bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Analysis of the Beam-Column Resistance Compared to Methods by European Standards
Authors: Prokop Jozef , Vičan Josef , Jošt Jozef
Published: April 2021

The optimisation of the design method for verification of slender steel beam-columns is still a current issue not only from scientific point of view, but also for design practice. Therefore, the main objective of this paper is comparison of the suitability of established design approaches, according to the European standards for steel and aluminium structures, on the basis of numerical simulations. Thus, a finite element model was validated on the basis of experimental analysis available in the scientific literature. To perform the comparison of accuracy of design approaches according to European standards, a commercial software program ANSYS was used for observation of the resistances of beam-columns. The resistance of european I beams with parallel flanges (IPE) and a rectangular hollow cross-section (RHS) were investigated for four load cases on a simply supported member and also on a pinned-fixed beam column with linear bending moment distribution, where the resistance of the cross-section governs. Finally, the conclusions for suitability of the respective design approaches are discussed, together with some findings that arose from this work.
Large-Scale Truss-Sizing Optimization with Enhanced Hybrid HS Algorithm
Authors: Degertekin Sadik Ozgur , Minooei Mohammad , Santoro Lorenzo , Trentadue Bartolomeo , Lamberti Luciano
Published: April 2021

Metaheuristic algorithms currently represent the standard approach to engineering optimization. A very challenging field is large-scale structural optimization, entailing hundreds of design variables and thousands of nonlinear constraints on element stresses and nodal displacements. However, very few studies documented the use of metaheuristic algorithms in large-scale structural optimization. In order to fill this gap, an enhanced hybrid harmony search (HS) algorithm for weight minimization of large-scale truss structures is presented in this study. The new algorithm, Large-Scale Structural Optimization–Hybrid Harmony Search JAYA (LSSO-HHSJA), developed here, combines a well-established method like HS with a very recent method like JAYA, which has the simplest and inherently most powerful search engine amongst metaheuristic optimizers. All stages of LSSO-HHSJA are aimed at reducing the number of structural analyses required in large-scale structural optimization. The basic idea is to move along descent directions to generate new trial designs, directly through the use of gradient information in the HS phase, indirectly by correcting trial designs with JA-based operators that push search towards the best design currently stored in the population or the best design included in a local neighborhood of the currently analyzed trial design. The proposed algorithm is tested in three large-scale weight minimization problems of truss structures. Optimization results obtained for the three benchmark examples, with up to 280 sizing variables and 37,374 nonlinear constraints, prove the efficiency of the proposed LSSO-HHSJA algorithm, which is very competitive with other HS and JAYA variants as well as with commercial gradient-based optimizers.
Energy-Efficient Amplifiers Based on Quasi-Floating Gate Techniques
Authors: Lopez-Martin Antonio , Garde Maria Pilar , Algueta-Miguel Jose M. , Beloso-Legarra Javier , Carvajal Ramon G. , Ramirez-Angulo Jaime
Published: April 2021

Energy efficiency is a key requirement in the design of amplifiers for modern wireless applications. The use of quasi-floating gate (QFG) transistors is a very convenient approach to achieve such energy efficiency. We illustrate different QFG circuit design techniques aimed to implement low-voltage, energy-efficient class AB amplifiers. A new super class AB QFG amplifier is presented as a design example, including some of the techniques described. The amplifier has been fabricated in a 130 nm CMOS test chip prototype. Measurement results confirm that low-voltage, ultra-low-power amplifiers can be designed, preserving, at the same time, excellent small-signal and large-signal performance.
Machine Learning and Feature Selection Methods for EGFR Mutation Status Prediction in Lung Cancer
Authors: Morgado Joana , Pereira Tania , Silva Francisco , Freitas Cláudia , Negrão Eduardo , de Lima Beatriz Flor , da Silva Miguel Correia , Madureira António J. , Ramos Isabel , Hespanhol Venceslau , Costa José Luis , Cunha António , Oliveira Hélder P.
Published: April 2021

The evolution of personalized medicine has changed the therapeutic strategy from classical chemotherapy and radiotherapy to a genetic modification targeted therapy, and although biopsy is the traditional method to genetically characterize lung cancer tumor, it is an invasive and painful procedure for the patient. Nodule image features extracted from computed tomography (CT) scans have been used to create machine learning models that predict gene mutation status in a noninvasive, fast, and easy-to-use manner. However, recent studies have shown that radiomic features extracted from an extended region of interest (ROI) beyond the tumor, might be more relevant to predict the mutation status in lung cancer, and consequently may be used to significantly decrease the mortality rate of patients battling this condition. In this work, we investigated the relation between image phenotypes and the mutation status of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR), the most frequently mutated gene in lung cancer with several approved targeted-therapies, using radiomic features extracted from the lung containing the nodule. A variety of linear, nonlinear, and ensemble predictive classification models, along with several feature selection methods, were used to classify the binary outcome of wild-type or mutant EGFR mutation status. The results show that a comprehensive approach using a ROI that included the lung with nodule can capture relevant information and successfully predict the EGFR mutation status with increased performance compared to local nodule analyses. Linear Support Vector Machine, Elastic Net, and Logistic Regression, combined with the Principal Component Analysis feature selection method implemented with 70% of variance in the feature set, were the best-performing classifiers, reaching Area Under the Curve (AUC) values ranging from 0.725 to 0.737. This approach that exploits a holistic analysis indicates that information from more extensive regions of the lung containing the nodule allows a more complete lung cancer characterization and should be considered in future radiogenomic studies.
Daucus carota L. Seed Inoculation with a Consortium of Bacteria Improves Plant Growth, Soil Fertility Status and Microbial Community
Authors: Pellegrini Marika , Pagnani Giancarlo , Rossi Massimiliano , D’Egidio Sara , Gallo Maddalena Del , Forni Cinzia
Published: April 2021

The present work aimed to study suitability of a consortium of Azospirillum brasilense, Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus, Herbaspirillum seropedicae, and Burkholderia ambifaria as biofertilizers. Strains were assayed for plant growth-promoting characteristics (i.e., auxins production, phosphate solubilizing capability, and 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate deaminase activity). The consortium of four bacteria was then inoculated on carrot seeds and tested in an open field experiment. During the open field experiment, plant growth (morphological parameters, chlorophylls, and carotenoids), soil chemical analysis, and molecular and physiological profiles of soils were investigated. Each strain produced different amounts of indole-3acetic acid and several indole-derivates molecules. All strains showed phosphate solubilization capability, while 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate deaminase activity was only detected in H. seropedicae and B. ambifaria. The bacterial consortium of the four strains gave interesting results in the open field cultivation of carrot. Plant development was positively affected by the presence of the consortium, as was soil fertility and microbial community structure and diversity. The present work allowed for deepening our knowledge on four bacteria, already known for years for having several interesting characteristics, but whose interactions were almost unknown, particularly in view of their use as a consortium in a valid fertilization strategy, in substitution of agrochemicals for a sustainable agriculture.
Experimental/Numerical Evaluation of Steel Trapezoidal Corrugated Infill Panels with an Opening
Authors: Gilvaee Majid Yaseri , Mofid Massood
Published: April 2021

This paper investigates the influence of an opening in the infill steel plate on the behavior of steel trapezoidal corrugated infill panels. Two specimens of steel trapezoidal corrugated shear walls were constructed and tested under cyclic loading. One specimen had a single rectangular opening, while the other one had two rectangular openings. In addition, the percentage of opening in both specimens was 18%. The initial stiffness, ultimate strength, ductility ratio and energy dissipation capacity of the two tested specimens are compared to a specimen without opening. The experimental results indicate that the existence of an opening has the greatest effect on the initial stiffness of the corrugated steel infill panels. In addition, the experimental results reveal that the structural performance of the specimen with two openings is improved in some areas compared to the specimen with one opening. To that end, the energy dissipation capacity of the specimen with two openings is obtained larger than the specimen with one opening. Furthermore, a number of numerical analyses were performed. The numerical results show that with increasing the thickness of the infill plate or using stiffeners around the opening, the ultimate strength of a corrugated steel infill panel with an opening can be equal to or even more than the ultimate strength of that panel without an opening.
Antimicrobials in Dentistry
Authors: Alkattan Rana , Rojo Luis , Deb Sanjukta
Published: April 2021

Dental caries (decay) is caused by pathogenic bacterial species, which afflicts nearly a third of the world’s population from early childhood to old age. Treatment of tooth decay often involves the use of filling materials to restore the cavity; however, if untreated, it can cause pain, infection and eventually lead to tooth loss. Since the oral environment is colonised by many different microorganisms, bacterial biofilms can form on these filling materials, contributing to secondary caries that can eventually lead to the failure of the dental restoration. Thus, preventing the formation of bacterial biofilms is an important strategy in the management of caries, which has led to research enabling antimicrobial capabilities in dental materials. Materials and pharmaceutical sciences are in a continuous race against microbial resistance but are trying to balance between beneficial biota associated with the oral cavity, and, of course, avoiding a harmful effect on tissues is challenging. This has, therefore, stemmed a substantial interest in both preventive and restorative measures that would enable limiting the formation of secondary caries, oral microbial biofilms, and the retention of tooth mineral. Thus, innovative strategies are being explored and here we present a review with a focus on strategies that can inhibit or limit the formation of bacterial biofilms.
Stability of Bituminous Emulsion Induced by Waste Based Bio-Surfactant
Authors: Porto Michele , Caputo Paolino , A. Abe Abraham , Loise Valeria , Oliviero Rossi Cesare
Published: April 2021

In the asphalt industry, bituminous emulsions are widely used in road pavement operations and in building/construction processes such as cold mix asphalt and waterproofing processes, respectively. A very important fact to keep in mind is that not all types of bitumen are suitable for the realization of bituminous emulsions. This is largely due to the variation in their chemical nature and the different cracking processes carried out on the bitumen during the fractional distillation process in the petroleum industry. The objective of this study is to identify the underlying causes of the non-emulsionability of bitumen using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and Dynamic Shear Rheology (DSR) analysis. NMR analysis aims at identifying the fundamental chemical components that are responsible for the emulsionability of the bitumen binder and how important their role is in this phenomenon. On the other hand, the DSR analysis is aimed at determining if the rheological (viscoelastic) behavior of bitumen is implicated in its emulsionability. The indications gotten from the data produced by these techniques, enable us as soon as the analyzed bitumen is deemed non-emulsionable to identify what type of additive can be used to modify the bitumen and alleviate its non-emulsionability until a point where its chemical components become ideal for the realization of bituminous emulsions. In this research work, a model bitumen (labelled as Cimar) which is known for its excellently high emulsionability in the production of anionic bituminous emulsions was used as the reference sample. Two bitumens (labelled as Adriatica and Alma) which from preliminary testing were deemed non-emulsionable were alongside the additives selected and subjected to the aforementioned techniques for analysis on their emulsionability. The NMR data obtained allowed the identification of the chemical nature of the components of the analyzed bitumens and the design of the right additive which improves the bitumen and makes it suitable for the preparation of emulsions. In addition to these, a largely uncommon however effective method of acid number determination of bitumen gave indications on an underlying factor which largely influences the emulsionability of bitumen. An aliphatic and an aromatic surfactant were identified thanks to the spectroscopic findings in this study.
Primary and Secondary Environmental Effects Triggered by the 30 October 2020, Mw = 7.0, Samos (Eastern Aegean Sea, Greece) Earthquake Based on Post-Event Field Surveys and InSAR Analysis
Authors: Mavroulis Spyridon , Triantafyllou Ioanna , Karavias Andreas , Gogou Marilia , Katsetsiadou Katerina-Navsika , Lekkas Efthymios , Papadopoulos Gerassimos A. , Parcharidis Issaak
Published: April 2021

On 30 October 2020, an Mw = 7.0 earthquake struck the eastern Aegean Sea. It triggered earthquake environmental effects (EEEs) on Samos Island detected by field surveys, relevant questionnaires, and Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) analysis. The primary EEEs detected in the field comprise coseismic uplift imprinted on rocky coasts and port facilities around Samos and coseismic surface ruptures in northern Samos. The secondary EEEs were mainly observed in northern Samos and include slope failures, liquefaction, hydrological anomalies, and ground cracks. With the contribution of the InSAR, subsidence was detected and slope movements were also identified in inaccessible areas. Moreover, the type of the surface deformation detected by InSAR is qualitatively identical to field observations. As regards the EEE distribution, effects were generated in all fault blocks. By applying the Environmental Seismic Intensity (ESI-07) scale, the maximum intensities were observed in northern Samos. Based on the results from the applied methods, it is suggested that the northern and northwestern parts of Samos constitute an almost 30-km-long coseismic deformation zone characterized by extensive primary and secondary EEEs. The surface projection of the causative offshore northern Samos fault points to this zone, indicating a depth–surface connection and revealing a significant role in the rupture propagation.
Dynamic Response Analysis of a Thin Plate with Partially Constrained Layer Damping Optimization under Moving Loads for Various Boundary Conditions
Authors: Qin Yun , Song Qinghua , Liu Zhanqiang , Shi Jiahao
Published: April 2021

In this paper, the vibration analysis of a partially constrained layer damping plate subjected to moving loads is investigated. In addition, the first four order damping loss factor of the system is optimized with the location of partially constrained layer damping as a design variable. The equations of motion of a partially constrained layer damping plate are derived through the Lagrange equation based on first order shear deformation theory (FSDT). Next, using an extended Rayleigh–Ritz solution together with the penalty method expresses the unknown displacement terms, and the differential quadrature method is proposed to obtain the dynamic response of the system in the time domain. A multi-population genetic algorithm (MPGA) is employed to deal with the optimization of the damping loss factor of a partially constrained layer damping plate. To ensure the accuracy of the method presented in this study, the numerical results are comprehensively verified by experiments and open literature. The optimization results show that the damping loss factor increases when the position of the patch is close to the constraint boundary, and the best strategy is to optimize the low order damping loss factor of the system under moving loads. It is believed that the research results are of interest to engineering science.
Thermal Effects on the Drilling Performance of a Limestone: Relationships with Physical and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Martínez-Ibáñez Víctor , Garrido María Elvira , Hidalgo Signes Carlos , Basco Aniello , Miranda Tiago , Tomás Roberto
Published: April 2021

This work evaluates the effect of high temperatures and cooling methods on the drillability of Prada limestone. Samples from boreholes drilled during the design stage of the Tres Ponts Tunnel in the Catalan south Pyrenean zone (Spain) were subjected to temperatures of 105, 200, 300, 400, and 600 °C, and then cooled at a slow rate or by quenching. Sievers’ J-value (SJ) and brittleness (S20) were determined on thermally treated samples, and the drilling rate index (DRI) was calculated for each temperature. The results show that thermal treatment implied a sustained increase in the drillability of the rock of up to 40% at 600 °C and a change in the drillability category (from medium to high). At 600 °C, SJ and S20 tripled and doubled, respectively, the initial values obtained for the intact rock. The results were inconclusive about the influence of the cooling method on the drilling performance of Prada limestone for the tested range of temperatures. The substantial improvement observed in the drillability of Prada limestone when heated, measured in terms of DRI, could help in the development of novel thermally-assisted mechanical excavation methods. Additionally, strong correlations between drillability variables (i.e., SJ and S20) and physical and mechanical variables of Prada limestone (i.e., P- and S-wave velocities, uniaxial compression strength, elastic modulus, and Poisson’s ratio) are proposed. Correlations will help make preliminary predictions of drillability based on properties such as uniaxial compression strength and ultrasound wave velocities.
Chorioallantoic Membrane Models of Various Avian Species: Differences and Applications
Authors: Kundeková Barbora , Máčajová Mariana , Meta Majlinda , Čavarga Ivan , Bilčík Boris
Published: April 2021

The chorioallantoic membrane model (CAM) of an avian embryo is used as an experimental model in various fields of research, including angiogenesis research and drug testing, xenografting and cancer research, and other scientific and commercial disciplines in microbiology, biochemistry, cosmetics, etc. It is a low-cost, low-maintenance, and well-available in vivo animal model that is non-sentient and can be used as an alternative for other mammal experimental models. It respects the principles of the “3R” rule (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement)—conditions set out for scientific community providing an essential framework for conducting a more human animal research, which is also in line with constantly raising public awareness of welfare and the ethics related to the use of animal experimental models. In this review, we describe the chorioallantoic membrane of an avian embryo, focusing on its properties and development, its advantages and disadvantages as an experimental model, and the possibilities of its application in various fields of biological research. Since the most common chicken CAM model is already well known and described in many publications, we are particularly focusing on the advantages and application of less known avian species that are used for the CAM model—quail, turkey, and duck.
On the Trail of an Ancient Middle Eastern Ethnobotany: Traditional Wild Food Plants Gathered by Ormuri Speakers in Kaniguram, NW Pakistan
Authors: Aziz Muhammad Abdul , Ullah Zahid , Al-Fatimi Mohamed , De Chiara Matteo , Sõukand Renata , Pieroni Andrea
Published: April 2021

An ethnobotanical field study focusing on traditional wild food botanical taxa was carried out in Kaniguram, South Waziristan, Pakistan, among Ormur (or Burki or Baraki) peoples, which represent a diasporic minority group, as well as among the surrounding Pashtuns. Through sixty semi-structured interviews, fifty-two wild food plants (taxa) were recorded, and they were primarily used raw as snacks and cooked as vegetables. Comparative analysis found a remarkable overlap of the quoted plant uses between the two studied groups, which may reflect complex socio-cultural adaptations Ormur speakers faced. Ormur people retain a rich knowledge of anthropogenic weeds and the phytonyms reveal important commonalities with Persian and Kurdish phytonyms, which may indicate their possible horticultural-driven human ecological origin from the Middle East. Some novel or rare food uses of Cirsiumarvense, Nannorrhops ritchiana, Periploca aphylla, Perovskia atriplicifolia, Viscum album,Oxalis corniculata and Withania coagulans were documented. Since the Ormuri language represents a moribund language, still spoken by only a few thousand speakers in NW Pakistan and Afghanistan, it is recommended that the traditional bio-cultural and gastronomical heritage of this minority group be appropriately protected and bolstered in future rural development programs.
WT1 Expression Levels Combined with Flow Cytometry Blast Counts for Risk Stratification of Acute Myeloid Leukemia and Myelodysplastic Syndromes
Authors: Giudice Valentina , Gorrese Marisa , Vitolo Rosa , Bertolini Angela , Marcucci Rossella , Serio Bianca , Guariglia Roberto , Ferrara Idalucia , Pepe Rita , D’Alto Francesca , Izzo Barbara , Pedicini Antonio , Montuori Nunzia , Langella Maddalena , Selleri Carmine
Published: April 2021

Wilm’s tumor 1 (WT1), a zinc-finger transcription factor and an epigenetic modifier, is frequently overexpressed in several hematologic disorders and solid tumors, and it has been proposed as diagnostic and prognostic marker of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). However, the exact role of WT1 in leukemogenesis and disease progression remains unclear. In this real-world evidence retrospective study, we investigated prognostic role of WT1-mRNA expression levels in AML and MDS patients and correlations with complete blood counts, flow cytometry counts, and molecular features. A total of 71 patients (AML, n = 46; and MDS, n = 25) were included in this study, and WT1 levels were assessed at diagnosis, during treatment and follow-up. We showed that WT1 expression levels were inversely correlated with normal hemopoiesis in both AML and MDS, and positively associated with blast counts. Flow cytometry was more sensitive and specific in distinguishing normal myeloid cells from neoplastic counterpart even just using linear parameters and CD45 expression. Moreover, we showed that a simple integrated approach combining blast counts by flow cytometry, FLT3 mutational status, and WT1 expression levels might be a useful tool for a better prognostic definition in both AML and MDS patients.
The Latest Advancement in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Therapy: A Review Article for the Latest Guidelines and Novel Therapies
Authors: Elsayed Marwa , Abdelrahim Maen
Published: April 2021

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths in the US, and it is expected to be the second leading cause of cancer deaths by 2030. The lack of effective early screening tests and alarming symptoms with early undetectable micro-metastasis at the time of presentation play a vital role in the high death rate from pancreatic cancer. In addition to this, the low mutation burden in pancreatic cancer, low immunological profile, dense tumorigenesis stroma, and decreased tumor sensitivity to cytotoxic drugs contribute to the low survival rates in PDAC patients. Despite breakthroughs in chemotherapeutic and immunotherapeutic drugs, pancreatic cancer remains one of the solid tumors that exhibit meager curative rates. Therefore, researchers must dedicate more effort to understanding the pathology and immunological behavior of PDAC, in addition to properly utilizing more advanced screening modalities and new therapeutic agents. In our review, we focus mainly on the latest updates from clinical guidelines and novel therapies that have been recently investigated or are under investigation for PDAC. We used PubMed as a search tool for finding original research articles addressing the latest developments in diagnosing and treating PDAC. Additionally, we also used the clinical trials published on clinicaltrialsgov as sources for our data.
Changing the History of Prostate Cancer with New Targeted Therapies
Authors: Hernando Polo Susana , Moreno Muñoz Diana , Rosero Rodríguez Adriana Carolina , Silva Ruiz Jorge , Rosero Rodríguez Diana Isabel , Couñago Felipe
Published: April 2021

The therapeutic landscape of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) is changing due to the emergence of new targeted therapies for the treatment of different molecular subtypes. Some biomarkers are described as potential molecular targets different from classic androgen receptors (AR). Approximately 20–25% of mCRPCs have somatic or germline alterations in DNA repair genes involved in homologous recombination. These subtypes are usually associated with more aggressive disease. Inhibitors of the enzyme poly ADP ribose polymerase (PARPi) have demonstrated an important benefit in the treatment of these subtypes of tumors. However, tumors that resistant to PARPi and wildtype BRCA tumors do not benefit from these therapies. Recent studies are exploring drug combinations with phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) or protein kinase B (AKT) inhibitors, as mechanisms to overcome resistance or to induce BRCAness and synthetic lethality. This article reviews various different novel strategies to improve outcomes in patients with prostate cancer.
Hippocampal Malrotation: A Genetic Developmental Anomaly Related to Epilepsy?
Authors: Fu Ting-Ying , Ho Chen-Rui , Lin Chih-Hsiang , Lu Yan-Ting , Lin Wei-Che , Tsai Meng-Han
Published: April 2021

Hippocampal malrotation (HIMAL) is an increasingly recognized neuroimaging feature but the clinical correlation and significance in epilepsies remain under debate. It is characterized by rounded hippocampal shape, deep collateral, or occipitotemporal sulcus, and medial localization of the hippocampus. In this review, we describe the embryonic development of the hippocampus and HIMAL, the qualitative and quantitative diagnosis issues, and the pathological findings of HIMAL. HIMAL can be bilateral or unilateral and more on the left side. Furthermore, the relevance of HIMAL diagnosis in clinical practice, including its role in epileptogenesis and the impact on the pre-surgical decision are reviewed. Finally, the relationship between HIMAL and hippocampal sclerosis (HS) and the possible role of genetics in the etiology of HIMAL are discussed. The evidence so far suggested that HIMAL does not have a significant role in epileptogenesis or surgical decision. HIMAL could be a genetic developmental imaging feature that represents a more diffuse but subtle structural error during brain development. Many questions remain to be explored, such as possible cognitive alteration associated with HIMAL and whether HIMAL predisposes to the development of HS. Further studies using high-quality MRI, unified consensus qualitative and quantitative diagnostic criteria, and comprehensive cognitive assessment are recommended.
Effect of Psychological Factors on Credit Risk: A Case Study of the Microlending Service in Mongolia
Authors: Ganbat Mandukhai , Batbaatar Erdenebileg , Bazarragchaa Ganzul , Ider Togtuunaa , Gantumur Enkhjargalan , Dashkhorol Lkhamsuren , Altantsatsralt Khosgarig , Nemekh Mandakhbayar , Dashdondog Erdenebaatar , Namsrai Oyun-Erdene
Published: April 2021

This paper determined the predefining factors of loan repayment behavior based on psychological and behavioral economics theories. The purpose of this research is to identify whether an individual’s credit risk can be predicted based on psychometric tests measuring areas of psychological factors such as effective economic decision-making, self-control, conscientiousness, selflessness and a giving attitude, neuroticism, and attitude toward money. In addition, we compared the psychological indicators to the financial indicators, and different age and gender groups, to assess whether the former can predict loan default prospects. This research covered the psychometric test results, financial information, and loan default information of 1118 borrowers from loan-issuing applications on mobile phones. We validated the questionnaire using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and achieved an overall Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficient greater than 0.90 (α = 0.937). We applied the empirical data to construct prediction models using logistic regression. Logistic regression was employed to estimate the parameters of a logistic model. The outcome indicates that positive results from the psychometric testing of effective financial decision-making, self-control, conscientiousness, selflessness and a giving attitude, and attitude toward money enable individuals’ debt access possibilities. On the other hand, one of the variables—neuroticism—was determined to be insignificant. Finally, the model only used psychological variables proven to have significant default predictability, and psychological variables and psychometric credit scoring offer the best prediction capacities.
Inhibition of Liver Metastasis in Colorectal Cancer by Targeting IL-13/IL13Rα2 Binding Site with Specific Monoclonal Antibodies
Authors: Jaén Marta , Bartolomé Rubén A. , Aizpurua Carmen , Martin-Regalado Ángela , Imbaud J. Ignacio , Casal J. Ignacio
Published: April 2021

Background: IL13Rα2 is reportedly a promising therapeutic target in different cancers. Still, no specific antagonists have reached the clinics yet. We investigated the use of a IL-13/IL13Rα2 binding motif, called D1, as a new target for the development of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for colorectal cancer (CRC) metastasis. Methods: IL13Rα2 D1 peptides were prepared and used for immunization and antibody development. Antibodies were tested for inhibition of cellular invasion through Matrigel using CRC cell lines. Effects of the mAbs on cell signaling, receptor internalization and degradation were determined by western blot and flow cytometry. Swiss nude mice were used for survival analysis after treatment with IL13Rα2-specific mAbs and metastasis development. Results: IL13Rα2 D1 peptides were used to generate highly selective mAbs that blocked IL13/IL13Rα2-mediated SRC activation and cell invasion in colorectal cancer cells. Antibodies also provoked a significant reduction in cell adhesion and proliferation of metastatic cancer cells. Treatment with mAbs impaired the FAK, SRC and PI3K/AKT pathway activation. Blocking effectivity was shown to correlate with the cellular IL13Rα2 expression level. Despite mAb 5.5.4 partially blocked IL-13 mediated receptor internalization from the cancer cell surface it still promotes receptor degradation. Compared with other IL13Rα2-specific antibodies, 5.5.4 exhibited a superior efficacy to inhibit metastatic growth in vivo, providing a complete mouse survival in different conditions, including established metastasis. Conclusions: Monoclonal antibody 5.5.4 showed a highly selective blocking capacity for the interaction between IL-13 and IL13Rα2 and caused a complete inhibition of liver metastasis in IL13Rα2-positive colorectal cancer cells. This capacity might be potentially applicable to other IL13Rα2-expressing tumors.
Cancer Cells’ Metabolism Dynamics in Renal Cell Carcinoma Patients’ Outcome: Influence of GLUT-1-Related hsa-miR-144 and hsa-miR-186
Authors: Morais Mariana , Dias Francisca , Nogueira Inês , Leão Anabela , Gonçalves Nuno , Araújo Luís , Granja Sara , Baltazar Fátima , Teixeira Ana L , Medeiros Rui
Published: April 2021

The cancer cells’ metabolism is altered due to deregulation of key proteins, including glucose transporter 1 (GLUT-1), whose mRNA levels are influenced by microRNAs (miRNAs). Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common and lethal neoplasia in the adult kidney, mostly due to the lack of accurate diagnosis and follow-up biomarkers. Being a metabolic associated cancer, this study aimed to understand the hsa-miR-144-5p and hsa-miR-186-3p’s potential as biomarkers of clear cell RCC (ccRCC), establishing their role in its glycolysis status. Using three ccRCC lines, the intra- and extracellular levels of both miRNAs, GLUT-1’s mRNA expression and protein levels were assessed. Glucose consumption and lactate production were evaluated as glycolysis markers. A decrease of intracellular levels of these miRNAs and increase of their excretion was observed, associated with an increase of GLUT-1’s levels and glycolysis’ markers. Through a liquid biopsy approach, we found that RCC patients present higher plasmatic levels of hsa-miR-186-3p than healthy individuals. The Hsa-miR144-5p’s higher levels were associated with early clinical stages. When patients were stratified according to miRNAs plasmatic levels, low plasmatic levels of hsa-miR-144-5p and high plasmatic levels of hsa-miR-186-3p (high-risk group) showed the worst overall survival. Thus, circulating levels of these miRNAs may be potential biomarkers of ccRCC prognosis.
Understanding the Molecular Mechanism of miR-877-3p Could Provide Potential Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Cervix
Authors: Mendaza Saioa , Fernández-Irigoyen Joaquín , Santamaría Enrique , Arozarena Imanol , Guerrero-Setas David , Zudaire Tamara , Guarch Rosa , Vidal August , Salas José-Santos , Matias-Guiu Xavier , Ausín Karina , Gil Carmen , Hernández-Alcoceba Rubén , Martín-Sánchez Esperanza
Published: April 2021

No therapeutic targets and molecular biomarkers are available in cervical cancer (CC) management. In other cancer types, micro-RNA-877-3p (miR-877-3p) has been associated with events relevant for CC development. Thus, we aimed to determine miR-877-3p role in CC. miR-877-3p levels were examined by quantitative-PCR in 117 cervical lesions and tumors. Effects on CC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were evaluated upon anti-miR-877-3p transfection. miR-877-3p dependent molecular mechanism was comprehensively explored by proteomics, dual-luciferase reporter assay, western blot, and immunohistochemistry. Cervical tumors expressed higher miR-877-3p levels than benign lesions. miR-877-3p promoted CC cell migration and invasion, at least partly by modulating cytoskeletal protein folding through the chaperonin-containing T-complex protein 1 complex. Notably, miR-877-3p silencing synergized with paclitaxel. Interestingly, miR-877-3p downregulated the levels of an in silico-predicted target, ZNF177, whose expression and subcellular location significantly distinguished high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSILs) and squamous cell carcinomas of the cervix (SCCCs). Cytoplasmic ZNF177 was significantly associated with worse progression-free survival in SCCC. Our results suggest that: (i) miR-877-3p is a potential therapeutic target whose inhibition improves paclitaxel effects; (ii) the expression and location of its target ZNF177 could be diagnostic biomarkers between HSIL and SCCC; and (iii) cytoplasmic ZNF177 is a poor-prognosis biomarker in SCCC.
Roles of microRNAs in Regulating Cancer Stemness in Head and Neck Cancers
Authors: Fitriana Melysa , Hwang Wei-Lun , Chan Pak-Yue , Hsueh Tai-Yuan , Liao Tsai-Tsen
Published: April 2021

Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) are epithelial malignancies with 5-year overall survival rates of approximately 40–50%. Emerging evidence indicates that a small population of cells in HNSCC patients, named cancer stem cells (CSCs), play vital roles in the processes of tumor initiation, progression, metastasis, immune evasion, chemo-/radioresistance, and recurrence. The acquisition of stem-like properties of cancer cells further provides cellular plasticity for stress adaptation and contributes to therapeutic resistance, resulting in a worse clinical outcome. Thus, targeting cancer stemness is fundamental for cancer treatment. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are known to regulate stem cell features in the development and tissue regeneration through a miRNA–target interactive network. In HNSCCs, miRNAs act as tumor suppressors and/or oncogenes to modulate cancer stemness and therapeutic efficacy by regulating the CSC-specific tumor microenvironment (TME) and signaling pathways, such as epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) or insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) signaling pathways. Owing to a deeper understanding of disease-relevant miRNAs and advances in in vivo delivery systems, the administration of miRNA-based therapeutics is feasible and safe in humans, with encouraging efficacy results in early-phase clinical trials. In this review, we summarize the present findings to better understand the mechanical actions of miRNAs in maintaining CSCs and acquiring the stem-like features of cancer cells during HNSCC pathogenesis.
Modulated Electro-Hyperthermia Induces a Prominent Local Stress Response and Growth Inhibition in Mouse Breast Cancer Isografts
Authors: Schvarcz Csaba András , Danics Lea , Krenács Tibor , Viana Pedro , Béres Rita , Vancsik Tamás , Nagy Ákos , Gyenesei Attila , Kun József , Fonović Marko , Vidmar Robert , Benyó Zoltán , Kaucsár Tamás , Hamar Péter
Published: April 2021

Modulated electro-hyperthermia (mEHT) is a selective cancer treatment used in human oncology complementing other therapies. During mEHT, a focused electromagnetic field (EMF) is generated within the tumor inducing cell death by thermal and nonthermal effects. Here we investigated molecular changes elicited by mEHT using multiplex methods in an aggressive, therapy-resistant triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) model. 4T1/4T07 isografts inoculated orthotopically into female BALB/c mice were treated with mEHT three to five times. mEHT induced the upregulation of the stress-related Hsp70 and cleaved caspase-3 proteins, resulting in effective inhibition of tumor growth and proliferation. Several acute stress response proteins, including protease inhibitors, coagulation and heat shock factors, and complement family members, were among the most upregulated treatment-related genes/proteins as revealed by next-generation sequencing (NGS), Nanostring and mass spectrometry (MS). pathway analysis demonstrated that several of these proteins belong to the response to stimulus pathway. Cell culture treatments confirmed that the source of these proteins was the tumor cells. The heat-shock factor inhibitor KRIBB11 reduced mEHT-induced complement factor 4 (C4) mRNA increase. In conclusion, mEHT monotherapy induced tumor growth inhibition and a complex stress response. Inhibition of this stress response is likely to enhance the effectiveness of mEHT and other cancer treatments.
Enantioselective Catalytic C-H Amidations: An Highlight
Authors: Tosi Eleonora , de Figueiredo Renata Marcia , Campagne Jean-Marc
Published: April 2021

The crucial role played by compounds bearing amide functions, not only in biological processes but also in several fields of chemistry, life polymers and material sciences, has brought about many significant discoveries and innovative approaches for their chemical synthesis. Indeed, a plethora of strategies has been developed to reach such moieties. Amides within chiral molecules are often associated with biological activity especially in life sciences and medicinal chemistry. In most of these cases, their synthesis requires extensive rethinking methodologies. In the very last years (2019–2020), enantioselective C-H functionalization has appeared as a straightforward alternative to reach chiral amides. Therein, an overview on these transformations within this timeframe is going to be given.
Progression in Photocatalytic Materials for Efficient Performance
Authors: Idrees Faryal , Butt Faheem K. , Hammouda Samia Ben
Published: April 2021

Photocatalysis is a highly promising technique to address the challenges of environmental and energy aspects [...]
An Efficient Method for the Differentiation of Human iPSC-Derived Endoderm toward Enterocytes and Hepatocytes
Authors: Qiu Shimeng , Li Yaling , Imakura Yuki , Mima Shinji , Hashita Tadahiro , Iwao Takahiro , Matsunaga Tamihide
Published: April 2021

The endoderm, differentiated from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), can differentiate into the small intestine and liver, which are vital for drug absorption and metabolism. The development of human iPSC-derived enterocytes (HiEnts) and hepatocytes (HiHeps) has been reported. However, pharmacokinetic function-deficiency of these cells remains to be elucidated. Here, we aimed to develop an efficient differentiation method to induce endoderm formation from human iPSCs. Cells treated with activin A for 168 h expressed higher levels of endodermal genes than those treated for 72 h. Using activin A (days 0–7), CHIR99021 and PI−103 (days 0–2), and FGF2 (days 3–7), the hiPSC-derived endoderm (HiEnd) showed 97.97% CD−117 and CD−184 double-positive cells. Moreover, HiEnts derived from the human iPSC line Windy had similar or higher expression of small intestine-specific genes than adult human small intestine. Activities of the drug transporter P-glycoprotein and drug-metabolizing enzyme cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4/5 were confirmed. Additionally, Windy-derived HiHeps expressed higher levels of hepatocyte- and pharmacokinetics-related genes and proteins and showed higher CYP3A4/5 activity than those derived through the conventional differentiation method. Thus, using this novel method, the differentiated HiEnts and HiHeps with pharmacokinetic functions could be used for drug development.
Penile Cancer-Derived Cells Molecularly Characterized as Models to Guide Targeted Therapies
Authors: Kuasne Hellen , Canto Luisa Matos do , Aagaard Mads Malik , Muñoz Juan Jose Moyano , Jamblinne Camille De , Marchi Fabio Albuquerque , Scapulatempo-Neto Cristovam , Faria Eliney Ferreira , Lopes Ademar , Carréno Sébastien , Rogatto Silvia Regina
Published: April 2021

Penile cancer (PeCa) is a common disease in poor and developing countries, showing high morbidity rates. Despite the recent progress in understanding the molecular events involved in PeCa, the lack of well-characterized in vitro models precludes new advances in anticancer drug development. Here we describe the establishment of five human primary penile cancer-derived cell cultures, including two epithelial and three cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) cells. Using high-throughput genomic approaches, we found that the epithelial PeCa derived- cells recapitulate the molecular alterations of their primary tumors and present the same deregulated signaling pathways. The differentially expressed genes and proteins identified are components of key oncogenic pathways, including EGFR and PI3K/AKT/mTOR. We showed that epithelial PeCa derived cells presented a good response to cisplatin, a common therapeutic approach used in PeCa patients. The growth of a PeCa-derived cell overexpressing EGFR was inhibited by EGFR inhibitors (cetuximab, gefitinib, and erlotinib). We also identified CAF signature markers in three PeCa-derived cells with fibroblast-like morphology, indicating that those cells are suitable models for PeCa microenvironment studies. We thus demonstrate the utility of PeCa cell models to dissect mechanisms that promote penile carcinogenesis, which are useful models to evaluate therapeutic approaches for the disease.
Regulation of Eosinophilia in Asthma—New Therapeutic Approaches for Asthma Treatment
Authors: Cusack Ruth P. , Whetstone Christiane E. , Xie Yanqing , Ranjbar Maral , Gauvreau Gail M.
Published: April 2021

Asthma is a complex and chronic inflammatory disease of the airways, characterized by variable and recurring symptoms, reversible airflow obstruction, bronchospasm, and airway eosinophilia. As the pathophysiology of asthma is becoming clearer, the identification of new valuable drug targets is emerging. IL-5 is one of these such targets because it is the major cytokine supporting eosinophilia and is responsible for terminal differentiation of human eosinophils, regulating eosinophil proliferation, differentiation, maturation, migration, and prevention of cellular apoptosis. Blockade of the IL-5 pathway has been shown to be efficacious for the treatment of eosinophilic asthma. However, several other inflammatory pathways have been shown to support eosinophilia, including IL-13, the alarmin cytokines TSLP and IL-33, and the IL-3/5/GM-CSF axis. These and other alternate pathways leading to airway eosinophilia will be described, and the efficacy of therapeutics that have been developed to block these pathways will be evaluated.
Ca2+ Signaling by TRPV4 Channels in Respiratory Function and Disease
Authors: Rajan Suhasini , Schremmer Christian , Weber Jonas , Alt Philipp , Geiger Fabienne , Dietrich Alexander
Published: April 2021

Members of the transient receptor potential (TRP) superfamily are broadly expressed in our body and contribute to multiple cellular functions. Most interestingly, the fourth member of the vanilloid family of TRP channels (TRPV4) serves different partially antagonistic functions in the respiratory system. This review highlights the role of TRPV4 channels in lung fibroblasts, the lung endothelium, as well as the alveolar and bronchial epithelium, during physiological and pathophysiological mechanisms. Data available from animal models and human tissues confirm the importance of this ion channel in cellular signal transduction complexes with Ca2+ ions as a second messenger. Moreover, TRPV4 is an excellent therapeutic target with numerous specific compounds regulating its activity in diseases, like asthma, lung fibrosis, edema, and infections.