bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stercoral Ulcer Presenting in a Patient with Cauda Equina Syndrome Secondary to Postoperative Epidural Hematoma
Authors: Kang Min-Seok , Son In-Seok , Lee Suk-Ha , Kim Tae-Hoon
Published: July 2023

Chronic constipation can lead to fecal impaction in the large bowel, which can cause pressure necrosis followed by perforation, known as a stercoral ulcer. In extensive posterior thoracolumbar surgery, a long operation time, large blood loss, and perioperative narcotic use may aggravate constipation. Moreover, sacral root palsy due to cauda equina syndrome (CES) can lead to the deterioration of fecal impaction. This report describes the case of a 77-year-old woman with CES who presented with saddle anesthesia, neurogenic bladder, bowel incontinence, and paraplegia. Five days prior, she had undergone extended posterior lumbar interbody fusion from L1 to L5. Lumbar magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed an extended epidural hematoma. After urgent neural decompression, she gradually recovered from the saddle anesthesia, leg pain, and paraplegia over 3 weeks. Thereafter, the patient suddenly developed massive hematochezia and hemorrhagic shock. Urgent colonoscopy was performed, and a stercoral ulcer in the sigmoid colon was diagnosed. After 4 weeks of intensive care for hemorrhagic shock, pneumonia, and systemic sepsis, the patient was transferred to a general ward for intensive rehabilitation. One year after the operation, she was able to walk with assistance, and her urinary and bowel incontinence completely recovered. Chronic constipation, a common clinical problem, can sometimes cause relatively obscure but potentially life-threatening complications such as stercoral ulceration. Possible factors including advanced age, extensive spinal surgeries, prolonged operation time, significant blood loss, perioperative narcotic use, and the presence of spinal cord injury might contribute to the development of this condition. It highlights the importance of recognizing the potential development of stercoral ulcers in patients with CES and emphasizes the need for prompt diagnosis and management to avert catastrophic complications.
Gastrointestinal Imaging Findings in the Era of COVID-19: A Pictorial Review
Authors: Mavropoulou Xanthippi , Psoma Elisavet , Papachristodoulou Angeliki , Pyrrou Nikoletta , Spanou Ekaterini , Alexandratou Maria , Sidiropoulou Maria , Theocharidou Anastasia , Rafailidis Vasileios , Chrysanthidis Theofilos , Prassopoulos Panos
Published: July 2023

The potentially fatal COVID-19 pandemic has been associated with a largespectrum of clinical presentations. Beyond the classical pulmonary manifestations, gastrointestinal tract-related symptoms suchas nausea, diarrhea, abdominal distention and pain have been observed in patients, as a consequence of the binding of SARS-CoV-19 to Angiotensin-converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The early recognition ofspecific imaging features, including hepatobiliary involvement, pancreatic involvement, development of solid organ infarcts, ischemic bowel changes and vascular occlusion, plays a key role through the course of the disease. Also, suspicious symptoms, especially in critically ill patients with clinical and biochemical markers of hypovolemia, necessitate timely imaging for bleeding complications. The aim of this pictorial review is to illustrate the spectrum of the GIimaging findings in patients with COVID-19. Awareness of diagnostic imaging hallmarks is crucial to optimize the management of these patients.
A Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study Evaluating the Clinical Outcomes of Patients with Coagulopathy Undergoing Transcatheter Arterial Embolization (TAE) for Acute Non-Neurovascular Bleeding
Authors: Minici Roberto , Fontana Federico , Venturini Massimo , Guzzardi Giuseppe , Piacentino Filippo , Spinetta Marco , Bertucci Bernardo , Serra Raffaele , Costa Davide , Ielapi Nicola , Coppola Andrea , Guerriero Pasquale , Apollonio Biagio , Santoro Rita ,   MGJR Research Team, Brunese Luca , Laganà Domenico
Published: July 2023

Background and Objectives: Transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) is the mainstay of treatment for acute major hemorrhage, even in patients with coagulopathy and spontaneous bleeding. Coagulopathy is associated with worsening bleeding severity and higher mortality and clinical failure rates. Furthermore, some unanswered questions remain, such as the definition of coagulopathy, the indication for TAE or conservative treatment, and the choice of embolic agent. This study aims to assess the efficacy and safety of TAE for spontaneous non-neurovascular acute bleeding in patients with coagulopathy. Materials and Methods: This study is a multicenter analysis of retrospectively collected data of consecutive patients with coagulopathy who had undergone, from January 2018 to May 2023, transcatheter arterial embolization for the management of spontaneous hemorrhages. Results: During the study interval (January 2018–May 2023), 120 patients with coagulopathy underwent TAE for spontaneous non-neurovascular acute bleeding. The abdominal wall was the most common bleeding site (72.5%). The most commonly used embolic agent was polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) particles or microspheres (25.0%), whereas coils and gelatin sponge together accounted for 32.5% of the embolic agents used. Technical success was achieved in all cases, with a 92.5% clinical success rate related to 9 cases of rebleeding. Complications were recorded in 12 (10%) patients. Clinical success was significantly better in the group of patients who underwent correction of the coagulopathy within 24 h of TAE. Conclusions: Transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) is effective and safe for the management of acute non-neurovascular bleeding in patients with coagulopathy. Correction of coagulopathy should not delay TAE and vice versa, as better clinical outcomes were noted in the subgroup of patients undergoing correction of coagulopathy within 24 h of TAE.
Characterization of trans-3-Methylglutaconyl CoA-Dependent Protein Acylation
Authors: Jennings Elizabeth A. , Cao Edward , Romenskaia Irina , Ryan Robert O.
Published: July 2023

3-methylglutaconyl (3MGC) CoA hydratase (AUH) is the leucine catabolism pathway enzyme that catalyzes the hydration of trans-3MGC CoA to 3-hydroxy, 3-methylglutaryl (HMG) CoA. In several inborn errors of metabolism (IEM), however, metabolic dysfunction can drive this reaction in the opposite direction (the dehydration of HMG CoA). The recent discovery that trans-3MGC CoA is inherently unstable and prone to a series of non-enzymatic chemical reactions provides an explanation for 3MGC aciduria observed in these IEMs. Under physiological conditions, trans-3MGC CoA can isomerize to cis-3MGC CoA, which is structurally poised to undergo intramolecular cyclization with the loss of CoA, generating cis-3MGC anhydride. The anhydride is reactive and has two potential fates; (a) hydrolysis to yield cis-3MGC acid or (b) a reaction with lysine side-chain amino groups to 3MGCylate substrate proteins. An antibody elicited against a 3MGC hapten was employed to investigate protein acylation in incubations containing recombinant AUH, HMG CoA, and bovine serum albumin (BSA). The data obtained show that, as AUH dehydrates HMG CoA to trans-3MGC CoA, BSA is acylated. Moreover, α-3MGC IgG immunoblot signal intensity correlates with AUH concentration, HMG CoA substrate concentration, and incubation time. Thus, protein 3MGCylation may contribute to the phenotypic features associated with IEMs that manifest 3MGC aciduria.
High-Performance Low-Voltage Transparent Metal-Semiconductor-Metal Ultraviolet Photodetectors Based on Ultrathin Gold Asymmetric Interdigitated Electrodes
Authors: Huang Jianfeng , Yang Liu , He Sailing
Published: July 2023

A high-performance, low-voltage, transparent, metal-semiconductor-metal ultraviolet (UV) photodetector (PD) is proposed and experimentally demonstrated, based on gold (Au) asymmetric interdigitated (aIDT) electrodes with thicknesses well below 10 nm. A 7-nm-thick Au film, with a visible transmittance of 80.4% and a sheet resistance of 11.55 Ω/sq, is patterned into aIDT electrodes on a ZnO active layer, whose average visible transmittance is up to 74.3%. Meshing the pads further improves the overall transmittance of the device. Among all fabricated devices, the PD with the aIDT finger width ratio of 1:4 performs the best. Very low dark currents are achieved at 0, 0.5 and 1 V, allowing for high responsivities and specific detectivities to the UV light. It is also a fast device, especially under the biases of 0.5 and 1 V. The comprehensive performances are comparable and even superior to those of the reported devices. The asymmetric Schottky junctions induced by the aIDT electrodes under UV illumination are the main mechanism for the low-voltage operation of our transparent PD, which is promising to be applied widely.
Investigation of Single-Event Upset in Graphene Nano-Ribbon FET SRAM Cell
Authors: Adesina Naheem Olakunle
Published: July 2023

In recent years, graphene has received so much attention because of its superlative properties and its potential to revolutionize electronics, especially in VLSI. This study analyzes the effect of single-event upset (SEU) in an SRAM cell, which employs a metal-oxide semiconductor type graphene nano-ribbon field effect transistor (MOS-GNRFET) and compares the results with another SRAM cell designed using a PTM 10 nm FinFET node. Our simulations show that there is a change in the data stored in the SRAM after a heavy ion strike. However, it recovers from radiation effects after 0.46 ns for GNRFET and 0.51 ns for FinFET. Since the degradation observed in Q and Qb of GNRFET SRAM are 2.7X and 2.16X as compared to PTM nano-MOSFET, we can conclude that GNRFET is less robust to single effect upset. In addition, the stability of SRAM is improved by increasing the supply voltage VDD.
Lignocellulosic Bionanomaterials for Biosensor Applications
Authors: Durmaz Ekrem , Sertkaya Selva , Yilmaz Hande , Olgun Cagri , Ozcelik Orhan , Tozluoglu Ayhan , Candan Zeki
Published: July 2023

The rapid population growth, increasing global energy demand, climate change, and excessive use of fossil fuels have adversely affected environmental management and sustainability. Furthermore, the requirements for a safer ecology and environment have necessitated the use of renewable materials, thereby solving the problem of sustainability of resources. In this perspective, lignocellulosic biomass is an attractive natural resource because of its abundance, renewability, recyclability, and low cost. The ever-increasing developments in nanotechnology have opened up new vistas in sensor fabrication such as biosensor design for electronics, communication, automobile, optical products, packaging, textile, biomedical, and tissue engineering. Due to their outstanding properties such as biodegradability, biocompatibility, non-toxicity, improved electrical and thermal conductivity, high physical and mechanical properties, high surface area and catalytic activity, lignocellulosic bionanomaterials including nanocellulose and nanolignin emerge as very promising raw materials to be used in the development of high-impact biosensors. In this article, the use of lignocellulosic bionanomaterials in biosensor applications is reviewed and major challenges and opportunities are identified.
Development and Implementation of LED Street Lights with Bright and Extinguishable Controls and Power Converters
Authors: Pai Kai-Jun , Wang Liang-Hsun , Chen Ming-Hung
Published: July 2023

This study developed and implemented a driving power supply for light-emitting diode (LED) array streetlamps. The power stage was a quasi-resonant (QR)-flyback converter, its input power was the alternating-current power, and the LED array streetlamp was driven by the direct-current output power. The developed QR-flyback converter was operated in discontinuous conduction mode, and the pulse-width modulation (PWM) control chip was used to switch and conduct at the resonant valley of the drain-source voltage on the metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) switch to reduce the switching loss. Moreover, the PWM control chip had a disable function, which was connected with a bright and extinguishable control circuit, and the high/low voltage level signal output by the Arduino development board can be used to control the output power of the QR-flyback converter, achieving bright and extinguishable controls for the LED array streetlamp.
Bio-Inspired Design of Superconducting Spiking Neuron and Synapse
Authors: Schegolev Andrey E. , Klenov Nikolay V. , Gubochkin Georgy I. , Kupriyanov Mikhail Yu. , Soloviev Igor I.
Published: July 2023

The imitative modelling of processes in the brain of living beings is an ambitious task. However, advances in the complexity of existing hardware brain models are limited by their low speed and high energy consumption. A superconducting circuit with Josephson junctions closely mimics the neuronal membrane with channels involved in the operation of the sodium-potassium pump. The dynamic processes in such a system are characterised by a duration of picoseconds and an energy level of attojoules. In this work, two superconducting models of a biological neuron are studied. New modes of their operation are identified, including the so-called bursting mode, which plays an important role in biological neural networks. The possibility of switching between different modes in situ is shown, providing the possibility of dynamic control of the system. A synaptic connection that mimics the short-term potentiation of a biological synapse is developed and demonstrated. Finally, the simplest two-neuron chain comprising the proposed bio-inspired components is simulated, and the prospects of superconducting hardware biosimilars are briefly discussed.
Electrostatic Tuning of Bilayer Graphene Edge Modes
Authors: Ali Hira , Serra Llorenç
Published: July 2023

We study the effect of a local potential shift induced by a side electrode on the edge modes at the boundary between gapped and ungapped bilayer graphene. A potential shift close to the gapped-ungapped boundary causes the emergence of unprotected edge modes, propagating in both directions along the boundary. These counterpropagating edge modes allow edge backscattering, as opposed to the case of valley-momentum-locked edge modes. We then calculate the conductance of a bilayer graphene wire in presence of finger-gate electrodes, finding strong asymmetries with energy inversion and deviations from conductance quantization that can be understood with the gate-induced unprotected edge modes.
Enhancing Focusing and Defocusing Capabilities with a Dynamically Reconfigurable Metalens Utilizing Sb2Se3 Phase-Change Material
Authors: Shen Chen , Ye Jiachi , Peserico Nicola , Gui Yaliang , Dong Chaobo , Kang Haoyan , Movahhed Nouri Behrouz , Wang Hao , Heidari Elham , Sorger Volker J. , Dalir Hamed
Published: July 2023

Metalenses are emerging as an alternative to digital micromirror devices (DMDs), with the advantages of compactness and flexibility. The exploration of metalenses has ignited enthusiasm among optical engineers, positioning them as the forthcoming frontier in technology. In this paper, we advocate for the implementation of the phase-change material, Sb2Se3, capable of providing swift, reversible, non-volatile focusing and defocusing within the 1550 nm telecom spectrum. The lens, equipped with a robust ITO microheater, offers unparalleled functionality and constitutes a significant step toward dynamic metalenses that can be integrated with beamforming applications. After a meticulously conducted microfabrication process, we showcase a device capable of rapid tuning (0.1 MHz level) for metalens focusing and defocusing at C band communication, achieved by alternating the PCM state between the amorphous and crystalline states. The findings from the experiment show that the device has a high contrast ratio for switching of 28.7 dB.
Controllable Doping Characteristics for WSxSey Monolayers Based on the Tunable S/Se Ratio
Authors: Ji Chen , Chang Yung-Huang , Huang Chien-Sheng , Huang Bohr-Ran , Chen Yuan-Tsung
Published: July 2023

Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have attracted much attention because of their unique characteristics and potential applications in electronic devices. Recent reports have successfully demonstrated the growth of 2-dimensional MoSxSey, MoxWyS2, MoxWySe2, and WSxSey monolayers that exhibit tunable band gap energies. However, few works have examined the doping behavior of those 2D monolayers. This study synthesizes WSxSey monolayers using the CVD process, in which different heating temperatures are applied to sulfur powders to control the ratio of S to Se in WSxSey. Increasing the Se component in WSxSey monolayers produced an apparent electronic state transformation from p-type to n-type, recorded through energy band diagrams. Simultaneously, p-type characteristics gradually became clear as the S component was enhanced in WSxSey monolayers. In addition, Raman spectra showed a red shift of the WS2-related peaks, indicating n-doping behavior in the WSxSey monolayers. In contrast, with the increase of the sulfur component, the blue shift of the WSe2-related peaks in the Raman spectra involved the p-doping behavior of WSxSey monolayers. In addition, the optical band gap of the as-grown WSxSey monolayers from 1.97 eV to 1.61 eV is precisely tunable via the different chalcogenide heating temperatures. The results regarding the doping characteristics of WSxSey monolayers provide more options in electronic and optical design.
The Role of Silica Nanoparticles in Promoting the Germination of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) Seeds
Authors: Sembada Anca Awal , Maki Shinya , Faizal Ahmad , Fukuhara Toshiyuki , Suzuki Takeshi , Lenggoro I. Wuled
Published: July 2023

The addition of nanoparticles has been reported to be an effective strategy for enhancing seed germination, but the underlying mechanisms whereby this occurs are unclear. In the present study, we added silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) to an aqueous growth medium in which tomato seeds were germinated. We examined the effects of SiNPs on growth and possible mechanisms of action. SiNPs had a diameter of 10–17 nm and 110–120 nm. SiNPs shortened the mean germination time from 5.24 ± 0.29 days to 4.64 ± 0.29 days. Seedling vigor, measured by criteria including length and weight, was also improved compared to the control condition. The presence of SiNPs in the seedlings was assessed using an X-ray fluorescence spectrometer. The nanoparticles may have promoted germination by enhancing water imbibition by the seeds or altering the external microenvironment. Scanning electron microscopy revealed changes in the seed coat during germination, many of which were only observed in the presence of nanoparticles. Soil bacteria affect germination; specifically, Bacillus sp. may promote germination. The number of Bacillus sp. changed in the germination medium with SiNPs compared to the control. This suggested that these bacteria could interact with SiNPs to promote germination.
Particle Size and Rheology of Silica Particle Networks at the Air–Water Interface
Authors: Thakur Siddharth , Razavi Sepideh
Published: July 2023

Silica nanoparticles find utility in different roles within the commercial domain. They are either employed in bulk within pharmaceutical formulations or at interfaces in anti-coalescing agents. Thus, studying the particle attributes contributing to the characteristics of silica particle-laden interfaces is of interest. The present work highlights the impact of particle size (i.e., 250 nm vs. 1000 nm) on the rheological properties of interfacial networks formed by hydrophobically modified silica nanoparticles at the air–water interface. The particle surface properties were examined using mobility measurements, Langmuir trough studies, and interfacial rheology techniques. Optical microscopy imaging along with Langmuir trough studies revealed the microstructure associated with various surface pressures and corresponding surface coverages (ϕ). The 1000 nm silica particle networks gave rise to a higher surface pressure at the same coverage compared to 250 nm particles on account of the stronger attractive capillary interactions. Interfacial rheological characterization revealed that networks with 1000 nm particles possess higher surface modulus and yield stress in comparison to the network obtained with 250 nm particles at the same surface pressure. These findings highlight the effect of particle size on the rheological characteristics of particle-laden interfaces, which is of importance in determining the stability and flow response of formulations comprising particle-stabilized emulsions and foams.
Influence of Solvents and Adsorption of Organic Molecules on the Properties of CVD Synthesized 2D MoS2
Authors: Brkić Antun Lovro , Supina Antonio , Čapeta Davor , Dončević Lucija , Ptiček Lucija , Mandić Šimun , Racané Livio , Delač Ida
Published: July 2023

We present a simple method for modification of 2D materials by drop-casting of the organic molecule in solution on the 2D material under ambient conditions. Specifically, we investigated the adsorption of 6-(4,5-Dihydro-1H-imidazol-3-ium-2-yl)-2-(naphthalene-2-yl)benzothiazole methanesulfonate (L63MS) organic molecule on 2D MoS2. To better understand the effect of the organic molecule on the 2D material, we also investigated the impact of solvents alone on the materials’ properties. The MoS2 samples were synthesized using ambient pressure chemical vapor deposition. Atomic force microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, photoluminescence spectroscopy and optical microscopy were used to characterize the samples. The measurements were performed after synthesis, after the drop-casting of solvents and after the drop-casting of organic molecule solutions. Our results indicate that the used organic molecule effectively adsorbs on and prompts discernible changes in the (opto)electronic properties of the 2D material. These changes encompass variations in the Raman spectra shape, alterations in the photoluminescence (PL) signal characteristics and modifications in excitonic properties. Such alterations can be linked to various phenomena including doping, bandgap modifications, introduction or healing of defects and that the solvent plays a crucial role in the process. Our study provides insights into the modification of 2D materials under ambient conditions and highlights the importance of solvent selection in the process.
Ultrafast Antisolvent Growth of Single-Crystal CsPbBr3 Microcavity for Whispering-Gallery-Mode Lasing
Authors: Zhang Li , Li Xinxin , Song Yimeng , Zou Bingsuo
Published: July 2023

In recent years, all-inorganic cesium lead bromide (CsPbBr3) perovskites have garnered considerable attention for their prospective applications in green photonics and optoelectronic devices. However, the development of efficient and economical methods to obtain high-quality micron-sized single-crystalline CsPbBr3 microplatelets (MPs) has become a challenge. Here, we report the synthesis of CsPbBr3 MPs on Si/SiO2 substrate by optimizing the ultrafast antisolvent method (FAS). This technique is able to produce well-dispersed, uniformly sized, and morphologically regular tetragonal phase single crystals, which can give strong green emission at room temperature, with excellent stability and excitonic character. Moreover, the crystals demonstrated lasing with a whispering gallery mode with a low threshold. These results suggest that the single-crystalline CsPbBr3 MPs synthesized by this method are of high optical quality, holding vast potential for future applications in photonic devices.
Effect of the Fermented Soy Q-CAN® Product on Biomarkers of Inflammation and Oxidation in Adults with Cardiovascular Risk, and Canonical Correlations between the Inflammation Biomarkers and Blood Lipids
Authors: Jung Sarah M. , Kaur Amandeep , Amen Rita I. , Oda Keiji , Rajaram Sujatha , Sabatè Joan , Haddad Ella H.
Published: July 2023

Systemic low-grade inflammation plays a key role in the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) but the process may be modulated by consuming fermented soy foods. Here, we aim to evaluate the effect of a fermented soy powder Q-CAN® on inflammatory and oxidation biomarkers in subjects with cardiovascular risk. In a randomized crossover trial, 27 adults (mean age ± SD, 51.6 ± 13.5 y) with a mean BMI ± SD of 32.3 ± 7.3 kg/m2 consumed 25 g daily of the fermented soy powder or an isoenergic control powder of sprouted brown rice for 12 weeks each. Between-treatment results showed a 12% increase in interleukin-1 receptor agonist (IL-1Ra) in the treatment group, whereas within-treatment results showed 23% and 7% increases in interleukin-6 (IL-6) and total antioxidant status (TAS), respectively. The first canonical correlation coefficient (r = 0.72) between inflammation markers and blood lipids indicated a positive association between high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and IL-1Ra with LDL-C and a negative association with HDL-C that explained 62% of the variability in the biomarkers. These outcomes suggest that blood lipids and inflammatory markers are highly correlated and that ingestion of the fermented soy powder Q-CAN® may increase IL-1Ra, IL-6, and TAS in individuals with CVD risk factors.
Assessment of 24 h Sodium and Potassium Urinary Excretion in Normotensive and Hypertensive Dominican Adults
Authors: García-Lithgow Carlos Heriberto , Durán-Cabral Madeline , Winter-Matos Alexandra , García-Estrella Kilsaris , García-Durán Julen , Di-Sanzo Estefanía , Martínez-De-La-Cruz Nicole , Rodríguez-Abreu Julia , Olmedilla-Alonso Begoña
Published: July 2023

Higher salt (sodium) intake has been associated with higher blood pressure (BP). The degree of association may be influenced by factors such as age, origin, and dietary components. This study aimed to evaluate the 24 h urinary sodium (Na) and potassium (K) excretion in normotensive and hypertensive Dominican adults and estimate their salt intake. 163 volunteers (18–80 years old) participated in a cross-sectional study. The 24 h Na and K urinary excretion were measured using an ion-selective electrode technique. Na and K urinary excretion (99.4 ± 46.5 and 35.0 ± 17.5 mmol/24 h) did not correlate with BP, except in the normotensive group, in which K correlated with SBP (0.249, p = 0.019). Na and K excretion were similar in normotensive and hypertensive subjects. When considering two age groups (18–45, 46–80 years), the Na-to-K molar ratio (3.1 ± 1.3) was higher in younger subjects (p = 0.040). Na-to-K ratio was associated with DBP in the total group (r = 0.153, p = 0.052), in the hypertensive group (r = 0.395, p < 0.001), and in the older group with SBP (0.350, p = 0.002) and DBP (0.373, p < 0.001). In the older group, Na-to-K ratio and DBP correlated after controlling for subjects with hypertension controlled by treatment (r = 0.236, p = 0.041). The Na-to-K ratio correlated, when salt intake was over 5 g/day (52.2%), with SBP (rho = 0.219, p = 0.044) and DBP (rho = 0.259, p = 0.017). Determinants of BP in the total sample were age (SBP, beta: 0.6 ± 0.1, p < 0.001; DBP, beta: 0.2 ± 0.1, p < 0.002), sex (SBP, beta: 11.2 ± 3.5, p = 0.001), body mass index (BMI) (SBP, beta: 1.0 ± 0.3, p < 0.001; DBP, beta: 0.4 ± 0.2, p = 0.01), and Na-to-K ratio (SBP, beta: 3.0 ± 1.1, p = 0.008; DBP, beta: −12.3 ± 4.0, p = 0.002). Sex and BMI were determinants in the younger group. Na-to-K molar ratio was determinant in the older group (SBP, beta: 6.7 ± 2.4, p = 0.005; DBP, beta: 3.8 ± 1.1, p < 0.001). The mean Na and salt intakes (2.3 and 5.8 g/day) were slightly higher and the K intake lower (1.4 g/day) than WHO recommendations.
Acute Cardiometabolic and Exercise Responses to Breakfast Omission versus Breakfast Consumption in Adolescent Girls: A Randomised Crossover Trial
Authors: Zakrzewski-Fruer Julia K. , Morari Victoria , Champion Rachael B. , Bailey Daniel P. , Ferrandino Louise E. , Jones Rebecca L.
Published: July 2023

Girls often begin to skip breakfast during adolescence. This study compared the acute effect of breakfast omission versus consumption on cardiometabolic risk markers and perceived appetite and mood during rest and/or exercise in adolescent girls classified as habitual breakfast consumers. Girls (aged 13.2 ± 0.7 years) completed two 5.5 h conditions in a randomised crossover design: breakfast omission (BO) and standardised breakfast consumption (BC). A standardised lunch was provided at 3 h. Incremental cycling exercise was performed at 5 h. Blood and expired gas samples were taken at regular intervals. Whilst pre-lunch plasma glucose, insulin, and Metabolic Load Index incremental area under the curve (IAUC) were significantly lower in BO versus BC, post-lunch differences were reversed and larger in magnitude. Peak plasma glucose and insulin were significantly higher in BO versus BC. Pre-lunch perceived fullness and hunger were significantly lower and higher, respectively, in BO versus BC. Perceived energy and concentration were lower, and tiredness was higher, in BO versus BC. Exercise peak fat oxidation and Fatmax were unaffected. The lower physical activity enjoyment in BO versus BC approached significance. To conclude, acutely omitting breakfast adversely affects cardiometabolic risk markers and exercise enjoyment among adolescent girls who habitually consume breakfast.
Interaction of Iron Homeostasis and Fatty Acid Metabolism in the Development of Glucose Intolerance in Women with Previous Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Källner Kristin , Krook Rasmus , Sandberg Ann-Sofie , Hulthén Lena , Andersson-Hall Ulrika , Holmäng Agneta
Published: July 2023

A gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) diagnosis during pregnancy means an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. By following up with women after GDM we aimed to examine the relationship between iron parameters, individual fatty acids (FAs) and desaturases in the development of impaired glucose metabolism (IGM). Based on an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), six years after GDM, 157 women were grouped as having normal glucose tolerance (NGT) or IGM. Fasting serum FAs, activity of desaturases and iron parameters (ferritin, transferrin, iron, soluble transferrin receptor, total iron binding capacity, hepcidin) were measured, and clinical and anthropometric measurements taken. Soluble transferrin receptor was higher in the IGM group compared to the NGT group (3.87 vs. 3.29 mg/L, p-value = 0.023) and associated positively with saturated FAs and negatively with monounsaturated FAs in the IGM group (adjusted for BMI, age and high sensitivity C-reactive protein; p-value < 0.05). Iron, as well as transferrin saturation, showed a positive association with MUFAs and desaturase activity. These associations were not seen in the NGT group. These results suggest that iron homeostasis and FA metabolism interact in the development of glucose intolerance in women with previous GDM.
The Genetic Architecture of Vitamin D Deficiency among an Elderly Lebanese Middle Eastern Population: An Exome-Wide Association Study
Authors: Hendi Nagham Nafiz , Chakhtoura Marlene , Al-Sarraj Yasser , Basha Dania Saleh , Albagha Omar , Fuleihan Ghada El-Hajj , Nemer Georges
Published: July 2023

The Middle East region experiences a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, yet most genetic studies on vitamin D have focused on European populations. Furthermore, there is a lack of research on the genomic risk factors affecting elderly people, who are more susceptible to health burdens. We investigated the genetic determinants of 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations in elderly Lebanese individuals (n = 199) through a whole-exome-based genome-wide association study. Novel genomic loci displaying suggestive evidence of association with 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were identified in our study, including rs141064014 in the MGAM (p-value of 4.40 × 10−6) and rs7036592 in PHF2 (p-value of 8.43 × 10−6). A meta-analysis of the Lebanese data and the largest European genome-wide association study confirmed consistency replication of numerous variants, including rs2725405 in SLC38A10 (p-value of 3.73 × 10−8). Although the polygenic risk score model derived from European populations exhibited lower performance than European estimations, it still effectively predicted vitamin D deficiency among our cohort. Our discoveries offer novel perspectives on the genetic mechanisms underlying vitamin D deficiency among elderly Middle Eastern populations, facilitating the development of personalized approaches for more effective management of vitamin D deficiency. Additionally, we demonstrated that whole-exome-based genome-wide association study is an effective method for identifying genetic components associated with phenotypes.
Sugar-Sweetened Beverages and Allergy Traits at Second Year of Life: BRISA Cohort Study
Authors: Muniz Alessandra Karla Oliveira Amorim , Vianna Elcio Oliveira , Padilha Luana Lopes , Nascimento Joelma Ximenes Prado Teixeira , Batista Rosangela Fernandes Lucena , Barbieri Marco Antonio , Bettiol Heloisa , Ribeiro Cecilia Claudia Costa
Published: July 2023

Sugar-Sweetened Beverage (SSBs) consumption has risen in early life and it is plausible that it might increase children’s risk of allergies. In this paper, we analyzed the association of SSB consumption with allergies in children’s second year of life. This study analyzed data from a São Luís BRISA prenatal cohort in the follow-up of children (n = 1144) in their second year of life. Allergy Traits were a latent variable deduced from medical diagnoses of allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, and food allergies. SSBs were investigated as a percentage of daily calories based on 24 h recalls, including industrialized fruit juices, soft drinks, and ready-made chocolate milk. Other variables analyzed were socioeconomic status, age, body mass index z-score, episodes of diarrhea, and breastfeeding. Our finds were that higher consumption of daily calories from SSBs was associated with higher Allergy Trait values (SC = 0.174; p = 0.025); older age (SC = −0.181; p = 0.030) was associated with lower Allergy Trait values; and episodes of diarrhea were correlated with Allergy Traits (SC = 0.287; p = 0.015). SSB exposure was associated with Allergy Traits in children’s second year of life; thus, abstaining from these beverages may also confer additional advantages in curtailing allergic diseases during early childhood.
Daily Nutritional Intake of Pediatric Patients (N = 64) on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation from 2018 to 2022: A Single-Center Report
Authors: Brackmann Megan , Lintvedt Annika , Kogelschatz Benjamin , Heinze Erika , Parker Jessica L. , Ferguson Karen , Rosner Elizabeth , Boville Brian , Leimanis-Laurens Mara L.
Published: July 2023

Nutrition in pediatric populations who require life-saving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) remains a debate. We sought to identify if nutritional needs were met in a patient cohort. A retrospective chart review of patients (N = 64) requiring ECMO at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital between 2018 and 2022 was evaluated for demographics, daily nutritional data, laboratory values, ECMO complications, and outcome data, with primary outcome measures of percent protein and percent caloric intake. Secondary outcome measures included the intensive care unit length of stay, time on ECMO, mortality, and day 1 severity of illness scores (Pediatric Logistic Organ Dysfunction). The timeline partially overlapped with the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were collected for 467 ECMO days with a median age of 2.6 months; 57.8% of patients were male and 65.6% were with one pre-existing comorbidity. Venoarterial (VA) ECMO was utilized in 84.4% of patients; the ECMO indication was cardiac in 53.1% of patients. The 28-day mortality was 43.8%. The proportion of days in which the caloric goal was met was 0%; the proportion of days in which protein goals were met was 33.3%. Non-cardiac ECMO patients had a greater number of days where caloric goals were met (p-value = 0.04). Mortality at 28 days was not statistically significant (p-value = 0.28) for calories or protein administered. The patient cohort struggled to meet calorie and protein goals while on ECMO.
Mirogabalin Decreases Pain-like Behaviors by Inhibiting the Microglial/Macrophage Activation, p38MAPK Signaling, and Pronociceptive CCL2 and CCL5 Release in a Mouse Model of Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Zajączkowska Renata , Pawlik Katarzyna , Ciapała Katarzyna , Piotrowska Anna , Ciechanowska Agata , Rojewska Ewelina , Kocot-Kępska Magdalena , Makuch Wioletta , Wordliczek Jerzy , Mika Joanna
Published: July 2023

Neuropathic pain is a chronic condition that significantly reduces the quality of life of many patients as a result of ineffective pain relief therapy. For that reason, looking for new analgesics remains an important issue. Mirogabalin is a new gabapentinoid that is a specific ligand for the α2σ-1 and α2σ-2 subunits of voltage-gated calcium channels. In the present study, we compared the analgesic effect of pregabalin and mirogabalin in a neuropathic pain chronic constriction injury (CCI) of the sciatic nerve in a mouse model. The main purpose of our study was to determine the effectiveness of mirogabalin administered both once and repeatedly and to explain how the drug influences highly activated cells at the spinal cord level in neuropathy. We also sought to understand whether mirogabalin modulates the selected intracellular pathways (p38MAPK, ERK, JNK) and chemokines (CCL2, CCL5) important for nociceptive transmission, which is crucial information from a clinical perspective. First, our study provides evidence that a single mirogabalin administration diminishes tactile hypersensitivity more effectively than pregabalin. Second, research shows that several indirect mechanisms may be responsible for the beneficial analgesic effect of mirogabalin. This study reports that repeated intraperitoneally (i.p.) mirogabalin administration strongly prevents spinal microglia/macrophage activation evoked by nerve injury, slightly suppresses astroglia and neutrophil infiltration, and reduces the p38MAPK levels associated with neuropathic pain, as measured on Day 7. Moreover, mirogabalin strongly diminished the levels of the pronociceptive chemokines CCL2 and CCL5. Our results indicate that mirogabalin may represent a new strategy for the effective pharmacotherapy of neuropathic pain.
In Vitro and In Silico Evaluation of Antiproliferative Activity of New Isoxazolidine Derivatives Targeting EGFR: Design, Synthesis, Cell Cycle Analysis, and Apoptotic Inducers
Authors: Alminderej Fahad , Ghannay Siwar , Elsamani Mohamed , Alhawday Fahad , Albadri Abuzar , Elbehairi Serag , Alfaifi Mohammad , Kadri Adel , Aouadi Kaïss
Published: July 2023

A series of novel enantiopure isoxazolidine derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for their anticancer activities against three human cancer cell lines such as human breast carcinoma (MCF-7), human lung adenocarcinoma (A-549), and human ovarian carcinoma (SKOV3) by employing MTT assay. The synthesized compounds were characterized by NMR and elemental analysis. Results revealed that all the synthesized compounds displayed significant inhibition towards the tested cell lines. Among them, 2g and 2f, which differ only by the presence of an ester group at the C-3 position and small EDG (methyl) at the C-5 position of the phenyl ring (2g), were the most active derivatives in attenuating the growth of the three cells in a dose-dependent manner. The IC50 for 2g were 17.7 ± 1 µM (MCF-7), 12.1 ± 1.1 µM (A-549), and 13.9 ± 0.7 µM (SKOV3), and for 2f were 9.7 ± 1.3µM (MCF-7), 9.7 ± 0.7µM (A-549), and 6.5 ± 0.9µM (SKOV3), respectively, which were comparable to the standard drug, doxorubicin. The enzymatic inhibition of 2f and 2g against EGFR afforded good inhibitory activity with IC50 of 0.298 ± 0.007 μM and 0.484 ± 0.01 µM, respectively, close to the positive control, Afatinib. Compound 2f arrested the cell cycle in the S phase in MCF-7 and SKOV3 cells, and in the G2/M phase in the A549 cell; however, 2g induced G0/G1 phase cell cycle arrest, and inhibited the progression of the three cancer cells, together with significant apoptotic effects. The docking study of compounds 2f and 2g into EGFR ATP-active site revealed that it fits nicely with good binding affinity. The pharmacokinetic and drug-likeness scores revealed notable lead-like properties. At 100 ns, the dynamic simulation investigation revealed high conformational stability in the EGFR binding cavity.
Preparation and Embedding Characterization of Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin/Menthyl Acetate Microcapsules with Enhanced Stability
Authors: Huang Xiaoqing , Guo Honghui , Xie Quanling , Jin Wenhui , Zeng Runying , Hong Zhuan , Zhang Yiping , Zhang Yucang
Published: July 2023

Objective: Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD)/menthyl acetate (MA) microcapsules were developed to overcome the volatile and unstable defects of MA and improve the ease of use and storage. Methods: MA microcapsules were prepared via spray drying using HP-β-CD as the wall material. The embedding rate of MA microcapsules was determined through gas chromatography. The embedding characteristics were studied using phase solubility and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The stability was characterized via differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and the release and retention rates of MA microcapsules at different temperatures. Results: The embedding rate of HP-β-CD /MA microcapsules was 96.3%. The Gibbs free energy change, enthalpy change and entropy change of the embedding reaction between HP-β-CD and MA were all less than zero, indicating that the embedding process was a spontaneous exothermic reaction. NMR spectra showed that MA entered the cavity of HP-β-CD through the large opening end and interacted with the inner wall of the small opening end. DSC and the release and retention rates of MA microcapsules at different temperatures showed that the stability of MA was significantly enhanced after being embedded in HP-β-CD. Conclusion: The HP-β-CD/MA microcapsules are able to significantly improve the stability of MA and reduce the volatilization of MA.
cCPE Fusion Proteins as Molecular Probes to Detect Claudins and Tight Junction Dysregulation in Gastrointestinal Cell Lines, Tissue Explants and Patient-Derived Organoids
Authors: Waldow Ayk , Beier Laura-Sophie , Arndt Janine , Schallenberg Simon , Vollbrecht Claudia , Bischoff Philip , Farrera-Sal Martí , Loch Florian N. , Bojarski Christian , Schumann Michael , Winkler Lars , Kamphues Carsten , Ehlen Lukas , Piontek Jörg
Published: July 2023

Claudins regulate paracellular permeability, contribute to epithelial polarization and are dysregulated during inflammation and carcinogenesis. Variants of the claudin-binding domain of Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin (cCPE) are highly sensitive protein ligands for generic detection of a broad spectrum of claudins. Here, we investigated the preferential binding of YFP- or GST-cCPE fusion proteins to non-junctional claudin molecules. Plate reader assays, flow cytometry and microscopy were used to assess the binding of YFP- or GST-cCPE to non-junctional claudins in multiple in vitro and ex vivo models of human and rat gastrointestinal epithelia and to monitor formation of a tight junction barrier. Furthermore, YFP-cCPE was used to probe expression, polar localization and dysregulation of claudins in patient-derived organoids generated from gastric dysplasia and gastric cancer. Live-cell imaging and immunocytochemistry revealed cell polarity and presence of tight junctions in glandular organoids (originating from intestinal-type gastric cancer and gastric dysplasia) and, in contrast, a disrupted diffusion barrier for granular organoids (originating from discohesive tumor areas). In sum, we report the use of cCPE fusion proteins as molecular probes to specifically and efficiently detect claudin expression, localization and tight junction dysregulation in cell lines, tissue explants and patient-derived organoids of the gastrointestinal tract.
Fullerenes on a Nanodiamond Platform Demonstrate Antibacterial Activity with Low Cytotoxicity
Authors: Bolshakova Olga , Lebedev Vasily , Mikhailova Elena , Zherebyateva Olga , Aznabaeva Liliya , Burdakov Vladimir , Kulvelis Yuri , Yevlampieva Natalia , Mironov Andrey , Miroshnichenko Igor , Sarantseva Svetlana
Published: July 2023

Carbon nanoparticles with antimicrobial properties, such as fullerenes, can be distinguished among the promising means of combating pathogens characterized by resistance to commercial antibiotics. However, they have a number of limitations for their use in medicine. In particular, the insolubility of carbon nanoparticles in water leads to a low biocompatibility and especially strong aggregation when transferred to liquid media. To overcome the negative factors and enhance the action of fullerenes in an extended range of applications, for example, in antimicrobial photodynamic therapy, we created new water-soluble complexes containing, in addition to C60 fullerene, purified detonation nanodiamonds (AC960) and/or polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). The in vitro antibacterial activity and toxicity to human cells of the three-component complex C60+AC960+PVP were analyzed in comparison with binary C60+PVP and C60+AC960. All complexes showed a low toxicity to cultured human skin fibroblasts and ECV lines, as well as significant antimicrobial activity, which depend on the type of microorganisms exposed, the chemical composition of the complex, its dosage and exposure time. Complex C60+PVP+AC960 at a concentration of 175 µg/mL showed the most stable and pronounced inhibitory microbicidal/microbiostatic effect.
Pharmacists’ Perceptions on Safety Alerts of the Drug Utilization Review (DUR) in Electronic Health Records in a Tertiary Healthcare Hospital
Authors: Alshehri Nouf , Alanazi Abdullah
Published: July 2023

Electronic Drug Alarms and Drug Utilization Reviews (DURs) are crucial in improving patient safety by reducing the dispensing of contraindicated medications and minimizing adverse drug events. The DUR system often generates low-level alerts, making it challenging for pharmacists and doctors to discern more critical alerts. This can result in alert fatigue, causing burnout and jeopardizing patient safety. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a tertiary hospital to explore pharmacists’ perspectives and experience with the DUR system. This study aimed to identify their responses to alerts indicating a need to change the original prescription and the difficulties encountered. Out of all the participants, 85% had prior experience with DUR alerts. However, 40% of them expressed dissatisfaction with the alerts. Moreover, 88% of the participants received highly frequent DUR alerts, but only 40% believed that DUR alerts could identify rare adverse drug reactions. Additionally, only 27% of the participants altered their prescriptions based on alerts for the MAOI/serotonin modulator. The survey showed that 66% of participants believe improvements are necessary for the DUR system. Specifically, 77% of participants felt that more information is needed on overlapping prescriptions, 82% on patients with chronic diseases, and 82% on potential reactions caused by co-administration. At the same time, 75% raised concern about the need for backup for any server breakdown. Positive perceptions about DUR lead to changing the prescription in response to an alert. Therefore, improving the DUR system is crucial to prevent pharmacists from missing important alerts and to increase their awareness of clinically significant alarm signals. By doing so, we can optimize patient safety and contribute to providing high-quality healthcare services.