bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis, Characterization, and Antimicrobial and Antiproliferative Effects of CuO-TiO2-Chitosan-Escin Nanocomposites on Human Leukemic MOLT4 Cells
Authors: Elderdery Abozer Y. , Alhamidi Abdulaziz H. , Elkhalifa Ahmed M. E. , Althobiti Maryam M. , Eltayeb Omer Nawal , Alsugoor Mahdi H. , Alsuhaymi Naif , Atebien Entesar M. , Hamza Siddiqa M. A. , Alzahrani Badr , Alanazi Fehaid , Kumar Suresh Kumar , Mok Pooi Ling
Published: October 2022

Nanocomposites comprised of CuO-TiO2-chitosan-escin, which has adjustable physicochemical properties, provide a solution for therapeutic selectivity in cancer treatment. By controlling the intrinsic signaling primarily through the mitochondrial signaling pathway, we desired nanocomposites with enhanced anticancer activity by containing CuO-TiO2-chitosan-escin. The metal oxides CuO and TiO2, the natural polymer chitosan, and a phytochemical compound escin were combined to form CuO-TiO2-chitosan-escin nanocomposites. The synthesized nanocomposites were confirmed and characterized using FTIR spectroscopy, TEM, and UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy. A human leukemia cell line (MOLT-4) was used to assess the efficacy and selectivity of nanocomposites. Based on a cytotoxicity study, CuO-TiO2-chitosan-escin nanocomposites had inhibition concentrations (IC50) of 13.68, 8.9, and 7.14 µg/mL against human T lymphoblast cells after 24, 48, and 72 h of incubation, respectively. Compared with untreated MOLT-4 cells, CuO-TiO2-chitosan-escin nanocomposite-treated cells significantly increased (p < 0.05) caspase-3, -8, and -9 and decreased the levels of antioxidant enzymes GR, SOD, and GSH. Furthermore, MDA for lipid peroxidase and ROS levels significantly increased (p < 0.05) in the treated cells than in the untreated cells. Remarkably, CuO-TiO2-chitosan-escin nanocomposite-mediated control of cell cycles were mainly achieved through the activation of caspase-3, -8, and -9.
The Antimicrobial Effect of Gold Quantum Dots and Femtosecond Laser Irradiation on the Growth Kinetics of Common Infectious Eye Pathogens: An In Vitro Study
Authors: El-Gendy Ahmed O. , Obaid Yousif , Ahmed Esraa , Enwemeka Chukuka S. , Hassan Mansour , Mohamed Tarek
Published: October 2022

We studied the antimicrobial effect of gold quantum dots (AuQDs), femtosecond laser irradiation, and the combined effect of laser irradiation and AuQD treatment against common infectious eye pathogens. The INSPIRE HF100 laser system (Spectra Physics) provided a femtosecond laser, which was pumped by a mode-locked femtosecond Ti: sapphire laser MAI TAI HP (Spectra Physics), while a Quanta-Ray nanosecond Nd: YAG laser (Spectra-Physics) was used to precisely synthesize 7.8, 8.7, and 11.6 nm spherical AuQDs. Then, the in vitro growth kinetics and growth rate analysis of E. coli, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Listeria monocytogenes, and Candida albicans (treated with the AuQDs, femtosecond laser irradiation, or combined laser and AuQDs treatment) was measured. The biocompatibility of the AuQDs with the retinal epithelial cell lines (ARPE-19) and their toxicity to the cells was assayed. The results showed that (1) in vitro irradiation using a 159 J/cm2 energy density obtained from the 400 nm femtosecond laser suppressed the growth of each of the five pathogens. (2) Similarly, treatment with the AuQDs was antimicrobial against the four bacteria. The AuQDs with an average size of 7.8 nm were more highly antimicrobial and biocompatible and were less cytotoxic than the larger AuQD sizes. (3) The combined femtosecond laser irradiation and AuQD treatment was more highly antimicrobial than each treatment alone. (4) The AuQD treatment did not impair the rate of wound closure in vitro. These findings suggest that combined femtosecond laser irradiation and AuQD treatment is significantly antimicrobial against Candida albicans, Gram-positive L. monocytogenes, S. aureus, and E. faecalis, as well as Gram-negative E. coli. The nontoxicity and biocompatibility of the AuQD particles tested suggest that this form of treatment may be clinically viable.
Origin of Negative Photoconductivity at the Interface of Ba0.8Sr0.2TiO3/LaMnO3/Ba0.8Sr0.2TiO3 Heterostructures
Authors: Chibirev Aleksei , Leontyev Andrei , Kabanov Viktor , Mamin Rinat
Published: October 2022

The study of Ba0.8Sr0.2TiO3/LaMnO3/Ba0.8Sr0.2TiO3 heterostructures on a MgO substrate with Ba0.8Sr0.2TiO3 ferroelectric films revealed the occurrence of a metallic character of the temperature behavior of the resistance at a temperature less than 175 K. This behavior is associated with an increased charge concentration at the interface due to a discontinuity in the ferroelectric polarization at the interface between the films. At these temperatures, the effect of negative photoconductivity is observed under uniform illumination with the light of a selected spectral composition event on the surface of the ferroelectric film. The combined exposure to green and infrared light led to an addition of the effects. As a result, a cumulative effect was observed. The effect of metallic conductivity is due to the discontinuity of ferroelectric polarization. Therefore, we explain that the partial screening of the ferroelectric polarization by photogenerated charge carriers causes a reduction in the carrier concentration at the interface. Measurements in the Kelvin mode of atomic force microscopy showed that illumination influences the surface charge concentration in a similar way; this observation confirms our hypothesis.
High-Temperature Quantum Hall Effect in Graphite-Gated Graphene Heterostructure Devices with High Carrier Mobility
Authors: Zhou Siyu , Zhu Mengjian , Liu Qiang , Xiao Yang , Cui Ziru , Guo Chucai
Published: October 2022

Since the discovery of the quantum Hall effect in 1980, it has attracted intense interest in condensed matter physics and has led to a new type of metrological standard by utilizing the resistance quantum. Graphene, a true two-dimensional electron gas material, has demonstrated the half-integer quantum Hall effect and composite-fermion fractional quantum Hall effect due to its unique massless Dirac fermions and ultra-high carrier mobility. Here, we use a monolayer graphene encapsulated with hexagonal boron nitride and few-layer graphite to fabricate micrometer-scale graphene Hall devices. The application of a graphite gate electrode significantly screens the phonon scattering from a conventional SiO2/Si substrate, and thus enhances the carrier mobility of graphene. At a low temperature, the carrier mobility of graphene devices can reach 3 × 105 cm2/V·s, and at room temperature, the carrier mobility can still exceed 1 × 105 cm2/V·s, which is very helpful for the development of high-temperature quantum Hall effects under moderate magnetic fields. At a low temperature of 1.6 K, a series of half-integer quantum Hall plateaus are well-observed in graphene with a magnetic field of 1 T. More importantly, the ν = ±2 quantum Hall plateau clearly persists up to 150 K with only a few-tesla magnetic field. These findings show that graphite-gated high-mobility graphene devices hold great potential for high-sensitivity Hall sensors and resistance metrology standards for the new Système International d’unités.
Navigating the Multiverse of Antisense RNAs: The Transcription- and RNA-Dependent Dimension
Authors: Pagani Giulia , Pandini Cecilia , Gandellini Paolo
Published: October 2022

Evidence accumulated over the past decades shows that the number of identified antisense transcripts is continuously increasing, promoting them from transcriptional noise to real genes with specific functions. Indeed, recent studies have begun to unravel the complexity of the antisense RNA (asRNA) world, starting from the multidimensional mechanisms that they can exert in physiological and pathological conditions. In this review, we discuss the multiverse of the molecular functions of asRNAs, describing their action through transcription-dependent and RNA-dependent mechanisms. Then, we report the workflow and methodologies to study and functionally characterize single asRNA candidates.
Intraclass Correlation in Paired Associative Stimulation and Metaplasticity
Authors: Schapira Giuditta , Chang Justin , Kim Yeun , Ngo Jacqueline P. , Deblieck Choi , Bianco Valentina , Edwards Dylan J. , Dobkin Bruce H. , Wu Allan D. , Iacoboni Marco
Published: October 2022

Paired associative stimulation (PAS) is a widely used noninvasive brain stimulation protocol to assess neural plasticity. Its reproducibility, however, has been rarely tested and with mixed results. With two consecutive studies, we aimed to provide further tests and a more systematic assessment of PAS reproducibility. We measured intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs)—a widely used tool to assess whether groups of measurements resemble each other—in two PAS studies on healthy volunteers. The first study included five PAS sessions recording 10 MEPS every 10 min for an hour post-PAS. The second study included two PAS sessions recording 50 MEPS at 20 and 50 min post-PAS, based on analyses from the first study. In both studies PAS sessions were spaced one week apart. Within sessions ICC was fair to excellent for both studies, yet between sessions ICC was poor for both studies. We suggest that long term meta-plasticity effects (longer than one week) may interfere with between sessions reproducibility.
Efficacy and Safety of Fig (Ficus carica L.) Leaf Tea in Adults with Mild Atopic Dermatitis: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Preliminary Trial
Authors: Abe Tatsuya , Koyama Yukari , Nishimura Kosaku , Okiura Aya , Takahashi Toru
Published: October 2022

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, recurrent pruritic skin disease with repeated remissions and exacerbations. Various factors, such as allergies, skin conditions and lifestyle, combine to cause AD, making it difficult to cure completely. Although AD symptoms are suppressed with medications, this is a long-term effort and burden on patients. Thus, safer drugs and alternatives are needed. We previously found that consumption of tea prepared from fig (Ficus carica L.) leaves alleviated allergy and AD symptoms in cultured cells and animals. Therefore, here, we conducted a double-blind, randomized, controlled study in patients with mild AD to evaluate the safety and AD-relieving effects of prolonged consumption of fig leaf tea. Positive effects of fig leaf tea consumption were confirmed in 14 of 15 participants. Eczema Area and Severity Index values were significantly lowered in the fig leaf tea-treated group than in the placebo-treated group. The effect weakened 4 weeks after the end of the intervention, suggesting that continued intake of fig leaf tea was effective. Further assessments confirmed the safety of fig leaf tea consumption and revealed no variations that might pose a health hazard. Therefore, we postulate that fig leaf tea is a natural and safe therapeutic option for AD.
Oats Lower Age-Related Systemic Chronic Inflammation (iAge) in Adults at Risk for Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Dioum El Hadji M. , Schneider Kevin L. , Vigerust David J. , Cox Bryan D. , Chu YiFang , Zachwieja Jeffery J. , Furman David
Published: October 2022

Despite being largely preventable, cardiovascular disease (CVD) is still the leading cause of death globally. Recent studies suggest that the immune system, particularly a form of systemic chronic inflammation (SCI), is involved in the mechanisms leading to CVD; thus, targeting SCI may help prevent or delay the onset of CVD. In a recent placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial, an oat product providing 3 g of β-Glucan improved cholesterol low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels and lowered cardiovascular risk in adults with borderline high cholesterol. Here, we conducted a secondary measurement of the serum samples to test whether the oat product has the potential to reduce SCI and improve other clinical outcomes related to healthy aging. We investigated the effects of the oat product on a novel metric for SCI called Inflammatory Age® (iAge®), derived from the Stanford 1000 Immunomes Project. The iAge® predicts multimorbidity, frailty, immune decline, premature cardiovascular aging, and all-cause mortality on a personalized level. A beneficial effect of the oat product was observed in subjects with elevated levels of iAge® at baseline (>49.6 iAge® years) as early as two weeks post-treatment. The rice control group did not show any significant change in iAge®. Interestingly, the effects of the oat product on iAge® were largely driven by a decrease in the Eotaxin-1 protein, an aging-related chemokine, independent of a person’s gender, body mass index, or chronological age. Thus, we describe a novel anti-SCI role for oats that could have a major impact on functional, preventative, and personalized medicine.
The Role of Diet and Dietary Patterns in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Knight Emily , Geetha Thangiah , Burnett Donna , Babu Jeganathan Ramesh
Published: October 2022

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder associated with diminished nutrition status and decreased quality of life. While the prevalence of PD is expected to increase, no preventative or curative therapy for PD exists at this time. Although nutrition and diet represent modifiable risk factors for reducing chronic disease risk, research on the impact of single nutrients on PD has yielded mixed results. As a result, this single-nutrient approach may be the driving force behind the inconsistency, and a holistic dietary approach may overcome this inconsistency by accounting for the interactions between nutrients. The following review aims to examine the impact of a generally healthy dietary pattern, the protein-restricted diet (PRD), the ketogenic diet (KD), the Mediterranean diet (MD), and the Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) diet on PD risk, progression, and severity. While most of the included studies support the role of diet and dietary patterns in reducing the risk of PD or alleviating PD severity, the inconsistent results and need for further evidence necessitate more research being conducted before making dietary recommendations. Research on the potential beneficial effects of dietary patterns on PD should also investigate potential risks.
High Plasma Vitamin B12 and Cancer in Human Studies: A Scoping Review to Judge Causality and Alternative Explanations
Authors: Obeid Rima
Published: October 2022

Patients with cancer have been reported to show elevated plasma concentrations of vitamin B12, thus causing uncertainties regarding safety of vitamin B12. We conducted a systematic literature search and a scoping review of human studies published in PubMed between January 2005 and March 2022, to investigate the association between vitamin B12 (concentrations of B12 biomarkers, intake, and genetic determinants) and cancer. Except for liver cancer, the association between plasma vitamin B12 concentrations and cancer was not consistent across the studies. Vitamin B12 intake from food, or food and supplements, showed even less consistent associations with cancer. There was no evidence for temporality, coherence, or a biologically meaningful dose-response relationship between plasma vitamin B12 concentrations and cancer. Genetically determined high plasma vitamin B12 was likely to be associated with cancer. Available randomized controlled trials have used a high dose of multivitamin supplements and cancer was the unplanned outcome, thus the causality of B12 in cancer cannot be judged based on these trials. Additionally, low plasma vitamin B12 concentrations were common in patients with cancer. Therefore, there is not sufficient evidence to assume that high plasma vitamin B12, high B12 intake, or treatment with pharmacological doses of vitamin B12, is causally related to cancer. Low vitamin B12 status in patients with cancer needs to be diagnosed and treated in order to prevent the hematological and neurological sequela of the deficiency.
Integrating Women and Girls’ Nutrition Services into Health Systems in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review
Authors: Menezes Rachael , Lelijveld Natasha , Wrottesley Stephanie V. , Brennan Eilise , Mates Emily , James Philip T.
Published: October 2022

Women’s nutrition has been highlighted as a global priority to ensure the health and well-being of both them and future generations. This systematic review summarises the available literature on the integration of nutrition services for girls and women of reproductive age (GWRA) into existing public health systems across low- and middle-income countries, as well as any barriers to integration. We searched PubMed and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews for articles published since 2011 according to eligibility criteria. A total of 69 articles were included. Evidence suggested that several services for GWRA are well integrated into public health systems, including antenatal care services, nutrition education and counselling, and micronutrient supplementation programmes. However, there was limited evidence on the integration of family planning, adolescent health, and reproductive health services. Barriers to integration fell into five main themes: lack of training and capacity building, poor multisectoral linkages and coordination, weak advocacy, lack of M&E systems, and inequity. We identified a lack of evidence and services for non-pregnant GWRA and for women postpartum. Addressing barriers to integration and gaps in nutrition services for GWRA would increase service coverage and contribute to improving health outcomes for GWRA and future generations.
Plant-Derived Lactobacillus paracasei IJH-SONE68 Improves the Gut Microbiota Associated with Hepatic Disorders: A Randomized, Double-Blind, and Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Danshiitsoodol Narandalai , Noda Masafumi , Kanno Keishi , Uchida Tomoyuki , Sugiyama Masanori
Published: October 2022

Our previous clinical study has shown that the exopolysaccharide (EPS) produced by a plant-derived lactic acid bacterium, Lactobacillus paracasei IJH-SONE68, improves chronic allergy status in humans. In addition, an inhibition of visceral fat accumulation was observed following the intake of EPS during animal experimentation. In the present study, we have further evaluated the health-promoting effects of a spray-dried powder of pineapple juice that is fermented with the IJH-SONE68 strain. This was conducted in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-group clinical trial at Hiroshima University from May 2019 to July 2021. Eighty healthy volunteers at range of ages 23–70, with a body mass index between 25 and 29.99, were enrolled. After the 12 weeks of the experimental period were complete, although the average visceral fat area in both groups similarly decreased, there was no significant difference in the content of visceral fat area or in the obesity-related physical parameters in both groups. Further, we found that the serum liver function indices (AST and ALT) in the test group decreased within a statistically determined trend (p = 0.054). The fecal microflora analysis revealed, in the test group, a statistically significant increase in the relative abundance changes within Anaerostipes, which has been reported to help suppress hepatic inflammation.
The Prevalence of Dietary Supplements That Claim Estrogen-like Effects in Japanese Women
Authors: Chiba Tsuyoshi , Tousen Yuko , Nishijima Chiharu , Umegaki Keizo
Published: October 2022

Recently, adverse events, such as irregular vaginal bleeding and menstrual disorders, associated with the use of dietary supplements containing Pueraria mirifica, have been reported in Japan. P. mirifica contains phytoestrogens, such as deoxymiroestrol and miroestrol. Therefore, we investigated the use of supplements that claim to have estrogen-like effects (i.e., estrogen-like supplements) in Japanese women aged from 15 to 69 years old in an online survey. The prevalence of estrogen-like supplement use was 5%, accounting for approximately 15% of the sample, including ex-users. The majority of the users were in their 40s and 50s, mainly using these supplements for the treatment of menopausal symptoms. In contrast, the younger generation mainly used them for beauty purposes, such as weight loss, mastogenic effects, and skin care. Many of them visited a clinic or took medicines for menstrual-related troubles. In all age groups, soybeans/isoflavones were the most commonly used, followed by equol and placenta. Participants in their teens and 20s also used P. mirifica. Among them, 16.2% had experienced adverse events, including irregular vaginal bleeding, breast swelling and pain, and heavy menstruation. In conclusion, estrogen-like supplement use is associated with adverse events; thus, it is necessary to pay attention to the use of these supplement. Furthermore, because the purpose of use differs depending on generation, caution according to each generation is necessary.
A Novel High Discriminatory Protocol for the Detection of Borrelia afzelii, Borrelia burgdorferi Sensu Stricto and Borrelia garinii in Ticks
Authors: Chiappa Giulia , Perini Matteo , Cafiso Alessandra , Nodari Riccardo , Wilhelmsson Peter , Lindgren Per-Eric , Omazic Anna , Ullman Karin , Moutailler Sara , Kjellander Petter , Bazzocchi Chiara , Grandi Giulio
Published: October 2022

Bacteria of the Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato complex are the causative agents of Lyme borreliosis (LB). Even if the conventional diagnosis of LB does not rely on the species itself, an accurate species identification within the complex will provide a deepened epidemiological scenario, a better diagnosis leading to a more targeted therapeutic approach, as well as promote the general public’s awareness. A comparative genomics approach based on the 210 Borrelia spp. genomes available in 2019 were used to set up three species-specific PCR protocols, able to detect and provide species typing of Borrelia afzelii, Borrelia burgdorferi sensu stricto (s.s.) and Borrelia garinii, the three most common and important human pathogenic Lyme Borrelia species in Europe. The species-specificity of these protocols was confirmed on previously identified B. afzelii, B. burgdorferi s.s. and B. garinii specimens detected in Ixodes ricinus samples. In addition, the protocols were validated on 120 DNA samples from ticks collected in Sweden, showing 88% accuracy, 100% precision, 72% sensitivity and 100% specificity. The proposed approach represents an innovative tool in epidemiological studies focused on B. burgdorferi s.l. occurrence in ticks, and future studies could suggest its helpfulness in routine diagnostic tests for health care.
RTA1 Is Involved in Resistance to 7-Aminocholesterol and Secretion of Fungal Proteins in Cryptococcus neoformans
Authors: Smith-Peavler Emily S. , Patel Ronakkumar , Onumajuru Adejumoke Mary , Bowring Bethany G. , Miller Joyce L. , Brunel Jean Michel , Djordjevic Julianne T. , Prabu Moses M. , McClelland Erin E.
Published: October 2022

Cryptococcus neoformans (Cn) is a pathogenic yeast that is the leading cause of fungal meningitis in immunocompromised patients. Various Cn virulence factors, such as the enzyme laccase and its product melanin, phospholipase, and capsular polysaccharide have been identified. During a screen of knockout mutants, the gene resistance to aminocholesterol 1 (RTA1) was identified, the function of which is currently unknown in Cn. Rta1 homologs in S. cerevisiae belong to a lipid-translocating exporter family of fungal proteins with transmembrane regions and confer resistance to the antimicrobial agent 7-aminocholesterol when overexpressed. To determine the role of RTA1 in Cn, the knock-out (rta1Δ) and reconstituted (rta1Δ+RTA1) strains were created and phenotypically tested. RTA1 was involved in resistance to 7-aminocholesterol, and also in exocyst complex component 3 (Sec6)-mediated secretion of urease, laccase, and the major capsule component, glucuronoxylomannan (GXM), which coincided with significantly smaller capsules in the rta1Δ and rta1Δ+RTA1 strains compared to the wild-type H99 strain. Furthermore, RTA1 expression was reduced in a secretory 14 mutant (sec14Δ) and increased in an RNAi Sec6 mutant. Transmission electron microscopy demonstrated vesicle accumulation inside the rta1Δ strain, predominantly near the cell membrane. Given that Rta1 is likely to be a transmembrane protein located at the plasma membrane, these data suggest that Rta1 may be involved in both secretion of various fungal virulence factors and resistance to 7-aminocholesterol in Cn.
Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites in Dog Faecal Samples from Public Environments in Qinghai Province, China
Authors: Zhang Xueyong , Jian Yingna , Ma Yijuan , Li Zhi , Fu Yong , Cairang Zhouzai , Wang Xiaohong , Duo Hong , Guo Zhihong
Published: October 2022

Dogs are popular companions in our daily lives for company, hunting, protection or shepherding, but they also serve as reservoirs for zoonotic parasites. We analysed faecal samples from urban and rural environments in Qinghai Province on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau of China to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites. A total of 682 faecal samples were collected from four urban and two rural environments from October 2019 to December 2020. The samples were analysed for common intestinal parasites using a species-specific PCR approach. The total number of samples with parasites was 40 (5.87%): 23 (3.37%) were positive for helminths, and 17 (2.49%) were positive for protozoa. The following parasites were identified, and their respective prevalence rates were calculated: Cryptosporidium canis (1.32%), Giardia duodenalis (1.17%, assemblages D (n = 6) and C (n = 2)), Taenia hydatigena (1.03%), Taenia multiceps (0.59%), Toxocara canis (0.59%), Echinococcus shiquicus (0.29%), Dipylidium caninum (0.29%), Taenia pisiformis (0.15%), Mesocestoides lineatus (0.15%), Trichuris vulpis (0.15%), and Ancylostoma spp. (0.15%). The overall prevalence was significantly higher in dog faecal samples from rural environments than in those from urban environments (16.19% vs. 3.99%). E. shiquicus, T. pisiformis, M. lineatus, T. vulpis, and Ancylostoma spp. were only found in dog faecal samples from rural environments. The results of the present study indicate that intestinal parasite-positive dogs are important sources of environmental contamination, suggesting a significant zoonotic infection risk in humans and other animals. This has implications for the ongoing control of intestinal parasite infections in dogs in Qinghai Province, China.
Conservative Management of Spontaneous Left Main Coronary Artery Dissection (SCAD) Triggered by Emotional Stress in the Late Postpartum Period: Case Report and Pathophysiology
Authors: Zanchi Jaksa , Miric Dino , Giunio Lovel , Bradaric Slujo Anteo , Lozo Mislav , Erceg Duje , Orsulic Duje , Borovac Josip A.
Published: October 2022

A spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) during the postpartum period is a serious medical emergency and the most important non-atherosclerotic cause of coronary artery disease (CAD) in this population. While conservative management is recommended in most SCAD scenarios, cases complicated by hemodynamic instability or cardiogenic shock are particularly challenging and might be amenable only with invasive percutaneous or cardiothoracic surgical management. Herein, we present a case of a 35-year-old otherwise healthy woman that suffered an intense emotional stress event and was subsequently admitted with crushing chest pain to the emergency department. The initial electrocardiogram showed dynamic changes suggesting anterolateral ST-elevation myocardial infarction. She gave birth to a healthy child 3 months before the current presentation. Diagnostic angiography found no occlusive CAD but instead an extensive intramural hematoma originating from the left main artery dissection and extending to the whole left coronary circulation was observed. Hemodynamic instability and hypotension soon followed, and the patient went into cardiogenic shock. The heart team opted for conservative and supportive intensive care management without surgical or percutaneous intervention. This decision ultimately led to the successful extubation of the patient and the achievement of hemodynamic stability. The patient was eventually safely discharged home without any permanent disability.
Clinical Efficacy of Temocillin Standard Dosing in Patients Treated with Outpatient Antimicrobial Therapy
Authors: Van den Broucke Evelyne , Thijs Lore , Desmet Stefanie , Vander Elst Lotte , Gijsen Matthias , Mylemans Marnix , Van de Gaer Otto , Peetermans Willy E. , Quintens Charlotte , Spriet Isabel
Published: October 2022

In 2020, EUCAST introduced breakpoints for temocillin. Based on these guidelines, reporting of temocillin susceptibility of Enterobacterales in the context of complicated urinary tract infections (cUTI) implicates the use of a high dose of temocillin (2 g q8h) constantly. We aimed to evaluate the clinical outcome of patients treated with the standard dose (4 g/day) of temocillin in outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (tOPAT). Demographics, clinical and treatment parameters, and late clinical cure (at day 30 after tOPAT completion) were recorded. Univariate generalised estimating equation analyses, with clinical cure as outcome variable, were performed to evaluate covariate associations. Fifty-seven tOPAT episodes in 50 patients were included with a median antimicrobial treatment duration of 21 (range 10–228) days, and cUTI was the main indication (87.7%). Late clinical cure was achieved in 85.7% of the tOPAT episodes. Non-disseminated infections and minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) values ≤ 8 mg/L were associated with good late clinical outcome. In conclusion, a standard temocillin dose (4 g/day) results in good clinical outcomes in the treatment of cUTIs in tOPAT patients. Therefore, our centre concluded that the use of standard temocillin dosing should be continued instead of the high dose for cUTI in non-critically ill patients infected with Enterobacterales with an MIC ≤ 4 mg/L.
Advanced Drug Delivery Platforms for the Treatment of Oral Pathogens
Authors: Alavi Seyed Ebrahim , Raza Aun , Gholami Max , Giles Michael , Al-Sammak Rayan , Ibrahim Ali , Ebrahimi Shahmabadi Hasan , Sharma Lavanya A.
Published: October 2022

The oral cavity is a complex ecosystem accommodating various microorganisms (e.g., bacteria and fungi). Various factors, such as diet change and poor oral hygiene, can change the composition of oral microbiota, resulting in the dysbiosis of the oral micro-environment and the emergence of pathogenic microorganisms, and consequently, oral infectious diseases. Systemic administration is frequently used for drug delivery in the treatment of diseases and is associated with the problems, such as drug resistance and dysbiosis. To overcome these challenges, oral drug delivery systems (DDS) have received considerable attention. In this literature review, the related articles are identified, and their findings, in terms of current therapeutic challenges and the applications of DDSs, especially nanoscopic DDSs, for the treatment of oral infectious diseases are highlighted. DDSs are also discussed in terms of structures and therapeutic agents (e.g., antibiotics, antifungals, antiviral, and ions) that they deliver. In addition, strategies (e.g., theranostics, hydrogel, microparticle, strips/fibers, and pH-sensitive nanoparticles), which can improve the treatment outcome of these diseases, are highlighted.
Drug Delivery Systems as a Strategy to Improve the Efficacy of FDA-Approved Alzheimer’s Drugs
Authors: Nunes Débora , Loureiro Joana A. , Pereira Maria Carmo
Published: October 2022

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, with a high impact worldwide, accounting for more than 46 million cases. The continuous increase of AD demands the fast development of preventive and curative therapeutic strategies that are truly effective. The drugs approved for AD treatment are classified into acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists. The therapeutic effectiveness of those drugs is hindered by their restricted access to the brain due to the blood–brain barrier, low bioavailability, and poor pharmacokinetic properties. In addition, the drugs are reported to have undesirable side effects. Several drug delivery systems (DDSs) have been widely exploited to address these issues. DDSs serve as drug carriers, combining the ability to deliver drugs locally and in a targeted manner with the ability to release them in a controlled and sustained manner. As a result, the pharmacological therapeutic effectiveness is raised, while the unwanted side effects induced by the unspecific distribution decrease. This article reviews the recently developed DDSs to increase the efficacy of Food and Drug Administration-approved AD drugs.
Experience, Knowledge, and Perceptions of Pharmacogenomics among Pharmacists and Nurse Practitioners in Alberta Hospitals
Authors: Hayashi Meagan , Bousman Chad A.
Published: October 2022

Background: Despite evidence of clinical utility and the availability of prescription guidelines, pharmacogenomics (PGx) is not broadly used in institutional settings in Canada. To inform future implementation, this study aimed to identify healthcare provider knowledge, experience, and perceptions of PGx in Alberta, Canada. Methods: An online 44-item survey was distributed to pharmacists, nurse practitioners, and physicians employed or contracted with Alberta Health Services from January to May 2022. Questions included: demographics, professional history, PGx education and exposure, knowledge, and ability to use PGx, and attitudes towards, feasibility, clinical utility, education, and implementation. Results: Ninety-one pharmacists, 37 nurse practitioners, and 6 physicians completed the survey. Fifty-nine percent had 10 or more years of experience, and 71% practiced in urban settings. Only one-third had training in PGx, and one-quarter had used PGx. Most respondents (63%) had no knowledge of PGx resources, including the Pharmacogenomics Knowledge Base (75%), or the Clinical Pharmacogenetics Implementation Consortium guidelines (85%). While participants agreed that they understood genetic (75%) and PGx (63%) concepts, most disagreed with their ability regarding practical applications of PGx such as translating genotype to phenotype (74%) or counselling patients on results (66%). Participants agreed on the clinical utility of PGx in preventing adverse drug reactions (80%) and enhancing medication efficacy (77%), and identified oncology (62%), cardiovascular/stroke (60%), and psychiatry (56%) as therapeutic areas to consider implementation. At present, healthcare provider knowledge (87%), cost (81%), and limited guidelines/evidence (70%) are seen as the greatest barriers to implementation. Conclusion: Alberta healthcare providers have limited training, experience, or knowledge in PGx. However, most appear to have a positive outlook regarding clinical utility, especially within oncology, cardiology, and psychiatry. More effort is required to socialize the availability and quality of evidence and guidelines for the interpretation of PGx test results, address other knowledge gaps, and improve financial limitations.
Husserl and Heidegger on Modernity and the Perils of Sign Use
Authors: Blomberg Johan
Published: October 2022

In his late writings Husserl emphasizes how the semiotic properties of writing, and of mathematical formulae and diagrams, are crucial for the historical, cross-generational survivability of meaning and specifically indispensable to the operation of scientific knowledge. However, the demand for objectivity, exactitude, and repeatability insidiously interferes with the meaning that such signs seek to express. This leads to a duality of objectivity encapsulated in the notion “the sedimentation of meaning”. On this view, the transmission of objectivity established in an original sense-constituting act cannot survive unless being deposited in some external form, which at the same time risks the original sense being irrevocably lost in a web of signification that amounts to nothing more than empty and meaningless symbol manipulation. I discuss Husserl’s analysis and propose that it is limited by its one-sided focus on the negative impact of modernity. I compare Husserl’s account with Heidegger’s even more radical critique of modern society as one where a so-called “technological” mode of “revealing” reigns supreme at the expense of eradicating other, and more authentic ways to apprehend the world. I critically reconstruct the respective position of both thinkers and show how they point not only to a criticism of the instrumentalization and formalization of knowledge in modern society, but that they are just as importantly highlighting essential semiotic properties of signs.
Novel Nanoscale Refractive Index Sensor Based on Fano Resonance
Authors: Yan Shubin , Wang Qiang , Shen Lifang , Liu Feng , Su Yiru , Zhang Yi , Cui Yang , Zhou Guoquan , Liu Jilai , Ren Yifeng
Published: October 2022

This paper proposes a novel nano-sized refractive index sensor based on the Fano resonance phenomenon. The main structure consists of two short tubes of the metal-insulation-metal waveguide and an internal Z-ring resonator. The authors used a finite element approach to analyze the nanoscale sensing performance of the system. Simulation results show that asymmetries in the geometry will lead to Fano resonance splitting. This paper explicitly explores whether the structure’s top and bottom asymmetry is a significant factor in the Fano resonance of the internal Z-ring resonator structure. After Fano resonance splitting, the obtained transmission curve was sharper, the bandwidth was significantly reduced, and the system’s figure of merit was significantly improved. This paper further extends the internal Z-ring resonator structure to the sensor field. The resulting refractive index sensor has a sensitivity of 2234 nm/RIU and a figure of merit of 49.65.
Establishment of Personalized Finite Element Model of Crystalline Lens Based on Sweep-Source Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Liu Guangheng , Li Ang , Liu Jian , Zhao Yuqian , Zhu Keliang , Li Zhen , Lin Yang , Yan Shixin , Lv Hongyu , Wang Shuanglian , Yu Yao , Wang Yi , Luan Jingmin , Ma Zhenhe
Published: October 2022

The virtual lens model has important value in ophthalmic research, clinical diagnosis, and treatment. However, the establishment of personalized lens models and the verification of accommodation accuracy have not been paid much attention. We proposed a personalized lens model establishment and the accommodation accuracy evaluation method based on sweep-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT). Firstly, SS-OCT is used to obtain a single lens image in the maximum accommodation state. After refraction correction, boundary detection, and curve fitting, the central curvature radius, thickness, and lens nucleus contour of the anterior and posterior surfaces of the lens were obtained. Secondly, a personalized finite element model improved from Burd’s model was established using these individual parameters, and the adaptation process of the lens model was simulated by pulling the suspensory ligament. Finally, the shape and refractive power changes of the real human lens under different accommodation stimuli were collected and compared with the accommodation process of the finite element model. The results show that the accommodation process of the finite element model is highly consistent with that of the real lens. From the un-accommodation state to the maximum-accommodation state, the difference rate of all geometric and refractive parameters between the two is less than 5%. Thus, the personalized lens finite element model obtained by the calibration and correction of the existing model can accurately simulate the regulation process of a specific human lens. This work helps to provide a valuable theoretical basis and research ideas for the study of clinical diagnosis and treatment of related diseases.
Support Vector Machine-Based Soft Decision for Consecutive-Symbol-Expanded 4-Dimensional Constellation in Underwater Visible Light Communication System
Authors: Niu Wenqing , Cai Jifan , Luo Zhiteng , Shi Jianyang , Chi Nan
Published: October 2022

Nowadays, underwater visible light communication (UVLC) has become one of the key technologies for high-speed underwater wireless communication. Because of the limited modulation bandwidth and nonlinearity of the optoelectronic devices in the UVLC system, the combination of inter-symbol interference and nonlinear impairment will inevitably degrade the transmission performance. Advanced digital signal processing methods including equalization and decoding are required. In the past few years, Support vector machine (SVM) has been widely investigated in quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) for soft decision in the decoding process. However, previous works only consider 2-dimensional (2-D) separate symbol, ignoring the correlation between consecutive symbols. In this paper, we propose to use SVM for soft decision with a 4-dimensional (4-D) constellation by concatenating two consecutive symbols. To deal with the increasing computational complexity in the SVM training phase, bit-based binary SVM multi-class strategy and an edge-detection-based data pre-processing method are employed. In this paper, we demonstrate a carrierless amplitude and phase (CAP) 16-QAM UVLC system. Experimental results indicate that the performance is greatly improved when using consecutive-symbol-expanded 4-D constellation with SVM for soft decision.
A Transcriptomic Analysis of Tobacco Leaf with the Functional Loss of the Plastid rpoB Operon Caused by TALEN-Mediated Double-Strand Breakage
Authors: Liu Yu-Chang , Huang Chih-Hao , Chang Ching-Chun
Published: October 2022

At least two sets of RNA polymerase (RNAP), nucleus (NEP)- and plastid (PEP)-encoded polymerases, recognizing distinct promoters exist in the plastids of land plants. Most plastid genes are regulated by multiple promoters with different strengths in their response to developmental stages and environmental cues. Recently, we applied chloroplast-targeted transcription activator-like effector nuclease (cpTALEN) technology to site-specifically cause double-strand DNA breaks in the rpoB gene of tobacco, which encodes the β-subunit of PEP. The repair of damaged chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) through microhomology-mediated recombination caused the functional loss of the rpoB operon and resulted in the heterotrophic growth of an albino plant. We conducted a genome-wide analysis of the steady state of gene expression in the leaf tissue of PEP-deficient tobacco by RNA-Seq and compared it with that of wild-type plants. The expression of NEP genes was up-regulated in PEP-deficient tobacco; in particular, the level of RpoT3 transcripts encoding the specifically plastid-targeted NEP was significantly increased. Alongside most housekeeping genes, NEP also plays an important role in the regulation of gene expression involved in photosynthesis. In contrast, alongside the photosynthesis-related genes, PEP also plays an important role in the regulation of gene expression involved in some housekeeping functions. Furthermore, the mitochondrial DNA copy number and the level of most mitochondrial protein-coding transcripts were slightly increased in PEP-deficient tobacco. The disruption of PEP function not only affected plastid gene expression, but also nuclear and mitochondrial gene expression. This study demonstrated the intercompartmental retrograde signaling in the regulation of gene expression.
A Novel Diamine Containing Ester and Diphenylethane Groups for Colorless Polyimide with a Low Dielectric Constant and Low Water Absorption
Authors: Lee Jun Seok , Yan Yong-Zhu , Park Sung Soo , Ahn Suk-kyun , Ha Chang-Sik
Published: October 2022

In this study, a novel diamine monomer containing ester and phenyl moieties, 1,2-diphenylethane-1,2-diyl bis(4-aminobenzoate) (1,2-DPEDBA), was synthesized through a three-step reaction. Using this diamine, a novel polyimide (PI) film was prepared with 4,4′-(hexafluoroisopropylidene)diphthalic anhydride (6-FDA) as a counter dianhydride through a typical two-step chemical imidization. For comparison, poly(pyromellitic dianhydride-co-4,4′-oxydianiline) (PMDA-ODA PI) was also synthesized via thermal imidization. The resulting 6-FDA-DPEDBA PI film was not only soluble in common polar solvents with high boiling points, such as N,N-dimethylacetamide (DMAc) and N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF), but also soluble in common low-boiling-point polar solvents, such as chloroform (CHCl3) and dichloromethane (CH2Cl2), at room temperature. The resulting novel PI showed a 5% weight loss temperature (T5d) at 360 °C under a nitrogen atmosphere. The resulting PI film was colorless and transparent with a transmittance of 87.1% in the visible light region ranging from 400 to 760 nm. The water absorption of the novel PI film was of 1.78%. The PI film also possessed a good moisture barrier and hydrophobicity. Furthermore, the resulting PI film displayed a low dielectric constant of 2.17 at 106 Hz at room temperature. In conclusion, the novel PI film exhibited much better optical transparency, lower moisture absorption, and a lower dielectric constant as well as better solubility than the PMDA-ODA PI film, which is insoluble in any solvent, although its thermal stability is not better than that of PMDA-ODA PI.
Synthesis of Polyhydroxyurethanes—Experimental Verification of the Box–Behnken Optimization Model
Authors: Zalewski Michał J. , Mamiński Mariusz Ł. , Parzuchowski Paweł G.
Published: October 2022

Polyurethanes are one of the most important groups of polymers for numerous sectors of industry. Their production involves using dangerous components (diisocyanates), thus, in the search for safer synthetic routes, alternative methods yielding non-isocyanate polyurethanes (NIPU) have been investigated. In this study, the synthesis of polyhydroxyurethane from cyclic carbonates was performed. A three-factor, three-level Box–Behnken experimental design was constructed and the reaction time, temperature and reagents’ molar ratio were the independent variables. The built model revealed that the viscosity was influenced by all three independent factors, while the mechanical properties and glass transition temperature of the PHUs were affected by the reagents’ ratios. An experimental verification of the model proved its accuracy as the mechanical strength and glass transition temperature deviated from the modeled values, by 15% and 7%, respectively.
Effect of Microcrystalline Cellulose on the Properties of PBAT/Thermoplastic Starch Biodegradable Film with Chain Extender
Authors: Lang Haitao , Chen Xianlei , Tian Jiarong , Chen Jing , Zhou Mengna , Lu Fangfang , Qian Shaoping
Published: October 2022

Poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) is a fully biodegradable polymer with toughness and ductility. It is usually compounded with thermoplastic starch (TPS) to balance the cost for manufacturing biodegradable films such as disposable plastic bags. However, blending with TPS reduces valuable tensile strength, which limits the bearing capacity of PBAT film. In this study, microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) was employed as a reinforcement to strengthen the PBAT/TPS biodegradable film. The effect of MCC content on the mechanical, thermal, and morphological properties of the composite film were investigated. The optimal tensile strength and elongation at break reached 5.08 MPa and 230% when 4% MCC was added. The thermal stability and thermal resistance were improved with the addition of MCC; for example, Tmax increased by 1 °C and Tonset increased by 2–8 °C. Moreover, good compatibility among PBAT, TPS, and MCC can be achieved when the MCC content was below 6%. Consequently, the optimal MCC content was found to be 4%. These results could provide experimental data and method support for preparing high-performance PBAT hybrid films.