bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Harnessing Oxylipins and Inflammation Modulation for Prevention and Treatment of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Gretschel Julius , El Hage Racha , Wang Ruirui , Chen Yifang , Pietzner Anne , Loew Andreas , Leineweber Can G. , Wördemann Jonas , Rohwer Nadine , Weylandt Karsten H. , Schmöcker Christoph
Published: May 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent cancers worldwide, ranking as the third most malignant. The incidence of CRC has been increasing with time, and it is reported that Westernized diet and lifestyle play a significant role in its higher incidence and rapid progression. The intake of high amounts of omega-6 (n − 6) PUFAs and low levels of omega-3 (n − 3) PUFAs has an important role in chronic inflammation and cancer progression, which could be associated with the increase in CRC prevalence. Oxylipins generated from PUFAs are bioactive lipid mediators and have various functions, especially in inflammation and proliferation. Carcinogenesis is often a consequence of chronic inflammation, and evidence has shown the particular involvement of n − 6 PUFA arachidonic acid-derived oxylipins in CRC, which is further described in this review. A deeper understanding of the role and metabolism of PUFAs by their modifying enzymes, their pathways, and the corresponding oxylipins may allow us to identify new approaches to employ oxylipin-associated immunomodulation to enhance immunotherapy in cancer. This paper summarizes oxylipins identified in the context of the initiation, development, and metastasis of CRC. We further explore CRC chemo-prevention strategies that involve oxylipins as potential therapeutics.
Nanostructured Biomaterials in 3D Tumor Tissue Engineering Scaffolds: Regenerative Medicine and Immunotherapies
Authors: Angelopoulou Athina
Published: May 2024

The evaluation of nanostructured biomaterials and medicines is associated with 2D cultures that provide insight into biological mechanisms at the molecular level, while critical aspects of the tumor microenvironment (TME) are provided by the study of animal xenograft models. More realistic models that can histologically reproduce human tumors are provided by tissue engineering methods of co-culturing cells of varied phenotypes to provide 3D tumor spheroids that recapitulate the dynamic TME in 3D matrices. The novel approaches of creating 3D tumor models are combined with tumor tissue engineering (TTE) scaffolds including hydrogels, bioprinted materials, decellularized tissues, fibrous and nanostructured matrices. This review focuses on the use of nanostructured materials in cancer therapy and regeneration, and the development of realistic models for studying TME molecular and immune characteristics. Tissue regeneration is an important aspect of TTE scaffolds used for restoring the normal function of the tissues, while providing cancer treatment. Thus, this article reports recent advancements in the development of 3D TTE models for antitumor drug screening, studying tumor metastasis, and tissue regeneration. Also, this review identifies the significant opportunities of using 3D TTE scaffolds in the evaluation of the immunological mechanisms and processes involved in the application of immunotherapies.
Presenilin Deficiency Results in Cellular Cholesterol Accumulation by Impairment of Protein Glycosylation and NPC1 Function
Authors: Fabiano Marietta , Oikawa Naoto , Kerksiek Anja , Furukawa Jun-ichi , Yagi Hirokazu , Kato Koichi , Schweizer Ulrich , Annaert Wim , Kang Jongkyun , Shen Jie , Lütjohann Dieter , Walter Jochen
Published: May 2024

Presenilin proteins (PS1 and PS2) represent the catalytic subunit of γ-secretase and play a critical role in the generation of the amyloid β (Aβ) peptide and the pathogenesis of Alzheimer disease (AD). However, PS proteins also exert multiple functions beyond Aβ generation. In this study, we examine the individual roles of PS1 and PS2 in cellular cholesterol metabolism. Deletion of PS1 or PS2 in mouse models led to cholesterol accumulation in cerebral neurons. Cholesterol accumulation was also observed in the lysosomes of embryonic fibroblasts from Psen1-knockout (PS1-KO) and Psen2-KO (PS2-KO) mice and was associated with decreased expression of the Niemann-Pick type C1 (NPC1) protein involved in intracellular cholesterol transport in late endosomal/lysosomal compartments. Mass spectrometry and complementary biochemical analyses also revealed abnormal N-glycosylation of NPC1 and several other membrane proteins in PS1-KO and PS2-KO cells. Interestingly, pharmacological inhibition of N-glycosylation resulted in intracellular cholesterol accumulation prominently in lysosomes and decreased NPC1, thereby resembling the changes in PS1-KO and PS2-KO cells. In turn, treatment of PS1-KO and PS2-KO mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) with the chaperone inducer arimoclomol partially normalized NPC1 expression and rescued lysosomal cholesterol accumulation. Additionally, the intracellular cholesterol accumulation in PS1-KO and PS2-KO MEFs was prevented by overexpression of NPC1. Collectively, these data indicate that a loss of PS function results in impaired protein N-glycosylation, which eventually causes decreased expression of NPC1 and intracellular cholesterol accumulation. This mechanism could contribute to the neurodegeneration observed in PS KO mice and potentially to the pathogenesis of AD.
Studies on the PII-PipX-NtcA Regulatory Axis of Cyanobacteria Provide Novel Insights into the Advantages and Limitations of Two-Hybrid Systems for Protein Interactions
Authors: Salinas Paloma , Bibak Sirine , Cantos Raquel , Tremiño Lorena , Jerez Carmen , Mata-Balaguer Trinidad , Contreras Asunción
Published: May 2024

Yeast two-hybrid approaches, which are based on fusion proteins that must co-localise to the nucleus to reconstitute the transcriptional activity of GAL4, have greatly contributed to our understanding of the nitrogen interaction network of cyanobacteria, the main hubs of which are the trimeric PII and the monomeric PipX regulators. The bacterial two-hybrid system, based on the reconstitution in the E. coli cytoplasm of the adenylate cyclase of Bordetella pertussis, should provide a relatively faster and presumably more physiological assay for cyanobacterial proteins than the yeast system. Here, we used the bacterial two-hybrid system to gain additional insights into the cyanobacterial PipX interaction network while simultaneously assessing the advantages and limitations of the two most popular two-hybrid systems. A comprehensive mutational analysis of PipX and bacterial two-hybrid assays were performed to compare the outcomes between yeast and bacterial systems. We detected interactions that were previously recorded in the yeast two-hybrid system as negative, as well as a “false positive”, the self-interaction of PipX, which is rather an indirect interaction that is dependent on PII homologues from the E. coli host, a result confirmed by Western blot analysis with relevant PipX variants. This is, to our knowledge, the first report of the molecular basis of a false positive in the bacterial two-hybrid system.
Integrating Computational and Experimental Methods to Identify Novel Sweet Peptides from Egg and Soy Proteins
Authors: Su Jinhao , Liu Kaifeng , Cui Huizi , Shen Tianze , Fu Xueqi , Han Weiwei
Published: May 2024

Sweetness in food delivers a delightful sensory experience, underscoring the crucial role of sweeteners in the food industry. However, the widespread use of sweeteners has sparked health concerns. This underscores the importance of developing and screening natural, health-conscious sweeteners. Our study represents a groundbreaking venture into the discovery of such sweeteners derived from egg and soy proteins. Employing virtual hydrolysis as a novel technique, our research entailed a comprehensive screening process that evaluated biological activity, solubility, and toxicity of the derived compounds. We harnessed cutting-edge machine learning methodologies, specifically the latest graph neural network models, for predicting the sweetness of molecules. Subsequent refinements were made through molecular docking screenings and molecular dynamics simulations. This meticulous research approach culminated in the identification of three promising sweet peptides: DCY(Asp-Cys-Tyr), GGR(Gly-Gly-Arg), and IGR(Ile-Gly-Arg). Their binding affinity with T1R2/T1R3 was lower than −15 kcal/mol. Using an electronic tongue, we verified the taste profiles of these peptides, with IGR emerging as the most favorable in terms of taste with a sweetness value of 19.29 and bitterness value of 1.71. This study not only reveals the potential of these natural peptides as healthier alternatives to traditional sweeteners in food applications but also demonstrates the successful synergy of computational predictions and experimental validations in the realm of flavor science.
Molecular Mechanisms of Bacterial Communication and Their Biocontrol
Authors: Barbey Corinne , Latour Xavier
Published: May 2024

A bacterium’s ability to colonize and adapt to an ecological niche is highly dependent on its capacity to perceive and analyze its environment and its ability to interact with its hosts and congeners [...]
Natural Sunlight-Mediated Emodin Photoinactivation of Aeromonas hydrophila
Authors: Urgesa Gelana , Lu Liushen , Gao Jinwei , Guo Lichun , Qin Ting , Liu Bo , Xie Jun , Xi Bingwen
Published: May 2024

Aeromonas hydrophila can be a substantial concern, as it causes various diseases in aquaculture. An effective and green method for inhibiting A. hydrophila is urgently required. Emodin, a naturally occurring anthraquinone compound, was exploited as a photo-antimicrobial agent against A. hydrophila. At the minimum inhibitory concentration of emodin (256 mg/L) to inactivate A. hydrophilia in 30 min, an 11.32% survival rate was observed under 45 W white compact fluorescent light irradiation. In addition, the antibacterial activity under natural sunlight (0.78%) indicated its potential for practical application. Morphological observations demonstrated that the cell walls and membranes of A. hydrophila were susceptible to damage by emodin when exposed to light irradiation. More importantly, the photoinactivation of A. hydrophila was predominantly attributed to the hydroxyl radicals and superoxide radicals produced by emodin, according to the trapping experiment and electron spin resonance spectroscopy. Finally, a light-dependent reactive oxygen species punching mechanism of emodin to photoinactivate A. hydrophila was proposed. This study highlights the potential use of emodin in sunlight-mediated applications for bacterial control, thereby providing new possibilities for the use of Chinese herbal medicine in aquatic diseases prevention.
Unraveling the Role of Cuticular Protein 3-like (HvCP3L) in the Chitin Pathway through RNAi and Methoxyfenozide Stress Response in Heortia vitessoides Moore
Authors: Wang Hanyang , Sun Mingxu , Liu Na , Yin Mingliang , Lin Tong
Published: May 2024

Cuticle proteins (CPs) constitute a multifunctional family; however, the physiological role of Cuticle Protein 3-like (CP3L) in Heortia vitessoides Moore remains largely unclear. In this study, we cloned the HvCP3L gene from the transcriptional library of Heortia vitessoides Moore. RT-qPCR results revealed that HvCP3L exhibited high expression levels during the larval stage of Heortia vitessoides Moore, particularly at the L5D1 stage, observed in both larval and adult heads. Through RNA interference, we successfully silenced the HvCP3L gene, resulting in a significant reduction in the survival rate of Heortia vitessoides Moore, with the survival rate from larvae to adults plummeting to a mere 17.7%, accompanied by phenotypic abnormalities. Additionally, we observed that the knockdown of HvCP3L led to the inhibition of genes in the chitin pathway. Following exposure to methoxyfenozide stress, the HvCP3L gene exhibited significant overexpression, coinciding with phenotypic abnormalities. These findings underscore the pivotal role of HvCP3L in the growth and development of Heortia vitessoides Moore.
Postnatal Growth Assessment and Prediction of Neurodevelopment and Long-Term Growth in Very Low Birth Weight Infants: A Nationwide Cohort Study in Korea
Authors: Kim Min Soo , Koh Ji Won , Shin Jeongmin , Kim Sae Yun
Published: May 2024

Background/Objectives: Extrauterine growth restriction (EUGR) is associated with high mortality and an increased incidence of poor neurodevelopmental outcomes in preterm infants. In this study, we aimed to compare the Intergrowth-21ST (IG-21ST) and Fenton charts in predicting long-term neurodevelopmental and anthropometric outcomes of very low birth weight (VLBW) infants. Methods: Data were collected from 2649 VLBW infants registered in the Korean Neonatal Network born between 240/7 and 316/7 weeks of gestational age from January 2013 to December 2017. Follow-up assessments were conducted at 18–24 months of age, corrected for prematurity. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the association between EUGR and long-term outcomes. Results: Among the 2649 VLBW infants, 60.0% (1606/2649) and 36.9% (977/2649) were diagnosed as having EUGR defined by the Fenton chart (EUGRF) and by the IG-21ST chart (EUGRIG), respectively. The EUGRIG group exhibited a higher proportion of infants with cerebral palsy, neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI), and growth failure. In multiple logistic regression analysis, adjusted for risk factors for long-term outcome, the EUGRIG group showed higher risk of cerebral palsy (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.66; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.04–2.65), NDI (aOR, 2.09; 95% CI, 1.71–2.55), and growth failure (aOR, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.16–2.13). Infants with EUGRF tended to develop NDI (aOR, 1.29; 95%CI, 1.03–1.63) and experience growth failure (aOR, 2.44; 95% CI, 1.77–3.40). Conclusions: The IG-21ST chart demonstrated a more effective prediction of long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes, whereas the Fenton chart may be more suitable for predicting growth failure at 18–24 months.
Periodontal Health and Its Relationship with Psychological Stress: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Macrì Monica , D’Albis Giuseppe , D’Albis Vincenzo , Antonacci Anna , Abbinante Antonia , Stefanelli Riccardo , Pegreffi Francesco , Festa Felice
Published: May 2024

Background: Studies suggest that chronic psychological stress can lead to oral health deterioration, alter the immune response, and possibly contribute to increased inflammation, which can impact the physiological healing of periodontal tissues. This cross-sectional study seeks to assess and improve clinical understanding regarding the relationship between perceived stress, mindfulness, and periodontal health. Methods: A total of 203 people were analyzed from December 2022 to June 2023. The Periodontal Screening and Recording (PSR) score and Gingival Bleeding Index (GBI), and Plaque Control Record (PCR) of every patient were registered. Subsequently, participants completed the Sheldon Cohen Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and the Mindfulness Awareness Attention Scale (MAAS) questionnaires. The collected data underwent statistical analysis, encompassing the evaluation of correlations and dependencies. Applying Welch’s t-test to assess the relationship between MAAS and the variable indicating the presence or absence of periodontitis, a noteworthy p-value of 0.004265 was obtained. Results: This underscores a significant distinction in MAAS scores between patients affected by periodontitis and those unaffected by the condition. Additionally, Pearson correlations were computed for GBI and perceived stress, PCR and perceived stress, PCR and MAAS. The resulting p-values of 2.2–16, 3.925–8, and 2.468–8, respectively, indicate a statistically significant correlation in each instance. Conclusions: These findings contribute valuable insights into the interconnectedness of these variables, emphasizing the significance of their associations in the study context. Despite the limitations, the findings of this study suggest a significant relationship between psychological stress, mindfulness, and periodontal tissue health. Clinical trials are necessary to incorporate the assessment of a patient’s psychological status as a new valuable tool in the management of periodontal health.
A Lightweight Secure Scheme for Underwater Wireless Acoustic Network
Authors: Shi Jia , Wu Jinqiu , Zhao Zhiwei , Qi Xiaofei , Zhang Wenbo , Qiao Gang , Zuo Dahong
Published: May 2024

Due to the open underwater channels and untransparent network deployment environments, underwater acoustic networks (UANs) are more vulnerable to hostile environments. Security research is also being conducted in cryptography, including authentication based on asymmetric algorithms and key distribution based on symmetric algorithms. In recent years, the advancement of quantum computing has made anti-quantum attacks an important issue in the field of security. Algorithms such as lattice and SPHINCS+ have become a research topic of interest in the field of security. However, within the past five years, few papers have discussed security algorithms for UANs to resist quantum attacks, especially through classical algorithms. Some existing classical asymmetric and symmetric algorithms are considered to have no prospects. From the perspective of easy deployment in engineering and anti-quantum attacks, our research focuses on a comprehensive lightweight security framework for data protection, authentication, and malicious node detection through the Elliptic Curve and Hash algorithms. Our mechanism is suitable for ad hoc scenarios with limited underwater resources. Meanwhile, we have designed a multi-party bit commitment to build a security framework for the system. A management scheme is designed by combining self-certifying with the threshold sharing algorithm. All schemes are designed based on certificate-less and ad hoc features. The proposed scheme ensures that the confidentiality, integrity, and authentication of the system are well considered. Moreover, the scheme is proven to be of unconditional security and immune to channel eavesdropping. The resource and delay issues are also taken into consideration. The simulations considered multiple variables like number of nodes, attackers, and message length to calculate proper values that can increase the efficiency of this scheme. The results in terms of delay, delivery ratio, and consumption demonstrate the suitability of the proposal in terms of security, especially for malicious node detection. Meanwhile, the computational cost has also been controlled at the millisecond level.
Optimizing the Layout of Service Facilities for Older People Based on POI Data and Machine Learning: Guangzhou City as an Example
Authors: Feng Huicheng , Tang Xiaoxiang , Zou Cheng
Published: May 2024

Population aging is a global issue. China is facing the same challenge, especially in its megacities, with more than 10 million permanent urban residents. These densely populated cities urgently need the scientific planning and optimization of the layout of service facilities for older people. Taking Guangzhou, a megacity in China, as an example, this study uses point-of-interest (POI) data and the ID3 machine learning decision tree algorithm to train a site selection model for service facilities for older people. The model can help to select appropriate locations for new service facilities for older people more scientifically and accurately, and it can provide targeted suggestions to optimize the layout of the service facilities for older people in Guangzhou. First, Guangzhou city is divided into 29,793 grids of 500 m × 500 m based on the range of activities of older people, and 985 grids are found to contain service facilities for older people. Then, the POI data of the grid are fed into the ID3 algorithm for training to obtain a prediction model for the selection of sites for service facilities for older people. The effective prediction rate of the model reaches 87.54%. Then, we apply the site selection model to predict the whole city of Guangzhou, and 4534 grids are suitable for service facilities for older people. In addition, considering the degree of concentration of the elderly population in each street, we further filter out 1066 priority grids as the final site selection. Finally, taking into account the situation of the streets in different districts, we propose several strategies to optimize the layout of the construction of service facilities for older people.
Research and Validation of CF/PEEK-Based Truss Rod Crimping and Pultruding Process for On-Orbit Isoform Forming
Authors: Yan Jiayong , Li Peng , Geng Chao , Guo Xuanyu , Zhang Lixin
Published: May 2024

A crimping and pultruding forming process for truss rods using Carbon Fiber (CF)/Polyether–Ether–Ketone (PEEK) prepreg tape as the raw material is proposed to address the problem of continuous manufacturing of space trusses on orbit. The proposed process provides material rods for continuous truss manufacturing. Through numerical simulation and experimental verification, the effects of relevant parameters on the forming process are determined, an efficient method of rod curl pultrusion, in-rail, equal material forming is proposed, and the structural configuration of the rod curl pultrusion forming mold is determined. The equivalent macroscopic mechanical properties of unidirectional CF/PEEK prepreg strips are considered, and the rod-forming process is investigated. Rod samples with different process parameters are prepared, and several tests are conducted on them. The results show that the forming load pull is negatively correlated with the temperature at the same forming speed, and forming speed is positively correlated with the forming load pull at a certain temperature. Temperature and speed affect the surface quality of the rod, the density of the material filling, and the mechanical properties of the rod. The optimal forming process parameters are determined through numerical simulation and experimental verification. The developed molding technology has the advantages of high efficiency, low energy consumption, and high integration. It reduces manufacturing costs and improves manufacturing efficiency, so it can serve as a new and effective solution for the manufacturing of high-performance truss rods in the aerospace field.
Oil Heat Treatment of Wood—A Comprehensive Analysis of Physical, Chemical, and Mechanical Modifications
Authors: Mandraveli Eleni , Mitani Andromachi , Terzopoulou Paschalina , Koutsianitis Dimitrios
Published: May 2024

Wood, a natural material with versatile industrial applications, faces limitations such as low dimensional stability and decay resistance. To address these issues, there has been significant progress in wood modification research. Oil heat treatment has emerged as an effective method among environmentally friendly wood treatment options. Studies have indicated that treating wood with hot vegetable oils yields superior properties compared to traditional methods involving gaseous atmospheres, which is attributed to the synergistic effect of oils and heat. This comprehensive review investigates the physical, chemical, and mechanical modifications induced by the oil heat treatment of wood, along with its impact on biological durability against biotic agents. The review synthesizes recent research findings, elucidates underlying mechanisms, and discusses the implications for wood material science and engineering.
Mathematical Complexities in Modelling Damage in Spur Gears
Authors: Oreavbiere Aselimhe , Khan Muhammad
Published: May 2024

Analytical modelling is an effective approach to obtaining a gear dynamic response or vibration pattern for health monitoring and useful life prediction. Many researchers have modelled this response with various fault conditions commonly observed in gears. The outcome of such models provides a good idea about the changes in the dynamic response available between different gear health states. Hence, a catalogue of the responses is currently available, which ought to aid predictions of the health of actual gears by their vibration patterns. However, these analytical models are limited in providing solutions to useful life prediction. This may be because a majority of these models used single fault conditions for modelling and are not valid to predict the remaining life of gears undergoing more than one fault condition. Existing reviews related to gear faults and dynamic modelling can provide an overview of fault modes, methods for modelling and health prediction. However, these reviews are unable to provide the critical similarities and differences in the single-fault dynamic models to ascertain the possibility of developing models under combined fault modes. In this paper, existing analytical models of spur gears are reviewed with their associated challenges to predict the gear health state. Recommendations for establishing more realistic models are made especially in the context of modelling combined faults and their possible impact on gear dynamic response and health prediction.
Analysis of Heat Transfer for the Copper–Water Nanofluid Flow through a Uniform Porous Medium Generated by a Rotating Rigid Disk
Authors: Alkuhayli Naif Abdulaziz M. , Morozov Andrew
Published: May 2024

This study theoretically investigates the temperature and velocity spatial distributions in the flow of a copper–water nanofluid induced by a rotating rigid disk in a porous medium. Unlike previous work on similar systems, we assume that the disk surface is well polished (coated); therefore, there are velocity and temperature slips between the nanofluid and the disk surface. The importance of considering slip conditions in modeling nanofluids comes from practical applications where rotating parts of machines may be coated. Additionally, this study examines the influence of heat generation on the temperature distribution within the flow. By transforming the original Navier–Stokes partial differential equations (PDEs) into a system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs), numerical solutions are obtained. The boundary conditions for velocity and temperature slips are formulated using the effective viscosity and thermal conductivity of the copper–water nanofluid. The dependence of the velocity and temperature fields in the nanofluid flow on key parameters is investigated. The major findings of the study are that the nanoparticle volume fraction significantly impacts the temperature distribution, particularly in the presence of a heat source. Furthermore, polishing the disk surface enhances velocity slips, reducing stresses at the disk surface, while a pronounced velocity slip leads to distinct changes in the radial, azimuthal, and axial velocity components. The study highlights the influence of slip conditions on fluid velocity as compared to previously considered non-slip conditions. This suggests that accounting for slip conditions for coated rotating disks would yield more accurate predictions in assessing heat transfer, which would be potentially important for the practical design of various devices using nanofluids.
Extreme Treatment Effect: Extrapolating Dose-Response Function into Extreme Treatment Domain
Authors: Bodik Juraj
Published: May 2024

The potential outcomes framework serves as a fundamental tool for quantifying causal effects. The average dose–response function μ(t) (also called the effect curve) is typically of interest when dealing with a continuous treatment variable (exposure). The focus of this work is to determine the impact of an extreme level of treatment, potentially beyond the range of observed values—that is, estimating μ(t) for very large t. Our approach is grounded in the field of statistics known as extreme value theory. We outline key assumptions for the identifiability of the extreme treatment effect. Additionally, we present a novel and consistent estimation procedure that can potentially reduce the dimension of the confounders to at most 3. This is a significant result since typically, the estimation of μ(t) is very challenging due to high-dimensional confounders. In practical applications, our framework proves valuable when assessing the effects of scenarios such as drug overdoses, extreme river discharges, or extremely high temperatures on a variable of interest.
Analysis of Shift in Nil-Ductility Transition Reference Temperature for RPV Steels Due to Irradiation Embrittlement Using Probability Distributions and Gamma Process
Authors: Tang Kaikai , Li Yan , Li Yuebing , Jin Weiya , Liu Jiameng
Published: May 2024

Reactor pressure vessel (RPV) steels are highly susceptible to irradiation embrittlement due to prolonged exposure to high temperature, high pressure, and intense neutron irradiation. This leads to the shift in nil-ductility transition reference temperature—∆RTNDT. The change in ∆RTNDT follows a certain distribution pattern and is impacted by factors including chemical composition, neutron fluence, and irradiation temperature. Existing empirical procedures can estimate ∆RTNDT based on fitting extensive irradiation embrittlement data, but their reliability has not been thoroughly investigated. Probability statistical distributions and the Gamma stochastic process were performed to model material property degradation in RPV steels from a pressurized water reactor due to irradiation embrittlement, with the probability models considered being normal, Weibull, and lognormal distributions. Comparisons with existing empirical procedures showed that the Weibull distribution model and the Gamma stochastic model demonstrate good reliability in predicting ∆RTNDT for RPV steels. This provides a valuable reference for studying irradiation embrittlement in RPV materials.
Large-Scale Multi-Phase-Field Simulation of 2D Subgrain Growth
Authors: Khajezade Ali , Poole Warren J. , Greenwood Michael , Militzer Matthias
Published: May 2024

The characteristics of subgrains in a deformed state after the high-temperature deformation of aluminum alloys control the subsequent recrystallization process and corresponding mechanical properties. In this study, systematic 2D phase-field simulations have been conducted to determine the role of deformed state parameters such as subgrain size and disorientation distributions on subgrain growth in an individual grain representing a single crystallographic orientation. The initial subgrain size and disorientation distributions have been varied by ±50%. To have a statistically relevant number of subgrains, large-scale simulations have been conducted using an in-house-developed phase-field code that takes advantage of distributed computing. The results of these simulations indicate that the growth of subgrains reaches a self-similar regime regardless of the initial subgrain structure. A narrower initial subgrain size distribution leads to faster growth rates, but it is the initial disorientation distribution that has a larger impact on the growth of subgrains. The results are discussed in terms of the evolution of the average diameter of subgrains and the average disorientation in the microstructure.
Targeted Analysis of Plasma Polar Metabolites in Postmenopausal Depression
Authors: Naufel Maria Fernanda , Pedroso Amanda Paula , de Souza Adriana Pereira , Boldarine Valter Tadeu , Oyama Lila Missae , Lo Turco Edson Guimarães , Hachul Helena , Ribeiro Eliane Beraldi , Telles Mônica Marques
Published: May 2024

Depression will be the disease with the highest incidence worldwide by 2030. Data indicate that postmenopausal women have a higher incidence of mood disorders, and this high vulnerability seems to be related to hormonal changes and weight gain. Although research evaluating the profile of metabolites in mood disorders is advancing, further research, maintaining consistent methodology, is necessary to reach a consensus. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to carry out an exploratory analysis of the plasma polar metabolites of pre- and postmenopausal women to explore whether the profile is affected by depression. The plasma analysis of 50 polar metabolites was carried out in a total of 67 postmenopausal women, aged between 50 and 65 years, either without depression (n = 25) or with depression symptoms (n = 42), which had spontaneous onset of menopause and were not in use of hormone replacement therapy, insulin, or antidepressants; and in 42 healthy premenopausal women (21 without depression and 21 with depression symptoms), aged between 40 and 50 years and who were not in use of contraceptives, insulin, or antidepressants. Ten metabolites were significantly affected by depression symptoms postmenopause, including adenosine (FDR = 3.778 × 10−14), guanosine (FDR = 3.001 × 10−14), proline (FDR = 1.430 × 10−6), citrulline (FDR = 0.0001), lysine (FDR = 0.0004), and carnitine (FDR = 0.0331), which were down-regulated, and dimethylglycine (FDR = 0.0022), glutathione (FDR = 0.0048), creatine (FDR = 0.0286), and methionine (FDR = 0.0484) that were up-regulated. In premenopausal women with depression, oxidized glutathione (FDR = 0.0137) was down-regulated, and dimethylglycine (FDR = 0.0406) and 4-hydroxyproline (FDR = 0.0433) were up-regulated. The present study provided new data concerning the consequences of depression on plasma polar metabolites before and after the establishment of menopause. The results demonstrated that the postmenopausal condition presented more alterations than the premenopausal period and may indicate future measures to treat the disturbances involved in both menopause and depression.
Research on the Influence of the Material Removal Profile of a Spherical Polishing Tool on the Mid-Spatial Frequency Errors of Optical Surfaces
Authors: He Zhaohao , Hai Kuo , Li Kailong , Yu Jiahao , Wu Lingwei , Zhang Lin , Su Xing , Cai Lisheng , Huang Wen , Hang Wei
Published: May 2024

Elastic spherical polishing tools effectively conform to the polishing surface and exhibit high efficiency in the removal of materials, so they are extensively used in the sub-aperture polishing stages of optical components. However, their processing is often accompanied by significant mid-spatial frequency (MSF) errors, which critically degrade the performance of optical systems. To suppress the MSF errors generated during polishing with spherical tools, this study investigates the influence factor of MSF errors during the polishing process through an analysis of the convolution effect in material removal. A material removal profile model is established, and a uniform removal simulation is conducted to assess the influence of different shape material removal profiles on MSF errors. Simulation and experimental results show that a Gaussian-like shape material removal profile is more effective in suppressing the MSF errors during polishing compared to the “W” and trapezoidal shape material removal profiles. In addition, based on the characteristics of the RMS decreasing in a serrated trend with the decrease in path spacing, a path spacing optimization method considering the polishing efficiency is proposed to improve the polishing efficiency while controlling the MSF errors, and the effectiveness of the path spacing optimization method is verified by comparing the MSF error at the maximum theoretical path spacing and the path spacing that is less than this. Finally, the path spacing optimization method is used to polish single-crystal silicon to further illustrate its practicality.
A Quadruplex Reverse Transcription Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction for Detecting Canine Coronavirus, Canine Rotavirus, Canine Parvovirus, and Canine Distemper Virus
Authors: Shi Yandi , Long Feng , Shi Kaichuang , He Mengyi , Shi Yuwen , Feng Shuping , Yin Yanwen , Wei Xiankai , Li Zongqiang
Published: May 2024

Background: Canine coronavirus (CCoV), canine rotavirus (CRV), canine parvovirus (CPV), and canine distemper virus (CDV) cause gastroenteritis in dogs, and co-infections of these pathogens are common in China. In particular, CCoV and CRV are confirmed to have important zoonotic potential and cause public health issues. It is difficult to diagnose these diseases based only on clinical manifestations and pathological damage. Methods: In this study, four pairs of specific primers and probes targeting the CCoV M, CRV VP7, CPV VP2, and CDV N genes were designed. The reaction conditions, including the primer and probe concentrations, annealing temperatures, and reaction cycles, were optimized for the development of a quadruplex RT-qPCR for the detection of CCoV, CRV, CPV, and CDV. The assay was used to test 1028 clinical samples to validate its application. Results: A quadruplex RT-qPCR was successfully established for the differential detection of CCoV, CRV, CPV, and CDV, with good specificity, high sensitivity, and excellent repeatability. The assay could specifically detect CCoV, CRV, CPV, and CDV without cross-reactivity with the other canine viruses tested. It showed high sensitivity with limits of detection (LOD) of 1.1 × 102 copies/reaction for all four plasmid constructs. It showed excellent repeatability, with 0.05–0.90% intra-assay variation and 0.02–0.94% inter-assay variation. The 1028 clinical samples were tested using the quadruplex RT-qPCR and a reported reference RT-qPCR. The positivity rates of CCoV, CRV, CPV, and CDV were 9.53%, 0.97%, 25.68%, and 5.06% using the developed assay, and 9.05%, 0.88%, 25.68%, and 4.86% using the reference assay, with agreements higher than 99.32%. Conclusion: The results indicated that a rapid and accurate quadruplex RT-qPCR was developed for the detection and differentiation of CCoV, CRV, CPV, and CDV.
Increasing Rate of Fatal Streptococcus pyogenes Bacteriemia—A Challenge for Prompt Diagnosis and Appropriate Therapy in Real Praxis
Authors: Adamkova Vaclava , Adamkova Vanda Gabriela , Kroneislova Gabriela , Zavora Jan , Kroneislova Marie , Huptych Michal , Lahoda Brodska Helena
Published: May 2024

Streptococcus pyogenes, group A streptococci (GAS) bacteriaemia, is a life-threatening infection with high mortality, requiring fast diagnosis together with the use of appropriate antibiotic therapy as soon as possible. Our study analysed data from 93 patients with GAS bacteraemia at the General University Hospital in Prague between January 2006 and March 2024. In the years 2016–2019 there was an increase in GAS bacteraemia. Mortality in the period 2006–2019 was 21.9%; in the period 2020–2024, the mortality increased to 41.4%, p = 0.08. At the same time, in the post-2020 period, the time from hospital admission to death was reduced from 9.5 days to 3 days. A significant predictor of worse outcome in this period was high levels of procalcitonin, >35.1 µg/L (100% sensitivity and 82.35% specificity), and lactate, >5 mmol/L (90.91% sensitivity and 91.67% specificity). Myoglobin was a significant predictor in both compared periods, the AUC was 0.771, p = 0.044, and the AUC was an even 0.889, p ≤ 0.001, respectively. All isolates of S. pyogenes were susceptible to penicillin, and resistance to clindamycin was 20.3% from 2006–2019 and 10.3% in 2020–2024. Appropriate therapy was initiated in 89.1%. and 96.6%, respectively. We hypothesise that the increase in mortality after 2020 might be due to a decrease in the immune status of the population.
Simple and Efficient Synthesis of Ruthenium(III) PEDOT:PSS Complexes for High-Performance Stretchable and Transparent Supercapacitors
Authors: Liu Guiming , Huang Zhao , Xu Jiujie , Zhang Bowen , Lin Tiesong , He Peng
Published: May 2024

In the evolving landscape of portable electronics, there is a critical demand for components that meld stretchability with optical transparency, especially in supercapacitors. Traditional materials fall short in harmonizing conductivity, stretchability, transparency, and capacity. Although poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) stands out as an exemplary candidate, further performance enhancements are necessary to meet the demands of practical applications. This study presents an innovative and effective method for enhancing electrochemical properties by homogeneously incorporating Ru(III) into PEDOT:PSS. These Ru(III) PEDOT:PSS complexes are readily synthesized by dipping PEDOT:PSS films in RuCl3 solution for no longer than one minute, leveraging the high specific capacitance of Ru(III) while minimizing interference with transmittance. The supercapacitor made with this Ru(III) PEDOT:PSS complex demonstrated an areal capacitance of 1.62 mF cm−2 at a transmittance of 73.5%, which was 155% higher than that of the supercapacitor made with PEDOT:PSS under comparable transparency. Notably, the supercapacitor retained 87.8% of its initial capacitance even under 20% tensile strain across 20,000 cycles. This work presents a blueprint for developing stretchable and transparent supercapacitors, marking a significant stride toward next-generation wearable electronics.
Effectiveness of a Balanced Nine-Strain Synbiotic in Primary-Care Irritable Bowel Syndrome Patients—A Multi-Center, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Sommermeyer Henning , Chmielowiec Krzysztof , Bernatek Malgorzata , Olszewski Pawel , Kopczynski Jaroslaw , Piątek Jacek
Published: May 2024

The aim of the study was to characterize effects of a multi-strain synbiotic in patients with moderate to severe irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) of all stool form types. A total of 202 adult IBS patients were randomized (1:1) and after a four-week treatment-free run-in phase and were treated either with the synbiotic or a placebo for 12 weeks. The primary endpoints were the assessment of the severity of IBS symptoms (IBS-SSS) and the improvement of IBS global symptoms (IBS-GIS). Secondary endpoints comprised adequate relief (IBS-AR scale), stool form type (Bristol Stool Form Scale), bowel movements, severity of abdominal pain and bloating, stool pressure, feeling of incomplete stool evacuation, and adverse events. A total of 201 patients completed the study. Synbiotic treatment, in comparison to placebo, significantly improved IBS-SSS and IBS-GIS scores. At the end of the treatment, 70% of patients in the synbiotic group achieved adequate relief. After 12 weeks of treatment, the secondary endpoints were favorably differentiated in the synbiotic group when compared with the placebo group. Two patients in the synbiotic group reported transient adverse events (headache). The results indicate that treatment of IBS patients with the synbiotic significantly improved all major symptoms of IBS and was well-tolerated. The ClinicalTrials.gov registration was NCT05731232.
Trachoma and the Importance of Sexual Infective Route in Developed Countries. Comment on Gallenga et al. Why the SAFE—S Strategy for Trachoma? Are Musca sorbens or Scatophaga stercoraria Really the Culprit?—A Brief Historical Review from an Italian Point of View. Pathogens 2023, 12, 1419
Authors: Garcia-Teillard Damian , García-Delpech Salvador , Udaondo Patricia
Published: May 2024

We have read the review article entitled “Why the SAFE—S Strategy for Trachoma [...]
Improved Treatment Outcome Following the Use of a Wound Dressings in Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Lesions
Authors: Borba Pedro B. , Lago Jamile , Lago Tainã , Araújo-Pereira Mariana , Queiroz Artur T. L. , Barud Hernane S. , Carvalho Lucas P. , Machado Paulo R. L. , Carvalho Edgar M. , de Oliveira Camila I.
Published: May 2024

Leishmaniasis, caused by Leishmania parasites, is a neglected tropical disease and Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) is the most common form. Despite the associated toxicity and adverse effects, Meglumine antimoniate (MA) remains the first-choice treatment for CL in Brazil, pressing the need for the development of better alternatives. Bacterial NanoCellulose (BNC), a biocompatible nanomaterial, has unique properties regarding wound healing. In a previous study, we showed that use of topical BNC + systemic MA significantly increased the cure rate of CL patients, compared to treatment with MA alone. Herein, we performed a study comparing the combination of a wound dressing (BNC or placebo) plus systemic MA versus systemic MA alone, in CL caused by Leishmania braziliensis. We show that patients treated with the combination treatment (BNC or placebo) + MA showed improved cure rates and decreased need for rescue treatment, although differences compared to controls (systemic MA alone) were not significant. However, the overall time-to-cure was significantly lower in groups treated with the combination treatment (BNC+ systemic MA or placebo + systemic MA) in comparison to controls (MA alone), indicating that the use of a wound dressing improves CL treatment outcome. Assessment of the immune response in peripheral blood showed an overall downmodulation in the inflammatory landscape and a significant decrease in the production of IL-1a (p < 0.05) in patients treated with topical BNC + systemic MA. Our results show that the application of wound dressings to CL lesions can improve chemotherapy outcome in CL caused by L. braziliensis.
Human Cytomegalovirus Infection and Neurocognitive and Neuropsychiatric Health
Authors: Gale Shawn D. , Farrer Thomas J. , Erbstoesser Reagan , MacLean Scott , Hedges Dawson W.
Published: May 2024

A common infection, human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) has been associated with a variety of human diseases, including cardiovascular disease and possibly certain cancers. HCMV has also been associated with cognitive, psychiatric, and neurological conditions. Children with congenital or early-life HCMV are at risk for microcephaly, cerebral palsy, and sensorineural hearing loss, although in many cases sensorineural loss may resolve. In addition, HCMV can be associated with neurodevelopmental impairment, which may improve with time. In young, middle-aged, and older adults, HCMV has been adversely associated with cognitive function in some but not in all studies. Research has linked HCMV to Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia, but again not all findings consistently support these associations. In addition, HCMV has been associated with depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and autism-spectrum disorder, although the available findings are likewise inconsistent. Given associations between HCMV and a variety of neurocognitive and neuropsychiatric disorders, additional research investigating reasons for the considerable inconsistencies in the currently available findings is needed. Additional meta-analyses and more longitudinal studies are needed as well. Research into the effects of antiviral medication on cognitive and neurological outcomes and continued efforts in vaccine development have potential to lower the neurocognitive, neuropsychiatric, and neurological burden of HCMV infection.
A Comparison of RML Prion Inactivation Efficiency by Heterogeneous and Homogeneous Photocatalysis
Authors: Paspaltsis Ioannis , Kanata Eirini , Sotiriadis Sotirios , Correia Susana Silva , Schmitz Matthias , Zerr Inga , Dafou Dimitra , Xanthopoulos Konstantinos , Sklaviadis Theodoros
Published: May 2024

Prions are proteinaceous pathogens responsible for a variety of devastating diseases in mammals, including scrapie in sheep and goats, chronic wasting disease in cervids, and Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease (CJD) in humans. They are characterized by their exceptional persistence to common inactivation procedures. This applies to all possible sources of prion contamination as prions may be present in the tissues and biological fluids of infected individuals. Hence, efficient prion inactivation procedures are still being sought to minimize the risk of intra- or inter-species transmission. In the past, photocatalytic treatment has been proven to be capable of efficiently oxidizing and inactivating prions. In the present study, the efficacy of homogeneous photo-Fenton-based photocatalysis as well as heterogeneous photocatalysis with TiO2 in reducing RML mouse scrapie infectivity was evaluated. Prion inactivation was assessed by means of a bioassay, and the results were confirmed by in vitro experiments. While the prion infectivity of the RML mouse scrapie was reduced after treatment with the photo-Fenton reagent, the heterogeneous photocatalytic treatment of the same prion strain completely eliminated prion infectivity.