bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cannabis Biomolecule Effects on Cancer Cells and Cancer Stem Cells: Cytotoxic, Anti-Proliferative, and Anti-Migratory Activities
Authors: Peeri Hadar , Koltai Hinanit
Published: March 2022

Cancer is a complex family of diseases affecting millions of people worldwide. Gliomas are primary brain tumors that account for ~80% of all malignant brain tumors. Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common, invasive, and lethal subtype of glioma. Therapy resistance and intra-GBM tumoral heterogeneity are promoted by subpopulations of glioma stem cells (GSCs). Cannabis sativa produces hundreds of secondary metabolites, such as flavonoids, terpenes, and phytocannabinoids. Around 160 phytocannabinoids have been identified in C. sativa. Cannabis is commonly used to treat various medical conditions, and it is used in the palliative care of cancer patients. The anti-cancer properties of cannabis compounds include cytotoxic, anti-proliferative, and anti-migratory activities on cancer cells and cancer stem cells. The endocannabinoids system is widely distributed in the body, and its dysregulation is associated with different diseases, including various types of cancer. Anti-cancer activities of phytocannabinoids are mediated in glioma cells, at least partially, by the endocannabinoid receptors, triggering various cellular signaling pathways, including the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress pathway. Specific combinations of multiple phytocannabinoids act synergistically against cancer cells and may trigger different anti-cancer signaling pathways. Yet, due to scarcity of clinical trials, there remains no solid basis for the anti-cancer therapeutic potential of cannabis compounds.
Transcriptome-Guided Identification of Drugs for Repurposing to Treat Age-Related Hearing Loss
Authors: Schubert Nick M. A. , van Tuinen Marcel , Pyott Sonja J.
Published: March 2022

Age-related hearing loss (ARHL) or presbycusis is a prevalent condition associated with social isolation, cognitive impairment, and dementia. Age-related changes in the cochlea, the auditory portion of the inner ear, are the primary cause of ARHL. Unfortunately, there are currently no pharmaceutical approaches to treat ARHL. To examine the biological processes underlying age-related changes in the cochlea and identify candidate drugs for rapid repurposing to treat ARHL, we utilized bulk RNA sequencing to obtain transcriptomes from the functional substructures of the cochlea—the sensorineural structures, including the organ of Corti and spiral ganglion neurons (OC/SGN) and the stria vascularis and spiral ligament (SV/SL)—in young (6-week-old) and old (2-year-old) C57BL/6 mice. Transcriptomic analyses revealed both overlapping and unique patterns of gene expression and gene enrichment between substructures and with ageing. Based on these age-related transcriptional changes, we queried the protein products of genes differentially expressed with ageing in DrugBank and identified 27 FDA/EMA-approved drugs that are suitable to be repurposed to treat ARHL. These drugs target the protein products of genes that are differentially expressed with ageing uniquely in either the OC/SGN or SV/SL and that interrelate diverse biological processes. Further transcriptomic analyses revealed that most genes differentially expressed with ageing in both substructures encode protein products that are promising drug target candidates but are, nevertheless, not yet linked to approved drugs. Thus, with this study, we apply a novel approach to characterize the druggable genetic landscape for ARHL and propose a list of drugs to test in pre-clinical studies as potential treatment options for ARHL.
Lab-on-a-Chip Platforms for Airborne Particulate Matter Applications: A Review of Current Perspectives
Authors: Ezrre Sharon , Reyna Marco A. , Anguiano Citlalli , Avitia Roberto L. , Márquez Heriberto
Published: March 2022

Lab-on-a-Chip (LoC) devices are described as versatile, fast, accurate, and low-cost platforms for the handling, detection, characterization, and analysis of a wide range of suspended particles in water-based environments. However, for gas-based applications, particularly in atmospheric aerosols science, LoC platforms are rarely developed. This review summarizes emerging LoC devices for the classification, measurement, and identification of airborne particles, especially those known as Particulate Matter (PM), which are linked to increased morbidity and mortality levels from cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. For these devices, their operating principles and performance parameters are introduced and compared while highlighting their advantages and disadvantages. Discussing the current applications will allow us to identify challenges and determine future directions for developing more robust LoC devices to monitor and analyze airborne PM.
A Label-Free and Affordable Solution to Point-of-Care Testing Devices
Authors: Lee Mon-Juan
Published: March 2022

Clinical diagnosis and disease monitoring often require the detection of small-molecule analytes and disease-related proteins in body fluids [...]
Exercise Effects on Motor Skill Consolidation and Intermuscular Coherence Depend on Practice Schedule
Authors: Khan Ali , Singh Jyotpal , Neary J. Patrick , Mang Cameron S.
Published: March 2022

Cardiorespiratory or aerobic exercise immediately after practice of an upper-extremity motor skill task can facilitate skill consolidation, as demonstrated by enhanced performances at 24 h and 7-day retention tests. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of acute cardiorespiratory exercise on motor skill consolidation when skill practice involved low and high levels of contextual interference introduced through repetitive and interleaved practice schedules, respectively. Forty-eight young healthy adults were allocated to one of four groups who performed either repetitive or interleaved practice of a pinch grip motor sequence task, followed by either a period of seated rest or a bout of high-intensity interval cycling. At pre- and post-practice and 24 h and 7-day retention tests, we assessed motor skill performance and β-band (15–35 Hz) intermuscular coherence using surface electromyography (EMG) collected from the abductor pollicis brevis and first dorsal interosseous. At the 7-day retention test, off-line consolidation was enhanced in the cardiorespiratory exercise relative to the rest group, but only among individuals who performed interleaved motor skill practice (p = 0.02). Similarly, at the 7-day retention test, β-band intermuscular coherence increased to a greater extent in the exercise group than in the rest group for those who performed interleaved practice (p = 0.02). Under the present experimental conditions, cardiorespiratory exercise preferentially supported motor skill consolidation and change in intermuscular coherence when motor skill practice involved higher rather than lower levels of contextual interference.
Narcissistic Personality and Its Relationship with Post-Traumatic Symptoms and Emotional Factors: Results of a Mediational Analysis Aimed at Personalizing Mental Health Treatment
Authors: Montoro Casandra I. , de la Coba Pablo , Moreno-Padilla María , Galvez-Sánchez Carmen M.
Published: March 2022

Background: Narcissism is characterized by entitlement, grandiose fantasies and the need for admiration. This personality trait has been associated with both traumatic experiences and emotional problems. Most studies have only focused on narcissism in the context of childhood trauma and negative emotional factors. However, dimensions of grandiose narcissism such as authority have been linked to adaptive outcomes. Furthermore, narcissism might not be linked only to negative childhood experiences; it may also be associated with the presence of post-traumatic symptoms. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess the associations between narcissism and the frequency and severity of post-traumatic symptoms and emotional factors (resilience capacity, emotional regulation, positive and negative affect, intolerance of uncertainty and perceived stress), as well as the possible mediational role of the latter in the relationship between narcissism and post-traumatic symptoms. Method: A total of 115 healthy young psychology undergraduates and their relatives, aged from 18 to 40 years, were asked to complete a set of questionnaires to evaluate the aforementioned variables. Results: The results showed that most of the grandiose narcissism dimensions were positively related to emotional adaptive outcomes, except exploitativeness and entitlement. The negative associations observed between the frequency and severity of post-traumatic symptoms and narcissism (self-sufficiency) were mediated by affect and resilience, which were in turn positively associated with the majority of the narcissism dimensions. Both positive affect and resilience were important factors mediating the association between grandiose narcissism and post-traumatic symptoms. Conclusions: Our findings reaffirm the need to assess not only desirable personality traits, but also ones that are not initially desirable, before pathologizing them. This consideration may be essential to achieve a personalized approach to the prevention of mental health problems, and promotion of positive emotions, in the general population.
Generating Inclusive Health Benefits from Urban Green Spaces: An Empirical Study of Beijing Olympic Forest Park
Authors: He Jialin , Li Li , Li Jiaming
Published: March 2022

Nature proximity contributes to improving many people’s health. In urban areas, how to increase the gaining of health benefits from urban green space (UGS) has gradually become a topic of concern for urban planners and public health practitioners. However, studies that can make causal inferences and evidence from developing countries and societies are still limited, and little has been done to address the issue of equity. Using data gathered in face-to-face surveys from 997 visitors to the Beijing Olympic Forest Park, we applied the instrumental variable approach to analyze park visit benefits to human physical and mental health, and explore ways that can help motivate visits and enhance equitable use. The results show that the overweight had more frequent visits, indicating that people with less-than-ideal health status might feel the urgency in improving their health and choose to engage in more recreation. In this sense, UGS showed a tendency to provide means for a certain group of people to proactively improve health. The study also solidifies the mid-term stress-relieving effect of park recreation that increased with visiting frequency, and found that visits to different types of UGS should all be beneficial, and do not have to be to large green parks. While distance is a decisive factor in encouraging UGS visits, route friendliness was found to have a complementing role, implying that creating routes to UGS that are more conducive to non-motorized travel (walking and cycling) could be seen as an important instrument. Both the incentives to park visitation and stress-relieving effect are more pronounced in elder groups, indicating higher potentials of such an approach in cities with an aging population. In terms of equity, differences in knowledge and income levels associated with use levels indicated inequitable use. To promote inclusiveness, the policy could start by increasing people’s recognition of health benefits derived from UGS recreation through for example publicity programs. The study could bring implications for planning practitioners to leverage health potentials from increased and equitable use of UGS. Limitations of the study includes: (1) given the nature of cross-sectional data, the possibility of two-way causality cannot be ruled out, and (2) the study was conducted in one park and only park visitors were surveyed. In the future, researchers could consider conducting multi-period surveys, and to look at the city level to include all kinds of recreational UGS, and, if possible, to cover all residents.
Modelling and Optimizing the Durability Performance of Self Consolidating Concrete Incorporating Crumb Rubber and Calcium Carbide Residue Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Uche Okorie Austine , Kelechi Sylvia E. , Adamu Musa , Ibrahim Yasser E. , Alanazi Hani , Okokpujie Imhade P.
Published: March 2022

The world is now focusing on a sustainable environment and reducing the effects of global warming. One way to achieve such targets is to properly utilize waste and reduce greenhouse CO2 emissions. The cement industry is responsible for almost 10% of global CO2 emission due to the high demand for cement in the construction industry. One of the ways to minimize this effect is the partial replacement of cement by other materials in concrete. Therefore, in this study, calcium carbide residue (CCR), which is highly rich in calcium oxide, partially replaced cement for waste management. Waste tires were grinded to fine sizes in crumb rubber (CR) and partially replaced the fine aggregate. Therefore, this paper investigared the influence of CR and CCR on the durability properties and heat/temperature resistance of self-compacting concrete (SCC). The experiment was designed using response surface methodology to investigate the effects of CR and CCR on SCC properties, design models for properties of the SCC, and optimize the mixes to achieve the best results. The properties considered were the durability of acid attack resistance (H2SO4 attack), salt attack resistance (MgSO4 attack), and water absorption. The heat resistance considered was weight reduction and residual compressive strength after heating the samples at a 200 °C and 400 °C. The results findings showed that CR and CCR negatively affect the acid and salt resistance of the SCC. Furthermore, CR negatively affects the heat resistance of the SCC, while CCR slightly improved it at 200 °C. The models developed using RSM were significant with high degrees of correlation and predictability. The optimum properties achieved 2.9% CR as a fine aggregate replacement and 5.5% CCR as a cement replacement. The developed models can predict the durability performance of SCC mixes in terms of acid and salt attack resistance and the effects of elevated temperatures using CR, CCR, and fly ash as the variables. This will reduce the need for carrying out experimental work, thereby reducing cost and time.
Anti-EGFR Reintroduction and Rechallenge in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer (mCRC): A Real-World Analysis
Authors: Schulz Martin S. , Wolf Sebastian , Struck Vera , Thomas Niklas , Husman Gabriele , Zeuzem Stefan , Koch Christine , Trojan Jörg , Schnitzbauer Andreas Anton , Bechstein Wolf Otto , Waidmann Oliver
Published: March 2022

Background and Aims: In patients with Rat sarcoma proto-oncogene (RAS) wild-type metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC), anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) antibodies have been established in first- and further therapy lines. Due to limited treatment options upon disease progression, anti-EGFR re-exposure is increasingly employed in real-world oncology. The aim of this study was to assess clinical implementation and utility of anti-EGFR retreatment strategies in real-world mCRC patients. Methods: In this monocentric retrospective study, we included 524 patients with CRC and identified patients who received an anti-EGFR-based treatment as well as anti-EGFR rechallenge (progression on first-line anti-EGFR therapy) or reintroduction (discontinuation due to intolerance/toxicity/other). Results: In total, 143 patients received an anti-EGFR-based first- or second-line treatment, showing a similar overall survival (OS) compared to the non-anti-EGFR treatment group (38.3 vs. 39.6 months, p = 0.88). Thirty-three patients met the inclusion criteria for anti-EGFR re-exposure and were either assigned to rechallenge (n = 21) or reintroduction (n = 12) subgroups. The median FU after re-exposure was 45.8 months. Cetuximab and Panitumumab were used in 21 and 12 patients, respectively, and the main chemotherapy at re-exposure was FOLFIRI in 39.4%. Anti-EGFR re-exposure was associated with a distinct trend towards a better outcome (median OS 56.0 vs. 35.4 months, p = 0.06). In a subgroup comparison, reintroduction was associated with a higher OS and PFS in trend compared to the rechallenge (mOS 66 vs. 52.4, n.s., mPFS 7.33 vs. 3.68 months, n.s.). Conclusions: This retrospective study provides real-world evidence underscoring that anti-EGFR re-exposure strategies might benefit patients independently of the reason for prior discontinuation.
CT-Based Radiomics Analysis to Predict Histopathological Outcomes Following Liver Resection in Colorectal Liver Metastases
Authors: Granata Vincenza , Fusco Roberta , Setola Sergio Venanzio , De Muzio Federica , Dell’ Aversana Federica , Cutolo Carmen , Faggioni Lorenzo , Miele Vittorio , Izzo Francesco , Petrillo Antonella
Published: March 2022

Purpose: We aimed to assess the efficacy of radiomic features extracted by computed tomography (CT) in predicting histopathological outcomes following liver resection in colorectal liver metastases patients, evaluating recurrence, mutational status, histopathological characteristics (mucinous), and surgical resection margin. Methods: This retrospectively approved study included a training set and an external validation set. The internal training set included 49 patients with a median age of 60 years and 119 liver colorectal metastases. The validation cohort consisted of 28 patients with single liver colorectal metastasis and a median age of 61 years. Radiomic features were extracted using PyRadiomics on CT portal phase. Nonparametric Kruskal–Wallis tests, intraclass correlation, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses, linear regression modeling, and pattern recognition methods (support vector machine (SVM), k-nearest neighbors (KNN), artificial neural network (NNET), and decision tree (DT)) were considered. Results: The median value of intraclass correlation coefficients for the features was 0.92 (range 0.87–0.96). The best performance in discriminating expansive versus infiltrative front of tumor growth was wavelet_HHL_glcm_Imc2, with an accuracy of 79%, a sensitivity of 84%, and a specificity of 67%. The best performance in discriminating expansive versus tumor budding was wavelet_LLL_firstorder_Mean, with an accuracy of 86%, a sensitivity of 91%, and a specificity of 65%. The best performance in differentiating the mucinous type of tumor was original_firstorder_RobustMeanAbsoluteDeviation, with an accuracy of 88%, a sensitivity of 42%, and a specificity of 100%. The best performance in identifying tumor recurrence was the wavelet_HLH_glcm_Idmn, with an accuracy of 85%, a sensitivity of 81%, and a specificity of 88%. The best linear regression model was obtained with the identification of recurrence considering the linear combination of the 16 significant textural metrics (accuracy of 97%, sensitivity of 94%, and specificity of 98%). The best performance for each outcome was reached using KNN as a classifier with an accuracy greater than 86% in the training and validation sets for each classification problem; the best results were obtained with the identification of tumor front growth considering the seven significant textural features (accuracy of 97%, sensitivity of 90%, and specificity of 100%). Conclusions: This study confirmed the capacity of radiomics data to identify several prognostic features that may affect the treatment choice in patients with liver metastases, in order to obtain a more personalized approach.
Acute Hematological Toxicity during Cranio-Spinal Proton Therapy in Pediatric Brain Embryonal Tumors
Authors: Vennarini Sabina , Del Baldo Giada , Lorentini Stefano , Pertile Riccardo , Fabozzi Francesco , Merli Pietro , Megaro Giacomina , Scartoni Daniele , Carai Andrea , Tornesello Assunta , Colafati Giovanna Stefania , Cacchione Antonella , Mastronuzzi Angela
Published: March 2022

Background: Embryonal tumors represent a heterogeneous entity of brain tumors that need a multidisciplinary treatment including cranio-spinal irradiation (CSI), with a known impact on the acute toxicity. Proton therapy (PT) boasts a reduction in acute hematological toxicity. Methods: We retrospectively examined 20 pediatric patients affected by high-risk medulloblastoma and other rare embryonal brain tumors subjected to CSI with PT from September 2016 to April 2020. Before CSI, all patients received induction chemotherapy, and three patients additionally received two high-dose courses with thiotepa, followed by an autologous haemopoietic stem cell transplantation. We recorded the total white blood cell count, absolute neutrophil count, platelets, and hemoglobin levels for all patients during PT. Results: Leucocytes and neutrophils decreased directly after the beginning of treatment, reaching a complete recovery at the end of treatment. Hemoglobin values remained constant over the treatment course. The median platelet value decreased until reaching a plateau around halfway through therapy, followed by a slow increase. No cases of febrile neutropenia or severe infections were reported. No treatment discontinuation due to hematological toxicity was necessary. Conclusions: CSI with PT was proven to be safe in this setting of pediatric patients. Our study showed that despite all patients having undergone chemotherapy prior to irradiation, no serious hematological toxicity was reported at the end of the treatment with PT, and, therefore, no treatment was discontinued or delayed.
Where Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS) Protocols Meet the Three Major Current Pandemics: COVID-19, Obesity and Malignancy
Authors: Prodromidou Anastasia , Koulakmanidis Aristotelis-Marios , Haidopoulos Dimitrios , Nelson Gregg , Rodolakis Alexandros , Thomakos Nikolaos
Published: March 2022

The outbreak of the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic has transformed the provision of medical services for both patients that receive care for COVID-19 and for those that need care either for benign diseases, including obesity, or for malignancies, such as gynecological cancer. In this perspective article, we focus on the association among three major worldwide health issues and how ERAS protocols can potentially provide optimal management of patients with obesity and malignancy during the COVID-19 pandemic, with special attention to patients who required surgery for gynecologic oncology. A thorough search of the literature on the respective topics was performed. Patients with malignancy and obesity presented with increased vulnerability to COVID-19 infection. However, the management of their disease should not be withheld. Protective measures should be established to reduce exposure of patients with oncological diseases to SARS-CoV-2 while simultaneously enabling their access to vaccination. Since ERAS protocols have proved to be efficient in many surgical fields, including gynecologic oncology, general surgery, and orthopedics, we strongly believe that ERAS protocols may play a significant role in this effort. The end of the COVID-19 pandemic cannot be accurately predicted. Nevertheless, we have to ensure the appropriate and efficient management of certain groups of patients.
SMYD3 Promotes Cell Cycle Progression by Inducing Cyclin D3 Transcription and Stabilizing the Cyclin D1 Protein in Medulloblastoma
Authors: Asuthkar Swapna , Venkataraman Sujatha , Avilala Janardhan , Shishido Katherine , Vibhakar Rajeev , Veo Bethany , Purvis Ian J. , Guda Maheedhara R. , Velpula Kiran K.
Published: March 2022

Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common malignant pediatric brain tumor. Maximum safe resection, postoperative craniospinal irradiation, and chemotherapy are the standard of care for MB patients. MB is classified into four subgroups: Shh, Wnt, Group 3, and Group 4. Of these subgroups, patients with Myc+ Group 3 MB have the worst prognosis, necessitating alternative therapies. There is increasing interest in targeting epigenetic modifiers for treating pediatric cancers, including MB. Using an RNAi functional genomic screen, we identified the lysine methyltransferase SMYD3, as a crucial epigenetic regulator that drives the growth of Group 3 Myc+ MB cells. We demonstrated that SMYD3 directly binds to the cyclin D3 promoter to activate its transcription. Further, SMYD3 depletion significantly reduced MB cell proliferation and led to the downregulation of cyclin D3, cyclin D1, pRBSer795, with concomitant upregulations in RB in vitro. Similar results were obtained following pharmacological inhibition of SMYD3 using BCI-121 ex vivo. SMYD3 knockdown also promoted cyclin D1 ubiquitination, indicating that SMYD3 plays a vital role in stabilizing the cyclin D1 protein. Collectively, our studies demonstrate that SMYD3 drives cell cycle progression in Group 3 Myc+ MB cells and that targeting SMYD3 has the potential to improve clinical outcomes for high-risk patients.
Dual Effect of Immune Cells within Tumour Microenvironment: Pro- and Anti-Tumour Effects and Their Triggers
Authors: Peña-Romero Alicia Cristina , Orenes-Piñero Esteban
Published: March 2022

Our body is constantly exposed to pathogens or external threats, but with the immune response that our body can develop, we can fight off and defeat possible attacks or infections. Nevertheless, sometimes this threat comes from an internal factor. Situations such as the existence of a tumour also cause our immune system (IS) to be put on alert. Indeed, the link between immunology and cancer is evident these days, with IS being used as one of the important targets for treating cancer. Our IS is able to eliminate those abnormal or damaged cells found in our body, preventing the uncontrolled proliferation of tumour cells that can lead to cancer. However, in several cases, tumour cells can escape from the IS. It has been observed that immune cells, the extracellular matrix, blood vessels, fat cells and various molecules could support tumour growth and development. Thus, the developing tumour receives structural support, irrigation and energy, among other resources, making its survival and progression possible. All these components that accompany and help the tumour to survive and to grow are called the tumour microenvironment (TME). Given the importance of its presence in the tumour development process, this review will focus on one of the components of the TME: immune cells. Immune cells can support anti-tumour immune response protecting us against tumour cells; nevertheless, they can also behave as pro-tumoural cells, thus promoting tumour progression and survival. In this review, the anti-tumour and pro-tumour immunity of several immune cells will be discussed. In addition, the TME influence on this dual effect will be also analysed.
Hypoalbuminemia Is a Hepatocellular Carcinoma Independent Risk Factor for Tumor Progression in Low-Risk Bridge to Transplant Candidates
Authors: Núñez Kelley G. , Sandow Tyler , Patel Jai , Hibino Mina , Fort Daniel , Cohen Ari J. , Thevenot Paul
Published: March 2022

Due to active hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) surveillance, many patients are diagnosed with early-stage disease and are usually amendable to curative treatments. These patients lack poor prognostic factors associated with Milan Criteria and alpha fetoprotein (AFP) biomarker levels. There are currently limited strategies to assess prognosis in the patients who remain at risk of post-treatment HCC progression. In a cohort of liver transplant (LT) candidates with HCC, this study seeks to identify factors prior to liver-directed therapy (LDT) associated with time to progression (TTP). This is a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from LT candidates with recently diagnosed HCC and receiving LDT as a bridge to LT at three interventional oncology programs within a single system (n = 373). Demographics, clinical hepatology and serology, and factors related to HCC burden were extracted and analyzed for associations with TTP risk. Albumin level below the cohort median (3.4 g/dL) emerged as an independent risk factor for TTP controlling for AFP > 20 ng/mL as well as Milan, T-stage, and Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stage individually. In modality-specific subgroup survival analysis, albumin-based TTP stratification was restricted to patients receiving first cycle microwave ablation (p = 0.007). In n = 162 patients matching all low-risk criteria for Milan, T-stage, BCLC stage, and AFP, the effect of albumin < 3.4 g/dL remained significant for TTP (p = 0.004) with 2-year TTP rates of 68% (<3.4 g/dL) compared to 95% (≥3.4 g/dL). In optimal bridge to LT candidates with small HCC and low AFP biomarker levels, albumin level at treatment baseline provides an HCC-independent positive prognostic factor for risk of HCC progression prior to LT.
Breast Radiotherapy after Oncoplastic Surgery—A Multidisciplinary Approach
Authors: Metz Gabrielle , Snook Kylie , Sood Samriti , Baron-Hay Sally , Spillane Andrew , Lamoury Gillian , Carroll Susan
Published: March 2022

Oncoplastic breast surgery encompasses a range of techniques used to provide equitable oncological outcomes compared with standard breast surgery while, simultaneously, prioritizing aesthetic outcomes. While the outcomes of oncoplastic breast surgery are promising, it can add an extra complexity to the treatment paradigm of breast cancer and impact on decision-making surrounding adjuvant therapies, like chemotherapy and radiotherapy. As such, early discussions at the multidisciplinary team meeting with surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists present, should be encouraged to facilitate best patient care.
Lignin as a Bio-Sourced Secondary Template for ZSM-5 Zeolite Synthesis
Authors: Flores Camila Gomes , Schneider Helena , Louis Benoit
Published: March 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the addition of lignin as a sacrificial agent in ZSM-5 zeolite synthesis. Peculiar growths of ZSM-5 crystals leading to various textural properties were observed. Hence, the behavior in acid-catalyzed conversion of methanol into hydrocarbons (MTH) shifted from high selectivity toward olefins (>55%) to the sole formation of dimethyl ether (DME). Lignin acted as a bio-sourced secondary template (BSST), impacting the zeolite crystals’ shape and, thus, their physicochemical properties.
Catalytic Hydrodeoxygenation of Guaiacol to Cyclohexanol over Bimetallic NiMo-MOF-Derived Catalysts
Authors: Zhou Minghao , Ge Fei , Li Jing , Xia Haihong , Liu Junli , Jiang Jianchun , Chen Changzhou , Zhao Jun , Yang Xiaohui
Published: March 2022

Lignin is an attractive renewable source of aromatics with a low effective hydrogen to carbon ratio (H/Ceff). The catalytic hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) of lignin-derived model compounds is a key strategy for lignin upgrading. In this work, the HDO of guaiacol, a typical lignin-derived compound, was carried out over metal–organic framework (MOF)-derived Ni-based catalysts. A monometallic Ni-MOF catalyst and different ratios of bimetallic NiMo-MOF catalysts were synthesized by a hydrothermal process, followed by a carbonization process. Among these catalysts, Ni3Mo1@C exhibited an excellent catalytic performance, affording a guaiacol conversion of 98.8% and a cyclohexanol selectivity of 66.8% at 240 °C and 2 MPa H2 for 4 h. The addition of Mo decreased the particle size of the spherical structure and improved the dispersion of metal particles. The synergistic effect between Ni and Mo was confirmed by various means, including ICP, XRD, SEM, TEM, and NH3-TPD analyses. In addition, the effect of the reaction temperature, time, and H2 pressure during the HDO process is discussed in detail.
Investigation on the Role of Pd, Pt, Rh in Methane Abatement for Heavy Duty Applications
Authors: Wang Moyu , Dimopoulos Eggenschwiler Panayotis , Franken Tanja , Agote-Arán Miren , Ferri Davide , Kröcher Oliver
Published: March 2022

Methane abatement remains a challenge in aftertreatment systems of natural gas engines, currently under discussion in combination with synthetic methane. In this study, Pt/Rh and Pd/Rh-based three-way catalysts are investigated under various transient conditions because transients between O2 excess (lean) and O2-poor (rich) conditions can significantly enhance methane abatement. At mid to high temperatures, transitions from rich to lean feed yield higher rates of methane direct oxidation under lean conditions with the Pt/Rh catalyst, compared to the Pd/Rh catalyst. Both catalysts are able to trigger methane steam reforming (SR) after transitions from lean to rich feed. The SR reaction leads to increased H2 and NH3 formation. However, SR deactivates much faster in the Pt/Rh catalyst. At low temperature, the Pt/Rh catalyst is more active for SR. Results from an additional Pd-only catalyst confirm that Rh is essential for NOx conversion and high N2 selectivity. The distinct characteristics of Pt, Pd and Rh demonstrate the benefits obtained from the combination of the three platinum group metals. The potential of the Pt/Pd/Rh catalyst is proved to be significant throughout the complete engine map. Under optimized lean/rich oscillatory conditions, the Pt/Pd/Rh catalyst yields more than 95% methane conversion under almost all conditions while maintaining efficient abatement of all other pollutants.
Development of a Chemical Cocktail That Rescues Mouse Brain Demyelination in a Cuprizone-Induced Model
Authors: Lai Pei-Lun , Ng Chi-Hou , Wu Chia-Hsin , Lai Chien-Ying , Schuyler Scott C. , Wang Vicki , Lin Hsuan , Lee Yueh-Chang , Chuang Ming-Hsi , Yang Chang-Huan , Chen Wei-Ju , Huang Hsiao-Chun , Lu Jean
Published: March 2022

Oligodendrocytes are glial cells located in the central nervous system (CNS) that play essential roles in the transmission of nerve signals and in the neuroprotection of myelinated neurons. The dysfunction or loss of oligodendrocytes leads to demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS). To treat demyelinating diseases, the development of a therapy that promotes remyelination is required. In the present study, we established an in vitro method to convert human fibroblasts into induced oligodendrocyte-like cells (iOLCs) in 3 days. The induced cells displayed morphologies and molecular signatures similar to oligodendrocytes after treatment with valproic acid and exposure to the small molecules Y27632, SU9516, and forskolin (FSK). To pursue the development of a cell-free remyelination therapy in vivo, we used a cuprizone-induced demyelinated mouse model. The small molecules (Y27632, SU9516, and FSK) were directly injected into the demyelinated corpus callosum of the mouse brain. This combination of small molecules rescued the demyelination phenotype within two weeks as observed by light and electron microscopy. These results provide a foundation for exploring the development of a treatment for demyelinating diseases via regenerative medicine.
Modulating the Ubiquitin–Proteasome System: A Therapeutic Strategy for Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Yadav Dhananjay , Lee Ji Yeon , Puranik Nidhi , Chauhan Pallavi S. , Chavda Vishal , Jin Jun-O. , Lee Peter C. W.
Published: March 2022

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune, neurodegenerative disease associated with the central nervous system (CNS). Autoimmunity is caused by an abnormal immune response to self-antigens, which results in chronic inflammation and tissue death. Ubiquitination is a post-translational modification in which ubiquitin molecules are attached to proteins by ubiquitinating enzymes, and then the modified proteins are degraded by the proteasome system. In addition to regulating proteasomal degradation of proteins, ubiquitination also regulates other cellular functions that are independent of proteasomal degradation. It plays a vital role in intracellular protein turnover and immune signaling and responses. The ubiquitin–proteasome system (UPS) is primarily responsible for the nonlysosomal proteolysis of intracellular proteins. The 26S proteasome is a multicatalytic adenosine-triphosphate-dependent protease that recognizes ubiquitin covalently attached to particular proteins and targets them for degradation. Damaged, oxidized, or misfolded proteins, as well as regulatory proteins that govern many essential cellular functions, are removed by this degradation pathway. When this system is affected, cellular homeostasis is altered, resulting in the induction of a range of diseases. This review discusses the biochemistry and molecular biology of the UPS, including its role in the development of MS and proteinopathies. Potential therapies and targets involving the UPS are also addressed.
Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors at Ribbon Synapses in the Retina and Cochlea
Authors: Klotz-Weigand Lisa , Enz Ralf
Published: March 2022

Our senses define our view of the world. They allow us to adapt to environmental stimuli and are essential for communication and social behaviour. For most humans, seeing and hearing are central senses for their daily life. Our eyes and ears respond to an extraordinary broad range of stimuli covering about 12 log units of light intensity or acoustic power, respectively. The cellular basis is represented by sensory cells (photoreceptors in the retina and inner hair cells in the cochlea) that convert sensory inputs into electrical signals. Photoreceptors and inner hair cells have developed a specific pre-synaptic structure, termed synaptic ribbon, that is decorated with numerous vesicles filled with the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate. At these ribbon synapses, glutamatergic signal transduction is guided by distinct sets of metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs). MGluRs belong to group II and III of the receptor classification can inhibit neuronal activity, thus protecting neurons from overstimulation and subsequent degeneration. Consequently, dysfunction of mGluRs is associated with vision and hearing disorders. In this review, we introduce the principle characteristics of ribbon synapses and describe group II and III mGluRs in these fascinating structures in the retina and cochlea.
Adsorption Properties of ZSM-5 Molecular Sieve for Perfluoroisobutyronitrile Mixtures and Its Fluorocarbon Decomposition Products
Authors: Liu Wei , Qiu Xinjie , Zhang Xiaoxing , Tian Shuangshuang , Yuan Zian , Liu Weihao
Published: March 2022

Perfluoroisobutyronitrile (C4F7N), an environment-friendly insulating gas, has excellent insulating properties and has the potential to be used in gas-insulated equipment when mixed with CO2. Selecting suitable adsorption materials to adsorb the decomposition products of the C4F7N mixture can ensure the safe and stable operation of the gas-insulated equipment and the personal safety of the operators in the electric power industry. The adsorption characteristics of the ZSM-5 molecular sieve on C4F7N and its five fluorocarbon decomposition products were investigated by adsorption experiments. The results show that the ZSM-5 molecular sieve has a certain adsorption effect on six fluorocarbon gases; the adsorption performance of C3F6 and C3F8 are the best, with an adsorption efficiency over 85%, while the concentration of CO2 and C4F7N is affected by the ZSM-5 molecular sieve. At the same time, the paper based on the Metropolis Monte Carlo simulation of Materials Studio software found that the ZSM-5 molecular sieve has the strongest adsorption effect on C4F7N molecules and the weakest adsorption effect on CO2 molecules. The stronger the polarity of the gas molecule, the more obvious the adsorption effect of molecular sieve structure on it. As a result, the ZSM-5 molecular sieve could be used in tail gas purification of insulated equipment, as well as to provide solutions for the development and production of protective equipment.
Effect of Graphite Content on the Conductivity, Wear Behavior, and Corrosion Resistance of the Organic Layer on Magnesium Alloy MAO Coatings
Authors: Leng Zhongjun , Li Tao , Wang Xitao , Zhang Suqing , Zhou Jixue
Published: March 2022

To impart electrical conductivity on magnesium alloy micro-arc oxidation coatings, a graphite/epoxy conductive layer was prepared on the surface of a ceramic layer in this work, focusing on wear behavior and corrosion resistance of the coating. At a graphite weight of 80 wt%, the square resistance of the coating decreased to 217.6 kΩ/□, and it exhibited good resistance. Combined with the distribution of graphite particles in the coating and the change in surface resistance, we determined that the conductive mechanism of the coating occurred through quantum tunneling when the graphite content was 60 wt%. When the graphite content increased from 60 to 80 and 100 wt%, the formation of conductive paths on the surface of the coating further improved the conductivity. The hardness of the organic coatings was positively related to the graphite content. Analysis of the wear scars and wear debris after dry friction and wear testing showed that the wear forms of the coating consisted of abrasive wear when the graphite content was in the range of 20–40 wt%. When the graphite content was in the range of 60–100 wt%, the wear forms of the coating consisted of abrasive wear and peeling wear.
Shear Bond Strength and Microleakage of Pit and Fissure Sealants Placed after Saliva-Contaminated Etched Enamel
Authors: Bao Zhifan , Sun Hui , Fan Dongyang , Wang Xin , Wang Qiang
Published: March 2022

Saliva contamination of etched enamel before sealant application is the most common reason for failure of fissure sealants, thus affecting the effect of caries prevention. This study aimed to evaluate the shear bond strength (SBS) and microleakage of resin-based fissure sealant on saliva-contaminated etched enamel after rinsing, re-etching, and applying universal adhesive. Fifty human third molars were sectioned into 2 parts and embedded in acrylic resin to obtained 100 samples. The samples were randomly assigned to 5 groups: 1, etching; 2, etching + contamination; 3, etching + contamination + rinsing; 4, etching + contamination+ re-etching; 5, etching + contamination + universal adhesive. Each group was divided into 2 subgroups: 24 h storage and 5000× thermocycling. After measuring SBS, failure mode was analyzed. In an additional 15 teeth, microleakage was tested using dye penetration method. Three more teeth were used for scanning electron microscope (SEM) observation of the enamel surface morphology in each group. The adhesive group had significantly higher mean SBS after 24 h storage, while the re-etching group were better after 5000× thermocycling. The etching, etching+ contamination+ re-etching, and etching+ contamination+ universal adhesive groups showed the least microleakage. The SEM reveals considerable variations in the enamel surface appearance within groups. Re-etching or applying universal adhesive in saliva-contaminated etched enamel before sealant can achieve satisfactory results. Considering the less operative steps and the shorter chair time, applying universal adhesive is more recommended for a pediatric patient if saliva-contamination happened before sealant application.
An Anti-Corrosion Superhydrophobic Copper Surface Fabricated by Milling and Chemical Deposition
Authors: Jia Chenxi , Zhu Jiyuan , Zhang Langping
Published: March 2022

The development of anticorrosion coatings on copper has raised tremendous interest in material science. Using a milling method, regular rough structures were fabricated, and after chemical deposition with AgNO3 solution and the modification of stearic acid, a superhydrophobic copper substrate could be obtained. The surface morphological study showed a dendritic microstructure, and a rectangular surface bulge produced by milling was distributed on the copper substrate. The coatings showed the surface water contact angle could be as high as 158.4°. The best anti-corrosion coating was the sample milled with the cutter tip distance of 0.30 mm. The as-prepared superhydrophobic sample has a good self-cleaning effect. Scratched with a knife and abraded by friction, the copper substrate still maintained good superhydrophobic nature. The coating was mechanically stable and possessed good corrosion resistance.
Influence of Au, Ag, and Cu Adatoms on Optical Properties of TiO2 (110) Surface: Predictions from RT-TDDFT Calculations
Authors: Lin Yin-Pai , Bocharov Dmitry , Kotomin Eugene A. , Brik Mikhail G. , Piskunov Sergei
Published: March 2022

In this paper, real-time time-dependent density-functional theory (RT-TDDFT) calculations are performed to analyze the optical property and charge transitions of a single noble metal atom deposited on rutile TiO2 (110) surface. The model structures are built reflecting the equilibrium positions of deposited adatoms atop the TiO2 surface. The absorption spectra are calculated for all model structures under study. To provide deeper insight into photo-absorption processes, the transition contribution maps are computed for the states of deposited adatoms involved in transitions. Assuming the photon energy is enough to overcome the band gap of TiO2 (∼3 eV), the photogenerated electrons of TiO2 seem to be partly accumulated around deposited Au atoms. In contrast, this is rarely observed for deposited Ag and Cu atoms. Based on our calculations, we have identified the transition state mechanism that is important for the design strategy of future photocatalytic materials.
Phase Diagram of a Strained Ferroelectric Nanowire
Authors: Pavlenko Maksim A. , Di Rino Franco , Boron Leo , Kondovych Svitlana , Sené Anaïs , Tikhonov Yuri A. , Razumnaya Anna G. , Vinokur Valerii M. , Sepliarsky Marcelo , Lukyanchuk Igor A.
Published: March 2022

Ferroelectric materials manifest unique dielectric, ferroelastic, and piezoelectric properties. A targeted design of ferroelectrics at the nanoscale is not only of fundamental appeal but holds the highest potential for applications. Compared to two-dimensional nanostructures such as thin films and superlattices, one-dimensional ferroelectric nanowires are investigated to a much lesser extent. Here, we reveal a variety of the topological polarization states, particularly the vortex and helical chiral phases, in loaded ferroelectric nanowires, which enable us to complete the strain–temperature phase diagram of the one-dimensional ferroelectrics. These phases are of prime importance for optoelectronics and quantum communication technologies.
Modeling the Effect of Magnesium Content on the Electrical Conductivity and Hardness of Technical Aluminum (1050) Alloy
Authors: Bani Hani Dania , Al Athamneh Raed , Albataineh Zaid , Rawashdeh Mustafa , Makableh Issam
Published: March 2022

Aluminum alloys use is so profound in many applications such as transportation, construction, energy, defense applications, automotive, aerospace, to name a few. Therefore, investigating the mechanical and electrical properties of the different types for aluminum alloys is vital. The Al–Mg alloy is widely used in the automotive industry because of its optimal properties, for example, corrosion resistance, weldability, and strength-to-weight ratio. This study aims to investigate and model the effect of changing the magnesium percentage content on the hardness and electrical conductivity of Al–Mg alloy with a detailed statistical analysis to validate the results. The microstructure at each Mg percentile content is demonstrated using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and an optical microscope for validating the Mg content after solidification and tracking the grain size evolutions at different Mg percentiles. Vickers hardness testing is applied for hardness evaluation at each experimental condition. The electrical conductivity is tested using a PCE 20COM electric conductive non-destructive test (NDT). Prediction models are constructed to estimate the hardness and electrical conductivity as a function of Mg percentile by using a nonlinear optimizer. The results indicated that the hardness is significantly increased with increasing the Mg content by three times when comparing 0 Mg wt.% and 5 mg wt.%. In contrast, a 48% reduction in the electrical conductivity is found when Mg wt.% is increased to 5 and a notable decrease in the grain size is observed when the Mg content is increased.