bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Bridge-Linked Phosphorus-Containing Flame Retardant for Endowing Vinyl Ester Resin with Low Fire Hazard
Authors: Xu Zihui , Zhan Jing , Xu Zhirong , Mao Liangchen , Mu Xiaowei , Tao Ran
Published: December 2022

The high flammability of vinyl ester resin (VE) significantly limits its widespread application in the fields of electronics and aerospace. A new phosphorus-based flame retardant 6,6’-(1-phenylethane-1,2 diyl) bis (dibenzo[c,e][1,2]oxaphosphinine 6-oxide) (PBDOO), was synthesized using 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide (DOPO) and acetophenone. The synthesized PBDOO was further incorporated with VE to form the VE/PBDOO composites, which displayed an improved flame retardancy with higher thermal stability. The structure of PBDOO was investigated using Fourier transformed infrared spectrometry (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonances (NMR). The thermal stability and flame retardancy of VE/PBDOO composites were investigated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), vertical burn test (UL-94), limiting oxygen index (LOI), and cone calorimetry. The impacts of PBDOO weight percentage (wt%) on the flame-retardant properties of the formed VE/PBDOO composites were also examined. When applying 15 wt% PBDOO, the formed VE composites can meet the UL-94 V-0 rating with a high LOI value of 31.5%. The peak heat release rate (PHRR) and the total heat release (THR) of VE loaded 15 wt% of PBDOO decreased by 76.71% and 40.63%, respectively, compared with that of untreated VE. In addition, the flame-retardant mechanism of PBDOO was proposed by analyzing pyrolysis behavior and residual carbon of VE/PBDOO composites. This work is expected to provide an efficient method to enhance the fire safety of VE.
Bifunctional Peptidomimetic G Protein-Biased Mu-Opioid Receptor Agonist and Neuropeptide FF Receptor Antagonist KGFF09 Shows Efficacy in Visceral Pain without Rewarding Effects after Subcutaneous Administration in Mice
Authors: Dumitrascuta Maria , Martin Charlotte , Ballet Steven , Spetea Mariana
Published: December 2022

There is still an unmet clinical need to develop new pharmaceuticals for effective and safe pain management. Current pharmacotherapy offers unsatisfactory solutions due to serious side effects related to the chronic use of opioid drugs. Prescription opioids produce analgesia through activation of the mu-opioid receptor (MOR) and are major contributors to the current opioid crisis. Multifunctional ligands possessing activity at more than one receptor represent a prominent therapeutic approach for the treatment of pain with fewer adverse effects. We recently reported on the design of a bifunctional MOR agonist/neuropeptide FF receptor (NPFFR) antagonist peptididomimetic, KGFF09 (H-Dmt-DArg-Aba-βAla-Bpa-Phe-NH2), and its antinociceptive effects after subcutaneous (s.c.) administration in acute and persistent pain in mice with reduced propensity for unwanted side effects. In this study, we further investigated the antinociceptive properties of KGFF09 in a mouse model of visceral pain after s.c. administration and the potential for opioid-related liabilities of rewarding and sedation/locomotor dysfunction following chronic treatment. KGFF09 produced a significant dose-dependent inhibition of the writhing behavior in the acetic acid-induced writhing assay with increased potency when compared to morphine. We also demonstrated the absence of harmful effects caused by typical MOR agonists, i.e., rewarding effects (conditioned-place preference test) and sedation/locomotor impairment (open-field test), at a dose shown to be highly effective in inhibiting pain behavior. Consequently, KGFF09 displayed a favorable benefit/side effect ratio regarding these opioid-related side effects compared to conventional opioid analgesics, such as morphine, underlining the development of dual MOR agonists/NPFFR antagonists as improved treatments for various pain conditions.
Screening and Mechanism of Novel Angiotensin-I-Converting Enzyme Inhibitory Peptides in X. sorbifolia Seed Meal: A Computer-Assisted Experimental Study Method
Authors: Mu Yihan , Liu Dongwei , Xie Huaping , Zhang Xinyu , Han Xue , Lv Zhaolin
Published: December 2022

Angiotensin-I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are used extensively to control hypertension. In this study, a computer-assisted experimental approach was used to screen ACE-inhibiting peptides from X. sorbifolum seed meal (XSM). The process conditions for XSM hydrolysis were optimized through the orthogonal experimental method combined with a database. The optimal conditions for ACE inhibition included an alkaline protease dose of 5%, 45 °C, 15 min and pH 9.5. The hydrolysate was analyzed by LC-MS/MS, and 10 optimal peptides were screened. Molecular docking results revealed four peptides (GGLPGFDPA, IMAVLAIVL, ETYFIVR, and INPILLPK) with ACE inhibitory potential. At 0.1 mg/mL, the synthetic peptides GGLPGFDPA, ETYFIVR, and INPILLPK provided ACE inhibition rates of 24.89%, 67.02%, and 4.19%, respectively. GGLPGFDPA and ETYFIVR maintained high inhibitory activities during in vitro digestions. Therefore, the XSM protein may be a suitable material for preparing ACE inhibitory peptides, and computer-assisted experimental screening is an effective, accurate and promising method for discovering new active peptides.
Process Optimization of Phytoantioxidant and Photoprotective Compounds from Carob Pods (Ceratonia siliqua L.) Using Ultrasonic Assisted Extraction Method
Authors: Ayad Radia , Ayad Rima , Bourekoua Hayat , Lefahal Mostefa , Makhloufi El Hani , Akkal Salah , Medjroubi Kamel , Nieto Gema
Published: December 2022

The current study first describes the extraction of phytoantioxidant polyphenols from Carob byproducts (pods) using maceration and heating-assisted extraction as traditional methods and ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) as an innovative method to determine the most efficient extraction process in terms of four targeted responses: total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant activities (TAC and DPPH), and photoprotective properties as measured by the sun protection factor (SPF). Second, we used response surface methodology (RSM) with a central composite rotatable design (CCDR) approach to investigate the influence of process variables (extraction time, extraction temperature, and solvent concentration) on UAE, which was found to be the most effective extraction technique in our study. Carob byproduct extracts had a TPC ranging from 6.21 to 21.92 mg GAE/g dw, a TAC ranging from 22.00 to 49.30 mg AAE/g dw, DPPH scavenging activity ranging from 56.35 to 90.50%, and SPF values ranging from 8.62 to 22.37. The optimal UAE conditions for maximum TPC, TAC, DPPH, and SPF responses were determined to be 38.90% ethanol, 53.90 °C, and 50.92 min. Using Carob as a source for sustainable and bioactive products in conjunction with optimized UAE is a promising contribution to the cosmetic industry that will help to strengthen the concept of environmentally-friendly “green chemistry”. Given that Carob pulp or seeds are considered food byproducts, the research presented here encourages the use of these agri-food waste materials in cosmetics.
Food Peptides, Gut Microbiota Modulation, and Antihypertensive Effects
Authors: Tsafack Patrick Blondin , Li Chen , Tsopmo Apollinaire
Published: December 2022

The gut microbiota is increasingly important in the overall human health and as such, it is a target in the search of novel strategies for the management of metabolic disorders including blood pressure, and cardiovascular diseases. The link between microbiota and hypertension is complex and this review is intended to provide an overview of the mechanism including the production of postbiotics, mitigation of inflammation, and the integration of food biological molecules within this complex system. The focus is on hydrolyzed food proteins and peptides which are less commonly investigated for prebiotic properties. The analysis of available data showed that food peptides are multifunctional and can prevent gut dysbiosis by positively affecting the production of postbiotics or gut metabolites (short-chain fatty acids, polysaccharides, biogenic amines, bile acids). Peptides and the postbiotics then displayed antihypertensive effects via the renin-angiotensin system, the gut barrier, the endothelium, and reduction in inflammation and oxidative stress. Despite the promising antihypertensive effect of the food peptides via the modulation of the gut, there is a lack of human studies as most of the works have been conducted in animal models.
Modulating Direct Growth of Copper Cobaltite Nanostructure on Copper Mesh as a Hierarchical Catalyst of Oxone Activation for Efficient Elimination of Azo Toxicant
Authors: Mao Po-Hsin , Kwon Eilhann , Chang Hou-Chien , Bui Ha Manh , Phattarapattamawong Songkeart , Tsai Yu-Chih , Lin Kun-Yi Andrew , Ebrahimi Afshin , Yee Yeoh Fei , Yuan Min-Hao
Published: December 2022

As cobalt (Co) has been the most useful element for activating Oxone to generate SO4•−, this study aims to develop a hierarchical catalyst with nanoscale functionality and macroscale convenience by decorating nanoscale Co-based oxides on macroscale supports. Specifically, a facile protocol is proposed by utilizing Cu mesh itself as a Cu source for fabricating CuCo2O4 on Cu mesh. By changing the dosages of the Co precursor and carbamide, various nanostructures of CuCo2O4 grown on a Cu mesh can be afforded, including nanoscale needles, flowers, and sheets. Even though the Cu mesh itself can be also transformed to a Cu-Oxide mesh, the growth of CuCo2O4 on the Cu mesh significantly improves its physical, chemical, and electrochemical properties, making these CuCo2O4@Cu meshes much more superior catalysts for activating Oxone to degrade the Azo toxicant, Acid Red 27. More interestingly, the flower-like CuCo2O4@Cu mesh exhibits a higher specific surface area and more superior electrochemical performance, enabling the flower-like CuCo2O4@Cu mesh to show the highest catalytic activity for Oxone activation to degrade Acid Red 27. The flower-like CuCo2O4@Cu mesh also exhibits a much lower Ea of Acid Red 27 degradation than the reported catalysts. These results demonstrate that CuCo2O4@Cu meshes are advantageous heterogeneous catalysts for Oxone activation, and especially, the flower-like CuCo2O4@Cu mesh appears as the most effective CuCo2O4@Cu mesh to eliminate the toxic Acid Red 27.
Enhanced Field-Effect Control of Single-Layer WS2 Optical Features by hBN Full Encapsulation
Authors: Di Renzo Anna , Çakıroğlu Onur , Carrascoso Felix , Li Hao , Gigli Giuseppe , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Munuera Carmen , Rizzo Aurora , Castellanos-Gomez Andres , Mastria Rosanna , Frisenda Riccardo
Published: December 2022

The field-effect control of the electrical and optical properties of two-dimensional (2D) van der Waals semiconductors (vdW) is one important aspect of this novel class of materials. Thanks to their reduced thickness and decreased screening, electric fields can easily penetrate in a 2D semiconductor and thus modulate their charge density and their properties. In literature, the field effect is routinely used to fabricate atomically thin field-effect transistors based on 2D semiconductors. Apart from the tuning of the electrical transport, it has been demonstrated that the field effect can also be used to modulate the excitonic optical emission of 2D transition metal dichalcogenides such as MoS2 or WSe2. In this paper, we present some recent experiments on the field-effect control of the optical and excitonic properties of the monolayer WS2. Using the deterministic transfer of van der Waals materials, we fabricate planar single-layer WS2 devices contacted by a gold electrode and partially sandwiched between two insulating hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) flakes. Thanks to the planar nature of the device, we can optically access both the hBN encapsulated and the unencapsulated WS2 regions and compare the field-effect control of the exciton population in the two cases. We find that the encapsulation strongly increases the range of tunability of the optical emission of WS2, allowing us to tune the photoluminescence emission from excitons-dominated to trions-dominated. We also discuss how the full encapsulation of WS2 with hBN helps reduce spurious hysteretic effects in the field-effect control of the optical properties, similar to what has been reported for 2D vdW field-effect transistors.
Superconducting Valve Exploiting Interplay between Spin-Orbit and Exchange Interactions
Authors: Neilo Alexey , Bakurskiy Sergey , Klenov Nikolay , Soloviev Igor , Kupriyanov Mikhail
Published: December 2022

We theoretically investigated the proximity effect in SNSOF and SF’F structures consisting of a superconductor (S), a normal metal (NSO), and ferromagnetic (F’,F) thin films with spin–orbit interaction (SOI) in the NSO layer. We show that a normal layer with spin–orbit interaction effectively suppresses triplet correlations generated in a ferromagnetic layer. Due to this effect, the critical temperature of the superconducting layer in the SNSOF multilayer turns out to be higher than in a similar multilayer without spin–orbit interaction in the N layer. Moreover, in the presence of a mixed type of spin–orbit interaction involving the Rashba and Dresselhaus components, the SNSOF structure is a spin valve, whose critical temperature is determined by the direction of the magnetization vector in the F layer. We calculated the control characteristics of the SNSOF spin valve and compared them with those available in traditional SF’F devices with two ferromagnetic layers. We concluded that SNSOF structures with one controlled F layer provide solid advantages over the broadly considered SF’F spin valves, paving the way for high-performance storage components for superconducting electronics.
Risk of Malnutrition in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Feng Xiaoru , Liu Zeqi , He Xiaotong , Wang Xibiao , Yuan Changzheng , Huang Liyan , Song Rui , Wu You
Published: December 2022

(1) Background: Studies have reported that COVID-19 may increase the risk of malnutrition among patients. However, the prevalence of such risk in hospitalized COVID-19 patients is uncertain due to the inconsistent use of assessment methods. (2) Methods: PubMed, Web of Science, and EMBASE were searched to identify studies on the nutritional status of hospitalized COVID-19 patients. A pooled prevalence of malnutrition risk evaluated by Nutrition Risk Score (NRS-2002) was obtained using a random effects model. Differences by study-level characteristics were examined by hospitalization setting, time of assessment, age, and country. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. (3) Results: 53 studies from 17 countries were identified and summarized. A total of 17 studies using NRS-2002, including 3614 COVID-19 patients were included in the primary meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of risk of malnutrition was significantly higher among ICU patients (92.2%, 95% CI: 85.9% to 96.8%) than among general ward patients (70.7%, 95% CI: 56.4% to 83.2%) (p = 0.002). No significant differences were found between age groups (≥65 vs. <65 years, p = 0.306) and countries (p = 0.893). (4) Conclusions: High risk of malnutrition is common and concerning in hospitalized patients with COVID-19, suggesting that malnutrition screening and nutritional support during hospitalization are needed.
Nutritional Status and Selected Adipokines in Children with Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Roczniak Wojciech , Szymlak Agnieszka , Mazur Bogdan , Chobot Agata , Stojewska Małgorzata , Oświęcimska Joanna
Published: December 2022

Background: The aim of this study was to assess the nutritional status and serum concentrations of adipokines in children with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and healthy controls. We also sought to evaluate their relation to metabolic parameters. Methods: We studied 33 IBS patients (11 girls, 22 boys) aged 5–17 years and 30 healthy age-matched controls (11 girls, 19 boys). The analysis included anthropometric measurements, body composition parameter measurements using bioimpedance, and biochemical tests and measurements of serum concentrations of leptin, adiponectin, chemerin, and omentin-1. Results: The results of the anthropometric measurements were comparable between the patients and the controls. The patients had higher triglycerides, HOMA-IRs, and chemerin concentrations than the healthy subjects. The HDL cholesterol and omentin-1 levels were lower than in the controls. Leptin and adiponectin did not differ significantly between the groups. An analysis of the receiver operator curves (ROCs) showed that serum concentrations of chemerin ≥ 232.8 ng/mL had 30% sensitivity and 87% specificity when they were used to differentiate between children with IBS and healthy subjects. In the case of serum omentin-1 concentrations ≤ 279.4 ng/mL, the sensitivity and specificity were 60% and 80%, respectively. Conclusions: The nutritional status of children with IBS did not differ from that of the healthy controls. We found significant differences in serum chemerin and omentin-1 concentrations between IBS patients and healthy children. These adipokines could be used as IBS biomarkers as they demonstrate good specificity and moderate sensitivity. The serum concentrations of chemerin and omentin-1 in IBS patients were related to nutritional status and insulin resistance.
I Am the 1 in 10—What Should I Eat? A Research Review of Nutrition in Endometriosis
Authors: Piecuch Małgorzata , Garbicz Jagoda , Waliczek Martyna , Malinowska-Borowska Jolanta , Rozentryt Piotr
Published: December 2022

Endometriosis is a chronic, painful, estrogen-related inflammatory disease that affects approximately 10% of the female population. Endometriosis has a significant negative impact on quality of life. Nutrition may be involved in the development and severity of endometriosis. The purpose of this paper is to discuss in detail the nutritional recommendations for patients with endometriosis. This article discusses the importance of nutrients such as polyphenols, vitamins C, D and E, PUFAs, and iron in the development of endometriosis. Alternative diets, such as the Mediterranean, anti-inflammatory, vegetarian, low-nickel and low-FODMAP diets, have also been presented in the context of their potential beneficial effects on the course of endometriosis.
Adherence to Pro-Vegetarian Food Patterns and Risk of Oesophagus, Stomach, and Pancreas Cancers: A Multi Case–Control Study (The PANESOES Study)
Authors: Oncina-Cánovas Alejandro , González-Palacios Sandra , Notario-Barandiaran Leyre , Torres-Collado Laura , Signes-Pastor Antonio , de-Madaria Enrique , Santibañez Miguel , García-de la Hera Manuela , Vioque Jesús
Published: December 2022

We aimed to evaluate the association between three previously defined pro-vegetarian (PVG) food patterns and the cancers of the oesophagus, stomach, and pancreas in a multi case–control study. We analyzed data from a multi-case hospital-based study carried out in two Mediterranean provinces in Spain. A total of 1233 participants were included in the analyses: 778 incident cancer cases, histologically confirmed (199 oesophagus, 414 stomach, and 165 pancreas) and 455 controls. A dietary assessment was performed using a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Three PVG food patterns (general, healthful, and unhealthful) were estimated using 12 food groups for the general PVG (gPVG), scoring positive plant-based foods and negative animal-based foods, and 18 food groups, for the healthful (hPVG) and unhealthful (uPVG) food patterns. Multinomial logistic regression was used to estimate relative risk ratios (RRR) and confidence intervals (95% CI) for quintiles of adherence to PVG patterns and as a continuous variable. The RRR (95% CI) for the highest vs. the lowest quintile of gPVG were, RRR = 0.37 (0.32, 0.42) for the oesophagus, RRR = 0.34 (0.27, 0.43) for the stomach, and RRR = 0.43 (0.35, 0.52) for pancreas cancer. For the hPVG, the RRR were RRR = 0.72 (0.58, 0.90) for the oesophagus, RRR = 0.42 (0.34, 0.52) for the stomach, and RRR = 0.74 (0.59, 0.92) for pancreas cancer. The uPVG was associated with a higher risk of stomach cancer RRR = 1.76 (1.42, 2.18). Higher adherence to gPVG and hPVG food patterns is associated with a lower risk of oesophageal, stomach, and pancreas cancers, while a higher adherence to a uPVG food pattern is associated with a higher risk of stomach cancer.
Model Study of the Energy Dependence of Anisotropic Flow in Heavy-Ion Collisions at sNN = 2–4.5 GeV
Authors: Parfenov Petr
Published: December 2022

The anisotropic flow is one of the important observables sensitive to the equation of state (EOS) and transport properties of the strongly interacting matter created in relativistic heavy-ion collisions. In this work, we report a detailed multi-differential study of the directed (v1), elliptic (v2), triangular (v3), and quadrangular (v4) flow coefficients of protons in relativistic heavy-ion collisions at sNN = 2.2–4.5 GeV using several hadronic transport models. Recent published results for Au + Au collisions at sNN = 2.4 GeV from HADES experiment and at sNN = 3.0 GeV from the STAR experiment have been used for comparison. The study motivates further experimental investigations of the anisotropic collective flow of protons and neutrons in a high baryon density region.
HPV-Associated Breast Cancer: Myth or Fact?
Authors: Kudela Erik , Kudelova Eva , Kozubík Erik , Rokos Tomas , Pribulova Terezia , Holubekova Veronika , Biringer Kamil
Published: December 2022

Some estimates place the proportion of human malignancies attributable to viruses at between 15 and 20 percent. Viruses including the human papillomavirus are considered an interesting but controversial etiological risk factor for breast cancer. HPV infection is anticipated to be an early trigger in breast cancer carcinogenesis, followed by cumulative alterations over time (“hit and run” mechanism) through synergy with other environmental factors. The association between HPV and breast cancer has not yet been verified. There are very conflicting data on the presence of HPV DNA in breast cancer samples, and we lack a clarified, exact mode of HPV transmission to the breast. In our review article we analyzed the up-to-date knowledge about the association of HPV and breast cancer. Furthermore, we summarized the available original research published since 2010. In conclusion, the complexity and inconsistency of the available results together with the relatively low prevalence of HPV infection requires extensive research with much larger studies and exact and unified diagnostic methods are required to better understand the role of the HPV in breast carcinogenesis.
Tuberculosis Infection in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Tchakounte Youngui Boris , Tchounga Boris Kevin , Graham Stephen M. , Bonnet Maryline
Published: December 2022

The burden of tuberculosis (TB) in children and adolescents remains very significant. Several million children and adolescents are infected with TB each year worldwide following exposure to an infectious TB case and the risk of progression from TB infection to tuberculosis disease is higher in this group compared to adults. This review describes the risk factors for TB infection in children and adolescents. Following TB exposure, the risk of TB infection is determined by a combination of index case characteristics, contact features, and environmental determinants. We also present the recently recommended approaches to diagnose and treat TB infection as well as novel tests for infection. The tests for TB infection have limitations and diagnosis still relies on an indirect immunological assessment of cellular immune response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigens using immunodiagnostic testing. It is recommended that TB exposed children and adolescents and those living with HIV receive TB preventive treatment (TPT) to reduce the risk of progression to TB disease. Several TPT regimens of similar effectiveness and safety are now available and recommended by the World Health Organisation.
Late Diagnosis of Disseminated Sporothrix brasiliensis Infection with Bone Marrow Involvement in an HIV-Negative Patient
Authors: Magalhães Vanessa Caroline Randi , Colombo Salene Angelini , Freitas Gustavo José Cota , Moura Alexandre Sampaio , Vieira Flávia Cardoso Lopez , Lyon Ana Cláudia , Azevedo Maria Isabel , Peres Nalu Teixeira de Aguiar , Santos Daniel Assis
Published: December 2022

Sporotrichosis is a fungal disease that causes symptoms similar to those of other infectious and non-infectious diseases, making diagnosis difficult and challenging. Here, we report a case of an HIV-negative patient presenting disseminated sporotrichosis with widespread cutaneous lesions mimicking pyoderma gangrenosum, with bone marrow infection, pancytopenia, and hemophagocytic syndrome. However, all the clinical manifestations and a bacterial coinfection delayed the request for a fungal diagnosis. Therefore, sporotrichosis should always be investigated in patients from endemic areas presenting with widespread cutaneous lesions associated with pancytopenia.
SARS-CoV-2 and Animals: From a Mirror Image to a Storm Warning
Authors: Pellegrini Francesco , Omar Ahmed Hassan , Buonavoglia Canio , Pratelli Annamaria
Published: December 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), emerged in Wuhan city (Hubei province, China) in December 2019, and the World Health Organization (WHO) declared an international public health emergency on 11 March 2020 [...]
Targeting Platelet Activation Pathways to Limit Tumour Progression: Current State of Affairs
Authors: Xulu Kutlwano R. , Augustine Tanya N.
Published: December 2022

The association between cancer and a hypercoagulatory environment is well described. Thrombotic complications serve not only as a major mortality risk but the underlying molecular structure and function play significant roles in enhancing tumour progression, which is defined as the tumour’s capacity to survive, invade and metastasise, amongst other hallmarks of the disease. The use of anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs in cardiovascular disease lessens thrombotic effects, but the consequences on tumour progression require interrogation. Therefore, this review considered developments in the management of platelet activation pathways (thromboxane, ADP and thrombin), focusing on the use of Aspirin, Clopidogrel and Atopaxar, and their potential impacts on tumour progression. Published data suggested a cautionary tale in ensuring we adequately investigate not only drug–drug interactions but also those unforeseen reciprocal interactions between drugs and their targets within the tumour microenvironment that may act as selective pressures, enhancing tumour survival and progression.
Cooccurring Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus and Autoimmune Thyroiditis in a Girl with Craniofrontonasal Syndrome: Are EFNB1 Variants Associated with Autoimmunity?
Authors: Güneş Sebla , Wu Jiangping , Özyılmaz Berk , Deveci Sevim Reyhan , Ünüvar Tolga , Anık Ahmet
Published: December 2022

Craniofrontonasal syndrome (CFNS), also known as craniofrontonasal dysplasia, is an X-linked inherited developmental malformation caused by mutations in the ephrin B1 (EFNB1) gene. The main phenotypic features of the syndrome are coronal synostosis, hypertelorism, bifid nasal tip, dry and curly hair, and longitudinal splitting of nails. A 9-year-and-11-month-old girl with CFNS was admitted due to polyuria, polydipsia, fatigue, and abdominal pain. On physical examination, she had the classical phenotypical features of CFNS. Genetic tests revealed a c.429_430insT (p.Gly144TrpfsTer31) heterozygote variant in the EFNB1 coding region. The patient was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and autoimmune thyroiditis based on laboratory findings and symptoms. The mother of the patient, who had the same CFNS phenotype and EFNB1 variant, was screened for autoimmune diseases and was also with autoimmune thyroiditis. This is the first report describing the association of CFNS with T1DM and autoimmune thyroiditis in patients with EFNB1 mutation.
Post-Marketing Surveillance of Statins—A Descriptive Analysis of Psychiatric Adverse Reactions in EudraVigilance
Authors: Pop Gabriela , Farcaș Andreea , Butucă Anca , Morgovan Claudiu , Arseniu Anca Maria , Pumnea Manuela , Teodoru Minodora , Gligor Felicia Gabriela
Published: December 2022

Statins are included in the category of high-frequency prescription drugs, and their use is on an upward trend worldwide. In 2012, the FDA issued a warning about possible cognitive adverse drug reactions (ADRs) related to statins, some of which are listed in the Summary of Product Characteristics, but there are still concerns about their potential risk of psychiatric events. The aim of this research was to investigate spontaneous reports containing psychiatric ADRs associated with statins by analyzing the EudraVigilance (EV) database. From January 2004 to July 2021, a total of 8965 ADRs were reported for the Systems Organ Class (SOC) “psychiatric disorders”, of which 88.64% were registered for atorvastatin (3659), simvastatin (2326) and rosuvastatin (1962). Out of a total of 7947 individual case safety reports (ICSRs) of the 3 statins mentioned above, in 36.3% (2885) of them, statins were considered the only suspected drug, and in 42% (3338), no other co-administered drugs were mentioned. Moreover, insomnia has been reported in 19.3% (1536) of cases, being the most frequent adverse reaction. A disproportionality analysis of psychiatric ADRs was performed. The Reporting Odds Ratio (ROR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) were calculated for simvastatin, atorvastatin and rosuvastatin compared with antiplatelets and antihypertensive drugs. The reporting probability for most ADRs of these statins compared to antiplatelets was higher. The reporting probability for insomnia, nightmares and depression produced by statins compared to antihypertensive drugs was also higher. The results of this analysis augment the existing data about a possible correlation between the administration of statins and the occurrence of psychiatric side effects.
Chemical Profile and Skin-Beneficial Activities of the Petal Extracts of Paeonia tenuifolia L. from Serbia
Authors: Čutović Natalija , Marković Tatjana , Kostić Marina , Gašić Uroš , Prijić Željana , Ren Xiuxia , Lukić Milan , Bugarski Branko
Published: December 2022

Without being aware of its chemical makeup, many ancient societies have used Steppe peony in their traditional medicine. Given that modern phytopreparation intended for use on human skin requires, above all, knowledge of its chemical composition, the goal of this study was to make a screening of the composition of aqueous and methanolic extracts of the petals of P. tenuifolia L. and to examine them for various skin-beneficial properties. The extracts were prepared by maceration, ultrasound-assisted, and microwave-assisted extraction procedures. The chemical profiling was conducted by the use of UHPLC-LTQ-OrbiTrap MS and UHPLC/MS, and spectrophotometric methods for the determination of total polyphenol and total flavonoid contents. The biological activities entailed antioxidant ABTS, DPPH, CUPRAC (Cupric Ion Reducing Antioxidant Capacity), and FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power) assays, antimicrobial (antibacterial and antifungal) and antibiofilm activities, cytotoxicity, wound healing potential, as well as the adhesion and invasion of Staphylococcus lugdunensis. The results showed that the petals are rich in phenolic acids and flavonoids, which are commonly associated with numerous biological activities. The aqueous extracts were more efficient in the majority of the bioactivity assays then the methanolic ones, whereas the optimal extraction method varied between the assays. This study is the first step towards the safe use of the aqueous extracts of P. tenuifolia petals for therapeutic skin treatments.
Segmental Upregulation of ASIC1 Channels in the Formalin Acute Pain Mouse Model
Authors: Gobetto María Natalia , Castellanos Libia Catalina Salinas , Contreras Natalia Estefanía , Sodero Alejandro Omar , Cambiagno Damián Alejandro , Malnati Georgina Oriana Mingolo , Montes Mayra Micaela , Uchitel Osvaldo Daniel , Weissmann Carina
Published: December 2022

Background: Hindpaw injection of formalin in rodents is used to assess acute persistent pain. The response to formalin is biphasic. The initial response (first minutes) is thought to be linked to inflammatory, peripheral mechanisms, while the latter (around 30 min after the injection), is linked to central mechanisms. This model is useful to analyze the effect of drugs at one or both phases, and the involvement of ion channels in the response. Acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) regulate synaptic activities and play important roles in pain conditions. Recently, psalmotoxin-1 (Pctx-1), a toxin that inhibits ASIC1a-constituted channels, and antisense ASIC1a-RNA, intrathecal administered in mice were shown to affect both phases of the test. Methods: The mouse formalin test was performed on C57/BL6 7- to 9-week-old mice. Behavioral tests were conducted and tissue was extracted to detect proteins (ASIC1 and pERK) and ASIC1-mRNA and mir485-5p levels. Results: The injection of formalin was accompanied by an increase in ASIC1 levels. This was detected at the contralateral anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) compared to the ipsilateral side, and both sides of the ACC of vehicle-injected animals. At the spinal cord and dorsal root ganglia, ASIC1 levels followed a gradient stronger at lumbar (L) 3 and decreased towards L5. Gender differences were detected at the ACC; with female mice showing higher ASIC1a levels at the ACC. No significant changes in ASIC1-mRNA levels were detected. Evidence suggests ASIC1 upregulation depends on regulatory microRNAs. Conclusion: This work highlights the important role of ASIC1 in pain and the potential role of pharmacological therapies aimed at this channel.
Increased Sensitivity of Computed Tomography Scan for Neoplastic Tissues Using the Extracellular Vesicle Formulation of the Contrast Agent Iohexol
Authors: Vincenti Simona , Villa Alessandro , Crescenti Daniela , Crippa Elisabetta , Brunialti Electra , Shojaei-Ghahrizjani Fereshteh , Rizzi Nicoletta , Rebecchi Monica , Dei Cas Michele , Del Sole Angelo , Paroni Rita , Mazzaferro Vincenzo , Ciana Paolo
Published: December 2022

Computed tomography (CT) is a diagnostic medical imaging modality commonly used to detect disease and injury. Contrast agents containing iodine, such as iohexol, are frequently used in CT examinations to more clearly differentiate anatomic structures and to detect and characterize abnormalities, including tumors. However, these contrast agents do not have a specific tropism for cancer cells, so the ability to detect tumors is severely limited by the degree of vascularization of the tumor itself. Identifying delivery systems allowing enrichment of contrast agents at the tumor site would increase the sensitivity of detection of tumors and metastases, potentially in organs that are normally inaccessible to contrast agents, such as the CNS. Recent work from our laboratory has identified cancer patient-derived extracellular vesicles (PDEVs) as effective delivery vehicles for targeting diagnostic drugs to patients’ tumors. Based on this premise, we explored the possibility of introducing iohexol into PDEVs for targeted delivery to neoplastic tissue. Here, we provide preclinical proof-of-principle for the tumor-targeting ability of iohexol-loaded PDEVs, which resulted in an impressive accumulation of the contrast agent selectively into the neoplastic tissue, significantly improving the ability of the contrast agent to delineate tumor boundaries.
Albumin-Functionalized Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Theranostics: Engineering and Long-Term In Situ Imaging
Authors: Bychkova Anna V. , Yakunina Marina N. , Lopukhova Mariia V. , Degtyarev Yevgeniy N. , Motyakin Mikhail V. , Pokrovsky Vadim S. , Kovarski Alexander L. , Gorobets Maria G. , Retivov Vasily M. , Khachatryan Derenik S.
Published: December 2022

Magnetic nanosystems (MNSs) consisting of magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) coated by human serum albumin (HSA), commonly used as a component of hybrid nanosystems for theranostics, were engineered and characterized. The HSA coating was obtained by means of adsorption and free radical modification of the protein molecules on the surface of IONPs exhibiting peroxidase-like activity. The generation of hydroxyl radicals in the reaction of IONPs with hydrogen peroxide was proven by the spin trap technique. The methods of dynamic light scattering (DLS) and electron magnetic resonance (EMR) were applied to confirm the stability of the coatings formed on the surface of the IONPs. The synthesized MNSs (d ~35 nm by DLS) were intraarterially administered in tumors implanted to rats in the dose range from 20 to 60 μg per animal and studied in vivo as a contrasting agent for computed tomography. The long-term (within 14 days of the experiment) presence of the MNSs in the tumor vascular bed was detected without immediate or delayed adverse reactions and significant systemic toxic effects during the observation period. The peroxidase-like activity of MNSs was proven by the colorimetric test with o-phenylenediamine (OPD) as a substrate. The potential of the synthesized MNSs to be used for theranostics, particularly, in oncology, was discussed.
Gödel, Turing and the Iconic/Performative Axis
Authors: Kennedy Juliette Cara
Published: December 2022

1936 was a watershed year for computability. Debates among Gödel, Church and others over the correct analysis of the intuitive concept “human effectively computable”, an analysis at the heart of the Incompleteness Theorems, the Entscheidungsproblem, the question of what a finite computation is, and most urgently—for Gödel—the generality of the Incompleteness Theorems, were definitively set to rest with the appearance, in that year, of the Turing Machine. The question I explore here is, do the mathematical facts exhaust what is to be said about the thinking behind the “confluence of ideas in 1936”? I will argue for a cultural role in Gödel’s, and, by extension, the larger logical community’s absorption of Turing’s 1936 model. As scaffolding I employ a conceptual framework due to the critic Leo Marx of the technological sublime; I also make use of the distinction within the technological sublime due to Caroline Jones, between its iconic and performative modes—a distinction operating within the conceptual art of the 1960s, but serving the history of computability equally well.
Spectral Camouflage Characteristics and Recognition Ability of Targets Based on Visible/Near-Infrared Hyperspectral Images
Authors: Zhao Jiale , Zhou Bing , Wang Guanglong , Ying Jiaju , Liu Jie , Chen Qi
Published: December 2022

Hyperspectral imaging can simultaneously obtain the spatial morphological information of the ground objects and the fine spectral information of each pixel. Through the quantitative analysis of the spectral characteristics of objects, it can complete the task of classification and recognition of ground objects. The appearance of imaging spectrum technology provides great advantages for military target detection and promotes the continuous improvement of military reconnaissance levels. At the same time, spectral camouflage materials and methods that are relatively resistant to hyperspectral reconnaissance technology are also developing rapidly. In order to study the reconnaissance effect of visible/near-infrared hyperspectral images on camouflage targets, this paper analyzes the spectral characteristics of different camouflage targets using the hyperspectral images obtained in the visible and near-infrared bands under natural conditions. Two groups of experiments were carried out. The first group of experiments verified the spectral camouflage characteristics and camouflage effects of different types of camouflage clothing with grassland as the background; the second group of experiments verified the spectral camouflage characteristics and camouflage effects of different types of camouflage paint sprayed on boards and steel plates. The experiment shows that the hyperspectral image based on the near-infrared band has a good reconnaissance effect for different camouflage targets, and the near-infrared band is an effective “window” band for detecting and distinguishing true and false targets. However, the stability of the visible/near-infrared band detection for the target identification under camouflage paint is poor, and it is difficult to effectively distinguish the object materials under the same camouflage paint. This research confirms the application ability of detection based on the visible/near-infrared band, and points out the direction for the development of imaging detectors and camouflage materials in the future.
Overcoming the Lead Fiber-Induced Limitation on Pulse Repetition Rate in Distributed Fiber Sensors
Authors: Zhang Hailiang , Dong Hui , Hu Dora Juan Juan , Hao Jianzhong
Published: December 2022

Distributed fiber sensor (DFS)-based dynamic sensing has attracted increasing attention thanks to the growing demand in areas such as structural health monitoring and geophysical science. The maximum detectable frequency of DFSs depends on the maximum pulse repetition rate (MPRR), which is limited by the total length of the fiber under test (FUT). In some real-world applications, there is some distance between the interrogator and the monitoring site. Therefore, only a small part of the FUT acts as a sensing fiber (SF), while the other major part just acts as a lead fiber (LF), and the MPRR is limited by the LF and SF. Overcoming the LF-induced extra limitation on the MPRR is a practical problem for many DFS applications. In this paper, to the best of our knowledge, we propose a simple approach for overcoming the LF-induced extra limitation on the MPRR by dividing the DFS interrogator into two parts, for the first time. The proposed approach can be easily implemented for the real-world applicationsof DFSs whose LF is much longer than SF. It has been experimentally validated by using conventional phase-sensitive optical time domain reflectometry and Brillouin optical time domain analysis.
Resonance Control of VO2 Thin-Film-Based THz Double-Split Rectangular Metamaterial According to Aspect Ratio
Authors: Lee Eui Su , Ryu Han-Cheol
Published: December 2022

The resonance characteristics of a double-split rectangular metamaterial based on a vanadium dioxide (VO2) thin film were controlled according to the aspect ratio of the rectangle in the terahertz (THz) frequency region. The VO2 thin film line was etched between the double-split rectangular gaps so that the resonance band could be switched by varying the characteristics of the VO2 thin film. When the VO2 thin film is in an insulator state, the rectangle is separated and resonates individually; thus, it resonates in the high-frequency band. When the VO2 thin film changes from an insulator to a conductor with a change in the temperature, the divided rectangles are electrically connected to operate as a single resonator, and the resonant frequency shifts to a low-frequency band. Varying the aspect ratio of the rectangle changes the resonant frequency and resonance strength of the double-split rectangular metamaterial. If the aspect ratio is increased by fixing the width of the unit cell of the metamaterial and adjusting the height, the resonant frequency is lowered in all situations, regardless of the state of the VO2 thin film and the polarization of the incident THz wave. The resonant frequency and resonance strength of the double-split rectangular metamaterial proposed in this paper could be controlled stably through a change in only the aspect ratio, not the overall unit cell size. The proposed double-split rectangular metamaterial based on an etched VO2 thin film is expected to be essential for THz tag, sensing, and wireless communication applications.
Design and Characterization of Nanostructured Ag2O-Ag/Au Based on Al2O3 Template Membrane for Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting and Hydrogen Generation
Authors: Mostafa Huda , Ahmed Ashour M. , Shaban Mohamed , Abdel-Khaliek Ahmed A. , Hasan Fuead , Mohammed Alzahrani Fatimah , Rabia Mohamed
Published: December 2022

This study considers the progress of our previous study for hydrogen generation depends on the highly ordered metal oxide/plasmonic materials. This study reports the preparation of Ag2O-Ag/Au on the Al2O3 template (Ag2O-Ag/Au/Al2O3) for photocatalytic sewage water splitting and H2 gas production. Ni imprinting, followed by two-step anodization procedures, prepare the Al2O3 template. Ag2O-Ag and Au materials are prepared inside the template using electrochemical deposition and sputter coating methods, respectively. The chemical structure is confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses, in which all the peaks characterized by Ag2O, Ag, Au, and Al2O3 are confirmed. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) images confirm the preparation of a highly ordered hexagonal Al2O3 template with a pore wide of about 350 nm. Ag2O-Ag/Au accept the same morphology after the deposition process, in which the materials are deposited inside and on the Al2O3 template, in which the hexagonal pores are still opened after the deposition process. These open pores increase the surface area and then enhance the optical and electrical properties. For the H2 generated from sewage water, the produced Ag2O-Ag/Au on the Al2O3 photoelectrode achieved an incident to photon conversion efficiency (IPCE) of 30%. Additionally, the impact of light wavelength and intensity on photoelectrode performance is evaluated. Under increasing the light total power from 25 to 75 mW.cm−2, the current density (Jph) value goes up from 8.9 to 9.5 mA.cm−2. The current study’s findings show promising results for resolving the issue of energy in remote areas by turning wastewater into hydrogen fuel.
Improving the Signal-to-Noise Ratio of Photonic Frequency Conversion from 852 nm to 1560 nm Based on a Long-Wavelength Laser-Pumped PPLN Waveguide Module
Authors: Guo Miao , Zhang Kong , Zhang Yunhao , He Jun , Wang Junmin
Published: December 2022

The storage wavelength of quantum nodes based on atomic systems does not match the wavelength of optical fiber communication, which requires the establishment of an efficient conversion system between flying bits and storage bits. In this paper, based on the nonlinear wavelength conversion technology of the periodically poled lithium niobate waveguide, a low-noise conversion of 852-nm photons to 1560-nm photons was achieved by a 1878-nm pump laser. The generation mechanism and transmission mechanism of noise due to nonlinear process are analyzed theoretically. The noise photons introduced by the spontaneous parameter downconversion and spontaneous Raman scattering process of a strong pump laser are experimentally studied. The noise suppression near 1560 nm is realized by the fiber Bragg grating (FBG) filter. In the experiment, when the FBG bandwidth is reduced from 0.257 nm to 0.130 nm, the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) increases from 52 to 90. Our results show that the SNR can be greatly improved by using a narrower band filter. Therefore, the quantum node is connected to the fiber channel, and the signal can be transmitted over long distances with low loss and high fidelity.