bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying Strategies to Mitigate Cybersickness in Virtual Reality Induced by Flying with an Interactive Travel Interface
Authors: Page Daniel , Lindeman Robert W. , Lukosch Stephan
Published: May 2023

As Virtual Reality (VR) technology has improved in hardware, accessibility of development and availability of applications, its interest has increased. However, the problem of Cybersickness (CS) still remains, causing uncomfortable symptoms in users. Therefore, this research seeks to identify and understand new CS mitigation strategies that can contribute to developer guidelines. Three hypotheses for strategies were devised and tested in an experiment. This involved a physical travel interface for flying through a Virtual Environment (VE) as a Control (CT) condition. On top of this, three manipulation conditions referred to as Gaze-tracking Vignette (GV), First-person Perspective with members representation (FP) and Fans and Vibration (FV) were applied. The experiment was between subjects, with 37 participants randomly allocated across conditions. According to the Simulator Sickness Questionnaire (SSQ) scores, significant evidence was found that GV and FP made CS worse. Evidence was also found that FV did not have an effect on CS. However, from the physiological data recorded, an overall lowering of heart rate for FV indicated that it might have some effect on the experience, but cannot be strongly linked with CS. Additionally, comments from some participants identified that they experienced symptoms consistent with CS. Amongst these, dizziness was the most common, with a few having issues with the usability of the travel interface. Despite some CS symptoms, most participants reported little negative impact of CS on the overall experience and feelings of immersion.
Redox-Enhanced Photoelectrochemical Activity in PHV/CdS Hybrid Film
Authors: Fu Mengyu , Xu Dongzi , Liu Xiaoxia , Gao Yuji , Yang Shenghong , Li Huaifeng , Luan Mingming , Su Pingping , Wang Nianxing
Published: May 2023

Semiconductive photocatalytic materials have received increasing attention recently due to their ability to transform solar energy into chemical fuels and photodegrade a wide range of pollutants. Among them, cadmium sulfide (CdS) nanoparticles have been extensively studied as semiconductive photocatalysts in previous studies on hydrogen generation and environmental purification due to their suitable bandgap and sensitive light response. However, the practical applications of CdS are limited by its low charge separation, which is caused by its weak ability to separate photo-generated electron-hole pairs. In order to enhance the photoelectrochemical activity of CdS, a polymer based on viologen (PHV) was utilized to create a series of PHV/CdS hybrid films so that the viologen unit could work as the electron acceptor to increase the charge separation. In this work, various electrochemical, spectroscopic, and microscopic methods were utilized to analyze the hybrid films, and the results indicated that introducing PHV can significantly improve the performance of CdS. The photoelectrochemical activities of the hybrid films were also evaluated at various ratios, and it was discovered that a PHV-to-CdS ratio of 2:1 was the ideal ratio for the hybrid films. In comparison with CdS nanoparticles, the PHV/CdS hybrid film has a relatively lower band gap, and it can inhibit the recombination of electrons and holes, enhancing its photoelectrochemical activities. All of these merits make the PHV/CdS hybrid film as a strong candidate for photocatalysis applications in the future.
Efficient Remediation of p-chloroaniline Contaminated Soil by Activated Persulfate Using Ball Milling Nanosized Zero Valent Iron/Biochar Composite: Performance and Mechanisms
Authors: Guo Zihan , Wang Dong , Yan Zichen , Qian Linbo , Yang Lei , Yan Jingchun , Chen Mengfang
Published: May 2023

In this study, efficient remediation of p-chloroaniline (PCA)-contaminated soil by activated persulfate (PS) using nanosized zero-valent iron/biochar (B-nZVI/BC) through the ball milling method was conducted. Under the conditions of 4.8 g kg−1 B-nZVI/BC and 42.0 mmol L−1 PS with pH 7.49, the concentration of PCA in soil was dramatically decreased from 3.64 mg kg−1 to 1.33 mg kg−1, which was much lower than the remediation target value of 1.96 mg kg−1. Further increasing B-nZVI/BC dosage and PS concentration to 14.4 g kg−1 and 126.0 mmol L−1, the concentration of PCA was as low as 0.15 mg kg−1, corresponding to a degradation efficiency of 95.9%. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) signals indicated SO4•−, •OH, and O2•− radicals were generated and accounted for PCA degradation with the effect of low-valence iron and through the electron transfer process of the sp2 hybridized carbon structure of biochar. 1-chlorobutane and glycine were formed and subsequently decomposed into butanol, butyric acid, ethylene glycol, and glycolic acid, and the degradation pathway of PCA in the B-nZVI/BC-PS system was proposed accordingly. The findings provide a significant implication for cost-effective and environmentally friendly remediation of PCA-contaminated soil using a facile ball milling preparation of B-nZVI/BC and PS.
LSP-SPP Coupling Structure Based on Three-Dimensional Patterned Sapphire Substrate for Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering Sensing
Authors: Xie Shuqi , Si Haipeng , Liu Cong , Liu Weihao , Shafi Muhammad , Jiang Shouzhen , Yue Weiwei
Published: May 2023

Although the fabrication of controllable three-dimensional (3D) microstructures on substrates has been proposed as an effective solution for SERS, there remains a gap in the detection and manufacturability of 3D substrates with high performance. In this study, photolithography is adopted to obtain a pyramid-like array on a patterned sapphire substrate (PSS), with Al2O3 as the dielectric layer. In addition, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are used to decorate Au films to obtain mass-producible 3D SRES substrates. In the case of low fluorescence, the substrate realizes the coupling of localized surface plasmon polaritons (LSPs) and surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs), which is consistent with the simulation results obtained using the finite element method. The performance of the SERS substrate is evaluated using rhodamine 6G (R6G) and toluidine blue (TB) as probe molecules with detection limits of 10−11 M and 10−9 M, respectively. The substrate exhibits high hydrophobicity and excellent light-capturing capability. Moreover, it shows self-cleaning ability and long-term stability in practical applications. Allowing for the consistency of the composite substrate in the preparation process and the high reproducibility of the test results, it is considered to be promising for mass production.
Fabrication and Characterization of Hybrid Films Based on NiFe2O4 Nanoparticles in a Polymeric Matrix for Applications in Organic Electronics
Authors: Sánchez Vergara María Elena , Agraz Rentería María José , Vázquez-Olmos América R. , Rincón-Granados Karen L. , Álvarez Bada José Ramón , Sato-Berrú Roberto Y.
Published: May 2023

Hybrid films for applications in organic electronics from NiFe2O4 nanoparticles (NPs) in poly(3,4 ethylene dioxythiophene), poly(4-styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS), and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) were fabricated by the spin-coating technique. The films were characterized by infrared spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive spectroscopy to subsequently determine their optical parameters. The electronic transport of the hybrid films was determined in bulk heterojunction devices. The presence of NiFe2O4 NPs reinforces mechanical properties and increases transmittance in the hybrid films; the PEDOT:PSS-NiFe2O4 NPs film is the one that has a maximum stress of 28 MPa and a Knoop hardness of 0.103, while the PMMA-NiFe2O4 NPs film has the highest transmittance of (87%). The Tauc band gap is in the range of 3.78–3.9 eV, and the Urbach energy is in the range of 0.24–0.33 eV. Regarding electrical behavior, the main effect is exerted by the matrix, although the current carried is of the same order of magnitude for the two devices: glass/ITO/polymer-NiFe2O4 NPs/Ag. NiFe2O4 NPs enhance the mechanical, optical, and electrical behavior of the hybrid films and can be used as semi-transparent anodes and as active layers.
Sorption and Desorption of Vapor of n-Pentane by Porphyrin Aluminum Metal–Organic Framework: Mechanism of Bonding, Kinetics and Stoichiometry by Complementary In-Situ Time-Dependent and Ex-Situ Methods
Authors: Banga-Bothy Georgia-Annicette , Samokhvalov Alexander
Published: May 2023

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are highly nanostructured coordination polymers that contain metal cations and organic linkers and feature very large pore volumes and surface areas. The sorption and desorption of n-pentane vapor by porphyrin aluminum metal–organic framework Al-MOF-TCPPH2 where TCPPH2 is tetrakis(4-carboxyphenyl)porphyrin linker were studied by a novel method of in-situ time-dependent attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy in a controlled atmosphere and complementary in-situ and ex-situ methods. Sorption facilely occurs in the flow of dried air, and in the obtained adsorption complex the adsorbate molecules interact with phenyl and carboxylate groups of the linker and the O-H group. Sorption kinetics follows the pseudo-first-order rate law, as confirmed by in-situ time-dependent gravimetry. Further, an ex-situ (static) sorption of n-pentane vapor results in an adsorption complex with as much as 29.1 wt.% n-pentane with the stoichiometric formula [Al-MOF-TCPPH2]2(n-C5H12)7 and a distinct XRD pattern. Finally, in the flow of dried air, the adsorption complex gradually desorbed n-pentane, following the pseudo-first-order rate law. The reversibility of sorption and desorption makes porphyrin aluminum MOF promising for the separation of light hydrocarbons and chemo-sensing. In-situ time-dependent ATR-FTIR spectroscopy in a controlled atmosphere, in combination with in-situ time-dependent gravimetry, is a new approach for the determination of binding sites of sorbents with adsorbate molecules, the stoichiometry of complexes, and chemical kinetics of “solid–gas” interactions.
Enokitake Mushroom and Its Active Component, Adenosine, Which Restores Testosterone Production in Impaired and Fatigued Mouse Models
Authors: Iguchi Kazuaki , Nagashima Koji , Mochizuki Jun , Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Unno Keiko , Miyoshi Noriyuki
Published: May 2023

Several studies have reported the effects of the consumption of various mushroom species on the testes in animal experimental models. Mushrooms, including enokitake mushrooms (Flammulina velutipes), and vegetables contain adenosine may affect testosterone production. Here, we aimed to elucidate the effects of enokitake and its active component, adenosine, on testosterone production in primary cultures of testicular cells in vivo using mice models and in vitro. The administration of enokitake ethanolic extract increased testosterone production in the cisplatin-impaired mouse model. The direct effect of mushroom extracts on testicular cells was examined and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis confirmed that the mushroom- and vegetable-induced increase in testosterone production mainly involved adenosine. Additionally, the administration of enokitake extract or adenosine to wet floor fatigue model mice promoted testicular testosterone production and enhanced Leydig cell function through insulin-like peptide three level upregulation. Structurally related compounds, including cordycepin, showed lower bioactivity than adenosine. This study showed that the ingestion of adenosine-containing mushrooms and vegetables may effectively increase testicular testosterone production. We conclude that mushrooms with a relatively high adenosine content, such as enokitake, may be useful against aging and fatigue.
Proposal to Screen for Zinc and Selenium in Patients with IgA Deficiency
Authors: Abu Jamra Soraya Regina , Komatsu Camila Gomes , Barbosa Fernando , Roxo-Junior Persio , Navarro Anderson Marliere
Published: May 2023

The increase in life expectancy can be a consequence of the world’s socioeconomic, sanitary and nutritional conditions. Some studies have demonstrated that individuals with a satisfactory diet variety score present a lower risk of malnutrition and better health status. Zinc and selenium are important micronutrients that play a role in many biochemical and physiological processes of the immune system. Deficient individuals can present both innate and adaptive immunity abnormalities and increased susceptibility to infections. Primary immunodeficiency diseases, also known as inborn errors of immunity, are genetic disorders classically characterized by an increased susceptibility to infection and/or dysregulation of a specific immunologic pathway. IgA deficiency (IgAD) is the most common primary antibody deficiency. This disease is defined as serum IgA levels lower than 7 mg/dL and normal IgG and IgM levels in individuals older than four years. Although many patients are asymptomatic, selected patients suffer from different clinical complications, such as pulmonary infections, allergies, autoimmune diseases, gastrointestinal disorders and malignancy. Knowing the nutritional status as well as the risk of zinc and selenium deficiency could be helpful for the management of IgAD patients. Objectives: to investigate the anthropometric, biochemical, and nutritional profiles and the status of zinc and selenium in patients with IgAD. Methods: in this descriptive study, we screened 16 IgAD patients for anthropometric and dietary data, biochemical evaluation and determination of plasma and erythrocyte levels of zinc and selenium. Results: dietary intake of zinc and selenium was adequate in 75% and 86% of the patients, respectively. These results were consistent with the plasma levels (adequate levels of zinc in all patients and selenium in 50% of children, 25% of adolescents and 100% of adults). However, erythrocyte levels were low for both micronutrients (deficiency for both in 100% of children, 75% of adolescents and 25% of adults). Conclusion: our results highlight the elevated prevalence of erythrocyte zinc and selenium deficiency in patients with IgAD, and the need for investigation of these micronutrients in their follow-up.
A Narrative Review of Factors Associated with Skin Carotenoid Levels
Authors: Madore Matthew P. , Hwang Jeong-Eun , Park Jin-Young , Ahn Seoeun , Joung Hyojee , Chun Ock K.
Published: May 2023

Despite consistent evidence that greater consumption of fruits and vegetables (FV) is associated with significant reductions in chronic disease morbidity and mortality, the majority of adults in the United States consume less than the amounts recommended by public health agencies. As such, there is a critical need to design and implement effective programs and policies to facilitate increases in FV consumption for the prevention of these diseases. To accomplish this, an accurate, inexpensive, and convenient method for estimating the dietary FV intake is required. A promising method for quantifying the FV intake via proxy that has gained interest in recent years is the measurement of skin carotenoid levels via spectroscopy-based devices. However, there exist certain dietary and non-dietary factors that may affect the skin carotenoid levels independently of the dietary intake of carotenoids. In order to validate the ability of this method to accurately estimate the FV intake among diverse demographics, these factors must be identified and taken into consideration. Therefore, this narrative review seeks to summarize the available research on factors that may affect the skin carotenoid levels, determine current gaps in knowledge, and provide guidance for future research efforts seeking to validate spectroscopy-measured skin carotenoid levels as a means of accurately estimating the FV intake among various populations.
Glabridin Ameliorates Alcohol-Caused Liver Damage by Reducing Oxidative Stress and Inflammation via p38 MAPK/Nrf2/NF-κB Pathway
Authors: Wang Mengyao , Zhang Feng , Zhou Jie , Gong Ke , Chen Shasha , Zhu Xinran , Zhang Mengxue , Duan Yajun , Liao Chenzhong , Han Jihong , Yin Zequn
Published: May 2023

Licorice is a traditional and versatile herbal medicine and food. Glabridin (Gla) is a kind of isoflavone extracted from the licorice root, which has anti-obesity, anti-atherosclerotic, and antioxidative effects. Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a widespread liver disease induced by chronic alcohol consumption. However, studies demonstrating the effect of Gla on ALD are rare. The research explored the positive effect of Gla in C57BL/6J mice fed by the Lieber–DeCarli ethanol mice diet and HepG2 cells treated with ethanol. Gla alleviated ethanol-induced liver injury, including reducing liver vacuolation and lipid accumulation. The serum levels of inflammatory cytokines were decreased in the Gla-treated mice. The reactive oxygen species and apoptosis levels were attenuated and antioxidant enzyme activity levels were restored in ethanol-induced mice by Gla treatment. In vitro, Gla reduced ethanol-induced cytotoxicity, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) nuclear translocation, and enhanced nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) nuclear translocation. Anisomycin (an agonist of p38 MAPK) eliminated the positive role of Gla on ethanol-caused oxidative stress and inflammation. On the whole, Gla can alleviate alcoholic liver damage via the p38 MAPK/Nrf2/NF-κB pathway and may be used as a novel health product or drug to potentially alleviate ALD.
Efficacy of an Educational Intervention for Sodium Restriction in Patients with Hypertension: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Rodrigues Marcela P. , Ferreira Carolina B. , Santos Kauane Aline M. Dos , Merello Paula N. , Rossato Sinara L. , Fuchs Sandra C. , Moreira Leila B.
Published: May 2023

There is sound evidence showing the efficacy of non-pharmacological interventions in lowering blood pressure (BP); however, adherence is usually poor. Interventions to induce behavioral changes aim to improve the ability to read labels, choose foods, and eat low-sodium meals, reinforcing adherence to sodium restriction. In this randomized parallel-controlled trial, we assessed the effectiveness of an educational intervention using the Dietary Sodium Restriction Questionnaire (DSRQ) scores. A follow-up period of 6 months was conducted. Participants were randomized into (1) an educational intervention provided by a registered dietitian on individual visits and dietary planning; (2) a control group with the usual care and dietary recommendations. Patients underwent 24-h ambulatory BP monitoring, 12-h fasting blood tests, spot urine collection, and assessment using DSRQ. We randomized 120 participants (67.5% women and 68.3% Caucasians), and 25 participants were lost to follow-up. The 24-h sodium urinary excretion changed in the control (Δ −1610 mg/day; 95% confidence interval [CI] −1800 to −1410) and intervention groups (Δ −1670 mg/day; 95% CI −1800 to −1450) over time. There was no significant difference in the 24-h estimated sodium between groups. In hypertensive patients, DSRQ-based educational intervention is effective for improving the ability to detect and overcome obstacles to a low-sodium restriction diet but is as effective as dietary recommendations for lowering sodium.
Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) Infection in Hemodialysis Patients: A Multicenter Epidemiological Cohort Study in North-Eastern Greece
Authors: Kogias Dionysios , Skeva Aikaterini , Smyrlis Andreas , Mourvati Efthymia , Kantartzi Konstantinia , Romanidou Gioulia , Kalientzidou Maria , Rekari Vasiliki , Konstantinidou Eleni , Kiorteve Parthena , Paroglou Ioannis , Papadopoulos Vasileios , Konstantinidis Theocharis , Panopoulou Maria , Mimidis Konstantinos
Published: May 2023

Hepatitis E virus (HEV), a common cause of viral hepatitis in developing countries, is mainly transmitted via the fecal–oral route, but also may be a prevalent hospital-transmitted agent among patients on regular hemodialysis due to parenteral transmission. Previous epidemiological studies among hemodialysis patients in Greece, using different diagnostic techniques, gave conflicting results. Τhe present study aimed to measure the exposure rate of hemodialysis patients of north-eastern Greece to HEV by estimating the overall seroprevalence, and to identify potential risk factors. Serum samples from all patients attending the hemodialysis centers of north-eastern Greece (n = 6) were tested for the presence of anti-HEV IgG antibodies using a modern and sensitive ELISA (Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay) technique (Wantai). In total, 42 out of 405 hemodialysis patients were positive for anti-HEV IgG (10.4%), while all samples were negative for HEV RNA when tested using nested RT-PCR. HEV seropositivity among hemodialysis patients was significantly associated with area of residence and contact with specific animals (pork, deer). No association was found with religion, gender distribution and hemodialysis duration. This study showed an increased seroprevalence of HEV among hemodialysis patients in Greece. Agricultural or livestock occupation and place of residence seem to be independent factors that increase the risk of HEV infection. In conclusion, HEV infection calls for the regular screening of hemodialysis patients regardless of the hemodialysis duration or clinical symptoms.
Morin Sensitizes MDA-MB-231 Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells to Doxorubicin Cytotoxicity by Suppressing FOXM1 and Attenuating EGFR/STAT3 Signaling Pathways
Authors: Maharjan Sushma , Lee Min-Gu , Kim So-Young , Lee Kyu-Shik , Nam Kyung-Soo
Published: May 2023

Considerable emphasis is being placed on combinatorial chemotherapeutic/natural treatments for breast cancer. This study reveals the synergistic anti-tumor activity of morin and Doxorubicin (Dox) co-treatment on MDA-MB-231 triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell proliferation. Morin/Dox treatment promoted Dox uptake and induced DNA damage and formation of nuclear foci of p-H2A.X. Furthermore, DNA repair proteins, RAD51 and survivin, and cell cycle proteins, cyclin B1 and forkhead Box M1 (FOXM1), were induced by Dox alone but attenuated by morin/Dox co-treatment. In addition, Annexin V/7-AAD analysis revealed that necrotic cell death after co-treatment and apoptotic cell death by Dox alone were associated with the induction of cleaved PARP and caspase-7 without Bcl-2 family involvement. FOXM1 inhibition by thiostrepton showed that co-treatment caused FOXM1-mediated cell death. Furthermore, co-treatment downregulated the phosphorylation of EGFR and STAT3. Flow cytometry showed that the accumulation of cells in the G2/M and S phases might be linked to cellular Dox uptake, p21 upregulation, and cyclin D1 downregulation. Taken together, our study shows that the anti-tumor effect of morin/Dox co-treatment is due to the suppression of FOXM1 and attenuation of EGFR/STAT3 signaling pathways in MDA-MB-231 TNBC cells, which suggests that morin offers a means of improving therapeutic efficacy in TNBC patients.
SUMOtherapeutics for Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Karandikar Paramesh , Gerstl Jakob V. E. , Kappel Ari D. , Won Sae-Yeon , Dubinski Daniel , Garcia-Segura Monica Emili , Gessler Florian A. , See Alfred Pokmeng , Peruzzotti-Jametti Luca , Bernstock Joshua D.
Published: May 2023

The small, ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) is a post-translational modifier with a profound influence on several key biological processes, including the mammalian stress response. Of particular interest are its neuroprotective effects, first recognized in the 13-lined ground squirrel (Ictidomys tridecemlineatus), in the context of hibernation torpor. Although the full scope of the SUMO pathway is yet to be elucidated, observations of its importance in managing neuronal responses to ischemia, maintaining ion gradients, and the preconditioning of neural stem cells make it a promising therapeutic target for acute cerebral ischemia. Recent advances in high-throughput screening have enabled the identification of small molecules that can upregulate SUMOylation, some of which have been validated in pertinent preclinical models of cerebral ischemia. Accordingly, the present review aims to summarize current knowledge and highlight the translational potential of the SUMOylation pathway in brain ischemia.
Stable Gastric Pentadecapeptide BPC 157 May Recover Brain–Gut Axis and Gut–Brain Axis Function
Authors: Sikiric Predrag , Gojkovic Slaven , Krezic Ivan , Smoday Ivan Maria , Kalogjera Luka , Zizek Helena , Oroz Katarina , Vranes Hrvoje , Vukovic Vlasta , Labidi May , Strbe Sanja , Baketic Oreskovic Lidija , Sever Marko , Tepes Marijan , Knezevic Mario , Barisic Ivan , Blagaic Vladimir , Vlainic Josipa , Dobric Ivan , Staresinic Mario , Skrtic Anita , Jurjevic Ivana , Boban Blagaic Alenka , Seiwerth Sven
Published: May 2023

Conceptually, a wide beneficial effect, both peripherally and centrally, might have been essential for the harmony of brain–gut and gut–brain axes’ function. Seen from the original viewpoint of the gut peptides’ significance and brain relation, the favorable stable gastric pentadecapeptide BPC 157 evidence in the brain–gut and gut–brain axes’ function might have been presented as a particular interconnected network. These were the behavioral findings (interaction with main systems, anxiolytic, anticonvulsive, antidepressant effect, counteracted catalepsy, and positive and negative schizophrenia symptoms models). Muscle healing and function recovery appeared as the therapeutic effects of BPC 157 on the various muscle disabilities of a multitude of causes, both peripheral and central. Heart failure was counteracted (including arrhythmias and thrombosis), and smooth muscle function recovered. These existed as a multimodal muscle axis impact on muscle function and healing as a function of the brain–gut axis and gut–brain axis as whole. Finally, encephalopathies, acting simultaneously in both the periphery and central nervous system, BPC 157 counteracted stomach and liver lesions and various encephalopathies in NSAIDs and insulin rats. BPC 157 therapy by rapidly activated collateral pathways counteracted the vascular and multiorgan failure concomitant to major vessel occlusion and, similar to noxious procedures, reversed initiated multicausal noxious circuit of the occlusion/occlusion-like syndrome. Severe intracranial (superior sagittal sinus) hypertension, portal and caval hypertensions, and aortal hypotension were attenuated/eliminated. Counteracted were the severe lesions in the brain, lungs, liver, kidney, and gastrointestinal tract. In particular, progressing thrombosis, both peripherally and centrally, and heart arrhythmias and infarction that would consistently occur were fully counteracted and/or almost annihilated. To conclude, we suggest further BPC 157 therapy applications.
Rosiglitazone Does Not Affect the Risk of Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Retrospective Cohort Study in Taiwanese Type 2 Diabetes Patients
Authors: Tseng Chin-Hsiao
Published: May 2023

Human studies on the effect of rosiglitazone on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are still lacking. We investigated whether rosiglitazone might affect IBD risk by using the reimbursement database of Taiwan’s National Health Insurance to enroll a propensity-score-matched cohort of ever users and never users of rosiglitazone. The patients should have been newly diagnosed with diabetes mellitus between 1999 and 2006 and should have been alive on 1 January 2007. We then started to follow the patients from 1 January 2007 until 31 December 2011 for a new diagnosis of IBD. Propensity-score-weighted hazard ratios were estimated with regards to rosiglitazone exposure in terms of ever users versus never users and in terms of cumulative duration and cumulative dose of rosiglitazone therapy for dose–response analyses. The joint effects and interactions between rosiglitazone and risk factors of psoriasis/arthropathies, dorsopathies, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease/tobacco abuse and the use of metformin were estimated by Cox regression after adjustment for all covariates. A total of 6226 ever users and 6226 never users were identified and the respective numbers of incident IBD were 95 and 111. When we compared the risk of IBD in ever users to that of the never users, the estimated hazard ratio (0.870, 95% confidence interval: 0.661–1.144) was not statistically significant. When cumulative duration and cumulative dose of rosiglitazone therapy were categorized by tertiles and hazard ratios were estimated by comparing the tertiles of rosiglitazone exposure to the never users, none of the hazard ratios reached statistical significance. In secondary analyses, rosiglitazone has a null association with Crohn’s disease, but a potential benefit on ulcerative colitis (UC) could not be excluded. However, because of the low incidence of UC, we were not able to perform detailed dose–response analyses for UC. In the joint effect analyses, only the subgroup of psoriasis/arthropathies (-)/rosiglitazone (-) showed a significantly lower risk in comparison to the subgroup of psoriasis/arthropathies (+)/rosiglitazone (-). No interactions between rosiglitazone and the major risk factors or metformin use were observed. We concluded that rosiglitazone has a null effect on the risk of IBD, but the potential benefit on UC awaits further investigation.
Nanoencapsulation of Methylene-Blue for Enhanced Skin Cancer Cell Phototoxicity and Cutaneous Penetration in Association with Sonophoresis
Authors: Soares Lima Thayane , Silva de Oliveira Monalisa Sthefani , Reis Alice Vitoria Frota , Petrilli Raquel , Eloy Josimar O.
Published: May 2023

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) using methylene blue (MB) as a photosensitizer has emerged as an alternative treatment for skin cancers, such as squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). To increase the cutaneous penetration of the drug, some strategies are used, such as the association of nanocarriers and physical methods. Thus, herein we address the development of nanoparticles based on poly-Ɛ-caprolactone (PCL), optimized with the Box–Behnken factorial design, for topical application of MB associated with sonophoresis. The MB-nanoparticles were developed using the double emulsification-solvent evaporation technique and the optimized formulation resulted in an average size of 156.93 ± 8.27 nm, a polydispersion index of 0.11 ± 0.05, encapsulation efficiency of 94.22 ± 2.19% and zeta potential of −10.08 ± 1.12 mV. Morphological evaluation by scanning electron microscopy showed spherical nanoparticles. In vitro release studies show an initial burst compatible with the first-order mathematical model. The nanoparticle showed satisfactory generation of reactive oxygen species. The MTT assay was used to assess cytotoxicity and IC50; values of 79.84; 40.46; 22.37; 9.90 µM were obtained, respectively, for the MB-solution and the MB-nanoparticle without and with light irradiation after 2 h of incubation. Analysis using confocal microscopy showed high cellular uptake for the MB-nanoparticle. With regard to skin penetration, a higher concentration of MB was observed in the epidermis + dermis, corresponding to 9.81, 5.27 μg/cm2 in passive penetration and 24.31 and 23.81 μg/cm2 after sonophoresis, for solution-MB and nanoparticle-MB, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of MB encapsulation in PCL nanoparticles for application in skin cancer using PDT.
Solid Lipid Nanoparticles Hydroquinone-Based for the Treatment of Melanoma: Efficacy and Safety Studies
Authors: Trombino Sonia , Malivindi Rocco , Barbarossa Giuseppe , Sole Roberta , Curcio Federica , Cassano Roberta
Published: May 2023

Classical melanoma therapy has several side effects that are responsible for a decrease in the final therapeutic efficacy. It is possible that the drug is degraded before reaching the target site and is metabolized by the body itself, resulting in repeated doses being administered throughout the day and a decrease in patient compliance. Drug delivery systems avoid degradation of the active ingredient, improve release kinetics, prevent the drug from being metabolized before reaching the site of action, and improve the safety and efficacy profiles of adjuvant cancer therapy. The solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) based on hydroquinone esterified with stearic acid realized in this work represent a chemotherapeutic drug delivery system that is useful in the treatment of melanoma. The starting materials were characterized by FT-IR and 1H-NMR, while the SLNs were characterized by dynamic light scattering. In efficacy studies, their ability to influence anchorage-dependent cell proliferation was tested on COLO-38 human melanoma cells. Furthermore, the expression levels of proteins belonging to apoptotic mechanisms were determined by analyzing the role of SLNs in modulating the expression of p53 and p21WAF1/Cip1. Safety tests were conducted to determine not only the pro-sensitizing potential but also the cytotoxicity of SLNs, and studies were conducted to assess the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of these drug delivery.
Hydrophobic Modification of Poly(γ-glutamic acid) by Grafting 4-Phenyl-butyl Side Groups for the Encapsulation and Release of Doxorubicin
Authors: Dorost Porochista , García-Alvarez Montserrat , Martínez de Ilarduya Antxon
Published: May 2023

The delivery of drugs is a great challenge, since most of active pharmaceutical ingredients developed today are hydrophobic and poorly water soluble. From this perspective, drug encapsulation on biodegradable and biocompatible polymers can surpass this problem. Poly(γ-glutamic acid) (PGGA), a bioedible and biocompatible polymer has been chosen for this purpose. Carboxylic side groups of PGGA have been partially esterified with 4-phenyl-butyl bromide, producing a series of aliphatic–aromatic ester derivatives with different hydrophilic–lipophilic balances. Using nanoprecipitation or emulsion/evaporation methods, these copolymers were self-assembled in a water solution, forming nanoparticles with average diameters between 89 and 374 nm and zeta potential values between −13.1 and −49.5 mV. The hydrophobic core containing 4-phenyl-butyl side groups was used for the encapsulation of an anticancer drug, such as Doxorubicin (DOX). The highest encapsulation efficiency was reached for a copolymer derived from PGGA, with a 46 mol% degree of esterification. Drug release studies carried out for 5 days at different pHs (4.2 and 7.4) indicated that DOX was released faster at pH 4.2, revealing the potential of these nanoparticles as chemotherapy agents.
Machine Learning for Exposure-Response Analysis: Methodological Considerations and Confirmation of Their Importance via Computational Experimentations
Authors: Harun Rashed , Yang Eric , Kassir Nastya , Zhang Wenhui , Lu James
Published: May 2023

Exposure-response (E-R) is a key aspect of pharmacometrics analysis that supports drug dose selection. Currently, there is a lack of understanding of the technical considerations necessary for drawing unbiased estimates from data. Due to recent advances in machine learning (ML) explainability methods, ML has garnered significant interest for causal inference. To this end, we used simulated datasets with known E-R “ground truth” to generate a set of good practices for the development of ML models required to avoid introducing biases when performing causal inference. These practices include the use of causal diagrams to enable the careful consideration of model variables by which to obtain desired E-R relationship insights, keeping a strict separation of data for model-training and for inference generation to avoid biases, hyperparameter tuning to improve the reliability of models, and estimating proper confidence intervals around inferences using a bootstrap sampling with replacement strategy. We computationally confirm the benefits of the proposed ML workflow by using a simulated dataset with nonlinear and non-monotonic exposure–response relationships.
3D-Printed Gastroretentive Tablets Loaded with Niclosamide Nanocrystals by the Melting Solidification Printing Process (MESO-PP)
Authors: Real Juan Pablo , Real Daniel Andrés , Lopez-Vidal Lucía , Barrientos Bruno Andrés , Bolaños Karen , Tinti Mariano Guillermo , Litterio Nicolás Javier , Kogan Marcelo Javier , Palma Santiago Daniel
Published: May 2023

Niclosamide (NICLO) is a recognized antiparasitic drug being repositioned for Helicobacter pylori. The present work aimed to formulate NICLO nanocrystals (NICLO-NCRs) to produce a higher dissolution rate of the active ingredient and to incorporate these nanosystems into a floating solid dosage form to release them into the stomach slowly. For this purpose, NICLO-NCRs were produced by wet-milling and included in a floating Gelucire l3D printed tablet by semi-solid extrusion, applying the Melting solidification printing process (MESO-PP) methodology. The results obtained in TGA, DSC, XRD and FT-IR analysis showed no physicochemical interactions or modifications in the crystallinity of NICLO-NCR after inclusion in Gelucire 50/13 ink. This method allowed the incorporation of NICLO-NCRs in a concentration of up to 25% w/w. It achieved a controlled release of NCRs in a simulated gastric medium. Moreover, the presence of NICLO-NCRs after redispersion of the printlets was observed by STEM. Additionally, no effects on the cell viability of the NCRs were demonstrated in the GES-1 cell line. Finally, gastroretention was demonstrated for 180 min in dogs. These findings show the potential of the MESO-PP technique in obtaining slow-release gastro-retentive oral solid dosage forms loaded with nanocrystals of a poorly soluble drug, an ideal system for treating gastric pathologies such as H. pylori.
Phase Error Evaluation via Differentiation and Cross-Multiplication Demodulation in Phase-Sensitive Optical Time-Domain Reflectometry
Authors: Lu Xin , Thomas Peter James
Published: May 2023

Phase-sensitive optical time-domain reflectometry (φOTDR) is a technology for distributed vibration sensing, where vibration amplitudes are determined by recovering the phase of the backscattered light. Measurement noise induces phase errors, which degrades sensing performance. The phase errors, using a differentiation and cross-multiplication (DCM) algorithm, are investigated theoretically and experimentally in a φOTDR system based on a phase retrieval configuration consisting of an imbalanced Mach–Zehnder interferometer (IMZI) and a 3 × 3 coupler. Analysis shows that phase error is highly dependent on the AC component of the obtained signal, essentially being inversely proportional to the product of the power of the light backscattered from two locations. An analytical expression was derived to estimate the phase error and was confirmed by experiment. When applied to the same measurement data, the error is found to be slightly smaller than that obtained using in-phase/quadrature (I/Q) demodulation. The error, however, increases for longer measurement times.
Aided Imaging Phase Measuring Deflectometry Based on Concave Focusing Mirror
Authors: Li Ziyu , Gao Nan , Meng Zhaozong , Zhang Zonghua , Gao Feng , Jiang Xiangqian
Published: May 2023

With the rapid development of aerospace, high-speed train, and automotive industries, the demand for the measurement of high-precision specular components is increasing. The acquisition of high-precision three-dimensional (3D) data is conducive to improving the performance of and extending the service life of these components. However, the existing 3D measurement methods of specular surfaces are affected by the inherent limitation of the depth of field (DOF) of camera lenses. Based on the principle of paraxial reflection imaging of a concave mirror, this paper introduces a concave mirror into a phase measuring deflectometry (PMD) system and proposes an aided imaging PMD (AIPMD) based on a concave focusing mirror. The proposed system realizes the clear imaging of the encoded patterns and the surface under test in the DOF of the camera lens, simultaneously. Meanwhile, the iterative coefficient specular reconstruction algorithm is studied based on this system. The feasibility and accuracy of the proposed method are verified by simulations and experiments.
Toward Practical Optical Phased Arrays through Grating Antenna Engineering
Authors: Shuai Youqiang , Zhou Zhiping , Su Hui
Published: May 2023

In recent years, using silicon-based waveguide grating antennas in optical phased array has become a research focus. To date, this technique has not been widely implemented in practical applications. In this paper, the basic principle of a waveguide grating antenna is described, and the researches on effective length, uniform emission and the directionality of diffraction are summarized. Through analysis, it is found that there is a trend to prepare grating antennas by using a SiN/Si hybrid integrated platform. A novel design of grating antenna using the hybrid integration technique is proposed. It is convenient to match with the antenna front-end components on the structural level and is more practical.
Multi-Channel Long-Distance Audio Transmission System Using Power-over-Fiber Technology
Authors: Guo Can , Guan Chenggang , Lv Hui , Chai Shiyi , Chen Hao
Published: May 2023

To establish stable communication networks in harsh environments where power supply is difficult, such as coal mines and underwater, we propose an effective scheme for co-transmission of analog audio signals and energy. By leveraging the advantages of optical fibers, such as corrosion resistance and strong resistance to electromagnetic interference, the scheme uses a 1550 nm laser beam as the carrier for analog audio signal propagation, which is then converted to electrical energy through a custom InGaAs/InP photovoltaic power converter (PPC) for energy supply and information transfer without an external power supply after a 25 km fiber transmission. In the experiment, with 160 mW of optical power injection, the scheme not only provides 4 mW of electrical power, but also transmits an analog signal with an acoustic overload point (AOP) of 105 dBSPL and a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 50 dB. In addition, the system employs wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) technology to transform from single-channel to multi-channel communication on a single independent fiber, enabling the arraying of receiving terminals. The passive arrayed terminals make the multi-channel long-distance audio transmission system using power-over-fiber (PoF) technology a superior choice for establishing a stable communication network in harsh environments.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of the Dof Transcription Factor in Annual Alfalfa Medicago polymorpha
Authors: Yang Linghua , Min Xueyang , Wei Zhenwu , Liu Nana , Li Jiaqing , Zhang Youxin , Yang Yuwei
Published: May 2023

The Dof transcription factor is a plant-specific transcription gene family that plays various biological functions in plant development and stress response. However, no relevant research has been conducted on Medicago polymorpha. Here, 36 MpDof genes were identified in the M. polymorpha genome and further divided into 10 groups based on the comparative phylogenetic analysis. The essential information of MpDof genes, such as chromosomal localization, gene structure, conserved motifs, and selective pressures were systematically analyzed. All 36 MpDof genes were predicted to contain more cis-acting elements related to hormone response. MpDof24 and MpDof25 were predicted to interact with MpDof11 and MpDof26 to involve in the photoperiod blooms process. The MpDof genes showed a diverse expression pattern in different tissues. Notably, MpDof29 and MpDof31 were specifically expressed in the large pod and root, respectively, suggesting their crucial role in the pod and root development. qRT-PCR analysis indicated that the expression levels of MpDof10, MpDof25, MpDof26, and MpDof29 were obviously up-regulated under drought, salt, and cold stress. Collectively, genome-wide identification, evolutionary, and expression analysis of the Dof transcription gene family in M. polymorpha will provide new information to further understand and utilize the function of these Dof genes in Medicago plants.
Optimizing Insecticide Application Timing for Broad Bean Weevil Control and Minimizing Crop Damage in Broad Bean (Vicia faba Linn.)
Authors: Almogdad Mohammad , Semaškienė Roma , Tamošiūnas Kęstutis
Published: May 2023

During the growing seasons of 2018 to 2020, a field experiment in broad bean (Vicia faba L.) was conducted at the Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry. The objective of the study was to explore the effects of the timing of insecticide application on the abundance, damage, and control of the broad bean weevil (Bruchus rufimanus Boh.). The experiment included four spray regimes and an untreated control. Yellow water traps were utilized to monitor the broad bean weevil from germination to senescence. Results indicate that broad bean weevil infestation occurred in all study years, with the highest density of adults observed during the flowering stage. Damage to seeds ranged from 23% to 59.62%. The data suggest that B. rufimanus infestation can result in a 19.1% reduction in seed yield. However, spraying when the daily temperature exceeded the threshold for adult activity for 3 days and at the end of flowering produced a significant increase in yield of 13.3% and 6.6%, respectively. Additionally, the spray at the end of flowering reduced damaged seeds by 21.4–48%.
Characterization of Mineral Composition and Nutritional Value of Acacia Green Pods
Authors: Pedro Soraia I. , Antunes Carlos A. L. , Horta Carmo , Pitacas Inês , Gonçalves Joana , Gominho Jorge , Gallardo Eugenia , Anjos Ofélia
Published: May 2023

The Acacia genus is considered one of the most invasive taxa in some habitats, namely coastal dunes, maritime calcareous soils, fresh lands in the valleys, mountainous areas, and the banks of watercourses and roadsides. In Portugal, the severity risk is very high, so this study aimed to evaluate the nutritional and mineral contents of the green pods as a potential source for livestock feeds and soil fertilizer because, as far as we know, there is no use for this species. The seven different species of Acacia (Acacia mearnsii Link, Acacia longifolia (Andrews) Willd, Acacia melanoxylon R. Br., Acacia pycnantha Bentham, Acacia dealbata Link., Acacia retinodes Schlecht, and Acacia cyclops A. Cunn. ex G. Don fil) were evaluated. The results showed that Acacia green pods have a high protein, fibre and minerals content, especially in potassium (K), calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg). All species present a different profile of the studied parameters, suggesting different potentials for their future use. Near-infrared spectroscopy was a potential tool to predict the earlier quality of the Acacia green pods to better select the raw material for the different applications.