun Wen-Hua
Published: December 2022

The cobalt(II) chloride N,N,N-pincer complexes, [2-{(2,4-(C15H13)2-6-FC6H2)N=CMe}-6-(ArN=CMe)C5H3N]CoCl2 (Ar = 2,6-Me2C6H3) (Co1), 2,6-Et2C6H3 (Co2), 2,6-i-Pr2C6H3 (Co3), 2,4,6-Me3C6H2 (Co4), 2,6-Et2-4-MeC6H2 (Co5), and [2,6-{(2,4-(C15H13)2-6-FC6H2)N=CMe}2C5H3N]CoCl2 (Co6), each containing at least one N-2,4-bis(dibenzosuberyl)-6-fluorophenyl group, were synthesized in good yield from their corresponding unsymmetrical (L1–L5) and symmetrical bis(imino)pyridines (L6). The molecular structures of Co1 and Co2 spotlighted their distorted square pyramidal geometries (τ5 value range: 0.23–0.29) and variations in steric hindrance offered by the dissimilar N-aryl groups. On activation with either MAO or MMAO, Co1–Co6 all displayed high activities for ethylene polymerization, with levels falling in the order: Co1 > Co4 > Co5 > Co2 > Co3 > Co6. Indeed, the least sterically hindered 2,6-dimethyl Co1 in combination with MAO exhibited a very high activity of 1.15 × 107 g PE mol−1 (Co) h−1 at the operating temperature of 70 °C, which dropped by only 15% at 80 °C and 43% at 90 °C. Vinyl-terminated polyethylenes of high linearity and narrow dispersity were generated by all catalysts, with the most sterically hindered, Co3 and Co6, producing the highest molecular weight polymers [Mw range: 30.26–33.90 kg mol−1 (Co3) and 42.90–43.92 kg mol−1 (Co6)]. In comparison with structurally related cobalt catalysts, it was evident that the presence of the N-2,4-bis(dibenzosuberyl)-6-fluorophenyl groups had a limited effect on catalytic activity but a marked effect on thermal stability.
Compatibility and Photocatalytic Capacity of the Novel Core@shell Nanospheres in Cementitious Composites
Authors: Xu Jiankun , Yang Zhengxian , Chen Shanghong , Wang Wencheng , Zhang Yong
Published: December 2022

In this paper, a novel core@shell nanosphere (TiO2@CoAl-LDH) based on layered double hydroxide (LDH) combined with a nano-TiO2 semiconductor was synthesized and introduced to cementitious materials via spraying technology and a smearing method. The compatibility with a cementitious matrix and the effects of TiO2@CoAl-LDH on cement hydration, surface microstructure, and the microscopic mechanical properties of mortar were investigated by AFM, microhardness testing, FESEM, and BET analysis. Meanwhile, the effects of TiO2@CoAl-LDH introduction methods on the photocatalytic performance and durability of the photocatalyst were systematically evaluated by methylene blue (MB) removal ratio and wear testing. The results show that TiO2@CoAl-LDH exhibits enhanced compatibility with cementitious matrices and a higher photocatalytic capacity than individual CoAl-LDH and nano-TiO2. The photocatalytic mortar prepared via spraying technology (CM-C) displays a higher photocatalytic capacity than that prepared via the smearing method (CM-S). Among them, the mortar with two layers of photocatalytic coatings (CM-C2) has the highest MB removal ratio, which reached 95.1% within 120 min of UV-visible light irradiation. While on the other hand, the wear test revealed that the smeared mortar has a higher photocatalytic capacity and better photocatalyst durability than the sprayed mortar. This work is expected to contribute to the development of multifunctional sustainable building materials.
Copper–Cerium–Tin Oxide Catalysts for Preferential Oxidation of CO in Hydrogen: Effects of Synthesis Method and Copper Content
Authors: Kaplin Igor Yu. , Lokteva Ekaterina S. , Tikhonov Artem V. , Maslakov Konstantin I. , Isaikina Oksana Ya. , Golubina Elena V.
Published: December 2022

Copper was incorporated into the Ce-Sn and comparative Ce-Zr oxide supports by one-pot precipitation in the presence of CTAB template and by the impregnation of templated Ce-Sn and Ce-Zr oxides. The synthesized Cu-Ce-Sn and Cu-Ce-Zr catalysts were tested in the continuous-flow preferential oxidation of CO in hydrogen excess. The one-pot synthesized tin- and zirconium-doped catalysts demonstrated better CO conversion and CO2 selectivity than their impregnated counterparts. For the tin-modified ternary system that showed the best catalytic performance, the copper content was further optimized. The structure, reducibility, surface chemical state and textural properties of the catalysts were analyzed by SEM-EDX, XRD, H2-TPR, Raman spectroscopy, XPS and TEM. The nonmonotonic changes in the specific surface area, Cu+/Cu2+ ratio and ratio of lattice and non-lattice oxygen with increasing the Cu content are discussed in terms of copper distribution in the catalysts. The influence of the interaction between copper oxide species and the cerium–tin/cerium–zirconium oxide support on the performance of the ternary catalysts was thoroughly analyzed and discussed.
Rh-Catalyzed Environmentally Benign Selective Hydrogenation of a Broad Variety of Functional Groups Using Al-Water as a Hydrogen Source
Authors: Xie Guoshu , Török Béla
Published: December 2022

Supported rhodium catalysts were screened to catalyze the one-step hydrogenation of a broad variety of functional groups. The results show that 5% Rh/Al2O3 and 5% Rh/C performed well in controlling selective hydrogenation under the desired amount of time and temperature. In this regard, partial and full hydrogenation were achieved by controlling reaction time or temperature. In addition to aliphatic C–C, C–N, C–O, and N–O multiple bonds, the applicability of this method was demonstrated by the hydrogenation of C=C double bonds of arenes, which is considered challenging. Importantly, the Al-H2O system producing hydrogen in situ and the high, controllable selectivity make this protocol environmentally benign and highly efficient.
Liposome-Mediated Gene Transfer in Differentiated HepaRG™ Cells: Expression of Liver Specific Functions and Application to the Cytochrome P450 2D6 Expression
Authors: Vlach Manuel , Coppens-Exandier Hugo , Jamin Agnès , Berchel Mathieu , Scaviner Julien , Chesné Christophe , Montier Tristan , Jaffrès Paul-Alain , Corlu Anne , Loyer Pascal
Published: December 2022

The goal of this study was to establish a procedure for gene delivery mediated by cationic liposomes in quiescent differentiated HepaRG™ human hepatoma cells. We first identified several cationic lipids promoting efficient gene transfer with low toxicity in actively dividing HepG2, HuH7, BC2 and progenitor HepaRG™ human hepatoma cells. The lipophosphoramidate Syn1-based nanovector, which allowed the highest transfection efficiencies of progenitor HepaRG™ cells, was next used to transfect differentiated HepaRG™ cells. Lipofection of these cells using Syn1-based liposome was poorly efficient most likely because the differentiated HepaRG™ cells are highly quiescent. Thus, we engineered the differentiated HepaRG™ Mitogenic medium supplement (ADD1001) that triggered robust proliferation of differentiated cells. Importantly, we characterized the phenotypical changes occurring during proliferation of differentiated HepaRG™ cells and demonstrated that mitogenic stimulation induced a partial and transient decrease in the expression levels of some liver specific functions followed by a fast recovery of the full differentiation status upon removal of the mitogens. Taking advantage of the proliferation of HepaRG™ cells, we defined lipofection conditions using Syn1-based liposomes allowing transient expression of the cytochrome P450 2D6, a phase I enzyme poorly expressed in HepaRG cells, which opens new means for drug metabolism studies in HepaRG™ cells.
Exploring the Characteristics of Monkeypox-Related Genes in Pan-Cancer
Authors: Liao Yong , Liu Zhiping , Ye Weile , Huang Zunnan , Wang Jiaojiao
Published: December 2022

Monkeypox, an infectious virus that is a member of the Poxviridae family, has raised great threats to humans. Compared to the known oncoviruses, the relationship between monkeypox and cancer still remains obscure. Hence, in this study, we analyzed the multi-omics data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database by using genomic and transcriptomic approaches to comprehensively assess the monkeypox-related genes (MRGs) in tumor samples from 33 types of cancers. Based on the results, the expression of MRGs was highly correlated with the immune infiltration and could be further utilized to predict survival in cancer patients. Furthermore, it was shown that tumorigenesis and patient survival were frequently associated with the genomic alterations of MRGs. Moreover, pathway analysis showed that MRGs participated in the regulation of apoptosis, cell cycle, Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition (EMT), DNA damage, and hormone androgen receptor (AR), as well as RAS/MAPK and RTK signaling pathways. Besides, we also developed the prognostic features and consensus clustering clusters of MRGs in cancers. Lastly, by mining the cancer drug sensitivity genomics database, we further identified a series of candidate drugs that may target MRGs. Collectively, this study revealed genomic alterations and clinical features of MRGs, which may provide new hints to explore the potential molecular mechanisms between viruses and cancers as well as to provide new clinical guidance of cancer patients who also face the threats during the monkeypox epidemic.
Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation for Systemic Sclerosis—A Review
Authors: Levin Daniel , Osman Mohammed , Durand Caylib , Kim Hyein , Hemmati Iman , Jamani Kareem , Howlett Jonathan , Johannson Kerri , Weatherald Jason , Woo Matthew , Lee Jason , Storek Jan
Published: December 2022

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune, multi-organ, connective tissue disease associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Conventional immunosuppressive therapies demonstrate limited efficacy. Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT) is more efficacious but carries associated risks, including treatment-related mortality. Here, we review HCT as a treatment for SSc, its efficacy and toxicity in comparison to conventional therapies, and the proposed mechanisms of action. Furthermore, we discuss the importance of and recent developments in patient selection. Finally, we highlight the knowledge gaps and future work required to further improve patient outcomes.
Advances in Cellular Reprogramming-Based Approaches for Heart Regenerative Repair
Authors: He Xingyu , Liang Jialiang , Paul Christian , Huang Wei , Dutta Suchandrima , Wang Yigang
Published: December 2022

Continuous loss of cardiomyocytes (CMs) is one of the fundamental characteristics of many heart diseases, which eventually can lead to heart failure. Due to the limited proliferation ability of human adult CMs, treatment efficacy has been limited in terms of fully repairing damaged hearts. It has been shown that cell lineage conversion can be achieved by using cell reprogramming approaches, including human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), providing a promising therapeutic for regenerative heart medicine. Recent studies using advanced cellular reprogramming-based techniques have also contributed some new strategies for regenerative heart repair. In this review, hiPSC-derived cell therapeutic methods are introduced, and the clinical setting challenges (maturation, engraftment, immune response, scalability, and tumorigenicity), with potential solutions, are discussed. Inspired by the iPSC reprogramming, the approaches of direct cell lineage conversion are merging, such as induced cardiomyocyte-like cells (iCMs) and induced cardiac progenitor cells (iCPCs) derived from fibroblasts, without induction of pluripotency. The studies of cellular and molecular pathways also reveal that epigenetic resetting is the essential mechanism of reprogramming and lineage conversion. Therefore, CRISPR techniques that can be repurposed for genomic or epigenetic editing become attractive approaches for cellular reprogramming. In addition, viral and non-viral delivery strategies that are utilized to achieve CM reprogramming will be introduced, and the therapeutic effects of iCMs or iCPCs on myocardial infarction will be compared. After the improvement of reprogramming efficiency by developing new techniques, reprogrammed iCPCs or iCMs will provide an alternative to hiPSC-based approaches for regenerative heart therapies, heart disease modeling, and new drug screening.
Enterotoxin Gene Cluster and selX Are Associated with Atopic Dermatitis Severity—A Cross-Sectional Molecular Study of Staphylococcus aureus Superantigens
Authors: Blicharz Leszek , Żochowski Maciej , Szymanek-Majchrzak Ksenia , Czuwara Joanna , Goldust Mohamad , Skowroński Krzysztof , Młynarczyk Grażyna , Olszewska Małgorzata , Samochocki Zbigniew , Rudnicka Lidia
Published: December 2022

Staphylococcus aureus superantigens (SAgs) have been reported to aggravate atopic dermatitis. However, comprehensive analyses of these molecules in multiple microniches are lacking. The present study involved 50 adult patients with active atopic dermatitis. S. aureus was isolated from the lesional skin, nonlesional skin, and anterior nares. Multiplex-PCR was performed to identify genes encoding (1) selX (core genome); (2) seg, selI, selM, selN, selO, selU (enterotoxin gene cluster, EGC); and (3) sea, seb, sec, sed, see, tstH (classic SAgs encoded on other mobile genetic elements). The results were correlated to clinical parameters of the study group. selx and EGC were the most prevalent in all microniches. The number of SAg-encoding genes correlated between the anterior nares and nonlesional skin, and between the nonlesional and lesional skin. On lesional skin, the total number of SAg genes correlated with disease severity (total and objective SCORAD, intensity, erythema, edema/papulation, lichenification and dryness). Linear regression revealed that AD severity was predicted only by selx and EGC. This study revealed that selX and EGC are associated with atopic dermatitis severity. Anterior nares and nonlesional skin could be reservoirs of SAg-positive S. aureus. Restoring the physiological microbiome could reduce the SAg burden and alleviate syndromes of atopic dermatitis.
CRISPR/Cas Genome Editing Technologies for Plant Improvement against Biotic and Abiotic Stresses: Advances, Limitations, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Wang Yaxin , Zafar Naeem , Ali Qurban , Manghwar Hakim , Wang Guanying , Yu Lu , Ding Xiao , Ding Fang , Hong Ni , Wang Guoping , Jin Shuangxia
Published: December 2022

Crossbreeding, mutation breeding, and traditional transgenic breeding take much time to improve desirable characters/traits. CRISPR/Cas-mediated genome editing (GE) is a game-changing tool that can create variation in desired traits, such as biotic and abiotic resistance, increase quality and yield in less time with easy applications, high efficiency, and low cost in producing the targeted edits for rapid improvement of crop plants. Plant pathogens and the severe environment cause considerable crop losses worldwide. GE approaches have emerged and opened new doors for breeding multiple-resistance crop varieties. Here, we have summarized recent advances in CRISPR/Cas-mediated GE for resistance against biotic and abiotic stresses in a crop molecular breeding program that includes the modification and improvement of genes response to biotic stresses induced by fungus, virus, and bacterial pathogens. We also discussed in depth the application of CRISPR/Cas for abiotic stresses (herbicide, drought, heat, and cold) in plants. In addition, we discussed the limitations and future challenges faced by breeders using GE tools for crop improvement and suggested directions for future improvements in GE for agricultural applications, providing novel ideas to create super cultivars with broad resistance to biotic and abiotic stress.
The Centrosome: Conclusions and Perspectives
Authors: Uzbekov Rustem E. , Avidor-Reiss Tomer
Published: December 2022

The centrosome consists of two centrioles surrounded by pericentriolar material [...]
Structural and Luminescence Properties of (Gd1−xYx)2O3 Powders Doped with Nd3+ Ions for Temperature Measurements
Authors: Aseev Vladimir , Babkina Anastasiia , Evstropiev Sergey , Kuzmenko Natalia , Sevastianova Irina , Prokuratov Denis , Khodasevich Mikhail
Published: December 2022

Rare earth activated powders are widely regarded as promising candidates for optical thermometry due to their unique photoluminescence characteristics. The paper presents the structural and luminescent properties of crystalline powders of gadolinium and yttrium oxides (Gd1−xYx)2O3, doped with Nd3+ ions, synthesized by the liquid polymer-salt method. The addition of polyvinylpyrrolidone increases the homogeneity of the mixture and ensures high adhesion of the resulting powders. Scanning electron microscopy shows that powders are μm-sized aggregates, which consist of particles with several tens of nanometers in size. A smooth shift of the diffraction peaks of the powders occurs when Gd is replaced by Y without additional peaks. The successive decrease in the lattice constant of the powders from 10.816 to 10.607 Å confirms the existence of continuous solid solutions in the system. The Stark sublevels of the 4F3/2 → 4I9/2 fluorescent band are shifted to 4 nm when Gd is replaced by Y since the strength of the local field has a stronger effect on the inner F-shell of Nd ions in the case of Y. For thermometry, we chose the ratio of the fluorescence intensities between the Stark sublevels 4F3/2(2) → 4I9/2(2) and 4F3/2(1) → 4I9/2(2). The best obtained sensitivity is 0.22% °C−1 for Nd-doped GdYO3 powder in the range of 10–70 °C. This value of temperature sensitivity, together with radiation and excitation lying in the biological window, opens the possibility of using Nd3+-doped (Gd1−xYx)2O3 powders for real-time thermal probing of under tissue luminescence with sub-degree resolution.
The (E, Z) Isomerization of C-methoxycarbonyl-N-aryl Chlorohydrazones
Authors: Molteni Giorgio , Cargnoni Fausto , Soave Raffaella , Ponti Alessandro
Published: December 2022

Since chlorohydrazones are planar molecules, it is in principle possible to distinguish between their E and Z stereoisomers. Chlorohydrazones are known to preferentially assume the Z configuration around the C=N double bond, and their (E, Z) isomerization is almost suppressed at room temperature. The lack, or rather the difficulty, of such an isomerization has been conveniently addressed by the in-depth theoretical study of seven C-methoxycarbonyl-N-aryl chlorohydrazones (aryl = phenyl, 4-chlorophenyl, 4-bromophenyl, 4-iodophenyl, 2-chlorophenyl, 2-bromophenyl, and 2-iodophenyl). DFT ωB97M-D4/cc-pVTZ calculations of these C-methoxycarbonyl-N-aryl chlorohydrazones, supported by the XRD determination of the molecular structure, provided a complete picture of the isomerization processes in the studied compounds. The analysis of the energetics, molecular geometry, and electronic structure (the latter in the framework of the Quantum Theory of Atoms In Molecules) showed that the Z isomers are thermodynamically favored because, within the low-energy planar isomers with extensive π conjugation, the electrostatic interactions between the dipoles of the C–O, C–Cl, and N–H bonds overcome the stabilization induced by the N–H ··· O bond present in the E isomers. We confirmed that the (E, Z) isomerization occurs by the umklapp mechanism, in which the –NHAr moiety rotates in the molecular plane towards a linear C=N–N configuration and then proceeds to the other isomer. The (E, Z) isomerization is very slow at room temperature because the umklapp interconversion has high barriers (≈110 kJ/mol) despite the extended π electron delocalization present in the transition state.
Proving Surface Plasmons in Graphene Nanoribbons Organized as 2D Periodic Arrays and Potential Applications in Biosensors
Authors: Tene Talia , Guevara Marco , Svozilík Jiří , Coello-Fiallos Diana , Briceño Jorge , Vacacela Gomez Cristian
Published: December 2022

Surface-plasmon-based biosensors have become excellent platforms for detecting biomolecular interactions. While there are several methods to exciting surface plasmons, the major challenge is improving their sensitivity. In relation to this, graphene-based nanomaterials have been theoretically and experimentally proven to increase the sensitivity of surface plasmons. Notably, graphene nanoribbons display more versatile electronic and optical properties due to their controllable bandgaps in comparison to those of zero-gap graphene. In this work, we use a semi-analytical approach to investigate the plasmonic character of two-dimensional graphene nanoribbon arrays, considering free-standing models, i.e., models in which contact with the supporting substrate does not affect their electronic properties. Our findings provide evidence that the plasmon frequency and plasmon dispersion are highly sensitive to geometrical factors or the experimental setup within the terahertz regime. More importantly, possible applications in the molecular detection of lactose, α-thrombin, chlorpyrifos-methyl, glucose, and malaria are discussed. These predictions can be used in future experiments, which, according to what is reported here, can be correctly fitted to the input parameters of possible biosensors based on graphene nanoribbon arrays.
Reduced Volumetric Bone Mineral Density of the Spine in Adolescent Rett Girls with Scoliosis
Authors: Tsaknakis Konstantinos , Kreuzer Jan H. , Metzger Friederike Luise , Jäckle Katharina , Lüders Katja A. , Braunschweig Lena , Lorenz Heiko M. , Hell Anna K.
Published: December 2022

In advanced Rett syndrome (RTT), limited or complete loss of ambulation, nutritional problems and scoliosis are unfavorable factors for bone mineral density (BMD). Still, there are few data available in this research area. Spinal quantitative computed tomography (QCT) allows an exact measurement of the volumetric BMD (vBMD) in this patient group. Two examiners measured vBMD of thoracic and lumbar vertebrae on asynchronous calibrated CTs that were acquired prior to surgical scoliosis correction (n = 21, age 13.6 ± 2.5 years). The values were compared to age- and sex-matched healthy controls to additionally derive Z-scores (n = 22, age 13.8 ± 2.0 years). The results showed the most significant reduction of vBMD values in non-ambulatory RTT patients, with p < 0.001 and average BMD-Z-score −1.5 ± 0.2. In the subgroup comparison, non-ambulatory patients with valproate treatment had significant lower values (p < 0.001) than ambulatory patients without valproate therapy, with an average BMD-Z-score of −2.3 ± 0.2. Comparison of the Z-scores to critical BMD thresholds of 120 and 80 mg/cm3 showed normal Z-scores in case of the ambulatory RTT subgroup, as opposed to BMD-Z-scores of the non-ambulatory RTT subgroups, which were partially below osteopenia-equivalent values. Furthermore, valproate treatment seems to have a direct effect on vBMD in RTT patients and when combined with loss of ambulation, BMD-Z-scores are reduced to osteoporosis-equivalent levels or even further.