bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systematic Analysis of Cellular Signaling Pathways and Therapeutic Targets for SLC45A3:ERG Fusion-Positive Prostate Cancer
Authors: Kim Jongsu , Hwang Kyung Won , Lee Hye Jung , Kim Hong Sook
Published: November 2022

ETS-related gene (ERG) fusion affects prostate cancer depending on the degree of expression of ERG. Solute Carrier Family 45 Member 3 (SLC45A3) is the second-most common 5′ partner gene of ERG rearrangement. However, the molecular pathological features of SLC45A3:ERG (S:E) fusion and therapeutic methods have not been studied at all. S:E fusion-positive cancers (n = 10) were selected from the Tumor Fusion Gene Data Portal website. Fusion-negative cancers (n = 50) were selected by sorting ERG expression level in descending order and selecting the bottom to 50th sample. Totally, 1325 ERG correlated genes were identified by a Pearson correlation test using over 0.3 of absolute correlation coefficiency (|R| > 0.3). Pathway analysis was performed using over-representation analysis of correlated genes, and seven cancer-related pathways (focal adhesion kinase (FAK)/PI3K-Akt, JAK-STAT, Notch, receptor tyrosine kinase/PDGF, TGF-β, VEGFA, and Wnt signaling) were identified. In particular, focal adhesion kinase (FAK)/PI3K-Akt signaling and JAK-STAT signaling were significantly enriched in S:E fusion-positive prostate cancer. We further identified therapeutic targets and candidate drugs for S:E fusion-positive prostate cancer using gene–drug network analysis. Interestingly, PDGFRA and PDGFRB were the most frequently predicted therapeutic targets, and imatinib targeted both genes. In this study, we provide extensive information on cellular signaling pathways involved in S:E fusion-positive prostate cancer and also suggest therapeutic methods.
Multiple Sclerosis and Autoimmune Comorbidities
Authors: Nociti Viviana , Romozzi Marina
Published: November 2022

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system characterized by broad inter- and intraindividual heterogeneity and different prognoses. Multisystem comorbidities are frequent features in people with MS (PwMS) and can affect treatment choices, quality of life, disability and mortality. In this scenario, autoimmune comorbidities play a cardinal role for several reasons, such as the implication on MS pathogenesis, diagnostic delay, disease activity, disability progression, brain atrophy, and treatment choice. However, the impact of an autoimmune comorbid condition on MS is not fully elucidated. This review aims to summarize the currently available data on the incidence and prevalence of autoimmune diseases in PwMS, the possible effect of this association on clinical and neuroradiological MS course and its impact on treatment choice.
Markers for the Prediction of Probably Sarcopenia in Middle-Aged Individuals
Authors: Samoilova Yulia G. , Matveeva Mariia V. , Khoroshunova Ekaterina A. , Kudlay Dmitry A. , Oleynik Oxana A. , Spirina Liudmila V.
Published: November 2022

Sarcopenia is a condition that is characterized by a progressive loss of muscle mass, strength, and function, resulting in reduced quality of life. The aim of the study was to analyze the significance of pro-inflammatory markers in the prognostic diagnosis of sarcopenia. The participants were divided into two groups: the main group of 146 people and the control—75 people. The complex of examinations included neuropsychological testing (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), quality-of-life questionnaire for patients with sarcopenia (SarQoL), and short health assessment form (MOS SF-36)), a 6 m walking speed test, manual dynamometry, bioimpedancemetry, and metabolic markers (nitrates, fibroblast growth factor 21, and malondialdehyde). When analyzing metabolic markers in the main group, a twofold increase in nitrates in the main group was recorded in a subsequent analysis adjusted for multiple variables, there was a negative association between the nitrate levels for weak grip strength and appendicular muscle mass. An additional analysis revealed that the complaint of pain in the lower extremities was more frequent in patients of the main group, as well as constipation and the pathology of thyroid gland, and they were more frequently diagnosed with arterial hypertension. At the same time, patients from the main group more frequently took vitamin D. When conducting body composition, the main group recorded a higher weight visceral fat content, as well as a decrease in appendicular and skeletal muscle mass; these changes were accompanied by a decrease in protein and minerals. Among the markers that differed significantly were nitrates, and it was this that was associated with decreased muscle strength and appendicular mass, which may indicate both a possible mechanism and a possible predictive marker. The results of this study can be used to develop a screening method for diagnosing sarcopenia at the outpatient stage.
Uneven Distribution of Ecosystem Services along the Yarlung Zangbo River Basin in Tibet Reveals the Quest for Multi-Target Policies of Rural Development in Less-Favored Areas
Authors: Zhou Xi , Ma Maohua , Chen Qiao , Qi Wanyu , Gao Yuyao , Cui Jianzhao
Published: November 2022

This study was conducted in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau which is a typical less-favored ecologically fragile area. First, we constructed a GIS-based spatial gridding structure over the study area, the Yarlung Zangbo river basin in China’s Tibet, and used a value-assessment model to measure supply, support, regulation, and culture ecosystem services in each study grid. We then analyzed the spatiotemporal patterns of different ecosystem services in the region from 2000 to 2020. In addition, we conducted a spatial visualized analysis of the trade-off and synergies of multiple ecosystem services in each study grid. We found that: (1) On the temporal scale, from 2000 to 2020, the values of the four ecosystem services for supply, support, regulation, and culture along the basin demonstrated an upward trend. (2) On the spatial scale, the values of ecosystem services showed an uneven distribution, with a decline trend from east to west along the basin. (3) From the perspective of land use types, due to the large areas of water, grassland, and forest along the river basin, the ecosystem service values of the three types of land use ranked among the top levels. (4) The trade-offs and synergies between different ecosystem services and their spatial distribution along the river basin showed an uneven distribution pattern. The ecosystem services zoning revealed that the policies in guiding rural sustainability in the less-favored areas should adjust the measures to local conditions, it’s necessary to establish multiple targets across the entire region.
Potential of Multitemporal Lidar for the Detection of Subtle Archaeological Features under Perennial Dense Forest
Authors: Berganzo-Besga Iban , Orengo Hector A. , Canela Joan , Belarte Maria Carme
Published: November 2022

This paper presents a method for the merging of lidar-derived point clouds of the same area taken at different moments, even when these are not co-registered. The workflow also incorporates the filtering of vegetation allowing the classification of unclassified point clouds using the ground points of reliable coverages. The objective is to produce a digital terrain model by joining all ground points to generate a higher resolution model than would have been possible using a single coverage. The workflow is supplemented by a multi-scale relief visualisation tool that allows for better detection of archaeological micro-reliefs of variable size even in areas of complex topography. The workflow is tested in six Iberian Iron Age sites, all of them located in mountain areas with dense Mediterranean perennial forests and shrub vegetation.
Chitosan-Polyphenol Conjugates for Human Health
Authors: Pattnaik Ananya , Pati Sanghamitra , Samal Sangram Keshari
Published: November 2022

Human health deteriorates due to the generation and accumulation of free radicals that induce oxidative stress, damaging proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids; this has become the leading cause of many deadly diseases such as cardiovascular, cancer, neurodegenerative, diabetes, and inflammation. Naturally occurring polyphenols have tremendous therapeutic potential, but their short biological half-life and rapid metabolism limit their use. Recent advancements in polymer science have provided numerous varieties of natural and synthetic polymers. Chitosan is widely used due to its biomimetic properties which include biodegradability, biocompatibility, inherent antimicrobial activity, and antioxidant properties. However, due to low solubility in water and the non-availability of the H-atom donor, the practical use of chitosan as an antioxidant is limited. Therefore, chitosan has been conjugated with polyphenols to overcome the limitations of both chitosan and polyphenol, along with increasing the potential synergistic effects of their combination for therapeutic applications. Though many methods have been evolved to conjugate chitosan with polyphenol through activated ester-modification, enzyme-mediated, and free radical induced are the most widely used strategies. The therapeutic efficiency of chitosan-polyphenol conjugates has been investigated for various disease treatments caused by ROS that have shown favorable outcomes and tremendous results. Hence, the present review focuses on the recent advancement of different strategies of chitosan-polyphenol conjugate formation with their advantages and limitations. Furthermore, the therapeutic applicability of the combinatorial efficiency of chitosan-based conjugates formed using Gallic Acid, Curcumin, Catechin, and Quercetin in human health has been described in detail.
Study of the Chemical Composition and Biologically Active Properties of Glycyrrhiza glabra Extracts
Authors: Babich Olga , Ivanova Svetlana , Ulrikh Elena , Popov Alexander , Larina Viktoria , Frolov Andrej , Prosekov Alexander
Published: November 2022

Glycyrrhiza glabra or licorice has long been known as a commonly used Ayurvedic herb. This study aims to investigate the effect of extraction methods on the chemical composition and biologically active properties of Glycyrrhiza glabra extract samples. The highest yield of the Glycyrrhiza glabra extract (21.31 ± 0.64 wt.%) was produced using the Soxhlet extraction method with methanol. The highest concentrations of biologically active substances (3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid, n-coumaric acid, luteolin-7-glucoside, acacetin, apigenin-7-O-glucoside, chicoric acid, and hesperetin) were found in these samples of Glycyrrhiza glabra extracts. When applying the maceration method using a mixture of solvents methanol-NaOH, rosmarinic acid was identified, and catechin was found in large quantities with a mixture of methanol-trifluoroacetic acid (TFA). Growth inhibition zones were determined for Escherichia coli (13.6 ± 0.41 mm), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (10.8 ± 0.32 mm), Bacillus subtilis (16.1 ± 0.48 mm), and Candida albicans (13.2 ± 0.39 mm) when exposed to samples of Glycyrrhiza glabra extracts obtained by the Soxhlet method with methanol. The antioxidant activity of Glycyrrhiza glabra extract samples obtained by the Soxhlet method was 117.62 ± 7.91 µmol Trolox equivalent/g, using the ABTS method (highest value), and 23.91 ± 1.12 µmol Trolox equivalent/g according to the FRAP method (smallest). The antioxidant activity of the extract samples according to the DPPH method was an intermediate value of 58.16 ± 3.90 µmol Trolox equivalent/g. Antibacterial and antioxidant activities are manifested by the polyphenolic compounds and flavonoids contained in the samples of the methanol extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra produced using the Soxhlet method. These Glycyrrhiza glabra extract samples have the potential to become a natural alternative to existing therapies for the elimination of bacterial infections or the prevention of premature aging caused by free radicals and oxidative stress in the human body.
Silica and Silica-Based Materials for Biotechnology, Polymer Composites, and Environmental Protection
Authors: Zdarta Jakub , Jesionowski Teofil
Published: November 2022

Over recent years, silica and silica-based materials have become some of the most frequently used materials worldwide [...]
Study on Symmetry and Asymmetry Rolling of AA2519-T62 Alloy at Room-Temperature and Cryogenic Conditions
Authors: Kosturek Robert , Mróz Sebastian , Stefanik Andrzej , Szota Piotr , Gębara Piotr , Merda Agata , Wachowski Marcin , Gloc Michał
Published: November 2022

The aim of this investigation was to identify the effect of rolling at room temperature and under cryogenic conditions on selected properties and the microstructure of the AA2519-T62 aluminum alloy. The rolling processes were conducted with different variants of asymmetry (1.0—symmetry rolling; 1.2, 1.4 and 1.6). The investigation of the obtained samples involves microhardness distribution, microstrains, and microstructure observations using light and transmission electron microscopes. Both rolling at room temperature and under cryogenic conditions increased the micro-hardness of AA2519-T62 by at least 10%. The highest reported increase (25%) was obtained for the sample rolled at room temperature in the symmetry rolling process. The samples rolled under cryogenic conditions are characterized by a lower increase in microhardness than samples rolled at room temperature and by significantly lower values of microstrains. The application of rolling with the asymmetry ratio remaining within the range of 1.2–16 only slightly affected the microhardness values of the samples rolled at room temperature and under cryogenic conditions with respect to conventional symmetrical rolling.
Optimizing the ECAP Parameters of Biodegradable Mg-Zn-Zr Alloy Based on Experimental, Mathematical Empirical, and Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Alawad Majed O. , Alateyah Abdulrahman I. , El-Garaihy Waleed H. , BaQais Amal , Elkatatny Sally , Kouta Hanan , Kamel Mokhtar , El-Sanabary Samar
Published: November 2022

Experimental investigations were conducted on Mg-3Zn-0.6Zr alloy under different ECAP conditions of number of passes, die angles, and processing route types, aimed at investigating the impact of the ECAP parameters on the microstructure evolution, corrosion behavior, and mechanical properties to reach optimum performance characteristics. To that end, the response surface methodology (RSM), analysis of variance, second-order regression models, genetic algorithm (GA), and a hybrid RSM-GA were utilized in the experimental study to determine the optimum ECAP processing parameters. All of the anticipated outcomes were within a very small margin of the actual experimental findings, indicating that the regression model was adequate and could be used to predict the optimization of ECAP parameters. According to the results of the experiments, route Bc is the most efficient method for refining grains. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy results showed that the 4-passes of route Bc via the 120°-die exhibited higher corrosion resistance. Still, the potentiodynamic polarization results showed that the 4-passes of route Bc via the 90°-die demonstrated a better corrosion rate. Furthermore, the highest Vicker’s microhardness, yield strength, and tensile strength were also disclosed by four passes of route Bc, whereas the best ductility at fracture was demonstrated by two passes of route C.
Structure and Spectral Luminescence Properties of (ZrO2)0.909(Y2O3)0.09(Eu2O3)0.001 Ceramics Synthesized by Uniaxial Compaction and Slip Casting
Authors: Borik Mikhail , Kulebyakin Alexey , Kyashkin Vladimir , Larina Nataliya , Lomonova Elena , Milovich Filipp , Myzina Valentina , Nezhdanov Alexey , Ryabochkina Polina , Tabachkova Nataliya , Chernov Efim
Published: November 2022

The structure, phase composition and spectral luminescence properties of single crystal and ceramic specimens of (ZrO2)0.909(Y2O3)0.09(Eu2O3)0.001 solid solutions synthesized using uniaxial compaction and slip casting techniques have been compared. The ceramic specimens have been synthesized from crushed single crystal specimens of similar composition. It has been shown that the crystalline structures of the ceramic and single crystal specimens are identical and cubic. The ceramic specimens synthesized using different methods prove to have close microstructure patterns. The spectral luminescence properties of Eu3+ ions in the (ZrO2)0.909(Y2O3)0.09(Eu2O3)0.001 ceramic specimens are similar to those of the single crystals with similar composition. The (ZrO2)0.909(Y2O3)0.09(Eu2O3)0.001 ceramic specimens prove to have uncontrolled Cr3+:Al2O3 impurities due to the synthesis conditions.
Adsorption and Degradation of Volatile Organic Compounds by Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs): A Review
Authors: Xie Yangyang , Lyu Sining , Zhang Yue , Cai Changhong
Published: November 2022

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are a major threat to human life and health. The technologies currently used to remove VOCs mainly include adsorption and photocatalysis. Adsorption is the most straightforward strategy, but it cannot ultimately eliminate VOCs. Due to the limited binding surface, the formaldehyde adsorption on conventional photocatalysts is limited, and the photocatalytic degradation efficiency is not high enough. By developing novel metal–organic framework (MOF) materials that can catalytically degrade VOCs at room temperature, the organic combination of new MOF materials and traditional purification equipment can be achieved to optimize adsorption and degradation performance. In the present review, based on the research on the adsorption and removal of VOCs by MOF materials in the past 10 years, starting from the structure and characteristics of MOFs, the classification of which was described in detail, the influencing factors and mechanisms in the process of adsorption and removal of VOCs were summarized. In addition, the research progress of MOF materials was summarized, and its future development in this field was prospected.
Analysis of Rejuvenating Fiber Asphalt Mixtures’ Performance and Economic Aspects in High-Temperature Moisture Susceptibility
Authors: Zhang Yao , Wang Ye , Kang Aihong , Wu Zhengguang , Li Bo , Zhang Chen , Wu Zhe
Published: November 2022

Non-renewable resources such as natural stone and asphalt are in short supply. Recycling technology, with its lower cost, has been used as the primary approach to asphalt pavement maintenance engineering. The inclusion of reclaimed asphalt pavement materials in producing new asphalt pavements may increase the risk of cracking. The strength and toughness of the asphalt mixture can be reduced. In this study, Hamburg wheel tracking tests (HWTT) were performed on rejuvenated asphalt mixtures with distinct maintenance processes. Different kinds of fibers have been used as additives to reinforce the rejuvenated asphalt mixtures. The HWTT rutting curve was identified as having three stages, including the post-compaction stage, the creep stage, and the stripping stage. The three-stage rutting curve model was used to determine the intersection point between the creep stage and stripping stage. The other two feature points (i.e., the post-compaction point and the stripping inflection point) were redefined with a new calculation method. Then, the rutting effect and stripping effect were separated with these feature points. The performance and economic benefits of fiber-reinforced rejuvenated asphalt mixtures were investigated through grey correlation analysis under the three maintenance processes. The feature points of the HWTT curve and the cost of the corresponding maintenance process were selected as the impact factors. Finally, the optimal scheme was developed by analyzing the influence of each factor on both performance and economic benefits.
Influences of Efficient Spraying of Cement-Based Slurries on Recycled Coarse Aggregate
Authors: Yin Jinming , Kang Aihong , Xiao Peng , Wu Zhengguang , Kou Changjiang , Gong Yongfan , Xiao Chenghui
Published: November 2022

The inferior property is usually one of the major problems of recycled coarse aggregate (RCA), and the utilization of the RCA is limited. Strengthening the RCA is being widely explored. Immersing the RCA in the cement-based slurry is an effective approach. However, lots of slurry and time are required, and it is difficult to integrate the immersing method into the production line of the RCA. In this paper, a circular spraying method was proposed to treat the RCA using cement-based slurry. The immersing method was also conducted to verify the feasibility of the spraying method. The crushing value (CV), 24 h water absorption (WA), apparent density (AD) and dynamic water absorption (DWA) were tested, and the micro-morphology was also observed to explore the strengthening mechanism. Results showed that the CV and the WA decreased by up to 30.0% and 14.3% when the spraying method was used. The AD was slightly influenced by the cement-based slurry regardless of the treatment method. Considering the CV, WA and AD, the comprehensive grade of the RCA could be enhanced from III to II by using the spraying method. It was worth noting that the effects of the spraying method and the immersing method were basically equivalent. When the spraying method was adopted, only about 1 min and a small amount of slurry (about 5% of the RCA mass) were required to treat the RCA.
Optical Properties of 2D Micro- and Nanostructures of ZnO:K
Authors: Ariza Rocío , Urbieta Ana , Solis Javier , Fernández Paloma
Published: November 2022

ZnO nano- and microstructures doped with K were grown by the Vapor–Solid method. Wires and needles are the main morphology observed, although some structures in the form of ribbons and triangular plates were also obtained. Besides these, ball-shaped structures which grow around a central wire were also detected. Raman and cathodoluminescence investigations suggest that variations in morphology, crystalline quality and luminescence emissions are related to the different lattice positions that K occupies depending on its concentration in the structures. When the amount is low, K ions mainly incorporate as interstitials (Ki), whereas K occupies substitutional positions of Zn (KZn) when the amount of K is increased. Electron Backscattered Diffraction shows that ribbons and triangular plates are oriented in the (0001) direction, which indicates that the growth of this type of morphologies is related to distortions introduced by the Ki since this position favors the growth in the (0001) plane. In the case of the ball-shaped structures, the compositional analysis and Raman spectra show that they consist of K2SO4. Finally, the capability of the elongated structures to act as waveguides and optical resonators was investigated. Due to the size of the K ion, practically double that of the Zn, and the different positions it can adopt within the ZnO lattice (Ki or KZn), high distortions are introduced that compromise the resonators performance. Despite this, quality factor (Q) and fineness (F) show acceptable values (80 and 10 at 544 nm, respectively), although smaller than those reported for doping with smaller size alkali, such as Li.
Study on Inflow Distortion Mechanism and Energy Characteristics in Bidirectional Axial Flow Pumping Station
Authors: Chen Jia , Zhang Huiyan , Li Yanjun , Meng Fan , Zheng Yunhao
Published: November 2022

In the present work, unsteady flow solved by the Reynolds time-averaged Navier–Stokes equation was investigated to determine the inflow distortion mechanism and the spatial distribution of hydraulic loss in a bidirectional axial flow pumping station (Case 1) based on the entropy production theory. A laboratory-scale performance experiment was also employed for the accuracy verification of the simulation approach, and an axial flow pump with pipe passages (Case 2) accompanying uniform inflow was utilized for analysis comparison. The results show that the non-uniform inflow causes a noticeable reduction in head and efficiency, as high as 27% and 21%, respectively, and the best efficiency point with uniform inflow shifts to the point with a larger flow rate. The axial velocity of the impeller inlet in Case 2 changes more smoothly along the Span compared with that in Case 1, which further indicates a more uniform inflow at the impeller inlet. The total entropy production (TEP) of each domain in Case 1 is always higher than that in Case 2, and the TEP of the whole domain in Case 1 increased by 18.68%, 30.50%, and 29.67% with flow rates of 0.8Qdes, 1.0Qdes, and 1.2Qdes, respectively, compared with that in Case 2. In the inlet passage, the larger TEPR regions in Case 1 are mainly located in the horn passage, which is far away from the inlet side, and are also distributed in the suction side of impeller blades and guide vanes. Therefore, this work may provide an optimal design reference for pumping stations in practical application.
Research on Tire–Road Parameters Estimation Algorithm for Skid-Steered Wheeled Unmanned Ground Vehicle
Authors: Zhu Yuzheng , Li Xueyuan , Zhang Xing , Li Songhao , Liu Qi , Yuan Shihua
Published: November 2022

Skid-steered wheeled vehicles can be applied in military, agricultural, and other fields because of their flexible layout structure and strong passability. The research and application of vehicles are developing towards the direction of “intelligent” and “unmanned”. As essential parts of unmanned vehicles, the motion planning and control systems are increasingly demanding for model and road parameters. In this paper, an estimation method for tire and road parameters is proposed by combining offline and online identification. Firstly, a 3-DOF nonlinear dynamic model is established, and the interaction between tire and road is described by the Brush nonlinear tire model. Then, the horizontal and longitudinal stiffness of the tire is identified offline using the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm with adaptive inertia weight. Referring to the Burckhardt adhesion coefficient formula, the extended forgetting factor recursive least-squares (EFRLS) method is applied to identify the road adhesion coefficient online. Finally, the validity of the proposed identification algorithm is verified by TruckSim simulation and real vehicle tests. Results show that the relative error of the proposed algorithm can be well controlled within 5%.
A Measure-on-Graph-Valued Diffusion: A Particle System with Collisions and Its Applications
Authors: Mano Shuhei
Published: November 2022

A diffusion-taking value in probability-measures on a graph with vertex set V, ∑i∈Vxiδi is studied. The masses on each vertex satisfy the stochastic differential equation of the form dxi=∑j∈N(i)xixjdBij on the simplex, where {Bij} are independent standard Brownian motions with skew symmetry, and N(i) is the neighbour of the vertex i. A dual Markov chain on integer partitions to the Markov semigroup associated with the diffusion is used to show that the support of an extremal stationary state of the adjoint semigroup is an independent set of the graph. We also investigate the diffusion with a linear drift, which gives a killing of the dual Markov chain on a finite integer lattice. The Markov chain is used to study the unique stationary state of the diffusion, which generalizes the Dirichlet distribution. Two applications of the diffusions are discussed: analysis of an algorithm to find an independent set of a graph, and a Bayesian graph selection based on computation of probability of a sample by using coupling from the past.
Poissonization Principle for a Class of Additive Statistics
Authors: Borisov Igor , Jetpisbaev Maman
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we consider a class of additive functionals of a finite or countable collection of the group frequencies of an empirical point process that corresponds to, at most, a countable partition of the sample space. Under broad conditions, it is shown that the asymptotic behavior of the distributions of such functionals is similar to the behavior of the distributions of the same functionals of the accompanying Poisson point process. However, the Poisson versions of the additive functionals under consideration, unlike the original ones, have the structure of sums (finite or infinite) of independent random variables that allows us to reduce the asymptotic analysis of the distributions of additive functionals of an empirical point process to classical problems of the theory of summation of independent random variables.
Superior Mesenteric Artery Occlusion Caused by Infective Endocarditis and Worsened by Mycotic Aneurysm and Intracranial Hemorrhage: A Case Report
Authors: Kim Changho , Oh Tak-Hyuk
Published: November 2022

The superior mesenteric artery (SMA) is more commonly occluded than other abdominal arteries due to anatomical factors. Though rare, SMA occlusion is life-threatening. We present the case of a 50-year-old male patient who presented with fever and abdominal pain and was subsequently diagnosed with SMA embolism, SMA mycotic aneurysm, and infective endocarditis. Many patients visit the emergency room complaining of abdominal pain. Although SMA occlusion diagnosis is rare in these cases, detailed examination and close monitoring of patients are warranted considering the high mortality rate of this disease.
Optimization of Heavy Reduction Process on Continuous-Casting Bloom
Authors: Yang Bao , Wang Minglin , Zhang Hui , Liu Shuai , Wang Guobin , Wang Xuebing
Published: November 2022

Heavy reduction (HR) is an effective technique to control V segregation in continuous casting bloom, but the effect of segregation improvement is limited by the parameters such as reduction position and reduction amounts. In order to improve the macrosegregation of bloom, numerical simulation and plant experiments are adopted in this research. A heat transfer model and a reduction model with comprehensive thermo-physical parameters were established. The two models were verified by comparing the measured surface temperature and the theoretical strain at the solidification front. It is determined that the position of the HR of the bearing steel bloom is 20.82 m~24.97 m from the meniscus, and the solid fraction in the center of the bloom is 0.6~1. The total reduction of the HR is set to 30 mm, and the reduction of each roller in the reduction range is set to 4 mm, 5 mm, 9 mm, 7 mm, and 5 mm, respectively, to prevent the formation of internal cracks. Plant trials were conducted to verify the effect of the optimized HR. The results show that the carbon segregation degree on the V channel and non-channel of the bloom decreases from 1.2 to 1.16 and increases from 0.93 to 0.95, respectively, and the central carbon segregation degree decreases from 1.17 to 1.15. Meanwhile, the internal crack was not found in the bloom.
Antineoplastic and Antitrypanosomal Properties of Propolis from Tetragonula biroi Friese
Authors: Alanazi Samyah
Published: November 2022

Propolis, popularly known as bee glue, is a resinous, sticky substance produced by different bee species across the globe. Studies on the biological properties of propolis from the Philippines are rare. Hence, the current study aims at the chemical characterization of propolis produced by the stingless bees Tetragonula biroi Friese from the Philippines and to investigate its antitrypanosomal and anticancer properties. The determination of the chemical composition and characterization of propolis samples was achieved using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS), -high-performance liquid chromatography–evaporative light scattering detector (HPLC-ELSD), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Three major triterpenes were isolated and identified using HRESI-MS and 1H/13C NMR techniques. The spectral studies confirmed the presence of compounds such as isomangiferolic acid, 27-hydoxymangiferonic acid, and 27-hydroxyisomangiferolic acid. All crude propolis samples, isolated fractions, and pure compounds demonstrated moderate antitrypanosomal and anticancer properties compared to control drugs. Amongst the tested compounds, 27-hydoxymangiferonic acid exhibited the highest antitrypanosomal activity at a concentration of 11.6 µg/mL. The highest anticancer effect was demonstrated by the Ph-2 fraction, followed by 27-hydroxyisomangiferolic acid, with IC50 values of 129.6 and 153.3 µg/mL. Thus, it can be concluded that the observed biological activity of Philippine propolis is due to the combinatorial effect or synergistic action of the active compounds 27-hydoxymangiferonic acid and 27-hydroxyisomangiferolic acid.
Development and Validation of a Reversed-Phase HPLC Method with UV Detection for the Determination of L-Dopa in Vicia faba L. Broad Beans
Authors: Tesoro Carmen , Ciriello Rosanna , Lelario Filomena , Di Capua Angela , Pascale Raffaella , Bianco Giuliana , Dell’Agli Mario , Piazza Stefano , Guerrieri Antonio , Scrano Laura , Bufo Sabino A. , Acquavia Maria Assunta
Published: November 2022

L-Dopa (LD), a substance used medically in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, is found in several natural products, such as Vicia faba L., also known as broad beans. Due to its low chemical stability, LD analysis in plant matrices requires an appropriate optimization of the chosen analytical method to obtain reliable results. This work proposes an HPLC-UV method, validated according to EURACHEM guidelines as regards linearity, limits of detection and quantification, precision, accuracy, and matrix effect. The LD extraction was studied by evaluating its aqueous stability over 3 months. The best chromatographic conditions were found by systematically testing several C18 stationary phases and acidic mobile phases. In addition, the assessment of the best storage treatment of Vicia faba L. broad beans able to preserve a high LD content was performed. The best LD determination conditions include sun-drying storage, extraction in HCl 0.1 M, chromatographic separation with a Discovery C18 column, 250 × 4.6 mm, 5 µm particle size, and 99% formic acid 0.2% v/v and 1% methanol as the mobile phase. The optimized method proposed here overcomes the problems linked to LD stability and separation, thus contributing to the improvement of its analytical determination.
Microwave-Assisted Extraction of Bioactive Compounds from Lentil Wastes: Antioxidant Activity Evaluation and Metabolomic Characterization
Authors: Cavalluzzi Maria , Lamonaca Antonella , Rotondo Natalie , Miniero Daniela , Muraglia Marilena , Gabriele Paola , Corbo Filomena , De Palma Annalisa , Budriesi Roberta , De Angelis Elisabetta , Monaci Linda , Lentini Giovanni
Published: November 2022

The recovery of industrial by-products is part of the zero-waste circular economy. Lentil seed coats are generally considered to be a waste by-product. However, this low-value by-product is rich in bioactive compounds and may be considered an eco-friendly source of health-promoting phytochemicals. For the first time, a sustainable microwave-assisted extraction technique was applied, and a solvent screening was carried out to enhance the bioactive compound content and the antioxidant activity of green and red lentil hull extracts. With respect to green lentil hull extracts that were obtained with different solvents, the aqueous extract of the red lentil seed coats showed the highest total phenolic and total flavonoid content (TPC = 28.3 ± 0.1 mg GAE/g dry weight, TFC = 1.89 ± 0.01 mg CE/100 mg dry weight, respectively), as well as the highest antioxidant activity, both in terms of the free radical scavenging activity (ABTS, 39.06 ± 0.73 mg TE/g dry weight; DPPH, IC50 = 0.39 μg/mL) and the protection of the neuroblastoma cell line (SH-SY5Y, IC50 = 10.1 ± 0.6 μg/mL), the latter of which has never been investigated so far. Furthermore, a metabolite discovery analysis was for the first time performed on the aqueous extracts of both cultivars using an HPLC separation which was coupled with an Orbitrap-based high-Resolution Mass Spectrometry technique.
Breaking the Bottleneck in Anticancer Drug Development: Efficient Utilization of Synthetic Biology
Authors: Wang Haibo , He Yu , Jian Meiling , Fu Xingang , Cheng Yuheng , He Yujia , Fang Jun , Li Lin , Zhang Dan
Published: November 2022

Natural products have multifarious bioactivities against bacteria, fungi, viruses, cancers and other diseases due to their diverse structures. Nearly 65% of anticancer drugs are natural products or their derivatives. Thus, natural products play significant roles in clinical cancer therapy. With the development of biosynthetic technologies, an increasing number of natural products have been discovered and developed as candidates for clinical cancer therapy. Here, we aim to summarize the anticancer natural products approved from 1950 to 2021 and discuss their molecular mechanisms. We also describe the available synthetic biology tools and highlight their applications in the development of natural products.
A Sensitive and Selective Colorimetric Method Based on the Acetylcholinesterase-like Activity of Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework-8 and Its Applications
Authors: Chen Guo-Ying , Qian Zheng-Ming , Yin Shi-Jun , Zhou Xi , Yang Feng-Qing
Published: November 2022

In this study, a simple colorimetric method was established to detect copper ion (Cu2+), sulfathiazole (ST), and glucose based on the acetylcholinesterase (AChE)-like activity of zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8). The AChE-like activity of ZIF-8 can hydrolyze acetylthiocholine chloride (ATCh) to thiocholine (TCh), which will further react with 5,5′-dithiobis (2-nitrobenzoic acid) (DTNB) to generate 2-nitro-5-thiobenzoic acid (TNB) that has a maximum absorption peak at 405 nm. The effects of different reaction conditions (buffer pH, the volume of ZIF-8, reaction temperature and time, and ATCh concentration) were investigated. Under the optimized conditions, the value of the Michaelis-Menten constant (Km) is measured to be 0.83 mM, which shows a high affinity toward the substrate (ATCh). Meanwhile, the ZIF-8 has good storage stability, which can maintain more than 80.0% of its initial activity after 30 days of storage at room temperature, and the relative standard deviation (RSD) of batch-to-batch (n = 3) is 5.1%. The linear dependences are obtained based on the AChE-like activity of ZIF-8 for the detection of Cu2+, ST, and glucose in the ranges of 0.021–1.34 and 5.38–689.66 µM, 43.10–517.24 µM, and 0.0054–1.40 mM, respectively. The limit of detections (LODs) are calculated to be 20.00 nM, 9.25 µM, and 5.24 µM, respectively. Moreover, the sample spiked recoveries of Cu2+ in lake water, ST in milk, and glucose in strawberry samples were measured, and the results are in the range of 98.4–115.4% with the RSD (n = 3) lower than 3.3%. In addition, the method shows high selectivity in the real sample analysis.
Effect of Ultrasound-Assisted Sodium Bicarbonate Treatment on Aggregation and Conformation of Reduced-Salt Pork Myofibrillar Protein
Authors: Kang Zhuang-Li , Shang Xue-Yan , Li Yan-Ping , Ma Han-Jun
Published: November 2022

To study the effects of an ultrasound (0, 30, and 60 min) and sodium bicarbonate (0% and 0.2%) combination on the reduced-salt pork myofibrillar protein, the changes in pH, turbidity, aggregation, and conformation were investigated. After the ultrasound-assisted sodium bicarbonate treatment, the pH increased by 0.80 units, the absolute value of Zeta potential, hydrophobic force, and active sulfhydryl group significantly increased (p < 0.05), and the turbidity and particle size significantly decreased (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, the fluorescence intensity decreased from 894 to 623, and the fluorescence peak showed a significant redshift, which indicated that the ultrasound-assisted sodium bicarbonate treatment exposed the non-polarity of the microenvironment in which the fluorescence emission group was located, leading to the microenvironment and protein structure of myofibrillar tryptophan being changed. Overall, an ultrasound-assisted sodium bicarbonate treatment could significantly improve pork myofibrillar protein solubility and change the protein structure under a reduced-salt environment.
Determination of Genotoxic Impurity N-Nitroso-N-methyl-4-aminobutyric Acid in Four Sartan Substances through Using Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Xie Bin , Guo Dong , Mai Binliang , Fan Jun
Published: November 2022

N-nitroso-N-methyl-4-aminobutyric acid (NMBA) is the third N-nitrosamine impurity found in sartans. Herein, a sensitive and stable LC-MS/MS method with multiple reactions monitoring mode has been developed for the quantitative determination of NMBA in four sartan substances. The effective separation of NMBA and sartan substances was achieved on a C18 column under gradient elution conditions. The mass spectrometry method of the atmospheric pressure chemical ionization source and internal standard method was selected as the quantitative analysis method of NMBA. Then, this proposed LC-MS/MS analysis method was validated in terms of specificity, sensitivity, linearity, accuracy, precision and stability. Good linearity with correlation coefficient over 0.99 was obtained at the NMBA concentration of 3–45 ng/mL, and the limit of quantification was 3 ng/mL. Additionally, the recoveries of NMBA in four sartan substances ranged from 89.9% to 115.7%. The intra-day and inter-day relative standard deviation values were less than 5.0%. In conclusion, this developed determination method for NMBA through liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry showed the characteristics of good sensitivity, high accuracy and precision, which will be of great help for the quantitative analysis of NMBA in sartan products.
Characteristic Aspects of Uranium(VI) Adsorption Utilizing Nano-Silica/Chitosan from Wastewater Solution
Authors: Sakr Ahmed K. , Abdel Aal Mostafa M. , Abd El-Rahem Khaled A. , Allam Eman M. , Abdel Dayem Samia M. , Elshehy Emad A. , Hanfi Mohamed Y. , Alqahtani Mohammed S. , Cheira Mohamed F.
Published: November 2022

A new nano-silica/chitosan (SiO2/CS) sorbent was created using a wet process to eliminate uranium(VI) from its solution. Measurements using BET, XRD, EDX, SEM, and FTIR were utilized to analyze the production of SiO2/CS. The adsorption progressions were carried out by pH, SiO2/CS dose, temperature, sorbing time, and U(VI) concentration measurements. The optimal condition for U(VI) sorption (165 mg/g) was found to be pH 3.5, 60 mg SiO2/CS, for 50 min of sorbing time, and 200 mg/L U(VI). Both the second-order sorption kinetics and Langmuir adsorption model were observed to be obeyed by the ability of SiO2/CS to eradicate U(VI). Thermodynamically, the sorption strategy was a spontaneous reaction and exothermic. According to the findings, SiO2/CS had the potential to serve as an effectual sorbent for U(VI) displacement.
Recent Application of Core-Shell Nanostructured Catalysts for CO2 Thermocatalytic Conversion Processes
Authors: Rusdan Nisa Afiqah , Timmiati Sharifah Najiha , Isahak Wan Nor Roslam Wan , Yaakob Zahira , Lim Kean Long , Khaidar Dalilah
Published: November 2022

Carbon-intensive industries must deem carbon capture, utilization, and storage initiatives to mitigate rising CO2 concentration by 2050. A 45% national reduction in CO2 emissions has been projected by government to realize net zero carbon in 2030. CO2 utilization is the prominent solution to curb not only CO2 but other greenhouse gases, such as methane, on a large scale. For decades, thermocatalytic CO2 conversions into clean fuels and specialty chemicals through catalytic CO2 hydrogenation and CO2 reforming using green hydrogen and pure methane sources have been under scrutiny. However, these processes are still immature for industrial applications because of their thermodynamic and kinetic limitations caused by rapid catalyst deactivation due to fouling, sintering, and poisoning under harsh conditions. Therefore, a key research focus on thermocatalytic CO2 conversion is to develop high-performance and selective catalysts even at low temperatures while suppressing side reactions. Conventional catalysts suffer from a lack of precise structural control, which is detrimental toward selectivity, activity, and stability. Core-shell is a recently emerged nanomaterial that offers confinement effect to preserve multiple functionalities from sintering in CO2 conversions. Substantial progress has been achieved to implement core-shell in direct or indirect thermocatalytic CO2 reactions, such as methanation, methanol synthesis, Fischer–Tropsch synthesis, and dry reforming methane. However, cost-effective and simple synthesis methods and feasible mechanisms on core-shell catalysts remain to be developed. This review provides insights into recent works on core-shell catalysts for thermocatalytic CO2 conversion into syngas and fuels
Challenges of Periodontal Tissue Engineering: Increasing Biomimicry through 3D Printing and Controlled Dynamic Environment
Authors: Roato Ilaria , Masante Beatrice , Putame Giovanni , Massai Diana , Mussano Federico
Published: November 2022

In recent years, tissue engineering studies have proposed several approaches to regenerate periodontium based on the use of three-dimensional (3D) tissue scaffolds alone or in association with periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs). The rapid evolution of bioprinting has sped up classic regenerative medicine, making the fabrication of multilayered scaffolds—which are essential in targeting the periodontal ligament (PDL)—conceivable. Physiological mechanical loading is fundamental to generate this complex anatomical structure ex vivo. Indeed, loading induces the correct orientation of the fibers forming the PDL and maintains tissue homeostasis, whereas overloading or a failure to adapt to mechanical load can be at least in part responsible for a wrong tissue regeneration using PDLSCs. This review provides a brief overview of the most recent achievements in periodontal tissue engineering, with a particular focus on the use of PDLSCs, which are the best choice for regenerating PDL as well as alveolar bone and cementum. Different scaffolds associated with various manufacturing methods and data derived from the application of different mechanical loading protocols have been analyzed, demonstrating that periodontal tissue engineering represents a proof of concept with high potential for innovative therapies in the near future.
The Association between Food Insecurity and Making Hunger-Coping Trade-Offs during the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Role of Sources of Food and Easiness in Food Access
Authors: Luo Ye , Mobley Catherine , Hossfeld Leslie , Koob Caitlin , Hossfeld Cassius , Baxter Samuel L. K. , Griffin Sarah F.
Published: November 2022

Many individuals make financial, health and food related trade-offs to cope with the challenges of food insecurity and to meet their household needs for healthy, affordable food. A survey (n = 652) was conducted in nine rural counties in South Carolina, USA, during the COVID-19 pandemic from August 2020 to July 2021. We examine if level of food insecurity predicts hunger-coping trade-offs, and whether this relationship is moderated by easiness in food access and dependence on different food source types. Nearly one-third of the respondents experienced food insecurity. Making trade-offs between paying for food and other household expenses was common among the rural residents as on average they made nearly one type of trade-off in the past three months. The number of trade-offs was the highest among highly food insecure respondents (mean = 2.64), followed by moderately food insecure respondents (mean = 1.66); low food insecure respondents had the lowest number of trade-offs (mean = 0.39). The moderating effects of easiness in food access and dependence on food sources varied by level of food insecurity. The results show that individuals at different levels of food insecurity use different strategies to fulfill their food needs and social programs are more often utilized than personal food sources. We conclude with implications for addressing food insecurity in order to reduce the possibility of making trade-offs.