bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Nutraceuticals on Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus-Induced Micro- and Macrovasculopathies
Authors: Mabena Philanathi , Fasemore Thandi M. D. , Nkomozepi Pilani
Published: December 2023

Diabetes mellitus (DM), one of the most serious non-communicable diseases, has long-term negative effects on the healthcare system due to its microvascular and macrovascular manifestations, which can be fatal if left untreated. Nutraceuticals, on the other hand, are alternative therapy choices of orally consumed natural food ingredients applicable in the management of several diseases, including diabetes mellitus. Through their antioxidant capabilities and bioactive components, nutraceuticals have been clinically demonstrated to be effective in preventing a number of ailments, including cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and kidney problems. Flavonoids, which are categorized as phytochemicals, are present in several of these nutraceuticals. Cocoa, one of the flavanols engaged in the treatment of diabetes mellitus, provides an additional non-pharmaceutical intervention in the management of diabetes mellitus, which, in part, is because of its high antioxidant capacity. Additionally, flavonoids improve insulin resistance and sensitivity, dyslipidemia, endothelial function, and blood pressure, as well as lower oxidative stress and inflammatory processes. As a result, they may be able to stop the progression of long-term vascular consequences of diabetes, such as cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, nephropathy, and retinopathy. Therefore, the effects of nutraceuticals (as an alternative treatment) on diabetic-related micro- and macrovascular problems are the main focus of this review.
Moisture Sorption Behavior of Deproteinized Sunflower Meal and Patterned Food Extrudate
Authors: Dushkova Mariya A. , Simitchiev Apostol T. , Kalaydzhiev Hristo R. , Ivanova Petya , Menkov Nikolay D. , Chalova Vesela I.
Published: December 2023

This research was undertaken to evaluate the influence of the extrusion process on the sorption behavior of deproteinized sunflower meal (DSM). A patterned food extrudate (PFE), prepared from a mixture of DSM and corn grits (1:1), was obtained, and the equilibrium isotherms of both products (DSM and PFE) were determined at three temperatures (20 °C, 30 °C, and 40 °C) by the static gravimetric method. The comparison of the sorption behavior of the products showed that extrusion decreased the equilibrium moisture content and the monolayer moisture, while the hysteresis effect was significantly raised in size and span. The experimental sorption isotherms were fitted by five modified models including the temperature effect: Chung–Pfost, Halsey, Oswin, Henderson, and GAB. The modified models of Oswin were established to be suitable to describe the equilibrium sorption isotherms in the temperature range from 20 °C to 40 °C. The net isosteric heat of sorption of DSM and PFE decreases consistently with the increase in moisture content. Extrusion reduces the bond energy between the solid matrix and the water molecules. The ranges of moisture content and relative humidities in the temperature interval studied, appropriate for long-term storage of DSM and PFE, were predicted.
Ethanolic Extracts of Six Cultivated Mushrooms as a Source of Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Radzki Wojciech , Tutaj Krzysztof , Skrzypczak Katarzyna , Michalak-Majewska Monika , Gustaw Waldemar
Published: December 2023

Freeze-dried stems and caps of six cultivated mushroom species, namely Agaricus bisporus (white) Agaricus bisporus (brown), Lentinula edodes, Pholiota nameko, Pleurotus eryngii and Pleurotus ostreatus were subjected to ethanolic extraction. The obtained extracts were analyzed in terms of total phenolics content, total flavonoids content and antioxidant capacity, and the results were calculated per gram of mushroom dry weight and extract dry weight. The LC–MS technique was applied to determine the profiles of phenolic acids. The amount of total phenolics in the stems (per the fruiting bodies’ dry weight) ranged from 1.09 ± 0.09 mg/g (P. ostreatus) to 4.02 ± 0.20 mg/g (the white A. bisporus), whereas in the caps it ranged from 1.49 ± 0.07 mg/g (P. nameko) to 6.22 ± 0.21 mg/g (the brown A. bisporus). The total flavonoid content in the stems (per the fruiting bodies’ dry weight) varied from 0.46 ± 0.05 mg/g (P. ostreatus) to 1.72 ± 0.02 mg/g (the brown A. bisporus), and in the caps it ranged from 0.48 ± 0.01 mg/g (P. ostreatus) to 1.93 ± 0.05 mg/g (the white A. bisporus). The antioxidant potential measured with the FRAP assay showed that the caps displayed higher activity compared to the stems. However, in the case of the DPPH assay performed on A. bisporus, this relationship was inverted. Different species contained varied concentrations of phenolic acids. P. eryngii caps contained the highest amount of 3,4-DHBA, L. edodes caps were the richest source of caffeic acid, whereas the highest amount of syringic acid was observed in L. edodes stems. The caps of P. nameko contained the highest amounts of p-coumaric and t-cinnamic acid, as well as 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde.
Methods and Mechanical Properties of Polymer Hybrid Composites and Hybrid Polymer Composites: Influence of Ionic Liquid Addition
Authors: Shamsuri Ahmad Adlie , Md. Jamil Siti Nurul Ain , Yusoff Mohd Zuhri Mohamed , Abdan Khalina
Published: December 2023

Polymer hybrid composites and hybrid polymer composites are distinct but interconnected composite classes, each with unique compositions and design philosophies. The mechanical properties of these composites are vital in advanced materials due to their impacts on performance, durability, and suitability for various applications. The addition of ionic liquids into these composites is a promising innovation in advanced materials. In this short review, various polymer matrices (e.g., thermosets, thermoplastics, and biopolymers), fillers (e.g., inorganic, carbon, organic, and metal), and ionic liquids (e.g., imidazolium- and phosphonium-based) used to fabricate polymer hybrid composites and hybrid polymer composites with added ionic liquids are identified. Furthermore, the addition of ionic liquids into these composites through different methods (e.g., magnetic stirring, mechanical stirring, solid grinding, etc.) is discussed. The influence of ionic liquid addition on the mechanical properties, specifically the tensile properties of these composites, is also shortly reviewed. The changes in the tensile properties, such as the tensile strength, tensile modulus, and elongation at break, of these composites are explained as well. The information presented in this review enhances the understanding of the methods applied to add ionic liquids into polymer hybrid composites and hybrid polymer composites, along with their tensile properties. In short, some ionic liquids have the capacity to enhance the tensile properties of hybrid polymer composites, and several ionic liquids can reduce the tensile properties of polymer hybrid composites.
Antimicrobial Resistance Profile of Planctomycetota Isolated from Oyster Shell Biofilm: Ecological Relevance within the One Health Concept
Authors: Guedes Bárbara , Godinho Ofélia , Quinteira Sandra , Lage Olga Maria
Published: December 2023

Background: Planctomycetota isolation in pure culture is still challenging with most of the reported data coming from molecular-based methods. Here, we intended to isolate Planctomycetota from the filter-feeder Pacific oyster Magallana gigas, extending the search to a not yet explored natural reservoir and to characterize their antimicrobial resistance phenotype. Methods: Oyster samples from different supermarkets and from a farm producer were subject to isolation in selective medium. Inoculation was performed from the shell biofilm and after an enrichment of the edible content. Results: Planctomycetota isolates (n = 65) were only obtained from the shell biofilm with four different species identified: Rhodopirellula baltica (n = 62), Rhodopirellula rubra (n = 1), Rhodopirellula heiligendammensis (n = 1) and Gimesia chilikensis (n = 1). This study reports the first association of Planctomycetota members with oysters and the first description of R. heiligendammensis in Portugal. Moreover, R. rubra, originally identified in Portugal, was isolated from oysters of French origin. Antibiotic susceptibility testing, conducted in strains belonging to two species never assayed before revealed multidrug resistance phenotypes with bacteria showing resistance to several classes of clinically relevant antibiotics (e.g., β-lactams and aminoglycosides). Conclusion: The ecological role and impact of Planctomycetota on oyster holobiont and, ultimately, in public health, under the One Health concept, is discussed.
A Vertical City Park Model for Promoting Physical Activity and Sports Practice in People of All Ages
Authors: Petrigna Andrea , Petrigna Luca
Published: December 2023

(1) Background: Modern society is characterized by urbanization and an increase in noncommunicable diseases. Governments frequently adopt policies to intervene in this regard; however, they are not always successful. Parks are an easy and feasible health intervention, but they are not always present in cities due to a lack of space. Considering the above aspects, the present study aims to analyze the scientific literature on this topic to provide a city park model versatile in different urban contexts. (2) Methods: A review of the scientific literature on this topic is performed to discover building models designed to replace/flank urban parks. (3) Results: No such articles are found in the scientific literature. The proposed model is a vertical city park. It is a modular structure designed to be adaptable to the urban context. It includes parks, sports fields, and fitness centers in a green and healthy environment. (4) Conclusions: In the scientific literature, there are no mentions of city park models. Consequently, a design model is proposed. This model for a vertical city park can be an instrument for a population-based health program. This solution has the potential to be feasible and economical, thereby giving the community a more easy-to-adopt instrument.
Long-Term Prediction of Particulate Matter2.5 Concentration with Modal Autoformer Based on Fusion Modal Decomposition Algorithm
Authors: Zhou Shiyu , Zhang Xinjia , Liu Jianzhong , Zhang Yinbao , Wei Pengzhi , Wang Yalin , Zhang Jingwei
Published: December 2023

To overcome the limitations of long-term prediction of PM2.5 concentration, a multi-factor information flow causality analysis method is used to screen suitable meteorological and air pollutant-related factors and concatenate them with a PM2.5 sequence as the dataset. A modal decomposition algorithm is used as a module to be integrated into the autoformer (transformer improved with autocorrelation mechanism) model to improve it, and the modal autoformer (empirical modal decomposition combined with autoformer) is proposed. The constructed model decomposes the sequence into several components by using the modal decomposition module and uses the self-correlation mechanism and decomposition structure to decompose and extract features of different components at the time-feature level. Based on the matching method, the model is adjusted for different component features to improve the long-term prediction effect. The model is applied to three cities in Henan Province, Zhengzhou, Luoyang, and Zhumadian, as examples for experiments, and gated neural unit (GRU), informer, autoformer, and modal GRU (empirical modal decomposition combined with GRU model) are constructed for comparative verification. The results show that the modal autoformer can better cope with the complex characteristics of long-term prediction of the PM2.5 time series, has strong spatial adaptability and that its various indicators are optimal for the three cities, with R2 values being all above 0.96, where the highest is 0.987 in Zhengzhou; MAPE (Mean absolute percentage error) values all being less than 10, where the best is 7.602 in Zhumadian; and MAE (Mean absolute error) values all being less than 4. The prediction effect is stable enough, showing its feasibility and adaptability in long-term prediction.
Characteristics of Suspended Road Dust According to Vehicle Driving Patterns in an Urban Area and PM10 Content in Silt
Authors: Yoo Hojun , Cho Jeongyeon , Hong Sungjin , Kim Intai
Published: December 2023

Characterizing the influence factors of exhaust gas based on the suspended road dust on paved roads, according to the number of vehicles and their distance with regard to driving pattern, is important in order to provide a coefficient for driving patterns to find a model equation. This has been a limitation of previous studies, in which this was difficult to carry out in a large area reflecting various driving patterns because some sections were selected according to empirical measurement results, and only one vehicle measurement was used to find the level of road dust. This study measured the concentration of suspended road dust that could occur, depending on the vehicle’s driving patterns, on an experimental road in Yongin, South Korea, from May to July 2023. The study was conducted to determine the degree of the effect of exhaust gas, according to the concentration of suspended road dust generated, by determining the separation distance based on real-time measurements. This study attempted to determine the changes in suspended road dust based on driving patterns in urban areas and factor in the concentration of suspended road dust with regard to emission characteristics in terms of exhaust gas and particulate matter with a diameter of 10 microns or less (PM10). This was in accordance with conditions evaluated using mobile laboratories, based on suspended-PM10-concentration-measuring equipment. This study mainly focused on the following main topics: (1) increasing the level of suspended particulate matter at less than 10 m intervals produced by exhaust gas; (2) decreasing the level of suspended road dust with an increase in the number of vehicles, with the area measured at a distance of three cars in front showing the lowest level of suspended road dust in the air and a low level for the rear vehicle; (3) demonstrating that PM10 is effective in measuring the generation of suspended road dust; and (4) evaluating suspended road dust levels by road section. Based on the results, this research is necessary to more appropriately set the focus of analyses that aim to characterize suspended road dust according to exhaust gas and PM10 content in silt.
Multi-Player Non-Cooperative Game Strategy of a Nonlinear Stochastic System with Time-Varying Parameters
Authors: Lin Xiangyun , Zhang Tongtong , Li Meilin , Zhang Rui , Zhang Weihai
Published: December 2023

This paper discusses the multi-player non-cooperative game of nonlinear stochastic time-varying systems described by Itô-type differential equations in a finite time interval. Multi-player non-cooperative game problems are represented by multi-objective Pareto (MOP) control problems to describe the fact that each player has their own goals. By applying Hamilton–Jacobi inequalities (HJIs), the criterion of upper bounds of the MOP boundary is obtained for nonlinear stochastic systems, and the corresponding strategies are designed for such games, so the MOP problem is transformed into a HJI-constrained MOP problem. In order to overcome the difficulty of solving HJIs, a global linearization method is proposed to approximate the nonlinear systems. By the proposed global linearization method, multi-player non-cooperative game problems are transformed into Riccati equation-constrained MOP problems, and the approximate solutions of HJI-constrained MOP problems are obtained. Finally, a practical example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Robust Variable Selection with Exponential Squared Loss for the Spatial Error Model
Authors: Ma Shida , Hou Yiming , Song Yunquan , Zhou Feng
Published: December 2023

With the widespread application of spatial data in fields like econometrics and geographic information science, the methods to enhance the robustness of spatial econometric model estimation and variable selection have become a central focus of research. In the context of the spatial error model (SEM), this paper introduces a variable selection method based on exponential square loss and the adaptive lasso penalty. Due to the non-convex and non-differentiable nature of this proposed method, convex programming is not applicable for its solution. We develop a block coordinate descent algorithm, decompose the exponential square component into the difference of two convex functions, and utilize the CCCP algorithm in combination with parabolic interpolation for optimizing problem-solving. Numerical simulations demonstrate that neglecting the spatial effects of error terms can lead to reduced accuracy in selecting zero coefficients in SEM. The proposed method demonstrates robustness even when noise is present in the observed values and when the spatial weights matrix is inaccurate. Finally, we apply the model to the Boston housing dataset.
Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of the Skin and the Peritoneal Wall Layer of Triplophysa stenura Distributed in High Elevations
Authors: Ma Li , Zhu Zhen , Zhang Shanzhong , Yang Ruibin , Liu Chen , Yu Yongyao , Yang Xuefen
Published: December 2023

A total of 81,868 All-Unigenes were sequenced and assembled by the transcriptome in the dorsal skin, the lateral skin, and the peritoneal wall layer of Triplophysa stenura with a total assembly length of 123,827,585 bp, and 68,750 unigenes were annotated to seven functional databases. A total of 588 DEGs were screened between the dorsal and lateral skin, 17,097 DEGs were screened between the dorsal skin and the peritoneal wall layer, and 16,598 DEGs were screened between the lateral skin and the peritoneal wall layer. Most of DEGs in three tissues were annotated to GO terms related to cellular structures, binding, cellular processes, and catalytic activity. They were also annotated to KEGG pathways such as the MAPK signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, Wnt signaling pathway, melanogenesis, tyrosine metabolism, and cell cycle. A total of twenty-three DEGs were found to be enriched in the melanin synthesis pathway by a local Blast comparison, of which nine DEGs were significantly upregulated in the peritoneal wall layer and six DEGs were significantly upregulated in the dorsal and lateral skin. The results suggest that these genes may be associated with the molecular mechanism of melanin synthesis in T. stenura, and the differential regulation of genes may be related to the differences in UVR intensity and tissue sites of melanin synthesis. Further investigation is needed on how these genes specifically regulate melanin synthesis.
Emergent Functional Organization of Gut Microbiomes in Health and Diseases
Authors: Seppi Marcello , Pasqualini Jacopo , Facchin Sonia , Savarino Edoardo Vincenzo , Suweis Samir
Published: December 2023

Continuous and significant progress in sequencing technologies and bioinformatics pipelines has revolutionized our comprehension of microbial communities, especially for human microbiomes. However, most studies have focused on studying the taxonomic composition of the microbiomes and we are still not able to characterize dysbiosis and unveil the underlying ecological consequences. This study explores the emergent organization of functional abundances and correlations of gut microbiomes in health and disease. Leveraging metagenomic sequences, taxonomic and functional tables are constructed, enabling comparative analysis. First, we show that emergent taxonomic and functional patterns are not useful to characterize dysbiosis. Then, through differential abundance analyses applied to functions, we reveal distinct functional compositions in healthy versus unhealthy microbiomes. In addition, we inquire into the functional correlation structure, revealing significant differences between the healthy and unhealthy groups, which may significantly contribute to understanding dysbiosis. Our study demonstrates that scrutinizing the functional organization in the microbiome provides novel insights into the underlying state of the microbiome. The shared data structure underlying the functional and taxonomic compositions allows for a comprehensive macroecological examination. Our findings not only shed light on dysbiosis, but also underscore the importance of studying functional interrelationships for a nuanced understanding of the dynamics of the microbial community. This research proposes a novel approach, bridging the gap between microbial ecology and functional analyses, promising a deeper understanding of the intricate world of the gut microbiota and its implications for human health.
Innervation of an Ultrasound-Mediated PVDF-TrFE Scaffold for Skin-Tissue Engineering
Authors: Westphal Jennifer A. , Bryan Andrew E. , Krutko Maksym , Esfandiari Leyla , Schutte Stacey C. , Harris Greg M.
Published: December 2023

In this work, electrospun polyvinylidene-trifluoroethylene (PVDF-TrFE) was utilized for its biocompatibility, mechanics, and piezoelectric properties to promote Schwann cell (SC) elongation and sensory neuron (SN) extension. PVDF-TrFE electrospun scaffolds were characterized over a variety of electrospinning parameters (1, 2, and 3 h aligned and unaligned electrospun fibers) to determine ideal thickness, porosity, and tensile strength for use as an engineered skin tissue. PVDF-TrFE was electrically activated through mechanical deformation using low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) waves as a non-invasive means to trigger piezoelectric properties of the scaffold and deliver electric potential to cells. Using this therapeutic modality, neurite integration in tissue-engineered skin substitutes (TESSs) was quantified including neurite alignment, elongation, and vertical perforation into PVDF-TrFE scaffolds. Results show LIPUS stimulation promoted cell alignment on aligned scaffolds. Further, stimulation significantly increased SC elongation and SN extension separately and in coculture on aligned scaffolds but significantly decreased elongation and extension on unaligned scaffolds. This was also seen in cell perforation depth analysis into scaffolds which indicated LIPUS enhanced perforation of SCs, SNs, and cocultures on scaffolds. Taken together, this work demonstrates the immense potential for non-invasive electric stimulation of an in vitro tissue-engineered-skin model.
Impact of Disease Modifying Therapy on MS-Related Fatigue: A Narrative Review
Authors: Elkhooly Mahmoud , Bao Fen , Bernitsas Evanthia
Published: December 2023

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system by causing inflammation, demyelination and neurodegeneration. Fatigue is the most prevalent and one of the most disabling symptoms among people with MS (pwMS). Due to its complexity and subjective character, fatigue is still little understood despite its frequent occurrence and severe impact. The potential causes, effects, and treatments of fatigue associated with MS have been extensively studied in recent years. Though the benefits of such a variety of contributions are obvious, there have not been many attempts to evaluate the effect of disease modifying therapies (DMTs) on MS-related fatigue. In this review, we summarize clinical trials and research studies, and we discuss the effect of different DMTs on MS-related fatigue.
Formation of Cellular Concrete Structures Based on Waste Glass and Liquid Glass
Authors: Samchenko Svetlana V. , Korshunov Andrey V.
Published: December 2023

The use of waste in the production of building materials is one of the possible ways to solve problems related to the sustainable management of non-degradable waste and difficult-to-recycle secondary resources. In this paper, a method is proposed for the non-autoclave production of an ultra-lightweight cellular concrete based on Portland cement, glass waste and liquid glass. A mixture of sodium hexafluorosilicate and hydroxide is used as a hardening activator, an aluminum powder serves as a gas-forming agent. The setting and hardening of raw mixtures occurs under the action of exothermal heat release due to a complex of chemical reactions occurring in the system, and the resulting material does not require additional heat treatment. It is optimal to use two fractions of glass waste to achieve acceptable material strength: coarse crushed (fineness modulus Fm = 0.945) and finely ground (specific surface Ssp = 450–550 m2/kg) glass. Glass particles of the fine fraction of glass, along with Portland cement, participate in hydrolytic and structure-forming processes, while glass particles of the coarse fraction play the role of reinforcing filler. The influence of the dispersion of glass and the density of liquid glass on the density, porosity, strength, water absorption and water resistance of the resulting cellular material was determined. At an average density of cellular concrete in the dry state of 150–320 kg/m3, the following characteristics can be achieved: a compressive strength up to 2.0 MPa, bending strength up to 0.38 MPa, thermal conductivity coefficient of the material in the range 0.05–0.09 W/(K·m), and a maximum operating temperature of 800 °C. The proposed ultra-lightweight cellular concrete can be used as a non-combustible heat and sound insulation material, as well as a repairing composition; the cellular concrete blocks can be used as filling masonry and for the construction of non-bearing internal walls.
Identifying Urban Built-Up Areas Based on Spatial Coupling between Nighttime Light Data and POI: A Case Study of Changchun
Authors: Wu Ziting , Wei Xindong , He Xiujuan , Gao Weijun
Published: December 2023

Nighttime light (NTL) data and points of interest (POI) data offer precise visual indications of the distributional characteristics of urban spatial structures. This study employed nighttime light data and point of interest data to investigate spatial distribution patterns in Changchun, a selected study area. The built-up area was extracted from the nighttime light data, while kernel density analysis was utilized to examine the distribution of point of interest data. The processing outcomes of both datasets were gridded with spatially resolved resolution. Afterward, the fishnet tool was employed to conduct two-factor integrated mapping and visual analysis, which helped identify shared or divergent spatial coupling relationships. The results indicated a high degree of consistency in the distribution of both NTL and POI across Changchun, with 84.58% of the coupling demonstrating a concordant pattern. The spatial analysis conducted in this study showed that the heterogeneities of the coupling relationship within each administrative borough expanded outward from the center of the borough. POI provided a more accurate depiction of the spatial distribution of urban built-up areas compared to NTL, leading to a more precise representation of spatial patterns of human activity intensity. Changchun has undergone zoning adjustments, resulting in the emergence of multiple urban centers in both the central city and the surrounding administrative districts. These urban centers are gradually merging into each other. The study found that the level of spatial coupling was much higher in the central area compared to the surrounding administrative districts. This has contributed to the formation of multiple urban centers and the gradual expansion of the urban built-up area beyond the main city, indicating a trend towards regional integration and development. This study provides a more detailed and accurate description of the current distribution of urbanization and spatial structural characteristics of Changchun by investigating the spatial coupling between POI and NTL. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the urban development patterns in the region and provide insights for future urban planning and management.
Optimal Quantity Investigation of Metakaolin and Silica Fume in Production of Durable Acid Resistance Alkali Activated Slag Concrete
Authors: Azmakan Abolfazl , Ahmadi Jamal , Shahani Arash , Badarloo Baitollah , Garbowski Tomasz
Published: December 2023

The urgent requirement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions during Portland cement production and to enhance the durability of concrete in destructive environments are essential reasons to seek other alternative materials like alkaline activated binders. In this study, the feasibility of producing durable alkali-activated slag-based concrete under deteriorative environmental conditions was studied using 0, 10, 20, 30, and 40% of metakaolin (MK) and 0, 5, and 10% of silica fume (SF) instead of ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) and optimizing contents through the response surface method (RSM).To evaluate the performance of studied alkali-activated slag-based concrete in an aggressive environment, the permeability and the reduction in compressive strength of alkali-activated slag-based concrete under sulfuric acid attack have been investigated. In addition, the mass change of specimens after exposure was measured. The results indicate that replacing 40% of the slag with metakaolin and 10% with silica fume in alkali-activated concrete has reduced 9% and 34.9% of the compressive strength at 28 days, respectively. Also, increasing MK replacement up to 40% increased the water absorption to 27.8%, but 10% SF replacement reduced it to 17.7%. In addition, the alkali-activated slag-based concrete mass changes after 90 days of acid exposure were 2.3%, while the replacement of slag by 40% of MK and 10% of SF reduced this value to 1.14%. However, it improved the durability performance of alkali-activated concrete against sulfuric acid attacks.
Metabolic Tumor Volume from 18F-FDG PET/CT in Combination with Radiologic Measurements to Predict Long-Term Survival Following Transplantation for Colorectal Liver Metastases
Authors: Grut Harald , Line Pål-Dag , Syversveen Trygve , Dueland Svein
Published: December 2023

The aim of the present study is to report on the ability of metabolic tumor volume (MTV) of liver metastases from pre-transplant 18F-FDG PET/CT in combination with conventional radiological measurements from CT scans to predict long-term disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), and survival after relapse (SAR) after liver transplantation for colorectal liver metastases. The total liver MTV was obtained from the 18F-FDG PET/CT, and the size of the largest metastasis and the total number of metastases were obtained from the CT. DFS, OS, and SAR for patients with a low and high MTV, in combination with a low and high size, number, and tumor burden score, were compared using the Kaplan–Meier method and log–rank test. Patients with a low number of metastases and low MTV had a significantly longer OS than those with a high MTV, with a median survival of 151 vs. 26 months (p = 0.010). Patients with a high number of metastases and low MTV had significantly longer DFS, OS, and SAR than patients with a high MTV (p = 0.034, 0.006, and 0.026). The tumor burden score of group/zone 3, in combination with a low MTV, had a significantly improved DFS, OS, and SAR compared to those with a high MTV (p = 0.034, <0.001, and 0.006). Patients with a low MTV of liver metastases had a long DFS, OS, and SAR despite a high number of liver metastases and a high tumor burden score.
JAK1 Is a Novel Target of Tumor- and Invasion-Suppressive microRNA 494-5p in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Patil Nitin , Abdelrahim Omar G. , Leupold Jörg H. , Allgayer Heike
Published: December 2023

MiR-494-5p expression has been suggested to be associated with colorectal cancer (CRC) and its metastases in our previous studies. However, functional investigations on the molecule-mediating actions of this miR in CRC are lacking. In silico analysis in the present study revealed a putative binding sequence within the 3′UTR of JAK1. Overexpression of miR-494-5p in cultured CRC significantly reduced the luciferase activity of a reporter plasmid containing the wild-type JAK1-3′UTR, which was abolished by seed sequence mutation. Furthermore, the overexpression of miR-494-5p in CRC cell lines led to a significant reduction in JAK1 expression, proliferation, in vitro migration, and invasion. These effects were abolished by co-transfection with a specific double-stranded RNA that inhibits endogenous miR-494-5p. Moreover, IL-4-induced migration, invasion, and phosphorylation of JAK1, STAT6, and AKT proteins were reduced after an overexpression of this miR, suggesting that this miR affects one of the most essential pathways in CRC. A Kaplan–Meier plotter analysis revealed that patients with high JAK1 expression show reduced survival. Together, these data suggest that miR-494-5p physically inhibits the expression of JAK1 at the translational level as well as in migration and invasion, supporting the hypothesis of miR-494-5p as an early tumor suppressor and inhibitor of early steps of metastasis in CRC.
M2 Muscarinic Receptor Stimulation Induces Autophagy in Human Glioblastoma Cancer Stem Cells via mTOR Complex-1 Inhibition
Authors: Guerriero Claudia , Manfredelli Marianna , Matera Carlo , Iuzzolino Angela , Conti Luciano , Dallanoce Clelia , De Amici Marco , Trisciuoglio Daniela , Tata Ada Maria
Published: December 2023

Background: Although autophagy is a pro-survival process of tumor cells, it can stimulate cell death in particular conditions and when differently regulated by specific signals. We previously demonstrated that the selective stimulation of the M2 muscarinic receptor subtype (mAChR) negatively controls cell proliferation and survival and causes oxidative stress and cytotoxic and genotoxic effects in both GBM cell lines and GBM stem cells (GSCs). In this work, we have evaluated whether autophagy was induced as a downstream mechanism of the observed cytotoxic processes induced by M2 mAChR activation by the orthosteric agonist APE or the dualsteric agonist N8-Iper (N8). Methods: To assess the activation of autophagy, we analyzed the expression of LC3B using Western blot analysis and in LC3B-EGFP transfected cell lines. Apoptosis was assessed by measuring the protein expression of Caspases 3 and 9. Results: Our data indicate that activation of M2 mAChR by N8 promotes autophagy in both U251 and GB7 cell lines as suggested by the LC3B-II expression level and analysis of the transfected cells by fluorescence microscopy. Autophagy induction by M2 mAChRs is regulated by the decreased activity of the PI3K/AKT/mTORC1 pathway and upregulated by pAMPK expression. Downstream of autophagy activation, an increase in apoptosis was also observed in both cell lines after treatment with the two M2 agonists. Conclusions: N8 treatment causes autophagy via pAMPK upregulation, followed by apoptosis in both investigated cell lines. In contrast, the absence of autophagy in APE-treated GSC cells seems to indicate that cell death could be triggered by mechanisms alternative to those observed for N8.
Quality of Surgical Outcome Reporting in Randomised Clinical Trials of Multimodal Rectal Cancer Treatment: A Systematic Review
Authors: Janczak Joanna , Ukegjini Kristjan , Bischofberger Stephan , Turina Matthias , Müller Philip C. , Steffen Thomas
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) continue to provide the best evidence for treatment options, but the quality of reporting in RCTs and the completeness rate of reporting of surgical outcomes and complication data vary widely. The aim of this study was to measure the quality of reporting of the surgical outcome and complication data in RCTs of rectal cancer treatment and whether this quality has changed over time. Methods: Eligible articles with the keywords (“rectal cancer” OR “rectal carcinoma”) AND (“radiation” OR “radiotherapy”) that were RCTs and published in the English, German, Polish, or Italian language were identified by reviewing all abstracts published from 1982 through 2022. Two authors independently screened and analysed all studies. The quality of the surgical outcome and complication data was assessed based on fourteen criteria, and the quality of RCTs was evaluated based on a modified Jadad scale. The primary outcome was the quality of reporting in RCTs and the completeness rate of reporting of surgical results and complication data. Results: A total of 340 articles reporting multimodal therapy outcomes for 143,576 rectal cancer patients were analysed. A total of 7 articles (2%) met all 14 reporting criteria, 13 met 13 criteria, 27 met from 11 to 12 criteria, 36 met from 9 to 10 criteria, 76 met from 7 to 8 criteria, and most articles met fewer than 7 criteria (mean 5.5 criteria). Commonly underreported criteria included complication severity (15% of articles), macroscopic integrity of mesorectal excision (17% of articles), length of stay (18% of articles), number of lymph nodes (21% of articles), distance between the tumour and circumferential resection margin (CRM) (26% of articles), surgical radicality according to the site of the primary tumour (R0 vs. R1 + R2) (29% of articles), and CRM status (38% of articles). Conclusion: Inconsistent surgical outcome and complication data reporting in multimodal rectal cancer treatment RCTs is standard. Standardised reporting of clinical and oncological outcomes should be established to facilitate comparing studies and results of related research topics.
Local Magnetic Hyperthermia and Systemic Gemcitabine/Paclitaxel Chemotherapy Triggers Neo-Angiogenesis in Orthotopic Pancreatic Tumors without Involvement of Auto/Paracrine Tumor Cell VEGF Signaling and Hypoxia
Authors: Maduabuchi Wisdom O. , Tansi Felista L. , Faenger Bernd , Southern Paul , Pankhurst Quentin A. , Steiniger Frank , Westermann Martin , Hilger Ingrid
Published: December 2023

There is a growing interest in exploring the therapeutically mediated modulation of tumor vascularization of pancreatic cancer, which is known for its poorly perfused tumor microenvironment limiting the delivery of therapeutic agents to the tumor site. Here, we assessed how magnetic hyperthermia in combination with chemotherapy selectively affects growth, the vascular compartment of tumors, and the presence of tumor cells expressing key regulators of angiogenesis. To that purpose, a orthotopic PANC-1 (fluorescent human pancreatic adenocarcinoma) mouse tumor model (Rj:Athym-Foxn1nu/nu) was used. Magnetic hyperthermia was applied alone or in combination with systemic chemotherapy (gemcitabine 50 mg per kg body weight, nab-pacitaxel 30 mg/kg body weight) on days 1 and 7 following magnetic nanoparticle application (dose: 1 mg per 100 mm3 of tumor). We used ultrasound imaging, immunohistochemistry, multi-spectral optoacoustic tomography (MSOT), and hematology to assess the biological parameters mentioned above. We found that magnetic hyperthermia in combination with gemcitabine/paclitaxel chemotherapy was able to impact tumor growth (decreased volumes and Ki67 expression) and to trigger neo-angiogenesis (increased small vessel diameter) as a result of the therapeutically mediated cell damages/stress in tumors. The applied stressors activated specific pro-angiogenic mechanisms, which differed from those seen in hypoxic conditions involving HIF-1α, since (a) treated tumors showed a significant decrease of cells expressing VEGF, CD31, HIF-1α, and neuropilin-1; and (b) the relative tumor blood volume and oxygen level remained unchanged. Neo-angiogenesis seems to be the result of the activation of cell stress pathways, like MAPK pathways (high number of pERK-expressing tumor cells). In the long term, the combination of magnetic hyperthermia and chemotherapy could potentially be applied to transiently modulate tumor angiogenesis and to improve drug accessibility during oncologic therapies of pancreatic cancer.
Natural Anticancer Peptides from Marine Animal Species: Evidence from In Vitro Cell Model Systems
Authors: Librizzi Mariangela , Martino Chiara , Mauro Manuela , Abruscato Giulia , Arizza Vincenzo , Vazzana Mirella , Luparello Claudio
Published: December 2023

Anticancer peptides are short and structurally heterogeneous aminoacidic chains, which display selective cytotoxicity mostly against tumor cells, but not healthy cells, based on their different cell surface properties. Their anti-tumoral activity is carried out through interference with intracellular homeostasis, such as plasmalemma integrity, cell cycle control, enzymatic activities and mitochondrial functions, ultimately acting as angiogenesis-, drug resistance- and metastasis-inhibiting agents, immune stimulators, differentiation inducers and necrosis or extrinsic/intrinsic apoptosis promoters. The marine environment features an ever-growing level of biodiversity, and seas and oceans are poorly exploited mines in terms of natural products of biomedical interest. Adaptation processes to extreme and competitive environmental conditions led marine species to produce unique metabolites as a chemical strategy to allow inter-individual signalization and ensure survival against predators, infectious agents or UV radiation. These natural metabolites have found broad use in various applications in healthcare management, due to their anticancer, anti-angiogenic, anti-inflammatory and regeneration abilities. The aim of this review is to pick selected studies that report on the isolation of marine animal-derived peptides and the identification of their anticancer activity in in vitro cultures of cancer cells, and list them with respect to the taxonomical hierarchy of the source organism.
Evolving CAR-T-Cell Therapy for Cancer Treatment: From Scientific Discovery to Cures
Authors: Majumder Avisek
Published: December 2023

In recent years, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T-cell therapy has emerged as the most promising immunotherapy for cancer that typically uses patients’ T cells and genetically engineered them to target cancer cells. Although recent improvements in CAR-T-cell therapy have shown remarkable success for treating hematological malignancies, the heterogeneity in tumor antigens and the immunosuppressive nature of the tumor microenvironment (TME) limits its efficacy in solid tumors. Despite the enormous efforts that have been made to make CAR-T-cell therapy more effective and have minimal side effects for treating hematological malignancies, more research needs to be conducted regarding its use in the clinic for treating various other types of cancer. The main concern for CAR-T-cell therapy is severe toxicities due to the cytokine release syndrome, whereas the other challenges are associated with complexity and immune-suppressing TME, tumor antigen heterogeneity, the difficulty of cell trafficking, CAR-T-cell exhaustion, and reduced cytotoxicity in the tumor site. This review discussed the latest discoveries in CAR-T-cell therapy strategies and combination therapies, as well as their effectiveness in different cancers. It also encompasses ongoing clinical trials; current challenges regarding the therapeutic use of CAR-T-cell therapy, especially for solid tumors; and evolving treatment strategies to improve the therapeutic application of CAR-T-cell therapy.
MITO39: Efficacy and Tolerability of Pegylated Liposomal Doxorubicin (PLD)–Trabectedin in the Treatment of Relapsed Ovarian Cancer after Maintenance Therapy with PARP Inhibitors—A Multicenter Italian Trial in Ovarian Cancer Observational Case-Control Study
Authors: Turinetto Margherita , Ricotti Andrea , Marchetti Claudia , Pisano Carmela , Zamagni Claudio , Cassani Chiara , Malaguti Paola , Baldoni Alessandra , Scollo Paolo , Scandurra Giuseppa , Parisi Alessandro , Artioli Grazia , Palaia Innocenza , Vertechy Laura , Bergamini Alice , Picardo Elisa , Tuninetti Valentina , Scotto Giulia , Scambia Giovanni , Pignata Sandro , Valabrega Giorgio
Published: December 2023

Objective: While PLD-Trabectedin is an approved treatment for relapsed platinum-sensitive ovarian cancer, its efficacy and tolerability has so far not been tested extensively in patients who progress after poly ADP-ribose polymerase inhibitor (PARPi) treatment. Methodology: This multicenter, retrospective analysis had the objective of comparing patients receiving PLD-Trabectedin after being treated with PARP-I (cases) with PARPi-naïve patients. Descriptive and survival analyses were performed for each group. Results: Data from 166 patients were collected, composed of 109 cases and 57 controls. In total, 135 patients were included in our analyses, composing 46 controls and 89 cases. The median PFS was 11 months (95% IC 10–12) in the control group vs. 8 months (95% IC 6–9) in the case group (p value 0.0017). The clinical benefit rate was evaluated, with an HR for progression of 2.55 (1.28–5.06) for the case group (p value 0.008), persisting when adjusted for BRCA and line with treatment. We compared hematological toxicity, gastro-intestinal toxicity, hand–foot syndrome (HFS), fatigue, and liver toxicity, and no statistically significant disparity was noted, except for HFS with a p value of 0.006. The distribution of G3 and G4 toxicities was also equally represented. Conclusion: The MITO39 study showed a statistically significant difference in terms of PFS, suggesting that previous exposure to PARPi might inhibit the efficacy of PLD-Trabectedin. Regarding tolerability, no remarkable disparity was noted; PLD-Trabectedin was confirmed to be a well-tolerated scheme in both groups. To our knowledge, these are the first data regarding this topic, which we deem to be of great relevance in the current landscape.
Congenital Tumors—Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings with Focus on Rare Tumors
Authors: Kwasniewicz Piotr , Wieczorek-Pastusiak Julia , Romaniuk-Doroszewska Anna , Bekiesinska-Figatowska Monika
Published: December 2023

Congenital tumors are rare and, owing to this rarity, there is limited information on many of them. A total of 839 fetal and postnatal MRI studies performed in the first 3 months of life were retrospectively reviewed. They were performed with the use of 1.5 T scanners. Seventy-six tumors were diagnosed based on fetal MRI between 20 and 37 gestational weeks, and 27 were found after birth, from 1 day of age to 3 months of life. Teratomas were the most common tumors in our dataset, mainly in the sacrococcygeal region (SCT), followed by cardiac rhabdomyomas and subependymal giant cell astrocytomas (SEGA) associated with TSC, and neuroblastomas. The group of less common tumors consisted of infantile fibrosarcomas, malignant rhabdoid tumors, mesoblastic nephromas and Wilms tumor, craniopharyngiomas, brain stem gliomas, desmoplastic infantile astrocytoma, choroid plexus carcinoma, glioblastoma, hemangiopericytoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, melanoma, mesenchymal hamartomas of the chest wall and the liver, and juvenile xanthogranuloma, with special consideration of blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome. MRI plays a significant role in further and better characterization of congenital tumors, leading to a correct diagnosis in many cases, which is crucial for pregnancy and neonatal management and psychological preparation of the parents. No diagnosis is impossible and can be absolutely excluded.
Dimension Engineering in Noble-Metal-Based Nanocatalysts
Authors: Liu Bei , Yang Haosen , Hu Pengfei , Wang Guang-Sheng , Guo Yongqiang , Zhao Hewei
Published: December 2023

Catalysts play a pivotal role in modern industries, such as energy, pharmaceuticals, and petrochemicals, serving as cornerstone of high-tech production. Noble metals, such as gold, silver, and platinum group elements, possess the superb catalytic characteristics of high-temperature oxidation resistance, corrosion resistance, stable electrochemical performance, high catalytic activity, and so on. These characteristics offer excellent prospects for applications in catalysis. In this review, we summarize innovative approaches to regulating the size and morphology of nano-noble metal catalysts with different dimensions. We also showcase typical prominent examples of their applications in exhaust gas purification, battery manufacturing, water splitting, and selective hydrogenation. Finally, perspectives are discussed in terms of future research opportunities in the realm of noble metal nanocatalysts.