bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primary and Secondary Tumors of the Parotid Gland: Clinical Features and Prognosis
Authors: Pecorari Giancarlo , Pizzo Claudia , Briguglio Marco , Cravero Ester , Riva Giuseppe
Published: February 2023

Primary and secondary malignant tumors can affect the parotid gland. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the clinical features and prognosis of malignant epithelial tumors of the parotid gland. In particular, a comparison between primary and secondary cancer and survival analyses were performed. Eighteen patients with primary cancer and fifteen with intraparotid metastasis from cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma were included. A chart review was performed to collect clinical data (age, sex, smoking, alcohol consumption, tumor stage, type of surgical procedure, complications, recurrence and death). The majority of primary tumors were early (T1-2 N0, 83%) with mucoepidermoid carcinoma being the most common (33%). Secondary tumors were mostly staged P2 (53%) and N0 (67%). Subjects with secondary tumors were older than those with primary cancer. Post-operative permanent facial palsy was observed in 5 patients (17%) with primary cancer and 9 (60%) with secondary tumors (p = 0.010). Two-year overall survival for primary and secondary parotid cancer was 76.58% and 43.51%, respectively (p = 0.048), while 2-year disease-free survival was 76.05% and 38.50%, respectively (p = 0.152). In conclusion, secondary cancer of the parotid gland has worse survival than primary tumors. In the future, the implementation of multimodality treatment of intraparotid metastases is necessary to improve oncologic outcomes.
Systems Biology Approaches for the Improvement of Oncolytic Virus-Based Immunotherapies
Authors: Tripodi Lorella , Sasso Emanuele , Feola Sara , Coluccino Ludovica , Vitale Maria , Leoni Guido , Szomolay Barbara , Pastore Lucio , Cerullo Vincenzo
Published: February 2023

Oncolytic virus (OV)-based immunotherapy is mainly dependent on establishing an efficient cell-mediated antitumor immunity. OV-mediated antitumor immunity elicits a renewed antitumor reactivity, stimulating a T-cell response against tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) and recruiting natural killer cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Despite the fact that OVs are unspecific cancer vaccine platforms, to further enhance antitumor immunity, it is crucial to identify the potentially immunogenic T-cell restricted TAAs, the main key orchestrators in evoking a specific and durable cytotoxic T-cell response. Today, innovative approaches derived from systems biology are exploited to improve target discovery in several types of cancer and to identify the MHC-I and II restricted peptide repertoire recognized by T-cells. Using specific computation pipelines, it is possible to select the best tumor peptide candidates that can be efficiently vectorized and delivered by numerous OV-based platforms, in order to reinforce anticancer immune responses. Beyond the identification of TAAs, system biology can also support the engineering of OVs with improved oncotropism to reduce toxicity and maintain a sufficient portion of the wild-type virus virulence. Finally, these technologies can also pave the way towards a more rational design of armed OVs where a transgene of interest can be delivered to TME to develop an intratumoral gene therapy to enhance specific immune stimuli.
Clinical Utility of Genomic Tests Evaluating Homologous Recombination Repair Deficiency (HRD) for Treatment Decisions in Early and Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Galland Loïck , Roussot Nicolas , Desmoulins Isabelle , Mayeur Didier , Kaderbhai Courèche , Ilie Silvia , Hennequin Audrey , Reda Manon , Albuisson Juliette , Arnould Laurent , Boidot Romain , Truntzer Caroline , Ghiringhelli François , Ladoire Sylvain
Published: February 2023

Breast cancer is the most frequently occurring cancer worldwide. With its increasing incidence, it is a major public health problem, with many therapeutic challenges such as precision medicine for personalized treatment. Thanks to next-generation sequencing (NGS), progress in biomedical technologies, and the use of bioinformatics, it is now possible to identify specific molecular alterations in tumor cells—such as homologous recombination deficiencies (HRD)—enabling us to consider using DNA-damaging agents such as platinum salts or PARP inhibitors. Different approaches currently exist to analyze impairment of the homologous recombination pathway, e.g., the search for specific mutations in homologous recombination repair (HRR) genes, such as BRCA1/2; the use of genomic scars or mutational signatures; or the development of functional tests. Nevertheless, the role and value of these different tests in breast cancer treatment decisions remains to be clarified. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on the clinical utility of genomic tests, evaluating HRR deficiency for treatment decisions in early and metastatic breast cancer.
SMAC Mimetics Synergistically Cooperate with HDAC Inhibitors Enhancing TNF-α Autocrine Signaling
Authors: Shibuya Yusuke , Kudo Kei , Zeligs Kristen P. , Anderson David , Hernandez Lidia , Ning Franklin , Cole Christopher B. , Fergusson Maria , Kedei Noemi , Lyons John , Taylor Jason , Korrapati Soumya , Annunziata Christina M.
Published: February 2023

The overexpression of inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) proteins is strongly related to poor survival of women with ovarian cancer. Recurrent ovarian cancers resist apoptosis due to the dysregulation of IAP proteins. Mechanistically, Second Mitochondrial Activator of Caspases (SMAC) mimetics suppress the functions of IAP proteins to restore apoptotic pathways resulting in tumor death. We previously conducted a phase 2 clinical trial of the single-agent SMAC mimetic birinapant and observed minimal drug response in women with recurrent ovarian cancer despite demonstrating on-target activity. Accordingly, we performed a high-throughput screening matrix to identify synergistic drug combinations with birinapant. SMAC mimetics in combination with an HDAC inhibitor showed remarkable synergy and was, therefore, selected for further evaluation. We show here that this synergy observed both in vitro and in vivo results from multiple convergent pathways to include increased caspase activation, HDAC inhibitor-mediated TNF-α upregulation, and alternative NF-kB signaling. These findings provide a rationale for the integration of SMAC mimetics and HDAC inhibitors in clinical trials for recurrent ovarian cancer where treatment options are still limited.
Downstream Targets of VHL/HIF-α Signaling in Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma Progression: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Relevance
Authors: Mazumder Sonia , Higgins Paul J. , Samarakoon Rohan
Published: February 2023

The clear cell variant of renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the most common renal epithelial malignancy and responsible for most of the deaths from kidney cancer. Patients carrying inactivating mutations in the Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) gene have an increased proclivity to develop several types of tumors including ccRCC. Normally, the Hypoxia Inducible Factor alpha (HIF-α) subunits of the HIF heterodimeric transcription factor complex are regulated by oxygen-dependent prolyl-hydroxylation, VHL-mediated ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation. Loss of pVHL function results in elevated levels of HIF-α due to increased stability, leading to RCC progression. While HIF-1α acts as a tumor suppressor, HIF-2α promotes oncogenic potential by driving tumor progression and metastasis through activation of hypoxia-sensitive signaling pathways and overexpression of HIF-2α target genes. One strategy to suppress ccRCC aggressiveness is directed at inhibition of HIF-2α and the associated molecular pathways leading to cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Indeed, clinical and pre-clinical data demonstrated the effectiveness of HIF-2α targeted therapy in attenuating ccRCC progression. This review focuses on the signaling pathways and the involved genes (cyclin D, c-Myc, VEGF-a, EGFR, TGF-α, GLUT-1) that confer oncogenic potential downstream of the VHL-HIF-2α signaling axis in ccRCC. Discussed as well are current treatment options (including receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors such as sunitinib), the medical challenges (high prevalence of metastasis at the time of diagnosis, refractory nature of advanced disease to current treatment options), scientific challenges and future directions.
Implications of Transglutaminase-Mediated Protein Serotonylation in the Epigenetic Landscape, Small Cell Lung Cancer, and Beyond
Authors: Lin Jason , Wu Shang-Chuen
Published: February 2023

In the case of small-cell lung carcinoma, the highly metastatic nature of the disease and the propensity for several chromatin modifiers to harbor mutations suggest that epigenetic manipulation may also be a promising route for oncotherapy, but histone deacetylase inhibitors on their own do not appear to be particularly effective, suggesting that there may be other regulatory parameters that dictate the effectiveness of vorinostat’s reversal of histone deacetylation. Recent discoveries that serotonylation of histone H3 alters the permissibility of gene expression have led to renewed attention to this rare modification, as facilitated by transglutaminase 2, and at the same time introduce new questions about whether this modification belongs to a part of the concerted cohort of regulator events for modulating the epigenetic landscape. This review explores the mechanistic details behind protein serotonylation and its possible connections to the epigenome via histone modifications and glycan interactions and attempts to elucidate the role of transglutaminase 2, such that optimizations to existing histone deacetylase inhibitor designs or combination therapies may be devised for lung and other types of cancer.
Molecular Insight into Drug Resistance Mechanism Conferred by Aberrant PIK3CD Splice Variant in African American Prostate Cancer
Authors: Ha Siyoung , Wang Bi-Dar
Published: February 2023

Targeting PI3Kδ has emerged as a promising therapy for hematologic and non-hematologic malignancies. Previously, we identified an oncogenic splice variant, PIK3CD-S, conferring Idelalisib resistance in African American (AA) prostate cancer (PCa). In the current study, we employed a comprehensive analysis combining molecular biology, biochemistry, histology, in silico simulation, and in vitro functional assays to investigate the PIK3CD-S expression profiles in PCa samples and to elucidate the drug resistance mechanism mediated by PI3Kδ-S (encoded by PIK3CD-S). The immunohistochemistry, RT-PCR, and Western blot assays first confirmed that PI3Kδ-S is highly expressed in AA PCa. Compared with PCa expressing the full-length PI3Kδ-L, PCa expressing PI3Kδ-S exhibits enhanced drug resistance properties, including a higher cell viability, more antiapoptotic and invasive capacities, and constitutively activated PI3K/AKT signaling, in the presence of PI3Kδ/PI3K inhibitors (Idelalisib, Seletalisib, Wortmannin, and Dactolisib). Molecular docking, ATP-competitive assays, and PI3 kinase assays have further indicated a drastically reduced affinity of PI3Kδ inhibitors with PI3Kδ-S vs. PI3Kδ-L, attributed to the lack of core binding residues in the PI3Kδ-S catalytic domain. Additionally, SRSF2 has been identified as a critical splicing factor mediating exon 20 skipping in PIK3CD pre-mRNA. The inhibition of the SRSF2 activity by SRPIN340 successfully sensitizes AA PCa cells to PI3Kδ inhibitors, suggesting a novel therapeutic option for Idelalisib-resistant tumors.
Treatment Pathways and Prognosis in Advanced Sarcoma with Peritoneal Sarcomatosis
Authors: Klingler Fabian , Ashmawy Hany , Häberle Lena , Esposito Irene , Schimmöller Lars , Knoefel Wolfram Trudo , Krieg Andreas
Published: February 2023

Sarcomas represent a heterogeneous group of mesenchymal malignancies that most commonly occur in the extremities, retroperitoneum, and head and neck. Intra-abdominal manifestations are rare and prove particularly difficult to treat when peritoneal sarcomatosis is present. Because of the overall poor prognosis of the disease, a tailored approach to surgical management is essential to achieve satisfactory outcomes with limited morbidity. We present the perioperative and long-term outcomes of 19 cases of sarcoma with peritoneal sarcomatosis treated surgically at our hospital. Treatment pathways were reviewed and clinical follow-up was performed. Patient characteristics, medical history, tumor subtype, surgical approach, hospital stay, complications, follow-up, and overall survival (OS) were assessed. Our patients were 9 women and 10 men with a median age of 45.9 years (18–88) and a median survival of 30 months (0–200). In most cases, peritoneal sarcomatosis was either discovered during surgery or the procedure was performed with palliative intent from the beginning. The surgical approach in these cases is very heterogeneous and should consider a variety of factors to tailor an approach for each patient. Sharing our experiences will help to increase knowledge about this rare disease and provide insight into the management of future cases.
Selective CO2 Fixation to Styrene Oxide by Ta-Substitution of Lindqvist-Type [(Ta,Nb)6O19]8− Clusters
Authors: Chudatemiya Vorakit , Tsukada Mio , Nagakari Hiroki , Kikkawa Soichi , Hirayama Jun , Nakatani Naoki , Yamamoto Takafumi , Yamazoe Seiji
Published: February 2023

Metal oxide clusters composed of group 5 metal ions, such as Nb and Ta, exhibit catalytic activities for CO2 fixation to styrene oxide (SO) due to the highly negative natural bonding charge of the terminal O atoms that could work as CO2 activation sites. In this study, tetrabutylammonium (TBA) salts of [TaxNb6−xO19]8− (TBA-TaxNb6−x, x = 0–6) were prepared and Ta-substitution effect on the catalytic properties of TBA-TaxNb6−x for CO2 fixation to SO was investigated. We found that TBA-Ta1Nb5 shows the highest styrene carbonate (SC) selectivity (95%) among TBA-TaxNb6−x, although the SO conversion monotonously increases with the incremental Ta substitution amount. The CO2 fixation to SO under various conditions and in situ X-ray absorption fine structure measurements reveal that CO2 is activated on both terminal O sites coordinated to the Ta (terminal OTa) and Nb (terminal ONb) sites, whereas the activation of SO proceeds on the terminal OTa and/or bridge O sites that are connected to Ta. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that the terminal OTa of TBA-Ta1Nb5 preferentially adsorbs CO2 compared with other ONb base sites. We conclude that the selective CO2 activation at terminal OTa of TBA-Ta1Nb5 without SO activation is a crucial factor for high SC selectivity in the CO2 fixation to SO.
Palladium Nanoparticles Incorporated Fumed Silica as an Efficient Catalyst for Nitroarenes Reduction via Thermal and Microwave Heating
Authors: Khormi Afaf Y. , Al-Shehri Badria M. , Al-Zahrani Fatimah A. M. , Hamdy Mohamed S. , Fouda Amr , Shaaban Mohamed R.
Published: February 2023

The reduction of nitroarenes to arylamines is a synthetically important transformation both in the laboratory and in industry. Herein, Palladium (Pd) nanoparticles were synthesized via incorporation with mesoporous fumed silica material by doping technique. Water was used as a solvent and the as-synthetized material was reduced by using NaBH4 to ensure the total transformation of PdO into Pd nanoparticles. The synthesized sample was characterized by using inductively coupled plasma (ICP) elemental analysis, X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), N2 sorption measurement, scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDX), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Data showed that the Pd nanoparticles were successfully synthesized and supported on the mesoporous silica with an average size in the ranges of 10–20 nm, with an irregular shape. The purity of the synthesized sample was confirmed by EDX analysis which exhibits the presence of Si, O, and Pd. The catalytic activity of the prepared sample was evaluated in the heterogeneous reduction of nitroarenes to aromatic amines. Reduction reaction was monitored by Shimadzu GC-17A gas chromatography (GC, Japan) equipped with flam ionization detector and RTX-5 column, 30 m × 0.25 mm, 1-μm film thickness. Helium was used as carrier gas at flow rate 0.6 mL/min. Interestingly, the green hydrogenation of nitroarenes to primary amine compounds was achieved in an aqueous solution with high efficiency and in a short time; moreover, the reusability of heterogeneous Pd-SiO2 was performed for four repeated cycles with more than 88% of efficiency at the fourth run. Finally, the heterogeneity of catalysis with high reliability and eco-friendly processes is a super new trend of nitroarenes reduction in the industry and economic scales.
Synthesis of Activated Porous Carbon from Red Dragon Fruit Peel Waste for Highly Active Catalytic Reduction in Toxic Organic Dyes
Authors: Veerakumar Pitchaimani , Hung Shih-Tung , Hung Pei-Qi , Vishnu Priya Veeraraghavan
Published: February 2023

In this study, an alternative precursor for production of biomass-derived activated carbon was introduced using dragon fruit (Hylocereus costaricensis) peels. Chemical activators such as FeCl3, MgCl2, ZnCl2 were used in the thermal carbonization process to convert carbon into porous carbon (PC). However, heteroatom-doped PC catalysts including N-, B-, and P-doped carbon catalysts in the field of dye removal is highly desirable. Several approaches (XRD, FE-SEM/TEM, XPS, FT-IR, EDS, and elemental mapping) were employed to examine the surface morphology, surface properties, and elemental composition of the PC catalyst. The catalytic activity of metal-free PC catalyst was demonstrated for methylene blue (MB), crystal violet (CV), and Nile blue (NB) in a mild environment The corresponding rate constant (kapp) values were estimated as 0.2473, 0.3248, and 0.3056 min−1, respectively, for MB, CV, and NB, which were significantly greater than those of numerous reports. It exhibited the best catalytic activity and recyclability. Moreover, the approach proposed here could create new opportunities for the remediation of organic dyes in lakes and industrial wastewater.
Mechanisms of Blood–Brain Barrier Protection by Microbiota-Derived Short-Chain Fatty Acids
Authors: Fock Ekaterina , Parnova Rimma
Published: February 2023

Impairment of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) integrity is implicated in the numerous neurological disorders associated with neuroinflammation, neurodegeneration and aging. It is now evident that short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), mainly acetate, butyrate and propionate, produced by anaerobic bacterial fermentation of the dietary fiber in the intestine, have a key role in the communication between the gastrointestinal tract and nervous system and are critically important for the preservation of the BBB integrity under different pathological conditions. The effect of SCFAs on the improvement of the compromised BBB is mainly based on the decrease in paracellular permeability via restoration of junctional complex proteins affecting their transcription, intercellular localization or proteolytic degradation. This review is focused on the revealed and putative underlying mechanisms of the direct and indirect effects of SCFAs on the improvement of the barrier function of brain endothelial cells. We consider G-protein-coupled receptor-mediated effects of SCFAs, SCFAs-stimulated acetylation of histone and non-histone proteins via inhibition of histone deacetylases, and crosstalk of these signaling pathways with transcriptional factors NF-κB and Nrf2 as mainstream mechanisms of SCFA’s effect on the preservation of the BBB integrity.
SB202190 Predicts BRAF-Activating Mutations in Primary Colorectal Cancer Organoids via Erk1-2 Modulation
Authors: Costa Delfina , Venè Roberta , Coco Simona , Longo Luca , Tosetti Francesca , Scabini Stefano , Mastracci Luca , Grillo Federica , Poggi Alessandro , Benelli Roberto
Published: February 2023

The p38 inhibitor SB202190 is a necessary component of the medium used for normal colorectal mucosa cultures. Sato et al. suggested that the primary activity of SB202190 may be EGFR signaling stabilization, causing an increased phosphorylation of Erk1-2 sustaining organoid proliferation. However, the growth of some colorectal cancer (CRC)-derived organoid cultures is inhibited by this molecule via an unknown mechanism. We biochemically investigated SB202190 activity on a collection of 25 primary human CRC organoids, evaluating EGFR, Akt and Erk1-2 activation using Western blot. We found that Erk1-2 phosphorylation was induced by SB202190 in 20 organoid cultures and inhibited in 5 organoid cultures. A next-generation sequencing (NGS) analysis revealed that the inhibition of p-Erk1-2 signaling corresponded to the cultures with BRAF mutations (with four different hits, one being undescribed), while p-Erk1-2 induction was apparently unrelated to other mutations involving the EGFR pathway (Her2, KRAS and NRAS). We found that SB202190 mirrored the biochemical activity of the BRAF inhibitor Dabrafenib, known to induce the paradoxical activation of p-Erk1-2 signaling in BRAF wild-type cells. SB202190 was a more effective inhibitor of BRAF-mutated organoid growth in the long term than the specific BRAF inhibitors Dabrafenib and PLX8394. Overall, SB202190 can predict BRAF-activating mutations in patient-derived organoids, as well as allowing for the identification of new BRAF variants, preceding and enforcing NGS data.
Peripheral Immunophenotype in IgG4-Related Disease and Its Association with Clinical Phenotypes and Disease Activity
Authors: Martín-Nares Eduardo , Hernández-Molina Gabriela , Priego-Ranero Ángel A. , Chan-Campos Isela , Herrera-Noguera Gladys S. , López-Verdugo Fidel , Furuzawa-Carballeda Janette
Published: February 2023

Diverse immune cell subsets have been described in IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD). If there is a different immunophenotype according to clinical phenotype and activity status is not known. Levels of IL-4-, IL-13-, IL-5-, and IL-21-producing CD4+ T cells (Th2 subsets), CD4+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CD4+CTLs), T helper 9 cells, T follicular helper cells (Tfh; Tfh1/Tfh2/Tfh17/Tf regulatory [Tfr]), Foxp3+ regulatory T cells, Type 1 regulatory T cells (Tr1), T helper 3 regulatory cells (Th3), IL-10-producing regulatory B cells (Bregs), IL-10-expressing regulatory plasmacytoid dendritic (pDC IL-10+) cells, and M1 and M2 monocytes were determined by flow cytometry in 43 IgG4-RD patients and 12 controls. All immune subsets were higher in patients vs. controls. CD4+/IL-4+, CD4+/IL-5+, CD4+CTLs, Tfh2, Tfh17, Tfr, and M1 monocyte cell number was different among IgG4-RD clinical phenotypes. The pancreato-hepato-biliary phenotype was characterized by a higher CD4+CTLs, Tfh17, Tfh2, and Tfr and lower M1 cell number. An increased CD4+CTLs and Th3 cell number distinguished the head and neck-limited phenotype, while the retroperitoneal/aortic and Mikulicz/systemic phenotypes were characterized by increased Th2 subsets. Tfh17, Tr1, Th3, pDC, M1, and M2 monocytes were augmented in active patients. In summary, the clinical heterogeneity of IgG4-RD might be driven by the participation of different immunophenotypes and, consequently, by a different fibroinflammatory process.
Two Novel lncRNAs Regulate Primordial Germ Cell Development in Zebrafish
Authors: Li Wenjing , Liu Wei , Mo Chengyu , Yi Meisheng , Gui Jianfang
Published: February 2023

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are regulatory transcripts in various biological processes. However, the role of lncRNAs in germline development remains poorly understood, especially for fish primordial germ cell (PGC) development. In this study, the lncRNA profile of zebrafish PGC was revealed by single cell RNA-sequencing and bioinformatic prediction. We established the regulation network of lncRNA-mRNA associated with PGC development, from which we identified three novel lncRNAs—lnc172, lnc196, and lnc304—highly expressing in PGCs and gonads. Fluorescent in situ hybridization indicated germline-specific localization of lnc196 and lnc304 in the cytoplasm and nucleus of spermatogonia, spermatocyte, and occyte, and they were co-localized with vasa in the cytoplasm of the spermatogonia. By contrast, lnc172 was localized in the cytoplasm of male germline, myoid cells and ovarian somatic cells. Loss- and gain-of-function experiments demonstrated that knockdown and PGC-specific overexpression of lnc304 as well as universal overexpression of lnc172 significantly disrupted PGC development. In summary, the present study revealed the lncRNA profile of zebrafish PGC and identified two novel lncRNAs associated with PGC development, providing new insights for understanding the regulatory mechanism of PGC development.
Effect of Calcium Silicate and β-Tricalcium Phosphate Reinforcement on the Mechanical–Biological Properties of Freeze-Dried Collagen Composite Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering Applications
Authors: Animut Temesgen Yiber , Ningsih Henni Setia , Shih Hsueh-Huan , Wu Meng-Huang , Shih Shao-Ju
Published: February 2023

The development of a collagen-based composite scaffold to repair damaged bone is one of many important issues in tissue engineering. In this study, pure collagen, collagen/β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP), collagen/calcium silicate (CS), and collagen/β-TCP/CS scaffolds were fabricated using the freeze-drying method. The phase compositions, microstructures, and mechanical properties were characterized using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and a universal testing machine, respectively. In addition, cell viability was evaluated using an MTT assay. Finally, the correlations between the density, mechanical properties, and biodegradation behaviors of pore size distributions were discussed.
Revisiting the Impact of Tungsten on the Catalytic Properties of Ammonia-SCR V2O5-WO3/TiO2 Catalysts: Geometric vs. Electronic Effects
Authors: Siaka Hermann Wilfried , Dujardin Christophe , Moissette Alain , Granger Pascal
Published: February 2023

The SCR performance of V2O5-WO3/TiO2 SCR-catalysts characterized by different surface W density (2.1W/nm2 and 9.5W/nm2) and different surface V density varying in the range 1–8V/nm2 has been investigated in order to clarify existing controversies on the preferential involvement of electronic and geometric effects in the catalytic properties. It was found that tungsten has a weak effect on the VOx cluster size distribution through contraction of dilution effect. In contrast, the optimal interaction between W and V, when both reach their highest composition, appears to be a relevant parameter that can enhance their acidic properties and improve the catalytic efficiency in dry conditions. On the other hand, an absence of significant interaction leads to discontinuity due to deactivation. In the presence of steam, acidic properties are averaged, lowering the impact of the V to W ratio. Finally, the critical importance of acidic properties which outperform redox properties in the definition of active site is pointed out in the light of this study.
The Use of Automated Atrial CMR Measures and a Novel Atrioventricular Coupling Index for Predicting Risk in Repaired Tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Gunsaulus Megan , Bueno Alejandra , Bright Carley , Snyder Katelyn , Das Nikkan , Dobson Craig , DeBrunner Mark , Christopher Adam , Hoskoppal Arvind , Follansbee Christopher , Arora Gaurav , Olivieri Laura , Alsaied Tarek
Published: February 2023

Atrial size and function have been recognized as markers of diastolic function, and diastolic dysfunction has been identified as a predictor of adverse outcomes in repaired tetralogy of Fallot (rTOF). This was a retrospective single-center study with the objective of investigating the use of atrial measurements obtained via CMR for predicting outcomes in rTOF patients. Automated contours of the left and right atria (LA and RA) were performed. A novel parameter, termed the Right Atrioventricular Coupling Index (RACI), was defined as the ratio of RA end-diastolic volume to right ventricle (RV) end-diastolic volume. Patients were risk-stratified using a previously validated Importance Factor Score for the prediction of life-threatening arrhythmias in rTOF. Patients with a high-risk Importance Factor Score (>2) had a significantly larger minimum RA volume (p = 0.04) and RACI (p = 0.03) compared to those with scores ≤2. ROC analysis demonstrated RACI to be the best overall predictor of a high-risk Importance Factor Score (AUC 0.73, p = 0.03). Older age at the time of repair and a diagnosis of pulmonary atresia were associated with a larger RACI. Automated atrial CMR measurements are easily obtained from standard CMRs and have the potential to serve as noninvasive predictors of adverse outcomes in rTOF.
Peer Support and Exercise Adherence in Adolescents: The Chain-Mediated Effects of Self-Efficacy and Self-Regulation
Authors: Zou Yuxin , Liu Shijie , Guo Shuangshuang , Zhao Qiuhao , Cai Yujun
Published: February 2023

In the context of exercise psychology, the mediating relationship between peer support, self-efficacy and self-regulation, and adolescents’ exercise adherence was to be explored. Methods: A questionnaire was distributed among 2200 teenagers from twelve middle schools in Shanghai. The “process” program in SPSS and the bootstrap method were applied to construct and analyze the direct and indirect effects of peer support on adolescents’ exercise adherence. Results: Peer support directly affected adolescents’ exercise adherence (β = 0.135, p < 0.001, effect size of 59%) and self-efficacy (β = 0.493, p < 0.001, effect size accounted for 42%), and self-regulation (β = −0.184, p < 0.001, effect size of 11%) influenced exercise adherence indirectly. In addition, self-efficacy and self-regulation could impose a chain-mediated effect on peer support and exercise adherence (effect size of 6%). Conclusion: Peer support could promote adolescents’ exercise adherence. Self-efficacy and self-regulation are mediating factors of peer support on exercise adherence in teenagers, self-regulation as well as self-efficacy-imposed chain-mediating effects on peer support and adolescents’ exercise adherence.
Warm and Harsh Parenting, Self-Kindness and Self-Judgment, and Well-Being: An Examination of Developmental Differences in a Large Sample of Adolescents
Authors: Ren Yizhen , Chi Xinli , Bu He , Huang Liuyue , Wang Shaofan , Zhang Ying , Zeng Di , Shan Hao , Jiao Can
Published: February 2023

Objectives: This study aimed to examine the associations between warm and harsh parenting and adolescent well-being, and the mediating effects of self-kindness and self-judgment, in relationships. Moreover, this study investigated developmental differences across three adolescence stages (early, middle, and late). Methods: In total, 14,776 Chinese adolescents (mean age = 13.53 ± 2.08, 52.3% males), including individuals in early (10–12 years old, N = 5055), middle (13–15 years old, N = 6714), and late adolescence (16–18 years old, N = 3007) participated in this study. All the adolescents rated their levels of warm and harsh parenting, self-kindness and self-judgment, and well-being. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was adopted to examine the mediation model. Multi-group analysis was conducted to investigate differences in the mediation model across the different developmental stages. Results: Both warm and harsh parenting were related to adolescent well-being through the mediating effects of self-kindness and self-judgment. However, warm parenting exerted a more substantial impact on adolescent well-being. Self-kindness had a more robust mediating effect than self-judgment in relationships. Moreover, harsh parenting had a weaker impact on adolescent well-being in late adolescence than in early and middle adolescence. Warm parenting had a more significant impact on adolescent well-being in early adolescence than in middle and late adolescence. Conclusions: Overall, warm parenting had a more substantial effect than harsh parenting on adolescent well-being. The findings also highlighted the crucial mediating effect of self-kindness in the relationships between parenting and well-being. Moreover, this study also indicated the importance of warm parenting in early adolescence. Intervention programs should focus on enhancing the level of warm parenting to promote self-kindness in adolescents, in order to improve their well-being.
Adaptation Difficulties of Children at the Beginning of School Attendance Based on the Optics of Primary School Teachers
Authors: Teleková Radka , Marcineková Tatiana , Tirpáková Anna , Gonda Dalibor
Published: February 2023

The presented paper is devoted to finding out and analyzing the opinions of primary education teachers on the causes of the unsuccessful adaptation of current schoolchildren to the beginning of systematic education. To find out the above issues, pedagogical research was carried out at selected primary schools in Slovakia. The implementation of the research and the subsequent analysis of the research results confirmed that the length of teachers’ pedagogical practice has a statistically significant effect on their views on the causes of adaptation difficulties in emotional, social, intellectual, and psychomotor areas of children’s school readiness.
Neurobiology and Applications of Inositol in Psychiatry: A Narrative Review
Authors: Concerto Carmen , Chiarenza Cecilia , Di Francesco Antonio , Natale Antimo , Privitera Ivan , Rodolico Alessandro , Trovato Antonio , Aguglia Andrea , Fisicaro Francesco , Pennisi Manuela , Bella Rita , Petralia Antonino , Signorelli Maria Salvina , Lanza Giuseppe
Published: February 2023

Inositol is a natural sugar-like compound, commonly present in many plants and foods. It is involved in several biochemical pathways, most of them controlling vital cellular mechanisms, such as cell development, signaling and nuclear processes, metabolic and endocrine modulation, cell growth, signal transduction, etc. In this narrative review, we focused on the role of inositol in human brain physiology and pathology, with the aim of providing an update on both potential applications and current limits in its use in psychiatric disorders. Overall, imaging and biomolecular studies have shown the role of inositol levels in the pathogenesis of mood disorders. However, when administered as monotherapy or in addition to conventional drugs, inositol did not seem to influence clinical outcomes in both mood and psychotic disorders. Conversely, more encouraging results have emerged for the treatment of panic disorders. We concluded that, despite its multifaceted neurobiological activities and some positive findings, to date, data on the efficacy of inositol in the treatment of psychiatric disorders are still controversial, partly due to the heterogeneity of supporting studies. Therefore, systematic use of inositol in routine clinical practice cannot be recommended yet, although further basic and translational research should be encouraged.
Peroxiredoxins and Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1α in Duodenal Tissue: Emerging Factors in the Pathophysiology of Pediatric Celiac Disease Patients
Authors: Köse Fadime Aydın , Pabuccuoglu Aysun , Karakoyun Miray , Aydogdu Sema
Published: February 2023

Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune enteropathy. Peroxiredoxins (PRDXs) are powerful antioxidant enzymes having an important role in significant cellular pathways including cell survival, apoptosis, and inflammation. This study aimed at investigating the expression levels of all PRDX isoforms (1–6) and their possible relationships with a transcription factor, HIF-1α, in the small intestinal tissue samples of pediatric CD patients. The study groups consisted of first-diagnosed CD patients (n = 7) and non-CD patients with functional gastrointestinal tract disorders as the controls (n = 7). The PRDXs and HIF-1α expression levels were determined by using real-time PCR and Western blotting in duodenal biopsy samples. It was observed that the mRNA and protein expression levels of PRDX 5 were significantly higher in the CD patients, whereas the PRDX 1, -2, and -4 expressions were decreased in each case compared to the control group. No significant differences were detected in the PRDX 3 and PRDX 6 expressions. The expression of HIF-1α was also significantly elevated in CD patients. These findings indicate, for the first time, that PRDXs, particularly PRDX 5, may play a significant role in the pathogenesis of CD. Furthermore, our results suggest that HIF-1α may upregulate PRDX-5 transcription in the duodenal tissue of CD.
Pushout Bond Strength of Root Fillings after Irrigation of Root Canals Utilizing Sodium Hypochlorite, Chlorhexidine, and Homeopathic Mother Tincture (Arnica Montana)
Authors: Khanvilkar Unmesh , Patil Hitesh , Bandekar Siddhesh , Kshirsagar Shirin , Pawar Ajinkya M. , Wahjuningrum Dian Agustin , Pagnoni Francesco , Reda Rodolfo , Zanza Alessio , Testarelli Luca
Published: February 2023

The pushout bond strength of root fillings at radicular dentin was investigated employing NaOCl, CHX, and homoeopathic mother tincture (Arnica montana) as an irrigant. Sixty human permanent single-rooted extracted teeth were decoronated. The root canals were instrumented using Pro taper universal rotary system (Dentsply Tulsa Dental; Tulsa, Oklahoma) and were prepared up to F3 apical size. The roots were then randomly divided into three groups according to irrigation solution (n = 20) according to the final irrigation regimen: Group I: 3 mL 5.25% NaOCl followed by 3 mL Saline (control); Group II: 3 mL Arnica montana (10%, w/v) followed by 3 mL Saline; Group III: 3 mL CHX followed by 3 mL Saline. The canals were dried using paper points. The canals were coated with AH Plus sealer (Dentsply DeTey, Konstaz, Germany) with the aid of a Lentulo spiral (Dentsply DeTey, Konstaz, Germany) and obturated with #F3 gutta-percha. Each root was then horizontally sliced into three slices, labelled coronal, middle, and apical, each measuring 2 mm thick. Furthermore, at a crosshead speed of 2 mm/min, the test was carried out using the universal testing apparatus. The 5.25% NaOCl significantly decreased the bond strength of AH Plus to dentin. Both CHX and Arnica montana were capable of reversing the compromised pushout of AH Plus to NaOCl-treated dentin. After using NaOCl as an irrigant, the danger of diminished binding capacity of AH Plus to root canal walls arises. Final irrigation with Arnica montana and CHX reduces this risk.
Notalgia Paresthetica Review: Update on Presentation, Pathophysiology, and Treatment
Authors: Robinson Christopher , Downs Evan , De la Caridad Gomez Yanet , Nduaguba Chinonso , Woolley Parker , Varrassi Giustino , Gill Jatinder , Simopoulos Thomas T. , Viswanath Omar , Yazdi Cyrus A.
Published: February 2023

Purpose of Review: Notalgia paresthetica (NP) is a chronic cutaneous neuropathy primarily characterized by localized pruritus and associated dysesthesias, including sensations of pain, numbness, and tingling. The sensory neuropathy characteristic of NP is thought to result from spinal nerve entrapment caused by degenerative changes in the spine or musculoskeletal compression. This review summarizes the current medical literature with a focus on the past five years regarding NP, its pathophysiology, presentation, and current treatment options. Recent Findings: Though treatments exist with varying efficacy, to date, there exists no definitive treatment for NP. Treatment options for NP are varied and range from topical and oral agents to interventional procedures and physical therapy. Of the treatments evaluated, topical capsaicin remains the most efficacious treatment for NP. Conclusions: The lack of established treatment guidelines makes treating NP complicated as it dramatically affects patients’ quality of life. Further research with larger sample sizes is needed to evaluate better the most effective treatment and dosing regimen for patients afflicted with NP.
Special Issue “Advanced Coating Technology by Physical Vapor Deposition and Applications”
Authors: Tien Chuen-Lin
Published: February 2023

Coating technology covers a wide range of fields [...]
UV-Activated, Transparent Oxygen Scavenger Coating Based on Inorganic–Organic Hybrid Polymer (ORMOCER®) with High Oxygen Absorption Capacity
Authors: Amberg-Schwab Sabine , Müller Kajetan , Somorowsky Ferdinand , Sängerlaub Sven
Published: February 2023

Oxygen scavengers are used to reduce the oxygen permeation of packaging (active barrier) and to absorb oxygen from its direct environment, e.g., a headspace of packaged food. Few oxygen scavenger coatings have been developed. Therefore, in this study, a novel oxygen scavenger coating has been developed. It is based on inorganic–organic polymers (ORMOCER®). The oxygen absorption reaction is activated by UV light. The scavenger was synthesized, coated on aluminum foil, subsequently dried and afterwards laminated with a polyethylene sealing layer. UV light activates the oxygen scavenging reaction. The oxygen absorption capacity, measured at 23 °C and 0% r.h., was 242 ± 8 mg oxygen/g scavenger coating. When the oxygen scavenger coating layer was laminated by using a two-component polyurethane laminating adhesive, the absorption capacity was hardly reduced, with a measured absorption capacity of 223 ± 18 mg oxygen/g scavenger coating. In an experimental packaging sample with the oxygen scavenger coating with a thickness (dry) of 3 µm and 18 µm, near-zero mbar oxygen partial pressure was reached by the non-laminated oxygen scavenger coatings within two days, and within about 20 days when laminated with a polyurethane laminating adhesive and a PE-layer on the oxygen scavenger layer. The oxygen partial pressure was kept near zero mbar for 500 days, whereas in the experimental packaging without oxygen scavenger, the oxygen partial pressure increased to 110 mbar during this time. The developed oxygen scavenger based on inorganic–organic polymers can be applied as wet chemical coating on various surfaces with standard application procedures. Application scenarios are oxygen-sensitive goods such as food, pharmaceutical products and cosmetics.
First-Principles Investigation of Electronic and Related Properties of Cubic Magnesium Silicide (Mg2Si)
Authors: Dioum Allé , Diakité Yacouba I. , Malozovsky Yuiry , Ayirizia Blaise Awola , Beye Aboubaker Chedikh , Bagayoko Diola
Published: February 2023

We present results from ab initio, self-consistent calculations of electronic, transport, and bulk properties of cubic magnesium silicide (Mg2Si). We employed a local density approximation (LDA) potential to perform the computation, following the Bagayoko, Zhao, and Williams (BZW) method, as improved by Ekuma and Franklin (BZW-EF). The BZW-EF method guarantees the attainment of the ground state as well as the avoidance of over-complete basis sets. The ground state electronic energies, total and partial densities of states, effective masses, and the bulk modulus are investigated. As per the calculated band structures, cubic Mg2Si has an indirect band gap of 0.896 eV, from Γ to X, for the room temperature experimental lattice constant of 6.338 Å. This is in reasonable agreement with the experimental value of 0.8 eV, unlike previous ab initio DFT results of 0.5 eV or less. The predicted zero temperature band gap of 0.965 eV, from Γ to X, is obtained for the computationally determined equilibrium lattice constant of 6.218 Å. The calculated value of the bulk modulus of Mg2Si is 58.58 GPa, in excellent agreement with the experimental value of 57.03 ± 2 GPa.
Synthesis, Supramolecular Structural Investigations of Co(II) and Cu(II) Azido Complexes with Pyridine-Type Ligands
Authors: Altowyan Mezna Saleh , Albering Jörg H. , Barakat Assem , Soliman Saied M. , Abu-Youssef Morsy A. M.
Published: February 2023

Two new Co(II) and Cu(II) azido complexes with 4-picoline (4-Pic) and pyridine-2-carboxaldoxime (HAld) were synthesized by self-assembly of the organic ligand and the M(II) nitrate in the presence of azide as a co-ligand. Their structures were determined to be [Co(4-Pic)4(H2O)(N3)]NO3*H2O*4-Pic (1) and [Cu(HAld)(Ald)(N3)] (2) using X-ray single crystal diffraction. In complex 1, the coordination geometry is a slightly distorted octahedron with a water molecule and azide ion located trans to one another. On the other hand, complex 2 has a distorted square pyramid CuN5 coordination sphere with N-atoms of the organic ligand as a basal plane and azide ion as apical. All types of intermolecular contacts and their contributions in the molecular packing were analyzed using Hirshfeld analysis. The intermolecular contacts, H…H (53.9%), O…H (14.1%), N…H (11.0%) and H…C (18.8%) in 1, and H…H (27.4%), N…H (27.7%), O…H (14.7%) and H…C (13.6%) in 2 have the largest contributions. Of all the contacts, the O…H, N…H and C…C interactions in 2 and the O…H, N…H and H…C in 1 are apparently shorter than the van der Waals radii sum of the interacting atoms. Atoms in molecules (AIM) topological parameters explained the lower symmetry of the coordinated azide in 1 than 2.
First-Principles Study of the Structural, Mechanical and Thermodynamic Properties of Al11RE3 in Aluminum Alloys
Authors: Fan Touwen , Lin Lan , Liang Houjiang , Ma Yuhong , Tang Yuwei , Hu Te , Ruan Zixiong , Chen Dongchu , Wu Yuanzhi
Published: February 2023

The stability and mechanical and thermodynamic properties of Al11RE3 intermetallics (RE = Sc, Y and lanthanide La-Lu) have been investigated by combining first-principles and Debye model calculations. It was found that the formation enthalpies of the Al11RE3 intermetallics are all negative, indicating that they are stable; moreover, the experimental values of Al11La3 and Al11Ce3 are in good agreement with the predicted values, which are −0.40 kJ/mol and −0.38 kJ/mol, respectively. The calculated results of the mechanical properties reveal that the Young’s modulus E and shear modulus G of Al11RE3 (RE = La, Ce, Pr, Nd and Sm) intermetallics are obviously greater than that of Al, implying that the stiffness, toughness, and tensile strength of them are significantly greater than those of aluminum, and that they, as strengthen phases, can effectively improve the mechanical property of aluminum alloys. The Poisson’s ratio v of Al11Sc3 (0.37) is the largest, and the heterogeneity is obvious. All the Al11RE3 intermetallics can enhance the thermostability of the aluminum because of their lower Gibbs free energy F in the range of −5.002~−4.137 eV/atom and thermal expansion coefficient α of Al in the range of 2.34~2.89 × 10−5/K at 300K, as well as higher entropy and constant volume-specific heat than aluminum at finite temperatures. With an increase in the atomic number, different change trends were observed for the formation enthalpy ΔHf, bulk modulus B, Young’s modulus E, and shear modulus G. This paper can provide ideas and help for designing a high-performance, heat-resistant aluminum alloy.
Dependence of Charpy Impact Properties of Fe-30Mn-0.05C Steel on Microstructure
Authors: Xiong Jianchao , Li Heng , Kong Ling , Zhang Xiaodan , Cao Wenquan , Wang Yuhui
Published: February 2023

Fe-30Mn-0.05C steel specimens with cold-rolled, partially recrystallized, fine-grained, and coarse-grained microstructures were fabricated by means of 80% cold rolling followed by annealing at 550–1000 °C. The initial and deformed microstructures were characterized, and the Charpy impact properties were tested at room temperature (RT) and liquid nitrogen temperature (LNT). It was found that the Charpy absorbed energy increased with the annealing temperature, while the specimens showed different trends: parabolic increase at RT and exponential increase at LNT, respectively. Compared with the fully recrystallized specimens, those with a partially recrystallized microstructure exhibited lower impact energy, especially at LNT. This was because cracks tended to nucleate and propagate along the recovery microstructure where stress concentration existed. The grain size played an important role in the twinning behavior and impact properties. High Charpy impact energy (~320 J) was obtained in the coarse-grained specimen having the grain size of 42.1 μm at both RT and LNT, which was attributed to the activation of high-density deformation twinning. However, deformation twinning was inhibited in the specimen with the average grain size of 3.1 μm, resulting in limited work hardening and lower impact energy.