bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxidative Stress, Atherogenic Dyslipidemia, and Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Vekic Jelena , Stromsnes Kristine , Mazzalai Stefania , Zeljkovic Aleksandra , Rizzo Manfredi , Gambini Juan
Published: October 2023

Oxidative stress is the consequence of an overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that exceeds the antioxidant defense mechanisms. Increased levels of ROS contribute to the development of cardiovascular disorders through oxidative damage to macromolecules, particularly by oxidation of plasma lipoproteins. One of the most prominent features of atherogenic dyslipidemia is plasma accumulation of small dense LDL (sdLDL) particles, characterized by an increased susceptibility to oxidation. Indeed, a considerable and diverse body of evidence from animal models and epidemiological studies was generated supporting oxidative modification of sdLDL particles as the earliest event in atherogenesis. Lipid peroxidation of LDL particles results in the formation of various bioactive species that contribute to the atherosclerotic process through different pathophysiological mechanisms, including foam cell formation, direct detrimental effects, and receptor-mediated activation of pro-inflammatory signaling pathways. In this paper, we will discuss recent data on the pathophysiological role of oxidative stress and atherogenic dyslipidemia and their interplay in the development of atherosclerosis. In addition, a special focus will be placed on the clinical applicability of novel, promising biomarkers of these processes.
Targeting Cytochrome P450 Enzymes in Ovarian Cancers: New Approaches to Tumor-Selective Intervention
Authors: Al-saraireh Yousef M. , Alshammari Fatemah O. F. O. , Abu-azzam Omar H. , Al-dalain Sa’ed M. , Al-sarayra Yahya M. , Haddad Mansour , Makeen Hafiz , Al-Qtaitat Aiman , Almermesh Mohammad , Al-sarayreh Sameeh A.
Published: October 2023

Over the past decade, there have been significant developments in treatment for ovarian cancer, yet the lack of targeted therapy with few side effects still represents a major issue. The cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme family plays a vital role in the tumorigenesis process and metabolism of drugs and has a negative impact on therapy outcomes. Gaining more insight into CYP expression is crucial to understanding the pathophysiology of ovarian cancer since many isoforms are essential to the metabolism of xenobiotics and steroid hormones, which drive the disease’s development. To the best of our knowledge, no review articles have documented the intratumoral expression of CYPs and their implications in ovarian cancer. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to provide a clear understanding of differential CYP expression in ovarian cancer and its implications for the prognosis of ovarian cancer patients, together with the effects of CYP polymorphisms on chemotherapy metabolism. Finally, we discuss opportunities to exploit metabolic CYP expression for the development of novel therapeutic methods to treat ovarian cancer.
Foot Plantar Pressure Abnormalities in Near Adulthood Patients with Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Wysocka-Mincewicz Marta , Szczerbik Ewa , Mazur Maria , Grabik Magdalena , Kalinowska Małgorzata , Syczewska Małgorzata
Published: October 2023

Increased ulcer risk diminishes the quality of life in diabetes. This study assessed abnormalities in foot plantar pressure distribution in adolescents with T1D to detect early signs of ulcer risk. A total of 102 T1D patients, without diabetic neuropathy, were included (mean age 17.8 years, mean diabetes duration 7.4 year). Pedography was captured using Novel emed. Data from the study group were compared with reference data. The study revealed a statistically significant reduced foot contact area in both feet in the entire foot and under the head of the fifth metatarsal bone and the second toe. In both feet, the peak pressure was increased under the entire foot, hindfoot, midfoot, first metatarsal head, big toe, and second toe. There was no statistically significant difference in peak pressure. The mean plantar pressure rating was statistically significantly increased in both feet across the entire sole, in the hindfoot, midfoot, and first metatarsal head. T1D patients of age near adulthood without neuropathy have increased values in mean pressure and reduced contact area, pointing to the need of monitoring and preventive measures. These results point to the need of further research and analysis which should include various risk factor such as foot anatomy, body posture, or certain metabolic factors.
Supraorbital Basosquamous Carcinoma Treated with Cemiplimab Followed by Sonidegib: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Proietti Ilaria , Filippi Luca , Tolino Ersilia , Bernardini Nicoletta , Svara Francesca , Trovato Federica , Di Cristofano Claudio , Petrozza Vincenzo , Bagni Oreste , Vizzaccaro Andrea , Skroza Nevena , Potenza Concetta
Published: October 2023

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a skin cancer with low local aggressiveness and a low tendency to metastasize. Basosquamous Carcinoma (BSC) represents an aggressive histological subtype of BCC with intermediate features between Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) and BCC. Cemiplimab is currently approved as first-line therapy in SCC and second-line therapy in BCC patients who have progressed on or are intolerant of a Hedgehog pathway Inhibitor (HHI). Our study describes the case of a 59-year-old man with BSC who was successfully treated with 5 cycles of Cemiplimab as first-line therapy and Sonidegib as second-line therapy. Currently, the efficacy of Cemiplimab against BSC and other histopathological subtypes of BCC has not been fully elucidated, as has the role of sequential or combination therapy with Cemiplimab and HHI in the management of BSC. The aim of this case report is to highlight the need to outline the use of checkpoint inhibitors in BCCs and focus attention on the synergistic role of Cemiplimab and HHIs in such a controversial entity as BSC.
Betholletia excelsa Fruit: Unveiling Toughening Mechanisms and Biomimetic Potential for Advanced Materials
Authors: Sonego Marilia , Morgenthal Anneke , Fleck Claudia , Pessan Luiz Antonio
Published: October 2023

Dry fruits and nutshells are biological capsules of outstanding toughness and strength with biomimetic potential to boost fiber-reinforced composites and protective structures. The strategies behind the Betholletia excelsa fruit mechanical performance were investigated with C-ring and compression tests. This last test was monitored with shearography and simulated with a finite element model. Microtomography and digital and scanning electron microscopy evaluated crack development. The fruit geometry, the preferential orientation of fibers involved in foam-like sclereid cells, promoted anisotropic properties but efficient energy dissipating mechanisms in different directions. For instance, the mesocarp cut parallel to its latitudinal section sustained higher forces (26.0 ± 2.8 kN) and showed higher deformation and slower crack propagation. The main toughening mechanisms are fiber deflection and fiber bridging and pullout, observed when fiber bundles are orthogonal to the crack path. Additionally, the debonding of fiber bundles oriented parallel to the crack path and intercellular cracks through sclereid and fiber cells created a tortuous path.
Effects of Different Motion Parameters on the Interaction of Fish School Subsystems
Authors: Zhang Feihu , Pang Jianhua , Wu Zongduo , Liu Junkai , Zhong Yifei
Published: October 2023

For a long time, fish school swimming has attracted a great deal of attention in biological systems, as fish schools can have complex hydrodynamic effects on individuals. This work adopted a non-iterative, immersed boundary–lattice Boltzmann method (IB–LBM). A numerical simulation of two-dimensional three-degree-of-freedom self-propelled fish, in side-by-side, staggered, and triangle formations, was conducted by adjusting spacing and motion parameters. A comprehensive analysis of individual speed gains and energy efficiencies in these formations was carried out. Furthermore, an analysis of the hydrodynamic characteristics of fish schools was performed, using instantaneous vorticity profiles and pressure fields. Certain studies have shown that passive interactions between individuals cannot always bring hydrodynamic benefits. The swimming efficiency of side-by-side formations in the same phase gradually increases as the distance decreases, but it also brings certain burdens to individuals when the phases are different. This paper also shows that the roles of passive interactions, spacing, and deflections affect fish school subsystems differently. When the low-pressure areas created by a wake vortex act on one side of an individual’s body, the tail-end fish are good at gaining hydrodynamic benefits from it. This effect is not universal, and the degree to which individuals benefit from changes in exercise parameters varies. This study provides a theoretical basis for bioinspired robots, as well as providing certain insights into the mechanism of collective biological movement.
The Val158Met Polymorphism in 8-Year-Old Boys and Girls Moderates the Influence of Parenting Styles on Proactive Aggression: Testing the Sensitivity to the Environment
Authors: del Puerto-Golzarri Nora , Azurmendi Aitziber , Muñoz José Manuel , Carreras María Rosario , Pascual-Sagastizabal Eider
Published: October 2023

The aim of the study was to explore the possible vulnerability (diathesis-stress), susceptibility (differential susceptibility), or vantage (vantage sensitivity) properties of COMT gen Val158Met polymorphism to adverse and favorable parenting styles from both parents in relation to children’s reactive and proactive aggressive behavior. Within 279 eight-year-old children (125 girls and 154 boys) from Spain, reactive and proactive aggressive behavior was measured through the “Reactive and Proactive Questionnaire” (RPQ). Saliva samples were collected to genotype for the COMT Val158Met polymorphism via real-time PCR. Finally, parenting styles were assessed using the “Parenting Styles and Dimensions Questionnaire” (PSDQ). The results revealed that for boys, the Met allele was a vulnerability factor for proactive aggression in response to low-authoritative parenting from the father. For girls, it was the Val allele, the vulnerability variable to the high authoritarian style of the father, and the susceptibility factor to the authoritative style of the mother over proactive aggression. The results are discussed, considering possible sex differences. Our results indicate that the COMT Val158Met polymorphism is a biological variable that confers greater sensitivity to the environment.
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation over the Temporoparietal Junction Modulates Posture Control in Unfamiliar Environments
Authors: Kamada Hiroshi , Takeuchi Naoyuki
Published: October 2023

The temporoparietal junction (TPJ), which integrates visual, somatosensory, and vestibular information to form body schema, is involved in human postural control. We evaluated whether or not the transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) of the TPJ can modulate postural control on an unstable surface with eyes closed, during which the updating of body schema is needed to maintain balance. Sixteen healthy subjects participated in this study. The order of the three types of tDCS (anodal, cathodal, and sham) over the right TPJ was counterbalanced across the participants. We evaluated dynamic posture control while the participants were standing on a stable surface with eyes open and an unstable surface with eyes closed. Anodal tDCS enhanced postural control on an unstable surface with eyes closed during and after stimulation, but cathodal tDCS deteriorated postural control during stimulation. Neither anodal nor cathodal tDCS altered postural control while the participants were on a stable surface with eyes open. Anodal tDCS may enhance postural control with non-vision and altered tactile perception by activating the TPJ, which integrates multisensory inputs to update the body schema, whereas cathodal tDCS has the opposite effect. tDCS over the TPJ may facilitate the updating of body schemas to accommodate changes in sensory inputs and help develop novel approaches to prevent falls.
Upregulation of a Small-World Brain Network Improves Inhibitory Control: An fNIRS Neurofeedback Training Study
Authors: Zeng Lingwei , Wang Chunchen , Sun Kewei , Pu Yue , Gao Yuntao , Wang Hui , Liu Xufeng , Wen Zhihong
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate the inner link between the small-world brain network and inhibitory control. Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) was used to construct a neurofeedback (NF) training system and regulate the frontal small-world brain network. The small-world network downregulation group (DOWN, n = 17) and the small-world network upregulation group (UP, n = 17) received five days of fNIRS-NF training and performed the color–word Stroop task before and after training. The behavioral and functional brain network topology results of both groups were analyzed by a repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), which showed that the upregulation training helped to improve inhibitory control. The upregulated small-world brain network exhibits an increase in the brain network regularization, links widely dispersed brain resources, and reduces the lateralization of brain functional networks between hemispheres. This suggests an inherent correlation between small-world functional brain networks and inhibitory control; moreover, dynamic optimization under cost efficiency trade-offs provides a neural basis for inhibitory control. Inhibitory control is not a simple function of a single brain region or connectivity but rather an emergent property of a broader network.
Modelling Framework for Reducing Energy Loads to Achieve Net-Zero Energy Building in Semi-Arid Climate: A Case Study
Authors: Azam Umair , Farooq Muhammad , Munir Muhammad Adeel , Riaz Fahid , Sultan Muhammad , Rehman Ateekh Ur , Imran Muhammad
Published: October 2023

Buildings consume a significant 40% of global energy, where, reducing the building energy consumption to a minimum, virtually zero, has become a thriving research area. Accordingly, this research aimed to determine and portray the huge potential of energy conservation in existing structures by making a retrofit at relatively low costs in finance strained economies. A walk-through of the survey of energy consuming appliances determined the energy consumption based on the power rating; the appliances were then virtually replaced and the reduced energy consumption was determined in terms of the cooling loads. Modelling these intervention using the hourly analysis program (HAP) showed significantly positive results. The pre- and post-retrofit model analysis of an institutional building in Pakistan exhibited significant potential for reducing the cooling load of 767 kW (218 TON) to 408 kW (116 TON) with an investment payback period of 2.5 years. The additional benefit is the reduced greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions which reduce the overall energy requirements. The study continues with the design of a solar energy source using the system advisor model (SAM) for the reduced energy demand of a retrofitted building. It is then concluded that using the available area, a solar energy source with a capital payback period of 5.7 years would bring an institutional building within its own energy footprint making it a net-zero building, since it will not be consuming energy from any other source outside of its own covered area. The study has the limitation to exposure and climate related conditions. In addition, the decline in heating and cooling loads represents model values which may vary when calculated after an actual retrofit for the same structure due to any site related issues.
Performance of Epoxy-Injection and Microorganism-Based Crack-Healing Techniques on Cracked Flexural Members
Authors: Khan Sadaqat Ullah , Ayub Tehmina , Khan Sadia
Published: October 2023

Reinforced concrete (RC) members are designed to crack and the crack width usually remains within the service limit; however, these micro-cracks make structures susceptible to the infiltration of aggressive substances, especially near the coastline. Thus, the healing of these cracks is necessary before they further widen and spread. This study focused on the development and application of a crack-healing solution using microorganisms of the class bacillus; healing was observed through a crack-sensing camera. The aim was to regain the load-carrying capacity of the concrete member to meet the serviceability limit state requirements after healing the crack. The performance of the crack-healing solution was compared with the epoxy-injection method. Five full-scale RC beams of 100 × 200 × 1800 mm in dimension were cast using concrete designed with a cylindrical compressive strength of 21 MPa. After curing for up to 28 days, the beam specimens were tested and subjected to four-point bending to produce a flexural crack of width 1–3 mm. One of the beams was treated to fill the crack by injecting epoxy, while the three other similar beams were treated using a crack-healing solution consisting of bacteria (Bacillus subtilis), nutrient (calcium nitrate), and transporting agents. The healing solution was applied directly to the opened crack with silica gel and with cement slurry in three similar beams cracked under flexural load. The cracks in the beam treated with the crack-healing solution were sealed and kept moist for a further 14 days. After curing, all of the beams including the control (without treatment) were tested again and were subjected to four-point bending until failure to observe the effect of the crack repairs on the flexural response. It was observed that both systems were equally good at enhancing the serviceability limit state and improving the load-carrying capacity.
Vulnerability Assessment of Art Collections: The National Archaeological Museum “Gaio Cilnio Mecenate” in Arezzo (Italy)
Authors: Azzara Riccardo M. , D’Ambrisi Angelo , Tanganelli Marco , Trovatelli Francesco , Vettori Nicoletta , Viti Stefania
Published: October 2023

Artworks play a fundamental role in the cultural and economic assets of communities, enhancing their identity and helping with social integration. Despite their importance, they are not always adequately protected against degradation, which can be induced by aging, atmospheric and human-induced occurrences, and catastrophic events. Earthquakes certainly represent one of the main risks for art objects; however, traffic, construction works, and shipment can also represent a threat to art goods. Therefore, the assessment of the vulnerability of art collections to dynamic excitations plays a crucial role in their conservation, and it has been collecting increasing attention from researchers, academics, and museum managers. This work focuses on the vulnerability of the art collections exhibited at the “Gaio Cilnio Mecenate” museum in Arezzo. Namely, it aims to assess the effective dynamic loading experienced by the artworks, which is a function of the dynamic propagation played by the foundation soil, the building, and the displayers used for the exhibition. In this study, the dynamic properties of some of the displayers used for exhibiting the art collections are investigated by performing an experimental survey. The analysis of the experimental data led to the assessment of the proper frequencies of the displayers, which were compared to those of the building and the foundation soil of the museum.
Prediction of Radiation Treatment Response for Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer via a Longitudinal Trend Analysis Framework on Cone-Beam CT
Authors: Li Zirong , Raldow Ann C. , Weidhaas Joanne B. , Zhou Qichao , Qi X. Sharon
Published: October 2023

Locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) presents a significant challenge in terms of treatment management, particularly with regards to identifying patients who are likely to respond to radiation therapy (RT) at an individualized level. Patients respond to the same radiation treatment course differently due to inter- and intra-patient variability in radiosensitivity. In-room volumetric cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is widely used to ensure proper alignment, but also allows us to assess tumor response during the treatment course. In this work, we proposed a longitudinal radiomic trend (LRT) framework for accurate and robust treatment response assessment using daily CBCT scans for early detection of patient response. The LRT framework consists of four modules: (1) Automated registration and evaluation of CBCT scans to planning CT; (2) Feature extraction and normalization; (3) Longitudinal trending analyses; and (4) Feature reduction and model creation. The effectiveness of the framework was validated via leave-one-out cross-validation (LOOCV), using a total of 840 CBCT scans for a retrospective cohort of LARC patients. The trending model demonstrates significant differences between the responder vs. non-responder groups with an Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.98, which allows for systematic monitoring and early prediction of patient response during the RT treatment course for potential adaptive management.
PD-1/PD-L1 Inhibitors plus Chemotherapy Versus Chemotherapy Alone for Resectable Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Pasqualotto Eric , Moraes Francisco Cezar Aquino de , Chavez Matheus Pedrotti , Souza Maria Eduarda Cavalcanti , Rodrigues Anna Luíza Soares de Oliveira , Ferreira Rafael Oliva Morgado , Lopes Lucca Moreira , Almeida Artur Menegaz de , Fernandes Marianne Rodrigues , Santos Ney Pereira Carneiro dos
Published: October 2023

Background: The benefit of adding programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)/programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitors to the treatment of early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), both neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) and adjuvant therapy (AT), is not yet fully elucidated. Methods: We searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases for randomized controlled trials (RCT) that investigated PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors plus chemotherapy for resectable stage NSCLC. We computed hazard ratios (HRs) or odds ratios (ORs) for binary endpoints, with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: A total of seven RCTs comprising 3915 patients with resectable stage NSCLC were randomized to chemotherapy with or without PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors as NAT or AT. As NAT, the PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors plus chemotherapy group demonstrated significantly improved overall survival (HR 0.66; 95% CI 0.51–0.86) and event-free survival (HR 0.53; 95% CI 0.43–0.67) compared with the chemotherapy alone group. There was a significant increase in favor of the PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors plus chemotherapy group for major pathological response (OR 6.40; 95% CI 3.86–10.61) and pathological complete response (OR 8.82; 95% CI 4.51–17.26). Meanwhile, as AT, disease-free survival was significant in favor of the PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors plus chemotherapy group (HR 0.78; 95% CI 0.69–0.90). Conclusions: In this comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs, the incorporation of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors alongside chemotherapy offers a promising prospect for reshaping the established treatment paradigms for patients diagnosed with resectable stages of NSCLC. Moreover, our analyses support that neoadjuvant administration with these agents should be encouraged, in light of the fact that it was associated with an increased survival and pathological response, at the expense of a manageable safety profile.
The Real-Life Impact of mFOLFIRI-Based Chemotherapies on Elderly Patients—Should We Let It or Leave It?
Authors: Pécsi Balázs , Mangel László Csaba
Published: October 2023

Aim: The oncologic treatment of elderly patients is going on with a lack of evidence due to their underrepresentation in clinical trials. Many data suggest that certain groups of elderly patients, like their younger counterparts, may benefit from the systemic treatment of their metastatic colorectal tumors (mCRC). Method: We performed retrospective data analysis to investigate the clinical course of care and clinical outcomes of 515 patients who received first-line mFOLFIRI-based chemotherapy for mCRC between 1 January 2013 and 31 December 2018 at the Institute of Oncotherapy of the University of Pécs, focusing on a comparison of patients over and under 70 years of age, defined as the cut-off value. Results: 28.7% of the 515 patients were 70 years old and older (median age 73.5 years). Compared to the data of the elderly patients, the younger group (median age 61.1 years) had a performance status that was significantly better (average ECOG 1.07 vs. 0.83, p < 0.0001), and significantly more patients received molecularly targeted agents (MTA) (21.6% vs. 51.8%, p < 0.0001); nevertheless, mPFS (241 vs. 285 days, p = 0.3960) and mOS (610 vs. 698 days, p = 0.6305) results did not differ significantly. Considering the 1y PFS OR and the 2ys OS OR values (0.94 [95%CI 0.63–1.41] and 0.72 [95%CI 0.47–1.09], respectively), only a non-significant trend was observed in OS favouring the younger population. Additional analysis of our data proved that the survival in patients over 70 years was positively affected by the addition of MTAs to the doublet chemotherapies, and the reasonable modifications/reductions in dose intensity and the addition of local interventions had similar positive effects as observed in the younger patients’ group. Conclusions: Age stratification of mCRC patients is not professionally justified. Patients over 70 years of age with good performance status and controlled co-morbidities benefit from systemic therapy, its modifications and local treatment to the same extent as younger patients. With the increasing incidence of age-related cancers due to the rising average lifespan, prospective randomised clinical trials are needed to determine the real value of systemic therapy in the elderly and the rational, objective methods of patient selection.
A Mouse-Specific Model to Detect Genes under Selection in Tumors
Authors: Chen Hai , Shu Jingmin , Maley Carlo C. , Liu Li
Published: October 2023

The mouse is a widely used model organism in cancer research. However, no computational methods exist to identify cancer driver genes in mice due to a lack of labeled training data. To address this knowledge gap, we adapted the GUST (Genes Under Selection in Tumors) model, originally trained on human exomes, to mouse exomes via transfer learning. The resulting tool, called GUST-mouse, can estimate long-term and short-term evolutionary selection in mouse tumors, and distinguish between oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes, and passenger genes using high-throughput sequencing data. We applied GUST-mouse to analyze 65 exomes of mouse primary breast cancer models and 17 exomes of mouse leukemia models. Comparing the predictions between cancer types and between human and mouse tumors revealed common and unique driver genes. The GUST-mouse method is available as an open-source R package on github.
Characterization and Catalytic Performance of Al-SBA-15 Catalyst Fabricated Using Ionic Liquids with High Aluminum Content
Authors: Aldosari Obaid F. , Alhumaimess Mosaed S. , Betiha Mohamed A. , Ahmed Emad A. , Alhaidari Laila M. , Altwala Afnan , Hassan Hassan M. A.
Published: October 2023

This study involved the fabrication of a set of aluminum ion-grafted SBA-15 utilizing ethylenediamine and trimethylamine ionic liquids. The primary objective was to examine the impact of the fabrication environment on the physicochemical characteristics of the catalysts. Comprehensive characterization of the Al-SBA-15 catalysts was conducted using various techniques, including XRD, FTIR, surface area, pyridine FTIR, 27Al-NMR, TGA, HRTEM, and FESEM, to analyze their physicochemical characteristics. Furthermore, the acidic characteristics were examined by conducting potentiometric titration in a nonaqueous solvent and employing FTIR spectroscopy to analyze the chemisorbed pyridine. The effectiveness of the fabricated acid materials was evaluated by testing their performance in acetic acid esterification with butanol. The findings obtained reveal that mesostructured SBA-15 remains intact following the successful inclusion of Al3+ ions into the silica frameworks. Additionally, a remarkable enhancement in the existence of both Bronsted and Lewis acid centers was noted due to the grafting process of Al3+ ions. At temperatures of 80 °C and 100 °C, the reaction in Al-SBA-15(T-120) proceeds swiftly, reaching approximately 32% and 38% conversion, respectively, within a span of 110 min. The excellent catalytic performance observed in the esterification reaction can be attributed to two factors: the homogeneous distribution of Al3+ ions within the SBA-15 frameworks and the acidic character of Al-SBA-15. The findings further indicate that the grafting process for incorporating Al3+ ions into the silica matrix is more efficient.
The Role of Clonal Hematopoiesis of Indeterminant Potential and DNA (Cytosine-5)-Methyltransferase Dysregulation in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension and Other Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Emon Isaac M. , Al-Qazazi Ruaa , Rauh Michael J. , Archer Stephen L.
Published: October 2023

DNA methylation is an epigenetic mechanism that regulates gene expression without altering gene sequences in health and disease. DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) are enzymes responsible for DNA methylation, and their dysregulation is both a pathogenic mechanism of disease and a therapeutic target. DNMTs change gene expression by methylating CpG islands within exonic and intergenic DNA regions, which typically reduces gene transcription. Initially, mutations in the DNMT genes and pathologic DNMT protein expression were found to cause hematologic diseases, like myeloproliferative disease and acute myeloid leukemia, but recently they have been shown to promote cardiovascular diseases, including coronary artery disease and pulmonary hypertension. We reviewed the regulation and functions of DNMTs, with an emphasis on somatic mutations in DNMT3A, a common cause of clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminant potential (CHIP) that may also be involved in the development of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Accumulation of somatic mutations in DNMT3A and other CHIP genes in hematopoietic cells and cardiovascular tissues creates an inflammatory environment that promotes cardiopulmonary diseases, even in the absence of hematologic disease. This review summarized the current understanding of the roles of DNMTs in maintenance and de novo methylation that contribute to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases, including PAH.
Towards Molecularly Imprinted Polypyrrole-Based Sensor for the Detection of Methylene Blue
Authors: Boguzaite Raimonda , Pilvenyte Greta , Ratautaite Vilma , Brazys Ernestas , Ramanaviciene Almira , Ramanavicius Arunas
Published: October 2023

This study is dedicated to molecularly imprinted polymer-based sensor development for methylene blue detection. The sensor was designed by molecular imprinting of polypyrrole with phenothiazine derivative methylene blue (MB) as a template molecule. The molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) was deposited directly on the surface of the indium tin oxide-coated glass electrode by potential cycling. Different deposition conditions, the layer’s durability, and thickness impact were analysed. The working electrodes were coated with molecularly imprinted and non-imprinted polymer layers. Potential pulse chronoamperometry and cyclic voltammetry were used to study these layers. Scanning electron microscopy was used to determine the surface morphology of the polymer layers. The change in optical absorption was used as an analytical tool to evaluate the capability of the MIP layer to adsorb MB. Selectivity was monitored by tracking the optical absorption changes in the presence of Azure A. In the case of MB adsorption, linearity was observed at all evaluated calibration plots in the concentration range from 0.1 μM to 10 mM. The novelty of this article is based on the methodology in the fabrication process of the sensors for MB, where MB retains its native (non-polymerised) form during the deposition of the MIP composite.
The Influence of Somatic Maturity on Anthropometrics and Body Composition in Youth Soccer Players
Authors: Kalčíková Pavlína , Přidalová Miroslava
Published: October 2023

The primary aim of this investigation was to compare players’ anthropometric (AP) and body composition (BC) characteristics between distinct maturity bands (pre-PHV, circa-PHV, post-PHV) in youth elite soccer. This study considered 320 male soccer players (mean age 13.8 y). Participants were from U14 (n = 157) and U15 (n = 163) age categories. The Khamis–Roche method was applied to calculate the percentage of predicted adult height (PAH) at the time of assessment based on which the players were further divided into maturity bands (pre-PHV ≤ 87%, circa-PHV = 88–95%, post-PHV > 95%). The findings indicated that most of the players were in the circa-PHV stage at the time of investigation. Measurements included height and weight. The estimates of BC parameters were derived using bioelectrical impedance (BIA) analysis. These various AP and BC attributes displayed significant differences among the maturity bands (F = 139.344–7.925; p < 0.001; large effect sizes) except in body fat mass (BFM) (F = 2.998; p = 0.051; small effect size). The current somatic maturity stage of the athletes should be considered when evaluating BC results, otherwise there is a risk of misinterpretation.
Longevity of Aesthetic Fixed Space Maintainers in the Anterior Area of the Pediatric Dental Patient
Authors: Biedma-Perea María , Caleza-Jiménez Carolina , Mendoza-Mendoza Asunción , Ribas-Pérez David
Published: October 2023

Space maintenance for children at very early ages in primary molars or posterior sectors is widely used and the scientific evidence is clear as to its indications. In the anterior sectors there are doubts as to whether there is a loss of space and its use is usually accompanied by aesthetic, phonatory requirements or the completion of certain habits. In this type of aesthetic anterior maintainer, there are many medium and long-term complications that can occur. Purpose: To evaluate the factors determining possible complications capable of reducing the longevity of aesthetic fixed space maintainers placed due to premature loss of temporary upper anterior teeth. Methods: Data were collected on 100 patients of 1–5 years of age requiring fixed space maintainer placement in the upper anterior area due to caries or traumatisms. Results: Complications were recorded in the form of resin tooth fracture (in 41% of the cases), welding fracture (16%), detachments (28%), gingivitis (26%) and root resorptions (8%). Space maintainer placement in younger children (12–24 months of age) was associated with a significantly greater incidence of root resorptions (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Within the limits of the present study, it is concluded that fixed space maintainers would be a good treatment option in patients with prematurely missing anterior teeth, though the use of temporary first molars as abutments could imply a greater risk of failure, with a lesser incidence of root resorptions. Periodic checks and adequate measures of hygiene are essential.
Impact of a Web-Based Nutrition Intervention on Eating Behaviors and Body Size Preoccupations among Adolescents
Authors: Bordeleau Manon , Purcell Maya , Provencher Véronique , Panahi Shirin , Jacob Raphaëlle , Alméras Natalie , Drapeau Vicky
Published: October 2023

We aimed to evaluate the impact of a web-based school nutrition intervention on eating behavior traits, body weight concern, body size perception and body size dissatisfaction in adolescents. Ten classes of secondary students in Canada (13.6 ± 0.8 years) were randomized into an intervention (n = 162 students) or control group (n = 75 students). Adolescents in the intervention, conducted between 2011 and 2013, participated in an online nutrition challenge to increase their consumption of vegetables, fruits and dairy products using a web-based platform over six weeks. Measurements were taken at baseline (PRE) and post-intervention (POST). No significant negative changes were observed between the intervention and control groups for eating behavior traits, body weight concern, body size perception and dissatisfaction. However, results suggest a trend for a positive effect of the intervention on susceptibility to hunger in boys (group × time interaction, p = 0.10). Specifically, boys experienced a reduction in their susceptibility to hunger in response to the intervention (PRE: 6.1 ± 3.8, POST: 4.8 ± 3.7, p = 0.009). An intervention aimed at improving the eating habits of adolescents did not negatively influence body size preoccupations. In response to the intervention, boys tended to show a lower susceptibility to hunger, which might help them to prevent overeating and adopt healthy eating habits.
Implicit Grammatical Gender Representation in Italian Children with Autism without Intellectual/Language Disorder
Authors: Artuso Caterina , Belacchi Carmen
Published: October 2023

Grammatical language development in individuals with autism (without intellectual/language impairment) is mostly qualitatively comparable to language development in typically developing children of the same age. The majority of tasks used to study grammatical development require explicit performance (use of verbal language). Here, we administered an implicit categorization task (by biological sex) to understand which markers children use to implicitly infer grammatical gender representation in Italian (a gendered language where grammatical gender can be inferred via a determiner and/or word ending). Participants were asked to categorize photos of animals, relying on the names that differed in regard to the grammatical markers involved (i.e., lexical semantic, phonological, syntactic or phonological + syntactic). Children with autism displayed the same patterns observed in typically developing children: the lexical–semantic marker was categorized more accurately, followed in decreasing order by the phonological–syntactic marker and the phonological marker. The syntactic marker was the most difficult to categorize for both groups. In addition, children with autism showed an advantage in grammatical gender representation when using formal/grammatical markers than when using lexical/semantic markers. Such an implicit assessment allows for the investigation of more nuanced linguistic representations other than those expressed by traditional assessments.
Effect of ε-Polylysine Addition on Pullulan Biodegradable Films for Blueberry Surface Coating
Authors: Zhu Guilan , Guo Na , Yan Xingmei , Dong Jianyu , Chen Xiaozhong , Lu Hongxia
Published: October 2023

A biodegradable film was successfully prepared using pullulan and ε-polylysine (ε-PL). The impact of ε-PL contents on biodegradable film was explored through mechanical properties, water vapor permeability, and an FTIR spectroscopy test. Amongst all the prepared films, the 0.5% ε-PL had the most desirable results in film performance. The TS, EAB, and WVP values were 5.63 MPa, 21.5%, and 0.27 × 10−6 g m/Pa h m2, respectively. The blueberries coated with 0.5% ε-PL and pullulan were stored at 20 °C for 12 days. The effect of edible coatings on the performance of blueberries was evaluated by detecting the physicochemical properties and the contents of antioxidants. The experimental results displayed that ε-PL and a pullulan blend film could decrease the weight loss and maintain the hardness, polyphenol, anthocyanin, and antioxidant capacity of the blueberry preservation. The results indicated that the biodegradable film is a potential fruit-coating material.
Color-Causing Mechanisms of Guatemala Jadeite Jade: Constraints from Spectroscopy and Chemical Compositions
Authors: Li Ting , Zhang Cun , Lv Linsu , Zhang Haitao , Chen Yuqing , Li Zhibin , Liu Yue
Published: October 2023

The jadeite jade in Guatemala exerts remarkable commercial quality, which has attracted wide attention. Guatemalan jadeite jade displays a rich variety of colors; however, the color formation of this jadeite jade has not been systematically investigated to date. In this paper, we study different colors of jade samples to trace the compositions and color-causing mechanisms through petrography, X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), laser Raman spectroscopy (LRS), and UV-visible absorption spectroscopy (UV-Vis), as well as electron probe microanalysis (EPMA). The results show that jadeite and omphacite are the main mineral compositions of Guatemalan jadeite jade, together with minor albite and other impurities. The color of Guatemala jadeite jade is mainly related to Cr3+, Fe2+, and Fe3+, of which a small amount of Cr3+ causes the jadeite jade to be emerald green. Moreover, 1~2% FeO contents can lead to the blue or gray color of the samples, while the Fe3+ makes the sample dark green. The green color of some Cr3+-free jadeite is caused by the electron transition between bands of Fe3+, and the green color is related to the iron content. Moreover, the chemical composition analysis shows that some metallic elements existed in Guatemalan jadeite jade, such as Ca, Ti, Al, Si, Ni, Fe, Mn, Cr, Na, Mg, and Sr, and some trace elements were lost or unevenly distributed, which may lead to the heterogeneity of the color of the samples. Our present investigation provides insights into color discrimination, quality evaluation, and identification of Guatemala jadeite jade.
A Molecular Phylogeny of Stylodipus (Dipodidae, Mammalia): A Small Genus with a Complex History
Authors: Lebedev Vladimir S. , Mirzoyan Daniil A. , Shenbrot Georgy I. , Solovyeva Evgeniya N. , Bogatyreva Varvara Yu. , Lisenkova Alexandra A. , Undrakhbayar Enkhbat , Sukhchuluun Gansukh , Rogovin Konstantin A. , Surov Alexei V. , Bannikova Anna A.
Published: October 2023

A range-wide phylogenetic/phylogeographic study of the three-toed jerboas of the genus Stylodipus is conducted using the mitochondrial cytb gene and fragments of several nuclear genes. The genus has been believed to include three species: S. telum (W Central Asia, SE Europe), S. andrewsi (E Central Asia), and S. sungorus (Dzungar basin). Our data support the dichotomy between S. andrewsi and the other taxa forming S. telum species group. Within the latter, both mtDNA and nuclear loci indicate a species-level divergence between S. telum and the S. t. birulae lineage (Zaisan depression, NE Kazakhstan), previously considered a subspecies of S. telum and here elevated to full species. S. sungorus is recovered as a close sister group to S. birulae on the basis of nuclear data but clustered with S. telum in the mitochondrial tree. The latter taxon is the most variable and includes two closely related eastern and western sublineages, separated by the Volga-Ural sands and joined by a more divergent S. t. karelini lineage (E Kazakhstan). The observed mitonuclear discordance is hypothesized to occur due to mtDNA introgression resulting from hybridization between S. sungorus and S. t. karelini, which highlights the important role of reticulations in the evolution of Dipodidae.
Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy for Achalasia after Bariatric Surgery: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Maselli Roberta , Fiacca Matteo , Pellegatta Gaia , de Sire Roberto , De Blasio Federico , Capogreco Antonio , Galtieri Piera , Massimi Davide , Trotta Manuela , Hassan Cesare , Repici Alessandro
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Achalasia following bariatric surgery is a rare phenomenon with diverse potential physiopathological origins. Aims: This article aims to explore the hypothetical physiopathological connection between bariatric surgery and the subsequent onset of achalasia. Material and Methods: A review was conducted to identify studies reporting cases of peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) after bariatric procedures and detailing the outcomes in terms of the technical and clinical success. Additionally, a case of a successful POEM performed on a patient two years after undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is presented. Results: The selection criteria yielded eight studies encompassing 40 patients treated with POEM for achalasia after bariatric surgery: 34 after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and 6 after LSG. The studies reported an overall technical success rate of 97.5%, with clinical success achieved in 85% of cases. Adverse events were minimal, with only one case of esophageal leak treated endoscopically. However, a postprocedural symptomatic evaluation was notably lacking in most of the included studies. Conclusions: Achalasia poses a considerable challenge within the bariatric surgery population. POEM has emerged as a technically viable and safe intervention for this patient demographic, providing an effective treatment option where surgical alternatives for achalasia are limited. Our findings highlight the promising outcomes of POEM in these patients, but the existing data remain limited. Hence, prospective studies are needed to elucidate the optimal pre-surgical assessment and timing of endoscopic procedures for optimizing outcomes.
Detection and Classification of Melanoma Skin Cancer Using Image Processing Technique
Authors: Viknesh Chandran Kaushik , Kumar Palanisamy Nirmal , Seetharaman Ramasamy , Anitha Devasahayam
Published: October 2023

Human skin cancer is the most common and potentially life-threatening form of cancer. Melanoma skin cancer, in particular, exhibits a high mortality rate. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment. Traditionally, melanoma is detected through painful and time-consuming biopsies. This research introduces a computer-aided detection technique for early melanoma diagnosis-sis. In this study, we propose two methods for detecting skin cancer and focus specifically on melanoma cancerous cells using image data. The first method employs convolutional neural networks, including AlexNet, LeNet, and VGG-16 models, and we integrate the model with the highest accuracy into web and mobile applications. We also investigate the relationship between model depth and performance with varying dataset sizes. The second method uses support vector machines with a default RBF kernel, using feature parameters to categorize images as benign, malignant, or normal after image processing. The SVM classifier achieved an 86.6% classification accuracy, while the CNN maintained a 91% accuracy rate after 100 compute epochs. The CNN model is deployed as a web and mobile application with the assistance of Django and Android Studio.