bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Removal of MuRF1 Increases Muscle Mass in Nemaline Myopathy Models, but Does Not Provide Functional Benefits
Authors: Lindqvist Johan , Kolb Justin , de Winter Josine , Tonino Paola , Hourani Zaynab , Labeit Siegfried , Ottenheijm Coen , Granzier Henk
Published: July 2022

Nemaline myopathy (NM) is characterized by skeletal muscle weakness and atrophy. No curative treatments exist for this debilitating disease. NM is caused by mutations in proteins involved in thin-filament function, turnover, and maintenance. Mutations in nebulin, encoded by NEB, are the most common cause. Skeletal muscle atrophy is tightly linked to upregulation of MuRF1, an E3 ligase, that targets proteins for proteasome degradation. Here, we report a large increase in MuRF1 protein levels in both patients with nebulin-based NM, also named NEM2, and in mouse models of the disease. We hypothesized that knocking out MuRF1 in animal models of NM with muscle atrophy would ameliorate the muscle deficits. To test this, we crossed MuRF1 KO mice with two NEM2 mouse models, one with the typical form and the other with the severe form. The crosses were viable, and muscles were studied in mice at 3 months of life. Ultrastructural examination of gastrocnemius muscle lacking MuRF1 and with severe NM revealed a small increase in vacuoles, but no significant change in the myofibrillar fractional area. MuRF1 deficiency led to increased weights of various muscle types in the NM models. However, this increase in muscle size was not associated with increased in vivo or in vitro force production. We conclude that knocking out MuRF1 in NEM2 mice increases muscle size, but does not improve muscle function.
Taste 2 Receptor Is Involved in Differentiation of 3T3-L1 Preadipocytes
Authors: Kimura Shunsuke , Tsuruma Ai , Kato Eisuke
Published: July 2022

Expression of taste 2 receptor (T2R) genes, also known as bitter taste receptor genes, has been reported in a variety of tissues. The white adipose tissue of mice has been shown to express Tas2r108, Tas2r126, Tas2r135, Tas2r137, and Tas2r143, but the function of T2Rs in adipocytes remains unclear. Here, we show that fasting and stimulation by bitter compounds both increased Tas2r expression in mouse white adipose tissue, and serum starvation and stimulation by bitter compounds both increased the expression of Tas2r genes in 3T3-L1 adipocytes, suggesting that T2Rs have functional roles in adipocytes. RNA sequencing analysis of 3T3-L1 adipocytes stimulated by epicatechin, the ligand of Tas2r126, suggested that this receptor may play a role in the differentiation of adipocytes. Overexpression of Tas2r126 in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes decreases fat accumulation after induction of differentiation and reduces the expression of adipogenic genes. Together, these results indicate that Tas2r126 may be involved in adipocyte differentiation.
Nucleoside Transport and Nucleobase Uptake Null Mutants in Leishmania mexicana for the Routine Expression and Characterization of Purine and Pyrimidine Transporters
Authors: Aldfer Mustafa M. , AlSiari Tahani A. , Elati Hamza A. A. , Natto Manal J. , Alfayez Ibrahim A. , Campagnaro Gustavo D. , Sani Bashiru , Burchmore Richard J. S. , Diallinas George , De Koning Harry P.
Published: July 2022

The study of transporters is highly challenging, as they cannot be isolated or studied in suspension, requiring a cellular or vesicular system, and, when mediated by more than one carrier, difficult to interpret. Nucleoside analogues are important drug candidates, and all protozoan pathogens express multiple equilibrative nucleoside transporter (ENT) genes. We have therefore developed a system for the routine expression of nucleoside transporters, using CRISPR/cas9 to delete both copies of all three nucleoside transporters from Leishmania mexicana (ΔNT1.1/1.2/2 (SUPKO)). SUPKO grew at the same rate as the parental strain and displayed no apparent deficiencies, owing to the cells’ ability to synthesize pyrimidines, and the expression of the LmexNT3 purine nucleobase transporter. Nucleoside transport was barely measurable in SUPKO, but reintroduction of L. mexicana NT1.1, NT1.2, and NT2 restored uptake. Thus, SUPKO provides an ideal null background for the expression and characterization of single ENT transporter genes in isolation. Similarly, an LmexNT3-KO strain provides a null background for transport of purine nucleobases and was used for the functional characterization of T. cruzi NB2, which was determined to be adenine-specific. A 5-fluorouracil-resistant strain (Lmex5FURes) displayed null transport for uracil and 5FU, and was used to express the Aspergillus nidulans uracil transporter FurD.
Tetrandrine Inhibits Skeletal Muscle Differentiation by Blocking Autophagic Flux
Authors: Li Jing , Shi Meiyun , Liu Lutao , Wang Jiahui , Zhu Minsheng , Chen Huaqun
Published: July 2022

Tetrandrine is well known to act as a calcium channel blocker. It is a potential candidate for a tumor chemotherapy drug without toxicity. Tetrandrine inhibits cancer cell proliferation and induces cell death through apoptosis and autophagy. As cancer patients usually experience complications with sarcopenia or muscle injury, we thus assessed the effects of tetrandrine on skeletal muscle cells. We report in this study that a low dose of tetrandrine (less than 5 μM) does not affect the proliferation of C2C12 myoblasts, but significantly inhibits myogenic differentiation. Consistently, tetrandrine inhibited muscle regeneration after BaCl2-induced injury. Mechanistic experiments showed that tetrandrine decreased the p-mTOR level and increased the levels of LC3 and SQSTM1/p62 during differentiation. Ad-mRFP-GFP-LC3B transfection experiments revealed that the lysosomal quenching of GFP signals was suppressed by tetrandrine. Furthermore, the levels of DNM1L/Drp1, PPARGA1 and cytochrome C (Cyto C), as well as caspase 3 activation and ROS production, were decreased following tetrandrine administration, indicating that the mitochondrial network signaling was inhibited. Our results indicate that tetrandrine has dual effects on autophagic flux in myoblasts during differentiation, activation in the early stage and blockade in the late stage. The ultimate blocking of autophagic flux by tetrandrine led to the disruption of mitochondria remodeling and inhibition of myogenic differentiation. The inhibitory effects of tetrandrine on skeletal muscle differentiation may limit its application in advanced cancer patients. Thus, great attention should be paid to the clinical use of tetrandrine for cancer therapy.
Parameter Screening and Optimization for a Polycaprolactone-Based GTR/GBR Membrane Using Taguchi Design
Authors: Kalluri Lohitha , Duan Yuanyuan
Published: July 2022

Our objective was to determine and optimize the significant parameters affecting mechanical properties and mean fiber diameter (MFD) of a novel GTR/GBR membrane composed of polycaprolactone (PCL) and chicken eggshell membrane (ESM). For this, we prepared electrospun membrane specimens (n = 16) with varying concentrations of PCL, ESM, nano-hydroxyapatite (HAp), and altered electrospinning parameters as generated by DOE++ software. After the determination of MFD and mechanical properties for all specimens, Taguchi orthogonal array L8 design was used to screen significant factors affecting the MFD and mechanical properties. PCL wt%, ESM wt%, HAp wt%, applied voltage (AV), flow rate (FR), and spinneret-collector distance (SCD) were the independent variables investigated. The response variables analyzed were MFD, tensile strength (TS), and elastic modulus. ANOVA outlined ESM wt%, HAp wt%, AV, FR, SCD, and an interactive effect between PCL wt% and AV to be the significant factors affecting modulus values of an electrospun PCL/ESM membrane (p < 0.05). Furthermore, concentrations of PCL and ESM were the significant factors affecting MFD (p < 0.05) and there were no significant factors affecting the TS values. Optimization using DOE++ software predicted that the maximal TS of 3.125 MPa, modulus of 278.168 MPa, and MFD of 882.75 nm could be achieved.
Neuroimmune Crosstalk in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Gao Dashuang , Gao Xu , Yang Fan , Wang Qingwen
Published: July 2022

Recent studies have demonstrated that immunological disease progression is closely related to abnormal function of the central nervous system (CNS). Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, inflammatory synovitis-based systemic immune disease of unknown etiology. In addition to joint pathological damage, RA has been linked to neuropsychiatric comorbidities, including depression, schizophrenia, and anxiety, increasing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases in life. Immune cells and their secreted immune factors will stimulate the peripheral and central neuronal systems that regulate innate and adaptive immunity. The understanding of autoimmune diseases has largely advanced insights into the molecular mechanisms of neuroimmune interaction. Here, we review our current understanding of CNS comorbidities and potential physiological mechanisms in patients with RA, with a focus on the complex and diverse regulation of mood and distinct patterns of peripheral immune activation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. And in our review, we also discussed the role that has been played by peripheral neurons and CNS in terms of neuron mechanisms in RA immune challenges, and the related neuron-immune crosstalk.
Synthesis and Characterization of New Conjugated Azomethines End-Capped with Amino-thiophene-3,4-dicarboxylic Acid Diethyl Ester
Authors: Pająk Agnieszka Katarzyna , Kotowicz Sonia , Gnida Paweł , Małecki Jan Grzegorz , Ciemięga Agnieszka , Łuczak Adam , Jung Jarosław , Schab-Balcerzak Ewa
Published: July 2022

A new series of thiophene-based azomethines differing in the core structure was synthesized. The effect of the central core structure in azomethines on the thermal, optical and electrochemical properties was investigated. The obtained compounds exhibited the ability to form a stable amorphous phase with a high glass transition temperature above 100 °C. They were electrochemically active and undergo oxidation and reduction processes. The highest occupied (HOMO) and the lowest unoccupied molecular (LUMO) orbitals were in the range of −3.86–−3.60 eV and −5.46–−5.17 eV, respectively, resulting in a very low energy band gap below 1.7 eV. Optical investigations were performed in the solvents with various polarity and in the solid state as a thin film deposited on a glass substrate. The synthesized imines absorbed radiation from 350 to 600 nm, depending on its structure and showed weak emission with a photoluminescence quantum yield below 2.5%. The photophysical investigations were supported by theoretical calculations using the density functional theory. The synthesized imines doped with lithium bis-(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide were examined as hole transporting materials (HTM) in hybrid inorganic-organic perovskite solar cells. It was found that both a volume of lithium salt and core imine structure significantly impact device performance. The best power conversion efficiency (PCE), being about 35–63% higher compared to other devices, exhibited cells based on the imine containing a core tiphenylamine unit.
Thermally Treated Waste Silt as Geopolymer Grouting Material and Filler for Semiflexible Pavements
Authors: Solouki Abbas , Tataranni Piergiorgio , Sangiorgi Cesare
Published: July 2022

Considering the future shortage of natural aggregates, various researchers have promoted the recycling of by-products into various asphalt pavement types. This paper promoted a double-recycling technique, where thermally treated waste silt was used as a filler for the bituminous skeleton and grouting material of a geopolymer-based semiflexible pavement. Semiflexible pavements (SFP) inherit the flexibility of common asphalt pavements and simultaneously benefit from the rigidity of cement concrete pavements. For this purpose, waste silt obtained from a local asphalt plant was thermally treated at 750 °C and was used as the filler to produce the porous skeleton. Two different materials, including conventional cement-based and a geopolymer-based cement, were used as the grouting material. The geopolymer grout was produced by mixing metakaolin (MK), potassium-based liquid hardener and calcined silt as filler. The porous and grouted samples were characterized in terms of indirect tensile strength (ITS), the indirect tensile strength modulus (ITSM) and moisture sensitivity. The use of thermally treated waste silt as filler in porous asphalt demonstrated promising results and was comparable to the control samples produced with limestone as the filler. However, the control samples grouted with cement-based material outperformed the geopolymer grout in all aspects. Moreover, the addition of calcined silt improved the low-temperature fatigue performance of porous and grouted asphalt pavements.
Bach-Type Polycondensation with the Aid of Hemoglobin as an Oxygen Supplier, and Synthetic/Bio-Composite
Authors: Ichikawa Mai , Miyashita Ryo , Goto Hiromasa
Published: July 2022

We developed a new Bach-type reaction in the presence of oxy-hemoglobin as an oxygen supplier to synthesize polyazobenzene by traditional Bach reaction. The resultant product is a form of polymeric dye/hemoglobin copolymer. The advantage of this research is that it involves a new reaction using the function of biomolecules, as well as the formation of plastics and biomaterials. The bio-based material may have good affinity with life forms, which may lead to applications in medical science.
Perception and Production of Sentence Types by Inuktitut-English Bilinguals
Authors: Colantoni Laura , Klassen Gabrielle , Patience Matthew , Radu Malina , Tararova Olga
Published: July 2022

We explore the perception and production of English statements, absolute yes-no questions, and declarative questions by Inuktitut-English sequential bilinguals. Inuktitut does not mark stress, and intonation is used as a cue for phrasing, while statements and questions are morphologically marked by a suffix added to the verbal root. Conversely, English absolute questions are both prosodically and syntactically marked, whereas the difference between statements and declarative questions is prosodic. To determine the degree of crosslinguistic influence (CLI) and whether CLI is more prevalent in tasks that require access to contextual information, bilinguals and controls performed three perception and two production tasks, with varying degrees of context. Results showed that bilinguals did not differ from controls in their perception of low-pass filtered utterances but diverged in contextualized tasks. In production, bilinguals, as opposed to controls, displayed a reduced use of pitch in the first pitch accent. In a discourse-completion task, they also diverged from controls in the number of non-target-like realizations, particularly in declarative question contexts. These findings demonstrate patterns of prosodic and morphosyntactic CLI and highlight the importance of incorporating contextual information in prosodic studies. Moreover, we show that the absence of tonal variations can be transferred in a stable language contact situation. Finally, the results indicate that comprehension may be hindered for this group of bilinguals when sentence type is not redundantly marked.
Left Ventricular Remodeling after Myocardial Infarction: From Physiopathology to Treatment
Authors: Leancă Sabina Andreea , Crișu Daniela , Petriș Antoniu Octavian , Afrăsânie Irina , Genes Antonia , Costache Alexandru Dan , Tesloianu Dan Nicolae , Costache Irina Iuliana
Published: July 2022

Myocardial infarction (MI) is the leading cause of death and morbidity worldwide, with an incidence relatively high in developed countries and rapidly growing in developing countries. The most common cause of MI is the rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque with subsequent thrombotic occlusion in the coronary circulation. This causes cardiomyocyte death and myocardial necrosis, with subsequent inflammation and fibrosis. Current therapies aim to restore coronary flow by thrombus dissolution with pharmaceutical treatment and/or intravascular stent implantation and to counteract neurohormonal activation. Despite these therapies, the injury caused by myocardial ischemia leads to left ventricular remodeling; this process involves changes in cardiac geometry, dimension and function and eventually progression to heart failure (HF). This review describes the pathophysiological mechanism that leads to cardiac remodeling and the therapeutic strategies with a role in slowing the progression of remodeling and improving cardiac structure and function.
Pharmacological Targets in Chronic Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction
Authors: Moloce Maria-Angela , Costache Irina-Iuliana , Nicolae Ana , Onofrei Aursulesei Viviana
Published: July 2022

Heart failure management has been repeatedly reviewed over time. This strategy has resulted in improved quality of life, especially in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). It is for this reason that new mechanisms involved in the development and progression of heart failure, along with specific therapies, have been identified. This review focuses on the most recent guidelines of therapeutic interventions, trials that explore novel therapies, and also new molecules that could improve prognosis of different HFrEF phenotypes.
Hydroxyapatite from Natural Sources for Medical Applications
Authors: Cursaru Laura Madalina , Iota Miruna , Piticescu Roxana Mioara , Tarnita Daniela , Savu Sorin Vasile , Savu Ionel Dănuț , Dumitrescu Gabriela , Popescu Diana , Hertzog Radu-Gabriel , Calin Mihaela
Published: July 2022

The aim of this work is to study the physical-chemical, mechanical, and biocompatible properties of hydroxyapatite obtained by hydrothermal synthesis, at relatively low temperatures and high pressures, starting from natural sources (Rapana whelk shells), knowing that these properties influence the behavior of nanostructured materials in cells or tissues. Thus, hydroxyapatite nanopowders were characterized by chemical analysis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). In vitro studies on osteoblast cell lines (cytotoxicity and cell proliferation), as well as preliminary mechanical tests, have been performed. The results showed that the obtained powders have a crystallite size below 50 nm and particle size less than 100 nm, demonstrating that hydrothermal synthesis led to hydroxyapatite nanocrystalline powders, with a Ca:P ratio close to the stoichiometric ratio and a controlled morphology (spherical particle aggregates). The tensile strength of HAp samples sintered at 1100 °C/90 min varies between 37.6–39.1 N/mm2. HAp samples sintered at 1300 °C/120 min provide better results for the investigated mechanical properties. The coefficient of friction has an appropriate value for biomechanical applications. The results of cell viability showed that the cytotoxic effect is low for all tested samples. Better cell proliferation is observed for osteoblasts grown on square samples.
Special Issue “Advanced Materials for Water Remediation”
Authors: Buema Gabriela , Dragos-Pinzaru Oana-Georgiana , Chiriac Horia , Lupu Nicoleta , Gherca Daniel
Published: July 2022

“Advanced Materials for Water Remediation” is a Special Issue of Materials, which will take into consideration all the papers discussing the synthesis, characterization and application of advanced materials for water remediation [...]
Effect of Ultrasonic Surface Mechanical Attrition Treatment-Induced Nanograins on the Mechanical Properties and Biocompatibility of Pure Titanium
Authors: Ahmed Furqan , Zain-ul-abdein Muhammad , Channa Iftikhar Ahmed , Yaseen Muhammad Kamran , Gilani Sadaf Jamal , Makhdoom Muhammad Atif , Mansoor Muhammad , Shahzad Usman , Jumah May Nasser bin
Published: July 2022

Commercially pure titanium (Ti) is widely used in bio-implants due to its high corrosion resistance. However, Ti exhibits marginally low mechanical and tribological properties, which limit its applications in some orthopedic implants. In this work, the Ti samples were subjected to ultrasonic surface mechanical attrition treatment (SMAT) for various durations to improve their surface properties such as hardness, strength and surface energy. SMAT-induced grain refinement was analyzed using optical, scanning electron and atomic force microscopy techniques. A Vickers hardness test was performed to determine the through-thickness hardness. Mechanical testing was carried out to measure the yield strength, ultimate tensile strength and ductility of the specimens. Corrosion tests were performed on a Gamry Potentiostat. The surface energy of SMAT-modified samples was calculated using the Owens–Wendt method. It was observed that SMAT reduced the average grain size from 50 μm to as low as 100 nm. The grain refinement and the corresponding grain boundary density led to a significant improvement in mechanical properties and biocompatibility in terms of increased hardness, yield and tensile strengths, surface energy, corrosion rate and hydrophilicity.
Effect of the Indentation Load on the Raman Spectra of the InP Crystal
Authors: Chrobak Dariusz , Dulski Mateusz , Ziółkowski Grzegorz , Chrobak Artur
Published: July 2022

Nanoindentations and the Raman spectroscopy measurements were carried out on the (001) surface of undoped and S-doped InP crystal. The samples were indented with the maximum load ranging from 15 mN to 100 mN. The phase transition B3→B1 was not confirmed by spectroscopic experiments, indicating a plastic deformation mechanism governed by dislocations activity. Increasing the maximum indentation load shifts and the longitudinal and transverse optical Raman bands to lower frequencies reveals a reduction in the elastic energy stored in the plastic zone right below the indentation imprint. Mechanical experiments have shown that a shift in Raman bands occurs alongside the indentation size effect. Indeed, the hardness of undoped and S-doped InP crystal decreases as a function of the maximum indentation load.
Recent Progress on the Applications of Nanomaterials and Nano-Characterization Techniques in Endodontics: A Review
Authors: Özdemir Olcay , Kopac Turkan
Published: July 2022

The impact of nano-based technologies in endodontics for the identification and treatment of various dental infections is showing fast progress. Studies show that nanoparticles could serve as useful agents with many beneficial results and continue to be promising in the field of endodontics. To ensure progress and improvements on novel nanomaterials in relation to their physicochemical and biological properties, nano-identification methods for the detection and evaluation of diseases need to be further highlighted. This study aims to review the current technological progress and recent research outcomes as well as possible prospective applications of nano-based technologies in endodontics. A comprehensive literature survey has been carried out on the utilizations of nanomaterials and nano-characterization techniques in endodontics. The current status and recent applications in endodontics are discussed with illustrative examples. The results have shown that the progress and improved accuracy of nano-identification techniques enabled a better characterization, evaluation and selection of appropriate treatment plans for endodontics-related diseases. The results have been inspiring for further clinical investigations. Nano-endodontics is still a developing field with a strong potential for revolutions of novel materials and techniques in the diagnosis and treatment of dental diseases. Further improvements in nanoparticles properties will pave the way for the development of many beneficial endodontic therapeutic agents. The future looks encouraging for sustainable products and testing methods for clinical endodontic applications.
A Nonlinear Constitutive Model for Remoulded Fine-Grained Materials Used under the Qinghai–Tibet Railway Line
Authors: Dong Liang , Tian Shuang , Yao Changrui , Han Xiao , Wang Ke
Published: July 2022

Using undrained triaxial shear tests, this study investigates the mechanical properties of fine-grained materials (silty clay and sand) which are extensively used for China’s Qinghai–Tibet Railway (QTR) under different confining pressures (σ3) and freezing temperatures (T). The results show that a reduction in T causes an increase in the shear strength and elastic modulus of all the materials tested in the present study. In addition, the freezing of the silty clay has no significant effect on the type of soil behaviour (strain-hardening), whereas the freezing of the sand changes its strain-hardening behaviour to strain-softening. Supposing that the deviatoric stress–strain curves of the silty clay and sand can be divided into two segments due to a reverse bending point, it was assumed that the first segment follows a hyperbolic function. Meanwhile, the second segment is also a hyperbola, with the reverse bending point as the origin and the residual strength as the asymptote. Accordingly, a nonlinear relation constitutive model that considers σ3 and T is derived. All model parameters are identified. The reasonability of the new model was verified using the test results of the materials. A comparison of the predicted and test results shows that this model can well simulate the deviatoric stress–strain response in the failure process of the tested materials. In particular, it can reflect the residual deviatoric stress after the materials’ failure.
An Electroconductive, Thermosensitive, and Injectable Chitosan/Pluronic/Gold-Decorated Cellulose Nanofiber Hydrogel as an Efficient Carrier for Regeneration of Cardiac Tissue
Authors: Tohidi Hajar , Maleki-Jirsaraei Nahid , Simchi Abdolreza , Mohandes Fatemeh , Emami Zahra , Fassina Lorenzo , Naro Fabio , Conti Bice , Barbagallo Federica
Published: July 2022

Myocardial infarction is a major cause of death worldwide and remains a social and healthcare burden. Injectable hydrogels with the ability to locally deliver drugs or cells to the damaged area can revolutionize the treatment of heart diseases. Herein, we formulate a thermo-responsive and injectable hydrogel based on conjugated chitosan/poloxamers for cardiac repair. To tailor the mechanical properties and electrical signal transmission, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) with an average diameter of 50 nm were physically bonded to oxidized bacterial nanocellulose fibers (OBC) and added to the thermosensitive hydrogel at the ratio of 1% w/v. The prepared hydrogels have a porous structure with open pore channels in the range of 50–200 µm. Shear rate sweep measurements demonstrate a reversible phase transition from sol to gel with increasing temperature and a gelation time of 5 min. The hydrogels show a shear-thinning behavior with a shear modulus ranging from 1 to 12 kPa dependent on gold concentration. Electrical conductivity studies reveal that the conductance of the polymer matrix is 6 × 10−2 S/m at 75 mM Au. In vitro cytocompatibility assays by H9C2 cells show high biocompatibility (cell viability of >90% after 72 h incubation) with good cell adhesion. In conclusion, the developed nanocomposite hydrogel has great potential for use as an injectable biomaterial for cardiac tissue regeneration.
Effect of Mn Doping on the Optical and Electrical Properties of Double Perovskite Sr2TiCoO6
Authors: Aziz Nor Diyana Abdul , Kamarulzaman Alyea Sofea , Ibrahim Norazila , Mohamed Zakiah
Published: July 2022

A new series of Sr2TiCo1−xMnxO6 (0.0 ≤ x ≤ 0.7) materials has been synthesized using the conventional solid-state method. In this research, X-ray diffraction (XRD) results showed that Mn was successfully doped at the Co site in a cubic structure with monoclinic P21/n space group. The effect of Mn cation substitution on the structural, optical and electrical performance of Sr2TiCo1−xMnxO6 double perovskite was investigated. The optical study revealed a nonlinearity pattern of the band gap that is referred to as the band gap bowing trend. Results from optical and Rietveld refinement supports that the band gap bowing trend is correlated with the charge distribution that produces unique effects on structural and size changes due to the Co-Mn compositions. The morphological scanning electron microscopy studies also showed that larger crystallite sizes were developed when dopant was added. Furthermore, increases in the conductivities support the lowering band gap of Mn-doped samples. Here, the intermixing of the atomic orbitals of Co-Mn provides an efficient interlink electrical pathway to improve conductivity and exhibits a high dielectric property at room temperature. These values are strong evidence that STCM material will be suitable for applications in the semiconductor industry.
Push-Out Bond Strength Assessment of Different Post Systems at Different Radicular Levels of Endodontically Treated Teeth
Authors: Kanzler Abdel Raouf Valérie , Jockusch Julia , Al-Haj Husain Nadin , Dydyk Nataliya , Özcan Mutlu
Published: July 2022

This study assessed the bond strength of prefabricated post systems at different root levels of endodontically treated teeth. One-rooted human premolars (N = 70; n = 10) were cut to 2 mm above the cement-enamel junction. Root canals were treated and randomly assigned to one of the seven post systems: T: Titanium (Mooser), ZrO: Zirconia (Cosmopost), G: Fiber (FRC Postec Plus), E1: Fiber (Direct) (Everstick post), E2: Fiber (Indirect) (Everstick post), PP: Fiber (PinPost), and LP: Injectable Resin/Fiber composite (EverX Posterior). All posts were luted using a resin cement (Variolink II), and the roots were sectioned at the coronal, middle, and apical root levels. Push-out tests were performed in the Universal Testing Machine (0.5 mm/min). Data (MPa) were analyzed using two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s tests (α = 0.05). The results showed that the bond strength (mean ± SD) of E2 posts were highest (5.3 ± 2.7) followed by PP (4.1 ± 2.0); G (4.0 ± 1.6); LP (2.6 ± 1.9): T (2.2 ± 1.5) and ZrO (1.9 ± 1.0) posts systems. No significant differences were found in bond strength of all post systems. The bond strength in the coronal root level was the highest with 3.6 ± 2.2 MPa. The bond strength of FRC post systems was significantly higher than those of rigid posts of titanium or ZrO2. Bond strength results were the highest in the coronal root level for all tested post systems but did not differ significantly from the other two root levels.
Powder 3D Printing of Bone Scaffolds with Uniform and Gradient Pore Sizes Using Cuttlebone-Derived Calcium Phosphate and Glass-Ceramic
Authors: Cestari Francesca , Yang Yuejiao , Wilbig Janka , Günster Jens , Motta Antonella , Sglavo Vincenzo M.
Published: July 2022

The pore geometry of bone scaffolds has a major impact on their cellular response; for this reason, 3D printing is an attractive technology for bone tissue engineering, as it allows for the full control and design of the porosity. Calcium phosphate materials synthesized from natural sources have recently attracted a certain interest because of their similarity to natural bone, and they were found to show better bioactivity than synthetic compounds. Nevertheless, these materials are very challenging to be processed by 3D printing due to technological issues related to their nanometric size. In this work, bone scaffolds with different pore geometries, with a uniform size or with a size gradient, were fabricated by binder jetting 3D printing using a biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) nanopowder derived from cuttlebones. To do so, the nanopowder was mixed with a glass-ceramic powder with a larger particle size (45–100 µm) in 1:10 weight proportions. Pure AP40mod scaffolds were also printed. The sintered scaffolds were shown to be composed mainly by hydroxyapatite (HA) and wollastonite, with the amount of HA being larger when the nanopowder was added because BCP transforms into HA during sintering at 1150 °C. The addition of bio-derived powder increases the porosity from 60% to 70%, with this indicating that the nanoparticles slow down the glass-ceramic densification. Human mesenchymal stem cells were seeded on the scaffolds to test the bioactivity in vitro. The cells’ number and metabolic activity were analyzed after 3, 5 and 10 days of culturing. The cellular behavior was found to be very similar for samples with different pore geometries and compositions. However, while the cell number was constantly increasing, the metabolic activity on the scaffolds with gradient pores and cuttlebone-derived powder decreased over time, which might be a sign of cell differentiation. Generally, all scaffolds promoted fast cell adhesion and proliferation, which were found to penetrate and colonize the 3D porous structure.
High-Field Raman Scattering in an Antiferromagnet Fe3BO6
Authors: Prosnikov Mikhail , Barilo Sergei , Liubochko Nadzeya , Pisarev Roman , Christianen Peter
Published: July 2022

The detailed Raman scattering investigation of the lattice and spin dynamics of a single crystal of the Fe3BO6 antiferromagnet is reported. Azimuthally resolved polarization measurements provided an unambiguous determination of the symmetry of observed excitations. Low-temperature experiments at T=4.2 K allowed us to reduce anharmonic contribution and deconvolute several overlapping phonon modes. Low-frequency measurements have made it possible to find two excitations at 13.1 and 16.6 cm−1, which were assigned to quasi-ferromagnetic and quasi-antiferromagnetic magnon excitations, respectively. The magnetic field applied along the hard-magnetization axis causes energy shifts of these excitations, but no spin-flip transition was observed up to B=30 T.
Anti-Aging Effects of R-Phycocyanin from Porphyra haitanensis on HUVEC Cells and Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Feng Yanyu , Lu Hanjin , Hu Jiamiao , Zheng Baodong , Zhang Yi
Published: July 2022

Aging has become a global public health challenge. Many studies have revealed that the excessive generation of ROS and oxidative stress could be the major causative factors contributing to aging. In this study, R-phycocyanin (R-PC) was isolated from Porphyra haitanensis, and its anti-aging ability was explored by natural aging Drosophila melanogaster and H2O2-induced HUVEC cells as the aging model. Results showed that R-PC α and β subunits expressed have antioxidant activity and can inhibit the generation of radicals, exhibiting a protective effect against H2O2-induced apoptotic HUVEC cells death. R-PC prevented the H2O2-induced HUVEC cell cycle phase arrest by regulating cell cycle-related protein. Furthermore, R-PC prevented the H2O2-induced HUVEC cell cycle phase arrest by regulating cell-cycle-related protein expression. In vivo study also indicated that R-PC significantly increased the survival time and alleviated the oxidative stress of Drosophila melanogaster. Moreover, R-PC notably decreased levels of ROS in natural aging flies and inhibited lipid peroxidation by enhancing the expressions of the endogenous stress marker genes (SOD1, SOD2, CAT of Drosophila melanogaster). Taken together, a study on the antioxidation extract from Porphyra haitanensis, such as R-PC, may open a new window for the prevention of anti-aging.
Sulfated Glucan from the Green Seaweed Caulerpa sertularioides Inhibits Adipogenesis through Suppression of Adipogenic and Lipogenic Key Factors
Authors: Chaves Filho Gildacio , Batista Lucas , de Medeiros Silvia , Rocha Hugo , Moreira Susana
Published: July 2022

Sulfated polysaccharides (SPS) from seaweeds have great biochemical and biotechnological potential. This study aimed to investigate the effect of SPS isolated from the seaweed Caulerpa sertularioides on adipogenic differentiation as a possible alternative treatment for obesity. The SPS-rich extract from the seaweed C. sertularioides was fractioned into three SPS-rich fractions (F0.5; F0.9; and F1.8) chemically characterized. Among these four samples, only F0.9 showed a significant inhibitory effect on adipogenesis of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. Ten SPS-rich fractions were isolated from F0.9 through ion-exchange chromatography. However, only the fraction (CS0.2) containing a sulfated glucan was able to inhibit adipogenesis. CS0.2 reduces lipid accumulation and inhibits the expression of key adipogenic (PPARγ, C/EBPβ, and C/EBPα) and lipogenic markers (SREBP-1c, Fabp4, and CD36). The data points to the potential of sulfated glucan from C. sertularioides for the development of functional approaches in obesity management.
Modifiable and Non-Modifiable Risk Factors for the Development of Non-Hereditary Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Olakowski Marek , Bułdak Łukasz
Published: July 2022

Pancreatic cancer is becoming an increasing healthcare concern. Though it is a 14th most common cancer worldwide, its incidence is steadily rising. Results of currently available therapies are still not satisfactory. Therefore, great attention should be put on the identification and reduction of risk factors for pancreatic cancer. A thorough up-to-date review of available data on the impact of well-established and novel risk factors of pancreatic cancer development have been performed. Several risk factors associated with lifestyle have significant impact on the risk of pancreatic cancer (i.e., smoking, obesity, alcohol consumption). Physicians should also be aware of the novel findings suggesting increasing role of microbiome, including viral and bacterial infections, in the development of pancreatic cancer. A growing body of evidence suggest also an increased risk during certain occupational exposures. In general, lifestyle seems to be a major contributor in the development of pancreatic cancer. Special attention should be given to individuals with a vicious cluster consisting of metabolic syndrome, tobacco smoking and alcohol consumption. Physicians should urge patients to comply to healthy diet, cessation of smoking and moderation of alcohol consumption, which may halve pancreatic cancer incidence. Further studies are warranted to explore the potential use of therapeutic approach on novel risk factors (e.g., microbiome).
Female Sexual Dysfunctions and Urogynecological Complaints: A Narrative Review
Authors: Mosca Lavinia , Riemma Gaetano , Braga Andrea , Frigerio Matteo , Ruffolo Alessandro , Dominoni Mattia , Munno Gaetano , Uccella Stefano , Serati Maurizio , Raffone Antonio , Salvatore Stefano , Torella Marco
Published: July 2022

Female sexual dysfunctions represent a real widespread problem, usually faced from a psychological point of view; however, millions of women worldwide are impacted by pelvic floor dysfunction, personal shame and social taboos, however, continue to inhibit free conversation on the subject. Women’s quality of life is considerably improved by screening, diagnosing, and controlling urogenital and sexual issues. This review aims to provide a critical perspective of urogenital conditions and common disturbances in female sexual function associated with these issues. It also includes a discussion of postpartum pelvic dysfunction.
Body Mass Index Is Independently Associated with the Presence of Ischemia in Myocardial Perfusion Imaging
Authors: Sioka Chrissa , Zotou Paraskevi , Papafaklis Michail I. , Bechlioulis Aris , Sakellariou Konstantinos , Rammos Aidonis , Gkika Evangelia , Lakkas Lampros , Alexiou Sotiria , Kekiopoulos Pavlos , Naka Katerina K. , Katsouras Christos
Published: July 2022

Background and Objectives: Obesity has been linked to various cardiovascular risk factors, increased incidence of coronary artery disease, and myocardial perfusion defects. The aim of this study was to investigate if body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) were associated with myocardial perfusion defects. Materials and Methods: A total of 308 consecutive patients who had myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) with single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and a complete medical record on file were studied retrospectively. Results: The median age was 69 (61–76) years, the BMI was 27.6 (24.4–30.7) kg/m2, and the WC was 110 (102–118) cm. Of the 308 patients, 239 patients (77.6%) had myocardial ischemia. A positive test for ischemia was more frequent in men compared to women (72 vs. 28%, p < 0.001). Within the male group, BMI and WC were not significantly different between the ischemia and non-ischemia groups. In contrast, within the female group, both BMI (30.2 vs. 27.1 kg/m2, p = 0.002) and WC (112 vs. 105.5 cm, p = 0.020) were significantly higher in the ischemia group. Multivariable logistic regression showed that male sex and BMI were the only two independent predictors of ischemia in our patient population. Conclusions: This study showed that BMI was an independent predictor of ischemia in our patient population.
Protocol for Evaluating the Microbial Inactivation of Commercial UV Devices on Plastic Surfaces
Authors: Haley Olivia C. , Zhao Yeqi , Bhullar Manreet
Published: July 2022

With the plethora of commercially available UV-C devices exhibiting different intensity and lifespans, it is critical to consumer safety that companies verify and clearly communicate the efficacy of their devices as per the intended use. The purpose of this study was to define a low-cost protocol for investigating the antimicrobial efficacy of commercial UV devices for industry use. The tested devices included: a wall-mounted unit (Device A), a troffer unit (Device B), and an induction lamp unit (Device C). The devices were installed within an enclosed tower to prevent the transmission of UV-C radiation outside of the testing area. The procedure details determining the devices′ antimicrobial efficacy using plastic coupons inoculated with Escherichia coli or Staphylococcus aureus. The protocol includes suggested time–distance treatments according to the potential application of each device type and reports the results as log CFU/mL reduction or percent reduction.
Use of 1-MNA to Improve Exercise Tolerance and Fatigue in Patients after COVID-19
Authors: Chudzik Michał , Burzyńska Monika , Kapusta Joanna
Published: July 2022

COVID-19 is not only a short-term infection, as patients (pts) recovering from SARS-CoV-2 infection complain of persisting symptoms, which may lead to chronic fatigue syndrome. There is currently no evidence that nutritional supplements can assist in the recovery of pts with chronic fatigue syndrome. 1-Methylnicotinamide (1-MNA) is an endogenic substance that is produced in the liver when nicotinic acid is metabolized. 1-MNA demonstrates anti-inflammatory and anti-thrombotic properties. Therefore, we investigated whether 1-MNA supplements could improve exercise tolerance and decrease fatigue among patients recovering from SARS-CoV-2. Methods: The study population was composed of 50 pts who had recovered from symptomatic COVID-19. The selected pts were randomized into two groups: Gr 1 (NO-1-MNA)—without supplementation; Gr 2 (1-MNA) with 1-MNA supplementation. At the beginning of the study (Phase 0), in both groups, a 6-minute walk test (6MWT) was carried out and fatigue assessment was performed using the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). Both FSS and 6MWT were repeated after 1 month. Results: A significant improvement in the mean distance covered in the 6MWT was noted at follow-up in Gr 1-MNA, compared with Gr NO-1-MNA. We also noted that in Gr 1-MNA, the 6MWT distance was significantly higher after 1 month of supplementation with 1-MNA, compared with the beginning of the study (515.18 m in Phase 0 vs. 557.8 m in Phase 1; p = 0.000034). In Gr 1-MNA, significantly more pts improved their distance in the 6MWT (23 out of 25 pts, equal to 92%), by a mean of 47 m, compared with Gr NO-1-MNA (15 of 25 pts, equal to 60%) (p = 0.0061). After one month, significantly more patients in the group without 1-MNA had severe fatigue (FSS ≥ 4) compared with the group with supplementation (Gr 1-MNA = 5 pts (20%) vs. Gr NO-1-MNA = 14pts (56%); p = 0.008). Conclusions: 1-MNA supplementation significantly improved physical performance in a 6-min walk test and reduced the percentage of patients with severe fatigue after COVID-19. The comprehensive action of 1-MNA, including anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant effects, may be beneficial for the recovery of patients with persistent symptoms of fatigue and low tolerance to exercise after COVID-19.
Association of Household Type and Fast-Food Consumption in Korean Adolescents
Authors: Kwon Hwa Sook , Kang Soo Hyun , Park Yu Shin , Kang Jung Gu , Park Eun Cheol
Published: July 2022

Background: Due to changing household types and weakening of family functions, children have fewer opportunities to develop healthy lifestyle patterns from contact with family members compared to the past. In this paper, we evaluate the association between household type and adolescents’ fast-food consumption, focusing on whether they were living with their parents or not, and determine their reasons for not living with their parents. Methods: This cross-sectional study analyzed data from the Korea Youth Risk Behavior web-based survey between 2017 and 2020. The subjects were students in grades 7–12. The outcome variable was a frequency of fast-food intake of ≥5 times per week. The main independent variable was the type of household: (1) living with both parents; (2) living with a single parent (one of father, mother, stepfather, stepmother); (3) not living together, but having parents; and (4) having no parents. Results: Participants without parents were more likely to eat fast food frequently than those living with both parents. Among boys, not having parents and living in a dorm or boarding house or living with other family members or relatives were significantly associated with frequent fast-food intake; among girls, not having parents and living in a dorm or boarding house were significantly associated with frequent fast-food intake. Conclusion: Adolescents having no parents have a higher risk of frequent fast-food intake than those living with both parents. Further studies are needed to address household types in greater detail.
The Antidiabetic Activities of Neocryptotanshinone: Screened by Molecular Docking and Related to the Modulation of PTP1B
Authors: Hao Jie , Qian Zhiming , Liu Zijian , Zhang Guirong , Wang Di , Han Weiwei
Published: July 2022

The aim of this study was to provide a practical experimental basis for the development of Neocryptotanshinone (NCTS) as an effective hypoglycemic drug and a theoretical method for the rapid screening of natural compounds with hypoglycemic effects. Molecular docking was used to screen the most suitable ligand. Hematoxylin and eosin, immunohistochemical staining, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and Western Blotting approved the hypoglycemic effect of NCTS. According to the free energy of binding, among 180 active compounds from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Integrated Database, NCTS was finally chose for investigation its hypoglycemic effects. In db/db mice, NCTS significantly reduced body weight and plasma glucose, improved glucose tolerance and levels of fasting plasma glucose and glycated hemoglobin A1c, and decreased insulin resistance after six-week administration. NCTS restored the pathological state in the liver of db/db mice and significantly decreased protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) expression in the liver and muscle of db/db mice, which is related to the regulatory effect of NCTS on insulin receptor substrate 1. In conclusion, we successfully explored the hypoglycemic effect of NCTS in db/db mice via regulating the expression of PTP1B.