bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COVID-19 Molecular Pathophysiology: Acetylation of Repurposing Drugs
Authors: Lee Jong Hoon , Kanwar Badar , Khattak Asif , Balentine Jenny , Nguyen Ngoc Huy , Kast Richard E. , Lee Chul Joong , Bourbeau Jean , Altschuler Eric L. , Sergi Consolato M. , Nguyen Tuan Ngoc Minh , Oh Sangsuk , Sohn Mun-Gi , Coleman Michael
Published: November 2022

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) induces immune-mediated type 1 interferon (IFN-1) production, the pathophysiology of which involves sterile alpha motif and histidine-aspartate domain-containing protein 1 (SAMHD1) tetramerization and the cytosolic DNA sensor cyclic-GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)–stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling pathway. As a result, type I interferonopathies are exacerbated. Aspirin inhibits cGAS-mediated signaling through cGAS acetylation. Acetylation contributes to cGAS activity control and activates IFN-1 production and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling via STING. Aspirin and dapsone inhibit the activation of both IFN-1 and NF-κB by targeting cGAS. We define these as anticatalytic mechanisms. It is necessary to alleviate the pathologic course and take the lag time of the odds of achieving viral clearance by day 7 to coordinate innate or adaptive immune cell reactions.
Inhibition of Netosis with PAD Inhibitor Attenuates Endotoxin Shock Induced Systemic Inflammation
Authors: Yao Huanling , Cao Guojie , Liu Zheng , Zhao Yue , Yan Zhanchao , Wang Senzhen , Wang Yuehua , Guo Zhengwei , Wang Yanming
Published: November 2022

Neutrophils play a pivotal role in innate immunity by releasing neutrophils extracellular traps (NETs). Excessive NETs are detrimental to the local tissue and further exacerbate inflammation. Protein arginine deiminases (PAD) mediate histone citrullination and NET formation that, in turn, exacerbate endotoxin shock damages. In this study, we further investigated the molecular mechanism underlying PAD and NETs in endotoxic stress in mice. The control group mice were injected with solvent, the LPS endotoxic shock group mice were intraperitoneally injected with LPS at 35 mg/kg only, while the LPS and PAD inhibitor YW3-56 treatment group mice were injected with YW3-56 at 10 mg/kg prior to the LPS injection. YW3-56 significantly prolonged the survival time of the LPS-treated mice. NETs, cfDNA, and inflammatory factors were detected by ELISA in serum, paitoneal cavity, and lung at 24 h after LPS administration. Lung injuries were detected by immunostaining, and lung tissue transcriptomes were analyzed by RNA-seq at 24 h after LPS administration. We found that YW3-56 altered neutrophil tissue homeostasis, inhibited NET formation, and significantly decreased cytokines (IL-6, TNFα and IL-1β) levels, cytokines gene expression, and lung tissue injury. In summary, NET formation inhibition offers a new avenue to manage inflammatory damages under endotoxic stress.
Stellate Ganglia and Cardiac Sympathetic Overactivation in Heart Failure
Authors: Li Yu-Long
Published: November 2022

Heart failure (HF) is a major public health problem worldwide, especially coronary heart disease (myocardial infarction)-induced HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), which accounts for over 50% of all HF cases. An estimated 6 million American adults have HF. As a major feature of HF, cardiac sympathetic overactivation triggers arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death, which accounts for nearly 50–60% of mortality in HF patients. Regulation of cardiac sympathetic activation is highly integrated by the regulatory circuitry at multiple levels, including afferent, central, and efferent components of the sympathetic nervous system. Much evidence, from other investigators and us, has confirmed the afferent and central neural mechanisms causing sympathoexcitation in HF. The stellate ganglion is a peripheral sympathetic ganglion formed by the fusion of the 7th cervical and 1st thoracic sympathetic ganglion. As the efferent component of the sympathetic nervous system, cardiac postganglionic sympathetic neurons located in stellate ganglia provide local neural coordination independent of higher brain centers. Structural and functional impairments of cardiac postganglionic sympathetic neurons can be involved in cardiac sympathetic overactivation in HF because normally, many effects of the cardiac sympathetic nervous system on cardiac function are mediated via neurotransmitters (e.g., norepinephrine) released from cardiac postganglionic sympathetic neurons innervating the heart. This review provides an overview of cardiac sympathetic remodeling in stellate ganglia and potential mechanisms and the role of cardiac sympathetic remodeling in cardiac sympathetic overactivation and arrhythmias in HF. Targeting cardiac sympathetic remodeling in stellate ganglia could be a therapeutic strategy against malignant cardiac arrhythmias in HF.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of AMT and NRT Gene Family in Pecan (Carya illinoinensis) Seedlings Revealed a Preference for NH4+-N
Authors: Chen Mengyun , Zhu Kaikai , Xie Junyi , Liu Junping , Tan Pengpeng , Peng Fangren
Published: November 2022

Nitrogen (N) is a major limiting factor for plant growth and crop production. The use of N fertilizer in forestry production is increasing each year, but the loss is substantial. Mastering the regulatory mechanisms of N uptake and transport is a key way to improve plant nitrogen use efficiency (NUE). However, this has rarely been studied in pecans. In this study, 10 AMT and 69 NRT gene family members were identified and systematically analyzed from the whole pecan genome using a bioinformatics approach, and the expression patterns of AMT and NRT genes and the uptake characteristics of NH4+ and NO3− in pecan were analyzed by aeroponic cultivation at varying NH4+/NO3− ratios (0/0, 0/100,25/75, 50/50, 75/25,100/0 as CK, T1, T2, T3, T4, and T5). The results showed that gene duplication was the main reason for the amplification of the AMT and NRT gene families in pecan, both of which experienced purifying selection. Based on qRT-PCR results, CiAMTs were primarily expressed in roots, and CiNRTs were majorly expressed in leaves, which were consistent with the distribution of pecan NH4+ and NO3− concentrations in the organs. The expression levels of CiAMTs and CiNRTs were mainly significantly upregulated under N deficiency and T4 treatment. Meanwhile, T4 treatment significantly increased the NH4+, NO3−, and NO2− concentrations as well as the Vmax and Km values of NH4+ and NO3− in pecans, and Vmax/Km indicated that pecan seedlings preferred to absorb NH4+. In summary, considering the single N source of T5, we suggested that the NH4+/NO3− ratio of 75:25 was more beneficial to improve the NUE of pecan, thus increasing pecan yield, which provides a theoretical basis for promoting the scale development of pecan and provides a basis for further identification of the functions of AMT and NRT genes in the N uptake and transport process of pecan.
Gut Microbiota and Clostridium difficile: What We Know and the New Frontiers
Authors: Piccioni Andrea , Rosa Federico , Manca Federica , Pignataro Giulia , Zanza Christian , Savioli Gabriele , Covino Marcello , Ojetti Veronica , Gasbarrini Antonio , Franceschi Francesco , Candelli Marcello
Published: November 2022

Our digestive system, particularly our intestines, harbors a vast amount of microorganisms, whose genetic makeup is referred to as the microbiome. Clostridium difficile is a spore-forming Gram-positive bacterium, which can cause an infection whose symptoms range from asymptomatic colonization to fearsome complications such as the onset of toxic megacolon. The relationship between gut microbiota and Clostridium difficile infection has been studied from different perspectives. One of the proposed strategies is to be able to specifically identify which types of microbiota alterations are most at risk for the onset of CDI. In this article, we understood once again how crucial the role of the human microbiota is in health and especially how crucial it becomes, in the case of its alteration, for the individual’s disease. Clostridium difficile infection is an emblematic example of how a normal and physiological composition of the human microbiome can play a very important role in immune defense against such a fearsome disease.
Vertebrate Animal Models of RP59: Current Status and Future Prospects
Authors: Fliesler Steven J. , Ramachandra Rao Sriganesh , Nguyen Mai N. , KhalafAllah Mahmoud Tawfik , Pittler Steven J.
Published: November 2022

Retinitis pigmentosa-59 (RP59) is a rare, recessive form of RP, caused by mutations in the gene encoding DHDDS (dehydrodolichyl diphosphate synthase). DHDDS forms a heterotetrameric complex with Nogo-B receptor (NgBR; gene NUS1) to form a cis-prenyltransferase (CPT) enzyme complex, which is required for the synthesis of dolichol, which in turn is required for protein N-glycosylation as well as other glycosylation reactions in eukaryotic cells. Herein, we review the published phenotypic characteristics of RP59 models extant, with an emphasis on their ocular phenotypes, based primarily upon knock-in of known RP59-associated DHDDS mutations as well as cell type- and tissue-specific knockout of DHDDS alleles in mice. We also briefly review findings in RP59 patients with retinal disease and other patients with DHDDS mutations causing epilepsy and other neurologic disease. We discuss these findings in the context of addressing “knowledge gaps” in our current understanding of the underlying pathobiology mechanism of RP59, as well as their potential utility for developing therapeutic interventions to block the onset or to dampen the severity or progression of RP59.
Bmp4 Synexpression Gene, Sizzled, Transcription Is Collectively Modulated by Smad1 and Ventx1.1/Ventx2.1 in Early Xenopus Embryos
Authors: Rehman Zia Ur , Tayyaba Faryal , Lee Unjoo , Kim Jaebong
Published: November 2022

Sizzled (Szl) is a secreted frizzled protein, having a sequence homology with the extracellular cysteine-rich domain (CRD) of the Wnt receptor, ‘Frizzled’. Contrary to the other secreted frizzled like proteins (Sfrps), szl belongs to the bone morphogenetic protein 4 (Bmp4) synexpression group and is tightly coexpressed with Bmp4. What is not known is how the szl transcription achieves its Bmp4 synexpression pattern. To address the molecular details of szl transcription control, we cloned a promoter of size 1566 base pairs for szl (bps) from the Xenopus laevis genomic DNA. Luciferase and eGFP reporter gene results of this szl promoter (−1566 bp) in its activation and repression patterns by Bmp4/Smad1 and a dominant negative Bmp4 receptor (DNBR) were similar to those of the endogenous szl expression. Reporter gene assays and site-directed mutagenesis of the szl promoter mapped an active Bmp4/Smad1 response element (BRE) and a cis-acting element, which competitively share a direct binding site for Ventx1.1 and Ventx2.1 (a Ventx response element, VRE). Smad1 and ventx2.1 alone increased szl promoter activity; in addition, the binding of each protein component was enhanced with their coexpression. Interestingly, Ventx1.1 repressed this reporter gene activity; however, Ventx1.1 and Ventx2.1 together positively regulated the szl promoter activity. From our analysis, Ventx2.1 binding was enhanced by Ventx1.1, but Ventx1.1 inhibitory binding was inhibited by co-injection of Ventx2.1 for the VRE site. The inhibitory Ventx1.1 co-injection decreased Smad1 binding on the szl promoter. In a triple combination of overexpressed Smad1/Ventx1.1/Ventx2.1, the reduced binding of Smad1 from Ventx1.1 was recovered to that of the Smad1/Ventx2 combination. Collectively, this study provides evidence of Bmp4/Smad1 signaling for a primary immediate early response and its two oppositely behaving target transcription factors, Ventx1.1 and Ventx2.1, for a secondary response, as they together upregulate the szl promoter’s activity to achieve szl expression in a Bmp4 synexpression manner.
Design and Characterization of In-One Protease-Esterase PluriZyme
Authors: Fernandez-Lopez Laura , Roda Sergi , Gonzalez-Alfonso Jose L. , Plou Francisco J. , Guallar Víctor , Ferrer Manuel
Published: November 2022

Proteases are abundant in prokaryotic genomes (~10 per genome), but their recovery encounters expression problems, as only 1% can be produced at high levels; this value differs from that of similarly abundant esterases (1–15 per genome), 50% of which can be expressed at good levels. Here, we design a catalytically efficient artificial protease that can be easily produced. The PluriZyme EH1AB1 with two active sites supporting the esterase activity was employed. A Leu24Cys mutation in EH1AB1, remodelled one of the esterase sites into a proteolytic one through the incorporation of a catalytic dyad (Cys24 and His214). The resulting artificial enzyme, EH1AB1C, efficiently hydrolysed (azo)casein at pH 6.5–8.0 and 60–70 °C. The presence of both esterase and protease activities in the same scaffold allowed the one-pot cascade synthesis (55.0 ± 0.6% conversion, 24 h) of L-histidine methyl ester from the dipeptide L-carnosine in the presence of methanol. This study demonstrates that active sites supporting proteolytic activity can be artificially introduced into an esterase scaffold to design easy-to-produce in-one protease-esterase PluriZymes for cascade reactions, namely, the synthesis of amino acid esters from dipeptides. It is also possible to design artificial proteases with good production yields, in contrast to natural proteases that are difficult to express.
Alphafold Predictions Provide Insights into the Structural Features of the Functional Oligomers of All Members of the KCTD Family
Authors: Esposito Luciana , Balasco Nicole , Vitagliano Luigi
Published: November 2022

Oligomerization endows proteins with some key properties such as extra-stabilization, long-range allosteric regulation(s), and partnerships not accessible to their monomeric counterparts. How oligomerization is achieved and preserved during evolution is a subject of remarkable scientific relevance. By exploiting the abilities of the machine-learning algorithms implemented in AlphaFold (AF) in predicting protein structures, herein, we report a comprehensive analysis of the structural states of functional oligomers of all members of the KCTD protein family. Interestingly, our approach led to the identification of reliable three-dimensional models for the pentameric states of KCNRG, KCTD6, KCTD4, KCTD7, KCTD9, and KCTD14 and possibly for KCTD11 and KCTD21 that are involved in key biological processes and that were previously uncharacterized from a structural point of view. Although for most of these proteins, the CTD domains lack any sequence similarity, they share some important structural features, such as a propeller-like structure with a central cavity delimited by five exposed and regular β-strands. Moreover, the structure of the related proteins KCTD7 and KCTD14, although pentameric, appears to be characterized by a different organization of the CTD region, with the five chains forming a circle-like structure with a large cavity. Our predictions also suggest that other members of the family, such as KCTD10, KCTD13, and TNFAIP1, present a strong propensity to assume dimeric states. Although the structures of the functional oligomers reported herein represent models that require additional validations, they provide a consistent and global view of KCTD protein oligomerization.
Increased Arterial Responsiveness to Angiotensin II in Mice Conceived by Assisted Reproductive Technologies
Authors: Meister Theo Arthur , Soria Rodrigo , Dogar Afzal , Messerli Franz H. , Paoloni-Giacobino Ariane , Stenz Ludwig , Scherrer Urs , Sartori Claudio , Rexhaj Emrush
Published: November 2022

Since the first report in 1978, the number of individuals conceived by Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) has grown incessantly. In parallel, with the recent emergence of possible underlying mechanisms of ART-induced epigenetic changes in the renin-angiotensin system, the cardiovascular repercussions of ART in mice and human offspring (including arterial hypertension, vascular dysfunction, and cardiac remodeling) have become increasingly recognized. Here, we hypothesized that ART may increase arterial responsiveness to angiotensin II (ANG II) by epigenetically modifying the expression of its receptors. To test this hypothesis, we assessed the vasoconstrictor responsiveness to ANG II in isolated aortas from ART and control mice. We also examined ANG II receptor (ATR) type 1 and 2 expression and the promoter methylation of the At1aR, At1bR and At2R genes. We found that the vasoconstrictor response to ANG II was markedly increased in ART mice compared to controls. This exaggerated vasoconstrictor responsiveness in ART mice correlated with a significant increase in the ANG II receptor (ATR) type 1 to ATR type 2 protein expression ratio in the aorta; this was mainly driven by an increase in AT1R expression, and by hypomethylation of two CpG sites located in the At1bR gene promoter leading to increased transcription of the gene. We conclude that in mice, ART increase the vasoconstrictor response to ANG II in the aorta by epigenetically causing an imbalance between the expression of vasoconstrictor (AT1R) and vasodilator (AT2R) ANG II receptors. Unbalanced expression of AT1R and AT2R receptors seems to be a novel mechanism contributing to ART-induced arterial hypertension in mice.
Signal Peptide Variants in Inherited Retinal Diseases: A Multi-Institutional Case Series
Authors: Jimenez Hiram J. , Procopio Rebecca A. , Thuma Tobin B. T. , Marra Molly H. , Izquierdo Natalio , Klufas Michael A. , Nagiel Aaron , Pennesi Mark E. , Pulido Jose S.
Published: November 2022

Signal peptide (SP) mutations are an infrequent cause of inherited retinal diseases (IRDs). We report the genes currently associated with an IRD that possess an SP sequence and assess the prevalence of these variants in a multi-institutional retrospective review of clinical genetic testing records. The online databases, RetNet and UniProt, were used to determine which IRD genes possess a SP. A multicenter retrospective review was performed to retrieve cases of patients with a confirmed diagnosis of an IRD and a concurrent SP variant. In silico evaluations were performed with MutPred, MutationTaster, and the signal peptide prediction tool, SignalP 6.0. SignalP 6.0 was further used to determine the locations of the three SP regions in each gene: the N-terminal region, hydrophobic core, and C-terminal region. Fifty-six (56) genes currently associated with an IRD possess a SP sequence. Based on the records review, a total of 505 variants were present in the 56 SP-possessing genes. Six (1.18%) of these variants were within the SP sequence and likely associated with the patients’ disease based on in silico predictions and clinical correlation. These six SP variants were in the CRB1 (early-onset retinal dystrophy), NDP (familial exudative vitreoretinopathy) (FEVR), FZD4 (FEVR), EYS (retinitis pigmentosa), and RS1 (X-linked juvenile retinoschisis) genes. It is important to be aware of SP mutations as an exceedingly rare cause of IRDs. Future studies will help refine our understanding of their role in each disease process and assess therapeutic approaches.
A Nano-Emulsion Containing Ceramide-like Lipo-Amino Acid Cholesteryl Derivatives Improves Skin Symptoms in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis by Ameliorating the Water-Holding Function
Authors: Takada Mariko , Ishikawa Yuko , Numano Kayoko , Hirano Shinichi , Imokawa Genji
Published: November 2022

Because ceramide-like lipo-amino acid cholesteryl derivatives can exert a bound water-holding function due to their lamellae-forming properties, in this study, we determined if topical application of those derivatives to atopic dry skin would elicit an ameliorative effect on skin symptoms, at least on its water-holding function. In this clinical study, daily treatment with a nano-emulsion containing 10% phytosteryl/octyldodecyl lauroyl glutamate (POLG) significantly (p < 0.0001) improved skin symptoms, including dryness/scaling, itchiness and stimulus sensations, in the non-lesional skin of patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) at 3 and at 6 weeks compared with week 0. Those significant improvements in skin symptoms were accompanied by a significantly enhanced water content (conductance) and a significant improvement of roughness (SESC) and smoothness (SESM) values measured using a Visioscan at 3 and 6 weeks. Those effects appeared concomitant with a significantly increased corneocyte size, a significantly down-regulated degree of thick abrasions, and a significant impairment of the corneocyte lipid envelope at 6 weeks. Thus, our clinical study suggests, for the first time, that topical application of the POLG nano-emulsion has the distinct potential to ameliorate atopic dry skin symptoms, particularly scaling and itchiness, in the skin of patients with AD. Those effects result from alleviation of the disrupted water-holding function probably due to the increased supply of lamellae structures into the stratum corneum despite the failure to improve barrier function.
Insights of Fe2O3 and MoO3 Electrodes for Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction in Aprotic Media
Authors: Mendieta-Reyes Néstor E. , Lozano-Pérez Alejandra S. , Guerrero-Fajardo Carlos A.
Published: November 2022

Transition metal oxides (TMO) have been successfully used as electrocatalytically active materials for CO2 reduction in some studies. Because of the lack of understanding of the catalytic behavior of TMOs, electrochemical methods are used to investigate the CO2 reduction in thin-film nanostructured electrodes. In this context, nanostructured thin films of Fe2O3 and MoO3 in an aprotic medium of acetonitrile have been used to study the CO2 reduction reaction. In addition, a synergistic effect between CO2 and the TMO surface is observed. Faradic cathodic processes not only start at lower potentials than those reported with metal electrodes, but also an increase in capacitive currents is observed, which is directly related to an increase in oxygen vacancies. Finally, the results obtained show CO as a product of the reduction.
Anticancer Nanotherapeutics in Clinical Trials: The Work behind Clinical Translation of Nanomedicine
Authors: Parodi Alessandro , Kolesova Ekaterina P. , Voronina Maya V. , Frolova Anastasia S. , Kostyushev Dmitry , Trushina Daria B. , Akasov Roman , Pallaeva Tatiana , Zamyatnin Andrey A.
Published: November 2022

The ultimate goal of nanomedicine has always been the generation of translational technologies that can ameliorate current therapies. Cancer disease represented the primary target of nanotechnology applied to medicine, since its clinical management is characterized by very toxic therapeutics. In this effort, nanomedicine showed the potential to improve the targeting of different drugs by improving their pharmacokinetics properties and to provide the means to generate new concept of treatments based on physical treatments and biologics. In this review, we considered different platforms that reached the clinical trial investigation, providing an objective analysis about their physical and chemical properties and the working mechanism at the basis of their tumoritr opic properties. With this review, we aim to help other scientists in the field in conceiving their delivering platforms for clinical translation by providing solid examples of technologies that eventually were tested and sometimes approved for human therapy.
The Accuracy of Semi-Empirical Quantum Chemistry Methods on Soot Formation Simulation
Authors: Cong Yang , Zhai Yu , Chen Xin , Li Hui
Published: November 2022

Soot molecules are hazardous compounds threatening human health. Computational chemistry provides efficient tools for studying them. However, accurate quantum chemistry calculation is costly for the simulation of large-size soot molecules and high-throughput calculations. Semi-empirical (SE) quantum chemistry methods are optional choices for balancing computational costs. In this work, we validated the performances of several widely used SE methods in the description of soot formation. Our benchmark study focuses on, but is not limited to, the validation of the performances of SE methods on reactive and non-reactive MD trajectory calculations. We also examined the accuracy of SE methods of predicting soot precursor structures and energy profiles along intrinsic reaction coordinate(s) (IRC). Finally, we discussed the spin density predicted by SE methods. The SE methods validated include AM1, PM6, PM7, GFN2-xTB, DFTB2, with or without spin-polarization, and DFTB3. We found that the shape of MD trajectory profiles, the relative energy, and molecular structures predicted by SE methods are qualitatively correct. We suggest that SE methods can be used in massive reaction soot formation event sampling and primary reaction mechanism generation. Yet, they cannot be used to provide quantitatively accurate data, such as thermodynamic and reaction kinetics ones.
An Ant-Mimicking Jumping Spider Achieves Higher Predation Probability with Lower Success Rate When Exposed to Ethanol
Authors: Yu Guocheng , Li Zichang , Zhao Yao , Liu Jie , Peng Yu
Published: November 2022

Ethanol (ETOH) affects many animals’ behaviour in nature; for example, honeybees become more aggressive after consuming ETOH. In previous studies, scientists have used honeybees and fruit flies as models to determine if they showed a strong preference to ETOH. Moreover, ETOH could affect their locomotion and learning abilities. However, whether and how ETOH affects spiders is unclear as of yet. In this study, we used empirical experiments to determine whether spiders showed preference for ETOH, as well as the potential benefits of spiders choosing ETOH, by using a common spider, Myrmarachne gisti, which has a high probability of contacting ETOH in their habitat. In our experiment, M. gisti showed a significant preference for ETOH. Although the success rate of the first attack was significantly decreased when M. gisti were exposed to ETOH, they had a significantly higher predation probability, since fruit flies also showed a significant preference for ETOH. Our findings suggested that ETOH could affect the prey capture efficiency of M. gisti, and indicated that spiders might evolve to use ETOH to locate a potential hunting place. Taken together, our findings suggested that M. gisti evolved to adapt to ETOH and could use it as a signal of the presence of food resources.
Well Leg Compartment Syndrome: Pathophysiology, Prevention, and Treatment
Authors: Nester Matthew , Borrelli Joseph
Published: November 2022

The development of compartment syndrome involving the lower limb is a potentially devastating complication of prolonged surgery in patients held in the lithotomy position. Well leg compartment syndrome (WLCS) was recognized in 1953. The incidence of this condition has been reported to range from 0.20% to 0.03%. The mechanism of WLCS development in the absence of trauma appears to be related to prolonged hypoperfusion of the limb, pressure on the muscle compartments, and in some cases, reperfusion of the ischemic limb. This grave complication develops either during or immediately after prolonged surgery in which the patient was held in the Lloyd-Davies lithotomy or hemi-lithotomy position. Surgeons must be aware of the potential for WLCS development during prolonged surgery. Signs of developing WLCS include swelling, increased firmness of the muscle compartments, discoloration, and cooling of the limb. Preventive measures can be taken without contaminating the surgical field by returning the limb to the right atrium level. Once the diagnosis has been made, failure to prevent the development of WLCS requires extensile fasciotomy of each leg compartment to restore perfusion and relieve elevated intra-compartment pressures. This article reviews the pathophysiology, prevention, and treatment of WLCS.
The Significant Decrease of Serum Sodium and Blood Pressure following Thoracoscopic Left Atrial Appendage Clipping
Authors: Chen Yiming , Han Xuesong , Ye Cong , Xu Dong
Published: November 2022

Background: The epicardial left atrial appendage (LAA) closure may induce unwanted natriuretic peptides caused by the isolation of the LAA from circulation. Thus, this study aims to explore the possible change of blood pressure and electrolytes following the procedure. Methods: This was a retrospective, observational study including 52 atrial fibrillation (AF) patients with a history of thrombolic stroke who underwent thoracoscopic LAA clipping. Electrolytes, blood pressure, and brain natriuretic peptide were measured before the procedure, immediately after the device release, on the 1st day, the 2nd day postoperation, and discharge. Results: Thirty-five (66.04%) patients’ serum sodium level decreased by more than 4 mmol/L during 48 h postoperation. The systolic blood pressure at discharge was significantly lower than the baseline level (118.99 ± 12.29 mmHg vs. 122.93 ± 13.82 mmHg, p = 0.034), while the diastolic blood pressure was not significantly different to the baseline (78.00 ± 7.39 mmHg vs. 77.22 ± 7.72 mmHg, p = 0.502). A significant increase in brain natriuretic peptide was observed postoperatively, although it showed a trend of decline at discharge. Conclusion: Epicardial LAA clipping could induce an acute decrease in serum sodium postoperation, which indicates to the surgeons that the postoperative intake fluid amounts and serum sodium level management should be more appropriate. The decrease in systolic blood pressure indicates the possibility of expanding the benefits that patients received from LAA clipping, though further studies are needed to determine if this phenomenon is persistent in the long-term follow-up.
Multilingualism as an Object of Sociolinguistic Description
Authors: Bhatt Rakesh , Bolonyai Agnes
Published: November 2022

In the earlier study “Code-Switching and the Optimal Grammar of Bilingual Language Use” in 2011, we present a unified account of language use in multilingual communities using the key insight of OPTIMIZATION to capture variations between multilingual communities. This paper explores the extensions and implications of our optimality-theoretic model of multilingual grammars. We provide evidence indicating that the vast array of empirical facts of bilingual language use (code-switching) are constrained by the operation of five universal socio-cognitive constraints of multilingual grammars, and that community grammars differ from each other in terms of how they prioritize these five constraints. We provide evidence to show that the model we propose (i) accounts for bi-dialectal community grammars, as well as grammars of indigenous and transplanted multilingual communities; (ii) replicates reverse patterns of socio-grammatical differences observed earlier between indigenous and transplanted communities in terms of the relative ranking of two constraints (POWER and SOLIDARITY), linked with different indexical potentials for accruing “a profit of distinction”; and (iii) presents empirical evidence of a complete dominance hierarchy of constraint rankings, satisfying, ultimately, the desideratum of an optimality-inspired framework of assumptions, i.e., constraints are universal; constraints are in (potential) conflict with each other; constraints are violable; and the sociolinguistic grammar of bilingual language consists of the interactions between, and optimal satisfaction of, the constraints.
Direct, Rapid Detection of Pathogens from Urine Samples
Authors: David Sorin , Munteanu Raluca-Elena , Tițoiu Ana-Maria , Petcu Ionela-Cristina , Cernat Ioana-Cristina , Leancu Corina , Gheorghiu Mihaela , Gheorghiu Eugen
Published: November 2022

The problem of rapidly detecting pathogens directly from clinical samples poses significant analytical challenges. Addressing this issue in relation to urinary tract infections, we propose an effective protocol and related immunomagnetic test kits enabling versatile screening for the presence of pathogenic bacteria in unprocessed urine samples. To achieve this, the components of a typical immunomagnetic separation protocol were optimized towards the sensitive assessment of the aggregates formed out of immunomagnetically tagged target pathogens collected from clinical samples. Specifically, a dedicated immunomagnetic material was developed via the functionalization of standardized, micron-sized magnetic beads with generic antibodies against gram-specific bacterial constituents with mannan binding lectin. As such, we demonstrate efficient procedures for achieving the enhanced, specific, and pathogen-mediated cluster formation of these tailored affinity-coated magnetic beads in complex samples. We further show how cluster analysis, in conjunction with the use of nonspecific, inexpensive fluorescent dye, allows for a straightforward optical assessment of the bacterial load directly from urine samples. The optimized sensing protocol and related kits provide, in less than 60 min, qualitative (positive/negative) information on the bacterial load with 85% specificity and 96% sensitivity, which is appropriate to empower clinical microscopy with a new analytic dimension. The procedure is prone to automation, can be conveniently used in clinical microbiology laboratories and, since it preserves the viability of the captured bacteria, can be interfaced with downstream analyses and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Moreover, the study emphasizes a suite of practical validation assays that are useful for bringing the tool-box of immunomagnetic materials outside the academic laboratory and into real-life applications.
Nonstoichiometry Defects in Double Oxides of the A2BO4-Type
Authors: Gorkusha Aleksandr S. , Tsybulya Sergey V. , Cherepanova Svetlana V. , Gerasimov Evgeny Y. , Pavlova Svetlana N.
Published: November 2022

Double oxides with the structure of the Ruddlesden–Popper (R-P) layered perovskite An+1BnO3n+1 attract attention as materials for various electrochemical devices, selective oxygen-permeable ceramic membranes, and catalytic oxidative reactions. In particular, Sr2TiO4 layered perovskite is considered a promising catalyst in the oxidative coupling of methane. Our high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) studies of Sr2TiO4 samples synthesized using various methods have shown that their structure often contains planar defects disturbing the periodicity of layer alternation. This is due to the crystal-chemical features of the R-P layered perovskite-like oxides whose structure is formed by n consecutive layers of perovskite (ABO3)n in alternating with layers of rock-salt type (AO) in various ways along the c crystallographic direction. Planar defects can arise due to a periodicity violation of the layers alternation that also leads to a violation of the synthesized phase stoichiometry. In the present work, a crystallochemical analysis of the possible structure of planar defects is carried out, structures containing defects are modeled, and the effect of such defects on the X-ray diffraction patterns of oxides of the A2BO4 type using Sr2TiO4 is established as an example. For the calculations, we used the method of constructing probabilistic models of one-dimensionally disordered structures. For the first time, the features of diffraction were established, and an approach was demonstrated for determining the concentration of layer alternation defects applicable to layered perovskite-like oxides of the A2BO4 type of any chemical composition. A relation has been established between the concentration of planar defects and the real chemical composition (nonstoichiometry) of the Sr2TiO4 phase. The presence of defects leads to the Ti enrichment of particle volume and, consequently, to the enrichment of the surface with Sr. The latter, in turn, according to the data of a number of authors, can serve as an explanation for the catalytic activity of Sr2TiO4 in the oxidative coupling of methane.
Effect of Cathode Physical Properties on the Preparation of Fe3Si0.7Al0.3 Intermetallic Compounds by Molten Salt Electrode Deoxidation
Authors: Li Hui , Fu Yutian , Liang Jinglong , Yang Yu
Published: November 2022

As a new process, molten salt electrolysis is widely used in the preparation of metal materials by in situ reduction in solid cathodes. Therefore, it is meaningful to study the influence of the physical properties of solid cathodes on electrolysis products. In this paper, mixed oxides of Fe2O3-Al2O3-SiO2 were selected as raw materials, and their particle size distribution, pore size distribution, specific surface area, and other physical properties were investigated by mechanical ball milling at different times. The CaCl2–NaCl molten salt system was selected to electrolyze the sintered cathode solid at 800 °C and a voltage of 3.2 V. The experimental results show that with the prolongation of ball-milling time, the particle size of mixed oxide raw materials gradually decreases, the specific surface area gradually increases, the distribution of micropores increases, and the distribution of mesopores decreases. After sintering at 800 °C for 4 h, the volume and particle size of the solid cathode increased, the impedance value gradually decreased, and the pores first increased and then decreased. The electrolysis results showed that the prolongation of the ball-milling time hindered the electrolysis process.
Magnetic-Property Assessment on Dy–Nd–Fe–B Permanent Magnet by Thermodynamic Calculation and Micromagnetic Simulation
Authors: Dai Zhiming , Li Kai , Wang Zhenhua , Liu Wei , Zhang Zhidong
Published: November 2022

Heavy rare-earth (HRE) elements are important for the preparation of high-coercivity permanent magnets. A further understanding of the thermodynamic properties of HRE phases, and the magnetization reversal mechanism of magnets are still critical issues to obtain magnets that can achieve better performance. In this work, the Nd–Dy–Fe–B multicomponent system is investigated via the calculation of the phase diagram (CALPHAD) method and micromagnetic simulation. The phase composition of magnets with various ratios of Nd and Dy is assessed using critically optimized thermodynamic data. γ-Fe and Nd2Fe17 phases are suppressed when partial Nd is substituted with Dy (<9.3%), which, in turn, renders the formation of Nd2Fe14B phase favorable. The influence of the magnetic properties of grain boundaries (GBs) on magnetization reversal is detected by the micromagnetic simulations with the 3D polyhedral grains model. Coercivity was enhanced with both 3 nm nonmagnetic and the hard-magnetic GBs for the pinning effect besides the GBs. Moreover, the nucleation and propagation of reversed domains in core-shell grains are investigated, which suggests that the magnetic structure of grains can also influence the magnetization reversal of magnets. This study provides a theoretical route for a high-efficiency application of the Dy element, realizing a deterministic enhancement of the coercivity in Nd–Fe–B-based magnets.
Special Issue “Sustainable Asphalt Pavements: Materials, Design Methods, and Characterization Techniques” (First and Second Volumes)
Authors: Baglieri Orazio , Riviera Pier Paolo
Published: November 2022

A sustainable approach in asphalt pavement engineering should focus on materials, design methods, and technologies that can contribute to minimizing environmental impacts through a reduction in energy consumption and natural resources, while ensuring that all performance standards and requirements are met [...]
Examining the Spectroscopic and Thermographic Qualities of Er3+-doped Oxyfluoride Germanotellurite Glasses
Authors: Ryba-Romanowski Witold , Komar Jarosław , Lisiecki Radosław
Published: November 2022

Novel ternary fluoro-germano-tellurite (GTS) glasses doped with Er3+ ions with 0.5 mol% and 1.0 mol% were fabricated by a conventional melt and quenching method and investigated using methods of optical spectroscopy. The room-temperature absorption spectrum was recorded and analyzed to determine radiative transition rates, radiative lifetimes, and branching ratios of Er3+ luminescence. Decay curves of Er3+ luminesccence were recorded and analyzed. Temperature dependences of emission spectra and absorption spectra in the region from RT (room-temperature) up to 675 K were studied in detail. The contribution of competing radiative and nonradiative processes to the relaxation of luminescent levels of Er3+ was assessed. Absolute and relative sensitivity were established utilizing the comprehensive model based on thermally coupled 2H11/2/4S3/2 excited states of erbium. The high quantum efficiency of the first erbium-excited state and value of gain coefficient indicate that GTS:Er glass system can be considered as conceivable NIR (near infrared) laser material as well.
Application of Condition Monitoring for Hydraulic Oil Using Tuning Fork Sensor: A Study Case on Hydraulic System of Earth Moving Machinery
Authors: Jeon Hong-Gyu , Kim Jong-Kyun , Na Seon-Jun , Kim Min-Seok , Hong Sung-Ho
Published: November 2022

In this study, we focus on the correctness of oil condition monitoring, specifically of a tuning forks sensor in hydraulic systems. We also aim to analyze the correlation between the online monitoring sensor signal and offline oil analysis by periodically sampling the hydraulic oil. In recent years, condition-based monitoring (CBM) of hydraulic oils has played a key role in extending earthmoving machinery uptime and reducing maintenance costs. We performed rig test and field test to develop a condition monitoring system based on oil analysis for construction equipment. Using the rig test, a reference line for the diagnosis of viscosity and dielectric constant for the new hydraulic oil was derived, and the characteristics of each sensor parameter for artificial contamination and oxidation were confirmed. In order to affirm the validity of oil diagnosis using oil sensors, the oil sensors were applied to four excavators to detect changes in oil conditions over 12 months. It was found that monitoring hydraulic oil with an oil sensor detecting the change in oil properties and contamination can provide reliable information for establishing diagnostic criteria. The finding allows us to predict the remaining oil life and to determine the oil change intervals based on the diagnosis of the oil condition.
Misfit-Strain Phase Diagram, Electromechanical and Electrocaloric Responses in Epitaxial PIN–PMN–PT Thin Films
Authors: Ou Yun , Wu Yingying , Peng Jinlin
Published: November 2022

xPb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3-(1−x−y)Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3−yPbTiO3 (PIN–PMN–PT) bulks possess excellent electromechanical coupling and dielectric properties, but the corresponding epitaxial PIN–PMN–PT thin films have not yet been explored. This paper adopts a nonlinear thermodynamics analysis to investigate the influences of misfit strains on the phase structures, electromechanical properties, and electrocaloric responses in epitaxial PIN–PMN–PT thin films. The misfit strain–temperature phase diagram was constructed. The results reveal that the PIN–PMN–PT thin films may exist in tetragonal c-, orthorhombic aa-, monoclinic M-, and paraelectric PE phases. It is also found that the c-M and aa-PE phase boundaries exhibit a superior dielectric constant ε11 which reached 1.979 × 106 with um = −0.494%, as well as the c-M phase boundary showing a large piezoelectric response d15 which reached 1.64 × 105 pm/V. In comparison, the c-PE and M-aa phase boundaries exhibit a superior dielectric constant ε33 over 1 × 105 around um = 0.316% and the piezoelectric response d33 reached 7235 pm/V. The large electrocaloric responses appear near the paraelectric- ferroelectric phase boundary. These insights offer a guidance for experiments in epitaxial PIN–PMN–PT thin films.
Processing of End-of-Life Materials and Industrial Wastes
Authors: Kanari Ndue , Shallari Seit , Allain Eric
Published: November 2022

This Special Issue (SI) offered the opportunity to present the latest scientific developments and findings in the field of processing of end-of-life materials and solid industrial wastes. Due to the large quantity of wastes generated and to their complex elemental and mineralogical composition, the approaches, methods and processes proposed for their decontamination, energy beneficiation and high-added-value metal recovery are complex and diverse. Some transversal research investigations using wastes as remediation agents and for synthesis of new materials were also included in the SI. After a brief introduction, the main scientific contributions and findings of each article published in the SI are summarized.
Characterization of Inclusion Size Distributions in Steel Wire Rods
Authors: Huazano-Estrada Pablo , Herrera-Trejo Martín , Castro-Román Manuel de J. , Ruiz-Mondragón Jorge
Published: November 2022

The control of inclusions in steel components is essential to guarantee strong performance. The reliable characterization of inclusion populations is essential not only to evaluate the quality of the components but also to allow the use of analytical procedures for the comparison and discrimination of inclusion populations. In this work, inclusion size distributions in wire rod specimens from six plant-scale heats were measured and analyzed. For the measurements, the metallographic procedure specified in the ASTM E2283 standard was used. The population density function (PDF) approach and the extreme value statistical procedure specified in the ASTM E2283 standard were used to analyze the whole size distribution and the upper tail of the size distribution, respectively. The PDF approach allowed us to identify differences among inclusion size distributions and showed that new inclusions were not formed after the liquid steel treatment process. The extreme value statistical procedure led to the prediction of the maximum inclusion length for each heat, which was used for the statistical discrimination of heats. Furthermore, the estimation of the probability of finding an inclusion larger than a given inclusion size using the extreme value theory allowed us to order the heats for different critical inclusion sizes.
Controlled Drug Release Using Chitosan-Alginate-Gentamicin Multi-Component Beads
Authors: Park Kyung Hee , Choi Yeon Woo , Ryu Heejoo , Lee Hyoung Jae , Moon Jae-Hak , Song Ho-Jun , Park Yeong-Joon
Published: November 2022

This study aimed to develop improved multi-component beads with controlled, sustained delivery of antibiotics, such as gentamicin (GM). Antibiotic-loaded beads with rapid-release and the sustained-release system can be used for bone restoration. Single and multi-component beads were prepared by gelation using various combinations of chitosan and calcium chloride as cationic components and alginate and citric acid as anions. GM release was also controlled by crosslinking using citric acid. The optimum beads were obtained using 5% or 2% sodium alginate, 3% chitosan, and 0.1 mol/L citric acid. The beads were characterized by FTIR, TG-DTG, swelling behavior, and SEM. All GM-loaded beads revealed good antimicrobial activity. The rate and kinetics of release in the phosphate buffer solution were controlled by changing the amount of chitosan in the calcium chloride solution and using citric acid as the crosslinking agent. Crosslinked beads were prepared for the release of about 80% of the loaded drug within 24 h. The study concluded that the chitosan-alginate beads provided faster GM release but crosslinking with citric acid was efficient for sustained-release beads containing gentamicin.