bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding Inequalities in the Uptake of Supportive Care to Improve Practices in the Cancer Care Continuum
Authors: Gourret Baumgart Jade , Kane Hélène , Pelletier Sylvie , André Karine , Barbe Catherine , Lecomte Thierry , Sam Yacine , Messai Nizar , Rusch Emmanuel , Denis Frédéric
Published: December 2022

(1) Background: While inequalities in the prevalence of cancer, access to care, and survival have been well documented, less research has focused on inequalities in the uptake of supportive oncology care. Given its contribution to improving the quality of life of people affected by cancer, access to such care is a major public health issue. The present study focuses on the access and uptake of those supportive oncology care services. (2) Methods: This study is based on qualitative research methodology, using a thematic analysis tree on NVivo© analysis software. First, an exploratory survey was conducted with users of oncology services, and professionals from these services and supportive oncology care. Then, individual interviews were conducted in June 2022 among people who are currently being treated or have been treated for cancer. (3) Results: The experiences of the 33 respondents revealed that significant variations in the uptake of supportive oncology care are underpinned by identifiable disparities in their healthcare pathways: in their assimilation of information, difficulties in accessing oncology care, personal reluctance and motivations, perceived needs and benefits, and use of other medicines. (4) Conclusion: This study aims to gain some insight into disparities in the uptake of supportive care in the Centre-Val de Loire region (France). Thus, it provides a better understanding of the complex ways in which these inequalities in supportive oncology care uptake are constructed.
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) in Young Adults, Age < 50, Is Associated with Late Stage at Presentation and a Very Poor Prognosis in Patients That Do Not Have a Targeted Therapy Option: A Real-World Study
Authors: Hughes Daniel Johnathan , Kapiris Matthaios , Podvez Nevajda Andreja , McGrath Harriet , Stavraka Chara , Ahmad Shahreen , Taylor Benjamin , Cook Gary J. R. , Ghosh Sharmistha , Josephs Debra , Pintus Elias , Gennatas Spyridon , Bille Andrea , Ryanna Kimuli , Santis George , Montes Ana , Van Hemelrijck Mieke , Karapanagiotou Eleni , Smith Daniel , Spicer James , Georgiou Alexandros
Published: December 2022

(1) Background: Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in young patients is uncommon. Real-world evidence on the outcomes of these patients is limited. (2) Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of young NSCLC patients, age < 50 years at diagnosis, who were treated between 2011–2020 in South-East-London cancer centres. Clinicopathological characteristics, treatment and outcomes were analysed. (3) Results: Of 248 NSCLC patients, median age was 46 years, 50% (n = 125) female, 58% (n = 145) white, 18% (n = 45) black and 4% (n = 10) Asian ethnicity. Amongst patients with a documented smoking history, 30% (n = 64) were never-smokers. Most patients had adenocarcinoma (77%, n = 191) and presented with metastatic disease (67%, n = 166). Only 31% (n = 76) had treatment with curative intent. In patients who presented or developed metastatic non-squamous NSCLC (n = 179), EGFR mutation status was known in 88% (n = 157) and mutation present in 19% (n = 34), ALK was known in 66% (n = 118) with a translocation in 10% (n = 18), ROS1 status was known in 57% (n = 102) with a translocation in 4% (n = 8), and KRAS status was known in 66% (n = 119) with a mutation in 12% (n = 22). Overall, 76% (n = 152) patients with metastatic NSCLC received first-line systemic anti-cancer therapy. Median overall survival in metastatic NSCLC was 9.0 months (95% CI 6.5–11.6 months), with superior median overall survival in those with a targeted therapy option (28.7 months) compared to those without (6.6 months; p < 0.001). (4) Conclusion: Young patients contribute a significant proportion of those presenting with lung cancer. They present with advanced stage at diagnosis and have a poor prognosis. Identification of a targeted therapy option is associated with improved survival. However, most patients do not have a known genomic driver, which is in part due to limited testing, particularly in the early years of this study period. These findings highlight the particular importance of rapid-turnaround comprehensive genomic profiling in this age group and the need to identify strategies to facilitate earlier diagnosis in young NSCLC patients.
Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes Inhibit Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cell Stemness and Metastasis via an ALKBH5-Dependent Mechanism
Authors: Hu Yun , Liu Hanyuan , Xiao Xiudi , Yu Qiao , Deng Rong , Hua Lixin , Wang Jinhua , Wang Xinwei
Published: December 2022

Background: Abnormal N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification caused by m6A regulators is a common characteristic in various tumors. However, little is known about the role of m6A regulator AlkB homolog 5 (ALKBH5) in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). In this study, we analyzed the influence of ALKBH5 on the stemness of TNBC and the molecular mechanism using bioinformatics analysis and in vivo animal experiments. Methods: RNA expression data and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data were downloaded from the TCGA and GEO databases. Following intersection analysis, key genes involved in the TNBC cell stemness were determined, which was followed by functional enrichment analysis, PPI and survival analysis. Exosomes were extracted from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSC-Exos) where ALKBH5 inhibition assay was conducted to verify their function in the biological characteristics of TNBC cells. Results: Bioinformatics analysis revealed 45 key genes of ALKBH5 regulating TNBC cell stemness. In addition, UBE2C was predicted as a key downstream gene and p53 was predicted as a downstream signaling of ALKBH5. In vivo data confirmed that ALKBH5 upregulated UBE2C expression by regulating the m6A modification of UBE2C and reduced p53 expression, thus promoting the stemness, growth and metastasis of TNBC cells. BMSC-Exos suppressed the tumor stemness, growth and metastasis of TNBC cells and ALKBH5 shRNA-loaded BMSC-Exos showed a more significant suppressive role. Conclusion: Taken together, our findings indicated that ALKBH5 shRNA-loaded BMSC-Exos reduced TNBC cell stemness, growth and metastasis and define a promising strategy to treat TNBC.
Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gemelli Maria , Cortinovis Diego Luigi , Baggi Alice , di Mauro Pierluigi , Calza Stefano , Berruti Alfredo , Grisanti Salvatore , Rota Matteo
Published: December 2022

Many clinical trials have investigated the role of ICIs in PM, with contrasting results. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials testing single-agent anti-Programmed Death -1 (PD-1)/Programmed Death-Ligand 1 (PD-L1), anti-Cytotoxic T-Lymphocyte Antigen 4 (CTLA-4) or combined treatment in PM patients, analyzing response and survival rate as well as safety data. We selected 17 studies including 2328 patients. Both OS and PFS rates were significantly higher with combined ICI treatments than with single agent anti-PD-1/PD-L1 (p < 0.001 and p = 0.006, respectively) or anti CTLA-4 (p < 0.001) treatments. ORR and DCR for all ICI treatments were 20% (95% CI 13–27%) and 56% (95% CI 45–67%), respectively, and they did not significantly differ between combined and single agent treatments (p = 0.088 and p = 0.058, respectively). The 12-month OS and 6-month PFS rates did not differ significantly (p = 0.0545 and p = 0.1464, respectively) among pre-treated or untreated patients. Combined ICI treatments had a significantly higher rate of Adverse Events (AEs) (p = 0.01). PD-L1-positive patients had a higher probability of response and survival. In conclusion, combined ICI treatments have higher efficacy than single agents but are limited by higher toxicity. Efficacy was independent of treatment line, so a customized sequential strategy should still be speculated. PD-L1 expression could influence response to ICIs; however, reliable biomarkers are warranted.
Design of a Honey Badger Optimization Algorithm with a Deep Transfer Learning-Based Osteosarcoma Classification Model
Authors: Vaiyapuri Thavavel , Jothi Akshya , Narayanasamy Kanagaraj , Kamatchi Kartheeban , Kadry Seifedine , Kim Jungeun
Published: December 2022

Osteosarcoma is one of the aggressive bone tumors with numerous histologic patterns. Histopathological inspection is a crucial criterion in the medical diagnosis of Osteosarcoma. Due to the advancement of computing power and hardware technology, pathological image analysis system based on artificial intelligence (AI) were more commonly used. But classifying many intricate pathology images by hand will be challenging for pathologists. The lack of labeling data makes the system difficult to build and costly. This article designs a Honey Badger Optimization with Deep Learning based Automated Osteosarcoma Classification (HBODL-AOC) model. The HBODL-AOC technique’s goal is to identify osteosarcoma’s existence using medical images. In the presented HBODL-AOC technique, image preprocessing is initially performed by contrast enhancement technique. For feature extraction, the HBODL-AOC technique employs a deep convolutional neural network-based Mobile networks (MobileNet) model with an Adam optimizer for hyperparameter tuning. Finally, the adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) approach is implemented for the HBO (Honey Badger Optimization) algorithm can tune osteosarcoma classification and the membership function (MF). To demonstrate the enhanced classification performance of the HBODL-AOC approach, a sequence of simulations was performed. The extensive simulation analysis portrayed the improved performance of the HBODL-AOC technique over existing DL models.
tRNA-like Transcripts from the NEAT1-MALAT1 Genomic Region Critically Influence Human Innate Immunity and Macrophage Functions
Authors: Gast Martina , Nageswaran Vanasa , Kuss Andreas W. , Tzvetkova Ana , Wang Xiaomin , Mochmann Liliana H. , Rad Pegah Ramezani , Weiss Stefan , Simm Stefan , Zeller Tanja , Voelzke Henry , Hoffmann Wolfgang , Völker Uwe , Felix Stefan B. , Dörr Marcus , Beling Antje , Skurk Carsten , Leistner David-Manuel , Rauch Bernhard H. , Hirose Tetsuro , Heidecker Bettina , Klingel Karin , Nakagawa Shinichi , Poller Wolfram C. , Swirski Filip K. , Haghikia Arash , Poller Wolfgang
Published: December 2022

The evolutionary conserved NEAT1-MALAT1 gene cluster generates large noncoding transcripts remaining nuclear, while tRNA-like transcripts (mascRNA, menRNA) enzymatically generated from these precursors translocate to the cytosol. Whereas functions have been assigned to the nuclear transcripts, data on biological functions of the small cytosolic transcripts are sparse. We previously found NEAT1−/− and MALAT1−/− mice to display massive atherosclerosis and vascular inflammation. Here, employing selective targeted disruption of menRNA or mascRNA, we investigate the tRNA-like molecules as critical components of innate immunity. CRISPR-generated human ΔmascRNA and ΔmenRNA monocytes/macrophages display defective innate immune sensing, loss of cytokine control, imbalance of growth/angiogenic factor expression impacting upon angiogenesis, and altered cell–cell interaction systems. Antiviral response, foam cell formation/oxLDL uptake, and M1/M2 polarization are defective in ΔmascRNA/ΔmenRNA macrophages, defining first biological functions of menRNA and describing new functions of mascRNA. menRNA and mascRNA represent novel components of innate immunity arising from the noncoding genome. They appear as prototypes of a new class of noncoding RNAs distinct from others (miRNAs, siRNAs) by biosynthetic pathway and intracellular kinetics. Their NEAT1-MALAT1 region of origin appears as archetype of a functionally highly integrated RNA processing system.
Harnessing the Potential of Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-Cell Therapy for the Treatment of T-Cell Malignancies: A Dare or Double Dare?
Authors: Assi Rita , Salman Huda
Published: December 2022

Historical standard of care treatments of T-cell malignancies generally entailed the use of cytotoxic and depleting approaches. These strategies are, however, poorly validated and record dismal long-term outcomes. More recently, the introduction and approval of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy has revolutionized the therapy of B-cell malignancies. Translating this success to the T-cell compartment has so far proven hazardous, entangled by risks of fratricide, T-cell aplasia, and product contamination by malignant cells. Several strategies have been utilized to overcome these challenges. These include the targeting of a selective cognate antigen exclusive to T-cells or a subset of T-cells, disruption of target antigen expression on CAR-T constructs, use of safety switches, non-viral transduction, and the introduction of allogeneic compounds and gene editing technologies. We herein overview these historical challenges and revisit the opportunities provided as potential solutions. An in-depth understanding of the tumor microenvironment is required to optimally harness the potential of the immune system to treat T-cell malignancies.
Regulation of Normal and Neoplastic Proliferation and Metabolism by the Extended Myc Network
Authors: Prochownik Edward V.
Published: December 2022

The Myc Network, comprising a small assemblage of bHLH-ZIP transcription factors, regulates many hundreds to thousands of genes involved in proliferation, energy metabolism, translation and other activities. A structurally and functionally related set of factors known as the Mlx Network also supervises some of these same functions via the regulation of a more limited but overlapping transcriptional repertoire. Target gene co-regulation by these two Networks is the result of their sharing of three members that suppress target gene expression as well as by the ability of both Network’s members to cross-bind one another’s consensus DNA sites. The two Networks also differ in that the Mlx Network’s control over transcription is positively regulated by several glycolytic pathway intermediates and other metabolites. These distinctive properties, functions and tissue expression patterns potentially allow for sensitive control of gene regulation in ways that are differentially responsive to environmental and metabolic cues while allowing for them to be both rapid and of limited duration. This review explores how such control might occur. It further discusses how the actual functional dependencies of the Myc and Mlx Networks rely upon cellular context and how they may differ between normal and neoplastic cells. Finally, consideration is given to how future studies may permit a more refined understanding of the functional interrelationships between the two Networks.
Efficient and Safe Editing of Porcine Endogenous Retrovirus Genomes by Multiple-Site Base-Editing Editor
Authors: Zheng Shuwen , Zhong Haiwen , Zhou Xiaoqing , Chen Min , Li Wansheng , Zi Yin , Chi Yue , Wang Jinling , Zheng Wei , Zou Qingjian , Lai Liangxue , Tang Chengcheng
Published: December 2022

Gene-modified miniature pigs serve as alternative tissue and organ donors for xenotransplantation to alleviate the shortage of human allogenic organs. However, the high copy number of porcine endogenous retrovirus (PERV) genomes integrates with the porcine genome, which has a potential risk of cross-species transmission and hinders the clinical practice of xenotransplantation. Recently, CRISPR/Cas9 has been used to inactivate PERVs. However, Cas9 also triggers severe DNA damage at multiple integrated PERV sites in the porcine genome, which induces senescence and apoptosis of porcine cells. In this study, the cytosine base editor (CBE), an efficient and safe editor that does not cause DNA double strand breaks (DSBs), was used for PERV editing to reduce cytotoxic effects. Seven sgRNAs were set to target gag and pol loci of PERVs to induce premature stop codons. We found that approximately 10% of cell clones were completely inactivated for PERVs in pig ST cells, and the plasmid that was used for editing the PERVs did not integrate into host genome and influence the karyotype of the modified cells. Our studies offer a powerful and safe strategy for further generating PERV-knockout pigs using base editors.
Bioinformatic Analysis Revealed the Essential Regulatory Genes and Pathways of Early and Advanced Atherosclerotic Plaque in Humans
Authors: He Luling , Palos-Jasso Andrea , Yi Yao , Qin Manman , Qiu Liang , Yang Xiaofeng , Zhang Yifeng , Yu Jun
Published: December 2022

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a lipid-induced, chronic inflammatory, autoimmune disease affecting multiple arteries. Although much effort has been put into AS research in the past decades, it is still the leading cause of death worldwide. The complex genetic network regulation underlying the pathogenesis of AS still needs further investigation to provide effective targeted therapy for AS. We performed a bioinformatic microarray data analysis at different atherosclerotic plaque stages from the Gene Expression Omnibus database with accession numbers GSE43292 and GSE28829. Using gene set enrichment analysis, we further confirmed the immune-related pathways that play an important role in the development of AS. We are reporting, for the first time, that the metabolism of the three branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs; leucine, isoleucine, and valine) and short-chain fatty acids (SCFA; propanoate, and butanoate) are involved in the progression of AS using microarray data of atherosclerotic plaque tissue. Immune and muscle system-related pathways were further confirmed as highly regulated pathways during the development of AS using gene expression pattern analysis. Furthermore, we also identified four modules mainly involved in histone modification, immune-related processes, macroautophagy, and B cell activation with modular differential connectivity in the dataset of GSE43292, and three modules related to immune-related processes, B cell activation, and nuclear division in the dataset of GSE28829 also display modular differential connectivity based on the weighted gene co-expression network analysis. Finally, we identified eight key genes related to the pathways of immune and muscle system function as potential therapeutic biomarkers to distinguish patients with early or advanced stages in AS, and two of the eight genes were validated using the gene expression dataset from gene-deficient mice. The results of the current study will improve our understanding of the molecular mechanisms in the progression of AS. The key genes and pathways identified could be potential biomarkers or new drug targets for AS management.
Lipid Polarization during Cytokinesis
Authors: Kunduri Govind , Acharya Usha , Acharya Jairaj K.
Published: December 2022

The plasma membrane of eukaryotic cells is composed of a large number of lipid species that are laterally segregated into functional domains as well as asymmetrically distributed between the outer and inner leaflets. Additionally, the spatial distribution and organization of these lipids dramatically change in response to various cellular states, such as cell division, differentiation, and apoptosis. Division of one cell into two daughter cells is one of the most fundamental requirements for the sustenance of growth in all living organisms. The successful completion of cytokinesis, the final stage of cell division, is critically dependent on the spatial distribution and organization of specific lipids. In this review, we discuss the properties of various lipid species associated with cytokinesis and the mechanisms involved in their polarization, including forward trafficking, endocytic recycling, local synthesis, and cortical flow models. The differences in lipid species requirements and distribution in mitotic vs. male meiotic cells will be discussed. We will concentrate on sphingolipids and phosphatidylinositols because their transbilayer organization and movement may be linked via the cytoskeleton and thus critically regulate various steps of cytokinesis.
Single-Cell RNA Sequencing of the Testis of Ciona intestinalis Reveals the Dynamic Transcriptional Profile of Spermatogenesis in Protochordates
Authors: Li Yanan , Liu Xiang , Zhang Xianghui , Wang Hongyan , Chen Jianyang , Wei Jiankai , Li Yubang , Chen Hongxi , Wang Qian , Liu Kaiqiang , Liu Yuyan , Shao Changwei
Published: December 2022

Spermatogenesis is a complex and continuous process of germ-cell differentiation. This complex process is regulated by many factors, of which gene regulation in spermatogenic cells plays a decisive role. Spermatogenesis has been widely studied in vertebrates, but little is known about spermatogenesis in protochordates. Here, for the first time, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) on 6832 germ cells from the testis of adult Ciona intestinalis. We identified six germ cell populations and revealed dynamic gene expression as well as transcriptional regulation during spermatogenesis. In particular, we identified four spermatocyte subtypes and key genes involved in meiosis in C. intestinalis. There were remarkable similarities and differences in gene expression during spermatogenesis between C. intestinalis and two other vertebrates (Chinese tongue sole and human). We identified many spermatogenic-cell-specific genes with functions that need to be verified. These findings will help to further improve research on spermatogenesis in chordates.
SGAEMDA: Predicting miRNA-Disease Associations Based on Stacked Graph Autoencoder
Authors: Wang Shudong , Lin Boyang , Zhang Yuanyuan , Qiao Sibo , Wang Fuyu , Wu Wenhao , Ren Chuanru
Published: December 2022

MicroRNA (miRNA)-disease association (MDA) prediction is critical for disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Traditional MDA wet experiments, on the other hand, are inefficient and costly.Therefore, we proposed a multi-layer collaborative unsupervised training base model called SGAEMDA (Stacked Graph Autoencoder-Based Prediction of Potential miRNA-Disease Associations). First, from the original miRNA and disease data, we defined two types of initial features: similarity features and association features. Second, stacked graph autoencoder is then used to learn unsupervised low-dimensional representations of meaningful higher-order similarity features, and we concatenate the association features with the learned low-dimensional representations to obtain the final miRNA-disease pair features. Finally, we used a multilayer perceptron (MLP) to predict scores for unknown miRNA-disease associations. SGAEMDA achieved a mean area under the ROC curve of 0.9585 and 0.9516 in 5-fold and 10-fold cross-validation, which is significantly higher than the other baseline methods. Furthermore, case studies have shown that SGAEMDA can accurately predict candidate miRNAs for brain, breast, colon, and kidney neoplasms.
Self-Compassion Correlates of Anxiety and Depression Symptoms in Youth: A Comparison of Two Self-Compassion Measures
Authors: Muris Peter , Bongers Kris , Schenning Claudia , Meesters Cor , Otgaar Henry
Published: December 2022

Background and purpose: Self-compassion is considered as a protective psychological construct that would shield against the development of emotional problems. The aim of the present study was to compare the ‘protective nature’ of two measures of self-compassion: the Self-Compassion Scale for Youth (SCS-Y) and the Sussex-Oxford Compassion for the Self Scale (SOCS-S). Methods: Eighty-seven adolescents aged 12 to 18 years completed both self-compassion measures as well as scales of anxiety and depression symptoms. Results: SCS-Y and SOCS-S scores were positively correlated, and for both measures it was generally found that higher levels of self-compassion were associated with lower levels of emotional symptoms. However, the uncompassionate self-responding scales of the SCS-Y correlated positively with anxiety and depression symptoms and hence can better be seen as indices of vulnerability. Regression analyses suggested that a positive attitude toward oneself, as measured by the self-kindness scale of the SCS or its SOCS-S equivalent ‘feeling for the person suffering’ is particularly relevant as a buffer against emotional problems. Conclusion: The protective nature of self-compassion can be established by both measures. Caution is advised with the use of the uncompassionate self-responding scales included in the SCS-Y as they appear to measure vulnerability rather than protection.
Effect of Model Structure and Calibration Algorithm on Discharge Simulation in the Acısu Basin, Turkey
Authors: Alp Harun , Demirel Mehmet Cüneyd , Aşıkoğlu Ömer Levend
Published: December 2022

In this study, the Acısu Basin—viz., the headwater of the Gediz Basin—in Turkey, was modelled using three types of hydrological models and three different calibration algorithms. A well-known lumped model (GR4J), a commonly used semi-distributed (SWAT+) model, and a skillful distributed (mHM) hydrological model were built and integrated with the Parameter Estimation Tool (PEST). PEST is a model-independent calibration tool including three algorithms—namely, Levenberg Marquardt (L-M), Shuffled Complex Evolution (SCE), and Covariance Matrix Adoption Evolution Strategy (CMA-ES). The calibration period was 1991–2000, and the validation results were obtained for 2002–2005. The effect of the model structure and calibration algorithm selection on the discharge simulation was evaluated via comparison of nine different model-algorithm combinations. Results have shown that mHM and CMA-ES combination performed the best discharge simulation according to NSE values (calibration: 0.67, validation: 0.60). Although statistically the model results were classified as acceptable, the models mostly missed the peak values in the hydrograph. This problem may be related to the interventions made in 2000–2001 and may be overcome by changing the calibration and validation periods, increasing the number of iterations, or using the naturalized gauge data.
A Two-Dimensional Guidance Strategy to Fabricate Perovskite Gadolinium Aluminate Ceramic Film
Authors: Zhang Tao , Chen Lu , Yao Jing , Zhu Qi
Published: December 2022

Gadolinium aluminate is an effective host for doping with various ions, and it can emit various colors. However, it is not easy to prepare transparent ceramics of gadolinium aluminate using traditional methods, although transparent ceramics are very suitable for solid lighting. In this work, a two-dimensional guidance strategy has been successfully carried out for perovskite-structured aluminate ceramic film. Through the two-dimensional interfacial reaction, GdAlO3:Eu3+ (GAP:Eu3+) transparent ceramic films were successfully fabricated using nanosheets exfoliated from layered gadolinium hydroxide, a rare earth source. The final films were tested by characterization techniques, including XRD, SEM, TEM, FT-IR, PLE/PL spectroscopy, temperature-dependent PL spectroscopy, and luminescence decay analysis. The perovskite film of transparent ceramics can be obtained by calcining LRH nanosheets on the substrate of amorphous alumina at 1550 °C in air with a reaction time of 2 h. During the interface reaction, temperature-dependent element diffusion takes the dominant role, and increased reactants take in the reaction with increasing calcination temperature. The grain for ceramic film is only 2–5 μm, which is much smaller than that for bulk ceramic. This is mainly due to the lower temperature and the interface diffusion. Ceramic film has a high transmittance larger than 90% at the visible range. Upon UV excitation at 254 nm, the film exhibits intense emission at the red wavelength range. The outcomes described in this work may have wide implications for transparent ceramics and layered rare-earth hydroxides.
Investigation of Microstructure, Residual Stress, and Hardness of Ti-6Al-4V after Plasma Nitriding Process with Different Times and Temperatures
Authors: Ongtrakulkij Goratouch , Kajornchaiyakul Julathep , Kondoh Katsuyoshi , Khantachawana Anak
Published: December 2022

The residual stress and hardness generated by the nitriding process are important parameters for increasing the bending fatigue strength to Ti-6Al-4V. Therefore, this research is focused on the analysis of residual stress and hardness, including surface morphology and microstructure generated by the nitriding process at different times and temperatures. The plasma nitriding at temperatures of 750 °C and 800 °C with times of 5 h and 10 h were selected in this research. After plasma nitriding, the material would have residual compressive stress and higher hardness, including changes in the surface morphology and microstructure. The results also indicated that higher temperature and processing times generated more surface roughness and thickness in the compound layer, resulting in higher surface hardness. Moreover, higher time and temperature could generate deeper residual compressive stress and case depth hardness. This research revealed maximum hardness in the cross-sectional analysis of 643 HV and residual compressive stress of −65.3 MPa. In conclusion, the depth of the residual stress and case depth hardness were well compatible with the depth of the diffusion layer of plasma-nitrided Ti-6Al-4V, which confirmed the effect of plasma nitriding.
Enhancement of Tribological Properties of Cubic and Hexagonal Boron Nitride Nanoparticles Impregnated on Bearing Steel via Vacuum Heat Treatment Method
Authors: Bhalerao Vrushali Yogesh , Lakade Sanjay Shridhar
Published: December 2022

In the current world of coatings and nanomaterials, specifically bearings, zinc, chromium, nickel, diamond-like coatings, and molybdenum disulfide are being used, to name but a few. Boron nitride in various forms has been used to enhance the surface properties, such as hardness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance of dies, tools, etc. In this paper, a significant focus is being given to the improvement of the surface properties of bearing-steel materials by the impregnation of cubic and hexagonal boron nitride nanoparticles. The vacuum heat treatment method is used for treating the sample pins of material equivalents to EN31. In the design of the experiments, the Taguchi method with L27 orthogonal array is used for the optimization of various parameters, such as the weight % of c-BN and h-BN nanoparticles and the temperature of the vacuum treatment. With the help of preliminary experimentation, the three levels of three parameters are decided. The microhardness analysis shows an improvement from 321 HV0.1 to 766 HV0.1 for a 50 µm case depth of nanoparticle impregnation. The evaluation of the influence of selected factors is also performed using ANOVA and the S/N ratio, and it was revealed that hex boron nitride (h-BN) affects the microhardness value more than the other two factors. The friction and wear testing reveal that the wear properties are improved by approximately 1.6 times, and the frictional force also decreases by approx. 1.4 times. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis shows that the nanoparticles are penetrated by 21.09% and 46.99% atomic weight. In addition, a reduction in the friction coefficient and better wear response were achieved as a result of the heat treatment with nanoparticle impregnation.
Applications of Double ARA Integral Transform
Authors: Saadeh Rania
Published: December 2022

This paper describes our construction of a new double transform, which we call the double ARA transform (DARAT). Our novel double-integral transform can be used to solve partial differential equations and other problems. We discuss some fundamental characteristics of our approach, including existence, linearity, and several findings relating to partial derivatives and the double convolution theorem. DARAT can be used to precisely solve a variety of partial differential equations, including the heat equation, wave equation, telegraph equation, Klein–Gordon equation, and others, all of which are crucial for physical applications. Herein, we use DARAT to solve model integral equations to obtain exact solutions. We conclude that our novel method is easier to use than comparable transforms.
Controllable Fabrication of Organic Cocrystals with Interior Hollow Structure Based on Donor-Acceptor Charge Transfer Molecules
Authors: Li Yuhao , Wang Peiyao , Duan Zhongzhao , Zhang Tianle , Tong Fei
Published: December 2022

Fluorescent hollow organic molecular cocrystals comprised of (E)-4-(2(anthracen-9-yl)vinyl)pyridine-1,2,4,5-tetracyanobenzene (APE-TCNB) were prepared via a surfactant-mediated co-precipitation method. The size and morphology of these cocrystals could be easily tuned by varying the type and concentration of the surfactant, incubation time, and temperature. Moreover, optical fluorescence and scanning electron microscopy characterization indicated that the APE-TCNB microcrystals contained two symmetric empty cavities when 3-(N, N-dimethyldodecylammonio)propane sulfonate (BS12) was used as the surfactant. The cross-polarized microscope and powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) measurements both showed that the prepared microcrystals exhibited high crystallinity. APE and TCNB molecules were found to align parallelly along the crystallographic a-axis in the crystal lattice, and the strong π–π intermolecular interactions facilitated the formation of unique crystal chambers. A series of measurements and characterization, including UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, steady-state, and time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy, also verified that strong charge–transfer (CT) interactions had been established in the APE-TCNB microcrystals. Moreover, these APE-TCNB microcrystals could emit bright red luminescence, which extended to the near-infrared region (~800 nm), displaying a strong charge-transfer property. Here, we have shown a general facile way to make organic cocrystals with complex structures and topologies using a self-assembly method.
Rapid Growth of High-Quality Rutile TiO2 Single Crystals through a Laser Floating Zone Method
Authors: Wu Jialing , Ma Shihui , Hu Zhanggui , Wang Jiajia , Wang Jiyang , Wu Yicheng
Published: December 2022

The rapid growth of rutile TiO2 single crystals through a laser floating zone (LFZ) method was demonstrated. LFZ has a higher power density, which is suitable for the growth of TiO2 crystals with a high melting point. By optimizing the crystal growth parameters, including the growth rate, gas atmosphere, and rotation rate, the crystals could achieve their largest size of φ 9 mm × 25 mm, with a growth cycle of 12 h, and no cracks appeared. The properties of the obtained crystals were close to those of the crystals grown using other schemes, with a whole transmission range of 0.41–6.56 μm, thermal expansion coefficient of 9.92 × 10−6/K, and laser damage threshold of 1.44 GW/cm2. The achieved results indicated that the crystals have high quality and good integrity when grown using LFZ and also imply a new choice for the rapid growth of rutile TiO2 single crystals.
Wet Synthesis of Graphene-Polypyrrole Nanocomposites via Graphite Intercalation Compounds
Authors: Rimkutė Gintarė , Niaura Gediminas , Pauliukaitė Rasa , Gaidukevič Justina , Barkauskas Jurgis
Published: December 2022

Graphene-polypyrrole (GP) nanocomposites were synthesized by a wet-way protocol using a graphite bisulfate (GBS) precursor. Consequently, GBS, a type of graphite intercalation compound, was prepared in the presence of concentrated sulfuric acid in the presence of a potassium periodate oxidizer. Three different types of graphite precursor with particle sizes of <50 μm, ≥150, ≤830 μm, and ≤2000 μm were used for this purpose. It was found that in the Raman spectra of GBS samples, the characteristic D band, which is caused by defects in the graphene layer, disappears. Therefore, the proposed synthesis protocol of GBS could be considered as a prospective intermediate stage in the preparation of graphene with low defect concentration. In contrast to alkali metal intercalation, the intercalation process involving anions with a relatively complex structure (e.g., HSO4−), which has been much less studied and requires further research. On the basis of the results obtained, structural models of graphite intercalation compounds as well as GP nanocomposites were discussed. The most relevant areas of application for GP nanocomposites, including energy storage and (bio)sensing, were considered. This work contributes to the development of cost-effective, scalable, and highly efficient intercalation methods, which still remain a significant challenge.
Descriptive Epidemiology of Hospitalization of Patients with a Rare Tumor in an Italian Region
Authors: Rosa Alessandra , Fontana Vincenzo , Filiberti Rosa Angela , Pronzato Paolo , Mannucci Matilde
Published: December 2022

Objectives: Rare tumors (RT) collectively account for one quarter of all malignancies in Italy. The low frequency and the large heterogeneity in natural history and outcome of individual diseases, together with a scarcity of epidemiological information make them a challenge for clinical practice, as well as for public healthcare organizations. We conducted a retrospective study to quantify the burden of hospitalization in a real-word setting in patients diagnosed with these diseases in an Italian region. Methods: RT patients were tracked along all hospital stays from 2000 to 2019 using hospital discharge records. Frequency of hospitalizations, average time spent in hospital and median timespan between consecutive admissions were considered. Re-hospitalization rates were analyzed through a multivariable negative binomial regression analysis to adjust for confounding and allowing for over-dispersion in count data. Results: As a whole, 57,329 patients were identified at first stay for all studied tumors. A total of 183,959 admissions were retrieved, along a median of 3 hospitalizations per patient. Median timespan between hospitalizations shortened in the course of the study years (12.5 months in 2000–2004 to 5.4 months in 2015–2019). The overall re-hospitalization rate increased from 0.92 per patient/year (95% CI = 0.81–1.04) in 2000–2004 to 2.17 (95% CI = 1.90–2.47) in 2015–2019. Conclusions: Overall, the hospitalization rate of patients with a RT increased in the twenty years since the 2000 and particularly doubled starting from 2015. A higher burden of hospitalizations was found for tumors of the central nervous system, thoracic cavity, digestive tract and sarcomas. To the best of our knowledge this is the first paper related to access to Italian healthcare facilities of patients with these tumors.
Deep-Sea Tardigrades from the North-Western Pacific, with Descriptions of Two New Species
Authors: Saulenko Anastasiia A. , Maiorova Anastassya S. , Martínez Arbizu Pedro , Mordukhovich Vladimir V.
Published: December 2022

Three deep-sea tardigrade species were identified from the sediment samples collected during the four German–Russian joint deep-sea cruises that were conducted in the North-Western Pacific: Coronarctus sonne sp. nov., Moebjergarctus okhotensis sp. nov., and Angursa cf. bicuspis. Specimens of those species were collected at depths between 1700 and 5410 m. The new species Coronarctus sonne sp. nov. belongs to the Cor. tenellus group of species on the basis of morphological traits such as the short cephalic appendages and heteromorphic claws. The structure of the secondary clavae and two points, with an accessory point and a primary point simultaneously on the internal and external claws on legs IV, are significant characteristics distinguishing Coronarctus sonne sp. nov. from other described species. Moebjergarctus okhotensis sp. nov. is characterized by having cephalic cirri with the long smooth portion of the scapus and annulated scapus only in the basal portion, the structure of the male and female reproductive system, and differences in the sizes of some structures compared to the other described species. An analysis of the results of four deep-sea expeditions indicates a patchy distribution of tardigrades in the North-Western Pacific.
Characterization of Two New Apodemus Mitogenomes (Rodentia: Muridae) and Mitochondrial Phylogeny of Muridae
Authors: Wu Di , Zhou Lizhi , Xue Jiezhong , Xia Qiliang , Meng Lei
Published: December 2022

Apodemus is the most common small rodent species in the Palearctic realm and an ideal species for biogeographical research and understanding environmental changes. Elucidating phylogenetic relationships will help us better understand species adaptation and genetic evolution. Due to its stable structure, maternal inheritance, and rapid evolution, the mitogenome has become a hot spot for taxonomic and evolutionary studies. In this research, we determined the mitochondrial genome of Apodemus agrarius ningpoensis and Apodemus draco draco and studied the phylogeny of Muridae using ML and BI trees based on all known complete mitogenomes. The mitochondrial genome of Apodemus agrarius ningpoensis was 16,262 bp, whereas that of Apodemus draco draco was 16,222 bp, and both encoded 13 protein-coding genes, 2 ribosomal RNA genes, and 22 transfer RNA genes. Analysis of base composition showed a clear A-T preference. All tRNAs except tRNASer and tRNALys formed a typical trilobal structure. All protein-coding genes contained T- and TAA as stop codons. Phylogeny analysis revealed two main branches in the Muridae family. Apodemus agrarius ningpoensis formed sister species with Apodemus chevrieri, whereas Apodemus draco draco with Apodemus latronum. Our findings provide theoretical basis for future studies focusing on the mitogenome evolution of Apodemus.
Quantitative Airway Assessment of Diffuse Idiopathic Pulmonary Neuroendocrine Cell Hyperplasia (DIPNECH) on CT as a Novel Biomarker
Authors: O’Brien Cormac , Duignan John A. , Gleeson Margaret , O’Carroll Orla , Franciosi Alessandro N. , O’Toole Dermot , Fabre Aurelie , Crowley Rachel K. , McCarthy Cormac , Dodd Jonathan D. , Murphy David J.
Published: December 2022

Objectives: Diffuse idiopathic pulmonary neuroendocrine cell hyperplasia (DIPNECH) occurs due to abnormal proliferation of pulmonary neuroendocrine cells. We hypothesized that performing a quantitative analysis of airway features on chest CT may reveal differences to matched controls, which could ultimately help provide an imaging biomarker. Methods: A retrospective quantitative analysis of chest CTs in patients with DIPNECH and age matched controls was carried out using semi-automated post-processing software. Paired segmental airway and artery diameters were measured for each bronchopulmonary segment, and the airway:artery (AA) ratio, airway wall thickness:artery ratio (AWTA ratio) and wall area percentage (WAP) calculated. Nodule number, size, shape and location was recorded. Correlation between CT measurements and pulmonary function testing was performed. Results: 16 DIPNECH and 16 control subjects were analysed (all female, mean age 61.7 +/− 11.8 years), a combined total of 425 bronchopulmonary segments. The mean AwtA ratio, AA ratio and WAP for the DIPNECH group was 0.57, 1.18 and 68.8%, respectively, compared with 0.38, 1.03 and 58.3% in controls (p < 0.001, <0.001, 0.03, respectively). DIPNECH patients had more nodules than controls (22.4 +/− 32.6 vs. 3.6 +/− 3.6, p = 0.03). AA ratio correlated with FVC (R2 = 0.47, p = 0.02). A multivariable model incorporating nodule number, AA ratio and AWTA-ratio demonstrated good performance for discriminating DIPNECH and controls (AUC 0.971; 95% CI: 0.925–1.0). Conclusions: Quantitative CT airway analysis in patients with DIPNECH demonstrates increased airway wall thickness and airway:artery ratio compared to controls. Advances in knowledge: Quantitative CT measurement of airway wall thickening offers a potential imaging biomarker for treatment response.
Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt in Chronic Portal Vein Thrombosis—From Routine Recommendations to Demanding Scenarios
Authors: Rajesh Sasidharan , Singh Shobhit , Philips Cyriac Abby
Published: December 2022

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT), particularly the presence of portal cavernoma, was traditionally considered a relative contraindication for transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunting (TIPS) due to the technical difficulties in accessing and maneuvering the portal vein and avoiding the high risk for bleeding periportal collaterals. However, the last decade has seen a surge in the number of studies—mostly case reports and small series of patients—demonstrating that TIPS is not only technically feasible in the vast majority of these patients but also provides effective and long-term control of symptoms associated with portal hypertension in cases refractory to the standard line of therapy. The present article aims to provide a concise but exhaustive overview of the role and the standard and technically difficult TIPS placement scenarios in patients with chronic non-malignant PVT and with and without underlying liver disease. The review is strategically punctuated by exemplary instances from the authors’ experience.
Diagnosis and Management of Dysgerminomas with a Brief Summary of Primitive Germ Cell Tumors
Authors: Mitranovici Melinda-Ildiko , Chiorean Diana Maria , Mureșan Maria Cezara , Buicu Corneliu-Florin , Moraru Raluca , Moraru Liviu , Cotoi Titiana Cornelia , Cotoi Ovidiu Simion , Toru Havva Serap , Apostol Adrian , Turdean Sabin Gligore , Mărginean Claudiu , Petre Ion , Oală Ioan Emilian , Simon-Szabo Zsuzsanna , Ivan Viviana , Pușcașiu Lucian
Published: December 2022

Dysgerminoma represents a rare malignant tumor composed of germ cells, originally from the embryonic gonads. Regarding its incidence, we do not have precise data due to its rarity. Dysgerminoma occurs at a fertile age. The preferred treatment is the surgical removal of the tumor succeeded by the preservation of fertility. Even if a multidisciplinary team, founded in 2009 by a gynecologist, an oncologist, a pediatric oncologist and a pediatric surgeon, under the guidance of the Malignant Germ Cell International Consortium (MaGIC), studies this type of tumor, issues still remain related to the lack of a randomized study and to both the management and understanding of the concept of OMGCTs (ovarian malignant germ cell tumors). The aim of this review is to present from the literature the various approaches for this type of tumor, and, regarding innovative therapies or possible prevention, which can be applied in clinical practice. Multidisciplinarity and treatment in reference centers have proven their usefulness as well.