bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) Expression Disrupts Cell Proliferation and Alters Energy Metabolism and Fatty Acid Synthesis in Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Karasová Martina , Procházková Jiřina , Tylichová Zuzana , Fedr Radek , Ciganek Miroslav , Machala Miroslav , Dvořák Zdeněk , Vyhlídalová Barbora , Zůvalová Iveta , Ehrmann Jiří , Bouchal Jan , Andrysík Zdeněk , Vondráček Jan
Published: September 2022

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) plays a wide range of physiological roles in cellular processes such as proliferation, migration or control of immune responses. Several studies have also indicated that AhR might contribute to the regulation of energy balance or cellular metabolism. We observed that the AhR is upregulated in tumor epithelial cells derived from colon cancer patients. Using wild-type and the corresponding AhR knockout (AhR KO) variants of human colon cancer cell lines HCT116 and HT-29, we analyzed possible role(s) of the AhR in cell proliferation and metabolism, with a focus on regulation of the synthesis of fatty acids (FAs). We observed a decreased proliferation rate in the AhR KO cells, which was accompanied with altered cell cycle progression, as well as a decreased ATP production. We also found reduced mRNA levels of key enzymes of the FA biosynthetic pathway in AhR KO colon cancer cells, in particular of stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 (SCD1). The loss of AhR was also associated with reduced expression and/or activity of components of the PI3K/Akt pathway, which controls lipid metabolism, and other lipogenic transcriptional regulators, such as sterol regulatory element binding transcription factor 1 (SREBP1). Together, our data indicate that disruption of AhR activity in colon tumor cells may, likely in a cell-specific manner, limit their proliferation, which could be linked with a suppressive effect on their endogenous FA metabolism. More attention should be paid to potential mechanistic links between overexpressed AhR and colon tumor cell metabolism.
T-Cell-Based Cellular Immunotherapy of Multiple Myeloma: Current Developments
Authors: Simmons Gary L. , Castaneda Puglianini Omar
Published: September 2022

T-cell-based cellular therapy was first approved in lymphoid malignancies (B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia and large B-cell lymphoma) and expanding its investigation and application both in hematological and non-hematological malignancies. Two anti-BCMA (B cell maturation antigen) CAR (Chimeric Antigen Receptor) T-cell therapies have been recently approved for relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma with excellent efficacy even in the heavily pre-treated patient population. This new therapeutic approach significantly changes our practice; however, there is still room for further investigation to optimize antigen receptor engineering, cell harvest/selection, treatment sequence, etc. They are also associated with unique adverse events, especially CRS (cytokine release syndrome) and ICANS (immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome), which are not seen with other anti-myeloma therapies and require expertise for management and prevention. Other T-cell based therapies such as TCR (T Cell Receptor) engineered T-cells and non-genetically engineered adoptive T-cell transfers (Vγ9 Vδ2 T-cells and Marrow infiltrating lymphocytes) are also actively studied and worth attention. They can potentially overcome therapeutic challenges after the failure of CAR T-cell therapy through different mechanisms of action. This review aims to provide readers clinical data of T-cell-based therapies for multiple myeloma, management of unique toxicities and ongoing investigation in both clinical and pre-clinical settings.
FAP-Specific Signalling Is an Independent Diagnostic Approach in ACC and Not a Surrogate Marker of MRI Sequences
Authors: Liew Dawn P. , Röhrich Manuel , Loi Lisa , Adeberg Sebastian , Syed Mustafa , Gutjahr Ewgenija , Schlemmer Heinz Peter , Giesel Frederik L. , Bendszus Martin , Haberkorn Uwe , Paech Daniel
Published: September 2022

Background: Fibroblast Activation Protein (FAP) is a new target for positron emission tomography and computed tomography (PET/CT) imaging of epithelial tumours embedded in a fibrous stroma. Adenoid cystic carcinomas (ACCs) have shown elevated tracer uptake in 68Gallium (68Ga)-labelled FAPIs in previous studies. The current gold standard for ACC imaging is contrast-enhanced (ce) MRI, where intertumoural heterogeneity leads to variable appearance on T1-weighted (T1w) and T2-weighted (T2w) images. In this retrospective analysis, we correlated 68Ga-FAPI PET signalling at three time points with ceT1w and T2w MRI signals to further characterise the significance of 68Ga-FAPI uptake in ACCs. Methods: Clinical PET/CT scans of 12 ACC patients were performed at 10, 60 and 180 min post i.v. administration of 68Ga-labelled-FAPI tracer molecules. 68Ga-PET- and corresponding MRI-scans were co-registered, and 3D volumetric segmentations were performed on ceT1w and T2w lesions of co-registered MRI slides. Signal intensity values of 68Ga-FAPI PET signalling and ceT1w/T2w MRI scans were analysed for their pixelwise correlation in each patient. Pooled estimates of the correlation coefficients were calculated using the Fisher z-transformation. Results: 68Ga-FAPI PET signals showed a very weak positive correlation with ceT1w values (pooled correlation 0.114, 0.147 and 0.162 at 10, 60 and 180 min) and a weak negative correlation with T2w values (pooled correlation −0.148, −0.121 and −0.225 at 10, 60 and 180 min). Individual r-values at 60 min ranged from −0.130 to 0.434 in ceT1w and from −0.466 to 0.637 in T2w MRI scans. Conclusion: There are only slight correlations between the intensity of 68Ga-FAPI PET signals and tumour appearance in ceT1w or T2w MRI scans, which underlines that 68Ga-FAPI PET signalling is not a surrogate marker of MRI sequences but an independent signal.
Colorectal Cancer in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Epidemiology and Prevention: A Review
Authors: Marabotto Elisa , Kayali Stefano , Buccilli Silvia , Levo Francesca , Bodini Giorgia , Giannini Edoardo G. , Savarino Vincenzo , Savarino Edoardo Vincenzo
Published: September 2022

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is currently the third most frequent form of malignancy and the second in terms of mortality. Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are recognized risk factors for this type of cancer. Despite a worldwide increase in the incidence of CRC, the risk of CRC-related death in IBD patients has declined over time, probably because of successful surveillance strategies, the use of more effective drugs in the management of remission and improved indications to colectomy. This notwithstanding, CRC 5-year survival in patients with IBD is poorer than in the general population. This review provides a summary of the epidemiological features, risk factors and various prevention strategies proposed for CRC in IBD patients. Moreover, there is a special focus on reporting and highlighting the various prevention strategies proposed by the most important international scientific societies, both in terms of chemoprevention and endoscopic surveillance. Indeed, in conducting the analysis, we have given attention to the current primary, secondary and tertiary prevention guidelines, attempting to emphasize unresolved research and clinical problems related to this topic in order to improve diagnostic strategies and management.
Pancreatic Cancer: Challenges and Opportunities in Locoregional Therapies
Authors: Bazeed Alaa Y. , Day Candace M. , Garg Sanjay
Published: September 2022

Pancreatic cancer (PC) remains the seventh leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide and the third in the United States, making it one of the most lethal solid malignancies. Unfortunately, the symptoms of this disease are not very apparent despite an increasing incidence rate. Therefore, at the time of diagnosis, 45% of patients have already developed metastatic tumours. Due to the aggressive nature of the pancreatic tumours, local interventions are required in addition to first-line treatments. Locoregional interventions affect a specific area of the pancreas to minimize local tumour recurrence and reduce the side effects on surrounding healthy tissues. However, compared to the number of new studies on systemic therapy, very little research has been conducted on localised interventions for PC. To address this unbalanced focus and to shed light on the tremendous potentials of locoregional therapies, this work will provide a detailed discussion of various localised treatment strategies. Most importantly, to the best of our knowledge, the aspect of localised drug delivery systems used in PC was unprecedentedly discussed in this work. This review is meant for researchers and clinicians considering utilizing local therapy for the effective treatment of PC, providing a thorough guide on recent advancements in research and clinical trials toward locoregional interventions, together with the authors’ insight into their potential improvements.
Cancer Cachexia: Signaling and Transcriptional Regulation of Muscle Catabolic Genes
Authors: Rao Vinay Kumar , Das Dipanwita , Taneja Reshma
Published: September 2022

Cancer cachexia (CC) is a multifactorial syndrome characterized by a significant reduction in body weight that is predominantly caused by the loss of skeletal muscle and adipose tissue. Although the ill effects of cachexia are well known, the condition has been largely overlooked, in part due to its complex etiology, heterogeneity in mediators, and the involvement of diverse signaling pathways. For a long time, inflammatory factors have been the focus when developing therapeutics for the treatment of CC. Despite promising pre-clinical results, they have not yet advanced to the clinic. Developing new therapies requires a comprehensive understanding of how deregulated signaling leads to catabolic gene expression that underlies muscle wasting. Here, we review CC-associated signaling pathways and the transcriptional cascade triggered by inflammatory cytokines. Further, we highlight epigenetic factors involved in the transcription of catabolic genes in muscle wasting. We conclude with reflections on the directions that might pave the way for new therapeutic approaches to treat CC.
Novel UHRF1-MYC Axis in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Park Soyoung , Sater Ali H. Abdel , Fahrmann Johannes F. , Irajizad Ehsan , Cai Yining , Katayama Hiroyuki , Vykoukal Jody , Kobayashi Makoto , Dennison Jennifer B. , Garcia-Manero Guillermo , Mullighan Charles G. , Gu Zhaohui , Konopleva Marina , Hanash Samir
Published: September 2022

Ubiquitin-like, containing PHD and RING finger domain, (UHRF) family members are overexpressed putative oncogenes in several cancer types. We evaluated the protein abundance of UHRF family members in acute leukemia. A marked overexpression of UHRF1 protein was observed in ALL compared with AML. An analysis of human leukemia transcriptomic datasets revealed concordant overexpression of UHRF1 in B-Cell and T-Cell ALL compared with CLL, AML, and CML. In-vitro studies demonstrated reduced cell viability with siRNA-mediated knockdown of UHRF1 in both B-ALL and T-ALL, associated with reduced c-Myc protein expression. Mechanistic studies indicated that UHRF1 directly interacts with c-Myc, enabling ALL expansion via the CDK4/6-phosphoRb axis. Our findings highlight a previously unknown role of UHRF1 in regulating c-Myc protein expression and implicate UHRF1 as a potential therapeutic target in ALL.
The Role of Neural Signaling in the Pancreatic Cancer Microenvironment
Authors: Takahashi Ryota , Ijichi Hideaki , Fujishiro Mitsuhiro
Published: September 2022

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal malignant diseases. Various cells in the tumor microenvironment interact with tumor cells and orchestrate to support tumor progression. Several kinds of nerves are found in the tumor microenvironment, and each plays an essential role in tumor biology. Recent studies have shown that sympathetic, parasympathetic, and sensory neurons are found in the pancreatic cancer microenvironment. Neural signaling not only targets neural cells, but tumor cells and immune cells via neural receptors expressed on these cells, through which tumor growth, inflammation, and anti-tumor immunity are affected. Thus, these broad-range effects of neural signaling in the pancreatic cancer microenvironment may represent novel therapeutic targets. The modulation of neural signaling may be a therapeutic strategy targeting the whole tumor microenvironment. In this review, we describe the current understanding of the role of nerves in the tumor microenvironment of various cancers, with an emphasis on pancreatic cancer. We also discuss the underlying mechanisms and the possibility of therapeutic applications.
Beyond N Staging in Breast Cancer: Importance of MRI and Ultrasound-based Imaging
Authors: Di Paola Valerio , Mazzotta Giorgio , Pignatelli Vincenza , Bufi Enida , D’Angelo Anna , Conti Marco , Panico Camilla , Fiorentino Vincenzo , Pierconti Francesco , Kilburn-Toppin Fleur , Belli Paolo , Manfredi Riccardo
Published: September 2022

The correct N-staging in breast cancer is crucial to tailor treatment and stratify the prognosis. N-staging is based on the number and the localization of suspicious regional nodes on physical examination and/or imaging. Since clinical examination of the axillary cavity is associated with a high false negative rate, imaging modalities play a central role. In the presence of a T1 or T2 tumor and 0–2 suspicious nodes, on imaging at the axillary level I or II, a patient should undergo sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB), whereas in the presence of three or more suspicious nodes at the axillary level I or II confirmed by biopsy, they should undergo axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) or neoadjuvant chemotherapy according to a multidisciplinary approach, as well as in the case of internal mammary, supraclavicular, or level III axillary involved lymph nodes. In this scenario, radiological assessment of lymph nodes at the time of diagnosis must be accurate. False positives may preclude a sentinel lymph node in an otherwise eligible woman; in contrast, false negatives may lead to an unnecessary SLNB and the need for a second surgical procedure. In this review, we aim to describe the anatomy of the axilla and breast regional lymph node, and their diagnostic features to discriminate between normal and pathological nodes at Ultrasound (US) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Moreover, the technical aspects, the advantage and limitations of MRI versus US, and the possible future perspectives are also analyzed, through the analysis of the recent literature.
High-Power and High-Performance Catalyst for Suzuki Coupling Reaction
Authors: Binandeh Mansour , Nasseri Mohammad Ali , Allahresani Ali
Published: September 2022

In this project, the aim was to carry out the Suzuki reaction using a new and unique catalyst with a base of Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles coated using a new ligand. In fact, this magnetic catalyst has an inhomogeneous surface to create a connection between the organic and aqueous phases so that the carbon–carbon coupling reaction is completely performed on its large surface. The structure of this catalyst uses two metals, nickel and cobalt, which are coated on a bed of amino linkers and propel the Suzuki coupling reaction at high speed on the catalyst surface. The products obtained are from ideal and optimal conditions with an efficiency of over 98%. The catalyst has a recovery power of over 96% and has enough power to perform several coupling reactions several times. Lastly, the magnetic nanocatalyst is easily separated from the reaction medium by an external field and has 100% power when performing other reactions.
Role of SrCO3 on Photocatalytic Performance of SrTiO3-SrCO3 Composites
Authors: Boga Bíborka , Steinfeldt Norbert , Moustakas Nikolaos G. , Peppel Tim , Lund Henrik , Rabeah Jabor , Pap Zsolt , Cristea Vasile-Mircea , Strunk Jennifer
Published: September 2022

Perovskites such as SrTiO3 are interesting for photocatalytic applications due to their structure-related and electronic properties. These properties are influenced by the presence of SrCO3 which is often formed simultaneously during the hydrothermal synthesis of SrTiO3. In this study, SrTiO3-SrCO3 composites with different contents of SrCO3 (5–24 wt%) were synthesized. Their morphological, structural, and optical properties were investigated using complementary methods such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), nitrogen sorption, and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS). Their photocatalytic activity was assessed during the degradation of diclofenac (DCFNa) in aqueous solution and CO2 photoreduction under Xe lamp irradiation. Improved photocatalytic efficiency in DCFNa degradation was observed for all the studied composites in comparison with SrTiO3, and the highest mineralization efficiency was obtained for the sample with 21 wt% SrCO3 content. The presence of SrCO3 led to an increased concentration of active species, such as •OH radicals. Otherwise, its presence inhibits CH4 and C2H6 production during CO2 photoreduction compared with pure SrTiO3.
Photocatalytic NOx Removal in Bismuth-Oxyhalide (BiOX, X = I, Cl) Cement-Based Materials Exposed to Outdoor Conditions
Authors: Nava-Núñez Magaly Y. , Jimenez-Relinque Eva , Martínez-de la Cruz Azael , Castellote Marta
Published: September 2022

Cement-based materials modified with 3D BiOX (X = I, Cl) microspheres at different percentages (1, 5 and 10% by weight of the cement binder) were prepared to investigate the durability of the photocatalytic NOx removal under outdoor conditions. Weathering—corresponding to a period of 13 months outdoors—was studied in terms of NO removal efficiency under visible and UVA light irradiation for BiOI and BiOCl mortars, respectively. Following this period, the samples were protected from the environment for four years, and NOx removal and selectivity to nitrates were assessed. BiOI and BiOCl mortar samples were initially photocatalytically active; NOx removal performance increased as BiOX content increased. There was good photocatalyst dispersion, and compressive strength was not significantly impacted. The BiOI mortars had nearly completely lost their activity after 5 years from casting, whereas mortars containing 10% BiOCl had maintained about 7% of initial performance. The results suggest that mortar deactivation is due to surface dirt and nitrates accumulation from NOx oxidation on the surface rather than carbonation. An internal self-deactivation mechanism that affects BiOI in mortar matrix has also been postulated.
A Single-Cell Survey of Cellular Heterogeneity in Human Great Saphenous Veins
Authors: Sun Yiping , Hu Xueqing , Zhang Kui , Rao Man , Yin Pengbin , Dong Ran
Published: September 2022

Background: The great saphenous vein (GSV) is the most commonly used conduit for coronary arterial bypass graft. However, the status of the GSV, including metabolic dysfunction such as diabetes mellitus (DM) complication, is strongly associated with vein graft failure (VGF). To date, the molecular mechanism underlying VGF remains elusive. Detailed characterization of the cellular components and corresponding expression regulation in GSVs would be of great importance for clinical decision making to reduce VGF. Methods: To this end, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing to delineate cellular heterogeneity in three human GSV samples. Results: Scrutinization of cellular composition and expression revealed cell diversity in human GSVs, particularly endothelial cells (ECs). Our results unraveled that functional adaptation drove great expression differences between venous ECs and valvular ECs. For instance, cell surface receptor ACKR1 demarcated venous Ecs, whereas ACRK3/ACKR4 were exclusively expressed by valvular ECs. Differential gene expression analysis suggested that genes highly expressed in venous ECs were mainly involved in vasculature development and regulation of leukocyte adhesion, whereas valvular ECs have more pronounced expression of genes participating in extracellular matrix organization, ossification and platelet degranulation. Of note, pseudo-time trajectory analysis provided in silico evidence indicating that venous ECs, valvular ECs and lymphatic vessels were developmentally connected. Further, valvular ECs might be an importance source for lymphatic vessel differentiation in adults. Additionally, we found a venous EC subset highly expressing IL6, which might be associated with undesirable prognosis. Meanwhile, we identified a population of ANGPTL7+ fibroblasts (FBs), which may be profibrotic and involved in insulin resistance in human GSVs. Additionally, our data suggest that immune cells only accounted for a small fraction, most of which were macrophages. By assessing the intertwined remodeling in metabolic dysfunction that potentially increases the gene expression regulatory network in mural cells and leukocytes, we found that transcription factor KLF9 likely operated a proinflammatory program, inducing the transcription of metallothionein proteins in two mural cell subsets and proinflammatory immune cells. Lastly, cellular communication analysis revealed that proinflammatory signaling, including TRAIL, PVR, CSF and GDF, were uniquely activated in patients with metabolic dysfunction. Conclusions: Our results identified critical cell-specific responses and cellular interactions in GSVs. Beyond serving as a repertoire, this work illustrates multifactorial likelihood of VGF.
Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria in Children and Adolescents with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Fainardi Valentina , Neglia Cosimo , Muscarà Maria , Spaggiari Cinzia , Tornesello Marco , Grandinetti Roberto , Argentiero Alberto , Calderaro Adriana , Esposito Susanna , Pisi Giovanna
Published: September 2022

In patients with cystic fibrosis (CF), multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria can predispose to exacerbations, limit the effectiveness of antibiotic treatments and promote the progression of lung disease. The aim of this retrospective study was to compare pulmonary exacerbations (Pex), hospitalizations, lung function and nutritional status in a group of children and adolescents with CF colonized by MDR bacteria and in a noncolonized control group. Overall, 7/54 pediatric patients (12.9%) were colonized by MDR bacteria and enrolled (3 with Achromobacter xyloxidans, 3 with Stenotrophomonas maltophilia and 1 with Burkholderia cepacia). The control group included 14 sex- and age-matched CF patients (8/14 colonized by Staphylococcus aureus, 2/14 by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 2/14 by both microorganisms and 2/14 germ free). At the time of enrollment and 12 months before the first detection of the MDR microorganism, children colonized by MDR bacteria showed lower body mass index (BMI) and lower FEV1/FVC compared to the control group. Over the previous year before the first detection, children colonized with MDR had more Pex compared to control group; those colonized by S. maltophilia experienced the highest number of Pex. In the 12 months following the first detection of MDR bacteria, all seven patients colonized by MDR had at least one Pex and patients colonized by S. maltophilia had the highest number (mean ± SD: 6 ± 2.6 vs. 1.7 ± 2.3). Our study suggests that CF pediatric patients infected by MDR bacteria have lower BMI, more obstructive disease and experience more exacerbations than patients without MDR bacteria. These differences are present even before being infected, suggesting that children and adolescents with more severe disease are predisposed to be colonized by MDR bacteria. S. maltophilia appeared to be the most aggressive pathogen. Further studies and the implementation of antimicrobial stewardship programs are necessary to clarify when and how to treat patients with CF and MDR bacteria in order to avoid the improper use of antibiotics and the development of antibiotic resistance.
Chinese Sexual Minority Students Experiencing Microaggressions: Implications for Sexuality Education
Authors: Kwok Diana K. , Kwok Kim
Published: September 2022

The sexual prejudice faced by sexual minorities or lesbian, gay, bisexual, and questioning/queer (LGBQ) students has been studied extensively around the world in the last two decades; however, it has only recently received attention from Hong Kong Chinese society, specifically in relation to this subtle form of prejudice. In the last decade, there has been an increase in the amount of literature examining the experiences of individuals encountering sexual orientation microaggressions, which are defined as discrimination or sexual prejudices manifested in subtle forms, particularly when directed toward socially marginalized groups, such as sexual minority students. The current study used a qualitative descriptive approach and semi-structured interviews to explore the themes of sexual orientation microaggressions experienced by Chinese sexual minority students. Several contextual themes to categorize microaggressions emerged: (1) the approval of heteronormative culture; (2) the use of heterosexist languages; (3) the assumption of sexual abnormality; and (4) the allowing of institutionally endorsed microaggressions. The results suggest that sexual minority students in Hong Kong experience diverse forms of microaggression in schools. The implications for the need to support LGBQ students are discussed, especially in addressing sexuality education in schools and the training of school professionals.
The Effects of Living Environment, Health Status of Family Members, and Migrant Elderly following Children’s Attitude about Care on Grandchildren’s Health Status in Weifang, China
Authors: Pang Mingli , Wang Jieru , Jiang Xiaoxu , Li Hexian , Li Shixue , Kong Fanlei
Published: September 2022

As urbanization is growing quickly in China, many migrant elderly following children (MEFC) migrate to big cities to care for their grandchildren (grandchildren of MEFC=GMEFC). This study aimed to explore the effects of the living environment, health statuses of family members, and MEFC’s attitude regarding the care of their children (children of MEFC=CMEFC) for their GMEFC on GMEFC’s health statuses in Weifang, China. Multistage cluster random sampling was used to select the participants, and 613 MEFC were included in total. Descriptive analysis, univariate analysis and binary logistic regression were used to investigate the association between the related variables and GMEFC’s health statuses. It was found that 74.9% of the GMEFC had excellent health statuses. The GMEFC who had siblings, the CMEFC with excellent health statuses, and the MEFC with excellent health statuses were more likely to have excellent health statuses. Moreover, the GMEFC who were female, elevators occasionally malfunctioned, the MEFC who were dissatisfied with the CMEFC’s time spent on caring, and the MEFC who did not understand or forgive the CMEFC’s limited time on caring were less likely to have GMEFC with excellent health statuses. The results indicated that a better living environment, better health statuses of family members, and a positive attitude of the MEFC regarding the care of CMEFC for GMEFC would result in a better health status of GMEFC.
The Synergistic Effect of Terminal and Pendant Fluoroalkyl Segments on Properties of Polyurethane Latex and Its Film
Authors: Deng Fuquan , Qin Shuangyi , Liu Na , Xu Wei
Published: September 2022

The hydrophobic modification effect and an appropriate cost of waterborne polyurethane are regularly pursued targets of researchers. To further enhance the hydrophobic modification effect of the terminal fluoroalkyl group and control the cost, a fluorine-containing pendant group diol (DEFA) was first synthesized by the Michael addition reaction of diethanolamine (DEOA) and dodecafluoroheptyl methacrylate (G04). Next, a series of modified polyurethane latexes (TPFPU) by the terminal fluoroalkyl segments (perfluorohexyl ethanol, S104) and the pendant fluoroalkyl segments (DEFA) were synthesized by varying the DEFA dosage. Structure and performance properties of the resultants were characterized by IR, 1H NMR, TEM, TGA, DSC, XRD, XPS, SEM, AFM and contact angle measurements. Results confirmed that the product could be successfully prepared using the present method. With the increase in DEFA dosage, the average particle size increased gradually. Thermal stability was enhanced and small regional crystals were probably produced. XPS and AFM results demonstrated that the degree of microphase separation and film roughness were increased with the increase in DEFA amount. Hydrophobicity of the TPFPU’s film was also increased with the increase in DEFA dosage, and it could be guaranteed when the mass content of S104 and DEFA was larger than 17.0 wt% in total mass of raw materials, which demonstrates that the terminal and pendant fluoroalkyl groups have the favorable synergistic effect on the properties of polyurethane.
Approximating Fixed Points of Nonexpansive Type Mappings via General Picard–Mann Algorithm
Authors: Shukla Rahul , Panicker Rekha
Published: September 2022

The aim of this paper is to approximate fixed points of nonexpansive type mappings in Banach spaces when the set of fixed points is nonempty. We study the general Picard–Mann (GPM) algorithm, obtaining the weak and strong convergence theorems. We provide an example to illustrate the convergence behaviour of the GPM algorithm. We compare the GPM algorithm with other existing (well known) algorithms numerically (under different parameters and initial guesses).
Quantifying the Impact of COVID-19 “Lockdown” on Physical Activity in Children and Adults with Implanted Cardiac Rhythm Devices: A Single Center Experience Using Cardiac Rhythm Device Accelerometer Data
Authors: Fisher Rebecca , Jevotovsky David , Raviv Jessica , Love Barry
Published: September 2022

Background: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the US states of New York and New Jersey instituted a “lockdown” that closed schools and most businesses except for essential services. The public was urged to remain at home. The 78-day lockdown period extended from 22 March 2020 to 6 June 2020. We sought to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 lockdown on continuously recorded physical activity in our patients with congenital heart disease with implanted cardiac rhythm management (CRM) devices—pacemakers (PPM), defibrillators (ICD) and implantable loop recorders (ILR) enabled with accelerometers that translate motion into a measure of active hours/day. Methods: All patients from our congenital CRM database with accelerometer-enabled devices who had stable cardiac status residing in NY and NJ were included. Forty-one patients met the inclusion criteria; the median age was 29.6 years (range 7–60); 54% female; 23 ICD, 15 PPM and 3 ILR. The patient activity was averaged for the 2 months prior to lockdown, during the lockdown, and the 2 months afterward. Paired t-tests were used to compare activity before and during lockdown, and before and after lockdown. Each patient served as his/her own control. Results: Active hours/day decreased by a mean of 32% (±27%) from baseline (p < 0.001). A total of 32 patients experienced a decline, 6 had no change and 3 had an increase. Active hours rebounded after lockdown and were unchanged compared to pre-lockdown levels. Conclusions: The COVID-19 lockdown in NY/NJ during the Spring of 2020 resulted in a significant drop in active hours/day in children and adults with congenital heart disease. Active hours/day rebounded to baseline after restrictions were lifted.
Cathodoluminescence of Ultrathin InAs Layers Embedded in GaAs Matrix
Authors: Yan Qigeng , Wang Siyuan , Guan Xiaojin , He Lei , Sun Kesheng , Liang Baolai
Published: September 2022

Ultrathin InAs layers with different thicknesses, from 0.75 to 1.4 monolayer, are grown in the GaAs matrix by molecular beam epitaxy on GaAs (001) substrates. For sub-monolayer heterostructures, islands or segregations exist during the growth process. Taking advantage of the high spatial resolution of focused electron beams, cathodoluminescence measurements obtain a smaller excitation spot than conventional photoluminescence. Based on the change on the peak position, line width, and intensity, cathodoluminescence spectra indicate that the size, geometry, and roughness develop with the InAs content. Moreover, spatial discontinuities of ultrathin InAs layers are observed on spectrum images and transmission electron microscopy images. This research reveals the correlation between the optical and structural properties of ultrathin InAs layers.
Development of N,N-Dimethylglycine-Amantadine for Adjunctive Dopaminergic Application: Synthesis, Structure and Biological Activity
Authors: Chayrov Radoslav , Kalfin Reni , Lazarova Maria , Tancheva Lyubka , Sbirkova-Dimitrova Hrisitna , Shivachev Boris , Stankova Ivanka
Published: September 2022

N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor blockade can improve L-DOPA (l-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine)-induced dyskinesias in Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients. Amantadine is a well-tolerated and effective antiparkinsonian agent, recently found to possess NMDA antagonistic properties. Oxidative damage may contribute to dopaminergic (DAergic) neurodegeneration in the substantia nigra of patients with PD. N,N-dimethylglycine (DMG) (also known as vitamin B15 or pangamic acid) acts as an antioxidant, extending the lifespan of animal cells through protection from oxidation. In this study, we synthesized and tested in vivo the newly obtained compound N,N-dimethylglycine-amantadine (DMG-Am) for antiparkinsonian activity. MPTP (1-methyl-4–phenyl-1, 2, 3, 6-tetrahydropyridine) is a widely used neurotoxin to induce an experimental model which mimics Parkinson disease-like symptoms. The neuroprotective capacity of the new amantadine derivative DMG-Am was evaluated by its potential to ameliorate the neuromuscular coordination and behavioral changes worsened by the toxin. Our experimental results showed that DMG-Am applied for 12 consecutive days, 5 days simultaneously and 7 days after MPTP, restored motor and memory performance of the animals to the control level, indication of beneficial protective effect of this compound. In summary, our results reveal the potential of newly synthesized DMG-Am as promising antiparkinsonian agent.
InGaN Based C-Plane Blue Laser Diodes on Strain Relaxed Template with Reduced Absorption Loss
Authors: Chang Hsun-Ming , Chan Philip , Lim Norleakvisoth , Rienzi Vincent , Zhang Haojun , Cohen Daniel A. , Gordon Michael J. , DenBaars Steven P. , Nakamura Shuji
Published: September 2022

InGaN based c-plane blue LDs on strain relaxed template (SRT) with a reduced absorption loss was demonstrated. The loss is reduced from 27 cm−1 to 20 cm−1. Due to the lower loss, threshold current density is improved from 51.1 kA/cm2 to 43.7 kA/cm2, and slope efficiency is also increased by a factor of 1.22. The absorption loss from decomposition layer (DL) in SRT is confirmed to be a major extra loss source by both experimental and simulation results. With a higher indium content in buffer and waveguide layers, optical leakage into DL can be suppressed.
Phase-Matching in Nonlinear Crystal-Based Monochromatic Terahertz-Wave Generation
Authors: Liu Pengxiang , Niu Chuncao , Qi Feng , Li Wei , Li Weifan , Fu Qiaoqiao , Guo Liyuan , Li Zhongyang
Published: September 2022

Optically pumped nonlinear frequency down conversion is a proven approach for monochromatic terahertz (THz)-wave generation that provides superior properties such as continuous and wide tunability as well as laser-like linewidth and beam quality. Phase-matching (PM) is an important connection between the pump sources and nonlinear crystals and determines the direction of energy flow (as well as the output power). In past decades, a variety of peculiar PM configurations in the THz region have been invented and are different from the traditional ones in the optical region. We summarize the configurations that have been applied in nonlinear THz-wave generation, which mainly fall in two categories: scalar (collinear) PM and vector PM (including macroscopic noncollinear PM and microscopic vector PM). The development of this technique could relax the matching conditions in a wide range of nonlinear crystals and pump wavelengths and could finally promote the improvement of coherent THz sources.
The Tobacco Endgame—A New Paradigm for Smoking Cessation in Cancer Clinics
Authors: Stone Emily , Paul Christine
Published: September 2022

Smoking cessation represents an untapped resource for cancer therapy. Many people who smoke and have cancer (tobacco-related or otherwise) struggle to quit and as a result, jeopardise response to treatment, recovery after surgery and long-term survival. Many health care practitioners working in cancer medicine feel undertrained, unprepared and unsupported to provide effective smoking cessation therapy. Many institutions and healthcare systems do provide smoking cessation programs, guidelines and referral pathways for cancer patients, but these may be unevenly applied. The growing body of evidence, from both retrospective and prospective clinical studies, confirms the benefit of smoking cessation and will provide much needed evidence for the best and most effective interventions in cancer clinics. In addition to reducing demand, helping cancer patients quit and treating addiction, a firm commitment to developing smoke free societies may transform cancer medicine in the future. While the Framework Convention for Tobacco Control (FCTC) has dominated global tobacco control for the last two decades, many jurisdictions are starting to develop plans to make their communities tobacco free, to introduce the tobacco endgame. Characterised by downward pressure on tobacco supply, limited sales, limited access and denormalization of smoking, these policies may radically change the milieu in which people with cancer receive treatment, in which health care practitioners refine skills and which may ultimately foster dramatic improvements in cancer outcomes.
Smart Consumer Wearables as Digital Diagnostic Tools: A Review
Authors: Chakrabarti Shweta , Biswas Nupur , Jones Lawrence D. , Kesari Santosh , Ashili Shashaanka
Published: September 2022

The increasing usage of smart wearable devices has made an impact not only on the lifestyle of the users, but also on biological research and personalized healthcare services. These devices, which carry different types of sensors, have emerged as personalized digital diagnostic tools. Data from such devices have enabled the prediction and detection of various physiological as well as psychological conditions and diseases. In this review, we have focused on the diagnostic applications of wrist-worn wearables to detect multiple diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, neurological disorders, fatty liver diseases, and metabolic disorders, including diabetes, sleep quality, and psychological illnesses. The fruitful usage of wearables requires fast and insightful data analysis, which is feasible through machine learning. In this review, we have also discussed various machine-learning applications and outcomes for wearable data analyses. Finally, we have discussed the current challenges with wearable usage and data, and the future perspectives of wearable devices as diagnostic tools for research and personalized healthcare domains.
Needle Tract Seeding after Endoscopic Ultrasound Tissue Acquisition of Pancreatic Lesions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Facciorusso Antonio , Crinò Stefano Francesco , Gkolfakis Paraskevas , Ramai Daryl , Mangiavillano Benedetto , Londoño Castillo Juliana , Chandan Saurabh , Mohan Babu P. , D’Errico Francesca , Decembrino Francesco , Domislovic Viktor , Anderloni Andrea
Published: September 2022

There is limited evidence on the incidence of needle tract seeding (NTS) in patients undergoing endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) tissue acquisition (TA) of pancreatic lesions. This meta-analysis aimed to assess the incidence of NTS after EUS-TA. With a search of the literature up until April 2022, we identified 10 studies (13,238 patients) assessing NTS incidences in patients undergoing EUS-TA. The primary outcome was NTS incidence. The secondary outcome was a comparison in terms of peritoneal carcinomatosis incidence between patients who underwent EUS-TA and non-sampled patients. Results were expressed as pooled rates or odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). The pooled rate of NTS was 0.3% (95% CI 0.2–0.4%), with no evidence of heterogeneity (I2 = 0%). Subgroup analysis based on the type of sampled lesion confirmed this finding both in patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma (0.4%, 0.2–0.6%) and in patients with cystic pancreatic lesions (0.3%, 0.1–0.5%). No difference in terms of metachronous peritoneal dissemination was observed between patients who underwent EUS-TA and non-sampled patients (OR 1.02, 0.72–1.46; p = 0.31), with evidence of low heterogeneity (I2 = 16%). Rates of NTS after EUS-TA are very low; therefore, EUS-TA could be safely performed in a pre-operative setting.
New Trends in Immunohistochemical Methods to Estimate the Time since Death: A Review
Authors: Salerno Monica , Cocimano Giuseppe , Roccuzzo Salvatore , Russo Ilenia , Piombino-Mascali Dario , Márquez-Grant Nicholas , Zammit Christian , Esposito Massimiliano , Sessa Francesco
Published: September 2022

The identification of a reliable and accurate post-mortem interval (PMI) is a major challenge in the field of forensic sciences and criminal investigation. Several laboratory techniques have recently been developed that offer a better contribution to the estimation of PMI, in addition to the traditional physical or physico-chemical (body cooling, lividity, radiocarbon dating, rigor mortis), chemical (autolysis), microbiological (putrefaction), entomological, as well as botanical parameters. Molecular biology (degradation pattern of macromolecules such as proteins, DNA, RNA), biochemical analysis of biological fluids (such as blood, cerebrospinal fluid, and vitreous humor), and immunohistochemistry are some of the most recent technological innovations. A systematic review of the literature was performed with the aim of presenting an up-to-date overview on the correlation between the immunohistochemical (IHC) expression of specific antigenic markers at different PMIs. The systematic review was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. Scopus and PubMed were used as search engines from January 1, 1998 to March 1, 2022 to evaluate the effectiveness of immunohistochemistry in estimating PMI. The following keywords were used: (immunohistochemical) OR (immunohistochemistry) AND (time since death) OR (post-mortem interval) OR (PMI). A total of 6571 articles were collected. Ultimately, 16 studies were included in this review. The results of this systematic review highlighted that IHC techniques, in association with traditional methods, add, in Bayesian terms, additional information to define a more accurate time of death and PMI. However, current IHC results are numerically limited and more data and studies are desirable in the near future.
Severe Immune-Related Adverse Events: A Case Series of Patients Needing Hospital Admission in a Spanish Oncology Referral Center and Review of the Literature
Authors: Seguí Elia , Zamora-Martínez Carles , Barreto Tanny Daniela , Padrosa Joan , Viladot Margarita , Marco-Hernández Javier
Published: September 2022

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have revolutionized the landscape of cancer treatment. Although several studies have shown that ICIs have a better safety profile than chemotherapy, some patients develop immune-related adverse events (irAEs), which require specialized and multidisciplinary management. Since ICI indications are rapidly increasing, it is crucial that clinicians involved in cancer care learn to identify irAEs and manage them properly. Here, we report a case series of 23 patients with severe irAEs requiring hospitalization over a period of 12 months and seize the opportunity to review and update different general features related to irAEs along with the management of the most frequent severe irAEs in our series.
Early Detection of Skin Disorders and Diseases Using Radiometry
Authors: Owda Amani Yousef , Owda Majdi
Published: September 2022

Skin diseases and disorders have a significant impact on people’s health and quality of life. Current medical practice suggests different methodologies for detecting and diagnosing skin diseases and conditions. Most of these require medical tests, laboratory analyses, images, and healthcare professionals to assess the results. This consumes time, money, and effort, and the waiting time is stressful for the patient. Therefore, it is an essential requirement to develop a new automatic method for the non-invasive diagnosis of skin diseases and disorders without the need for healthcare professionals or being in a medical clinic. This research proposes millimeter-wave (MMW) radiometry as a non-contact sensor for the non-invasive diagnosis of skin diseases and conditions. Reflectance measurements performed using 90 GHz radiometry were conducted on two samples of participants; sample 1 consisted of 60 participants (30 males and 30 females) with healthy skin, and sample 2 contained 60 participants (30 males and 30 females) suffering from skin diseases and conditions, which were: basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), burn wounds, and eczema. Radiometric measurements show substantial differences in reflectance in the range of 0.02–0.27 between healthy and unhealthy regions of the skin on the same person. These results indicate that radiometry, as a non-contact sensor, can identify and distinguish between healthy and diseased regions of the skin. This indicates the potential of using radiometry as a non-invasive technique for the early detection of skin diseases and disorders.
Analysis of A Disintegrin and Metalloprotease 17 (ADAM17) Expression as a Prognostic Marker in Ovarian Cancer Patients Undergoing First-Line Treatment Plus Bevacizumab
Authors: Fabbi Marina , Costa Delfina , Russo Daniela , Arenare Laura , Gaggero Gabriele , Signoriello Simona , Scambia Giovanni , Pisano Carmela , Colombo Nicoletta , Losito Nunzia Simona , Filaci Gilberto , Spina Anna , Califano Daniela , Scognamiglio Giosuè , Gadducci Angiolo , Mezzanzanica Delia , Bagnoli Marina , Ferrini Silvano , Canzonieri Vincenzo , Chiodini Paolo , Perrone Francesco , Pignata Sandro
Published: September 2022

To find prognostic factors for advanced ovarian cancer patients undergoing first-line therapy with carboplatin, paclitaxel and bevacizumab, we investigated the expression of a disintegrin and metalloprotease 17 (ADAM17) in cancer tissues. ADAM17 has been involved in ovarian cancer development, progression and cell resistance to cisplatin. Tissue microarrays from 309 ovarian cancer patients enrolled in the MITO16A/MANGO-OV2 clinical trial were analyzed by immunohistochemistry for ADAM17 protein expression. Intensity and extent of staining were combined into a semi-quantitative visual grading system (H score) which was related to clinicopathological characteristics of cases and the clinical outcome of patients by univariate and multivariate Cox regression models. ADAM17 immunostaining was detected in most samples, mainly localized in the tumor cells, with variable intensity across the cohort. Kaplan–Meier survival curves, generated according to the best cut-off value for the ADAM17 H score, showed that high ADAM17 expression was associated with worse prognosis for PFS and OS. However, after the application of a shrinkage procedure to adjust for overfitting hazard ratio estimates, the ADAM17 value as prognostic factor was lost. As subgroup analysis suggested that ADAM17 expression could be prognostically relevant in cases with no residual disease at baseline, further studies in this patient category may be worth planning.