bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extracellular Vesicles and Their Zeta Potential as Future Markers Associated with Nutrition and Molecular Biomarkers in Breast Cancer
Authors: Mendivil-Alvarado Herminia , Limon-Miro Ana Teresa , Carvajal-Millan Elizabeth , Lizardi-Mendoza Jaime , Mercado-Lara Araceli , Coronado-Alvarado Carlos D. , Rascón-Durán María L. , Anduro-Corona Iván , Talamás-Lara Daniel , Rascón-Careaga Antonio , Astiazarán-García Humberto
Published: April 2023

A nutritional intervention promotes the loss of body and visceral fat while maintaining muscle mass in breast cancer patients. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) and their characteristics can be potential biomarkers of disease. Here, we explore the changes in the Zeta potential of EVs; the content of miRNA-30, miRNA-145, and miRNA-155; and their association with body composition and biomarkers of metabolic risk in breast cancer patients, before and 6 months after a nutritional intervention. Clinicopathological data (HER2neu, estrogen receptor, and Ki67), anthropometric and body composition data, and plasma samples were available from a previous study. Plasma EVs were isolated and characterized in 16 patients. The expression of miRNA-30, miRNA-145, and miRNA-155 was analyzed. The Zeta potential was associated with HER2neu (β = 2.1; p = 0.00), Ki67 (β = −1.39; p = 0.007), estrogen positive (β = 1.57; p = 0.01), weight (β = −0.09; p = 0.00), and visceral fat (β = 0.004; p = 0.00). miRNA-30 was associated with LDL (β = −0.012; p = 0.01) and HDL (β = −0.02; p = 0.05). miRNA-155 was associated with visceral fat (β = −0.0007; p = 0.05) and Ki67 (β = −0.47; p = 0.04). Our results reveal significant associations between the expression of miRNA-30 and miRNA-155 and the Zeta potential of the EVs with biomarkers of metabolic risk and disease prognosis in women with breast cancer; particularly, the Zeta potential of EVs can be a new biomarker sensitive to changes in the nutritional status and breast cancer progression.
Nisin S, a Novel Nisin Variant Produced by Ligilactobacillus salivarius P1CEA3
Authors: Sevillano Ester , Peña Nuria , Lafuente Irene , Cintas Luis M. , Muñoz-Atienza Estefanía , Hernández Pablo E. , Borrero Juan
Published: April 2023

Recently, the food industry and the animal farming field have been working on different strategies to reduce the use of antibiotics in animal production. The use of probiotic producers of antimicrobial peptides (bacteriocins) is considered to be a potential solution to control bacterial infections and to reduce the use of antibiotics in animal production. In this study, Ligilactobacillus salivarius P1CEA3, isolated from the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of pigs, was selected for its antagonistic activity against Gram-positive pathogens of relevance in swine production. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) of L. salivarius P1ACE3 revealed the existence of two gene clusters involved in bacteriocin production, one with genes encoding the class II bacteriocins salivaricin B (SalB) and Abp118, and a second cluster encoding a putative nisin variant. Colony MALDI-TOF MS determinations and a targeted proteomics combined with massive peptide analysis (LC-MS/MS) of the antimicrobial peptides encoded by L. salivarius P1CEA3 confirmed the production of a 3347 Da novel nisin variant, termed nisin S, but not the production of the bacteriocins SalB and Abp118, in the supernatants of the producer strain. This is the first report of a nisin variant encoded and produced by L. salivarius, a bacterial species specially recognized for its safety and probiotic potential.
Preparation of Ciprofloxacin-Based Carbon Dots with High Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Miao Huimin , Wang Panyong , Cong Yingge , Dong Wenfei , Li Li
Published: April 2023

Nowadays, bacterial infections are attracting great attention for the research and development of new antimicrobial agents. As one of the quinolones, ciprofloxacin (CI) has a broad-spectrum, strong antibacterial effect. However, the clinical use of ciprofloxacin is limited by drug resistance. Ciprofloxacin carbon dots (CCDs) with enhanced antibacterial activity and copper-doped ciprofloxacin carbon dots (Cu-CCDs) were synthesized by a simple hydrothermal method. The results of structural analysis and antibacterial experiments show that CCDs and Cu-CCDs have effective antibacterial properties by retaining the active groups of ciprofloxacin (-COOH, C-N, and C-F), and Cu-CCDs doped with copper have a better antibacterial effect. In addition, experiments have shown that Cu-CCDs show excellent antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus and have good biocompatibility, which indicates that they have great prospects in clinical applications. Therefore, novel modified copper CCDs with broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, which can be used as antibacterial nanomaterials for potential applications in the field of antibacterial drugs, were synthesized in this study.
Homotypic Entosis as a Potential Novel Diagnostic Marker in Breast Cancer
Authors: Dziuba Ireneusz , Gawel Agata M. , Tyrna Paweł , Machtyl Jędrzej , Olszanecka Monika , Pawlik Andrzej , Wójcik Cezary , Bialy Lukasz P. , Mlynarczuk-Bialy Izabela
Published: April 2023

Homotypic entotic figures, which are a form of “cell-in-cell” structures, are considered a potential novel independent prognostic marker in various cancers. Nevertheless, the knowledge concerning the biological role of this phenomenon is still unclear. Since breast cancer cells are remarkably entosis-competent, we aimed to investigate and compare the frequency of entoses in a primary breast tumor and in its lymph node metastasis. Moreover, as there are limited data on defined molecular markers of entosis, we investigated entosis in correlation with classical breast cancer biomarkers used in routine pathomorphological diagnostics (HER2, ER, PR, and Ki67). In the study, a cohort of entosis-positive breast cancer samples paired into primary lesions and lymph node metastases was used. The inclusion criteria were a diagnosis of NOS cancer, lymph node metastases, the presence of entotic figures in the primary lesion, and/or lymph node metastases. In a selected, double-negative, HER2-positive NOS breast cancer case, entoses were characterized by a correlation between an epithelial–mesenchymal transition and proliferation markers. We observed that in the investigated cohort entotic figures were positively correlated with Ki67 and HER2, but not with ER or PR markers. Moreover, for the first time, we identified Ki67-positive mitotic inner entotic cells in clinical carcinoma samples. Our study performed on primary and secondary breast cancer specimens indicated that entotic figures, when examined by routine HE histological staining, present potential diagnostic value, since they correlate with two classical prognostic factors of breast cancer.
Kisspeptin Suppresses Inflammasome-NLRP3 Activation and Pyroptosis Caused by Hypothyroidism at the Maternal-Fetal Interface of Rats
Authors: Santos Bianca Reis , Cordeiro Jeane Martinha dos Anjos , Santos Luciano Cardoso , Santana Larissa da Silva , Nascimento Acácia Eduarda de Jesus , Silva Juneo Freitas
Published: April 2023

Gestational diseases such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes cause inflammasome activation and pyroptosis in the placenta and changes in placental kisspeptin levels. Although maternal hypothyroidism also reduces the kisspeptin/Kiss1R system at the maternal-fetal interface, there is still no information on whether this dysfunction causes inflammasome activation and pyroptosis in the placenta or influences the modulatory role of kisspeptin in these processes. This study aimed to evaluate whether hypothyroidism activates the inflammasome-NLRP3 pathway and pyroptosis at the maternal-fetal interface of rats and whether kisspeptin can modulate these processes. Hypothyroidism was induced in Wistar rats by the administration of propylthiouracil. Kisspeptin-10 (Kp10) treatment began on the 8th day of gestation (DG). Gene and/or protein expressions of NLRP3, Caspase 1, IL-1β, IL-18, and Gasdermin D (Gsmd) were evaluated in the deciduae and placentae at the 18th DG. Hypothyroidism increased the decidual and placental stainings of NLRP3, IL-1β, and Gasdermin D, and increased the gene expressions of Nlrp3, Ilβ, and Il18 in the placenta and of Gsmd in the decidua. Treatment with Kp10 suppressed the increase in NLRP3/Nlrp3, IL-1β, Il18, and Gasdermin D/Gsmd caused by hypothyroidism at the maternal-fetal interface. However, Kp10 increased the placental gene expressions of Casp1 and Il1β. The findings demonstrated that maternal hypothyroidism activated the inflammasome-NLRP3 pathway and pyroptosis at the maternal-fetal interface of rats and that treatment with Kp10 was able to block these processes, thus suggesting that kisspeptin analogues may be promising in the treatment of gestational diseases that involve inflammasome activation and pyroptosis.
Mixed-Linkage Glucan Is the Main Carbohydrate Source and Starch Is an Alternative Source during Brachypodium Grain Germination
Authors: Francin-Allami Mathilde , Bouder Axelle , Geairon Audrey , Alvarado Camille , Le-Bot Lucie , Daniel Sylviane , Shao Mingqin , Laudencia-Chingcuanco Debbie , Vogel John P. , Guillon Fabienne , Bonnin Estelle , Saulnier Luc , Sibout Richard
Published: April 2023

Seeds of the model grass Brachypodium distachyon are unusual because they contain very little starch and high levels of mixed-linkage glucan (MLG) accumulated in thick cell walls. It was suggested that MLG might supplement starch as a storage carbohydrate and may be mobilised during germination. In this work, we observed massive degradation of MLG during germination in both endosperm and nucellar epidermis. The enzymes responsible for the MLG degradation were identified in germinated grains and characterized using heterologous expression. By using mutants targeting MLG biosynthesis genes, we showed that the expression level of genes coding for MLG and starch-degrading enzymes was modified in the germinated grains of knocked-out cslf6 mutants depleted in MLG but with higher starch content. Our results suggest a substrate-dependent regulation of the storage sugars during germination. These overall results demonstrated the function of MLG as the main carbohydrate source during germination of Brachypodium grain. More astonishingly, cslf6 Brachypodium mutants are able to adapt their metabolism to the lack of MLG by modifying the energy source for germination and the expression of genes dedicated for its use.
Anti-Cancer Effects of Oxygen-Atom-Modified Derivatives of Wasabi Components on Human Leukemia Cells
Authors: Lin Jui-Feng , Chi Chih-Wen , Huang Yu-Chuen , Tsai Tung-Hu , Chen Yu-Jen
Published: April 2023

1-Isothiocyanato-6-(methylsulfinyl)-hexanate (6-MITC) is a natural compound found in Wasabia japonica. The synthetic derivatives 1-Isothiocyanato-6-(methylsulfenyl)-hexane (I7447) and 1-Isothiocyanato-6-(methylsulfonyl)-hexane (I7557) were obtained from 6-MITC by deleting and adding an oxygen atom to the sulfone group, respectively. We previously demonstrated that extensive mitotic arrest, spindle multipolarity, and cytoplasmic vacuole accumulation were induced by 6-MITC and inhibited the viability of human chronic myelogenous leukemia K562 cells. In this study, we examined the anti-cancer effects of 6-MITC derivatives on human chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) cells. Autophagy was identified as the formation of autophagosomes with double-layered membranes using transmission electron microscopy. Cell cycle and differentiation were analyzed using flow cytometry. Apoptosis was detected by annexin V staining. After treatment with I7447 and I7557, the G2/M phase of cell cycle arrest was revealed. Cell death can be induced by a distinct mechanism (the simultaneous occurrence of autophagy and aberrant mitosis). The expression levels of acridine orange were significantly affected by lysosomal inhibitors. The natural wasabi component, 6-MITC, and its synthetic derivatives have similar effects on human chronic myelogenous leukemia cells and may be developed as novel therapeutic agents against leukemia.
Transcription Control Mechanisms for Plant Stress Responses
Authors: Cheong Jong-Joo
Published: April 2023

Plants have their roots fixed in the soil, so they are unable to escape from adverse environments [...]
The Different Pathways of Epicardial Adipose Tissue across the Heart Failure Phenotypes: From Pathophysiology to Therapeutic Target
Authors: Rossi Valentina A. , Gruebler Martin , Monzo Luca , Galluzzo Alessandro , Beltrami Matteo
Published: April 2023

Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) is an endocrine and paracrine organ constituted by a layer of adipose tissue directly located between the myocardium and visceral pericardium. Under physiological conditions, EAT exerts protective effects of brown-like fat characteristics, metabolizing excess fatty acids, and secreting anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic cytokines. In certain pathological conditions, EAT acquires a proatherogenic transcriptional profile resulting in increased synthesis of biologically active adipocytokines with proinflammatory properties, promoting oxidative stress, and finally causing endothelial damage. The role of EAT in heart failure (HF) has been mainly limited to HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and related to the HFpEF obese phenotype. In HFpEF, EAT seems to acquire a proinflammatory profile and higher EAT values have been related to worse outcomes. Less data are available about the role of EAT in HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Conversely, in HFrEF, EAT seems to play a nutritive role and lower values may correspond to the expression of a catabolic, adverse phenotype. As of now, there is evidence that the beneficial systemic cardiovascular effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 receptors-inhibitors (SGLT2-i) might be partially mediated by inducing favorable modifications on EAT. As such, EAT may represent a promising target organ for the development of new drugs to improve cardiovascular prognosis. Thus, an approach based on detailed phenotyping of cardiac structural alterations and distinctive biomolecular pathways may change the current scenario, leading towards a precision medicine model with specific therapeutic targets considering different individual profiles. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge about the biomolecular pathway of EAT in HF across the whole spectrum of ejection fraction, and to describe the potential of EAT as a therapeutic target in HF.
C1q/TNF-Related Proteins 1, 6 and 8 Are Involved in Corneal Epithelial Wound Closure by Targeting Relaxin Receptor RXFP1 In Vitro
Authors: Nicolaus Hagen Fabian , Klonisch Thomas , Paulsen Friedrich , Garreis Fabian
Published: April 2023

Inadequate wound healing of ocular surface injuries can lead to permanent visual impairment. The relaxin ligand-receptor system has been demonstrated to promote corneal wound healing through increased cell migration and modulation of extracellular matrix formation. Recently, C1q/tumor necrosis factor-related protein (CTRP) 8 was identified as a novel interaction partner of relaxin receptor RXFP1. Additional data also suggest a role for CTRP1 and CTRP6 in RXFP1-mediated cAMP signaling. However, the role of CTRP1, CTRP6 and CTRP8 at the ocular surface remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the effects of CTRP1, CTRP6, and CTRP8 on epithelial ocular surface wound closure and their dependence on the RXFP1 receptor pathway. CTRP1, CTRP6, and CTRP8 expression was analyzed by RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry in human tissues and cell lines derived from the ocular surface and lacrimal apparatus. In vitro ocular surface wound modeling was performed using scratch assays. We analyzed the effects of recombinant CTRP1, CTRP6, and CTRP8 on cell proliferation and migration in human corneal and conjunctival epithelial cell lines. Dependence on RXFP1 signaling was established by inhibiting ligand binding to RXFP1 using a specific anti-RXFP1 antibody. We detected the expression of CTRP1, CTRP6, and CTRP8 in human tissue samples of the cornea, conjunctiva, meibomian gland, efferent tear ducts, and lacrimal gland, as well as in human corneal, conjunctival, and meibomian gland epithelial cell lines. Scratch assays revealed a dose-dependent increase in the closure rate of surface defects in human corneal epithelial cells after treatment with CTRP1, CTRP6, and CTRP8, but not in conjunctival epithelial cells. Inhibition of RXFP1 fully attenuated the effect of CTRP8 on the closure rate of surface defects in human corneal epithelial cells, whereas the CTRP1 and CTRP6 effects were not completely suppressed. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate a novel role for CTRP1, CTRP6, and CTRP8 in corneal epithelial wound closure and suggest an involvement of the relaxin receptor RXFP1 signaling pathway. This could be a first step toward new approaches for pharmacological and therapeutic intervention.
The Effect of Metformin and Carbohydrate-Controlled Diet on DNA Methylation and Gene Expression in the Endometrium of Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: García-Gómez Elizabeth , Gómez-Viais Yadira Inés , Cruz-Aranda Martin Mizael , Martínez-Razo Luis Daniel , Reyes-Mayoral Christian , Ibarra-González Lizeth , Montoya-Estrada Araceli , Osorio-Caballero Mauricio , Perichart-Perera Otilia , Camacho-Arroyo Ignacio , Cerbón Marco , Reyes-Muñoz Enrique , Vázquez-Martínez Edgar Ricardo
Published: April 2023

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disease associated with infertility and metabolic disorders in reproductive-aged women. In this study, we evaluated the expression of eight genes related to endometrial function and their DNA methylation levels in the endometrium of PCOS patients and women without the disease (control group). In addition, eight of the PCOS patients underwent intervention with metformin (1500 mg/day) and a carbohydrate-controlled diet (type and quantity) for three months. Clinical and metabolic parameters were determined, and RT-qPCR and MeDIP-qPCR were used to evaluate gene expression and DNA methylation levels, respectively. Decreased expression levels of HOXA10, GAB1, and SLC2A4 genes and increased DNA methylation levels of the HOXA10 promoter were found in the endometrium of PCOS patients compared to controls. After metformin and nutritional intervention, some metabolic and clinical variables improved in PCOS patients. This intervention was associated with increased expression of HOXA10, ESR1, GAB1, and SLC2A4 genes and reduced DNA methylation levels of the HOXA10 promoter in the endometrium of PCOS women. Our preliminary findings suggest that metformin and a carbohydrate-controlled diet improve endometrial function in PCOS patients, partly by modulating DNA methylation of the HOXA10 gene promoter and the expression of genes implicated in endometrial receptivity and insulin signaling.
Redox Proteomic Profile of Tirapazamine-Resistant Murine Hepatoma Cells
Authors: Nemeikaitė-Čėnienė Aušra , Haberkant Per , Kučiauskas Dalius , Stein Frank , Čėnas Narimantas
Published: April 2023

3-Amino-1,2,4-benzotriazine-1,4-dioxide (tirapazamine, TPZ) and other heteroaromatic N-oxides (ArN→O) exhibit tumoricidal, antibacterial, and antiprotozoal activities. Their action is attributed to the enzymatic single-electron reduction to free radicals that initiate the prooxidant processes. In order to clarify the mechanisms of aerobic mammalian cytotoxicity of ArN→O, we derived a TPZ-resistant subline of murine hepatoma MH22a cells (resistance index, 5.64). The quantitative proteomic of wild-type and TPZ-resistant cells revealed 5818 proteins, of which 237 were up- and 184 down-regulated. The expression of the antioxidant enzymes aldehyde- and alcohol dehydrogenases, carbonyl reductases, catalase, and glutathione reductase was increased 1.6–5.2 times, whereas the changes in the expression of glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, thioredoxin reductase, and peroxiredoxins were less pronounced. The expression of xenobiotics conjugating glutathione-S-transferases was increased by 1.6–2.6 times. On the other hand, the expression of NADPH:cytochrome P450 reductase was responsible for the single-electron reduction in TPZ and for the 2.1-fold decrease. These data support the fact that the main mechanism of action of TPZ under aerobic conditions is oxidative stress. The unchanged expression of intranuclear antioxidant proteins peroxiredoxin, glutaredoxin, and glutathione peroxidase, and a modest increase in the expression of DNA damage repair proteins, tend to support non-site-specific but not intranuclear oxidative stress as a main factor of TPZ aerobic cytotoxicity.
Malaria and HIV Co-Infection among Pregnant Women in Africa: Prevalence, Effect on Immunity and Clinical Management: Review
Authors: Obase Bekindaka Ngemani , Bigoga Jude Daiga , Nsagha Dickson Shey
Published: April 2023

Malaria and HIV are geographically in the tropics and subtropics of the world, including sub-Saharan Africa. Understanding the overlapping effect of both infections, especially among pregnant women, is crucial in managing pregnant women during antenatal care visits, and postpartum babies. It was realized that the prevalence of malaria among HIV-positive pregnant women ranges between 31–61%, while for non-HIV infected pregnant women the prevalence still stands between 10 and 36%. Co-infection is between 0.52 and 56.3%. Even though the rate of mother-to-child transmission of HIV has dropped, MTCT of malaria still remains a problem. MTCT is associated with low birth-weight, anemia, and even immune dysregulation. The adoption of the Option B+ plan has proven to be effective in the fight against the MTCT of HIV. However, malaria in pregnancy still remains a problem. Concurrent administration of both antimalarial drugs and Cotrimozaxole to pregnant women is not recommended, because of the toxic effect of the interaction of both drugs. Nevertheless, studies looking at the effect of the current ART regimens on mothers and their children need to be carried out. Studies looking at exposed children over a longer period of time, to determine their susceptibility to malaria infection and also to monitor their immune response to malaria over time, are needed.
Probability of Risk Factors Affecting Small-Scale LNG Supply Chain Activities in the Indonesian Archipelago
Authors: Machfudiyanto Rossy Armyn , Humang Windra Priatna , Wahjuningsih Nurul , Kamil Insannul , Putra Yanuar Yudha Adi
Published: April 2023

In Indonesia, the CoS for power supply increased from Rp. 1025 to Rp. 1334/KWh from 2016 to 2021, respectively; this indicates an inefficient process in electricity provision. One contributing factor to this inefficiency is the existence of many high speed diesel (HSD)-fueled power plants. These are distributed across the Indonesian archipelago with a supply chain that only uses sea transportation. The absence of an economical small-scale LNG (SS-LNG) supply chain also demonstrates the inadequate infrastructure for distributing LNG to refineries. This study aims to analyze the probability of risks that occur in SS-LNG supply chains in the Indonesian archipelago. The analytical methods used are descriptive statistical analysis and Delphi analysis through in-depth interviews and Focus Group Discussions (FGD) with experts. Results showed that the SS-LNG supply chain process in Indonesia includes LNG loading, unloading, shipping, picking, storage, regasification, and distribution. There are 30 risk indicators that may occur, with the highest risks including ship accidents, equipment damage, lack of transport ships, bad weather, earthquakes, tsunami, poor safety cultures, and low levels of safety leadership. These risk indicators can be used in implementing SS-LNG.
Design and Manufacture of a Test Device for Radiosynthesizer Vacuum Pumps
Authors: Amador Diaz Victor , Snyder Scott E. , Vavere Amy L.
Published: April 2023

Vacuum pump wear is the most prevalent failure mode of the IBA Synthera® automated radiochemistry system. Rebuilding or replacing the pump causes equipment downtime and increases the radiation exposure of the service personnel. We built a dedicated test device to assess new or rebuilt pumps prior to installation, thus reducing downtime and radiation exposure during repairs. The Testbed incorporates a microprocessor that actuates the pump, valves, and pressure sensor; communicates with the user through lights, buttons, and an alphanumeric screen; and outputs test results to a laptop. The Testbed increases productivity and safety in the radiochemistry laboratory.
Pet Ownership and Physical Activity in Older Adults: Cross-Sectional Analyses from the NICOLA Study
Authors: Neill Ruth D. , Cunningham Conor , O’Doherty Maeve , Smith Lee , Tully Mark A.
Published: April 2023

Aging research indicates that there is increased sedentary behaviour and insufficient physical activity levels across the older adult population. There is a growing body of evidence that suggests that pet ownership can have beneficial physical and mental health effects. Data were drawn from the Northern Ireland Cohort for the Longitudinal Study of Ageing (NICOLA). This questionnaire measured general social demographics such as gender, age, and marital status while also examining elements of physical activity, lifestyle factors (drinking status, smoking status), and education. Two items from the short form International Physical Activity Questionnaire recorded moderate and vigorous activity. Respondents were asked if they owned a pet (Yes/No). The results are based on a secondary data analysis. An ordinal logistic regression revealed that an increase in moderate activity days was associated with pet ownership with an odds ratio of 0.111 (95% CI, −0.036 to 0.337), Wald χ2 (1) 15.013, p < 0.001. An increase in vigorous activity days was associated with pet ownership with an odds ratio of 0.039 (95% CI, 0.004 to 0.342), Wald χ2 (1) 8.952, p = 0.003). Amongst older adults in Northern Ireland, those with a pet were more likely to engage in regular physical activity. This study was based on a small specific sample of the population and showed differences in physical activity levels between pet owners and non-pet owners. Additionally, the study showed that physical activity is extremely low among the older adult population, therefore further investigation is warranted on the reasons for these low levels.
Numerical Construction of the Homogenized Strength Criterion for Fiber-Reinforced Composite
Authors: Kolpakov Alexander G. , Rakin Sergei I.
Published: April 2023

In this paper, we investigate whether the strength characteristics of composite materials can be described through the predictions of the homogenization theory concerning local stresses. We establish the homogenized strength criterion (HSC) of composite materials, following the general scheme developed in the homogenization theory. Since the homogenization theory involves solving the so-called periodicity cell problem (PCP), HSC can be constructed in the form of a computer procedure only. We developed the HSC computer program and carried out numerical calculations for fiber-reinforced material. We conclude that HSC can be used to calculate safety zones and the first failure strength criteria (see detailed definitions below). We present numerically calculated safety zones and fracture surfaces for several cases.
Match Theory and the Asymmetry Problem: An Example from Stockholm Swedish
Authors: Ishihara Shinichiro , Myrberg Sara
Published: April 2023

This article discusses what we call the Asymmetry Problem, a theoretical question of how asymmetric properties of prosodic phrasing should generally be accounted for within the framework of Match Theory. Unlike Alignment Theory, in which phrasing asymmetry can be derived by mapping constraints (e.g., Align-XP), Match Theory cannot derive any phrasing asymmetry from mapping (i.e., Match) constraints. Thus, Match Theory may seem to face empirical problems when data appear to call for an asymmetric ranking of mapping constraints. This article starts with the discussion of one such case in Stockholm Swedish, where asymmetric ranking of Alignment constraints has been proposed to account for the data. It will be argued that prosodic asymmetry arises from the directionality of prosodic heads (i.e., right- or left-headedness) rather than asymmetric syntax–prosody mapping, and that asymmetry can be explained through the interaction of Match constraints with markedness constraints that determine the distribution of prosodic heads. Furthermore, it will be proposed that such an analysis reduces the need of Alignment-based mapping constraints and therefore follows the Minimal Interface Hypothesis, which assumes Match constraints as the sole syntax–prosody mapping constraints. To support this line of analysis, it will be shown that the Asymmetry Problem in Japanese, for which it had previously been argued that both Match and Alignment constraints are needed, can also be accounted for under this hypothesis.
Evolution of Military Logistics
Authors: Serrano Aldemar , Kalenatic Dusko , López Cesar , Montoya-Torres Jairo R.
Published: April 2023

Background: Military logistics has been present from the moment a soldier was created, and its evolution has been influenced by the technology used. Indeed, it has been observed over time that every military revolution was intrinsically caused by a military logistics revolution, directly promoted by the technology applied to the manner of making war. Few papers have been written about military logistics in relation to the development of war itself. Its application was conceptualized in two dimensions: as an art and as a science, interdependent on decision-making. With the evolution of human beings, the way of making war also evolved and therefore a transformation was generated. This makes it necessary to deepen the application of mathematical modeling, statistics, and new technologies in military logistics, promoting the application of concepts based on technology to improve the effectiveness of armies. The aim of this paper is to review the evolution of military logistics. Methods: A systematic approach to the literature review is followed. The backgrounds of the military logistics thought, key authors, trends and a new definition of military logistics is presented, among others. Results: The findings allow us to identify a set of 21 definitions of military logistics since 1792.
Identification of the Dominant Factor for Droplet Ejection from a Tungsten Electrode during AC Tungsten Inert Gas Welding by Visualisation of Electrode Phenomena
Authors: Iida Kenta , Komen Hisaya , Shigeta Masaya , Tanaka Manabu
Published: April 2023

Droplet ejections from a molten tungsten electrode during alternating current tungsten inert gas (AC TIG) welding were observed successfully by a high-speed video captured at 75,000 fps. The welding conditions and timings that were likely to occur were investigated. The electrode surface temperature was also measured. A crater was formed on the surface of the electrode, and a droplet ejection occurred following the separation of the tip of the ridge growing from the centre of the crater. A series of droplet ejections occurred on a time scale of approximately 0.4 ms. Our results showed that the high temperature of the electrode surface was the common factor for droplet ejections. The dominant force for droplet ejection was discussed by estimating the balance of forces acting on the molten electrode surface. The pressure due to surface tension was the largest pressure at any time during the AC cycle, which decreased in the second half of the EP period. Our findings suggest that the surface tension was the dominant force for changing the electrode shape and that droplet ejections occurred when the surface tension decreased due to the increase in the electrode surface temperature.
Large-Scale and Highly Efficient Production of Ultrafine PVA Fibers by Electro-Centrifugal Spinning for NH3 Adsorption
Authors: Ma Youye , Cai Kanghui , Xu Guojie , Xie Yueling , Huang Peng , Zeng Jun , Zhu Ziming , Luo Jie , Hu Huawen , Zhao Kai , Chen Min , Zheng Kun
Published: April 2023

Ultrafine Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibers have an outstanding potential in various applications, especially in absorbing fields. In this manuscript, an electrostatic-field-assisted centrifugal spinning system was designed to improve the production efficiency of ultrafine PVA fibers from PVA aqueous solution for NH3 adsorption. It was established that the fiber production efficiency using this self-designed system could be about 1000 times higher over traditional electrospinning system. The produced PVA fibers establish high morphology homogeneity. The impact of processing variables of the constructed spinning system including rotation speed, needle size, liquid feeding rate, and voltage on fiber morphology and diameter was systematically investigated by SEM studies. To acquire homogeneous ultrafine PVA fiber membranes, the orthogonal experiment was also conducted to optimize the spinning process parameters. The impact weight of different studied parameters on the spinning performance was thus provided. The experimental results showed that the morphology of micro/nano-fibers can be well controlled by adjusting the spinning process parameters. Ultrafine PVA fibers with the diameter of 2.55 μm were successfully obtained applying the parameters, including rotation speed (6500 rpm), needle size (0.51 mm), feeding rate (3000 mL h−1), and voltage (20 kV). Furthermore, the obtained ultrafine PVA fiber mat was demonstrated to be capable of selectively adsorbing NH3 gas relative to CO2, thus making it promising for NH3 storage and other environmental purification applications.
Reinforcement-Learning-Based Level Controller for Separator Drum Unit in Refinery System
Authors: Ali Anwer , Rashid Mofeed , Alhasnawi Bilal , Bureš Vladimír , Mikulecký Peter
Published: April 2023

The Basrah Refinery, Iraq, similarly to other refineries, is subject to several industrial constraints. Therefore, the main challenge is to optimize the parameters of the level controller of the process unit tanks. In this paper, a PI controller is designed for these important processes in the Basrah Refinery, which is a separator drum (D5204). Furthermore, the improvement of the PI controller is achieved under several constraints, such as the inlet liquid flow rate to tank (m2) and valve opening in yi%, by using two different techniques: the first one is conducted using a closed-Loop PID auto-tuner that is based on a frequency system estimator, and the other one is via the reinforcement learning approach (RL). RL is employed through two approaches: the first is calculating the optimal PI parameters as an offline tuner, and the second is using RL as an online tuner to optimize the PI parameters. In this case, the RL system works as a PI-like controller of RD5204. The mathematical model of the RD5204 system is derived and simulated using MATLAB. Several experiments are designed to validate the proposed controller. Further, the performance of the proposed system is evaluated under several industrial constraints, such as disturbances and noise, in which the results indict that RL as a tuner for the parameters of the PI controller is superior to other methods. Furthermore, using RL as a PI-like controller increases the controller’s robustness against uncertainty and perturbations.
Antibiotic Use in Dental Implant Procedures: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Torof Elham , Morrissey Hana , Ball Patrick A.
Published: April 2023

Background and Objectives: This project was developed from anecdotal evidence of varied practices around antibiotic prescribing in dental procedures. The aim of the study was to ascertain if there is evidence to support whether antibiotic (AB) use can effectively reduce postoperative infections after dental implant placements (DIPs). Materials and Methods: Following PRISMA-P© methodology, a systematic review of randomised controlled clinical trials was designed and registered on the PROSPERO© database. Searches were performed using PubMed®, Science Direct® and the Cochrane© Database, plus the bibliographies of studies identified. The efficacy of prophylactic antibiotics, independent of the regimen used, versus a placebo, control or no therapy based on implant failure due to infection was the primary measured outcome. Secondary outcomes were other post-surgical complications due to infection and AB adverse events. Results: Twelve RCTs were identified and analysed. Antibiotic use was reported to be statistically significant in preventing infection (p < 001). The prevention of complications was not statistically significant (p = 0.96), and the NNT was >5 (14 and 2523 respectively), which indicates that the intervention was not sufficiently effective to justify its use. The occurrence of side effects was not statistically significant (p = 0.63). NNH was 528 indicating that possible harm caused by the use of ABs is very small and does not negate the AB use when indicated. Conclusion: The routine use of prophylactic antibiotics to prevent infection in dental implant placement was found to be not sufficiently effective to justify routine use. Clear clinical assessment pathways, such as those used for medical conditions, based on the patients’ age, dental risk factors, such as oral health and bone health, physical risk factors, such as chronic or long-term conditions and modifiable health determinants, such as smoking, are required to prevent the unnecessary use of antibiotics.
Lung Expression of Macrophage Markers CD68 and CD163, Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2), and Caspase-3 in COVID-19
Authors: Ziablitsev Denis S. , Kozyk Marko , Strubchevska Kateryna , Dyadyk Olena O. , Ziablitsev Sergiy V.
Published: April 2023

Background and Objectives: The coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) damages all systems and organs. Yet, to a greater extent, the lungs are particularly involved, due to the formation of diffuse exudative inflammation in the form of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) with next progression to pulmonary fibrosis. SARS-associated lung damage is accompanied by the pronounced activation of mononuclear cells, damage of the alveoli and microvessels, and the development of organized pneumonia. To study the expression of macrophage markers (CD68 and CD163), angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2), and caspase-3 on the results of two fatal clinical observations of COVID-19. Materials and Methods: In both clinical cases, the female patients died from complications of confirmed COVID-19. Conventional morphological and immunohistochemical methods were used. Results: There was an acute exudative hemorrhagic pneumonia with the formation of hyaline membranes, focal organization of fibrin, stromal sclerosis, stasis, and thrombus formation in the lung vessels. Signs such as the formation of hyaline membranes, organization, and fibrosis were more pronounced in severe disease activity. The activation of CD68+/CD163+ macrophages could cause cell damage at an early stage of pneumonia development, and subsequently cause fibrotic changes in lung tissue. ACE2 expression in lung tissue was not detected in severe pneumonia, while in moderate pneumonia, weak expression was noted in individual cells of the alveolar epithelium and vascular endothelium. Conclusions: This finding could show the dependence of ACE2 expression on the severity of the inflammatory process in the lungs. The expression of caspase-3 was more pronounced in severe pneumonia.
Fall Risk in Elderly with Insomnia in Western Romania—A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Blajovan Marc-Dan , Arnăutu Diana-Aurora , Malița Daniel-Claudiu , Tomescu Mirela-Cleopatra , Faur Cosmin , Arnăutu Sergiu-Florin
Published: April 2023

Background and Objectives: Falls are frequent among the elderly, imply large social and economic costs, and have serious outcomes. The purpose of this study was to investigate the links between insomnia, comorbidities, multisite pain, physical activity, and fall risk in the elderly. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study included persons recruited from nursing homes for the elderly in Timisoara. We separated the participants into two groups by the absence (group I) or presence of fractures (group II) starting with the age of 65 years. Participants were asked how they feel about their sleep using one item on a 4-point scale from the Assessment of Quality of Life questionnaire. The risk of fall was evaluated using the Falls Risk Assessment Tool. Results: The study enrolled 140 patients with a mean age of 78.4 ± 2.4 years (range 65–98 years), 55 of them being males (39%). By comparing the two groups, we found that the elderly with a history of fractures had a greater number of comorbidities, a higher risk of fall, and more severe sleep disturbances. When using univariate logistic regression, the occurrence of fractures in the elderly was significantly associated with the number of comorbidities, the risk of fall, and the presence of sleep disturbances (p < 0.0001). The multivariate regression analysis selected four independent parameters significantly linked to fractures, and these were the number of comorbidities (p < 0.03), the risk of fall score (p < 0.006), and the sleep disturbances of type 3 (p < 0.003) and 4 (p = 0.001). Conclusions: A fall-risk score over 14 and a number of comorbidities over 2 were notably associated with the occurrence of fractures. We also found strong positive correlations between the type of sleep disturbance and the risk of fall score, the number of comorbidities, and the number of fractures in the elderly.
The Role of Psychotherapy in the Care of Patients with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Authors: Grande Tilman , Grande Bettina , Gerner Patrick , Hammer Sabine , Stingl Michael , Vink Mark , Hughes Brian M.
Published: April 2023

Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue (ME/CFS) is a post-infectious, chronic disease that can lead to severe impairment and, even, total disability. Although the disease has been known for a long time, and has been coded in the ICD since 1969 (G93.3), medical research has not yet been able to reach a consensus regarding its physiological basis and how best to treat it. Against the background of these shortcomings, psychosomatic disease models have been developed and psychotherapeutic treatments have been derived from them, but their empirical testing has led to sobering results. According to the current state of research, psychotherapy and psychosomatic rehabilitation have no curative effect in the treatment of ME/CFS. Nevertheless, we see numerous patients in practices and outpatient clinics who suffer severely as a result of their illness and whose mental well-being and coping strategies would benefit from psychotherapeutic help. In this article, we outline a psychotherapeutic approach that serves this need, taking into account two basic characteristics of ME/CFS: firstly, the fact that ME/CFS is a physical illness and that curative treatment must therefore be physical; and secondly, the fact that post exertional malaise (PEM) is a cardinal symptom of ME/CFS and thus warrants tailored psychotherapeutic attention.
Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus and Progressive Supranuclear Palsy: Two Single Entities or Neurodegenerative Overlap Syndrome? A Case Report
Authors: Straka Igor , Martinkovicova Alice , Jezberova Michaela , Zilka Tomas , Kosutzka Zuzana , Saling Marian , Valkovic Peter
Published: April 2023

The differential diagnosis of idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is difficult. The importance of proper diagnosis is particularly important for iNPH, which can be effectively treated with a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt. In our case report, we present a unique case of a patient with overlapping symptoms and radiological findings of iNPH and PSP. Our patient underwent the VP shunt after a differential diagnostic evaluation which resulted in significant improvement in their clinical condition and quality of life, albeit for a short time.
Identification of Microbial Species and Analysis of Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns in Acute Cholangitis Patients with Malignant and Benign Biliary Obstructions: A Comparative Study
Authors: Miuțescu Bogdan , Vuletici Deiana , Burciu Călin , Turcu-Stiolica Adina , Bende Felix , Rațiu Iulia , Moga Tudor , Sabuni Omar , Anjary Adnan , Dalati Sami , Ungureanu Bogdan Silviu , Gadour Eyad , Horhat Florin George , Popescu Alina
Published: April 2023

Background and Objectives: Acute cholangitis (AC) is still lethal if not treated promptly and effectively. Biliary drainage, also known as source control, has been acknowledged as the backbone treatment for patients with AC; nonetheless, antimicrobial therapy allows these patients to undergo non-emergent drainage procedures. This retrospective study aims to observe the bacterial species involved in AC and analyze the antimicrobial resistance patterns. Materials and Methods: Data were collected for four years, comparing patients with benign and malignant bile duct obstruction as an etiology for AC. A total of 262 patients were included in the study, with 124 cases of malignant obstruction and 138 cases of benign obstruction. Results: Positive bile culture was obtained in 192 (73.3%) patients with AC, with a higher rate among the benign group compared with malignant etiologies (55.7%.vs 44.3%). There was no significant difference between the Tokyo severity scores in the two study groups, identifying 34.7% cases of malignant obstruction with Tokyo Grade 1 (TG1) and 43.5% cases of TG1 among patients with benign obstruction. Similarly, there were no significant differences between the number of bacteria types identified in bile, most of them being monobacterial infections (19% in the TG1 group, 17% in the TG2 group, and 10% in the TG3 group). The most commonly identified microorganism in blood and bile cultures among both study groups was E. coli (46.7%), followed by Klebsiella spp. (36.0%) and Pseudomonas spp. (8.0%). Regarding antimicrobial resistance, it was observed that significantly more patients with malignant bile duct obstruction had a higher percentage of bacterial resistance for cefepime (33.3% vs. 11.7%, p-value = 0.0003), ceftazidime (36.5% vs. 14.5%, p-value = 0.0006), meropenem (15.4% vs. 3.6%, p-value = 0.0047), and imipenem (20.2% vs. 2.6%, p-value < 0.0001). Conclusions: The positive rate of biliary cultures is higher among patients with benign biliary obstruction, while the malignant etiology correlates with increased resistance to cefepime, ceftazidime, meropenem, and imipenem.
Microencapsulation and Application of Probiotic Bacteria Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 299v Strain
Authors: Sun Weizhe , Nguyen Quang D. , Süli Botond Kálmán , Alarawi Firas , Szécsi Anett , Gupta Vijai Kumar , Friedrich László Ferenc , Gere Attila , Bujna Erika
Published: April 2023

Microencapsulation is an up-and-coming technology for maintaining the viability of probiotics. However, the effect of core-to-wall ratios and ratios of polysaccharides on the protection of the Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 299v strain has not been deeply discussed. Lyophilization of the Lp. plantarum 299v strain was conducted, and different core-to-wall ratios and ratios of maltodextrin (MD) and resistant starch (RS) were applied. Results demonstrated that the content of MD and RS had an influence on the yield and bulk density in both core-to-wall ratios (1:1 and 1:1.5). In addition, samples coated with a core-to-wall ratio of 1:1.5 had significantly higher viability than those coated with a core-to-wall ratio of 1:1. Moreover, samples coated with core-to-wall ratios of 1:1 and MD:RS 1:1, as well as core-to-wall ratios of 1:1.5 and MD:RS 3:1, had the highest cell number after simulated gastric fluid and simulated intestinal fluid testing, respectively. Furthermore, the optimal formulation for the application of microencapsulated Lp. plantarum 299v in apple juice (serving as a functional beverage) is listed as follows: core-to-wall ratios of 1:1 and MD:RS 1:1, with the fortification method, and stored at 4 °C. After 11 weeks of storage, the cell count was 8.28 log (CFU/mL). This study provided a strategy for Lp. plantarum 299v to achieve high viability in long-term storage and provides an application in functional apple beverages.