bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epigenomic and Metabolomic Integration Reveals Dynamic Metabolic Regulation in Bladder Cancer
Authors: Loras Alba , Segovia Cristina , Ruiz-Cerdá José Luis
Published: June 2021

Bladder cancer (BC) represents a clinical, social, and economic challenge due to tumor-intrinsic characteristics, limitations of diagnostic techniques and a lack of personalized treatments. In the last decade, the use of liquid biopsy has grown as a non-invasive approach to characterize tumors. Moreover, the emergence of omics has increased our knowledge of cancer biology and identified critical BC biomarkers. The rewiring between epigenetics and metabolism has been closely linked to tumor phenotype. Chromatin remodelers interact with each other to control gene silencing in BC, but also with stress-inducible factors or oncogenic signaling cascades to regulate metabolic reprogramming towards glycolysis, the pentose phosphate pathway, and lipogenesis. Concurrently, one-carbon metabolism supplies methyl groups to histone and DNA methyltransferases, leading to the hypermethylation and silencing of suppressor genes in BC. Conversely, α-KG and acetyl-CoA enhance the activity of histone demethylases and acetyl transferases, increasing gene expression, while succinate and fumarate have an inhibitory role. This review is the first to analyze the interplay between epigenome, metabolome and cell signaling pathways in BC, and shows how their regulation contributes to tumor development and progression. Moreover, it summarizes non-invasive biomarkers that could be applied in clinical practice to improve diagnosis, monitoring, prognosis and the therapeutic options in BC.
A Novel off-the-Shelf Trastuzumab-Armed NK Cell Therapy (ACE1702) Using Antibody-Cell-Conjugation Technology
Authors: Li Hao-Kang , Hsiao Ching-Wen , Yang Sen-Han , Yang Hsiu-Ping , Wu Tai-Sheng , Lee Chia-Yun , Lin Yan-Liang , Pan Janet , Cheng Zih-Fei , Lai Yan-Da , Hsiao Shih-Chia , Tang Sai-Wen
Published: June 2021

Natural killer (NK) cells harbor efficient cytotoxicity against tumor cells without causing life-threatening cytokine release syndrome (CRS) or graft-versus-host disease (GvHD). When compared to chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) technology, Antibody-Cell Conjugation (ACC) technology has been developed to provide an efficient platform to arm immune cells with cancer-targeting antibodies to recognize and attack cancer cells. Recently, we established an endogenous CD16-expressing oNK cell line (oNK) with a favorable expression pattern of NK activation/inhibitory receptors. In this study, we applied ACC platform to conjugate oNK with trastuzumab and an anti-human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) antibody. Trastuzumab-conjugated oNK, ACE-oNK-HER2, executed in vitro and in vivo cytotoxicity against HER2-expressing cancer cells and secretion of IFNγ. The irradiated and cryopreserved ACE-oNK-HER2, designated as ACE1702, retained superior HER2-specific in vitro and in vivo potency with no tumorigenic potential. In conclusion, this study provides the evidence to support the potential clinical application of ACE1702 as a novel off-the-shelf NK cell therapy against HER2-expressing solid tumors.
Automatized Hepatic Tumor Volume Analysis of Neuroendocrine Liver Metastases by Gd-EOB MRI—A Deep-Learning Model to Support Multidisciplinary Cancer Conference Decision-Making
Authors: Fehrenbach Uli , Xin Siyi , Hartenstein Alexander , Auer Timo Alexander , Dräger Franziska , Froböse Konrad , Jann Henning , Mogl Martina , Amthauer Holger , Geisel Dominik , Denecke Timm , Wiedenmann Bertram , Penzkofer Tobias
Published: June 2021

Background: Rapid quantification of liver metastasis for diagnosis and follow-up is an unmet medical need in patients with secondary liver malignancies. We present a 3D-quantification model of neuroendocrine liver metastases (NELM) using gadoxetic-acid (Gd-EOB)-enhanced MRI as a useful tool for multidisciplinary cancer conferences (MCC). Methods: Manual 3D-segmentations of NELM and livers (149 patients in 278 Gd-EOB MRI scans) were used to train a neural network (U-Net architecture). Clinical usefulness was evaluated in another 33 patients who were discussed in our MCC and received a Gd-EOB MRI both at baseline and follow-up examination (n = 66) over 12 months. Model measurements (NELM volume; hepatic tumor load (HTL)) with corresponding absolute (ΔabsNELM; ΔabsHTL) and relative changes (ΔrelNELM; ΔrelHTL) between baseline and follow-up were compared to MCC decisions (therapy success/failure). Results: Internal validation of the model’s accuracy showed a high overlap for NELM and livers (Matthew’s correlation coefficient (φ): 0.76/0.95, respectively) with higher φ in larger NELM volume (φ = 0.80 vs. 0.71; p = 0.003). External validation confirmed the high accuracy for NELM (φ = 0.86) and livers (φ = 0.96). MCC decisions were significantly differentiated by all response variables (ΔabsNELM; ΔabsHTL; ΔrelNELM; ΔrelHTL) (p < 0.001). ΔrelNELM and ΔrelHTL showed optimal discrimination between therapy success or failure (AUC: 1.000; p < 0.001). Conclusion: The model shows high accuracy in 3D-quantification of NELM and HTL in Gd-EOB-MRI. The model’s measurements correlated well with MCC’s evaluation of therapeutic response.
Molecular Mechanisms of Antiproliferative Effects of Natural Chalcones
Authors: Michalkova Radka , Mirossay Ladislav , Gazdova Maria , Kello Martin , Mojzis Jan
Published: June 2021

Although great progress has been made in the treatment of cancer, the search for new promising molecules with antitumor activity is still one of the greatest challenges in the fight against cancer due to the increasing number of new cases each year. Chalcones (1,3-diphenyl-2-propen-1-one), the precursors of flavonoid synthesis in higher plants, possess a wide spectrum of biological activities including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer. A plethora of molecular mechanisms of action have been documented, including induction of apoptosis, autophagy, or other types of cell death, cell cycle changes, and modulation of several signaling pathways associated with cell survival or death. In addition, blockade of several steps of angiogenesis and proteasome inhibition has also been documented. This review summarizes the basic molecular mechanisms related to the antiproliferative effects of chalcones, focusing on research articles from the years January 2015–February 2021.
Whole Exome Sequencing of Biliary Tubulopapillary Neoplasms Reveals Common Mutations in Chromatin Remodeling Genes
Authors: Gross Claudia , Engleitner Thomas , Lange Sebastian , Weber Julia , Jesinghaus Moritz , Konukiewitz Björn , Muckenhuber Alexander , Steiger Katja , Pfarr Nicole , Goeppert Benjamin , Keller Gisela , Weichert Wilko , Adsay Nazmi Volkan , Klöppel Günter , Rad Roland , Esposito Irene , Schlitter Anna Melissa
Published: June 2021

The molecular carcinogenesis of intraductal tubulopapillary neoplasms (ITPN), recently described as rare neoplasms in the pancreato-biliary tract with a favorable prognosis despite a high incidence of associated pancreato-biliary adenocarcinoma, is still poorly understood. To identify driver genes, chromosomal gains and losses, mutational signatures, key signaling pathways, and potential therapeutic targets, the molecular profile of 11 biliary and 6 pancreatic ITPNs, associated with invasive adenocarcinoma in 14/17 cases, are studied by whole exome sequencing (WES). The WES of 17 ITPNs reveals common copy number variants (CNVs) broadly distributed across the genome, with recurrent chromosomal deletions primarily in 1p36 and 9p21 affecting the tumor suppressors CHD5 and CDKN2A, respectively, and gains in 1q affecting the prominent oncogene AKT3. The identified somatic nucleotide variants (SNVs) involve few core signaling pathways despite high genetic heterogeneity with diverse mutational spectra: Chromatin remodeling, the cell cycle, and DNA damage/repair. An OncoKB search identifies putative actionable genomic targets in 35% of the cases (6/17), including recurrent missense mutations of the FGFR2 gene in biliary ITPNs (2/11, 18%). Our results show that somatic SNV in classical cancer genes, typically associated with pancreato-biliary carcinogenesis, were absent (KRAS, IDH1/2, GNAS, and others) to rare (TP53 and SMAD4, 6%, respectively) in ITPNs. Mutational signature pattern analysis reveals a predominance of an age-related pattern. Our findings highlight that biliary ITPN and classical cholangiocarcinoma display commonalities, in particular mutations in genes of the chromatin remodeling pathway, and appear, therefore, more closely related than pancreatic ITPN and classical pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.
Cu-Catalyzed Hydrodehalogenation of Brominated Aromatic Pollutants in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Weidlich Tomáš , Kamenická Barbora , Beneš Ludvík , Čičmancová Veronika , Komersová Alena , Čermák Jiří , Švec Petr
Published: June 2021

The catalytic effect of copper in Devarda’s Al-Cu-Zn alloy (Dev. alloy) and sole metallic copper, copper salts and copper oxides in the coaction of NaBH4 within the hydrodehalogenation (HDH) of polybrominated phenols, such as the herbicide Bromoxynil in alkaline aqueous solution has been investigated. Namely, the hydrodebromination (HDB) activity of Dev. alloy/NaOH system has been compared to heterogeneous Cu-based catalysts using NaBH4 as a reductant. Differences in the solid-state structures of used Cu-based heterogeneous catalysts after the mentioned HDB process have been studied using the powder XRD and SEM techniques. It was found that some of the used copper-based catalysts are reusable and reasonably effective even at room temperature. Efficiency of the most promising copper-based reduction systems (Dev. alloy/NaOH and Cu-based catalysts/NaBH4) have been successfully tested within the HDB of industrially important brominated flame retardant tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA). Dev. alloy/NaOH and Cu-based catalyst generated in-situ within the CuSO4/NaBH4 produced were recognized as the most active HDB agents for complete debromination of both BRX and TBBPA.
Longer Sperm Swim More Slowly in the Canary Islands Chiffchaff
Authors: Cramer Emily R. A. , Garcia-del-Rey Eduardo , Johannessen Lars Erik , Laskemoen Terje , Marthinsen Gunnhild , Johnsen Arild , Lifjeld Jan T.
Published: June 2021

Sperm swimming performance affects male fertilization success, particularly in species with high sperm competition. Understanding how sperm morphology impacts swimming performance is therefore important. Sperm swimming speed is hypothesized to increase with total sperm length, relative flagellum length (with the flagellum generating forward thrust), and relative midpiece length (as the midpiece contains the mitochondria). We tested these hypotheses and tested for divergence in sperm traits in five island populations of Canary Islands chiffchaff (Phylloscopus canariensis). We confirmed incipient mitochondrial DNA differentiation between Gran Canaria and the other islands. Sperm swimming speed correlated negatively with total sperm length, did not correlate with relative flagellum length, and correlated negatively with relative midpiece length (for Gran Canaria only). The proportion of motile cells increased with relative flagellum length on Gran Canaria only. Sperm morphology was similar across islands. We thus add to a growing number of studies on passerine birds that do not support sperm morphology–swimming speed hypotheses. We suggest that the swimming mechanics of passerine sperm are sufficiently different from mammalian sperm that predictions from mammalian hydrodynamic models should no longer be applied for this taxon. While both sperm morphology and sperm swimming speed are likely under selection in passerines, the relationship between them requires further elucidation.
Formation of CuOx Nanowires by Anodizing in Sodium Bicarbonate Solution
Authors: Giziński Damian , Brudzisz Anna , Alzahrani Mohammad Ramadan , Wang Kuo-Kuang , Misiołek Wojciech Z. , Stępniowski Wojciech J.
Published: June 2021

Mechanism of copper nanostructuring by oxides and hydroxide formation during anodizing is not fully understood. At the same time, the search for novel copper anodizing regimes and electrolytes is ongoing due to multiple potential applications. In this work copper anodizing in two electrode setups, in stirred 0.01 M solution of NaHCO3 at 20 °C and at voltages ranging from 5 to 40 V was explored. The morphology and composition of prepared materials were studied using FE-SEM imaging and XRD measurements. Anodizing at potentials in a range of 15–30 V led to formation of nanowires composed of crystalline Cu2O, CuO, Cu(OH)2 and malachite Cu2CO₃(OH)2. The latter was formed due to anion incorporation from the electrolyte. The diameter of nanowires strongly depended on the applied voltage, and was 35 ± 6 nm for samples prepared at 15 V, and 45 ± 9 nm for 30 V. At higher applied voltages oscillations of current density were observed, suggesting partial delamination of the formed oxidized layer, with subsequent self-healing.
Pyridine-Based Three-Ring Bent-Shape Supramolecular Hydrogen Bond-Induced Liquid Crystalline Complexes: Preparation and Density Functional Theory Investigation
Authors: Mohammady Sayed Z. , Aldhayan Daifallah M. , Hagar Mohamed
Published: June 2021

A series of new supramolecular three-ring bent-shape Schiff base liquid crystal (LC) complexes were prepared and studied. On one side, two alkoxy chain lengths of the carboxylic acids were used, namely eight and sixteen carbons. Moreover, on the other side, terminal small compact groups, which substituted aniline, with different polarities were utilized. Furthermore, the hydrogen-bonding interactions in the formed complexes were elucidated by Fourier-transform infrared (FT–IR) spectroscopy. The mesomorphic thermal and optical characteristics of the samples were determined by differential thermal analysis (DSC) and polarized optical microscopy (POM). The complexes exhibited enantiotropic and dimorphic mesophase behaviors. The results indicate that the polarity of the compact groups and the lengths of the alkoxy chains greatly impacted the mesomorphic characteristics and thermal stabilities of the mesophases. The observed values of the enthalpy changes (ΔH) associated with the crystalline smectic-A (TCr-SmA) transitions were extremely small compared with the conventional values that characterize supramolecular hydrogen-bonded liquid crystalline complexes. ΔH, which corresponded to the nematic isotropic transitions (TN-I), varied from 0.13 to 9.54 kJ/mol depending mainly on the polarity of the groups that were para-attached to the aniline moiety. Finally, the theoretical results obtained by density functional theory (DFT) calculations were discussed. The DFT geometrical structures showed non-coplanar structures. The mesomorphic range was correlated with the calculated dipole moment, polarizability and the aspect ratios of the investigated compounds.
Application and Performance of Artificial Intelligence Technology in Oral Cancer Diagnosis and Prediction of Prognosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Khanagar Sanjeev B. , Naik Sachin , Al Kheraif Abdulaziz Abdullah , Vishwanathaiah Satish , Maganur Prabhadevi C. , Alhazmi Yaser , Mushtaq Shazia , Sarode Sachin C. , Sarode Gargi S. , Zanza Alessio , Testarelli Luca , Patil Shankargouda
Published: June 2021

Oral cancer (OC) is a deadly disease with a high mortality and complex etiology. Artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the outstanding innovations in technology used in dental science. This paper intends to report on the application and performance of AI in diagnosis and predicting the occurrence of OC. In this study, we carried out data search through an electronic search in several renowned databases, which mainly included PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane, Web of Science, and the Saudi Digital Library for articles that were published between January 2000 to March 2021. We included 16 articles that met the eligibility criteria and were critically analyzed using QUADAS-2. AI can precisely analyze an enormous dataset of images (fluorescent, hyperspectral, cytology, CT images, etc.) to diagnose OC. AI can accurately predict the occurrence of OC, as compared to conventional methods, by analyzing predisposing factors like age, gender, tobacco habits, and bio-markers. The precision and accuracy of AI in diagnosis as well as predicting the occurrence are higher than the current, existing clinical strategies, as well as conventional statistics like cox regression analysis and logistic regression.
Synchronous Presentation of Rare Brain Tumors in Von Hippel–Lindau Syndrome
Authors: Lodi Mariachiara , Marrazzo Antonio , Cacchione Antonella , Macchiaiolo Marina , Romanzo Antonino , Mastronardi Luciano , Diomedi-Camassei Francesca , Carboni Alessia , Carai Andrea , Gandolfo Carlo , Monti Lidia , Mastronuzzi Angela , Colafati Giovanna Stefania
Published: June 2021

Von Hippel–Lindau (VHL) disease is a heritable cancer syndrome in which benign and malignant tumors and/or cysts develop throughout the central nervous system (CNS) and visceral organs. The disease results from mutations in the VHL tumor suppressor gene located on chromosome 3 (3p25-26). A majority of individuals (60–80%) with VHL disease will develop CNS hemangioblastomas (HMG). Endolymphatic sac tumor (ELST) is an uncommon, locally aggressive tumor located in the medial and posterior petrosal bone region. Its diagnosis is based on clinical, radiological, and pathological correlation, and it can occur in the setting of VHL in up to 10–15% of individuals. We describe a 17-year-old male who presented with a chief complaint of hearing loss. Brain and spine Magnetic Resonance Imaging documented the presence of an expansive lesion in the left cerebellar hemisphere, compatible with HMG in association with a second cerebellopontine lesion compatible with ELST. The peculiarity of the reported case is due to the simultaneous presence of two typical characteristics of VHL, which led to performing comprehensive genetic testing, thus allowing for the diagnosis of VHL. Furthermore, ELST is rare before the fourth decade of life. Early detection of these tumors plays a key role in the optimal management of this condition.
Imaging of Fibrous Dysplasia Protuberans, an Extremely Rare Exophytic Variant of Fibrous Dysplasia
Authors: Haghighat Jahromi Amin , James William F. , Starsiak Michael D. , Silverman Eugene D.
Published: June 2021

This paper details the case report of a 26-year-old man who presented with a growing right-sided skull mass evaluated with ultrasound, non-contrast CT, contrast-enhanced MRI and 99mTc-MDP whole body bone scan with SPECT/CT. These studies suggested a broad differential diagnosis favoring benign osseous lesions. Given a more recent increase in the rate of growth, headache and large size, the lesion was excised via craniotomy followed by cranioplasty. Pathology confirmed fibrous dysplasia (FD) as the diagnosis. Interestingly, this report is the imaging evaluation of the exophytic subtype of FD, the so-called FD protuberance, an extremely rare variant of FD, of which only two case reports are found in the literature.
Whole-Body Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Current Role in Patients with Lymphoma
Authors: Albano Domenico , Micci Giuseppe , Patti Caterina , Midiri Federico , Albano Silvia , Lo Re Giuseppe , Grassedonio Emanuele , La Grutta Ludovico , Lagalla Roberto , Galia Massimo
Published: June 2021

Imaging of lymphoma is based on the use of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG-PET/CT) and/or contrast-enhanced CT, but concerns have been raised regarding radiation exposure related to imaging scans in patients with cancer, and its association with increased risk of secondary tumors in patients with lymphoma has been established. To date, lymphoproliferative disorders are among the most common indications to perform whole-body magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Whole-body MRI is superior to contrast-enhanced CT for staging the disease, also being less dependent on histology if compared to 18F-FDG-PET/CT. As well, it does not require exposure to ionizing radiation and could be used for the surveillance of lymphoma. The current role of whole-body MRI in the diagnostic workup in lymphoma is examined in the present review along with the diagnostic performance in staging, response assessment and surveillance of different lymphoma subtypes.
Development of a Prediction Model for the Occurrence of Stenosis or Occlusion after Percutaneous Deep Venous Arterialization
Authors: Huizing Eline , Schreve Michiel A. , Kum Steven , Papageorgiou Grigorios , de Vries Jean-Paul P. M. , de Borst Gert J. , Ünlü Çağdaş
Published: June 2021

Percutaneous deep venous arterialization (pDVA) is a promising treatment option in patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia. Stenosis and occlusions, which are the Achilles’ heel of every revascularization procedure, can be treated when detected early. However, frequent monitoring after pDVA is required because when stenosis or occlusions develop is unknown. Therefore, patients currently need to visit the hospital every 2 weeks for surveillance, which can be burdensome. Accordingly, we aimed to develop a model that can predict future stenosis or occlusions in patients after pDVA to be able to create tailor-made follow-up protocols. The data set included 343 peak systolic velocity and 335 volume flow measurements of 23 patients. A stenosis or occlusion developed in 17 patients, and 6 patients remained lesion-free. A statistically significant increase in the risk of stenosis or occlusion was found when duplex ultrasound values decreased 20% within 1 month. The prediction model was also able to estimate a patient-specific risk of future stenosis or occlusions. This is promising for the possibility of reducing the frequency of follow-up visits for low-risk patients and increasing the frequency for high-risk patients. These observations are the starting point for individual surveillance programs in post-pDVA patients. Future studies with a larger cohort are necessary for validation of this model.
Potential Relation between Plasma BDNF Levels and Human Coronary Plaque Morphology
Authors: Amadio Patrizia , Cosentino Nicola , Eligini Sonia , Barbieri Simone , Tedesco Calogero Claudio , Sandrini Leonardo , Zarà Marta , Fabiocchi Franco , Niccoli Giampaolo , Magnani Giulia , Fracassi Francesco , Crea Filippo , Veglia Fabrizio , Marenzi Giancarlo , Barbieri Silvia Stella
Published: June 2021

Coronary artery disease (CAD) patients are at high ischemic risk, and new biomarkers reflecting atherosclerotic disease severity and coronary plaque vulnerability are required. The Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) affects endothelial and macrophage activation suggesting its involvement in atherosclerotic plaque behavior. To investigate whether plasma BDNF is associated with in vivo coronary plaque features, assessed by optical coherence tomography (OCT), in both acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and stable angina (SA) patients, we enrolled 55 CAD patients (31 SA and 24 AMI), and 21 healthy subjects (HS). BDNF was lower in CAD patients than in HS (p < 0.0001), and it decreased with the presence, clinical acuity and severity of CAD. The greater BDNF levels were associated with OCT features of plaque vulnerability in overall CAD as well as in SA and AMI patients (p < 0.03). Specifically, in SA patients, BDNF correlated positively with macrophages’ infiltration within atherosclerotic plaque (p = 0.01) and inversely with minimal lumen area (p = 0.02). In AMI patients a negative correlation between BDNF and cap thickness was found (p = 0.02). Despite a small study population, our data suggest a relationship between BDNF and coronary plaque vulnerability, showing that vulnerable plaque is positively associated with plasma BDNF levels, regardless of the clinical CAD manifestation.
Screening for Pulmonary Hypertension in Systemic Sclerosis—A Primer for Cardio-Rheumatology Clinics
Authors: Giucă Adrian , Mihai Carina , Jurcuț Ciprian , Gheorghiu Ana Maria , Groșeanu Laura , Dima Alina , Săftoiu Adrian , Coman Ioan Mircea , Popescu Bogdan A. , Jurcuț Ruxandra
Published: June 2021

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare disease, with unfavorable clinical course and prognosis, characterized by progressive multisystemic involvement. SSc associated pulmonary hypertension (SSc-PAH) and interstitial lung disease (ILD) are the most important factors for morbi-mortality in these patients, being responsible for more than 60% of total deaths. Though pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is the dominant subtype seen in SSc, PH secondary to ILD, left-heart pathology, and pulmonary veno-occlusive disease (PVOD) are also possible occurrences. Initial evaluation of a SSc case is complex and should be performed with a multidisciplinary approach. Early detection of SSc-PAH is imperative, given the fact that new and effective medications are available and early treatment was shown to improve outcomes. Therefore, screening algorithms must be used adequately and in a cost-effective manner. Sensitivity and negative predictive value (NPV) are the most important performance measures in a screening test. Several algorithms were developed in the last decade (e.g., DETECT and ASIG) and demonstrated higher efficiency when compared to older algorithms. The present manuscript details the risk factors for SSc-PAH and includes a critical description of current detection algorithms, as a primer for clinicians working in the field of cardio-rheumatology.
A Surgical Pen-Type Probe Design for Real-Time Optical Diagnosis of Tumor Status Using 5-Aminolevulinic Acid
Authors: Yoon Kicheol , Kim Kwanggi , Lee Seunghoon
Published: June 2021

A surgical microscope is large in size, which makes it impossible to be portable. The distance between the surgical microscope and the observation tissue is 15–30 cm, and the adjustment range of the right and left of the camera is a maximum of 30°. Therefore, the surgical microscope generates an attenuation (above 58%) of irradiation of the optical source owing to the long working distance (WD). Moreover, the observation of tissue is affected because of dazzling by ambient light as the optical source power is strong (55 to 160 mW/cm2). Further, observation blind spot phenomena will occur due to the limitations in adjusting the right and left of the camera. Therefore, it is difficult to clearly observe the tumor. To overcome these problems, several studies on the handheld surgical microscope have been reported. In this study, a compact pen-type probe with a portable surgical microscope is presented. The proposed surgical microscope comprises a small and portable pen-type probe that can adjust the WD between the probe and the observed tissue. In addition, it allows the adjustment of the viewing angle and fluorescence brightness. The proposed probe has no blind spots or optical density loss.
Elastic Modulus and Elasticity Ratio of Malignant Breast Lesions with Shear Wave Ultrasound Elastography: Variations with Different Region of Interest and Lesion Size
Authors: Bulum Antonio , Ivanac Gordana , Divjak Eugen , Biondić Špoljar Iva , Džoić Dominković Martina , Bojanić Kristina , Lucijanić Marko , Brkljačić Boris
Published: June 2021

Shear wave elastography (SWE) is a type of ultrasound elastography with which the elastic properties of breast tissues can be quantitatively assessed. The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of different regions of interest (ROI) and lesion size on the performance of SWE in differentiating malignant breast lesions. The study included 150 female patients with histopathologically confirmed malignant breast lesions. Minimal (Emin), mean (Emean), maximal (Emax) elastic modulus and elasticity ratio (e-ratio) values were measured using a circular ROI size of 2, 4 and 6 mm diameters and the lesions were divided into large (diameter ≥ 15 mm) and small (diameter < 15 mm). Highest Emin, Emean and e-ratio values and lowest variability were observed when using the 2 mm ROI. Emax values did not differ between different ROI sizes. Larger lesions had significantly higher Emean and Emax values, but there was no difference in e-ratio values between lesions of different sizes. In conclusion, when measuring the Emin, Emean and e-ratio of malignant breast lesions using SWE the smallest possible ROI size should be used regardless of lesion size. ROI size has no impact on Emax values while lesion size has no impact on e-ratio values.
Design and Realization of a Frequency Reconfigurable Antenna with Wide, Dual, and Single-Band Operations for Compact Sized Wireless Applications
Authors: Awan Wahaj Abbas , Naqvi Syeda Iffat , Ali Wael Abd Ellatif , Hussain Niamat , Iqbal Amjad , Tran Huy Hung , Alibakhshikenari Mohammad , Limiti Ernesto
Published: June 2021

This paper presents a compact and simple reconfigurable antenna with wide-band, dual-band, and single-band operating modes. Initially, a co-planar waveguide-fed triangular monopole antenna is obtained with a wide operational frequency band ranging from 4.0 GHz to 7.8 GHz. Then, two additional stubs are connected to the triangular monopole through two p-i-n diodes. By electrically switching these p-i-n diodes ON and OFF, different operating frequency bands can be attained. When turning ON only one diode, the antenna offers dual-band operations of 3.3–4.2 GHz and 5.8–7.2 GHz. Meanwhile, the antenna with single-band operation from 3.3 GHz to 4.2 GHz can be realized when both of the p-i-n diodes are switched to ON states. The proposed compact size antenna with dimensions of 0.27λ0 × 0.16λ0 × 0.017λ0 at the lower operating frequency (3.3 GHz) can be used for several wireless applications such as worldwide interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX), wireless access in the vehicular environment (WAVE), and wireless local area network (WLAN). A comparative analysis with state-of-the-art works exhibits that the presented design possesses advantages of compact size and multiple operating modes.
Classification of Hand Movements Using MYO Armband on an Embedded Platform
Authors: Javaid Haider Ali , Tiwana Mohsin Islam , Alsanad Ahmed , Iqbal Javaid , Riaz Muhammad Tanveer , Ahmad Saeed , Almisned Faisal Abdulaziz
Published: June 2021

The study proposed the classification and recognition of hand gestures using electromyography (EMG) signals for controlling the upper limb prosthesis. In this research, the EMG signals were measured through an embedded system by wearing a band of MYO gesture control. In order to observe the behavior of these change movements, the EMG data was acquired from 10 healthy subjects (five male and five females) performing four upper limb movements. After extracting EMG data from MYO, the supervised classification approach was applied to recognize the different hand movements. The classification was performed with a 5-fold cross-validation technique under the supervision of Quadratic discriminant analysis (QDA), support vector machine (SVM), random forest, gradient boosted, ensemble (bagged tree), and ensemble (subspace K-Nearest Neighbors) classifier. The execution of these classifiers shows the overall accuracy of 83.9% in the case of ensemble (bagged tree) which is higher than other classifiers. Additionally, in this research an embedded system-based classification approach of hand movement was used for designing an upper limb prosthesis. This approach is different than previous techniques as MYO is used with an external Bluetooth module and different libraries that make its movement and performance boundless. The results of this study also inferred the operations which were easy for hand recognition and can be used for developing a powerful, efficient, and flexible prosthetic design in the future.
Impact of Rapid-Thermal-Annealing Temperature on the Polarization Characteristics of a PZT-Based Ferroelectric Capacitor
Authors: Yu Hanyeong , Shin Changhwan
Published: June 2021

A metal-ferroelectric-metal (MFM) capacitor was fabricated to investigate the effect of the rate-of-change of temperature in the rapid thermal annealing (RTA) process on the physical properties of the MFM capacitor’s ferroelectric layer [lead zirconate oxide (PZT)]. Remnant polarization (2 × Pr) is measured and monitored while performing the RTA process at 500 °C–700 °C. It turned out that, for a given target/final temperature in the RTA process, 2Pr of the ferroelectric layer decreases with a higher rate-of-change of temperature. This can provide a way to adjust the properties of the PZT layer, depending on the RTA process condition (i.e., using various rate-of-changes of temperature) for a given final/target temperature.
Power Phase Apodization Study on Compensation Defocusing and Chromatic Aberration in the Imaging System
Authors: Khonina Svetlana N. , Volotovskiy Sergey G. , Dzyuba Alexey P. , Serafimovich Pavel G. , Popov Sergey B. , Butt Muhammad A.
Published: June 2021

We performed a detailed comparative study of the parametric high degree (cubic, fourth, and fifth) power phase apodization on compensation defocusing and chromatic aberration in the imaging system. The research results showed that increasing the power degree of the apodization function provided better independence (invariance) of the point spread function (PSF) from defocusing while reducing the depth of field (DOF). This reduction could be compensated by increasing the parameter α; however, this led to an increase in the size of the light spot. A nonlinear relationship between the increase in the DOF and spot size was shown (due to a small increase in the size of the light spot, the DOF can be significantly increased). Thus, the search for the best solution was based on a compromise of restrictions on the circle of confusion (CoC) and DOF. The modeling of color image formation under defocusing conditions for the considered apodization functions was performed. The subsequent deconvolution of the resulting color image was demonstrated.
An Investigation of the Electrochemical Properties of CuCo2O4@NiCo2O4 Composite as Binder-Free Electrodes of a Supercapacitor
Authors: Nawaz Bushra , Ullah Muhammad Obaid , Ali Ghulam
Published: June 2021

Metallic oxides are considered promising candidates for supercapacitors owing to their inherent pseudocapacitive behavior and superior electrochemical properties. In this work, NiCo2O4, CuCo2O4, and CuCo2O4@NiCo2O4 composite electrodes are synthesized directly on a nickel foam substrate via the facile hydrothermal method. The phase of the prepared materials was analyzed using the X-ray diffraction method. The morphology of the prepared binder-free electrodes was observed by scanning electron microscopy. The electrochemical testing was done in a 2 M KOH solution against an Ag/AgCl reference electrode. The CuCo2O4@NiCo2O4 composite electrode demonstrated a value of specific capacitance as high as 422 F g−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1 and thus outperformed the NiCo2O4 and CuCo2O4 in terms of its electrochemical performance. The CuCo2O4@NiCo2O4 composite retained a specific capacitance of 278 F g−1 even with the increase of current density to 10 A g−1, which corresponds to a 34% loss of capacitance compared to 40% and 48% of individual NiCo2O4 and CuCo2O4 electrodes, respectively. Hence, the synergy in a composite material demonstrates it to be a potential candidate as an electrode in supercapacitors.
Estimation of Transmission Line Parameters Using Voltage-Current Measurements and Whale Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Hassanein Wael S. , Ahmed Marwa M. , Mosaad Mohamed I. , Abu-Siada A.
Published: June 2021

Real-time estimation of transmission line (TL) parameters is essential for proper management of transmission and distribution networks. These parameters can be used to detect incipient faults within the line and hence avoid any potential consequences. While some attempts can be found in the literature to estimate TL parameters, the presented techniques are either complex or impractical. Moreover, none of the presented techniques published in the literature so far can be implemented in real time. This paper presents a cost-effective technique to estimate TL parameters in real time. The proposed technique employs easily accessible voltage and current data measured at both ends of the line. For simplicity, only one quarter of the measured data is sampled and utilized in a developed objective function that is solved using the whale optimization algorithm (WOA) to estimate the TL parameters. The proposed objective function comprises the sum of square errors of the measured data and the corresponding estimated values. The robustness of the proposed technique is tested on a simple two-bus and the IEEE 14-bus systems. The impact of uncertainties in the measured data including magnitude, phase, and communication delay on the performance of the proposed estimation technique is also investigated. Results reveal the effectiveness of the proposed method that can be implemented in real time to detect any incipient variations in the TL parameters due to abnormal or fault events.
Operational Parameters of Logging Trucks Working in Mountainous Terrains of the Western Carpathians
Authors: Allman Michal , Dudáková Zuzana , Jankovský Martin , Merganič Ján
Published: June 2021

Timber haulage is the last phase of the raw timber production process, necessary to transport timber to the customer. To improve the efficiency of logging truck operations, it is necessary to observe and assess several operational parameters through the electronic systems installed on the logging trucks. Measurements for this study were conducted for three logging truck types, which hauled 24,648 m3 of timber over 54,857 km and 1232 round trips. The RMC system was used for truck monitoring, equipped with a CAP04 capacitance sensor and a WGS 48 GPS module. The monitoring was continuous, lasting 27 to 74 weeks. Data acquired were evaluated via regression and correlation analyses and ANOVA. The results showed a moderately strong negative correlation between haulage productivity and haulage distance, ranging from r = −0.47 to r = −0.68. Simultaneously, a rather low efficiency of timber haulage was found for long-range haulage caused by legislation-based small utilization of the load-carrying capacity of the logging trucks. This showed in increased fuel consumption per production unit (2.01 Lm−3) as well as increased carbon emissions production (5.54 kg m−3).
New Representation of Plant Hydraulics Improves the Estimates of Transpiration in Land Surface Model
Authors: Li Hongmei , Lu Xingjie , Wei Zhongwang , Zhu Siguang , Wei Nan , Zhang Shupeng , Yuan Hua , Shangguan Wei , Liu Shaofeng , Zhang Shulei , Huang Jianfeng , Dai Yongjiu
Published: June 2021

Transpiration represents more than 30% of the global land–atmosphere water exchange but is highly uncertain. Plant hydraulics was ignored in traditional land surface modeling, but recently plant hydraulics has been found to play an essential role in transpiration simulation. A new physical-based representation of plant hydraulic schemes (PHS) was recently developed and implemented in the Common Land Model (CoLM). However, it is unclear to what extent PHS can reduce these uncertainties. Here, we evaluated the PHS against measurements obtained at 81 FLUXNET sites. The transpiration of each site was estimated using an empirical evapotranspiration partitioning approach. The metric scores defined by the International Land Model Benchmarking Project (ILAMB) were used to evaluate the model performance and compare it with that of the CoLM default scheme (soil moisture stress (SMS)). The bias score of transpiration in PHS was higher than SMS for most sites, and more significant improvements were found in semi-arid and arid sites where transpiration was limited by soil moisture. The hydraulic redistribution in PHS optimized the soil water supply and thus improved the transpiration estimates. In humid sites, no significant improvement in seasonal or interannual variability of transpiration was simulated by PHS, which can be explained by the insensitivity of transpiration demand coupled to the photosynthesis response to precipitation. In arid and semi-arid sites, seasonal or interannual variability of transpiration was better captured by PHS than SMS, which was interpreted by the improved drought sensitivity for transpiration. Arid land is widespread and is expected to expand due to climate change, thus there is an urgent need to couple PHS in land surface models.
CFD Investigation of Trout-Like Configuration Holding Station near an Obstruction
Authors: Fouladi Kamran , Coughlin David J.
Published: June 2021

This report presents the development of a fluid-structure interaction model using commercial Computational fluid dynamics software and in-house developed User Defined Function to simulate the motion of a trout Department of Mechanical Engineering, Widener University holding station in a moving water stream. The oscillation model used in this study is based on the observations of trout swimming in a respirometry tank in a laboratory experiment. The numerical simulations showed results that are consistent with laboratory observations of a trout holding station in the tank without obstruction and trout entrained to the side of the cylindrical obstruction. This paper will be helpful in the development of numerical models for the hydrodynamic analysis of bioinspired unmanned underwater vehicle systems.
Impact of Feeding Cover Crop Forage Containing Brassicas to Steers during Backgrounding on Palatability Attributes of Beef Strip Steaks
Authors: Bakker Christina , Hite Lydia , Wright Cody , Smart Alexander , Dinh Thu , Blair Amanda , Underwood Keith , Grubbs J. Kyle
Published: June 2021

Brassica cover crops have been widely used for improving soil health and as a feed resource for grazing cows, but their use in backgrounding diets is unknown. The objective of this study was to determine the impact of feeding a brassica cover crop mixture during backgrounding on beef palatability. Thirty steers were assigned to one of two dietary treatments during backgrounding with (1) ad libitum access to freshly cut brassica cover crop forage (CC) containing radish, turnip, rapeseed, and rye grass, or (2) common Midwestern dry lot backgrounding diet (CON). The steers were transitioned to a common finishing diet after backgrounding. Striploins were collected after harvest, and were analyzed for evaluation of the Warner–Bratzler shear force (WBSF), collagen content, autolysis of calpain-1, proteolysis of desmin, and troponin-T; in addition, the tenderness, juiciness, and flavor evaluated by a trained sensory panel. A treatment x day interaction was observed for WBSF (p = 0.02). Steaks from the CON diet were less tender than CC steaks on days 3 and 7, but did not differ on days 14 and 21. Feeding a brassica mixture cover crop during the backgrounding phase of production did not impact the collagen content, autolysis of calpain-1, or proteolysis of desmin and troponin-T. Thus, additional investigation into the mechanisms responsible for the differences observed in instrumental tenderness is warranted.
Hydrogels: Characteristics and Application as Delivery Systems of Phenolic and Aroma Compounds
Authors: Ćorković Ina , Pichler Anita , Šimunović Josip , Kopjar Mirela
Published: June 2021

Complex challenges are facing the food industry as it develops novel and innovative products for the consumer marketplace. Food processing and preservation are primarily based on achievement and maintenance of safety in order to protect consumers, as well as extending product shelf life under the relevant conditions of storage, transport and distribution. Maximizing retention of bioactives with recognized positive effects on health typically comes under consideration when the previous two priorities have been achieved. This review introduces the potential applications of hydrogels as delivery systems of high-value bioactives like phenolics and aromas. If they are successfully encapsulated within the gel structures, their release can be controlled, which opens a wide range of applications, not only in food, but also in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Hydrogels are three-dimensional network structures which can absorb significant amounts of water. They have the ability to thicken the system and therefore can be used to design products with desired properties. In order to preserve the valuable components, it is necessary to know their physicochemical properties, in addition to the properties of the polymer used for hydrogel preparation.
Biodegradable Antimicrobial Films for Food Packaging: Effect of Antimicrobials on Degradation
Authors: Hernández-García Eva , Vargas María , González-Martínez Chelo , Chiralt Amparo
Published: June 2021

The environmental problem generated by the massive consumption of plastics makes necessary the developing of biodegradable antimicrobial materials that can extend food shelf-life without having a negative impact on the environment. The current situation regarding the availability of biodegradable food packaging materials has been analysed, as well as different studies where antimicrobial compounds have been incorporated into the polymer matrix to control the growth of pathogenic or spoilage bacteria. Thus, the antimicrobial activity of active films based on different biodegradable polymers and antimicrobial compounds has been discussed. Likewise, relevant information on biodegradation studies carried out with different biopolymers in different environments (compost, soil, aquatic), and the effect of some antimicrobials on this behavior, are reviewed. In most of the studies, no relevant effect of the incorporated antimicrobials on the degradation of the polymer were observed, but some antimicrobials can delay the process. The changes in biodegradation pattern due to the presence of the antimicrobial are attributed to its influence on the microorganism population responsible for the process. More studies are required to know the specific influence of the antimicrobial compounds on the biodegradation behavior of polymers in different environments. No studies have been carried out or marine media to this end.
PARP Inhibitors Talazoparib and Niraparib Sensitize Melanoma Cells to Ionizing Radiation
Authors: Jonuscheit Stephanie , Jost Tina , Gajdošová Fritzi , Wrobel Maximilian , Hecht Markus , Fietkau Rainer , Distel Luitpold
Published: June 2021

(1) Background: Niraparib and Talazoparib are poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) 1/2 inhibitors. It is assumed that combining PARP inhibitors with radiotherapy could be beneficial for cancer treatment. In this study, melanoma cells were treated with Niraparib and Talazoparib in combination with ionizing radiation (IR). (2) Methods: The effects of Talazoparib and Niraparib in combination with IR on cell death, clonogenicity and cell cycle arrest were studied in healthy primary fibroblasts and primary melanoma cells. (3) Results: The melanoma cells had a higher PARP1 and PARP2 content than the healthy fibroblasts, and further increased their PARP2 content after the combination therapy. PARP inhibitors both sensitized fibroblasts and melanoma cells to IR. A clear supra-additive effect of KI+IR treatment was detected in two melanoma cell lines analyzing the surviving fraction. The cell death rate increased in the healthy fibroblasts, but to a larger extent in melanoma cells after combined treatment. Finally, a lower percentage of cells in the radiosensitive G2/M phase is present in the healthy fibroblasts compared to the melanoma cells. (4) Conclusions: Both PARP inhibitors sensitize melanoma cells to IR. Healthy tissue seems to be less affected than melanoma cells. However, the great heterogeneity of the results suggests prior testing of the tumor cells in order to personalize the treatment.