bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Regulators of the IGF System in Cancer
Authors: Mancarella Caterina , Morrione Andrea , Scotlandi Katia
Published: February 2021

The insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system is a dynamic network of proteins, which includes cognate ligands, membrane receptors, ligand binding proteins and functional downstream effectors. It plays a critical role in regulating several important physiological processes including cell growth, metabolism and differentiation. Importantly, alterations in expression levels or activation of components of the IGF network are implicated in many pathological conditions including diabetes, obesity and cancer initiation and progression. In this review we will initially cover some general aspects of IGF action and regulation in cancer and then focus in particular on the role of transcriptional regulators and novel interacting proteins, which functionally contribute in fine tuning IGF1R signaling in several cancer models. A deeper understanding of the biological relevance of this network of IGF1R modulators might provide novel therapeutic opportunities to block this system in neoplasia.
Simulating the Fast Prediction Strategy of the Sensorimotor System
Authors: Biscarini Andrea
Published: February 2021

The values of a physiological parameter and its time derivatives, detected at different times by different sensory receptors, are processed by the sensorimotor system to predict the time evolution of the parameter and convey appropriate control commands acting with minimum latency (few milliseconds) from the sensory stimulus. We have derived a power-series expansion (U-expansion) to simulate the fast prediction strategy of the sensorimotor system. Given a time-function f, a time-instant t0, and a time-increment ττ, the U-expansion enables the calculation of τf(t0+τ) from f(t0) and the values f(n)(tn) of the derivatives f(n) of f at arbitrarily different times tn (n=1,2,…), instead of time t0 as in the Taylor series. For increments ττ significantly greater than the maximum t among the differences |tn−tn−1|, the error associated with truncation of the U-expansion at a given order closely equalizes the error of the corresponding Taylor series (t=0) truncated at the same order. Small values of t and higher values of ττ correspond to the high-frequency discharge of sensory neurons and the need for longer-term prediction, respectively. Taking inspiration from the sensorimotor system, the U-expansion can potentially provide an analytical background for the development of algorithms designed for the fast and accurate feedback control of nonlinear systems.
Nucleic Acid-Based Sensing Techniques for Diagnostics and Surveillance of Influenza
Authors: Courtney Samantha J. , Stromberg Zachary R. , Kubicek-Sutherland Jessica Z.
Published: February 2021

Influenza virus poses a threat to global health by causing seasonal outbreaks as well as three pandemics in the 20th century. In humans, disease is primarily caused by influenza A and B viruses, while influenza C virus causes mild disease mostly in children. Influenza D is an emerging virus found in cattle and pigs. To mitigate the morbidity and mortality associated with influenza, rapid and accurate diagnostic tests need to be deployed. However, the high genetic diversity displayed by influenza viruses presents a challenge to the development of a robust diagnostic test. Nucleic acid-based tests are more accurate than rapid antigen tests for influenza and are therefore better candidates to be used in both diagnostic and surveillance applications. Here, we review various nucleic acid-based techniques that have been applied towards the detection of influenza viruses in order to evaluate their utility as both diagnostic and surveillance tools. We discuss both traditional as well as novel methods to detect influenza viruses by covering techniques that require nucleic acid amplification or direct detection of viral RNA as well as comparing advantages and limitations for each method. There has been substantial progress in the development of nucleic acid-based sensing techniques for the detection of influenza virus. However, there is still an urgent need for a rapid and reliable influenza diagnostic test that can be used at point-of-care in order to enhance responsiveness to both seasonal and pandemic influenza outbreaks.
Systematic Review on the Safety and Tolerability of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Buchanan Derrick , Bogdanowicz Thomas , Khanna Neha , Lockman-Dufour Guillaume , Robaey Philippe , D’Angiulli Amedeo
Published: February 2021

Background: Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a safe, tolerable, and acceptable technique in adults. However, there is limited evidence for its safety in youth. Although limited, there are a handful of important empirical articles that have evaluated safety and tolerability outcomes in youth. However, a synthesis of pediatric safety studies is not currently available. Objective: To synthesize objective evidence regarding the safety and tolerability of pediatric tDCS based on the current state of the literature. Methods: Our search and report used PRISMA guidelines. Our method systematically examined investigations purposefully designed to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and acceptability of tDCS in healthy and atypical youth that were submitted to three databases, from the beginning of the database to November 2019. Safety considerations were evaluated by studies utilizing neuroimaging, physiological changes, performance on tasks, and by analyzing reported and objective side effects; tolerability via rate of adverse events; and acceptability via rate of dropouts. Results: We report on 203 sham sessions, 864 active sessions up to 2 mA, and 303 active hours of stimulation in 156 children. A total of 4.4% of the active sessions were in neurotypical controls, with the other 95.6% in clinical subjects. Conclusion: In spite of the fact that the current evidence is sporadic and scarce, the presently reviewed literature provides support for the safety, tolerability, and acceptability, of tDCS in youth for 1–20 sessions of 20 min up to 2 mA. Future pediatric tDCS research is encouraged.
Activities of Daily Living and Categorization Skills of Elderly with Cognitive Deficit: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Romero-Ayuso Dulce , Cuerda Cristian , Morales Carmen , Tesoriero Ricardo , Triviño-Juárez José Matías , Segura-Fragoso Antonio , Gallud José A.
Published: February 2021

Cognitive dysfunction affects the performance of Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and the quality of life of people with these deficits and their caregivers. To the knowledge of the authors, to date, there are few studies that focus on knowing the relationship between personal autonomy and deductive reasoning and/or categorization skills, which are necessary for the performance of the ADL. The aim of this study was to explore the relationships between ADL and categorization skills in older people. The study included 51 participants: 31 patients with cognitive impairment and 20 without cognitive impairment. Two tests were administered to assess cognitive functions: (1) the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA); and (2) the digital version of Riska Object Classification test (ROC-d). In addition, the Routine Tasks Inventory-2 (RTI-2) was applied to determine the level of independence in activities of daily living. People with cognitive impairment performed poorly in categorization tasks with unstructured information (p = 0.006). Also, the results found a high correlation between cognitive functioning and the performance of ADLs (Physical ADL: r = 0.798; p < 0.001; Instrumental ADL: r = 0.740; p < 0.001), a moderate correlation between Physical ADLs and categorization skills (unstructured ROC-d: r = 0.547; p < 0.001; structured ROC-d: r = 0.586; p < 0.001) and Instrumental ADLs and categorization skills in older people (unstructured ROC-d: r = 0.510; p < 0.001; structured ROC-d: r = 0.463; p < 0.001). The ROC-d allows the assessment of categorization skills to be quick and easy, facilitating the assessment process by OT, as well as the accuracy of the data obtained.
Investigating the Intervention Parameters of Endogenous Paired Associative Stimulation (ePAS)
Authors: Alder Gemma , Signal Nada , Vandal Alain C. , Olsen Sharon , Jochumsen Mads , Niazi Imran Khan , Taylor Denise
Published: February 2021

Advances in our understanding of neural plasticity have prompted the emergence of neuromodulatory interventions, which modulate corticomotor excitability (CME) and hold potential for accelerating stroke recovery. Endogenous paired associative stimulation (ePAS) involves the repeated pairing of a single pulse of peripheral electrical stimulation (PES) with endogenous movement-related cortical potentials (MRCPs), which are derived from electroencephalography. However, little is known about the optimal parameters for its delivery. A factorial design with repeated measures delivered four different versions of ePAS, in which PES intensities and movement type were manipulated. Linear mixed models were employed to assess interaction effects between PES intensity (suprathreshold (Hi) and motor threshold (Lo)) and movement type (Voluntary and Imagined) on CME. ePAS interventions significantly increased CME compared to control interventions, except in the case of Lo-Voluntary ePAS. There was an overall main effect for the Hi-Voluntary ePAS intervention immediately post-intervention (p = 0.002), with a sub-additive interaction effect at 30 min’ post-intervention (p = 0.042). Hi-Imagined and Lo-Imagined ePAS significantly increased CME for 30 min post-intervention (p = 0.038 and p = 0.043 respectively). The effects of the two PES intensities were not significantly different. CME was significantly greater after performing imagined movements, compared to voluntary movements, with motor threshold PES (Lo) 15 min post-intervention (p = 0.012). This study supports previous research investigating Lo-Imagined ePAS and extends those findings by illustrating that ePAS interventions that deliver suprathreshold intensities during voluntary or imagined movements (Hi-Voluntary and Hi-Imagined) also increase CME. Importantly, our findings indicate that stimulation intensity and movement type interact in ePAS interventions. Factorial designs are an efficient way to explore the effects of manipulating the parameters of neuromodulatory interventions. Further research is required to ensure that these parameters are appropriately refined to maximise intervention efficacy for people with stroke and to support translation into clinical practice.
Genetic Variations and Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL): A Genome-Wide Study Approach
Authors: Adjei Araba A. , Lopez Camden L. , Schaid Daniel J. , Sloan Jeff A. , Le-Rademacher Jennifer G. , Loprinzi Charles L. , Norman Aaron D. , Olson Janet E. , Couch Fergus J. , Beutler Andreas S. , Vachon Celine M. , Ruddy Kathryn J.
Published: February 2021

Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is an important prognostic patient-reported outcome in oncology. Because prior studies suggest that HRQOL is, in part, heritable, we performed a GWAS to elucidate genetic factors associated with HRQOL in breast cancer survivors. Physical and mental HRQOL were measured via paper surveys that included the PROMIS-10 physical and mental health domain scales in 1442 breast cancer survivors participating in the Mayo Clinic Breast Disease Registry (MCBDR). In multivariable regression analyses, age and financial concerns were significantly associated with global physical health (age: p = 1.6 × 10−23; financial concerns: p = 4.8 × 10−40) and mental health (age: p = 3.5 × 10−7; financial concerns: p = 2.0 × 10−69). Chemotherapy was associated with worse global mental health (p = 0.01). In the GWAS, none of the SNPs reached the genome-wide association significance threshold of 5 × 10−8 for associations with either global physical or global mental health, however, a cluster of SNPs in SCN10A, particularly rs112718371, appeared to be linked to worse global physical health (p = 5.21 × 10−8). Additionally, SNPs in LMX1B, SGCD, PARP12 and SEMA5A were also moderately associated with worse physical and mental health (p < 10−6). These biologically plausible candidate SNPs warrant further study as possible predictors of HRQOL.
Perineal Wound Closure Following Abdominoperineal Resection and Pelvic Exenteration for Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Buscail Etienne , Canivet Cindy , Shourick Jason , Chantalat Elodie , Carrere Nicolas , Duffas Jean-Pierre , Philis Antoine , Berard Emilie , Buscail Louis , Ghouti Laurent , Chaput Benoit
Published: February 2021

Background. Abdominoperineal resection (APR) and pelvic exenteration (PE) for the treatment of cancer require extensive pelvic resection with a high rate of postoperative complications. The objective of this work was to systematically review and meta-analyze the effects of vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap (VRAMf) and mesh closure on perineal morbidity following APR and PE (mainly for anal and rectal cancers). Methods. We searched PubMed, Cochrane, and EMBASE for eligible studies as of the year 2000. After data extraction, a meta-analysis was performed to compare perineal wound morbidity. The studies were distributed as follows: Group A comparing primary closure (PC) and VRAMf, Group B comparing PC and mesh closure, and Group C comparing PC and VRAMf in PE. Results. Our systematic review yielded 18 eligible studies involving 2180 patients (1206 primary closures, 647 flap closures, 327 mesh closures). The meta-analysis of Groups A and B showed PC to be associated with an increase in the rate of total (Group A: OR 0.55, 95% CI 0.43–0.71; p < 0.01/Group B: OR 0.54, CI 0.17–1.68; p = 0.18) and major perineal wound complications (Group A: OR 0.49, 95% CI 0.35–0.68; p < 0.001/Group B: OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.12–1.17; p < 0.01). PC was associated with a decrease in total (OR 2.46, 95% CI 1.39–4.35; p < 0.01) and major (OR 1.67, 95% CI 0.90–3.08; p = 0.1) perineal complications in Group C. Conclusions. Our results confirm the contribution of the VRAMf in reducing major complications in APR. Similarly, biological prostheses offer an interesting alternative in pelvic reconstruction. For PE, an adapted reconstruction must be proposed with specialized expertise.
Senolytics for Cancer Therapy: Is All that Glitters Really Gold?
Authors: Carpenter Valerie J. , Saleh Tareq , Gewirtz David A.
Published: February 2021

Senolytics represent a group of mechanistically diverse drugs that can eliminate senescent cells, both in tumors and in several aging-related pathologies. Consequently, senolytic use has been proposed as a potential adjuvant approach to improve the response to senescence-inducing conventional and targeted cancer therapies. Despite the unequivocal promise of senolytics, issues of universality, selectivity, resistance, and toxicity remain to be further clarified. In this review, we attempt to summarize and analyze the current preclinical literature involving the use of senolytics in senescent tumor cell models, and to propose tenable solutions and future directions to improve the understanding and use of this novel class of drugs.
PARP Inhibitors in Small-Cell Lung Cancer: Rational Combinations to Improve Responses
Authors: Knelson Erik H. , Patel Shetal A. , Sands Jacob M.
Published: February 2021

Despite recent advances in first-line treatment for small-cell lung cancer (SCLC), durable responses remain rare. The DNA repair enzyme poly-(ADP)-ribose polymerase (PARP) was identified as a therapeutic target in SCLC using unbiased preclinical screens and confirmed in human and mouse models. Early trials of PARP inhibitors, either alone or in combination with chemotherapy, showed promising but limited responses, suggesting that selecting patient subsets and treatment combinations will prove critical to further clinical development. Expression of SLFN11 and other components of the DNA damage response (DDR) pathway appears to select for improved responses. Combining PARP inhibitors with agents that damage DNA and inhibit DDR appears particularly effective in preclinical and early trial data, as well as strategies that enhance antitumor immunity downstream of DNA damage. A robust understanding of the mechanisms of DDR in SCLC, which exhibits intrinsic replication stress, will improve selection of agents and predictive biomarkers. The most effective combinations will target multiple nodes in the DNA damage/DDR/immune activation cascade to minimize toxicity from synthetic lethality.
Inflammatory Mechanisms Underlying Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis and the Transition to Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Peiseler Moritz , Tacke Frank
Published: February 2021

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a rising chronic liver disease and comprises a spectrum from simple steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) to end-stage cirrhosis and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The pathogenesis of NAFLD is multifactorial, but inflammation is considered the key element of disease progression. The liver harbors an abundance of resident immune cells, that in concert with recruited immune cells, orchestrate steatohepatitis. While inflammatory processes drive fibrosis and disease progression in NASH, fueling the ground for HCC development, immunity also exerts antitumor activities. Furthermore, immunotherapy is a promising new treatment of HCC, warranting a more detailed understanding of inflammatory mechanisms underlying the progression of NASH and transition to HCC. Novel methodologies such as single-cell sequencing, genetic fate mapping, and intravital microscopy have unraveled complex mechanisms behind immune-mediated liver injury. In this review, we highlight some of the emerging paradigms, including macrophage heterogeneity, contributions of nonclassical immune cells, the role of the adaptive immune system, interorgan crosstalk with adipose tissue and gut microbiota. Furthermore, we summarize recent advances in preclinical and clinical studies aimed at modulating the inflammatory cascade and discuss how these novel therapeutic avenues may help in preventing or combating NAFLD-associated HCC.
Integrative Genomic Analyses of Patient-Matched Intracranial and Extracranial Metastases Reveal a Novel Brain-Specific Landscape of Genetic Variants in Driver Genes of Malignant Melanoma
Authors: Váraljai Renáta , Horn Susanne , Sucker Antje , Piercianek Daniela , Schmitt Verena , Carpinteiro Alexander , Becker Katrin Anne , Reifenberger Julia , Roesch Alexander , Felsberg Jörg , Reifenberger Guido , Sure Ulrich , Schadendorf Dirk , Helfrich Iris
Published: February 2021

Background: Development of brain metastases in advanced melanoma patients is a frequent event that limits patients’ quality of life and survival. Despite recent insights into melanoma genetics, systematic analyses of genetic alterations in melanoma brain metastasis formation are lacking. Moreover, whether brain metastases harbor distinct genetic alterations beyond those observed at different anatomic sites of the same patient remains unknown. Experimental Design and Results: In our study, 54 intracranial and 18 corresponding extracranial melanoma metastases were analyzed for mutations using targeted next generation sequencing of 29 recurrently mutated driver genes in melanoma. In 11 of 16 paired samples, we detected nucleotide modifications in brain metastases that were absent in matched metastases at extracranial sites. Moreover, we identified novel genetic variants in ARID1A, ARID2, SMARCA4 and BAP1, genes that have not been linked to brain metastases before; albeit most frequent mutations were found in ARID1A, ARID2 and BRAF. Conclusion: Our data provide new insights into the genetic landscape of intracranial melanoma metastases supporting a branched evolution model of metastasis formation.
Microfluidic Organoids-on-a-Chip: Quantum Leap in Cancer Research
Authors: Duzagac Fahriye , Saorin Gloria , Memeo Lorenzo , Canzonieri Vincenzo , Rizzolio Flavio
Published: February 2021

Organ-like cell clusters, so-called organoids, which exhibit self-organized and similar organ functionality as the tissue of origin, have provided a whole new level of bioinspiration for ex vivo systems. Microfluidic organoid or organs-on-a-chip platforms are a new group of micro-engineered promising models that recapitulate 3D tissue structure and physiology and combines several advantages of current in vivo and in vitro models. Microfluidics technology is used in numerous applications since it allows us to control and manipulate fluid flows with a high degree of accuracy. This system is an emerging tool for understanding disease development and progression, especially for personalized therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment, which provide well-grounded, cost-effective, powerful, fast, and reproducible results. In this review, we highlight how the organoid-on-a-chip models have improved the potential of efficiency and reproducibility of organoid cultures. More widely, we discuss current challenges and development on organoid culture systems together with microfluidic approaches and their limitations. Finally, we describe the recent progress and potential utilization in the organs-on-a-chip practice.
Multi-Omic Biomarkers as Potential Tools for the Characterisation of Pancreatic Cystic Lesions and Cancer: Innovative Patient Data Integration
Authors: Kane Laura E. , Mellotte Gregory S. , Conlon Kevin C. , Ryan Barbara M. , Maher Stephen G.
Published: February 2021

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is regarded as one of the most lethal malignant diseases in the world, with GLOBOCAN 2020 estimates indicating that PC was responsible for almost half a million deaths worldwide in 2020. Pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) are fluid-filled structures found within or on the surface of the pancreas, which can either be pre-malignant or have no malignant potential. While some PCLs are found in symptomatic patients, nowadays many PCLs are found incidentally in patients undergoing cross-sectional imaging for other reasons—so called ‘incidentalomas’. Current methods of characterising PCLs are imperfect and vary hugely between institutions and countries. As such, there is a profound need for improved diagnostic algorithms. This could facilitate more accurate risk stratification of those PCLs that have malignant potential and reduce unnecessary surveillance. As PC continues to have such a poor prognosis, earlier recognition and risk stratification of PCLs may lead to better treatment protocols. This review will focus on the importance of biomarkers in the context of PCLs and PCand outline how current ‘omics’-related work could contribute to the identification of a novel integrated biomarker profile for the risk stratification of patients with PCLs and PC.
Prognostic Value of High-Sensitivity Modified Glasgow Prognostic Score in Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer Patients Who Received Docetaxel
Authors: Ando Keisuke , Sakamoto Shinichi , Saito Shinpei , Maimaiti Maihulan , Imamura Yusuke , Sazuka Tomokazu , Sato Nobuo , Komiya Akira , Anzai Naohiko , Ichikawa Tomohiko
Published: February 2021

The Glasgow prognostic score, a marker of systemic inflammation, is associated with clinical outcomes in different cancers including prostate cancer. However, there is no evidence for the relationship between the high-sensitivity modified Glasgow prognostic score (Hs-mGPS) in prostate cancer and its prognosis. This study aimed to investigate the prognostic significance of Hs-mGPS in castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) treated with docetaxel. We retrospectively analyzed clinical datasets from 131 CRPC patients who received docetaxel treatment at Chiba University Hospital and a related hospital. Clinical factors including Hs-mGPS before docetaxel treatment were evaluated according to overall survival. The numbers of patients with Hs-mGPS of 0, 1, and 2 were 88, 30, and 13, respectively. The median prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level was 28.9 ng/mL. The median testosterone level was 13.0 ng/dL. The percentages of bone and visceral metastases were 80.8% and 10.2%, respectively. For overall survival, Hs-mGPS ≥ 1 (hazard ratio of 2.41; p = 0.0048), testosterone ≥ 13.0 ng/dL (hazard ratio of 2.23; p = 0.0117), and PSA ≥ 28.9 ng/mL (hazard ratio of 2.36; p = 0.0097) were significant poor prognostic factors in the multivariate analysis. The results of the two-group analysis showed that a higher Hs-mGPS was associated with high PSA, alkaline phosphatase, and testosterone levels. The median testosterone levels for Hs-mGPS of 0, 1, and 2 were 9.0, 16.5, and 23.0, respectively. Based on the multivariate analysis, we created a combined score with three prognostic factors: Hs-mGPS, testosterone, and PSA. The low-risk group (score of 0–1) showed a significantly longer overall survival compared to the intermediate-risk (score of 2–3) and high-risk (score of 4) groups (p < 0.0001). Our results demonstrated that an elevated Hs-mGPS was an independent prognostic factor in CRPC patients treated with docetaxel therapy. Risk classification based on Hs-mGPS, testosterone, and PSA may be useful in predicting the prognosis of CRPC patients.
Comparison of Advanced Oxidation Processes for the Degradation of Maprotiline in Water—Kinetics, Degradation Products and Potential Ecotoxicity
Authors: Gonçalves Nuno P. F , Varga Zsuzsanna , Nicol Edith , Calza Paola , Bouchonnet Stéphane
Published: February 2021

The impact of different oxidation processes on the maprotiline degradation pathways was investigated by liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (LC/HRMS) experiments. The in-house SPIX software was used to process HRMS data allowing to ensure the potential singular species formed. Semiconductors photocatalysts, namely Fe-ZnO, Ce-ZnO and TiO2, proved to be more efficient than heterogeneous photo-Fenton processes in the presence of hydrogen peroxide and persulfate. No significant differences were observed in the degradation pathways in the presence of photocatalysis, while the SO4− mediated process promote the formation of different transformation products (TPs). Species resulting from ring-openings were observed with higher persistence in the presence of SO4−. In-silico tests on mutagenicity, developmental/reproductive toxicity, Fathead minnow LC50, D. magna LC50, fish acute LC50 were carried out to estimate the toxicity of the identified transformation products. Low toxicant properties were estimated for TPs resulting from hydroxylation onto bridge rather than onto aromatic rings, as well as those resulting from the ring-opening.
Milling Activation for the Solvent-Free Synthesis of Zeolites. A Practical Guide
Authors: Kornas Agnieszka , Olszówka Joanna E. , Klein Petr , Pashkova Veronika
Published: February 2021

The paramount challenge of current chemical technology, including catalysis, is meeting the ecological sustainability requirements. The feasible production of zeolites is crucial because they constitute the principal group of heterogeneous catalysts. However, current zeolite manufacturing via hydrothermal synthesis is connected with considerable consumption of water resources, generation of wastewater, and significant equipment costs. Solvent-free strategies have attracted great attention as high-yielding methods for sustainable synthesis, particularly beneficial in terms of water consumption minimization and an outstanding increase in production due to the efficient use of synthesis space capacity. So far, the solvent-free preparation of numerous zeolite materials has been performed with the preceding grinding of reagents in a mortar. The proposed article describes recent advances in the application of automatized milling instead of manual work. Pretreatment automatization makes the entire process well-controlled, less sensitive to human factors, and is significantly more relevant to industrial scale-up. Moreover, the automatized milling activation unlocks opportunities for solvent-free synthesis from a broader range of common reagents, where the manual treatment is not efficient. Possibilities and limitations of the milling methods are discussed on the basis of a comprehensive analysis of parameter optimization, activation mechanisms, and applicability of common reagents used for zeolite production.
Selective Catalytic Reduction: From Basic Science to deNOx Applications
Authors: Gao Feng , Toops Todd J.
Published: February 2021

The combustion of coal, petroleum and biofuel for energy generation has resulted in unprecedented benefits to the prosperity of our modern society and will continue to do so in the future [...]
Ferroptosis and Its Modulation by Autophagy in Light of the Pathogenesis of Lysosomal Storage Diseases
Authors: Pierzynowska Karolina , Rintz Estera , Gaffke Lidia , Węgrzyn Grzegorz
Published: February 2021

Ferroptosis is one of the recently described types of cell death which is dependent on many factors, including the accumulation of iron and lipid peroxidation. Its induction requires various signaling pathways. Recent discovery of ferroptosis induction pathways stimulated by autophagy, so called autophagy-dependent ferroptosis, put our attention on the role of ferroptosis in lysosomal storage diseases (LSD). Lysosome dysfunction, observed in these diseases, may influence ferroptosis efficiency, with as yet unknown consequences for the function of cells, tissues, and organisms, due to the effects of ferroptosis on physiological and pathological metabolic processes. Modulation of levels of ferrous ions and enhanced oxidative stress, which are primary markers of ferroptosis, are often described as processes associated with the pathology of LSD. Inhibition of autophagy flux and resultant accumulation of autophagosomes in neuronopathic LSD may induce autophagy-dependent ferroptosis, indicating a considerable contribution of this process in neurodegeneration. In this review article, we describe molecular mechanisms of ferroptosis in light of LSD, underlining the modulation of levels of ferroptosis markers in these diseases. Furthermore, we propose a hypothesis about the possible involvement of autophagy-dependent ferroptosis in these disorders.
New Insights into the Link between Melanoma and Thyroid Cancer: Role of Nucleocytoplasmic Trafficking
Authors: Zerfaoui Mourad , Dokunmu Titilope Modupe , Toraih Eman Ali , Rezk Bashir M. , Abd Elmageed Zakaria Y. , Kandil Emad
Published: February 2021

Cancer remains a major public health concern, mainly because of the incompletely understood dynamics of molecular mechanisms for progression and resistance to treatments. The link between melanoma and thyroid cancer (TC) has been noted in numerous patients. Nucleocytoplasmic transport of oncogenes and tumor suppressor proteins is a common mechanism in melanoma and TC that promotes tumorigenesis and tumor aggressiveness. However, this mechanism remains poorly understood. Papillary TC (PTC) patients have a 1.8-fold higher risk for developing cutaneous malignant melanoma than healthy patients. Our group and others showed that patients with melanoma have a 2.15 to 2.3-fold increased risk of being diagnosed with PTC. The BRAF V600E mutation has been reported as a biological marker for aggressiveness and a potential genetic link between malignant melanoma and TC. The main mechanistic factor in the connection between these two cancer types is the alteration of the RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK signaling pathway activation and translocation. The mechanisms of nucleocytoplasmic trafficking associated with RAS, RAF, and Wnt signaling pathways in melanoma and TC are reviewed. In addition, we discuss the roles of tumor suppressor proteins such as p53, p27, forkhead O transcription factors (FOXO), and NF-KB within the nuclear and cytoplasmic cellular compartments and their association with tumor aggressiveness. A meticulous English-language literature analysis was performed using the PubMed Central database. Search parameters included articles published up to 2021 with keyword search terms melanoma and thyroid cancer, BRAF mutation, and nucleocytoplasmic transport in cancer.
Glycoengineering Human Neural and Adipose Stem Cells with Novel Thiol-Modified N-Acetylmannosamine (ManNAc) Analogs
Authors: Du Jian , Agatemor Christian , Saeui Christopher T. , Bhattacharya Rahul , Jia Xiaofeng , Yarema Kevin J.
Published: February 2021

This report describes novel thiol-modified N-acetylmannosamine (ManNAc) analogs that extend metabolic glycoengineering (MGE) applications of Ac5ManNTGc, a non-natural monosaccharide that metabolically installs the thio-glycolyl of sialic acid into human glycoconjugates. We previously found that Ac5ManNTGc elicited non-canonical activation of Wnt signaling in human embryoid body derived (hEBD) cells but only in the presence of a high affinity, chemically compatible scaffold. Our new analogs Ac5ManNTProp and Ac5ManNTBut overcome the requirement for a complementary scaffold by displaying thiol groups on longer, N-acyl linker arms, thereby presumably increasing their ability to interact and crosslink with surrounding thiols. These new analogs showed increased potency in human neural stem cells (hNSCs) and human adipose stem cells (hASCs). In the hNSCs, Ac5ManNTProp upregulated biochemical endpoints consistent with Wnt signaling in the absence of a thiol-reactive scaffold. In the hASCs, both Ac5ManNTProp and Ac5ManNTBut suppressed adipogenic differentiation, with Ac5ManNTBut providing a more potent response, and they did not interfere with differentiation to a glial lineage (Schwann cells). These results expand the horizon for using MGE in regenerative medicine by providing new tools (Ac5ManNTProp and Ac5ManNTBut) for manipulating human stem cells.
Study on High Performance Polymer-Modified Cement Grouts
Authors: Anagnostopoulos Costas A. , Dimitriadi Melina
Published: February 2021

Engineers worldwide use various additives or chemical admixtures, such as polymer latexes, to improve the properties of cementitious materials for many construction projects. In this paper, the influence of acrylic or epoxy resin emulsions, along with a polycarboxylate superplasticiser on some basic properties (rheological behaviour, setting time, bleeding, strength) of thick cement grouts is presented. The experimental approach included the use of different polymer dosages mixed with grouts made of low water to cement ratios. The laboratory tests revealed that the incorporation of acrylic resin in grouts marginally affected the viscosity, whereas a significant increase in viscosity was obtained when an epoxy resin was added. Regardless of the prolonged setting times, both polymers improved the development of early or final strength. An acrylic resin dosage ranging from 0.25% to 0.75% and an epoxy resin dosage from 5% to 7.5% displayed the highest strength values, at all water to cement ratios. Additionally, all the polymer-modified grouts exhibited a higher bleed capacity, a fact that is significantly important where the bleeding of the grouts is crucial.
On the Biodiversity and Biodeteriogenic Activity of Microbial Communities Present in the Hypogenic Environment of the Escoural Cave, Alentejo, Portugal
Authors: Caldeira Ana Teresa , Schiavon Nick , Mauran Guilhem , Salvador Cátia , Rosado Tânia , Mirão José , Candeias António
Published: February 2021

Hypogenic caves represent unique environments for the development of specific microbial communities that need to be studied. Caves with rock art pose an additional challenge due to the fragility of the paintings and engravings and to microbial colonization which may induce chemical, mechanical and aesthetic alterations. Therefore, it is essential to understand the communities that thrive in these environments and to monitor the activity and effects on the host rock in order to better preserve and safeguard these ancestral artforms. This study aims at investigating the Palaeolithic representations found in the Escoural Cave (Alentejo, Portugal) and their decay features. These prehistoric artworks, dating back up to 50,000 B.P., are altered due to environmental conditions and microbial activity inside the cave. Microbial cultivation methods combined with culture-independent techniques, biomarkers’ viability assays and host rock analysis allowed us to better understand the microbial biodiversity and biodeteriogenic activity within the hypogenic environment of this important cave site. This study is part of a long-term monitoring program envisaged to understand the effect of this biocolonisation and to understand the population dynamics that thrive in this hypogean environment.
Improving the Appearance of a 3-Coat-1-Bake Coating Film by Minimizing the Shrinkage Difference between the Three Layers
Authors: Yomo Shuji , Tachi Kazuyuki
Published: February 2021

The 3-coat-1-bake coating system has been widely employed in automobile body painting. This study examined whether the appearance (waviness) of the coating film can be improved by reducing the difference in the shrinkage percentage (by weight) between the primer surfacer and the basecoat and the clearcoat after flow/leveling stops in the clearcoat while baking. To delay the time of flow/leveling stops in the clearcoat (tC) and to reduce the difference in the shrinkage percentage between the basecoat and clearcoat, solventborne clearcoats were prepared by blocking all or part of the isocyanate group with 3,5-dimethylpyrazole (DMP). tC was measured using the electric-field tweezers system while baking at 140 °C. The respective shrinkage percentages of the primer surfacer, basecoat, and clearcoat (ωS, ωB, and ωC, respectively) were measured after tC. tC increased as the DMP content of the solventborne clearcoat increased. The ωC value is lower than the ωS and ωB values when the DMP content is zero; however, the ωC value increased when tC increased, and the ωS and ωB values decreased as tC increased. Wavescan Wa, Wb, Wc, and Wd decreased (i.e., improved the appearance) as |ωS − ωB| + |ωB − ωC| decreased. We confirmed that reducing the difference in the shrinkage percentage between the primer surfacer, basecoat, and clearcoat after tC is an effective way to improve the appearance.
Effects of Ni Additions on the High Temperature Expansion, Melting and Oxidation Behaviors of Cobalt-Based Superalloys
Authors: Berthod Patrice , Aranda Lionel , Gomis Jean-Paul
Published: February 2021

Nickel is often added to cobalt-based superalloys to stabilize their austenitic structure. In this work the effects of Ni on several high temperature properties of a chromium-rich cobalt-based alloy reinforced by high fraction of TaC carbides are investigated. Different thermal analysis techniques are used: differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermo-mechanical analysis (TMA) and thermogravimetry (TG). Results show that the progressive addition of nickel did not induce great modifications of microstructure, refractoriness or thermal expansion. However, minor beneficial effects were noted, including reduction of the melting temperature range and slight decrease in thermal expansion coefficient. The most important improvement induced by Ni addition concerns the hot oxidation behavior. In this way, introducing several tens wt % Ni in this type of cobalt-based alloy may be recommended.
Nonclassical Nucleation—Role of Metastable Intermediate Phase in Crystal Nucleation: An Editorial Prefix
Authors: Zhang Fajun , Gavira José A. , Lee Geun Woo , Zahn Dirk
Published: February 2021

Classical nucleation theory (CNT), which was established about 90 years ago, represents the most commonly used theory in describing nucleation processes. For a fluid-to-solid phase transition, CNT states that the solutes in a supersaturated solution reversibly form small clusters. Once a cluster reaches its critical size, it becomes thermodynamically stable and is favored for further growth. One of the most important assumptions of CNT is that the nucleation process is described by one reaction coordinate and all order parameters proceed simultaneously. Recent studies in experiments, computer simulations, and theory have revealed nonclassical features in the early stage of nucleation. In particular, the decoupling of order parameters involved during a fluid-to-solid transition leads to the so-called two-step nucleation mechanism, in which a metastable intermediate phase (MIP) exists in parallel to the initial supersaturated solution and the final crystals. These MIPs can be high-density liquid phases, mesoscopic clusters, or preordered states. In this Special Issue, we focus on the role of the various MIPs in the early stage of crystal nucleation of organic materials, metals and alloys, aqueous solutions, minerals, colloids, and proteins, and thus on various scenarios of nonclassical pathways of crystallization.
Investigation and Preparation of the Plastering Mortar for Autoclaved Aerated Blocks Walls
Authors: Feng Tao , Xu Lingling , Shi Xin , Han Jian , Zhang Pan
Published: February 2021

The increase in the use of aerated concrete blocks (AAB) in construction walls has increased the demand for specialized plastering mortar, which should have the characteristics of high water retention, low water absorption, low thermal conductivity and high toughness. This study scrutinized the potential of expanded and vitrified small ball (EVSB) and expanded perlite as lightweight aggregates, and the beneficial effect of a modifying additive based on a mixture of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and fibers has been proved. The dry density, consistency, water absorption, mechanical strength, pore characteristics and micro morphology of the plaster mortar were evaluated. It is manifested by enhanced toughness, reduced dry density, and optimized pore structure characteristics. The relationship between mass water absorption and freeze-thaw cycle resistance is established, which shows that when the mass water absorption is 20%, the mortar exhibits better freeze resistance. After 25 freeze-thaw cycle tests, the mass loss was 0.26% and the strength loss was 1.41%. Through the comparison of test results, a new composition of plastering mortar is provided: cement: fly ash: water: heavy calcium carbonate: quartz sand: EVSB: EVA: HPMC (100,000 mPa·s): fiber = 70: 30: 76: 12: 250: 24: 2: 0.3: 0.2.
Structural Characterization, Magnetic and Luminescent Properties of Praseodymium(III)-4,4,4-Trifluoro-1-(2-Naphthyl)Butane-1,3-Dionato(1-) Complexes
Authors: Mautner Franz A. , Bierbaumer Florian , Fischer Roland C. , Vicente Ramon , Tubau Ànnia , Ferran Arnau , Massoud Salah S.
Published: February 2021

Four new Pr(III) mononuclear complexes of formula [Pr(ntfa)3(MeOH)2] (1), [Pr(ntfa)3(bipy)2] (2), [Pr(ntfa)3(4,4′-Mt2bipy)] (3) and [Pr(ntfa)3(5,5′-Me2bipy)] (4), where ntfa = 4,4,4-trifuoro-1-(naphthalen-2-yl)butane-1,3-dionato(1-), 5,5′-Me2bipy = 5,5′-dimethyl-2,2′-dipyridine, 4,4′-Mt2bipy = 4,4′-dimethoxy-2,2′-dipyridine, have been synthesized and structurally characterized. The complexes display the coordination numbers 8 for 1, 3 and 4, and 10 for 2. Magnetic measurements of complexes 1–4 were consistent with a magnetically uncoupled Pr3+ ion in the 3H4 ground state. The solid state luminescence studies showed that the ancillary chelating bipyridyl ligands in the 2–4 complexes greatly enhance the luminescence emission in the visible and NIR regions through efficient energy transfer from the ligands to the central Pr3+ ion; behaving as “antenna” ligands.
Corrigendum: Progression-Free Survival in Advanced Ovarian Cancer: A Canadian Review and Expert Panel Perspective
Authors: Oza A.M. , Castonguay V. , Tsoref D. , Diaz–Padilla I. , Karakasis K. , Mackay H. , Welch S. , Weberpals J. , Hoskins P. , Plante M. , Provencher D. , Tonkin K. , Covens A. , Ghatage P. , Gregoire J. , Hirte H. , Miller D. , Rosen B. , Bentley J. , Maroun J. , Buyse M. , Coens C. , Brady M.F. , Stuart G.C.E.
Published: February 2021

AMO has participated on advisory boards for AstraZeneca, Celgene Corporation, and Sanofi–Aventis. [...]
Lung Ultrasonography in the Monitoring of Intraoperative Recruitment Maneuvers
Authors: Cylwik Jolanta , Buda Natalia
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Postoperative respiratory failure is a serious problem in patients who undergo general anesthesia. Approximately 90% of mechanically ventilated patients during the surgery may develop atelectasis that leads to perioperative complications. Aim: The aim of this study is to determine whether it is possible to optimize recruitment maneuvers with the use of chest ultrasonography, thus limiting the risk of respiratory complications in patients who undergo general anesthesia. Methodology: The method of incremental increases in positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) values with simultaneous continuous ultrasound assessments was employed in mechanically ventilated patients. Results: The study group comprised 100 patients. The employed method allowed for atelectasis reduction in 91.9% of patients. The PEEP necessary to reverse areas of atelectasis averaged 17cmH2O, with an average peak pressure of 29cmH2O. The average PEEP that prevented repeat atelectasis was 9cmH2O. A significant improvement in lung compliance and saturation was obtained. Conclusions: Ultrasound-guided recruitment maneuvers facilitate the patient-based adjustment of the process. Consequently, the reduction in ventilation pressures necessary to aerate intraoperative atelectasis is possible, with the simultaneous reduction in the risk of procedure-related complications.
Low-Frequency Signal Sampling Method Implemented in a PLC Controller Dedicated to Applications in the Monitoring of Selected Electrical Devices
Authors: Jaraczewski Marcin , Mielnik Ryszard , Gębarowski Tomasz , Sułowicz Maciej
Published: February 2021

High requirements for power systems, and hence for electrical devices used in industrial processes, make it necessary to ensure adequate power quality. The main parameters of the power system include the rms-values of the current, voltage, and active and reactive power consumed by the loads. In previous articles, the authors investigated the use of low-frequency sampling to measure these parameters of the power system, showing that the method can be easily implemented in simple microcontrollers and PLCs. This article discusses the methods of measuring electrical quantities by devices with low computational efficiency and low sampling frequency up to 1 kHz. It is not obvious that the signal of 50–500 Hz can be processed using the sampling frequency of fs = 47.619 Hz because it defies the Nyquist–Shannon sampling theorem. This theorem states that a reconstruction of a sampled signal is only guaranteed possible for a bandlimit fmax < fs, where fmax is the maximum frequency of a sampled signal. Therefore, theoretically, neither 50 nor 500 Hz can be identified by such a low-frequency sampling. Although, it turns out that if we have a longer period of a stable multi-harmonic signal, which is band-limited (from the bottom and top), it allows us to map this band to the lower frequencies, thus it is possible to use the lower sampling ratio and still get enough precise information of its harmonics and rms value. The use of aliasing for measurement purposes is not often used because it is considered a harmful phenomenon. In our work, it has been used for measurement purposes with good results. The main advantage of this new method is that it achieves a balance between PLC processing power (which is moderate or low) and accuracy in calculating the most important electrical signal indicators such as power, RMS value and sinusoidal-signal distortion factor (e.g., THD). It can be achieved despite an aliasing effect that causes different frequencies to become indistinguishable. The result of the research is a proposal of error reduction in the low-frequency measurement method implemented on compact PLCs. Laboratory tests carried out on a Mitsubishi FX5 compact PLC controller confirmed the correctness of the proposed method of reducing the measurement error.