bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advances in Alzheimer’s Disease-Associated Aβ Therapy Based on Peptide
Authors: Wang Cunli , Shao Shuai , Li Na , Zhang Zhengyao , Zhang Hangyu , Liu Bo
Published: August 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) urgently needs innovative treatments due to the increasing aging population and lack of effective drugs and therapies. The amyloid fibrosis of AD-associated β-amyloid (Aβ) that could induce a series of cascades, such as oxidative stress and inflammation, is a critical factor in the progression of AD. Recently, peptide-based therapies for AD are expected to be great potential strategies for the high specificity to the targets, low toxicity, fast blood clearance, rapid cell and tissue permeability, and superior biochemical characteristics. Specifically, various chiral amino acids or peptide-modified interfaces draw much attention as effective manners to inhibit Aβ fibrillation. On the other hand, peptide-based inhibitors could be obtained through affinity screening such as phage display or by rational design based on the core sequence of Aβ fibrosis or by computer aided drug design based on the structure of Aβ. These peptide-based therapies can inhibit Aβ fibrillation and reduce cytotoxicity induced by Aβ aggregation and some have been shown to relieve cognition in AD model mice and reduce Aβ plaques in mice brains. This review summarizes the design method and characteristics of peptide inhibitors and their effect on the amyloid fibrosis of Aβ. We further describe some analysis methods for evaluating the inhibitory effect and point out the challenges in these areas, and possible directions for the design of AD drugs based on peptides, which lay the foundation for the development of new effective drugs in the future.
Molecular Relay Stations in Membrane Nanotubes: IRSp53 Involved in Actin-Based Force Generation
Authors: Madarász Tamás , Brunner Brigitta , Halász Henriett , Telek Elek , Matkó János , Nyitrai Miklós , Szabó-Meleg Edina
Published: August 2023

Membrane nanotubes are cell protrusions that grow to tens of micrometres and functionally connect cells. Actin filaments are semi-flexible polymers, and their polymerisation provides force for the formation and growth of membrane nanotubes. The molecular bases for the provision of appropriate force through such long distances are not yet clear. Actin filament bundles are likely involved in these processes; however, even actin bundles weaken when growing over long distances, and there must be a mechanism for their regeneration along the nanotubes. We investigated the possibility of the formation of periodic molecular relay stations along membrane nanotubes by describing the interactions of actin with full-length IRSp53 protein and its N-terminal I-BAR domain. We concluded that I-BAR is involved in the early phase of the formation of cell projections, while IRSp53 is also important for the elongation of protrusions. Considering that IRSp53 binds to the membrane along the nanotubes and nucleates actin polymerisation, we propose that, in membrane nanotubes, IRSp53 establishes molecular relay stations for actin polymerisation and, as a result, supports the generation of force required for the growth of nanotubes.
A Scoping Review on Biomarkers of Endothelial Dysfunction in Small Vessel Disease: Molecular Insights from Human Studies
Authors: Jaime Garcia Daniela , Chagnot Audrey , Wardlaw Joanna M. , Montagne Axel
Published: August 2023

Small vessel disease (SVD) is a highly prevalent disorder of the brain’s microvessels and a common cause of dementia as well as ischaemic and haemorrhagic strokes. Though much about the underlying pathophysiology of SVD remains poorly understood, a wealth of recently published evidence strongly suggests a key role of microvessel endothelial dysfunction and a compromised blood–brain barrier (BBB) in the development and progression of the disease. Understanding the causes and downstream consequences associated with endothelial dysfunction in this pathological context could aid in the development of effective diagnostic and prognostic tools and provide promising avenues for potential therapeutic interventions. In this scoping review, we aim to summarise the findings from clinical studies examining the role of the molecular mechanisms underlying endothelial dysfunction in SVD, focussing on biochemical markers of endothelial dysfunction detectable in biofluids, including cell adhesion molecules, BBB transporters, cytokines/chemokines, inflammatory markers, coagulation factors, growth factors, and markers involved in the nitric oxide cascade.
Exoproteomic Study and Transcriptional Responses of Laccase and Ligninolytic Peroxidase Genes of White-Rot Fungus Trametes hirsuta LE-BIN 072 Grown in the Presence of Monolignol-Related Phenolic Compounds
Authors: Moiseenko Konstantin V. , Glazunova Olga A. , Savinova Olga S. , Fedorova Tatyana V.
Published: August 2023

Being an abundant renewable source of aromatic compounds, lignin is an important component of future bio-based economy. Currently, biotechnological processing of lignin through low molecular weight compounds is one of the conceptually promising ways for its valorization. To obtain lignin fragments suitable for further inclusion into microbial metabolism, it is proposed to use a ligninolytic system of white-rot fungi, which mainly comprises laccases and peroxidases. However, laccase and peroxidase genes are almost always represented by many non-allelic copies that form multigene families within the genome of white-rot fungi, and the contributions of exact family members to the overall process of lignin degradation has not yet been determined. In this article, the response of the Trametes hirsuta LE-BIN 072 ligninolytic system to the presence of various monolignol-related phenolic compounds (veratryl alcohol, p-coumaric acid, vanillic acid, and syringic acid) in culture media was monitored at the level of gene transcription and protein secretion. By showing which isozymes contribute to the overall functioning of the ligninolytic system of the T. hirsuta LE-BIN 072, the data obtained in this study will greatly contribute to the possible application of this fungus and its ligninolytic enzymes in lignin depolymerization processes.
De Novo Design and Development of a Nutrient-Rich Perfusate for Ex Vivo Lung Perfusion with Cell Culture Models
Authors: Huang Lei , Vellanki Ravi N. , Zhu Zhiyuan , Wouters Bradly G. , Keshavjee Shaf , Liu Mingyao
Published: August 2023

Ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) has increased donor lung utilization through assessment of “marginal” lungs prior to transplantation. To develop it as a donor lung reconditioning platform, prolonged EVLP is necessary, and new perfusates are required to provide sufficient nutritional support. Human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells and epithelial cells were used to test different formulas for basic cellular function. A selected formula was further tested on an EVLP cell culture model, and cell confluence, apoptosis, and GSH and HSP70 levels were measured. When a cell culture medium (DMEM) was mixed with a current EVLP perfusate—Steen solution, DMEM enhanced cell confluence and migration and reduced apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner. A new EVLP perfusate was designed and tested based on DMEM. The final formula contains 5 g/L Dextran-40 and 7% albumin and is named as D05D7A solution. It inhibited cold static storage and warm reperfusion-induced cell apoptosis, improved cell confluence, and enhanced GSH and HSP70 levels in human lung cells compared to Steen solution. DMEM-based nutrient-rich EVLP perfusate could be a promising formula to prolong EVLP and support donor lung repair, reconditioning and further improve donor lung quality and quantity for transplantation with better clinical outcome.
Refining Evaluation of Bone Mass and Adipose Distribution in Dunnigan Syndrome
Authors: Moreira Mariana Lima Mascarenhas , de Araújo Iana Mizumukai , Fukada Sandra Yasuyo , Venturini Lucas Gabriel R. , Guidorizzi Natalia Rossin , Garrido Carlos Ernesto , Rosen Clifford J. , de Paula Francisco José Albuquerque
Published: August 2023

Familial partial lipodystrophies (FPLD) are rare diseases characterized by selective loss of subcutaneous adipose tissue at different sites. This cross-sectional observational study aimed to estimate adipose tissue in the bone marrow (BMAT), intra (IMCL) and extra-myocyte lipids (EMCL), and define the bone phenotype in the context of FPLD2/Dunnigan syndrome (DS). The subjects comprised 23 controls (C) and 18 DS patients, matched by age, weight and height. Blood samples, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry for bone mineral density (BMD) and trabecular bone score (TBS) and 1H-spectroscopy using magnetic resonance to estimate BMAT in the lumbar spine, IMCL, EMCL and osteoclastogenesis were assessed. The prevalence of diabetes mellitus was 78% in DS patients. Glucose, HbA1c, triglycerides, insulin and HOMA-IR levels were elevated in DS, whereas HDLc, 25(OH)D, PTH and osteocalcin levels were reduced. BMD was similar between groups at all sites, except 1/3 radius, which was lower in DS group. TBS was reduced in DS. DS presented increased osteoclastogenesis and elevated BMAT, with greater saturation levels and higher IMCL than the C group. HOMA-IR and EMCL were negatively associated with TBS; osteocalcin and EMCL were correlated negatively with BMD. This study contributes to refining the estimation of adipose tissue in DS by showing increased adiposity in the lumbar spine and muscle tissue. DXA detected lower TBS and BMD in the 1/3 radius, suggesting impairment in bone quality and that bone mass is mainly affected in the cortical bone.
The Pleiotropic Effects of YBX1 on HTLV-1 Transcription
Authors: Smith Susan , Seth Jaideep , Midkiff Amanda , Stahl Rachel , Syu Yu-Ci , Shkriabai Nikoloz , Kvaratskhelia Mamuka , Musier-Forsyth Karin , Jain Pooja , Green Patrick L. , Panfil Amanda R.
Published: August 2023

HTLV-1 is an oncogenic human retrovirus and the etiologic agent of the highly aggressive ATL malignancy. Two viral genes, Tax and Hbz, are individually linked to oncogenic transformation and play an important role in the pathogenic process. Consequently, regulation of HTLV-1 gene expression is a central feature in the viral lifecycle and directly contributes to its pathogenic potential. Herein, we identified the cellular transcription factor YBX1 as a binding partner for HBZ. We found YBX1 activated transcription and enhanced Tax-mediated transcription from the viral 5′ LTR promoter. Interestingly, YBX1 also interacted with Tax. shRNA-mediated loss of YBX1 decreased transcript and protein abundance of both Tax and HBZ in HTLV-1-transformed T-cell lines, as well as Tax association with the 5′ LTR. Conversely, YBX1 transcriptional activation of the 5′ LTR promoter was increased in the absence of HBZ. YBX1 was found to be associated with both the 5′ and 3′ LTRs in HTLV-1-transformed and ATL-derived T-cell lines. Together, these data suggest that YBX1 positively influences transcription from both the 5′ and 3′ promoter elements. YBX1 is able to interact with Tax and help recruit Tax to the 5′ LTR. However, through interactions with HBZ, YBX1 transcriptional activation of the 5′ LTR is repressed.
The Impact of Collective Forest Tenure Reform on Forest Carbon Sequestration Capacity—An Analysis Based on the Social–Ecological System Framework
Authors: Hu Chen , Zhang Hongxiao
Published: August 2023

Against the backdrop of industrialization, urbanization, and the increasingly urgent issue of climate change, the latest round of collective forest tenure reform in China demonstrates the characteristics of institutional change and capital-biased technological progress. Using provincial panel data from 1994 to 2015, which is related to the main task of the reform, this study combined the Social–Ecological System (SES) framework to explore the impact of the latest round of collective forest tenure reform on forest carbon sequestration capacity. The study found that (1) the collective forest tenure reform enhances forest carbon sequestration capacity, especially in areas with abundant collective forests and clear property rights. Regional differences in per capita forestry income do not affect the reform’s impact on this capacity; (2) the forest tenure reform affects carbon sequestration capacity by improving capital productivity, but labor productivity has no significant effect; (3) under the macro background, the interaction between forest tenure reform-supporting measures and factor productivity have a sustainable impact on carbon sequestration capacity. Therefore, deepening the collective forest tenure reform is an important measure for continuously improving the carbon sequestration capacity of collective forests.
Enhancing the Hydrophobicity and Antibacterial Properties of SiCN-Coated Surfaces with Quaternization to Address Peri-Implantitis
Authors: Chiang Chao-Ching , Xia Xinyi , Craciun Valentin , Rocha Mateus Garcia , Camargo Samira Esteves Afonso , Rocha Fernanda Regina Godoy , Gopalakrishnan Sarathy K. , Ziegler Kirk J. , Ren Fan , Esquivel-Upshaw Josephine F.
Published: August 2023

Peri-implantitis is a major cause of dental implant failure. This disease is an inflammation of the tissues surrounding the implant, and, while the cause is multi-factorial, bacteria is the main culprit in initiating an inflammatory reaction. Dental implants with silicon carbonitride (SiCN) coatings have several potential advantages over traditional titanium implants, but their antibacterial efficiency has not yet been evaluated. The purpose of this study was to determine the anti-bacterial potential of SiCN by modifying the surface of SiCN-coated implants to have a positive charge on the nitrogen atoms through the quaternization of the surface atoms. The changes in surface chemistry were confirmed using contact angle measurement and XPS analysis. The modified SiCN surfaces were inoculated with Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) and compared with a silicon control. The cultured bacterial colonies for the experimental group were 80% less than the control silicon surface. Fluorescent microscopy with live bacteria staining demonstrated significantly reduced bacterial coverage after 3 and 7 days of incubation. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to visualize the coated surfaces after bacterial inoculation, and the mechanism for the antibacterial properties of the quaternized SiCN was confirmed by observing ruptured bacteria membrane along the surface.
The Washout Resistance of Bioactive Root-End Filling Materials
Authors: Falkowska Joanna , Chady Tomasz , Dura Włodzimierz , Droździk Agnieszka , Tomasik Małgorzata , Marek Ewa , Safranow Krzysztof , Lipski Mariusz
Published: August 2023

Fast-setting bioactive cements were developed for the convenience of retrograde fillings during endodontic microsurgery. This in vitro study aimed to investigate the effect of irrigation on the washout of relatively fast-setting materials (Biodentine, EndoCem Zr, and MTA HP) in comparison with MTA Angelus White and IRM in an apicectomy model. Washout resistance was assessed using artificial root ends. A total of 150 samples (30 for each material) were tested. All samples were photographed using a microscope, and half of them were also scanned. The samples were irrigated and immersed in saline for 15 min. Then the models were evaluated. Rinsing and immersing the samples immediately after root-end filling and after 3 min did not disintegrate the fillings made of all tested materials except Biodentine. Root-end fillings made of Biodentine suffered significant damage both when rinsing was performed immediately and 3 min after the filling. Quantitative assessment of washed material resulted in a slight loss of IRM, EndoCem MTA Zr, and MTA HP. MTA Angelus White showed a slightly greater washout. Rinsing and immersion of Biodentine restorations resulted in their significant destruction. Under the conditions of the current study, the evaluated materials, excluding Biodentine, showed good or relatively good washout resistance.
Experimental Study on the Dilatancy and Energy Evolution Behaviors of Red-Bed Rocks under Unloading Conditions
Authors: Zheng Zhao-Qiang , Liu Huai-Zhong , Zhuo Li , Xiao Ming-Li , Xie Hong-Qiang , He Jiang-Da , Peng Ming-Liang
Published: August 2023

Surrounding rock deformation and consequent support failure are the most prominent issues in red-bed rock tunnel engineering and are mainly caused by the effects of unloading, rheology, and swelling. This study investigated the mechanical responses of two kinds of red-bed mudstone and sandstone under unloading conditions via laboratory observation. Volume dilation was observed on the rocks during unloading, and the dilatancy stress was linear with the initial confining pressure. However, the ratios of dilatancy stress to peak stress of the two rocks kept at a range from 0.8 to 0.9, regardless of confining pressures. Both the elastic strain energy and the dissipated energy evolved synchronously with the stress–strain curve and exhibited conspicuous confining pressure dependence. Special attention was paid to the evolution behavior of the dilatancy angle. The dilatancy angle changed linearly during unloading. When the confining pressure was 10 MPa, the dilatancy angle of mudstone decreased from 26.8° to 12.5° whereas the dilatancy angle of sandstone increased from 34.6° to 51.1°; when the confining pressure rose to 25 MPa, the dilatancy angle of mudstone and sandstone decreased from 45.8° to 17.4° and increased from 21.7° to 39.5°, respectively. To further understand the evolution of the dilatancy angle, we discussed the links between the variable dilatancy angle and the processes of rock deformation and energy dissipation.
Investigation of Recrystallization Kinetics in 1050 Al Alloy by Experimental Evidence and Modeling Approach
Authors: Chakravarty Purnima , Bátorfi János György , Sidor Jurij J.
Published: August 2023

The recrystallization (RX) kinetics of commercially pure Al alloy is studied under the scope of annealing temperature, time, and degree of deformation. To examine the distribution of recrystallization, Johnson–Mehl–Avrami–Kolmogorov (JMAK) theory is employed, where the path of microstructural transformation from the deformed state to the fully recovered one is studied as a function of the volume fraction of recrystallized grains (XV) and annealing time. The drop in hardness is recorded for the samples at various stages of annealing with a corresponding decrease in stored energy as the annealing time increases. The stored energy obtained from the hardness results and Orientation Imaging Microscopy (OIM)-based method is found to be in good agreement with each other, proving the efficiency of both techniques. To determine the volume fraction of the recrystallized microstructure, data obtained from Vickers hardness measurements are used. Various parameters associated with recrystallization statistics such as the critical radius of nuclei, the incubation period, and the mobility of High-Angle Grain Boundaries (HAGB) were derived from the experimental evidence. The experimental data also suggest a sharp drop in the velocity of HAGB as the RX transformation process approaches its completion, which is found to be a direct result of a drop in stored energy. A softening window between 42 s and 55 s is identified for our experimental data where the hardness, stored energy, and velocity of HAGB drops very sharply, and the maximum fraction of deformed grains is expected to be converted to the recrystallized ones. Along with experimental observations, an analytical model was developed, which helps to approximate the kinetics of RX and corresponding parameters for various annealing temperatures and strains while revealing the characteristic feature of Avrami exponent n. Both experimental evidence and model data reveal a very strong dependency of recrystallization behavior on the stored energy.
Industrial-Scale Technology for Molybdic Acid Production from Waste Petrochemical Catalysts
Authors: Leszczyńska-Sejda Katarzyna , Dydo Piotr , Szydłowska-Braszak Ewa
Published: August 2023

The article describes the technology of molybdic acid recovery from spent petrochemical catalysts (HDS) developed and implemented in industrial activity. HDS catalysts contain molybdenum in the form of MoO3 and are used for the hydrodesulfurization of petroleum products. After deactivation, due to the impurities content in the form of sulfur, carbon and heavy metals, they constitute hazardous waste and, at the same time, a valuable source of the Mo element, recognized as a critical raw material. The presented technology allows the recovery of molybdic acid with a yield of min. 81%, and the product contains min. 95% H2MoO4. The technology consisted of oxidizing roasting of the spent catalyst, then leaching molybdenum trioxide with aqueous NaOH to produce water-soluble sodium molybdate (Na2MoO4), and finally precipitation of molybdenum using aqueous HCl, as molybdic acid (H2MoO4). Industrial-scale testing proved that the technology could recover Mo from the catalyst and convert it into marketable molybdic acid. This proves that the technology can be effectively used to preserve molybdenum.
Influence of the In-Fill Pattern of the 3D Printed Building Wall on Its Thermal Insulation
Authors: Dziura Paweł , Maroszek Marcin , Góra Mateusz , Rudziewicz Magdalena , Pławecka Kinga , Hebda Marek
Published: August 2023

The intensive development of 3D Concrete Printing (3DCP) technology causes constantly increased its share in the construction sector. However, in order to produce products with controlled properties, optimization of the technological process is still required. Automation of production based on additive manufacturing methods streamlines the process by comprehensively manufacturing building components that meet, among others, strength, visual, and insulation requirements. Moreover, the possibility of using computer simulations to assess the properties of the designed elements allows for a multitude of analyzed versions of the constructed partitions, which can be verified at the design stage. Thanks to such an opportunity, the process of designing building elements can be significantly improved. The article presents results related to the assessment of the level of thermal insulation of products that can be produced by additive technology, depending on the applied spatial geometry of the vertical partition and the amount and type of materials used. Eight original solutions of in-fill pattern were designed, for which both Finite Element Method (FEM) computer simulations of thermal conductivity and experimental measurements of thermal conductivity of samples were performed. On the basis of the obtained results, both the correctness of the simulation results for the various analyzed materials and their consistency with the practical results were found. Depending on the investigated geometry, for samples of the same dimensions and using the same material, the differences in the U-factor obtained by FEM analysis amounted to 61%. The best solution from the investigated spatial geometries of the vertical partitions has been indicated. The U parameter in the variant with the best thermal insulation was 0.183 W/m2K, which meets the requirements of Polish construction law. The issues discussed in this work can be the basis for the selection of the best solution possible for practical use during the production of building walls using the 3DCP method fulfilling the guidelines of applicable standards. Furthermore, they can be used as a tool for optimizing geometry in terms of energy savings and reducing waste production by both engineers developing 3DCP technologies and architects using innovative techniques for manufacturing building structures.
In Situ Formation of MoS2 on the Surface of CF to Improve the Tribological Properties of PUE
Authors: Feng Cunao , Guo Yu , Li Xiaowei , Cao Yang , Kuang Qiuxue , Zhang Minghui , Zhang Dekun
Published: August 2023

The roller is an important part of the belt conveyor used in coal transportation. Due to the harsh environment of coal mines, the rollers are in a state of high load and high friction for a long time, which causes wear failure and has a serious impact on the reliability and safety of the equipment. In order to prepare roller material with excellent bearing performance and friction performance, CF/PUE composites were prepared by pouring method with polyurethane as the matrix and carbon fiber as reinforcement. Due to the low surface activity of unmodified carbon fibers and poor bonding performance with the matrix, MoS2 was generated on the surface of carbon fiber by the in situ generation method in this paper. It was found that the mechanical properties of MoS2/CF/PUE composites were better when the CF content was 0.3 wt%. The Shore hardness reached 92.2 HA, which is 10% higher than pure polyurethane. The tensile strength was 38.44 MPa, which is 53% higher than pure polyurethane. The elongation at break was 850%, which is 16% higher than pure polyurethane. The maximum compressive stress was 2.32 MPa, which is 42% higher than pure polyurethane. The friction coefficient was much lower than that of pure PUE composites, the friction coefficient was 0.284, which is 59% lower than pure polyurethane.
Modified Anterolateral Minimally Invasive Surgery (ALMIS) for Total Hip Replacement: Anatomical Considerations, Range of Motion and Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Koutserimpas Christos , Piagkou Maria , Karaiskos Ilias , Karamitros Athanasios , Raptis Konstantinos , Kourelis Konstantinos , Christodoulou Nikolaos
Published: August 2023

Background and Objectives: In the modified anterolateral minimally invasive surgery (ALMIS) for total hip arthroplasty (THA), the intermuscular plane between the tensor fasciae latae and the gluteus maximus (GM) is exposed, while the anterior ¼ of the GM is detached. There are scarce data regarding this surgical approach. The purpose of the present study is to thoroughly describe this approach, encompassing the anatomical background, and to present the results of a retrospective two-center study of 603 patients. Materials and Methods: The present study includes a two-center retrospective observational cohort of 603 patients undergoing the ALMIS technique with minimum 5-year follow-up. Demographics were recorded, while range of motion (ROM) of the hip joint and the Harris Hip Score (HHS) were evaluated preoperatively, at 1, 3 and 12 months postoperatively and at the final follow-up (>5 years). Surgery-related complications were also recorded. Results: The studied population’s mean age was 69.4 years, while most of them were females (397; 65.8%). The mean follow-up was 6.9 years. The median HHS at the 1-month follow-up was 74, compared to the 47 preoperatively (p-value < 0.0001). At the final follow-up, median HHS was 94. At the 1-month follow-up, mean adduction was 19.9° (compared to 15.4° preoperatively; p < 0.0001), mean abduction 24.3° (18.2° preoperatively; p < 0.0001), mean flexion 107.8° (79.1° preoperatively; p < 0.0001), mean external rotation 20.1° (12.1° preoperatively; p < 0.0001) and mean internal rotation 15.3° (7.2° preoperatively; p < 0.0001). ROM further improved until the final follow-up; mean adduction reached 22°, mean abduction 27.1°, mean flexion 119.8°, mean external rotation 24.4° and mean internal rotation 19.7°. Regarding complications, 1.3% of the sample suffered anterior traumatic dislocation, in 1.8% an intraoperative femoral fracture occurred, while 1.2% suffered periprosthetic joint infection. Conclusions: The modified ALMIS technique exhibited excellent clinical outcomes at short-, mid- and long-term follow-up, by significantly improving hip ROM and the HHS. Careful utilization of this technique, after adequate training, should yield favorable outcomes, while minimal major complications should be expected.
Nutritional Assessment of Plant-Based Meat Products Available on Hong Kong Market: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Zhang Qile , Liu Yilin , He Chufeng , Zhu Ruiwen , Li Minghui , Lam Hon-Ming , Wong Wing-Tak
Published: August 2023

Background: Plant-based meat (PBM) takes up ever-increasing market shares and draws great attention from both customers and retailers these days. However, little is known about the nutritional quality of PBM products. Objective: This study intended to profile and evaluate the overview nutrition of PBM with equivalent meat products on the Hong Kong market. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 274 PBM and 151 meat products from 27 different brands on the Hong Kong market in October 2022. The nutritional differences between PBM and meat products were assessed using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and two independent sample t-test. The nutritional quality of PBMs was evaluated according to nutrient reference value, front-of-package (FoP) criteria and nutritional score. Results: PBM had relatively lower energy density, total fat, saturated fat, protein, and salt compared to meat. According to the FoP criteria, 91.36%, 17.88%, and 99.34% of PBMs were labeled as medium to high in fat, salt, and sugar, respectively. Through ingredient analysis of 81 PBM products, soy and canola were the main source of protein and fat. Conclusions: PBM products have a roughly better nutrient quality compared to muscle-based meat, though there is still potential for further refinement in terms of production, consumption, and regulation.
Modulation of microRNAs through Lifestyle Changes in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Pinto-Hernandez Paola , Castilla-Silgado Juan , Coto-Vilcapoma Almudena , Fernández-Sanjurjo Manuel , Fernández-García Benjamín , Tomás-Zapico Cristina , Iglesias-Gutiérrez Eduardo
Published: August 2023

Lifestyle factors, including diet and physical activity (PA), are known beneficial strategies to prevent and delay Alzheimer’s disease (AD) development. Recently, microRNAs have emerged as potential biomarkers in multiple diseases, including AD. The aim of this review was to analyze the available information on the modulatory effect of lifestyle on microRNA expression in AD. Few studies have addressed this question, leaving important gaps and limitations: (1) in human studies, only circulating microRNAs were analyzed; (2) in mice studies, microRNA expression was only analyzed in brain tissue; (3) a limited number of microRNAs was analyzed; (4) no human nutritional intervention studies were conducted; and (5) PA interventions in humans and mice were poorly detailed and only included aerobic training. Despite this, some conclusions could be drawn. Circulating levels of let-7g-5p, miR-107, and miR-144-3p were associated with overall diet quality in mild cognitive impairment patients. In silico analysis showed that these microRNAs are implicated in synapse formation, microglia activation, amyloid beta accumulation, and pro-inflammatory pathways, the latter also being targeted by miR-129-5p and miR-192-5p, whose circulating levels are modified by PA in AD patients. PA also modifies miR-132, miR-15b-5p, miR-148b-3p, and miR-130a-5p expression in mice brains, which targets are related to the regulation of neuronal activity, ageing, and pro-inflammatory pathways. This supports the need to further explore lifestyle-related miRNA changes in AD, both as biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Exploring the Traditional Uses of Thymbra capitata Infusion in Algarve (Portugal): Anti-Inflammatory, Wound Healing, and Anti-Aging
Authors: Alves-Silva Jorge Miguel , Pedreiro Sónia , Cruz Maria Teresa , Salgueiro Lígia , Figueirinha Artur
Published: August 2023

Inflammation plays a pivotal role in the resolution of infection or tissue damage. In addition, inflammation is considered a hallmark of aging, which in turn compromises wound healing. Thymbra capitata is an aromatic plant, whose infusion is traditionally used as an anti-inflammatory and wound-healing agent. In this study, a T. capitata infusion was prepared and characterized by HPLC-PDA-ESI-MSn and its safety profile determined by the resazurin metabolic assay. The anti-inflammatory potential was revealed in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages by assessing nitric oxide (NO) release and levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and the interleukin-1β pro-form (pro-IL-1β). Wound-healing capacity was determined using the scratch assay. The activity of senescence-associated β-galactosidase was used to unveil the anti-senescent potential, along with the nuclear accumulation of yH2AX and p21 levels. The antiradical potential was assessed by DPPH and ABTS scavenging assays. The infusion contains predominantly rosmarinic acid and salvianolic acids. The extract decreased NO, iNOS, and pro-IL-1β levels. Interestingly, the extract promoted wound healing and decreased β-galactosidase activity, as well as yH2AX and p21 levels. The present work highlights strong antiradical, anti-inflammatory, and wound healing capacities, corroborating the traditional uses ascribed to this plant. We have described, for the first time for this extract, anti-senescent properties.
Development and Evaluation of Phytosomes Containing Callistemon citrinus Leaf Extract: A Preclinical Approach for the Treatment of Obesity in a Rodent Model
Authors: Ortega-Pérez Luis Gerardo , Ayala-Ruiz Luis Alberto , Magaña-Rodríguez Oliver Rafid , Piñón-Simental Jonathan Saúl , Aguilera-Méndez Asdrubal , Godínez-Hernández Daniel , Rios-Chavez Patricia
Published: August 2023

Callistemon citrinus has several biological effects; it is anti-inflammatory, anti-obesogenic, antioxidant, hepatoprotection, and chemoprotective. Its bioactive compounds include terpenoids, phenolic acids, and flavonoids which have low oral bioavailability and absorption. This study aimed at developing phytosomes of C. citrinus to improve oral bioavailability and absorption. Phytosomes were formulated with soybean phosphatidylcholine and C. citrinus leaf extract using the thin layer sonication method. Phytosomes were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), entrapment efficiency, solubility, and particle size determination. Antioxidant capacity and total phenolic, flavonoid, and terpenoid contents were also measured. The in vivo anti-obesogenic activity was evaluated. Phytosomes loaded with C. citrinus (P C.c) extract had small spherical shapes. The average particle size was 129.98 ± 18.30 nm, encapsulation efficiency 80.49 ± 0.07%, and solubility 90.00%; the stability study presented no significant changes in the average particle size at 20 °C. P C.c presented high antioxidant capacity. For the first time, ellagic acid is reported in this plant. The in vivo obesity study showed a strong anti-obesogenic activity of phytosomes with C. citrinus to reduce 40% body weight as well as morphometric and biochemical parameters.
On-Demand Release of Anti-Infective Silver from a Novel Implant Coating Using High-Energy Focused Shock Waves
Authors: Puetzler Jan , Hasselmann Julian , Nonhoff Melanie , Fobker Manfred , Niemann Silke , Theil Christoph , Gosheger Georg , Schulze Martin
Published: August 2023

Implant-related infections are a significant concern in orthopedic surgery. A novel anti-infective implant coating made of bioresorbable polymer with silver nitrate was developed. A controlled release of silver ions into the vicinity of the prosthesis can be triggered on-demand by extracorporeal shock waves to effectively combat all clinically relevant microorganisms. Microscopy techniques were used to examine the effects of shock wave application on coated titanium discs. Cytotoxicity was measured using a fibroblast proliferation assay. The anti-infective effect was assessed by monitoring the growth curves of three bacterial strains and by conventional culture. Microscopic analysis confirmed surface disruption of the coatings, with a complete release of silver in the focus area after shock wave application. Spectrometry detected an increase in silver concentration in the surrounding of the discs that surpassed the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for both S. epidermidis RP62A and E. coli ATCC 25922. The released silver demonstrated an anti-infective effect, significantly inhibiting bacterial growth, especially at 6% and 8% silver concentrations. Cytotoxicity testing showed decreasing fibroblast viability with increasing silver concentration in the coating, with 6% silver maintaining viability above 25%. Compared to a commonly used electroplated silver coating on the market, the new coating demonstrated superior antimicrobial efficacy and lower cytotoxicity.
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM) Implementation in Public Hospitals in Greece in 2003 and 2021: A Comparative Analysis of TDM Evolution over the Years
Authors: Voulgaridou Gavriela , Paraskeva Theodora , Ragia Georgia , Atzemian Natalia , Portokallidou Konstantina , Kolios George , Arvanitidis Konstantinos , Manolopoulos Vangelis G.
Published: August 2023

Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is the clinical practice of measuring drug concentrations. TDM can be used to determine treatment efficacy and to prevent the occurrence or reduce the risk of drug-induced side effects, being, thus, a tool of personalized medicine. Drugs for which TDM is applied should have a narrow therapeutic range and exhibit both significant pharmacokinetic variability and a predefined target concentration range. The aim of our study was to assess the current status of TDM in Greek public hospitals and estimate its progress over the last 20 years. All Greek public hospitals were contacted to provide data and details on the clinical uptake of TDM in Greece for the years 2003 and 2021 through a structured questionnaire. Data from 113 out of 132 Greek hospitals were collected in 2003, whereas for 2021, we have collected data from 98 out of 122 hospitals. Among these, in 2003 and 2021, 64 and 51 hospitals, respectively, performed TDM. Antiepileptics and antibiotics were the most common drug categories monitored in both years. The total number of drug measurement assays decreased from 2003 to 2021 (153,313 ± 7794 vs. 90,065 ± 5698; p = 0.043). In direct comparisons between hospitals where TDM was performed both in 2003 and 2021 (n = 35), the mean number of measurements was found to decrease for most drugs, including carbamazepine (198.8 ± 46.6 vs. 46.6 ± 10.1, p < 0.001), phenytoin (253.6 ± 59 vs. 120 ± 34.3; p = 0.001), amikacin (147.3 ± 65.2 vs. 91.1 ± 71.4; p = 0.033), digoxin (783.2 ± 226.70 vs. 165.9 ± 28.9; p < 0.001), and theophylline (71.5 ± 28.7 vs. 11.9 ± 6.4; p = 0.004). Only for vancomycin, a significant increase in measurements was recorded (206.1 ± 96.1 vs. 789.1 ± 282.8; p = 0.012). In conclusion, our findings show that TDM clinical implementation is losing ground in Greek hospitals. Efforts and initiatives to reverse this trend are urgently needed.
Long-Term Outcomes of Breast Cancer Patients Receiving Levobupivacaine Wound Infiltration or Diclofenac for Postoperative Pain Relief
Authors: Glavas Tahtler Josipa , Djapic Dajana , Neferanovic Marina , Miletic Jelena , Milosevic Marta , Kralik Kristina , Neskovic Nenad , Tomas Ilijan , Mesaric Dora , Marjanovic Ksenija , Rajc Jasmina , Orkic Zelimir , Cicvaric Ana , Kvolik Slavica
Published: August 2023

Breast cancer is the most common malignant disease in women. Preclinical studies have confirmed that the local anesthetic levobupivacaine has a cytotoxic effect on breast cancer cells. We examined whether postoperative wound infiltration with levobupivacaine influences survival in 120 patients who were operated on for breast cancer and underwent quadrantectomy or mastectomy with axillary lymph node dissection. Groups with continuous levobupivacaine wound infiltration, bolus wound infiltration, and diclofenac analgesia were compared. Long-term outcomes examined were quality of life, shoulder disability, and hand grip strength (HGS) after one year and survival after 5 and 10 years. Groups that had infiltration analgesia had better shoulder function compared to diclofenac after one year. The levobupivacaine PCA group had the best-preserved HGS after 1 year (P = 0.022). The most significant predictor of the 5-year outcome was HGS (P = 0.03). Survival at 10 years was 85%, 92%, and 77% in the diclofenac, levobupivacaine bolus, and levobupivacaine PCA groups (ns. P = 0.36). The extent of the disease at the time of surgery is the most important predictor of long-term survival (P = 0.03). A larger prospective clinical study could better confirm the effect of levobupivacaine wound infiltration on outcomes after breast cancer surgery observed in this pilot study—trial number NCT05829707.
Influence of the Composition of Cationic Liposomes on the Performance of Cargo Immunostimulatory RNA
Authors: Bishani Ali , Makarova Darya M. , Shmendel Elena V. , Maslov Mikhail A. , Sen‘kova Aleksandra V. , Savin Innokenty A. , Gladkikh Daniil V. , Zenkova Marina A. , Chernolovskaya Elena L.
Published: August 2023

In this study, the impact of different delivery systems on the cytokine-inducing, antiproliferative, and antitumor activities of short immunostimulatory double-stranded RNA (isRNA) was investigated. The delivery systems, consisting of the polycationic amphiphile 1,26-bis(cholest-5-en-3-yloxycarbonylamino)-7,11,16,20 tetraazahexacosan tetrahydrochloride (2X3), and the lipid-helper dioleoylphosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE), were equipped with polyethylene glycol lipoconjugates differing in molecular weight and structure. The main findings of this work are as follows: (i) significant activation of MCP-1 and INF-α, β, and γ production in CBA mice occurs under the action of isRNA complexes with liposomes containing lipoconjugates with long PEG chains, while activation of MCP-1 and INF-γ, but not INF-α or β, was observed under the action of isRNA lipoplexes containing lipoconjugates with short PEG chains; (ii) a pronounced antiproliferative effect on B16 melanoma cells in vitro, as well as an antitumor and hepatoprotective effect in vivo, was induced by isRNA pre-complexes with non-pegylated liposomes, while complexes containing lipoconjugates with long-chain liposomes were inactive; (iii) the antitumor activity of isRNA correlated with the efficiency of its accumulation in the cells and did not explicitly depend on the activation of cytokine and interferon production. Thus, the structure of the delivery system plays a vital role in determining the response to isRNA and allows for the choice of a delivery system depending on the desired effect.
Recycling and Reutilization of Waste Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastics: Current Status and Prospects
Authors: Chen Pi-Yu , Feng Ran , Xu Ying , Zhu Ji-Hua
Published: August 2023

The extensive use of carbon fiber-reinforced plastics (CFRP) in aerospace, civil engineering, and other fields has resulted in a significant amount of waste, leading to serious environmental issues. Finding appropriate methods for recycling CFRP waste and effectively reusing recycled carbon fibers (rCFs) has become a challenging task. This paper presents an overview of the current status of CFRP waste and provides a systematic review and analysis of recycling technologies. In addition to discussing mechanical recycling, thermal decomposition, and chemical solvent degradation methods, the organic alkali/organic solvent method for recycling resins is also elucidated. By introducing the recycling conditions and outcomes of the organic alkali/organic solvent method, the study highlights its significance as a reference for carbon fiber recycling. Furthermore, the paper reviews the current state of rCFs utilization based on its application domains, focusing on research advancements in fiber composites and cementitious composites. Based on these findings, the paper summarizes the existing research limitations and identifies specific areas that require further attention in recycling techniques and rCFs utilization. Lastly, this review provides a prospect on the future of recycling and reusing CFRP waste.
Acquiring Process Knowledge in Extrusion-Based Additive Manufacturing via Interpretable Machine Learning
Authors: Pelzer Lukas , Schulze Tobias , Buschmann Daniel , Enslin Chrismarie , Schmitt Robert , Hopmann Christian
Published: August 2023

Additive manufacturing (AM), especially the extrusion-based process, has many process parameters which influence the resulting part properties. Those parameters have complex interdependencies and are therefore difficult if not impossible to model analytically. Machine learning (ML) is a promising approach to find suitable combinations of process parameters for manufacturing a part with desired properties without having to analytically model the process in its entirety. However, ML-based approaches are typically black box models. Therefore, it is difficult to verify their output and to derive process knowledge from such approaches. This study uses interpretable machine learning methods to derive process knowledge from interpreted data sets by analyzing the model’s feature importance. Using fused layer modeling (FLM) as an exemplary manufacturing technology, it is shown that the process can be characterized entirely. Therefore, sweet spots for process parameters can be determined objectively. Additionally, interactions between parameters are discovered, and the basis for further investigations is established.
Development of a Rapid Tool for Metal Injection Molding Using Aluminum-Filled Epoxy Resins
Authors: Kuo Chil-Chyuan , Pan Xin-Yu
Published: August 2023

Metal injection molding (MIM) is a near net-shape manufacturing process combining conventional plastic injection molding and powder metallurgy. Two kinds of injections molds for MIM were developed using conventional mold steel and aluminum (Al)-filled epoxy resins in this study. The characteristics of the mold made by rapid tooling technology (RTT) were evaluated and compared with that of the fabricated conventional machining method through the MIM process. It was found that the service life of the injection mold fabricated by Al-filled epoxy resin is about 1300 molding cycles with the average surface roughness of 158 nm. The mold service life of the injection mold fabricated by Al-filled epoxy resin is about 1.3% that of the conventional mold steel. The reduction in manufacturing cost of an injection mold made by Al-filled epoxy resin is about 30.4% compared with that of the fabricated conventional mold steel. The saving in manufacturing time of an injection mold made by RTT is about 30.3% compared with that of the fabricated conventional machining method.
Fast Adaptive Beamforming for Weather Observations with Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Kim Yoon-SL , Schvartzman David , Yu Tian-You , Palmer Robert D.
Published: August 2023

Polarimetric phased array radar (PAR) can achieve high temporal resolutions for improved meteorological observations with digital beamforming (DBF). The Fourier method performs DBF deterministically, and produces antenna radiation patterns with fixed sidelobe levels and angular resolution by pre-computing the beamforming weights based on the geometry of receivers. In contrast, the Capon method performs DBF adaptively in response to the changing environment by computing the beamforming weights from the received signals at multiple channels. However, it becomes computationally expensive as the number of receivers grows. This paper presents computationally efficient adaptive beamforming with an application of convolutional neural networks, named ABCNN. ABCNN is trained with the phase and amplitude of complex-valued time-series IQ signals and the Capon beamforming weights as input and output. ABCNN is tested and evaluated using simulated time-series data from both point targets and weather scatterers for a planar of fully digital PAR architecture. The preliminary results show that ABCNN lowers computation time by a factor of three, compared to the Capon method, for a phased array antenna with 1024 elements, while mitigating the contamination from sidelobes by placing nulls at the location of the clutter. Furthermore, ABCNN produces antenna patterns similar to those from the Capon method, which shows that it has successfully learned the data.